Join Spill the Goods' Cristina Goodwin and Jess Spillers as they dissect the porcupine that is the Free State Project with Amanda Bouldin-one of its (many) former members. The conversation delves into the history and impact of the Free State Party, its alignment with libertarianism, and the experiences of former members. It also explores the challenges and contradictions within libertarian philosophy, as well as the political dynamics and strategies of Free Staters within the Democratic and Republican parties.

Takeaways

• Free State Party's history and alignment with libertarianism
• Challenges and contradictions within libertarian philosophy
• Political dynamics and strategies of Free Staters within the Democratic and Republican parties

Chapters

• 00:00 The Birth of the Free State Party
• 01:29 The Free State Project and Its Goals
• 03:27 The Influence of Free Staters in New Hampshire
• 05:50 Personal Experiences and Defection
• 07:16 The Impact of Libertarian Philosophy
• 17:40 Political Strategies and Dynamics
• 30:11 The Role of Free Staters in Political Parties
• 37:04 The Influence of the Free State Project on New Hampshire Politics
• 46:30 The Impact of Sociopathic Behavior within the Free State Project
• 01:06:29 Humanizing Individuals Associated with the Free State Project

Why I Left The Free State Cult by Amanda Bouldin

The Success-and Failures-of The Free State Project by Winter Trabex

FBI Raids Radio Talk Show Host's Home In Keene Sunday Morning: Residents Say Agents Conducting Child Porn Investigation by Mike Cronin, WMUR

In this special series, Jess and Cristina interview local Manchester residents running for State office. These are the folks you'll see on your ballot in November! Take a listen and decide for yourself!

Chrissy Simonds is running as a Democrat for NH State Representative in District 19/Ward 10. Chrissy has overcome domestic violence and homelessness to get her GED, raise two children as a single parent, and become a fierce advocate for herself and those she cares about. Chrissy successfully pushed for bussing for Kindergarten students. She brought voter education to a local transitional housing facility. Her lived experience is what sets her apart. The programs she will be voting on (Medicaid, housing, adult education), she has used and benefitted from herself.

Takeaways

• Overcoming adversity
• Advocacy for education and healthcare

Chapters

• 00:00 Personal Journey and Motivation
• 01:29 Challenges and Triumphs
• 04:26 Advocacy for Education
• 17:17 Healthcare and Advocacy
• 20:07 Running for Office and Advocacy

Website: www.chrissysimonds.org

Who are all these people? What is the DSA? Are they communists? Short answer-No! Democratic socialism is a distinct ideology separate from classic socialism and communism. Join Jess and Cristina as they explore the core principles and values of democratic socialism vs. socialism, communism, and democracy. The conversation contrasts the difference between a DSA candidate and a traditional democrat, what their priorities are and how they view the role of government. This episode also touches on the success of social democracy in other countries and the impact of meeting basic needs on social well-being. The episode ends on a hopeful note as they discuss the potential future of the Democratic Party, which feels bright due to the rise of the DSA.

Takeaways

• Democratic socialism is distinct from classic socialism and communism.
• Democratic socialism seeks economic equality within a democratic system.
• Democratic socialism emphasizes the welfare of citizens.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Democratic Socialism
• 01:17 Understanding Democratic Socialism
• 02:44 Comparison with Classic Socialism
• 04:38 Communism vs. Democratic Socialism
• 12:38 Democratic Socialism vs. Democracy
• 17:14 Nordic Countries and Social Democracy
• 18:13 Basic Needs and Social Well-being
• 19:12 Stress, Health, and Wellness
• 20:12 Political Parties and Third-Party Candidates
• 27:04 Money in Politics and Campaign Funding
• 32:30 The Future of the Democratic Party

References

The Democratic Socialists of America

The Differences Between Socialism and Communism by Robert Longley

Pennsylvania Railroad Company by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Andrew Carnegie by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

J. P. Morgan by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Elon Musk's US Department of Defense Contracts by Reuters (02/11/25)

Amazon to Invest Up to Another $25 Billion In Anthropic as Part of AI Infrastructure Deal by Ashley Capoot, CNBC (04/20/26)

The World Happiness Report by Gallup Analytics

List of Third-Party and Independent Performances in United States Presidential Elections by Wikipedia

Shaheen Announces Support for Medicare for All Act, Press Release Sen. Shaheen's Office, 09/13/17

What's a Moderator do, anyways? Join Jess and Cristina as they interview Ward Three Moderator, Avery Cyr, and discuss the importance of election workers. The conversation covers the various roles and their differences (i.e., an observer vs. a moderator vs. a selectman), the duties and responsibilities of a moderator, changes in voter registration requirements, the nonpartisan role of a moderator, and the recruitment process for poll workers and ballot inspectors. Additionally, this episode discusses polling hours, voter resources, and the requirements for voter registration.

Takeaways

• Election Moderator Role
• Training and Responsibilities
• Recruitment of Poll Workers Role of the moderator in elections
• Importance of voter registration

Chapters

• 00:00 Becoming an Election Moderator
• 01:20 Observer vs. Moderator
• 02:25 Campaigning and Permission
• 03:22 Duties of a Moderator
• 04:34 Voter Registration and Training
• 05:42 Changes in Voter Registration
• 06:05 Handling Voter Issues
• 07:12 Support Organizations for Voters
• 08:12 Nonpartisan Role of Moderator
• 09:15 Training and Compensation
• 10:00 Recruitment of Poll Workers
• 11:28 Role of Ballot Inspectors
• 12:33 Recruitment Process
• 23:14 Proof of Residency and Identity

Links/References

How to Register to Vote in Manchester

Where do I Vote?

Voter Registration and Elections in Manchester (including Absentee)

This episode covers various topics discussed at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting 07/07/26. Join us as we dissect the discussion! Public comment included topics like city officials' terms, the tax cap override, housing affordability, and transparency in contract negotiations. 'Infrastructure' was the word of the night as the BoMA heard from both the State and local agencies about roadway adjustments. The conversation delves into the impact of infrastructure projects on traffic volume and safety concerns, the challenges of funding and project modifications, and the importance of community engagement and advocacy in shaping the future of the city's transportation infrastructure.

Takeaways

• City officials' terms: Lengthening from two to four years
• Tax cap override and bond rating
• Housing affordability and rent concerns
• Transparency in contract negotiations
• Four-way stop at South Willow and Sheffield Infrastructure projects impact traffic and safety
• Funding challenges and modifications
• Community engagement and advocacy

Chapters

• 00:00 City Officials' Terms
• 01:09 Tax Cap Override and Bond Rating
• 03:10 Housing Affordability and Rent Concerns
• 06:04 Transparency in Contract Negotiations
• 14:16 Four-Way Stop at South Willow and Sheffield
• 18:04 Traffic Volume and Safety Concerns
• 19:30 The Raise Project and Infrastructure Changes
• 22:23 Funding Challenges and Modifications

Links/References:

The Raise Project

07/07/26 Board of Mayor and Alderman Agenda

07/07/26 Board of Mayor and Alderman Mtg. Video (MPTV)

The conversation delves into the complexities of tax structures, focusing on property taxes, income tax absence, tax exemptions, business taxes, and real estate taxes. It highlights the personal impact of policy decisions and the need for revenue generation alternatives.

Takeaways

• Property taxes disproportionately burden property owners
• The absence of income tax leads to a reliance on property taxes for revenue
• Business taxes and incentives should be used carefully so that NH doesn't lose out, while corporations build wealth

Chapters

• 00:00 The Burden of Property Taxes
• 11:53 Business Taxes and Incentives
• 22:42 Real Estate Taxes and Their Impact
• 29:26 Policy, Personal Impact, and Revenue Generation

The episode discusses the recent budget meeting and the drama surrounding the passing of the budget. It covers the different budgets presented, the alderman's questions, and the community's involvement in the budget process.

Takeaways

• Budget meetings can be dramatic and contentious
• Community involvement is crucial in the budget process

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Mood Setting
• 05:13 Reviewing Budgets and Alderman Questions
• 11:27 Republican Presented Budget and Expert Consultation
• 17:37 Third and Final Budget Review
• 23:27 Surplus Allocation and Tax Rate Offset

The conversation delves into the impact of Zohran Mamdani's historic mayoral race in New York City, focusing on his initiatives related to affordable housing, budget balancing, and taxation. It also explores the potential translation of Mamdani's policies to New Hampshire, particularly in the context of affordable housing, childcare, and early education programs.

Takeaways

• Progressive policies can work
• A balanced budget is possible with progressive policies
• Taxation policies in NH need updating
• Affordable housing encompasses not just building more but maintaining them and strengthening tenant's rights
• Child care availability affects home and the workplace
• Universal pre-K and Kindergarten positively impact education later

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Zohran Mamdani
• 12:23 Affordable Housing Initiatives
• 21:46 Childcare and Early Education Programs

https://www.spillthegoods603.com/

The conversation delves into the experience of running for public office, covering topics such as the filing process, the financial costs, fundraising, PAC money, endorsements, door knocking, and tips for running for office. Cristina and Jess reflect on their experiences and express their desire to stay involved in local politics.

Takeaways

• Running for office involves significant financial costs
• Endorsements and support play a crucial role in political campaigns
• Accepting the help of others can alleviate some financial and personal burden

Chapters

• 00:00 Running for Office: Filing and Candidacy
• 10:04 Fundraising and PAC Money
• 21:51 Door Knocking and Campaigning
• 28:55 Reflections on Running for Office

The conversation covers a recap of the recent Board of Mayor Alderman meeting, focusing on public comment and the budget proposal. It delves into the themes of public comment, including discussions on sidewalks and infrastructure, as well as the budget proposal and its impact on taxes and community services.

Takeaways

• Public Comment
• Budget Proposal

Chapters

• 00:00 Board of Mayor Alderman Meeting Recap
• 15:29 Discussion of the Budget Proposal

Aldermen Contact Info: https://www.manchesternh.gov/Portals/2/Departments/elected_officials/mayor/AldermenEmailList.pdf

Manchester BoMA Agendas & Minutes: https://www.manchesternh.gov/Departments/City-Clerk/Meeting-Minutes-and-Agendas/Current