It's the month of June......

 ....which means..........

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Box Score of the Week

San Francisco Giants at Atlanta Braves - August 14, 2007. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist (Saturday edition) - 5/30/2026

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I won't be walking on thin ice to get through the night.....

It's been a few weeks since I've been in the Patriot bunker, so I'm looking forward to getting back into the routine. However, it won't be completely the same as my NARN colleague Mitch Berg and I will be switching broadcasts this weekend. As such, I will be on the air today, 1-3 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll be discussing a lot of Minnesota politics as both the GOP and DFL will be holding their state conventions this weekend. In fact, we're tentatively scheduled to be joined by former Minnesota State Sen. Dave Osmek and former Salem-Twin Cities Operations Manager Lee Michaels, who will provide live updates from the MNGOP convention in Duluth. 

At 2:30, I will be joined by Independent Institute Senior Fellow Ivan Eland regarding the U.S. conflict in Iran. Mr. Eland is of the mindset that the U.S. should cut its losses altogether and begin to implement an exit strategy. 

 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Ixnay on the iden-bay ecline-day overup-cay

Let's take a stroll down memory lane to the summer of 2024 where the only presidential debate of that cycle featured then President Joe Biden and challenger Donald Trump. 

Despite Biden's mental decline having been obvious since the 2020 campaign, millions of TV viewers finally realized how much Biden staffers, many elected Democrats and the press corps gaslit them by providing assurances he was sharp as a tack. 

Even though Biden had the predictably dreadful debate, Mrs. Biden insisted we not believe our lying eyes. 

Jill Biden was SO concerned her husband had a stroke during the debate she started a “4 more years” chant right after. What a power hungry sociopath. pic.twitter.com/kwpmnjVO3v

— Jimmy Failla (@jimmyfailla) May 27, 2026

Fast forward to this past week where Mrs. Biden now felt the need to come clean on what she really thought of her husband's performance on the debate stage. 

Jill Biden to CBS on the 2024 debate: “I was frightened because I had never seen Joe like that... I thought he was having a stroke."

Jill Biden immediately after the debate in 2024: "Joe, you did such a great job. You answered every question. You knew all the facts!" pic.twitter.com/9wVu1s3q6E

— Greg Price (@greg_price11) May 27, 2026

Given the Dems' coordinated coverup of Biden's degradation was a colossal failure in 2024, they'd just as soon act like they never participated in such a coup. However, Mrs. Biden bringing that saga back to the forefront isn't sitting well with the party. 

  

Leading Democrats say it’s an unnecessary distraction as they push to keep their party focused on a critical midterm — and what voters truly care about.

“We don’t need to be distracted by what the DNC says about the autopsy. I don’t need to be distracted about anyone’s book,” New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, told reporters on the sidelines of a Democratic National Committee meeting in Washington on Thursday. “What I need to do is to focus on making a difference in the lives of people. And that’s what I think they’re getting really frustrated about, is all this nonsense. I don’t think the average Democratic voter, honestly, particularly in New Mexico, gives a damn about that book or the debate anymore.”

Other prominent Dems aren't so sure that this is a complete nothingburger however. 

Meghan Hays, a former special assistant to Joe Biden in the White House who left before the 2024 reelection bid, cautioned that the timing and context of the former first lady’s memoir risks dealing Democrats a setback at a time when they’re on an electoral hot streak.

“I think that they need to sell books, and I think that Dr. Biden wants her story out there,” she said on C-SPAN’s “Ceasefire,” hosted by POLITICO’s Dasha Burns.

“It is not welcome from Democrats,” Hays said. “We have a lot of momentum in our favor … and when we get pulled back into conversations about age and the election in ‘24, it’s never gonna be a good place for Democrats. I think it’s a tough place to be.”

Hays wasn’t the only former Biden official who expressed frustration.

“My reaction was basically: ‘Welcome to the club.’ Every person across America and in your administration wondered the same thing, and instead of acknowledging that, we were told for days to ignore it — that it was just a bad night, just an anomaly,” said another former Biden White House staffer, granted anonymity to speak candidly.

In the end, I don't believe this will have a significant impact on the 2026 election cycle since 5+ months in a campaign season is a veritable eternity. Lots can (and likely will) happen before November. 

Regardless, it's always a good exercise to remind the American people how little progs and their media allies think of them. 

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Continuing trend

Multiple Twin Cities news outlets reported on a development within the DFL battle for the U.S. Senate nomination. 

Rep. Angie Craig said she will forgo the DFL State Convention in her run for Minnesota's U.S. Senate seat.

Her opponent, Lt. Governor Peggy Flaganagan (sic), claims this comes as Rep. Craig faces an "insurmountable lead" with DFL delegates.

Rep. Craig pointed to "hardworking DFLers who don’t have the financial resources or time to participate outside of the August primary" as part of her announcement to forgo the party's endorsement process.

She also shared the following remarks:

"I’m a proud DFLer. Every letter has meaning to me … But the DFL endorsement process just doesn’t reflect the full scope of the party that we are. And the purple state that we have become. This is no ordinary moment. Donald Trump and Republicans are attacking Democracy itself, gutting the voting rights act, gerrymandering and threatening to interfere with elections… But the truth is the only way to stop them is by winning elections. The only way we save democracy is through democracy — where every voice is heard, not just a few."

How important is the DFL endorsement? Why, just ask Gov. Erin Murphy and Attorney General Matt Pelikan. 

Oh wait. 

Yes, the fact of the matter is the DFL endorsement has hardly been a crowning moment for candidates whenever there have been open statewide races. In 2010, Margaret Anderson Kelliher was the endorsed candidate for governor, only to be bested by Mark Dayton in a primary. Then in 2018, endorsees Murphy and Pelikan fell short in their primary battles against Tim Walz and Keith Ellison, respectively. 

I don't really have a good feel how Craig will fare against Flanagan in this cycle's primary election, but the result will give us a good indication if Minnesota Democrat voters are indeed lurching more left than in previous years. 

Getcha popcorn!

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Quick Hits: Volume CDXII

 - New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart appeared at a rally for GOP Congressman Mike Lawler. His appearance culminated with introducing the keynote speaker for the evening - President Donald J. Trump. 

Upon learning of this interaction, Dart's teammate Abdul Carter expressed incredulity over Twitter. 

Naturally, Carter was roasted on Twitter for this take. 

The fact of the matter is NFL players who have been the most outspoken against Trump during his time in the White House have been given huge platforms within mainstream media. But even tacit support of Trump triggers some of the more visceral and unhinged reactions. 

Carter's response to the backlash over his tweet was stunning in its lack of self awareness. 

Uhhh....*our* narratives???? This would have been little more than a footnote were it not for Carter himself reacting to it in the manner he did. Clearly he was not pleased with his teammate associating with Trump, so I'm not really sure why he seems taken aback to the reactions. 

Realizing he was out of his depth, Carter ultimately deleted both tweets. 

Offseason workouts for the Giants are slated to resume on Wednesday. No doubt that new coach John Harbaugh will answer all the inevitable inquiries about this flap and then look to move on ASAP. 

- GOP Senate hopeful out of Minnesota (and my next door neighbor's cousin) Adam Schwarze recently gave an interview to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. 

The candidate himself seemed proud of this particular excerpt of the story. 

He is largely unknown to the general public. A February poll of Minnesota Republican primary voters released by the campaign arm of Senate Republicans found nearly 60% had never heard of him.

Yet he’s now a front-runner to win the Republican endorsement this weekend at the party’s convention in Duluth, a remarkable development for a candidate facing two rivals with wider name recognition.

Hmmm. This feels like an implementation of Mitch Berg's Eleventh Law of Inverse Viability, which states  "The conservative progressives “respect” for their “conservative principles” will the the one that has the least chance of ever getting elected."

The fact of the matter is the leading GOP candidate, Michele Tafoya, is a legit moderate who may have trouble locking in staunch right wingers but appeal to moderate Dems and Independents in a way no Minnesota Republican has since Gov. Tim Pawlenty. And who was the last GOP candidate to win a statewide race in Minnesota???? Why, that would be Pawlenty. 

As a staunch conservative myself, I would guess my ideological bent more closely aligns with Schwarze over Tafoya. But I would give far better odds to Tafoya to win a statewide race. And the Strib legitimately fears that as well, which is the answer to the question of why they would seemingly prop up a "Trump conservative" like Schwarze.

- Another incumbent GOP Senator loses his primary battle. Just over a week ago it was Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. On Tuesday, it was the senior Senator from Texas. 

BREAKING: Trump ally Ken Paxton defeats Sen. John Cornyn in Texas’ bitter Republican primary war.

Trump targeted Cornyn as "VERY disloyal" as he backed Paxton, a MAGA firebrand, in the final days of the runoff campaign.

Paxton now faces off against state Rep. James Talarico — a… pic.twitter.com/hEo4SJiEGY

— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 27, 2026

The victory for Paxton may be red meat for MAGA-ites, but it puts the GOP Senate majority in more jeopardy than if Cornyn remained the candidate. The reason being is a significant number of MAGA members are low propensity voters, essentially only showing up when Trump is on the ballot. So while I believe Paxton likely prevails over the kooky Talarico, it's going to take a lot more financial resources for Republicans to defend this seat. And that means less cash to unseat incumbent Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA) as well as make a play for open Dem seats in Minnesota and Michigan. Also, Republicans are playing defense in Maine (incumbent Susan Collins is in a tight race) and North Carolina (Democrat Roy Cooper, who was very popular two-term governor, is prime to flip this open seat), but, again, they may not be prioritized as a result. 

So for all you MAGA-ites celebrating these victories, I would advise you to keep that same energy through the general election. These primary election wins aren't a culmination but rather the very beginning. 

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Box Score of the Week

Minnesota Twins at Boston Red Sox - June 15, 1994. 

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The Twins completed a three-game sweep of the BoSox this series. It would be the last time they'd sweep a series in Fenway Park until literally this past weekend. 

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On assignment.......still

Once again I will be off the air today for radio show The Closer. However, the show is in good hands as NASCAR Kelly Gunderson will be taking the reins of today's broadcast, 1-3 PM Central Time. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics Kelly plans on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page.

Until then.....

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Box Score of the Week

Chicago White Sox at Washington Nationals - September 6, 1933.

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At the age of 39 years and 161 days, Nationals pitcher Alex McColl became the oldest pitcher to have tossed his first career complete game, a record which still stands today.

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On assignment

I have obligations to fulfill for my day job, so former MN State Senator Dave Osmek has been called on to fill in on today's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour barn burner (how Osmek is promoting it) will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics Dave plans on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page.

Until then.....

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These aren't your grandparents' Dems (or even your parents')

Many Democrats of the Civil Rights era would stage sit-ins in areas where black people were not allowed to be present. Today's Dems (specifically elected Minnesota DFLers) also prefer to participate in such activities, but this time to *undermine* civil liberties. 

Minnesota Democrats continued to stage a sit-in on Friday in the House chamber to protest the lack of a vote on gun control measures.

On Thursday night, a procedural motion to force a vote on a gun control package passed by the state Senate earlier this month failed along party lines following hours of debate. Republican Speaker Lisa Demuth then adjourned the House until noon Saturday.

House Republican leaders called for Rep. Aisha Gomez, DFL-Minneapolis, to be removed as the Democratic co-chair of the tax committee after a verbal altercation with Rep. Elliot Engen, R-Lino Lakes, that Republicans claim included threatening language.

Rep. Engen verified this via his Twitter account. 

 

Can confirm.

Didn’t have multiple Democrat colleagues yelling at me to “go f’ing shoot myself” on my bingo card… https://t.co/veol1CXzxT

— Elliott Engen (@elliottengenMN) May 15, 2026

In the aftermath of legislative colleagues Rep. Melissa Hortman and Sen. John Hoffman (as well as their spouses) being shot by a crazed gunman last year, Minnesota legislators of all stripes made a vow to be more unified and tamp down divisive rhetoric in the aftermath of such horrific incidents. Sadly, I wasn't terribly optimistic those sentiments would be sustained. And, as always, these people lived up to my low expectations. 

The 2026 session officially ends Sunday night, which isn't nearly soon enough. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CDXI

- It doesn't require keen insights to ascertain that Los Angeles, CA is becoming a hell hole. And the fact the city (and state where it's located) is run by vapid progressives played no small part in a once vibrant area essentially cratering. 

Spencer Pratt, whose family's home was destroyed in the Pacific Palisades wildfires last year, is running a dynamic campaign to unseat incumbent L.A. Mayor Karen Bass. One of the visuals he's put forth is how he lives in an airstream trailer on the property where his house was located before it's fiery demise. But Pratt is taking on the Democrat machine, so it's obvious they're looking to undermine his story as well as destroy his credibility. And they sure thought they had him with this. 

😳 EXCLUSIVE: Spencer Pratt is staying at the Bel Air hotel, not his airstream trailer.

Details: https://t.co/aMYI685oaT pic.twitter.com/r8VXLhiG9F

— TMZ (@TMZ) May 13, 2026

Sooooo......why exactly is he living in a hotel (albeit a swanky establishment) as opposed to his home? Have these brilliant opposition researchers asked themselves that question? I'm guessing not, because if they had they would've realized this isn't quite the epic "gotcha" as they would seem to believe. 

Democrats will burn your house down with incompetence, not issue the permits to rebuild it, and raise your taxes in the meantime, while attacking you for having to go live in a hotel.

You can't imagine how depraved that is. pic.twitter.com/KxinQo4XuS

— Bonchie (@bonchieredstate) May 13, 2026

Indeed.

 

- I'm obviously not on any of the dating apps, so I wouldn't have been able to advise this young lady as brilliantly as the gentleman who replied to her "wish." 

I dunno about her dating apps, but she at least followed this directive for her Instagram bio. 

- It isn't exactly a new development that elected Democrats are demonizing billionaires for merely existing. But do they realize that a few high profile ones have large platforms dedicated to helping them attain power? 

 

It never ceases to amaze how utterly awful today's Dems are at politics. 

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Box Score of the Week

St. Louis Cardinals at Atlanta Braves - May 25, 1967.

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Cardinals star Lou Brock became the first player in MLB history to record at least 10 home runs and 15 stolen bases before playing the 40th game of a season. Since then, Eric Davis (1987 season) and Oneil Cruz (2026) joined that exclusive club.

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The NARN Closer's playlist (Saturday edition) - 5/9/2026

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Too high or too low, there ain't no in-betweens................

My friend and Northern Alliance Radio Network colleague Mitch Berg and I are switching broadcasts this weekend, so I will be in the Patriot bunker today for the weekly airing of my radio show. The 2-hour blitz will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, we'll discuss the latest in the 2026 midterm election cycle, specifically how the Democrat party has an extremism problem. I will also weigh in on the DFL-controlled Minnesota State Senate passing a major gun control bill. Will it get through a tied House? 

At 2:00, Miss Twin Cities 2026/journalism student/activist Anna Brennan will join the broadcast to discuss her testimony before a MN Senate Committee on legislation addressing kids' social media usage. 

Finally at 2:30, longtime friend of the broadcast Sen. Karin Housley (R-Stillwater) will check in with an end of session update. She will also discuss her recently announced reelection campaign. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Extremities

In midterm election cycles, trends typically favor the opposite party of the current U.S. President. And if said POTUS is in his second term, the wave can often resemble a proverbial tsunami. As I write this, President Donald Trump's approval ratings are cratering in almost every area, including what many deem his greatest strength -  border security (he's barely above water). 

All those factors would indicate that Democrats are a shoo-in to take control of the U.S. House (the Republicans have a razor-thin majority as it is) with a legit shot to seize the Senate (GOP has a 53-47 majority). With all those advantages, it would appear the Dems merely have to stay out of their own way the next six months for a "blue wave" to come to fruition. 

But as Josh Kraushaar notes, Democrats just may not be able to help themselves due to their extremism problem. 

Indeed, a new poll commissioned by The Argument magazine finds that the generic ballot shows Democrats have been stuck with a six-point lead for a while even as Trump’s job approval has declined precipitously in the last several months. They’re voting to put a check on the GOP’s dominance of Washington, without endorsing the direction of the Democratic party.

“Democrats still have tangible policy misalignments with many voters who dislike Trump,” The Argument concluded in its polling analysis.

All told, the question becomes: Will the anticipated Democratic wave closely resemble the Democrats’ version of the GOP Tea Party election of 2010? In that election, Republicans swept into power in the House but far-right and extreme Senate candidates in key races blew golden opportunities, costing Republicans the upper chamber.

That dynamic repeated itself in 2022, when many experts anticipated a Republican wave election, but the party’s nomination of hard-line MAGA candidates in battleground contests led to a marked underperformance.

The alternative outcome is that partisanship and tribalism now run so deeply that an individual candidate’s flaws — even seemingly disqualifying ones — don’t mean what they used to. Right now, Democratic primary voters look like they’re ignoring personal baggage in favor of candidates that are the most ideologically progressive, personally authentic and who are burning hot with rage against Trump and the leadership class.

Earlier this week, you had Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank (from his death bed) warning his fellow Democrats about the consequences of lurching too far left. 

Not to be outdone, leftist CNN commentator Van Jones lamented the continued efforts to put moderate Democrats out to pasture. 

Van Jones on Democrats not supporting John Fetterman being a "moderate"

“That should not be illegal in this party. My god you have to agree on 100% of 100% of the Berkeley California agenda to be a Democrat?”

“It just shows you how nutty things have gotten that someone who… pic.twitter.com/52YPAht2SA

— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) May 6, 2026

There is this old mantra that if your opponent is making a mistake, just get outta their way. However, even if Dems put forth extreme left wing candidates in a handful of these Congressional races, there's a nonzero chance they still win in the general election due to anti-Trump sentiment reaching a fever pitch. That and the fact too many Trump supporters typically don't vote when Trump himself is not on the ballot makes the environment ripe for leftist kooks in swings states (i.e. Maine, Michigan and Minnesota) to be elected to the Senate. 

This once again underscores the left's utter hypocrisy as well as complete lack of standards: they decry constantly that Trump is fascist in nature yet have no issue with advancing candidates who are, at best, sympathetic to such tendencies. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CDX

- This kind of legislation will be ramped up if the DFL gets its trifecta back after the 2026 elections. 

The Democratic Farmer-Labor majority in the Minnesota Senate passed a gun control package Monday that includes a ban on so-called assault weapons and limits on magazine capacities.

Its passage comes after years of debate at the state Capitol and two high-profile tragedies last summer: the August shooting that left two dead at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, and the shootings of two lawmakers and their spouses at their homes in June.

“Today the Senate has a choice to listen to students, to families, to communities across Minnesota, or continue the cycle of inaction,” said bill sponsor Sen. Zaynab Mohamed, DFL-Minneapolis. “Because honoring the lives we’ve lost means doing something different.”

For the first time, a bill to ban semi-automatic rifles with features like pistol grips and detachable magazines has passed a major floor vote in the state Legislature. But the prospects for any new gun control or school safety package remain as dim as ever in the closely-divided Capitol.

You'll notice the Senator quoted didn't indicate how this kind of legislation would have prevented the tragedy at Annunciation, or potentially any other spree killings. Merely that undermining gun rights is "honoring the lives we lost." And because the 67 GOP members of the House will likely stay unified and reject this legislation, it won't ever reach the desk of Gov. Tim Walz. 

The DFL is betting that "gun control" is a salient issue this cycle and thus will attempt to demagogue the Republicans' refusal to go along as proof they care more for guns than children's lives. As usual, it's all symbolism and no substance for the progs. 

- Just gonna leave this here. 

NYT's @NickKristof to fellow progressives: "A black kid in Mississippi is 2.5 times as likely to be proficient in math & reading by 4th grade as a black kid in Calif. Do we need to look a little bit less at what the Trump Admin is doing ... & look a little more in the mirror?" pic.twitter.com/I803loucRM

— Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) May 5, 2026

While I applaud Mr. Kristof's request that his fellow leftists remove the blinders, the fact of the matter is far too many of his ilk are flat out addicted to blaming President Trump for all their ills. Sadly, looking in the mirror requires a conscience. 

- I was heartened to see this. 

Former #Ravens All-Pro RB Ray Rice returned to Rutgers to earn his degree and has now officially graduated. 🎓

(📸 @RFootball) pic.twitter.com/Ukhos0zdSZ

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) May 5, 2026

When you hear the name Ray Rice, your first thought is likely not the dynamic Baltimore Ravens running back who amassed more than 9,000 all purpose yards in six NFL seasons and was instrumental in helping the Ravens win Super Bowl 47. No, like you, I immediately recount that awful night in February 2014 where Rice and this then fiancée (now wife) Janay got into a heated argument which culminated with Rice knocking her out cold while in an elevator in Atlantic City. That incident essentially cost him his NFL career as he never played another down in the league. Not surprisingly, the vast majority of replies to that tweet reference that awful incident 12+ years ago. 

If you're interested in how Rice is faring today, I would encourage to watch a recent episode of the YouTube series Press Box Chronicles with Jeff Pearlman. While the host, a former Sports Illustrated writer, doesn't sugarcoat Rice's domestic abuse incident, he shares the latest accounts of the former running back's life and how redemption is indeed possible. 

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Box Score of the Week

Detroit Tigers at Washington Nationals - July 22, 1947. 

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In this game, Detroit's Roy Cullenbine drew a walk for the 22nd consecutive game, which is an all-time MLB record. The Athletics' Nick Kurtz was threatening to break that record as he drew a walk in 20 straight games this season. However. Kurtz's streak came to an end this past Saturday. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 5/3/2026

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Detroit built brakes, so that they could make a Chevy slow down......

Welp....we're into the month of May already! It's a beautiful day in the Twin Cities today but, alas, I'll be in the Patriot bunker this afternoon for my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour festivities begin at 1:00 Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll recap much of the reaction to the latest assassination attempt of President Donald Trump. While progs believe "rightwing rhetoric" foments violence, they deflect instances where their allies actually carry out deadly attacks. 

In the 2:00 hour, I'll discuss the latest shakeup in the GOP race for MN governor. 

At 2:30, the VP of Legal Affairs for Landmark Legal Foundation Mike O'Neill will join us to discuss the dubious history of the Southern Poverty Law Center. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Down to two

Minnesota State Rep. Kristin Robbins (R-Maple Grove) is exiting the race for governor. 

I got into this race last August to defeat Tim Walz. Minnesota could not take four more years of fraud, tax increases, and out-of-control government spending. His radical woke agenda is hurting our kids and making our communities less safe. Because of my leadership on the Fraud Prevention Committee, and with the help of our friends and partners, we exposed billions in fraud and forced Tim Walz to step aside. As Minnesotans realized the staggering scope of the fraud and expressed their growing frustration, Democrat Party leaders knew Tim Walz was an embarrassment and unceremoniously replaced him with Amy Klobuchar.

My pledge to Minnesotans was that I would fight the fraud, stop the woke insanity that is hurting our kids and our communities, and make Minnesota prosper by getting our state budget under control and cutting taxes and regulations to attract talent and investment to our state.

But as I returned to St. Paul for the 2026 legislative session, I realized that this race was about much more than fighting fraud or economic policies. The foundational issue is whether we can stop Minnesota’s slide into socialism. When I first began saying this, people laughed a little nervously – but this is not hyperbole. Many of the Democrats who are making decisions in St. Paul are part of a growing Democrat Socialists of America (DSA) party that is gaining traction from New York City to California.

Minnesota Democrats have already adopted much of the Socialists’ platform – and are clearly doubling down on their agenda. Only a coalition of sensible Republicans, Independents, and Democrats can stop them. However, too many Democrats want the government to control more of our lives and more sectors of the economy, crowding out the private sector in healthcare, education, childcare, and employment decisions.

Democrats have passed a number of socialist policies already: letting criminals out of jail early and closing Stillwater prison as part of their effort to end mass incarceration; driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants; “free” college; and an overall increased dependency on state and federal programs instead of enabling people to develop skills and determine their own destiny.

These policies are not operating in a vacuum – they make Minnesota uncompetitive and are driving people and investment out of our state in droves.

Minnesota faces a choice: we can be the next state to fall to socialism, OR we can be the firewall that stops the spread of this ideology that has caused millions around the world to suffer in the name of “equality.” Socialism creates a bifurcated society that allows the powerful to live in luxury on the fruits of corruption, insulated from the effects of their policies that keep the masses trapped in government-run housing, education, and healthcare.

The American Dream, in contrast, gives equal opportunity for upward mobility based on hard work and skills. No other society has achieved the levels of success, innovation, wealth, and generosity enabled by free people and free markets. We cannot let the American Dream be turned into a socialist nightmare, and I will continue do all I can to ensure that Minnesota does not go down the path of New York or California.

But I will be engaged in this fight for Minnesota as a State Representative and, come 2027, as a private citizen.

After much thought and prayer, I have decided to suspend my campaign for Governor of Minnesota.

It has become apparent that the establishment political class, media, and donors have anointed Amy Klobuchar, despite her refusal to engage meaningfully on the issues that matter most to Minnesotans.

Our state government and political system are broken, and after fighting for Minnesotans from the inside for the past eight years, I have determined that the best way for me to fight for the future of our state is from the outside. I believe more than ever that it’s going to take a grassroots coalition of common-sense Minnesotans to save our state. And that starts with our families, faith and communities, not government.

I am so grateful for the incredible opportunity I’ve had to go all around the state and meet so many amazing, inspiring, hard-working, patriotic Minnesotans. As a small-town girl from Crookston, I never dreamed I’d have the chance to run for the highest office in our beloved state. THANK YOU for sharing your dreams, frustrations, and hopes with me! Thank you for inspiring me to fight for greater freedom and opportunity for families, workers, students, and seniors, and to restore integrity in government and state programs.

It has been the honor of my life to fight alongside you and for you, and I will find new ways to stay engaged. Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty – and it is up to all of us, not just those who hold public office, to stand watch.

My heart is filled with gratitude for the wonderful Minnesotans I have met and everyone who has supported me over the past 10 months. I am also incredibly thankful for the amazing team of professionals, friends, and family who have worked so hard to give me the opportunity to run.

I hope we have helped people see that we are facing a decisive choice in our state’s history: Do we want to follow the false promises of socialism, or recommit ourselves to freedom, opportunity, and prosperity for all?

After spending 10 months driving all around our great state, I believe Minnesotans will make the right choice!

I look forward to continuing to serve the people of my wonderful House District 37A until January 2027, and I will continue to work hard for all of you every day. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I look forward to finding new ways to serve and build with all of you!

Robbins declined to endorse any of the remaining GOP candidates in the race, despite there being approximately 5 or 6 still officially campaigning. But let's face it: the only viable candidates left standing are Kendall Qualls and current House Speaker Lisa Demuth. And since both have pledged to abide by the Republican Party of MN endorsement, the GOP's candidate for governor will be officially decided at the state convention later this month. Given how a Klobee campaign is an absolute juggernaut, it would behoove Republicans to have their candidate in place well ahead of the August primary. 

I remain skeptical that anyone can slow down the Klobuchar runaway train, but if there's even a scintilla of a possibility then firmly deciding on a GOP candidate at this point is a good start. 

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A tipping point?

In a warped way, I'm grateful the latest assassination attempt of President Donald Trump hasn't disappeared from the news cycle. I say that because we can never get to a place in our society where we become desensitized to such a thing. Heck, I remember the Butler, PA incident where Trump was actually nicked by a bullet. The press corps pretty much quit talking about it in literally less than a week. 

What is disheartening, however, is the political left's hesitance to point out the fact that political violence over the past decade or so in not a "both sides" issue. No, the fact of the matter is rather the majority of bullets have been flying from prog supporters/sympathizers. 

Quite frankly, the borderline rationalization of these events has disgusted me. Is the lust for power so addictive that leftists can't even disavow those who commit violence seemingly to benefit them politically? While I think that's a factor, there may be another component to leftist elected officials' reluctance to unconditionally condemn their violent supporters. 

Conservative commentator Erick Erickson breaks it down. 

The Democratic Party is having a Charlie Hebdo moment. pic.twitter.com/WjhwqLS0s7

— Erick Erickson (@EWErickson) April 29, 2026

I get that elected Democrats and Republicans are more divided now than possibly at any time in American history. But if there's ever an occasion where they need to unify, it would be in the face of fearing violent retribution for merely calling a spade a spade. There's no way forward in a culture that is unwilling to offer significant push back here. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CDIX (WHCD aftermath edition)

 - With the release of the White House Correspondence Dinner's attempted assassin's manifesto, it's kinda difficult for progs to make this incident a "both sides" issue. As such, they choose to concern troll the intended targets, which were President Donald Trump and members of his administration. 

On Monday, the vile hags on ABC's The View had their usual deranged takes. 

Navarro is happy that Trump and his cabinet experienced the fear of a shooter coming for them because "now they know" what students go through in active shooter situations and "maybe now that they have felt the fear themselves they will do something on gun reform":

NAVARRO: But,… pic.twitter.com/EZRgNQSwXJ

— Nicholas Fondacaro (@NickFondacaro) April 27, 2026

The gal doing most of the speaking, Ana Navarro, seems woefully ignorant of recent history. In one breath, she cites the June 2017 incident where GOP Congressman were engaged in a baseball practice when a maniacal Bernie Sanders supporter opened fire, nearly killing Rep. Steve Scalise. Later, Navarro expresses how she was grateful some Republicans were at Saturday's White House Correspondence Dinner and had to hide under tables because "maybe now that they have felt the fear themselves they will do something on gun reform!"

Uhhh...hey, Ana? How many "gun reforms" did the Republicans advocate for in the aftermath of that 2017 shooting? Did you ever bother to ask them way they never brought any forth? Might be an enlightening topic on your lil' TV show if you and your fellow harpies ever wanna set foot outside your echo chamber some time. 

- Speaking of one having their head up one's derriere, former President Barack Obama has entered the chat.

Although we don’t yet have the details about the motives behind last night's shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner, it’s incumbent upon all us to reject the idea that violence has any place in our democracy. It’s also a sobering reminder of the courage and sacrifice that U.S. Secret Service Agents show every day. I’m grateful to them – and thankful that the agent who was shot is going to be okay.

To fair, Obama posted this statement Sunday afternoon, prior to the shooter's manifesto being made public. But what was ascertained by that point was the shooter was a Kamala Harris supporter and, given his social media activity on the leftist cesspool that is Bluesky, an enthusiastic participant in leftist activities like the "No Kings" rallies. Connect the dots, Barry. 

Alas, this has been Obama's modus operandi since he was President. Remember the Pulse nightclub shooting in the summer of 2016? The gunman pledged allegiance to ISIS before slaughtering scores of people. Then *President* Obama's response? “(W)e have no definitive assessment on the motivation” of Omar Mateen but that “we know he was a person filled with hate.” 

Apparently abject denial is Barry's default sentiment when an emotionally charged incident runs afoul of his preferred narratives. 

- After Saturday's assassination attempt, some folks dug up some days old footage from Jimmy Kimmel Live! where Kimmel pretended to be the WHCD emcee/roaster. The joke which caught people's ire was where Kimmel said to First Lady Melania Trump that "you have a glow of an expectant widow." 

Uber podcaster (and longtime friend of Kimmel's) Adam Carolla shared his perspective. 

I largely agree with Carolla's perspective in that no one expressed a whole lotta outrage in the immediate aftermath of Kimmel's joke. As such, it can hardly be blamed for the actions of the gunman. And I also concede that this is a classic roast joke, one which would have been aimed at any octogenarian billionaire with a gorgeous wife several years younger than he. 

But here's the real test: what if a similar joke was aimed at Jill Biden while her feeble ol' husband Joe was POTUS? Would the same prevailing sentiment from leftists be "rElAx, SnOwFlAkEs. It'S jUsT a JoKe?" Let's just say I'm skeptical. 

In the end, was Kimmel's joke tasteless? Perhaps. Unfunny? Yup. But should the FCC be sticking it's beak in regarding ABC's broadcast license? Abso-freaking-lutely NOT!

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Box Score of the Week

Oakland Athletics at Kansas City Royals - September 27, 1986.

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The Athletics capped off a sweep of a doubleheader against the Royals on the road. This was the last time the A's swept a twin bill on the road, making the near 40-year long streak the longest active drought in Major League Baseball.

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 4/26/2026

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They tried to break us, looks like they'll try again......

We've reached the last Sunday in April, which means 2026 is about one-third of the way through. As such, we have a lot to get to on today's edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour blitz will begin at 1:00 Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll discuss the chaos which ensued at Saturday evening's White House Correspondents Dinner. The gun-toting, knife-wielding suspect is in custody. 

If time permits, I'll weigh in on the corrupt Southern Poverty Law Center allegedly staging racist rallies. 

Then in the second hour, I'll talk Minnesota stuff, including Gov. Tim Walz continuing to stick his head in the sand over the state's fraud problem. 

Finally at 2:30, Republican endorsed candidate in Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District Paul Wikstrom will be on to tout his candidacy. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Easy to be generous with other people's money

As he was ascending in the "Veepstakes" in the summer of 2024, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz uncorked this hot take. 

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a top VP contender for Kamala Harris, says socialism is actually just "neighborliness." pic.twitter.com/xISVQSxIUv

— Alpha News (@AlphaNews) July 30, 2024

In the nearly 21 months since that clip, it's been revealed that state of Minnesota taxpayers have been defrauded to the tune of billions of dollars. As such, that vapid statement takes on a whole new connotation. Nevertheless, Walz continues to spin it as basically erring on the side of generosity, as he did in an interview with prog boot licker late night host Jimmy Kimmel. 

KIMMEL: Did it take an extraordinarily long time for you to know what was happening with fraud?

WALZ: It happens in other states...Trump, Trump, Trump...we are a generous state. pic.twitter.com/JWCihDmaFO

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 23, 2026

With a significant decrease in adjusted gross income over the past 5+ years due negative net migration, that "generosity" is not going to be sustainable much longer. 

MN State Rep. Max Rymer (R-North Branch) breaks it down further. 

I want you to know “We are a generous state” are the most warped words in Minnesota government. And I hear them all the time.

(On Wednesday), as we are in the thick of session, Governor Walz decided to take a trip to California and do the Jimmy Kimmel show. When asked about fraud, he blamed the federal government and asserted that Minnesota is a "generous state" with our programs.

 

First, you can’t be “generous” with other people’s money.

Second, to the extent that you feel entitled to use other people’s money - you must be judicious and careful with it. Tim Walz and Minnesota Democrats are not, have not been, and are incapable of being judicious and careful. After everything that’s happened the past 5 years, Democrats will still tell you we have a “revenue” problem (aka we don’t tax enough).

“Generosity” in Minnesota government simply has meant taking as much as you can get away with from people who produce in your state (forcing many of them to leave), in order to fund ill-defined programs with little-to-no oversight, so you can justify your own political existence… even when it inevitably gets discovered a ton of the money went to fraudsters anyway.

That’s not generosity. It’s self-destruction.

More specifically, the problem with socialism is, as Margaret Thatcher so brilliantly stated, eventually you run out of other people's money. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CDVIII

 - As he prepares to exit the stage of electoral politics in about 8-1/2 months, the current Governor of Minnesota is already plotting his next move. 

Today, we’re launching Small Town PAC.

We’re going to show up in small towns, organize in places too many people have given up on, and build power with the folks who call these places home.

If Democrats want to win in more places, we’ve got to start showing up in more places. pic.twitter.com/2ZWpvyy59M

— Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) April 20, 2026

As Dems have hemorrhaged support from outstate areas over the past decade, their strategy to woo those voters has been little more than donning flannel shirts in an attempt to appear "relatable."   

Whoa! Is that the sitting Minnesota Governor and Attorney General or a couple workin' fellas from the Iron Range??????

But seriously, showing up is one thing. However, advocating for radical trans ideology, pillaging of small businesses (which are the lifeblood of small towns) to pay for pet progressive projects and being hostile to Second Amendment rights ain't gonna go over well with voters in "small towns." 

- After the New York Mets defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-3 on April 7, NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani embraced team mascots Mr & Mrs Met. 

The Mets now have an 11-game losing streak since Mamdani showed up and hugged them

The Mamdani curse pic.twitter.com/Bz4UUEwjAs

— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) April 21, 2026

The Mets have won nary a game since that moment. As of Tuesday night, their losing streak reached 12 consecutive games. Yikes! 

- As Bill Glahn of American Experiment has said on multiple occasions, the demand for "white supremacy" vastly exceeds the supply. 

Allegations concerning the Southern Poverty Law Center, which has for years labeled conservative activist organizations as "hate groups," suggests they were willing to pay a pretty penny to perpetuate the hoaxes. 

The Department of Justice announced Tuesday that a grand jury indicted the Southern Poverty Law Center for making fraudulent payments of millions of dollars to members of the Ku Klux Klan and other neo-Nazi organizations.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said at a news conference that the 11-count indictment filed in an Alabama federal court alleged the left-wing nonprofit had in the past decade paid at least $3 million to eight members of the far-right groups.

One leader of the 2017 Unite the Right protest in Charlottesville, Va., received roughly $270,000 over an eight-year period. Neither that person nor others were identified in the 14-page indictment.

Ah yes, the Charlottesville rally. For years, progs used that as a cudgel to further the narrative that President Donald Trump referred to white supremacists as "very fine people." It took about 7 years before the fact check outfit Snopes (hardly a conservative milieu) acknowledged that was bull pucky, which was no doubt a significant blow to the "Trump is racist" true believers. But this SPLC business? That makes the Jussie Smollett ruse look like a children's theater production in comparison. 

No doubt this story is a blow to the hate crime hoax industry. But if you believe it's a death knell to the entire genre, you clearly have been sleepwalking since the Rev. Al Sharpton was a fat guy. 

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Box Score of the Week

Chicago Cubs at Philadelphia Phillies - August 25, 2017. 

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In just his 16th MLB game, Philly's Rhys Hoskins completed his second home run streak of three or more games. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 4/19/2026

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Strange but not a stranger, I'm an ordinary guy.......

Another Sunday, yet another edition of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour broadcast will get started at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll discuss all things Minnesota politics, specifically the 2026 campaigns for state and Federal races. 

Then in the second hour, I'll weigh in on the spectacular crashing and burning of Eric Swalwell's political career. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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Oh well, Swalwell

It was 2018 when I first became aware of the name Eric Swalwell. While he was merely 1 of 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives, he made a name for himself by suggesting the government could use nukes against law abiding gun owners. 

So when my wife and I visited Washington, D.C. four months later, I decided to troll him outside his Congressional office. 

I am, by nature, *not* a violent person. However, if anyone ever posed a hypothetical of which member of Congress I would most likely punch in the face if ever encountered, Swalwell would easily be in the top five. 

Given he represented a D+19 Congressional district in California, Swalwell was often used as the attack dog by his Democrat colleagues. Specifically, he could give Dems in swing districts political cover by advocating for some of the most insane leftist policy. As such, his vulnerable colleagues could have plausible deniability if there were attempts to bring such lunacy to the mainstream. In that vain, I often viewed Swalwell as a west coast Anthony Weiner. That is, he appeared to be little more than an egomaniacal, power hungry leftist who was using his time in Congress as a stepping stone to something greater. For Weiner, it was Mayor of New York City. And for Swalwell it was Governor of California (only after his 2020 presidential run predictably crashed and burned). How ironic that, much like Weiner, Swalwell allowed his base urges to ruin his aspirations. Not only did this result in Swalwell suspending his gubernatorial campaign, but also forced him to resign his Congressional seat. And the warp speed at which he went from being anointed the next gov of Cali to a unemployed loser needs to be studied for the history books. 

As I write this, there are multiple women who have come forward to allege that Swalwell sexually assaulted/harassed them. And as much as I am tempted to pig pile upon that smug jackass, I can't help but think of what his wife and three young children are having to endure. While Mrs. Swalwell likely understood that the spouse of a high profile politician will be under at least a modicum of scrutiny, I'm guessing she wasn't prepared for her husband to abuse his power and morph into a complete dirt bag. 

While we can rejoice that an elected official like Swalwell has slinked away from public life, our celebration should be tempered by the fact his ilk are like cockroaches: you can stomp out one, but such action only serves to attract more. 

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Quick Hits: volume CDVII

 - I'm not saying the open U.S. Senate seat in Minnesota is in play for Republicans this cycle, but......

Since launching this campaign in January, I’ve been humbled and grateful for the support across our state! Our momentum is strong, and we’re ready to go head-to-head against the Democratic nominee.

Minnesotans are fed up with the failed leadership that has pushed our state to… pic.twitter.com/uM38qmRt7R

— Michele Tafoya (@Michele_Tafoya) April 13, 2026

That's more money than the other four (five? six?) GOP hopefuls have raised combined. Given that fundraising prowess in addition to significantly high name recognition, Tafoya is in a strong position for the nomination. But do we dare to dream that she can snap the party's 20-year losing streak in Minnesota statewide elections? To say it's *not* hopeless is actually a step in the right direction. 

I'll say this: making Minnesota competitive enough to where the Democrats have to divert financial resources to a reliably blue state would go a long way to keeping the U.S. Senate under Republican control. 

- File this under the category of "A confirmation, not a revelation." 

The Biden administration worked alongside pro-abortion activists to track the activities of pro-lifers, some of whom the Department of Justice later prosecuted for their peaceful protest actions thanks to dossiers from pro-abortion groups, according to a new report from the Trump administration.

The Justice Department’s Weaponization Working Group on Tuesday published a nearly 900-page report documenting the Biden administration’s weaponization of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act.

Investigators who analyzed more than 700,000 internal records found that pro-abortion groups including the National Abortion Federation, Planned Parenthood, and Feminist Majority Foundation used their close relationship with the Biden DOJ to gain internal information and push targets for enforcement.

The weaponization was carried out in large part by the National Task Force on Violence Against Reproductive Health Care Providers, which operated out of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division under the direction of Sanjay Patel.

The report reveals Patel was on “texting terms” with the National Abortion Federation Security Team and that he also “regularly communicated” with the other two groups.

In messages from November 2021, Patel introduced an unidentified FBI agent to Michelle Davidson, the security director for the National Abortion Federation, calling her a “wonderful contact for me as it relates to FACE Act investigations.”

“She has been an MVP bringing incidents to my attention, often in real-time, which usually result in investigation/prosecution,” Patel said.

For a collective that likes to shriek "NO KINGS" or proclaim they oppose fascism, they sure are conspicuously silent on this one. 

- I can't even pretend to understand what Sen. John Hoffman (DFL-Champlin) has been through in the aftermath of the assassination attempt on he and his family 10 months ago. But it's clear he's still enduring significant PTSD over the incident given his outburst during a recent Senate committee hearing. 

WATCH: Minnesota Senator John Hoffman (D) loses it when Senator Glenn Gruenhagen (R) refers to illegal aliens as “illegals.”

Well, maybe they shouldn’t have migrated to America illegally. Then they would be legal. pic.twitter.com/vglHUYWOJq

— Dustin Grage (@GrageDustin) April 14, 2026

To suggest he was shot due to people using "dehumanizing language" is a stretch if you read any of the gunman's manifesto. To me, this just appeared to be Sen. Hoffman's attempt to enact the typical leftist strategy of attempting to prevail in a debate by eliciting emotion over facts. But hey, if Sen. Hoffman is going to begin a crusade to tamp down "dehumanizing language," a good place to start are the replies to any social media post put forth by the likes of Reps. Mary Franson and Walter Hudson. 

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Box Score of the Week

Baltimore Orioles at Detroit Tigers - June 4, 1989.

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The O's completed a four-game sweep over the Tigers with this win. The series also featured four different relief pitchers recording a save, which marked the first time since the save became a statistic (1969) that such a feat occurred. 

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The NARN Closer's playlist - 4/12/2026

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Regimental in my way, detrimental at the end of the day.........

Look, I get it. Today in the Twin Cities is likely to be the first 80 degree day of 2026. So be sure to bring along your radio/laptop/smartphone while engaging in your favorite outdoor activities to ensure you don't miss a minute of my radio show The Closer. The 2-hour blitz begins at 1:00 PM Central Time. 

In the first hour, I'll discuss Minnesota's bleak economic outlook, specifically how it impacts the hospitality industry. Also, out-of-control state government spending is going to result in some difficult choices over the next few years. 

At 1:30, Minnesota Family Council CEO Jeff Evans will join the broadcast to promote the organization's annual dinner as well as share details about their advocacy at the MN Legislature. 

At 2:00, geopolitical wonk Amanda Peterson will stop by to talk about the latest in the U.S. war with Iran. 

So please call (651) 289-4488 if you'd like to weigh in on any of the topics we plan on addressing.

 

You can listen live in the Twin Cities at AM 1280 or, if you're near downtown Minneapolis/West Metro area, 107.5 FM on your radio dial. In and out of the Minneapolis-St Paul area you can listen to the program on the Internet by clicking this link, or check us out via iheart radio as well as Amazon Alexa (just say "Alexa, play The Patriot Minneapolis"). If you're unable to tune in live, please check out my podcast page for the latest show post.

And if you're so inclined, follow along on Twitter at #NARNShow or "Like" our Facebook page, where we also conduct a "Live Stream" of the broadcast.

Until then.....

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A bright light amid a dark diagnosis

It's been nearly 100 days since former Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. While he's never shied away from his disease being a death sentence, Sasse has been steadfast in his desire to be a bright spiritual light despite the unfathomable physical pain he endures on a daily basis. 

Here are a couple of excerpts from a recent interview he granted NY Times columnist Ross Douthat. 

Former Sen. Ben Sasse, who is facing terminal illness, opens up about how his faith in Jesus Christ is sustaining him during this difficult time:

“I believe in the Resurrection, and I believe in a restoration of this world, and so I did not feel great fear about my death.” pic.twitter.com/MhZrV5ULra

— Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) April 10, 2026

“You got me at the end” @BenSasse with @DouthatNYT pic.twitter.com/6TA7cYUUiq

— Caleb Wait (@calebwait) April 9, 2026

When we humans think of our mortality, I would suspect the vast majority of us would, if given the choice, desire to pass away while sleeping as opposed to perpetual physical pain until our day of death approaches. But Sasse wasn't given that choice, yet he approaches the end of his time on Earth with joy, peace and humor. What a legacy. 

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Quick Hits: Volume CDVI

 - With significant wealth departing the state of Minneota in addition to leftist policy being hostile to small businesses, this is the inevitable result. 

Minnesota’s nearly $9 billion hospitality industry “is on the brink of no return,” according to a new report warning years of mounting regulation and economic uncertainty threaten to decimate a key part of the state’s economy.

The new survey from Hospitality Minnesota found only a third of restaurants, hotels and other tourism businesses expect a better spring than last year. In contrast, nearly three-quarters expected a better spring in 2021.

“We’ve not recovered since the pandemic,” said Angie Whitcomb, Hospitality Minnesota’s president and CEO. “We are at a point now where it is dire and we’re starting to see the effects of this.”

In 2025, more than half of hospitality businesses in the state saw foot traffic and profits drop year over year. Slightly less than half reported being in financial decline, an increase of 12 percentage points over 2024.

Several hot spots closed in 2025, including Keys Cafe, Zen Box Izakaya, Soberfish, Cocina del Barrio and Petit León.

The report cites a slew of pressures on the industry, which employs about 230,000 people statewide. Federal tariffs have raised wholesale prices; state and local regulations have added new costs and red tape; and widespread economic uncertainty has consumers spending less.

Yeah, the Trump administration certainly doesn't get a pass here given how higher costs due to tariffs are essentially regressive taxes. And with the war in Iran, fuel costs are also a factor in raised prices. 

But hey, at least we have a new state flag in Minnesota!

- Just gonna leave this here: 

Sincere request from those on the left side of the political spectrum in Minnesota:

Please explain how this is sustainable. pic.twitter.com/EyqMXZB1Y3

— Pat Garofalo 🇺🇸 (@PatGarofalo) April 8, 2026

I imagine the patented prog responses were shrieks of "rIcH pEoPlE nEeD tO pAy ThEiR fAiR sHaRe." But, again, since may upper income individuals have moved elsewhere, that well is quickly running dry. It also means that the left's definition of "rich" is going to shift also. 

- With Minneapolis beset with crime, employers leaving the downtown area and residents departing the city for the 'burbs or outstate (if not leaving Minnesota completely), you'd think city officials would be laser focused on reversing those trends, right? Right?? RIGHT?!?!

Well.......

Minneapolis city leaders are considering legalizing adult bathhouses and sex venues where sexual activity between consenting adults would be allowed.

The City Council will decide Thursday, April 9, whether to have city staff research several ordinances that would allow adult bathhouses and sex venues to operate again after a 38-year ban.

The ordinances would remove “stigmatizing language” and add “new definitions to be inclusive of establishments where sexual activity between consenting adults may be facilitated.”

Adult bathhouses were popular among some men in the U.S. until public pressure and laws led to their closures in the 1980s during the AIDS crisis.

In Minneapolis, bathhouses and sex clubs operated until a 1988 ordinance banned businesses that facilitate “high-risk sexual conduct” — which it defined as fellatio, anal intercourse and vaginal intercourse for pay.

Because nothing says "progress" like bringing back the depravity and moral decay of 1980s San Francisco. 

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