Nothing But The Truth

On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern discusses the growing national importance of redistricting and how recent court battles in states like Virginia and Florida could shape the balance of power in Congress. She’s joined by Scott Singer, who explains why Virginia’s redistricting effort was struck down by the state Supreme Court on procedural grounds and contrasts it with Florida’s legally approved redistricting process. The conversation explores how shifting populations, Supreme Court rulings on race-based districts, and political migration are reshaping congressional maps and influencing upcoming elections, particularly in South Florida.

On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern examines the rise of antisemitism following recent vandalism targeting Jewish homes and synagogues in Queens. Joined by counterterrorism expert Mitchell Silber, the conversation explores the growing range of threats facing Jewish communities, from white supremacists and Islamist extremists to far-left anti-Israel movements and Iran-backed actors. Silber explains how the Community Security Initiative works with law enforcement and local institutions to detect threats, strengthen security, and protect Jewish communities across New York and beyond.

On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern is joined by national security expert Jonathan Schanzer to break down the evolving conflict with Iran. As the fighting shifts from direct military strikes to an aggressive economic strategy, they explore how sanctions, blockades, and control of key النفط routes like the Strait of Hormuz are reshaping the battlefield. Schanzer explains the real impact of cutting off Iran’s oil revenues, the risks of escalation, and how global players like China and Russia factor into the equation. The episode offers a clear look at a conflict now defined less by bombs—and more by economic pressure, strategy, and endurance.

On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern examines the high-stakes race for New York Attorney General with candidate Saritha Komatireddy. The conversation explores the scope of the Attorney General’s power and its real-world impact on public safety, crime, and civil rights across the state. Komatireddy outlines her approach to addressing issues like transit crime, car theft, and rising hate crimes, while discussing how the role can support local law enforcement and shape policy priorities. The episode highlights the broader debate over how the office should be used—and what’s at stake for New Yorkers.

On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern speaks with Elise Stefanik about rising concerns over antisemitism and ideological shifts on college campuses. Stefanik reflects on her widely viewed congressional questioning of university leaders and discusses her book Poisoned Ivies, which examines the cultural, academic, and political forces shaping higher education. The conversation explores issues including campus leadership, free speech, foreign funding, and the role universities play in influencing future generations. Stefanik outlines her perspective on how these trends developed over time and what steps policymakers and institutions might take to address them.

On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern speaks with former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman about the escalating conflict with Iran and what it could mean for the future of the Middle East and global stability. Drawing on his diplomatic experience, Friedman discusses the threat of a nuclear Iran, the possibility of regime change, and the broader regional implications—including shifting alliances and the emergence of new power blocs. The conversation also explores the human toll of the conflict in Israel and the growing divide in U.S. political discourse, raising urgent questions about leadership, strategy, and what comes next.

On Nothing But the Truth, host Trudy Stern explores the accelerating rise of antisemitism worldwide, from incidents in Europe and North America to growing concerns about normalization and online amplification. She is joined by Yehuda Kaploun, who outlines his role advising the U.S. government and working with international partners to monitor and combat these threats. The discussion examines antisemitism not only as a form of hate, but as a broader issue tied to national security, social stability, and religious freedom. Kaploun points to challenges including inconsistent global responses, underreporting of incidents, and political reluctance to confront the issue directly. He also reflects on recent experiences abroad, highlighting both the severity of the problem and the ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation and accountability across countries.

On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern sits down with veteran Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf to examine the ideological shift happening inside the Democratic Party and the growing influence of the Democratic Socialists of America. Sheinkopf contrasts traditional Democratic priorities—public safety, labor alliances, capitalism, and strong support for the State of Israel—with what he describes as the rising power of DSA-aligned candidates and grassroots organizing strategies. The conversation explores how modern campaigns are built, the role of money and messaging in politics, and whether the changes unfolding within the party represent a temporary factional fight or a deeper transformation of American politics.

On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern speaks with U.S. Senator James Lankford about the dramatic escalation following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini in a joint U.S.–Israel operation. Drawing on recent intelligence briefings, Lankford discusses the state of Iran’s leadership, the possibility of regime collapse, and what the conflict could mean for the Middle East and global security. The conversation explores Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the role of the IRGC, potential leadership transitions inside Iran, and the broader implications for American national security and regional stability.

On this episode of Nothing But the Truth, Trudy Stern turns the focus from Washington to Albany, examining how shifting power within the New York State Assembly could reshape life for New Yorkers. She is joined by Assembly District 69 candidate Stephanie Ruskay, a rabbi and longtime Upper West Side community leader, to discuss housing policy, bail reform, taxes, business regulation, antisemitism, and New York’s relationship with Israel. Ruskay shares her personal story—growing up in Manhattan, returning to raise her family, and building interfaith and civic partnerships—while outlining why she believes this race represents a broader battle over the direction of the Democratic Party and the future of governance in New York.