The Back Room with Andy Ostroy The Back Room with Andy Ostroy

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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