A Break Down about Lawsuits, Power Plays, and Quorum Wars

In this bonus episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, host Michael Brodkorb discusses the ongoing legislative standoff in the Minnesota House of Representatives. 

House Republican Majority Leader Harry Niska shares the latest developments and discusses a lawsuit filed by the House Republicans against Secretary of State Steve Simon.

Next, Democratic pundit Julius Hernandez offers his perspective on the standoff between Republicans and Democrats in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Get an in-depth look at the legal battles, the political maneuvers, and the constitutional arguments shaping this intense political scene. 

  • 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
  • 00:47 Interview with Republican House Majority Leader Harry Niska
  • 01:07 Details of the Legislative Standoff
  • 03:47 Legal Actions and Quorum Issues
  • 06:42 Discussion on Legislative Procedures
  • 14:21 Interview with Democratic pundit Julius Hernandez
  • 17:31 Debate on Quorum and Legislative Power
  • 31:27 Election Results and House Rules
  • 32:03 House Membership and Rules Compliance
  • 33:23 Special Treatment and Political Dynamics
  • 36:00 Power Sharing and Legislative Responsibilities
  • 37:41 Debate on House Authority and Membership
  • 41:46 Compromise and Political Strategy
  • 46:37 Concluding Remarks and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down with Speaker-Designate Lisa Demuth

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and BeckyMichael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr welcome Speaker-designate Lisa Demuth to discuss recent political developments in Minnesota.

The episode explores the Minnesota Supreme Court’s recent ruling on Governor Walz’s writ of special election, the ongoing quorum dispute, and the dynamics within the Minnesota House.

Speaker-designate Demuth shares her perspective on the importance of following the law, the Democrats’ refusal to attend legislative sessions, and the challenges surrounding committee hearings disrupted by protests.

Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of Minnesota’s political landscape.

  • 00:00 Welcome and Introduction
  • 00:23 Special Guest: Speaker-designate Lisa Demuth
  • 01:18 Supreme Court Ruling Recap
  • 02:17 Residency Requirement Controversy
  • 03:47 Governor’s Special Election Call
  • 06:41 Democrats’ Absence and Quorum Dispute
  • 09:44 Power Sharing and Legislative Challenges
  • 20:41 Constitutional Crisis or Opportunity?
  • 29:08 Protests and Safety Concerns
  • 30:42 Ensuring Safety Amidst Protests
  • 32:02 Law Enforcement and Leadership Response
  • 34:15 Addressing Public Safety Concerns
  • 38:24 Republican Initiatives and Legislative Goals
  • 40:29 Challenges in Government Operations
  • 43:25 Future Legislative Plans and Expectations
  • 45:56 Interview Reflections and Analysis
  • 57:10 Breaking News and Final Thoughts

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a bonus episode later this week!

A Break Down About Biden’s Exit and Trump’s Return

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and BeckyMichael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by political experts Darwin Forsyth and Preya Samsundar.

The group begins by examining President Joe Biden’s exit, President Trump’s inauguration, and his first executive actions, including controversial pardons.

They also analyze Trump’s tone during his address, his stance on immigration and energy policies, and the implications for national and Minnesota politics. They also discuss Preya’s recent commentary in the Star Tribune: ‘Republicans were given a nationwide mandate. Now let’s get to work.

The episode wraps up with insights into Minnesota’s legislative chaos and a look at Ken Martin’s potential as the next DNC chair. Don’t miss this in-depth discussion packed with diverse perspectives and political insights.

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Breakdown Podcast
  • 00:28 Welcoming Political Experts
  • 00:54 Discussing Trump’s Inauguration
  • 01:48 Biden’s Last Day and Pardons
  • 03:46 Debating Presidential Pardons
  • 08:20 Trump’s Inaugural Speech Analysis
  • 22:10 Celebrity Guests at the Inauguration
  • 31:42 Trump’s Religious References
  • 38:01 Controversial January 6th Pardons
  • 41:30 Trump’s Controversial Pardons
  • 42:22 Republican Reactions and Strategies
  • 43:38 Minnesota’s Political Landscape
  • 47:16 Immigration Policies and Debates
  • 55:26 Energy Policy and Executive Orders
  • 58:56 Republican Mandate and Future Strategies
  • 01:09:33 Minnesota Legislature and Election Disputes
  • 01:23:19 Ken Martin and the DNC Chair Race
  • 01:27:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a bonus episode later this week!

Bonus Episode: A Break Down with Rep. Brad Tabke

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and BeckyMichael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr talk with Representative Brad Tabke of Minnesota House District 54A about the ongoing legal and political issues surrounding his election and the current standoff at the Minnesota House of Representatives.

The episode delves into the controversy surrounding missing ballots, the recount process, and Dakota County Judge Tracy Perzel’s detailed and extensive ruling yesterday, which determined that Representative Tabke won the 2024 election.

Representative Tapke provides a detailed narrative of the election disputes, the implications of the missing ballots, and the broader political standoff in the Minnesota House.

  • 00:00 Introduction to The Breakdown Podcast
  • 00:18 Controversy in the Minnesota House
  • 01:01 Interview with Representative Brad Tappke
  • 01:53 The Election Day Roller Coaster
  • 02:53 Legal Battles and Recounts
  • 05:08 Court Rulings and Aftermath
  • 10:57 Personal Struggles and Campaign Challenges
  • 13:50 Procedural and Constitutional Issues
  • 19:34 Future of the Legislative Standoff
  • 25:57 Secrecy and Swearing-In Ceremony
  • 27:00 Procedural Implications of a 68th Member
  • 27:38 Potential Consequences and Political Drama
  • 29:02 Constitutional Crisis and Uncharted Territory
  • 29:45 Election Contest and Quorum Dynamics
  • 34:01 Arguments and Statistical Analysis
  • 39:22 Personal Reflections and Political Relationships
  • 43:07 Interview Conclusion and Reflections

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

A Break Down About the Ongoing Minnesota Legislative Standoff!

In this fireworks-filled episode of “The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,” Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss the chaos erupting in Minnesota politics less than 24 hours before the legislative session. 

The controversy centers around a secret swearing-in ceremony for House Democrats held over the weekend. Michael and Becky discuss the implications of this event for the 2025 legislative session, the future of Minnesota state politics, and the ongoing debate surrounding the election in House District 54A. They also discuss the Minnesota Senate’s recent power-sharing agreement. 

Tune in for an in-depth analysis of these significant political events and their implications for Minnesota’s legislative future.

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Breakdown Podcast
  • 00:27 Secret Swearing-In Ceremony Controversy
  • 02:37 Implications for Minnesota State Politics
  • 06:00 Historical Context and Precedents
  • 09:53 Democratic Actions and Republican Reactions
  • 13:54 Concerns About Democratic Processes
  • 19:53 Future Implications and Final Thoughts
  • 30:05 Court Process and House Democrats’ New Rules
  • 30:39 Legal Cases and Election Issues
  • 32:26 Quorum Controversy and Secretary of State’s Role
  • 33:55 House Republicans’ Response and Quorum Debate
  • 41:18 Ceremonial vs. Official Roles
  • 47:33 Minnesota Senate’s Agreement and House Chaos
  • 50:46 Secret Swearing-In Ceremony and Its Implications
  • 54:59 Predictions and Final Thoughts

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode this week!

A Break Down About The Minnesota Standoff: Political Drama Ahead of the 2025 Session

In this action-packed episode of “Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,” hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss the escalating political tensions in Minnesota ahead of the 2025 legislative session. They also discuss the dramatic residency issue in House District 40B, which temporarily gave Republicans a one-seat majority over Democrats.

Incoming House Republican Majority Leader Harry Niska joins to provide insights into the Democrats’ decision to skip the session’s opening days and the GOP’s strategies moving forward.

Democratic pundit Julius Hernandez contributes his perspectives on the unfolding chaos, including the controversies surrounding special elections in HD 40B and Senate District 60.

Additionally, Michael and Becky reflect on former President Jimmy Carter’s passing, honoring his legacy of service and commitment to ethical governance.

Dive into this engrossing episode filled with political intrigue, legal battles, and political tributes!

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
  • 01:35 Remembering Jimmy Carter
  • 06:54 Interview with incoming House Majority Leader Harry Niska
  • 07:06 Democrats’ Strategy and Power Struggle
  • 11:06 Historical Context and Precedents
  • 17:00 Potential Ramifications and Legalities
  • 20:40 Interview with Julius Hernandez
  • 41:17 Consistency and Democracy
  • 41:46 PR Perspective and Districts in Play
  • 42:32 House Speaker and Power Sharing
  • 44:33 Quorum and House Rules
  • 51:24 Constitutional Crisis and Governance
  • 55:20 Special Elections and Legal Shenanigans
  • 01:06:35 Residency Issues and Voter Fraud Allegations
  • 01:14:31 Football League Results and Closing Remarks

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

A Break Down About Fresh Starts and Big Plans: 2025 with Brodkorb and Becky

Welcome to the first episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky in 2025! Join hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they discuss their resolutions from 2024 and set new goals for the upcoming year. They also delve into two special elections in Minnesota and analyze the chaos and drama surrounding them.

The episode also covers the transition to new MNGOP leadership and its implications. Personal stories and reflections add a touch of warmth and humor to this engaging political breakdown. 

Don’t miss the insights and heartfelt moments in this engaging beginning of 2025!

  • 00:00 Introduction and New Year Resolutions
  • 00:50 New Year Celebrations and Family Updates
  • 02:28 Reflecting on 2024 Goals and Achievements
  • 06:39 Podcast Debates and Guest Discussions
  • 08:30 2025 Goals and Personal Reflections
  • 22:00 Special Elections and Political Analysis
  • 36:15 Political Consistency and Frustrations
  • 39:12 Special Election Dynamics
  • 40:17 Controversial Filing Period
  • 42:09 Legislative Session Timing
  • 44:21 DFL Seats and Partisan Strategies
  • 49:12 Speaker Election in Washington
  • 56:17 MNGOP Leadership Changes
  • 01:07:52 NFL Season Finale and Predictions
  • 01:14:14 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement

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

Goodbye 2024, Hello 2025: The Break Down’s Year-End Special!

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

In the year’s final episode of the Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael and Becky reflect on the past year, discussing Christmas celebrations, including Michael’s birthday close to the holiday, and how their families handle holiday traditions. 

The episode delves into the podcast’s growth, featuring standout interviews and meaningful conversations. Looking ahead, they discuss goals for 2025, possible new podcast formats like live shows and debates, and a desire for more community engagement. 

Michael and Becky end on a lighthearted note with their ongoing football pick-em league and Sunday’s much-anticipated Packers vs. Vikings game. Tune in for a reflective yet forward-looking episode filled with gratitude and anticipation for the coming year.

  • 00:00 Welcome to the Year-End Episode
  • 00:43 Christmas and Birthdays: A Festive Recap
  • 03:17 Ice Cream Cakes and Family Traditions
  • 07:57 New Year’s Eve Plans and Reflections
  • 11:22 Podcast Highlights and Memorable Conversations
  • 22:38 Podcasting Benefits and Personal Growth
  • 23:52 Evolving Conversations and Listening Skills
  • 24:55 Guest Interactions and Show Philosophy
  • 27:30 Political Disillusionment and Podcast Revival
  • 31:40 Future Plans and Podcast Goals
  • 37:55 Friendly Competition and Pick’em League
  • 41:35 Holiday Wishes and Podcast Wrap-Up

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next year (next week!)