Hold 'em Accountable

Derrick Holder

Welcome to Hold ’Em Accountable — a channel dedicated to shining a light on politics, policy, and the people who represent us. Here, we break down the decisions made in Indiana and across the nation, exposing how gerrymandering, corruption, and backroom deals impact everyday Americans. We ask the tough questions: Are our leaders truly serving the people, or are they protecting their own power? Through commentary, news breakdowns, and sharp analysis, we cut through political spin and demand accountability from those in office — regardless of party. This channel isn’t about left or right — it’s about right and wrong. It’s about making sure Hoosiers and all Americans know the truth, and making sure their voices are heard.

  1. Candidate Interview: Julie McGill

    14 HR AGO

    Candidate Interview: Julie McGill

    Indiana State Senate District 15 is changing quickly. New neighborhoods continue to rise in Huntertown, businesses are expanding across the northeast corridor of Fort Wayne, and families are moving into the area looking for safety, opportunity, and strong schools. But growth has a cost when leadership fails to plan for it. In this episode, I sit down with Julie McGill to talk about what it means to manage that growth responsibly and why she believes District 15 needs leadership that keeps families at the center of the conversation. Our discussion moves through the issues people in this district are feeling every day. We talk about infrastructure, traffic congestion, school enrollment, and the strain that rapid growth places on roads, utilities, and emergency services. Julie argues that the state must do more than react after the fact. It has to plan ahead, collaborate across county and district lines, and make sure that growing communities are not left scrambling for resources once the pressure is already there. Healthcare becomes a major focus of the conversation. Julie speaks candidly about what she has seen in the healthcare system, both personally and as a parent navigating care for a child with disabilities. We discuss Medicaid waivers, nonprofit hospital accountability, telehealth, provider shortages, and why she believes the state is making short-sighted decisions that hurt working families instead of supporting them. We also examine property taxes, school funding, childcare, mental health access, small businesses, and the challenge of passing meaningful legislation in a Republican-dominated Statehouse. What stood out most to me was Julie’s emphasis on analysis, detail, and long-term thinking. She makes the case that Indiana’s current policies are too often reactive and disconnected from how families actually live. At its core, this episode is about whether growth in District 15 will be managed with foresight or simply endured by the people who live there. #IndianaPolitics #JulieMcGill #District15 #IndianaStateSenate #FortWaynePolitics #Huntertown #AllenCounty #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #HealthcareAccess #SchoolFunding #PropertyTaxes #Infrastructure #WorkingFamilies #HoldEmAccountable

    43 min
  2. Candidate Interview: Chloe Andis

    2 DAYS AGO

    Candidate Interview: Chloe Andis

    In this episode, I sit down with Chloe Andis for a thoughtful political conversation about the future of Indiana State Senate District 15, a region that includes parts of Fort Wayne and the rapidly growing community of Huntertown in Allen County. This discussion dives into the real policy challenges facing northern Indiana, including infrastructure growth, property taxes, public education funding, and the role state government plays in supporting local communities. We talk about how District 15 is evolving as population growth and suburban expansion reshape the area. We explore how communities like Fort Wayne and Huntertown are interconnected and why public policy must recognize the unique needs of both urban neighborhoods and fast-growing suburbs. From roads and utilities to school capacity and public services, the conversation focuses on how Indiana can plan responsibly for long-term growth. Property taxes emerge as a major topic for Hoosier homeowners, especially seniors and families on fixed incomes. We examine how heavy reliance on property taxes to fund local government places pressure on residents and discuss ideas for balancing local funding with greater state responsibility for essential services. Education policy is another key focus. We break down the ongoing debate surrounding teacher shortages, school funding formulas, and Indiana’s private school voucher system, along with why investing in public schools and supporting educators is critical to the future workforce and economic stability of the region. For viewers interested in Indiana politics, state senate races, Fort Wayne policy debates, infrastructure planning, property tax reform, and public education funding, this interview provides meaningful insight into the decisions shaping District 15 and the broader Hoosier State. Subscribe for more Indiana political interviews, candidate conversations, and accountability-focused discussions about how communities can build a stronger future together. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #ChloeAndis #District15 #FortWaynePolitics #HuntertownIN #IndianaStateSenate #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #PropertyTaxes #Infrastructure #EducationFunding #TeacherShortage #PublicSchools #StateElections #CivicEngagement

    47 min
  3. Candidate Interview: Keil Roark

    4 DAYS AGO

    Candidate Interview: Keil Roark

    In this episode, I sit down with Keil Roark for an in-depth conversation about the future of Indiana’s 9th Congressional District and the political, economic, and social challenges shaping communities across southern Indiana. This district includes a unique mix of college towns like Bloomington, historic river cities, and rural communities, all facing questions about jobs, healthcare access, economic opportunity, and long-term growth. Keil Roark, a U.S. Navy veteran, electrical engineer, and project manager, joins me to talk about why he’s running for Congress and what meaningful representation should look like in Washington. We dive into the real issues affecting working families across the district, including living wages, union jobs, workforce development, and economic policies that support both manufacturing communities like Bedford and research-driven economies like Bloomington. Healthcare access becomes a central focus of our discussion. Many rural counties in Indiana’s 9th District are dealing with hospital closures, Medicaid cuts, and reduced access to affordable healthcare. Keil explains why protecting rural hospitals, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and expanding access to medical services are critical to the long-term stability of these communities. We also talk about the importance of balancing innovation and economic stability, particularly when it comes to federal investment in healthcare research, medical technology, and public health initiatives. As Indiana’s population ages and rural healthcare challenges grow, these investments could shape the region’s future for decades. For viewers interested in Indiana politics, congressional races, Midwestern public policy, rural economic development, healthcare reform, and the historical forces shaping modern American politics, this conversation offers thoughtful insight and real policy discussion. If you want to better understand how local issues connect to national policy and why leadership matters in communities like southern Indiana, this episode delivers an important conversation about accountability, representation, and the future of the Hoosier State. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #KeilRoark #IN09 #Indiana9thDistrict #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #HealthcareAccess #RuralHospitals #EconomicDevelopment #UnionJobs #CongressionalRace #MidwestPolitics #PublicPolicy #CivicEngagement #HoldEmAccountable

    34 min
  4. Candidate Interview: Nick Marshall

    6 MAR

    Candidate Interview: Nick Marshall

    In this episode, I sit down with Nick Marshall, for a powerful and deeply personal political conversation about the future of Indiana State Senate District 45 and the challenges facing rural and small-town Hoosiers. From affordable housing and education equity to infrastructure, environmental protection, and mental health access, this discussion explores how lived experience shapes public policy and why local elections matter more than many people realize. Nick Marshall shares his journey from foster care survivor to state senate candidate, offering a perspective rooted in resilience, service, and community advocacy. I explore how his background informs his approach to transparent government, political accountability, and restoring trust between voters and Indianapolis leadership. Together, we break down the issues impacting District 45, including property taxes, rural school funding disparities, transportation and toll policies, and the economic pressures facing working families across southern Indiana. We also discuss how Indiana can balance economic growth with environmental responsibility, strengthen mental health services, and ensure rural communities are not left behind as development expands. This conversation connects modern policy debates with the broader historical story of Indiana politics, examining why communities feel unheard and what meaningful representation could look like moving forward. If you follow Indiana politics, state senate races, grassroots democracy, Midwestern public policy, rural economic development, or political interviews focused on real solutions, this episode provides insight, context, and thoughtful dialogue about how society works and how it can improve. Subscribe for more Indiana political interviews, candidate conversations, and accountability-driven discussions designed to inform voters, spark conversation, and encourage civic engagement across the Hoosier State. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #NickMarshall #District45 #IndianaStateSenate #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #RuralIndiana #AffordableHousing #EducationEquity #MentalHealthAccess #GovernmentAccountability #EnvironmentalPolicy #StateElections #GrassrootsDemocracy #CivicEngagement

    44 min
  5. Candidate Interview: Carl Stutsman

    4 MAR

    Candidate Interview: Carl Stutsman

    Elkhart County has long represented the spirit of Hoosier innovation. Known for its manufacturing strength and hardworking communities, it is also facing a period of transition as economic pressures, rising costs, and industry changes reshape daily life. In this episode, I sit down with Carl Stutsman, candidate for Indiana House District 48, to talk about what those changes mean for local families and what leadership looks like during uncertain times. We begin by exploring the manufacturing backbone of Elkhart County. Despite significant economic activity flowing through the region, many workers continue to experience stagnant wages while healthcare and housing costs rise. I ask how state policy can better support working families and ensure economic growth translates into real opportunity. Our conversation moves into housing affordability, job stability, and the growing challenge of middle-income families being priced out of homeownership. We also discuss the future of manufacturing as automation advances, and what it means to prepare the workforce without abandoning communities built around these industries. Education emerges as a central theme, particularly funding for public schools and support for teachers. We examine the broader debate around vouchers and the long-term role strong public education plays in sustaining local economies. Healthcare access, especially for rural and working-class residents, also takes focus, along with the importance of maintaining programs that connect underserved populations to care. Finally, we talk about property taxes, infrastructure investment, and the continued need for rural broadband expansion as essential components of community growth. At its core, this conversation is about listening to communities, strengthening opportunity, and finding practical paths forward as Elkhart County navigates economic change and prepares for the future. #IndianaPolitics #CarlStutsman #District48 #ElkhartCounty #IndianaHouse #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #ManufacturingJobs #AffordableHousing #EducationFunding #HealthcareAccess #RuralBroadband #EconomicDevelopment #StateElections #CommunityLeadership

    38 min
  6. Candidate Interview: Clif Marsiglio

    2 MAR

    Candidate Interview: Clif Marsiglio

    In this episode, I sit down for a thoughtful and wide-ranging political conversation about community, public safety, mental health, and the future of Indiana with Clif Marsiglio. This discussion brings politics back to the local level, focusing on how real-life experiences shape policy ideas and how grassroots leadership can influence meaningful change across Indianapolis and surrounding communities. Clif Marsiglio shares his journey from nearly three decades in education and community organizing to becoming a candidate for the Indiana State Senate, offering insight into how lived experience informs his approach to leadership. We explore the idea that true public safety goes beyond traditional policing and instead includes mental health access, affordable housing, economic opportunity, and strong neighborhood connections. I examine how community-driven solutions can address the root causes of instability while strengthening trust between residents and local institutions. The conversation also touches on authenticity, personal resilience, and how vulnerability can build stronger civic engagement. We discuss challenges facing urban Indiana after the pandemic, including infrastructure investment, public transit expansion, equitable development, and the long-term vision for Indianapolis neighborhoods. Clif outlines his views on sustainable growth, mixed-income housing, and supporting small businesses as the backbone of thriving communities rather than relying solely on large corporate development. For viewers interested in Indiana politics, state senate races, public safety reform, grassroots activism, Midwestern political history, and understanding how society evolves through local decision-making, this interview offers context, depth, and meaningful dialogue. If you’re looking for political conversations that go beyond headlines and explore how communities can solve problems together, this episode delivers insight into leadership, accountability, and the future direction of Indiana. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #ClifMarsiglio #StateSenate #IndianapolisPolitics #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #PublicSafety #MentalHealthAccess #AffordableHousing #GrassrootsPolitics #CommunityLeadership #UrbanDevelopment #IndianaElections #CivicEngagement #PolicyDiscussion

    34 min
  7. Candidate Interview: Tom Arthur

    27 FEB

    Candidate Interview: Tom Arthur

    In this episode, I sit down for an in-depth political conversation with the Republican candidate for Indiana House District 46, Tom Arthur, to examine the real challenges facing rural Hoosier communities. From education funding and childcare access to infrastructure, housing affordability, and economic development, this discussion goes beyond party labels and focuses on how state-level decisions shape everyday life in Indiana. Tom Arthur’s background as a math teacher, mayor, and school principal offers a unique perspective on public service, accountability, and community leadership. I explore how those experiences inform his policy priorities, particularly when it comes to strengthening public schools, reforming Indiana’s education funding formula, and ensuring rural districts receive equitable resources. We also dive into the elimination of childcare vouchers and what that means for working families, single parents, and workforce participation across District 46. Infrastructure is another major focus. We discuss road conditions, including concerns about I-70, broadband expansion for rural communities, and long-term investments that support both economic growth and quality of life. Housing costs, property taxes, utility rates, and energy policy round out the conversation as we examine the rising cost of living in Indiana and potential solutions at the Statehouse. For viewers who follow Indiana politics, state house races, rural economic development, public education policy, infrastructure reform, and Midwestern political history, this interview provides thoughtful dialogue and policy-driven analysis. If you want to understand how local leadership connects to larger societal questions about fairness, accountability, and economic opportunity, this episode delivers. Subscribe for more Indiana political interviews, candidate conversations, and accountability-focused discussions about the future of our communities. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #TomArthur #District46 #IndianaHouse #HoosierPolitics #RuralIndiana #PoliticalInterview #EducationFunding #Infrastructure #ChildcarePolicy #EconomicDevelopment #PropertyTaxes #BroadbandAccess #PublicService #StateElections

    38 min
  8. Candidate Interview: Coumba Kebe

    26 FEB

    Candidate Interview: Coumba Kebe

    In this episode, I sit down for an in-depth political conversation about the future of Indiana House District 29, including Noblesville and the rapidly growing communities of Hamilton County with Coumba Kebe. Local legislative races often shape everyday life more than national headlines, and in this discussion, I explore how state-level decisions impact housing affordability, public education, healthcare access, workforce development, and environmental sustainability across Indiana. Coumba Kebe brings a public health perspective to the race, and we break down the real challenges facing District 29: rising property taxes, infrastructure strain from rapid growth, and the balance between development and preserving community character. We discuss how the Indiana General Assembly can remove barriers to affordable housing while respecting local zoning and planning decisions. I also press into the ongoing debate around property tax reform and the importance of fully funding essential local services like public safety and public schools. Education policy takes center stage as we examine teacher pay, school funding, and Indiana’s national rankings. We also dive into healthcare legislation, mental health access, and the broader healthcare crisis affecting working families. Workforce development, small business partnerships, renewable energy, and environmental responsibility round out the conversation as we consider how economic growth can remain sustainable and community-focused. If you follow Indiana politics, state house races, Midwestern public policy, grassroots democracy, housing reform, education funding debates, healthcare access issues, or economic development strategies, this episode offers thoughtful analysis and direct insight into the future of District 29. Subscribe for more Indiana political interviews, candidate conversations, and accountability-driven discussions about how to fix what isn’t working in our communities. Hashtags: #IndianaPolitics #CoumbaKebe #District29 #IndianaHouse #Noblesville #HamiltonCounty #HoosierPolitics #PoliticalInterview #AffordableHousing #EducationFunding #HealthcareAccess #WorkforceDevelopment #RenewableEnergy #PropertyTaxes #GrassrootsDemocracy

    21 min

About

Welcome to Hold ’Em Accountable — a channel dedicated to shining a light on politics, policy, and the people who represent us. Here, we break down the decisions made in Indiana and across the nation, exposing how gerrymandering, corruption, and backroom deals impact everyday Americans. We ask the tough questions: Are our leaders truly serving the people, or are they protecting their own power? Through commentary, news breakdowns, and sharp analysis, we cut through political spin and demand accountability from those in office — regardless of party. This channel isn’t about left or right — it’s about right and wrong. It’s about making sure Hoosiers and all Americans know the truth, and making sure their voices are heard.