Whiskey Pete and the American Taliban Reporting for Duty

As December temperatures plunge below freezing, it becomes painfully apparent that while churches often advocate for helping the underprivileged, their doors frequently remain closed when it matters most. A homeless man was found dead in Toledo, raising critical questions about why faith-based institutions do not open their doors as warming centers during dire circumstances. With many churches only utilized a few times a week, it seems they could make a meaningful difference during these harsh conditions. Instead, many individuals within the church community have seemingly bought into the stigmatization of the homeless, seeing them as "dirty" or morally culpable rather than as fellow humans deserving of compassion.Then we note the troubling rise of right-wing influence in the media, particularly through a CBS prime-time town hall featuring Erika Kirk, widow of far-right figure Charlie Kirk. The event, moderated by conservative commentator Bari Weiss, is framed as an exploration of grief, faith, and politics. The event is propaganda that perpetuates harmful narratives around women's roles, echoing the anti-feminist sentiments that Charlie Kirk espoused before his death. Erica's position as the new face of Kirk's organization is rife with irony. A former businesswoman, she is now expected to uphold her late husband's regressive vision of womanhood, which discourages career pursuits in favor of traditional domestic roles.We then look at the potential severing of ties between the U.S. military and Scouting America due to the organization's evolving stance on inclusiveness, particularly with the inclusion of girls and LGBTQ+ individuals. The federal government should cut ties, years ago, because the scouts exclude atheists.We also slip in an update on legal developments involving Pastor Chris Avell and his efforts to operate a homeless shelter in his church’s complex, in Bryan, Ohio, as he battles local ordinances. The situation raises significant questions about the intersection of religious freedom and public safety.Full Show Notes & Links UsedSend us Fan MailSupport the showSubscribe to our free newsletterCheck out our MerchFollow us on BlueskyFind us on Twitter(for now) Find us on InstagramFind us on Counter SocialFind us on Mastadon