The Neal Larson Show
2.17.2026 - Idaho Politics, AOC Gaffes, Cultural Decay
Feb 17, 2026
Neal Larson
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Neal Larson and Julie Mason kick off their Tuesday show diving deep into Idaho's legislative session, focusing on contentious budget cuts and the "bathroom bill." They express frustration over the perceived political theater surrounding "draconian cuts" and the media's tendency to link every future negative event to these decisions. A key discussion point highlights Representative Stephanie Mickelsen's contradictory actions – passionately arguing against cultural legislation (like the bathroom bill, flag bill, and porn in libraries) only to vote for them, which Rod Furness attributes to political expediency to avoid primary challenges. Larson and Mason lament the very need for such laws, viewing them as symptoms of "cultural decay" that have eroded foundational values like common sense regarding gender-segregated bathrooms and protecting children from inappropriate content.
The conversation broadens to national politics, where Larson and Mason sharply criticize prominent Democratic figures. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is lampooned for geographical errors (Venezuela's location), mispronunciations, and an incoherent response on Taiwan policy, contrasting her performance with Marco Rubio's praised foreign policy address. They extend this critique to Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, and Gretchen Whitmer, describing a "parade of morons" among potential Democratic leaders. The hosts also discuss the US policy towards Venezuela, supporting Trump's actions against Maduro, and express skepticism about libertarian politicians like Rand Paul and Thomas Massie, viewing their "all or nothing" approach as ineffective. The segment concludes with a discussion of the Rhode Island hockey game shooting, noting a disturbing trend of violence linked to "trans-identifying people" and criticizing the media's downplaying of the shooter's gender identity, attributing the issue to mishandled mental illness and societal "enabling" of gender dysphoria rather than compassionate, tough love.
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**Highlight List**
* **Idaho Legislative Drama:** Discussion of budget cuts and controversial "cultural bills" (bathroom, flag, library porn), including analysis of lawmakers' contradictory votes driven by political expediency.
* **Critique of Democratic Leadership:** Sharp criticism of figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for perceived gaffes and incoherent policy stances, contrasting with praise for Marco Rubio's clarity.
* **Cultural Decay and Legislation:** Frustration over the necessity of laws to codify what were once foundational societal values, particularly regarding gender and children's protection.
* **Rhode Island Shooting & Mental Health:** Examination of a disturbing trend of violence involving "trans-identifying" individuals, media reporting bias, and concerns about untreated mental illness.
* **Libertarian Effectiveness:** A critical look at the "all or nothing" approach of libertarian politicians, questioning their legislative impact and focus on intentions over outcomes.
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