The Loyal Opposition

Len Assante
  • 4.3 (6)
  • NEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Loyal Opposition: Where you hear the other half of the story. News, Interviews, and Commentary from Sumner County's Most Controversial Radio Personality | Live on WQKR 101.7 FM/AM/.Com and online at theloyalopposition.online

  1. FEB 15

    TLO Episode 0405

    S04 E05 The Loyal Opposition: Tennessee Politics, Rights, and Organizing Everywhere with Luis Mata and Megan Lange - A Don’t Miss Show Hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin welcomes Sumner County Democratic Party chair Megan Lange and Deputy Executive Director and Communications Director of the Tennessee Democratic Party Luis Mata. Len starts off with a recap of last week’s political news including criticism of Rep. Johnny Garrett’s HB 2036, which would bar naturalized citizens from running for federal office; the hosts call it unconstitutional and describe it as attention-seeking and aimed at gaining favor with Trump. The conversation covers several Tennessee bills: HB 5 proposing fines up to $5 million related to harming an unborn fetus via abortion pills and raising concerns about legal precedent; a Senate bill ending tenure for new higher-education faculty starting July 1 and creating uncertainty for current tenure-track contracts; and HB 884 expanding restrictions on drag performances by placing them under adult-oriented establishment definitions. The hosts argue lawmakers should focus on core issues like education, healthcare, wages, unemployment, and transportation infrastructure rather than culture-war legislation. Deputy Executive Director and Communications Director of the Tennessee Democratic Party Luis Mata joins, sharing his background immigrating from Mexico in 2000, growing up in East Tennessee, and being drawn into organizing due to barriers faced as a non-citizen (including in-state tuition and financial aid restrictions). He describes his organizing philosophy, the importance of inclusion, and the idea of bringing “a folding chair” if there’s no seat at the table. The panel discusses fear among Democratic voters and candidates about openly expressing support, and Luis emphasizes varied “spectrum of engagement” entry points for participation. Megan reports on a Sumner County Library Board meeting prompted by Secretary of State Trey Hargett’s letter urging review/removal of books; she notes 53 titles were submitted for reconsideration, including a children’s book about an elderly tortoise processing grief. Luis outlines Tennessee Democratic Party priorities under Chair Rachel Campbell’s leadership, emphasizing “organize everywhere so we can compete and win everywhere,” noting all 95 counties now have organized and active local Democratic parties. Candidate recruitment and support are highlighted, with instructions for prospective candidates to contact stillblue@sumnerdems.org (Sumner County) or comms@tndp.org (elsewhere) and to identify a strong personal “why” for running. SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found on all the streaming and podcast platforms or on our website. To learn more or to support the Sumner County Democratic Party, please visit their website: www.stillblue@sumnerdems.org Tennessee Democratic Party TNDP.org Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPA https://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  2. FEB 8

    TLO Episode 0404

    This episode features an engaging interview with Joni Cochran, candidate for State Senate District 17, who talks about her motivations and plans for change.Additionally, hosts Len and Michele focus on Governor Lee's unfulfilled promises from his previous state address. They highlight key issues facing Tennesseans, including the lack of new daycare spots, failed initiatives like the $60 million starter home fund, and soaring costs in housing, healthcare, and childcare. They also discuss the alarming statistics on violent crime and gunshot fatalities among children in Tennessee, underfunded public schools, and the struggle of families to meet basic needs due to high living costs. Additionally, Michele shares her journey into real estate, offering new insights and plans for future updates.

    46 min

  3. FEB 1

    TLO Episode 0403

    The Loyal Opposition S04 E03 Interview with Mike Croley: Congressional Candidate for the Tennessee 6th District - Affordability, Accountability, and Accessibility In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante welcomes Mike Croley, a candidate for Congress from the 6th District of Tennessee. The discussion begins with Mike’s background, including his military and public service career, and his motivations for running for office. Mike discusses gerrymandering issues in Tennessee, the need for campaign finance reform, and Mike’s primary campaign platform: affordability, accountability, and accessibility. Mike shares his plans to engage with constituents through a series of town halls and his innovative “Your Voice, Tennessee” initiative aimed at making legislative decisions more participatory. Len and Mike also address pressing concerns like the minimum wage and immigration enforcement policies. Mike emphasizes the importance of listening to voters and representing their true interests in Congress. Listeners are encouraged to visit his campaign website and participate in upcoming events. SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts To learn more or to support Mike, please visit his website: CroleyforCongress.com Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  4. JAN 25

    TLO Episode 0402

    The Loyal Opposition S04 E02 Conversation with Journalist Ren Brabenec - Addressing State Concerns on Gun Control to the Impact of AI on Electricity Bills In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante provides a critical look at a range of pressing issues facing Sumner County and beyond. The show opens by addressing a significant rise in children spending nights in Department of Children’s Services offices and a controversial Republican bill concerning public hearings for energy company acquisitions. Len discusses Governor Lee’s private school voucher scheme, highlighting its inequities and inefficiencies. Special guest freelance journalist Ren Brabenec joins the conversation, sharing insights on gun rights and control and discussing his latest works. Brabenec delves into corporate influence over gun policies and stresses the importance of community actions in tackling gun violence. The episode also touches on rising electricity bills due to AI and data centers, emphasizing the need for local community awareness and holistic assessments of new projects. Tune in for in- depth discussions, breaking news, and engaging commentary on these critical topics. Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  5. JAN 10

    TLO Episode 0401

    The Loyal Opposition S04 E01 Welcome to Season Four of TLO! In this episode, Len and Michele welcome Sumner County Democratic Party Chair Megan Lange as we discuss political issues both local and national. Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  6. 12/29/2025

    TLO Episode 0341

    S03 E41 The Loyal Opposition: Wanna Be a Movie Star? The Film Industry in Middle Tennessee Plus An Update On The New Political Landscape. In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, host Len Assante talks with screen writer Mark Brown and educator Allan Babiarz-Lira. They discuss middle Tennessee politics and then have an in-depth conversation on the film industry in Tennessee. Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  7. 12/15/2025

    TLO Episode 0342

    The Loyal Opposition: Len and Michele Have An In-depth Discussion With The Amazing Courtenay Rogers Along With The News And A Special Report On School Bus Safety in Portland. Courtenay is a former Naval Officer and political candidate, and current owner of CoRo Consulting. Courtenay a keen observer of Tennessee politics and offers her insights into the current state of Tennessee and local politics. And as a bonus the show kicks off with a story you won’t want to miss about school bus safety in Portland. SUBSCRIBE!! Don’t miss an episode of The Loyal Opposition. We can be found wherever you get your podcasts. CoRo Consulting: https://www.coroconsulting.co/ Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min

  8. 11/23/2025

    TLO Episode 0340

    The Loyal Opposition S03 E40 The Loyal Opposition: Attempted Thought Police Takeover of Vandy and Special Guest Intutai The Artist. In this episode of The Loyal Opposition, hosts Len Assante and Michele Harbin get an update from Carolina Kelly on the Trump Administrations attempt to control what is taught at Vanderbilt University and nearly a dozen other universities in the US. The TLO interview is with a friend of the show, Intutai The Artist. She is expanding her musical reach and is spearheading positive collaboration and change among Nashvilles diverse music community. As an added bonus, we get an encore presentation of her hit single. Visit our website: www.theloyalopposition.online A one-stop-shop for navigating the current political environment. You will find: - Easy link to email your Representatives, - Upcoming take action events, - A list of Sumner County organizations doing great things, - Links mentioned in the show, and to our supporters and advertisers. We make it easy to write your representative or get involved. You can also stream our show. https://www.theloyalopposition.online/ Please support our advertisers and sponsors: Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry AmandaJGentry.com Artemis CPAhttps://artemis.cpa/

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Loyal Opposition: Where you hear the other half of the story. News, Interviews, and Commentary from Sumner County's Most Controversial Radio Personality | Live on WQKR 101.7 FM/AM/.Com and online at theloyalopposition.online

Information

  • Creator
    Len Assante
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023, Leonard Assante. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Loyal Opposition