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

Episode 400

A Christmas Message From Mick Foley

  It’s Episode 400. And while the rest of the world is checking out for the holidays, the machinery of war is heating up.

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



It’s Episode 400. A milestone. And while the rest of the world is checking out for the holidays, the machinery of war is heating up.

Host Paul Rieckhoff breaks down a chaotic weekend where the “Peace President” launched strikes in Syria, threatened Venezuela with a new “Golden Fleet,” and suspended offshore wind farms—all while Congress has left town. This isn’t a silent night; it’s a loud, potentially violent shift in American foreign policy occurring in the shadow of the holidays.

Then, a special message from a true Independent American. WWE Legend Mick Foley joins the show after walking away from the company he loves with a special holiday message of integrity, peace and kindness. 

Plus: Updates from the frontlines in Ukraine (Day 1,393), Elise Stefanik bows out of the NY Governor race, Jake Paul gets a reality check (and a broken jaw), and a preview of tomorrow’s annual Festivus special with Jason Alexander.

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. It’s 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.