There are nearly 500,000 registered Republicans in Connecticut.

That figure is less than the number of registered Democrats – and unaffiliated voters – in the state.

Republicans are at a disadvantage in both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly. And in the final Quinnipiac University poll released ahead of the Nov. 3 gubernatorial election, the CT GOP-endorsed candidate is trailing by 20 points.

Today on The Wheelhouse, with midterm elections two weeks away, we talk to conservatives about the issues they care about and the future of their party in Connecticut.

Guests:
Rep. Vincent Candelora (R - North Branford)
Geoffrey Medeiros, chairman, CT College Republicans
Jonathan Wharton, professor of political science and urban affairs, Southern Connecticut State University
Dan Haar, senior editor and columnist, Hearst Connecticut Media Group

There are nearly 500,000 <a href="https://ctmirror.org/2026/08/07/connecticut-lost-18197-active-voters-this-year-mostly-unaffiliated/">registered</a> Republicans in Connecticut.
That figure is less than the number of registered Democrats &ndash; and unaffiliated voters &ndash; in the state.
Republicans are at a disadvantage in both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly. And in the final Quinnipiac University poll released ahead of the Nov. 3 gubernatorial election, the CT GOP-endorsed candidate is <a href="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3971">trailing by 20 points</a>.
Today on The Wheelhouse, with midterm elections two weeks away, we talk to conservatives about the issues they care about and the future of their party in Connecticut.
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cthousegop.com/candelora">Rep. Vincent Candelora (R - North Branford)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ctfcr/">Geoffrey Medeiros</a>, chairman, CT College Republicans</li>
<li><a href="https://www.southernct.edu/directory/whartonj1">Jonathan Wharton</a>, professor of political science and urban affairs, Southern Connecticut State University</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/author/dan-haar/?utm_source=marketing&amp;utm_medium=google&amp;utm_campaign=content_acquisition&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23947451672&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACqe600Ajs27SFeDQgHx_1zHYD8sW&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwotzWBhBFEiwA1JhPoEqksZpzWcmBpRIKfRY6Mw9UJWc7DSP8zjNdC43OexW3cViM_iyI3BoCfhAQAvD_BwE">Dan Haar</a>, senior editor and columnist, Hearst Connecticut Media Group</li>
</ul>

Perspective from CT Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterms

Connecticut voters will choose between incumbent Gov. Ned Lamont (D) and State Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) in less than a month.

On the next Wheelhouse, we sit down one-on-one with both candidates to hear where they stand on immigration enforcement, taxes and spending, electric rates, and more.

Then, Mark Pazniokas from CT Mirror helps us unpack the candidates’ messaging. It’s essential listening in the lead up to November 3.

Guests:
Gov. Ned Lamont (D-CT)
State Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich)
Mark Pazniokas, capitol bureau chief and co-founder, CT Mirror

Connecticut voters will choose between incumbent Gov. Ned Lamont (D) and State Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) in less than a month.
On the next Wheelhouse, we sit down one-on-one with both candidates to hear where they stand on immigration enforcement, taxes and spending, electric rates, and more.
Then, Mark Pazniokas from CT Mirror helps us unpack the candidates&rsquo; messaging. It&rsquo;s essential listening in the lead up to November 3.
Guests:
<ul>
<li>Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nedlamont.com/">Ned Lamont</a>&nbsp;(D-CT)</li>
<li>State Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://ryanfazio.com/">Ryan Fazio</a>&nbsp;(R-Greenwich)</li>
<li><a href="https://ctmirror.org/author/mpazniokas/">Mark Pazniokas</a>, capitol bureau chief and co-founder, CT Mirror</li>
</ul>

The 2026 CT gubernatorial election: Meet the candidates

Polling of likely voters in midterm elections indicates people aren’t happy with the way the current administration is managing the U.S. economy.

About 60% of respondents in a recent New York Times/Siena University poll say they disapprove of how Donald Trump is handling the U.S. economy.

Which party is better able to tackle a national affordability crisis?

That’s a deciding factor swaying voters. Amid that national debate, the people of Connecticut live in a reality where costs continue to swell.

The average cost for a new vehicle in Connecticut has risen 2% in the last year. The median sale price for a home in the state is rising too. Redfin, a business affiliated with Rocket Mortgage, reports that the median sale price of a home in Connecticut is $474,026.

This hour, we’re talking about affordability and the midterms and asking what can be done to lift Americans out of the current crisis.

Guests:
Martha Gimbel, executive director and co-founder, The Budget Lab at Yale University
Abigail Brone, housing reporter, Connecticut Public
Meghan Holden, director of marketing and communications, The Connecticut Project

Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this survey. Please submit responses by Oct. 14. 

Polling of likely voters in midterm elections indicates people aren&rsquo;t happy with the way the current administration is managing the U.S. economy.
About 60% of respondents in a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/09/15/polls/times-siena-poll-likely-voter-crosstabs.html">New York Times/Siena University poll</a>&nbsp;say they disapprove of how Donald Trump is handling the U.S. economy.
Which party is better able to tackle a national affordability crisis?
That&rsquo;s a deciding factor swaying voters. Amid that national debate, the people of Connecticut live in a reality where costs continue to swell.
The average cost for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/business/article/new-cars-ct-prices-shopping-consumers-22456182.php">new vehicle</a>&nbsp;in Connecticut has risen 2% in the last year. The median sale price for a home in the state is rising too. Redfin, a business affiliated with Rocket Mortgage, reports that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/state/Connecticut/housing-market">median sale price of a home&nbsp;</a>in Connecticut is $474,026.
This hour, we&rsquo;re talking about affordability and the midterms and asking what can be done to lift Americans out of the current crisis.
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://budgetlab.yale.edu/person/martha-gimbel">Martha Gimbel</a>, executive director and co-founder, The Budget Lab at Yale University</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/people/abby-brone">Abigail Brone</a>, housing reporter, Connecticut Public</li>
<li><a href="https://tcpactionfund.org/meghan-holden">Meghan Holden</a>, director of marketing and communications, The Connecticut Project</li>
</ul>
Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBPXCFW">survey</a>. Please submit responses by Oct. 14.&nbsp;

Affordability and the midterms: what’s remarkable about the cost of living this election cycle?

Last week, climate leaders from around the world gathered in New York for Climate Week – the biggest annual conference of its kind.

We’ll hear what was discussed, where we’re making progress on clean energy, and what’s getting in the way.

The political landscape is shifting, with the Trump administration rolling back federal climate policies even as some climate indicators offer reasons for cautious optimism.

We also take stock of Connecticut’s high electric bills and ask: is relief anywhere in sight?

Guests:
Jake Bittle, writer at Grist
Daniel Esty, Hillhouse Professor of Environmental Law and Policy, Yale School of the Environment and Yale Law School
John Moritz, covers energy and the environment for CT Mirror

Last week, climate leaders from around the world gathered in New York for Climate Week &ndash; the biggest annual conference of its kind.
We&rsquo;ll hear what was discussed, where we&rsquo;re making progress on clean energy, and what&rsquo;s getting in the way.
The political landscape is shifting, with the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://geopolitique.eu/en/articles/americas-withdrawal-again-from-the-paris-agreement-a-challenging-new-era-for-the-global-response-to-climate-change/">rolling back federal climate policies</a>&nbsp;even as some climate indicators offer reasons for cautious optimism.
We also take stock of Connecticut&rsquo;s high electric bills and ask: is relief anywhere in sight?
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://grist.org/author/jake-bittle/">Jake Bittle</a>, writer at Grist</li>
<li><a href="https://law.yale.edu/daniel-c-esty">Daniel Esty</a>, Hillhouse Professor of Environmental Law and Policy, Yale School of the Environment and Yale Law School</li>
<li><a href="https://ctmirror.org/author/jmoritz/">John Moritz</a>,&nbsp;covers energy and the environment for&nbsp;CT Mirror</li>
</ul>

Where does climate progress stand amid federal rollbacks?

Before you toss the latest campaign mailer into the recycling bin, take a look.

You might notice a new buzzy campaign issue splashed across the ad: AI Data Centers.

According to NPR’s analysis of political advertising data, mentions of AI data centers in campaign materials are increasing – up from just a handful in January to 164 in August.

The research shows a bipartisan effort to warn the public about the construction of AI data centers throughout the U.S.

Today on The Wheelhouse, we explore AI data centers and their impact on the environment and the 2026 midterm elections.

Guests:
Julia Tilton, energy and climate reporter, The Daily Yonder
Grant Blankenship, multimedia editor and reporter, Georgia Public Broadcasting
Kenneth Gillingham, professor of environmental and energy economics, Yale School of the Environment
Tony Adili, zoning enforcement officer, town of Morris, Connecticut

Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this survey.

Before you toss the latest campaign mailer into the recycling bin, take a look.
You might notice a new buzzy campaign issue splashed across the ad: AI Data Centers.
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2026/09/05/nx-s1-5913671/ai-data-center-campaign-spending">NPR&rsquo;s analysis</a>&nbsp;of political advertising data, mentions of AI data centers in campaign materials are increasing &ndash; up from just a handful in January to 164 in August.
The research shows a bipartisan effort to warn the public about the construction of AI data centers throughout the U.S.
Today on The Wheelhouse, we explore AI data centers and their impact on the environment and the 2026 midterm elections.
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://dailyyonder.com/author-julia-tilton/">Julia Tilton</a>, energy and climate reporter, The Daily Yonder</li>
<li><a href="https://www.gpb.org/author/grant-blankenship?instance_overrides_key=_LhpAhkvwaGHvLa482iFc_mBo9zy5x4qAm3UeMK-HfQ&amp;page=3">Grant Blankenship</a>, multimedia editor and reporter, Georgia Public Broadcasting</li>
<li><a href="https://environment.yale.edu/directory/faculty/kenneth-gillingham">Kenneth Gillingham</a>, professor of environmental and energy economics, Yale School of the Environment</li>
<li><a href="https://www.morrisct.gov/entities/planning-zoning-commission">Tony Adili</a>, zoning enforcement officer, town of Morris, Connecticut</li>
</ul>
Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBPXCFW">survey</a>.

Politicians and civilians alike are down on AI data centers. But they’re going up anyway.

Two-thirds of Americans surveyed are worried about the integrity of U.S. elections.

That’s according to a Gallup Poll released in July. A total of 67% of the respondents are concerned that political leaders will attempt to pressure election officials to change outcomes in the upcoming midterm elections. That's a significant percentage of people.

President Donald Trump had ordered the U.S. Postal Service to screen ballots to ensure they comply with a new set of conditions that would have made it harder to vote by mail. The U.S. Supreme Court responded, rejecting the administration’s attempt to restrict mail ballots.

With the Supreme Court weighing in, is there still fear of federal influence on the 2026 midterms? And what’s behind the anxiety around election security right now?

Today on The Wheelhouse, what's being done to preserve the integrity of our elections?

Guests:


Eric McDaniel, congressional reporter, NPR’s Washington Desk


Dion Nissenbaum, senior national reporter, Votebeat


Stephanie Thomas, Connecticut Secretary of the State

Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this survey.

The Wheelhouse is available on Apple Podcasts,Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Two-thirds of Americans surveyed are worried about the integrity of U.S. elections.
That&rsquo;s according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/712955/election-concerns-run-high-ahead-2026-midterms.aspx">Gallup Poll </a>released in July. A total of 67% of the respondents are concerned that political leaders will attempt to pressure election officials to change outcomes in the upcoming midterm elections. That's a significant percentage of people.
President Donald Trump had ordered the U.S. Postal Service to screen ballots to ensure they comply with a new set of conditions that would have made it harder to vote by mail.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2026-09-15/supreme-court-rejects-trump-mail-ballot-restrictions-ahead-of-midterms">The U.S. Supreme Court responded</a>, rejecting the administration&rsquo;s attempt to restrict mail ballots.
With the Supreme Court weighing in, is there still fear of federal influence on the 2026 midterms? And what&rsquo;s behind the anxiety around election security right now?
Today on The Wheelhouse, what's being done to preserve the integrity of our elections?
Guests:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.npr.org/people/780913800/eric-mcdaniel">Eric McDaniel</a>, congressional reporter, NPR&rsquo;s Washington Desk
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.votebeat.org/authors/dion-nissenbaum/">Dion Nissenbaum</a>, senior national reporter, Votebeat
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/sots/capitol/about-stephanie-thomas/the-biography-of-stephanie-thomas?archived=true">Stephanie Thomas</a>, Connecticut Secretary of the State
</li>
</ul>
Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBPXCFW">survey</a>.
The Wheelhouse is available on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/the-wheelhouse/id1123069986">Apple Podcasts,</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0rdTqFfVu8e6TKMa5lWXsI">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cub21ueWNvbnRlbnQuY29tL2QvcGxheWxpc3QvYWMwYmU5NjktZDdkZi00NjBjLWE2NmMtYTZmOTAwZTFlYmQxLzI1M2YwNjY4LTA0NjMtNGFiNC04ZWIzLWE5ZmIwMDRjOTdlNy8wOTUwNDBkZS1hZjMyLTQ1Y2UtOTkwZi1hOWZiMDA0Yzk3ZjUvcG9kY2FzdC5yc3M">Google Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dd73c297-450d-4ea5-bb0b-64131d617ee0/the-wheelhouse">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Government/The-Wheelhouse-p1207903/?topicId=264709829">TuneIn</a>, <a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-wheelhouse-connecticut-public-radio-mxksbjc_iJI/">Listen Notes</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Concerns over election integrity loom over November midterms

John Larson, a 14-term Democratic congressman, was unable to stave off a primary challenge from former Hartford mayor Luke Bronin.

Larson wasn’t the only incumbent who lost on a primary night this year.

As Republicans in Connecticut make their case against local incumbents, they campaign in a blue state, outnumbered by Democrats.

Today on The Wheelhouse, we continue our midterm election coverage by dissecting local primary results.

Plus, amid a spate of immigration arrests in Danbury by federal law enforcement, how is Mayor Roberto Alves working to keep migrant families in his city safe?

Guests:
Roberto Alves, mayor, city of Danbury
Themis Klarides, former Republican state representative, Derby
Christopher Keating, reporter, Hartford Courant

John Larson, a 14-term Democratic congressman, was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2026-08-11/ct-election-results-primary-congress-governor-larson-bronin-lamont">unable to stave off a primary challenge</a>&nbsp;from former Hartford mayor Luke Bronin.
Larson wasn&rsquo;t the only&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courant.com/2026/08/30/national-anti-incumbent-wave-comes-to-ct-with-veteran-lawmakers-ousted-in-primaries-caucuses/">incumbent who lost</a>&nbsp;on a primary night this year.
As Republicans in Connecticut make their case against local incumbents, they campaign in a blue state, outnumbered by Democrats.
Today on The Wheelhouse, we continue our midterm election coverage by dissecting&nbsp;local&nbsp;primary results.
Plus, amid a spate of immigration arrests in Danbury by federal law enforcement, how is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/2026-09-03/major-protest-held-in-danbury-to-denounce-ice-arrests">Mayor Roberto Alves</a>&nbsp;working to keep migrant families in his city safe?
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.danbury-ct.gov/291/Meet-Mayor-Roberto-Alves">Roberto Alves</a>, mayor, city of Danbury</li>
<li><a href="https://portal.ct.gov/jsc/commission-members-bios/biographies-of-commission-members">Themis Klarides</a>, former Republican state representative, Derby</li>
<li><a href="https://www.courant.com/author/christopher-keating/">Christopher Keating</a>, reporter, Hartford Courant</li>
</ul>

Assessing the field of candidates in Connecticut ahead of the November midterms

The 2026 midterm elections are still weeks away, but voters are already sending signals about what November could look like.

Across the country, primary races are testing the strength of party establishments, the appeal of moderate candidates and the enthusiasm of Democratic and Republican voters.

This hour, we explore what’s happening in states from Maine to Michigan, and what those contests reveal about the broader political landscape.

Plus, what both parties need to do between now and November to turn primary results into general election wins.

Guests:
Liz Goodwin, national political reporter for The Washington Post
Alec Hernández, politics reporter, POLITICO
Andy Sullivan, deputy editor for politics, Reuters 

The 2026 midterm elections are still weeks away, but voters are already sending signals about what November could look like.
Across the country, primary races are testing the strength of party establishments, the appeal of moderate candidates and the enthusiasm of Democratic and Republican voters.
This hour, we explore what&rsquo;s happening in states from Maine to Michigan, and what those contests reveal about the broader political landscape.
Plus, what both parties need to do between now and November to turn primary results into general election wins.
Guests:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/liz-goodwin/">Liz Goodwin</a>, national political reporter for The Washington Post</li>
<li><a href="https://www.politico.com/staff/alec-hernandez">Alec Hern&aacute;ndez</a>, politics reporter, POLITICO</li>
<li><a href="https://www.reuters.com/authors/andy-sullivan/">Andy Sullivan</a>, deputy editor for politics, Reuters&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

What the primaries tell us about November midterms

America is celebrating 250 years, but what does it mean to tell the whole story of the country?

This hour, weexplore who gets to shape American history and what happens when stories that have been overlooked finally come into focus.

We learn about Black Americans who have too often been left out of the history books. And we look at how museums, historic sites and educators are navigating the question of whose version of America gets remembered.

Guests:


John Mills, Founder & President of the Alex Breanne Corporation


Bilal Sekou, Hillyer College associate professor of political science, University of Hartford


Alan Spears, senior director of cultural resources in the government affairs department, National Parks Conservation Association


Erika Slocumb, Director of interpretation and visitor’s experience, Stowe Center for Literary Activism

Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this survey.

America is celebrating 250 years, but what does it mean to tell the whole story of the country?
This hour, we explore who gets to shape American history and what happens when stories that have been overlooked finally come into focus.
We learn about Black Americans who have too often been left out of the history books. And we look at how museums, historic sites and educators are navigating the question of whose version of America gets remembered.
Guests:
<ul>
<li>
John Mills, Founder &amp; President of the <a href="https://alexbreanne.org/">Alex Breanne Corporation</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.hartford.edu/directory/hillyer/sekou-bilal.aspx">Bilal Sekou</a>, Hillyer College associate professor of political science, University of Hartford
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.npca.org/people/alan-spears">Alan Spears</a>, senior director of cultural resources in the government affairs department, National Parks Conservation Association
</li>
<li>
Erika Slocumb, Director of interpretation and visitor&rsquo;s experience, <a href="https://stowecenter.org/">Stowe Center for Literary Activism</a>
</li>
</ul>
Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBPXCFW">survey</a>.

America 250: Who gets to tell the story?

The August primaries in Connecticut are over and now it’s time to look ahead to the fall midterm campaign season.

It’s that time of the election cycle when politicians quickly get over the arguments they had with their primary opponents and fellow party members – and pivot to the November general election as they compete against their political adversaries on the other end of the ideological spectrum.

With all this fussing over our future – and with a lot of division in our national politics – we’re revisiting a conversation with an author who uses anthropology to understand why we engage with politics the way we do.

It turns out that we’re not actually mean. We’re just feeling vulnerable.

Today on The Wheelhouse, social psychologist and author Kurt Gray discusses his book “Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground.”

Guest:


Kurt Gray, author, 'Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground.'

Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this survey.

The Wheelhouse is available on Apple Podcasts,Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

 

The August primaries in Connecticut are over and now it&rsquo;s time to look ahead to the fall midterm campaign season.
It&rsquo;s that time of the election cycle when politicians quickly get over the arguments they had with their primary opponents and fellow party members &ndash; and pivot to the November general election as they compete against their political adversaries on the other end of the ideological spectrum.
With all this fussing over our future &ndash; and with a lot of division in our national politics &ndash; we&rsquo;re revisiting a conversation with an author who uses anthropology to understand why we engage with politics the way we do.
It turns out that we&rsquo;re not actually mean. We&rsquo;re just feeling vulnerable.
Today on The Wheelhouse, social psychologist and author Kurt Gray discusses his book &ldquo;Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground.&rdquo;
Guest:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://psychology.osu.edu/people/gray.1750">Kurt Gray</a>, author, 'Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground.'
</li>
</ul>
Are you thinking about 2026 midterm elections? Help shape our election coverage by filling out this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBPXCFW">survey</a>.
The Wheelhouse is available on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/the-wheelhouse/id1123069986">Apple Podcasts,</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0rdTqFfVu8e6TKMa5lWXsI">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dd73c297-450d-4ea5-bb0b-64131d617ee0/the-wheelhouse">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Government/The-Wheelhouse-p1207903/?topicId=264709829">TuneIn</a>, <a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-wheelhouse-connecticut-public-radio-mxksbjc_iJI/">Listen Notes</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.
&nbsp;

To understand why we feel political ‘outrage,’ one author says: Look to our earliest ancestors

If you’re a news junkie — or maybe just news curious, we’ve got your weekly dose of Connecticut politics, tackling everything from tax cuts to human composting. Amplifying important local and national voices, The Wheelhouse walks listeners through the most important political stories of the week.  You’ll hear from well-known political reporters, academics, and local journalists across Connecticut’s 169 cities and towns.

If you’re a news junkie — or maybe just news curious, we’ve got your weekly dose of Connecticut politics, tackling everything from tax cuts to human composting. Amplifying important local and national voices, The Wheelhouse walks listeners through the most important political stories of the week.  You’ll hear from well-known political reporters, academics, and local journalists across Connecticut’s 169 cities and towns.

Connecticut's best journalists come out of the political trenches every Wednesday to join us on WNPR's weekly news roundtable The Wheelhouse.

The Wheelhouse

Marker 01

Marker 02

Tired of seeing the same ol’ politicians in headlines week after week? Maybe you’re exhausted by the same ol’ talking points and posturing.

In this episode, we introduce you to two candidates running for president in truly unconventional ways.

First, there's Literally Anybody Else (or Mr. Else, if you prefer), formerly known as Dustin Ebey. He legally changed his name to make a statement with his campaign.

Then, there's Paperboy Love Prince - a candidate on a mission to become the first openly queer, non-binary president of the United States. Their platform is built entirely around the power of love.

Resources:
https://www.isidewith.com/ - a website offering a 2024 Presidential Quiz as mentioned by Literally Anybody Else during the interview

Suggested episodes:
A coffee-fueled celebration of passion, purpose, and pursuing an impossible goal
The One Where All The Guests Are Named Pat Smith
A conversation with Humans of New York creator Brandon Stanton

GUESTS: 
Literally Anybody Else: Formerly known as Dustin Ebey, he legally changed his name to run for President of the United States
Paperboy Love Prince: Previously ran for Congress and Mayor in New York, decided to run for President of the United States as the first openly queer, non-binary candidate whose policies are centered around love

Tired of seeing the same ol’ politicians in headlines week after week? Maybe you’re exhausted by the same ol’ talking points and posturing.
In this episode, we introduce you to two candidates running for president in truly unconventional ways.
First, there's Literally Anybody Else (or Mr. Else, if you prefer), formerly known as Dustin Ebey. He legally changed his name to make a statement with his campaign.
Then, there's Paperboy Love Prince - a candidate on a mission to become the first openly queer, non-binary president of the United States. Their platform is built entirely around the power of love.
Resources:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.isidewith.com/" data-cms-ai="0">https://www.isidewith.com/</a> - a website offering a 2024 Presidential Quiz as mentioned by Literally Anybody Else during the interview</li>
</ul>
Suggested episodes:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/show/audacious-with-chion-wolf/2024-01-26/a-coffee-fueled-celebration-of-passion-purpose-and-pursuing-an-impossible-goal" data-cms-ai="0">A coffee-fueled celebration of passion, purpose, and pursuing an impossible goal</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/show/audacious-with-chion-wolf/2021-10-01/the-one-where-all-the-guests-are-named-pat-smith" data-cms-ai="0">The One Where All The Guests Are Named Pat Smith</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/show/audacious-with-chion-wolf/2022-05-18/a-conversation-with-humans-of-new-york-creator-brandon-stanton" data-cms-ai="0">A conversation with Humans of New York creator Brandon Stanton</a></li>
</ul>
GUESTS: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://literallyanybodyelse.com/" data-cms-ai="0">Literally Anybody Else</a>: Formerly known as Dustin Ebey, he legally changed his name to run for President of the United States</li>
<li><a href="https://paperboy.nyc/" data-cms-ai="0">Paperboy Love Prince</a>: Previously ran for Congress and Mayor in New York, decided to run for President of the United States as the first openly queer, non-binary candidate whose policies are centered around love</li>
</ul>

Outside the ballot box: Unconventional presidential candidates Paperboy Love Prince and Literally Anybody Else

Going into November, we’ll be doing some shows where we talk with one guest, for the hour, who knows a lot about the election. This hour, we talk with veteran journalist Mark Jacob about the state of American journalism and its impact on the upcoming election.

GUEST: 
Mark Jacob: Writes the weekly newsletter “Stop the Presses.” He is the former Metro Editor of The Chicago Tribune and former Sunday Editor of The Chicago Sun-Times. He is also the co-author of ten books on history and photography

Going into November, we’ll be doing some shows where we talk with one guest, for the hour, who knows a lot about the election. This hour, we talk with veteran journalist Mark Jacob about the state of American journalism and its impact on the upcoming election.
GUEST: 
<ul>
<li>Mark Jacob: Writes the weekly newsletter “<a href="https://www.stopthepresses.news/">Stop the Presses</a>.” He is the former Metro Editor of The Chicago Tribune and former Sunday Editor of The Chicago Sun-Times. He is also the co-author of ten books on history and photography</li>
</ul>

The role of journalism in the 2024 election with writer Mark Jacob

Election Day is less than six weeks away. Are you planning to vote in person this year? For those with disabilities, going to polling stations can be a real challenge.

People with disabilities are less likely to vote than people without disabilities. Disabled voters can face many barriers to voting, from inaccessible polling places to restrictions on absentee ballots.

This November, Connecticut voters could approve a ballot initiative that could create a pathway to give everyone access to absentee ballots, without needing an excuse making voting easier for voters with disabilities.

Today, we hear about what access this looks like in our state and what can be done to improve it. If you are a voter with a disability, we want to hear from you. What have your experiences been like at the polls?

GUESTS:
Sara Kempner: Director of Creative Campaigns & Collaborations at the U.S. Vote Foundation
Ellen Telker: Retired attorney and President of Connecticut Council of the Blind, an affiliate of American Council of the Blind
Ben Hovland: Chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission

To report problems at the polls, you can call the Election Day Hotline 1-866-SEEC-INFO (1-866-733-2463).

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts,Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Election Day is less than six weeks away. Are you planning to vote in person this year? For those with disabilities, g<a href="https://vote.gov/guide-to-voting/disability" data-cms-ai="0">oing to polling stations can be a real challenge.</a>
<a href="https://www.business.rutgers.edu/news/us-election-assistance-commission-releases-report-conducted-partnership-rutgers" data-cms-ai="0">People with disabilities are less likely to vote than people without disabilities.</a> Disabled voters can face many<a href="https://disabilityjusticeproject.org/news/barriers-to-the-ballot/" data-cms-ai="0"> barriers to voting, from inaccessible polling places to restrictions on absentee ballots.</a>
This November, Connecticut voters could approve a ballot initiative that could <a href="https://ctmirror.org/2024/09/18/ct-no-excuse-absentee-voting-inclusivity/" data-cms-ai="0">create a pathway to give everyone access to absentee ballots, without needing an excuse</a> making voting easier for <a href="https://www.disrightsct.org/voting-rights" data-cms-ai="0">voters with disabilities.</a>
Today, we hear about <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/sots/election-services/accessible-voting" data-cms-ai="0">what access this looks like in our state</a> and what can be done to improve it. If you are a voter with a disability, we want to hear from you. What have your experiences been like at the polls?
GUESTS:
<ul>
<li>Sara Kempner: Director of Creative Campaigns &amp; Collaborations at the U.S. Vote Foundation</li>
<li>Ellen Telker: Retired attorney and President of Connecticut Council of the Blind, an affiliate of American Council of the Blind</li>
<li>Ben Hovland: Chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission</li>
</ul>
To report problems at the polls, you can call the Election Day Hotline 1-866-SEEC-INFO (1-866-733-2463).
Where We Live is available as a podcast on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/where-we-live/id706066099" data-cms-ai="0">Apple Podcasts,</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0j08SgnZIU5BmjDyHbgjgP" data-cms-ai="0">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/43f3a507-ebfa-4876-b34a-030759a8924c/where-we-live" data-cms-ai="0">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Government/Where-We-Live-p1207905/" data-cms-ai="0">TuneIn</a>, <a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/where-we-live-connecticut-public-radio-lz9NAwSEexh/" data-cms-ai="0">Listen Notes,</a> or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Voters with disabilities continue to face barriers at the ballot box

Policy speeches, convention speeches, concession speeches, victory speeches, stump speeches. Inaugural addresses, State of the Union addresses, prime-time addresses. There sure are a lot of speeches that we expect presidents and presidential candidates to give.

But how much do those speeches really matter anymore? How much do they work as, say, TikTok fodder?

This hour, the art and politics of political speechmaking.

GUESTS:
Bill Curry: Playing the part of Bill Curry
Jeff Nussbaum: A special assistant and senior speechwriter to President Joe Biden from 2021 to 2022; he is a partner at Bully Pulpit Interactive Media and the author of Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches That Would Have Rewritten History
Linda Qiu: A New York Times reporter specializing in fact-checking statements made by politicians and public figures

The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode!

Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show.

Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Colin McEnroe and Dylan Reyes contributed to this show.

Policy speeches, convention speeches, concession speeches, victory speeches, stump speeches. Inaugural addresses, State of the Union addresses, prime-time addresses. There sure are a lot of speeches that we expect presidents and presidential candidates to give.
But how much do those speeches really matter anymore? How much do they work as, say, TikTok fodder?
This hour, the art and politics of political speechmaking.
GUESTS:
<ul>
<li>Bill Curry: Playing the part of Bill Curry</li>
<li>Jeff Nussbaum: A special assistant and senior speechwriter to President Joe Biden from 2021 to 2022; he is a partner at Bully Pulpit Interactive Media and the author of Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches That Would Have Rewritten History</li>
<li>Linda Qiu: A New York Times reporter specializing in fact-checking statements made by politicians and public figures</li>
</ul>
The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-colin-mcenroe-show/id714179884" data-cms-ai="0">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0AXtqrzWounIoJyIqz003p" data-cms-ai="0">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9b6b3cee-f69b-4729-a78b-181f851d80e8/the-colin-mcenroe-show" data-cms-ai="0">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/The-Colin-McEnroe-Show-p1208473/" data-cms-ai="0">TuneIn</a>, <a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-colin-mcenroe-show-connecticut-public-lXR08dxQSM5/" data-cms-ai="0">Listen Notes</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode!
<a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/newsletters" data-cms-ai="0">Subscribe to The Noseletter</a>, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show.
Join the conversation on <a href="https://facebook.com/ColinMcShow" data-cms-ai="0">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/colinmcshow" data-cms-ai="0">Twitter</a>.
Colin McEnroe and Dylan Reyes contributed to this show.

The art and politics of political speechmaking

The 2024 U.S. Presidential Debate between vice president Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump highlighted how immigration is being sensationalized to score votes.

Trump says that “dangerous” migrants are contributing to an overall spike in crime in the United States. But, the FBI reports that violent crime has decreased. He also says that 21 million people have recently entered the country illegally, despite federal law enforcement reporting a smaller number.

Today on the Wheelhouse, the use of immigration misinformation on the campaign trail.

Also, an increase in public benefits charges has many Connecticut residents complaining about their electric bills. We’ll discuss what state politicians are saying about the rate increases.

GUESTS:
Charles Venator-Santiago, Associate professor of political science and El Instituto, University of Connecticut
Maria Sacchetti, reporter covering immigrant communities, The Washington Post
Dan Haar, Senior editor and columnist, Hearst Connecticut Media Group

The 2024 U.S. Presidential Debate between vice president Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump highlighted how immigration is being <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/trump-pushes-baseless-claim-immigrants-eating-pets-rcna170537">sensationalized</a> to score votes.
Trump says that “dangerous” migrants are contributing to an overall spike in crime in the United States. But, the FBI reports that <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-statement-fbis-quarterly-uniform-crime-report">violent crime has decreased</a>. He also says that 21 million people have recently entered the country illegally, <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-the-harris-trump-debate">despite federal law enforcement reporting a smaller number</a>.
Today on the Wheelhouse, the use of immigration misinformation on the campaign trail.
Also, an increase in <a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/business/article/eversource-ui-july-electric-bills-ct-19609007.php">public benefits charges</a> has many Connecticut residents complaining about their electric bills. We’ll discuss what state politicians are saying about the rate increases.
GUESTS:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://polisci.uconn.edu/person/charles-venator-santiago/">Charles Venator-Santiago</a>, Associate professor of political science and El Instituto, University of Connecticut</li>
<li><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/maria-sacchetti/">Maria Sacchetti</a>, reporter covering immigrant communities, The Washington Post</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ctinsider.com/author/dan-haar/">Dan Haar</a>, Senior editor and columnist, Hearst Connecticut Media Group</li>
</ul>

How politicians are utilizing anti-immigrant rhetoric on the campaign trail

In advance of the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, there were negotiations over live microphones and arguments over who could attend. There was even a debate over what network it should be put on.

Historically, debates offer an opportunity for political candidates to provide substantive details about their platforms. But in 2024, more attention is paid to spectacle.

Now that the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is over, is it time to focus on the importance of debates and the substance intended to be offered to the American people?

Today on The Wheelhouse, the evolution of public political discourse.

GUESTS:
Dr. Bilal Sekou, Associate professor of politics and government, University of Hartford
Jonathan Wharton, Associate professor of political science and urban affairs, Southern Connecticut State University
Julian E. Zelizer, Professor of history and public affairs, Princeton University
Kathryn Cramer Brownell, Associate professor of history, Purdue University

In advance of the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, there were negotiations over <a href="https://abc7chicago.com/post/abc-news-releases-rules-2024-presidential-debate-between-kamala-harris-donald-trump-philadelphia/15268377/">live microphones</a> and arguments over <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/09/05/presidential-debate-time-how-to-watch/">who could attend</a>. There was even a <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-abc-news-debate-1949102">debate over what network it should be put on</a>.
Historically, debates offer an opportunity for political candidates to provide substantive details about their platforms. But in 2024, more attention is paid to spectacle.
Now that the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is over, is it time to focus on the importance of debates and the substance intended to be offered to the American people?
Today on The Wheelhouse, the evolution of public political discourse.
GUESTS:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.hartford.edu/directory/hillyer/sekou-bilal.aspx">Dr. Bilal Sekou</a>, Associate professor of politics and government, University of Hartford</li>
<li><a href="https://www.southernct.edu/directory/whartonj1">Jonathan Wharton</a>, Associate professor of political science and urban affairs, Southern Connecticut State University</li>
<li><a href="https://history.princeton.edu/people/julian-e-zelizer">Julian E. Zelizer</a>, Professor of history and public affairs, Princeton University</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cla.purdue.edu/directory/profiles/kathryn-cramer-brownell.html">Kathryn Cramer Brownell</a>, Associate professor of history, Purdue University</li>
</ul>

Substance vs. Spectacle: A look at presidential debates

During a recent speech given by former President Donald Trump, he promised that, if elected, he would cut federal funding for any schools with a vaccine or mask mandate.

His promises highlight the continued politicization of CDC-recommended public health best-practices.

This hour, we look at anti-vaccine rhetoric and how it impacts communities in Connecticut and beyond.

During a <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/trump-vows-to-defund-schools-requiring-vaccines-for-students-if-hes-reelected" data-cms-ai="0">recent speech</a> given by former President Donald Trump, he promised that, if elected, he would cut federal funding for any schools with a vaccine or mask mandate.
His promises highlight the continued politicization of CDC-recommended public health best-practices.
This hour, we look at anti-vaccine rhetoric and how it impacts communities in Connecticut and beyond.

Anti-vaccine rhetoric has hit the campaign trail

This hour, we look at how political campaigns use music, from the history of political jingles, to how Harris and Trump are using music in this 2024 election.

GUESTS: 
Dana Gorzelany-Mostak: Associate professor of music at Georgia College; she is the founder of Trax on the Trail, and her new book is Tracks on the Trail: Popular Music, Race, and the US Presidency
Charlie Harding: Music journalist, songwriter, and producer; he is the co-creator and co-host of the podcast Switched on Pop and an adjunct professor of music at New York University
Eric Kasper: Professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; he's the author of Don’t Stop Thinking About the Music: The Politics of Songs and Musicians in Presidential Campaigns
Justin Patch: Associate professor and chair of music at Vassar College; his new book is The Art of Populism in US Politics: Pro-Trump DIY Popular Culture

Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show.

The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. 

Colin McEnroe and Eugene Amatruda contributed to this show.

This hour, we look at how political campaigns use music, from the history of political jingles, to how Harris and Trump are using music in this 2024 election.
GUESTS: 
<ul>
<li>Dana Gorzelany-Mostak: Associate professor of music at Georgia College; she is the founder of <a href="https://www.traxonthetrail.com/" data-cms-ai="0">Trax on the Trail</a>, and her new book is <a href="https://press.umich.edu/Books/T/Tracks-on-the-Trail" data-cms-ai="0">Tracks on the Trail: Popular Music, Race, and the US Presidency</a></li>
<li>Charlie Harding: Music journalist, songwriter, and producer; he is the co-creator and co-host of the podcast <a href="https://switchedonpop.com/" data-cms-ai="0">Switched on Pop</a> and an adjunct professor of music at New York University</li>
<li>Eric Kasper: Professor of political science at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; he's the author of <a href="https://rowman.com/ISBN/9780739165478/Dont-Stop-Thinking-About-the-Music-The-Politics-of-Songs-and-Musicians-in-Presidential-Campaigns" data-cms-ai="0">Don’t Stop Thinking About the Music: The Politics of Songs and Musicians in Presidential Campaigns</a></li>
<li>Justin Patch: Associate professor and chair of music at Vassar College; his new book is <a href="https://www.routledge.com/The-Art-of-Populism-in-US-Politics-Pro-Trump-DIY-Popular-Culture/Patch/p/book/9781032341897?srsltid=AfmBOop1iqIzbLzBRoEsszOfeGX7P2Kyl8DoAnFrYUGgZOi2eR2zBysD" data-cms-ai="0">The Art of Populism in US Politics: Pro-Trump DIY Popular Culture</a></li>
</ul>
Join the conversation on <a href="https://facebook.com/ColinMcShow" data-cms-ai="0">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/colinmcshow" data-cms-ai="0">Twitter</a>.
<a href="https://www.ctpublic.org/newsletters" data-cms-ai="0">Subscribe to The Noseletter</a>, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show.
The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-colin-mcenroe-show/id714179884" data-cms-ai="0">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0AXtqrzWounIoJyIqz003p" data-cms-ai="0">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cub21ueWNvbnRlbnQuY29tL2QvcGxheWxpc3QvYWMwYmU5NjktZDdkZi00NjBjLWE2NmMtYTZmOTAwZTFlYmQxLzcxZGM0YTBmLWU4Y2EtNDAyMS1hZWM5LWFhMDMwMDI2MDQyZC9iNjk1Y2I4Ny1mNmE5LTRjNzYtOGYxMS1hYTAzMDAyNjA0M2IvcG9kY2FzdC5yc3M" data-cms-ai="0">Google Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9b6b3cee-f69b-4729-a78b-181f851d80e8/the-colin-mcenroe-show" data-cms-ai="0">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/The-Colin-McEnroe-Show-p1208473/" data-cms-ai="0">TuneIn</a>, <a href="https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-colin-mcenroe-show-connecticut-public-lXR08dxQSM5/" data-cms-ai="0">Listen Notes</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. 
Colin McEnroe and Eugene Amatruda contributed to this show.

From jingles to Beyoncé: How music shapes political campaigns

sTART b

sTART c

We asked our listeners what issues are on their minds, and they answered the call! The week on The Wheelhouse, what exactly is Project 2025? And why is Donald Trump distancing himself from it?

We asked our listeners what issues are on their minds, and they answered the call! The week on The Wheelhouse, what exactly is Project 2025? And why is Donald Trump distancing himself from it?

Project 2025: Separating fact from fiction

This week on Disrupted, we dive deep into one of the wildest election cycles in recent history. Journalist and editorial director for Mother Jones, Jamilah King, offers her take on some of the latest political developments.

We also discuss Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy with Higher Heights for America, an organization that supports Black women in politics.

You can also watch Disrupted host Khalilah Brown-Dean's interview with C-Span's Washington Journal about the role of black sororities and fraternities and why they could play a huge role in the election.

Guests: 


Jamilah King: Editorial Director at Mother Jones


Glynda C. Carr: President and CEO of Higher Heights for America

This week on Disrupted, we dive deep into one of the wildest election cycles in recent history. Journalist and editorial director for Mother Jones, Jamilah King, offers her take on some of the latest political developments.
We also discuss Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy with Higher Heights for America, an organization that supports Black women in politics.
You can also watch Disrupted host Khalilah Brown-Dean's <a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?537556-4/khalilah-brown-dean-role-black-sororities-fraternities-campaign-2024">interview with C-Span's Washington Journal</a> about the role of black sororities and fraternities and <a href="https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/kamala-harris-history-aka-play-crucial-role-election-rcna163116">why they could play a huge role in the election</a>.
Guests: 
<ul>
<li>
Jamilah King: Editorial Director at <a href="https://www.motherjones.com/">Mother Jones</a>
</li>
<li>
Glynda C. Carr: President and CEO of <a href="https://www.higherheightsforamerica.org/">Higher Heights for America</a>
</li>
</ul>

What this wild election cycle could mean for November

Connecticut Public's Talk shows help you navigate all the issues and candidates during election season.

From your weekly dose of politics on The Wheelhouse to deep dives on the issues on shows like The Colin McEnroe Show and Disrupted we've got you covered. 

Connecticut Public's Talk shows help you navigate all the issues and candidates during election season.
From your weekly dose of politics on The Wheelhouse to deep dives on the issues on shows like The Colin McEnroe Show and Disrupted we've got you covered.

The Wheelhouse

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