A Break Down on the ’25 Elections: Turnout, Trends & Takeaways

Welcome to Season 4 of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr.

Michael and Becky return after a brief hiatus to dive deep into the most recent political developments. This week’s episode kicks off with a heated political roundtable featuring guests Julius Hernandez, from the left, and Preya Samsundar, from the right.

The show covers recaps of Tuesday’s elections, including the Minneapolis and St. Paul mayoral races, and New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani.

The conversation then shifts to Minnesota’s 2026 gubernatorial race, discussing the new candidate, House Speaker Lisa Demuth, and reactions from other candidates, and the implications for the election.

The episode concludes with lighter segments on Krispy Kreme’s return to Minnesota and an update on the fantasy football league standings.

Tune in for in-depth political analysis, lively debates, and a sneak peek at what’s to come in Minnesota politics!

• 00:00 Welcome to Season 4 and Episode Overview
• 01:39 Political Round Table: Minneapolis Mayoral Race
• 07:09 What does this mean for Minneapolis?
• 19:42 St. Paul Mayoral Election: A Historic Win
• 33:05 Special Elections Update
• 34:42 New York Mayoral Race Results
• 35:44 Discussion on Candidate Quality
• 37:06 The Political Messaging of 2025
• 43:32 Minnesota Governor’s Race 2026
• 44:45 Republican Primary Dynamics
• 01:04:48 Democratic Party Divisions
• 01:09:27 Debating Polling and Candidate Popularity
• 01:10:32 Fraud and Government Accountability
• 01:13:28 Scott Jensen’s Engagement with Students
• 01:14:57 Final Thoughts on the Governor’s Race
• 01:28:21 The Return of Krispy Kreme to Minnesota
• 01:32:01 Fantasy Football and Podcast Reflections

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down with Jim Rubin: The Fight to Save Minneapolis

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. This week, they are joined by Jim Rubin, a Minneapolis-based business leader and co-founder of Mint Properties, who shares his insights on the city’s declining housing and public safety landscape.

Jim discusses his participation in the documentary ‘A Precarious State,’ the devastating impact of the political climate on his business, and the broader issues of crime, public safety, and political divide.

They also explore the challenges and potential solutions for turning Minneapolis around and ensuring a safer, more prosperous future. Tune in to hear a compelling conversation about the consequences of current policies, the critical upcoming election, and actionable steps for change.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 00:08 Introducing Guest Jim Rubin
• 00:58 Jim Rubin’s Involvement in ‘A Precarious State‘ Documentary
• 04:25 Challenges in Minneapolis: Crime and Public Safety
• 07:44 Impact on Business and Community
• 16:25 Political Landscape and DSA Influence
• 29:06 Personal Attacks and Legal Battles
• 36:32 Understanding Minneapolis’ Power Structure
• 37:10 The Impact of Leadership on City Dynamics
• 38:07 The Consequences of DSA Policies
• 41:16 The State and County Level Implications
• 45:40 Public Safety and Police Challenges
• 51:05 Jim Rubin’s Perspective and Future
• 53:27 Recap of Rubin Interview
• 01:08:44 Fantasy Football Update
• 01:10:31 Closing Remarks

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down with Ryan Wilson: Tackling Fraud in Minnesota

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. In this episode, Michael and Becky welcome back Ryan Wilson, attorney and chair of the Minnesota chapter of America First Policy Institute, to discuss his recent op-ed, ‘Enough is Enough. It’s Time to Stop the Fraud.’ The conversation delves into evidence of fraud in Minnesota, proposed reforms to address it, and more.

Michael and Becky also discuss the recent ceasefire in the Middle East and the significant role President Trump played in it. Finally, they touch on the controversy surrounding former Congresswoman Katie Porter, her treatment of staff, and its political implications in the California gubernatorial race.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:57 Ryan Wilson’s Op-Ed On Stopping Fraud
• 02:03 Fraud in Minnesota: A Growing Concern
• 05:04 Proposed Reforms and Solutions
• 08:18 The Role of Government and Accountability
• 19:28 America First Policy Institute in Minnesota
• 29:21 Ceasefire in the Middle East: A Historic Moment
• 33:58 Trump’s Role in the Middle East Ceasefire
• 34:47 Criticism and Praise for the Ceasefire
• 36:06 Reflecting on Past Presidential Achievements
• 36:45 The Importance of Supporting the President
• 38:17 Transition to Katie Porter’s Controversies
• 38:49 Katie Porter’s Interview Response Controversy
• 43:42 Porter’s Staff Interactions
• 50:27 Gender Double Standards in Politics
• 58:44 Fantasy Football Update
• 01:00:15 Closing Remarks

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down with Joe Teirab: Why Mary Moriarty’s Traffic Stop Policy Is Wrong

In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr dive into current public safety issues against the backdrop of fall with guest Joe Teirab, an attorney and former federal prosecutor at the US Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis.

The conversation centers on Joe’s recent Star Tribune op-ed criticizing Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty’s traffic stop policy, which he argues jeopardizes public safety.

Joe outlines how this policy affects law enforcement’s ability to charge felony-level offenses stemming from low-level traffic violations, drawing on his extensive prosecutorial experience. The discussion also extends to Joe’s new role as the Minnesota State Co-Chair for US Term Limits.

Michael and Becky then shift to a recent Star Tribune panel discussion on the future of the Republican Party in Minnesota, featuring former Governor Tim Pawlenty and State Senators Zach Duckworth and Julia Coleman.

This episode’s comprehensive discussion offers invaluable insights into public policy, legal approaches, and political strategies for shaping a safer and more effective Minnesota.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 01:07 Joe Teirab’s Op-Ed on Traffic Stop Policy
• 03:03 Debate on Moriarty’s Policy and Its Implications
• 07:42 Real-World Consequences of Policy Changes
• 28:29 Joe Teirab’s New Role and Term Limits Advocacy
• 30:53 Debating Term Limits: A Fresh Perspective
• 33:01 The Power of Incumbency and Its Impact
• 34:13 Devil’s Advocate: Potential Downsides of Term Limits
• 38:03 Public Support and the Path Forward for Term Limits
• 40:49 Reflecting on the Interview with Joe Tera
• 41:41 Mary Moriarty’s Policies Under Scrutiny
• 46:39 The Future of the Republican Party: Panel Insights
• 56:23 NFL Picks and Fantasy Football Updates

58:25 Closing Remarks and Episode Recap

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

Bonus Episode: A Break Down with Rep. Elliott Engen on WBL School Safety

Welcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ In this episode, host Michael Brodkorb explores the disturbing case of a 22-year-old man with a criminal record who allegedly used a false identity to enroll in multiple high schools in Minnesota.

Joining him is Representative Elliot Engen to discuss the systemic failures that allowed this to happen at White Bear Lake Area High School and other institutions.

They delve into the lack of proper documentation and verification protocols, as well as the urgent need for legislative changes to protect students. Please tune in for a comprehensive examination of this alarming situation and its broader implications for school safety.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:07 Unpacking the Bizarre Story
• 00:31 Interview with Representative Elliot Engen
• 01:41 Details of the Incident
• 02:40 Systemic Failures and Concerns
• 06:17 Broader Implications and Safeguards
• 12:24 Accountability and Next Steps
• 19:53 Conclusion and Call to Action

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down about ‘A Precarious State’ with Rick Kupchella

Welcome to the latest episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky.’ This week, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by veteran journalist and filmmaker Rick Kupchella. Rick discusses his latest documentary, ‘A Precarious State,’ which delves into the social, political, and economic crossroads facing Minnesota.

With over 30 years of experience in journalism, Rick shares his insights and surprising findings about Minnesota’s current state, post-pandemic, and following the murder of George Floyd.

Listen in as Michael and Becky break down what inspired the film, the key data points uncovered, and the profound implications for Minnesota and beyond. Don’t miss this in-depth interview, and be sure to tune in to the documentary airing this Thursday at 7 p.m. on ABC affiliates across Minnesota.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:10 Introducing Rick Kupchella and ‘A Precarious State.’
• 00:58 Discussion on the state of Minnesota
• 04:58 Rick Kupchella Journey and Insights
• 07:42 Economic and Demographic Challenges in Minnesota
• 11:31 Impact of Population and Business Migration
• 18:44 Political Implications and Future Outlook
• 22:36 Financial Advisors Recommend Leaving Minnesota
• 23:46 Impact in the aftermath of George Floyd’s Murder
• 25:32 Decline in Minnesota’s Education System
• 26:41 Public Safety Concerns in Minneapolis
• 27:46 Analysis of comments from Minneapolis Police Chief
• 34:27 Documentary Release and Public Reaction
• 37:43 Closing Remarks and Future Discussions
• 44:46 Fantasy Football and Closing Remarks

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down with Senator Julia Coleman on Motherhood, Messaging & Modern Republicanism

Welcome to the latest episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky.’ This week, hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by Assistant Minority Leader Senator Julia Coleman.

Elected as a Republican in 2020, Senator Coleman represents Carver County. She shares her journey from running for the Chanhassen City Council while nine months pregnant to becoming the youngest woman elected to the Minnesota State Senate.

Senator Coleman discusses the challenges of balancing political life with motherhood, her approach to bipartisanship, and her staunch belief in expanding the Republican Party’s tent. She also offers insights into the current political climate, strategies for engaging suburban voters, and the emotional impact of recent violent events.

Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that highlights the importance of optimism and involvement in shaping the political future.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:20 Interview with Senator Julia Coleman
• 02:09 Senator Coleman’s Journey to the Senate
• 05:17 Balancing Public Service and Motherhood
• 08:08 Navigating Generational Differences in Politics
• 09:48 Challenges of Social Media and Public Life
• 15:28 The Importance of a Big Tent Philosophy
• 24:58 Historical Context and Party Unity
• 30:16 The Importance of Unity in the Republican Party
• 31:31 Messaging to Suburban Voters
• 32:20 Personal Stories and Policy Proposals
• 35:37 Remembering Charlie Kirk
• 41:36 Optimism Amidst Tragedy
• 47:50 Reflections on the Interview
• 54:41 Podcast Goals and Future Plans
• 58:15 Fantasy Football and Closing Remarks
• The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

Bonus Episode: A Break Down with Rep. Nolan West on Civility

Welcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ In this episode, hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr pause the regular political chaos to highlight the importance of meaningful leadership.

Michael and Becky are joined by Representative Nolan West, a Republican from Blaine, Minnesota, known for his collaborative and thoughtful approach in the legislature. The discussion explores political discourse, bipartisanship, and the challenges of upholding integrity in a hyper-partisan environment.

Tune in for a compelling conversation on how to elevate constructive voices and foster a more positive political climate. Don’t miss out on this insightful episode!

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:19 Highlighting Leaders in Public Service
• 01:18 Interview with Representative Nolan West
• 01:55 Challenges and Mindset in Politics
• 03:52 Maintaining a Positive Approach
• 07:57 Political Shifts and Public Perception
• 12:46 The Importance of Humility in Governance
• 14:40 Addressing Political Violence and Extremism
• 22:36 The Role of Bipartisanship in Minnesota
• 28:11 Optimism for the Future
• 31:54 Closing Remarks and Reflections

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe