Real Talk with Riggin

Concerns are growing after reports that radical leftist activists have reportedly been granted official press credentials, raising new questions about media bias, political influence, and the integrity of journalistic standards. Joseph Vasquez, Associate Editor with MRC Free Speech America, joins us to discuss how these press passes are being distributed, why critics say activism is increasingly replacing objective reporting, and what this trend could mean for public trust in the media and access to major political events.

Mississippi Mingle is bringing the community together for an evening of fellowship, fun, and support for a great cause. Cameron Borders, Development Officer at LifeHouse in Cape Girardeau, joins us to talk about this special event, how it benefits the mission of LifeHouse, and the impact the organization continues to make in the lives of women and families throughout the region. Learn how you can take part in the celebration while helping support programs that provide hope, healing, and practical assistance to those in need.

Parent and advocate Jarred Weisfeld joins the program to discuss why one school district’s recent response to concerns from families should alarm parents across America. Weisfeld explains how policies involving parental notification, student privacy, and school transparency are becoming flashpoints in communities nationwide, raising questions about the role parents should play in decisions affecting their children. He shares why he believes families must stay engaged with local school boards and education leaders as debates over parental rights and accountability continue to grow.

The Cape Girardeau County Republican Central Committee is inviting the community to a free fish fry celebrating America’s 250th birthday, bringing together local residents for an evening of food, fellowship, meeting the candidates and patriotism. Chairwoman Marsha Sander says the event is designed to honor the nation’s history while encouraging community involvement and civic pride ahead of the upcoming semiquincentennial celebration. The family-friendly gathering will feature opportunities for residents to connect, celebrate American heritage, and enjoy a traditional fish fry with friends and neighbors.

Jackson residents will soon have the opportunity to vote on an initiative aimed at strengthening the community’s future, and supporters say the effort is focused on continued growth, infrastructure, and economic development. Joining us to discuss the “Yes for a Stronger Jackson” campaign is Brian Gerau, who explains how the proposal, which only affects people who stay in hotels, could impact local businesses, public services, and long-term investment in the Jackson area while encouraging voters to stay informed ahead of election day.

London’s growing social unrest, rising antisemitism, and cultural tensions are raising alarms about the future of one of the world’s most historic cities. London native and founder of Reconnecting Ministries Grant Berry joins the program to discuss what he calls the spiritual and moral decline taking place across the United Kingdom, the challenges facing faith communities, and why he believes biblical reconciliation and renewed faith are essential to restoring unity and hope in a deeply divided society.

The Ukrainian Catholic Church is appealing a recent court ruling that church leaders say allows an unlawful double standard in local zoning decisions, raising concerns about unequal treatment of religious organizations under the law. The case challenges actions by local officials that allegedly placed unnecessary burdens on the church’s ability to use its property for religious purposes while permitting similar uses by nonreligious groups. Ryan Gardner, senior counsel with First Liberty Institute, says the appeal is about protecting fundamental religious liberty rights and ensuring government entities cannot selectively enforce zoning regulations against faith-based institutions.

Get ready for a fun-filled day as the City of Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department hosts its annual Summer Bash, bringing families and friends together for a day of entertainment, activities, swimming and community spirit. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Chase Logel joins us to talk about what attendees can expect at this year’s event.

CFACT Analyst Bonner Cohen joins the program to discuss what he calls the “Republican” green energy fantasies driving costly energy policies despite mounting economic and environmental concerns. Cohen examines the political push behind subsidized wind and solar projects, the strain on the electric grid, rising costs to taxpayers and consumers, and the growing list of casualties ranging from lost farmland to weakened domestic energy reliability. He also shares why critics believe both parties have underestimated the long-term consequences of rapid green energy mandates and what policy changes could restore balance to America’s energy future.

Constitutional scholar Ilan Wurman joins us to discuss his new book, The Constitution of 1789: A New Introduction, offering a fresh look at the original meaning, structure and intent of the U.S. Constitution. Wurman explains how the framers designed a system of limited government, separated powers and federalism that continues to shape today’s legal and political debates. He also explores common misconceptions about the Constitution and why understanding the founding document in its historical context remains essential for Americans today.