Influential Figures in Foreign Policy and Political Advisory Roles

Exploration of influential figures known as 'Straussians' like Paul Wolfowitz and Robert Kagan, their ties to philosophers like Alan Bloom and Harvey Mansfield, and their impact on political discourse. Discussion on the Office of Special Plans during the Iraq war, conflicts between the White House and the CIA, the Plame Affair, and pardon of government officials. Examination of the relationship between Dick Cheney and George W. Bush, Cheney's influence on decisions regarding the Iraq war, neoconservative viewpoints on continuous war, differences between Neocons and Neolibs, and the current roles of past conservative figures in think tanks and universities.