Guests - Steve Christy, Shannon Blake, Tony Cahn, Chris Salcedo, Joel Strabala

Watch the first hour on YouTube

Election Challenges and Transparency in Pima County

Pima County's recent election has sparked significant concerns, prompting the Board of Supervisors to schedule a meeting with the county recorder and elections director. Supervisor Steve Christy, representing District 4 as the sole Republican on the board, highlighted issues raised by constituents, particularly regarding the outer envelope used for ballots. Voters expressed frustration over the visibility of signatures and phone numbers during scanning, feeling it compromised their privacy. Christy noted that his office received numerous complaints, advising callers that in-person voting on Election Day was an alternative, though availability was limited.

The recorder's office, led by an elected official, holds authority over election processes, but Arizona statutes come into play. Pima County stands out as the only one in the state that prohibits observers at polling sites, a point of contention for years. Excuses for this policy include space constraints, the need for observer training, and claims of intimidation. Christy recalled former Supervisor Raul Grijalva's discomfort with observers, though he emphasized that such incidents never occurred. Despite protests, the recorder maintains control, leading to repeated elections without oversight.

In this election, designated as all-mail, polling locations were rebranded as ballot replacement centers, further justifying the exclusion of observers. Communication breakdowns exacerbated problems; the Republican Party submitted observer lists to Constance Hargrove, only to learn late that submissions should go elsewhere. Gabriela Cazares-Kelly assumed charge without prior notice at EIC meetings. Christy questioned the distinction between regular and all-mail elections, seeking clarity on why Pima County deviates from the other 14 counties.

A new Elections Procedures Manual (EPM) is due December 31, involving Governor Katie Hobbs, Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, and Attorney General Kris Mayes. Christy hopes it addresses observer rights and uniformity. He contrasted Pima with Maricopa County, where the board oversees elections, stressing the need for transparency and consistency statewide. The county's investment in a new Drexel Road facility should eliminate space excuses for observers.

City-County Relations and Regional Collaboration

Tensions between Pima County and the City of Tucson are set to unfold in upcoming joint meetings, with Christy anticipating "great theater" as the lone Republican facing an all-Democrat city council. Chair Adelita Grijalva's swearing-in follows her father Raul Grijalva's prolonged illness, which left District 5 unrepresented. Christy noted criticism from even staunch Democrats that Raul should have resigned earlier for a smoother transition. He criticized Adelita for prioritizing protests during the government shutdown over constituent service, calling it hypocritical given her father's missed votes.

Mayor Regina Romero accused the county of shirking responsibilities, particularly on homelessness and the transition center, where the county has led with significant taxpayer investment. Chair Rex Scott defended the county's efforts, countering that issues originate in Tucson's core. Christy agreed with Scott's stance, despite usual divergences.

Broader regional involvement is needed, including Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, and tribes, via the Pima Association of Governments. Conflicts like differential water rates and RTA disputes affect all, with Tucson often dominating. Christy criticized Tucson's "tentacles" into the board, where some supervisors collaborate closely with city officials.

Annexation remains a threat to unincorporated areas, with Tucson using water rates as leverage. Residents in Christy's district face higher rates unless they annex, prompting exploration of class-action suits. He described it as a "raw deal" and "slap in the face," especially amid calls for better collaboration.

Government Shutdown and Political Dynamics

The recent shutdown was framed as a "Schumer shutdown," with Republicans holding firm against non-citizen funding demands. Christy praised six Democrats in swing states for crossing lines and highlighted Senator John Fetterman's unexpected support. Public perception pinned blame on Democrats, whose polling reflected losses, forcing concessions.

Speaker Mike Johnson now dictates terms, not progressives like AOC. Christy wished Representative-elect Grijalva success in securing the border, combating drugs, and creating jobs in her impoverished district, though he critiqued her ideology. The shutdown could have been avoided by swearing her in earlier.

On Veterans Day, Christy honored veterans, noting his family's legacy and expressing pride in their service. "Thank you for your service," he said, adding, "God bless them and God bless America."

Supporting Veterans Through Warrior SOAR

Major Shannon Blake, U.S. Army retired and founder of Warrior SOAR (Support Outreach Assistance Recovery), shared how the organization combats veteran suicide through activity-based programs. After 20 years of service and medical retirement, Blake felt lost until other groups aided his recovery. Fundraising for them evolved into Warrior SOAR in 2017, driven by combat buddies' suicides.

Programs include fishing, sailing, golfing, and baseball fantasy camps in Florida and Arizona. Blake described camps as immersive: uniforms, lockers with swag, skill sessions with pros, and evening connections. "You feel like you're at spring training," he said. Veterans bond with peers and civilians, forming lifelong friendships.

Baseball camps integrate veterans without special treatment, fostering teamwork. Blake recounted sending a double-amputee board member, Colin Carlson, who excelled on the field and now trains for Paralympic kayaking and sit-skiing instruction. Warrior SOAR is adding skiing this winter.

The organization has served nearly 500 veterans nationwide, extending to families. During COVID, Blake hosted backyard gatherings and workouts. Programs are free for VA-enrolled veterans, funded by events and donations. "They're not alone," Blake emphasized, urging visits to warriorssoar.org.

Blake, a mission-oriented veteran, recruits directors from participants. On Veterans Day, he stressed camaraderie's loss post-service and the need for new missions like hitting a home run.

Baseball Fantasy Camps and Community Impact

Tony Cahn of Waveland Events partners with Warrior SOAR for baseball camps. Meeting Blake at a Boston Red Sox camp led to collaborations, including Northside Baseball Fantasy Camp for Cubs fans. "We live as ball players for a week," Cahn said, with Hall of Famers coaching.

Veterans enter timid but gain confidence, mentored by repeat campers. Transformations are rewarding: "This has been the best experience of my life." Camps include women and disabled umpires.

An upcoming Tucson camp runs January 25 to February 1, before spring training. A golf tournament at El Lago Golf Club on January 25 funds veteran participation, featuring Cubs legends like Miguel Montero, Mike Montgomery, and Ferguson Jenkins. Sponsorships range in levels; register at warriorssoar.org.

Cahn focuses on baseball currently, noting its therapeutic value alongside military bonds. Pros often tell veterans, "You're my hero." Victus Bats donates personalized bats.

Tom Adams, a sponsor, funds Washington State fishing events. Khan echoed Blake's call: veterans aren't alone, with free programs via donations.

The Rise of Liberty-Loving Latinos

Chris Salcedo, Newsmax host and author of The Rise of the Liberty Loving Latino: A New American Revolution, analyzed recent elections. Democrats won in blue states, but without a "blue wave." Victors included those funded by China ties, wishing harm on opponents, and a Marxist now overseeing New York commerce. Republicans faltered without Trump and America First.

The 2024 election inspired liberty-loving Latinos via Trump's messaging. Salcedo stressed conservative values—faith, family, freedom, Constitution—resonate more than party labels. Latinos fled Democrat-like regimes in their homelands, making leftist policies unappealing.

Cultural battles opened doors: Democrats' gender ideology, "Latinx" term, and sports policies alienated Latinos. Trump offered substance, unlike typical Republicans. Border counties in Texas flipped red post-Biden's policies, as Democrats ignored pleas.

Salcedo criticized past Republicans like Bush for inadequate border responses. America First aligns with rule of law; bipartisanship with Democrats leads to losses.

As executive director of the Conservative Hispanic Society, Salcedo urges voting values over labels. Latinos outnumber politicians—act like it. Trump's Latino support marked a revolution, like America's WWII entry against totalitarianism.

Government education's leftist bias harms generations; expand school choice nationwide. Salcedo avoids California, a "People's Republic," favoring Texas.

China's fentanyl precursors and hemispheric foothold demand action; recent anti-narco operations signal resolve. Pre-order his book on Amazon for December 9 release.

Honoring Veterans: Service, Challenges, and Integrity

Joel Strabala, retired Air Force veteran, detailed his career: 1980 Air Force Academy graduate, active duty until 1992. Pilot training at Williams AFB, F-4 and F-4G Wild Weasel at George AFB, then Germany. Served as air liaison officer, flew F-15E in Desert Storm.

"Flying fighters was the greatest job ever," Strabala said. Post-service, aerospace engineering at Raytheon brought him to Tucson, an Air Force hub.

Arizona excels for veterans: top VA hospitals, strong community. Strabala uses VA services, reminiscing over beers.

His wife managed home during deployments, supporting other spouses. Veterans sign a "blank check" up to their lives, earning respect. Oath to Constitution endures.

Recruitment surges with patriotism; Air Force thrives post-Biden era. Government reopening aids veteran services, combating PTSD, homelessness.

As Pima County Election Integrity Commission member and LD17 Republican chair, Strabala addresses election issues. Supervisors will question recorder on single envelopes (allowed since 2019 EPM) and observer bans. Pima deviates; new EPM must ensure uniformity.

Veterans fought for fair elections; 2026 demands legislative action.

A Tribute to Veterans

On Veterans Day, we honor those who defended our nation, ensuring care, respect, and opportunities. It's personal: family served in Navy, Marines, Army, National Guard—united in honor.

Battles require resolve for freedom and justice. As Reagan said, "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for."

To veterans: Thank you for service, courage, commitment. Enemies won't prevail; freedoms endure. Honor with actions, unity, dedication. Your legacy lives in every defense of liberty.