By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of Church and State.

When the calendar flips to September 17, many Americans celebrate the birth of the Constitution with patriotic speeches and flag‑waving. Yet for host Caleb Collier, the day became a flashpoint for a deeper, more unsettling tension: a nation that reveres the document in tattoos and memes but often fails to read its words.

Local Action Meets National Debate

Collier opened the discussion by sharing a proposal from Spokane Valley councilman Caleb Collier—yes, the same name—as he suggested the city issue a proclamation declaring itself a Second Amendment sanctuary. The idea, he noted, would be “a lot,” hinting at both symbolic weight and practical pushback from state officials. While the notion of sanctuary cities has become a familiar flashpoint in the culture wars, Collier’s local angle underscores how municipal leaders are increasingly drawn into the national dialogue on gun rights.

He also recounted a conversation with a listener who described her friend as a “hardcore MAGA.” The anecdote highlighted a growing frustration among some conservatives who feel alienated by both the left’s criticism and the right’s internal disputes, especially when it comes to interpreting constitutional freedoms.

Constitutional Literacy—or Lack Thereof

Throughout the show, Collier emphasized the irony of citizens proudly displaying “We the People” tattoos while admitting few have actually read the Constitution. He quoted the preamble in full, noting its “beautiful statement” and lamenting that “we have no idea what’s in it.” The host argued that this ignorance fuels the “MAGA problem,” where slogans replace substantive understanding of the nation’s founding principles.

“How can you make America great again if you can’t be bothered to read this?” Collier asked, holding up a thin pamphlet of the Constitution. The rhetorical question served as a call to action, urging listeners to move beyond surface‑level patriotism toward informed civic engagement.

The Gas‑Price Post and the Politics of Praise

A focal point of the episode was a social‑media post by a woman using the handle “Julie Donuts.” She wrote, “Gas could be $17 a gallon and I would still love and vote for President Trump again… No one has worked harder or has done more amazing things than President Donald J. Trump.” Collier dissected the post, questioning the accuracy of the claim that Trump had ended “nine wars” and noting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

He used the example to illustrate how partisan echo chambers can amplify misinformation, especially when economic hardships like soaring diesel prices affect everyday Americans. Collier compared the reaction a liberal would receive for a similar statement about President Biden, asking, “Is she a moron? Is she clearly an operative getting paid?” The contrast highlighted the double standards that often accompany political discourse.

Libertarian Confusion and the Non‑Aggression Principle

Collier also ventured into the libertarian sphere, recounting a conversation about the party’s split over abortion. One faction argues that abortion violates the non‑aggression principle, while another claims the opposite. He described the internal discord as a “blooming mess,” noting that the libertarian movement’s lack of a coherent stance further muddles public understanding of constitutional rights.

This segment underscored how even groups that champion limited government can become entangled in ideological battles that distract from the core constitutional values they claim to uphold.

What Constitution Day Should Mean

Wrapping up, Collier urged listeners to treat Constitution Day not as a marketing moment but as a reminder of the document’s role in binding “the mischief of men.” He called for a renewed commitment to reading and understanding the Constitution, warning that without it, the nation risks “fat and lazy” governance.

In his final remarks, Collier reminded the audience that the health of the Republic depends on an educated populace capable of holding elected officials accountable—whether they are proposing sanctuary proclamations, posting fervent social‑media tributes, or debating the nuances of libertarian philosophy.

The full episode of Church and State is available on OBBM Network TV.