WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch

Elliot Kaufman, an Editorial board member at The Wall Street Journal, and Kim Strassel, a renowned columnist, dive into Israel's recent military operations against Iran's nuclear program. They discuss the motivations behind Israel's strikes and the potential consequences for Iran's retaliatory capabilities. The duo also examines how these events may reshape U.S. foreign policy and the mixed reactions from MAGA voters towards Trump's endorsement of Israel's actions, highlighting the complexities of military versus diplomatic strategies.

Amid escalating tensions, Gavin Newsom positions himself as a key player against Donald Trump's deportation policies. Protests in Los Angeles spark a national movement while the governor navigates the complex immigration landscape in California. The planned surge of deportations raises concerns within immigrant communities and influences public sentiment on crime and quality of life. As deportation strategies intensify, mixed perceptions on immigration evolve, shaping future political ramifications for both state and federal leaders.

Join Alicia Finley, a columnist for The Wall Street Journal, as she delves into the controversial dismissal of all 17 members of the CDC's vaccine advisory panel by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. She questions the validity of RFK Jr.'s ethics claims and explores the implications for vaccine safety and public trust. Additionally, they discuss Donald Trump's proposed trade deal with China, highlighting its potential effects on U.S.-China relations and the importance of strategic diplomatic approaches. It's a whirlwind of ethics and policy!

The podcast dives into inquiries surrounding President Biden's health and cognitive abilities, with calls for transparency from Congress. It discusses the implications of using autopen for executive actions and the legalities of presidential signatures. There's a spotlight on Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s return to face serious charges after a Supreme Court ruling, highlighting issues of justice and due process. The conversation wraps up with reflections on leadership and the Democratic Party's concerns over Biden's capability for re-election.

Alicia Finley and Mene Ukwe Barua, both seasoned analysts of immigration policy, dive into the escalating protests in Los Angeles against Donald Trump’s deportation tactics. They discuss the National Guard's involvement and the implications of potentially invoking the Insurrection Act. The duo explores how Governor Gavin Newsom might leverage this political turmoil for his ambitions, while also analyzing the internal conflicts within the Democratic Party as they tackle public sentiment amid increasing unrest.

Join Kim Strassel, a columnist for The Wall Street Journal, as she delves into the surprising fallout between Trump and Musk over a GOP spending bill. The escalating feud raises questions about legislative consensus and the future of key political negotiations. Strassel also highlights the Supreme Court's unanimous decisions on crucial issues like religious tax exemptions, showcasing the delicate balance of law and politics. It’s a compelling discussion on how these events shape the political landscape and influence voters.

Former Senator Phil Gramm, a notable economist and co-author of "The Triumph of Economic Freedom," joins the conversation to dissect the effects of Trump's tariff policies. He argues that these tariffs may harm American manufacturing and poses a risk for the Republican Party in the 2026 midterms. Gramm emphasizes the importance of understanding historical precedents and challenges commonly held beliefs about free trade and economic policies. His insights ask whether tariffs ultimately lead to economic stability or chaos.

Elon Musk has taken a stand against a new GOP tax bill, calling it a "disgusting abomination" on social media. The discussion pivots to the Senate's role in modifying the bill amidst fears of a looming $4.5 trillion tax increase. Meanwhile, Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei dismisses a U.S. nuclear deal, asserting the country’s right for uranium enrichment. This scenario raises alarms about international security and the complexities surrounding ongoing negotiations. The impact of such policies echoes through both local and global economies.

Jillian Melcher, an Editorial board member in London, and Kim Strassel, a columnist, dive into Ukraine's bold drone operation targeting Russian airbases. They discuss how this strategic strike reflects Ukraine's military evolution and its potential effects on the U.S. stance and military dynamics. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for the Pentagon to reassess vulnerabilities exposed by drone warfare, urging policymakers to enhance defenses against evolving threats that could impact national security.

In a compelling discourse, John Yoo, a law professor at Berkeley and former Justice Department veteran, delves into Donald Trump's contentious relationship with the Federalist Society. They explore Trump’s critiques of its leadership and the repercussions this may have on future judicial nominations. Yoo analyzes the shifting tides of conservative legal thought, highlighting tensions between originalism and common good conservatism. The conversation also touches upon the implications of aging Supreme Court justices for the future political landscape.