Smash The Bubble

News and opinion from both the left and the right, mixed together so you can break out of your filter bubble.

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Today's Headlines

Meet the woman steering Biden's bipartisan winning streak on Capitol Hill

The Biden administration managed to rack up a long list of major legislative wins in its first two years despite facing one of the most closely-divided Congresses in history. From bipartisan action on infrastructure, gun safety and same-sex marria…

Rohmer at Camelot

Éric Rohmer’s Perceval le Gallois (1978) vividly recreates the imaginative world in which the people of the Middle Ages lived inside their heads.

Friday's Final Word

Trump, sounding like Biden, says he deserves more credit

America’s last two presidents have spent years as political foils. Both feel the American public does not give them enough credit.

CNN Political Briefing

The political news you need to know, in 10 minutes or less. Hosted by David Chalian.

Trump blasts Spanberger ahead of Virginia meetings, says state faces tax base exodus like New York, California

President Donald Trump blasts Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger over taxes, warning her policies could drive people and companies out like what's happening in New York and California.

Vance, who wasn’t keen on Iran war, now tasked with trying to end it

The weekend’s peace talks in Islamabad mark Vance’s highest-profile assignment as vice president, with concomitant political risk.

The State That Could Decide Trump’s Gerrymandering War

Democrats want Virginians to aggressively gerrymander the state.

She Testified About Being Raped. Then ICE Showed Up.

Immigration officers are making arrests in sensitive locations, including family court.

Trump’s Cozy Transportation Secretary

Sean Duffy is partnering with the industries he regulates in new ways.

Kempel and Kimmitt to Newsmax: 'Tactical Aim Achieved' In Iran but Strategy Falls Short

On Newsmax's "America Right Now," former IDF Special Operations Commander Doron Kempel and retired U.S. Brig. Gen. Mark Kimmitt offered sharply different assessments of the U.S. campaign against Iran, Kempel arguing the "tactical aim has been achi…

1979 Is the Year That Explains Donald Trump

And pretty much all of the 1980s do too.

The Axe Files with David Axelrod

Go beyond the soundbites and get to know some of the most interesting players in politics.

Watchdog, GOP lawmaker warn NY voter registration systems lacks key safeguards

Election integrity group RITE and Rep. Claudia Tenney threatened federal court action over alleged New York voter registration violations.

Vance Faces a Test in Pakistan

Friday, April 10th on RealClearPolitics - Joined by RCP Contributor Lanny Davis:00:00 Vance Heads to Pakistan9:20 Trump Attacks the

Two Metro workers shot and killed in murder-suicide, police say

Metro General Manager Randy Clarke said the incident did not happen on Metro property. The shooting is being investigated as “domestic related,” D.C. police said.

Show Me the Money – The Trump Tax Cuts Benefit the Middle Class

Foreign Power, Local Politics

Where local collaboration is absent, foreign intervention imposes enormous costs or simply stalls. Where it exists, intervention can succeed with surprising velocity.

Splashdown: Orion Spacecraft Returns Home

Russia seizes control of US-linked firm as it pushes for renewed ties with Washington

Pennsylvania-linked manufacturer CANPACK says Russia seized control of its $700 million business under a Kremlin decree signed by President Putin.

Former Staffer Claims Rep. Swalwell Assaulted Her, Current Staffers Resign (Update)

Early audition for 2028 hopefuls focuses on civil rights issues

Democratic speakers were pressed to address voting rights, affirmative action and other issues at the Rev. Al Sharpton’s four-day conference.

The $97 Million Utah Warehouse ICE Bought for $145 Million

Trump wants industrial-size immigration jails, and money is no obstacle.

Kamala Harris tells cheering crowd she’s ‘thinking about’ another White House run

The former vice president’s statement at a Black political convention was one of her most explicit signals yet that she could campaign again for president in 2028.

Mahmoud Khalil One Step Closer to a Ticket Outta Here

On Iran Outcome, Nobody Knows Anything--Yet

Assume a can opener. It's a joke with its own Wikipedia page, one economists tell on economists, about being stuck on a deserted island with a can of food and no way open it.

Trump adversary running for Senate borrows his filibuster playbook

Maine Gov. Janet Mills' Senate platform includes filibuster reform that mirrors President Donald Trump and conservatives' own push for a talking filibuster in the Republican-led Senate.

Trump Endorsement May Play Key Role in La. Senate Race

Rep. Julia Letlow, R-La., has President Donald Trump's endorsement in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate — but it hasn't been enough to guarantee her victory.

Eric Swalwell Faces Sex Assault Accusation as He Runs for California Governor

Eric Swalwell, a Democratic congressman, denied the accounts published by CNN and The San Francisco Chronicle. Nancy Pelosi was among those who said he should withdraw from the California governor’s race.

Potential Democratic 2028 Candidates Condemn Trump’s ‘War of Choice’ in Iran

At a convention in New York, several Democrats mulling presidential bids rallied around opposition to President Trump’s decision to attack Iran.

Vice President Kamala Harris, a former US senator from California who previously served as the state's attorney general, could be the first Black woman and Asian American to lead a major party ticket after receiving President Joe Biden's support t…

Top White House officials encouraged potential Bondi replacement to make case to Trump for AG job: Sources

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche made his pitch to President Trump just hours after Pam Bondi was dismissed on why he should be the next AG, sources told Fox News Digital.

The IOC Is Protecting Female Athletics. Canada’s Secretary of State for Sport Isn’t Happy About It

On his Facebook page, Adam van Koeverden accused the IOC’s defenders of channelling ‘stupid conservative pseudo fantasies.’

Britain's Suicide Continues

Rubio Revokes Iranians' Green Cards, ICE Takes Custody

Federal agents this week arrested three Iranian nationals after Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked their lawful permanent resident status, according to a State Department press release issued Saturday.

Irish Fuel Protests Growing, Some Protest Leaders Denied Entry to Government Meeting

Artemis II and Why It's Worth Shooting for the Moon

The Artemis II mission splashdown capped an exploration defined by the jaw-dropping Earthset photo and Reid Wiseman's Carroll Crater.

Swalwell ripped for changing his tune on how sexual assault victims 'deserve to be heard'

Rep. Eric Swalwell's calls on lawmakers to hear out women raising allegations against Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh are clashing with cease-and-desist letters.

Liftoff to Splashdown: The Mission That United America

In a nation divided over war, immigration, elections and shutdowns, it took the Artemis II moon mission to unify Americans, if only for a few spins of the Earth.

Addressing the Academic Skew

Higher education needs intellectual—not political—conservatives.

NEW: US Navy Warships Cross Strait of Hormuz For First Time; UPDATE: Mine Clearing Begins

ICE detains relatives of 1979 Iran hostage crisis figure after Rubio revokes their legal status

Secretary of State Rubio says he revoked green cards for family members linked to 1979 Iran hostage crisis spokeswoman known as 'Screaming Mary.'

U.S. Intelligence Shows China Taking a More Active Role in Iran War

China may have shipped missiles to Iran, and Beijing is allowing some companies to sell Tehran supplies that can be used in military production, American officials said.

The MAGA Intellectual Who Prophesied a Queen Melania

An ally of J. D. Vance who has dabbled in monarchism is now working for Viktor Orbán.

Maybe Trump Should Not Have Given This Speech

His address raised more questions than it answered about the war in Iran.

Democrat Drumbeat of Racial Division Harms America

We've heard the Democrats' drumbeat of division for so many years now.

Trump officials unveil designs for president’s controversial 250-foot arch

Military veterans have sued to halt the project, saying it would alter key views of Arlington National Cemetery.

Rubin to Newsmax: Iran Talks Need Clear Framework or Risk Military Action

Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joel Rubin said Friday that the success of U.S. efforts toward Iran will hinge on whether upcoming talks produce a clear framework for negotiations, warning that failure could raise the risk of renewed mi…

Letters to the Editor

27 March – 3 April 2026

Epstein survivors push back on Melania Trump hearing call as Comer vows ‘we will have hearings’

Epstein survivors push back on first lady's call for public testimony, saying the burden should not be shifted onto survivors as Rep James Comer says hearings will happen.

Mapping where the redistricting fight stands and where it’s headed

As Trump pushes for a more Republican-friendly House map, more than half a dozen states are potential targets for mid-decade tweaks to congressional boundaries.

How Kyrsten Sinema's decision makes Democrats' 2024 Senate map tighter

Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema decided to shake up the political world on Friday by becoming an independent. The former Democrat is still caucusing with the party in the Senate, so the Democratic caucus still has 51 members. Now, instead of 49 Democr…

A Costly Misconception

Now that glyphosate has become a national-security issue, it’s time to revisit the source of misinformation about this controversial herbicide.

Sexual Assault Claims Rock Swalwell's Bid for Calif. Governor

The gubernatorial campaign of Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., has been rocked by allegations he sexually assaulted a former staffer.

NASA's Stevens to Newsmax: Artemis II 'a Flawless Mission'

NASA press secretary Bethany Stevens told Newsmax on Friday that the successful Artemis II mission, which ended with the Orion capsule splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, was one of the most remarkable experiences of her time with the space agency.

Call for Young Filmmakers: The Anti-Communist Film Festival

How To Stop Iran From Winning the War

As talks between the U.S. and Iran begin this Saturday, the top priority is clear: The Strait of Hormuz must reopen, but not on Iran's terms, write Niall Ferguson, Richard Haass, and Philip Zelikow.

André Gide versus George Orwell: Two Paths to Truth

More than a century after it was first published, ‘If It Die’—Gide’s shockingly candid account of his childhood and sexual awakening—remains a gripping read.

Hegseth’s War on America’s Military

Someone needs to explain the Pentagon purges to the American people.

Pelosi: Swalwell Should Exit Calif. Governor's Race

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., joined a growing number of Democrats Friday in calling for Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., to drop out of California's gubernatorial race amid allegations he sexually assaulted a former staffer.

Moving Beyond Educational Pedigree

A growing number of employers are ditching degree requirements, opening new career paths for workers without a four-year college degree.

Trump backs Hilton ahead of California GOP vote, testing Bianco’s grip on party endorsement

California Republicans vote this Sunday to endorse a candidate for governor after Trump backed Steve Hilton over rival Sheriff Chad Bianco last week.

Rewrite Immigration Laws to Favor Educated, Skilled Newcomers Who Won't Burden Taxpayers

Margins of Error

Look closely at almost anything and you'll find data—lots of it. But what are those numbers really saying about who we are and what we believe? Harry Enten is on a mission to find out.

Eliot Engel, a 16-Term Bronx Liberal in Congress, Dies at 79

After defeating a Democratic fixture in a 1988 primary, he rose to lead the House Foreign Affairs Committee, then was toppled himself in 2020, undone by an overheard comment.

In 1990, a bipartisan Congress passed historic bills. Then it cracked apart.

36 years ago, a Republican president and Democratic lawmakers produced monumental laws. Now, a broken Congress has enabled Trump to undo key parts of that legacy.

F.A.A. Says Military Can Use Anti-Drone Lasers in U.S. Airspace

An interagency dispute over the use of high-energy lasers near airports led the Federal Aviation Administration to temporarily close the airspace twice in Texas this year.

Trump’s Purge May Be Just Beginning

After Pam Bondi’s ouster, other top administration officials could be in jeopardy.

The fine print of the Respect for Marriage Act

Let's start with the positive: Republicans and Democrats are coming together to protect same-sex marriage from the Supreme Court.

Cardinal’s meeting at Pentagon was ‘unusual,’ Vatican official says

U.S. and Vatican officials have sought to downplay accounts of a strained relationship, but there have been tensions between the Trump administration and the Catholic Church.

Everything you need to know about Biden's student loan forgiveness program

President Joe Biden's federal student loan forgiveness program, which promises to deliver up to $20,000 of debt relief for millions of borrowers, is on hold indefinitely as legal challenges work their way through the courts.

AI and the Wiki Wars

The Wikipedia knowledge monopoly is not ready for the Grokipedia threat.

Podcast #333: The Search for Truth

Managing Editor Iona Italia talks to Michael Shermer, the author of a number of works on critical thinking, epistemology, and ethics, about his new book, 'Truth: What It Is, How to Find It, and Why It Still Matters.'

Burned Before, Democrats Abruptly Revive the Idea of Impeaching Trump

Democrats in Congress have assiduously avoided talk of a third impeachment of President Trump, concerned that it would distract from their midterm campaign message. That tide seems to have turned.

Rep. Fine to Newsmax: No Amnesty for Illegal Aliens

Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., told Newsmax on Friday that members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus are united in rejecting any legislation that would grant amnesty to illegal aliens, calling such proposals unacceptable and harmful to Americans.

New England Considers the Nuclear Option

The region's governors acknowledge the limits of ‘renewable' energy.

Trump Moves Top Aide James Blair to Political Operation Ahead of Midterms

Mr. Blair will “lead the charge from the outside,” the president said on social media. The move comes as Republicans are bracing for a potentially difficult November election.

Viktor Orbán Could Actually Lose

The Hungarian leader faces an energized opposition—and questions about whether he would accept defeat.

J. D. Vance Is Definitely Against Foreign Election Interference

The vice president accused the European Union of meddling—as he stumped for Viktor Orbán.

Politics of the Day

Politics of the Day

Trump: 'No Backup Plan' Needed as Iran Talks Head to Pakistan Amid Fragile Truce

President Donald Trump said Friday he sees no need for a contingency plan if high-stakes negotiations with Iran falter, projecting confidence as U.S. officials travel to Pakistan for another round of talks amid what U.S. officials and regional dip…

Eric Swalwell, California governor candidate, accused of sexual assault by ex-staffer

Supporters of Rep. Eric Swalwell’s campaign withdrew support, including two congressmen who chaired his campaign and two senators who endorsed his bid. Swalwell denied the allegations.

5 Things to Know About the Planned Iran-US Talks in Islamabad

Pakistan is set to host talks between Iran and the United States in a bid to turn a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting end to a war that has left thousands dead and roiled global energy markets.

In the wake of the Republican National Convention earlier this month, Fareed speaks with historian Niall Ferguson about how and why the modern-day GOP has changed since the Reagan era of the 1980s.

Podcast #332: The Historical Case for Israel

In a new book, US District Court Judge Roy Altman traces Jews’ indigenous presence in the holy land over the last 3,231 years.

Communism’s Obsolescence

The structural case for why collectivist systems fail.

CNN: Three More Women Describe Sexual Misconduct by Rep. Swalwell

World Leaders Push to Save Iran Talks Amid Israel’s Attacks in Lebanon

President Trump’s cease-fire with Iran appears at risk as Vice President JD Vance heads to Pakistan for discussions with Iranian officials.

Possible Democratic 2028 Candidates Are Already Fighting for Black Voters’ Support

Possible presidential candidates are already courting a crucial Democratic constituency.

Vance arrives in Pakistan for high-stakes Iran talks as ‘fragile’ ceasefire teeters

JD Vance, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner lead a senior U.S. delegation in Pakistan for critical ceasefire negotiations with Iranian officials.

As Election Looms, Will Alito Retire, Giving Trump a New Supreme Court Pick?

Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. is the subject of intense speculation about whether he will retire in the coming months and give President Trump a fourth nominee.

Eliot Engel, a prominent voice on foreign affairs in the House, dies at 79

The New York Democrat helped lead the first impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump. He served for 16 terms before losing his reelection bid in 2020.

Swalwell calls sexual misconduct allegations 'flat out false,' says he will fight them 'with everything'

U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., said the recent sexual assault accusations toward him are "absolutely false" amid his bid for governor of California.

Our Justice System Is a Farce

Artemis Is Not Just Exploration; It Is Strategic Theater

With Communist China targeting a crewed lunar landing by 2030, Artemis II shows why the Moon race is a contest for strategic power and national leadership.

Social media erupts after Harris introduces 'mob boss' accent to attack Trump: 'Total cringe'

Kamala Harris impersonated Donald Trump as a mob boss while criticizing his foreign policy at a National Action Network event, sparking online backlash.

Federal judges say White House ballroom construction can continue, for now

President Donald Trump has claimed that a building pause poses a risk to national security.

An Important Moment for Telling America's Story

The President's House Site exhibit is being redesigned with new signage to educate Americans about a key historical site-not to advance a woke agenda.

Fareed explains why AI's massive energy demands are straining the power grid, but also why AI could enable big breakthroughs in sustainability and clean energy.

Tucker to Newsmax: Feel Sorry for 'Slave' Trump Amid Feud

Tucker Carlson escalated his feud with President Donald Trump on Friday, a day after Trump lashed out at several prominent right-leaning commentators, including Carlson, who have criticized the conflict with Iran.

Trump Says First Lady ‘Had a Right’ to Talk About Epstein

President Trump said in an interview that he had known his wife wanted to address rumors about the late sex offender at some point, but that he had not known exactly what she would say.

Swalwell: 'Allegations Are Flat False,' Apologizes to Wife Amid Political Fallout

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., is forcefully denying sexual misconduct allegations while apologizing to his family for what he described as past "mistakes in judgment," as scrutiny intensifies during his run for California governor.

The Intellectual Right Is Mad at the Mess It’s Made

Conservatives are criticizing influencers for going too far.

Iran Unable to Find Mines It Planted in Strait of Hormuz, U.S. Says

The lost mines have prevented Iran from quickly complying with President Trump’s demand to allow more ships to pass through the waterway.

The notable legal clouds that continue to hang over Donald Trump

All eyes are on former President Donald Trump, who has launched another White House bid.

To Meet a Chatbot

An English professor burns the midnight oil talking to Microsoft Copilot about Shakespeare, Dickinson, Hawthorne, and a play he’s been working on—and comes away deeply impressed by its literary insights.