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A new Urban Institute tool tracking 2023 data found large gaps between eligibility and enrollment in means-tested programs — SNAP had the highest participation rate nationally at about 57-60%, while LIHEAP had the lowest at 17%, with wide state-by-state variation. Senior fellow Linda Giannarelli said non-participation stems from lack of awareness, application hurdles, and underestimating one's own eligibility, and that entitlement programs like SNAP have no funding caps while block-grant programs like LIHEAP run out of money before all eligible applicants are served. Louisiana's new Act 795 now requires nongovernmental organizations administering taxpayer-funded assistance to verify recipients' citizenship or immigration status and report enforcement outcomes, building on a 2025 state-agency verification law. Meanwhile, Kentucky State Auditor Allison Ball warned Governor Andy Beshear the state risks losing federal funding after her office identified more than $1 billion in wasted taxpayer money over two and a half years tied to public-benefits fraud. Also, in this episode: California, Maryland, Connecticut, and New York have each passed laws restricting "convertible pistols" over Glock-switch conversion concerns, but gun-rights groups including the Second Amendment Foundation and NRA are suing New York, arguing the Supreme Court's Heller, Caetano, and Bruen rulings protect commonly used firearms from bans. A Biden-appointed federal judge has so far declined to block California's law despite a DOJ challenge, while a similar bill in Illinois passed committee but died when the legislative session ended; New York's law carries penalties up to seven years in prison. Teachers union executive pay: National Education Association President Rebecca Pringle earns about $514,000 annually and American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten earns a comparable amount, with vice presidents at both unions also making six figures, compared to a $48,000 average teacher starting salary. Reporter Esther Wickham said the NEA collects roughly $454 million and the AFT about $274 million annually in member dues — funded through public-school payroll deductions — while national test scores show only about 30% of K-12 students are proficient in core subjects. Economist Orphe Divounguy said the U.S. is adding only about 34,000 jobs per month, less than a fifth of the historical average pace, with hiring concentrated in AI-related sectors and healthcare while quit rates stay low and inflation continues to outpace wage growth. Divounguy said elevated mortgage rates and rising housing inventory will likely keep building permits low even as some previously authorized housing units get started ahead of next year's selling season, with more clarity expected from this week's FOMC meeting minutes. Florida, Alaska, and Wyoming will hold primaries Tuesday, with Florida's new congressional map potentially flipping four Democratic-held seats. A study found Wisconsin hospitals charge 25.6% more than Illinois hospitals within the same company.   A Louisiana city marshal disputed an audit finding his conference travel expenses may violate the state constitution. Pennsylvania has yet to opt into a federal education tax credit program that 31 other states have joined. Plus, America's Talking: Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_e25713d9-d28e-4a27-96ab-463432ce71d3.html Wisconsin:  https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_c59e2dd6-a9ee-4f9f-92a7-e29ada33b41f.html Louisiana: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_4b91d38a-a3c1-4eef-9c76-6995e1abe29f.html Pennsylvania: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_3598623c-7a58-4f39-93b8-c7b3d76c617b.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, In the past decade, government grants to nonprofits and the number that receive tax money has doubled, raising questions about whether public money is being wasted. Illinois state officials awarded more than $170,000 in taxpayer money to a nonprofit that paid for PTSD injections that don't have strong evidence backing them up. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a case that could determine the future of legal actions over energy companies' contributions to climate change. And a look at the cost of government borrowing and how it reaches taxpayers as higher taxes, higher interest rates, or higher inflation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hillsdale professor Richard Samuelson discussed the distinction between inalienable rights and government-granted privileges, tracing the Bill of Rights' 1791 ratification and how it secured broader public support for the Constitution. Samuelson said modern technology and past emergencies have repeatedly tested constitutional protections, and warned that civil rights-era government oversight of associations could be a future pressure point on free speech and privacy. Also, in this episode: 22 states, led in part by Illinois AG Kwame Raoul and New York AG Letitia James, sued the Trump administration and Department of Transportation over a demand for the full Commercial Driver's License Information System database covering roughly 17 million drivers, arguing the request exceeds federal authority and threatens driver privacy. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the data is needed for highway safety enforcement and accused the states of "siding with illegal truck drivers."   California has already had roughly $160 million in federal highway funds withheld and 13,000 driver's licenses ordered canceled in a related compliance dispute. The Georgia State Board of Education voted unanimously to recommend Governor Brian Kemp suspend the Dublin City School Board after a 12-hour hearing revealed the district failed to remit teacher health insurance and pension payments to the state and reported conflicting multimillion-dollar budget deficit figures. The district blamed a former finance director now under investigation; Kemp has final authority on suspension and could appoint a new board. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city has increased hate-crime prevention funding by more than 800% and expanded its antisemitism-response office to its largest size. Mamdani also defended the city's proposed 4% tax on second homes over $5 million after President Trump publicly opposed it and threatened to explore federal intervention, with a court hearing on the tax's injunction scheduled for next week. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker called on Democrats to unify around "team fight" following recent primary results without endorsing socialist candidates by name.   California Republican lawmakers proposed constitutional amendments to make election offices nonpartisan but it won't make it on the ballot this year. A bipartisan Georgia election-integrity task force launched regional roundtables. HHS announced it will end Medicaid/CHIP coverage for gender-transition procedures for minors. Plus, America's Talking: California: https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_dead7106-89e7-4096-ba8f-792bb932e852.html Georgia: https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_d29b0a30-4e5d-4752-ad2d-2d871f5c4cf4.html Health care: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_acf6a9f1-2545-4af9-af21-cdc4ec07abcf.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Facing scrutiny over surveillance concerns and security breaches, Flock announced it's cutting license plate data retention from 30 to 7 days, adding an "evidence mode" for active investigations, letting cities restrict which offense categories other agencies can search, and requiring all customers to adopt upgraded audit-log tools by year's end. CEO Garrett Langley said Flock also added automatic account lockouts for abnormal user activity and hired security firm Bishop Fox for an independent review, with findings expected to be published later this year.   Second Amendment Foundation's Bill Sack said the DOJ let a stay expire without appealing a ruling that struck down NFA registration and fingerprinting requirements for short-barreled rifles, shotguns, and suppressors, creating inconsistent rules between plaintiffs covered by the injunction and other Americans while the DOJ continues defending the same law in separate cases. Sack also discussed a new DOJ memo broadening lawful firearm carry in post offices open to the public, and a pending Supreme Court petition in Defense Distributed v. New Jersey Attorney General over whether 3D-printed gun file schematics are protected speech under the First Amendment.   Also, in this episode: Governor Kathy Hochul announced $7.25 million in state funding for legal representation for roughly 1,400 unaccompanied migrant children, following the Trump administration's cancellation of a federal legal-aid contract, while also opposing local police involvement in civil immigration enforcement. NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city has spent $153 million on immigrant legal representation, as Attorney General Todd Blanche said the DOJ remains committed to enforcing federal immigration law. Kapitus COO Ben Johnston said gasoline prices rose 24.6% over the past year, the leading driver behind July's 3.4% annual CPI increase (down slightly from June's 3.5%), while shelter rose 3.2% and used cars/trucks fell 1.9%. Johnston said the Federal Reserve's 2% inflation target remains a full percentage point-plus away, keeping pressure on rate policy, and advised small businesses to watch cash flow and diversify financing amid tariff and gas-price volatility. Economist Orphe Divounguy said net interest payments rose roughly $78 billion over the past year — nearly half of the federal government's total spending increase and now the second-largest budget line after Social Security and Medicare — while education spending's budget share shrinks. Divounguy said the debt burden ultimately reaches households through higher taxes, higher interest rates, or higher inflation, and that only faster economic growth or spending cuts can reverse the trend. The Anti-Defamation League launched a campus antisemitism-tracking and reporting initiative.   Washington State primary results are still being finalized ahead of the November 3 general election. Ohio voters will decide a November constitutional amendment (Issue 3) enshrining the state's existing voter ID law.   The Illinois State Fair, backed by $190 million in taxpayer infrastructure investment, is projected to generate about $100 million in economic impact.   Plus, America's Talking: Higher Education: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_d641f124-ee4d-4f21-9aa0-9b9a90288f88.html Washington: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_bb5d2930-0dc9-4101-aaf3-4e567daff6c9.html Ohio: https://www.thecentersquare.com/ohio/article_fb704b84-a367-434d-9665-34eb465bd6a8.html Illinois: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_5c826519-4401-4b3a-9c8e-3062a52233e3.html   The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley won Wisconsin's Democratic gubernatorial nomination despite having dropped out of the race, defeating Rep. Francesca Hong and setting up a November matchup against Republican Tom Tiffany, while Sen. Amy Klobuchar won Minnesota's Democratic nomination to face House Speaker Lisa DeMuth. In Connecticut, former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin defeated 78-year-old, 14-term Rep. John Larson, while Vermont's progressive challengers largely lost to moderate incumbents. West Virginia state Delegate Tristan Leavitt said Flock Safety's government relations head, Kevin Kane, testified the company's cameras had never been hacked despite past incidents including unauthorized access to 60 cameras in Bakersfield, California, and misleading testimony in Connecticut about sharing data with federal law enforcement. Leavitt said lawmakers are weighing what safeguards and warrant requirements should govern license plate reader data, noting the technology has both aided criminal investigations and raised civil liberties concerns nationwide. Also, in this episode: A state judge temporarily blocked New York City's rollout of its 4% surcharge on second homes worth over $5 million, ordering the city to remove a public list of 900,000-plus flagged properties, but Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration won an appeal keeping the tax fight alive ahead of August 31 oral arguments. The tax, projected to raise over $500 million annually, has an appeal deadline of September 18 for the roughly 17,000 flagged property owners, with a further appeal option through March 2027. A Center Square investigation found Illinois gave the nonprofit Erase PTSD Now roughly $770,000 in Veterans Cash Grant Program funds for a neck-injection PTSD treatment developed by Dr. Eugene Lipov, despite clinical trials showing no more effect than a placebo and grant applications overstating remission claims. The investigation found nearly all of the nonprofit's grant money went to Lipov's own clinic, and its executive director, Colleen LaCosta, draws roughly $100,000 salaries from two separate nonprofits while neither she nor a board member who received the shot has been diagnosed with PTSD. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday sued TikTok, alleging its 13+ age rating and "restricted mode" fail to shield minors from inappropriate content and that the platform is intentionally designed to be addictive. The Ninth Circuit rejected Meta's bid to dismiss thousands of federal addiction lawsuits, following a $942 million New Mexico jury verdict and a $6 million Los Angeles County verdict against social media companies, while Illinois' 2028 youth social media restriction law faces industry opposition from NetChoice. Seattle City Council members criticized Mayor Katie Wilson over a five-hour delay in addressing the Bite of Seattle Festival shooting that killed three. Allegheny County, Pennsylvania landlord Ed Benz says a 36% property tax hike is cutting into his rental profits. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $32 million in federal security grants for 157 nonprofits at risk of hate crimes or terror attacks.   21 Democratic state attorneys general sued the Trump administration over proposed 2027 ACA marketplace insurance changes. Plus America's Talking:   Washington: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_1f7486da-90b4-429f-83bf-6ff7e5e25dd5.html Pennsylvania:  https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_e4fd56dd-4eaa-4f20-974f-cb483dac113d.html New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_69852e01-68bc-435b-b508-81388e87adfc.html Arizona: https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_ed21084f-b37d-408d-9508-47c1ec4bb53d.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wisconsin, Minnesota, Connecticut, Vermont, and Alabama held primaries under widely varying voter ID requirements, with attorney Stephen Kaufman arguing that federal and state voter-ID/citizenship-documentation efforts amount to voter suppression rather than integrity measures. The U.S. Senate's Save America Act, which would require documentary proof of citizenship for federal voter registration, remains stalled short of the 60 votes needed, while a related California ballot measure (Proposition 39) requiring in-person voter ID and partial ID numbers on mail ballots faces ongoing litigation over ballot language. Also, in this episode: Wisconsin governor primary: Democratic candidates State Rep. Francesca Hong (44% in the latest poll), Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley (22%), and State Sen. Kelda Roys are focused on affordability, health care costs, and child care subsidies, while Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany remains the frontrunner on pledges to freeze property taxes and cut regulations. The U.S. Justice Department deployed Civil Rights Division agents to monitor polling sites in Hennepin and Ramsey counties, prompting criticism from Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon, as voters choose nominees for governor (following Gov. Tim Walz's decision not to seek a third term) and several competitive congressional primaries. Trump-endorsed Mike Lindell is competing for the Republican gubernatorial nomination against House Speaker Melissa Demuth and Kendall Qualls, while Sen. Amy Klobuchar is among Democratic candidates for governor. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear Suncor v. Boulder County Commissioners on October 5, addressing whether states can use local law to regulate out-of-state energy companies over climate-related conduct, with the 2022 pork-producer case National Pork Producers v. Ross seen as a key precedent; Justice Samuel Alito is confirmed to remain on the bench for the term's start. Economist Orphe Divounguy said June's owner's-equivalent-rent measure rose just 0.1% (the smallest increase since January 2021) due to a prior apartment-construction surge, but warned rent growth is now reaccelerating as builders pull back, with a persistent 4.3 million-unit gap between housing supply and demand. The Center Square's ongoing investigation found a North Carolina-funded nonprofit promotes gender-affirming care resources for minors despite a state law banning such treatments for children, and an Illinois nonprofit, Erase PTSD Now, has paid millions to businesses owned by its founder, Dr. Eugene Lipov. Taxpayers Protection Alliance President David Williams said nearly 4,000 nonprofits receive government funding covering 50% or more of executive salaries, calling for mandatory annual audits of nonprofits receiving public money.     The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Liberty Justice Center filed an amicus brief asking the Supreme Court to review a Fourth Circuit ruling that upheld a Maryland school district's policy requiring teachers to use students' preferred pronouns without notifying parents, citing conflict with the Court's earlier ruling in Mirabelli v. Bonta. The group also sent demand letters to Washington, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey over similar state-level policies allowing students to socially transition at school without parental notification, arguing the practices violate FERPA and constitutional parental rights. Also, in this episode: President Trump signed executive orders targeting birth tourism, restricting visas for people suspected of traveling to the U.S. specifically to give birth, following the Supreme Court's June ruling that upheld birthright citizenship and struck down his earlier executive order banning it. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin criticized the action as an unconstitutional attempt to undermine birthright citizenship, while White House officials said the order targets alien enemies, foreign terrorist organization members, and foreign lobbyists rather than birthright citizenship itself. A Center Square investigation found government grants to nonprofits nearly doubled from $149 billion across 56,000 nonprofits in 2016 to $319 billion across more than 100,000 nonprofits by 2022, with 10% of a sampled 11,000 nonprofits receiving taxpayer money and at least one executive earning over $300,000 annually. The investigative team cited Illinois State Rep. Carol Ammons' federal fraud case, involving nonprofits allegedly funneling state money to pay her daughter, as an example of the accountability concerns driving the ongoing series. California Governor Gavin Newsom launched a state-funded EV rebate program ($3,500 for new, $1,750 for used vehicles) to replace lapsed federal incentives, while criticizing oil companies and defending the state's investment in EV manufacturers like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid. Illinois reopened its EV rebate program August 1 with a $14 million state allocation, offering up to $4,000 for low-income buyers on vehicles priced under $80,000, joining other states including New York, Colorado, Washington, Texas, Maryland, and Oregon that maintain their own EV incentive programs. Colorado saw nearly 60,000 background checks in July — almost triple the prior year — ahead of a new semi-automatic firearm restriction law taking effect August 1. Investigators allege a "smurfing" scheme funneled unauthorized ActBlue political donations attributed to Wisconsin donors. Illinois Governor Pritzker signed over 75 bills including rideshare driver unionization and restrictions on new ICE detention center locations. 74% of Florida voters support Amendment 3's property tax relief proposal, which would cost local governments an estimated $12 billion annually if passed. Plus, America's Talking:   Colorado: https://www.thecentersquare.com/colorado/article_bb90254b-0d75-451d-9e2e-12000dcc913b.html Wisconsin: https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_3bc6df48-b954-4365-8fd5-697f8a10d3dd.html Illinois: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_835c4e76-591c-4eb5-bb9a-6cac0500ba08.html Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_431215c8-304d-4cd8-b0fc-351210d0e7fc.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, thirty-one states have opted in to the federal Education Freedom  Scholarship Program, while 19 states and Washington, D.C. have not, ahead of the January 2027 deadline.  California Gov. Gavin Newsom and his wife released the last four years of tax returns late last week, providing a glimpse into their financial life over the last four years of Newsom’s  time in office. The notary public who certified that a Georgia judge's brother signed a  will 12 days before his death once certified another signature for the  judge's family—by a dead woman. And Mortgage rates just hit their highest level in a year, and new economic data shows it's the lower end of the housing market getting squeezed while high-end buyers keep winning — we break down why, plus what it means for the Fed's next move on interest rates.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Confidential documents show nearly two dozen state attorneys general, including 21 Democrats, signed a plan as early as April 2024 — nine months before Trump took office — to coordinate litigation against his administration, with a former Republican AG calling the practice a politicized waste of resources. A federal judge in Texas ruled the NFA's registration requirement for short-barreled rifles and suppressors unconstitutional, reasoning that Congress can't require registration tied to a $200 transfer tax that lawmakers eliminated last year; the ruling is stayed seven days and currently applies only to plaintiffs in gun-rights associational groups. Also, in this episode: Vice President J.D. Vance told congressional Republicans the task force has identified more than $230 billion in suspected fraud and called for legislation requiring state-federal data sharing on welfare programs, alongside advisers Andrew Ferguson and Stephen Miller, who said over 95% of fraud could be addressed with better data sharing and AI verification tools. DeKalb County, Georgia notary Jacqueline Walker lost her commission after a Center Square investigation found she had notarized a document for a woman who'd been dead three weeks, raising credibility questions about a separate contested will she notarized for the same family, involving DeKalb County Judge Rothelia Stroud's relatives. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed bills allowing state regulators to review and reject excessive home and auto insurance rate increases. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is simultaneously running for reelection as secretary of state and for Chicago mayor. Comptroller Susana Mendoza and Republican secretary of state candidate Diane Harris criticized Giannoulias for running for both offices at once, with Mendoza citing his prior oversight of a $100 million loss in the Bright Start college savings program. Declassified documents show prosecutors declined to charge a hacker who stole 633,000 Maricopa County, Arizona voter records before the 2020 election. Nearly 5,000 New York City property owners are seeking exemptions from the new second-home tax. The ACLU of Nevada sued Las Vegas police over records-request fees exceeding $6,800. California's Assembly Republican Caucus replaced Minority Leader Heath Flora with Alexandra Macedo following ethics investigations into Flora. Plus, America's Talking: Elections: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_a6ad90fe-3f92-4166-a4b0-57557c72ff66.html New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_d439c2f7-394b-4aa7-8725-66b97afc2ca9.html Nevada: https://www.thecentersquare.com/nevada/article_2829596a-35da-4fe9-9ccb-bac9d434f9de.html California: https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_d465af54-659d-485b-beea-5466e3b62192.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Yesterday several states went to the polls to decide primary contests ahead of November's midterm election. Progressive Abdul El-Sayed defeated Rep. Haley Stevens by roughly 16,000 votes in Michigan's Democratic primary and will face Trump-endorsed Republican Mike Rogers, who leads recent polling 46.7% to 42.3%, in November. In Virginia, retired Army Major General Bert Mizusawa won the Republican Senate primary with 52.5% of the vote and will face Democratic Sen. Mark Warner in November. Missouri's Amendment 5, which would have gradually phased out the state income tax in favor of an expanded sales tax base, failed by more than 1.1 million to 233,000 votes, with analysts citing a lack of specific details as the main reason for its defeat. Also, in this episode: The ATF's public comment period closed on a proposed rule clarifying that overnight stays, food and fuel stops, and other incidental activities are protected under federal law when transporting firearms across state lines, drawing over 4,100 comments split between Second Amendment groups supporting it and Senate Democrats, including Dick Durbin, warning it could preempt state gun laws like Illinois' Protect Illinois Communities Act. California Governor Gavin Newsom and wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom released four years of tax returns showing $4.2 million in adjusted gross income in 2021, driven largely by a home sale and capital gains, on top of his roughly $220,000-$246,000 gubernatorial salary. California's Justice Department said it spent $19.2 million over 18 months on 82 lawsuits against the Trump administration, claiming an 83% win rate and $207.1 billion in taxpayer savings, though it has not provided a detailed breakdown of that savings figure. Greg talks to Ph.D. economist Orphe Divounguy about the housing market Plus, America's Talking: A second lawsuit challenging Texas's Ten Commandments classroom-display law gets its first hearing Friday. Illinois Democratic Rep. Carol Ammons faces a House ethics committee inquiry alongside her ongoing federal wire fraud case. A federal strike force charged 19 defendants in a $4 million Philadelphia Medicaid/Medicare home care fraud scheme. A Shreveport, Louisiana business owner says the city has failed to fix a chronic drainage problem damaging her property. The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former Seattle Police Chief Sean Barnes resigned following communication breakdowns after a mass shooting at the Bite of Seattle Festival left three dead, with public records showing a five-hour delay before officials held a press conference. Text messages obtained by The Center Square show Washington Governor Bob Ferguson was not responsible for the delay, while reporting also revealed Barnes doesn't live in Washington state and received a $700,000+ severance package on top of a $300,000+ salary. Also, in this episode: A Legislative Inspector General report found former Democratic state Rep. Harry Benton committed two founded acts of sexual harassment, including incidents at bars in Springfield and Chicago, though most other allegations were ruled unfounded due to statute-of-limitations or scope issues. House Speaker Chris Welch said his office followed proper procedure, but Republican Leader Tony McCombie and Democratic Rep. Kelly Cassidy both called for accountability, with Cassidy specifically accusing Welch of his own misconduct toward a former intern. California Governor Gavin Newsom has solicited more than $340 million in "behested payments" since 2019 from corporations, unions, and tribes to third-party nonprofits, including $32 million from Facebook and $21 million from Blue Shield, the latter of which later received a $15 million no-bid COVID vaccine contract. These payments are legal, lightly regulated, and unlimited in size, unlike capped campaign contributions, and California's Fair Political Practices Commission only checks that disclosure forms are filed on time, not whether the payments raise conflicts of interest. Orphe Divounguy analyzes last week's Federal Reserve decision to hold interest rates flat and what that means for consumers. Plus, America's Talking: Arizona and Nevada opposed a federal Colorado River water-reduction plan affecting 40 million people. A Georgia congressman revived a bill to bar witnesses who plead the Fifth before Congress, prompted by Anthony Fauci's testimony, from future government employment. A new Louisiana law bans retail debit card surcharges. 31 states have opted into the federal Education Freedom Scholarship tax-credit program while 19 states plus D.C., including Illinois and Pennsylvania, have not. The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to The Center Square Radio Hour, your source for taxpayer centric straight news from across America. I’m your host greg bishop. Be sure to follow all of today’s stories at The Center Square dot com. On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour,   Democratic party fundraising organization ActBlue continues to be scrutinized after questionable campaign contributions are investigated.   Prosecuting Animal rights activists storming a dog breeder over alleged animal mistreatment could end up costing taxpayers millions   Parental rights around gender identity and the ongoing drive to dismantle the department of education   And, how will the federal reserve keeping interest rates flat impact the economy? All these stories and more on this edition of the center square radio hour. We’ll be right back after this. (Promo: 30 - 60 sec) Welcome back to the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop. Clip 1 ACT BLUE 10   This is the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop. Clip 2 JARED STRONG 10   This is the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop. (outro) After the break, we'll take a look at more stories from The Center Square.   Including the federal government giving several school districts a deadline to answer why they are witholding gender identity information from parents and analysis of what it means that the federal reserve will keep interest rates flat heading into the fall. those stories and more from the center square dot com when we return on ‘the center square radio hour.’ (half hour version outro)  That concludes another week of the center square radio hour. we encourage you to listen to the full hour of the center square radio hour wherever you find podcasts. And check out The Center Square youtube page for daily news coverage just like this. I’m greg bishop and thank you for listening. (Break) Welcome back to the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop Now for some quick hits with headlines from across the country, Clip 3 THURSDAY'S AMERICA'S TALKING 4 minutes You can find more stories like these at the center square dot com We'll be right back in a moment with more. Break - 30 sec promo Welcome back to the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop Clip 4 ESTHER Thursday 10   This is the center square radio hour I’m greg bishop Now lets go to a conversation I had with Ph.D. Economist, Orphe Divounguy discussing the outcome of this weeks' Federal Open Markets Commission meeting where they kept interest rates flat. Clip 5 Orphe Thursday 7:53   That will do it for another week of the center square radio hour.  If you missed some of today’s show, you can find it where ever you find podcasts.  I’m greg bishop and thank you for listening to the center square radio hour. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattle's police chief resigns after criticism over the city's response to a deadly mass shooting, raising new questions about public safety and government accountability. Plus, a new national report grades colleges on free speech, New York Governor Kathy Hochul pushes new gun restrictions, Wisconsin's Act 10 returns to court, and President Trump launches the Freedom Haulers initiative to help veterans earn commercial driver's licenses. In today's episode of The States, powered by The Center Square: Seattle Police Chief resigns after mass shooting controversy New campus free speech rankings from FIRE New York proposes tougher firearm sales restrictions Virginia assault weapons ban remains on hold Wisconsin Act 10 union dues battle heads toward the state Supreme Court Trump announces Freedom Haulers veteran trucking initiative America's Talking: California, Georgia, New York, and more national headlines Stay informed with nonpartisan reporting focused on the policies impacting taxpayers across America. Subscribe for daily news and analysis from The Center Square. #Seattle #FreeSpeech #GunControl #Trump #Veterans #Wisconsin #Act10 #Politics #News #TheCenterSquare #PublicSafety #HigherEducation #SecondAmendment #CurrentEvents #TheStates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The States with Greg Bishop covers today's biggest political and economic headlines from across the country. In this episode: The U.S. Senate prepares to vote on holding Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress following his testimony before lawmakers. Florida launches an investigation into Fauci after the congressional hearing. Illinois ethics investigations continue as lawmakers examine corruption allegations involving state officials. A federal judge rules against Illinois' in-state tuition policy for some illegal immigrants. The Department of Education investigates school districts over parental rights and student gender identity records. The latest on efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. Michigan lawmakers investigate Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson's ties to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). The Federal Reserve leaves interest rates unchanged, and economist Orphe Divounguy explains what it means for inflation, mortgage rates, credit cards, car loans, and the U.S. economy. Plus, headlines from Wisconsin, California, Florida, Louisiana, and across America. Featured Guests: Illinois State Rep. Adam Niemerg Esther Wickham, Education Reporter, The Center Square Orphe Divounguy, Ph.D. Economist & Co-host of Everyday Economics Subscribe for daily coverage of government, politics, public policy, and economic news from across the United States. #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Fauci #Politics #Economy #Inflation #Illinois #ParentsRights #Michigan #TheStates #GregBishop #TheCenterSquare  ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump defends his tariff policy and discusses the conflict with Iran as the Federal Reserve prepares for a critical interest rate decision. We also examine questions surrounding ActBlue donations, hear from Republican Illinois U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy, and break down the economic pressures shaping the 2026 election. In today's episode: Trump's latest comments on tariffs, manufacturing, and Iran Will the Federal Reserve raise interest rates? Questions surrounding ActBlue donation records Illinois U.S. Senate race interview with Don Tracy Everyday Economics: How tariffs, war, AI investment, and federal spending could impact inflation America's Talking: Top taxpayer-focused stories from across the country Energy: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_5bf26816-598c-41fb-b07a-417bbb825977.html New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_7aec06d4-dbdd-485f-9b7c-b75ce0efdf07.html North Carolina: https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_fa0fca65-3016-4cbe-9e99-81fce0e44bde.html Tennessee: https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_19246dee-3648-455e-a333-132768d34c53.html Subscribe for daily non-partisan news covering government, politics, the economy, and the issues impacting taxpayers nationwide. #Trump #FederalReserve #Tariffs #ActBlue #Inflation #Politics #Economy #Election2026 #News #TheCenterSquare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could taxpayers spend millions of dollars prosecuting animal rights activists who say they were trying to rescue abused dogs? In this episode of The States, Greg Bishop examines the Wisconsin case involving Ridglan Farms, a commercial beagle breeder accused of animal cruelty, and the activists now facing felony burglary and theft charges after entering the property to remove dogs. Center Square investigative reporter Jared Strong explains how allegations of abuse led to a court-ordered investigation, why a special prosecutor ultimately chose not to pursue felony animal cruelty charges against the breeder, and why dozens of activists are now headed to court instead. The discussion explores the legal arguments on both sides, including claims that the activists acted out of necessity to prevent ongoing harm and prosecutors' contention that they broke the law by entering private property. The episode also examines the potential cost to taxpayers, with estimates suggesting the prosecutions could total millions of dollars if the cases proceed to trial. As one defendant prepares for a January trial, the case raises broader questions about property rights, civil disobedience, animal welfare, prosecutorial discretion, and how public resources are spent. The States is powered by The Center Square, delivering taxpayer-focused reporting and in-depth interviews on the stories shaping public policy across America. Subscribe for more original reporting, investigative journalism, and daily news coverage from The Center Square. Subscribe for daily taxpayer-focused reporting from across America. #Iran #Trump #Inflation #ElectionIntegrity #Politics #Economy #MiddleEast #FederalReserve #GasPrices #News #CurrentEvents #TheCenterSquare #GregBishop  ____________  👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, Michigan regulators have approved key permits for Enbridge’s proposed Line 5 tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac. In an effort to escape the proposed California billionaire tax, several notable billionaires might have already cost the state more than $1 trillion in tax revenue by moving to other states, one attorney to the rich told The Center Square. The Nashville Metropolitan Council approved a moratorium on data center development until Dec. 1 and new regulations in light of opposition to a data center proposed near the Nashville Zoo. And America remains 4.7 million homes short, leaving millions of families struggling to find affordable housing while home prices remain elevated. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gun ban debate in Virginia, Non-citizens on the voter rolls, and Pres. Trump touts the Ratepayer protection pledge. Virginia Citizens Defense League President Philip Van Cleave said two of four lawsuits against the state's assault firearm and magazine bans have won injunctions, with the broadest one (issued July 21) blocking all law enforcement and prosecutors statewide from enforcing the law. Van Cleave predicted the bans will ultimately be struck down once the U.S. Supreme Court rules on pending Cook County, Illinois and Connecticut gun-ban cases, and noted many Virginia prosecutors and sheriffs have already said they won't enforce the law. Also, in this episode: DHS says more than 250,000 non-citizens are illegally registered to vote in federal elections nationwide, with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill acknowledging a state DMV software error registered nearly 6,600 non-citizens to vote between 2023 and 2024, at least 400 of whom cast ballots. House Republicans attached the Save America Act, which would require voter ID in federal elections, to a $95 billion budget resolution that narrowly passed this week. President Trump touted an expanded "Ratepayer Protection Pledge," under which more than 200 stakeholders including seven major tech companies and 23 Republican governors have committed to shielding electricity customers from data-center-related cost increases, though critics call the pledge vague and unenforceable. Trump labeled opponents of data center development "radical-left communists," while local opposition has grown in cities including Nashville, Denver, Seattle, and Charlotte over rising utility bills, water use, and noise. A state audit of the Division of Child Development and Early Education found inspection visits often followed predictable scheduling patterns, with families statewide paying an estimated $1.3 billion annually toward more than $2 billion in total child care costs, alongside $506.8 million in federal and $216.9 million in state subsidy funding. Following the Trump administration's freeze of $867 million in California Medicaid funds over suspected fraud, a health policy analyst said the state's Medi-Cal program, which covers nearly 15 million people including undocumented immigrants at a cost exceeding $200 billion annually, is fiscally unsustainable. The Wisconsin League of Women Voters sued in Dane County seeking to let voters who fear their absentee ballots won't arrive by Election Day cast a provisional ballot instead, citing USPS delivery delays affecting the roughly half a million Wisconsinites who vote absentee. New York police arrested Raul Morales in connection with two separate stabbings on Manhattan's Upper West Side, targeting an Asian man and a Jewish man, with witnesses saying the attacker shouted "Allahu Akbar" during both attacks; both victims are expected to survive. Plus, America's Talking: NORTH CAROLINA: https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_d15034d7-dde9-4799-b9a4-79f1e4a6664a.html CALIFORNIA: https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_8ef240a8-454a-4da4-ab5b-1c03772b2683.html WISCONSIN: https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_31fd0e3d-6a89-4e84-9a49-91203a587643.html NEW YORK: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_d7cd8215-fc29-413f-8c09-05e4c6728770.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Congress debates budget reform, taxes can't make up U.S. deficit according to the Tax Foundation, New Orleans' prosecutor drops charges against Louisiana AG, and Nashville places moratorium on data centers. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee examined proposals to prevent government shutdowns, including a bipartisan Lankford-Hassan bill that would require Congress to stay in session seven days a week focused solely on appropriations until funding is resolved.  Tax Foundation Chief Economist William McBride said the U.S. is spending more than $1 trillion annually on debt interest with debt-to-GDP near 100% and projected to reach 175% by 2056, driven primarily by Social Security and Medicare growth that outpaces the economy. McBride said no realistic combination of tax increases — including wealth taxes, higher income tax rates, payroll tax cap removal, or a value-added tax — could close the gap without addressing entitlement spending directly, likely through a bipartisan fiscal commission. Also, in this episode: Charges against Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, stemming from a dispute over a New Orleans court clerk consolidation law and a sixteen-count indictment alleging public intimidation and malfeasance, were dropped by a special prosecutor. Murrill and Governor Jeff Landry are calling for a federal investigation into the officials who pursued the indictment, and Murrill said she'll seek taxpayer reimbursement for roughly $250,000 in legal fees. The Nashville Metropolitan Council approved a moratorium on new data center development until December 1 and adopted new distance rules from schools, churches, and the zoo, following opposition to a proposed data center near the Nashville Zoo and Fisk University. Mayor Freddie O'Connell is considering using eminent domain to acquire land near the zoo to block the project, a move opposed by developer DC Blocks, while both Republican and Democratic officials in Tennessee have voiced support for restricting the specific site. Headline inflation fell 0.4% from May to June, the biggest monthly drop since April 2020, driven mainly by falling gas prices, while core inflation came in at 2.6% with shelter costs up just 0.1%, the smallest monthly increase in four years. Economist Orphe Divounguy warned the relief is likely temporary as rising Middle East conflict could push gas prices back up, asking rents are firming due to a pullback in apartment construction, and continued federal deficit spending adds further upward pressure on prices, making a return to the Fed's 2% inflation target unlikely soon. Following reports that a former state representative faced sexual harassment complaints not immediately acted on by House Speaker Chris Welch's office, Governor J.B. Pritzker said Welch needs to be fully transparent about what happened and called for further disclosure. A group of New York landlords sued the city's rent guidelines board, alleging Mayor Zohran Mamdani packed the nine-member board with loyalists ahead of its vote to freeze rents for one- and two-year leases on more than a million rent-stabilized apartments, effective October 1. A state audit found $97.3 million in overstated and understated errors and inadequate internal financial controls at the Department of Public Safety for fiscal year 2025. Tennessee will hold a sales tax-free period from July 31 through August 2 for school supplies, clothing under $100, and computers under $1,500. Plus, America's Talking:   Illinois - https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_8cfeb504-bcec-49ca-ae93-afd9b09976ce.html New York - https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_f5bd16e6-2b19-407c-875c-3cd1dda766a7.html North Carolina - https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_bd90c8e7-ba1d-4108-a844-c6c68176ae99.html Education - https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_945b183e-c797-4fee-8e17-d79cb60adb6e.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Illinois Attorney General race, suspected Medicaid fraud, California's billionaires' tax, and governors' across the country speak. Illinois Republican AG candidate Bob Fioretti called for Democratic State Rep. Carol Ammons and her husband, Champaign County Clerk Aaron Ammons, to resign following federal corruption charges against them, and said the incumbent AG's office has been too hands-off on public corruption cases, including the Michael Madigan prosecution. Fioretti criticized incumbent AG Kwame Raoul for joining more than 65 multistate lawsuits against the Trump administration and for receiving campaign contributions from Governor Pritzker, Madigan-linked sources, and ComEd-connected entities. Also, in this episode: Trump-endorsed Republicans won several Arizona primaries, including Andy Biggs defeating David Schweikert for governor and Warren Peterson defeating Rodney Glassman for attorney general nominee; Biggs will face Governor Katie Hobbs in November. The Trump administration paused more than $1 billion in Medicaid payments to California ($867 million) and Minnesota ($200 million) over suspected fraud, including $391 million tied to California's in-home services spending, which HHS says grew 24% over two years — double the rate of other states. Governor Gavin Newsom called the move politicized and said California is cooperating with documentation requests, while HHS officials said Minnesota has already submitted records for review and California's case remains more complex. Khalid Ahmed Sateri, accused of orchestrating a $547 million Medicare fraud scheme through diagnostic labs in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Georgia, was captured overseas and returned to the U.S. after nearly four years as a fugitive. An attorney representing wealthy clients said billionaires who've left California have already cost the state more than $1 trillion in tax revenue, warning more departures could follow if voters approve Proposition 40's proposed 5% one-time tax on billionaires' assets in November. Supporters, including the SEIU-UHW, argue billionaires should "pay their fair share," while Governor Newsom separately addressed pending data center and AI-regulation bills the legislature must act on before its session ends. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker criticized regional grid operators MISO and PJM over renewable energy integration delays and said he's paused data center tax credits pending closed-loop water and electricity safeguards; Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro touted a $125 million Innovate PA 2.0 investment and said Philadelphia's extended bar hours during the World Cup produced few incidents; Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a third executive order in three weeks directing five state agencies to investigate birth tourism schemes. A federal judge struck down New York's NLRB-related labor law following an Amazon lawsuit; the Arizona Supreme Court ruled Phoenix must release public-sector labor negotiation records; Florida led the nation in June foreclosures; and Homeland Security data showed nearly 1,600 non-citizens registered to vote in North Carolina, part of a broader multi-state total exceeding 250,000. The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arizona's primaries, AI in government transparency, Illinois FOID card challenge, Michigan's Line 5 project, and states with the best schools. Arizona voters are deciding primaries for governor, attorney general, and superintendent of public instruction, with polls suggesting Republican Andy Biggs will emerge as Governor Katie Hobbs' November opponent over David Schweikert.   Reveal's Jeff Wolff discussed how AI is being used at federal, state, and local levels to speed up public records requests, reduce processing costs, and improve auditing, while noting AI interactions themselves create new discoverable government records. Also, in this episode: Illinois State Police and Cook County's State's Attorney filed formal denials to a federal lawsuit challenging the state's FOID card requirement, disputing claims that the law violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendments. Michigan regulators granted a key permit for Enbridge's Line 5 tunnel project, which would relocate a 73-year-old pipeline carrying 500,000 barrels of oil and natural gas daily under the Straits of Mackinac into a tunnel beneath the lakebed, following a 16-month review and 70,000 public comments. The Bay Mills Indian Community and other tribal and environmental groups condemned the approval and vowed to continue fighting the project, while additional state and federal permits, plus a pending Michigan Supreme Court case, still stand between the project and construction. A WalletHub analysis ranked Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin as the top states for education based on 32 metrics, while West Virginia, Oregon, Oklahoma, Alaska, and New Mexico ranked lowest. Governor Josh Shapiro signed a budget increasing funding for the state's 47 rape crisis centers by $12 million, while criticizing Senate Republican leadership for not bringing a related bill up for a vote. The Wisconsin Election Commission warned that voters who wager on election-outcome prediction markets like Kalshi or Polymarket and then vote in that election could face felony charges and have their votes challenged. More than 500,000 people attended Atlanta's World Cup matches and fan festival events between June 15 and July 15, with Spain winning the tournament final over Argentina. Louisiana's insurance commissioner urged residents to prepare as Tropical Depression 2 is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha, with the greatest impacts to the Gulf Coast expected Wednesday into Thursday. Plus, America's Talking:   Pennsylvania: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_69739b64-f04d-40c9-bb8b-a4cb27aa19b2.html Wisconsin: https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_f6ad4a08-a353-400a-ab2e-948e98c0ca67.html Georgia: https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_adc0ca33-5330-40cb-8e62-d15950aaf829.html Louisiana: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_2a92d1d0-ebeb-44b4-ac87-7a5bb6b93edd.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A U.S. service member's remains were found in northern Iraq, bringing the death toll since the Iran conflict began on February 28 to 18, as CENTCOM conducted its ninth consecutive night of strikes and continues enforcing a naval blockade of Iranian ports. Gas prices have risen to just over $4 a gallon nationally, up from $3.14 a year ago, coinciding with the escalating conflict. In Illinois, Republican Lieutenant Governor candidate Aaron Del Mar outlined a Bailey-Del Mar administration platform focused on rolling back Illinois' gas and property taxes, reforming NGO grant spending, and addressing the "member initiative" program that gives Democratic legislators millions in discretionary funds while excluding Republicans. Del Mar also addressed corruption allegations against Democratic Rep. Carol Ammons and criticized incumbent Governor J.B. Pritzker's $56 billion budget, which is $16 billion higher than when Pritzker took office. Also in this episode: - A Missouri ballot measure on the August 4 primary could phase out the state's income tax by shifting to sales tax revenue, a move analysts say could accelerate Illinois residents moving from the Metro East region across the Mississippi River, following a net 7,500 Illinoisans who moved to Missouri in 2024. - Single-family home starts have fallen in recent data, with the Everyday Economics segment set to examine borrowing costs, overall expenses, and regulations as factors behind the ongoing housing shortage. - The Third U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled en banc that New Jersey's ban on modern semi-automatic rifles and magazines is unconstitutional, a decision Second Amendment advocates say adds momentum ahead of U.S. Supreme Court arguments this October on similar bans in Connecticut and Cook County, Illinois. - Separately, a Ninth Circuit judge issued a dissent criticizing the court's refusal to review a ruling upholding a California switchblade ban, calling for Supreme Court intervention on Second Amendment cases. - Wisconsin governor's race: The Democratic field narrowed to three main contenders — Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley (endorsed by Governor Tony Evers), State Senator Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan — after establishment favorite Sarah Rodriguez dropped out following a campaign staffing scandal; Republican Tom Tiffany remains the heavy favorite on that side. - New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he's exploring the legality of arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an International Criminal Court warrant, if he visits for the UN General Assembly in September, drawing criticism from the Trump administration. - Southern California Edison has paid or ordered more than $750 million in compensation to victims of the Eaton Fire, which killed 17 people, burned over 14,000 acres, and destroyed nearly 10,000 structures in the Pasadena area in January 2025. - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said he's open to revoking visas for Chinese students following President Trump's claims that China illegally acquired American voter data; Florida hosts more than 30,000 international students, with China among the top countries of origin. Plus, America's Talking: Wisconsin: https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_bb9e246a-458c-4b0b-9c24-53a0d3da97cc.html New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_12353db2-3834-4dcb-9336-8aa80ffbffda.html California: https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_682143d8-b0c0-4a15-8e03-ff40d7034ff5.html Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_80ef6b94-b8a2-42a4-b61e-44eaab239f67.html ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, first the Colorado Attorney General's Office refused to accept payment for public records related to their lawsuits. Then, they delayed processing the request until after Attorney General Phil Weiser secured the Democratic nomination for governor. Now, his office wants to charge a total of $5,129.88 for those same records, an increase of $4,840.29 compared to his initial estimate. The U.S. is signaling a significant shift in the Middle East as President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth met with the Iraqi prime minister to announce the end of military operations in Iraq, while shifting focus to Iran. An almost $1.8 trillion student loan portfolio continues to keep taxpayers on the hook while the federal government scales back broad student loan forgiveness and implements new repayment programs. Bridging a deficit in part by delaying some payments and reclaiming money from what they called the "couch cushions" of state government, lawmakers on Sunday approved a $50.8 billion budget for 2026-27 that immediately got the signature of Gov. Josh Shapiro. And interest rate cuts appear to be off the table for the Federal Reserve for now.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee corporate incentives, Arizona primaries next week, and wildfires across Canada send smoke through several states. Tennessee has awarded more than $760 million in grants to about 585 companies over eight years to attract jobs, including a $30 million grant to Starbucks for a new Nashville headquarters, drawing criticism from groups calling the program "corporate welfare." The state has clawed back $92.4 million from 55 companies since 2016 across 71 enforcement actions, but is still owed $20.1 million from 18 companies, including a case where a company that got $3 million and created zero jobs saw its owners imprisoned on wire fraud charges. Also, in this episode: Nine Arizona House seats are up for election, with Republicans currently holding six to Democrats' three; districts 1 and 6 are considered toss-ups that could shift the narrow 219-seat Republican House majority. Fundraising varies widely by race — in District 5, Daniel Keenan ($1.8M) outraised Trump-endorsed Mark Lamb (under $800K), and in District 6, Democrat Joanna Mendoza ($6.4M) outraised Republican incumbent Juan Ciscomani ($3.9M). Nearly 20 states have air quality alerts as smoke from over 180 Canadian wildfires and roughly a dozen Minnesota fires drifts as far as New York City and Washington, with Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota expected to see the worst conditions. The U.S. Navy awarded FSU an $88 million contract, potentially reaching $99.5 million, to develop next-generation ship power systems over five years. Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, and Speaker Dustin Burrows directed state agencies and universities to cut spending by 3% ahead of the next budget cycle. Democrat Roy Cooper has $20.7 million cash on hand and $34.9 million in total receipts, compared to Republican Michael Whatley's $2.5 million cash on hand and $8.4 million in total receipts. Plus, America's Talking:   Michigan: https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_9112c9d5-076b-4949-b44f-734c8f8bcec5.html Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_7937f1d8-5aeb-4ebd-b110-9aa29ebc8fa2.html Texas: https://www.thecentersquare.com/texas/article_d90a22c0-f3db-423e-bbde-31649d01ff7f.html North Carolina: https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_6721de84-b664-4fd9-b801-8e23908878c7.html   The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily update Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Illinois Attorney General's office spent more than $2 million on private attorneys in recent years, mostly defending two lawsuits against prison officials, despite having roughly 450 in-house attorneys. Several contracted firms and their attorneys donated to AG Kwame Raoul's campaigns, and a watchdog group says the contracts raise integrity concerns even though the donations were legal and comparatively small. Also in this episode: Rasmussen on 2026 election issues: Pollster Scott Rasmussen says gas prices will be the top factor in the 2026 midterms, with lower prices favoring Republicans. He says most voters who claim to like "socialism" don't actually support government control of the economy, and DSA candidates winning in safe blue districts reflects low primary turnout rather than a broad ideological shift. Lindsey Graham succession: South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster will appoint an immediate replacement for the late Senator Lindsey Graham, with primary voters deciding next month whether that appointee stays on the November ballot. Deere lawsuit: Wisconsin, Illinois, two other states, and the FTC sued John Deere over allegedly monopolizing equipment repair by restricting access to repair software; Deere agreed to make the software available to farmers and independent shops for 10 years under the same terms given to authorized dealers. Arizona coal-to-gas plant: Arizona's shuttered Cholla Power Plant will reopen using natural gas instead of coal, with two units expected online by 2029, creating 35 jobs and enough power for about 61,000 homes. Florida "Stop Woke Act" ruling: A federal appeals court upheld a block on parts of Florida's Individual Freedom Act that restricted how professors can teach concepts on race and sex, ruling 2-1 that it violates the First Amendment; one judge dissented, arguing the state lacks authority to regulate classroom speech at public universities. Plus, America's Talking: National - https://www.thecentersquare.com/south_carolina/article_7446d7ac-09ea-437d-8fc5-efc7ba6e2ac6.html Wisconsin - https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_e67130f2-2ca4-4f65-836d-417973363270.html Arizona - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_4ac8e002-4111-4ee4-9ed4-37219aad9044.html Education - https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_6515040b-031b-4d95-987c-e33a6e9d46b3.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, The trusts that fund Social Security benefits for retired seniors, survivors and people with disabilities face insolvency in the next six years. Washington Attorney General's Office spokesman told reporters there was “no story”  about AGO and legislative communications over the millionaire's tax, dismissing the investigation as “misinformation” and “nonsense.” Schools and government entities in Georgia and Tennessee are paying large sums of money to settle lawsuits with educators fired because of their comments about Charlie Kirk. And why the housing market is stuck. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Illinois gun ban upheld by Appeals court, new AI regulations, Gov. Newsom addresses DOJ investigation and takes aim at President Trump, school fraud nationwide, and tax holidays. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Illinois' assault weapons and magazine ban 2-1, with the case expected to move to the U.S. Supreme Court. Illinois' new AI regulation law requires large AI providers to publish safety governance statements and undergo independent audits, with real financial penalties for noncompliance. Also in this episode: California Gov. Gavin Newsom addressed reports of DOJ investigations into his associates, called the Trump administration corrupt, and commented on Democratic socialist primary wins and 2026 midterm strategy at an unrelated news conference. A new report found over $225 million in school fraud nationwide from 2019 to 2026, including a $44 million Indiana virtual charter school scheme and a $24 million false tutoring scheme in Puerto Rico. States including Alabama, Florida, and Texas are rolling out sales tax holidays on school supplies and other items in the coming weeks, with dates varying by state. Pennsylvania Sens. John Fetterman and Dave McCormick, despite being on opposite sides of the aisle, have formed a joint fundraising committee called Common Ground Pennsylvania. An audit of Memphis-Shelby County, Tennessee schools found over $119 million in questionable costs, including $54 million in suspected waste, fraud, and abuse. Arizona withdrew a policy requiring detailed purchase documentation for its school choice program and is directing over $53 million in leftover education funds toward school resource officers and mental health professionals. Plus, America's Talking:   Pennsylvania - https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_ea6e5313-4a45-4c9d-b856-a7a6f7284cb6.html Tennessee - https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_a9f48797-00ef-4912-b7ac-941de52659e4.html Education - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_68b19655-95e1-44b0-902b-9077c45d6b8f.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lawmaker indicted for wire fraud in Illinois, Texas utilities navigate challenges, Washington Attorney General Office staff emails, and Ph.D. Economist Orphe Divounguy discusses housing market. Illinois State Rep. Carol Ammons and her husband, Champaign County Clerk Aaron Ammons, were federally indicted on kickback and obstruction charges tied to campaign funds and taxpayer grants. The case has drawn scrutiny to Illinois' member initiative grant process, which Republicans say is prone to abuse. Illinois Minority Leader Tony McCombie joins to discusses the scandal and potential reforms. Also in this episode: National gas prices are averaging $3.84 a gallon, up slightly amid the Iran conflict but still near pre-conflict levels. The Energy Department finalized a $3.26 billion loan to expand Texas transmission lines and Texas won an injunction over illegally stockpiled wind turbine blades. Leaked emails show Washington Attorney General's Office staff arguing personal income isn't legally "owned" property, a stance tied to defending the state's millionaire's tax. The housing market remains flat, with new listings and sales holding steady compared to last year. Border Patrol in El Paso is warning rideshare drivers that human smugglers are using ride-hailing apps to coordinate illegal crossings. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said he has major policy differences with a progressive New York primary winner over her past stances on prisons, borders, and deportation. Seattle Councilman Bob Kettle wants to shrink Mayor Katie Wilson's proposed transit sales tax hike from 0.15 to 0.05 percentage points. Illinois' Attorney General has paid over $2 million in three years to private law firms, some of which donated to his campaign, to fight lawsuits against the state prison system. Plus, America's Talking:   Texas - https://www.thecentersquare.com/texas/article_adf64514-b510-45bc-a594-f7e18aff14e2.html Pennsylvania - https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_76bc8a4c-8754-44e0-8d60-1847594b0c5c.html Washington - https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_f8400f81-8206-4ac4-b833-c28e99d37a56.html Illinois - https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_5a68910d-34e6-4c28-ab13-1a59e9a658d3.html   The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Trump says the U.S. will likely strike Iran again, casting doubt on the ceasefire and floating a new blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices jump over 6% following renewed U.S.-Iran tensions.   North Carolina State Auditor Dave Boliek discusses the work of the Auditor's Office including using AI to uncover wasteful spending, including a $61 million bridge project with no construction to show for it. Boliek also highlights DMV wait times cut 87% and Charlotte transit security findings following his office's audits.  Also in this episode: New Veteran Protection Index ranks Alabama, Louisiana, and Arkansas as top states for veteran healthcare and pension support; New Hampshire, Virginia, and Alaska rank lowest Social Security's OASI Trust Fund projected to hit insolvency in 2032, triggering a 22% cut to benefits for retirees, survivors, and disability recipients The Center Square's Madeline Shannon discusses how California will be impacted by   Congress debates trade deficits and exports across LNG, agriculture, and digital services; economists say deficits aren't a reliable measure of economic weakness Virginia court denies bid to consolidate four lawsuits against new semiautomatic firearms law, allowing cases to proceed separately Seven Illinois counties to vote on separating from Cook County; Minnesota's Board of Pardons draws DHS criticism over pardon tied to deportation case New York City Council advances 18.2% pay raise for elected officials, including a boost to the mayor's salary Plus, America's Talking:   Virginia - https://www.thecentersquare.com/virginia/article_bcfd1b35-3dd3-4325-af2b-a677650959df.html Illinois - https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_fc0c96c4-ce75-40b8-8292-4f5ae7c52b2d.html Minnesota - https://www.thecentersquare.com/minnesota/article_ab8b1383-259e-4a5c-a12f-03b84124c603.html New York - https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_4a358708-d748-4e4d-a068-3ac68af6d9f0.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Free speech settlements, population shifts, unemployment trends, and AI safety legislation.   The Center Square's Kim Jarrett joins to discuss the University of Tennessee's board voting in June to pay $1.9 million to settle with a professor fired last September over a personal social media post about Charlie Kirk's death; the board cited cost savings and didn't address the free speech questions raised. A former Oglethorpe County, Georgia teacher reportedly received $300,000 and an Austin Peay University professor got $500,000 while keeping his job, both over Kirk-related posts. A Perry County, Tennessee man spent a month in jail over a Facebook meme before receiving an $830,000 settlement with FIRE's help.   Also in this episode: Texas, Florida and North Carolina lead the nation in gains of prime working-age residents (18-54), while New York, California and Illinois posted the largest losses over the past five years. Analysts project New York could lose 2 congressional seats and California up to 4 after the 2030 census, while Texas and Florida are projected to gain roughly 4 seats each. The unemployment rate fell to 4.2% from 4.3%, but leisure and hospitality lost 61,000 jobs — the sharpest monthly drop since the pandemic — tempering optimism about the headline number. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signed what he calls the nation's first and most protective AI safety law, requiring risk mitigation frameworks, mandatory annual third-party audits, and 24-72 hour incident reporting. An AI industry group source says Illinois' law closely mirrors California's SB-53 except for the added third-party audit requirement, which he warns could disrupt the national standard other states were converging on. North Carolina's $34.4 billion budget includes $1 billion for Medicaid and $208.5 million for a new children's hospital, and awaits Gov. Josh Stein's signature. Arizona's SNAP payment error rate rose to 10.8% in FY25, putting the state on track for a roughly $200 million federal penalty if it doesn't fall below 6% by 2028. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $100 million in public safety grants for police technology upgrades during a visit to Nassau County, a competitive GOP-held county. A California appeals panel ruled Los Angeles didn't need voter approval for a SoCalGas franchise fee surcharge, rejecting the argument that it functioned as an illegally imposed tax. Plus, America's Talking:   North Carolina https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_cc6c44d3-054f-4b22-bdd0-b3279dd13f2c.html Arizona - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_ecf534a4-9a01-4d6a-b9df-9e766e0b99cb.html New York - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_ecf534a4-9a01-4d6a-b9df-9e766e0b99cb.html California - https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_073af88f-0e86-53ea-85b4-2904c211922b.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Government Accountability Office estimates billions lost to fraud, U.S. colleges educating Chinese state-linked executives, egg price fixing lawsuit, the end of DOGE, and Michigan passes a state budget. Sam Shulman, Director of Research at Strategy Risks, joins to discuss a report examining Missouri State University's MBA pipeline for Chinese state-linked executives. The program trained over 1,500 students over more than two decades. Graduates went on to lead Chinese defense and surveillance firms like AVIC and iFlytek. Estimated taxpayer cost of the program totals $54 million. Also in this episode: - A 2024 GAO report estimates the federal government loses $233–521 billion annually to fraud. - The Biden administration once called that estimate "not plausible," but the Trump administration now backs it. - None of the GAO's three fraud-prevention recommendations have been fully implemented. - The DOJ reached a proposed settlement with egg producers Cal-Maine, Hickman's, and Versova. - The companies allegedly manipulated egg price quotations. - The settlement includes donating over 53 million eggs to food banks in 17 states. - The Department of Government Efficiency will not issue a closing report after it officially ended July 4th. - Some question the success of the department after it failed to deliver the ambitious savings promised when it started. - Michigan missed its July 1 budget deadline for the second year in a row. - Lawmakers ultimately passed a roughly $80 billion budget after a marathon session. - Republicans criticized the process for lacking transparency. - Democrats highlighted new child care funding and Medicaid protections in the plan. - Wisconsin is projected to have a $2.7 billion surplus tied to inflation-driven sales tax collections. - North Carolina's governor is weighing whether to sign the state budget and other pending bills. - Arizona's congressman marked the one-year anniversary of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." - A new report finds rural hospitals at risk of closure in California, Texas, and Kansas. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision on Monday, ruled that states can accept and count mail-in ballots received after the federal Election Day. American voters overwhelmingly support their country’s founding ideals – yet the majority also believe that the U.S. is failing to live up to them, according to new polling.  About half of Americans are confident about the future of democracy in the U.S., with political affiliation and support for Trump or Harris being the most significant demographic divides. And with inflation remaining a concern, how is it impacting the cost of your independence day barbeque? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We mark America's 250th birthday with a look at the Declaration of Independence's origins, the economics of the 4th of July, state independence rankings, and a new poll on how Americans view the country's founding principles today.   Hillsdale College professor Richard Samuelson breaks down what really drove the Declaration of Independence — it wasn't just about tea taxes, but the fight for self-government. Samuelson also connects liberty to responsibility and makes the case for federalism, noting that freedom comes with the risk of failure. A new Center Square/Noble Predictive Insights poll finds 86% of voters across party and demographic lines support America's founding principles — but nearly two-thirds say the country isn't living up to them, with broad agreement across party lines. Also in this episode: Ph.D. Economist Orphe Divounguy breaks down the cost of Independence Day and how your barbeque is being impacted by inflation. WalletHub ranks the most and least independent states for 2026: Idaho, Utah, and Hawaii come out on top for financial and social self-reliance, while Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi land at the bottom. The Supreme Court agrees to hear challenges to Illinois' and Connecticut's assault weapons bans, setting up a major Second Amendment fight, while the DOJ sues California and Virginia over new gun restrictions targeting Glocks and semi-automatic rifles. Pennsylvania blows through its budget deadline for the fifth year running, passing a university funding bill amid a $6 billion gap still unresolved. Georgia's new law puts school speed camera programs to a local vote, requiring referendums and adding limits on when and how tickets can be issued. The Trump administration's America250 civics push aims to boost historical literacy as new data shows just 23% of eighth graders are proficient in civics.   Plus, America's Talking:   Illinois, California, Virginia: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_b2bfb834-4334-44c1-9434-30daa57f63d6.html Pennsylvania: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_5a49b4cc-25ed-49a6-ad31-825e27bd37c4.html Georgia: https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_d96da53e-ffa4-41db-baad-3ed120deae75.html   The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily updates   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pennsylvania's teacher pension fund falling short, SCOTUS agrees to hear Illinois gun case, polling shows divide in voters' confidence in the future of democracy, and states' firework taxes. The Center Square's Mark Stricherz reports Pennsylvania's teacher pension fund is $41 billion short and only two-thirds funded, and the Pennsylvania Public School Retirement System blames private equity returns. Pennsylvania and six other states are pulling back their pension investments in private equity. The Center Square's Voters' Voice Poll finds just 47% of Americans are confident in the future of U.S. democracy. Morgan Sweeney joins to discuss the polling, with confidence split sharply along political lines, with Trump voters far more optimistic than Harris voters.   Also in this episode: - The Supreme Court agreed to hear two cases on whether the Second Amendment protects semiautomatic rifles like the AR-15. - A ruling isn't expected for about a year, and existing state gun bans remain in effect until then. - Fireworks laws and taxes vary widely by state, with some charging excise taxes as high as 12%. - The CPSC reported 13,000 fireworks injuries and 15 deaths nationwide last year. - NASA awarded $590 million in new moon lander contracts but still won't say what its full Moon-to-Mars program will cost. - The White House has proposed a 23% cut to NASA's budget while the House pushes to keep funding flat. - Colorado's Democratic primary for governor has been decided, but the Republican race remains too close to call. - Republican incumbents also won primaries in three of Colorado's congressional districts. - Pennsylvania missed its budget deadline for the fifth year in a row, raising fears of another lengthy impasse. Plus, America's Talking:   Moon: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_8ffebec9-f11c-46ef-99d6-7c9cc5a70e2d.html   Colorado: https://www.thecentersquare.com/colorado/article_3055da16-7dad-427c-a999-4300f9f73a6d.html Pennsylvania: https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_a67b2702-e4fb-4d7e-827c-81165f44f7ef.html The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Video excerpt from Pro Football Talk / NBC Sports used for purposes of news reporting, commentary, and discussion. ____________ 👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com 📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily updates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SCOTUS upholds transgender athlete bans and defends birthright citizenship, Diana Russini traffic stop footage, state budget debates, and Trump's economic approval rating falling.  The U.S. Supreme Court upholds state bans on transgender athletes in women's/girls' sports — Greg connects with Dr. Stanley Goldfarb of Do No Harm and Shannon Minter from National Center for LGBTQ Rights to get their reactions. SCOTUS also strikes down Trump's birthright citizenship executive order and a 50-year limit on political party campaign spending. SCOTUS agrees to hear new cases on immigration, energy, and voting rights for upcoming term.  Also in this episode:  - NFL reporter traffic stop sparks journalistic ethics debate  - The Center Square breaks footage of former NFL insider Diana Russini namedropping NFL head coach to get out of a ticket, raising questions why other outlets didn't cover it sooner  - Pennsylvania budget deadline missed for 5th straight year under Gov. Josh Shapiro; Senate GOP guts House bill to $24M placeholder  - State budget updates: California, Virginia, North Carolina  - New Center Square Voters' Voice Poll: Trump economic approval (37% approve/60% disapprove) trails overall job approval (40%/58%) - Poll: GOP voters identify more with Republican Party (56%) than with Trump (35%), especially younger voters  - Virginia judge blocks assault weapons/magazine ban with preliminary injunction ahead of July 1 effective date  - Illinois Gov. Pritzker signs 62 new laws, including amended digital coupon bill - Florida restaurants required to disclose mandatory service charges starting July 1  - Arizona gains 21,200 jobs year-over-year in May, ranking 10th nationally in job growth  Plus, America's Talking:  Virginia - https://www.thecentersquare.com/virginia/article_2084addb-7218-4c01-b0f2-574c63caffd4.html  Illinois - https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_11774d45-8bcc-4a80-8dbe-9a0ae39cdf7a.html Florida - https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_e1cc93b6-31c5-4268-a7a2-db16ce3e63ed.html  Arizona - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_5b9ca97a-3143-4fee-ba37-0d5532598920.html  The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square.  ____________  👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com  📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily updates    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SCOTUS rules states can count ballots after election day, states debate budgets, Colorado public records requests, tort reform, and Los Angeles superintendent resigns.  The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in Watson v. Republican National Committee that states can continue counting mail-in ballots received after Election Day, as long as they are postmarked by Election Day, allowing the practice to continue in 14 states and D.C. President Trump responded by calling the ruling a "tremendous loss" and renewed calls for Congress to pass the Save America Act, which would require voter ID, proof of citizenship, and restrict mail-in voting.  Also in this episode:  Several states are still working to pass budgets ahead of or past their fiscal year deadlines, with Pennsylvania, California, Michigan, and others facing ongoing negotiations over spending and tax disputes.  Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser is blocking public records requests detailing the cost of his office's at least 66 lawsuits against the Trump administration, placing the documents behind fees of $300+ and refusing to process payment for nearly two months.  The records fight comes as Weiser runs for governor in a Democratic primary, with critics arguing voters have a right to know how much taxpayer money is funding the litigation before they cast their ballots.  A joint report from the Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute and the James Madison Institute names Texas and Florida as leading "boom belt" states, crediting decades of tort reform for their economic growth, while warning that trial lawyer-backed political campaigns could erode those gains.  The Los Angeles Unified School District named a new permanent superintendent after former chief Alberto Carvalho resigned following an FBI raid on his home, amid scrutiny over district spending and a failed $6 million chatbot project.  New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $30 million tariff relief program allowing farmers to apply for up to $25,000 in aid to offset the impact of federal tariff policies.  U.S. Representative Julie Letlow won Louisiana's Republican Senate primary runoff, defeating State Treasurer John Fleming, and will face Democrat Jamie Davis in November for the seat held by Senator Bill Cassidy.  Florida's Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center in the Everglades is closing after one year of operation, during which Governor Ron DeSantis credited it with aiding nearly 30,000 deportations.  Plus, America's Talking:  Education: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_5a8cd658-1a9c-403b-baba-e1e3cdce0bf7.html  New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_94718a2b-e0d6-4f72-bf50-81df8a1d402d.html  Louisiana: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_c3c704e9-49a5-49c8-b01c-6908ea9fc163.html  Florida: http://thecentersquare.com/florida/article_e6ecca55-6636-4ee0-8956-5d89c0a361ef.html  The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square.  ____________  👉 Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com  📩 Sign up for the newsletter for daily updates  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, California will stop funding a state-wide database intended to uncover police misconduct and use-of-force records. Tennessee taxpayers are handing $30 million to Starbucks to open new corporate offices in the state. But at least 70 times, companies that promised to create jobs in exchange for government subsidies haven't held up their end of the bargain. Calling it a win for families, Ohio’s new attorney general last week praised a federal appeals court ruling that allows the state’s social media age verification law to take effect after sitting for more than two years. And some cities are seeing starter homes costing a million dollars. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, State financial aid continues to expand within higher education, allowing money to go to eligible noncitizen students. The U.S. Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision on Thursday, agreed that a regular drug user cannot be stripped of the right to possess a firearm. As many states rushed to redraw congressional maps ahead of the 2026 midterms, half of American voters say district lines should only be redrawn once a decade after the U.S. Census, a new national poll finds. A new analysis of Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data reveals a persistent gap in mortgage denial rates between black and white applicants across all 50 of the largest U.S. metro areas.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Supreme Court ruled 9-0 that occasional marijuana users can own firearms — what does that actually mean for gun owners? Plus: voter pessimism hits a new high ahead of midterms, state unemployment numbers, SNAP fraud costs, and California's billionaire tax heads to the ballot. A unanimous Supreme Court ruled in favor of Ali Hamani, a man found with marijuana and a pistol, protecting his Second Amendment rights. Washington Gun Law's William Kirk joins the show to discuss what the ruling actually covers — and what it doesn't — for gun owners across the country.  Also on today's show:  - A new Center Square Voter Voices poll finds 60% of registered voters say the country is heading in the wrong direction, up from 53% in March  - Gas prices now at $4.13/gallon, up from $2.94 before Operation Epic Fury began in February  - States tackling energy policy: Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and others discuss energy sustainability and reliability  - SNAP fraud is costing taxpayers billions — what states are doing to crack down  - May unemployment rates across Georgia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, New York, Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, and Nevada  - California's Billionaire Tax Act qualifies for the November ballot  - Philadelphia's "ICE Out" ordinance faces a federal lawsuit from the DOJ  - The Trump administration transfers civil rights and special education programs out of the Department of Education  📰 Read more at TheCenterSquare.com  Subscribe for taxpayer-focused, non-partisan reporting on the stories shaping America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Foiled terror plot, Supreme Court gun ruling, data center concerns, public employee payouts, and state tax news headline today's episode of The States. A West Virginia lawmaker speaks out after learning he was named as a target in a domestic terror plot tied to Sunday's UFC fight on the White House lawn. The Supreme Court rules on a case examining the intersection of gun rights and drug offenses. Communities across the country raise concerns about data center NDAs and resource use. Public employees in Allegheny County collect massive payouts for unused sick and vacation leave, raising questions about government benefit policies. Arizona moves to require advance notice before tax law interpretations hit residents' wallets.   Plus America's Talking  ARIZONIA - https://www.thecentersquare.com/arizona/article_d9099383-fd02-4b32-973d-d5a657b70aa8.html  MICHIGAN - https://www.thecentersquare.com/michigan/article_c9a44558-dbf4-4c2c-af3f-94a013089214.html  CALIFORNIA - https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_d3cbac25-74f9-4a4a-8994-d6baefa75d30.html  GEORGIA - https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_9c4e9dbd-1a50-490c-9b99-b2dcafa82741.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Election results in Georgia, veterans struggle to access benefits, human smuggling busts, non-citizen students getting higher education benefits, and barriers to black Americans looking for mortgages.  Key election results are in as the 2026 midterm season accelerates. Georgia Republicans selected businessman Rick Jackson as their gubernatorial nominee, while several high-profile Senate and statewide races were decided in Georgia, Alabama, and Oklahoma as both parties prepare for a battle over control of Congress.  We also examine concerns about veterans' access to federal benefits. Disabled Veterans founder Benjamin Krause joins the program to discuss how veterans who served during the Central American conflicts may face barriers to benefits because those operations were never formally recognized as wartime service by Congress.  Plus, a look at major human smuggling and labor trafficking cases uncovered across multiple states, ongoing debates over state and local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and new proposals affecting immigration detention oversight.  Education reporter Esther Wickham breaks down the growing debate over taxpayer-funded college aid and in-state tuition benefits for certain non-citizen students, including the legal battle unfolding in Texas and the broader impact on higher education funding.  And Ph.D. Economist Orphe Divounguy breaks down why black Americans in the 50 top metros struggle to get mortgages.  Plus America's Talking  CALIFORNIA - https://www.thecentersquare.com/california/article_de8726f9-4a80-4651-af24-c04a70ea2692.html  OHIO - https://www.thecentersquare.com/ohio/article_3aa97e86-6c20-4baf-9576-41304e741355.html  ILLINOIS - https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c14f00b7-9ae2-415f-ba80-9361c62b4792.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Voters' opinions on redistricting, states debate election laws as Trump presses for the SAVE America Act, Georgia holds primary runoff as the legislature kicks off a special session, and California advances state budget in Senate.  New polling shows Americans are divided over congressional redistricting as states consider redrawing political maps ahead of the 2026 midterms. We break down the latest Voters' Voice Poll findings, examine voter attitudes toward gerrymandering and independent redistricting commissions, and discuss what election experts say about the growing trend of mid-decade map changes.  Election law battles continue across the country as lawmakers debate voter ID requirements, proof of citizenship measures, voter roll maintenance, and mail ballot rules. We look at the latest developments in Congress, California, Arizona, and a pending U.S. Supreme Court case that could affect how states handle ballots after Election Day.  Georgia voters head to the polls in critical Republican runoff elections that could shape the state's political future. We discuss the closely watched governor and U.S. Senate races, the endorsements driving the campaigns, and what the results could mean heading into November.  State budget negotiations are reaching a critical stage from coast to coast. California lawmakers advance a $355.9 billion spending plan, Pennsylvania leaders face pressure to avoid another costly budget impasse, Illinois approves its largest state budget ever, and Georgia prepares for a special session that could impact taxes, elections, and local governments.  Plus, America's Talking:  New York: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_york/article_2144834b-1954-4bf9-b441-11643fa7d6b7.html  Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_e68b7c00-da3a-479f-a9e4-76175cbc54d0.html  Illinois: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_0e22530b-ebe9-4253-b8a1-e3d5fa5dea41.html  Louisiana: https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_0b5b7a66-5c38-4163-a297-dab7bd5e8308.html  The States delivers taxpayer-focused reporting from around America, powered by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Illinois independent candidate for governor, Trump admin freezes LA homelessness funding, Washington state Somali daycare controversy sparks dueling bias incident hotline reports, and Trump not sure about renewing USMCA trade agreement.  On today's episode of The States, - Greg Bishop breaks down the latest economic data showing wages failing to keep pace with rising costs and what it means for taxpayers across the country.  - Independent Illinois gubernatorial candidate Colin Corbett discusses affordability, taxes, energy policy, and his effort to qualify for the November ballot.  - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development freezes funding tied to Los Angeles homelessness programs amid allegations of financial mismanagement.  - The Center Square investigative reporter TJ Martinell explains newly released records from Washington state's bias incident hotline connected to the ongoing Somali daycare fraud controversy.  - President Donald Trump signals uncertainty about renewing the USMCA trade agreement as lawmakers and industry experts weigh potential impacts on energy, manufacturing, and consumers.  Plus, America's Talking:  TEXAS: https://www.thecentersquare.com/texas/article_72a5cfe4-0c59-4786-af50-23c0d3f2c636.html  GEORGIA: https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_89be4574-f1a5-45b5-93a5-5328006c7b91.html  NEVADA: https://www.thecentersquare.com/nevada/article_04b7b4f4-a9f0-40a2-8220-c75e61308916.html  NORTH CAROLINA: https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_18006a0f-f956-4b3c-b5c8-5795db58a792.html  Subscribe for daily coverage of state government, taxpayer issues, public policy, and the stories shaping America from the statehouse to Washington.    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, Data centers are facing scrutiny across the country and Illinois is the latest state to put a pause on incentives for companies to build in their state. Michigan lawmakers remain divided over the future of the state's Rx Kids program as House Republicans continue scrutinizing the initiative. A plan to tax digital advertising for the first time and use the estimated $500 million in new annual revenue to give property tax rebates to seniors won bipartisan, final approval from the Pennsylvania House Tuesday. And a variety of economic forces are contributing to the slow down in the jobs market and AI is only one of them.    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Polling on voters' priorities, gun debates in states across the country, an investigative report on a nonprofit using federal grants for work outside its original scope, and Social Security's projected insolvency.  Inflation remains the top concern for American voters, according to the latest Center Square Voters' Voice Poll. Greg Bishop speaks with Noble Predictive Insights founder Mike Noble about rising economic anxiety, shifting voter priorities, concerns over government accountability, and what the latest polling could mean for the 2026 midterm elections and the 2028 presidential race.  In America's Talking, Firearms Friday examines a major Washington state Supreme Court ruling that allows repeat DUI offenders to lose their Second Amendment rights. The segment also explores ongoing debates over gun regulations in New York, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Colorado as lawmakers, courts, and advocacy groups continue to battle over firearm access, public safety, and constitutional protections.  The Center Square investigative reporter Mark Stricherz joins the show to discuss a taxpayer-funded nonprofit that received millions in federal grants while expanding its work beyond financial regulation into broader social and political issues, raising questions about accountability and oversight.  The program also covers growing concerns about Social Security's projected insolvency, congressional reactions to the latest trustees report, and what benefit cuts could mean for future retirees.  Plus, a look at the most affordable states for summer road trips as families weigh travel plans amid elevated costs and inflation. Subscribe for daily reporting on the policies, taxes, and political debates impacting taxpayers across America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Faster Labor Contracts Act in the U.S. House, digital advertising taxes, U.S. rep calls out Chicago Public Schools, and how much are you paying in taxes for beer.   A major labor bill is advancing through Congress, and supporters say it will help workers secure contracts faster. Critics warn the Faster Labor Contracts Act could expand federal involvement in labor negotiations, increase costs for employers, and impact small businesses facing unionization for the first time. Greg Bishop speaks with Americans for Prosperity Employment Policy Fellow Austin Bannon about what the legislation could mean if it advances in the Senate. Also in today's episode, Pennsylvania lawmakers debate a first-of-its-kind digital advertising tax that could generate hundreds of millions of dollars for property tax relief, while critics warn the costs could ultimately be passed on to consumers and small businesses. The Center Square Regional Editor Christen Smith breaks down the proposal and its uncertain future in the state Senate. Plus, members of Congress examine troubling education outcomes across the country, including low reading and math proficiency rates in Chicago Public Schools. Lawmakers also spar over gender ideology in schools and whether those debates are distracting from efforts to improve academic performance. In America's Talking, Greg highlights state-level debates over property taxes, veteran tax exemptions, conservation funding, and local government spending before taking a look at where Americans pay the highest and lowest taxes on beer. Subscribe for daily reporting on the policies, taxes, and political debates impacting taxpayers across America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

North Carolina Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley joins Greg Bishop to discuss the race against former Governor Roy Cooper, the issues shaping the campaign, and why control of the U.S. Senate could be critical heading into the November elections. Whatley weighs in on taxes, public safety, economic policy, and how Republicans plan to appeal to independent voters in one of the nation's most closely watched Senate contests.  Georgia drivers are seeing relief at the pump after state lawmakers and Governor Brian Kemp suspended the state's fuel tax, allowing motorists to keep more money in their pockets. We examine how the tax holiday has impacted state revenues, what it means for taxpayers, and how gas tax rates compare across the country.  The battle over AI data centers is heating up nationwide as states and local governments wrestle with questions about energy use, water consumption, tax incentives, infrastructure costs, and economic development. From Tennessee and Wisconsin to Virginia, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Illinois, officials are taking dramatically different approaches as communities weigh the promises and potential costs of massive new projects. Illinois lawmakers and Governor J.B. Pritzker remain divided over data center tax incentives and future development policies, while local communities debate whether the projects create enough long-term jobs to justify public support.  Also in this episode:  • Pennsylvania lawmakers advance election administration changes involving mail-in ballots.  • Georgia voters continue casting ballots ahead of key primary runoff elections.  • North Carolina's sports betting revenues continue to grow.  • Wisconsin business owners report concerns about rising property taxes and the state's economic direction.  • A new study examines where fast food takes the biggest bite out of household budgets and what that says about affordability across America.  America's Talking:  Pennsylvania - https://www.thecentersquare.com/pennsylvania/article_7bac4c90-a6ab-4a26-a44b-30e39a4020ff.html  Georgia - https://www.thecentersquare.com/georgia/article_decb265e-e1ad-43e8-b028-086a947d5186.html  North Carolina - https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_3ace709a-3483-42a0-a3d4-949d5d85d8b0.html  Wisconsin - https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_a0e0d680-503b-4ce8-88dc-6e70512b2a16.html  Join Greg Bishop for stories impacting taxpayers, businesses, and communities across the country.    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Election integrity questions in California, SCOTUS ruling on Biden-era regulations, Michigan cash assistance program, and a DOJ investigation into Philadelphia PD on the 2nd Amendment.  Primary elections take center stage as voters head to the polls in Maine, South Carolina, and North Dakota, while questions about election administration and voter confidence continue to dominate headlines nationwide. Greg Bishop speaks with former Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer about California's prolonged vote-counting process, mail-in ballots, election integrity concerns, and what voters should expect heading into the 2026 midterms. The U.S. Supreme Court has released another major ruling, striking down Biden-era energy efficiency regulations affecting furnaces and water heaters. Meanwhile, several closely watched cases remain pending, including challenges involving birthright citizenship, asylum claims, mail-in voting deadlines, Second Amendment rights, and transgender athletes competing in women's sports.  Michigan lawmakers continue to debate the future of the Rx Kids program, a taxpayer-funded initiative that has distributed more than $300 million in cash assistance to families since launching in Flint in 2024. The Center Square reporter Elyse Apel joins the program to discuss Republican concerns about oversight and accountability, as supporters point to reported improvements in maternal and infant health outcomes.  The Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the Philadelphia Police Department's handling of concealed carry permits, examining whether city officials are improperly restricting Second Amendment rights through discretionary permit revocations.  America's Talking:  Wisconsin - https://www.thecentersquare.com/wisconsin/article_98b9d112-378f-4cc6-b556-41566a0c07c0.html  Louisiana - https://www.thecentersquare.com/louisiana/article_70ade02c-7511-40cd-9e91-3e77221f9856.html  Michigan - https://www.thecentersquare.com/michigan/article_98ed8bfd-fbb0-440c-a968-c8a2377f62a9.html  North Carolina - https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_9c6b2ae3-720d-4b50-a4e1-bad3a701e383.html Subscribe for daily coverage of the stories impacting taxpayers, voters, and policymakers across America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

IRS migration data reveals major shifts in where Americans are living and paying taxes, election integrity questions continue after California's primary, new curriculum aims to address civics education, and state lawmakers debate fraud prevention and government accountability. New IRS data shows hundreds of thousands of taxpayers—and billions of dollars in adjusted gross income—moving from high-tax states like California, New York, and Illinois to states such as Texas, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Tax Foundation policy analyst Abir Mandal breaks down which states are gaining residents, which are losing taxpayers, and what those migration trends could mean for housing, public services, and future tax policy.   California's election results continue to shift as mail ballots are counted days after Election Day, including changes in the Los Angeles mayoral race. We examines how different states handle ballot deadlines, ongoing election integrity debates, and what delayed vote counting means for voters and candidates. The Center Square education reporter Esther Wickham joins Greg Bishop to discuss a new civics and civil rights curriculum backed by former U.N. Ambassador and civil rights leader Andrew Young. The conversation examines declining civics proficiency among students, the importance of understanding American history and constitutional government, and efforts to teach leadership, civil discourse, and civic engagement through the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement. Supporters say the curriculum helps students develop character, critical thinking, and an understanding of how social change is achieved, while also encouraging respectful dialogue and informed participation in public life. America's Talking - Minnesota fraud investigation raises questions about oversight of taxpayer-funded programs.   - Pennsylvania lawmakers push chip-enabled EBT cards to combat SNAP benefit theft.   - Michigan examines fraud concerns in Medicaid and Affordable Care Act enrollment systems.   - California debates safeguards for autism funding amid concerns about waste and abuse - Texas officials spotlight the taxpayer cost of fraud as a percentage of state budgets The Center Square Daily delivers taxpayer-focused coverage of state governments, elections, public policy, and the issues affecting communities across America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of the Center Square Radio Hour, a California commission reported a “troubling increase” in the number of cases where government officials spend taxpayer dollars to illegally campaign for or against local ballot measures. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a $4 billion funding opportunity for homelessness services on Monday, shifting away from the Housing First model. Louisiana closed out its legislative session with a $47 Billion operating budget. And Mortgage rates are increasing, even as the Fed holds steady.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.