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Best of the Spectator

Americano: what did we learn from the war chat leaks?

Mar 25, 2025
Ben Domenech, Editor-at-large of Spectator World and a keen observer of American politics, joins to dissect a jaw-dropping national security blunder. They delve into the accidental inclusion of a journalist in a top-secret Signal group with key officials discussing military actions, showcasing the absurdity of such serious matters being communicated with emojis. The conversation also reveals stark divisions within the Republican party regarding foreign policy and highlights ongoing security lapses. It’s a wild ride through the quirky side of high-stakes politics!
26:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The accidental inclusion of a journalist in a national security group highlights severe lapses in operational security among top officials.
  • Increasing skepticism among Trump's advisers about European allies' military contributions indicates a potential shift towards prioritizing Middle Eastern alliances in U.S. foreign policy.

Deep dives

Political Dynamics in Trump's Administration

The podcast highlights the chaotic nature of Donald Trump's second administration, particularly focusing on the recent incident involving journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, who was inadvertently added to a national security communication group by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. This group consisted of high-profile individuals, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, discussing sensitive military operations. The context reveals a significant security lapse, raising questions about the administration's credibility and operational security, especially given Waltz's reputation as a trusted figure in D.C. This incident marks a pivotal moment, showcasing the potential vulnerabilities within an administration that prides itself on security while simultaneously dealing with public scrutiny over its decision-making processes.

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