Posts Published by Michael Brodkorb

A Break Down with Andy Brehm: From Baseball to Ballots

Welcome to another fantastic episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr.

This week, hosts Michael and Becky are joined by Andy Brehm, Star Tribune columnist, corporate lawyer, and vocal Republican from Minnesota. Andy discusses his recent op-eds in the Star Tribune, highlighting his views on the Minnesota Twins’ recent trades and the team’s relationship with taxpayers.

Brehm also dives into the implications of electing Senator Omar Fateh as the Mayor of Minneapolis, focusing on the potential national impact and how it could aid President Trump’s agenda.

The episode also touches on the Texas redistricting battle, exploring the Republican efforts, the Democratic strategies, and potential national outcomes. Tune in for a compelling discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs!

  • 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
  • 00:31 Minnesota Twins Trade Controversy
  • 06:05 Impact on Season Ticket Holders
  • 10:29 Political Implications of Sports Funding
  • 13:57 Minneapolis Mayoral Race and Its Implications
  • 28:52 City Leadership and Priorities
  • 29:50 Impact of Mayoral Leadership
  • 30:21 Political Anger and Its Consequences
  • 30:56 Reflections on the Interview
  • 35:43 Texas Redistricting Drama
  • 46:49 Legislative Walkouts and Their Implications
  • 59:12 Concluding Thoughts and Announcements

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 Special Elections, DSA Platform, Naked Man at the Capitol, and an Axe Murderer

Welcome to another fantastic episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr.

In this episode, they begin by discussing the upcoming special elections for three vacant seats in the Minnesota legislature, including those left vacant by the resignation of Senator Nicole Mitchell and the death of Senator Bruce Anderson. In a follow-up, they analyze Senator Mitchell’s legal troubles and resignation.

The duo then shifts focus to a bizarre incident at the Minnesota Capitol involving a naked man, examining the security lapses and implications for future legislative sessions.

Continuing a discussion from last week’s episode about the race for mayor in Minneapolis, special guest Julius Hernandez joins to critique the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) platform in response to Michael’s Substack post and how the DSA’s controversial policies could influence the Minneapolis mayoral race and other political landscapes.

Lastly, they explore the parole release of ax murderer David Brom under new Minnesota laws, sparking a heated debate about public safety and the upcoming election cycle. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation that navigates the complexities of contemporary Minnesota politics.

  • 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
  • 00:58 Special Elections in Minnesota
  • 01:54 Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Resignation
  • 07:28 Senator Bruce Anderson’s Passing
  • 10:00 Naked Man Incident at the Capitol
  • 11:17 Discussion on Capitol Security
  • 16:54 Interview with Julius Hernandez on DSA Platform
  • 26:52 Debating Democratic Socialism
  • 28:06 Media Bias and Political Messaging
  • 29:03 Internal Divisions in the Democratic Party
  • 31:11 The Role of Media in Political Narratives
  • 32:17 The Future of Democratic Socialism
  • 42:27 Controversial Release of a Convicted Murderer
  • 44:37 Political Ramifications of Crime Policies
  • 54:13 Closing Remarks and Future Implications

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

On The Record with Michael Brodkorb is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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

A Break Down About Chaos at the Minneapolis DFL Convention

Welcome to the latest episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ where Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr tackle the complex and chaotic world of politics and current affairs.

This week, Michael shares a harrowing personal story of an arson attack on his home. The discussion then shifts to a detailed analysis with special guest Darwin Forsyth, a communications advisor from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey’s campaign. They dive into the controversial events of the Minneapolis DFL endorsing convention, highlighting major issues such as a flawed electronic voting system, process failures, and the resulting endorsement of State Senator Omar Fateh.

This episode offers an in-depth examination of the political shenanigans and their broader implications for the Minnesota DFL party.

  • 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
  • 00:12 Arson at Michael’s Home
  • 08:12 Darwin Forsyth Joins the Discussion
  • 08:28 Chaos at the Minneapolis DFL Convention
  • 19:41 Balloting Issues and Controversies
  • 27:08 Ballot Submission Issues and Software Concerns
  • 28:45 Delegate Reactions and Voting Discrepancies
  • 31:10 Motion for Paper Ballots and Rule Adherence
  • 32:41 Credentialing Process and Delegate Issues
  • 36:44 Filing the Appeal and Its Implications
  • 39:06 Concerns Over Election Integrity and DFL’s Future
  • 43:09 Closing Thoughts and Future Implications

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

On The Record with Michael Brodkorb is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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

🚨 Arson at My Home — Please Help Us Find Who Did It

On Friday, July 18, at 12:49 AM, a masked individual set off an explosive—possibly a large firework or incendiary device—inside my trash can outside my home.

The explosion and ensuing fire destroyed the can, damaged our driveway, and burned my lawn. My family is safe, but shaken. I’m declining at this time to speculate on a possible motive publicly, but let me be very clear: this was a targeted explosion and fire at my home. This was arson. 

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A Break Down of Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s Trial, Epstein’s Client List Mystery, and Michael Brodkorb’s Substack Launch

Welcome back to ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘! In this action-packed episode, hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr cover a wide array of topics in Minnesota and national politics. They welcome guests, former Rep. Kelly Fenton and Julius Hernandez, for a thought-provoking roundtable discussion. 

The episode begins with the ongoing trial of Senator Nicole Mitchell, delving into the body camera footage and the implications of her actions. The conversation then shifts to the notorious Jeffrey Epstein case and the mystery surrounding the non-existent client list. 

The spotlight also turns to Governor Tim Walz, examining his substantial legal fees related to a congressional hearing on immigration and sanctuary cities. Gov. Tim Walz’s approval ratings and potential third-term aspirations are discussed, and the episode concludes with the introduction of Michael’s new Substack

Tune in for all this and more, plus plenty of spirited debate and expert commentary. Don’t miss it!

  • 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
  • 00:25 Round Table Guests Introduction
  • 00:46 Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Trial Breakdown
  • 02:05 Discussion on Trial Footage and Defense
  • 06:09 Panelists’ Opinions on the Trial
  • 17:10 Epstein Client List Controversy
  • 30:36 Trump’s Base Turns on Him Over Epstein Files
  • 32:54 Governor Walz’s Congressional Hearing Expenses
  • 36:04 Republican Criticism and Political Theater
  • 40:25 Debate on Legal Counsel and Preparation
  • 47:38 Governor Walz’s Approval Ratings and Future
  • 57:02 Michael’s new Subtack and Podcast Wrap-Up

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

Bonus Episode: ‘Go F@&king Do Something’ – Erich Mische’s Call to Action

Welcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky.’ In this episode, Michael Brodkorb talks with Erich Mische, a passionate nonprofit leader and political veteran known for his relentless drive and humor. Erich discusses his new book, ‘Go F@&king Do Something‘ which is a rallying cry to move from apathy to action.

The conversation delves into Erich’s journey, including floating down the Mississippi River on a homemade raft to raise awareness for families in crisis. Erich also speaks about the importance of civic engagement, social media’s dangerous impact on kids and adults, and the necessity to challenge power structures. 

Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring discussion, which urges everyone to follow Erich’s example and take action to make a difference!

  • 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
  • 00:15 Meet Erich Mische: Nonprofit Leader and Author
  • 01:22 Discussing ‘Go F@&king Do Something
  • 03:37 The Impact of Social Media on Civic Engagement
  • 05:25 Responding to Tragedy: The Shooting of Public Officials
  • 09:55 Erich’s Journey: From Capitol Hill to the Mississippi River
  • 19:33 The Importance of Persistence and Civic Engagement
  • 26:03 Empowerment and Personal Responsibility
  • 27:45 Reflections on American Resilience
  • 30:13 Frustration with Bureaucracy
  • 32:01 Taking Action Against Bureaucracy
  • 35:19 The Dangers of Social Media
  • 42:07 Sustaining Passion and Making a Difference
  • 47:52 Book Release Details and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down About Grief, Anger, and Hope in Minnesota

In this emotionally charged episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ co-hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss Becky’s return from maternity leave and the tragic assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the violent attack on Senator John Hoffman and his wife

The conversation dives into the rise of political violence, its implications for Minnesota politics, and how the state can move forward. Throughout the episode, donation links to support the victims’ families are promoted. At the same time, Michael and Becky stress the importance of bipartisan support, responsible social media use, and maintaining civility in political discourse.

  • 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
  • 00:41 Tragic Events Unfold
  • 01:21 Becky’s Return and Personal Updates
  • 03:09 Fundraising Efforts for Victims
  • 05:17 Details of the Attack
  • 07:31 Community Reactions and Reflections
  • 23:35 The Role of Social Media
  • 26:45 Calls for Bipartisan Support and Civility
  • 47:24 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

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

Donate: Minnesota DFL Secretary Ceri Everett has released two GoFundMe links to help the families impacted by the recent political violence in Minnesota. 

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

A Break Down on Immigration and Misinformation with Bryan Strawser

Welcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky. Michael Brodkorb is joined by Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO of Bryghtpath and an expert with 30 years of experience in crisis management, business continuity, crisis communications, and global corporate security. 

The discussion revolves around two critical topics: the immigration standoff in California and the rampant misinformation surrounding a recent law enforcement raid in Minneapolis. Bryan provides a deep dive into the complexities of these issues, detailing the legal and policy nuances involved. They also explore the impact of misinformation spread through social media and by elected officials, emphasizing the need for accurate and responsible communication. 

Tune in for an insightful conversation that aims to move beyond the spin and into the facts.

  • 00:00 Introduction to The Break Down Podcast
  • 00:13 Meet Our Expert Guest: Bryan Strawser
  • 01:43 Immigration Standoff in California
  • 06:00 Federal and State Law Enforcement Dynamics
  • 11:34 Legal and Political Implications
  • 21:17 Disinformation and Misinformation
  • 25:40 Civil Unrest and Misinformation
  • 25:52 Best Practices to Combat Misinformation
  • 26:59 Responsibility of Elected Officials
  • 28:14 Impact on Law Enforcement
  • 29:41 Federal Law Enforcement and Public Perception
  • 32:08 Political and Policy Challenges
  • 34:55 Protests and Public Sentiment
  • 43:11 Advice for Elected Officials
  • 49:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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