Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

11/10/25: Data Center Backlash, Sam Altman Freaks On Bubble, Biden War Crime Coverup, Hegseth Says US On War Footing

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Nov 10, 2025
In this discussion, guest William Hertung, a senior researcher at the Quincy Institute and author of 'Trillion Dollar War Machine', dives into the troubling implications of U.S. military spending. He highlights how wartime postures justify exorbitant budgets while emphasizing the disconnect between funding and effective military outcomes. Hertung warns that entrenched congressional politics foster wasteful procurement on the backs of taxpayers. He advocates for reforms like transparency and lobbying restrictions to tackle the military-industrial complex.
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INSIGHT

Local Backlash Against Data Centers

  • Data center build-outs are provoking bipartisan local backlash over water and electricity strain.
  • Those local fights can swing elections and reshape politics, as seen in Georgia and Virginia.
INSIGHT

Economy Hinges On AI And Data Centers

  • The U.S. economy is increasingly dependent on AI-driven stock gains and massive data-center investment.
  • That concentration makes the system vulnerable and creates pressure for government backstops if AI spending falters.
INSIGHT

Altman's Billion-To-Trillion Tension

  • Sam Altman's defensive tone and promises of trillion-dollar buildouts raised red flags about sustainability.
  • The narrative that the government will prevent failure makes these firms effectively 'too big to fail.'
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