On this episode of The Rick Smith Show, Rick talks with American Prospect Executive Editor David Dayen about his frustrations with Democratic leaders caving on the government shutdown, highlighting missed opportunities and the harmful consequences for working people. Later, Rick is joined by Brent Booker, General President of LIUNA, who explains how the shutdown “cave” left union members and families without paychecks and ramped up healthcare costs. Together, they discuss the real toll of political gridlock on workers, the need for accountability, and how unions stand up for job security and affordable benefits.

 

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On The Rick Smith Show, Rick speaks with Alex Lawson, Executive Director of Social Security Works, about the Chucking Chuck Schumer after snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. Later, AFGE District 3 VP Phil Glover joins to discuss how Democratic concessions in ending the shutdown may set a troubling precedent and undermine protections for workers nationwide. Through these candid conversations, the episode explores the direct impact of political decisions on families’ security and the challenges faced by labor unions and public servants contending with uncertain futures and government instability.

 

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On The Rick Smith Show, Rick is joined by Pat LaMarche, who discusses her latest report exposing how corporate investors are rapidly buying up single family homes in Philadelphia, affecting affordability, evictions, and local communities. LaMarche highlights concerns about rising rents and lost homeownership in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. Later, Raw Story reporter Sarah Burris analyzes how Democrats gained nothing from the shutdown’s end, emphasizing missed opportunities and continued challenges for the party’s legislative agenda. The episode confronts housing injustice and political setbacks impacting working families and vulnerable residents.

 

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On The Rick Smith Show, Rick talks with Joe Walsh, former Tea Party congressman, about Walsh’s journey to the Democratic Party and whether Democrats are ready to welcome him into their tent. The episode explores Walsh’s transformation, the party’s openness to former conservatives, and what it means for the future of political coalitions.

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On The Rick Smith Show, Rick discusses the harmful impact of SNAP cuts with Ismael Cid-Martinez, Economist at the Economic Policy Institute, showing how millions of families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities are threatened by ongoing funding reductions and government shutdowns. Later, Rep. Dani Isaacsohn, Ohio House Minority Leader, explores the challenges of redistricting, advising Democrats on strategic actions needed to ensure electoral wins amid shifting district maps and intensified political battles. The episode spotlights who gets hurt by policy changes and what’s needed to protect vulnerable communities.​

 

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On today’s show, Rick chats with Guardian Labor Reporter Michael Sainato about the Teamsters' 2026 election and his latest article covering the story. Then, Amy Withrow, Lead Negotiator for the Harrisburg Area Community College Education Association, joins us to talk about their ongoing strike. With faculty saying, "Enough is Enough," they’re fighting for fair treatment after years of stalled contract talks. Tune in for an inside look at labor struggles and what’s at stake for workers now.

 

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On this episode of the Rick Smith Show Rick discusses the recent Democracy Matters study with Mike Lux of American Family Voices, exploring how Democrats lost touch with the working class and the importance of reconnecting to labor roots. Later, Phil Glover, AFGE District 3 National Vice President, joins to detail the record-breaking government shutdown, highlighting its historic length and severe impact on public sector workers and essential services. Both guests emphasize the urgent need for honest political engagement and actionable solutions to restore trust and stability in American democracy.​

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On this episode of The Rick Smith Show, Rick welcomes Raw Story reporter Sarah Burris to break down the weekend’s top stories, including Trump’s controversial Great Gatsby Ball at MAGA-Lago. The lavish “Roaring ’20s” party drew widespread criticism for its opulence and timing, as millions of Americans lost SNAP food benefits amid the government shutdown. Later, Katrina Golden, small business owner of Lil' Mama's Sweets and Treats in Augusta, Georgia, joins Rick to explain the vital role ACA subsidies play in helping entrepreneurs afford healthcare, keep their doors open, and support workers in tough economic times.​

 

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On this episode of The Rick Smith Show, Rick talks with Jason Campbell, Senior Researcher at Media Matters, about the bitter split in right-wing media over SNAP and food stamps as they can’t decide to who they hate more, Democrats or poor people. Later, Ryan Boyer, VP of LIUNA, discusses Trump’s war on workers, highlighting the termination of critical infrastructure projects like the Gateway Tunnel, labeled “Democrat projects,” as part of a broader attack on working-class interests and labor rights.

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On this episode of The Rick Smith Show, Rick talks with Philly Inquirer national columnist Will Bunch about his recent newsletter article, “It Didn’t Take a Reichstag Fire to Burn Down Congress.” Bunch examines how democratic institutions are being eroded without an overt crisis, comparing the paralysis and partisan obstruction in Congress to authoritarian tactics, including Speaker Johnson’s shutdown maneuvers and Trump’s disregard for checks and balances. The discussion focuses on the failure of American government to hold leaders accountable, protect oversight, and uphold democratic norms, raising urgent questions about the future of democracy in the United States as attacks on core institutions accelerate.​

 

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