The Right Idea

Legislative Potpourri for $1,000 Feb 12, 2025

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen tackle the top headlines of the week, from Valentine's Day decorum, to property tax relief, to the lies and damn lies surrounding school choice.

2:17 Hot Take: How long can you date someone and NOT have to buy them a Valentine’s Day gift?
6:50 Property Tax Relief Update
17:17 DOGE cuts nearly $1 billion from Department of Education
22:25 NIH caps non-research funding
25:36 Some in Texas want their own statewide DOGE
29:14 Should Texas be reimbursed for Operation Lone Star?
32:13 Survey Says!
32:46 Taxpayer funded lobbying
34:09 Housing affordability
35:29 Texas State Border Security Agency
35:47 Nuclear Power
36:21 Bail Reform (the numbers appear split)
39:40 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics - School Choice Myths
45:08 What’re you watching?

Governor Abbott’s Emergency Items Feb 06, 2025

This week, Brian Phillips and TPPF’s Vice President of Policy, Andrew Brown, discuss Governor Abbott’s State of the State address, in which he outlined his top priorities for the 89th Legislative Session.

1:46 Hot Take: Best / Worst Trades in Sports History
9:06 Property Tax Relief
16:08 Water
22:07 Education
31:09 Bail Reform
35:06 The Texas Cyber Command
43:57 Survey Says: GOP & American public on the same page
51:55 What’re you watching?

News of the Week in Texas and D.C. Jan 29, 2025

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen tackle the top headlines of the week, from the NFL cheers, jeers and tears to the State’s 89th Legislative Session and the quick moves Trump has made nationally in merely two weeks since his inauguration.

7:03 Hot Take: Who will win the Super Bowl… and who cares?
10:24 Governor Abbott announced that he will give his State of the State address on Sunday, where he will reveal his top priorities for the 89th Legislative Session
21:16 Lieutenant Governor Patrick announced his top 40 priorities
29:07 School Choice is Winning!
39:13 Border Security
48:07 Trump swiftly downsizes the federal workforce

Securing Texas and the Nation with Selene Rodriguez Jan 23, 2025

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen are joined by TPPF’s Secure & Sovereign Texas Campaign Director, Selene Rodriguez, to dive into President Trump’s Executive Orders and other plans to secure our southern border.

1:24 Hot Take: Who would be your unexpected band to headline YOUR inauguration party?
6:13 What are President Trump’s border security oriented Executive Orders?
30:11 Survey Says! U.S. leaders’ approval ratings
34:59 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: Public school employment is up while enrollment is down
41:09 What to watch for

Fiscal Sanity with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar Jan 20, 2025

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen are joined by the State of Texas’ Comptroller of Public Accounts, Glenn Hegar, to discuss the current and future state of Texas’ financial integrity.

1:17 Hot Take: What’s your favorite rumor or myth about the Texas Capitol?
4:53 Guest Interview: Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar
29:17 Survey Says: America has lost ground over the past four years
35:46 Lies, Damn Lies, Statistics: Squatting in Texas
46:53 What to Watch For

The Biggest Issues for 2025 with Andrew Brown Jan 09, 2025

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen discuss the upcoming Texas Legislative Session and the key issues that lie ahead with TPPF’s Vice President of Policy, Andrew Brown.

1:24 Hot Take: New Year’s Resolutions
5:55 Parent Empowerment
8:34 Water
10:55 The Economy
12:37 Property Taxes
16:59 School Choice/Parent Empowerment
25:11 The Border
30:40 Energy
34:36 Higher Education / DEI
36:14 Housing Affordability
40:10 Technology Policies
43:12 Survey Says! Healthcare!
49:33 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: Gambling In Texas
59:24 What to watch for

The Year In Review with Brad Johnson Dec 12, 2024

Brian and Derek are joined by The Texan’s Senior Reporter, Brad Johnson, to take a fun look back at 2024 and reflect on the year’s highlights, lowlights and even lower lights, typically stemming from AT&T Stadium.

1:27 Hot Take: The O.H.I.O. Sportsmanship Act would make planting a flag in the center of Ohio Stadium a felony. Overreach much?
4:37 Overall Year In Review
6:32 2024’s Biggest Wins
14:32 2024’s Biggest Disappointments
23:18 2024’s Biggest Stories
31:35 The Year’s Biggest Surprises
43:11 Politician of the Year
47:17 Texan of the Year
57:44 What are we looking forward to?

“In Depth”: Crime, Punishment & All Things In Between with Matt Logan Dec 03, 2024

In this “In Depth” episode, Derek Cohen and Texas State University professor Matt Logan discuss Matt’s upcoming criminal justice paper in City Journal and how criminal justice policy at the state and federal levels might change following recent election results.

"In Depth": How the Assault on Marriage Is Destroying Democracy with Conn Carroll Nov 21, 2024

In this “In Depth” episode, Brian discusses the cultural battles being fought from Washington D.C. to Main Street, U.S.A. for and against the nuclear family and the institution of marriage with the Washington Examiner’s Conn Carroll.

“In Depth” Looking Forward with Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian Nov 20, 2024

Brian Phillips and Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian discuss the role of the Railroad Commission, the Inflation Reduction Act, the Texas energy grid, and ESG.

3:18 Commissioner Christian’s thoughts on the election results and what’s to come
7:14 Efficient Energy Creating and Usage
8:21 What will it be like in having a partner in energy policy in Washington, D.C instead of a foe?
11:38 What is the Railroad Commission’s approach to both encouraging energy development and making sure Texas’ consumers are protected?
13:14 What is the role of the Texas Railroad Commission?
14:53 What efforts are made in educating the public about energy creating and efficiency?
17:35 Green New Deal, Inflation Reduction Act and other farces that mean the same thing
24:41 Lessons learned from Winter Storm Uri in 2021 aka “Snowmaggedon”
29:32 What is the Texas Reliable Energy Caucus?
33:21 ESG - What is it and what threats does it impose?
36:46 The Federal Energy Super Team that President Elect Trump is assembling
38:25 In what ways does the Railroad Commission protect the water supply for Texans?

Post Election Analysis with Greg Sindelar Nov 07, 2024

TPPF CEO Greg Sindelar chats with Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen about the 2024 presidential election, the downstream effects the presidency will have on Texas, and the upstream effects that Texas’ local results will have on the nation.

2:30 Hot Take: What is the best trilogy ever? (Matrix, Star Wars, LOTR, or… Trump?)
8:11 2024 Presidential Election Analysis
34:58 The Election’s impact on Texas
37:06 Survey Says! There was a ‘UGE shift from Dem to Rep in Hispanic men across the country. Why? Does it mean anything?
49:48 Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics: Is Demography Destiny or Dead?
53:14 What’s next?

Fighting for Transparency with James Quintero Oct 24, 2024

TPPF’s Taxpayer Protection Project Policy Director, James Quintero, talks government transparency with Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen. They discuss the challenges citizens face requesting information from bureaucrats and policy solutions to better inform the public about how their tax dollars are being used.

0:33 Hot Take: What is Trump’s fantasy football value & can he be flexed?
9:49 Our current system doesn’t allow the public to remain informed
10:29 Their game plan: “Disregard, Delay & Deny”
29:40 Sunshine Week
41:19 Survey Says: 48% of Texan Latinos back Trump (10% increase from 2020)
47:01 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: subsidizing unreliable energy sources

“In Depth” Standing Up for What’s Right with Rep. Shawn Thierry Oct 03, 2024

In this “In Depth” episode of The Right Idea, Brian is joined by special guests Dr. Richard Johnson and State Representative Shawn Thierry to discuss the Representative’s battles to stand up for what is right and true at the peril of her own career.

2:26 Rep. Thierry’s experiences during the 2023 Pediatric Gender Modification debate
13:05 Were there substantive discussions regarding the Pediatric Gender Modification Bill?
15:50 Voting to keep your seat vs. voting for what’s right for Texans
19:25 Rep. Thierry’s truly courageous display
23:20 The small but very influential group that steers the left
47:44 The “jumping the shark” moment
31:16 Abandoning what works for Texans for ulterior motives
37:15 Glimmers of hope in an otherwise dark situation
43:44 Has all of Rep. Thierry’s trials and tribulations this year opened new doors for her?

Saving Civilization by Getting Married with Brad Wilcox Oct 01, 2024

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen are joined by sociology professor Brad Wilcox to discuss his recent findings on rebuilding society by forging strong families. Brad's new book, Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization, is available now.

0:48 Hot Take - How old is too old for ACL and other outdoor festivals?
3:15 Brad Wilcox - Author of Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization
4:30 What are the problems that are rooted in America’s decline in marriage?
16:45 The Bright Side - groups of Americans that are doing well
20:55 Brad gets to work alongside young America - the very subjects of his findings
25:50 How can A.I. affect marriage and relationships in the future?
28:36 Busting myths regarding 21st century relationships (especially the Flying Solo Myth & Soulmate Myth)
32:10 The Success Sequence!
34:55 “Family First” in next year’s Legislative Session
37:05 State legislatures who are putting families first
39:05 Survey Says! Are Presidential debates relevant anymore?
43:25 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: Is Gen Z unhirable?
46:45 What’re you watching?

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“In Depth” with Open Education Resource Advisory Board Member Dr. Marvin McNeese Sep 30, 2024

In this “In Depth” episode of The Right Idea, Brian is joined by special guest Dr. Marvin McNeese to discuss his role, responsibilities and perspectives on the Open Education Resources (OER) Curricula and Assessments - especially when it comes to introducing Biblical histories and lessons to Texan students.

4:40 Dr. McNeese’s role and expectations in Texas’ Open Education Resources (OER) Curricula
5:35 OER’s perspectives on cross-curricular education methods
7:15 Including or excluding Biblical lessons and history in public schools
8:59 TPPF poll reflects that a majority of Texans including Biblical references in public school curriculum
9:44 What if public school teachers refuse to use OER Curricula?
10:20 How would the board, and Dr. McNeese personally, address concerned parents?
12:14 Understanding secular history is impossible without Biblical context
15:00 “Whitewashing” Christianity
17:05 Addressing the “You’re being heavy handed” criticism

The Grid, The Border, The Future with Sen. Phil King Sep 05, 2024

In a very special episode of The Right Idea, Derek is joined by Texas Senator Phil King to discuss several of the hottest issues facing Texans today… including whether or not this is the year for the Dallas Cowboys!

3:18 Hot Take: Will 2024 finally be the Cowboys’ year?
4:55 The Grid
19:30 Border Security
27:25 Anti-ESG/BDS legislation
34:20 Preview of the 89th Texas Legislature
40:05 Survey Says! Polls indicate a virtual tie between Trump & Harris

SPN, DNC and other 3-Letter Anomalies with Andrew Brown Aug 23, 2024

Derek is joined by guest host Andrew Brown to discuss their adventures at the recent State Policy Network Annual Meeting, including learning what states are doing in regard to child welfare.

1:09 Fantasy Football Auto-Drafts… AI for dudes who don’t know ball?
4:09 SPN’s Annual Meeting: Child Welfare Panel Discussion
11:30 Interesting things happening in other states
17:44 2024 Democratic National Convention: Four Days Like No Other
27:53 “Pro-lifers for Kamala” or “Why are Never Trumpers Such Cheap Dates?”
35:40 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: Will RFK’s endorsement mean anything?

"In Depth" Lessons In Texas Education with Rep. Brad Buckley Aug 08, 2024

Brian has the pleasure of sitting down with Public Education Committee Chairman Brad Buckley, Representative of Texas District 54, to discuss what is being done throughout the state to make sure that today’s young Texans are receiving the education they deserve.

Longing for “Precedented Times” with Chris Bedford Jul 26, 2024

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s guest, Chris Bedford - Senior Editor for Politics and Washington Correspondent for Blaze Media - to discuss the unprecedented times we have been living through in these past two weeks alone!

The Right Idea "In Depth" | Open Education Resources with Dr. Tom Lindsay Jul 25, 2024

Brian has the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Tom Lindsay to discuss how today's K-12 students are being educated and what options are available to parents and teachers across the state.

“Girl Power” with Shelley Luther and Ariana Guajardo Jul 12, 2024

Brian Phillips and this week’s special guest host, Ariana Guajardo, “zoom in” with Shelley Luther - business owner, activist and candidate to represent Texas’ House District 62 - to discuss today’s hot topics.

1:25 Hot Take: Trump vs. Biden on the links!
4:35 The worst two weeks in Presidential Campaign history
8:45 The shift in the media’s treatment of President Biden
12:28 What are “women’s issues”?
15:17 School Choice
25:32 Protecting women in women’s sports
31:25 Drafting our daughters?
35:03 The Border
45:14 Survey Says!
48:10 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics
50:38 What to watch for

“LIVE” from the Texas GOP Convention Jun 14, 2024

Brian and Derek sit down with several key legislators, influencers, journalists and others “fighting the good fight” at the 2024 Texas State Republican Convention in San Antonio.

22:18 Senator Mayes Middleton
40:11 Tyler Norris
1:02:35 Senator Kevin Sparks
1:18:47 Representative James Frank
1:37:42 Brad Johnson
2:00:02 Hannah Beth Jones

Biden, Trump, the Border and More with Texas State Representative David Spiller Jun 05, 2024

Brian Phillips and Andrew Brown are joined by Texas House District 68 Representative David Spiller to discuss a variety of topics ranging from national presidential politics to local schools and our southern border.

0:54 Hot Takes: Caitlin-Gate - Dirty play or “Welcome to the league, Rook!”?
4:28 Political fallout after the Trump verdict
12:06 A house divided? 50% agree with Trump decision, 49% disagree
13:17 Biden’s Border Executive Order
20:55 Texas Border Security - What more can be done at the state level?
24:13 School Choice - post election analysis
34:34 Taxpayer Funded Lobbying
41:35 Survey Says: Should state governments financially subsidize local news outlets?
45:08 Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: Local Government Debt - 40% is local SCHOOL DEBT!
49:13 What to watch for: Trump’s poll numbers post-conviction

2024 Texas Runoff Election Reactions with Sherry Sylvester and Tyler Norris Jun 01, 2024

Brian and Derek sit down with Texas-based political consultant Tyler Norris and TPPF’s Distinguished Senior Fellow Sherry Sylvester to discuss the aftermath of the May 2024 Texas runoff election results.

0:50 Hot Takes: The Trial of the Century!
4:25 Initial reactions to May 2024 Runoff Election Results
4:44 Big Winner: School Choice
8:14 The New Politics: Are we more conservative or is it just a food fight?
17:20 Phase Two of Parent Empowerment
24:35 Property Tax Reform, School Safety and D.E.I.
27:55 New Issues to look forward to in 2025
30:35 Taxpayer Funded Lobbying
33:28 New Issue for Democrats to Fight?
40:21 Survey Says: During the pandemic, how much information released by the federal government was intentionally false and misleading?
44:40: Lies, Damn Lies & Statistics: TEA’s Mike Morath: Less than 20% of K-5 reading material is on grade level in Texas
50:37 What To Watch For: Dominos falling after Trump verdict
51:27 Dallas Professional Sports

DEI with Jonathan Pidluzny of America First Policy Institute May 17, 2024

Episode 50! Brian and Derek sit down with Jonathan Pidluzny, the Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at America First Policy Institute, to discuss the current status and influence of DEI on our college and university campuses and much more.

0:34 Hot Takes: Will the Cowboys and/or Texans eclipse 10 wins in 2024?
8:26 Special guest: Jonathan Pidluzny of the America First Policy Institute
9:05 Jonathan’s overall take on Texas’ response to DEI on college campuses
10:09 The overarching aims of DEI administrators
10:58 Texas as compared to other states with different approaches to DEI in education
13:27 The pervasiveness of DEI… even in Texas
15:16 What’s next to do?
16:58 What’s next for the Texas Legislature to do?
19:06 DEI’s relationship to Pro-Palestine protests
22:00 Outside groups and their influence on collegians
25:00 Overall instability as an objective
28:15 What’s the overall response & compliance levels to Texas and other states’ laws regarding DEI?
30:41 What does the public think about special programs for “marginalized people”?
35:50 Is college still worth it?
38:10 Are tribal politics interfering with what colleges and universities should be doing?
39:40 SURVEY SAYS! Polling data in the news: Immigration
45:19 LIES, DAMN LIES & STATISTICS: Relevant research: Educational spending in Texas
51:20 WHAT’RE YOU WATCHING? How will Texas grid do this summer?

Rebel Tech with Zach Whiting and David Dunmoyer May 04, 2024

Brian and Derek sit down with Better Tech for Tomorrow’s David Dunmoyer and the Honorable Zach Whiting to discuss the pros, cons, and oversight efforts surrounding A.I., digital safety for Texas families and much more.

0:20 Hot Takes: Will Biden debate Trump in person?
5:45 Conservative Approach to Tech Policy
10:55 AI: good, bad, or ugly?
35:15 The Government’s role in overseeing Technology
45:00 Survey Says! - polling data in the news
48:20 Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics – 10k illegal aliens flown into Texas!
51:00 What You're Watching – preview upcoming/developing stories

Check out the new Rebel Tech podcast for more on tech policy.

What Are They Really Protesting with Garrit Blizzard May 01, 2024

In this special episode of The Right Idea, Brian and Derek sit down with UT Senior and Editor-in-Chief of The Texas Horn, Gerrit Blizzard, to discuss the recent upheaval at the University of Texas.

Episode 47: The Left’s Squatter’s Rights with Chance Weldon Apr 19, 2024

Brian and Derek have the pleasure of sitting down with TPPF’s Director of Litigation, Chance Weldon, to discuss Olympic break dancing, squatter's rights (or the lack thereof), overpaid superintendents, and much more.

0:55 Olympic Breakin’: Electric Boogaloo
4:05 Squatting in America
19:25 Governor Abbott’s warning to squatters
30:30 Survey Says! 75% think the cost of living is rising, 7% can’t do math
36:00 Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics - 91 TX superintendents make over $300k
42:50 What’re You Watching?

Politics, Family, Investing & the Meaning of Life with David Bahnsen Apr 01, 2024

Brian and Derek have the pleasure of sitting down with author, podcast host and founder of the Bahnsen Group, David Bahnsen, to discuss millennials’ attitudes towards work and retirement, the myth of “work/life balance,” the truth behind ESG investing, and much more.

0:23 Hot Take: Willie Nelson taking his Fourth of July Picnic to Jersey?
3:14 Overview of David’s new book: “Full Time: Work and the Meaning of Life”
4:03 The Myth of “work/life balance”
7:45 The importance of faith and work… and how God created us to work
10:45 The connection of work and life’s purpose
11:50 The too-typical millennial mindset towards retirement
14:45 “The New Right” and their Marxist attitudes towards work
18:50 State intervention on the labor force (including minimum wage)
23:40 Trends towards or away from family growth and development vs. career growth and development
27:00 ESG investing
33:30 Are activists intentionally trying to take down Texas oil companies?
35:44 Texas’ Permanent School Fund recently divested $8.5 billion from BlackRock over ESG investing
38:52 What can the average person do?

Forging New Ground in Education with Jacob Howland Mar 27, 2024

Brian and Derek have the pleasure of sitting down with Jacob Howland, the Provost and Dean of Intellectual Foundations at University of Austin, to discuss the need for an entirely new type of university in response to young Americans turning away from higher education… and for good reasons.

3:55 Jacob Howland’s victory lap for UATX
6:40 The Left’s argument against higher learning like University of Austin
8:00 What sets UATX’s curriculum apart from most other universities?
13:40 What kind of faculty and students is UATX looking for, and how do they find them?
19:35 The problem with faculty and administrators at most American universities
25:14 UATX is the only university in the U.S. with a Constitution
32:50 How can UATX escape wokeness but maintain funding?
35:55 UATX location - navigating East 6th & West 6th
38:28 How will UATX face Austin’s predictable onslaught of protests?
39:55 How is the Left likely to respond to conservative universities?
42:15 Will other places of higher learning be positively influenced by UATX?
43:45 How does UATX respond to the public’s primary concerns: Cost, Quality of Education and Ideology of the University?

Opening the Books with Adam Andrzejewski Mar 18, 2024

Brian and Derek have the pleasure of sitting down with the CEO and Founder of OpenTheBooks.com, Adam Andrzejewski, who works to promote transparency in public policy and politics by removing the veil of secrecy that covers up national and local spending.

2:10 What is OpenTheBooks.com?
3:45 How “Free and transparent” are Freedom of Information Act requests?
6:20 Texas’ reforms regarding government transparency
10:40 America’s trust in its government
12:50 How is America really spending money to “protect” our southern border?
22:10 How effective is our education spending?
27:35 The ties between education, parental empowerment and Open the Books
31:50 Efficiency Audits on local jurisdictions
34:40 The worst spending atrocities Open the Books has discovered
36:47 How bad did COVID spending get and what did it lead to?

Super Tuesday Reaction with Sherry Sylvester Mar 07, 2024

Brian and Derek have the pleasure of sitting down with TPPF’s Distinguished Senior Fellow Sherry Sylvester to discuss the results of the 2024 Primary Election, from a national, statewide and local perspective.

2:26 Derek’s take on the major headlines coming out of Tuesday’s results - Parents Win!
3:19 Sherry’s take on the big winners and losers - Don’t mess with Governor Abbott
6:04 How School Choice impacted Texas statewide
9:50 The Media’s coverage of Super Tuesday
17:43 School Choice Support in the 89th Legislature
19:35 What will the School Choice debate look like next year?
26:15 George Soros failed
35:49 Who are Texas’ new Congressional candidates?
39:22 New Senator hazing

Philosophy of Freedom with Dan McLaughlin Feb 23, 2024

TPPF Vice President of Research Derek Cohen interviews National Review senior writer Dan McLaughlin about the philosophy of conservatism, the current state of politics and policy, and Major League Baseball.

The Super Bowl and Super Flaws of the Senate Border Bill Feb 08, 2024

In this week’s episode of The Right Idea, Brian and Derek discuss The Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, and the global “sport” of polling and politics!

SB 14 - Banning Pediatric Gender Modification with Andrew Brown and Chance Weldon Feb 01, 2024

Brian Phillips is joined by TPPF's Vice President of Policy, Andrew Brown, and Director of Litigation, Chance Weldon, to discuss Texas Senate Bill 14, which prohibits gender modification procedures for children in the state.

An "Incredibly Powerful" Discussion with Mark Mills Jan 25, 2024

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s special guest, TPPF’s Distinguished Senior Fellow, Mark Mills for an intriguing discussion regarding the impact that leftist green initiatives have made on our industries, personal lives and economy.

Immigration & Border Security with Josh Treviño Jan 11, 2024

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s special guest, TPPF’s Chief of Intelligence & Research and Director for Texas Identity, Joshua Treviño for a lively discussion regarding the current status of the crisis along our southern border and beyond, as well as predictions for what 2024 might have in store for Texas.

3:00 Derek’s Interim Update
8:45 Overview of current Texas - Mexico relationship
11:40 Explosion - even INVASION of illegals crossing our southern border
17:55 Border crisis affecting “sanctuary cities”
20:40 Biden Administration Sues Texas to Stop Enforcement of State Law Criminalizing Illegal Immigration
22:05 TPPF Predicted it: The Feds Just Messed With Texas Over Buoys — And Sided With Cartel-Driven Mexico
22:45 Biden is asking for Mexican help to stop the record surge of migrants. Here's what Mexico wants in return.
27:25 Universal opinion on securing the border from law enforcement… so why isn’t it happening?
30:55 If a Republican takes the White House, what changes can be made immediately?
36:00 Predictions for 2024 - Biggest issues for GOP/Dems this election year?
40:40 GOP and Dem presidential nominee? Winner?
43:15 Super Bowl?

“The Righties” 2023 Year End Wrap-Up with Brad Johnson Dec 15, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s special guest, Senior Reporter for the Texan, Brad Johnson, for a year in review episode where the trio hands out “The Righties.”

5:45 Biggest Stories of 2023
15:15 Biggest Wins of 2023
20:20 Biggest Disappointments of 2023
34:10 Biggest Surprises of the Year
39:25 Legislators of the Year
47:10 Texans of the Year

Election Integrity with Josh Findlay Nov 30, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by Josh Findlay, Director of TPPF's new National Election Protection Project, to discuss the current state of our elections and efforts being made to make them more secure and trustworthy for everyone.

1:30 Derek’s Lege-Land Update
1:45 School Choice in Special Session #4
7:20 Border Safety Legislative Wins
12:10 Interview with Josh Findlay
17:40 Is there a path to election “normalcy”?
20:45 Addressing states with histories of election issues
25:15 What is Rank Choice Voting?
30:55 What are the greatest threats to the 2024 election?
35:00 Broader issues that could undermine future elections
39:15 Are Texas elections secure?
41:10 NGO’s, Zuck Bucks, drop boxes and the impacts they can have on elections
43:55 Have election reforms caused a decrease in voter turnout?

Special Session Update and School Choice with Dr. J Nov 16, 2023

In this special episode, Brian and Derek are joined by Dr. Richard Johnson, Director of the Booker T. Washington Initiative and Senior Fellow for Urban Education at TPPF to discuss School Choice and the potential impacts it has on Texan families.

2:20 Derek’s Lege-Land Update
6:20 School Choice with Dr. J
10:50 Potential Impact of School Choice on the African-American Community
13:20 Odds of School Choice Actually Happening in this Session
17:45 Opportunities that Potentially Stand Before Families Throughout Texas
20:15 False Suppositions Batted Around by Decision Makers
24:40 School Choice and Private School Myths vs. Truths
28:55 Why Would Parents Across Texas Want School Choice?
33:35 School Choice and the State’s Religious Communities
35:55 The Myth of “Using Public Dollars to Fund Religious Schools”
39:45 Predictions
42:55 Dr. Johnson’s Message to School Choice Activists

To learn more about School Choice, Parental Empowerment and ways to get involved, visit TXParentsMatter.com.

Special Session and School Choice with Senator Brandon Creighton Nov 01, 2023

In this special episode, Brian and Derek are joined by State Senator Brandon Creighton to discuss the current Special Session and the truths versus myths surrounding School Choice.

School Choice Special Oct 23, 2023

In this special episode, TPPF's Brian Phillips sits down with a variety of parents, pastors, and activists from across the state who share their stories about how empowering parents and creating Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) will lift our children’s educational experiences to new heights.

0:55 Brenda Howard
12:05 Richard Vega
23:05 Jerry Davis
34:05 Alexa Arcila

Border Crisis Update with Selene Rodriguez Oct 19, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s guest, Selene Rodriguez to share her firsthand experiences and observations from her recent trip to Del Rio and Eagle Pass, where she witnessed the ugly truth of what is happening along our southern border.

1:20 Derek’s “Lege-land Update” regarding the Special Session
8:55 Border Buoys - Truth vs. Myth
10:00 Firsthand River Rush
13:00 U.S. Vulnerability Due to Unchecked Immigration
16:30 Local Residents’ Takes on the Border Crisis
22:05 Current Legislation Regarding the Border
31:00 The Wall
33:20 Is the Federal Government Doing Anything At All?

Health Care Dilemmas and Solutions with Tanner Aliff Oct 12, 2023

Brian is joined by this week’s guest, Tanner Aliff, to make sense out of one of the most confusing aspects of life that we all have to deal with - medical insurance.

School Choice with Mandy Drogin Sep 22, 2023

Next Generation Texas Campaign Director Mandy Drogin stops by to discuss school choice and empowering parents in their kids’ education.

Check out TXParentsMatter.com for more information.

2:20 What Led Texas to Another Special Session
10:05 Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)
33:15 Debunking School Funding Myths

Caring for Our Children, Gender Modification, Texas Grid, and Buoys Sep 07, 2023

Derek is joined by this week’s guest host, Andrew Brown, to discuss the foster care system, the child gender modification debate, trends in higher education, a close call with the Texas grid, and the legal battle over Texas' buoy barrier on the border.

1:58 Meet TPPF's Andrew Brown
4:03 Conservative Child Welfare Policy
12:57 Legislative Process Talk
17:41 Child Gender Modification (SB 14)
28:56 The State of Higher Education
37:59 The Texas Grid's Close Call
45:45 Texas' Buoy Barrier Dispute

Property Taxes For Dummies (and Policy Junkies) Aug 24, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s guest, James Quintero to discuss the issues and trends that drive Texas, especially regarding the largest property tax cut in state history.

The Girls of Sweet Tea! Aug 11, 2023

With Derek out of town, Brian is joined by this week’s guest hosts, Ariana Silva and Taylor Dawson to discuss the issues and trends that drive Texas, especially regarding effective ways to communicate in the 21st century.

The Struggles At, Below and Surrounding our Southern Border Jul 31, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by this week’s guest host, Melissa Ford, to discuss the struggles at, below and surrounding our southern border, the quality of life in Texas, and the “Death Star” bill’s (non-)impact on local water break ordinances.

Historic Property Tax Break, 21st Century Energy & ChatGPTacos! Jul 13, 2023

Brian is joined by this week’s guest host, Jason Isaac, to discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: the largest property tax break in state history, energy in the 21st century and AI tacos!

Conservative Values Rule the Polls, Keller ISD Fights the Woke & SBOE Approves New Charters Jun 30, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: a recap of the first and preview of this year’s second Special Session, a look into new polling that confirms conservative priorities, the ISD fight against the Woke Agenda, DeSantis’ new Border Plan and a big shift on approving new public school charters.

Beating the Heat without DEI, California Fleein’ & Cigarettes over Tesla Jun 15, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: the real problem within property tax reform, new laws signed by the Governor, California Senator says it’s time to FLEE and cigarettes score higher than Teslas!

Aliens, New Laws and School Choice, OH MY! Jun 09, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: a look back on the 88th Legislative Session, a peek into the current Special Session regarding Border Security and Property Taxes, and peering into future Special Sessions regarding School Choice.

88th Legislature Session Recap Jun 01, 2023

In this week’s special presentation of The Right Idea, Derek takes part in a panel discussion recapping Texas’ 88th Legislature Session with TPPF’s Greg Sindelar, Sherry Sylvester and Andrew Brown.

Can We Finally Say the S-Word? May 25, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas.

School Choice Pause, Immigration Buses & Gender Mod Courtbound May 19, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: the decline of Austin in the USA News rankings for greatest cities in America, with Austin falling out of the top 10 and ranking at number 40. They also mention the parent empowerment pause, illegal immigrants getting rocky mountain high in Colorado, and developments in the Texas House regarding property tax. The main focus of the update, however, is on SB12, which would block minors from attending sexually explicit performances, and the breaking news surrounding its passage.

Border Crisis, Raising the Age for rifles & Itemized Med Bills May 11, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: the emergency at our southern border, Texas’ recently passed border security legislation, Republicans wanting to “raise the age” to buy rifles, a parent’s worst nightmare – and the school that made it worse. And finally, some good news! Bill passes to give patients more info.

Chubbing, Pediatric Gender Mod Bill Delay, Chicago Border Dispute & Presidential Property Tax Advice May 03, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the week’s hottest legislative topics including Legislative “Chubbing”, the Senate’s Pediatric Gender Modification Ban, the war of words between Abbott & Lightfoot and President Trump’s input regarding Texas’ Property Tax Policy.

School funding, gender modding kids and the truth behind Texas Legislature’s late night sessions. Apr 27, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the week’s hottest legislative topics including Biden’s re-election campaign announcement, online safety and security for children, Texas House approving $4.5 billion in school funding, legislation cracking down on pediatric gender modification, and mythbusting the opinion that the Texas Legislature is hiding from its constituents.

The 88th Legislature’s “pace of play”, the READER Act, the Death Star Act & Border Security Apr 21, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the week’s hottest legislative topics including the pace of Texas’ 88th Legislature and the odds on whether or not we will see special sessions, property tax reform, keeping sexually explicit materials out of public school libraries, the Regulatory Consistency Act (aka Death Star Bill), eliminating funding for Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity departments in our public universities and Border Security and Immigration.

ESA’s, Border Security, Mental Health, DPS in Austin and University Tenure Apr 13, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the week’s hottest legislative headlines including the debates over Education Savings Accounts, Border Security and Mental Health Services. Then they mythbust Texas’ State University Tenure policies.

School Choice, Drag Show Myth vs. Reality & Trump’s Trumped Up Charges Apr 06, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss the week’s hottest legislative headlines including School Choice, Parent’s Rights, Elimination of DEI at Texas Public Universities, Itemized Medical Billing, Drag Shows and Children and President Trump’s “trumped up” Indictment.

The Transformation of Legacy Media with The Texan’s Brad Johnson Mar 30, 2023

Brian and Derek are joined by Senior Reporter for the Texan, Brad Johnson to discuss the week’s hottest legislative headlines including The Great Honey Debate, Property Taxes, Border Security and the state’s Legacy Media.

Universal School Choice, The READER Act, Taxes & Tech Mar 23, 2023

Brian and Derek take on the week’s hottest legislative headlines and discuss the current happenings in the State Legislature, Universal School Choice and the status of several key pieces of legislation

Border Crisis, Property Taxes & HISD Takeover Mar 18, 2023

Brian and Derek take on the week’s hottest legislative headlines and discuss the crisis at the Mexican border, the debate over lowering property taxes and the State’s takeover of the Houston Independent School District.

Presidential Politics, LGBTQ & the LAW and Parental Empowerment with Lauren Hickmott Mar 09, 2023

Brian and Derek take on the week’s hottest legislative headlines and discuss the latest battle lines being drown in the world of Presidential Politics. Then, they address the truth and lies that are tossed about regarding Texas laws and how they affect our children and the LGBTQ community. Finally, Brian sits down with former teacher and concerned parent, Lauren Hickmott who shares her experience with curriculum and politics in today’s schools.

Live from Texas Policy Summit Mar 02, 2023

Biden Reinstates Asylum Rule, Election Oversight & Public Safety Feb 23, 2023

Abbott’s State of the State, Texas AG Sues Biden & Health Care Price Transparency Feb 16, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss a wide range of current events including their predictions on Governor Abbott's State of the State Address, Texas Attorney General filing suit against Joe Biden regarding the legality of his Omnibus Bill and Health Care Price Transparency.

Biden’s State of the Union, Abbott bans DEI programs & Taxpayer Funded Lobbying Feb 09, 2023

Brian and Derek discuss a wide range of current events including their Super Bowl picks, Joe Biden’s State of the Union Address, Governor Abbott banning DEI programs in employment and Taxpayer Funded Lobbying.

Border Crisis, Parent Empowerment, Social Media & Kids Feb 03, 2023

Special guest, former U.S. Representative Mayra Flores joins Brian and Derek as they discuss the U.S./Mexico Border Crisis, Parent Empowerment, Fossil Fuels and Social Media and our Children.

Jobs report, teachers' pay rates and pediatric gender modification Jan 27, 2023

Brian and Derek react to the latest jobs report, Texas teachers' pay rates and the legislative and cultural debate of gender modification and children.

Committees, Empowering Parents, and Democrat Messaging Strategy Jan 24, 2023

TPPF Chief Communications Officer Brian Phillips and Vice President of Policy Derek Cohen, Ph.D. discuss the latest news from Texas' 88th Legislative Session. Here's today's rundown:
0:00 Welcome
13:20 The Future of Texas Property Taxes
15:25 School Safety
20:20 Are Texas Democrats Rebranding?
24:45 Parent Empowerment

The Texas Public Policy Foundation’s mission is to promote and defend liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise in Texas and the nation by educating and affecting policymakers and the Texas public policy debate with academically sound research and outreach.

Funded by thousands of individuals, foundations, and corporations, the Foundation does not accept government funds or contributions to influence the outcomes of its research.

The public is demanding a different direction for their government, and the Texas Public Policy Foundation is providing the ideas that enable policymakers to chart that new course.

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The 88th Texas Legislature Is In Session Jan 12, 2023

Brian Phillips and Derek Cohen discuss the day's events in Texas legislation. This episode sets the stage for the great things to come from Texas Public Policy Foundation's newest podcast!

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