NEW EPISODE · OCTOBER 9, 2026 · EP 644
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Vol. V · No. 644Friday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 366

John Opdycke

  In this Election Day special, we’re bringing a take unlike any other you’ll hear.

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Will Trump attack the 2026 elections? Kinzinger’s threat ass. Will Trump attack the 2026 elections? Kinzinger’s threat assessment and why a blowout is the best firewall

02

The House of Representatives deciding who it seats. the margin-of-victory danger nobody is talking about

03

Why Kinzinger still calls himself a Republican after four ye. Why Kinzinger still calls himself a Republican after four years of not voting for one

04

The GOP’s retention crisis. one-third ride-or-die, one-third default, one-third waking up



In this Election Day special, we’re bringing a take unlike any other you’ll hear. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) digs in with John Opdycke (@jbopdycke), President of Open Primaries and a Godfather of the independent reform and open primaries movement, for a smart, fast and urgent conversation about what’s really happening today in elections nationwide. Our elections are dominating news today–but they’re badly broken. You’ll learn about why democracy is losing in many places nationwide today. But also, how John, his team, and our independent movement are fighting back–in states ranging from Oklahoma to Texas to Pennsylvania to Maryland–where a new threat to independents and democracy was just launched by the Democrat Governor there. John and Paul explain the movement to dismantle closed party systems, the impact of open primaries on America’s future, and why fixing the rules of our elections could be the key to reclaiming our democracy. And giving independent voters a real voice–and independent candidates a real shot to win. Learn why open primaries could be the key reform to empower voters, restore trust, and shake up the system. If you’re tired of party bosses, the corrupt and failing Democratic and Republican party, frustrated by rigged elections, or searching for ways to take power back, this episode is your guide. Election Day class is in session with Professor Opdycke! 

Democracy isn’t a spectator sport. Watch or listen now for an authentic, independent take on what’s broken—and what we can fix together. Especially on this Election Day. 

Because every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. Its independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.

-John Opdycke’s previous appearances: April 20, 2023 – Episode 219. May 19, 2022 – Episode 171