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Blind Politics with Dr. A.J. Nolte

Blind Politics with Dr. A.J. Nolte

By Robertson School of Government

Drawing on history, comparative politics and arguments based on political principles, Blind Politics seeks to examine current events and future trends both at home and abroad, and to answer the big questions behind the headlines. Along the way, we’ll strive to find common ground and practical solutions to complex, polarized and seemingly intractable political problems. Your host, Dr. A.J. Nolte is Assistant Professor at Regent University’s Robertson School of Government. Don’t forget to rate and subscribe on your favorite podcast provider!
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What the 2020 Election Might Tell Us About the Future of Politics: 12/4/2020

Blind Politics with Dr. A.J. NolteDec 04, 2020

00:00
44:40
A News Consumer's Guide to Finding Out What's Going On

A News Consumer's Guide to Finding Out What's Going On

When it comes to the news, we've all asked the question, "who can I trust?" In this episode, Dr. Nolte engages with this question and provides tips for figuring out what kinds of sources you should listen to.

Mar 20, 202323:60
The Russo-Ukrainian War: One Year Later

The Russo-Ukrainian War: One Year Later

In the year since Putin invaded Ukraine, we have learned new things about Russia, Ukraine, the West, the US, and the future of geopolitics in the 21st century. Dr. Nolte outlines the key lessons we have learned from the ongoing conflict and forecasts what might become evident in the future. 

Mar 14, 202337:57
The Social and Political Implications of Revivals

The Social and Political Implications of Revivals

The Asbury revival has gained national attention and prompted Dr. Nolte to ask what this revival means for politics. The short answer is: we don't know yet. Still, we can look to history and consider past revivals' social and political impacts even as we speculate about the implications of modern-day revival. 

Feb 28, 202315:16
2024 Presidential Match-ups I'd Love to See

2024 Presidential Match-ups I'd Love to See

In this episode, Dr. Nolte plays match-maker, setting presidential candidates against their ideal opponents. He uses this criteria: which challenger would produce the most entertaining or edifying presidential contest? 

Feb 21, 202318:34
Why 2024 Won't Be 2016

Why 2024 Won't Be 2016

Dr. Nolte is not expecting history to repeat itself during the 2024 Presidential Election. In this episode, he highlights developments in how Republican candidates understand their voters, the impact of a political record, and the new issues voters care about. This is an episode you won't want to miss!  

Feb 10, 202327:25
On Christian Nationalism

On Christian Nationalism

In this episode, Dr. Nolte goes on record with his full thoughts on Christian Nationalism. He engages with academic literature on the subject, outlines a way of identifying what Christian Nationalism is, and describes the history of religion in the US. Ultimately, he concludes that the left's freak out about Christian nationalism is overblown and misplaced, and the right must be more vigilant. 

For more on Joe Biden's sermon, listen to this GetReligion podcast: https://www.getreligion.org/podcast/press-covers-joe-biden-sermon-was-that-faith-or-politics

Jan 25, 202356:37
A Sporting Special in Which We Speak of the Speaker Spectacle

A Sporting Special in Which We Speak of the Speaker Spectacle

After 15 ballots, the United States Congress has elected Rep. McCarthy Speaker of the House! Please join us as Dr. Nolte chronicles all the details of the drama-filled saga on this episode of Blind Politics. 

Jan 11, 202339:08
Conservatism Contra Celebrity, or How the Right Needs to Stop Worrying and Embrace Not Being Cool

Conservatism Contra Celebrity, or How the Right Needs to Stop Worrying and Embrace Not Being Cool

On this episode of Blind Politics, join Dr. Nolte on a myth busting journey as he tackles the conservative (and Christian) myth that we need to match the left's mainstream popularity by enlisting celebrities as spokespeople. Thanks for joining us on today's episode of Blind Politics!

Dec 12, 202214:35
The 2024 GOP Presidential Field Will Be Smaller than You Think

The 2024 GOP Presidential Field Will Be Smaller than You Think

Dr. Nolte jumps in with a contrarian take that the GOP presidential candidate field might be bigger than some people will like but still smaller than some might think. 

Dec 02, 202223:60
2024 GOP Presidential Candidate Comparisons

2024 GOP Presidential Candidate Comparisons

It is pretty normal during the NFL draft to hear commentators compare top pics to other notable players. In this episode, Dr. Nolte does something similar with top candidates for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, identifying potential strengths and weaknesses by drawing comparisons with other political players. 

Nov 30, 202216:24
Top Five Things Both Conservatives and Progressives Can Be Thankful For

Top Five Things Both Conservatives and Progressives Can Be Thankful For

In this special Thanksgiving edition of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte covers some things that progressives can be thankful for, things that conservatives can be thankful for, and some things that we all can be thankful for! Thank you for joining for the latest episode of Blind Politics.

Nov 24, 202218:44
Here We Go Again

Here We Go Again

Dr. Nolte reacts to Trump's campaign announcement! Months ago, Dr. Nolte went on record predicting that Trump would not run for re-election, but Trump announced presidential campaign on November 15th. Still, Dr. Nolte says his logic for why Trump should not run remains valid. According to him, a rational risk calculation still shows that the Trump campaign is a mistake. 

Nov 17, 202212:44
Midterm Election Update

Midterm Election Update

In this episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte explains why the potential Red tsunami turned into a slight red trickle. Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of Blind Politics.

Nov 16, 202227:32
Senate Power Rankings

Senate Power Rankings

Midterms are almost here! In this last installment of power rankings leading up to election night, Dr. Nolte discusses if we’re looking at a red-trickle, red-wave, or a red tsunami. Visit American1.com

Oct 25, 202220:24
Issue Brief - Russia Using Iranian Weapons?

Issue Brief - Russia Using Iranian Weapons?

Issue Brief: Russia using Iranian-made weapons. Dr. Nolte discusses what it means and why it matters. American1.com

Oct 19, 202212:28
Game Over Fauci

Game Over Fauci

Dr. Anthony Fauci has retired, and in this episode Dr. Nolte dissects his time in the public eye, and how he did so much damage to the relationship between Americans and our public health experts. Thank you for joining us for the latest episode of Blind Politics!

Sep 09, 202220:34
Borrowing Trouble

Borrowing Trouble

In the latest episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte discusses why the Biden student loan forgiveness is doomed to failure, what it will do to the economy, and how the Biden administration is just borrowing trouble for themselves. Thank you for joining us for the latest episode of Blind Politics!

Sep 08, 202224:11
Is There a Blue Wave Coming? Not so Much.

Is There a Blue Wave Coming? Not so Much.

Recent polling data on upcoming Senate elections have left Democrats hopeful for a blue wave in the 2022 midterm elections. However, Dr. Nolte is here to pour some cold water over such wishful thinking as he outlines the reality of August polling and some on-the-ground facts facing Democrats in 2022. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Blind Politics!

Aug 19, 202232:13
The Importance of Religious Freedom
Aug 17, 202224:22
Dead Presidents

Dead Presidents

On today's episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte delves into a more historical topic, the unsung heroes of the Presidency. We all the names of Presidents like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Ronald Reagan, but there are a few presidents in America's history that have been forgotten yet had a bigger impact than history remembers them for. Tune in to find out who those presidents are in this episode of Blind Politics!

Aug 13, 202223:44
Alliance Grand U.S. Strategy

Alliance Grand U.S. Strategy

In this episode, Dr. Nolte delves more into the international relations side of things as he discusses why the United States needs alliances in order to preserve its status as the world's greatest power to confront its latest great-power challenges. Thank you for joining us for this episode of Blind Politics! 

Aug 10, 202221:15
Dems Dangerous Double Game

Dems Dangerous Double Game

Ever since the events of January 6th, Democrats have been proclaiming that Republicans are an existential threat to American democracy. If that is the case, then why have they been propping up extreme Republican candidates in the upcoming elections? What game are they trying to play? Find out today on this episode of Blind Politics!

Aug 08, 202223:57
The Fall of Boris Johnson

The Fall of Boris Johnson

The sun has now set on Boris Johnson after his official resignation as the British Prime Minister. Dr. Nolte once covered Johnson's meteoric rise, and so shall he cover the twilight of his time as Prime Minister. What what was the catalyst for Johnson's catastrophic fall from grace, and what does the future hold for the United Kingdom? Find out on this episode of Blind Politics!

Aug 05, 202219:27
August Gubernatorial Race Rankings

August Gubernatorial Race Rankings

In this episode, Dr. Nolte continues his breakdown of the most important upcoming elections, this time focusing on the upcoming gubernatorial races. Who will win? Who will lose? Tune in to find out!

Aug 03, 202229:21
August Senate Race Rankings

August Senate Race Rankings

In this episode, Dr. Nolte gives us his updated predictions on who will come out on top in the senate race as the competition heats up as we get closer to the elections. If you are looking a possible edge on Predict It, or are just curious about how your candidate of choice is stacking up against the competition, tune in to this episode of Blind Politics!

Aug 02, 202232:07
August 2nd & 4th Primary Preview

August 2nd & 4th Primary Preview

Election junkies tune in to this episode! Dr. Nolte will take a deep dive into the most important primaries happening, share his predictions on who he thinks will come out on top, and attempt to answer the question, "why on Earth does Tennessee have its primary on the 4th?" Thanks for stopping by Blind Politics and enjoy the episode. 

Jul 29, 202229:26
Israeli Election Update

Israeli Election Update

In this episode, Dr. Nolte dives into the craziness that is Israeli politics to explain the significance of Israel's fifth election in three years, and what it might mean for the U.S. - Israel relations. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Blind Politics!

Jul 28, 202221:56
July 2022 Presidential Power Rankings

July 2022 Presidential Power Rankings

In this episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte explores the crowded field of potential presidential nominees and shares his thoughts on the top ten candidates most likely to receive the Republican nomination. Thanks for joining us on this episode of Blind Politics.

Jul 27, 202236:19
Some Hard Truths About the January 6 Hearings

Some Hard Truths About the January 6 Hearings

In this episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte presents truths that both Democrats and Republicans need to face in light of the January 6 hearings, especially as key political issues emerge and 2024 rapidly approaches.

Jun 20, 202224:14
June Primaries Part 2, Recap (6/7/22) and Preview (6/14/22 & 6/21/22)

June Primaries Part 2, Recap (6/7/22) and Preview (6/14/22 & 6/21/22)

In this episode of Blind Politics, Dr. Nolte recaps the events of the June 7th primaries and shares his predictions regarding the most important upcoming primaries!

Jun 14, 202236:04
June 7th Primary Preview

June 7th Primary Preview

All the latest on the most important upcoming primaries.

Jun 07, 202229:16
SEC Primary Night Recap: 5/25/22

SEC Primary Night Recap: 5/25/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte recaps primary election results from Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, and Minnesota. Taking a big-picture view, he also highlights a few general things we’ve learned during the primary-packed month of May. 

May 25, 202231:01
May 17 Recap: A Mixed Bag on a Wild Night: 5/23/22

May 17 Recap: A Mixed Bag on a Wild Night: 5/23/22

On May 17th, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Oregon, and Idaho voted for their mid-term election nominees. In this recap of the most crowded primary night so far, Dr. Nolte announces the results of important races and identifies important voting patterns. 

May 23, 202242:29
Emerging Majorities, Great Replacements, and Other Demographic Fables: 5/18/22

Emerging Majorities, Great Replacements, and Other Demographic Fables: 5/18/22

Prompted by the mass shooting in Buffalo, NY, Dr. Nolte responds to the demographic replacement theory that seem to have motivate the shooter in that attack.  In this episode, he asserts there is no such thing as demographic destiny and explains the dangerous impact of replacement theory in the "fever swamps" of both political parties. 

May 18, 202238:03
Revisiting the Impact of a Potential Repeal of Roe v. Wade: 5/11/22

Revisiting the Impact of a Potential Repeal of Roe v. Wade: 5/11/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte highlights three points about the potential impact of repealing Roe v. Wade:

  1. Repealing Roe is a good thing for our country.
  2. It will likely not have an impact as decisive as some expect.
  3. It will not save Democrat politicians in the midterm elections.
May 11, 202224:44
I, for One, Welcome Twitter’s New Quasi-Libertarian, Space-Obsessed, Eccentric-Genius Overlord: 5/10/22

I, for One, Welcome Twitter’s New Quasi-Libertarian, Space-Obsessed, Eccentric-Genius Overlord: 5/10/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte reacts to and laughs about the public's reaction to Elon Musk buying Twitter. You might be wondering, why do people care? Listen to this episode to learn the answer. 

May 10, 202221:38
Ohio and Indiana Primary Recap: The Buck-eye State is Still Feeling Trumpy: 5/4/22

Ohio and Indiana Primary Recap: The Buck-eye State is Still Feeling Trumpy: 5/4/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte fills us in on what happened in the Ohio and Indiana primaries. In particular, the results in Ohio shed some light on the question of how much weight a Trump endorsement carries. 

May 04, 202216:26
May Primary Mega Preview: 5/3/22

May Primary Mega Preview: 5/3/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte summarizes all the primaries that will take place during the month of May. His analysis tells you what races to keep an eye on and forecasts some key outcomes. By the end of the month, we should have a clearer idea about the political climate in the country.

May 03, 202246:28
Eye on Ukraine: A General Update: France, Moldova, and Donbas: 4/28/22

Eye on Ukraine: A General Update: France, Moldova, and Donbas: 4/28/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte provides an update on the recent elections in France, Russia's plans for Moldova, and developments in Donbas. 

Apr 29, 202217:32
Eye on Ukraine: The Impending Battle for the Donbas Could Define the War: 4/19/22

Eye on Ukraine: The Impending Battle for the Donbas Could Define the War: 4/19/22

Dr. Nolte believes the looming battle in the Donbas region will be a major pivot point in the Russo-Ukrainian war. In this episode, he explains why, identifies various possible outcomes, and discusses the possibility of Russia using a tactical nuclear weapon. 

Apr 19, 202222:26
2024 Presidential Power Rankings: April 2022 Update: 4/13/22

2024 Presidential Power Rankings: April 2022 Update: 4/13/22

Who would win the Republican primaries for the 2024 Presidential election if they happened today? In this episode, Dr. Nolte updates his power rankings to reflect the change in the political terrain over the past few months. 

Apr 13, 202222:53
Eye on Ukraine: The Man Behind the Curtain: 4/11/22

Eye on Ukraine: The Man Behind the Curtain: 4/11/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte introduces you to Russian political analyst Alexander Dugin. From a conservative Christian perspective, Dugin might be the most dangerous man you've never heard of since his false doctrine and dangerous ideology have found an audience among some on the American political right. Dr. Nolte critically examines Dugin, underscores the danger of his influence, and urges Americans to stay on guard against wolves in sheep's clothing. 

Apr 11, 202236:07
What Can We Say About a Bill That Doesn't Say "Don't Say Gay": 4/8/22

What Can We Say About a Bill That Doesn't Say "Don't Say Gay": 4/8/22

Florida's so-called "Don't Say Gay" bill has garnered disdain from some and support from others. In this episode, Dr. Nolte talks about what Florida House Bill 1557 says, what it doesn't say, and considers the strengths and weaknesses of this new legislation. 

Apr 08, 202246:38
Eye on Ukraine: Demystifying Viktor Orban: 4/6/22

Eye on Ukraine: Demystifying Viktor Orban: 4/6/22

Viktor Orban, Hungary's Prime Minister, inspires strong feelings: some have labeled him a fascist, while others have hailed him as a conservative role model. In light of Orban's reelection, Dr. Nolte takes this opportunity to consider who Orban is as a political actor and how the world can engage with him. 

Apr 06, 202229:43
Eye on Ukraine: America's Strategic Choices in the Russo-Ukrainian War: 4/4/22

Eye on Ukraine: America's Strategic Choices in the Russo-Ukrainian War: 4/4/22

Right now, it is unclear what the U.S. strategic objectives are in the Russo-Ukrainian war; however, we all know we need them. In this episode, Dr. Nolte considers different strategic objective the U.S. could adopt and the potential consequences of each. Finally, he offers his own perspective on the best strategic path for the U.S. to advance during this crisis. 

Apr 04, 202233:55
Eye on Ukraine: Faith-based Aid in the Humanitarian Response to the Ukraine Crisis, ft. Arielle Del Turco: 3/31/22

Eye on Ukraine: Faith-based Aid in the Humanitarian Response to the Ukraine Crisis, ft. Arielle Del Turco: 3/31/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte and Arielle Del Turco discuss their research on the benefits of using faith-based actors to administer aid in crisis situations. Their findings are especially relevant as Congress develops strategies for responding to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. 

Follow this link to the op-ed Dr. Nolte and Arielle Del Turco wrote on this subject: https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/aid-ukraine-congress-faith-based-groups-aj-nolte-arielle-del-turco


Mar 31, 202229:37
Eye on Ukraine: Myths and Facts About Religiosity in Russia: 3/30/22

Eye on Ukraine: Myths and Facts About Religiosity in Russia: 3/30/22

In this episode, Dr. Nolte uses data from Pew research to evaluate religiosity in Europe. His analysis reveals that Putin's narrative about a religious, traditionalist Russia defending itself against a decadent, secular west does not match the actual data about modern-day religiosity. 

Mar 30, 202227:38
Eye on Ukraine: A Deep Dive into the Theology and Politics of Eastern Orthodoxy in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict, ft. Fr. Job Serebrov: 3/28/22

Eye on Ukraine: A Deep Dive into the Theology and Politics of Eastern Orthodoxy in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict, ft. Fr. Job Serebrov: 3/28/22

In this episode, special guest Fr. Job Serebrov talks about his area of expertise: orthodox theology. There is a complicated relationship between the Putin regime and the Moscow patriarchate. This podcast takes a close-up look at the theological, political, and cultural aspects of this important relationship.

Mar 28, 202255:37
Eye on Ukraine: Pride Goeth: 3/22/22

Eye on Ukraine: Pride Goeth: 3/22/22

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, says the war in Ukraine represents a conflict of visions between Russia and the West: the West is okay with LGBT+ Pride parades while Russia is not. In this episode, Dr. Nolte examines the role of LGBT+ issue in the war.

Mar 22, 202232:56
Exploring the Counterfactuals of a Colin Powell Presidency: 10/22/21

Exploring the Counterfactuals of a Colin Powell Presidency: 10/22/21

Colin Powell filled many honorable roles during his life, but he was never an American President. In honor of this great leader, Dr. Nolte imagines a hypothetical scenario that leads to a Powell Presidency and speculates about how the world would look different as a result.

Mar 22, 202241:20