Michael Brodkorb

A break down with Rep. Harry Niska, the Deputy Leader in the Minnesota House Republican Caucus

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Representative Harry Niska, the newly elected Deputy Leader in the Minnesota House Republican Caucus, discusses his new role and the Minnesota legislature’s challenges of divided control.

Topics include the planning for the 2025 session, issues with missing ballots in House District 54A, and residency challenges in House District 40B. Additionally, the episode addresses the bleak budget forecast, the implications for future legislative actions, and the potential for bipartisan cooperation.

Rep. Niska’s insights as a legislator and attorney provide a detailed analysis of these pressing political issues. Enjoy this engaging and informative session with a personal touch as Michael and Becky share their Thanksgiving experiences and a friendly football rivalry.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:59 Thanksgiving Recap
• 05:25 Interview with Deputy Republican Leader Harry Niska
• 09:32 Power Sharing Agreement in the Minnesota Legislature
• 18:35 Election Contests and Legal Challenges
• 28:16 Ballot Controversies and Legal Challenges
• 28:53 Residency Issues in Elections
• 29:35 Post-Election Contest Statute
• 29:52 Historical Residency Cases
• 30:28 Legal Doctrines and Election Contests
• 31:59 Implications of Election Outcomes
• 34:40 Minnesota’s Budget Forecast
• 35:29 Economic Policies and Challenges
• 39:04 Future of Minnesota’s Economy
• 49:45 Interview with Representative Harry Niska
• 53:35 Football Chat and Closing Remarks

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

A Break Down about Thanksgiving, Election Recounts, and Legislative Drama

On this festive episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Their Thanksgiving traditions, discussing favorite side dishes and holiday plans. They then shift gears to explore significant political topics in Minnesota, including an in-depth analysis of the election recounts in Scott County (54A) and St. Cloud (14B) and the controversy surrounding missing ballots.

Additionally, they examine a residency challenge in House District 40B that could impact the power balance in the Minnesota House. The episode closes with a lighthearted update on their fantasy football standings. Tune in for a mix of holiday cheer and serious political discussion!

• 00:00 Welcome to The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
• 01:10 Thanksgiving Week Plans and Traditions
• 03:25 Favorite Thanksgiving Side Dishes
• 07:18 Black Friday and Hunting Adventures
• 08:47 Minnesota Legislative Races: Scott County Recount
• 18:59 St. Cloud Recount and Election Integrity
• 25:10 Residency Challenge in House District 40B
• 34:13 Fantasy Football Standings Update
• 35:48 Closing Remarks and Thanksgiving Wishes

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

A break down on the GOP’s path forward in Minnesota

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Preya Samsundar shares insights from her recent Star Tribune op-ed urging Minnesota Republicans to learn from their continued mistakes, which have prevented them from winning a statewide election since 2006.

The conversation touches on Trump’s cabinet appointments, effective candidate selection, and the challenges within the Minnesota GOP. 

Michael also discusses his recent Star Tribune op-ed reflecting on his decision to Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz. Then, they dive into a nuanced discussion about the future of the GOP, electoral strategies, and the importance of thoughtful introspection.

• 00:00 Introduction 
• 00:24 Welcoming Preya Samsundar
• 01:02 Discussion on Minnesota Republicans’ Mistakes
• 01:52 Analyzing Royce White’s Candidacy
• 05:33 Impact of Candidate Selection on Elections
• 06:16 Challenges in the Republican Endorsement Process
• 09:27 Royce White’s Influence on Down-Ballot Races
• 21:41 Quality Control in Candidate Selection
• 39:19 Trump’s New Cabinet Appointees
• 40:22 Cabinet Picks and Political Commentary
• 41:34 RFK Jr. and Vaccine Controversy
• 48:12 Matt Gaetz and Senate Confirmation Speculations
• 52:10 Sean Duffy and Other Cabinet Picks
• 01:01:39 Trump’s First Amendment Concerns
• 01:05:05 Reflections on the Election and Republican Strategy
• 01:15:26 Fantasy Football and Closing Remarks

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

Minnesota’s Election Results: Analysis and Insights with David Fitzsimmons

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Joined by political expert David Fitzsimmons, the trio examines the Republican party’s significant victories. They delve into the trends observed on the campaign trail and speculate on what it takes for Republicans to win statewide in Minnesota.

The episode also covers the latest Trump administration appointments, including the controversial picks for Attorney General, Secretary of Defense, and the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. This insightful discussion provides a comprehensive analysis of current political dynamics and forecasts for the future.

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A Break Down of the Election Results

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

The recent election results from Minnesota to the presidential race. They discuss the outcomes in the Minnesota state legislature, the unexpected tie in the Minnesota House, and key races to watch as we approach 2026. Most of the discussion focuses on the presidential race and how Donald Trump emerged victorious.

Michael and Becky also reflect on their live stream experience during election night, reviewing the turnout, the competitive congressional districts in Minnesota, and their predictions. Becky emphasizes the underlying issues influencing voter behavior, particularly economic concerns.

Meanwhile, Michael explains his stance on election denialism and the importance of acknowledging election results to uphold democracy. The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for the future and a commitment to ongoing political analysis.

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A Break Down about the Election with Former Congressman Joe Walsh

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

In this compelling episode, Michael and Becky dive into the long-awaited election week, featuring a candid interview with former Congressman Joe Walsh. Walsh, a former Tea Party member and outspoken critic of Donald Trump, discusses his political evolution, his support for Kamala Harris, and his experiences on the campaign trail.

The episode also covers the potential implications of the upcoming election results on the Democratic and Republican parties and offers final predictions for the 2024 election. With in-depth political analysis and personal insights, this episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on current politics and future prospects.

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A Break Down About a Former MAGA Insider’s Journey: A Conversation with Rich Logis

On this special bonus episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb breaks down the following:

In this thought-provoking episode, Michael candidly discusses with Rich Logis, a former ardent supporter of the MAGA movement and Trump. Rich shares his transformation from being a prominent MAGA activist to co-chairing Republicans for Harris in Florida.

The conversation delves into his initial attraction to Trump, his disillusionment during Trump’s presidency, and the pivotal events that led to his departure from MAGA. Rich also discusses the importance of diversifying news sources, the myths perpetuated within MAGA, and his optimism for reconciliation and positive political change post-election.

This episode provides crucial insights and a unique perspective on navigating political disillusionment and finding common ground in a deeply divided landscape.

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A break down about polls, messaging, and the final days of the election

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez to break down the following:

00:01:30 – Celebrating Two Years of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!

• Podcast Anniversary: Becky and Michael reflect on two years of the podcast, expressing gratitude for each other and the meaningful conversations they’ve shared with guests over time.

00:03:00 – Minnesota Polls: Contrasting Results

• Poll Analysis: The group discusses recent MinnPost and KSTP polls showing varying leads for Harris and Trump in Minnesota.
• Julius and John on Poll Accuracy: Julius supports the MinnPost poll, suggesting Harris has a solid lead, while John explains the challenges of polling methodology and voter turnout predictions.

00:10:00 – Gender-Based Voter Trends and Male Support for Trump

• Trump’s Appeal to Male Voters: The discussion focuses on Trump’s efforts to engage young men, mainly through media figures like Joe Rogan.
• Shift in Male Voter Support: Becky and Julius debate if Trump has seen a decline in male support, especially among younger and Black male voters.

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