TBR – Interview with Rep. Zack Stephenson

on by Michael Brodkorb Share

In this episode of The Brodkorb Report, Becky Alery, Todd Walker, and I interview Rep. Zack Stephenson (DFL) on efforts to legalize marijuana and other legislative developments at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Becky and I also continue the discussion from last week about the new developments on the ongoing and growing controversies involving Congressman George Santos and the classified documents President Joe Biden took to his private office and home after he had left the vice presidency.

The Brodkorb Report will return next week with a new episode.

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3652 Days

on by Michael Brodkorb Share

On January 24, 2013 – 10 years ago today – I woke up in Regions Hospital with a breathing tube down my throat. I don’t remember much from that day other than my wife, father, mother, stepmother, and all four sisters standing around my hospital bed.

They explained to me that I had been in a car crash. I tried to talk, but this was impossible because of the breathing tube. My wife told me I had been drinking and in a car crash. I kept trying to talk, so they brought me a piece of paper.

I asked if anyone had been hurt, but my handwriting was almost impossible to read. It hurt so much to write, as I had a separated shoulder. They told me nobody else was injured in the crash but that my injuries were severe and that I was lucky to be alive.

The night before, I had driven drunk and hit a bridge embankment at highway speeds on Interstate 35E in Lilydale, Minnesota. I was not wearing my seatbelt. The fact I was alive was a miracle – something 3652 days later I still don’t understand.

The crash was violent, and I woke up ten years ago with a damaged body. I had a traumatic brain injury, a separated shoulder, and massive trauma to my right leg. My body was bruised everywhere, and it was painful even to breathe.

I had experienced both acute cardiac and respiratory failure. Without the speedy and caring work of state and local law enforcement, EMTs, first responders, and staff at Regions Hospital, I would have died.

I have healed my body and mind in the last ten years, and I am the luckiest man alive. I am thankful to have such a wonderful, caring family and a great group of friends.

One of the positive outcomes of my crash was meeting Jon Cummings with Minnesotans for Safe Driving. Tragic circumstances brought Jon and me together, and I am blessed to know him. His generosity and welcoming personality are remarkable, and I consider him a mentor, role model, and friend.

Since my crash, I have given over 100 speeches about the dangers of drinking and driving.

For the rest of my life, I will continue to show my appreciation for the efforts made to save my life ten years ago by volunteering my time every month to help make the roads safer for everyone.

I will celebrate today by being with my family. I will appreciate today by acknowledging how long it took me to make this journey. I will reflect today on how I can continue to show my profound gratitude every day for being alive.

I wish you all continued success and happiness on your journey through life. We are all a work in progress – especially me. Thank you for being a part of my life. I hope you all have a wonderful day.

TBR – Interview with Rep. Pat Garofalo

on by Michael Brodkorb Share

In this episode of The Brodkorb Report, Becky Alery, Todd Walker, and I interview Rep. Pat Garofalo about DFL legislative agenda at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Becky and I also discuss the ongoing controversies involving the growing list of lies Congressman George Santos and the classified documents President Joe Biden took to his private office and home after he had left the vice presidency.

The Brodkorb Report will return next week with a new episode.

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TBR – The DFL Debrief Crossover Episode

on by Michael Brodkorb Share

The Brodkorb Report sat down with the crew of The DFL Debrief to discuss the two-year anniversary of the 1/6 insurrection, the DFL trifecta’s legislative agenda, Kevin McCarthy’s dramatic bid for Speaker of the House, and so much more.

The DFL Debrief is a podcast hosted by Ken Martin – the longtime Chairman of the DFL Party. Brian Evans – the DFL Party’s Communications Director, and Will Davis – the DFL Party’s Research Director. The DFL Debrief covers important political news out of Minnesota and offers behind-the-scenes insight and analysis of state and national politics, and it’s available wherever you listen to The Brodkorb Report.

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TBR – Lack of GOP message and MOA security

on by Michael Brodkorb Share

In this episode of The Brodkorb Report, Todd Walker moderates a discussion with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Alery about the lack of Republican visibility in Minnesota. Failed Republican candidate for governor Scott Jensen is back on the campaign trail – Michael and Becky share their opinion on why this is a terrible idea.

Michael and Becky next talk about the ongoing voting in the House of Representatives to elect a new speaker. Becky shares her experience working in Washington, DC, during a previous vote for House speaker.

Michael interviews Rob Doar, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs for the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, about new security enhancements at the Mall of America. Becky and Todd give their thoughts on the interview.

The Brodkorb Report will return next week with a special edition of recording with the Minnesota DFL.

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