Practically Political

Dave Spencer, Ashley Davis, Kurt Bardella
  • 5.0 (4)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Pragmatism is Patriotism. The goal of Practically Political is to engage and motivate citizens who are fact- and issue-oriented, invite conversation, respect differences of opinion, believe in compromise and put sound policy before partisanship. Whether you’re a Republican, Democrat or Independent, if your bottom line is to get our government working again to serve the best interests of all Americans, then please join us in making our voices heard. This is not the time to give into hopelessness, anger or despair; it’s a critical opportunity to redefine what democracy really means.

  1. 1D AGO

    Trump's Election Nationalization Push & Melania's Documentary Success

    In this episode of Practically Political, hosts Ashley Davis and Dave Spencer tackle two major conversations dominating the political and cultural landscape: Donald Trump's controversial push to nationalize elections and the surprising success of Melania Trump's documentary. You'll discover an in-depth analysis of Trump's election nationalization proposals and whether this represents serious policy intentions or political theater. The hosts examine the SAVE Act (requiring proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections), the seizure of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, and what these moves mean for the 2026 midterms. You'll learn about the constitutional implications, the pushback from both parties, and how this issue connects to ongoing debates about election integrity and federal versus state control of voting. This week's guest, Carrie Sheffield, returns to provide her perspective on these contentious issues. Carrie offers firsthand insights from attending Melania Trump's documentary screening at the Kennedy Center, sharing observations about the media's dismissive coverage versus the film's actual commercial success and cultural impact. The conversation explores the broader question of celebrity influence in politics and culture. You'll hear a frank discussion about whether celebrity endorsements actually move voters, examining everything from Beyoncé's campaign appearances for Kamala Harris to why Melania's documentary resonated with church groups and book clubs despite mainstream media criticism. The hosts debate the double standard in how political figures and their families are covered depending on their party affiliation. Key topics covered include: • Trump's election nationalization rhetoric and the SAVE Act requirements for proof of citizenship • Whether Republicans are genuinely concerned about losing the Senate in 2026 • The distinction between foreign election interference (2016 Russia concerns) and domestic election fraud claims (2020) • Why Tulsi Gabbard's involvement in the Georgia ballot seizure matters • Melania Trump's documentary success and what it reveals about media bias • The effectiveness (or ineffectiveness) of celebrity political endorsements • How cultural and political divides are affecting personal relationships • The upcoming DHS funding shutdown and how the SAVE Act factors into negotiations Carrie Sheffield brings valuable conservative perspective to these discussions, having attended exclusive political events and maintained connections across the political spectrum. Her insights help balance the conversation as the hosts navigate these polarizing topics with their signature approach: political discussion by adults, for adults, without the shouting. This episode exemplifies Practically Political's commitment to substantive political conversation that acknowledges different viewpoints while maintaining civility. Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, you'll find thoughtful analysis that goes beyond partisan talking points. Connect with Practically Political: • Subscribe on YouTube for video episodes • Follow on Instagram and X (Twitter) for updates and clips • Leave a review to help others discover the show Practically Political releases new episodes weekly, covering the intersection of politics, policy, and culture with honesty, humor, and a commitment to treating listeners like the adults they are. If you're tired of political podcasts that prioritize heat over light, this is your alternative.

    34 min

  2. FEB 3

    Minnesota Crisis, Shutdown Showdown & 2028 Hopefuls

    Hosts Kurt Bardella, Dave Spencer, and Ashley Davis dive deep into the most pressing political issues facing America today—from the fallout of the Minnesota shooting crisis to the high-stakes government shutdown negotiations unfolding in real-time. Why Listen: You'll discover how the political landscape is shifting as Democrats find themselves with unexpected leverage for the first time since the last election. You'll explore the accountability questions surrounding DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the internal conflicts between administration officials like Stephen Miller and Corey Lewandowski, and why even moderate Republicans like Tom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski are calling for consequences. You'll gain insider perspective on the government funding debate and what concessions Democrats can realistically secure in shutdown negotiations. Our panel breaks down why the "defund ICE" messaging may backfire, what reforms could actually gain bipartisan support, and the critical differences between ICE and traditional law enforcement in the public's perception. The episode also examines the early maneuvering for the 2028 presidential race, including how California Governor Gavin Newsom, Representative Ro Khanna, and AOC are positioning themselves as leaders during this crisis moment. You'll understand how these political figures are using current events to build their national profiles and what it means for the future of both parties. About Your Hosts: Kurt Bardella brings extensive political communications experience, having served as a senior advisor and spokesperson for multiple congressional offices and campaigns. Dave Spencer offers sharp political analysis with a focus on electoral strategy and public opinion trends. Ashley Davis provides unique insider perspective, having worked in the White House during the creation of the Department of Homeland Security in the post-9/11 era, giving her firsthand knowledge of how these agencies were structured and why. Key Topics Covered: • The Minnesota shooting crisis and the accountability debate surrounding Secretary Kristi Noem • Tom Homan's role as a moderating force in reducing tensions in Minnesota • Government shutdown negotiations and the strategic positioning of both parties • Why body cameras, warrant transparency, and accountability measures could be the key to bipartisan agreement • The historical context of ICE's placement under DHS versus DOJ and why it matters • How the structural design of immigration enforcement agencies impacts civil liberties • Early 2028 presidential positioning by Democratic leaders • Trump's weakening grip on the Republican Party as filing deadlines pass • The political calculus of "defund ICE" messaging versus police reform debates • Consumer confidence data and economic headwinds facing the administration This episode offers a refreshing alternative to the shouting matches that dominate political media. Instead of loud noises and personal attacks, you'll get substantive analysis from experienced political professionals who understand how Washington actually works. Whether you're a political junkie or simply someone trying to make sense of the daily chaos, this conversation provides the context and insight you need. Connect With Practically Political: Subscribe to Practically Political on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow the show on social media for updates, bonus content, and to join the conversation with other listeners who value thoughtful political discourse. Like and share this episode to help spread the word about a different kind of political podcast—one that treats listeners like adults. For more episodes and to support the show, visit our website and join our growing community of politically engaged listeners who are tired of the noise and ready for substance.

    38 min

  3. JAN 27

    Trump's Greenland Strategy - NATO, National Security & Global Trade

    Dave Spencer leads a spirited roundtable discussion on one of the most controversial foreign policy moves of early 2026: President Trump's aggressive push regarding Greenland and its implications for NATO, national security, and America's standing in the world. You'll discover diverse perspectives on Trump's unconventional negotiating tactics, from viewing them as strategic brilliance to diplomatic disasters. This episode offers a masterclass in understanding how different political viewpoints interpret the same events through vastly different lenses. What You'll Learn:• The strategic importance of Greenland in the context of Russian and Chinese military expansion • How Trump's negotiating style impacts America's relationships with NATO allies • The real-world consequences of shifting global trade partnerships • Whether aggressive diplomacy strengthens or weakens U.S. national security • How Denmark's contributions to NATO and Afghanistan operations factor into the debate • The economic implications of unstable international relationships on markets and debt • Different interpretations of what makes America a "laughingstock" versus "respected" on the world stage With guest Carrie Sheffield, a Harvard-trained policy expert who brings insights from negotiation theory and international relations, this episode showcases her perspective on Trump's tactics as strategic repositioning rather than reckless rhetoric. Sheffield draws on her academic background to explain concepts like the "zone of possible agreement" (ZOPA) and how moving the Overton window can achieve diplomatic objectives. Ashley Davis joins the conversation with a passionate defense of America-first policies, arguing that European allies have taken advantage of U.S. military and financial support for decades. She emphasizes the national security implications of Chinese and Russian submarine activity near Greenland and questions why America should continue shouldering the burden of global security when allies fail to meet their commitments. Kurt Bardella offers a contrasting view, arguing that Trump's approach has made America less stable, less reliable, and ultimately strengthened adversaries like Russia and China. He examines how market reactions have repeatedly forced Trump to walk back his most extreme statements, suggesting reactive rather than strategic decision-making. Key Topics Covered:• Analysis of Trump's letter to the Norwegian Prime Minister and its diplomatic implications • NATO spending commitments and whether Trump deserves credit for increased allied contributions • The historical context of U.S.-European economic growth since 1990 • Denmark's military capabilities and the realistic threat assessment for Greenland • How Canada and other allies are responding by exploring trade relationships with China • The role of market stability in constraining presidential foreign policy decisions • Immigration enforcement statistics and their connection to national security priorities • Whether America's post-WWII world order has benefited the U.S. more than other nations This episode perfectly encapsulates the current state of American political discourse, where the same facts lead to dramatically different conclusions depending on one's political framework. Whether you lean left, right, or find yourself somewhere in the middle, you'll gain valuable insights into how foreign policy decisions reverberate through economics, security, and international relationships. The discussion also touches on domestic policy implications, including recent ICE enforcement statistics and their impact on crime rates, demonstrating how foreign and domestic policy concerns increasingly intersect in today's political landscape. Practically Political brings together voices from across the political spectrum for honest, unfiltered conversations about the issues shaping America. Host Dave Spencer facilitates discussions that go beyond talking points to explore the real-world implications of policy decisions. Subscribe to Practically Political on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Join the conversation on social media and share your perspective on these critical issues facing our nation.

    34 min

  4. JAN 20

    ICE Operations, Insurrection Act & 2028 Election Predictions

    Hosts Dave Spencer, Ashley Davis, and Kurt Bardella tackle some of the most contentious issues dominating today's headlines. You'll get an unfiltered, cross-partisan discussion about federal law enforcement operations, the potential invocation of historic presidential powers, and what the political landscape might look like in 2028. What You'll Learn:You'll discover diverse perspectives on the use of the Insurrection Act, a presidential power that hasn't been invoked since 1992. The hosts debate whether current circumstances warrant such extraordinary measures, examining the historical precedent and potential consequences of deploying military force domestically. You'll hear arguments from multiple political viewpoints about the balance between maintaining order and protecting civil liberties. The conversation explores the complex dynamics between federal law enforcement agencies and local communities, including firsthand accounts of how different cities have handled federal intervention. You'll learn about the varying approaches taken by mayors and governors across the country, and why some strategies have proven more effective than others in maintaining peace while addressing legitimate concerns. You'll also get bold predictions about the 2028 presidential election, including speculation about whether current political figures will still be relevant, who might emerge as viable candidates from both parties, and whether the traditional electoral process will continue as we know it. The hosts don't hold back in their assessments of potential candidates, from Spencer Cox to Andy Beshear, Ron DeSantis to Marco Rubio. Key Topics Covered:The episode dives deep into the constitutionality and practical implications of the Insurrection Act, examining its 30 previous uses throughout American history and whether current circumstances meet the threshold for its invocation. The hosts analyze the difference between peaceful protest and civil unrest, referencing everything from Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy to recent events in Minnesota and Chicago. You'll hear a fascinating debate about national security concerns, including discussion of Greenland's strategic importance, submarine movements by adversarial nations, and the balance between territorial expansion and diplomatic cooperation. The conversation reveals how national security considerations intersect with real estate interests and historical ambitions. The hosts also explore the militarization of domestic policy, with Kurt Bardella presenting a provocative theory about long-term power consolidation strategies, while Ashley Davis and Dave Spencer offer counterarguments based on political fatigue and institutional constraints. You'll get insights into how personality, age, and political capital factor into presidential effectiveness over time. Finally, the episode examines potential 2028 presidential candidates from both parties, with honest assessments of their strengths, weaknesses, and electability. The hosts discuss what qualities voters might be seeking after years of political turbulence—whether boring competence or dynamic leadership will win the day. About the Hosts:Practically Political brings together voices from across the political spectrum for honest, sometimes heated, but always substantive conversations about the issues shaping America. Dave Spencer, Ashley Davis, and Kurt Bardella each bring unique perspectives and insider knowledge to create discussions that go beyond talking points to explore the real implications of policy and political decisions. Connect with Practically Political:Subscribe to Practically Political on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode. Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts on these critical issues facing our nation. If you appreciate cross-partisan dialogue that challenges assumptions and explores complexity, please leave a rating and review to help others discover the show. Whether you're politically engaged or just trying to make sense of today's headlines, this episode offers the kind of substantive, multi-perspective analysis that's increasingly rare in today's media landscape. Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter. Follow Ashley Davis Follow Kurt Bardella

    32 min

  5. JAN 14

    The Don-Roe Doctrine: Venezuela, Greenland, and the New World (Dis)Order

    Welcome to chaos theory with your hosts Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis. This week, the Practically Political crew tackles the biggest question nobody saw coming: What happens when the president decides military operations are the new foreign policy? From the stunning extraction of Venezuela's Maduro to Trump's Greenland obsession, Dave, Kurt, and Ashley dive headfirst into what might be the most consequential shift in American global strategy since World War II. What you'll get in this episode: The Venezuelan Gambit – Was removing Maduro a brilliant national security move or an oil-fueled boondoggle? Ashley and Kurt go head-to-head on whether this is about protecting America or lining Big Oil's pockets with taxpayer dollars. Spoiler: the disagreement gets heated. Spheres of Influence – Dave breaks down why abandoning the post-WWII world order might be the most dangerous thing happening right now. If everyone gets to play conqueror, who's stopping China from taking Taiwan or Russia from finishing Ukraine? The Greenland Question – Is Trump seriously trying to buy it, or is this the world's most expensive troll? The hosts debate whether this is 4D chess negotiating or just conquest with a real estate twist. USAID, Soft Power, and What We're Losing – Why gutting foreign aid isn't just about budget cuts—it's about surrendering the tools that actually kept America safe and influential.

    29 min

  6. 12/24/2025

    Polls, Pocketbooks & Putin: A Holiday Reality Check

    This week on Practically Political, the gang reunites with a familiar voice—Carrie Sheffield returns for a lively holiday debate that doesn't pull any punches. With Trump's approval numbers hitting historic lows and 75% of Americans feeling the economy is on the wrong track, Dave, Kurt, Ashley, and Carrie dig into whether the administration can course-correct before the 2026 midterms. Is "blame Biden" messaging running out of runway? And why does it feel like we're watching a political rerun of 2022—just with different jerseys? The conversation heats up over tariff chaos (Liberation Day, anyone?), the summer deadline Republicans face to turn kitchen-table concerns around, and why credit cards are doing the heavy lifting this holiday season. Then the panel pivots to Ukraine, where Trump's "bromance diplomacy" has hit a wall. With Russia publicly dunking on peace talk progress, the hosts debate whether Tomahawk missiles could force Putin's hand—or open Pandora's box. Topics covered: Trump's cratering poll numbers and the "don't gaslight the voters" problemTariff whiplash: courage or chaos?The summer 2026 deadline for economic vibes to shiftUkraine stalemate: can anyone move the needle?Why China is quietly winning the global perception gameGuest: Carrie Sheffield (Independent Women's Forum) Starting January 9th, 2026—Practically Political goes weekly!

    25 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    When the Defense Secretary Becomes the Liability

    Pete Hegseth's disastrous tenure as Defense Secretary takes center stage as Dave, Ashley, and Kurt dissect the growing cracks in his support—even among Republicans. From the Venezuela bombing debacle to throwing an Admiral under the bus, the hosts explore whether Trump's loyalty to his embattled cabinet pick has finally met its match. Plus, the crew tackles Trump's pardon spree that would make even past presidents blush: from a Honduran drug lord to white-collar criminals who can apparently buy their freedom. Why does the "party of law and order" keep handing out get-out-of-jail-free cards to the wealthy while demonizing everyone else? The conversation gets heated as they debate inflammatory rhetoric on both sides, the future of Trump's fractured party, and whether Democrats can actually capitalize on Republican chaos this time—or will they snatch defeat from the jaws of victory yet again?

    27 min

  8. 11/25/2025

    Cracks in the Crown: Is MAGA Fracturing Under Its Own Weight?

    Ten months into Trump's second term, the unthinkable is happening—MAGA is showing cracks. Dave, Ashley, and Kurt dive into whether Trump has become a lame duck faster than any president in modern history. From the Epstein files vote defying his wishes to his approval ratings hitting January 6th lows, the hosts debate if the Republican coalition is finally splintering. They also dissect who really won the shutdown showdown (spoiler: it's complicated), wrestle with whether "America First" has become "Saudi Arabia Second," and break down the leaked framework for ending the Ukraine war. Plus: Kurt calls out the hypocrisy, Ashley defends the security hawk position, and Dave asks the questions nobody wants to answer. This is political analysis without the partisan blinders. Follow Practically Political on YouTube and Twitter. Follow Ashley Davis Follow Kurt Bardella

    31 min
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5
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About

Pragmatism is Patriotism. The goal of Practically Political is to engage and motivate citizens who are fact- and issue-oriented, invite conversation, respect differences of opinion, believe in compromise and put sound policy before partisanship. Whether you’re a Republican, Democrat or Independent, if your bottom line is to get our government working again to serve the best interests of all Americans, then please join us in making our voices heard. This is not the time to give into hopelessness, anger or despair; it’s a critical opportunity to redefine what democracy really means.

Information

  • Creator
    Dave Spencer, Ashley Davis, Kurt Bardella
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    114
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Practically Political