Cactus Crossfire

Sisto Abeyta & Eddie Ableser
  • 5.0 (2)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Spicy takes, prickly debates and sharp Southwest flavor—Cactus Crossfire dives into politics, culture, and the issues shaping our region and beyond. Whether you agree, disagree, or want to add your own perspective, we want to hear from you. Join the conversation & let's get prickly! Shoot us an email (info@cactuscrossfire.com), or visit www.cactuscrossfire.com to stay in the loop on future episodes. Catch more insights on our blog: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/blog Sign up for exclusive updates: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/contact-8 Follow us: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire Hosts: Sisto Abeyta, Tri-Strategies | NM Eddie Ableser, Tri-Strategies | UT, NV & AZ www.tri-strategies.com Producer: Mandi Nunez, Tri-Strategies | NM www.tri-strategies.com Auto Engineer & Editor: Gabe Narcisco Baca, eightySIX88 Studios | Albuquerque, NM www.8688.productions

  1. 🌵❌🔥Minnesota's Mess, Iran's Uprising, Venezuela's Oil & NYC's Communist Manifesto

    FEB 2

    🌵❌🔥Minnesota's Mess, Iran's Uprising, Venezuela's Oil & NYC's Communist Manifesto

    🌵❌🔥 CACTUS CROSSFIRE SEASON 2: LET'S GET PRICKLY 🌵❌🔥 Minnesota's daycare centers are a mess. Iran's uprising is being ignored. Venezuela's oil is about to flood the market. And NYC's mayor quoted the Communist Manifesto. This is Cactus Crossfire Season 2. We're back. And this season, we're doubling down on what makes us different. Civil discourse without demonization. Debate without tribalism. Listening to people who disagree with you. And we're doing it with the understanding that good governance requires people who can disagree—sharply—and still find common ground. This season, we're inviting politicians, policymakers, and community leaders to join the conversation. We're featuring listener questions. We're tackling the stories mainstream media is missing or ignoring. We are getting prickly. Have a take? Send it in. Do you disagree with us? Great. Tell us why. That's the whole point. 🌵❌🔥 Subscribe now on all platforms: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook www.cactuscrossfire.com

    1h 7m
  2. Cactus Crossfire’s Top 10 of 2025: Speaker Javier Martinez Joins the Hot Seat 🌵❌🔥

    JAN 18

    Cactus Crossfire’s Top 10 of 2025: Speaker Javier Martinez Joins the Hot Seat 🌵❌🔥

    🌵❌🔥In this special year-end review, we’re joined by New Mexico Speaker Javier Martinez for a no-holds-barred countdown of Cactus Crossfire’s "Top 10 Moments of 2025." This episode dives deep into the biggest political debates, community stories, and legislative hot takes that shaped the year. What’s inside: The Hispanic Vote: Hard truths and shifting trends in New Mexico and nationwide—why are voting patterns changing, and what does it mean for 2026? Democratic Party Debates: From “Weak and Woke” to coalition-building, we get real about party divisions, accountability, and what it’ll take to win moving forward. Government Shutdowns & SNAP: Firsthand stories on how policy battles play out in real lives—including Speaker Martinez’s behind-the-scenes look at protecting New Mexico’s most vulnerable. The Economy, Stupid: Why pocketbook issues still decide elections, and how Main Street can win over Wall Street. Personal Stories: Both Sisto and Speaker Martinez reflect on the loss of their fathers this year, sharing powerful lessons about leadership, service, and community. Special guest: Speaker Javier Martinez brings unfiltered insights, hard-earned wisdom, and a few laughs—plus, he’s been with us since Episode 1 (and yes, he’s one of our OG YouTube subscribers). Why tune in? This episode is packed with real talk, regional impact, and the kind of honest, cross-partisan debate that makes Cactus Crossfire the “new hot show in town.” Whether you’re here for the spicy takes, the policy deep-dives, or just to see if Sisto’s scarf makes another cameo, this one’s for you. Don’t miss: Hot debates on healthcare, housing, and the future of the Democratic Party Stories of resilience and public service that hit close to home A look ahead at what’s coming for Cactus Crossfire in 2026 “You can stick it to the man all you want with your tweets, but I just want people to eat.” — Speaker Javier Martinez 👇 Watch, listen, and join the debate: YouTube: https://youtu.be/EhPDyMTVe1A Blog: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/blog Sign up for exclusive updates: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/contact-8 Website: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire #CactusCrossfire #SpeakerMartinez #Top10of2025 #SouthwestPolitics #GovernmentThatWorks #DignityForAll #HousingJustice 🌵❌🔥

    39 min
  3. End-of-Year Hot Takes, Legislative Insights & Our First In-Studio Guest: NM Speaker Javier Martinez🎙️

    JAN 1

    End-of-Year Hot Takes, Legislative Insights & Our First In-Studio Guest: NM Speaker Javier Martinez🎙️

    It’s the end-of-year wrap-up on Cactus Crossfire! Hosts Sisto and Eddie kick things off in holiday style, celebrating the show’s debut on Apple Podcasts and reflecting on the best moments of 2025. But the real highlight? Their first-ever in-studio guest: New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez. Tune in as Speaker Martinez dives into the power of state legislatures, the push for universal child care, and what it really takes to deliver for working families. The conversation gets real about Latino voter narratives, the challenge of uniting diverse voices in politics, and the importance of bold leadership—plus some behind-the-scenes stories from the legislative trenches. The episode wraps with the crew’s signature “tri-takes” for the holiday season, including a spicy debate on what counts as a true Christmas movie (Die Hard or Fat Man?). Whether you’re here for the politics, the laughs, or the holiday movie tips, this episode’s got you covered. References/Resources from Episode 11: Emerson Poll: https://x.com/PollTracker2024/status/2001632331828990454 & https://x.com/PollTracker2024/status/2001633663725809934 Speaker Javier Martinez: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.nmlegis.gov/members/Legislator%3FSponCode%3DHMARJ&ved=2ahUKEwjYlv_Ql-uRAxWdJTQIHcFpLqwQFnoECB4QAQ&usg=AOvVaw1DgGIT9Taju80F4ea7MAqY & https://www.javiermartinezfornewmexico.com/aboutjavier ▶️ Listen now for hot takes, honest debates, and a look ahead at what’s coming for New Mexico in 2026! #CactusCrossfire #Legislature #LatinoVote #UniversalChildCare #HolidaySpecial #HotTakes #Podcast Comment, email, or visit cactuscrossfire.com to join the debate and stay updated on future episodes. Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/229GFF3JbpU Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcast: Follow us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire ▶️ Listen now for hot takes, honest debates, and a look ahead at what’s coming for New Mexico in 2026! #CactusCrossfire #Legislature #LatinoVote #UniversalChildCare #HolidaySpecial #HotTakes #Podcast

    1h 1m
  4. Hot Takes in Cold States: Western Politics, Open Primaries, and the Art of Compromise

    12/14/2025

    Hot Takes in Cold States: Western Politics, Open Primaries, and the Art of Compromise

    Episode 10 opens with the Eddie broadcasting from a snowy Nevada, setting the stage for a conversation that’s as dynamic as the political climate itself. The episode wastes no time jumping into the aftermath of municipal elections and the early rumblings of gubernatorial races in New Mexico, Nevada, and Arizona. With both parties strategizing for the upcoming cycle, the hosts break down who’s running, who’s declaring, and what’s at stake. A central theme this week: the so-called "Trump slump." The team debates whether Trump’s presence will help or hinder Republican candidates in the West, especially as economic anxieties run high. They point out that while the Fed’s rate cut might ease things eventually, most Western families are still feeling the pinch. The conversation turns to how economic conditions, government shutdowns, and national issues like immigration are shaping voter sentiment—especially as the holiday season brings its own challenges. New Mexico’s upcoming open primaries get a deep dive, with the hosts exploring how independent voters—now nearly 30% of the state’s electorate—could reshape local and state races. They discuss the risks and rewards for candidates courting independents, and whether these voters will actually turn out when it matters most. The crew notes that out West, political identity is often more fluid, and campaigns may need to roll the dice on new strategies to succeed. National headlines aren’t ignored: the resignation of Marjorie Taylor Greene, the ongoing drama around the Epstein files, and the spectacle of party infighting all get the Cactus Crossfire treatment. The team calls out hypocrisy and shifting alliances, poking fun at the theater of modern politics while highlighting the very real consequences for policy and governance. Throughout the episode, the importance of compromise and practical solutions is a recurring message. The hosts argue that the West’s unique challenges—resource management, water scarcity, crime, and healthcare—require a different approach than the typical East Coast political playbook. They highlight recent legislative battles, like Nevada’s failed film tax bill, as examples of bipartisan action and the need for deals that actually benefit communities. In their signature closing segment, each host shares a spicy take (media obsession with drug boats off Venezuela), something prickly (the ongoing struggle to improve healthcare and senior care), and something quickly (recognizing top lobbyists who make a difference). The episode closes with a reminder to subscribe, engage, and keep the conversation real—because in the West, politics is always a little different. REFERENCES: Democrats bet on a ‘Trump slump’ to take back Nevada (Politico): https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/29/nevada-governor-race-trump-lombardo-economy-democrats-00669795 Trump gloats over 'traitor' MTG (AOL): https://www.aol.com/news/trump-gloats-over-traitor-mtg-153619344.html MTG resigns from Congress (CNBC): https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/22/trump-marjorie-taylor-greene-mtg-resigns.html BBC coverage: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4qx1lenvjo Independent coverage: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/marjorie-taylor-greene-resign-congress-trump-b2870288.html Comment, email, or visit www.cactuscrossfire.com to join the debate and stay updated on future episodes. Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/U1RpBdKBZzU Follow our blog: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/blog and check out our latest post: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/post/new-episode-cactus-crossfire-episode-10-hot-takes-in-cold-states Sign-up for exclusive updates: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/contact-8 Follow us: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscossfire https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire

    58 min
  5. Shutdowns, SNAP, and the Swing State Shuffle: A Big Tent Breakdown

    12/01/2025

    Shutdowns, SNAP, and the Swing State Shuffle: A Big Tent Breakdown

    Eddie and Sisto are back, broadcasting from Utah and New Mexico, diving deep into the latest political shakeups across the Southwest and the nation. The episode opens with on-the-ground updates from Nevada’s special session and reflections on the cold realities of winter politics. Key Topics: 43-Day Government Shutdown: Who’s to blame? The hosts break down the political maneuvering, from Senate filibusters to negotiation tactics over the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and continuing resolutions (CR). They explore the real-world impact on federal workers, families facing food insecurity, and the scramble to restore SNAP benefits. State Responses & SNAP Funding: New Mexico’s special session to fill federal SNAP gaps, appropriating nearly half a billion dollars with no guarantee of reimbursement. Plus, legal battles as Attorney General Torres joins other states to sue the federal government for SNAP funds held by the USDA. Elections & Shifting Coalitions: Municipal elections across the U.S. reveal new trends: Hispanic and younger voters show up, coalition-building candidates outperform, and the “Democrat wave” narrative is challenged. Case studies include Virginia’s moderate Democrats, New York City’s fractured vote, Albuquerque and Santa Fe’s coalition politics, and the optics of progressive infighting. Economic Anxiety & Policy Debates: The shutdown’s economic ripple effects—lost state revenue, household budgeting struggles, and skepticism over promises like affordable housing. The panel questions the reality of “taxing the rich” slogans and demands real answers on funding social programs. Healthcare Rethink: A deep dive into the ACA’s shortcomings, the insurance market, and the struggle to define what basic healthcare should be. Preventative care, fraud, and the ongoing debate over the true cost of American healthcare. Spicy, Prickly, and Quickly Takes: From tamale season in New Mexico to predictions on Arizona’s governor race and union gatekeeping in healthcare, the hosts close out with their signature rapid-fire opinions. Throughout, Eddie and Sisto keep it candid—calling out both parties, challenging political theater, and urging listeners to ask tough questions about power, policy, and who really benefits. Tune in for sharp analysis, local stories, and a big tent conversation you won’t hear anywhere else. Listen, debate, and join the conversation at cactuscrossfire.com. Agree, disagree, or want to add your voice? The Cactus Crossfire team wants to hear from you. Comment, email, or visit cactuscrossfire.com to join the debate and stay updated on future episodes. (LINKS IN BIO) References and resources from Episode 9: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/post/shutdowns-snap-and-the-economy-divide-who-pays-the-price Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/sdYsRfAZ5Ls Follow us: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire

    1h 5m
  6. Hot Seats, Healthcare Battles, and the SNAP Safety Net

    11/10/2025

    Hot Seats, Healthcare Battles, and the SNAP Safety Net

    The Cactus Crossfire crew is back at eightysix88 Studios with a packed episode that dives deep into the issues hitting families across the Southwest and beyond. This week, Sisto and Eddie introduce their new “Hot Seat” segment by welcoming Darren Grubb of the Medicare Advantage Majority Organization for a candid, myth-busting conversation about Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and the future of senior healthcare in rural America. They break down the differences between Medicare and Medicaid, the real-world benefits of Medicare Advantage (like dental, vision, prescription coverage, and out-of-pocket caps), and why these programs are a lifeline for millions—especially in under-served areas. The hosts and guest tackle the political and economic storms swirling around federal benefits, including the ripple effects of the ongoing government shutdown. With SNAP (food stamp) benefits suspended in many states, Sisto and Eddie highlight how state leaders are stepping up to fill the gap for vulnerable families, students, and seniors. They call out the political gamesmanship in D.C. and urge listeners to demand bipartisan action to protect these essential programs. Eddie and Sisto also take on the misinformation and scapegoating that often surrounds welfare programs and immigrants, busting myths about fraud and who really benefits from SNAP and Medicare. They emphasize the interconnectedness of these safety nets—not just for individuals, but for entire families and communities, including the “sandwich generation” caring for both kids and aging parents. As always, the episode closes with their signature “Tri-Takes”—spicy, prickly, and quickly—covering everything from the Heritage Foundation’s latest controversies and Democratic Party infighting, to NFL banter and New Mexico’s new international trade deals. Expect sharp opinions, humor, and a call to action for listeners to get informed, get engaged, and hold leaders accountable—on both sides of the aisle. Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/9w8BlQBFLcA Follow us: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire Don’t forget to subscribe, drop your comments, and sign up for the newsletter at cactuscrossfire.com for exclusive updates. Real talk, real issues, real solutions—Southwest style. 🌵❌🔥

    1h 6m
  7. Ego Trips, Global Shifts, and Family Ties

    10/20/2025

    Ego Trips, Global Shifts, and Family Ties

    Welcome back to Cactus Crossfire! In this globe-trotting, no-holds-barred episode, Sisto and Eddie return from their European travels with fresh perspective—and plenty of hilarious stories. From Greek hats to Amsterdam’s infamous souvenirs, they reflect on cultural quirks, the realities of travel with family, and what it means to be a Nuevo Mexicano abroad. The duo shares personal moments, including Sisto’s moving tribute to his late father, highlighting the values of generosity, humility, and community. The conversation quickly pivots to the heart of American politics: the role of ego and identity in leadership. Using recent California gubernatorial drama and viral political clips as a springboard, Sisto and Eddie dissect how public personas, performative outrage, and identity politics shape both party primaries and general elections. They don’t shy away from tough questions—how do expectations differ for candidates based on background or gender? What happens when ego overrides empathy in public service? And how can voters cut through the noise? International headlines take center stage as the hosts analyze the new Gaza ceasefire, the complexities of the Israel-Palestine narrative, and the role of American progressives in shaping the conversation. Drawing on their own family histories and recent visits to sites like Auschwitz and Schindler’s Factory, Sisto and Eddie explore why historical context matters and how generational memory shapes today’s debates. Listener engagement is front and center: the team reads and responds to viewer comments on masculinity, party dynamics, and media narratives—proving that real debate is alive and well in the Cactus Crossfire community. Expect sharp wit, honest disagreement, and a call for more leaders willing to praise success on both sides of the aisle. As always, the episode wraps with the signature “Tri-Takes”—spicy, prickly, and quickly—plus a heartfelt invitation to keep the conversation going online. Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/Gb7CBRpPAQQ Read the blog: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/post/from-europe-to-the-crossfire-lessons-from-a-wwii-pilgrimage Follow us: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire Join us for real stories, spirited debate, and a Southwest perspective you won’t find anywhere else. 🌵❌🔥

    1h 6m
  8. Masculinity, Politics, and the Education Crisis

    10/06/2025

    Masculinity, Politics, and the Education Crisis

    In this episode, Sisto and Eddie dive into two of the most pressing—and often controversial—topics in American society: the crisis in education and the evolving conversation around masculinity in politics. With insights from Rahm Emanuel’s recent PBS interview and their own personal and professional experiences, the hosts offer a candid, sometimes spicy, look at why these issues matter now more than ever. Key Themes & Takeaways Rahm Emanuel’s “Weak & Woke” Critique: The episode opens with a discussion of Emanuel’s blunt assessment of the Democratic Party’s priorities, specifically criticizing the focus on "bathroom bills" over plummeting classroom performance and 8th grade reading scores. Emanuel’s challenge: fix the basics before getting distracted by culture war issues. Education Reform & Accountability: Sisto and Eddie debate funding, accountability, and the challenges unique to Southwestern states. They explore why some states outperform others, the role of charter schools, and the need for local solutions rather than one-size-fits-all mandates. Masculinity in Crisis: The hosts connect the education debate to a broader conversation about the "loss of masculinity" in politics and society. They discuss how the lack of strong male role models in schools, and the tendency to label masculinity as “toxic,” is affecting boys’ outcomes and reshaping party loyalties. Identity Politics & Voter Backlash: The episode analyzes the Democratic Party’s declining support among Hispanic, Black, and white male voters. Sisto and Eddie unpack how negative campaigning, identity politics, and a lack of authentic representation are driving voters away. Real Talk on Gender, Family, and Policy: Listeners get personal anecdotes about growing up in New Mexico, the impact of family structures, the pressures on Hispanic men, and the shifting standards for men and women in politics. The hosts urge their audience—and the political class—to listen more and judge less. Spicy, Prickly, Quickly: The episode closes with the signature “Tri-Takes” segment: spicy debates on masculinity and elections, prickly issues like justice reform, and quick takes on everything from school attendance to pop culture moments. Why It Matters Episode 5 is a must-listen for anyone interested in how culture, identity, and education policy collide in today’s political landscape. Whether you’re a parent, educator, policymaker, or just a fan of honest debate, this episode offers fresh perspectives and plenty of food for thought. Join the Conversation Agree, disagree, or want to add your voice? The Cactus Crossfire team wants to hear from you. Comment, email, or visit cactuscrossfire.com to join the debate and stay updated on future episodes. Resources/references from Episode 5 can be found here: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/post/cactus-crossfire-episode-5-recap-masculinity-politics-and-the-education-crisis Follow us on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire

    55 min
See All (13)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Spicy takes, prickly debates and sharp Southwest flavor—Cactus Crossfire dives into politics, culture, and the issues shaping our region and beyond. Whether you agree, disagree, or want to add your own perspective, we want to hear from you. Join the conversation & let's get prickly! Shoot us an email (info@cactuscrossfire.com), or visit www.cactuscrossfire.com to stay in the loop on future episodes. Catch more insights on our blog: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/blog Sign up for exclusive updates: https://www.cactuscrossfire.com/contact-8 Follow us: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CactusCrossfire TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cactuscrossfire Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuscrossfire/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cactuscrossfire Hosts: Sisto Abeyta, Tri-Strategies | NM Eddie Ableser, Tri-Strategies | UT, NV & AZ www.tri-strategies.com Producer: Mandi Nunez, Tri-Strategies | NM www.tri-strategies.com Auto Engineer & Editor: Gabe Narcisco Baca, eightySIX88 Studios | Albuquerque, NM www.8688.productions

Information

  • Creator
    Sisto Abeyta & Eddie Ableser
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Cactus Crossfire