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Golf And Politics

Golf And Politics

By: Reach Right Network
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Is it possible to bring Republicans and Democrats together? Maybe. Rob Ellsworth and Matt Parker grew up in the upper Ohio Valley playing junior golf, and today they all work in politics. Rob is a Democratic lobbyist, and Matt is a Republican strategist. While they rarely see eye-to-eye on politics, they wholeheartedly agree that golf is the greatest game ever invented and are passionate about expanding it.Reach Right Network Golf Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Episode 89 - The Vision Behind High Pointe Golf Club | Featuring Rod Trump

    Episode 89 - The Vision Behind High Pointe Golf Club | Featuring Rod Trump
    Jun 26 2026
    What does it take to build one of the most talked-about new golf clubs in America? In this episode of Golf & Politics, we sit down with Rod Trump, founder and chairman of High Pointe Golf Club, to discuss the remarkable journey from caddie to successful entrepreneur—and ultimately to restoring and reimagining Tom Doak's first golf course. Rod shares how golf shaped his career, the lessons he learned building and selling businesses, and why creating a truly great golf club is about much more than designing a great golf course. We dive into the vision behind High Point, working alongside legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the importance of culture and membership, and what separates the world's greatest clubs from the rest. ⸻ In this episode: Rod Trump's journey from caddie to entrepreneur Why golf became the foundation of his business success Restoring Tom Doak's first golf course The vision behind High Point Golf Club Golf course architecture and the new Golden Age of design Building club culture that lasts for generations If you enjoy conversations about golf architecture, legendary golf clubs, course design, entrepreneurship, and the people shaping the future of the game, follow us on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Episode 88 - Can Golf Stay Affordable? The Story Behind National Links Trust

    Episode 88 - Can Golf Stay Affordable? The Story Behind National Links Trust
    Apr 30 2026
    In this episode of Golf & Politics, we dive deep into one of the most important—and overlooked—stories in the game today. We sit down with Will Smith, co-founder of the National Links Trust, to explore the intersection of golf, history, and power in Washington, DC. From restoring historic municipal courses to preserving access for everyday golfers, this conversation goes far beyond fairways and greens. We cover: The mission to keep golf affordable and accessible The untold civil rights history of DC’s municipal courses How golf became a rare space where politics doesn’t matter The rise of the Outpost Club and modern golf culture The growing tension between public golf and elite development What happens when politics enters the game This episode isn’t just about golf—it’s about community, opportunity, and who the game is really for. If you care about the future of golf, you need to hear this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Episode 86: A Brutally Honest Talk About 2026

    Episode 86: A Brutally Honest Talk About 2026
    Feb 27 2026
    In this episode of Golf & Politics, Matt and Rob sit down with Sean O’Brien — former congressional chief of staff, Obama campaign operative, Pentagon speechwriter, and former speechwriter for Joe Biden. Sean shares what it was really like working in Rahm Emanuel’s office during the 2006 wave, running a rebellious Blue Dog-style congressional operation, writing speeches aboard Air Force Two, and serving at the Pentagon under both Democratic and Republican administrations. The conversation digs into: Whether 2026 is shaping up to be a wave year The strength (and limits) of Donald Trump’s influence in GOP primaries Candidate quality vs. national mood in midterms Redistricting, the Latino vote, and the hidden battlegrounds Early 2028 Democratic possibilities, including Mark Kelly and Mitch Landrieu It’s candid, and it’s a rare behind-the-scenes look at how campaigns and power actually work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 22 mins
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