Left Face

This week on Left Face: the Graham Platner saga in Maine takes center stage, breaking down the SS death's-head tattoo controversy, the womanizing allegations from a Republican lobbyist with timing that raises eyebrows, and what it means when a populist grassroots phenomenon becomes a national liability for Democrats. Then it's Hormuz Watch, where Adam and Dick try to make sense of the on fire status of the Strait, a wild story about an Apache crew rescued by an unmanned drone boat, and whether Trump's Iran strategy is coherent or just a mouse in a maze. Plus: is Elon Musk really a trillionaire, or just very good at shell games? Back home, the guys cover Colorado's primary logistics (ballot drop boxes, signature verification, and why the system actually works), Tina Peters' post-release media tour, and Polis vetoing the Hold ICE Accountable bill on his way out.

Adam and Dick open with this week's Hormuz Watch — the strait is still closed, the news cycle is exhausted, and the administration has no endgame beyond getting back to where things were before. Then it's the debut of Conspiracy Corner: the Lone Star tick, Alpha-Gal syndrome, and the theory that Bill Gates bioengineered a meat allergy to save the planet (as explained by a sitting congressman on Joe Rogan, naturally). From there, the guys break down the Texas Senate Republican primary — Ken Paxton's runoff win despite Trump's late endorsement and the national Senate GOP committee going publicly against him — and what it means for Colin Allred's chances in the general. Plus: Tulsi Gabbard's six-hour news cycle, Pam Bondi on the Hill throwing Todd Blanche under the bus on the Epstein files, and RFK Jr. getting repeatedly bitten by snakes on Dr. Oz's porch. A perfectly normal week in American politics.

A naval blockade letting every ship through, a clemency that may have been a political trade, a $1.8 billion fund of questionable legality, and one Kentucky libertarian willing to torch his career over Epstein. This week on Left Face.

Project Taurus stirs up the neighborhood, Iran stays nuclear-adjacent, and Israel reminds everyone who's really driving U.S. Middle East policy.

The Hormuz situation has a third status now — not open, not closed, just barely cracked. Adam and Dick break down the asymmetric threat keeping ships from moving, the 90-day war powers shuffle, and why we're headed for Obama's deal with Trump's signature and a lot of dead people in between.Virginia let the people vote and the Supreme Court threw it out anyway. A Supreme Court nominee won't commit to the 22nd Amendment. And an untrained guy with a gun almost did the unthinkable because a cop didn't listen to his dog.

Adam and Dick break down the administration's Iran war messaging — from the 60-day war powers clock getting "paused" by a tweeted ceasefire, to Hegseth's belligerent non-answers before Congress. They unpack the marijuana reclassification as a shiny distraction, dig into the Supreme Court's gutting of the Voting Rights Act and what Louisiana's governor did within 48 hours, and get into a genuinely interesting debate about whether racial gerrymandering — even the remedial kind — was ever the right fix. Plus: the military as an authoritarian proving ground, the "common sense" doublespeak both parties use, and why Democrats need to put the pillows down and actually throw a punch.

Dick and Adam break down a chaotic week in American politics — four congressional departures in seven days, from Swalwell's swift fall to a Texas Republican who only left when the margin gave him no cover. They dig into the soldier who bet on his own classified mission in Venezuela, what it reveals about the dangers of betting on anything, and why the genie is very much out of the bottle. Plus: Kash Patel's lawsuit against The Atlantic, a cabinet secretary who took her staff to a strip club, and why the CD5 race is finally getting national money for the first time ever. And yes — the Strait of Hormuz is still closed.

This week Adam and Dick are joined in studio by Pablo Capistrano — 20-year Navy veteran, local activist, and co-founder of Civic Shield, a firearm safety program serving vulnerable communities in the Colorado Springs area.In this episode:We start close to home with the story of Freedom Acres Ranch — a Black-owned farm in Yoder, Colorado run by CW and Nicole Mallory. What began as a fresh start after Hurricane Harvey became a years-long campaign of harassment, a bogus felony stalking charge from El Paso County Sheriff's Office, and most recently a drive-by shooting in April 2025. If you want to support them directly, visit their website, buy their meat, book a tour, or share their story: freedomacresranch.comFrom there we zoom out — to Trump's standoff with the Vatican, JD Vance's theology takes, and what it actually means when self-described Christians tell the Pope he's wrong. Then Pablo breaks down why Orban's landslide loss in Hungary matters for American progressives and what the TISA movement's grassroots strategy can teach us. We close on FISA Section 702, warrantless surveillance, and why a 10-day extension on a spying law should have more people paying attention.

Adam and Dick break down a chaotic week in American politics, law, and foreign policy through a veteran lens from Colorado Springs.Topics covered:Trump's unprecedented appearance at Supreme Court oral arguments on birthright citizenship — and his Truth Social meltdown afterwardThe SCOTUS conversion therapy ruling out of Colorado Springs: what it actually decided, what it deliberately avoided, and why Justice Jackson's dissent cuts to the heart of itICE arresting a soldier's wife outside Fort Polk while he was in-processing her as a military dependent — and how ICE knew exactly where to beIran, the fake ceasefire, nuclear nonproliferation, and what it means when a nuclear nation threatens a non-nuclear oneThe "Ghost Murmur" technology claim from the downed aviator rescue — real quantum magnetism or a cover story?NATO tensions, Greenland posturing, and Five Eyes intelligence sharing concernsArtemis swings around the moonLeft Face is the Pikes Peak regional podcast for veterans and those interested in political issues affecting the military community.

An honest conversation about military culture, what basic training actually does to your worldview, and why arming troops on base might get people killed. Iran was built for a long war and only has to survive to win. The guys break down why the administration's victory claims don't add up — and what the real endgame looks like.

Adam and Dick open with two local items — No Kings 3 hitting Colorado Springs tomorrow and Syracuse University's veteran candidate training program, now with an ideation track for folks still on the fence about running.From there, they get into Colorado Springs city council banning vehicle camping and why that sale is dead on arrival with the current council, contrasted with the San Jose tiny home model that actually worked by dropping the sobriety-first requirements and just opening the doors.On the federal side: ICE gets deployed to airports with no coherent mission, no shift briefing, and no real plan beyond body count. Democrats pull off a funding maneuver worth something — and then immediately talk about it too much. The Iran situation gets declared over again while 10,000 troops head that way, the Supreme Court press corps ruling sits ignored, and the Strait of Hormuz remains the one real chip on the table.Recorded at Studio 809 in downtown Colorado Springs.

Dick and Adam open with Iran's public execution of protesters — including a 19-year-old wrestler — as a deliberate message of state terror, then pivot to Pete Hegseth's $200 billion war funding request and what the quadrupling of that number actually signals about U.S. military strategy. The conversation shifts to the Time Magazine investigation into César Chávez, the allegations of sexual abuse against him, and how Dolores Huerta and the Chávez family have responded. The guys also touch on Cuba's continued grid failures, the erosion of U.S. soft power through tariff politics, Ukraine's drone knowledge-sharing, and why flooding the news cycle might be the whole point. Closing out with a Chuck Norris send-off.

Iran's decentralized military structure means no single target stops the drone and missile threat. Meanwhile, lone-wolf attacks are ticking up stateside. Adam and Dick connect the dots between foreign escalation, domestic terrorism, eroding civil liberties, and an administration that treats every crisis as an opportunity to grab more power.

Left Face Podcast — Pikes Peak Region Politics Through a Progressive Veterans LensThis week on Left Face, Adam and the team unpack a chaotic week in American politics and global conflict. From cabinet shakeups in Washington to a rapidly escalating war with Iran, the conversation dives into the deeper forces shaping today’s political landscape.The episode begins with the firing (or “lateral move”) of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and what it says about the current administration’s governing style—one driven less by consensus and more by execution of a pre-written political agenda.The hosts discuss how organizations like Progressive Veterans of El Paso County allow veterans to speak freely about political issues without the constraints placed on official party structures.From there, the conversation shifts into the broader political climate surrounding Project 2025, authoritarian governing tactics, and how political leaders are increasingly selected for loyalty and aggression rather than competence.The second half of the episode explores the troubling intersection of religion and governance, including reports of religious messaging within military circles and the growing influence of Christian nationalist movements inside the political sphere.Finally, the hosts analyze the rapidly expanding Iran conflict, now drawing in multiple countries and escalating into a regional war. With unclear objectives, mounting casualties, and increasing global instability, the question becomes: What exactly is the U.S. strategy?The episode closes with a moment of reflection honoring American service members who have recently lost their lives in the conflict.

The episode covers a range of topics including local candidate forums, the Iran situation, the importance of educated voters, and the potential impact of federalizing elections. It also delves into the recent conflict with Iran, the Epstein files, and the absurdity of current political events.TakeawaysLocal candidate forums are an important platform for discussing key issues and evaluating candidates.The conflict with Iran raises concerns about the potential impact on the region and the world.The federalization of elections and its potential implications for democracy is a topic of significant concern.Chapters00:00 Local Candidate Forums and Political Engagement08:47 The Conflict with Iran and its Implications15:22 Federalizing Elections and Concerns for Democracy27:25 The Absurdity of Current Political Events

The Left Face podcast discusses the dramatic week in veterans news, focusing on the interim rule that impacts veterans' benefits. The conversation delves into the responsibility, reaction, and details of the rule, as well as its insulting nature and political affiliations. It also covers the Supreme Court ruling, potential conflict with Iran, and the formation of new alliances. Additionally, it addresses the lack of oversight and accountability in the administration, as well as advocacy efforts at the Capitol and the role of veterans in political advocacy.TakeawaysVeterans' reaction to the interim rule was swift and overwhelmingly unanimous.The lack of accountability in the current administration is a cause for concern.Chapters00:00 Discussion with the Adjutant General and Advocacy Opportunities

The conversation covers community activism and hope, military appreciation day at the Capitol, the Minnesota situation and Second Amendment, response to attack, and government shutdown. It also highlights the importance of veterans' political engagement and the impact of community activism on political change. The conversation covers topics related to government funding and potential shutdowns, the impact of political pressure on funding decisions, the influence of education and qualification standards on government officials, and the long-term impact of social media regulation. These themes are explored in depth, providing insights into the current political and social landscape.TakeawaysCommunity activismVeterans' political engagement Government funding and shutdownsImpact of political pressureEducation and qualification standardsSocial media regulation and its long-term impactChapters00:00 Community Activism and Hope06:55 Minnesota Situation and Second Amendment20:32 Government Funding and Shutdowns26:02 Social Media Regulation and Long-Term Impact

The conversation covers a range of topics, including the military grand jury ruling, the impact of the halftime show, and the role of the DCCC in campaign support. It also delves into the use of ICE administrative warrants and the accountability of political figures. The discussion provides valuable insights into these key themes and their implications.TakeawaysMilitary Grand Jury RulingICE Administrative WarrantsPolitical Outbursts and AccountabilityHalftime Show ImpactDCCC and Campaign SupportChapters00:00 Military Grand Jury Ruling18:41 Halftime Show Impact29:30 DCCC and Campaign Support

The conversation covers a range of topics including the ICE occupation in Minnesota, the concept of perfidy in warfare, and the impact of the pacifist movement. It also delves into discussions about the Davos economic forum, Trump's Greenland agenda, and the resistance in Minnesota. The conversation highlights the potential impact of peaceful resistance and the challenges of international conflict and political tactics.TakeawaysICE Occupation in MinnesotaPerfidy in WarfareResistance and Impact of Pacifist MovementChapters00:00 Positive Impact of Resistance in Minnesota

The conversation covers a range of topics including VA healthcare frustrations, Minneapolis protests, the Trump administration's use of the Insurrection Act, civil rights movements, crowd control, ICE operations, the Epstein files, foreign relations, global power dynamics, Greenland and international relations, and the UN and global governance. The discussion delves into the complexities of these issues and their implications for national and international affairs.TakeawaysVA wait timesMinneapolis protestsGlobal order and power dynamicsUN and global governanceChapters00:00 VA Wait Times and Healthcare Frustrations05:26 Crowd Control and Law Enforcement Behavior13:24 Foreign Relations and Global Power Dynamics19:21 Greenland and International Relations28:23 UN and Global Governance

The Left Face podcast discusses the Colorado Democratic Veterans Council, legislative efforts, and the tragic shooting of Renee Good. It also delves into the response to the incident, authoritarian behavior, misinformation, and the increase in the military budget. The conversation highlights the government's control of private industry and the deployment of authoritarianism.TakeawaysLegislative advocacy and planning are crucial for the Colorado Democratic Veterans CouncilMisinformation and bias in media coverage impact public perceptionThe increase in the military budget raises concerns about government control of private industryChapters00:00 Introduction to Left Face Podcast05:16 Building Relationships and Legislative Impact11:30 Tragic Incident: Shooting of Renee Good17:26 Villainization and Misinformation23:07 Defense Industrial Base and Military Budget28:21 Increase in Military Budget and Justification

The conversation covers a range of topics including veterans issues and politics, the impact of the cannabis industry on veterans, US foreign policy, and international relations. The discussion delves into the outlook for 2026, the cannabis industry's influence on veterans' access to products, CIA operations in Venezuela, and the strategic importance of Greenland and Nigeria's oil. The conversation provides insights into the intersection of these themes and their implications for veterans and global affairs.TakeawaysVeterans issues and politicsCannabis industry and its impact on veteransUS foreign policy and international relationsChapters00:00 2026 Outlook and Forward-Looking Mood17:12 CIA Operations in Venezuela and US Foreign Policy26:07 Strategic Importance of Greenland and Nigeria's Oil

In this episode of Left Face, Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson delve into the complexities of recent political maneuvers, including the reclassification of marijuana, the evolving hemp industry, and the geopolitical intrigue surrounding Greenland. Join us as we explore the implications of these changes and what they mean for the future.

In this episode of "Left Face," hosts Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson delve into the complex world of international oil trade and sanctions. They explore the mysterious "ghost fleet" of oil tankers that operate under the radar, moving commodities between sanctioned countries. The discussion covers the recent seizure of an oil tanker linked to Venezuela, the legal implications under international law, and the broader geopolitical ramifications. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how these covert operations impact global politics and economies.

Inside the Sausage of Democracy

In this episode of Left Face, hosts Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson discuss a range of topics, including the political shifts of Congress members like Marjorie Taylor Greene, the power dynamics within the military, and the media's role in shaping public perception. They delve into the implications of these issues on society and explore the ethical responsibilities of those in power.

A friend is gone and we refuse to speak in euphemisms. We start with the raw reality of veteran suicide—how access turns intent into tragedy within minutes, how survivor guilt lingers, and what it looks like to build “friction” into crisis moments: locked layers between you and a weapon, one more call, and a circle that actually answers.From there we widen the lens to power and consequence. The historically long shutdown didn’t just stall paychecks; it rewarded a politics of brinkmanship. We unpack why senators safe from re-election cave first, why there’s no federal recall to correct bad actors, and how performative policy—like slapping a new name on health care—ignores costs families can’t absorb. The SNAP episode lays the stakes bare: trying to claw back food already on kitchen tables is both unworkable and inhumane, especially while gilded rooms and junk science steal headlines.Accountability makes a rare appearance with a push to release more Epstein files. We trace the surprising Republican defections, the personal pressure applied to peel names off, and the moment a few chose conscience over party. The road ahead is procedural and steep—House, Senate, possible veto—but daylight matters. Survivors deserve more than whispers and sealed boxes, and the public deserves a government that doesn’t default to secrecy when the vulnerable paid the price.We close with action, not just analysis. An “empty chair” town hall gathers stories, names, and community resolve on the eve of the vote. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get involved, this is it: show up, call someone who needs you, and tell your representatives that compassion and transparency aren’t negotiable. If this resonates, follow the show, share with a friend, and leave a review—your voice helps others find ours.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

A 37-day shutdown shouldn’t be a theory test—it’s a stress test on real lives. We open the hood on what’s actually breaking: paychecks interrupted, SNAP benefits muddled, and a fragile FAA pushed to reduce flights right before the holidays. As veterans rooted in the Pikes Peak Region, we connect the local to the national, showing how a 15% veteran population feels every policy shock first and hardest—and how organized volunteers can still move legislation where it counts.We don’t stop at the headlines. The filibuster gets a plain-English audit: not a constitutional safeguard, but a Senate rule that too often enables cost-free obstruction. We make the case for forcing real, on-the-floor filibusters so voters can see who’s blocking what and why. Then we track the aviation crunch—controller shortages, safety oversight gaps, and cascading cancellations that turn family plans into price spikes and missed seats. When the system relies on people who aren’t being paid, the margins vanish, and risk fills the gap.Healthcare has been the banner, but it can’t be the only banner. Premium hikes matter, especially for lower-income families who spend every extra dollar twice over in their neighborhoods. Still, voters deserve a scale that fits the moment: missed wages, food security, safety regulation, and the uneasy drift toward deploying troops in American cities. If leaders ask the public to shoulder a shutdown, they must widen the case to match the harm.We wrap with practical help and a push: local restaurants and nonprofits are feeding furloughed workers, veteran groups are organizing, and resources exist if you know where to look. Listen for clear takeaways, tangible support, and a roadmap for better messaging that puts people first. If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review—then tell us what priority you want on the scale next.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

A president told reporters he wanted to “start testing nuclear weapons” while flying to meet Xi, and the timing set off alarms. We break down what it would actually take to light a test in Nevada after three decades offline, why subcritical experiments and modeling already safeguard reliability, and how treaty logic—if you test, we test—has kept a fragile peace. From the START framework to real-world launch notifications and telemetry games, we pull from lived experience in satellite monitoring to explain how quickly trust erodes when declarations and data don’t match.Then we take the conversation from megaton headlines to street-level power. A string of ICE clips shows masked agents grabbing phones and conducting chaotic stops—signs of poor identification, weak discipline, and no de-escalation. We talk about what communities can do: coordinated observation, legal observers, and local pressure that forces transparency. Sanctuary policies aren’t a cure-all, but procurement, oversight, and city leadership signal whether people or spectacle set the agenda.The shutdown sits underneath it all, amplifying executive reach while Congress trades narratives about funding and blame. We explore how stalemates turn governance into messaging, and why reopening matters to everything from inspections to courts. That leads us to money and power: defining “excessive wealth,” closing loopholes that let mega-firms chew up roads without paying for them, and reviving antitrust and procurement rules that spread opportunity to small, veteran-, and women-owned businesses. Decorporatizing doesn’t mean ditching capitalism; it means aligning profit with place, quality jobs with transit, and incentives with real community value.If you value clear-eyed analysis on nuclear policy, civil liberties, and the economics that touch your daily life, hit follow, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review with the one reform you’d prioritize first. Your take might shape our next conversation.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

A warm lunch table with veterans turns into a hard truth session about the third week of a government shutdown—and who bears the cost when politics stalls. We unpack what missed first-of-the-month payments mean for retirees and VA disability recipients, why many military families face a double hit from “non-essential” base jobs, and how a late surge of back pay could mask deeper harm in the holiday economy. Along the way, we point to real lifelines—Food to Power, Care and Share, and Mount Carmel—for food access, counseling, and community that helps people breathe when the numbers don’t add up.From the streets, a “No Kings” protest brings the question of power into focus. Forget the noise; look at the clearest signal of all: the idea of putting a sitting leader’s face on currency. Democracies honor after service; monarchs mint themselves. That simple test anchors a wider conversation about dynastic ambitions, family entanglement in core state functions, and the normalization of permanence that corrodes the rule of law.Then we head south, where small boats in international waters are being blown up at a steady clip. If you can track a vessel well enough to strike it, you can interdict it lawfully—that’s the standard the laws of armed conflict demand. An admiral at Southern Command resigns rather than carry orders he deems unlawful, even as rank downgrades compress experience and reward compliance. Meanwhile, the press is boxed into choreographed access while propagandists flood the zone, drowning out facts with noise. We connect these threads with a veteran’s practicality: help your neighbor, use the resources within reach, and keep your eye on what the law requires, not what the loudest voice demands.If this conversation helps you navigate a hard month—or see the stakes more clearly—share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review. What’s the one action you’re taking this week to support someone in your community?Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

What if a holiday label could teach you everything about power? We start with the fight over Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day as a living lesson in how culture gets replaced, co-opted, and defended—and why nostalgia is such a potent political tool. From there, we pull back the camera (literally) on protest coverage, showing how tight frames and smoky angles turn a two-block action into a “city on fire.” When fear takes the mic, escalation becomes easy.As veterans, we talk plainly about what we’ve seen at ICE facilities: pepper rounds fired at a priest, riot lines moving to punish rather than protect, and a growing haze where impersonators mimic federal agents to harass vulnerable communities. That’s not just a policing problem—it’s a civic one. We break down how modern resistance actually works: tail-number tracking, open-source mapping of operations, and real-time alerts that keep protests visible, lawful, and effective. When platforms silence observers in the name of “safety,” the public loses a critical check on state power.Shutdown politics threads through the hour, but not as a budget parlor game. We ask what’s worth a hard stop: premium hikes—or drawing a line against active harm? With fractures showing on the right and real economic pain hitting farmers, service members, and families, pressure won’t come from sound bites; it’ll come from consequences. We also tackle the uneasy “peace” in Israel–Gaza and the profit-churn of reconstruction without accountability—another reminder that transparency is the guardrail, at home and abroad.If you’re planning to show up for No Kings Day, we’ve got you: clear de-escalation steps, how to document safely, and why discipline—not outrage—wins hearts and ground. Listen, share with a friend who’s on the fence, and tell us: where do you draw the line, and how will you help hold it? Subscribe, leave a review, and join us on the ground—peaceful, visible, and prepared.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

A community protest with porta-potty “sponsorships” shouldn’t have anything to do with a room full of stone-faced generals at Quantico—but it does. We open on real-world organizing in Colorado Springs, then trace a straight line to a stage where aesthetics and loyalty checks tried to pass for military leadership. When beards become the battleground and “look the part” outweighs mission, you can feel the culture war trying to rewrite standards from the outside.We break down what actually happened at the GOFO summit: a massive lift to move the brass, a political speech delivered to an audience trained not to clap, and a message heavy on optics but light on readiness. From shaving waivers and their racial reality to religious accommodations in the Space Force, we separate myth from operational need. We also clear the air on PT standards and combat roles: elite units already enforce tough, job-specific requirements that didn’t soften when women got a fair shot. The data is small, the standards are high, and the dog whistles are loud.Then we widen the lens. “Train in our cities,” “enemy within,” and a push to militarize police risk crossing legal lines that protect civilians from domestic force. Add a government shutdown framed by misinformation about immigrant benefits while lavish projects skate through, and the priorities come into focus. Finally, we challenge the nostalgia for “hands-on” boot camp. Draft-era fear worked when you could replace deserters with letters; in an all-volunteer force, abuse undermines trust, retention, and real readiness. Along the way, we call out the AI meme factory and the normalization of ridicule from the highest office—a propaganda loop that distracts from what actually keeps the country safe.If you care about readiness over rhetoric and mission over memes, pull up a chair. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who served (or wanted to), and leave a review to help more folks find an honest take on what really matters.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The specter of authoritarianism looms large in this riveting discussion between veterans Dick Wilkinson and Adam Gillard as they unpack Secretary Pete Hegseth's unprecedented recall of 800 general officers to the Pentagon. What appears to be a simple administrative meeting reveals itself as potentially something far more sinister—a loyalty purge designed to reshape military leadership in the administration's image.Drawing on their military backgrounds, the hosts decode the significance behind renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War—a seemingly symbolic change that signals a fundamental ideological shift. They highlight the staggering waste of resources this rebranding represents while examining the troubling pattern of dismissals targeting women generals, painting a picture of an institution being reshaped along Christian nationalist lines.The conversation shifts to media freedom as they analyze Jimmy Kimmel's brief suspension and return to ABC following his Trump jokes. Despite his comeback, approximately 30 stations across America still refuse to air his show—a telling indicator of political pressure on media outlets. The hosts commend Kimmel for immediately hosting Gavin Newsom, who voiced the alarming concern shared by many: Will America even have elections in 2028?Most chilling is their theory about Trump's possible strategy for securing an unprecedented third term through manufacturing an international crisis. By encouraging escalation with Russia while undermining democratic institutions at home, the groundwork for emergency powers that could suspend normal constitutional processes appears to be taking shape. As veterans who've sworn to protect the Constitution, their perspective offers a uniquely informed warning about the fragility of democracy when military loyalty is redirected from the nation to an individual.Ready to join the conversation? Connect with us at the Veterans Lunch, where candidates regularly engage with our community about the issues that matter most. Your voice and perspective are essential in these critical times.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The constitutional foundations of America are trembling, and the assault on free speech is happening with breathtaking speed. What begins with a comedian being pulled off the air for mild jokes about a politician could end with the complete dismantling of our First Amendment protections.When Jimmy Kimmel made some relatively benign jokes about Donald Trump, the response was swift and chilling. The FCC chair suggested Disney should "buckle down" on Kimmel, advertisers got nervous, and local stations threatened to drop the show. Within days, Kimmel was temporarily off the air. This wasn't about offensive content - it was about power and intimidation. The hypocrisy is stunning. For years, many on the right have decried "cancel culture" as a leftist tactic to silence opposition. Now we're seeing politicians and media figures explicitly calling for citizens to report their neighbors for social media posts, contact employers about workers' political opinions, and threaten to withhold funding from schools because of teachers' comments. What's remarkable is that even conservative voices like Ted Cruz and Ben Shapiro recognize the danger, warning that weaponizing government agencies against free speech sets a dangerous precedent regardless of which party employs such tactics.Meanwhile, corporations continue to demonstrate that their values extend only as far as their profit margins. Disney, Target, Facebook - all shift positions based on which way the political winds blow. As one host noted, "They don't care about you. They just want to sell you crap to keep you coming back."If these assaults on free expression concern you, join us for the October 18th protest as part of the national No Kings 2.0 movement. The Bill of Rights isn't a menu where those in power get to pick and choose which freedoms to respect. Stand with us before it's too late.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The shooting of Charlie Kirk sends shockwaves through American political discourse, revealing uncomfortable truths about how we process violence when it strikes close to home. Within minutes of the attack, videos spread across social media platforms with unprecedented speed—former President Trump announced Kirk's death before many news outlets had confirmed it. The tragedy takes on a disturbing dimension as we learn about an emerging pattern: killers writing messages on ammunition as part of their manifestos, creating a macabre subculture that feeds on notoriety and imitation.Perhaps the most striking aspect of this conversation is the painful irony surrounding Kirk's own words. He previously stated that "if a few people get shot every year to maintain our protected Second Amendment rights... that's just the cost of doing business." This statement forces us to confront difficult questions about accountability in political rhetoric. When public figures normalize violence as an acceptable cost for ideological positions, what responsibility do they bear when that violence eventually touches them directly? While no one deserves to be a victim, there's a legitimate conversation about the relationship between inflammatory rhetoric and real-world consequences.Meanwhile, the world continues spinning beyond our borders. Israel's strike on Qatar under the pretense of peace negotiations, Nepal's youth-led revolution toppling their government through TikTok-organized protests, and Russia's drone incursion into Polish airspace all signal a world where boundaries are increasingly being tested. These developments, coupled with advances in quantum technology that could revolutionize warfare by making submarines detectable through magnetic signatures, remind us that even as domestic tragedies capture our attention, the global landscape is shifting in ways that demand our vigilance.What responsibility do we bear for the words we speak and the culture we create? Join us as we navigate these complex waters and search for meaningful answers in a world where violence increasingly feels normalized. Subscribe now and become part of a conversation that matters.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

When military veterans analyze politics, they bring a unique perspective that cuts through partisan noise. This episode of Left Face offers exactly that as Dick Wilkinson and Adam Gillard engage in a wide-ranging discussion that connects local Colorado politics with global security concerns.The conversation begins with a firsthand account of Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser's town hall event, where both hosts witnessed his commitment to addressing community questions and his track record of challenging executive overreach. This leads to a thoughtful analysis of how tax policies impact veteran retirement decisions – with Dick making a compelling economic case for why states should incentivize military retirees to stay local rather than flee to tax-friendly destinations.Space Command's announced relocation from Colorado Springs to Huntsville becomes a launching point for examining both immediate local impact and long-term strategic considerations. The veterans offer reassurance about Colorado's enduring space industry presence while acknowledging the potential for gradual shifts in defense contractor investments.Things take a darker turn as they discuss recent military actions against alleged drug traffickers in international waters, raising profound questions about authorization, oversight, and the disturbing precedent of lethal force without clear accountability. This connects to growing concerns about domestic deployment of military assets and constitutional boundaries between state and federal authorities.Most alarming is their assessment of the recent summit in China that brought together Putin, Xi Jinping, and other leaders opposed to American interests. Drawing on their military expertise, Dick and Adam break down China's growing capabilities in anti-satellite warfare and what Taiwan's semiconductor industry means for American national security. Their analysis offers a sobering reminder of how economic and military threats intertwine in ways most civilian analysts miss.Want to join the conversation? Connect with us on social media or attend our upcoming events where veterans and community members come together to discuss the politics that shape our lives.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The line between patriotism and authoritarianism has never been so clearly drawn. As veterans gather at Union Station to stand between ICE agents and American citizens, we're witnessing a powerful example of what it truly means to honor one's oath to the Constitution.This episode explores the psychological processes that enable military personnel to normalize increasingly problematic actions against their fellow citizens. The gradual normalization of troops in civilian spaces creates a dangerous precedent where what begins as mundane duties can escalate to confrontations with Americans exercising their constitutional rights. Veterans Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson examine this slippery slope through the lens of their military experience, offering unique insight into how indoctrination and team loyalty can blur ethical boundaries.We dive into the concerning exodus of scientists and medical professionals from government agencies like the CDC, where expertise is being replaced by political loyalty. When people with PhDs in unrelated fields are appointed to oversee public health decisions, the consequences reach far beyond partisan politics into the realm of public safety. The parallels to historical authoritarian regimes silencing scientific voices are impossible to ignore.The conversation takes a passionate turn when discussing symbols of resistance and what it means to display the American flag during political protest. Should veterans fly the flag upside down as a distress signal, or is there greater power in reclaiming patriotic symbols from those who would undermine democratic institutions?Join us for this thought-provoking discussion about what it means to honor one's oath in challenging times. If you're concerned about the increasing militarization of civilian spaces and the erosion of democratic norms, this episode offers both sobering analysis and inspiring examples of veterans taking action.Listen now and consider: what lines would you refuse to cross, and how can we protect our democracy before it's too late?Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

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The battleground for American democracy is shifting from the ballot box to the map room as Texas Governor Greg Abbott's brazen redistricting gambit ignites what could become a nationwide gerrymandering war. What started as a power grab to flip five Democratic seats has triggered an unprecedented response—Democratic lawmakers fleeing the state to prevent a quorum, governors receiving civil arrest warrants, and bomb threats elevating the stakes from political theater to potential danger.The most fascinating development? Democratic governors are preparing to fight fire with fire. California's Gavin Newsom has essentially declared: "You think you can flip five seats? We'll flip ten." This strategic counterpunch could transform a local power play into a national reckoning with our broken redistricting system. As one host provocatively suggests, "If we all abuse the system, we might fix the system."Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues dismantling institutional guardrails, firing the chief statistician for simply reporting job numbers that contradicted the president's preferred narrative. This troubling development coincides with the increasingly transactional nature of policy-making, exemplified by Tim Cook's gold-adorned gift to Trump amid promises to bring Apple manufacturing stateside—a move that sounds patriotic until you consider the $2,000 iPhones and regulatory rollbacks it would require.The conversation weaves through environmental consequences of corporate decisions, the human costs of overseas manufacturing, and the uncomfortable truth that many "Made in America" promises rely on environmental and labor concessions that undermine their purported benefits. Throughout these interconnected issues runs a central question: What happens when both sides decide to play hardball with the same rulebook?Whether you're concerned about the integrity of our democratic systems, the economic realities behind political promises, or the strategic chess match unfolding between parties, this episode delivers critical insights into the high-stakes power games reshaping American politics. Subscribe now to join our community of politically engaged listeners who refuse to accept surface-level explanations in an increasingly complex political landscape.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The latest episode of Left Face unveils the exciting formation of the Colorado Democrat Veterans Council, a vital new initiative aimed at advancing veterans' causes through state legislation. Hosts Dick Wilkinson and Adam Gillard share how this council has established a strategic partnership with the thriving New Mexico Veterans Caucus, creating an opportunity to learn from their success and avoid common pitfalls.What makes this initiative particularly significant is its potential impact on El Paso County's substantial veteran population, which comprises approximately 15% of residents. The hosts explore how the council plans to leverage Colorado's four-month legislative session to champion veteran-focused bills, drawing inspiration from New Mexico's model while adapting to Colorado's unique landscape.The conversation takes a thoughtful turn toward national politics, examining potential Democratic presidential candidates for upcoming elections. Pete Buttigieg emerges as a standout figure in their discussion, praised for his genuine approach, military background, and moderate policy positions that resonate across generational lines. By contrast, the hosts express skepticism about candidates who rely more on political theater than authentic leadership.Locally, the competitive race for Colorado's 5th Congressional District captures attention with Jessica Killen's remarkable fundraising success—$750,000 on day one, outpacing the incumbent. This development, coupled with the potential relocation of Space Command, signals a potentially historic opportunity to flip a traditionally Republican seat.Throughout the episode, Dick and Adam reflect on the challenges of political fundraising, the importance of genuine representation, and how organized veteran groups can influence both local and state politics. Their passionate discussion offers listeners valuable insights into the intersection of military service, political advocacy, and community impact.Ready to make a difference for veterans in Colorado? Reach out to join the Colorado Democrat Veterans Council and help shape legislation that truly serves those who've served our country.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

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Freedom, surveillance, and veterans' unique perspective on democracy collide in this riveting crossover episode featuring hosts from Left Face and Justice with Jax. When progressive activist Jax Armendiaz had their entire digital life confiscated by police following a housing justice protest—despite never being convicted of any crime—it exposed the dangerous erosion of Fourth Amendment protections happening right in our backyard.The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Dick Wilkinson, a retired Army veteran and podcast co-host, reveals his background as an NSA surveillance professional. His insider perspective illuminates the stark contrast between federal intelligence agencies' strict protocols regarding Americans' privacy and the seemingly unlimited reach local police sought through search warrants targeting activists. This firsthand knowledge adds critical context to Jax's ongoing ACLU lawsuit against the City of Colorado Springs, now approaching 690 days in litigation.What emerges is a troubling pattern: military-heavy communities like Colorado Springs, where veterans comprise 15% of the population, often become testing grounds for surveillance tactics and civil liberties infringements. The hosts explain how military culture discourages political participation during active service, creating patterns of disengagement that continue into civilian life and leave these communities vulnerable to governmental overreach.Against the backdrop of recent political assassinations and heightened tensions nationwide, this conversation couldn't be more timely. The hosts grapple with how fear functions as a tool to suppress political engagement while emphasizing the vital importance of pushing through that fear to protect democracy. For veterans, military families, and civilians alike, this episode offers crucial insight into how surveillance and constitutional rights intersect in our increasingly digital world.Ready to hear veterans speak truth about surveillance, democracy, and political engagement? Subscribe now and join the conversation about protecting our constitutional rights in military communities and beyond.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The world watches with bated breath as the Middle East teeters on another precipice of conflict. American B-2 bombers have crossed into Iranian airspace, delivering specialized "bunker buster" bombs to underground nuclear facilities while submarines launched missiles from nearby waters. The operation lasted just 25 minutes but may have consequences that stretch far into our future.Veterans Dick Wilkinson and Adam break down the strategic implications of this dramatic escalation with expert insights from their military experience. This isn't just another headline—it's a significant shift in American foreign policy with real implications for deployed military personnel, global oil markets, and potentially even domestic security. As they explain, "Two-thirds of our nuclear triad just stretched their legs as a show of force," demonstrating America's overwhelming military capability while significantly raising the stakes.The conversation delves deep into both tactical details and strategic questions. How were these strikes coordinated with Israel's earlier operations? What responses might Iran pursue—from proxy warfare and missile strikes to potential cyber attacks on American infrastructure? And how might this conflict affect local military communities like Colorado Springs, home to critical installations like NORAD and NORTHCOM?Most chillingly, our hosts explore whether Iran's leaders might pursue a "death knell" strategy that could bring devastating consequences to both nations. "Are they willing to set themselves on fire to try to win a fight with America?" Adam asks. The answer remains uncertain, but the potential for miscalculation has never been higher.For anyone trying to understand not just what happened but what comes next, this episode provides crucial context from those who've been inside military decision-making processes. Whether you're concerned about family members deployed overseas, curious about unusual aircraft activity over military communities, or simply trying to make sense of rapidly evolving global tensions, this discussion offers valuable perspective beyond mainstream headlines.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

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What happens when military service values collide with partisan politics? Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson bring their veteran perspectives to bear on today's most pressing political issues, proving that thoughtful analysis can transcend rigid partisan lines.The hosts kick off discussing their self-identification as "partially progressive," noting how political labels often fail to capture the nuanced views many veterans hold. This frames their ongoing coverage of  Kilmar's disappearance—now at 77 days—after being detained during an immigration enforcement action. When Fox News dismissively covered the story, treating a missing veteran as disposable, it highlighted the dehumanization occurring in immigration enforcement nationwide.Financial hypocrisy takes center stage as they dissect the Congressional Budget Office's projection that Trump's budget would increase government spending by $3.6 trillion over ten years—a stark contradiction to conservative fiscal principles. The discussion reveals how this spending prioritizes military contractors over community services, with potentially devastating consequences when disaster strikes communities lacking FEMA support.The hosts don't shy away from examining controversial presidential pardons that appear directly tied to campaign donations, raising serious questions about the ethics of presidential pardon powers. Throughout, they maintain the perspective that principles should transcend party, particularly for those who've sworn an oath to defend the Constitution.Their announcement of an upcoming D-Day memorial event serves as a poignant reminder of what service truly means—not blind loyalty to party or personality, but commitment to values greater than oneself. For veterans and civilians alike seeking thoughtful political analysis beyond partisan talking points, this episode delivers clarity through complexity.Listen now to join the conversation about what democracy requires of us all—especially in times of extreme partisanship.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

How does a democracy collapse? Not always with a bang, but sometimes through bureaucracy and paperwork.When 86 Americans go missing after government raids and the official response is "fill out a form on our website," we've crossed dangerous lines. As veterans who swore oaths to defend the Constitution, we're deeply troubled by what we're witnessing. The suspension of Fifth Amendment rights creates a slippery slope where other constitutional protections become vulnerable, all while officials mischaracterize concepts like habeas corpus to justify expanded executive powers.The contradictions are striking. The same political voices that rail against "tax and spend" policies now champion trillion-dollar deficits while gutting social safety nets. How does removing healthcare from 13.7 million Americans strengthen our nation? These aren't abstract policy debates but real decisions affecting real lives—including veterans and military families who served this country.Most concerning is how democratic processes themselves can undermine the republic. By building power from school boards up through local government, a strategic minority can gradually reshape laws to legitimize previously unacceptable actions. When what's legal diverges from what's ethical, we find ourselves in treacherous territory.We're hosting a V-Day event on June 6th at Memorial Park, where veterans will speak about serving under oath. Purple Heart recipients, Gold Star families, and military spouses will share perspectives on duty and justice in today's America. As veterans, we continue to serve by standing for the principles we swore to defend—even when those principles are under attack from within.Whatever your political beliefs, we invite you to join us in asking: What kind of America do we want to build? One where citizens disappear without recourse, or one that lives up to its founding ideals? Subscribe to hear more veteran perspectives on the issues that affect us all.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The constitutional crisis unfolding at the Supreme Court takes center stage in this thought-provoking episode as we examine the alarming arguments over presidential power and the 14th Amendment.When the Supreme Court heard the administration's case challenging birthright citizenship, the justices cut straight to the heart of the matter: can a president simply override constitutional amendments with executive orders? The implications extend far beyond immigration policy. As one justice pointedly asked, using the same logic, could an executive order authorize the military to "enter every major population center and seize all weapons" despite the Second Amendment? The administration's struggle to draw meaningful distinctions reveals the dangerous precedent at stake.Meanwhile, we explore the growing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local oversight. Congressional representatives recently demanded access to ICE detention facilities while a mayor was arrested for the same attempt. This disparity highlights the critical role elected officials must play in challenging executive overreach – they should "be the ones leading the charge" since they face fewer personal consequences than ordinary citizens engaged in similar actions.The episode also covers our upcoming June 6th D-Day event, where we're working to balance respectful commemoration of veterans while providing a platform for free expression. We're carefully planning speakers who can discuss military service and the importance of following lawful orders, especially relevant in today's political climate.From diplomatic developments in the Middle East to reports of concerning deals with cartels at the southern border, we examine how money and transactional diplomacy have replaced principle in foreign policy. Share your thoughts on these critical issues – how do we protect the Constitution when those sworn to defend it seem determined to find workarounds?Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]

The constitutional crisis unfolding through mass deportations takes center stage as veteran hosts Dick Wilkinson and Adam Gillard deliver a powerful examination of government accountability in their latest Left Face podcast episode.From the ongoing situation with Kilmar, now separated from his family for 57 days, to the disturbing immigration raid in Colorado Springs where over 100 people were taken with minimal transparency, the hosts expose a pattern of due process violations that should concern all Americans regardless of political affiliation. "If you don't have due process on the other side of the law, you have tyranny," Dick observes, cutting to the heart of why these operations represent a fundamental threat to constitutional governance.The conversation pivots to their recent meeting with Representative Jeff Crank's office, where they advocated for greater veteran representation in congressional staff. When a staff member dismissively questioned whether a "tank driver" could handle constituent services, it revealed a profound misunderstanding of the leadership skills veterans develop. As Adam eloquently explains, "It doesn't matter if you were a cook or an intelligence officer - it's the service, mentality, training, and leadership that matter." Their proposal for a fellowship program to place veterans in these roles highlights a practical solution that would benefit both veterans and the communities they serve.Dick and Adam bring their military expertise to bear on budget priorities as well, contrasting the billions spent on troubled weapons systems with inadequate support for service members. Their perspective illuminates how small, innovative businesses deliver exponentially more value per dollar than massive defense contractors who operate with "blank check mentality." This veteran-focused analysis provides listeners with a unique window into how military experience shapes views on constitutional rights, government accountability, and effective resource allocation during these challenging times.Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/epccpvwww.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]