Assessing The Start of Trump's Second Term: Economy, Foreign Policy, and Culture

Join Jim and Greg for this special edition of the 3 Martini Lunch as Jim shares why he returned to Ukraine and made his first visit to Syria, the mindset of Ukrainians entering the fourth year of war, and what he observed in Syria just months after the fall of the Assad regime.First, Jim explains what led to his third trip to Ukraine, how he got closer to the front lines than ever before, and how his travel companions persuaded him to add Syria to his itinerary. He also describes some of the tense moments he experienced in both countries, more than on his previous visits to Ukraine.Next, Jim recounts his time in Ukraine, detailing how locals reacted to major headlines from the Trump administration while he was there. He describes what he saw near—but not at—the front lines, including elderly Russian women wounded by their own country’s bombing yet receiving care in Ukraine. He also introduces us to “Twitch,” an American who overcame his own reluctance to follow God’s call and is now making a profound impact by helping injured Ukrainians.Finally, Jim takes us to Syria, where he witnessed life just months after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster in December and after many years of a brutal civil war. He explains the cautious optimism in parts of the country, including among Christian and Jewish minorities. And Jim offers us a verbal glimpse of Idlib, which he calls “jihad metropolis.” Join us for all this and more from Jim’s on-the-ground reporting in Ukraine and Syria.Please visit our great sponsors:Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/MartiniThis spring, get up to 50% off select plants with code MARTINI https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for the 3 Martini Lunch as they applaud President Trump’s push for a stronger Navy, question Gavin Newsom’s sudden shift on a major cultural issue, and react to Rep. Maxine Waters’ wild accusations against Elon Musk.First, they welcome Trump’s renewed focus on expanding the Navy with more warships and submarines to strengthen deterrence and project U.S. power globally. With America’s naval capabilities lagging, Jim notes that allied cooperation will be crucial to rebuilding dominance on the seas.Next, they analyze why California Gov. Gavin Newsom is now admitting that allowing males in girls’ sports is unfair. Is this a genuine policy shift, or just political posturing towards a likely presidential bid? Jim wonders whether the Democrats are finally ready to drop this losing issue and whether they will try to make the public forget they were ever in favor of allowing men to compete against women.Finally, they react as Rep. Maxine Waters claims Elon Musk somehow manipulated the 2024 election and suggests he should be deported. Jim dismantles her conspiracy theories and highlights the irony of targeting a legal immigrant while ignoring other border issues.Please visit our great sponsors:Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/MartiniNever run out of MEAT go to https://omahasteaks.com/3ML subscribe and get 12 FREE burgers, FREE shipping, and an EXTRA 10% OFF. Minimum purchase may apply

Jim Geraghty is back! Join Jim and Greg as they analyze President Trump’s speech to Congress, focusing most intently on immigration, tariffs, and the Democrats’ antics.First, they argue that Trump has every right to highlight his swift success in restoring order at the southern border after just six weeks in office. While Democrats scoffed at Trump’s claim that the U.S. didn’t need a new law but a new president to stop illegal immigration, the results speak for themselves.Next, they critique Trump’s plan to impose reciprocal tariffs worldwide in April. Jim warns that these tariffs could drive up prices for American consumers and contradict Trump’s own promise to curb the inflation that defined the Biden years.Finally, they dissect the Democrats’ antics, from refusing to stand for Trump’s entrance to heckling and ignoring even bipartisan moments. And when MSNBC weighed in, it became clear the left is still reeling from November’s election results—something Tuesday night made undeniable.Please visit our great sponsors:Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/MartiniNever run out of MEAT go to https://omahasteaks.com/3ML subscribe and get 12 FREE burgers, FREE shipping, and an EXTRA 10% OFF. Minimum purchase may apply

Former Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney and National Review Contributing Editor Andy McCarthy joins Greg for today’s 3 Martini Lunch. They break down Senate Democrats blocking a ban on males in women's sports, Andy’s argument that Trump is most to blame for the Oval Office confrontation with Zelensky, and Andrew Cuomo’s political comeback as he runs for mayor of New York City.First, they highlight how every Senate Democrat voted against legislation barring men from competing in women’s sports, preventing the bill from advancing. They explain why Democrats refuse to change course, even as they keep handing Republicans a potent campaign issue.Next, Andy asserts that the biggest problem in Friday’s heated Oval Office exchange was Trump himself—allowing the photo-op to drag on, failing to grasp the Russian threat, and positioning himself as neutral between Russia and Ukraine. He also argues against the type of war resolution Trump appears to support.Finally, they react as disgraced former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo officially launches his mayoral bid. While Cuomo correctly identifies many of New York City’s biggest issues, Andy reminds listeners that Cuomo’s own policies are largely responsible for the city’s decline.Please visit our great sponsors:Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/MartiniNever run out of MEAT go to https://omahasteaks.com/3ML subscribe and get 12 FREE burgers, FREE shipping, and an EXTRA 10% OFF. Minimum purchase may apply

Hillsdale College Radio General Manager and Radio Free Hillsdale Hour Host Scot Bertram fills in for Jim on 3 Martini Lunch. Join Scot and Greg as they analyze the stunning border numbers from February, the fiery Trump-Zelensky-Vance exchange in the Oval Office, and yet another example of how an excessively high minimum wage backfires on businesses and employees.First, they break down the incredible news that just 8,326 people attempted to illegally cross the southern border in all of February—far below the daily figures often seen under the Biden administration. They explain how the shift in border policy sent a clear message to would-be Next, they dissect Friday’s tense Oval Office exchange between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelensky. While major issues remain before a meaningful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war can take shape, Scot argues that Friday’s visit was primarily about finalizing the minerals deal as a stepping stone toward a broader agreement—something Zelensky mishandled. Greg outlines the key disagreements between the two sides but suggests the incident doesn't have to derail U.S.-Ukraine relations. Meanwhile, Jim Geraghty, writing from overseas, strongly disagrees.Finally, they discuss a new study confirming that California’s $20 minimum wage for fast-food workers has led to job losses, higher prices, and increased automation. It’s a predictable outcome that progressives continue to ignore despite clear economic realities.Please visit our great sponsors:Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/MartiniNever run out of MEAT go to https://omahasteaks.com/3ML subscribe and get 12 FREE burgers, FREE shipping, and an EXTRA 10% OFF. Minimum purchase may apply

Before heading out on his trip, Jim and Greg recorded a special episode analyzing the Trump administration’s early weeks, covering key issues from the economy to foreign policy and cultural battles.First, they break down the economy. Jim highlights Trump’s positive moves on taxes and deregulation but warns that tariffs, particularly against Canada and Mexico, could backfire. Greg focuses on DOGE’s efforts to track government spending and the Democrats’ unhinged reaction to the audit. But will it lead to real fiscal responsibility? He’s skeptical.Next, they assess foreign affairs. Jim notes that Iran and its proxies have curbed their aggression under Trump, and decisive action is being taken against terrorists. However, he criticizes Trump’s habit of publicly chastising U.S. allies. Greg argues that Trump’s unpredictability is a strength but warns he must be ready for the consequences of issuing ultimatums.Finally, they tackle cultural issues. Jim praises Trump for rooting out DEI from the federal government but cautions that some newfound conservative allies—like those opposing men in women’s sports—won’t align on other issues. Greg agrees Trump has handled the major cultural fights well but stresses that he must stay focused on core voter concerns: inflation and immigration.Oh, and if you hear Jim and Greg joking about a calamity prompting this episode, don’t worry—they’re both fine! Jim is set to return for regular episodes early next week.Please visit out great sponsors:If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Hillsdale College Radio General Manager and Radio Free Hillsdale Hour Host Scot Bertram fills in for Jim on 3 Martini Lunch. Join Scot and Greg as they discuss Jeff Bezos' pledge to make The Washington Post's op-ed page a champion of personal and economic freedom, the blatant hypocrisy of Democrats on immigration, and the media’s shifting narrative on inflation.First, they cautiously welcome Bezos' public commitment to discussing the virtues of personal liberty and free markets. While they dislike his stance that opposing views won’t be featured, they appreciate that arguments for limited government will reach a wider audience.Next, they highlight the astonishing hypocrisy of congressional Democrats. After years of condemning Trump’s deportation policies, they’ve suddenly found an immigrant they don’t trust. Ohio Rep. Marcy Kaptur is now questioning Elon Musk’s loyalty to the U.S. because he's only been in the country for 22 years. Finally, they call out the media’s sudden concern over rising egg prices after years of downplaying inflation under Biden. While they agree Trump isn’t responsible for the cost of eggs, they note voters will soon demand real results from him on both food prices and overall inflation.Please visit out great sponsors:If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Former Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney and National Review Contributing Editor Andy McCarthy joins Greg on today’s 3 Martini Lunch in place of Jim. They discuss the White House taking control over press pool selections, Trump’s tariffs jeopardizing a major political and economic opportunity with Canada, and CNN’s Jake Tapper writing a book about the cover-up of Joe Biden’s decline—after helping cover it up himself.First, Andy and Greg analyze the White House’s new policy on press pool access for the Oval Office and Air Force One. While Andy thinks the White House wording on the policy shift is over the top, he says the the Trump press team has largely made a point of adding new voices rather than silencing others.Next, they critique Trump’s plan to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico starting in March. Beyond the likelihood of higher prices for Americans, they highlight how these tensions have weakened Canada's conservative party, which once seemed poised for a massive victory but is now struggling. While Trump shouldn’t prioritize Canadian politics, a conservative government there would align far better with his policies than Justin Trudeau’s far-left successor.Finally, they call out the stunning hypocrisy of CNN’s Jake Tapper. After downplaying and denying Biden’s cognitive decline for years, Tapper is now co-authoring a book exposing Biden’s decline and the efforts to conceal it. Andy and Greg document how Biden's decline was blatantly obvious for anyone honestly paying attention.Please visit our great sponsors: We’ve got you covered with a 35% discount! Just head over to https://www.tailorbrands.com/podcast35 to get started. Don’t be a statistic—set your business up for success from day one!

Former Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney and National Review Contributing Editor Andy McCarthy is in for Jim on today’s 3 Martini Lunch. Join Andy and Greg as they break down why property taxes are a big government scam, how Elon Musk’s email controversy could legally benefit DOGE, and the disturbing ways intelligence agencies allow employees to spend their workdays discussing their bizarre sexual issues—all on the taxpayer’s dime.First, they applaud Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for exposing the absurdity of property taxes and how the government forces homeowners to pay yearly taxes on property they already own and have already been taxed on. Andy also highlights how progressives manipulate the assessment system to unfairly burden both the wealthy and the poor to raise money for their insatiable appetite for big government.Next, Andy digs into his column on how Elon Musk's weekend order may have been an impulsive command to President Trump's comments, but the refusal of multiple cabinet-level officials to comply with the directive could actually strengthen DOGE’s legal position in the long run.Finally, parental discretion is advised as Greg and Andy react with disgust to reports that NSA, CIA, and DIA employees spent their work hours in two NSA LGBT chatrooms discussing their trans identities and explicit fetishes. Even worse, NSA leadership defends this behavior as "not only mission critical but mission imperative." Andy questions how these agencies, which repeatedly fail to anticipate major global events yet demand more funding, have time to foster and participate in such activities.Please visit out great sponsors:If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.And of course, we’ve got you covered with a 35% discount! Just head over to https://www.tailorbrands.com/podcast35 to get started. Don’t be a statistic—set your business up for success from day one!

Hillsdale College Radio General Manager and Radio Free Hillsdale Hour Host Scot Bertram fills in for Jim on 3 Martini Lunch. Join Scot and Greg as they break down Elon Musk’s Saturday email to federal employees, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s disastrous poll numbers, and blue states setting themselves up for another humiliating defeat over girls’ sports.First, they analyze Musk’s DOGE email to federal employees, demanding they reply by midnight Monday with five accomplishments from the past week. Scot explains how this is common in the private sector, especially during management transitions, and argues that a short email shouldn’t be a major burden. Greg says the current amount of spending in our government in simply unsustainable. But he does hope government downsizing can be done as orderly as possible.Next, they react to a shocking new poll showing Mayor Brandon Johnson with a dismal 6.6 percent approval rating and an overwhelming 80% disapproval. Scot, a Chicago-area native, walks through Johnson’s long list of failures and explains how the mayor’s leadership has left him more than 73 points underwater with voters less than two years into his term.Finally, they shake their heads as lefties in multiple states insist on losing ground legally and politically by resisting President Trump's executive order removing federal funds for states and locales who allow males to participate in girls' and women's sports. They specifically highlight Trump's public exchange with Maine Gov. Janet Mills and the Michigan High School Athletic Association refusing to change its policy.Please visit our great sponsors:If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.And of course, we’ve got you covered with a 35% discount! Just head over to https://www.tailorbrands.com/podcast35 to get started. Don’t be a statistic—set your business up for success from day one!