Politics Unplugged

Arizona's Family political editor Dennis Welch is joined by consultants Marcus Dell’Artino and Stacy Pearson to unpack rumors of a special legislative session where Republicans may repeal late-night retaliatory ballot measures in exchange for weaker ESA restrictions. They discuss union and campaign-funding pressures, unintended impacts on police and fire unions from anti-union language, and...

Arizona Republic reporters Robert Anglen and Laura Gersony join us to talk about their series investigating the behavior of Mark Lamb, the former Pinal County Sheriff now running for Congress. Then Dennis and Colin talk about underrated American bands.

Hank Stephenson of the Arizona Agenda returns to break down the new budget, and whether Governor Hobbs has anything to celebrate. Then Dennis and Colin talk World Cup and bathroom spirits.

Legislative candidate Robert Wallace explains his views on bathroom spirits, the shape of the earth, and John Kavanagh. Then Dennis and Colin break down the NBA Finals.

Pollster Paul Bentz returns to talk about President Trump’s influence on the Republican primaries, and whether that’s good for the party. Then Dennis and Colin break down Rolling Stone’s list of the top punk albums.

Dr. Terri Leyba Ruiz is running for Superintendent of Public Instruction. She joins the pod to talk about why she’s running. Then Dennis and Colin discuss the state of the Arizona Cardinals.

Consultant Stacy Pearson returns to the pod to talk about a ballot measure to protect mail-in voting in Arizona. Then Dennis and Colin debate whether an 8-year-old could take President Trump in a fight.

Arizona Republic reporter Stacey Barchenger returns to talk about fundraising in the governor’s race. Then Dennis and Colin break down the shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

John Kavanagh joins the pod to talk about the current legislative session. Then Dennis and Colin yammer uncomfortably about the new studio space.

Arizona Republic reporter Laura Gersony joins us to talk about the SRP election, and why it was a loss for Turning Point USA. Then Dennis and Colin talk about the President’s threat to end a civilization.

Maricopa County Supervisor Steve Gallardo drops in to talk about the board’s fight with County Recorder Justin Heap. Then Dennis and Colin break down the latest Presidential approval polls.

Axios reporter Jeremy Duda talks about the ICE restrictions in Phoenix and his new book on the murder of journalist Don Bolles. Then Dennis and Colin share their dislike for “old school” coaches.

We discuss the rape and abuse allegations against civil rights icon Cesar Chavez with Mariana Sandoval, the co-chair of the Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus. Then Dennis and Colin break down why the American team in the World Baseball Classic was impossible to root for.

Independent consultant Chuck Coughlin returns to the pod to talk about the SRP election, and why not everyone can vote. Then Dennis, Colin and AZ Family film critic Hunter Norris preview the Oscars.

Consultants Tony Cani and Marcus Dell’Artino stop in to talk about the political impact of the war and the ouster of Kristi Noem. Then Dennis and Colin discuss the departure of former Arizona Cardinals' quarterback Kyler Murray.

Pollster Paul Bentz returns to look at the latest numbers in the District 1 race in Congress.  Then Dennis and Colin break down the latest nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Arizona Republic reporter Richard Ruelas joins the pod to talk about the media circus in Tucson for the Guthrie case.  Then Dennis and Colin discuss whether it’s morally acceptable to become a Dodgers fan.

State Senator Analise Ortiz joins us to talk ICE and immigration issues in Arizona and nationwide.  Then Dennis and Colin break down why former candidate for Governor Karrin Taylor Robson never came on the show.

Democratic consultant Tony Cani joins us to discuss what it means if Gina Swoboda enters the Secretary of State race.  Then Dennis and Colin talk about the racist video posted on the president’s social media account.

KJZZ politics reporter Wayne Schutsky talks about the hot-button issue of guns at protests and Arizona’s unique gun culture. Then Arizona’s Family anchor Nicole Crites joins the podcast to dig deeper into the evolving challenges in journalism, the role of AI and social media in shaping public opinion.

Arizona Republic reporter Stacey Barchenger joins us to update what’s happening at the state legislature – with help from the Magic 8 Ball. Then Dennis and Colin debate the merits of the various Halls of Fame.

Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro joins us to discuss the tax cuts proposed by Republicans – already vetoed by Governor Hobbs. Then Dennis and Colin read through the Kyrsten Sinema “homewrecker” lawsuit.

Consultant Wes Gullett, a veteran of the 9th floor, stops in to talk about the importance of the State of the State address. Then Dennis and Colin discuss the Cardinals coaching search.

Who wants to talk politics at the holidays? Dennis and Colin rip through the Billboard list of the 50 greatest rock bands, then pay tribute to musicians lost in 2025.

Axios reporter Jessica Boehm discusses the recent escalation of the Department of Defense’s investigation into Sen. Mark Kelly. Then they talk about the late Rob Reiner’s remarkable impact on film and his lasting legacy.