The Republican Legacy Podcast

Our Republican Legacy
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The official podcast of Our Republican Legacy. ORL is a movement of Republicans concerned about the future of the Republican Party. Our mission is to return the party to its core principles of Unity, the Constitution, Fiscal Responsibility, Free Enterprise, and Peace through Strength. The Republican Legacy Podcast is hosted by former Washington State Republican Party Chairman Chris Vance, ORL Texas State Chair and syndicated columnist Merrill Matthews, ORL Missouri State Chair and syndicated columnist Lynn Schmidt, and ORL Connecticut State Chair Tommy Whiteley. The show features a weekly discussion of the week's events and interviews with elected officials, thought leaders, and everyday Republicans who want to see the party return to its core values.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Ep. 10 - Rep. Steve Bartlett

    In Episode 10 of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Merrill Matthews, Lynn Schmidt, and Greg Wilson are joined by certified financial planner Paul Auslander, President of Seabridge Private Wealth, for a wide-ranging discussion about the economy, financial markets, and the importance of separating political noise from economic reality. Auslander discusses the independence of the Federal Reserve, inflation and interest rates, the national debt, the stock market's resilience, artificial intelligence, the growing dominance of major technology companies, and the balance between free enterprise and government intervention. The conversation also explores Americans moving from blue states to red states and what those demographic shifts could mean for future elections. Later, Merrill and Greg are joined by former Congressman and Dallas Mayor Steve Bartlett, a founding member of Our Republican Legacy and author of AH HA! The Power and Purpose: Family, Faith and a Life Well Lived. Bartlett reflects on his career in local government, Congress, and the financial services industry, and shares lessons about leadership, purpose, persistence, and public service. The conversation turns to the decline of bipartisanship in Congress, the importance of character and constitutional principles in public life, and the challenges facing Republicans who put governing and principle ahead of partisan loyalty. Bartlett also discusses why he became involved with Our Republican Legacy and what it will take to rebuild a Republican Party grounded in the rule of law, fiscal responsibility, free enterprise, and effective governing. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and introduction of Paul Auslander 02:29 Investing through political and economic uncertainty 04:53 Lessons from Senators Moynihan and Danforth 06:31 Federal Reserve independence, inflation, and interest rates 09:48 What investors are watching in today’s market 12:01 AI, the Magnificent Seven, and market concentration 14:45 Free markets, industrial policy, and national security 17:11 Migration from blue states to red states 20:06 Florida, Texas, and the next elections 24:03 The biggest economic and geopolitical risks ahead 26:19 Introducing Steve Bartlett and The Power and Purpose 31:30 City politics and the changing political landscape 35:37 Why bipartisan governing has become so difficult 37:57 Rebuilding constitutional conservatism 43:52 Advice for future members of Congress 46:17 Banking regulation and the importance of enforcement 51:20 Is there reason for optimism about the country? Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesLynn Schmidt's Latest ArticlesSteve Bartlett’s Book: AH HA! The Power and Purpose: Family, Faith and a Life Well Lived

  2. Aug 8

    Ep. 9 - Amb. Frank Lavin

    Ep. 9 - Amb. Frank Lavin In this episode of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Chris Vance and Merrill Matthews talk with former U.S. Ambassador and Reagan White House official Frank Lavin, author of Inside the Reagan White House, who reflects on Ronald Reagan’s core legacy: market economics, international leadership, and respectful, optimistic communication. Lavin contrasts those principles with today’s grievance-driven politics, warns against protectionism, and weak U.S. leadership abroad. The week in review segment features State Chairs Richard Sansing from New Hampshire and Justin Bingham from Maryland. The conversation covers the fight over tariffs, reactions to recent primary results in Michigan, Washington, Maryland, Texas, and Wisconsin, and a look at the 2028 landscape. Chapters 00:00 Introduction of New Hampshire Chair Richard Sansing and Maryland Chair Justin Bingham 01:48 Reagan's core principles and their relevance today 04:57 The significance of New Hampshire in the 2024 primaries 06:58 Maryland's political landscape and Republican prospects 09:54 The controversy over Todd Blanche and judicial nominations 12:12 The debate over tariffs and trade policies 15:04 Economic impacts of tariffs and protectionism 17:58 The importance of free markets and global leadership 21:58 Primary elections and political trends in Michigan and Washington 23:50 Upcoming political developments and key issues to watch 24:01 Reagan's economic policies and free enterprise 27:29 Reagan's communication style and leadership qualities 29:28 The impact of social media on political discourse 30:00 The shift away from free trade and protectionism 31:18 Economic policies: tariffs and their effects 32:46 The importance of real-world economic experience 33:36 The dangers of government intervention and populism 34:36 Immigration policy and Reagan's legacy 35:13 The importance of border security and legal immigration 36:00 The role of rule of law in economic prosperity 37:14 The need for a balanced immigration system 38:28 The role of economists and populism 39:24 Grievance politics versus aspirational leadership 40:06 Adapting to technological and societal change 41:12 U.S. strategy in Asia and the importance of Singapore 43:34 U.S. policy towards Taiwan and China 44:13 About Frank Lavin's book and Reagan's legacy 45:11 Behind the scenes of the Reagan White House 45:43 The future of American leadership and foreign policy Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesFrank Lavin’s Book: Inside the Reagan White HouseFrank Lavin on LinkedInFrank Lavin on X

  3. Aug 1

    Ep.8 - Rep. Claudine Schneider

    In this episode of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Chris Vance and Lynn Schmidt welcome former Congresswoman Claudine Schneider of Rhode Island. Schneider reflects on her political journey, the founding principles of the Republican Party, and her work on election integrity and campaign finance reform. She discusses the importance of building a broad Republican coalition that includes moderate voices while addressing issues such as women’s rights, climate change, ethical governance, and the rule of law. The conversation also explores the growing challenges posed by misinformation and the importance of active civic and political engagement. In the Week in Review segment, Chris, Lynn, and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by ORL Minnesota State Chair Michael Brodkorb to examine the latest political developments. The panel discusses Minnesota’s political landscape, the influence of the MAGA movement, the rise of political violence, fraud allegations involving members of Minnesota’s Somali community, growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and data centers, and the continuing erosion of public trust in institutions. They conclude with a look at the latest polling trends as the midterm elections approach and the challenges facing the Republican Party. Chapters 00:00 Introduction of ORL Minnesota Chair Michael Brodkorb 01:24 Minnesota's Political Landscape and MAGA Turmoil 05:05 Political Violence and Its Impact on Minnesota 10:58 Fraud Allegations in the Somali Community 13:23 The Rise of AI and Data Centers in Politics 20:26 Eroding Trust in Institutions 23:02 Polling Trends and Upcoming Elections 31:23 A Journey Through Claudine Schneider’s Political Leadership 36:14 Founding Principles of the Republican Legacy 40:57 Election Integrity and Challenges 46:28 Campaign Finance Reform Efforts 50:52 Rebuilding the Republican Coalition Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesLynn Schmidt's Latest Articles

  4. Jul 25

    Ep. 7 - Pollster Whit Ayres

    In this episode, hosts Chris Vance and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by preeminent Republican pollster Whit Ayres as they delve into the latest across the political landscape. Whit shares his expertise on the upcoming 2024 midterm elections, potential control of Congress, the current state of the polling industry, and the future direction of the GOP leading into 2028. In our Week in Review segment, our panel discusses the upcoming midterm elections, the current state of the Republican and Democratic parties, and the potential field of future presidential candidates. They also examine Dr. Merrill Matthews’ latest column in The Hill, which argues that President Trump’s recent speech simultaneously undermined confidence in the integrity of U.S. elections while refuting President Biden’s false accusations. Finally, they discuss Lynn Schmidt’s recent column on the Trump administration’s approach to Americans with disabilities and the implications for disability rights. Chapters 00:00 Midterm Election Outlook  05:58 Key House Races and Redistricting  09:46 The Road to 2028  12:03 Attorney General Nomination  13:58 Election Integrity and Disability Rights  17:30 Whit Ayres on the Midterms  21:57 Why Polling Has Changed  27:37 Affordability and the Political Message  30:34 The Changing American Electorate  33:37 The Republican Party in 2028  40:46 Guardrails for Democracy Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesLynn Schmidt's Latest ArticlesWhit Ayres - North Star Opinion Research

  5. Jul 18

    Ep. 6 - Peace Through Strength with Dr. Nicholas Rostow & Greg Wilson

    In this episode, hosts Chris Vance, Lynn Schmidt, and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by two distinguished guests: Dr. Nicholas Rostow, Distinguished Research Professor at the National Defense University, former Special Assistant for National Security Affairs to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, and ORL’s Vermont State Chair; and Greg Wilson, former Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Treasury Department under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush and Senior Advisor to ORL. Together, they discuss the principles of peace through strength, America’s role in the world, the importance of NATO and our international alliances, and how military readiness and American credibility influence global security. They also reflect on the foreign policy legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham and examine the challenges facing U.S. leadership in an increasingly uncertain world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peace Through Strength and the Podcast 01:26 Meet the Panel: Experts on National Security and Foreign Policy 04:02 The Origins of the Republican Party and Its Principles 05:47 The Link Between Foreign Policy and Economic Stability 07:11 U.S. Support for Ukraine and Global Security 08:00 Ukraine as a Test of the International Order 09:34 The Threat of Nuclear Proliferation and Russia’s Ambitions 11:54 U.S.-Ukraine Nuclear Agreements and Security Commitments 12:50 The Role of U.S. Foreign Policy in the Bigger Global Picture 13:21 The Impact of Trump’s Foreign Policy on International Alliances 14:16 Freedom of Navigation and the Law of the Sea 17:54 U.S. Defense Spending and Military Readiness 20:44 The Constitution and Presidential War Powers 22:02 Congressional Authority and War Declarations 24:50 The Importance of NATO and U.S. Commitment 29:23 The Legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham 37:50 Graham’s Bipartisan Efforts and Foreign Policy Legacy 43:41 The Post-Trump Republican Party and Future Challenges 44:42 Do Americans Care About Foreign Policy? 45:56 The Biggest Foreign Policy Challenges for the U.S. 47:40 Restoring U.S. Credibility and Alliances 48:18 The Role and Goals of U.S. Foreign Policy 49:05 The Threat of War and Global Instability 50:16 Peace Through Strength in Modern America 51:47 Deterrence and U.S. Global Leadership Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyDr. Nicholas Rostow's Book: Proportional to the MischiefMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesLynn Schmidt's Latest Articles

  6. Jul 11

    Ep. 5 - Rep. Mickey Edwards

    In this episode, one of Our Republican Legacy’s founding members, former Oklahoma Congressman Mickey Edwards, joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Texas State Chair Merrill Matthews to reflect on conservatism, why he became an independent, the future role of political parties, and the need for the Republican Party to return to core principles. In our week-in-review segment, our panel, including new faces Virginia State Chair Linda de Seife and Florida State Chair Jake Walsh, discusses current political developments, foreign policy, Supreme Court decisions, the state of play in swing states, and the future of the Republican Party. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Republican Legacy Podcast 01:00 Panel Discussion: State Chairs Introductions 02:57 Foreign Policy Under Trump: A Roller Coaster Ride 09:06 Generational Perspectives on Foreign Policy 11:01 Supreme Court's Stance on Birthright Citizenship 14:13 The Intellectual Legacy of the Republican Party 18:59 Political Landscape in Key States: Virginia, Florida, Texas 26:24 Partisan Solidarity and Its Consequences 29:18 The Changing Landscape of Political Parties 31:51 Teaching Principles to the Next Generation 34:38 Bipartisanship and the Role of Parties 36:59 The Future of the Republican Party Post-Trump Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyMickey Edwards' BooksMerrill Matthews’ Latest Articles

  7. Jun 27

    Ep. 4 - Gov. Marc Racicot

    In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s Co-Chair, former Montana Governor and former RNC Chair Marc Racicot, joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss why he joined Our Republican Legacy (ORL), expressing concerns about the current political culture and the importance of adhering to constitutional values. He reflects on his extensive political career, emphasizing the need for humility and collaboration in governance. Racicot highlights the unique challenges faced by rural communities, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of military actions on domestic and international law. He concludes with a hopeful outlook for future elections and the potential for restoring sanity in politics. In our week-in-review segment, our panel discusses the rise of Democratic Socialism within the Democratic Party and its implications for the Republican Party. They explore regional perspectives on Democratic Socialism, the appeal of new leadership, and reflect on patriotism and the qualities needed in political leaders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast 01:01 The Rise of Democratic Socialism 04:17 Regional Perspectives on the Democratic Party 06:12 The Appeal of New Leadership 11:24 Preview of Interview with Governor Marc Racicot 13:44 Reflections on Patriotism and Leadership 18:55 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Republican Party 20:53 Introduction of Gov. Marc Racicot 23:47 Concerns about Political Culture 26:30 Lessons from a Political Career 29:10 Challenges in Rural America 31:50 Voter Sentiment and Political Change 34:46 Military Use and Constitutional Concerns 37:32 Looking Ahead: Hope for the Future Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyLynn Schmidt’s Latest ArticlesMerrill Matthews’ Latest Articles

  8. Jun 20

    Ep. 3 - Rep. Charlie Dent

    In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s Co-Chair, former Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA), joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss why he joined Our Republican Legacy (ORL), emphasizing the need to refocus the Republican Party on its core principles. He expresses concerns about the current state of the party, particularly the shift towards loyalty to individual leaders rather than adherence to foundational values. Dent highlights the challenges of bipartisan cooperation in Congress and the importance of building a grassroots movement to support principled center-right Republicans. He also shares insights from his work at the Aspen Institute, where he fosters relationships among members of Congress to promote effective governance amidst increasing polarization. In our week-in-review segment, our panel discusses economic concerns, the implications of the Iran deal, and the importance of bipartisanship. They reflect on the role of moderate Republicans, the impact of Trump's presidency on foreign policy, and the challenges facing the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. The conversation also touches on generational perspectives on free enterprise and conservation issues and concludes by focusing on core Republican principles. Chapters 00:54 Economic Concerns and Federal Reserve Decisions 01:48 Iran: A Disastrous Memorandum of Understanding 03:07 Interview Insights with Congressman Charlie Dent 04:16 The Role of Moderate Republicans 05:59 Bipartisanship in American Politics 07:20 The Impact of Iran on U.S. Foreign Policy 10:55 Republican National Security Policy in Question 13:02 Generational Perspectives on Foreign Policy 15:35 The Importance of Deterrence in Foreign Policy 17:11 Trump's Birthday Spectacle and Political Branding 21:22 Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industry Challenges 23:59 Free Enterprise and Young Voter Perspectives 26:23 Positive Developments in Global Affairs 28:02 Conservation and Public Land Issues 29:35 Closing Thoughts on Republican Principles 30:40 Why Dent Joined Our Republican Legacy 32:51 Concerns Within the Republican Party 35:12 The Future of Center-Right Politics 39:17 Challenges in Congressional Deal-Making 46:11 Understanding Congress and Its Members 53:35 The Role of the Aspen Institute Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyLynn Schmidt’s Latest ArticlesMerrill Matthews’ Latest ArticlesAspen Institute

  9. Jun 13

    Ep. 2 – Sen. John Danforth

    In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s founder Senator John Danforth joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance, and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss the origins of Our Republican Legacy, its core principles, and the importance of restoring responsible conservatism in America. He discusses the party's history, current challenges, and the need for civility and faith in politics. In our week-in-review segment, the panel is joined by Steven Willing, Our Republican Legacy’s California State Chair, to discuss the top stories of the week with a special focus on the results of the Primary Elections in California. They discuss the current state of the Republican Party, focusing on the recent California primary results, the ongoing claims of voter fraud, and the implications for the party's future. The conversation highlights the fragmentation within the party, the challenges posed by extremist candidates, and the need for a return to traditional Republican values. The panel emphasizes the importance of leadership and integrity, and the need for fresh ideas to move the party forward. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast 02:06 The Need for a Responsible Conservative Party 09:44 Core Principles of Our Republican Legacy 15:37 Fiscal Responsibility and National Debt 17:37 The Importance of Free Enterprise 19:45 Peace Through Strength: A Republican Principle 24:47 Advice for Young Republicans 26:45 Faith, Civility, and Politics 29:50 Week-in-Review Introduction 30:22 Introduction of California State Chair Steve Willing 31:10 California Primary Insights 32:38 Voter Fraud Claims and Their Impact 40:58 Bill Pulte DNI Fiasco 43:14 Primary Elections Check-in 44:15 Moderation vs. Extremism in Candidates 47:23 Sen. Danforth Conversation Review 49:43 Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyLynn Schmidt’s Latest ArticlesMerrill Matthews’ Latest Articles

  10. Jun 7

    Introducing The Republican Legacy Podcast

    In the inaugural episode of The Republican Legacy podcast, the official podcast of Our Republican Legacy (OurRepublicanLegacy.com), hosts Chris Vance, Lynn Schmidt, Merrill Matthews, and Tommy Whiteley introduce the organization and its mission to restore the Republican Party to its core values. The conversation explores their personal journeys to the organization, the impact of Donald Trump on the party, and the importance of accountability and messaging. The group discusses the need to return to core principles, the role of opinion writing in shaping public discourse, and the challenges facing the Republican Party, particularly in engaging younger voters and addressing contemporary issues such as AI regulation. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the shifting political landscape, with a particular focus on young voters' engagement and the authenticity they seek in political figures. They explore the economic concerns that dominate the minds of younger generations, such as housing and affordability, while contrasting these with the identity politics that seem to resonate less with them. The discussion also touches on the future of the Republican Party, the importance of returning to traditional values, and the potential for a new generation of leaders to emerge. Ultimately, the hosts express both optimism and concern for the future of American politics, emphasizing the need for genuine engagement and fiscal responsibility.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast 03:07 The Call for Traditional Republican Values 06:03 Personal Journeys to Our Republican Legacy 08:48 Moments of Realization and Commitment 12:04 The Role of Messaging and Mobilization 14:47 Addressing Corruption and Accountability 17:51 The Importance of Opinion Writing 20:47 The Future of the Republican Party and Young Leaders 27:23 The Authenticity Factor in Politics 30:18 Economic Concerns of Young Voters 33:24 Identity Politics vs. Economic Issues 35:06 Engaging Young Voters with Traditional Republicanism 39:03 The Future of the Republican Party 45:46 Optimism and Concerns for America's Future   Links Our Republican Legacy WebsiteThe Latest ORL Media HitsORL’s Policy StatementsMake a Contribution to Our Republican LegacyLynn Schmidt’s Latest ArticlesMerrill Matthews’ Latest Articles

  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
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About

The official podcast of Our Republican Legacy. ORL is a movement of Republicans concerned about the future of the Republican Party. Our mission is to return the party to its core principles of Unity, the Constitution, Fiscal Responsibility, Free Enterprise, and Peace through Strength. The Republican Legacy Podcast is hosted by former Washington State Republican Party Chairman Chris Vance, ORL Texas State Chair and syndicated columnist Merrill Matthews, ORL Missouri State Chair and syndicated columnist Lynn Schmidt, and ORL Connecticut State Chair Tommy Whiteley. The show features a weekly discussion of the week's events and interviews with elected officials, thought leaders, and everyday Republicans who want to see the party return to its core values.

Information

  • Creator
    Our Republican Legacy
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Our Republican Legacy

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