NEW EPISODE · JUNE 15, 2026 · EP 550
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Vol. V · No. 550Monday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 222

Michael Steele

Michael Steele is a returning guest who always brings the fire. (Hear/watch his previous appearance in Episode 193 from Oct 2022 ) The Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee , Former Lt.

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Why a UFC event at the White House will cost taxpayers an es. Why a UFC event at the White House will cost taxpayers an estimated $10-12M in security and overhead alone

02

"Wasteful barbaric desecration". the WBD framing for how this money could feed hungry American families instead

03

The Orbán parallel. how corruption, not ideology, ultimately toppled Hungary's strongman

04

Paul on training in MMA in the military. and why a lifelong UFC fan still calls this the bastardization of the people's house

Michael Steele is a returning guest who always brings the fire. (Hear/watch his previous appearance in Episode 193 from Oct 2022) The Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Former Lt. Gov. of Maryland has served in all levels of elected and government office and is now a Political Analyst for MSNBC and the host of his own influential political podcast. He ran for the Maryland Senate seat in 2016 and is often suggested as a candidate for President. He’s also a big John Wick fan. And he’s back with our Paul Rieckhoff to tear into all the latest headlines and chaos in American politics. They share many values, but differ on some issues and always respectfully butt heads. You’ve seen these two together on cable TV. But it’s never enough time and never truly uncensored. This conversation is both. It’s a firey, fast and fun conversation that will leave you smarter. And maybe even hopeful. 

Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And it always delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. 

-As mentioned on the show, check out Ballot PA and their critical effort to repeal closed primaries in Pennsylvania. And to empower nearly 1.1 million voters in PA who are registered as unaffiliated with a political party or Independent.

-Check out Michael Steele on Twitter, watch him on MSNBC and subscribe to The Michael Steele Podcast