Truth in the Barrel: This Week Unfiltered | 07.24.25

Hosts: Amy McGrath & Denver Riggleman
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Truth in the Barrel, hosts Amy McGrath and Denver Riggleman delve into the tumultuous political landscape of 2025. With their military backgrounds and shared passion for whiskey, Amy and Denver provide a candid and in-depth analysis of pressing national issues, blending political discourse with their love for America's finest bourbons.

2. The Jeffrey Epstein Scandal and Republican Inaction

Ken Harbaugh opens the discussion by addressing the silence surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case. He criticizes House Republicans for avoiding another vote on releasing the Epstein files, suggesting it harms Donald Trump's standing.

Ken Harbaugh [00:28]: "How bad must it be for Donald Trump that the House Republicans would rather flee Washington D.C. than take another vote on releasing the Epstein files?"

Denver Riggleman echoes these sentiments, highlighting the inconsistency in the Republican approach to the Epstein scandal.

Denver Riggleman [05:18]: "The fact that they have been talking about this for a decade and turn on a dime... demands an explanation. What are you afraid of?"

The hosts discuss the potential impact on Trump's support base, emphasizing the deep-seated conspiracy theories that may prevent some supporters from letting the Epstein issue go.

Denver Riggleman [09:32]: "It's a conspiracy and a scandal that the right has been amplifying for a very long time... they have to see it through."

3. Economic Fallout: General Motors and Tariffs

Transitioning to economic concerns, Ken Harbaugh highlights the severe losses General Motors is facing due to Trump's tariffs, reporting a staggering $1.1 billion loss.

Ken Harbaugh [17:16]: "GM expects their earnings to actually worsen in the third quarter... these tariffs are hurting American workers, auto workers, suppliers. It's just stupid."

Denver Riggleman criticizes the rationale behind the tariffs, pointing out the contradictory approach of imposing high tariffs on Mexico and Canada while lowering them on Japan.

Denver Riggleman [22:27]: "The Trump administration doesn't know what it's doing... it's up to us to communicate to Americans that Republicans are ruining the country."

The discussion underscores the adverse effects of tariffs on the U.S. economy, including rising prices and job losses, while mocking the administration's shifting justifications for these policies.

4. Energy Policies and Rising Costs

The conversation shifts to energy policies, where the hosts dissect a recent Republican bill aimed at unleashing American energy. Contrary to claims that energy prices would drop, studies reveal the opposite.

Ken Harbaugh [29:57]: "All of them [states] will see higher bills... Ohio will have a $94 raise, Kentucky up by $200, and by 2035, $630."

Denver Riggleman explains that the removal of renewable subsidies is the primary cause of these increases, countering the Republican narrative that this move would benefit consumers.

Denver Riggleman [31:25]: "Renewables are cheap. Expanding the energy market in those resources actually can lower the costs of energy for households. We're just shooting ourselves in the foot."

The hosts argue that the bill not only fails to deliver on its promises but also jeopardizes America's moral authority and leadership on the global stage.

5. Declining Approval Ratings and Institutional Trust

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Donald Trump's declining approval ratings, particularly among men. Citing a YouGov poll, Ken Harbaugh notes a drop from a 60% approval rating to just 47%.

Ken Harbaugh [25:58]: "There was a Newsweek article that talked about this... he used to enjoy a 60% approval rating among men... now they're down to 47%."

Denver Riggleman expresses relief at this downturn, believing it reflects a broader awakening among Americans to the administration's shortcomings.

Denver Riggleman [26:00]: "That's a change, a welcome change... maybe this is a wake-up call to Americans."

The hosts also touch upon the fluctuating confidence in U.S. institutions, highlighting a partisan divide where Republicans now view institutions more favorably while Democrats remain skeptical.

Ken Harbaugh [45:55]: "Prior to the election, the confidence in U.S. institutions by Republicans was really low. And now, Republicans think institutions are great and Democrats think they have no confidence in our institutions."

6. Internal Challenges within the Republican Party

The episode doesn't shy away from critiquing internal issues within the Republican leadership. Ken Harbaugh discusses Pete Hegseth's controversial actions, including the removal of a high-ranking woman from the Naval Academy under dubious circumstances.

Ken Harbaugh [40:42]: "Pete Hegseth seems to hate women... his own mother wrote a letter that leaked. It's absolutely gutting."

Denver Riggleman emphasizes the troubling implications of such actions for the Department of Defense and the broader military community.

Denver Riggleman [42:14]: "If you end up falling on your sword for it, so be it."

The hosts lament the current state of leadership, where accountability and ethical standards seem compromised.

7. The Importance of Institutional Integrity

Addressing the erosion of trust, Denver Riggleman underscores the critical role of institutions in safeguarding national security and maintaining public trust.

Denver Riggleman [46:45]: "When you have the head of the FBI lying every day... your faith in institutions is going to lag."

Ken Harbaugh concurs, linking the decline in institutional confidence to the broader failures of the current administration.

Ken Harbaugh [44:34]: "All of these Republican enablers... this is, it's unbelievable."

8. Closing Remarks: Cheers and Reflective Notes

Despite the heavy political discourse, Truth in the Barrel concludes on a lighter note with their "Cheers" segment. Ken Harbaugh pays homage to the late Ozzy Osbourne, celebrating his contributions to music and his philanthropic efforts in raising over $200 million for Parkinson's disease.

Ken Harbaugh [48:47]: "Cheers to Ozzy... he was an activist behind the scenes and did a lot of good work."

Additionally, they commend Catholic Church leaders who have bravely stood up against federal overreach, protecting undocumented individuals from raids.

Ken Harbaugh [50:48]: "Cheers to leaders in the Catholic Church... who are standing up for undocumented persons against mass federal agents."

Denver Riggleman reflects on the nation's current challenges, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

Denver Riggleman [51:23]: "Cheers to them. But again, a reminder that we now live in a country where we are hiding people in our churches... Let's end on the good note."

9. Final Thoughts

Amy and Denver wrap up the episode by reaffirming their commitment to truth, integrity, and their shared love for whiskey. They invite listeners to join them in future discussions, promising continued exploration of America's most pressing issues through the lens of their unique perspectives.

Key Takeaways:

• Republican Silence on Epstein: The avoidance of addressing the Epstein files vote weakens Trump's support and exposes political vulnerabilities.

• Economic Mismanagement: Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are detrimental to American industries, leading to substantial financial losses and increased consumer costs.

• Energy Policy Failures: Recent Republican energy legislation is projected to hike household energy bills dramatically, contradicting promises of lower prices.

• Declining Institutional Trust: Approval ratings for Trump, especially among men, are dropping, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with his leadership and policies.

• Internal Party Issues: Actions by Republican leaders like Pete Hegseth highlight ethical and gender biases within the party's leadership.

• Appreciation of Positive Leadership: The hosts celebrate individuals and leaders who stand up against injustice and contribute positively to society, offering a beacon of hope amidst political turmoil.

Note: This summary excludes introductory and promotional segments, focusing solely on the substantive discussions and insights provided by the hosts during the episode.