The Morning Drip for June 17, 2026

In this episode of The Morning Drip on WRTO.FM (Radio Free Georgia), broadcast live on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, host Donovan sounds off on a staggering $100 million political campaign, a sweeping privacy proposal from the FCC, and a tick-borne threat that could permanently ruin your backyard summer barbecues.

Quick Hits & Key Takeaways

•         The $100 Million Runoff Victory: Republican businessman Rick Jackson won the Georgia GOP gubernatorial runoff, defeating Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones—who held endorsements from Donald Trump and Governor Brian Kemp. Jackson captured 52.7% of the statewide vote after spending a mind-boggling $100 million of his own money, setting up a high-stakes November matchup against Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms (KLB).

•         Corporate Scrutiny & Other Races: Jackson moves forward despite an ongoing $90 million tax dispute with the IRS regarding film rights charitable deductions and past scrutiny involving a healthcare regulatory scandal. In other races, Mike Collins secured the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate to challenge incumbent Democrat John Ossoff, while Tifton's own Richard Woods narrowly won his reelection primary for State School Superintendent.

•         The Death of Burner Phones?: The FCC is reviewing a sweeping proposal that would require cellular providers to strictly verify and store the identity of new and renewing customers—including names, physical addresses, and government ID numbers. While pitched as a tool to stop scammers, privacy advocates warn it will completely eliminate anonymous prepaid phones, stripping vital protections from whistleblowers, journalists, and domestic violence victims. Public comment is open through June 25.

•         Alpha-Gal Syndrome Lurks in Georgia: Health officials are warning of a sharp rise in alpha-gal syndrome, a life-altering allergy triggered primarily by the Lone Star tick. The tick bite injects a sugar molecule that causes the human immune system to develop severe, delayed allergic reactions to red meat (beef, pork, lamb) and dairy. Roughly 450,000 Americans are estimated to have it, though newer treatments like the injectable asthma medication Xolair are being used to reduce severe reactions from accidental exposure.

Connect With The Show

•         Text & Studio Line: 229-520-5957 (Text 24/7; phone lines live during on-air broadcasts only).

•         Email: morningdrip@wrto.fm.

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Donovan’s absolute hill to die on today is that a properly cooked steak never requires steak sauce. Are you team purist, or are you reaching for the Heinz 57 anyway?