2/22/22: Putin Escalation, Media Insanity, Truth Social, PGA Turmoil, CNN's Demise, Facial Recognition, & Identity Politics!
Feb 22, 2022
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Ross Barkin, a sharp political commentator from New York City, digs into the escalating tensions in Ukraine sparked by Putin's latest speech. He critiques media narratives that distort the truth about international conflicts and the Havana syndrome. The discussion flows into the controversy surrounding Trump’s Truth Social launch and the implications of a Saudi-backed golf league. Barkin also analyzes the turmoil at CNN and the troubling use of facial recognition technology in Canada, revealing deeper issues of identity politics and authoritarianism.
The launch of Truth Social faced technical glitches and raised concerns about data security and platform capabilities.
With a lack of differentiation and technical issues, the demand for Truth Social seems doubtful.
Eric Adams' use of identity politics as a shield may hinder the media's ability to hold him accountable.
Eric Adams' popularity and political aspirations position him as a strong contender for higher office in the future.
Deep dives
Technical issues plague the launch of Truth Social
The launch of Truth Social, former President Trump's Twitter knockoff, suffered from technical glitches, leading to issues with signing up and accessing the platform. Users reported being unable to create an account and being placed on a waitlist instead. Some received verification emails hours later, only to find themselves in a high-numbered waitlist position. The CEO, Devin Nunes, acknowledged the problems and stated that they hope to have the bugs worked out by the end of March.
The dubious nature of Truth Social's security
Given the technical difficulties experienced during the launch of Truth Social, concerns arise regarding the platform's security. With lackluster performance and a waitlist for users, it raises questions about the platform's capabilities and potential vulnerabilities. Trump's track record of half-assed ventures adds to the skepticism surrounding Truth Social's ability to maintain data security.
Unimpressive features and similarities with Twitter
Truth Social has been described as a Twitter knockoff, with similar features and design. The platform aims to offer a Twitter-like experience with a focus on free speech. However, reports indicate that Truth Social appears to have copied and replicated elements from another platform. With little differentiation from its competitors, it remains to be seen if Truth Social can offer a unique and compelling experience for users.
Limited demand and questionable timing
The launch of Truth Social has raised questions about its relevance and appeal. With technical issues hampering user sign-up and limited differentiating features, the demand for this new social media platform seems doubtful. Additionally, the decision to launch the platform during a period plagued with technical glitches and without fully resolving them indicates a lack of preparedness and raises concerns about the platform's functionality and long-term success.
Eric Adams invokes identity politics to shield himself from criticism
During a press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams used his identity as a shield against allegedly negative press coverage of his trip to Albany. Adams claimed that there were not enough black reporters and editors, implying that racism was behind the coverage. However, the coverage in question was not negative or racially biased. This tactic of invoking identity politics to deflect criticism is a common strategy employed by Adams throughout his career.
Eric Adams' ambitions and political talent
While Eric Adams has not openly discussed his larger political ambitions, it is possible that he may have aspirations beyond being mayor of New York City. Adams has garnered positive attention and has positioned himself as a spokesperson for the center flank of the Democratic Party. His popularity with the national pundit class and his ability to perform well in the aesthetics of politics could make him a strong contender for higher office in the future.
Concerns about press coverage and identity politics
There is a concern that Eric Adams' use of identity politics as a shield against criticism could create challenges for the media in holding him accountable. By accusing press coverage of being racist, Adams may be able to deter reporters from asking tough questions or providing critical coverage. This could result in the press giving Adams more favorable treatment, which may hinder the ability to scrutinize his policies and decisions effectively.
Krystal and Saagar break down Putin's speech on Ukraine, warmongering insanity in media, Havana syndrome madness, Trump's new social network launching, golf's Saudi Arabia controversy, CNN's financial demise, authoritarianism at home, Dems identity politics, and more!
