Idaho Pulse

Bob Neugebauer
Idaho Pulse

Hosted by Bob Neugebauer, aka Tea Party Bob, Idaho Pulse offers a solution-oriented approach to Idaho’s political, social, and economic challenges. Unlike traditional talk radio, this podcast cuts through echo chambers and empty rhetoric, delivering depth, critical thinking, and actionable insights. Each episode dives into the issues that matter most—legislative updates, grassroots movements, and the real impact of national decisions on Idaho communities. With honest conversations, a focus on critical analysis, and no-nonsense accountability, Idaho Pulse challenges the status quo while equipping listeners with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change. If you're tired of surface-level commentary and ready to engage with a podcast that prioritizes substance, solutions, and critical thinking, tune in to Idaho Pulse.

Episodes

  1. MAR 1

    School Choice Bill Passes While Free Speech Concerns Emerge

    Idaho has passed its first substantial school choice legislation with Governor Little signing House Bill 93, providing a $5,000 tax credit for families who opt out of public education. According to Idaho Freedom Foundation President Ron Nate, this historic development positions Idaho to jump back into the top 10 states for education freedom, though he notes improvements are still needed to remove caps and means testing requirements. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education have become a contentious issue, with Senate Bill 1048 aiming to reform DEI programs being blocked by committee chair Senator Jim Guthrie, who has introduced his own version with reportedly fewer restrictions. The controversy highlights tensions between conservatives seeking to reduce DEI influence and university administrations defending such programs. Free speech concerns have emerged with a package of bills introduced by House Speaker Mike Moyle that would criminalize certain campaign statements and create a “ministry of truth” verification system through the Secretary of State. Critics argue these measures violate First Amendment protections and serve primarily to protect incumbents from criticism rather than to protect voters from misinformation. 01:08 Introduction and Welcome Bob Neugebauer welcomes Ron Nate, president of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, to the idahopulse.org podcast. 01:45 Historic School Choice Legislation Discussion of Governor Little signing Idaho’s first substantial school choice bill, providing $5,000 tax credits for families choosing alternatives to public education. 05:08 Economic Impact of School Choice Analysis of how school choice actually saves taxpayers money, with each student who opts out reducing public education costs by approximately $13,000. 08:08 Education Freedom Rankings Ron Nate explains how the new legislation will help Idaho jump back into the top 10 states for education freedom after slipping from 3rd to 17th place. 11:48 Idaho’s Conservative Identity Conversation about Idaho’s reputation as a conservative state versus the reality of its legislative voting patterns according to freedom indexes. 14:48 Medicaid Expansion Accountability Discussion of a Senate bill aimed at holding Medicaid expansion accountable by implementing work requirements and addressing cost overruns. 15:13 DEI Shenanigans in Higher Education Ron Nate details how a legislative committee’s DEI reform bill (SB 1048) is being blocked while a weaker alternative is being advanced instead. 20:08 The Big Sky Coffee Shop Case Reference to Boise State University being ordered to pay $4 million for discriminating against a coffee shop over political viewpoints. 22:13 Maine Legislator Silenced Over Women’s Sports Discussion of Representative Laurel Libby in Maine being censured for defending women’s sports against male participation. 27:15 Free Speech and Campaign Bills Analysis of House Bills 306 and 307, which would criminalize certain campaign statements and create a “ministry of truth” verification system. 31:48 The Incumbency Protection Program Critique of House Bills 308 and 309, which would remove campaign finance limits for certain races, benefiting those already in power. 34:08 Idaho’s Budget Growth Discussion of Idaho’s budget growing by 55% in five years, from under $8 billion to approximately $13.9 billion. 35:58 Government Efficiency Concerns Conversation about Idaho having 189 state agencies despite being one of the smallest states by population. 38:08 Overregulation Example: Small Brewers Bill Ron Nate uses a bill about out-of-state brewers to illustrate how government typically solves problems by adding regulations rather than removing them. 41:33 Conclusion Final thoughts on the importance of accountability and the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s work to track legislative voting records. Full Transcript

    45 min
  2. FEB 15

    Conservative Coalition Pushes Back on Government Growth

    In this revealing conversation, Idaho Freedom Foundation President Ron Nate dissects recent legislative actions on Idaho’s grocery tax, explaining how the state’s tax credit system returns less than half of what Idahoans pay in grocery taxes. Nate provides startling statistics about Idaho being one of only four states that fully tax groceries, detailing how Idahoans have paid $1.6 billion in grocery taxes over the past five years while receiving only $823 million in credits back. The discussion expands to cover the mounting costs of Medicaid expansion and a promising development from eight conservative legislators dubbed the “Gang of 8” who have committed to opposing budget enhancements that add federal spending or new employees. Nate shares an insider perspective on how this commitment could potentially save Idaho taxpayers nearly $900 million while also examining the challenges facing true conservative reform in what many consider a conservative state. CHAPTERS 01:17 Introduction and Idaho Politics Host welcomes Ron Nate, president of Idaho Freedom Foundation, to discuss grocery tax credits, Medicaid expansion issues, and conservative legislative initiatives. 02:50 Grocery Tax Analysis Detailed examination of Idaho’s position as one of only four states fully taxing groceries, with discussion of the state’s high tax rate and inadequate credit system. 15:12 Tax Credit System Failures Analysis of how Idaho’s grocery tax credit system returns less than half of collected taxes to citizens, with discussion of new proposal’s bureaucratic burdens. 24:22 Medicaid Expansion Costs Examination of Medicaid expansion’s growing costs, from initial projections of $400 million to current $1.36 billion budget, with analysis of per-person cost increases. 31:51 Healthcare System Challenges Discussion of corporate healthcare consolidation, hospital tax exemptions, and impact on healthcare delivery and costs in Idaho. 38:05 Conservative Coalition Commitment Introduction of the “Gang of 8” legislators’ pledge to control government spending and their specific commitments to fiscal restraint. 43:11 Government Growth Analysis Detailed discussion of Idaho’s 55% budget increase over five years and potential savings from new fiscal restraint measures. 48:31 State Leadership Concerns Analysis of state leadership’s approach to tax cuts and government growth, with discussion of actual impact versus political messaging. 52:41 Legislative Accountability Discussion of Freedom Foundation’s role in tracking legislative votes and ensuring accountability for campaign promises versus actual voting records. 56:12 Future Reform Prospects Closing thoughts on the potential for systemic change in Idaho government and the importance of citizen engagement in reform efforts.

    51 min
  3. FEB 13

    Idaho’s Conservative Crossroads

    Idaho State Representative Josh Tanner joins Tea Party Bob for an in-depth discussion about Idaho’s pressing fiscal challenges. Tanner reveals startling details about Medicaid expansion’s true costs and the federal constraints limiting state control. Drawing from his legislative experience and business background, Tanner provides unique insights into his efforts to reform healthcare delivery systems and implement significant tax relief measures. The conversation delves into controversial topics, including school choice initiatives, union reforms, and the challenges of maintaining conservative principles in a rapidly growing state bureaucracy. Tanner shares candid observations about government inefficiencies, including a detailed analysis of various tax proposals and their potential impact on Idaho families. His perspective as both a small business owner and Assistant Majority Leader offers listeners a rare glimpse into the complex dynamics shaping Idaho’s political landscape. Chapters 01:10 Introduction and Legislative Overview Host introduces Josh Tanner, Idaho House Representative for District 14B, Assistant Majority Leader, and conservative Republican advocating for Medicaid cuts, school choice, and government accountability. 02:11 Medicaid Expansion Challenges Discussion of Medicaid expansion’s true costs versus initial projections, revealing how the program has grown beyond expectations with limited state control over program modifications. 14:51 Health Data Exchange and Government Oversight Analysis of government accountability issues, including the controversial health data exchange program and challenges with quasi-government entities managing public funds. 21:52 Hospital Regulations and Nonprofit Status Examination of hospital nonprofit status issues and proposed legislation requiring county commissioner approval for tax exemptions, addressing concerns about hospital property acquisitions. 25:33 State Regulations and Bureaucratic Growth Discussion of Idaho’s regulatory environment and the challenges of controlling government growth, including analysis of 189 state agencies and their expansion. 32:38 Tax Reform Initiatives Detailed discussion of proposed tax relief measures exceeding $400 million, including analysis of sales tax, income tax, and grocery tax credit approaches. 41:18 Grocery Tax Analysis In-depth examination of Idaho’s grocery tax system, including comparative analysis with neighboring states and discussion of current credit system effectiveness. 53:48 School Choice and Education Reform Discussion of education reform initiatives, including school choice legislation, analysis of private versus public education outcomes, and challenges within current system. 01:05:15 Legislative Priorities and Government Efficiency Conversation about legislative challenges, time commitments, and efforts to improve government efficiency while maintaining conservative principles. 01:11:15 Healthcare Program Oversight Examination of specific healthcare programs including needle exchange initiatives and broader discussion of program accountability measures. 01:14:57 Closing Thoughts on Government Reform Final discussion about the challenges of implementing meaningful reform and the importance of engaged citizenship in maintaining government accountability.

    1h 19m
  4. FEB 7

    Idaho’s Government Growth and Economic Freedom

    Idaho’s reputation as a conservative stronghold is being challenged by unprecedented government expansion, as revealed in a comprehensive analysis of state spending and regulatory growth. The state budget has more than doubled from under $7 billion in 2015 to $13.9 billion today, representing a 54% increase in government spending over just five years, while the state now maintains 189 agencies and sub-agencies. This expansion is accompanied by growing federal dependency, with federal funding now comprising 42% of the state budget, up from 30% nine years ago. This federal involvement comes with approximately 58,000 memorandums of understanding and federal rules, significantly impacting state autonomy. Recent developments, including a 22% pay raise for legislators and substantial judicial salary increase requests, have raised additional concerns about the trajectory of government growth and spending in what has traditionally been considered a fiscally conservative state. 00:03 Introduction and Limited Government Host Bob Neugebauer introduces Ron Nate, president of Idaho Freedom Foundation. Initial discussion of Idaho’s 189 agencies and sub-agencies, including revelation of a recently discovered honey board with government authority. 01:23 State Budget Growth Discussion of Idaho’s budget expansion from under 7 billion in 2015 to current 13.9 billion dollars. Highlights 54% increase in government spending over 5 years. Includes debate over recent 22% legislative pay raise. 03:17 Federal Government Dependency Analysis of Idaho’s reliance on federal funding, which now comprises 42% of state budget, up from 30% nine years ago. Discussion of 58,000 MOUs and federal rules governing these funds. Includes debate over transparency of these agreements. 05:05 Judicial Pay and Government Growth Examination of judicial pay increase requests, with judges seeking $45,000 raises on top of existing $160,000+ salaries. Discussion of broader implications for government spending control. 08:49 Standards for Government Limitation Nate proposes specific criteria for controlling government growth: no new state employees, no increased federal dependency, and no budget increases above 0%. Discussion of emotional versus practical approaches to budget decisions. 11:18 Small Business and Government Intervention Analysis of government’s relationship with small businesses versus large corporations, including discussion of Covid-19 response disparities. Examination of entrepreneurship challenges and government support patterns. 15:42 Free Market Economics Extended discussion of free market principles, including Adam Smith’s invisible hand theory and the role of entrepreneurs in society. Analysis of how voluntary exchange benefits society. 24:03 Economic Freedom Rankings Detailed comparison of countries based on economic freedom indices from Heritage Foundation and Fraser Institute. Discussion of why economically free countries show better outcomes in various metrics. 31:28 Market Benefits and Historical Context Analysis of how free markets have improved living standards, with historical comparison between 1700s and present day. Discussion of entrepreneurial innovation and market evolution. 39:20 Tariffs and Trade Policy Debate over reciprocal tariffs, their impact on consumers, and discussion of historical funding methods before federal income tax. Analysis of international trade relationships. 43:03 Income Inequality and Free Markets Concluding discussion about wealth disparity, using Elon Musk as an example, and analysis of why income differences in free markets aren’t necessarily problematic. Examination of tax burden distribution among income levels.

    52 min
  5. FEB 2

    Fighting Federal Overreach and Defending State Sovereignty

    Representative Heather Scott discusses several key legislative initiatives in Idaho, highlighting concerns about federal funding dependence as Trump’s administration plans to reduce federal programs. Scott emphasizes that Idaho currently receives 42% of its state budget from federal sources, suggesting this creates opportunities to reduce government size and restore proper state sovereignty. Scott details several bills she’s currently working on, including legislation requiring clear labeling for alternative proteins and lab-grown meats, an anti-SLAPP bill to address frivolous lawsuits, and a measure requiring fetal development education in schools. She also discusses her Obergefell memorial challenging federal overreach in state marriage laws, emphasizing states’ rights over Supreme Court mandates. Her proposed legislation includes a bill protecting property owners’ rights to remain on their property during emergencies, preventing forced evacuations even under state or local emergency orders. Scott also introduced legislation to restrict flag displays on government property to official flags only, similar to Trump’s recent embassy policy, and is working to repeal the unused “Yellow Dot Program.” Throughout the discussion, Scott emphasizes the need for better leadership in Idaho’s executive branch and argues that the state needs to reduce its dependence on federal funding and bureaucratic overreach. She notes positive changes in the legislature’s composition, suggesting conservatives are gaining strength to enact meaningful reforms, while acknowledging challenges from entrenched interests and the administrative state. CHAPTERS New Administration and Federal Funding 01:44 – 07:11 Discussion of Trump administration changes and implications of Idaho’s 42% federal funding dependency. State Contracts and Federal Control 07:11 – 14:44 Analysis of state’s 58,000 contracts and memorandums of understanding with federal government. School Choice and State Rights 14:44 – 24:19 Discussion of school choice initiatives and proper role of federal government in state education. The Obergefell Memorial 24:19 – 37:11 Detailed discussion of memorial challenging Supreme Court’s marriage decision and states’ rights. Alternative Protein Labeling Bill 37:11 – 48:23 Exploration of legislation requiring clear labeling for lab-grown meats and insect-based proteins. Anti-SLAPP and Fetal Development Bills 48:23 – 57:11 Discussion of lawsuit protection legislation and fetal development education requirements. Emergency Powers and Property Rights 57:11 – 01:14:44 Analysis of bill protecting property owners’ rights during emergencies and mask mandate issues.

    1h 2m
  6. JAN 31

    Legislature’s Tax Relief Proposals Fall Short

    Summary The Idaho Legislature is considering three tax bills that would provide approximately $400 million in combined tax relief, with House Bill 40 proposing to reduce the state income tax rate from 5.695% to 5.3%. Idaho Freedom Foundation President Ron Nate argues these measures represent minimal relief compared to Idaho’s $13.9 billion total budget and follows the legislature’s recent 22% pay raise for themselves. The tax package includes about $100 million in property tax relief, though only half directly reduces property taxes, amounting to roughly $100 per household. The third component would increase the grocery tax credit from $120 to $155 per person, with a controversial provision allowing up to $250 in credits if taxpayers collect and itemize all grocery receipts throughout the year – a requirement critics say makes the benefit effectively inaccessible. The proposals come as Idaho’s government spending has increased by 55% over the past five years, with individual income tax collections at $2.4 billion and corporate income taxes at $784 million annually. The state’s heavy reliance on federal funding, approximately 42% of its budget, raises concerns about state sovereignty and fiscal sustainability, particularly as federal policy changes loom. Nate argues for more substantial reforms, suggesting the complete elimination of the grocery tax combined with the proposed income and property tax cuts would provide about $750 million in total relief. He points out that Idaho remains one of only four states that fully tax groceries, collecting $406 million in grocery taxes while returning only about $200 million through tax credits. The debate reflects broader questions about Idaho’s fiscal policy and government growth, with critics calling for more dramatic reforms to reduce government size and increase fiscal independence. Chapters Tax Bills Overview 02:42 – 05:32 Initial discussion of 2024 Conservative electoral gains and introduction of three tax bills against backdrop of 55% government spending increase over 5 years. Income Tax Proposal (HB 40) 05:32 – 13:43 Detailed discussion of first tax bill reducing rate from 5.695% to 5.3%, including comparison of individual ($2.4B) vs corporate ($784M) tax collections. Property Tax Relief 13:43 – 15:34 Analysis of proposed $100M property tax relief package and its actual impact per household. Grocery Tax Credit 15:34 – 24:48 Examination of grocery tax credit increase proposal from $120 to $155 per person and criticism of receipt collection requirements. Federal Funding Dependencies 24:48 – 29:09 Discussion of Idaho’s reliance on federal funding (42% of budget) and implications for state sovereignty. State Government Size 29:09 – 34:28 Analysis of state workforce size (21,498 employees) and potential for reductions. Homeowners Associations & Local Government 34:28 – 38:31 Comparison of local governance issues to state-level challenges using HOA example. Medicaid Expansion 38:31 – 41:39 Discussion of Medicaid expansion costs growing from projected $400M to $1.36B annually. Closing Thoughts 41:39 – 43:39 Final remarks on the role of private charity versus government programs and the importance of community-based solutions.

    44 min
  7. JAN 24

    School Choice and Legislative Pay Raises

    Summary This podcast discussed school choice in Idaho, with various proposed bills and their potential impacts on education funding and innovation. Legislative pay raises were debated, with concerns raised about excessive increases and government growth. The conversation also touched on Idaho’s tax system, particularly the grocery tax, and the need for transparency and smaller government. The meeting discussed school choice in Idaho, with various proposed bills and their potential impacts on education funding and innovation. Legislative pay raises were debated, with concerns raised about excessive increases and government growth. The conversation also touched on Idaho’s tax system, particularly the grocery tax, and the need for transparency and smaller government. 0:00 School Choice and Legislative Pay Raises Ronald Nate, president of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, discussed school choice and legislative pay raises with Bob on Idaho Radio. Ronald emphasized the need for school choice, citing the adoption of such programs by states like West Virginia, Florida, and Arizona. He advocated for a simple school choice tax credit, similar to House Bill 1, which would allow families to claim a tax credit for private education expenses up to $9,500 per child. Ronald also addressed concerns about the potential loss of funding for public schools, arguing that the remaining funds per student would be higher as fewer students are educated in public schools. Bob asked if the trend towards school choice was influenced by Trump’s decision to reduce federal involvement in public education, to which Ronald agreed. 07:30 Trump’s Education Funding Cuts Discussed Bob and Ron discussed the potential impact of Trump’s proposed cuts to public education funding. Ron argued that the Federal Government’s funding for education is not free and that it’s better for the State to fund its own education. He also mentioned the Idaho Learning Academy as an example of a successful public school option. They discussed the school choice bill proposed by Hofstetler, which Ron believes is generous and applicable to all Idaho students. Bob questioned the $5,000 number in the bill, suggesting it might be an attempt to limit school choice. Ron disagreed, stating that the $5,000 tax credit would only benefit wealthy families and that a higher limit of $9,500 would make school choice more accessible to all. 14:00 Challenges in Public School System Change Ron and Bob discussed the challenges of implementing change in state-run or publicly run schools. Ron argued that innovation often comes from the ground up, with individual teachers or schools finding new ways to teach effectively. He contrasted this with the top-down approach of the public school system, which can be slow to adapt to change. Bob suggested that if the best teachers were teaching courses that could be broadcasted to students across the state, it could be beneficial. However, Ron pointed out that public school systems are less adaptable to such changes and may even resist them. The conversation also touched on the issue of Wi-Fi in schools and the potential for private school systems to be more innovative than public ones. 17:28  Idaho School Choice Bills Discussion Ron and Bob discussed various school choice bills in Idaho. Ron highlighted three bills: the Hostetler Bill, which he considers the best due to its expansive nature and minimal regulation; a $5,000 tax credit bill by Wendy Horman and Lori den Hartog, which he believes is a token effort; and a $5,000 voucher bill by Dave Lent, which he considers a big government approach. Ron expressed concern that the Hostetler Bill might not be supported by the establishment due to vested interests. He also mentioned that the Hostetler Bill has influenced other bills, such as the one by Horman and den Hartog, which initially did not require teacher certification but later removed it. Ron believes that school choice will

    50 min
  8. JAN 23

    Building a Culture of Life

    Summary Bob and Brandi discussed the impact of Stanton clinics and Generation Life on promoting life-affirming values and providing medical care to women. They also explored the challenges of providing care for newborns, the changing dynamics within the Christian community, and the potential population control implications of abortion. Lastly, they criticized companies that support abortion and discussed plans to export hope and provide comprehensive support for women’s choices through ‘Be Well Kits’. 00:00  Stanton Clinics and Generation Life Bob and Brandi discussed the background and impact of Stanton clinics, a network of life-affirming women’s clinics, and Generation Life, a movement of young people committed to ending abortion and spreading sexual integrity. Brandi shared her personal experience of discovering a roommate’s pregnancy and subsequent abortion, which opened her eyes to the destructive nature of abortion. She emphasized that abortion not only destroys the life of the child but also the spirit of the woman and often leads to the breakdown of relationships. Brandi also highlighted the irony that preborn children have no federal protection in the United States, while other natural elements like geysers and trees do. 14:31   Brandi’s Life-Affirming Ministry Journey Brandi shared the story of how she started her life-affirming ministry, which now includes Stanton Healthcare clinics. She initially founded Generation Life in 1999 to mobilize the emerging generation for the pro-life cause. In 2006, she realized the need for a clinic offering medical care and ultrasounds in her hometown of Boise. After meeting with local pregnancy centers, she decided to build a clinic herself. With the help of a small team and initial seed money from local business leaders and churches, the Genesis Medical Clinic was established in 2007. The clinic quickly outgrew its space and moved to a location directly across from Planned Parenthood in Meridian. Brandi emphasized the importance of accessibility and visibility for their services. She also expressed gratitude for the passionate volunteers and donors who support the work of Stanton Healthcare. 21:10  Challenges in Providing Newborn Care Bob and Brandi discussed the challenges of providing care for newborns, particularly the high cost of diapers due to inflation. Brandi shared an initiative with the Human Being coffee shops, where customers could bring in diapers or baby wipes to receive a free coffee. Bob suggested reaching out to major baby product manufacturers for support, but Brandi noted that some corporations have a pro-choice stance, which can be a barrier. They also discussed a pro-life diaper company that donates a portion of its profits to pregnancy centers like Stanton. 29:45  Christian Community Shifts and Pro-Life Bob and Brandi discussed the changing dynamics within the Christian community, particularly among Gen. Z and Gen. Xers. Bob expressed confusion about why there’s a decline in church attendance despite a growing pro-life sentiment among younger generations. Brandi suggested that the shift towards more entertainment-focused churches might be a contributing factor, as these churches often prioritize performances over deep spiritual teachings and mentorship. She also noted that Stanton, a pro-life organization, has received support from various religious groups, including evangelical Protestant churches, the Catholic diocese, and the LDS community. 39:40  Abortion Bans and Population Growth Brandi discussed the impact of the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the subsequent abortion bans in the US. She noted that despite the bans, there have been no reported deaths due to lack of access to abortion, contrary to the claims of pro-abortion groups. Brandi also suggested that the human heart inherently recognizes that abortion is not a good thing, which could explain why pro-choice voters may not be as motivated as expected. Bob

    1h 4m

About

Hosted by Bob Neugebauer, aka Tea Party Bob, Idaho Pulse offers a solution-oriented approach to Idaho’s political, social, and economic challenges. Unlike traditional talk radio, this podcast cuts through echo chambers and empty rhetoric, delivering depth, critical thinking, and actionable insights. Each episode dives into the issues that matter most—legislative updates, grassroots movements, and the real impact of national decisions on Idaho communities. With honest conversations, a focus on critical analysis, and no-nonsense accountability, Idaho Pulse challenges the status quo while equipping listeners with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change. If you're tired of surface-level commentary and ready to engage with a podcast that prioritizes substance, solutions, and critical thinking, tune in to Idaho Pulse.

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada