Welcome back from the long weekend! Steve Friess is back to talk all things politics with a Michigan and local Metro Detroit lens.

If you don't know Steve, he's a veteran freelance journalist for the New York Times, Newsweek and many others.

Some of the topics we hit:

Political Landscape: Jer and Steve discuss the heated race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Harris recently visited Detroit and we discuss her possible strategic avoidance of college campuses maybe due to a hot-button issue.

Internal Conflicts: The Michigan GOP's internal struggles come to light as Ron Wiser, a significant figure in the party, loses the nomination for the University of Michigan's Board of Regents. This is seen as a sign of the complete Trumpification of the party.

Democratic Tensions: The Democratic Party faces its own challenges with a pro-Palestinian activist's nomination for the Board of Regents, highlighting the internal conflicts over the Gaza issue and the party's reluctance to address it head-on.

Senate Race: A new poll shows Elissa Slotkin leading Rep. Mike Rogers 46 to 42 with 12% undecided. We analyze the campaign strategies, including Rogers' dual approach of presenting himself as both independent and a Trump ally.

Media Trust and Journalism: Jer and Steve discuss the growing distrust in media from both the left and right, and the challenges faced by journalists in today's polarized environment. They reflect on the importance of local news and the impact of social media on public discourse.

Don't miss this insightful episode. Share your thoughts with us at [email protected]. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast player of choice.