NEW EPISODE · JULY 14, 2026 · EP 573
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Vol. V · No. 573Wednesday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 244

Sec Pete Buttigieg

For 243 episodes, your host Paul Rieckhoff ( @PaulRieckhoff ) has reminded us all to #StayVigilant. This weekend was a stark reminder of what that means and why it is important.

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Lindsey Graham's death, his sister Darlene's appointment to. Lindsey Graham's death, his sister Darlene's appointment to his seat, and the national-security cost of a family placeholder

02

Why Graham's Russia sanctions bill for Ukraine should be nam. Why Graham's Russia sanctions bill for Ukraine should be named for him and passed ASAP

03

Mitch McConnell's silence, his "proof of life" photo, and wh. Mitch McConnell's silence, his "proof of life" photo, and what compromised 85-year-old senators mean for our enemies

04

The collapsed Iran ceasefire. 140 US strikes, retaliation across Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, and Oman

For 243 episodes, your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has reminded us all to #StayVigilant. This weekend was a stark reminder of what that means and why it is important. The horrifying attacks on the Israeli people shocked us all. And times like this are too important to wait to get the information you need. So this episode is a special Quick Response Content (QRC) delivery of what you need to know with a returning favorite guest— Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Buttigieg is one of the most important voices in American politics–and a leader that’s had unique appeal for independent Americans. He’s also the only combat veteran serving in the cabinet outside of the Secretary of Defense. In this all new episode, you’ll again get to hear Buttigieg asked questions he’s never been asked before and get a peek behind the curtain. He joins us as news continues to pour out of the Middle East. He’ll share what he’s doing to protect American transportation from terror attacks—and also sound off on Trump’s shocking threats against General Mark Milley, Senator Tommy Tuberville’s STILL ongoing hold on military promotions, whether he’ll run for President alongside Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a new program for vets he just launched to help them transition into being civilian truck drivers, and what he’s learned from being the dad of two young twins. 

Other shows focus on what’s happening. This show focuses on what’s next. 

Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) 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. 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. 

Previous appearances by Pete Buttigieg:

Episode 183 – 8/11/22 

Episode 37 – 12/12/19