In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome newly elected City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee member Marjorie Tabb for a conversation about her journey into local politics, her experiences living in Downtown Pittsburgh, and why she believes more residents need to become involved in shaping the city's future. Marjorie shares her background in healthcare administration and data analytics, discusses what inspired her to seek out the local Republican movement, and explains why she is considering a future run for public office.

The discussion takes a deep dive into the challenges facing Pittsburgh today, including the decline of Downtown Pittsburgh, vacant storefronts, quality-of-life concerns, public safety issues, youth crime, and the impact these trends have on residents and businesses. The conversation also explores Pittsburgh Public Schools, school closures, educational accountability, school choice, and the importance of creating opportunities that keep families invested in the city.

Todd and Russell also examine a controversial Allegheny County proposal for mandatory paid parental leave, discussing its potential impact on small businesses, healthcare providers, and economic competitiveness throughout the region. The episode wraps up with a look at neighborhood festivals, community engagement, the importance of balanced leadership, and why building a stronger Pittsburgh requires accountability, common-sense solutions, and active citizen involvement.

Whether you're concerned about public safety, education, economic growth, or the future of Pittsburgh neighborhoods, this episode offers a thoughtful discussion about the challenges and opportunities shaping the region today.

Special Guest: Marjorie Tabb.

Todd McCollum is joined by special co-host Bob Crankovic as they welcome Noah Formica for a wide-ranging discussion on grassroots organizing, voter registration, and the future of the conservative movement in Pennsylvania. Noah shares how he became involved in politics at a young age, his work with Turning Point Action, and his efforts to energize younger voters and expand Republican outreach across the Commonwealth.

The conversation also dives into the aftermath of Pennsylvania’s primary election, including victories by local Republican candidates and the growing momentum behind statewide candidates like Stacy Garrity and Jason Richey. Todd, Bob, and Noah discuss the importance of ballot chasing, connecting with independent voters, and rebuilding Republican infrastructure in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh.

Additional topics include the challenges facing small businesses under progressive local policies, concerns over population decline and economic competitiveness in Pittsburgh, and the role of grassroots activism in shaping the future of Pennsylvania politics. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the upcoming Foundry Dinner, reflections on party unity, and a lighthearted discussion about the return of Heinz glass ketchup bottles.

Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and Noah Formica.

Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Kimberly Stern, Republican candidate for Pennsylvania State Committee in the 38th Senatorial District, for a conversation about grassroots organizing, voter engagement, and the future of the Republican Party in Allegheny County. Stern shares her background in business and logistics, discusses her passion for community involvement, and explains why she believes energizing local voters and building stronger connections between Republican committees is essential heading into the next election cycle.

The discussion also explores major issues impacting the Pittsburgh region, including public safety, immigration policy, economic development, and the lasting effects of the NFL Draft on the city. Stern also opens up about the tragic loss of her cousin in a crash involving an illegal immigrant, and how that experience strengthened her commitment to advocating for safer communities, stronger immigration enforcement, and commonsense conservative leadership across Western Pennsylvania.

Special Guest: Kimberly Stern.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Republican candidate Thomas West for an in-depth conversation about his campaign for Pennsylvania’s 38th State Senate District. From his roots in Greene County to building a successful small business in Lawrenceville, West shares his journey, his motivation for entering politics, and his focus on economic growth, public safety, and supporting small businesses across the region.

The discussion also explores the challenges facing Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, including population decline, business competitiveness, and the need for commonsense leadership. The episode wraps with a look at the economic impact of the upcoming NFL Draft, the importance of community investment, and why collaboration - not division - is key to moving the region forward.

Special Guest: Thomas West.

Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome a unique and engaging guest - “Anthony from Oakland,” a longtime radio voice and self-described old-school Democrat - for a candid, wide-ranging conversation that crosses party lines.

From immigration policy and public safety to the shifting identity of today’s Democratic Party, Anthony brings decades of perspective as a union representative and political observer, offering insight into why traditional “Kennedy Democrats” feel increasingly out of place. The discussion dives into local Pittsburgh politics, national influence on local issues, and the importance of restoring commonsense dialogue in a deeply divided political climate.

The episode also explores the upcoming NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, economic growth challenges, and the future of bipartisan cooperation - proving that meaningful conversations can still happen, even across ideological divides.

Special Guest: Anthony "from Oakland".

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome back Eileen Cunningham for an in-depth conversation on grassroots organizing, local political engagement, and the evolving landscape of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County politics. From her work building community connections in District 5 to her run for State Committee, Eileen shares firsthand insight into what it takes to grow a political movement from the ground up.

The discussion also dives into major local issues, including Allegheny County’s decision to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, concerns surrounding whistleblower protections, and ongoing questions about government transparency and public spending. With a focus on accountability, public safety, and civic involvement, this episode delivers a timely and candid look at the policies and decisions shaping the region today.

Special Guest: Eileen Cunningham.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Allegheny County Councilwoman Suzanne Filiaggi, the only Republican currently serving on County Council. Filiaggi shares her background in law, public service, and local government, reflects on what it means to serve as the lone Republican voice on council, and explains how she works to represent conservative values while building consensus where possible.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the controversial Allegheny County legislation dealing with cooperation with ICE, including the heated public meeting, concerns about whistleblower protections, due process, and the potential impact on county employees and public safety. Filiaggi also discusses her work on assessment reform, protections for longtime homeowners facing reassessment pressure, EMS funding through opioid settlement dollars, and the practical realities of governing in a county where performative politics often overshadow everyday needs.

The episode also touches on preparations for the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, the importance of responsible local leadership, and why steady, thoughtful public service still matters. It’s a candid and informative conversation about policy, principle, and the challenges of standing firm in an overwhelmingly one-party environment.

Special Guest: Suzanne Filiaggi.