Mark McKinnon on 9/11, 'Trump-a-palooza', Paxton v Talarico and Texas Politics, the Midterms, and More
Sep 12, 2026 · 1h 2m
Summary
Host Andy Ostroy marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11 by reflecting on personal memories and contrasting George W. Bush’s unifying leadership with current political divisions. He criticizes Donald Trump’s recent "Trump Con" speech, highlighting his $5,000 dividend promise and aggressive behavior toward reporters. Guest Mark McKinnon analyzes the Texas midterm races, arguing that Democrat James Talarico has a strong chance to flip the state due to Ken Paxton’s poor candidacy and the damaging economic messaging from the Republican party.
Topics discussed
Intro and 9/11 25th anniversary context
Host's personal memories of 9/11
Guests share their 9/11 experiences
Comparing Bush and Trump leadership
Criticism of Trump's 9/11 claims
Trump Con and aggressive behavior
GOP strategy and midterm outlook
Voter fraud rhetoric and voting plans
Trump impersonator and $5000 promise
Weekly rant: Missouri map and debt
Mark McKinnon intro and 9/11 flight
Political changes since 9/11
Polarization and lack of unity
Analysis of Trump Con strategy
Economy as the key issue
Texas location and $5000 giveaway
Texas political landscape and Hispanics
Paxton vs Tallarico race analysis
Faith, trans issues, and ad strategies
Polling and Republican vulnerabilities
Tallarico's response to Trump promise
Bush's compassion vs Trump's sociopathy
Trump's desire for GOP loss
Election integrity and mail-in voting
Outro and credits
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