Ruthless Podcast Don't Take the Bait - How Libs Trap Conservatives in Pointless Arguments
Jan 15, 2026
Austin Knudsen, Attorney General of Montana, dives deep into the murky waters of foreign influence and dark money in U.S. politics. He reveals how climate litigation aims to choke energy states by stifling permits and discusses the tactics behind sanctuary city pressure campaigns. Knudsen also addresses Second Amendment rights and the pursuit of accountability from platforms like TikTok. His insights shine a light on how narratives can distract from real issues, calling for a more substantive public debate.
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Progressive Strategy: Process Over Policy
- Progressives respond by trying to defund or block immigration enforcement funding and litigate jurisdictional limits.
- Hosts say these moves reframe enforcement as illegitimate rather than addressing why enforcement exists.
Lawsuits As A Delay Tactic
- States are using lawsuits to try to restrict federal enforcement, leaning on activist judges as a tactic.
- Hosts warn that judicial shopping and friendly judges let litigation delay and obstruct enforcement.
Rapid Messaging Shifts Follow Political Risk
- Democrats shifted messaging quickly on Gaza/Israel as they recalibrated political risk and constituencies.
- Hosts see the pivot as tactical, driven by midterm and local political pressures.