Joan Esposito is joined by former Illinois Congressman and political commentator Joe Walsh (pictured with Joan at last year's DNC in Chicago).

Walsh discussed his transition from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party, citing his belief that his former party poses a threat to democracy and the rule of law. Walsh highlighted the growing number of true Trump supporters in Congress and the backlash against Trump over the Epstein files, which many in his base expected to expose a deep-state conspiracy. Walsh criticized the Democratic Party for not embracing diverse voices, particularly those like New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, and emphasized the need for authenticity and boldness in political leadership. He also criticized current immigration policies as cruel and inhumane.

Catch "Joan Esposito: Live, Local and Progressive" weekdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/live-local-progressive).

And find the Joan Esposito (Full Episodes) podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and Amazon.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.