Summary
Bob and Christ discussed various topics including the state of education in Idaho, the federal government’s control over Idaho’s land, the 2020 US Presidential election recount, and Christ’s transition from law to wildlife photography. They also discussed the creation and success of Christ’s book, which is a collection of stories and pictures about wildlife. Lastly, they emphasized the importance of appreciating the beauty in the world and the positive influence of wildlife photography on people’s lives.
Chris Troopos’ Common Core LawsuitIn the meeting, Bob interviewed Chris Troopos, a retired constitutional attorney and former candidate for Attorney General in Idaho in 2014. Chris discussed his lawsuit against the State of Idaho, the Attorney General, and the Department of Education to remove the Sbac test, a common core requirement for Idaho’s school system. The lawsuit was dismissed on standing grounds. Chris also expressed his disappointment in not being able to take a position officially on behalf of the State of Idaho regarding the unconstitutionality of the common core process during his attorney general race.
04:32 Improving Education Through Charter SchoolsBob and Christ discussed the state of education in Idaho, focusing on the Common Core curriculum and the potential for private schools to improve the system. Christ advocated for the elimination of the Department of Education and the promotion of charter schools to increase competition and efficiency. Bob shared his experience with the Treasure Valley Classical Academy, which he believes is a positive development in the education system. Both agreed that parents need to be more involved in their children’s education and suggested that volunteering at schools could be a requirement to ensure this. They also discussed the need for a shift away from government control in education and towards private sector involvement.
16:48 Idaho Land Control and Vaccine MandatesBob and Christ discussed the issue of the federal government controlling 32 million acres of Idaho’s land, which they believe should be returned to the state. They criticized the management of these lands by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the negative impact it has on Idaho’s economy and resources. They also discussed the potential of mining rare earth minerals in the Salmon River Basin, which they believe should be utilized for national security. Furthermore, they discussed the issue of vaccine mandates and the potential for Idaho to adopt a policy making vaccine status a private medical record. Both agreed that the federal government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and vaccine distribution has been problematic and has led to unnecessary loss of life and health complications.
29:33 2020 US Presidential Election ControversyBob and Christ discussed the 2020 US Presidential election recount in Wisconsin, which Christ’s brother led. They explained that the recount found over 50,000 votes to be illegitimate, which could have changed the election outcome. However, the Wisconsin Supreme Court rejected the claim, and the electors met on December 14th to cast their votes. Christ’s brother is now facing 11 felony charges for allegedly forging the elector certificate, a claim the Wisconsin Elections Commission and the Wall Street Journal have refuted. Both Bob and Christ expressed concern about the politicization of the legal system and the potential for the US to become a “banana republic.”
41:43 Christ’s Wildlife Photography JourneyBob and Christ discussed Christ’s transition from a career in law to wildlife photography. Christ shared his passion for nature and the impact it has had on his mental health, describing how spending time observing wildlife has allowed him to clear his mind and find peace. He also shared his approach to sharing his photography with others, sending out emails with stories and facts about the animals he photographs. Bob expressed his appreciation for Christ’s work and shared a humorous anecdote about a picture of a lion that resembled Donald Trump.
49:15 Christ’s Book Success and AppealBob and Christ discussed the creation and success of Christ’s book. Christ explained that he initially didn’t intend to write a book, but was encouraged by friends and eventually approached by a publishing company. He shared that the book is a collection of stories and pictures, which appeals to both children and adults. Christ mentioned that he has sold about a thousand copies, making back the initial costs and more. He also shared that the book has been well-received, with many recipients enjoying it and even giving it as a gift during Christmas.
52:34 Wildlife Photography and Its ImpactChrist discussed his passion for wildlife photography and its impact on his life and others. He emphasized the importance of appreciating the beauty in the world and how photography can help people see things differently. Christ also shared his plans to encourage others to take up photography and his role as the new president of the Boise Camera club. Bob expressed his admiration for Christ’s work and the positive influence it has on the world. They also discussed the availability of Christ’s photography book on Amazon and his website. Both agreed on the importance of finding the creative side of one’s mind and appreciating the beauty of God’s creation.