Podcast
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Hosted by Michael Brodkorb · EN
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky provides a unique insight into politics, policies, and news of the day by injecting humor, personal stories, and blunt analysis of the political environment – all with a refreshing and entertaining perspective. While Michael Brodkorb is no stranger to sharing his analysis and commentary about politics on both sides of the aisle, Becky Scherr has spent the last decade working behind the scenes. She will take a new opportunity to share a unique view – and serve as the podcast's co-host.
michaelbrodkorb.substack.com
michaelbrodkorb.substack.com
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
A Break Down on Another ICE Shooting and the Rising Outrage
Jan 2901:29:46Tap to summarizeIn this emotionally charged episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb tackle recent tragic events involving ICE in Minnesota. They focus on the tragic shooting death of Alex Pretti by a border control agent, with layered discussions on the subsequent political, public, and administrative reactions.The episode delves into the impacts on local and national politics, including the 2026 elections, and the impending Congressional funding package.Michael and Becky also critique the current federal immigration enforcement operations and their broader implications on the Second Amendment and public sentiment. Notably, the episode offers insights into the urgent need for transparent, cooperative investigations.Join them for a comprehensive breakdown of these critical issues shaking Minnesota and the nation.* 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview* 01:01 The Shooting of Alex Preddi* 02:36 Public and Personal Reactions* 09:05 Government Response and Controversies* 44:30 Reflecting on Republican Values and the Second Amendment* 45:57 Applauding Local Leaders for Their Actions* 48:04 Current Political Realities and Legislative Challenges* 52:36 Impact of ICE Operations and Future Implications* 54:49 Public Opinion and Political Implications* 55:48 Impact on 2026 Elections* 01:03:33 Republican Messaging and Immigration Policy* 01:27:23 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksThe Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!NOTE: Here is a link to Michael’s Substack post that he mentioned during this episode. Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe
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A Break Down on the Battle Over ICE in Minnesota
Jan 2301:00:17Tap to summarizeWelcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! Hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb provide updates on topics from previous episodes, exploring incidents like the flashbang injury involving children in North Minneapolis and the inconsistencies in the parents’ statements.Becky and Michael also cover legal updates, including the DOJ’s subpoenas to multiple Democratic leaders and the reactions from local and federal officials. The episode further discusses recent and upcoming protests, including a disruption at a church service and its legal ramifications.Finally, Becky and Michael explore the divide in messaging between ICE and local law enforcement. Don’t miss this crucial discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs affecting Minnesota.* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 00:43 Updates on Recent Incidents* 03:40 Political Tensions and Subpoenas* 13:59 Protests and Legal Repercussions* 28:29 Don Lemon’s Controversy and Journalistic Ethics* 28:56 Minnesota’s Ice Out Protest: Impact and Opinions* 38:25 Law Enforcement’s Role and ICE Coordination* 48:56 Trust Issues and Future Discussions* 58:45 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksThe Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week! Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe
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A Break Down About ICE in Minnesota
Jan 1601:51:39Tap to summarizeWelcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ Join hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb for an intense episode, where they delve into the tragic death of Renee Goode and the intricate dynamics of ICE operations in Minnesota.Michael and Becky provide updates on the incident, ongoing civil litigation, and the subsequent fallout. The episode includes a critical analysis of recent polling data that reveals the public’s perception of ICE and its implications for the Trump administration.Finally, they discuss the challenges of balancing civil rights and law enforcement, explore potential solutions, and emphasize the importance of bipartisan cooperation. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on one of today’s most pressing issues.* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 01:31 Recap of Last Week’s Episode* 02:00 Updates on the Renee Goode Case* 03:39 Discussion on Law Enforcement and Public Trust* 08:14 Personal Insights and Broader Implications* 14:45 ICE Agents and Body Cameras Debate* 22:06 Legal and Political Ramifications* 23:51 Mass Exodus from the US Attorney’s Office* 31:14 Public Opinion and Poll Results* 46:04 ICE Operations in Minnesota* 56:23 Personal Reflections on Protests and Parenting* 58:39 Trump’s Threat to Invoke the Insurrection Act* 01:01:10 The Role of Our Republican Legacy* 01:02:54 Debating the Insurrection Act and Republican Principles* 01:06:00 Concerns Over ICE Operations and Public Safety* 01:10:25 The Importance of Responsible Storytelling* 01:25:13 First Amendment Rights and Protests* 01:37:59 Political Dynamics and Potential Solutions* 01:47:34 Football Season Recap and Personal Anecdotes* 01:51:02 Closing Remarks and GratitudeThe Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week! Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe
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A Break Down of the ICE Shooting and Minnesota's Fraud Scandals
Jan 901:21:28Tap to summarizeWelcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! In this emotionally charged and insightful discussion, hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb tackle a whirlwind of current events, including the tragic shooting involving an ICE agent in Minnesota and the subsequent fallout.Guests Julius Hernandez and John Rouleau join the podcast to provide opposing viewpoints on the incident, the political rhetoric surrounding it, and the broader implications for local and national politics. The episode also dives into a shocking new report from the Office of Legislative Auditor, revealing systemic fraud and mismanagement within Minnesota’s state agencies. Tune in for a balanced, in-depth exploration of these complex issues.* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 00:55 Setting the Tone: Heavy Topics Ahead* 01:36 ICE in Minnesota: The Incident Breakdown* 04:04 Diverging Opinions: Political Reactions and Blame* 09:27 Analyzing the Shooting: Facts and Perspectives* 16:06 Political Rhetoric and Public Reactions* 28:50 Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey’s Responses* 41:29 The Line Between Observer and Vigilante* 42:20 Confidence in Federal Investigations* 43:17 Concerns About ICE Statements* 44:51 Transparency in Investigations* 47:58 Trust in Government and Transition to Fraud* 48:45 The OLA Report and Systemic Fraud* 49:44 Shocking Evidence of Fraud* 51:25 Government Employees and Fraud* 52:31 Governor Walz and New Fraud Allegations* 58:46 Legislative Actions and Fraud Oversight* 01:01:22 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksThe Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week! Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe
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Bonus Episode: A Break Down on Gov. Walz's Surprise Exit
Jan 601:16:37Tap to summarizeWelcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ In this episode, Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb dive deep into the breaking news that Governor Tim Walz announced he will not seek a third term in 2026. They discuss the implications of Walz’s decision on his political legacy, potential Democratic candidates likely to enter the race, and what this means for the 2026 campaign season.Becky and Michael also analyze the political pressures, internal party dynamics, and how this shake-up impacts both state and national politics. Join them for an in-depth analysis of this significant political development.* 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview* 00:25 Governor Tim Walz Won’t Seek Reelection* 00:52 Initial Reactions and Analysis* 02:24 Political Pressures and Announcement Details* 04:26 Impact on the 2026 Campaign* 07:23 Fraud and Political Climate* 10:15 Governor Walz’s Legacy and Future* 27:51 Reactions from Political Figures* 33:07 Potential Candidates for Governor* 38:05 Republican Speculations on Attorney General Ellison* 40:40 Klobuchar’s Potential Impact on the Race* 41:31 Campaign Finance and War Chests* 46:50 Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan’s Role and Future* 56:01 Implications of Walz’s Exit for Republicans* 01:00:15 Fraud Committee’s Role and Legislative Impact* 01:10:56 Democratic Strategy and Klobuchar’s Candidacy* 01:15:16 Concluding Thoughts and Listener AppreciationThe Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode this week! Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe
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A Break Down with David Hann on a Possible Run for Governor
Mar 12, 202500:36:38Tap to summarizeOn this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr interview former Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman and State Senator David Hann. Hann, who is considering a run for governor in 2026, shares his perspective on the importance of focusing on the gubernatorial race amid the buzz surrounding the U.S. Senate race. Hann discusses his political career, the current political climate challenges, the need for Republican unity, and practical solutions for Minnesota's key issues, such as education, public safety, and economic growth. Join the conversation as Hann outlines the path forward for Republicans and the need for strong candidates in the upcoming election. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:24 Interview with former Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman David Hann 08:32 Discussion on Republican Strategy and Challenges 12:27 Reflections on the Endorsement Process 27:11 Closing Remarks and Personal Updates 35:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode soon!
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A Break Down About Trump's Big Speech: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Mar 6, 202501:24:48Tap to summarizeWelcome to another spicy episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! Join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they talk with guests John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez to dissect President Trump's recent Joint Address to Congress. The discussion covers various topics, from the President's accomplishments and requests to Congress to the reactions and controversies surrounding his speech. Tune in as the panel engages in a heated debate on policies, immigration, and the cultural wars, providing insights from both sides of the political spectrum. This episode is a must-listen if you're interested in a comprehensive analysis of current political affairs! 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:20 Special Guests: John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez 00:42 Analyzing Trump's Joint Address to Congress 02:44 Minnesota Delegation's Guests 04:00 Political Statements and Reactions 08:59 Democratic Disruptions and Reactions 34:42 Trump's Accomplishments and Policy Highlights 40:56 Fiscal Responsibility and Government Waste 41:49 Trade Wars and Government Efficiency 42:43 Town Halls and Political Disruption 43:31 Republican Humor and Government Efficiency 47:50 Illegal Immigration and Poll Numbers 59:26 Woke Agenda and DEI Programs 01:10:20 Trump's Congressional Requests 01:16:41 Final Thoughts and Poll Reactions The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode soon!
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A Break Down About Campaigns, Political Chaos, and Elon Musk
Feb 26, 202500:56:09Tap to summarizeWelcome back to The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! In this episode, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss the latest news on the 2026 Minnesota governor and U.S. Senate races, analyzing key candidates and surprising political developments. Becky shares personal updates about her pregnancy and offers insights on social etiquette for interacting with pregnant women. The conversation then shifts to the ongoing investigations of the Minnesota House of Representatives Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee and a detailed analysis of Elon Musk's controversial email to the federal workforce. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:47 Personal Updates: Becky's Pregnancy 02:07 Pregnancy Etiquette and Experiences 06:50 Political Updates: 2026 Governor and Senate Races 07:04 Angie Craig's Potential Candidacy 12:18 Democratic Candidates and Strategies 17:31 Republican Candidates and Challenges 26:00 Political Sacrifices and Strong Candidates 30:14 The Importance of Bipartisan Support 34:46 Fraud Issues in Minnesota's Government 41:08 Elon Musk's Controversial Email 46:45 The Role of Government Efficiency 55:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!
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Bonus Episode: A Break Down About The Battle for Minnesota's Open Senate Seat
Feb 15, 202501:02:45Tap to summarizeOn a special Valentine's Day bonus episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they dive into the big announcement from U.S. Senator Tina Smith that she will not seek re-election in 2026. This episode, featuring political strategists Will Davis and John Rouleau, analyzes the implications of Smith's decision for both parties. The team explores potential Democratic and Republican candidates for the open U.S. Senate seat and speculates how this may impact the 2026 Minnesota governor's race. This insightful discussion covers legislative backgrounds, primary and general election strategies, and the dynamics shaping the future of Minnesota politics! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guests 01:26 Tribute to Mike Kennedy 02:58 Senator Tina Smith's Announcement 05:47 Implications for the 2026 Governor's Race 08:28 Republican and Democrat Strategies 11:06 Potential Candidates for the Senate Seat 19:59 Governor Tim Walz vs. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan 29:42 Potential Senate Candidates: Flanagan vs. Governor 31:08 Evaluating Tina Smith's Legacy 33:36 Angie Craig: A Formidable Contender 39:50 Republican Prospects: Emmer and Pawlenty 45:26 Emerging Republican Candidates 54:40 Looking Ahead to the Governor's Race 01:01:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell 01:02:36 Will Davis on Mike Kennedy The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!
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Episode 100: A Break Down with Rep. Kristin Robbins on Fighting Fraud
Feb 13, 202500:59:59Tap to summarizeOn this milestone 100th episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by Representative Kristin Robbins, who discusses her role as the chair of the newly formed House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee. The conversation covers the committee's formation, goals, and the significant challenges of tackling fraud within state agencies. The episode also touches on the latest developments in Senator Nicole Mitchell's felony charges, reactions to the Super Bowl, commercials, and the halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar. Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of state politics, current affairs, and more! 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 00:25 Welcoming Representative Kristin Robbins 00:48 The New House Fraud Prevention Committee 04:54 First Committee Hearing Insights 07:22 Legislative Efforts and Future Plans 11:51 Challenges and Support for Fraud Prevention 18:25 Committee's Next Steps and Public Engagement 24:18 Interview Recap and Reflections 31:20 Layered Approach in Government Efforts 31:55 Committee Powers and Subpoena Limitations 33:35 Senator Nicole Mitchell's Legal Troubles 37:35 Frustrations with Legislative Privileges 46:41 Super Bowl Recap: Game and Halftime Show 55:39 Super Bowl Commercials and Snacks 59:22 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!
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