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.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, Russell Dryer takes the lead as Chairman Todd McCollum is out on special assignment. He is joined by David Gehring as his second chair as they welcome Venezuelan commentator, Juan Romero. The conversation centers on Venezuela’s long slide into socialism under Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, the impact of Cuba and other foreign actors, and the real-world consequences of government control, disarmament, and repression - along with Juan’s perspective on what comes next after Operation Absolute Resolve and the hope of rebuilding with stability, security, and accountable elections.

The episode also covers local politics and civic engagement, including a recap of the HD-42 special election results and what special elections can reveal about turnout and mail-in voting dynamics. Russell and Dave react to key moments from the State of the Union—especially energy, AI, and infrastructure—and discuss why Pennsylvania is positioned to lead if leaders invest in long-term, practical upgrades. The show wraps with a call to action for petition season and an invitation to join the committee at upcoming signing events.

Special Guests: David Gehring and Juan Romero.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Joseph Leckenby, Republican candidate for the upcoming Special Election in HD-42, to share his background, explain why he’s running, and outline his vision for stronger leadership at the state and local level. Joseph discusses his commitment to commonsense policies, community engagement, and why ordinary citizens should be involved in shaping the future of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Pennsylvania.

The conversation also tackles recent local issues affecting everyday residents, including the upcoming closure of a Pittsburgh Shop ’n Save grocery store and what it means for neighborhood access to essential services. We also break down ongoing protests in Pittsburgh calling for an end to federal ICE operations, including response to comments from U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, and opening a debate over county cooperation with immigration enforcement — highlighting the balance between public safety, local autonomy, and civic values.

Whether you’re focused on grassroots politics, community stability, or building accountable leadership, this episode offers practical insight and thoughtful discussion on the challenges facing our region today.

Special Guest: Joseph Leckenby.

In this episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer welcome Benson Fechter, one of the Republican candidates for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District. A South Hills native, small business owner, and family man, Benson shares his story, outlines his motivation for running, and explains how his campaign is working to connect with voters across both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.

The conversation also features a deep dive into Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela and why Russell believes the mission has long-term significance for U.S. policy, energy independence, and regional stability. The discussion also includes a look at ICE protests in Minneapolis and Pittsburgh, the importance of law enforcement cooperation, and the leadership challenges that arise when city and county officials hedge on public safety.

From managing infrastructure to confronting propaganda and chaos, this episode covers how strong leadership and clear communication are essential at every level of government. Whether you’re focused on Pittsburgh’s snow removal failures or shaping the future of Congress, this episode offers grounded insights from citizens who want to fix what’s broken.

Special Guest: Benson Fechter.

Todd McCollum welcomes guest co-host Bob Crankovic (filling in for Russell Dryer) and this week's guest - David Gehring. Both are active Republican leaders in Pittsburgh and join Todd for a wide-ranging conversation on party growth, public safety, and fiscal accountability. Crankovic, a longtime organizer with the Young Republicans, and Gehring, a U.S. Army veteran and vice chair of Pittsburgh’s District 2 GOP, bring their insights from the ground, reflecting on grassroots activism, campaign organizing, and where the conservative movement stands heading into 2026.

The group unpacks the City of Pittsburgh’s recent tax hike, critiques council’s budget priorities, and dives into the failed management of COVID relief funds. They also challenge the city's stance on ICE cooperation and discuss the national and local implications of law enforcement resistance. With sharp commentary on government accountability, public spending, and political messaging, this episode strikes at the heart of what it means to restore conservative leadership in urban spaces.

Whether you're a seasoned committee member or a newcomer looking to get involved, this episode offers real talk and actionable insight from voices on the front lines of local politics.

Special Guests: Bob Crankovic and David Gehring.

In this special New Year’s Eve episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer close out 2025 by reflecting on the show’s first 12 episodes, their favorite guests, and what lies ahead in 2026. From touching on standout moments with guests like James Hayes, Joseph Patrick Murphy, and Jason Richey, to discussing the importance of growing Republican engagement across Allegheny County, this episode celebrates the progress made—and reaffirms the mission to restore common sense leadership in the region. Todd and Russell also talk candidly about the upcoming election year, including critical committee elections and major races like Governor and State Senate. Most of all, they express deep gratitude to their listeners, and fellow committee members working behind the scenes. Here's to a brighter, stronger 2026.

In this pre-holiday episode of The Right Side of the Rivers, hosts Todd McCollum and Russell Dryer are joined by immigration attorney and former judicial candidate Joseph Patrick Murphy for a deep and thoughtful conversation on immigration law, border policy, and the state of civic life in Allegheny County. Murphy, a Roman Catholic, Republican, and longtime advocate for legal immigration, offers insights from over 25 years of experience helping people follow U.S. immigration laws the right way.

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.