Overview
In this freewheeling and fast-paced episode of The Jay Thomas Show, Jay and his co-hosts serve up a lively stew of state politics, school cell phone bans, cannabis legalization, gun laws, and some good ol’ Fargo flair. Governor Kelly Armstrong joins for an extended chat, answering pointed listener questions and giving updates on legislative drama, property tax reform, and school policies. The show also dives into the real-world impact of marijuana legalization across the Red River in Minnesota, complete with listener stories, spirited debate, and hilarious off-the-cuff moments.
🎯 Highlights & Timestamp Guide
⏱️ [1:49] – Weather Banter & "Banana Belt" Bragging
Jay opens with a sunny mood and Governor Armstrong pops in to claim it's “nicer in Bismarck,” prompting laughs and listener emails.
⏱️ [7:19] – Mining the Truth: Armstrong Talks Bula Mine
The Governor shares big news about the reopening of the Merlin mine in Bula, ND—a game-changer for national security and critical minerals.
⏱️ [9:01] – Remembering Cindy Schreiber Beck
A heartfelt moment as Armstrong reflects on the life and impact of aviation pioneer and ag leader Cindy Schreiber Beck.
⏱️ [10:23] – Veto Showdown: Legislative Drama Unpacked
Jay and the Governor discuss a confusing veto over housing funds, FTE debates, and whether a special session is looming.
⏱️ [12:05] – Property Tax Pain
The hot topic: Do reforms really bring relief? Armstrong explains the $1,650 credit and the new 3% cap on tax increases. Jay and callers aren't so sure...
⏱️ [24:00] – School Cell Phone Ban Incoming 📵
Jay and Armstrong debate SB 2354, which bans student cell phones in school during the day. Armstrong says it’ll improve mental health and learning. Jay shares teacher and parent reactions, both supportive and skeptical.
⏱️ [37:00] – Cell Phone Culture Wars
Why can’t students leave phones in cars? Are teachers addicted too? A cultural critique of America's phone obsession unfolds.
⏱️ [47:00] – Breaking News: Local Fatal Crash
Jay reports on a tragic car accident and reflects on the weight of delivering tough news live.
⏱️ [1:05:39] – Rogue Judges & Tariff Talk
The episode ramps up into political commentary about courts blocking federal policies. Jay and callers dive into debates about executive authority and resistance politics.
⏱️ [1:06:56] – Tribal Cannabis Store Opens in Moorhead 🌿
Jay explores Minnesota’s first off-reservation tribal dispensary, “Waabigwan Mashkeke,” with lots of laughs, some sticker shock, and big public response.
⏱️ [1:12:00] – Is Weed Worth It?💸
Callers and emailers weigh in on marijuana costs, from $12 joints to $375 ounces, and whether medical weed is affordable or just a pipe dream.
⏱️ [1:26:05] – Guns, Permits, and Minnesota Confusion 🔫
Jay tries to untangle Minnesota's gun laws with a string of informed (and not-so-informed) callers, sparking a mini-civics lesson with laughs along the way.
⏱️ [1:40:00] – Smells Like Skunk Spirit 🦨
The crew discusses the nose-wrinkling potency of modern weed and why today’s strains are a far cry from the mellow tokes of yesteryear.
💬 Listener Vibes
“Better grades, better minds—ditch the cell phones in schools!”
“Property taxes capped at 3%? That’s government math magic.”
“Jay, can you say ‘Waabigwan Mashkeke’ three times fast?”
📍Episode Location: Fargo, ND + statewide listener base
🎧 Where to Listen: Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your Jay Thomas fix.