Southern politics

In this December 16, 2012 program, host David McLaughlin opens with co-hosts Catherine Smith and Tim Shifflett, shifting quickly from light banter to the grief surrounding the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The three reflect on the horror of losing so many young children and begin assessing causes and policy responses. David notes public focus on the shooter’s isolation and mental health, as well as on the lethality of the weapons used. Tim, raised in a hunting culture and still a gun owner, argues that doing nothing is no longer acceptable. He calls for reinstating the assault-weapons ban, eliminating high-capacity magazines, closing the gun-show loophole, updating background-check databases, and restoring mental-health funding. Catherine agrees, observing that other developed nations have far fewer gun deaths and that the U.S. must confront both gun access and mental-health care. A caller, Monica from Michigan, adds insight into her state’s expansion of concealed-carry allowances—even allowing guns in schools, churches, and hospitals—and describes the closure of mental-health facilities that shifted vulnerable people into prisons. She stresses that arming teachers is unrealistic and that societal stress, fear, and untreated mental illness heighten the risk of violence. After thanking Monica, the hosts turn to national politics, discussing Hillary Clinton’s health, Susan Rice’s withdrawal from consideration for Secretary of State, and likely nominee John Kerry. They debate the Massachusetts Senate vacancy that would follow, noting Governor Deval Patrick’s appointment options and the political implications involving Scott Brown and possible caretakers like Vicki Kennedy.

Southern politics

Southern politics

Southern politics

Southern politics

Southern politics

and Don Weigel of Better Georgia stopped by to discuss his organization

and Don Weigel of Better Georgia stopped by to discuss his organization

Southern politics