Episode 136: RFK Jr.: Integrity or Sellout?, Kamala Harris's Critique of Biden, Appropriate Response to Political Anger, Rise of Depression Diagnoses in the US

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Summary
In this episode, the Shawn, Porter, and Matt discuss various political and social issues, including Project 2025, the Alcohol Intake and Health Study, RFK Jr.'s political integrity, Kamala Harris's critique of Biden, public outrage over judicial decisions, and the rising rates of depression among young Americans. They emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying causes of these issues and the role of faith and personal responsibility in addressing them.

The Thought Provoker:

First this week. A government report on alcohol and health, which found a link between even low alcohol intake and increased cancer risk, was reportedly suppressed. Instead of publishing the Alcohol Intake and Health Study, the Trump administration used a separate report that was more favorable to the alcohol industry. I know Shawn likes some of the stuff RFK Jr. has been promoting. Does this show that RFK Jr. is a sellout, just like the rest of the people in Washington DC?

Next up. In her book, 107 Days, Kamala Harris criticizes former President Joe Biden's 2024 presidential run as "reckless," an assessment that has angered Biden's former aides. While she avoids directly questioning his mental sharpness, Harris claims his campaign decisions negatively impacted both the election and her time as Vice President. Is Kamala right to blame Biden for what happened in 2024? Was his decision to run for reelection reckless?

Last one.  Online anger over a binding plea deal in an Idaho court case led to death threats against District Judge Steven Boyce, who had limited sentencing options. When disturbing things happen in public that make us feel angry, what is the appropriate thing to do? I know we all oppose death threats, but what can people do instead of taking the rage online?

The Big Question: Depression diagnoses among U.S. adults are at a near-record high of 28.5%, according to a 2025 Gallup survey. The sharpest increases are seen in adults under 30, where the rate has doubled since 2017 (13% to 26.7%), and among low-income Americans, with a significant rise to 35.1% since 2017. What do you think? Why is depression on the rise among poorer Americans, why is it at record levels in the last two years? Are advances in medicine simply making it easier to diagnose? Does the gospel of Jesus Christ offer any solutions for people struggling with depression?

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 Exploring Project 2025
07:22 Alcohol Intake and Health Study
18:45 RFK Jr. and Public Health Concerns
21:43 Kamala Harris's Critique of Biden
23:02 Political Accountability and Leadership Dynamics
30:30 The Role of Emotions in Public Reactions
43:14 Understanding Depression in Modern Society
51:00 Faith and Mental Health Solutions