Steve Deace Show It's Time for Trump to KNOCK SKULLS — or Risk His Legacy | Guest: Ryan Rhodes | 1/15/26
Jan 15, 2026
Ryan Rhodes, an Iowa congressional candidate with a fervent activist background, joins the conversation to discuss his campaign and views on Washington's dysfunction. He emphasizes the need for credible leadership and why broken promises erode public trust. Rhodes advocates for reforms in immigration and plans to pause and scrutinize existing refugee programs. His vision for Congress focuses on strong political will and accountability, pushing back against imported extremism. A passionate rallying cry for change, he shares his motivations for running and how he aims to be a voice for his constituents.
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DHS Vehicle Vandalized In Minneapolis
- Steve recounts vandalism of a DHS vehicle in Minneapolis with threats against ICE.
- He uses the episode to illustrate escalating local hostility toward federal enforcement.
Credibility Determines Political Leverage
- Credibility is central to political leverage and public trust.
- Steve Deace argues leaders must match threats with follow-through or lose influence.
Past Failures Erode Future Influence
- Steve links Trump's COVID-era perceived failure to a loss of credibility.
- He warns that diminished forcefulness reduces a leader's ability to wield power without using it.