Michael Brodkorb

A Break Down of Trump, Immigration, ICE, Straw Poll & Tafoya

Welcome to the spiciest and longest episode (to date) of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! Join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they speak with guests Julius Hernandez and Preya Samsundar, who offer their perspectives on Governor Tim Walz’s handling of fraud, ICE raids in Minnesota, and the upcoming gubernatorial and Senate races.

Highlights include a debate on President Trump’s controversial post about Rob Reiner, the role of federal intervention in state fraud cases, and the potential candidacy of Michele Tafoya for the U.S. Senate. Don’t miss this explosive episode packed with insights, disagreements, and spicy commentary!

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
• 01:38 President Trump’s controversial post about the murder of Rob and Michele Reiner.
• 12:50 Operation Metro Surge: ICE Raids in Twin Cities
• 37:06 Appreciation and Personal Background
• 38:29 Immigration System Issues
• 40:32 ICE and Law Enforcement Actions
• 43:41 Political Reactions and Public Opinion
• 51:38 Fraud and Government Accountability
• 01:14:59 National Media’s Influence on Local Politics
• 01:15:06 Fraud Allegations and Government Response
• 01:15:52 Republican Strategies and Criticisms
• 01:19:10 Future Political Landscape and Elections
• 01:22:07 Straw Poll Reactions and Candidate Viability
• 01:37:42 The pros and cons of a possible candidacy of Michele Tafoya for the U.S. Senate.
• 01:51:20 Closing Remarks and Football Updates

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 of Harassment, Fraud, and the Governor’s Race

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr return to discuss the recent harassment that led to an unscheduled pause in recording podcast episodes.

Michael and Becky then shift to the important topic of fraud in Minnesota and its implications for the 2026 election. They examine the claims of whistleblowers within Gov. Tim Walz’s administration, today’s appointment of Tim O’Malley as head of program integrity, and the political ramifications of these moves. The hosts also explore the Somali community’s involvement and stress the importance of addressing fraud without resorting to divisive rhetoric.

Additionally, Michael and Becky delve into the 2026 gubernatorial race, specifically spotlighting the impact of Mike Lindell’s candidacy. Lastly, they end on a lighter note, discussing donuts and football. Tune in for an insightful conversation that addresses crucial issues facing Minnesota and beyond.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 01:12 Thanksgiving Recap and Personal Updates
• 05:36 Podcast Philosophy and Episode Focus
• 07:45 Harassment Incident and Legal Struggles
• 21:40 System Failures and Personal Reflections
• 37:20 The Choice to Speak Up
• 38:05 Raising Awareness and Safety
• 38:55 Dangerous Individuals and Public Safety
• 39:57 Personal Impact and Support
• 41:10 Systematic Failures and Accountability
• 43:36 Legal and Ongoing Issues
• 46:02 Fraud in Minnesota
• 47:08 Whistleblower Revelations
• 51:32 Political Ramifications and Accountability
• 56:50 Immigrant Communities and Crime
• 01:12:50 Government Response to Fraud
• 01:19:15 Governor’s Communication Strategy
• 01:20:59 Fraud Committee’s Role and Challenges
• 01:21:42 Upcoming Election and Fraud Debate
• 01:23:20 Republican Messaging and Strategy
• 01:24:29 Governor’s Competency and Fraud Accountability
• 01:26:25 Impact of Fraud on Future Elections
• 01:35:09 Mike Lindell’s Candidacy and GOP Dynamics
• 01:41:28 Republican Endorsement Process
• 01:51:10 Football and Personal Anecdotes
• 01:54:04 Closing Remarks and Farewell

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 Congressman Brad Finstad: Shutdowns, Ag, and Accountability

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘! In this episode, hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr talk with Congressman Brad Finstad, who represents Minnesota’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The discussion covers the recent government shutdown, the frustration on both sides, and the political maneuvering involved. ConFinstad also delves into his new legislative proposal, the PRECISE Act, which aims to modernize agricultural practices.

Additionally, Congressman Finstad talks about the rampant fraud in Minnesota’s state government and his efforts to combat it at the federal level.

Michael and Becky finish out the episode by discussing the funeral of former VP Dick Cheney, and updates on the hosts’ football picks and Krispy Kreme. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at current political issues and their local and national impacts.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 00:08 Welcoming Congressman Brad Finstad
• 01:21 Discussing the Government Shutdown
• 06:05 Impact of the Shutdown on Constituents
• 07:00 Democratic Party Challenges and Public Perception
• 08:11 Efforts to Reopen the Government
• 16:48 Addressing Fraud and Accountability in Minnesota
• 22:13 Introducing the Precise Act for Farmers
• 26:44 Challenges Facing Modern Farmers
• 27:02 The Role of Technology in Farming
• 27:48 Appreciation for Congressman Brad Finstad
• 28:13 Post-Interview Reflections
• 29:07 Potential for Statewide Leadership
• 32:00 Discussion on Fraud and Accountability
• 33:55 Remembering Dick Cheney
• 40:29 Krispy Kreme Adventures
• 43:43 Football Rivalries and Family Loyalties
• 45:49 Closing Remarks and Farewell

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 on Frey’s Win and Running Mates

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘! In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr bring a more relaxed discussion after last week’s intense roundtable episode!

The duo dives into election updates, including news that Ryan Wilson has been named Speaker Lisa Demuth’s running mate. They also welcome back Darwin Forsyth, who provides insider insights into Mayor Jacob Frey’s winning re-election campaign in Minneapolis. The conversation covers changes to the city council, the impact of ranked-choice voting, and the broader implications for DFL politics.

The episode wraps up with updates on Krispy Kreme’s reopening and competitive spirits in their football picks league. Tune in for a comprehensive blend of politics, campaign strategies, and fun tidbits!

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 00:22 Election Updates and Guest Introduction
• 01:00 Discussion on Speaking Demuth Selecting Ryan Wilson
• 02:32 Analysis of Early Running Mate Announcement
• 06:06 Impact of Social Media on Elections
• 06:43 Old School Campaign Tactics
• 08:40 Pressure on Other Candidates
• 20:11 Darwin Forsyth Joins the Show
• 20:29 Election Night Insights
• 23:58 Ranked Choice Voting Strategy
• 26:17 Pros and Cons of Ranked Choice Voting
• 29:33 Voter Sentiment and Future of Minneapolis
• 31:30 DFL and DSA Dynamics
• 33:03 Intraparty Fights and Party Endorsements
•  35:23 Challenges in the Republican Party
• 37:06 DFL’s Path Forward and Internal Divisions
• 41:30 Minneapolis City Council Dynamics
• 44:08 Election Reflections and Party Processes
• 58:45 Krispy Kreme Opening Updates
• 01:02:11 NFL Picks and Podcast Wrap-Up

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 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