In this episode of It’s a Numbers Game, Ryan Girdusky is joined by investigative journalist Steve Robinson to break down the political battles shaping Maine—and what they reveal about the national landscape heading into 2026.

They dive into the breaking ballot referendum on women’s sports and gender policies, examining how the issue has shifted public opinion and why polling consistently shows overwhelming support for sex-based protections. The conversation explores real-world cases, political messaging, and how grassroots activism is influencing statewide policy.

Ryan and Steve also unpack Maine’s high-stakes political races, including the governor’s race, congressional battles, and Susan Collins’ reelection fight. From campaign strategy to shifting voter coalitions, they analyze what the numbers actually say—and where the media narrative gets it wrong.

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On this episode, Ryan Girdusky sits down with The Bulwark's Andrew Egger to break down the growing political and economic backlash against artificial intelligence—and why it could reshape American politics heading into 2028.

Voters across party lines are increasingly skeptical of AI’s rapid expansion, with rising fears about job loss, economic disruption, and unchecked power from tech companies. As billions of dollars pour into political races from AI-aligned groups, the fight over regulation is just beginning.

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In this episode, Ryan is joined by Semafor national political reporter David Weigel to break down the staggering money, influence, and outcomes shaping the Illinois primary elections.

With more than $32 million spent across key races, this election cycle reveals a new reality in American politics—where super PACs, crypto interests, AI funding, and AIPAC-backed efforts are reshaping Democratic primaries in real time.

Ryan and Weigel dive into:

Who really won Illinois—and how Governor J.B. Pritzker flexed his political and financial power

The growing dominance of outside spending vs. candidate fundraising

How AIPAC, crypto PACs, and AI groups performed—and what their mixed results signal

Why some progressive candidates surged—but ultimately fell short

The surprising ways campaign messaging is shifting away from core issues like AI and crypto How massive ad spending is influencing voter perception—and fueling distrust

What these results mean for future battleground primaries in states like Colorado, California, and beyond

Plus, a deeper look at how ideological purity tests, anti-corporate messaging, and intra-party divisions are shaping the Democratic Party’s future.

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