SpinSisters

Mary Lahammer & Tara Erickson
  • 4.9 (16)
  • Politics

Policy & Politics with Wit & Wisdom: Minnesota's acclaimed television reporter Mary Lahammer and public relations professional Tara Erickson bring insight in turbulent times with fresh perspectives from guests, sharing civility, substance, and solutions.

  1. 5d ago

    Breaking Down the Blue Wave with McClung & Hayden

    The conversation delves into the recent election outcomes in Minnesota, highlighting historic voter turnout and the implications for both major political parties. The discussion also explores the challenges faced by the Republican Party, the influence of Donald Trump, and the potential for progressive leadership under Governor-elect Klobuchar. The conversation delves into the complexities of political dynamics, focusing on the challenges faced by new legislators, the evolving landscape of leadership, and the importance of building relationships between business and government. Key themes include the impact of recent elections on legislative priorities and the need for effective communication in governance. Takeaways Historic voter turnout in MinnesotaRepublican Party faces significant challenges Political dynamics are shiftingBuilding relationships is crucialChapters 00:00 Election Night Reflections03:05 Historic Voter Turnout in Minnesota05:58 Republican Party Challenges08:52 The Trump Factor in Elections12:01 Negotiating with Trump15:04 Progressive Voices in Congress18:10 The Future of the Democratic Party20:57 Klobuchar's Leadership Style23:57 Legislative Dynamics Ahead29:21 Navigating Political Priorities32:36 Shifts in Legislative Power33:34 Challenges in Human Services39:07 The Evolving Political Landscape42:30 Leadership Changes Ahead51:17 Business and Political Relationships

  2. Oct 30

    2026 Election Preview

    The conversation between Tara Erickson and Mary Lahammer focuses on the upcoming election, particularly the gubernatorial race in Minnesota, discussing candidates, polling trends, and key issues affecting voters. They analyze the dynamics between candidates Klobuchar and Demuth, their debate performances, and the implications of their policies on the electorate. The conversation delves into the dynamics of the upcoming Minnesota elections, focusing on key races, voter motivations, and the implications of various political strategies. The hosts discuss the potential impact of issues like abortion, gun control, and corruption on voter turnout and election outcomes. Takeaways Gubernatorial race is competitiveCandidates focus on restoring faith in government Minnesota elections are highly competitiveVoter motivations are shiftingChapters 00:00 Election Countdown: Gubernatorial Race Insights02:57 Debate Dynamics: Performance Analysis06:04 Policy Agreements and Disagreements09:02 Campaign Strategies and Press Conferences12:01 Polling Trends and Election Predictions14:52 Potential Senate Appointments and Future Implications18:07 Legal Challenges and Election Integrity19:59 Vulnerable Senate Seats and Legislative Landscape23:34 Minnesota Senate Race Dynamics27:46 The Role of Young Voters30:45 Potential Leadership Changes in the Senate33:06 House Races and Key Rematches37:02 Polling Accuracy and Voter Sentiment40:56 Key Issues Influencing Voter Behavior44:30 Implications of Statewide Races

  3. Oct 22

    Beyond Red and Blue: Independent Voters Take on the Primary System

    The conversation focuses on the concept of open primaries in the United States, discussing the different types of primaries, the challenges faced by independent voters, and the implications for democracy. John Opdycke, Founder of Open Primaries, emphasizes the need for reform to enhance voter participation and competition among candidates. The conversation explores the rise of independent candidates in American politics, highlighting their appeal in a landscape dominated by partisanship. It discusses the challenges faced by independents, the need for electoral reform, and the potential for a new political movement that prioritizes voter choice and engagement. Takeaways Open primaries enhance voter choiceCompetition is essential for democracy Rise of independent candidatesNeed for electoral reformChapters 00:00 Understanding Primaries in America02:56 The Case for Open Primaries05:58 The One-Party System Dilemma09:02 Minnesota's Political Landscape11:58 Challenges and Solutions for Democracy15:03 The Role of Federal Legislation17:50 The Future of Independent Candidates24:39 The Surge of Independent Candidates25:50 Prairie Populism and Regional Success27:43 Recasting Political Parties29:44 The Role of Independents in Elections30:53 Voter Engagement and Political Discontent32:21 The Power of Independent Movements33:17 Independent Voters: The Untapped Majority34:57 Polling and Voter Influence36:14 The Case for Independent Candidates41:30 Electoral Reform: Open Primaries and Beyond48:18 Ranked Choice Voting vs. Open Primaries50:52 Building a Movement for Change51:52 Grassroots Funding and Political Infrastructurewww.openprimaries.org X: @OpenPrimaryUSAYT: @OpenPrimariesOrgIG: @openprimaryusaFB: @OpenPrimariesUSAhttps://johnopdycke.substack.com#SpinSisters

  4. Oct 18

    Fraud, Power & Political Pressure: David Schultz Explains

    The conversation explores the complex relationship between law and politics, focusing on the investigation of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and the implications of legal actions taken against her. The discussion highlights the intersection of legal norms, political strategy, and public perception in shaping electoral outcomes. The conversation delves into various aspects of ethics in government, the implications of misrepresentation by public officials, the importance of local journalism, challenges in Minnesota's social services, and predictions for voter engagement in upcoming elections. Each topic is explored through specific examples and broader implications for governance and civic engagement. Takeaways Law can be politically weaponizedTiming of legal actions matters Importance of ethical governanceImpact of local journalism on communityChapters 00:00 The Intersection of Law and Politics01:37 Ilhan Omar's Legal Challenges05:27 Investigative Norms and Political Timing08:42 Unprecedented Legal Actions10:16 Political Implications of Legal Actions12:33 Polling Trends and Political Narratives22:17 The Role of Ethics in Governance24:10 Ethics and Misconduct in Government27:22 Legal Implications of Misrepresentation29:58 The Role of Local Journalism36:33 Challenges in Minnesota's Social Services42:24 Anticipating Voter Engagement in Electionswww.minneapolistimes.com #SpinSisters http://works.bepress.com/david_schultz/ http://schultzstake.blogspot.com/ https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7863-8694 Twitter:  @ProfDSchultz

  5. Oct 3

    Politics, Power & the 2026 Election

    Mary and Tara talk about the dynamics of the upcoming Minnesota elections, focusing on local issues such as fraud in government, housing, and healthcare. The hosts also discuss the impact of national trends on local races, the significance of women in leadership roles, and the strategies employed by candidates as they approach the election. The conversation delves into the competitive landscape of Minnesota's political races, highlighting key candidates, funding dynamics, and the impact of historical context on current elections. It emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship, education concerns, and the financial strategies shaping the upcoming electoral outcomes. Takeaways Fraud in government is pivotalLocal issues dominate elections Political races are competitiveFunding impacts election outcomes Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview02:49 Local vs National Politics05:54 Key Issues in Minnesota Elections08:54 Housing and Healthcare Concerns11:56 Campaign Dynamics and Strategies14:49 Leadership Changes and Legislative Impact17:56 Voter Sentiment and Key Issues20:49 Healthcare Mergers and Consolidation23:57 Women in Leadership and Election Dynamics26:55 Statewide Races and Candidate Profiles29:56 Republican Strategies and Funding Dynamics33:00 Key Districts and Election Predictions36:09 Housing Assistance and Political Decisions37:24 Historical Context of Political Races38:37 District Dynamics and Candidate Endorsements39:50 Key Races to Watch in Minnesota40:43 Controversial Rematches and Voter Demographics42:43 Moderate Candidates and Bipartisanship44:43 Challenges in Candidate Recruitment46:03 Bipartisan Efforts and Personal Stories48:50 Education and Student Performance Concerns50:37 Financial Landscape of Political Campaigns52:54 Impact of Independent Expenditures55:31 Congressional Race Dynamics57:52 Budgeting and Legislative Responsibilities01:00:11 Future Legislative Challenges01:01:37 AI and Data Center Issues01:03:24 Education Policy and Historical Context

  6. Sep 25

    Constitution, Corruption & Congress with George Conway

    The conversation with George Conway covers his introduction to John Kaul, his decision to run for Congress, and his experience with the Trump administration. It also delves into his reasons for opposing the administration and his insights into the functioning of the Justice Department. The conversation also includes the impact of the Trump administration on the Justice Department, defiance of federal orders, the role of the courts, and the need for accountability in Congress. It also explores the dynamics of the Republican Party, the influence of money in politics, and the future of the Democratic Party. Takeaways Resistance to the Trump eraChallenges within the Justice Department Justice Department impactDefiance of federal ordersRole of the courtsAccountability in CongressRepublican Party dynamicsInfluence of money in politicsFuture of the Democratic PartyChapters 00:00 Introduction to John Kaul01:25 Decision to Run for Congress05:13 Opposition to the Trump Administration25:41 Insights into the Justice Department30:07 Impact on the Justice Department31:20 Defiance of Federal Orders36:15 Role of the Courts and Accountability42:35 Republican Party Dynamics47:10 Influence of Money in Politics51:27 Future of the Democratic Party

  7. Sep 17

    Democracy Defenders: DC Photo Exhibit

    The conversation with John Kaul, former lobbyist, covers the upcoming exhibition 'Defenders of Democracy' and features discussions on the panelists, the purpose of the exhibition, and the current political climate. It delves into the backgrounds and actions of notable figures such as Ty Cobb, Bill Kristol, Liz Oyer, George Conway, Marie Yovanovich, Aquilino Gonell, Miles Taylor and Michael Luttig. The conversation covers a range of topics including political figures, activism, and the importance of public service. It delves into the personal stories and motivations of individuals involved in public service and activism, highlighting their courage and dedication to preserving democracy. Register for Defenders of Democracy Photo Exhibit September 26 & 27 at the Washington DC Arts Center https://luma.com/deg6d2dp?tk=J6OO56 www.defiance.org https://www.thebulwark.com Takeaways Defenders of DemocracyCourage and Civic Responsibility Courage in Public ServiceInspiration from Historical Figures Chapters 00:00 Defenders of Democracy Exhibition02:57 Panel Discussion and Notable Panelists05:53 Purpose of the Exhibition and National Attention08:58 Bipartisanship and Political Definitions11:55 Threats to Democracy and Judicial Enforcement15:06 The Bulwark and Counter Media Culture18:07 Profiles of Notable Figures23:52 Aquilino Gonell and Michael Luttig30:16 The Kennedy Legacy31:21 Courage and Integrity in Public Service34:03 Defiance and Activism41:21 The Price of Public Service45:22 Preserving Democracy46:02 Defenders of Democracy56:35 The Importance of Public Service

  8. Sep 12

    Fraud Furor: Minnesota Really Outlier?

    The conversation examines Minnesota’s escalating fraud controversy and questions whether claims of a widespread “fraud epidemic” are supported by evidence. Drawing on Dane Smith’s experience as a journalist and public-policy analyst, the discussion critically evaluates the widely cited $9 billion fraud estimate and places Minnesota’s record in context with fraud cases in other states. The episode also explores how the political narrative around fraud affects legitimate healthcare and human services providers, particularly in rural Minnesota, where payment disruptions and heightened scrutiny can threaten access to care. The conversation considers fraud and theft across both the public and private sectors, the complexity of Minnesota’s oversight system, and the political disconnect between perceptions of government programs and their importance to rural communities. It concludes with a broader look at Minnesota’s changing media landscape and the state’s enduring strengths in civic engagement and philanthropy. Takeaways Fraud Epidemic in MinnesotaImpact of Fraud on Healthcare and Providers Fraud and theft are prevalent in both the public and private sectors.Minnesota's media and journalism landscape is thriving despite challenges.Minnesota's civic engagement and philanthropic efforts contribute to its success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Fraud Epidemic00:59 Dane Smith's Background and Experience02:52 Minnesota's Overblown Fraud Feror07:01 The $9 Billion Fraud Claim10:02 Comparison with Other States25:01 Impact on Healthcare Providers31:58 Rural Healthcare and Political Disconnect33:46 Fraud and Theft in Public and Private Sectors36:19 Minnesota's Oversight and Complex System51:18 Media and Journalism in Minnesota

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4.9
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Policy & Politics with Wit & Wisdom: Minnesota's acclaimed television reporter Mary Lahammer and public relations professional Tara Erickson bring insight in turbulent times with fresh perspectives from guests, sharing civility, substance, and solutions.

Information

  • Creator
    Mary Lahammer & Tara Erickson
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Mary Lahammer & Tara Erickson
  • Show Website
    SpinSisters

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