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. 10H AGO

    Kristi Noem's Downfall, Iran Strike & Trump's Foreign Policy Gamble

    In this episode of Practically Political, hosts Dave Spencer, Kurt Bardella, and Ashley Davis dive deep into the latest political upheaval in Washington and the escalating tensions in the Middle East. You'll discover the real reasons behind Kristi Noem's dramatic departure from the Department of Homeland Security—and why it had less to do with policy failures and more to do with the cardinal sin of Trump world: making it about yourself instead of the boss. The hosts break down the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, including how congressional hearings were weaponized and why her $200 million ad campaign sealed her fate. This episode explores the appointment of Senator Markwayne Mullin as Noem's replacement, examining whether a senator best known for challenging witnesses to fistfights is the right choice to lead a department already plagued by concerns over excessive force. You'll hear differing perspectives on what qualifications actually matter for cabinet positions and whether political loyalty trumps administrative experience. The conversation shifts to the most pressing foreign policy crisis of the moment: Trump's strike on Iran and the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei. The hosts debate whether this was a strategic masterstroke or an impulsive decision without adequate planning. You'll learn about the War Powers Act, how it actually works, and whether the administration followed proper protocols in launching military action. Ashley provides insider perspective on congressional briefings and the supplemental funding battles ahead, while Kurt raises critical questions about the constantly shifting justifications and endgame for this conflict. Discover the stark contrasts between this military action and previous administrations' approaches to Middle East conflicts. The hosts examine whether this is truly a "once in a generational opportunity" as Condoleezza Rice suggested, or a war of choice that could cost Trump the midterms. You'll hear analysis of Iran's actual threat level, the frequency of attacks on U.S. assets, and whether the administration's response is proportional and strategic. The episode also tackles the political calculations behind major foreign policy decisions, including how economic concerns at home intersect with military adventures abroad. With Americans focused on grocery bills and affordability, can the administration sustain public support for a conflict costing a billion dollars per day? The hosts debate whether there's genuine bipartisan appetite for another Middle East engagement and what lessons should have been learned from Iraq and Afghanistan. You'll also get analysis of Senator Steve Daines' controversial last-minute retirement announcement and the political maneuvering around Senate seat succession—plus discussion of whether new laws are needed to prevent similar situations that disadvantage opposition parties. This episode offers multiple perspectives from across the political spectrum, with Dave bringing his progressive analysis, Kurt providing his Republican-turned-critic insights, and Ashley offering her insider Washington and homeland security expertise. Whether you agree or disagree with their takes, you'll come away with a deeper understanding of the complex political dynamics shaping American domestic and foreign policy. Practically Political delivers unfiltered political analysis and debate on the issues that matter most. Find more episodes and join the conversation about the intersection of policy, politics, and power in Washington. Connect with the show for more political insights and subscribe to never miss an episode of frank, substantive political discussion.

    35 min

  2. FEB 27

    State of the Union Analysis: Political Theater & Missed Opportunities

    In this special check-in episode of Practically Political, hosts Dave, Kurt, and Ashley deliver an immediate post-State of the Union analysis that goes beyond the talking points. If you're looking for honest, bipartisan political commentary that cuts through the noise, this episode delivers exactly that. You'll discover why this State of the Union may have been one of the least impactful in recent memory, despite its record-breaking length of 1 hour and 47 minutes. Our panel breaks down whether President Trump's decision to "play it safe" was the right strategic move when his approval ratings are heading south and Republicans face a significant enthusiasm gap heading into the midterms. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why political operatives from both parties consider "no damage done" a win in today's political climate • How the demystification of the presidency through constant media exposure has changed the impact of major speeches • The real numbers behind claims of "most jobs ever created" and why you can't talk voters out of their economic experiences • Why the alternative "People's State of the Union" streaming event matters more than traditional media coverage suggests • How political theater—from medal ceremonies to congressional outbursts—has evolved since the "You lie!" moment that changed everything • The strategic miscalculation of not taking risks when you're behind in the polls • Why post-speech messaging from figures like Stephen Miller may do more damage than the speech itself Whether you're a political junkie, a concerned citizen trying to make sense of today's political landscape, or someone who simply wants smart analysis without partisan spin, this episode offers the kind of substantive discussion that's increasingly rare in political media. Practically Political delivers real talk about American politics from people who've been in the rooms where it happens. No spin, no propaganda—just honest conversation about what's really going on in Washington and what it means for everyday Americans. Connect with Practically Political: Subscribe to never miss an episode of bipartisan political analysis Like and share this episode if you appreciate honest political commentary Join the conversation about what political leadership should look like in America Remember to hit like and subscribe for more episodes that bring you behind the curtain of American politics with the people who know it best.

    36 min

  3. FEB 23

    Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump Tariffs: Political Chaos & State of the Union Preview

    In this explosive episode, you'll get breaking analysis of the Supreme Court's landmark 6-3 decision declaring Trump's tariffs unconstitutional, and what it means for the economy, Congress, and the upcoming State of the Union address. Key topics you'll explore in this episode: • The Supreme Court's constitutional reasoning behind striking down Trump's tariff authority and why this wasn't an ideological decision • Trump's immediate response and his plan to impose new tariffs under different legal authority • The massive logistical nightmare facing businesses: Will companies have to refund tariff costs to consumers? How will they prove what was passed on? • The rising power of Commerce Secretary and how Section 232 and Section 301 trade authorities become the new battleground • Whether Congress will finally reclaim its Article One constitutional duty to regulate tariffs through a new reconciliation package • State of the Union preview: Will Trump stay on teleprompter or go off-script attacking the Supreme Court? • The strategic debate: Should Democrats attend the State of the Union or boycott? Our panel is deeply divided • Alternative State of the Union events on the National Mall and at the National Press Club—who's attending and why it matters • How the rise of independent journalism and platforms like Substack are changing political media consumption • The proper decorum debate: Is sitting silently while the President lies a dereliction of duty, or is disrupting the institution worse? This episode features passionate debate between our co-hosts about institutional norms, political strategy, and what Democrats should do on Tuesday night. You'll hear arguments for maintaining decorum versus the moral imperative to resist, and why this moment represents a fundamental question about American democratic institutions. Whether you're concerned about rising prices, worried about constitutional checks and balances, or just trying to understand what happens next in this chaotic political moment, this episode gives you the insider analysis you need.

    33 min

  4. FEB 10

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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
    117
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Practically Political