Podcast
Keystone Reckoning Podcast
Hosted by The Keystone Reckoning Project · EN
The most honest and unfiltered discussion about Pennsylvania progressive politics and policy anywhere. The Keystone Reckoning Project will shine a light on Pennsylvania Republicans at all levels of government in a blunt and brutally honest way, demonstrating that a new messaging strategy can change not only the narrative but, more importantly, the results on Election Day.
10episodes
Episodes
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The MAGA Threat: Defending Democracy with Pat Dennis of American Bridge 21st Century
Oct 29, 202401:02:49Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, we sit down with Pat Dennis, President of American Bridge 21st Century, to pull back the curtain on the chaos machine that is the modern Republican Party. American Bridge isn’t just about keeping tabs on GOP hypocrisy—though there’s enough of that to keep an army busy for years—it’s about putting those receipts in front of voters in a way that actually makes a difference.Pat shares his expertise on opposition research and impactful storytelling that can shift voter perceptions, using real-world examples from battleground states like Pennsylvania. You'll gain a deeper understanding of how campaigns navigate complex environments to hold candidates accountable and influence elections. American Bridge combines relentless research, rapid-response tactics, and paid media to shine a light on what Republicans are saying behind closed doors while showcasing Democrats' real wins for families and businesses.We explore how American Bridge is taking on the major fights of this cycle: Republicans’ quest to control women’s bodies, extremists threatening democracy, and disinformation campaigns. Pat explains how American Bridge’s ads cut through the noise by featuring real people with real stories, reaching suburban, exurban, and rural voters who might otherwise be swayed by GOP fear-mongering. From the rise of the Tea Party to redistricting, we discuss how these shifts have reshaped the Republican landscape and fueled an outrage-driven communication style.Finally, we tackle the complex interplay between media and politics, focusing on figures like Donald Trump and the ongoing challenges to election integrity. We discuss media bias, voter suppression, and the ethical lines in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of transparency and vigilance in safeguarding democratic processes. Pat's insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at the strategic decisions that shape political campaigns and the real-world stakes involved. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the critical role of informed political messaging in today’s divided political climate.Check Out American Bridge 21st Century on YouTube: Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Trump’s Strategy: Skip the Votes, Embrace the Chaos
Oct 22, 202400:29:49Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, we take a hard look at how the 2024 election could unravel democracy, with Pennsylvania right at the heart of the storm. Trump and his allies have refined their chaotic tactics from 2020, and this time, they’re coming prepared. From voter purges to stalling mail-in ballot counts, Republicans are setting the stage to challenge the results before the votes are even fully counted. Their goal? To throw the process into chaos, scream “fraud,” and let misinformation do the rest.Pennsylvania’s mail-in ballot controversies are a prime target, with Republicans blocking sensible reforms like pre-canvassing to intentionally delay results, fueling their fraud narrative. But they’re not stopping there—similar efforts are unfolding in states like Virginia and Wisconsin, with purges of voter rolls and legal challenges designed to disenfranchise voters. We also dive into how media coverage could further distort the reality on election night, especially when delayed counts shift the narrative. This episode is a call to action for Pennsylvanians: be ready to defend democracy, because November 5th is just the beginning.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Yard Signs Don’t Vote… But They Just Might Save Democracy
Oct 8, 202400:24:56Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, we dive into one of the most controversial and misunderstood aspects of political campaigns: yard signs. Sure, yard signs don’t vote—but they just might save democracy this time around. We break down why these small, seemingly insignificant pieces of plastic carry much more weight than they’re given credit for, especially in the chaotic and high-stakes 2024 election.We explore the psychology behind why yard signs matter, from tacit endorsements in your neighborhood to standing up against the aggressive intimidation tactics of Trump supporters. It’s not just about showing support; it’s about sending a clear message that we’re not backing down. With voter suppression, threats of violence, and a Republican Party that refuses to play by the rules, yard signs have become a frontline defense in this unprecedented battle for the soul of our democracy.So, should you put up that Harris-Walz sign? We think so, and we’ll tell you why. Tune in as we unpack the power of yard signs, the hidden psychology of political visibility, and why 2024 is the year these signs could do more than just decorate your lawn—they could help save our democracy.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Coach Walz’s Trick Play: Did Vance's Fumble Set Up Jack Smith’s Long Bomb?
Oct 3, 202400:21:33Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailAre vice-presidential debates really about fiery exchanges, or is there a deeper, strategic game at play? In this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, we dive into the recent face-off between JD Vance and Tim Walz, where Coach Walz ran the ultimate trick play—choosing calm and civility over aggression. We unpack how Walz’s calculated performance forced Vance to fumble a key question about Trump’s 2020 election loss. Drawing parallels to historic debate moments like Bentsen vs. Quayle, we break down how Walz’s approach wasn’t just smart, but a potential game-changer, resonating with undecided voters looking for leadership over bluster.But the real kicker? The play didn’t stop there. The very next day, Special Counsel Jack Smith released a bombshell court filing, reinforcing Walz’s debate strategy by spotlighting Trump’s role in the January 6th insurrection. We’ll break down how the Harris-Walz campaign timed this maneuver perfectly, amplifying the stakes and driving media coverage. By keeping the focus on democracy and using strategic restraint, the Democrats may have set the stage to capture voters’ attention in a way that could reshape the 2024 election.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Vance Serves Up Fake Outrage, Primanti Brothers Pays the Price
Sep 29, 202400:27:13Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, we dive headfirst into J.D. Vance’s campaign disaster at Primanti Brothers in Pittsburgh. Vance's failure to essentially call ahead for reservations turned into a full-blown MAGA meltdown, as Vance and his crew manufactured fake outrage to rile up their base. We break down how Vance’s poorly planned, unannounced visit didn’t just disrupt the restaurant, but also turned Primanti Brothers into the latest pawn in the GOP’s culture war, leaving them to handle the backlash of a social media firestorm and targeted threats.We contrast this fiasco with Kamala Harris’s smooth, pre-planned visit to the same restaurant chain, highlighting the stark difference between genuine outreach and cheap political theater. You’ll also get an insider’s look at the logistics behind political events and how missteps like Vance’s can create public relations nightmares for innocent businesses. Join us for a sharp, witty analysis of how Republicans like Vance use local institutions as props in their grievance politics, while Pittsburgh’s beloved Primanti Brothers is left picking up the pieces.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Stop The Steal 2: Democracy Boogaloo
Sep 25, 202400:29:09Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat if the true threat to our democracy isn't a false narrative of election fraud, but the very real possibility of election theft in 2024? Trump and his MAGA crew are gearing up for another round of election shenanigans in 2024, dusting off their favorite hits: misinformation, voter suppression, and a complete disregard for democracy. But this time, we’re not letting them steal the show—or the election. It’s up to Democrats to flip the script and take control of the narrative before MAGA runs wild again.We’ll break down the sneaky tactics the GOP is using to rig the system—from local power grabs to outright voter suppression—and why this battle matters more than ever. The playbook is out, and the only way to win is to get ahead of it. It’s time to step up, expose the lies, and protect every vote. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and it’s our turn, if not our obligation, to stop the steal.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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Look What You Made Her Do: Taylor Swift's Call To Arms
Sep 18, 202400:20:45Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat if one tweet could swing an entire election? In this episode, we dissect the extraordinary political upheaval ignited by Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris after Donald Trump promoted AI-generated misinformation. Swift's endorsement wasn't just a showing of support; it was a call to arms that her fans appear eager to heed. Trump’s unrestrained behavior—especially his reckless tweet about hating Taylor Swift—has backfired spectacularly.We unravel the complex web of celebrity influence, social media power plays, and misinformation, highlighting how Swift’s strategic responses have not only mobilized her massive fan base but could sway voters across generations. From AI-generated images to savvy denouncements, we dig into how this battle has created a political firestorm that Trump and his MAGA allies never saw coming.This episode offers an eye-opening look at the intersection of pop culture and politics, showing the profound impact a single public figure can have on the democratic process. We also dive into how Swift’s political stance could ripple through households, influencing parents to reconsider their voting decisions based on their children’s activism. Get ready for a deep dive into how this high-profile feud has reshaped the 2024 election dynamics and what it means for both campaigns.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
Transcribe →Is Charleroi the Next Springfield? It Will Be if Trump Keeps Lying.
Sep 18, 202400:24:58Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Keystone Reckoning Podcast, Jesse White draws alarming comparisons between the fear-driven narrative unfolding in Charleroi, PA, and the discredited claims in Springfield, OH, where Trump and J.D. Vance falsely accused Haitian immigrants of eating pets. Jesse highlights how these lies are sowing division and stoking hate, while urging listeners to take action by registering voters and pushing back against MAGA’s dangerous rhetoric. With the election fast approaching, this episode is a timely reminder of what’s at stake for Pennsylvania and the nation.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
Transcribe →Wanna Beat Trump and Actually Save Democracy? Pack the Supreme Court NOW.
Jul 12, 202400:37:54Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat if the only way to protect democracy is to restore checks and balances by expanding the Supreme Court? On this episode of the Keystone Recording podcast, we confront the political chaos shaking our nation to its core. We dissect everything from Supreme Court rulings on presidential immunity to President Biden’s controversial performance, spotlighting the collective anxiety and lack of clear strategies among Democrats aiming to oust Donald Trump. Drawing bold historical parallels to FDR’s New Deal era, we contemplate the idea of court packing as a potentially necessary measure to counteract the Trump and MAGA movement victories.If you’ve been doomscrolling and pondering why everything feels like it’s teetering on the edge, you’re not alone. There’s one simple solution: President Biden needs to pack the Supreme Court NOW. Expect a no-holds-barred look at why Democrats are experts at paralysis by analysis, while Republicans are busy winning with every loophole they can exploit. We’ll revisit FDR’s court-packing attempt and why it’s more relevant now than ever. Plus, hear a clip from FDR himself to remind us that even the greats knew when to shake things up.We need to stop protecting an "institution" that no longer exists. It’s time to stop worrying about the editorial pages and Twitter trolls, and start fighting like our democracy depends on it—because it does.We scrutinize the fierce political climate surrounding Trump and his loyal supporters, whose allegiance is rooted in cultural conflicts and a blatant disregard for facts. We delve into the Democratic response, considering the audacious strategy of expanding the Supreme Court to reignite voter enthusiasm and redefine the election narrative. Could recent Supreme Court decisions provide President Biden and Senate Majority Leader Schumer the leverage to appoint new justices? We explore the ethical controversies and constitutional crises this might provoke.Join us for this cathartic episode where we demand bold action, mock the endless hand-wringing, and get real about what it’s going to take to beat Trump and save democracy. Pack the Supreme Court, President Biden. The time is NOW. Tune in for a blend of wit,Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
Transcribe →Kristi Noem is a Monster. Democrats are Letting Her (and Republicans) Off the Hook.
Apr 30, 202400:25:47Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThe unsettling saga of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and her dog Cricket is more than a controversy; it's a reflection of character that reveals volumes about our political climate. Wrestling with the emotional burden of having to say goodbye to my own pets, I can't help but draw a line in the sand between what's humane and Governor Noem's harrowing actions, as divulged in her upcoming book. This episode is a clarion call to the Democrats—it's time to harness these moments, turning them into indelible marks upon the moral canvas of our political battlefield. Here, not only do I castigate the missed chances in political maneuvering, but I also lay bare the necessity for narratives that strike a chord with the electorate, much like Republicans have mastered with their deceptively simple yet impactful messages.Navigating the murky waters of political scandals, I illustrate the stark disparity in accountability that skews along party lines, imagining how the media would react if the roles were reversed. A personal reflection amplifies the urgency of changing tack, imploring the Democratic Party to wield narrative power and emotional resonance, just as perceptions of the economy often eclipse the factual landscape. I connect the dots between how we treat our animals and our core human values, cautioning against the callousness that culminated in the Capitol riot. It's not just about winning elections; it's about preventing those with a penchant for violence and dehumanization from steering our country's course. This episode isn't merely a recount of events; it's a strategic playbook and a heartfelt plea for political engagement at its most critical.Learn more about the Keystone Reckoning Project at www.keystonereckoning.com Show your support for progressive values with True Blue Gear! Get 20% off bold, pro-democracy apparel—whether you’re rallying for voting rights, climate justice, or reproductive freedom. Use code KEYSTONE at truebluegear.com to gear up, stand out, and make a statement in 2024. Support the showCheck out our previous episodes and subscribe to the podcast at https://keystonereckoning.buzzsprout.com/.Follow the Keystone Reckoning Project on social media:FacebookTwitterInstagramYouTubeLinkedInQuestions? Comments? Ideas for a future episode? Email us at info@keystonereckoning.comSupport us by donating to The Keystone Reckoning Project political action committee, and also check out our partner True Blue Gear for some sweet progressive t-shirts and swag!
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