Real Talk with Riggin

Lieutenant Governor Dave Wasinger will host an Elder Abuse Awareness Forum in Cape Girardeau, bringing together community leaders, advocates, and concerned citizens to address the growing issue of elder abuse in Missouri. The event will focus on education, prevention, and available resources to protect seniors from financial, physical, and emotional harm. As Missouri’s advocate for older adults, Lt. Governor Wasinger aims to raise public awareness and strengthen community efforts to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of the state’s elderly population.

The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library proudly presents the Spirit of Democracy Banquet, an evening dedicated to honoring courage, patriotism, and the enduring power of freedom. Executive Director Laura Dumey shares how this year’s event will feature inspiring Vietnam War heroes whose stories of sacrifice and resilience remind us of the true meaning of service to country. Guests will have the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of those who defended democracy abroad and continue to inspire unity and gratitude at home. The banquet promises to be a moving celebration of America’s veterans and the values they so bravely upheld.

Families are invited to join the fun at this year’s Trunk or Treat and Skelebration, hosted by Sikeston Parks and Recreation. Director Josh Meyer says the event will feature a safe and festive environment for kids to collect candy, enjoy games, and show off their creative costumes. Local organizations and businesses will decorate their trunks with spooky and silly themes, while families can enjoy music, food, and fall-themed activities throughout the evening. Meyer encourages everyone to come out and celebrate Halloween with the community for a night full of treats, laughter, and seasonal fun.

A new poll reveals that 64% of voters believe America is too divided to solve its most pressing problems—a troubling sign for the nation’s future. Republican strategist, attorney, and first-generation immigrant from Albania Peter Lumaj joins the discussion to analyze what this deep division means for the country’s political landscape. Lumaj points to a growing loss of trust in institutions and leaders on both sides of the aisle, warning that unity cannot be achieved through rhetoric alone. He emphasizes the need for a return to shared values and open dialogue, reminding Americans that overcoming division has always been key to the nation’s strength and resilience.

The Jackson Fire Station #1 held a special Hose Uncoupling Ceremony and Open House, marking the official opening of the new facility. The event celebrated the dedication and service of local first responders, with remarks from Chief of the Gordonville Fire Protection District and Captain of Jackson Fire Rescue, Michael Gentry. Community members gathered to tour the new station, meet the firefighters, and learn more about the department’s vital role in keeping Jackson safe. The hose uncoupling tradition symbolized the start of a new chapter in the department’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property.

Debating the Future of U.S. Involvement in the United Nations with CEO of the John Birch Society Wayne Morrow, the discussion centers on whether continued participation in the global body truly serves America’s interests. Morrow argues that the UN has increasingly undermined U.S. sovereignty through policies and mandates that conflict with constitutional principles and national priorities. He contends that the organization has strayed far from its founding ideals of peace and cooperation, becoming a platform for global governance and bureaucracy. The debate raises crucial questions about accountability, effectiveness, and whether it’s time for the United States to reconsider — or even end — its membership in the United Nations.

A major military housing group has reversed course after ordering a U.S. Navy sailor to remove a Pine Tree flag from his base residence, following public backlash and legal pressure. The flag, which dates back to the Revolutionary War and symbolizes American independence, was deemed “offensive” by housing officials before the decision was overturned. Associate Counsel at First Liberty Institute, Erin Smith, praised the reversal, emphasizing that service members do not forfeit their constitutional rights when they live on base. Smith noted that the Pine Tree flag represents the very freedoms America’s military defends and called the outcome a victory for both free expression and common sense.

Vice President of Legal Affairs at Landmark Legal Foundation, Mike O’Neill, argues that federal judges continue to run amok, overstepping their constitutional authority and undermining the rule of law. O’Neill points to a growing trend of judicial activism, where judges substitute personal or political preferences for the clear intent of Congress and the Constitution. He warns that such behavior erodes public trust in the judiciary and blurs the separation of powers that is vital to the nation’s democratic framework. According to O’Neill, restoring judicial restraint and adherence to constitutional limits is essential to preserving the integrity of America’s legal system.

The ongoing government shutdown has revealed what Associate Editor at NewsBusters Nick Fondacaro calls “the biggest plot twist in American politics.” Fondacaro points out that as federal agencies grind to a halt, the real story isn’t just about partisan gridlock—but how Democrats and their media allies are scrambling to redefine accountability. He argues that while conservatives push for fiscal responsibility and transparency, mainstream outlets are working overtime to shield the administration from blame. According to Fondacaro, the shutdown has become a moment of clarity for taxpayers, exposing the double standards and shifting narratives that have long dominated Washington politics.

Founder of Endeavor PAC and RNC leader Tiffany Smiley discussed the latest developments in Washington, highlighting both the ongoing government shutdown and former President Donald Trump’s key achievements. Smiley noted that while partisan gridlock continues to stall vital operations, Trump’s record on economic growth, deregulation, and strengthening America’s energy independence still resonates with voters frustrated by the current dysfunction. She emphasized that strong leadership and accountability are needed in D.C. to restore stability, empower working families, and refocus government on serving the people rather than political interests.