Cities Spent Billions. The Problems Got Worse.

You’re listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for June 17, 2026. We open with the growing influence of New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani and the rise of democratic socialism in America. Mamdani is backing congressional candidate Darya Avila Chevalier, who argues that all deportations are wrong — even for illegal immigrants convicted of violent crimes. We examine what that position means for immigration policy, public safety, and whether some politicians have abandoned the most basic responsibilities of government. In our Top 3 Things You Need to Know, we break down the latest election results in Georgia and Alabama, including where President Trump's endorsements helped and where they fell short. We also discuss the shocking legal strategy being used by the man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, whose attorneys are preparing an "extreme emotional disturbance" defense. American Mamas Teri Netterville and Kimberly Burleson tackle a surprising study on which professions have the highest divorce rates, leading to a candid conversation about marriage, social influence, friendship, and why some couples survive difficult seasons while others walk away. In Digging Deep, we expose a troubling pattern in government spending. A new report shows America's largest cities increased spending by 18% over the past decade with little measurable improvement in homelessness, violent crime, affordability, or income inequality. We also examine a massive fraud scheme in Minnesota involving 7,700 fake college students, stolen identities, and more than $12 million in taxpayer-funded financial aid. We also cover subcontractors who say they are still fighting to get paid for work performed on Barack Obama's $1 billion Presidential Center, the celebrity lineup celebrating the grand opening, and the double standard surrounding patriotism, politics, and public performances. For our Bright Spot, Scottish World Cup fans leave a lasting impact on New England by donating thousands of dollars to local charities, and a determined New York detective spends months tracking down a stolen wedding ring for a dementia patient — reuniting her with a treasured piece of her family's history. May your pursuit of happiness bring you joy. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, visit AmericanGroundRadio.com, and join the conversation at 866-AGR-1776!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.