Real Talk with Riggin

The New Blueprint for “Defund the Police” with founder of the Blue Line Lawyer Institute and author of When Cops Kill, Lance Lorusso, explores how activists and policymakers are reshaping the conversation around law enforcement. Lorusso, a former police officer and legal expert, warns that the new strategies behind the “defund” movement go beyond budget cuts — targeting recruitment, training, and public perception to weaken policing from within. He emphasizes the need for communities to understand the real consequences of these policies, which he argues can lead to rising crime and reduced public safety, urging citizens to stand up for officers who protect their neighborhoods every day.

With the federal government shuttered, taxpayers are left asking, “Where are the adults?” Vice President of Research at the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, Demian Brady, says the shutdown highlights a troubling lack of fiscal responsibility and leadership in Washington. As essential services hang in the balance and spending negotiations stall, Brady emphasizes that taxpayers deserve better governance and accountability from elected officials who seem more focused on political brinkmanship than practical solutions.

The Green Bear fundraiser with Executive Director at SEMO Network Against Sexual Violence, Alix Gasser, aims to raise awareness and support for child abuse prevention and survivor services across the region. The event brings the community together to celebrate the Green Bear Project’s mission of educating children and families about safety, while also raising essential funds to continue outreach and advocacy programs. Gasser emphasizes that every contribution helps empower children with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and seek help when needed.

Nutrition Educator at the St. Louis Dairy Council, Maggie Nosic, shares how one-pot meals can make healthy eating simple, delicious, and time-saving. Nosic explains that combining lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy into a single pot not only reduces cleanup but also ensures a balanced, nutrient-rich meal. From hearty soups and creamy pasta dishes to skillet stir-fries, one-pot recipes offer an easy way for families to enjoy wholesome dinners without the hassle. She encourages home cooks to experiment with flavors and include dairy foods like milk, cheese, or yogurt for added nutrition and taste.

The Missouri Veterans Hall of Fame is preparing to welcome its newest class of inductees in an upcoming ceremony honoring the remarkable service and continued contributions of Missouri’s veterans. President of the Hall of Fame, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Major General Cassie Strom, says the event will celebrate the enduring legacy of leadership, courage, and community impact demonstrated by these honorees. Each inductee represents the best of Missouri’s proud military tradition, continuing to serve and inspire long after their time in uniform.

Honest Elections Project has formally submitted two Freedom of Access Act (FOAA) requests in the wake of a startling ballot‐delivery mishap in Maine, in which a local resident discovered 250 unmarked state election ballots inside an Amazon package intended for another destination. Honest Elections+1 Under the direction of Executive Director Jason Snead, the group is demanding transparency from both the Town of Newburgh’s election office and the Maine Secretary of State’s office by requesting communications, shipping records, and correspondence related to the handling, delivery, and misplacement of the ballots. The Maine Wire+1 Snead emphasized that “there should be a zero-tolerance policy for ‘misplacing’ ballots in any way” and argued that the public “deserves elections they can trust,” while urging Secretary of State Shenna Bellows to explain how the incident occurred and outline what steps will be taken to ensure all ballots are accurately accounted for before the November elections.

The annual Side by Side Benefit Ride and Funfest is revving up to support the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center, with Executive Director Michelle Fayette highlighting the event’s mission of bringing the community together for a great cause. Riders and families can enjoy a full day of activities, from the scenic benefit ride to live entertainment, food, games, and more—all helping to provide essential therapies and services for children with special needs. Fayette says the event not only raises vital funds but also celebrates the incredible families and supporters who make the center’s work possible.

District 8 Congressman Jason Smith provided an update on several pressing issues, including the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the looming threat of a government shutdown, and the tragic death of a local police officer. Smith emphasized his continued support for Israel’s right to defend itself amid escalating violence in Gaza, calling for accountability and a clear U.S. strategy to maintain regional stability. On the domestic front, he addressed efforts in Congress to avoid a government shutdown, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and protecting essential services. Smith also expressed heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of the slain local officer, praising the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to keep communities safe.

Mideast Scholar and Executive Director at both the Association for the Study of the Middle East and Africa (ASMEA) and Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME), Asaf Romirowsky, discussed the recent agreement between Hamas and Israel, emphasizing the complex geopolitical and moral implications of negotiating with a designated terrorist organization. Romirowsky noted that while temporary truces or humanitarian arrangements may ease immediate tensions, they often embolden Hamas by granting legitimacy without addressing its core objective—the destruction of Israel. He argued that any lasting peace must be rooted in accountability, regional cooperation, and the dismantling of extremist ideologies that perpetuate cycles of violence.

Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins joins to provide an update on the latest developments from his office, including ongoing efforts to ensure election integrity, protect investors, and support small businesses across the state. Hoskins also discusses recent initiatives to make it easier for Missourians to access important state services and highlights priorities looking ahead as Missouri continues to strengthen transparency and trust in government operations.