Denver Riggleman, former Congressman and author, shares his unique journey from counterterrorism to distilling whiskey and his experiences on the January 6th committee. Riggleman discusses the challenges he faced in starting Silverback Distillery in Virginia, including regulatory hurdles and battles with lobbyists, which ultimately fueled his interest in politics. As he reflects on the state of the Republican Party and the broader political landscape, he critiques the lack of toughness among Democrats and the effectiveness of Republican messaging. The conversation also touches on Riggleman's potential run for lieutenant governor of Virginia as an independent candidate, highlighting the need for a new approach to politics that breaks away from traditional party lines. With a blend of personal anecdotes and insights into the current political climate, this episode captures the complexities of modern governance and the importance of standing up for democracy.

Denver Riggleman’s journey from a former Congressman to a distiller and back to the political fray paints a nuanced portrait of an individual navigating the complexities of modern American life. The conversation opens with Riggleman sharing the genesis of Silverback Distillery, born from a trip to Scotland where his wife developed a passion for distilling. This personal story offers insight into the dedication and hard work required to establish a successful distillery in Virginia, a state notorious for its stringent alcohol regulations. Riggleman’s anecdotes reveal the trials and tribulations faced by entrepreneurs in the liquor industry, reflecting a larger narrative about the intersection of passion, business, and regulatory hurdles. His enthusiasm for bourbon is palpable, illustrating how personal interests can shape professional trajectories in unexpected ways.

Transitioning into the political realm, Riggleman provides a candid assessment of the Republican Party's evolution, particularly in light of the January 6th events. He discusses his experiences on the January 6th Committee, shedding light on the challenges of investigating a politically charged incident fraught with misinformation. Riggleman critiques both the media and the political establishment for their failure to adequately address the underlying issues that led to the insurrection, emphasizing the importance of data analytics and counterterrorism expertise in understanding such complex events. His reflections on the media’s sensationalism and the political landscape highlight a growing concern about the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of misinformation as a tool for political gain.

As the dialogue progresses, Riggleman contemplates a return to politics, specifically considering a run for lieutenant governor as an independent candidate. He expresses a desire to disrupt the traditional two-party system, advocating for a more pragmatic and fact-based approach to governance. His vision for a new political narrative challenges listeners to reflect on their own political beliefs and the importance of supporting candidates who prioritize integrity and transparency over party loyalty. Riggleman’s journey serves as a call to action for those disillusioned with the current political landscape, encouraging engagement and participation in shaping a more inclusive and representative political future.

Takeaways:

• Denver Riggleman shares the unique journey from counterterrorism to bourbon distilling, highlighting his entrepreneurial spirit.
• The challenges of starting a distillery in Virginia illustrate the complexities of navigating state regulations.
• Riggleman discusses the bizarre political narrative surrounding his Bigfoot book during his congressional campaign.
• He emphasizes the importance of data and technology in investigating the events of January 6th.
• The podcast explores the stark differences between the Democratic and...