What happens when political language becomes so distorted that anyone opposing Donald Trump is branded as “lawless,” “Antifa,” or even an “insurrectionist”? In this episode, Brad and Dan unpack how these labels have become empty signifiers... tools for dismissing dissent and consolidating power under what they call the “rule of Trump.”

They break down recent Senate hearings, including Pam Bondi’s heated appearance, as a case study in this rhetorical shift. The hosts examine how religious and constitutional language are being weaponized to legitimize political actions and blur the line between patriotism and partisanship.

Brad and Dan also reflect on the murder of Charlie Kirk and the troubling way his image is being used for both political and theological capital. The conversation turns to Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s call for state resistance to federal overreach, prompting a deeper look at how “states’ rights” has evolved (and been repurposed) throughout American history.

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