Chaos, Courage & Coal: A Weekend America Won’t Forget (06-16-25)

This episode of What’s On Your Mind dives deep into a weekend packed with tragedy, turmoil, and resilience.

Host Scott Hennen and guests Liz Collin (Alpha News), Jonathan Fortner (Lignite Energy Council), and Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak break down the shocking assassination of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, the nationwide No Kings protests, and major shifts in U.S. energy policy under the Trump administration.

From heartfelt tributes and political soul-searching to wonky but vital energy rules and grassroots activism — this episode doesn’t flinch. You’ll hear exclusive details from the Minnesota manhunt, firsthand updates from Washington, and powerful listener calls

 

This episode of What's On Your Mind dives deep into a weekend packed with tragedy, turmoil, and resilience.

Host Scott Hennen and guests Liz Collin (Alpha News), Jonathan Fortner (Lignite Energy Council), and Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak break down the shocking assassination of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, the nationwide No Kings protests, and major shifts in U.S. energy policy under the Trump administration.

From heartfelt tributes and political soul-searching to wonky but vital energy rules and grassroots activism — this episode doesn't flinch. You'll hear exclusive details from the Minnesota manhunt, firsthand updates from Washington, and powerful listener calls that speak to a nation on edge.

🎯 Whether you're here for breaking news, real talk on energy, or passionate political commentary, this episode delivers.

🕰️ STANDOUT MOMENTS & TIMESTAMPS:

  • [0:00] The brutal weekend: murders in Minnesota, protests, and national unrest

  • [2:12] A moment of pride: U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration

  • [4:07] “Generational” impact: 10 years since Trump descended the escalator

  • [6:08] Liz Collin joins with exclusive reporting on the MN manhunt

  • [10:22] Press conference audio: The law enforcement response to the assassin

  • [19:06] Talk turns to protecting elected officials — and the political powder keg

  • [26:56] Political rhetoric gets scrutinized: “Who’s fueling the fire?”

  • [33:47] Powerful listener calls on hypocrisy, political violence & fear

  • [40:51] Liz Collin returns: New details about the suspect’s movements & list

  • [50:24] Did political appointments and connections blindspot authorities?

  • [54:21] Is the grid in danger? Jonathan Fortner on EPA rule reversals

  • [58:22] Coal, carbon, and clarity: How North Dakota’s energy sector fights on

  • [1:25:32] Congresswoman Fedorchak on security, energy certainty, and fighting misinformation

  • [1:31:54] Medicaid, misinformation, and the “beautiful” bill to slash waste

  • [1:36:02] Wrapping up: Trade, tariffs, and trust in turbulent times

 

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