SpinSisters

Mary Lahammer & Tara Erickson
  • 4.9 (15)
  • 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. 1d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Aug 27

    Surveillance State

    Mary and Tara speak with Stacey Young of Justice Connection and Professor of Law, Jessica West about issues of surveillance and constitutional law, highlighting the challenges in regulating federal agencies and the historical context of surveillance in the US. They discuss the actions of the Trump DOJ on Minnesotans during Operation Metro Surge in surveilling Minnesotans just exercise their free speech to protest. It also explores the role of Congress and the implications of Supreme Court decisions in addressing these challenges. The conversation delves into the complexities of First Amendment rights and the challenges in enforcing civil rights, particularly in the context of government surveillance and legal remedies. It highlights the need for structural changes and citizen activism to address these issues. www.thejusticeconnection.org Takeaways Surveillance and constitutional lawChallenges in regulating federal agencies First Amendment RightsChallenges in Enforcing Civil Rights Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Surveillance and Constitutional Law05:15 Challenges of Surveillance and Constitutional Law06:11 Establishment of The Justice Connection08:19 Constitutional and Legal Red Flags10:13 Historical Context of Surveillance in the US11:36 Comparison with Past Administrations15:07 Institutional Norms and Separation of Powers18:32 Role of Congress and Popular Constitutionalism23:08 Implications of Supreme Court Decisions25:50 First Amendment Rights and Surveillance36:13 Challenges in Enforcing Civil Rights

  7. Aug 20

    Getting Grounded: Tester & Georgiou

    Mary and Tara talk to the hosts of the hit political podcast Grounded with former US Senator Jon Tester and journalist Maritsa Georgiou. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including politics, local and national issues, the impact of money in politics, and the need for bipartisan cooperation. The influence of Citizens United on politics and the challenges of addressing climate change are also discussed. They also discuss issues including education, media, and community engagement of Minnesotans during Operation Metro Surge. It delves into the impact of political changes, the importance of staying informed, and the role of media in uncovering fraud and holding public officials accountable. The discussion also highlights the need for education reform and media literacy. Takeaways Bipartisan cooperation is essential for addressing major issues like climate change.The impact of money in politics, particularly due to the Citizens United decision, is a significant concern. Media plays a crucial role in uncovering fraud and holding public officials accountable.Education reform and media literacy are essential for an informed and engaged citizenry. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/begin-at-your-front-door/id1795326867?i=1000780930306 Like, Follow and Subscribe to SpinSisters!

  8. Aug 15

    Record MN Primary Turnout : Tom Horner

    The conversation delves into the Minnesota primary politics, record turnout, surprising election results, and the impact of primary turnout. It also explores the challenges and strategies for candidates, analyzes the Republican candidate, discusses the pro-choice Republican candidate, and examines the GOP gubernatorial race. The conversation covers the Minnesota gubernatorial race, the role of lieutenant governor candidates, the prevalence of the fraud issue in politics, the political evolution and centrism, and the impact of polarization in politics. Takeaways Record turnout reflects high engagementCandidates face challenges in appealing to voters Minnesota gubernatorial race is focused on policy debates and social valuesLieutenant governor candidates play a crucial role in understanding rural MinnesotaFraud issue is a significant concern in political races Chapters 00:00 Minnesota Primary Politics01:10 Record Turnout and Engagement02:56 Surprising Election Results03:26 Impact of Primary Turnout05:40 Challenges and Strategies for Candidates09:18 Republican Candidate Analysis17:30 Pro-Choice Republican Candidate20:44 GOP Gubernatorial Race24:03 Minnesota Gubernatorial Race25:01 Lieutenant Governor Candidates26:11 Fraud Issue in Politics29:05 Political Evolution and Centrism35:38 Polarization in Politics

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4.9
out of 5
15 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
    39
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Mary Lahammer & Tara Erickson
  • Show Website
    SpinSisters

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