Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 6-19-25

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-18-25

ProPublica: How Trump Is Killing Medical Research: But Why? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/18/propublica-how-trump-is-killing-medical-reaearch/ via @dianeravitch 

ProPublica highlights the Trump administration's significant cuts to medical research funding, terminating over 1,450 grants and withholding $750 million. These cuts have disproportionately targeted projects addressing health disparities, LGBT health, and diseases like dementia, HIV, and pandemic preparedness. Critics argue the terminations are politically motivated, bypassing standard NIH review processes, and jeopardize scientific progress, public health, and U.S. leadership in biomedical research. Scientists and Nobel laureates have decried the politicization of science, warning of long-term consequences, including wasted research, loss of talent, and preventable deaths.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration has terminated over 1,450 NIH grants, withholding $750 million, citing "wasteful" and "unscientific" research. 

- Projects targeting health disparities, pandemics, dementia, and HIV were among those cut, raising accusations of political bias. 

- The NIH's usual grant review process was bypassed, threatening the institution's stability and scientific credibility. 

- Scientists and Nobel laureates condemned the cuts, warning of wasted research, brain drain, and public health risks. 

- Researchers report wasted resources, including spoiled samples and unfinished studies, with dire potential consequences for vulnerable populations. 

Trump Reverses Decision to Stop ICE Raids in Farming, Hotels, and Restaurants https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/18/trump-reverses-decision-to-stop-ice-raids-in-farming-hotels-and-restaurants/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump's administration initially paused Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting industries reliant on immigrant labor, such as agriculture, hospitality, and meatpacking, after lobbying from business leaders. However, this decision was quickly reversed, reportedly due to pressure from Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trump's immigration policies. The reversal caused frustration among industries that rely heavily on undocumented workers, with many expressing concerns about workforce shortages and economic consequences. The conflicting factions within the administration highlight the tension between economic needs and hardline immigration stances.

### Key Points

- Trump paused ICE raids on farms, restaurants, hotels, and meatpacking plants following lobbying efforts but reversed the decision days later. 

- The reversal caused concern and disappointment among industries dependent on immigrant labor, including agriculture and hospitality. 

- Advocacy groups and industry leaders criticized the inconsistency, citing economic risks and the reliance on undocumented workers for essential labor. 

- Stephen Miller's influence reportedly played a role in reversing the initial pause, reflecting internal conflicts within the administration. 

John Thompson: MAGA Republicans in Oklahoma Are Hurting the People Who Elected Them https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/18/john-thompson-maga-republicans-in-oklahoma-are-hurting-the-people-who-elected-them/ via @dianeravitch

Oklahoma is facing significant political and social challenges under the leadership of Governor Kevin Stitt and the influence of MAGA Republicans. The state is grappling with issues such as poor rankings in child welfare, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as increasing poverty rates. Legislative measures have been criticized for undermining democracy, cutting essential services, and exacerbating crises in housing, mental health, and Medicaid. The internal conflict within the Republican Party and the governor's policies have led to growing dissatisfaction, but meaningful reform is expected to take years.

### Key Points

- Oklahoma's Republican Party is deeply divided, with MAGA extremists influencing policies that harm the state's most vulnerable populations. 

- The state ranks poorly in child welfare, education, healthcare access, and infrastructure, while poverty and suicide rates remain alarmingly high. 

- Federal cuts to housing and healthcare programs, combined with state inaction, have worsened crises in housing, Medicaid, and mental health services. 

- Governor Stitt's tax cuts and control over state agencies have led to financial instability and mismanagement of critical programs. 

- SB 1027, a law limiting initiative petitions, is seen as an attack on democracy and voter rights, potentially ending grassroots reforms in Oklahoma. 

- Many extreme legislative proposals targeting immigrants, LGBTQ+ rights, and free speech were defeated, but concerns about ongoing attacks on civil liberties remain. 

- The judicial system's integrity is under threat as Governor Stitt pursues measures favoring corporate interests and undermining judicial independence. 

TRUMP CONFUSED: MAGA WARHAWKS VULTURES VS MAGA TURKEY VULTURES https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/trump-confused?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

TRUMP CONFUSED MAGA WARHAWKS VULTURES VS MAGA TURKEY VULTURES

### Key Points

- The MAGA movement is divided between two factions: the MAGA Warhawk Vultures, who advocate for aggressive foreign military actions like supporting Israel against Iran, and the MAGA Turkey Vultures, who prioritize domestic issues and oppose foreign entanglements. 

- Donald Trump is caught in the middle of this internal rift, facing pressure from the warhawks to act against Iran while the turkey vultures push for an "America First" approach to avoid overseas conflicts. 

- Prominent figures like Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene urge Trump to maintain his non-interventionist stance, warning that another Middle Eastern war could alienate his base. 

- Democratic lawmakers, such as Bernie Sanders and David Hogg, also criticize potential U.S. involvement in Iran, emphasizing the need to avoid repeating the mistakes of past wars. 

- Trump's recent actions, such as leaving the G7 summit to focus on Israel-Iran tensions, have fueled speculation about his stance, highlighting the growing ideological split within the MAGA movement. 

Big Education Ape: TO WAR OR NOT TO WAR: SHOULD TRUMP FOLLOW NETANYAHU DOWN THE FOREVER WAR RABBIT HOLE + MAGA vs. LIKUD https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/to-war-or-not-to-war-should-trump.html 

The article explores several topics, including the consequences of potential U.S. involvement in a war between Israel and Iran, the ideological and strategic differences between the MAGA movement in the U.S. and Israel's Likud Party, and their shared focus on nationalism and controversy. It also touches on broader political themes, public opinion on military conflicts, and the humanitarian and economic costs of war.

### Key Points  

- The debate over whether the U.S. should join Israel in a potential war against Iran, weighing strategic alliances against the risks of regional escalation, economic fallout, and humanitarian costs.   

- The Middle East remains a geopolitical hotspot, with tensions between Israel and Iran escalating, raising questions about U.S. involvement.   

- The high financial and human costs of war, citing past U.S. conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan as cautionary examples.   

- Diplomacy, such as reviving the JCPOA (Iran nuclear deal), is presented as a less destructive alternative to military action.   

- Public opinion in the U.S. largely opposes another war, with Americans prioritizing domestic issues over foreign conflicts.   

- Comparison of the MAGA movement and Likud Party, highlighting their nationalist ideologies, leadership styles, and policy priorities.   

- MAGA focuses on “America First,” while Likud emphasizes Zionism and Israel’s security in a volatile region.   

- Trump and Netanyahu are central figures in their respective movements, with contrasting leadership styles—Trump as a showman and Netanyahu as a strategist.   

- Both MAGA and Likud use divisive rhetoric, creating “us vs. them” narratives to energize their bases.   

- Both movements have faced scandals and controversies, with MAGA centered around Trump’s legal issues and Likud around Netanyahu’s corruption charges and judicial reforms.   

- MAGA and Likud’s global alliances reflect their nationalist goals, with MAGA aligning with populist leaders and Likud focusing on survival through international partnerships.   

- The article concludes by emphasizing that while MAGA and Likud share similarities, their contexts and priorities differ significantly. 

Big Education Ape: TRUMP CONFUSED: MAGA VS MAGA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/trump-confused-maga-vs-maga.html 

The Blame Game: How Trump, University Leaders, et al. Dodge Accountability – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/06/18/the-blame-game-how-trump-university-leaders-et-al-dodge-accountability/ 

The article critiques the pervasive culture of blame and deflection in leadership, comparing Donald Trump's political strategy to similar trends in education. It highlights how leaders in politics and education often avoid accountability by scapegoating others, whether it's immigrants, teachers, or systemic inequities. The author calls for accountable leadership focused on transparency, equity, and responsibility to create a better future for education.

### Key Points

- Donald Trump's leadership style is characterized by deflection and scapegoating, which reflects broader trends in politics and education. 

- In K–12 education, historical reliance on IQ and blaming students for underachievement has evolved into blaming families, communities, and systemic inequities. 

- Teachers became scapegoats in the 2000s with high-stakes testing and accountability policies, despite evidence showing external factors like poverty have a greater impact on student success. 

- School districts and university leaders also engage in deflection, often blaming others within their organizations while avoiding scrutiny of their own policies and decisions. 

- Procedural blame, such as using committees to mask predetermined outcomes, is a common strategy in both K–12 and higher education. 

- The article advocates for accountable leadership that takes responsibility for mistakes, embraces transparency, and focuses on equity-centered decision-making. 

glen brown: Paul McCartney is 83 today https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/paul-mccartney-is-83-today.html   

This article provides an extensive biography of Sir Paul McCartney, detailing his life, career, and influence as a musician, composer, and cultural icon. It highlights his contributions to The Beatles, his solo career, and his work in activism and philanthropy. The piece also touches on various significant events and challenges in McCartney's personal and professional life, showcasing his enduring impact on music and culture.

### Key Points  

- Sir Paul McCartney is a celebrated musician, composer, and cultural figure, holding over 3,000 copyrights and multiple Guinness World Records.   

- McCartney was born in Liverpool in 1942, raised in a non-denominational household, and had a strong educational background in music and art.   

- He joined John Lennon's band, The Quarrymen, in 1957, which eventually evolved into The Beatles, alongside George Harrison and Ringo Starr.   

- The Beatles, managed by Brian Epstein, became one of the most successful and influential bands in history, contributing to music, film, art, and fashion.   

- McCartney was the primary songwriter of numerous iconic Beatles hits, including "Yesterday," "Hey Jude," and "Let It Be."   

- The Beatles' songs carried themes of love, peace, and freedom, influencing generations and contributing to cultural revolutions worldwide.   

- After The Beatles disbanded, McCartney formed Wings, achieving significant success with albums like "Band on the Run" and singles such as "Mull of Kintyre."   

- McCartney endured personal tragedies, including the deaths of his mother, his wife Linda, and his bandmates John Lennon and George Harrison.   

- He has released solo albums, ventured into classical music, and participated in philanthropic efforts, including campaigns for animal rights and cancer research.   

- McCartney's career milestones include being knighted in 1997, organizing significant concerts, and continuing to perform globally into his later years.   

- His influence extends beyond music, inspiring cultural and social movements worldwide. 

glen brown: The World "No Longer Sees the U.S. as Trustworthy" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-world-no-longer-sees-us-as.html 

The article discusses the decline of global trust in American leadership, highlighting the erosion of accountability, self-correction, and soft power in U.S. governance and foreign policy. It examines the historical and ongoing factors contributing to this shift, including the normalization of deflection, refusal to admit mistakes, and prioritization of short-term optics over long-term stability. The piece also explores how these changes impact international relationships and perceptions of U.S. democracy.

### Key Points

- Global trust in U.S. leadership is declining due to a lack of accountability and self-correction. 

- The perception of America as untrustworthy is influenced by both foreign policy and domestic governance issues. 

- U.S. leadership under Trump exemplified the normalization of deflection and refusal to admit errors, which has now become policy. 

- Historical instances of U.S. presidents avoiding accountability are highlighted as precursors to the current state. 

- The loss of soft power and humanitarian influence has diminished the U.S.'s ability to lead globally. 

- Allies are now adopting independent strategies, reflecting a shift from trust to contingency in relations with the U.S. 

Recommended: Your Brain on ChatGPT https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/06/18/recommended-your-brain-on-chatgpt/ via @plthomasEdD 

Recently, there has been a rise in advocacy for integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT into education, with institutions like Ohio State University requiring AI training for students. However, Dr. P.L. Thomas, a literacy educator with over 40 years of experience, firmly opposes the use of AI in his writing courses. He argues that tools like ChatGPT hinder students from practicing essential cognitive skills needed for writing, similar to rubrics and prompts that make decisions for learners. While acknowledging the importance of formal education in improving technological proficiency, he views AI as counter-educational, contributing to cognitive debt and undermining the learning process.

### Key Points

- Advocacy for AI integration in education is increasing, with institutions mandating AI training. 

- Dr. P.L. Thomas opposes AI in writing courses, emphasizing its interference with essential cognitive skill development. 

- AI tools like ChatGPT are considered counter-educational and contribute to cognitive debt. 

Teacher Tom: Learning is a Process of Upsetting the Status Quo https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/learning-is-process-of-upsetting-status.html 

Learning is a Process of Upsetting the Status Quo

### Key Points

- Learning involves replacing the status quo, requiring curiosity and openness to change, much like building new neural connections. 

- Education should be seen as unveiling new perspectives rather than simply constructing knowledge, with epiphanies leading to transformative understanding. 

- Adults often resist new perspectives due to becoming jaded, while young children experience frequent epiphanies due to their natural curiosity and openness. 

- Over-academization of early education can hinder natural learning by replacing curiosity with external motivators like rewards and punishment. 

- Play-based learning fosters curiosity, collaboration, and conflict resolution, making it an ideal approach for holistic development. 

- Collaboration and exposure to differing perspectives through play are essential for learning and personal growth. 

CURMUDGUCATION: AI, Facing the Dark, and Human Sparknotes https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/ai-facing-dark-and-human-sparknotes.html 

AI, Facing the Dark, and Human Sparknotes

### Main Points

- The article critiques the widespread use of AI for everyday tasks, such as fact-checking, brainstorming, and even therapy, highlighting concerns about AI's lack of expertise and reliability. 

- The author questions the long-term impact of relying on AI, especially for tasks requiring human expertise, and warns against the erosion of firsthand knowledge and skills. 

- Critics of AI are often misrepresented as deniers, while the real concern lies in understanding the technology's limitations and potential harms. 

- The rise of AI in creative fields, like writing, is exemplified by authors using AI to mimic their style, raising ethical questions about authenticity and transparency. 

- The article explores the tension between using AI as a research assistant versus maintaining human integrity in processes like reading, writing, and thinking. 

- The author emphasizes the importance of human effort and expertise in activities like writing and research, arguing against the uncritical adoption of AI tools. 

We Have Lost Bentkowski https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/we-have-lost-bentkowski?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article discusses the contentious issue of transitioning to Medicare Advantage for city workers, highlighting the financial strain it places on retirees and paraprofessionals. The author criticizes union leader Michael Mulgrew for his role in enabling this transition and praises Marianne Pizzitola for her efforts to preserve Medicare. The article emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and political action to address these healthcare challenges.

### Key Points

- The decision to transition to Medicare Advantage has been partially sent back to a lower court, causing concern among city workers. 

- The transition could lead to high out-of-pocket costs for retirees, with premiums and prescription costs posing a significant financial burden. 

- Marianne Pizzitola is commended for her efforts to save Medicare, despite criticism from union leadership. 

- The author expresses disappointment in union leader Michael Mulgrew and urges for renewed advocacy and political engagement. 

- There is a call for continued donations to cover attorney fees and support the fight for better healthcare options. 

Schools Matter: Oak Ridge Schools Bows to Book Banning Legislation by the Tennessee Taliban http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/06/oak-ridge-schools-bows-to-book-banning.html 

Schools Matter: Oak Ridge Schools Bows to Book Banning Legislation

### Key Points

- The article criticizes the Oak Ridge Schools in Tennessee for complying with vague and unconstitutional book banning legislation, referred to as the "Tennessee Taliban," which aims to restrict intellectual freedom and the right to read. 

- Over 300 books, including works by renowned artists such as Rodin and Donatello, have been removed, raising concerns about unethical professional conduct and a decline in educational standards. 

- The surrender to political pressure from MAGA-related movements is highlighted as damaging to the district's historical celebration of intellectual freedom and artistic achievement. 

- PEN America, supported by the Tennessee ACLU, has filed a lawsuit against similar book bans in Rutherford County Schools, resulting in the partial restoration of banned titles, with the legal battle ongoing. 

- The blog post connects the issue to broader challenges in education, including censorship, political influence, and the undermining of public schooling. 

Ghost in the Criminal Justice Machine: Emile Suotonye DeWeaver in conversation with Maya Schenwar Please come!! | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/06/18/please-come-2/ 

### Key Points

- Emile Suotonye DeWeaver's book *Ghost in the Criminal Justice Machine* critiques American mass incarceration, linking its persistence to white supremacy and advocating for abolitionist solutions. 

- The book draws comparisons to James Baldwin’s *The Fire Next Time* and offers a fresh perspective on racial justice, incarceration, and abolition, with practical tools to combat white supremacy. 

- The event features a discussion between DeWeaver and Maya Schenwar, a prominent abolitionist organizer and author, who has written extensively on criminal justice reform. 

- Emile Suotonye DeWeaver is a formerly incarcerated activist and writer whose life sentence was commuted due to his community work; he has contributed to numerous notable publications. 

- Maya Schenwar is the director of the Truthout Center for Grassroots Journalism and co-author of books addressing the consequences of criminal justice reforms. 

- The event is hosted by Haymarket Books and The New Press, encouraging solidarity donations to support their programming and publishing efforts. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

6-18-25  

Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!   https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_0608991406.html 

The article is a compilation of various blog posts and articles covering topics related to education, politics, social justice, and systemic inequities. It highlights issues such as privatization threats to public education, political controversies, ideological conflicts, and the resilience of democracy and activism in the face of authoritarianism.  

### Key Points  

- Tennessee's book banning legislation raises concerns about censorship and ideological suppression in schools.   

- Elon Musk’s Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) legacy includes embedded private-sector individuals influencing federal agencies, raising ethical concerns.   

- Arizona’s ESA voucher program is projected to cost $872 million annually, disproportionately impacting charter schools and increasing financial strain.   

- Joyce Vance emphasizes the resilience of graduating students despite challenges to public education under Trump’s administration.   

- The Democratic National Committee faces criticism for prioritizing centrism over progressive priorities, alienating its base.   

- Ohio’s budget proposal underfunds public schools while favoring privatization and tax cuts for the wealthy.   

- Teacher Tom advocates for play-based learning, demonstrating its impact on children's development through engaging rituals.   

- Suppression of free speech under the Trump administration highlights the dangers of authoritarianism and ideological policing.   

- Seattle Public Schools lifted waitlists for high-demand schools following parent advocacy, addressing enrollment inequities.   

- Bernie Sanders endorses Zohran Mamdani for New York mayor, but concerns remain about Mamdani’s appeal among Black and Latino voters.   

- The NAACP’s decision not to invite Trump to its convention is seen as a principled stand against authoritarianism.   

- Michigan Senate Republicans propose regressive education bills that harm vulnerable students and undermine teacher rights.   

- The concept of learning styles is discredited by research, emphasizing the need for adaptable learning strategies.   

- Interventions on teacher well-being show significant positive effects, with guidelines for improving wellness provided.   

- Large-scale tutoring programs show declining effectiveness due to implementation challenges, but best practices are identified to mitigate this.   

- The OECD’s PISA 2029 assessment aims to standardize AI literacy globally, raising concerns about its focus and influences.   

- Billionaire-backed education reforms, such as merit pay and charter schools, are criticized for lacking evidence and harming public education.   

- Advocacy efforts expose systemic inequities in public education, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and funding challenges. 

TRUMP CONFUSED: MAGA VS MAGA

 TRUMP CONFUSED

MAGA WARHAWKS VULTURES VS MAGA TURKEY VULTURES

In the grand arena of American politics, a new spectacle unfolds. Imagine, if you will, a flock of vultures—some with the majesty and ferocity of warhawks, others with the peculiar charm of turkey vultures. These are the factions within the MAGA movement, each vying for dominance in the ever-entertaining saga of U.S. foreign and domestic policy.

On one side, we have the MAGA Warhawk Vultures, those who soar high above the political landscape, always on the lookout for a new overseas conflict to sink their talons into. Their motto? "Why fight at home when you can take the battle abroad?" or "Bomb Bomb Bomb Bombbomb Iran?"For them, every international skirmish is a chance to flex America's military muscles, and if it involves Iran, even better! With figures like Lindsey Graham leading the charge, they argue that supporting Israel in its quest against Iran's nuclear ambitions is not just a possibility but a necessity.

Yet, opposing these sky warriors are the MAGA Turkey Vultures. Less interested in foreign adventures, these grounded birds focus their energy on battles closer to home. Their mantra? "America First, Last, and Always." They argue for a war at home—against immigrants, blue state governors, and anyone who dares oppose their vision of America. For them, Trump's "America First" doctrine is sacrosanct, and any deviation from it is akin to treason.

Caught in the crossfire is none other than Donald Trump himself. The former president finds his once-unified base splintering as he contemplates whether to join Israel in attacking Iran's nuclear facilities. On one talon, he faces pressure from the warhawks who see this as a golden opportunity to assert dominance on the global stage. On the other talon, the turkey vultures squawk loudly about the dangers of foreign entanglements and the need to focus on domestic issues.

Prominent voices like Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene have become unlikely allies in this debate, both urging Trump to resist the siren call of overseas conflict. Their argument? Engaging in another Middle Eastern war would not only contradict Trump's non-interventionist promises but also risk alienating his loyal followers who crave an "America First" approach.

Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers watch from the sidelines, occasionally chiming in with their own critiques. Progressive organizer David Hogg has called out Democrats who support potential U.S. involvement in Iran, urging primary challenges against them. He highlights the generational trauma of past U.S. wars and warns against repeating history.

As this avian drama unfolds, Trump is left trying to balance these competing interests. His recent actions—such as abruptly leaving the G7 summit to focus on Israel's conflict with Iran—have only fueled speculation about deeper U.S. involvement. Yet, he remains adamant about preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a stance that resonates with hawkish Republicans but leaves others wary of another prolonged conflict.

The MAGA movement's internal rift over foreign policy reflects broader tensions within Trump's political sphere. As Tucker Carlson confronts figures like Ted Cruz in heated debates, it becomes clear that this is not just a battle of ideas but a fight for the soul of the movement.

In this high-flying spectacle of political intrigue, one thing is certain: whether they are warhawks or turkey vultures, these birds are determined to make their voices heard. As Trump navigates this turbulent landscape, he must decide which flock to align with—or risk being left alone on a political perch.

In conclusion, as the MAGA movement grapples with its identity crisis, we can only watch in anticipation. Will Trump heed the call of the warhawks and take flight into foreign skies? Or will he remain grounded with the turkey vultures, focusing his energies on domestic battles? Only time will tell which path these political vultures will choose to follow. But one thing is for sure: in the world of American politics, there's never a dull moment when vultures are involved.

'It's blowing up': Iran sparks a MAGA civil war as Trump allies feud https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/06/18/iran-trump-allies-maga-civil-war/84257433007/ 

Trump's Iran dilemma exposes bitter split in president's circle https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1wp72224jzo 

Trump’s Feud With Tucker Carlson Has Launched a MAGA Civil War | The New Republic https://newrepublic.com/post/196905/trump-feud-tucker-carlson-maga-civil-war-iran-israel-america-first 

Trump's decision on Iran splits MAGA world | AP News https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-maga-tucker-carlson-charlie-kirk-409c839e4eadf2a39a1b957213379b08 

On Iran, It’s Trump vs. MAGA - The American Prospect https://prospect.org/blogs-and-newsletters/tap/2025-06-18-on-iran-its-trump-vs-maga/ 

The US Should Not Support Israel’s War on Iran, Say Democrats and Republicans | The Nation https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/congress-iran-war-israel-massie/ 

David Hogg Says Any Democrat Who Supports War With Iran 'Should Be Primaried' | Common Dreams https://www.commondreams.org/news/us-war-with-iran 

Massie, Democrats move to block US strikes on Iran - Live Updates - POLITICO https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/06/17/congress/thomas-massie-iran-resolution-war-powers-00410454 

Bernie Sanders leads Democratic effort in Congress to ward off war with Iran | Middle East Eye https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/bernie-sanders-leads-democratic-effort-ward-war-iran 

Big Education Ape: TO WAR OR NOT TO WAR: SHOULD TRUMP FOLLOW NETANYAHU DOWN THE FOREVER WAR RABBIT HOLE + MAGA vs. LIKUD https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/06/to-war-or-not-to-war-should-trump.html 

TO WAR OR NOT TO WAR: SHOULD TRUMP FOLLOW NETANYAHU DOWN THE FOREVER WAR RABBIT HOLE + MAGA vs. LIKUD

 

TO WAR OR NOT TO WAR

SHOULD TRUMP FOLLOW NETANYAHU DOWN THE FOREVER WAR RABBIT HOLE

The world is a stage, and right now, the Middle East is the drama queen stealing all the spotlight. As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate faster than your uncle’s political rants at Thanksgiving, the question looms: Should the United States step into this geopolitical soap opera and join Israel in a war against Iran? Let’s unpack this tangled mess with a touch of humor to keep things from getting too apocalyptic.

Act I: The Strategic Tango

First things first: America and Israel are like peanut butter and jelly—an iconic duo, albeit one that occasionally sticks to the roof of your mouth. The U.S. has long been Israel’s BFF, offering unwavering support, military aid, and the occasional awkward hug at the United Nations. So, when Israel starts throwing punches at Iran, Uncle Sam naturally feels compelled to ask, “Need me to hold your coat?”

But let’s not forget that Iran isn’t just some scrappy underdog. It’s a regional heavyweight with nuclear ambitions that make everyone nervous. Israel sees this as an existential threat, while the U.S. views it as a nuclear Pandora’s box that no one should open. Joining forces with Israel might seem like the ultimate buddy-cop move, but is it worth the risk of turning the Middle East into an even bigger dumpster fire?

Act II: The Cost of War—And We’re Not Just Talking Dollars

Wars aren’t cheap. They’re like weddings—everybody loves the idea until they see the bill. The U.S. has already spent trillions on conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and let’s just say the return on investment has been… underwhelming. Jumping into another war could drain resources faster than a teenager with their parents’ credit card.

And then there’s the human cost. A war with Iran wouldn’t be a quick in-and-out operation; it would be more like getting stuck in quicksand while juggling flaming swords. Iran has warned that U.S. involvement would lead to “all-out war,” and they’re not bluffing. With proxy groups like Hezbollah ready to cause chaos, this could spiral into a regional nightmare faster than you can say “quagmire.”

Act III: Diplomacy—The Less Explosive Option

Before we start dusting off our warplanes, let’s talk diplomacy. Remember the JCPOA (a.k.a. the Iran nuclear deal)? It was like a group project where everyone begrudgingly worked together to keep Iran’s nuclear ambitions in check. Sure, it wasn’t perfect—there were probably some passive-aggressive emails involved—but it was better than nothing.

Military action could blow up (pun intended) any chance of reviving diplomatic talks. And let’s face it: diplomacy might be boring, but it doesn’t come with civilian casualties or skyrocketing oil prices. Speaking of which, if you think gas prices are bad now, just wait until a war disrupts global oil supplies. You’ll be reminiscing about the “good old days” when $4 a gallon seemed outrageous.

Act IV: Public Opinion—The Court of Public (and Political) Approval

Here’s the thing about wars: They’re not very popular these days. After decades of military entanglements in the Middle East, Americans are understandably wary of getting involved in another conflict. Polls suggest that most people would rather see their tax dollars go toward things like healthcare, education, or literally anything other than another war.

Even within Washington, there’s no consensus. Some hawks argue that joining Israel would send a strong message to Iran (and by extension, the world), while doves caution against repeating past mistakes. And then there’s the MAGA crowd, torn between their “America First” isolationism and their unwavering support for Israel. It’s like watching someone argue with themselves in a mirror.

Act V: The Humanitarian Angle—War Is No Picnic

Let’s not forget the people caught in the middle of all this—civilians who would bear the brunt of any conflict. Military strikes might target nuclear facilities and military assets, but collateral damage is almost inevitable. Homes destroyed, lives uprooted, families torn apart—it’s a grim reality that no amount of witty commentary can sugarcoat.

If the U.S. decides to join Israel in a war against Iran, it must grapple with the ethical implications. Is it worth the humanitarian cost? Can we justify the loss of innocent lives for strategic gains? These are heavy questions that deserve more than just knee-jerk reactions.

Final Curtain Call: To War or Not to War?

So, should the U.S. join Israel in a war on Iran? The answer isn’t black and white—it’s more like fifty shades of geopolitical gray. On one hand, there’s the argument for standing by an ally and curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. On the other hand, there are massive risks: regional escalation, economic fallout, and a potential quagmire that makes past conflicts look like warm-up acts.

Ultimately, this decision requires careful consideration, not just of strategic interests but also of long-term consequences. War should always be a last resort—not Plan A, B, or even C. After all, as history has shown us time and time again, it’s much easier to start a war than to end one.

In conclusion: Let’s hope cooler heads prevail because nobody wants to see World War III trending on Twitter—or worse, X.

Full List of U.S. Military Deployments That Point to War With Iran - Newsweek https://www.newsweek.com/full-list-us-military-deployments-that-point-war-iran-2087171 

Iran-Israel live updates: Trump teases possible US attack https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/06/18/iran-israel-trump-us-live-updates/84257132007/ 

Iran issues stark warning to US over conflict with Israel https://thehill.com/policy/international/5356547-iran-israel-us-involvement-risks-war/ 

TRUMP CONFUSED: MAGA WARHAWKS VULTURES VS MAGA TURKEY VULTURES https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/trump-confused?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

MAGA vs. Likud: A Tale of Two Right-Wing Giants

When it comes to political movements with a flair for nationalism, a knack for controversy, and leaders who dominate headlines like they’re auditioning for reality TV, the U.S.’s MAGA movement and Israel’s Likud Party are two peas in a very loud, very opinionated pod. Sure, they hail from different corners of the globe and operate in wildly different contexts, but let’s dive into what makes these two political powerhouses tick—and where their similarities (and differences) shine brighter than a MAGA hat at a Trump rally.

Ideology: Nationalism, But Make It Local. Let’s start with the obvious: both MAGA (Make America Great Again) and Likud are unapologetically nationalist. MAGA, the brainchild of Donald Trump, is all about “America First”—a slogan that screams closed borders, economic protectionism, and a yearning for an America that may or may not have ever existed outside of Norman Rockwell paintings. It’s nationalism with a side of populism, served piping hot with a dollop of disdain for globalism.

Meanwhile, Likud’s nationalism is steeped in Zionism, emphasizing the Jewish people’s right to self-determination in their ancestral homeland. For Likud, “security” is less about building walls to keep people out (though they’re not opposed to that either) and more about ensuring Israel’s survival in a very complicated neighborhood. While MAGA dreams of reviving Rust Belt factories, Likud dreams of expanding settlements in the West Bank.

The key difference? MAGA’s nationalism is broad and secular (though it flirts heavily with Christian evangelicals), while Likud’s is laser-focused on Jewish identity and territorial claims. MAGA wants to protect “traditional American values,” but Likud is literally trying to protect Israel’s borders—and its very existence.

Leadership: The Donald and The Bibi. —a match made in political heaven if heaven had a VIP section for polarizing leaders with a penchant for drama. Both men are larger-than-life figures who dominate their respective movements with the subtlety of a bull in a china shop.

Trump is MAGA. Without him, it’s just a red hat and some questionable tweets. His charisma (or chaos, depending on your perspective) turned MAGA from a campaign slogan into a full-blown movement that reshaped American conservatism. It’s less about ideology and more about loyalty to Trump himself.

Netanyahu, on the other hand, is the seasoned politician who’s been at the helm of Likud for decades. While Trump operates like an improvisational stand-up comedian who just discovered politics, Netanyahu is the chess master—calculating, strategic, and always five moves ahead. Unlike MAGA, which is essentially Trump’s personal fan club, Likud is an actual political party with structure, history, and factions that occasionally challenge Bibi’s dominance (though not for long).

The verdict? Trump is the chaotic showman; Netanyahu is the Machiavellian tactician. Both know how to command attention, but only one has actually been impeached—twice.

Policies: Build That Wall vs. Expand That Settlement. When it comes to policies, MAGA and Likud share some common ground but diverge in ways that reflect their unique realities.

MAGA’s greatest hits include stricter immigration controls (hello, border wall), protectionist trade policies (tariffs galore), and an “America First” foreign policy that often feels like it was written on the back of a napkin during lunch at Mar-a-Lago. It’s all about keeping jobs in America and keeping everyone else out.

Likud, by contrast, is laser-focused on security. Think military strength, counter-terrorism measures, and a steadfast refusal to budge on issues like Palestinian statehood or settlement expansion in disputed territories. While MAGA obsesses over China and Mexico, Likud’s bogeymen are Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.

Both movements are big on national security and skeptical of international institutions (the UN must feel so unloved). But while MAGA’s policies often feel like they’re aimed at winning the next news cycle, Likud’s are rooted in existential concerns—because when you’re surrounded by hostile neighbors, you don’t have time for Twitter wars.

Supporters: Who’s Wearing the Hats? MAGA rallies are a sea of red hats and patriotic fervor, drawing support from rural Americans, working-class voters, and evangelical Christians who see Trump as their unlikely champion. It’s a coalition united by frustration with globalization, cultural shifts, and the political elite—basically anyone who uses “latte” as a verb.

Likud’s base is just as passionate but far more diverse in its motivations. Religious Zionists love its commitment to Jewish identity; settlers back its support for expanding into the West Bank; and Mizrahi Jews (Jews of Middle Eastern descent) appreciate its focus on security and skepticism of peace negotiations. Unlike MAGA’s coalition, which is largely white and Christian, Likud’s supporters are united by Jewish identity but divided along religious and cultural lines.

The common thread? Both movements tap into a sense of grievance—whether it’s MAGA voters feeling left behind by globalization or Likud voters feeling threatened by territorial concessions.

Rhetoric: Us vs. Them. If there’s one thing MAGA and Likud excel at, it’s rhetoric. Both movements thrive on an “us vs. them” narrative that paints their supporters as under siege by elites, outsiders, or liberal media bogeymen.

Trump’s favorite hits include “Fake News,” “Drain the Swamp,” and “Build the Wall”—short, punchy slogans that fit perfectly on a bumper sticker or a tweet (back when he still had Twitter). His language is confrontational, populist, and designed to rile up his base while driving his opponents into fits of rage.

Netanyahu’s rhetoric is less bombastic but no less effective. He frames Israel as perpetually under threat—from Iran’s nuclear ambitions to international critics who dare question settlement policies. Where Trump thrives on chaos, Netanyahu thrives on fear—specifically the fear that without him at the helm, Israel would crumble.

Both leaders know how to rally their base with messaging that simplifies complex issues into black-and-white terms. Subtlety? Never heard of her.

Controversies: Scandals Galore. No comparison would be complete without addressing the elephant (or Likudnik) in the room: scandals. Both MAGA and Likud have enough controversies to fill an entire season of *House of Cards*.

For MAGA, it’s everything from the January 6 Capitol riot to Trump’s impeachment(s) to his endless legal battles over classified documents and election interference. It’s a soap opera that never ends—and his supporters love him for it.

Likud has its own share of drama, mostly revolving around Netanyahu. Bibi has faced corruption charges ranging from bribery to fraud—though he insists it’s all a witch hunt (sound familiar?). Add in his controversial judicial reforms that sparked mass protests in Israel, and you’ve got enough material for a Netflix docuseries.

The difference? MAGA scandals often revolve around Trump himself; Likud controversies are more about policy decisions that divide Israeli society.

Global Impact: Friends in Low Places. Both MAGA and Likud have reshaped their countries’ politics while cozying up to like-minded leaders abroad. Trump’s MAGA aligned with populist movements like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro—because nothing says “global nationalism” like forming an international club of nationalists.

Likud has its own alliances, particularly with India’s BJP under Narendra Modi and Republicans in the U.S.—especially during Trump’s presidency when U.S.-Israel relations reached new heights (moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem was basically Netanyahu’s dream come true).

While MAGA focuses on withdrawing from global entanglements (except when it benefits America), Likud operates in a world where international alliances are essential for survival.

Conclusion: Two Movements Divided by Context. At their core, MAGA and Likud are both right-wing powerhouses driven by nationalism, populism, and charismatic leaders who thrive on controversy. But their differences are just as striking as their similarities. MAGA is all about domestic grievances—immigration, trade, cultural shifts—while Likud is focused on existential threats tied to Israel's unique geopolitical situation.

In short? MAGA wants to make America great *again*. Likud wants to make sure Israel survives *forever*. And both will do so with a flair for drama that keeps us all watching—whether we like it or not.