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

Bondi’s post-Oct. 7 terrorism task force falters after initial fanfare

The group was created a year ago to investigate Hamas terrorists and antisemitic attacks. Now many of its members have been fired or reassigned.

'Unpatriotic Conservatives' Redux

At the beginning of the Iraq War, David Frum published an article in National Review entitled "Unpatriotic Conservatives," attacking those on the right opposed to the war-including the founders of this magazine, Patrick J. Buchanan, Scott McConnel…

The Axe Files with David Axelrod

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

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.

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.

Trump to Skip CPAC Dallas as War Continues

For the first time, CPAC will be hosted in Dallas and not Washington, D.C. Due to the war, President Donald Trump will be unable to attend the nation's leading Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). A White House official said Trump curr…

Trump 'May Call Up' Natl Guard to Help ICE at Airports

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he "may call up the National Guard" to help Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents deal with long lines at airports due to the partial government shutdown.

Tracking who Trump is appointing to fill key administration roles

Follow President Trump’s progress filling over 800 positions, among about 1,300 that require Senate confirmation, in this tracker from The Washington Post and the Partnership for Public Service.

Cory Booker Argues for a Different Path for Dems

Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., wants Democrats to embrace virtue and turn away from the vitriolic politics that Donad Trump has promoted.

In Sanctuary Cities, American Lives Don't Matter

America's "sanctuary" communities claim to possess higher levels of compassion for others, but the reality is that the measure of a human life in these places has quietly been assigned a hierarchical value based on immigration status. By the logic…

Democrats seize on Trump-district flip as midterm signal — Republicans reject the narrative

Democrat Emily Gregory flipped a GOP seat in Trump's Mar-a-Lago district, prompting DNC Chair Ken Martin to claim Democrats can now win anywhere.

The Republican Party Continues Eating Its Own

What one lawmaker’s defection from the GOP says about the state of politics

As Gas Hits $6 a Gallon, California Sues to Stop Offshore Oil Production

A 79-Year-Old Freshman Senator?

Janet Mills does not have a dicey Reddit history or a recently covered-over Nazi tattoo. But her candidacy is haunted by Joe Biden’s 2024 debacle.

Donald Trump Is Nothing Like Robert Mueller

The absurdity of a man who avoided Vietnam due to “bone spurs” dancing on the grave of a decorated combat veteran

Are Republicans Trying To Lose the Midterms?

Republican voters are not happy with Republican officials, and that displeasure will be felt in November and is already felt in the primaries

Letters to the Editor

Friday 13 March – Friday 20 March

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…

DHS deal in limbo as Democrats demand tougher ICE crackdown despite GOP compromise

Senate Democrats rejected a Republican framework to reopen DHS as the shutdown entered its 39th day, saying the offer still lacks the ICE reforms they demand.

Senate Republicans Again Block Bid to Halt Iran War Without Authorization

Senate Democrats failed for the third time to advance a resolution that would force the removal of troops from hostilities in Iran unless Congress approves offensive operations.

The Buenos Aires Bombings

How Argentina became a front in Iran’s war against the Jews.

Trump Had His Eye on China, Then Plunged Into a New Mideast War

The Trump administration said the Middle East would “recede” in importance as the China challenge took priority. But the president started the Iran war.

Trump Receives Daily 'Highlight Reel' of US Strikes in Iran War

President Donald Trump's daily updates about the Iran war reportedly include a highlight reel of "stuff blowing up" courtesy of the U.S. military. Military leaders have been compiling short video briefings for the president each day...

Alito blasts lawyer's word-salad blurring asylum law

Supreme Court Justice Alito challenges whether migrants stopped at the border have “arrived" in the U.S., a question that could reshape asylum eligibility.

Cotton Seeks Broader DHS Reporting by Colleges on Visa Holders

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., introduced a bill that would require colleges and universities receiving federal funding or benefits to report noncitizen students, faculty members, and administrators to the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Informatio…

Sen. Graham Pushes 2nd Bill to Boost Security, Defense Funds

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said Wednesday the Senate Budget Committee will "expeditiously move" to create a second budget reconciliation bill "to make sure there is adequate funding to secure our homeland."

Iran’s Revolutionary Regime and the Long War Against the West: Behnam Ben Taleblu

Behnam Ben Taleblu discusses the history of Iran’s Islamic Republic, the evolution of protest movements, and the geopolitical stakes of the current conflict.

Supreme Court Sides With Internet Provider in Copyright Fight Over Pirated Music

Leading music labels sued Cox Communications for failing to terminate accounts of subscribers flagged for distributing copyrighted music.

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.

Thune: Latest GOP Offer 'Still Best Landing Spot'

The latest GOP effort to end the 40-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security is "still the best landing spot," Senate Majority Leader John Thune said. Still, "we haven't heard back from the Dems yet," he said.

Supreme Court finds internet service providers not liable for users’ pirated music

The unanimous decision means Cox Communications will probably not have to pay a huge judgment in a case brought by dozens of music companies, including Sony.

Jack Smith & Co 'Must Be Held Accountable' for Lawfare

Read Margot Cleveland's prepared testimony for a March Senate subcommittee hearing titled 'Arctic Frost: A Modern Watergate.'

CNN Political Briefing

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

The Many Roots of Our Suffering: Reflections on Robert Trivers (1943–2026)

The contributions of Robert Trivers belong in the special category of ideas that are obvious once they are explained, yet eluded great minds for ages; simple enough to be stated in a few words, yet with implications that have busied scientists for…

Jordan Backs Short-Term FISA Renewal Amid Push for Privacy Reforms

House Republicans are signaling openness to stronger privacy protections for Americans under federal surveillance programs, but say extending key intelligence authorities must come first, Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said.

The State of Grace

When an anti-Zionist worldview collides with the principle of “believe all women,” it is the principle that gives way.

Key Adviser Quits Federal Vaccine Panel

Dr. Robert Malone, vice chair of the committee, was appointed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after a purge of the previous advisers.

Not So Fast, Bill Maher

The comedian was set to receive the Twain Prize before a sudden reversal of course.

Soros-backed DA Krasner threatens ICE agents at Philly airport: ‘I will put you in handcuffs’

Philadelphia DA Lawrence Krasner threatens to arrest ICE agents at airports, warning Trump officials: 'I will put you in handcuffs' if laws are broken.

What Makes the West Western?

Naoíse Mac Sweeney’s new book tries to convince readers that Western civilisation doesn’t exist.   

High Stakes, and a Low Bar, For Markwayne Mullin at DHS

Trump’s nominee has one big thing going for him: He’s not Kristi Noem.

Meanwhile, in Sudan

While Iran, Israel, and Gaza have dominated headlines, a bloody power struggle among Sudanese warlords grinds on.

A Police Report About a House Candidate Surprised the White House

A woman’s allegations of rape against a Republican House candidate have put Trump in a bind.

Your internet router could be China-linked: FCC cracks down on ‘unacceptable’ security risks

The FCC is moving to block new foreign-made internet routers from U.S. markets, warning that overseas supply chains pose serious national security risks.

Foreign Policy Magazine: The US Should Lose to Iran

Trump Isn’t Even Trying to Sell This War

Has the salesman in chief gotten rusty?

Newsom's Failed Leadership Made CA a Playground for Fraud

I introduced the No More SCAMS Act to create a federal task force targeting California's fraud crisis, from $32B in unemployment theft to Medicaid scams.

As Gas Prices Spike, California Is Hit Hardest

A gallon has climbed to nearly $6 in the state, about $2 above the national average.

Democrats Have Fundraising Edge in Virginia Redistricting Battle Ahead of April Referendum

Republicans are cautiously optimistic about a statewide referendum now at the center of the country’s gerrymandering war, but Democrats have a huge cash advantage.

How To Blow Up Your Dem Presidential Hopes In One Statement, by ...

Good News: Jared Isaacman Getting NASA's Moon Plans in Order and Rationalized

Oklahoma energy executive Alan Armstrong sworn in as U.S. senator

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) appointed Armstrong to the Senate seat vacated by Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R), who was confirmed as homeland security secretary Monday.

Rep. Comer to Newsmax: Gov. Newsom Facing Hospice Fraud Probe

House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, R-Ky., told Newsmax on Wednesday his panel is zeroing in on California Gov. Gavin Newsom as part of a sweeping investigation into alleged hospice fraud in the Golden State.

Rubio testifies against friend accused of secretly working for Maduro

Former congressman David Rivera, accused of secretly lobbying for Nicolás Maduro’s government in Venezuela, climbed Miami politics alongside Marco Rubio.

More Stupid Media Tricks: Trump Kept In the Dark By Aides on War, NBC 'Reports'

Senate Republicans pitch deal to end DHS shutdown, but Trump isn’t sold

The deal under discussion would fund the department except for the part of Immigration and Customs Enforcement charged with arresting and deporting undocumented immigrants.

Left-wing influencer downplays Cuba blackouts, worsening shortages: ‘People are partying’

Progressive streamer Hasan Piker is contending that Cubans are partying despite rolling blackouts, downplaying the energy crisis during his recent trip to the communist island.

Inside Trump’s Secret Deal to Deport Migrants to Cameroon

In Cameroon, the Trump administration found a partner it could pressure into accepting covertly deported migrants.

Pirro Deputy: 'Do Not Know' About Evidence of Crime in Fed Probe

A top deputy to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro acknowledged in a closed-door hearing that the Justice Department does not have evidence of criminal wrongdoing in its investigation into the $2.5 billion Federal Reserve headquarters overhaul...

Why a quieter Supreme Court contest in Wisconsin matters

The Washington Post’s essential guide to power and influence in D.C.

Liberals Are Obsessed With Islam, and it's Getting Scary

Parallel Kingdom

Nick Cave’s beautiful and tragic music brings redemptive catharsis to a grief-stricken city.

Machado tells US oil giants Venezuela will become beacon of wealth creation after Trump ousted Maduro

María Corina Machado is pitching Venezuela as a top U.S. oil partner after she said the Trump administration’s arrest of former dictator Nicolás Maduro opened up a “new era."

Partisan brawl in Virginia muddles Spanberger’s message of moderation

The congressional redistricting fight is tainting the governor’s image, one Democrat said: “This should be a flashing red light for Democrats everywhere.”

Trump showed classified map to passengers on his plane in 2022, memo says

The document offers a snapshot of an early moment in special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation and adds new shading to the public understanding of Smith’s probes.

Bad News Golden Bears: CA Dems Get Crushed by Judges on Bianco Ballot Seizure, Republicans Top Poll

Trump Says He’s Talking With Iran. Iran Says He’s Not. Here’s Why.

The president has domestic and international political motivations for touting negotiations to end the war. Iran has similar ones to deny discussions.

Call a Waahmbulance - Delta Torpedoes Congressional Airport Perks

Politics of the Day

Politics of the Day

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.

Democrats rip Trump’s ICE airport move as shutdown nears 40 days: ‘no reason’

Democrats blasted Trump's decision to deploy ICE to airports on Monday as the partial government shutdown nears 40 days and TSA agents struggle without paychecks.

DHS: 100K Miss First Full Paycheck Amid Shutdown

Some 100,000 employees at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have gone unpaid for work performed during the ongoing 39-day partial government shutdown, the Washington Examiner reported, citing the agency.

2,000 U.S. Troops From 82nd Airborne Division to Be Sent to Middle East

The order gives President Trump more military options as he considers diplomacy with Iran. It is unclear where the soldiers will go in the Middle East.

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.

A Serious Senate Debate About an Unserious Bill

The most pressing question about the SAVE America Act is not whether it’s going to pass, but why President Trump and his allies are so determined to see the Senate put up a bill that’s doomed to fail.

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…

Dem Scores Upset Win in Trump's Backyard in Florida

Democrat Emily Gregory won the special election to represent a Florida state House district that includes President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home on Tuesday, according to Associated Press projections, a stunning upset that signals Democratic mome…

The Australian Way of Life

Politicians reach for “our way of life” to justify immigration restrictions—but the phrase may be too vague to bear that weight.

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.

The ‘Big Black Scar’

Trump is blowing up national-park land in Arizona to wall off one of the border’s last wild places.

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…

California Attorney General Desperate to Quash Investigation of Potential Mass Voter Fraud

The War in Iran Is Going Better Than You Think

Most Americans probably don't look back at March 2012 - if they remember it at all - and think of terrifyingly high gas prices. In the month when "The Hunger Games" ruled the box office and President Barack Obama was on his way to a comfortable re…

The First Post-Ideological Bedouin State

Why the misunderstood sovereign UAE thrives, and why ideologues—from the Islamic Republic to the Muslim Brotherhood—are invested in its demise.

Conservative activist convicted in voter-fraud case

In Wisconsin, Harry Wait said he set out to expose the potential for voter fraud. He ordered mail ballots in the names of others — and got charged with felonies.

A Critical Political Season Could Decide if Alaska Is a Failed ‘Petrostate’

A governor who spent two terms cutting services to preserve Alaskans’ oil-funded annual checks is leaving office. Voters must now decide what comes next for the state’s faltering fiscal model.

Some States Already Preparing for Potential Supreme Court Ban on Late Ballots

The court’s conservatives appear skeptical of laws allowing mail ballots to arrive after Election Day. A decision could come as late as June, potentially scrambling midterm elections.

Everyone Has Trump’s Phone Number Now

The president’s personal iPhone has been lighting up.

CA Goobernatorial Follies: When They Cancel Your Talk for Lack of COC

Kristi Noem Bought 11 Warehouses to Use as ICE Jails. Now What?

DHS’s next leader will inherit a fast-moving $38 billion plan for industrial-scale immigrant detention.

Khanna urges King Charles to meet Epstein victims during Capitol visit

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., tells Fox News he wants King Charles to meet with Epstein victims and others when he comes to Capitol Hill next month to deliver a speech before a Joint Meeting of Congress.

Trump Loses the Home Front

As the conflict enters its fourth week, initial public doubts have hardened into sweeping opposition.

WSJ: Iran Doubling Down On a Pair of Deuces On Talks

Bipartisan Senate bill to cap insulin for Americans at $35 has new momentum

Senators are pushing the bipartisan INSULIN Act of 2026, which would cap insulin costs at $35 a month for insured and uninsured Americans starting 2027.

Army paratroopers ordered to Middle East as U.S. weighs next move in Iran conflict

The orders follow weeks of speculation about whether the 82nd Airborne Division would join the war, after its headquarters unit abruptly pulled out of a training exercise this month.

Democrat Emily Gregory Wins Florida Special Election in Mar-a-Lago’s District

Emily Gregory’s victory in Palm Beach brought the Democratic surge to President Trump’s backyard, while a union leader leads in a race for a state senate seat vacated by Florida’s lieutenant governor.

Democrats demand subpoena for Lewandowski over controversial $220M DHS ad campaign

Democrats urged Jim Jordan to subpoena Corey Lewandowski over his alleged role in a $220 million DHS ad campaign that critics say bypassed competitive bidding.

Tuesday’s Final Word

Quantus Poll: Paxton Leads Cornyn in Texas GOP Runoff

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton holds a lead over Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, in a closely watched Republican runoff, according to new polling from Quantus Insights that suggests a largely settled electorate with limited room for late movement.

Biden political priorities impeded Iran negotiations, former secretary of state admits

Former Secretary of State Antony Blinken admitted that midterm elections complicated the Biden administration's push for a stronger Iran nuclear deal.

Democrat scores upset win in Trump’s backyard for Florida state House seat

Emily Gregory won the special election to represent a district that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home, the Associated Press projected.

Sen. Ernst to Newsmax: Demand Better Tracking of Federal Spending

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, told Newsmax on Wednesday that the federal government is lax on tracking how it spends the money of American taxpayers.

‘I’m Far Angrier’

Can Cory Booker, once the candidate of love, run for president and stay true to who he is?

Trump, Tehran, and the China Calculus

The CCP will certainly take advantage should Iran turn into a major distraction for the US.

Podcast Episode #330: When Everyone Knows Everyone Knows ...

Iona Italia talks to cognitive psychologist and linguist Steven Pinker about his new book on Common Knowledge and the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life.