Podcast Interview with Joe Kent

Introduction

• Interviewer welcomes Joe Kent, a veteran with an impressive career.
• Topics include his personal story, military career, family life, and political aspirations.

Joe Kent's Background

• 20-year veteran of U.S. Army Special Forces.
• Worked as a field operative for the CIA.
• Widower; his first wife, Shannon, was killed fighting ISIS.
• Raising two sons, now remarried to Heather Kaiser.
• Served as a foreign policy adviser to President Trump.
• Author of "Send Me: The True Story of a Mother at War."

Motivation to Run for Congress

• Shocked by 2020 politics and the public's surrender of rights during COVID-19.
• Concerned about riots and lack of law enforcement in Portland, Oregon.
• Disappointed in his congresswoman for supporting Trump's impeachment.
• Focused on fighting against current political issues and supporting Republican values.

Childhood and Early Motivation

• Grew up in Portland, attended Boy Scouts, inspired by military shows and stories.
• Committed to joining the military, especially drawn to Special Forces.

Military Career

Joining the Army

• Enlisted right after high school, joined Army to become a Green Beret.
• Influenced by events like the Battle of Mogadishu.

Special Forces and CIA Career

• Transitioned from Ranger Battalion to Special Forces just before 9/11.
• Focused on small unit tactics, direct action, and unconventional warfare.
• Joined a special unit within the CIA focusing on reconnaissance and intelligence.

Personal Tragedy and Family

• Wife Shannon was a Navy linguist and intelligence specialist, killed in Syria.
• Joe was deployed with the CIA when Shannon was killed.
• Struggles with grief and raising two young sons.

Political Career and Goals

• Inspired by his experiences to engage in politics.
• Focused on border security, fighting fentanyl crisis, and restoring law and order.
• Criticizes current administration's handling of foreign policy and domestic issues.

Conclusion

• Joe Kent's journey from soldier to political candidate is driven by personal loss and a commitment to change.
• Advocates for a government that prioritizes American citizens and national security.