Art Bell starts the show by greeting listeners and introducing the upcoming segment with Charles Duke from Colorado, discussing Colorado’s recent legislative action on state sovereignty. Art mentions that the resolution passed the Colorado House and is expected to pass the Senate without needing the governor’s signature. He then shifts to various news topics, covering a range of international and domestic issues.
In Japan, Prime Minister Hosokawa’s unexpected resignation due to a minor financial scandal shocks the nation, especially after pushing through reforms. This incident raises questions about US-Japan trade relations and the political implications of such scandals.
Art also touches on the impending civil unrest in South Africa, with the nation on the brink of a civil war just 18 days before its first all-race election. The tension is high after a meeting involving the Zulu King, Nelson Mandela, and F.W. de Klerk results in no agreements and increased violence.
Turning to Central Africa, Art discusses the serious situation in Rwanda and Burundi, where the presidents of both countries were killed, leading to thousands of deaths. He expresses concern about the potential need for U.S. involvement in evacuations.
Art delves into domestic issues, sharing his personal experiences with mail tampering and discussing a report on postal thefts, highlighting the vulnerability of items like cash, credit cards, and food stamps sent through the mail.
Art Bell discusses issues surrounding the U.S. postal service. He expresses concern over reports of postal employees dumping mail instead of delivering it and asks listeners about their satisfaction with their mail delivery. Art shares his own experiences of receiving tampered mail and notes the increasing number of assaults on letter carriers and mailboxes.
Art then shifts to the topic of school prayer, highlighting Mississippi’s new legislation allowing student-initiated prayer in schools, following Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. This leads to a broader discussion on the appropriateness of prayer in school, especially when initiated by students, and how different groups are responding to this issue.
The conversation turns to Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of Nirvana, and his recent suicide. Art admits his unfamiliarity with Cobain and grunge music, pondering the reasons behind the tragic early deaths of many rock stars, whether due to pressure, drugs, alcohol, or a desire for lasting fame.
Art then reads a fax from a listener, Danny Costello, who discusses various political and social issues, including the punishment of Michael Fay in Singapore and humorous speculations about U.S. political figures.
Art addresses a survey that found only 54% of American teenagers believe trying cocaine is dangerous. He speculates that this disbelief might stem from misconceptions about marijuana and the dangers of other drugs, or possibly from ignorance or a lack of exposure to anti-drug campaigns.
Art Bell discusses the first-ever total ban on salmon fishing off the coast of Oregon and Washington, attributing the ban to the drastically declining salmon population. Art reflects on the potential impact this ban could have on many people’s lives and the overall fishing industry.
Shifting gears, Art addresses a listener’s comment on welfare and whales in Hawaii. The listener criticizes the welfare system, alleging abuse by some recipients, including non-citizens. Art voices his own concerns about welfare, particularly noting his observation of the physical appearance of some welfare recipients, which leads to a broader discussion about welfare abuse and potential solutions.
Art then previews the next hour’s segment, which will feature a discussion on the sovereignty amendment bill in Colorado. He also brings up a report by the National Council on Crime and Delinquency, which suggests that a debit card system could reduce crime in America by 40%. The report indicates that 80% of crimes involve currency, and Art ponders whether a debit card system would be a practical solution or a step towards a dystopian society.
The conversation then moves to a caller from St. Louis, who brings up concerns about nepotism in the federal government, particularly referencing Mrs. Clinton’s involvement in healthcare planning. The caller and Art discuss the potential constitutional issues and hypocrisy involved in this situation. They also touch on topics like gun control and tobacco, discussing the government’s contradictory stance on subsidizing tobacco farmers while promoting anti-smoking measures.
A caller from Missouri shares concerns about increasing state taxes under Governor Carnahan and speculates on the governor’s chances of re-election, reflecting on the rise of liberalism. The caller also expresses his conservative political leanings. Art Bell responds by revealing that he doesn’t vote strictly Republican, instead choosing candidates based on individual merit and issues, regardless of party affiliation.
The conversation then shifts to a caller from Washington who works for the post office. This caller responds to the earlier discussion about problems in the postal service, suggesting that negative publicity often coincides with contract negotiations and acknowledging that while there are a few bad employees, most are honest and dedicated. Art acknowledges the vast volume of mail handled by the postal service and the relatively small number of incidents.
Art Bell then opens the floor for more callers, inviting listeners to share their experiences with the postal service, particularly any issues with mail delivery or tampering.
The show continues with a caller named Leonard, who asks Art if he’s heard a particular story about quitting smoking shared on another radio program. Leonard recounts the story of a man who attended an evangelist’s meeting and was inspired to quit smoking.
A listener shares a story about quitting smoking through a spiritual experience, where he threw his cigarettes at an evangelist during a song. This leads to a broader discussion about various methods of quitting smoking. Art mentions his own intention to quit when cigarette taxes increase, tying this decision to his political views.
Another caller from Lexington, Kentucky, talks about his political awakening during Ronald Reagan’s presidency and his subsequent dissatisfaction with George Bush and Bill Clinton. He expresses frustration with his representatives’ responses to his concerns about tax hikes, feeling that they dismiss him due to his income level. This conversation highlights concerns about self-interest in politics and the need for incentives for businesses.
Art then speaks with a postal worker from St. Louis who describes the work environment at the main post office as a “living nightmare,” citing incompetent, corrupt management and widespread dishonesty among employees. The caller recounts witnessing pilfering of mail, especially food stamps, and expresses dismay at the stupidity of such acts given the good pay of postal jobs. He also dispels the myth that postal workers are carefully screened, mentioning nepotism within the service.
He recounts a concerning incident where he observed a temporary worker entering the facility wearing a flak jacket and armed with a firearm, an event that he reported to management. His story highlights the intense pressures and security concerns within the postal system.
Another caller brings up the issue of passing the buck in national policies, specifically mentioning school busing for integration and healthcare plans. The conversation focuses on the perceived extortion by some health insurance companies and the complexities surrounding pre-existing conditions in health plans. Art agrees that portability in health care is a legitimate concern but expresses skepticism about the government forcing employers to provide certain benefits.
The caller also discusses issues with hospital billing, citing personal experiences of being overcharged for services not received. This leads to a broader discussion about the causes of problems in the American health care system, with Art attributing it to greed among some parties.
Art Bell introduces a topic concerning the Colorado legislature and its stance on these issues, highlighted by a letter from Jim Abbott, chairman of the 10th Amendment Committee.
Representative Charles Duke and Senator Jim Roberts are mentioned as sponsors of House Joint Resolution 94-1035, the 10th Amendment State Sovereignty Resolution, which was approved by the Colorado House of Representatives. This resolution is significant as it represents an effort to reclaim state rights and powers that have been increasingly overshadowed by federal mandates. The letter emphasizes the importance of this measure not just for Colorado, but as a potential catalyst for similar movements across the United States.
Art Bell then interviews Representative Charles Duke, who provides insights into the motivation behind the resolution. Duke explains that state legislatures, including Colorado’s, are overwhelmed by federal mandates affecting various aspects of state governance, including environmental regulations, education, and labor laws. He highlights concerns about upcoming federal initiatives, like the reauthorization of OSHA, which could impose significant costs on states like Colorado.
The conversation also touches on the impact of federal mandates on issues like welfare, education for illegal aliens, and federal land ownership. Duke argues that the resolution aims to redistribute powers back to citizens and states, as originally intended in the U.S. Constitution.
Art Bell probes into the politics behind the resolution, asking about federal responses and how Duke managed to gain support for this initiative. Duke describes his efforts over the past six years in the Colorado legislature to raise awareness about the overreach of federal mandates and the need to protect citizens from government oppression.
Representative Charles Duke elaborates on the Colorado state sovereignty resolution and its implications. Duke emphasizes that the resolution is a reaffirmation of state sovereignty under the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which reserves certain powers to the states and the people.
Duke explains that the resolution is not only a statement to the federal government but also to the world, asserting Colorado as a sovereign state within the United States. He stresses that the U.S. Constitution was only adopted with the understanding that anything not explicitly granted to the federal government remains with the states.
The practical application of the resolution, according to Duke, would allow Colorado to legally exempt itself from future federal mandates, selecting which to follow based on their appropriateness for the state. He anticipates potential political pushback or threats of withholding federal funds in response to declining certain mandates. To counter this, Duke proposes creating state-level funds where Colorado businesses and individuals would send federal tax money, which the state would then remit to the federal government. This approach, he argues, would give Colorado leverage in disputes over federal mandates.
Duke also mentions that about 20 states have shown serious interest in this approach. He believes that if the federal government does not address this growing movement, it could spread rapidly, challenging the power of federal bureaucrats.
Representative Charles Duke references the case of New York vs. United States, where the Supreme Court affirmed New York’s exemption from a federal mandate regarding radioactive waste, citing the 10th Amendment. This case, according to Duke, supports the legitimacy of Colorado’s resolution.
Duke explains that the resolution will enable Colorado to choose which federal mandates to comply with, based on their relevance and benefit to the state. He anticipates some resistance from the federal government but proposes a novel approach to counter it. This involves creating state-level funds where taxes would be collected and then remitted to the federal government, allowing Colorado to withhold these funds in case of a dispute over federal mandates.
Duke addresses the potential legal challenges to the resolution, expressing confidence that it would hold up in court. He views the resolution as a bloodless revolution, a response to growing frustrations among citizens over federal overreach.
The segment also touches on environmental issues, with Duke criticizing the EPA’s emissions program and expressing concern about its impact on state sovereignty and environmental policies. He emphasizes the need to assert state rights before considering more drastic measures like the dissolution of the union, advocating for working within the constitutional framework to address grievances.
Art Bell resonates with Duke’s efforts, seeing them as a hopeful sign of change within the system. The discussion concludes with Duke expressing optimism about the future of the United States, provided the power balance between the federal government and the states is appropriately managed.
Representative Duke explains the legislative process for the resolution, highlighting its successful passage in the Colorado House and optimistic prospects in the Senate. He notes the lack of resistance from the governor and the federal government, attributing this partly to the perception that the resolution is insignificant. However, Duke reveals that other states, including California and Texas, are considering similar resolutions, suggesting a growing movement.
A caller from Washington expresses excitement about the resolution, describing a sense of relief and hope it brings. He mentions his involvement in a non-profit group called the 10th Amendment Foundation and raises concerns about potential challenges from the Supreme Court, citing its history of expanding federal powers.
The caller also discusses recent legal challenges to state-level initiatives, such as term limits and gay rights referendums, and the impact of federal decisions on local industries like timber and fishing. These examples illustrate his concern about the Supreme Court’s role in undermining state sovereignty.
Duke believes that states have the power to ignore federal court rulings if they overstep constitutional boundaries, especially in light of recent federal actions like Waco and the Randy Weaver incident in Idaho. He expresses confidence that any aggressive federal intervention would be met with strong public resistance.
The conversation touches on the tension between state rights and federal authority, with Duke asserting that the American spirit of independence remains strong. He believes that the Constitution of the United States is a sacred document that all legislators, whether state or federal, swear to uphold.
Callers express support for the resolution, with one mentioning a similar spirit of independence in Montana and an upcoming event related to the “No More Wackos” convention. There is a shared sentiment among the callers and Duke that the resolution is a step towards restoring constitutional balance and resisting federal overreach.
Art Bell reflects on the significance of these actions, acknowledging the delicate and potentially dangerous times in America.
A caller from San Diego expresses concern about the Supreme Court undermining the resolution, but Duke remains hopeful, citing the New York vs. United States case as precedent for upholding the 10th Amendment. He believes that the American people will not tolerate federal overreach, as seen in events like Waco and Idaho.
Listeners from various states call in to express their support for Duke’s resolution and discuss their own states’ challenges with federal overreach. A caller from Oregon brings up a different topic about a comet collision in Jupiter, but the focus quickly returns to the resolution. A caller from Denver confirms his attendance at an upcoming rally in support of the resolution.
Duke mentions the formation of the 10th Committee in Colorado, a group dedicated to ensuring the resolution’s success. He invites listeners to contact the committee for support and information.
Art Bell offers an additional hour for the discussion due to high caller interest, and Duke agrees to stay. Another caller from Washington asks for advice on combating liberalism in his state, to which Duke suggests using the Colorado resolution as a model and engaging with local legislators.
Duke explains that the resolution, having passed the Colorado House, is expected to go through the Senate without requiring the governor’s signature. He describes this as a kind of bloodless revolution, asserting Colorado’s right to choose which federal mandates to accept.
Duke expresses confidence in the support of the people for this initiative. A caller from California inquires about the impact of the resolution on the issue of illegal immigration. Duke responds that the resolution would empower states to make decisions closer to the people’s interests, including on matters like illegal immigration. He suggests that decisions would be more responsive to local needs and that states could potentially refuse federal mandates related to immigration without significant financial repercussions.
Another caller from Missouri expresses gratitude to Colorado for leading this movement and inquires about the timeline for the resolution’s legal effectiveness. Duke explains that it becomes effective immediately upon passage by the Senate, thus making a declaration of sovereignty to the nation.
Charles Duke emphasizes that the resolution is a declaration of sovereignty to the federal government and the rest of the world, asserting that states have the power to refuse federal mandates not enumerated in the Constitution.
Duke clarifies that the resolution is a statement of intent and that additional legislation is needed to redirect federal funds through state legislatures. He acknowledges the responsibility that comes with sovereignty and the need for states to be self-sufficient and prepared to back up their declarations with action.
Art Bell raises a hypothetical scenario where Colorado could become economically isolated due to a conflict with the federal government. Duke believes other states would rally to Colorado’s defense and that it’s unlikely Colorado would face unreasonable pressure.
A caller from Washington expresses gratitude for the initiative and asks about the potential impact on federal Indian reservations. Duke admits he hasn’t fully considered this aspect and prefers to consult legal scholars before giving a definitive answer. He personally believes in integrating Native American communities more fully into society and eliminating reservations.
The conversation then touches on the issue of Indian tribes establishing casinos and asserting their sovereignty, paralleling Colorado’s actions. Duke reiterates his personal view on better integrating Native American communities but acknowledges that opinions may vary.
Representative Charles Duke discusses how the resolution would allow Colorado to make independent decisions regarding federal mandates, including those related to gambling regulations on Native American reservations. He mentions that while Colorado has limited stakes gambling, Native American reservations are not subject to these restrictions and do not pay the same taxes, creating a disparity.
The discussion then shifts to federal gun control laws, such as the Brady Law. Duke suggests that under the resolution, Colorado could choose to exempt itself from certain federal gun control mandates if the state legislature decides to do so.
Callers continue to express support for the resolution. A law student from Sacramento calls in, agreeing with the need for local power and suggesting the possibility of a constitutional convention as an alternative approach. Duke, however, expresses skepticism about a constitutional convention, fearing it could lead to unintended changes.
A caller refers to a 1992 Supreme Court case, New York vs. United States, where Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s ruling supported state sovereignty and the 10th Amendment. Duke cites this case as a precedent, reinforcing his belief that the Supreme Court would uphold the 10th Amendment if Colorado’s resolution led to a legal challenge.
Art Bell reads a supportive fax from a listener, reinforcing the public’s backing for the resolution.
Duke explains the significance of the resolution as an affirmation of the 10th Amendment and a declaration of independence from federal overreach. He encourages listeners in other states to contact their local representatives to adopt similar resolutions and to use it as a litmus test for candidates’ support of the Constitution.
The conversation touches on the reaction of Colorado’s congressional and senate representatives, which Duke describes as cool and cautious. He plans to send them a copy of the resolution once it passes the Senate to avoid any behind-the-scenes lobbying.
Art Bell raises a concern about the potential ineffectiveness of the resolution, comparing it to the Gramm-Rudman effort, which had limited impact. Duke acknowledges this risk but emphasizes the importance of other states adopting similar measures to strengthen the movement.
A caller from Washington expresses agreement with Duke’s resistance to a constitutional convention, fearing it could lead to more restrictive government. Duke concurs, emphasizing the need to protect the existing Constitution rather than risking changes through a convention.
A caller suggests that having a grand jury ready to investigate federal actions could provide leverage for the state. Duke responds by discussing the potential for other states to join Colorado’s initiative, which he believes could lead to a significant shift back to the principles that made the country great.
Another caller from Idaho expresses support for the resolution and inquires about federal jurisdiction issues. Duke shares that some representatives outside Colorado are hesitant to confront the federal government, while others are supportive of asserting state sovereignty.
The conversation takes a turn when Duke mentions rumors about black helicopters and alleged concentration camps in Colorado, accessible only by air, supposedly for holding dissidents. While he acknowledges these are unconfirmed rumors, he expresses concern about the amount of speculation surrounding them.
A caller from Seattle raises the issue of the lack of the word “specifically” in the Constitution regarding powers granted to the federal government. This omission, he suggests, has allowed the courts to expand federal powers significantly. The caller also mentions an incident where a citizen who publicly questioned President Clinton faced an IRS audit, implying potential risks for those who challenge federal authority.
Duke acknowledges these risks but believes that publicizing such actions would backfire on the federal government. He remains confident in the support of patriots and the media to defend constitutional rights.
Representative Charles Duke responds to a caller’s question about the term “specifically enumerated” in the context of federal powers, explaining that the word “enumerated” is considered sufficient to imply a finite list of powers granted to the federal government by the Constitution. However, he agrees to reconsider adding “specifically” for clarity.
Duke emphasizes his commitment to upholding the Constitution and asserts that any retaliation for his actions would be unwarranted. He acknowledges the risks but believes that public support is on his side.
Callers from various states express their support for Duke’s efforts. A caller from Santa Barbara asks about the ultimate relationship Duke envisions between the states and the U.S. federal government. Duke responds that he would like to see states retain sovereignty in most areas, with the federal government handling disputes between states. He advocates for decision-making closer to the people, enhancing the representative nature of government.
Another caller from Olympia, Washington, discusses aspects of the United States Code, suggesting that certain federal laws, including those related to gun control, only pertain to the federal zone and not to individual states.
The discussion shifts away from Representative Charles Duke and the Colorado state sovereignty resolution to a variety of other topics. The program, now in its fifth hour, welcomes new listeners from an affiliate in Springfield, Ohio.
One caller questions the implications of Representative Duke’s resolution on President Clinton’s health plan. Another caller from Pasco, Washington, wants to address the public perception of grunge music, particularly in the context of Kurt Cobain’s recent suicide. The caller emphasizes that grunge music is about being oneself and rejects the stereotype that it is inherently depressing or associated with depression and suicide.
Another caller introduces a topic unrelated to the previous discussions: a new trend called “laser splash,” where people have a laser beam and a microchip inserted into their earlobe, carrying logos of companies like Pepsi Cola, Apple Computer, and IBM. This chip supposedly offers discounts on purchases at certain stores. The caller expresses concern and confusion about why a computer chip is necessary, suggesting that a tattoo could serve the same purpose.
The conversation shifts away from the earlier discussion about state sovereignty and federal government. One caller brings up the topic of corporal punishment, referencing the caning incident in Singapore with Michael Fay. The caller suggests the idea of using physical punishment, like a modern-day stockade, in American prisons to discipline inmates. This proposal generates a conversation about the effectiveness and morality of such punitive measures.
Another topic that emerges is the recent suicide of Kurt Cobain, lead singer of Nirvana. Callers express their thoughts on Cobain’s death, discussing its impact on the grunge music scene and speculating about the reasons behind his suicide. One caller, particularly troubled by Cobain’s decision to end his life at the height of his career, sees it as a “cop-out” and a significant loss for the generation that identified with his music.
Another caller nostalgically reminisces about classic musicians like Guy Lombardo and Artie Shaw, contrasting them with modern music trends.
The conversation then shifts to a discussion about Dexter Yager, known for his success in the flower business. A caller praises Yager’s business model and the quality of his products.
One caller brings up a story from the LA Times about potential wrongdoing in the Whitewater scandal involving President Clinton. Bell responds by emphasizing the need for concrete evidence and convictions before treating allegations as facts. He expresses his approach to discussing allegations, underscoring the importance of waiting for proof and legal processes to unfold.
Bell addresses a caller who criticizes him for not focusing enough on the Whitewater story. He defends his approach to talk radio, asserting his right to choose what topics to discuss and how to handle them. Bell emphasizes the open nature of his show, allowing callers to express their views freely but firmly stating that he will not be dictated on what to cover.
One caller from Oregon comments on the grunge music scene, labeling it as one of the three forms of protest music popular among youth today. He categorizes grunge as the music of upper-middle-class white youth who feel alienated and depressed, comparing it to the hippie music of the 1960s. The caller expresses concern about the nihilistic and hopeless messages conveyed by grunge music.
Another caller reflects on Kurt Cobain’s suicide, suggesting that musicians often get overwhelmed by fame and success, leading to destructive behavior. Art Bell agrees, noting the influence of music, especially in one’s younger years, and the impact of songs preaching depression or lack of hope.
A caller from Washington shares insights about Cobain’s background, explaining how he grew up in a small, isolated community and always dreamed of making it big in the music industry. The caller believes Cobain was a product of his environment and that his rapid rise to fame ultimately contributed to his downfall.
The conversation shifts to a caller from California who discusses the recent increase in salmon sightings in local streams, attributing it to environmental changes and increased rainfall. He also thanks Art Bell for supporting musicians, mentioning a specific artist who is gaining recognition.
A caller from Oregon discusses the ongoing conflict in the Balkans, criticizing the Clinton administration for not taking stronger action against the Serbian forces. He expresses concern about the atrocities committed against civilians, particularly children and women. Art Bell responds by explaining that while people do care about global conflicts, there is a general reluctance to involve American troops in what is perceived as another country’s civil war.
The conversation then turns back to Kurt Cobain, with a caller from Springfield, Ohio, discussing Cobain’s music and the difficulty of understanding his personal struggles. The caller acknowledges the complexity of Cobain’s situation, particularly his heroin addiction.
One caller from Ohio reflects on Kurt Cobain’s suicide, commenting on the finality and decisiveness of his method. The caller believes that despite Cobain’s wealth, it didn’t guarantee happiness or satisfaction. Another caller from the same state discusses the nature of Cobain’s music, suggesting it reflects the general depressing nature of current events rather than driving people to suicide.
A caller from Idaho praises the radio show for allowing people to voice their opinions freely, highlighting the uniqueness of this freedom in America compared to other countries. Art Bell agrees, urging listeners to travel and see how different life is in other parts of the world to appreciate what they have in the United States.
Another caller ties in the earlier discussion with Representative Duke about state sovereignty with the situation in Chicago, where there was an attempt to give up constitutional rights for security in public housing. The caller expresses concern about the potential violation of constitutional rights for short-term gains.
The discussion then circles back to Kurt Cobain, with a caller from Bakersfield sharing how Nirvana’s music played an important role in his life, bringing back memories and feelings from his younger years.
One caller shares his appreciation for Nirvana’s music, expressing sadness over Kurt Cobain’s death. He suggests that Cobain’s life and death should serve as a cautionary tale, highlighting the tragic pattern seen among many rock stars. Art Bell agrees, acknowledging the sadness of losing great artists and expressing empathy for the fans who feel the loss deeply.
A senior citizen from Springfield, Ohio, calls in to express her appreciation for the show being available in her area. She echoes the sentiments of earlier callers about the value of the show and the freedom it represents.
Art Bell then announces the upcoming program “Dreamland,” which will feature a discussion with Stoker Hunt about his book “Weegee: The Most Dangerous Game.” Bell teases a personal story related to Weegee that he plans to share, encouraging listeners to tune in.
The show concludes with Art Bell thanking the listeners and reminding those who do not yet receive “Dreamland” to request it from their local radio stations. He signs off, looking forward to connecting with his audience again in the next show.