Truth in the Barrel: This Week Unfiltered | 05.01.25

Release Date: May 2, 2025

Hosts: Amy McGrath and Mallory Hagan
Guest Co-Host: Mallory Hagan, former Miss America and political candidate

Introduction and Special Guest (00:00 – 01:00)

In this episode of Truth in the Barrel: Unfiltered, host Amy McGrath welcomes special co-host Mallory Hagan in Denver Riggleman’s absence. Mallory, a former Miss America and a political contender from Alabama, brings her political savvy to the discussion. Amy highlights Mallory's political experience, stating:

“Mallory's a bit of a politico too, so she knows the ins and outs of politics.”
(00:45)

Mint Julep and Kentucky Derby (01:00 – 05:28)

Amy kicks off the episode by sharing a Mint Julep recipe, celebrating the upcoming Kentucky Derby. She emphasizes the importance of following their social media platforms and introduces the "whiskey minute" featuring a special edition of Woodford Reserve, the official bourbon of the 151st Kentucky Derby. Amy explains the historical significance of the Mint Julep:

“It was originally a drink that was supposed to be Kentucky consumed in the morning.”
(02:00)

Mallory contributes by reminiscing about attending the Derby and Oaks, sharing a personal keepsake:

“I have been to the Derby and I have been to the Oaks, so I'm sad that I'm missing out this year.”
(04:44)

The segment concludes with both hosts toasting to the festivities:

“Cheers to Canada.”
(48:54)

Donald Trump's First 100 Days: Analysis and Critique (06:04 – 24:07)

Amy and Mallory delve into the controversial first 100 days of Donald Trump's second term. They draw parallels to FDR’s first 100 days, highlighting the historical significance as a measure of presidential effectiveness.

Amy critiques Trump's performance:

“Donald Trump is claiming that the presidency, his past first 100 days have been the most successful of any presidency.”
(07:44)

Mallory adds her perspective on the overwhelming influx of negative news and broken promises:

“He has this make America great again. He wants to take people back. And instead this has been, you know, the worst first 100 days in modern history in the last 50 years.”
(08:30)

The discussion covers Trump's record-breaking number of executive orders—142 in the first 100 days—and the negative economic impact, including high inflation and low consumer confidence:

“Goldman Sachs is now projecting that the United States will have the lowest economic growth and highest inflation rate of any developed economy in 2025.”
(09:52)

Amy criticizes the administration’s handling of national security and government efficiency, citing chaotic firings and poor management. Mallory underscores the insecurity led by the administration:

“It's just being led by insecurity. And we all know why.”
(11:12)

They discuss the administration's inconsistent policies, shifting support from Ukraine to a more favorable stance towards Russia, and the resultant global uncertainty.

Attack on Women Peace and Security Program (24:07 – 34:55)

A significant portion of the episode addresses the termination of the Women Peace and Security (WPS) Program by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Amy provides a detailed overview of the program's importance:

“When you have more women at the table, at the negotiating table, you're 30% to 40% more effective in getting a longer lasting peace.”
(25:58)

Mallory questions the administration’s rationale and highlights the dissonance within Republican leadership:

“Half of these executive orders were outlined in Project 2025. So in 100 days, half of the executive orders that he has signed are directly from that playbook.”
(16:48)

Amy expresses frustration with the lack of support for veterans and criticizes Hegseth’s anti-women stance:

“But when people said to me, what, putting Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, how is that going to hurt our national security? You know, people would ask me that.”
(31:11)

The hosts emphasize the program's low cost and high impact, arguing that its termination is detrimental to long-term peace and security efforts.

Quick Shots: Current Events (34:55 – 47:52)

1. Indigenous Peoples Day vs. Columbus Day (35:28 – 37:50)

Amy discusses President Trump's opposition to celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day alongside Columbus Day, framing it as an attempt to "smear Italians." Mallory supports the acknowledgment of indigenous history:

“I think that indigenous people were here on this continent long before Columbus made it its way.”
(35:49)

2. Trump's Claim on Deportation Case (37:50 – 40:39)

Trump is criticized for falsely asserting that a deportee, Kilmer Abrego Garcia, had a gang tattoo, using manipulated images as "proof." Amy and Mallory highlight the administration's disregard for due process:

“What matters is the due process. And if he goes through that and it's determined that he is a criminal, then we go from there.”
(39:40)

3. Trump's Pope Ambition (40:39 – 43:34)

In a bizarre turn, Trump claimed he would like to be the next Pope, an idea mocked by Mallory and Amy for its absurdity and disrespect towards the Catholic faith. Mallory expressed disbelief:

“I can't stop laughing because the levels of ridiculousness know no bounds.”
(40:31)

4. VA Mortgage Rescue Program Termination (43:34 – 47:52)

The hosts condemn the abrupt end to the VA Mortgage Rescue Program, which assisted veterans in avoiding foreclosure. Amy underscores the betrayal of veterans:

“Republicans are saying these are, you know, bums who can't, you know, pay their, their, their mortgage. It is a slap in the face to all Veterans.”
(46:24)

Mallory emphasizes the long-term impacts on veterans’ lives:

“Many of them are at risk now to lose their homes right now.”
(47:16)

Closing Remarks (47:52 – 49:56)

Amy and Mallory conclude the episode with a toast to Canada for electing a center-left prime minister, symbolizing resistance against Trump’s bullying tactics.

“Cheers to Canada.”
(48:54)

They remind listeners of the next episode and encourage audience engagement on topics that matter to everyday Americans.

Notable Quotes

• Amy McGrath (07:44):

  “Donald Trump is claiming that the presidency, his past first 100 days have been the most successful of any presidency.”

• Mallory Hagan (08:30):

  “He has this make America great again. He wants to take people back. And instead this has been, you know, the worst first 100 days in modern history in the last 50 years.”

• Amy McGrath (16:48):

  “Half of these executive orders were outlined in Project 2025. So in 100 days, half of the executive orders that he has signed are directly from that playbook.”

• Mallory Hagan (35:49):

  “I think that indigenous people were here on this continent long before Columbus made it its way.”

Conclusion

In this unfiltered episode, Amy McGrath and Mallory Hagan provide a critical examination of Donald Trump's first 100 days in office, highlighting economic mismanagement, attacks on constitutional rights, and the dismantling of effective programs like the Women Peace and Security initiative. They also tackle current events with sharp commentary, emphasizing the need for accountability and support for vulnerable populations, especially veterans. The episode reinforces the show's commitment to dissecting timely political issues with depth and passion.

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