In Episode 2 of Grassroots Strong, Russ Jennings joins the show for a blunt conversation about the self-inflicted wounds that keep Republicans from winning in Michigan. From post-primary disengagement to factional infighting, this episode confronts the hard reality that purity tests and ego-driven politics cost votes.

The discussion covers the tension between grassroots activism and party infrastructure, why unity after the primary is non-negotiable, how Trump Force 47 changed volunteer engagement, and why refusing to support the full Republican slate only guarantees Democrat victories. This episode is less about theory and more about the uncomfortable truths Republicans need to hear if 2026 is going to look different than 2022.