The Vince Coakley Radio Program | NC and SC Senate Races | McConnell Latest | Meditation Monday

What is Toyota affordability? It's buying smart. Right now, your local Toyota dealer has great deals available on some of the most reliable trucks on the market, like the off-road ready Tacoma, rugged full-sized tundra, and legendary forerunner, each with the space, tech, and features to handle it all, from the work site to the trails. It means driving for less, with efficient hybrid options available, extending your overall driving range and delivering great MPGs, meaning bigger savings at the pump without sacrificing power. And it means trading for more. The Tacoma and Tundra are ranked number one and number two in resale value over all vehicles, according to Kelly Boo Book, which can mean thousands more than average right back in your pocket when it's time to trade in. That's Toyota affordability. Buy smart, drive for less, and trade for more. ShopToyota.com or your local dealer for deals and details. Vehicles projected resale value is specific to the 2026 model year. For more information, visit Kelly Blue Books KB.com. Toyota brand average resale value is 53% versus the average vehicle at 45%. Toyota, let's go places. Good morning and welcome. Welcome to the Vince Coakley Radio program. Glad you're here. A lot to talk about over the next couple of hours. And as always... Love to have a conversation with you. Would appreciate your input. 7045, 70107.9 is the number. If you'd like to weigh in, you can call in or you can text. That number will work for either one. As you know, we're getting ever closer to midterm elections coming up in November. A lot at stake. We will find out whether the Republicans will be able to hold on to the House and the Senate, some very important races going on, yet also some mysteries as it relates to Mitch McConnell. Where is he? Is he going to show up anytime soon? How about what is going to happen in South Carolina? Lindsey Graham's brother is filling the seat for now. Is she going to run for the full term? And if so, are others going to dare to challenge her in light of the fact that she has the support of Donald Trump? We will talk about one candidate who's already thrown his hat in the ring for that particular contest. Also coming up, we'll talk about Iran. The situation certainly did not improve over the weekend, quite the contrary. As we now have 17 Americans who have died as a result of our engagement there, we'll talk about what's happened in that particular situation and raise the question about any prospects for peace. What is life like in Iran right now? We're going to share a tragic story. of a young man who lost his life will tell you what his crime was and why he is no longer with us in the land of the living. That is coming up. It is Monday, which means we also have a Monday meditation. So you do not want to miss today's program.

I want to begin with the Senate race right here in the state of North Carolina. And I find it interesting to see what is happening with the polling in this contest. Because what you have is on the Republican side, the hand-picked Republican candidate for President Donald Trump. On the other side, you have a very popular Democrat governor who's been pretty popular in the state for quite some time. I fully expected, to be honest with you, that the governor might very well run away with this thing. But as we get closer to election day, This may be one of those contests where people are not voting on the candidate. They're simply voting on party. And whatever people think of the Republican candidates, they are circling the wagons to make sure. that the Republican wins, because there's a lot at stake here. We're talking about the control of the House and control, in this case, of the Senate. There polls have been all over the place. There's one in front of me now that goes back to June, indicating Roy Cooper had a double-digit lead over Republican Michael Whatley. At that time, This survey, Kataba College, you gov poll, 48 for Cooper, 34 for Whatley. This was about a month ago. Apparently, this picture has changed. Let's find out how things are looking now. In this report from WBT's Brett Jensen. A new poll by the left-leaning public policy group has Michael Whatley trailing former Governor Roy Cooper by just four points for a fight for the U.S. Senate seat representing North Carolina. The 48 to 44 margin is the closest in any of the polls that Michael Whatley has been in thus far. But what started out as a wide gap between the two has started to narrow. Wally says this because the voters know what they're looking for in a U.S. Senator. I think we have momentum in this race because we're talking about the issues the voters care about. You know, the voters in North Carolina are going to choose the issues they're going to vote on. It's not up to politicians and tell them what they think is important. You need to listen to the voters, understand their issues, and put solutions on the table. Right now, we are the only campaign that is talking about allowing people to make more money and keep more money, that we're going to lower inflation. We're going to lower interest rates and the cost of groceries and gasoline prices and housing prices. Roy Cooper wants all of those to go through the roof. Wally has three and a half months until election day on November 3rd to make up that short margin. In Harrisburg, Brett Jensen, WBT News. And as you can tell, that's pretty significant when I told you about the polling last month indicating a 14 point gap. Now it's down to four. I would have to suspect that the Cooper campaign is probably getting pretty nervous right now.

They probably thought they are going to just have a cakewalk. That's probably what was expected. But with the stakes so high, now is the time it looks like Republicans are coming home. And they are determined to make sure that this seat stays in Republican hands. Love to get your thoughts on this contest. I'd especially like to hear from some of you on your perspective of these two candidates. Are these the best the state has to offer? And who's your favorite among them? And why? What is Toyota affordability? It's buying smart. Right now, your local Toyota dealer has great deals available on some of the most reliable trucks on the market, like the off-road ready Tacoma, rugged, full-sized tundra, and legendary forerunner, each with the space, tech, and features to handle it all, from the work site to the trails. It means driving for less, with efficient hybrid options available. extending your overall driving range and delivering great MPGs, meaning bigger savings at the pump without sacrificing power. And it means trading for more. The Tacoma and Tundra are ranked number one and number two in resale value over all vehicles, according to Kelly Boo Book, which can mean thousands more than average right back in your pocket when it's time to trade in. That's Toyota affordability. Buy smart, drive for less, and trade for more. Shop Toyota.com or your local dealer for deals and details. Vehicles projected resale value is specific to the 2026 model year. For more information, visit Kelly Blue Books KB.com. Toyota brand average resale value is 53% versus the average vehicle at 45%. Toyota, let's go out to a call here from Flight. Good morning and welcome. Morning, Vince. How are you? All right, sir. Well, thank you for taking my call. I think I threw my two cents worth in on the conversation you started out with regarding Michael Whatley and Cooper race. Yeah, I noticed, too, that the race or the polling has tightened up. And in all honesty, I think it's going to tighten up even more. As more people become more familiar with Cooper, not just as the governor, but, you know, his history. I never was a big Cooper fan to begin with, but when he was Attorney General, he had a bad habit of picking laws that he would enforce or not enforce. And then as governor, you know, we'll just sort of skim over that now that he's running for Senate. I don't know if you've seen his latest ads, but what he's touting in his latest ad is that, you know, He put criminals in jail and they were there to stay, blah, blah, blah, blah. Well, if you look at his record in 21, I believe it was, he released about 3,500 prisoners because the NAACP and some other agencies were threatening the lawsuit and saying how inhumane it was for them to be in prison, blah, blah, blah, blah. Well, you know, they're in prison for a reason. And for him to say that he kept them there.

And he didn't just shows that, you know, he'll pander to any particular constituent base. And I think it's going to be talked about even more and plus some other subjects as we get closer to November. It sounds to me like you're more leaning to the right on this particular contest. What does, what is appealing about Mr. Whatley? Well, Mr. What, Let's be honest, he was co-chair with the R&C that sort of steered Trump back in the office, which, you know, let's just be honest, thank God, because what we had in there was a circus, to put it mildly. I think he's in tune in the way how things work on the state and federal level, obviously, and then Cooper, you know, yes, he's a well-known name in the state, and he can do whatever and call him some favors. uh he he's what let's let's let's just be a little broadstroke here JD Vance let's let's just say the democratic party as we know it now on especially on the national level they are being controlled by the progressives in the left wing so if you say you're going to vote for a democrat You know, I'm generally speaking, but you're basically voting for the Socialists and Communists because they are the ones that are calling the shots in the Democratic Party now. And if Cooper gets in, he's going to have to march to the orders. Otherwise, they will come at him like nobody's business. I have no doubt about that at all. I very much appreciate your call. Flight as we bring that call in for a landing. Thanks a lot for your call this morning. What is your perspective?

Oh my goodness. It's Monday, ladies and gentlemen. It is Monday. Over on the text line, WBT text line driven by Liberty Buick GMC. I stole that line, by the way. So Steve, thank you for the heads up on that. Good morning, Vince. I agree with you. Voters with TDS will vote Cooper just because they're hate for Trump. So sad, I'll be voting whatly. And Dory is saying, love your show. Thank you very much. Carolyn, Roy Cooper, definite name recognition. It just may not be the recognition. Democrats had hoped for recognition of his handling of COVID, withholding funds from hurricane victims, release of hundreds of criminals, maybe exactly what people recognize. Yep. When you start getting to that record, it gets a little messy, doesn't it? Vince, we shouldn't be spending so much time focused on the elections at this point. Why? Because President Trump has told us they are crooked. Better question is, why hasn't anyone in the media asked Senator Tell us about that sweet Bolero. He's been sporting on the Senate floor. Very interesting question is posed here. James writes in, neither candidate is the dip that's going to turn my chicken nugget into cordon blue. Really? One under the presidential thumb, the other has been in office. His entire life is better suited for Boston. Easy choice for a conservative southerner, James says. And Dennis. Vince, another thing Cooper won't be remembered for. He should never have allowed ICE to go into the jails and partner with local sheriffs. That needs to be reported. That's a very interesting perspective here from Dennis. So we have several months to watch this contest come together. But again, it is interesting that it is tightening up. way in advance of the election. And for this to happen so early, it's not a good sign for Mr. Cooper. South of the border, in South Carolina, as you know, we have a hand-picked choice for the South Carolina seat that was occupied by Lindsey Graham just days ago. And now there's a contest that's shaping up to fill the seat on a permanent basis. Quite interestingly, we have a situation where one person who has a pretty strong conservative record in the house has decided to throw in even without the support of Donald Trump. And I say more power to him. This ultimately is not supposed to be the choice of a president. This is the choice of the people of South Carolina. And if they decide they would like Lindsey Graham's sister remain in that seat for another six years, more power to them. But if there are others who would like to make this a contest, then there's no problem with that.

At all. The person I'm referring to has jumped in. Launched his bid on Saturday for the South Carolina Senate seat. I'm referring to. Representative Ralph Norman, who represents part of the upstate of South Carolina. Here are his comments from a cable news program over the weekend. Well, first of all, I asked for President Trump's endorsement. Anybody would love to have it. He decided to go with Dalling Graham, and that's fine. No, I'm not going to drop out. I'm in this race to win it. And we've got a country to save. And I'll put my record up against anybody's. We've got great endorsements with two of the most conservative senators in the Senate, Mike Lee and Rick Scott, just got Turning Point USA. All that to say is, I want to take this record to Congress to be a vocal, and I mean, and a vocal, not just tell the people I'm going to vote for it. I will be vocal, I will be active to make the conservative values real. And again, we don't have the time. And I think it's very significant here that two of the people who are supporting Ralph Norman in the Senate are strong conservatives, Rick Scott and Mike Lee. These guys are, and I would bet you if we were to sit them down and have a conversation with them, they would tell you that they are desperate to have reinforcements in the Senate. We've talked about this numerous times. The Senate, even though it's controlled by Republicans, is not a conservative body at all. The leadership is not conservative. You have a handful of conservatives. And it's very clear they would like to see more. I don't know what to expect out of Darlene Graham. I really don't. Is she likely going to be in support of Donald Trump's initiatives? I'm sure. Will she support conservative ideas? That's another story. Love to get your thoughts as we continue the broadcast. And for those of you south of the border, I'd love to get your thoughts on that particular contest who you would favor to serve in that seat for six years beginning in January. Back on the broadcast, 34 minutes after 10 o'clock with the Vince Coakley radio program, getting your thoughts on what's going on with the Senate races, North and South Carolina, for that matter. Over on the WBT text line, driven by Liberty Buick GMC, TK says, I don't love Cooper either, but Michael Whatley has done nothing. It's just a Trump mouthpiece. Dana, wouldn't that be DEI if she has no prior experience, only the fact her brother had that position in reference to the current occupant of the office?

Yeah, they've got some very important votes coming up. They cannot risk having a vacancy there, a no-show for some very close votes, especially in situations where they've already gotten noes out of one or two senators. They don't have a margin to play with. On the other hand, You have someone who is a little more lenient on this issue, and that is the very folksy senator out of Louisiana, John Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. who says, you know, it's time to be patient with Mitch. Here's Senator Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. I think people ought to leave Mitch alone. Look, I believe Mitch. I don't believe all these stories that he's brain dead and all of that. People need to get alive. I think he had a fall, and Mitch is not 29 anymore. and he's recuperating from it, and he'll be back as soon as he can. That's what he said, and I take him for at his word, and I know Secretary Chow, Lane, his wife, she's not going to lie to the American people, and neither is Mitch. But he'll be back as soon as he can, and we all wish him the best. All righty. One thing that I think is very important for you to understand about the Senate. The U.S. Senate, and I think there's, to a lesser extent, the House, but the Senate's very much like a club, and these folks look out for each other. And I think that's the perspective you're really hearing here from John Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. Now, I love John Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s death, but I don't trust Mitch McConnell any further than I can throw that man. And I don't trust Elaine Chow either. I don't trust either one of those people. So this is where the Washington Club mentality, it kind of clashes with regular people. Now, if you think I'm being too cynical, I mean, feel free to weigh in and tell me how far off base I am on this one. But I'm still waiting for proof of life. And it needs to be some type of streaming video. A still picture is not going to do. And ideally, a live video. A good part of the time, I don't know where Michael Knowles is. He's a columnist. And he's kind of, I suspect. He is a person who's very much sold out to the Trump administration and its perspective. Here is Michael Nolan's perspective on this entire Mitch McConnell matter. I hope he's doing well. We should pray for him. I don't need an update on Mitch McConnell's health. I hope he's doing well. We should pray for him to recover.

But I don't need an update. You know what I need? I need Mitch McConnell to remain plausibly in office until August 3rd. That's what I need. Because if something were to happen to Mitch McConnell and he were forced to leave office before August 3rd, that would trigger a special election that could very seriously complicate the midterm election. Because Mitch McConnell is retiring at the end of this term. So there will be a new senator from Kentucky in January of 2027 and the candidates are selected and it's all great and the Republicans are definitely going to win. And if there's a special election, it could screw that up. You could get Thomas Massie running as a kind of anti-Trump or anti-Republican Republican. See, that's what told me right away that. This is what the establishment is most worry about. And I am very clear about this. The establishment. Because they desperately want Mitch. They want him to stay around as long as possible. And Donald Trump does too because he wants someone who's going to be more reliably voting with. the system voting with the uniparty than someone who could potentially decide they might vote something that would relate to their conscience oh my goodness boy would that be a shocker I'd love to get your thoughts on this as well as we continue the broadcast. Still to come, we'll talk about Iran, the American death toll going up this weekend, and concerns about injuries that have been hidden from the American people. What is Toyota affordability? It's buying smart. Right now, your local Toyota dealer has great deals available on some of the most reliable trucks on the market, like the off-road ready to coma, rugged full-sized tundra, and legendary forerunner. Each with the space, tech, and features to handle it all, from the work site to the trails. It means driving for less, with efficient hybrid options available, extending your overall driving range and delivering great MPGs, meaning bigger savings at the pump without sacrificing power. And it means trading for more. The Tacoma and Tundra are ranked number one and number two in resale value over all vehicles, according to Kelly Boo Book. which can mean thousands more than average right back in your pocket when it's time to trade in. That's Toyota affordability. Buy smart, drive for less, and trade for more. Shop Toyota.com or your local dealer for deals and details. Vehicles projected resale value is specific to the 2026 model year. For more information, visit kelly bluebookskb.com. Toyota brand average resale value is 53% versus the average vehicle at 45%. Toyota, let's go places.

Back in the broadcast, 10 minutes before 11 o'clock over on that text line. One item I wanted to address here. Bebop following up saying the Unip Party, what Democrats are crossing over? Please tell me, Vince, it always seems to go to the opposite way. So that would mean Thomas Massie will be going over as part of the Unip Party against Republicans. It depends on what the issue is. And this is part of the problem. The Republicans are very selective when they talk about disloyalty. Because a good part of the time, the party has gone the other way when it comes to sound conservative principles, especially as it relates to our currency and economic policy. They are spending. Can you, and here's mainly what I mean, B-BOP. Please show me a significant difference between Republicans and Democrats when it comes to spending. And show me by comparison how, for instance, Thomas Massie has voted for these big spending bills as opposed to most of the Republican Party. See, the Republican Party comes along and we have this, God forbid, we describe this so-called big, beautiful bill. It's trash. And the sad thing is, just because a Republican offered it, it does not make it legitimately conservative. I hope you understand the perspective that I have offered here on this one. Before we go into, in fact, you're probably going to wait until the next hour. To talk about what's happening in terms of what we are doing in Iran and the losses that we are suffering. Let me share a couple of quick items. One of them. Well, this one addresses this very well. Just saw this online from Rand Paul. You and I are increasingly told we have to choose between a left or right. But I like to suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There's only an up or down. Up to a man's age-old dream, the ultimate and individual freedom, consistent with law and order, or down to the ant-heap of totalitarianism, and regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who trade our freedom for security have embarked on this downward course. It's a quote from Ronald Reagan. Ray and Paul just posted on social media a few minutes ago. And the sad thing is the Republican Party has fallen for the same, same lie at times as the Democrats. And this is evidence for one by legislation connected to security. Some of the things that have been put in place since 9-11. We have been, why I say we, the Republican Party has been very gullible. Very gullible. We're going to talk about our involvement in Iran in the next hour. But I want to share a quick story about what's happening in the country. So we understand what we are dealing with.

The kind of government that is in place, these folks are not going to just go away casually. These are folks who are very much committed to their ideology. While the world focuses on other conflicts, the Islamic Republic of Iran executed a 19-year-old boy. His name is Erfan Esfendiari. He was his parents' only child. He didn't kill anyone. He didn't carry a weapon. His only crime, according to the regime, was opening his door to shelter protesters fleeing from security forces. Irfam was one of 12 young men charged in a case after getting arrested during the January 26th uprising. All 12 were moved to quarantine and ultimately the regime hanged him. This is a government so afraid of a generation that refuses to stay silent that it executes teenagers for showing basic compassion. The regime is trying to erase him. His grieving parents are left with nothing, not even the freedom to mourn openly. Irfan Espondiari executed for showing hospitality to protesters.

This is just a reminder of what we're dealing with. These are not logical people that we can expect are going to sit down and reason with us. These are hardline murderous people who insist on getting their way, no matter how many people they have to kill. And that includes their own citizens. You cannot forget that. Coming up in the next hour, we're going to talk more about Iran. Our engagement there and the cost associated with that, we will also have a Monday meditation for you. That and more, as we continue our broadcast, the Vince Coakley radio program, 107.9 FM, WBT, Charlotte, FM News Talk. The news is next. Welcome to our number two, the Vince Coakley radio program still to come. We're going to talk about Iran, our engagement there, and the cost thus far, and there is indeed a cost, though it may not get a lot of attention. Before we get there, we have a Monday meditation. I think it's safe to say, and one of the reasons that this particular item resonates with me is I very much am the idea that, unfortunately, much of what has been communicated about Christianity and the gospel has been about some sort of pie in the sky by and by sort of message.

And pretty much the standard evangelical message, you know, you confess this prayer and you're on your way to heaven. In the meantime, you know, there's nothing really of significance going on in your life. So what you have is this vacuum of this alleged experience. And then later on you get to heaven and everything's wonderful. How about something very important that is actually mentioned in the Lord's Prayer? This is a question that's raised by my good friend, Dr. Steve Crosby. I want you to listen to this because I think it's really important for us to meditate on. Because the purpose of Jesus coming to earth was basically to invade the earth with the king of heaven. Now when I say invade, I'm not saying this in an aggressive sense of forcing anything on anybody. But it is a new quality of life that is brought about as a result of his coming. If you understand that, what is shared here by Steve Crosby makes a whole lot of sense. I'm just going to read this, and I'd love to see what thoughts it may stir for you. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Can you imagine a sphere of existence full of radically forgiving, self-giving, and co-suffering love that is tangible? A love that is not feeling, but rather a power source like radiation that penetrates, permeates, and transforms all that it touches. A love that brings the atmosphere of heaven, for lack of a better term, to earth. I can. I must say, as I near the end of my race, it is an unspeakably glorious way to finish. You know what's odd? None of it is associated with the mechanics of doing church in any way we have known for thousands of years. It's all happening in environments and with people that I could never have conceived or imagined. For decades, my understanding of Abba and his ways have been too small, much too small. constrained by what I thought I knew about the Bible. That which is intended for liberty becomes constraint upon the liberator when our understanding is our deity. No worries, no condemnation. Finishing strong and joy unspeakable and full of glory. Joy unspeakable. I get it. A transcendent joy. for which there's no human language capable to describe it. The slavery to the fear of death is broken when acceleration to the end is characterized and subjectively experienced by unspeakable things. We don't slow down. Eternity rushes toward me. And I, it, because we're suited for each other, irresistibly attracted toward each other by the magnetic power of radically forgiving.

Self-giving, co-suffering love. Eternity invades my mortality and my mortality recklessly races for the consummation of unspeakable joy. That is going to be one mighty collision. This may sound kind of esoteric. But I know exactly what Steve is talking about. It's been a battle, to be honest with you, throughout my life. I can certainly identify this wrestling with the question is this, is this real? Is this real for the here and now? Not just later on, but for the here and now. And yes, I share that. same hope that yes this can be experienced today and to be honest with you if not i don't think i would be interested some people would find that to be a pretty radical statement i don't because if you hear a message about an abundant life and it's not real for today And it's only real for after you die. Everything that you've been told has to be brought into question. 704.570107.9 is the number if you'd like to weigh in on anything we've discussed this far, thus far. Still to come, we're going to talk about Iran. What has been the cost thus far to the United States of America? What are our losses? Any prospects are actually bringing this thing to an end? What is Toyota affordability? It's buying smart. Your local Toyota dealer has great deals available today on Tacoma, Tundra, and Forerunner with the space and features for any adventure. It means driving for less, with available hybrid options, delivering great MPGs without sacrificing power. And it means trading for more. Toyota is known for building long-lasting vehicles, meaning your truck will hold its value for years to come. Shopped Toyota.com to find out more. Toyota, let's go places. On the WVT text line, driven by Libertybuke, GMC, Chris writing in, and Ronnie and Mann hanged for giving refuge. Ashley Babbitt executed in the Capitol on January 6th. An American murdered roughly 87 million of our own babies since 1950. Nobody has a monopoly on viciousness. Chris, I'd love how you brought this back home. Yep. You definitely brought this back home.

Dean also writes in the cost of war, the assessment of war by the powerful is not measured in cost, but in the military industrial profits. Remember, bombs make money. People's lives don't cost anything. Man, that sounds so cynical. But unfortunately, some truth in what you have said here. Dean raises the question. Do you ever think Jesus gave us the answer and then rigged the game? No, I don't think he's rigged the game. I've become convinced more than anything. At the root of it all is a problem with us simply believing him. I think that is the core of the whole thing. I think it's unbelief. The truth of matter is that many of us are so profoundly materialistic that we don't realize it. We just don't. So that's my answer to that question.

So let's talk about what's going on with Iran. The drudge headlines on this. American death toll hits 17. The Pentagon hides dozens of injuries. Lacks missiles for all-out war. Jim Jordan becomes a new flashpoint. Houthis in Yemen declare maritime embargo of Saudi Arabia. Oil price surges. Qatar Force 1 taken out of service to be maxed out. Surprise, surprise. I know people have been very, very suspicious about this whole plane thing. Let's first talk about what's going on now. The U.S. has launched more airstrikes against Iran after announcing another death of a service member. United States conducted a new round Verstrikes early today, targeting Ron after announcing the death of another American service member, and Iran fired missiles toward Jim Jordan that risk widening the conflict into neighboring Israel. Step by step. The U.S. and Iran have inched closer to an all-out war. This last month's interim deal meant to permanently end the fighting has crumbled. Shipping traffic in the street of Hormuz has largely stalled. Both sides targeting civilian infrastructure that's relied on by millions of people, while benchmark crude rose today above $90 a barrel. Further fueling a global energy crisis sparked by the conflict. The U.S. military said the service member was killed in Iraq on Saturday during the controlled detonation of a downed Iranian drone. The president saying, we hit them very hard again tonight. And we did that in honor of the soldiers killed. Earlier, the military said it strikes targeted Iran's paramilitary. Revolutionary Guard retaliate for Friday's killing of troops in Jim Jordan. One service member was missing after that attack, and the military's new statement said unidentified remains were found Sunday and were being examined. Since the war started, 17 U.S. service members have been killed. This renewed exchange of fire, now in the second week, seeing the U.S. target bridges and electrical facilities in Iran. The U.S. Military Central Command announced a new round of strikes early today, now into their ninth straight night. Central Command said it targeted Iranian military command centers, air defense, and coastal surveillance sites, maritime capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and communications networks. At this point, no immediate word from Iran and any casualties or damage from the attacks. Iranian state media reporting explosions heard in southern and northwestern Iran. So that's their perspective. New York Times reports the Pentagon withheld dozens of U.S. military injuries in the Iran war.

They're saying that Central Command is not required to release information about injured troops, especially when they quickly return to duty. In the week leading up to the Iranian attack on Friday, they killed two U.S. soldiers left one service member missing in Jim Jordan. Iran carried out three other strikes against U.S. forces in the country. Those attacks injured dozens of U.S. service members and damaged several helicopters, according to several U.S. officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss operational matters. The Pentagon did not disclose the earlier strikes, nor the casualties, and the damage they inflicted. This episode, the latest example during the Iran conflict of the tension between what the Pentagon says and the government's obligation to inform the public about the conduct of the war. One of the things that's always been a concern, no matter what our military operation has been, has been the...

injuries because that's really one of the fastest ways to turn off the American people to any military engagement. We do not want to see bodies return to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. We don't. Along Along this journey, the last few months, one of the other things that we've been talking about is the need for weapons. The Telegraph is reporting the U.S. doesn't have enough missiles to return to all-out war with Iran. The Pentagon official is warning a dwindling missile stockpile could limit operations against Iran. Not enough missiles. Donald Trump considering his options to launch a wider war against Iran as more American warplains are deployed to the Middle East. However, a U.S. official familiar with administration discussions said the operation would be limited by dwindling stockpiles of air defense and long-range munitions. One official telling the Washington Post, we do not have enough to safely sustain operations, and I don't think the White House is aware of that. The U.S. expanded its strikes in a ninth consecutive night of attacks on the country, edging closer to an all-out conflict in the region. This is, of course, not the kind of information that we like to hear about, but this was something we were warned about early on. Jim Jordan has become a new flashpoint.

Iran has been stepping up its missile and drone attacks on U.S. forces in Jim Jordan, seeking to produce American casualties and deter Washington from escalating its test of wills with Tehran. This weekend, Iranian missile strikes at an air base, killing two U.S. service members left a third presumed dead. The first American deaths from hostile fire since April. when the two sides announced that there was a ceasefire. So I'm very curious. What are your thoughts on how things are going thus far? I think whenever I've opened up this microphone for this discussion, what has been communicated, I think, by just about everybody, as they want to see a decisive victory here. for us to wrap this thing up with such overwhelming force that there's no question about surrender. There's no such thing as that's negotiating an end to this. And what are your thoughts as well on the supply issue? Back on the broadcast 1136. Getting your insights and things we've discussed thus far. 7045701.079 over on that WBT text line driven by Liberty Buick GMC. We have this from Allen. 100,000 murdered by the Iranian government. So the 19-year-old's murder shouldn't be shocking. Best we can do beat back their nuclear ambitions. But in doing so... We need to put them on the boxing mat very, very hard. Yeah. This person saying, whoever leaked that information needs to be taken out and shot for treason. I assume referring to the information from the New York Times expressing concern about our supply of weapons. Well, this is the kind of thing the administration very much is concerned about. understand some of your passion in this area. This person also saying, Vince, with all due respect, I don't need the Washington Post to tell me the U.S. military didn't catch. Chris, when will the Trump administration is circus monkeys get it? These people are not afraid to die. Yeah.

I am for openness until it hurts those in harm's way. I'm certain everyone I listen to on the radio today will not mention this, but you did. Pat yourself on the back, as you always do. Hey, I think there will see some honest discussion about this. We're supposed to be an open... country a republic i do understand the concerns about things we don't want our enemies to be aware of at the same time they're not stupid either and they're going to know there's a reason certain things are not done what else do we have here Mike running in, Trump power move, acquire a state-of-the-art aircraft, spend two years turning it into the world's premier presidential transport, then leave your successor with an asset instead of an excuse. Aha. And this is a person who would definitely like to see more aggressive action against Iran. Make it all glass. Wow. A recommendation to... carry out some sort of significant nuclear attack. Yeah, that would be something. What else could I say? Ah, hope we do not get to that point. Could be quite ugly. Let's talk about cyclosporiasis. It's a pretty interesting contest, not really contest, but contrast between North and South Carolina. Of course, our state is larger. 307 confirmed infections, 13 hospitalizations reported between May 1st and mid-July. You've heard about the national outbreak linked to Taco Bell lettuce, primarily affecting the Midwest. North Carolina health officials investigating state-specific cases often traced to fresh produce like parsley, cilantro, and lettuce. So that's the concern along those lines. South Carolina, 23 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis. The symptoms, the parasite causes blowout watery diarrhea, explosive bowel movements. I'm sure you've heard about this before, but I'm just reminding you. Cramping, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Symptoms typically appear about a week after exposure, and it can actually last for weeks if left untreated. It spreads by consuming raw produce or water contaminated with infected stool if not passed directly from person to person, the illness highly treatable with antibiotics. One of the things that's necessary for prevention is to wash all fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them. That seems to be the problem in this situation. We're dealing with vegetables. So maybe a good thing to do is avoid all vegetables. I'm just kidding. That was just a joke. But certainly there is a necessary word of caution.

in doing everything at least in your power to make sure the vegetables you consume are effectively washed. before eating them. What is Toyota affordability? It's buying smart. Your local Toyota dealer has great deals available today on Tacoma, Tundra, and Forerunner with the space and features for any adventure. It means driving for less, with available hybrid options, delivering great MPGs without sacrificing power. And it means trading for more. Toyota is known for building long-lasting vehicles, meaning your truck will hold its value for years to come. Shoptojota.com to find out more. Toyota, let's go places. Final stretch of the broadcast here 49 minutes after 11 o'clock. I had to share some of these, like this one from Dean, referring to the symptoms of cyclo. Be when my wife cooks, boy, are you in trouble? Or maybe she's laughing right now. Who knows? When I was describing the symptoms, grumpy guy writes in, I'm trying to eat here. I fully understand. Alan, I just heard the comment on the use of a nuclear strike against Iran. Sadly, it might quickly be coming to that level of seriousness. Yeah. Oh my gosh. Punmeister hitting us again. I hope we found the culprit of cyclosporiasis. That isn't just the tip of the iceberg. But that remains to be seen. Let us pray that we're turning the corner. This does not re-cyclo into another pandemic. Until then, eat more donuts. No link between donuts and cyclovesporiasis. That is true. That is definitely true. Some stories we are following. There's been an arrest in a bizarre case near New York City's FBI office. A man ignited a fire, set off fireworks, and menaced pedestrians with a firearm outside 26 federal plaza in Lauren Manhattan today. Police have taken this guy into custody. The man was pulling a cart that held long guns, additional fireworks, and other items. The NYPD Emergency Service Unit established a perimeter around the building, which houses the FBI's New York Field Office and a federal immigration court, and the bomb squad was notified and responded. The... FBI and New York Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating this particular incident. Another reminder of how important it is that we continue to remain vigilant with all of the activity that is going on. By the way, if you are intending to travel...

The U.S. has issued a worldwide travel warning over flight cancellations and escalation. Americans worldwide urged to exercise increased caution as unforeseen escalation in the Middle East could see flights canceled and citizens targeted. So there's this worldwide caution in place for Americans traveling abroad, warning they may be targeted by groups supported of, who are supportive of Iran. This amid an ongoing tension in the Middle East with U.S. and Iran continuing to exchange fire despite signing that memorandum of understanding last month, that memorandum has now been scrapped. Surprise, surprise. I think we pretty much expected that it was not worth any paper that was written on, that this is not a country that makes it a high priority to actually... Follow any agreements that it makes. Gasoline prices topping $4 a gallon again. This is all connected, of course, to the war with Iran. The national average for a gallon of gas. Just under 401 today. The first time in over a month, it's crossed that threshold. The price represents a national average, meaning drivers in some states, are paying more than $4 a gallon while others are paying less. National average for diesel. I know we have a lot of truckers in this audience. which influences the cost of groceries, other goods transported on trucks, 5.11 a gallon today. Gas prices escalated after the war in Iran began February 28th, hitting a recent tie of 456 back in May. The prices started to moderate, with negotiations progressing between the U.S. and Iran, with two sides reaching... now we're watching these prices start to edge back up so don't be surprised and the prices are higher than the last time you were there i'm very curious i don't know that we've spent a lot of time talking about this the plane donated by katar i have been kind of leery about this from the very beginning But this plane was taken and it was fixed up to serve as a new Air Force One plane. New York Times now reporting the plane is going to be taken out of service to be maxed out. This has been under scrutiny over whether the plane is actually fitted with sufficient defensive capabilities to protect a U.S. President and others traveling on it.

Now the president putting out word on Sunday, the Boeing luxury jet donated by Qatar that he recently took overseas would soon be maxed out, suggesting it could get additional defensive capabilities to match the standard of the older jets used for presidential travel. Now, the president commented after returning to Washington from New Jersey aboard the jet, it's a 747-800. It was given as a gift. Mr. Trump has plans to take it with him for his presidential library when he leaves office. A reporter traveling with a small group of reporters in the presidential motorcade pointed to the Katari Jets fuselage and said, Mr. President, this plane does not have anti-missile defense systems on it. Why are you flying it? Mr. Trump replied, well, it has. It has a lot. And you know it has a lot of capability, but as I understand it, in about a month or so, they're going to send it to have it maxed out. So they're going to be sending it, and they'll have. It's not clear what specific upgrades Mr. Trump was referring to the. gave of a month until it's ready was actually realistic. A White House spokesman didn't immediately respond to an email seeking additional clarification of what Mr. Trump was referring to by Maxed out and about the time frame that he mentioned. Nonetheless, it appeared to be an admission from the president. The plane security measures are not in. to be built from the ground up to serve as Air Force One. Now, the Times reported earlier this month, the new jet, which he flew to Turkey, it lacks the same defensive countermeasures.

missile capabilities to leak investigation that include the highly unusual step of the FBI just 24 hours after the story appeared hand delivering subpoenas to time for reporters to testify before a federal grand jury so we will see what the outcome of that inquiry leads to well that's all the time we have for the broadcast very much appreciate your presence today Lord willing, we're back tomorrow at the same time. Have an awesome day. God bless. What is Toyota affordability? It all starts with buying smart, and your Toyota dealer has great deals available to qualified customers on reliable cars and SUVs, including the redesigned RAV-4, Spacious Grand Highlander, sporty Camrys, and Corolla's. It means driving for less, with efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available throughout the lineup, extending your overall driving range and delivering great MPGs, saving you money at the pump. And it means trading for more. Toyota is known for building long-lasting vehicles. And as the best resale value brand, according to Kelly Blue Book, your Toyota can be worth thousands more than average when it's time to trade in. That's Toyota affordability. Buy smart, drive for less, and trade for more. Shop Toyota.com or your local dealer for deals and details. Vehicles projected resale value is specific to the 2026 model year. For more information, visit Kelly BlueBookskb.com. Toyota brand average resale value is 53% versus the average vehicle at 45%. Toyota, let's go places.