If They Won’t Debate, What Are They Hiding?

Stay connected with us at americangroundradio.com, on Facebook, and Instagram. You're listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for April 28, 2026. We open with a call for something that’s become surprisingly rare in modern politics — transparency. Congressman Clay Higgins is urging Louisiana’s Republican Senate candidates to step onto the same stage for a statewide televised debate, and the question becomes: why wouldn’t they? We break down the growing frustration with candidates picking friendly venues, dodging tough questions, and relying on polished ads instead of direct answers. Because elections are supposed to be about choice — and you can’t have real choice if voters never see the candidates stand side by side and defend what they believe. From there, we turn back to Baton Rouge and the aftermath of the Mall of Louisiana shooting. Increased police presence, K-9 units, and heightened security may reassure shoppers — but does it actually solve the problem? The conversation goes deeper than policy and into culture, family structure, and the alarming divide among young men in America today. Why are some finding faith and purpose, while others are spiraling into violence? And what role do parents, values, and community play in shaping those outcomes?Top 3 Things You Need to KnowA high-profile LIV Golf tournament in New Orleans postponed amid financial uncertainty, leaving millions in state investments in question.Louisiana Tech’s move to the Sun Belt Conference, reshaping college sports rivalries and regional economics.A widening public corruption investigation in Baton Rouge, with subpoenas issued to former officials tied to past administrations.In our Digging Deep-style conversations, we tackle the bigger economic picture — including a potential $300 million Louisiana budget surplus and what it could mean for the future of the state. Should lawmakers spend it, or use it to eliminate the state income tax and compete with places like Texas and Florida? We connect the dots between fiscal policy, population shifts, and the long-term fight for economic growth in the South.We also examine the rhetoric coming out of Washington, including comments from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries about “maximum warfare,” and what that kind of language means in a political climate already marked by rising tension and real-world consequences. At what point does political messaging stop being metaphor — and start being taken literally?And we close on a note closer to home — a major economic win for Louisiana as a manufacturing operation moves from Texas into the state, bringing high-skill jobs and reinforcing a broader push to bring industry back to American soil.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, visit AmericanGroundRadio.com, and join the conversation at 866-AGR-1776!