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Here’s what we’re talking about today.
This is a quick rundown of the topics we’ll be covering on today’s show. You can hit play to listen, or read the transcript below if that’s more your style.
Transcript:
Today is Wednesday, August 27, 2025, and this is your news and preview of today's show.
Democrats have flipped a Republican stronghold in Iowa, ending the GOP’s supermajority in the state Senate. Catelin Drey of Sioux City defeated Republican Christopher Prosch by 11 points in a district Donald Trump carried by more than 11 just a year ago. The result represents a 21-point swing toward Democrats and means Governor Kim Reynolds can no longer confirm appointments without at least one Democratic vote.
In Washington, the National Guard has been deployed to pick up trash on city streets. More than 2,200 troops are involved in the “beautification” effort, nearly half from outside the District of Columbia. Soldiers in uniform have been filmed carrying bags of garbage and scrubbing graffiti. The Guard has traditionally been used for disaster response, civil unrest, or emergencies, making this deployment unusual.
During a cabinet meeting, Donald Trump suggested seeking the death penalty for murders committed in Washington, D.C., despite the district outlawing capital punishment. He also speculated without evidence that autism may be linked to artificial causes such as drugs, and said some people would prefer a “dictator” if it meant lower crime. Trump pledged a dramatic reduction in prescription drug prices and claimed restaurants in the capital were reopening due to the presence of the National Guard.
Among younger voters, Trump’s support is showing signs of erosion. A Pew survey found approval among under-35 voters who backed him has dropped from 92 percent in February to 69 percent now. Analysts attribute the decline to economic struggles, including job losses in manufacturing and higher consumer costs due to tariffs. Disappointment over issues such as immigration enforcement and the unresolved Epstein investigation have also contributed to discontent.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has stepped into the debate, questioning Trump’s cognitive health on social media. Trump responded by mocking Newsom’s hands.
And conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has weighed in on pop culture, criticizing Taylor Swift following her engagement to NFL player Travis Kelce. In a video clip, Kirk urged Swift to “submit” to her husband, comments that have sparked backlash online.
On the Bonus Show today:
Trump signs an executive order against flag burning.
Trump wants to change the Defense Department's name to the Department of War.
And the US threatens to withhold funding from states over truck driver English proficiency rules.
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