Hour 1 of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, guest-hosted by Brett Winterble from News Talk 1110 & 99.3 WBT in Charlotte, North Carolina, delivers a fast-paced and insightful discussion on the state of American politics, culture, and the economy as we head into 2026. Brett opens by contrasting the energy and optimism surrounding the conservative movement with the stagnation and radicalism dominating the Democratic Party. He argues that the left is still clinging to outdated policies reminiscent of FDR-era economics, citing Joe Biden’s failed debt forgiveness plan and regulatory overreach as examples of a government obsessed with “priming the pump” rather than fostering innovation and freedom.
Winterble highlights the dramatic turnaround under President Trump’s leadership, emphasizing four key pillars driving the administration’s success: economy, culture, faith, and strength. He points to recent positive economic indicators, including falling inflation rates that stunned analysts like CNBC’s Steve Liesman, as proof that removing government interference has unleashed growth. Brett also underscores America’s renewed global respect and stronger border security, contrasting this with the chaos seen in progressive strongholds and elite institutions, referencing recent unrest at Brown University and the Bondi Beach attack as symptoms of failed leftist ideology.
A major theme of the hour is the resurgence of faith and traditional values in American politics. Brett plays a powerful clip from Vice President J.D. Vance’s Turning Point USA speech, where Vance calls for a “true Christian politics” that prioritizes family, dignity of work, and care for the poor while condemning corporate outsourcing and immigration fraud. Winterble frames this as a moral and spiritual battle for the soul of the nation, arguing that Trump’s policies have ended the cultural war on Christianity and restored principles that resonate deeply during the Christmas and Hanukkah season.
The hour also features lively listener calls tackling critical issues such as midterm election strategy, GOP unity, and kitchen-table concerns like skyrocketing food prices. Callers stress the importance of candidate recruitment, voter turnout, and fighting back against entrenched political corruption. Brett responds by explaining Senate procedural realities, including Mike Lee’s remarks on cloture and the myth of the 60-vote threshold, while urging conservatives to stay engaged and proactive.
In closing, Brett reflects on America’s enduring promise and the need for moral clarity, historical perspective, and cultural courage to preserve freedom. He reminds listeners that the conservative movement’s strength lies in its ability to persuade and unite, not retreat into hopelessness. This first hour sets the tone for a day of spirited conversation, blending political analysis, historical context, and calls to action for a movement energized by faith, freedom, and the fight against radicalism.
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