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.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

• Bethel Park Committee Yinzer Party (October 1, 2026) — Find out more information about the Bethel Park Republican Committee, and keep up to date with regard to their 2026 Yinzer Party!
• Plum Borough Committee Spring Dinner (May 1, 2026) — Find out more information about the Plum Borough Republican Committee, and keep up to date with regard to their 2026 Spring Dinner!

The discussion spans topics like asylum delays, ICE cooperation in local municipalities, the sanctuary city debate, Springdale Borough’s 287(g) agreement, and what “legal immigration” truly means in practice. We also reflect on the legacy of public service, constitutional order, and the strain that illegal entry places on the system and on those trying to follow the law.

The episode opens with reflections on the Army-Navy Game Watch Party, a public hearing on the Pittsburgh city budget, and recent headlines - from acts of violence against Jewish communities to concerns over government transparency and public safety. This is a must-listen episode for anyone seeking clarity on immigration issues from a constitutional and compassionate lens - and a reminder that effective leadership begins at the local level.

From all of us at The Right Side of the Rivers: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and warm holiday wishes to our listeners across the Pittsburgh region.

Special Guest: Joseph Patrick Murphy.

Support The Right Side of the Rivers

Links:

• Allegheny Immigration Group (Website) — Learn more about Joseph Patrick Murphy's practice and immigration.
• City Council Budget Meeting — This Saturday, December 20, the City of Pittsburgh will hold a Cablecast PUBLIC HEARING on Taxes, the Budget, and Citizen Participation. This is a STATE-MANDATED hearing on taxes, and public input is critical. Gina Pollice is organizing a gathering at RCAC Headquarters for anyone who: Has already signed up to speak via Zoom Plans to sign up to speak Is interested in providing public comment Wants to show support to speakers & listen to hearing RCAC will livestream the hearing together, and when speakers are called upon, they will deliver their testimony from the room—ideally surrounded by fellow Republicans and like-minded individuals. City Council members can see speakers who join the Zoom hearing remotely while giving testimony. WHY THIS MATTERS The City of Pittsburgh is facing serious fiscal challenges that have been known for years. City Council’s number one priority should be ensuring that our tax dollars are used efficiently to deliver essential services. After the recent snow removal debacle—and numerous other ongoing failures—it is clear these basic services are not being met. Yet, at least one current Council member believes the solution is to further burden city residents with a tax increase. HOW TO SIGN UP TO SPEAK Residents may register to provide three (3) minutes of public comment at Council’s Regular and Standing Committee meetings and Public Hearings by: Completing the online Speaker Signup Form in its entirety (visit link provided above) OR calling the City Clerk’s Office City Clerk: Kimberly D. Clark-Baskin, CMC 📞 412-255-2138 📧 kim.clark-baskin@pittsburghpa.gov Assistant City Clerk: Ashley Robinson 📞 412-255-2132 📧 ashley.robinson@pittsburghpa.gov JOIN US SATURDAY If you plan to join us at RCAC Headquarters, please contact Gina Pollice: 📞 412-670-1745 📧 PGHd2Committee@gmail.com If you have any questions or would like talking points for the hearing, please feel free to call, text, or email—Gina is happy to help. EVENT DETAILS SATURDAY DECEMBER 20TH- 11AM City of Pittsburgh – Live Stream Tax/Budget Hearing 📍 RCAC Headquarters 100 Fleet Street, Suite 205 Pittsburgh, PA 15220 ⏰ IMPORTANT: All registered speakers must arrive no later than 10:30 AM on Saturday. Let’s pack the room on Saturday. SHOW UP. STAND UP. SIGN UP.