NEW EPISODE · AUGUST 12, 2026 · EP 598
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Vol. V · No. 598Thursday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 180

Defining Independents

Over the years we’ve brought you some of the best voices on the biggest subjects. From Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg to Rachel Maddow the guests have been important voices to hear from at critical times for our country.

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Joe Manchin on being the one vote that made the 117th Congress work. and why setting hard parameters forced both parties to negotiate

02

Heather Manchin's "canyon chart". billions on the left, billions on the right, and a politically homeless sensible majority in the middle

03

Why 47 states run partisan primaries and 16 states shut inde. Why 47 states run partisan primaries and 16 states shut independents out completely — and why taxpayers are funding elections they can't fully participate in

04

The Montana breakdown. Seth Bodnar needs 220,000 votes, out-raised both party candidates, and now has a true three-way race

Over the years we’ve brought you some of the best voices on the biggest subjects. From Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg to Rachel Maddow the guests have been important voices to hear from at critical times for our country. And this year we’ve taken some time away from the usual dumpster fire of partisan news to focus on the issue that is nearest and dearest to our hearts. The stick that stirs our drink. Independents. And specifically why we think independents are not only an important constituency but the key to solving our country’s political stagnation and gridlock. 

So as you listen to the rhetoric and divisive partisan media as the fall midterms approach, consider this a primer. Independents 101. It will make you a smarter voter. And it will make you a smarter citizen.

Hear from the political mavericks that are challenging the status quo and seeking to redefine what it means to be political. Redefining what it means to be patriotic. Redefining the future.

Get the full versions of the following episodes wherever you get your podcasts or at the links below:

Episode 144 – Tavis Smiley

Episode 149 – Congressman Adam Kinzinger

Episode 151 – Michael Smerconish

Episode 168 – Evan McMullin

Episode 171 – John Opdycke

Episode 177 – Lindsay Church

Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can.

-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon

-Check out Rieckhoff’s America! Playlist mentioned on the show. 

-Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours. 

-Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel – The OG of Weed.