The Fifth Column #528: President Comacho Delivers Peace, w/ Mary Katharine Ham
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Oct 15, 2025 Mary Katharine Ham, a political commentator and journalist, dives into the evolving landscape of U.S. foreign policy and Trump-era dynamics. They discuss the dramatic impact of Trump's Knesset speech and the emotional return of Israeli hostages. Exploring the shift in party attitudes towards Israel, Ham critiques political messaging and the influencer model in politics. The conversation also touches on the complexities of a potential second Trump administration and what could come next for the GOP. Expect sharp insights and lively banter!
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Theatrical Diplomacy Wins Influence
- Donald Trump's Knesset speech mixed roast and statesmanship, winning praise for theatrical effectiveness.
- His out-of-bounds, entertaining style converts theatricality into political leverage in foreign affairs.
Tangible Wins Trump Credit
- The hostage returns represent a tangible accomplishment that temporarily resets political narratives.
- Mary Katharine Ham and Michael Moynihan argue crediting Trump matters despite reservations about long-term outcomes.
Force Reshapes Middle East Calculus
- Trump's blunt, forceful posture reshapes regional calculations more effectively than diplomatic moralizing.
- Moynihan argues 'strong Israel with strong U.S. backing' changes incentives better than UN rebukes.