Welcome to the first episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky in 2025! Join hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they discuss their resolutions from 2024 and set new goals for the upcoming year. They also delve into two special elections in Minnesota and analyze the chaos and drama surrounding them.

The episode also covers the transition to new MNGOP leadership and its implications. Personal stories and reflections add a touch of warmth and humor to this engaging political breakdown. 

Don't miss the insights and heartfelt moments in this engaging beginning of 2025!

• 00:00 Introduction and New Year Resolutions
• 00:50 New Year Celebrations and Family Updates
• 02:28 Reflecting on 2024 Goals and Achievements
• 06:39 Podcast Debates and Guest Discussions
• 08:30 2025 Goals and Personal Reflections
• 22:00 Special Elections and Political Analysis
• 36:15 Political Consistency and Frustrations
• 39:12 Special Election Dynamics
• 40:17 Controversial Filing Period
• 42:09 Legislative Session Timing
• 44:21 DFL Seats and Partisan Strategies
• 49:12 Speaker Election in Washington
• 56:17 MNGOP Leadership Changes
• 01:07:52 NFL Season Finale and Predictions
• 01:14:14 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

In the year's final episode of the Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael and Becky reflect on the past year, discussing Christmas celebrations, including Michael's birthday close to the holiday, and how their families handle holiday traditions. 

The episode delves into the podcast's growth, featuring standout interviews and meaningful conversations. Looking ahead, they discuss goals for 2025, possible new podcast formats like live shows and debates, and a desire for more community engagement. 

Michael and Becky end on a lighthearted note with their ongoing football pick-em league and Sunday's much-anticipated Packers vs. Vikings game. Tune in for a reflective yet forward-looking episode filled with gratitude and anticipation for the coming year.

• 00:00 Welcome to the Year-End Episode
• 00:43 Christmas and Birthdays: A Festive Recap
• 03:17 Ice Cream Cakes and Family Traditions
• 07:57 New Year's Eve Plans and Reflections
• 11:22 Podcast Highlights and Memorable Conversations
• 22:38 Podcasting Benefits and Personal Growth
• 23:52 Evolving Conversations and Listening Skills
• 24:55 Guest Interactions and Show Philosophy
• 27:30 Political Disillusionment and Podcast Revival
• 31:40 Future Plans and Podcast Goals
• 37:55 Friendly Competition and Pick'em League
• 41:35 Holiday Wishes and Podcast Wrap-Up

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next year (next week!)

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss today's news about Republicans winning control of the Minnesota House of Representatives, with special guest former Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives Kurt Daudt.

The discussion centers around a Minnesota district court ruling that found Democrat Curtis Johnson ineligible to serve due to residency requirements, resulting in his seat being vacated in the Minnesota House of Representatives. They explore the potential impact on bipartisan dynamics, the upcoming legislative session, and the importance of this decision for legislative procedures. 

Tune in to hear insights on the future of legislative leadership, committee structuring, and the evolving political landscape in Minnesota.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:17 Special Guest: Kurt Daudt
• 00:31 Breaking News: Residency Issue in House District 40B
• 01:24 Implications of the Judge's Ruling
• 02:14 Historical Context and Legislative Impact
• 02:49 Power Dynamics and Legislative Procedures
• 04:38 Potential Strategies and Legal Maneuvering
• 07:23 Discussion on Procedural Rules and Minority Rights
• 25:16 Republican Legal Strategies and Democratic Missteps
• 27:47 Conclusion and Farewell

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

In this bustling episode, Michael and Becky are joined by guest Julius Hernandez, the Director of Advocacy for the Institute of Digital Humanity and a seasoned DFL political strategist. 

The trio dissects several hot-button issues, starting with the satanic display controversy at the Minnesota State Capitol. They then move on to the inner workings and recent dramatic changes within the Republican Party of Minnesota. They conclude with an in-depth discussion of the recent mysterious drone sightings over the U.S. 

They also engage in a light-hearted debate about the Vikings and Bears rivalry before wrapping up with their ongoing football pick'em league competition.

Tune in for a mix of political insights, current affairs, and a bit of sports banter!

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 00:11 Welcoming Julius Hernandez
• 00:27 Minnesota Politics: Satanic Display Controversy
• 05:33 Debate on Religious Freedom and First Amendment
• 18:00 Republican Party of Minnesota: New Leadership
• 32:42 Political Drama Unfolds
• 33:34 Challenges in Party Leadership
• 34:05 Coalitions and Party Dynamics
• 35:40 Agents of Chaos
• 39:07 Conspiracy Theories and Drones
• 41:24 Government Transparency and Public Trust
• 43:37 Surveillance and Security Concerns
• 56:12 Football Recap and Fantasy League
• 58:35 Closing Remarks and Farewell

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Representative Harry Niska, the newly elected Deputy Leader in the Minnesota House Republican Caucus, discusses his new role and the Minnesota legislature's challenges of divided control.

Topics include the planning for the 2025 session, issues with missing ballots in House District 54A, and residency challenges in House District 40B. Additionally, the episode addresses the bleak budget forecast, the implications for future legislative actions, and the potential for bipartisan cooperation. 

Rep. Niska's insights as a legislator and attorney provide a detailed analysis of these pressing political issues. Enjoy this engaging and informative session with a personal touch as Michael and Becky share their Thanksgiving experiences and a friendly football rivalry.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:59 Thanksgiving Recap
• 05:25 Interview with Deputy Republican Leader Harry Niska
• 09:32 Power Sharing Agreement in the Minnesota Legislature
• 18:35 Election Contests and Legal Challenges
• 28:16 Ballot Controversies and Legal Challenges
• 28:53 Residency Issues in Elections
• 29:35 Post-Election Contest Statute
• 29:52 Historical Residency Cases
• 30:28 Legal Doctrines and Election Contests
• 31:59 Implications of Election Outcomes
• 34:40 Minnesota's Budget Forecast
• 35:29 Economic Policies and Challenges
• 39:04 Future of Minnesota's Economy
• 49:45 Interview with Representative Harry Niska
• 53:35 Football Chat and Closing Remarks

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this festive episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Their Thanksgiving traditions, discussing favorite side dishes and holiday plans. They then shift gears to explore significant political topics in Minnesota, including an in-depth analysis of the election recounts in Scott County (54A) and St. Cloud (14B) and the controversy surrounding missing ballots. 

Additionally, they examine a residency challenge in House District 40B that could impact the power balance in the Minnesota House. The episode closes with a lighthearted update on their fantasy football standings. Tune in for a mix of holiday cheer and serious political discussion! 

• 00:00 Welcome to The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
• 01:10 Thanksgiving Week Plans and Traditions
• 03:25 Favorite Thanksgiving Side Dishes
• 07:18 Black Friday and Hunting Adventures
• 08:47 Minnesota Legislative Races: Scott County Recount
• 18:59 St. Cloud Recount and Election Integrity
• 25:10 Residency Challenge in House District 40B
• 34:13 Fantasy Football Standings Update
• 35:48 Closing Remarks and Thanksgiving Wishes

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Preya Samsundar shares insights from her recent Star Tribune op-ed urging Minnesota Republicans to learn from their continued mistakes, which have prevented them from winning a statewide election since 2006.

The conversation touches on Trump's cabinet appointments, effective candidate selection, and the challenges within the Minnesota GOP. 

Michael also discusses his recent Star Tribune op-ed reflecting on his decision to Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz. Then, they dive into a nuanced discussion about the future of the GOP, electoral strategies, and the importance of thoughtful introspection.

• 00:00 Introduction 
• 00:24 Welcoming Preya Samsundar
• 01:02 Discussion on Minnesota Republicans' Mistakes
• 01:52 Analyzing Royce White's Candidacy
• 05:33 Impact of Candidate Selection on Elections
• 06:16 Challenges in the Republican Endorsement Process
• 09:27 Royce White's Influence on Down-Ballot Races
• 21:41 Quality Control in Candidate Selection
• 39:19 Trump's New Cabinet Appointees
• 40:22 Cabinet Picks and Political Commentary
• 41:34 RFK Jr. and Vaccine Controversy
• 48:12 Matt Gaetz and Senate Confirmation Speculations
• 52:10 Sean Duffy and Other Cabinet Picks
• 01:01:39 Trump's First Amendment Concerns
• 01:05:05 Reflections on the Election and Republican Strategy
• 01:15:26 Fantasy Football and Closing Remarks

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

Joined by political expert David Fitzsimmons, the trio examines the Republican party's significant victories. They delve into the trends observed on the campaign trail and speculate on what it takes for Republicans to win statewide in Minnesota. 

The episode also covers the latest Trump administration appointments, including the controversial picks for Attorney General, Secretary of Defense, and the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. This insightful discussion provides a comprehensive analysis of current political dynamics and forecasts for the future. 

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:15 Guest Introduction: David Fitzsimmons
• 00:34 Analyzing Republican Success in Minnesota
• 01:48 Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach's Victory 
• 03:37 Congressman Brad Finstead's Performance 
• 04:31 Blue Earth County and Republican Gains
• 06:24 National Media and Democrat Scrutiny
• 07:52 Congresswoman Angie Craig's Campaign 
• 10:25 Minnesota's Political Landscape
• 17:56 Trump's Popular Vote Victory
• 23:20 Republican Strategies for Statewide Wins
• 23:44 The Importance of Math in Elections
• 30:16 Trump's Cabinet Appointments
• 32:02 Reflecting on Nikki Haley's Role and Impact 
• 33:01 Republican Messaging and Female Voices
• 35:19 Trump's Cabinet Picks: The Surprises and Reactions
• 35:37 Matt Gaetz as Attorney General: A Controversial Choice
• 37:14 The Role of the Senate in Confirmations
• 39:13 Trump's Limited Time and Strategic Moves
• 41:20 Marco Rubio for Secretary of State
• 43:28 Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense
• 44:40 Kristi Noem for Homeland Security
• 48:53 Other Key Appointments and Reactions
• 51:34 Introducing the Department of Government Efficiency
• 55:34 Final Thoughts and Football Banter

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

The recent election results from Minnesota to the presidential race. They discuss the outcomes in the Minnesota state legislature, the unexpected tie in the Minnesota House, and key races to watch as we approach 2026. Most of the discussion focuses on the presidential race and how Donald Trump emerged victorious. 

Michael and Becky also reflect on their live stream experience during election night, reviewing the turnout, the competitive congressional districts in Minnesota, and their predictions. Becky emphasizes the underlying issues influencing voter behavior, particularly economic concerns. 

Meanwhile, Michael explains his stance on election denialism and the importance of acknowledging election results to uphold democracy. The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for the future and a commitment to ongoing political analysis. 

• 00:00 Introduction and Election Day Recap
• 00:47 Live Stream Reflections and Reactions
• 02:52 Analyzing Election Results and Predictions
• 06:51 Minnesota State Legislature Breakdown
• 11:17 Minnesota Congressional Seats Analysis
• 21:30 U.S. Senate and National Election Insights
• 27:04 Election Day Recap: Klobuchar vs. White
• 28:00 Unexpected Election Results and Reactions
• 29:58 Presidential Predictions and Analysis
• 31:00 Economic Concerns and Voter Sentiment
• 37:24 Polling Discrepancies and Surprises
• 41:19 Democratic Party's Challenges and Voter Demographics
• 47:44 Campaign Strategies and Messaging
• 57:19 Reflections on Democracy and Future Prospects
• 01:01:31 Closing Thoughts and Optimism for the Future

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.

On this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr break down:

In this compelling episode, Michael and Becky dive into the long-awaited election week, featuring a candid interview with former Congressman Joe Walsh. Walsh, a former Tea Party member and outspoken critic of Donald Trump, discusses his political evolution, his support for Kamala Harris, and his experiences on the campaign trail.

The episode also covers the potential implications of the upcoming election results on the Democratic and Republican parties and offers final predictions for the 2024 election. With in-depth political analysis and personal insights, this episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on current politics and future prospects.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:29 Interview with Former Congressman Joel Walsh
• 01:28 Joel Walsh's Political Evolution
• 02:41 Campaign Trail Experiences
• 04:50 Facing Backlash and Challenges
• 08:11 Reflections and Future of the Republican Party
• 16:12 Final Thoughts and Predictions
• 23:10 Becky's Voting Decision
• 25:54 A Proud Moment
• 28:16 Election Predictions
• 33:44 Senate and House Races
• 41:47 Minnesota's Political Landscape
• 49:59 Final Thoughts and Football

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new Election Day episode this week.