Chad Hartman (WCCO 830)
Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) critically examines local and national politics with a focus on government ethics and public safety.
What This Tone Is Based On
The tone scores on this page come from analyzing how this show covers each political figure it mentions. Below is the breakdown of how many of those reads were positive, neutral, or negative.
Net media tone Negative across 967 figure-in-episode tone reads (not audience/impressions).
How Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) Differs from Other Shows
Compared to 215 outlets · Sep 2025–Aug 2026This show's average tone sits near the field, but its coverage is far more split by figure. It rates Anthony Fauci +0.50 above the media average on the figures it favors and Stephen Miller -0.48 below it on the ones it criticizes — a 0.98-point gap between its most favorable and most critical coverage that a typical outlet doesn't show.
- Anthony Fauci+0.50more favorable vs. other showsShow→ -0.08Other shows⤓ -0.5717 eps
- Stephen Miller-0.48more critical vs. other showsShow⤓ -0.74Other shows↓↓ -0.2617 eps
- Donald Trump Jr-0.42more critical vs. other showsShow⤓ -0.47Other shows→ -0.0515 eps
- Rand Paul-0.40more critical vs. other showsShow↓↓ -0.25Other shows↑ +0.1514 eps
- Pete Hegseth-0.38more critical vs. other showsShow⤓ -0.40Other shows→ -0.0240 eps
- Todd Blanche-0.31more critical vs. other showsShow↓↓ -0.30Other shows→ +0.0146 eps
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr.-0.31more critical vs. other showsShow⤓ -0.42Other shows↘ -0.1123 eps
- Kristi Noem-0.30more critical vs. other showsShow⤓ -0.53Other shows↓↓ -0.2423 eps
- Jacob Frey+0.23more favorable vs. other showsShow→ -0.01Other shows↓↓ -0.2423 eps
- Marco Rubio-0.23more critical vs. other showsShow↘ -0.09Other shows↑ +0.1344 eps
Delta = this show's tone toward the figure minus the average across all 215 other tracked outlets that covered them ≥3 times, Sep 2025–Aug 2026.
Positive = friendlier here; negative = harsher.
Editorial Identity
The editorial fingerprint of this center local news show — who it elevates, who it goes after, and where it breaks from the pack.
Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) is a center-leaning local news show that scrutinizes political figures and policies, often with a critical lens. The show places a significant emphasis on government ethics and corruption, as well as crime and public safety, reflecting its commitment to holding public officials accountable. It covers a mix of local and national issues, with a particular focus on Minnesota politics and figures like Governor Tim Walz.
The show covers Mitt Romney and Zohran Mamdani more favorably than the media average, suggesting a nuanced approach to figures who may not align strictly with mainstream narratives. Anthony Fauci also receives a more balanced treatment compared to other outlets, indicating a willingness to diverge from the typical media portrayal.
Chad Hartman is notably critical of figures such as Tom Homan, Kristi Noem, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., often highlighting issues of government ethics and rule of law. The show also takes a harsher stance on figures like Stephen Miller and Samuel Alito, reflecting its critical approach to certain conservative policies and actions.
The show stands out for its critical coverage of government ethics and corruption, with a lift significantly above the average outlet. This focus is complemented by its attention to rule of law and public safety, areas where it also exceeds typical media coverage. This editorial choice underscores its commitment to scrutinizing the integrity and effectiveness of political figures and institutions.
Who Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) boosts and attacks
Tracked figures split by this show's average tone toward them, each with the clips behind the call — tap a quote to jump to the audio.
Chad Hartman (WCCO 830)'s prime targets are Tim Walz, Pete Hegseth, Todd Blanche.
“No, Tim Walz is not behind a cyber attack on the water supply of cities in his own state.”
“Just days before this foreign sex offender was scheduled to be deported, Tim Walz, the governor, issued him a pardon, setting him free to once again endanger the children of America.”
“Minnesota's the national embarrassment, Tim Walz and Ellison are heinous if they think he's okay to be in our country.”
“Clearly, the Secretary of State Marco Rubio is not on the same page as the American president. That's obvious from just this past few days.”
“Did they tell Trump? Because the reporting is pretty clear that there were people within the administration who tried to convince him after Benjamin Netanyahu dazzled him, including Marco Rubio and John Ratcliffe, the CIA director, it's not going to be that easy.”
“this is the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who said that. And now the president, his boss, says we're going to charge tolls.”
“Todd Blanche, their attorneys I know, who said until he was lying with Donald Trump, that he was a very well-regarded attorney. But now he just flops over and asks Donald to rub him on the belly, and whatever you want, should Todd Blanche be the attorney general? No, absolutely not.”
“Todd Blanche entered into an agreement with the President of the United States to provide the President as well as his family with permanent immunity from an IRS audit.”
“This is a guy who describes himself as a Republican. So get out of here with liberal BS that you're going to go out of him on. Called Todd Blanche as a low IQ acting AG.”
“Pete Hegseth, I think, has misled the president. He's a disaster for the United States of America and embarrassment to Minnesota.”
“Not for one single second. Have I personally thought Pete Hegseth was qualified to be the Secretary of Defense?”
“Thom Tillis, the Republican senator from North Carolina, who's outgoing, excoriated the president, said, honestly, Pete Hegseth couldn't carry General Donahue's bag.”
“JD Vance was lying instantly about immunity.”
“If you look at JD Vance, Marco Rubio, Lindsey Graham, and frankly, a whole slate of others, look at the words that they use to condemn Donald Trump when he declared his candidacy back in 2015. And it is shocking to see what they said about that man and now how closely they're aligned with him.”
“JD Vance, the vice president, was on a number of morning shows today. And when he was asked about the money reports, because there are certain reports suggesting that somehow Iran might right away get $24 billion and could be in line for $300 billion, which would be, I mean, indefensible, impossible to fathom, that he really didn't push away, Dean.”
“I have a lot of question about what happened when Jim Jordan. Those are allegations. Those are accusations. That's very different from what happened here.”
“Has Jim Jordan ever faced the totality of an investigation to the level I think he should? No.”
Coverage Volume
Transcribed episodes per week — last 26 weeks
Sentiment Trajectory
Average weekly tone toward figures — green favorable, red critical
Whose coverage is ramping up — and dropping
New attack lines forming: Rand Paul (0→12 eps, tone -0.23) and Pete Hegseth (6→16 eps, tone -0.31). Cooling on Marco Rubio, JD Vance, Lindsey Graham.
“Across N days” = distinct days behind the recent count; a single burst means it’s concentrated in ≤2 days — treat as one story, not a trend.
Top Issues Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) drives
Top Issues ranked by lift — how much harder this show pushes an issue than the average outlet. ≥ 1.25× over-indexes.
Chad Hartman (WCCO 830) pushes Healthcare hardest — 1.6× the average outlet's rate of coverage.
Show organizations & places →Organizations & Places They Focus On
Recent Stories
An Illinois man is suing a steakhouse after allegedly suffering permanent brain injuries from eating contaminated raw oysters. The lawsuit claims that the man became severely ill after the meal, leading to long-term health complications. The restaurant denies any other cases of illness related to the oysters.
The annual meteor shower caused by debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle is expected to be visible soon, with optimal viewing conditions due to a new moon. Astronomers recommend finding dark areas away from city lights for the best experience. The meteor shower is anticipated to produce 50 to 100 meteors per hour.
The term 'popcorn brain' is being used to describe the effects of constant digital multitasking on attention spans. Experts suggest that this phenomenon leads to difficulties in concentration and emotional regulation, particularly among children returning to school. While not an official diagnosis, it highlights the impact of technology on mental health.
A partial solar eclipse occurred recently, with astronomers noting its limited visibility in North America. The eclipse was characterized by only 2.5% coverage of the sun by the moon, making it a minor event compared to other eclipses. Observers were encouraged to find optimal viewing conditions to enjoy the spectacle.
A man has been living in a billboard in West Hollywood, attracting attention from pedestrians. The billboard, which resembles a house, is part of a promotional campaign for a new Netflix thriller titled 'The Last House.' The unusual setup has sparked curiosity and intrigue among onlookers.
There has been a rise in reckless behavior associated with e-scooters, particularly among younger riders, leading to safety concerns in urban areas. The discussion highlights the need for better awareness and adherence to traffic laws to prevent accidents. While some view the situation as harmless fun, others express frustration over the lack of responsibility among riders and parents.
The recent Minnesota primary election saw about 1.1 million voters participate, setting a record but still falling short of general election turnout. Discussions centered around the dissatisfaction with candidates and the need for a new electoral system that could better represent moderate voters by allowing multiple candidates from each party in the general election.
The Minnesota Timberwolves announced that they will retire Kevin Garnett's jersey number 21 on February 28th, honoring his legacy as one of the franchise's greatest players. However, the decision to host the ceremony against the Boston Celtics, the team that Garnett won a championship with, has sparked controversy among fans who feel it undermines the honor.
Reports have surfaced about the challenging conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, where sailors have been deployed longer than expected, leading to mental health struggles among the crew. The Pentagon has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some military families expressing concern for their loved ones. The arrival of the USS George Washington is expected to relieve the sailors and restore some normalcy.
The recent primary elections in Minnesota saw a record turnout, with 1.1 million voters participating, although this still represents only a quarter of eligible voters. Discussions centered around dissatisfaction with the candidates and the electoral system, suggesting a need for reform to allow for more moderate candidates in future elections.
A discussion emerged about the declining popularity of craft breweries, attributed to overly pretentious beer descriptions and high prices. The conversation highlighted a shift in consumer preferences and suggested that simpler, more straightforward marketing could help revive interest in craft beer.
The Minnesota Timberwolves announced that they will retire Kevin Garnett's jersey on February 28th, but the choice of the Boston Celtics as the opponent has sparked criticism. Many believe it is inappropriate to honor Garnett against the team he was traded to, which subsequently won a championship with him. The discussion highlights the complexities of Garnett's legacy and the franchise's history.
The discussion shifts to the rising issues surrounding e-scooter usage in urban areas, particularly focusing on reckless behavior and safety concerns. The hosts express frustration over the lack of attention from riders and parents, emphasizing the potential dangers posed by irresponsible scooter use in traffic.
The hosts celebrate the current boom in Mexican restaurants across the U.S., discussing the variety and quality of offerings available. They reminisce about favorite local spots and the evolution of Mexican dining, highlighting the cultural significance and growing popularity of this cuisine.
The episode discusses President Trump's dismissive comments regarding the struggles faced by sailors on the USS Abraham Lincoln, who have been deployed longer than expected under difficult conditions. Critics highlight Trump's lack of empathy and his history of avoiding military service, framing his remarks as callous and disrespectful to military personnel.
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty to federal charges, including two counts of stalking, which could lead to a maximum penalty of life in prison. He admitted to emailing United Healthcare with the intent to shoot Brian Thompson, highlighting the severe consequences of his actions and the broader implications of mental health and insurance struggles in America.
Discussion arose regarding the actions of Homeland Security during Operation Metro Surge, particularly in relation to the deaths of two individuals. The narrative emphasized the need for accountability and the disproportionate targeting of people of color, raising questions about the effectiveness and ethics of such operations.
The episode discussed whether Oprah Winfrey owes an apology for her association with Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz, whose political views have drawn criticism. The hosts argued that public figures should not be held accountable for the actions of guests on their shows, emphasizing the importance of individual accountability.
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty to federal stalking charges, admitting to the intent to kill Brian Thompson, which has sparked outrage among his supporters. The plea raises questions about the morality of supporting someone who resorted to violence against an insurance executive, highlighting the frustrations many feel towards the healthcare system.
During Operation Metro Surge, Homeland Security was reportedly investigating various aspects in the Twin Cities, raising concerns about their focus. Sheletta Brundidge shared her personal experiences of feeling followed and targeted, leading to an IRS audit that she believes was politically motivated. The discussion highlights issues of racial profiling and the implications of government actions on communities.