Bob’s Hailstone 08-15-25

A Tangled Web of Power, Panic, and Political Fumbles

Bob’s Hailstone 08-15-25

A Tangled Web of Power, Panic, and Political Fumbles
By Jim Reynolds | www.reynolds.com

Grook:
In shadows deep, the state’s eye peers,
Russiagate’s ghost dissolves in tears,
Red lines blur, blue hopes fade fast,
A nation stumbles, freedom’s cast.

Intro:

Welcome to today’s Hailstone, where the news reads like a bad spy novel crossed with a political circus. The Democrats are flailing, leaderless, as surveillance scandals and redistricting battles expose their cracks. Meanwhile, Trump’s promises and Gen Z’s skepticism hint at a nation teetering between chaos and reinvention. Let’s dive into the mess.

Lots of stories here. Just stop when you have had enough.

Stories:

Russiagate Releases Lift Veil on Surveillance State Abuses - Matt Taibbi, Racket News

The latest Russiagate dump unveils a sprawling surveillance network, with Taibbi detailing how government overreach targeted citizens under dubious pretexts, long after the collusion narrative faded. It’s a stark reminder of unchecked power eroding trust in institutions, fueling debates about privacy and accountability. The revelations could reshape public perception in a post-truth era.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Oh, look, another “shocking” revelation that the feds were playing Big Brother—color me stunned. Maybe next they’ll admit the moon landing was staged.
Jim: This is the swamp at its finest—leftist fantasies justifying tyranny. Time to drain it, not coddle it with excuses.
Larry: We must consider the human cost of this surveillance—privacy is a right, not a privilege, and the Democrats need to lead on reform, though I fear AOC’s silence and Crockett’s clownery leave us lost.

Comey’s 2017 Senate Testimony Appears Problematic - Catherine Herridge, X

Herridge uncovers potential inconsistencies in Comey’s 2017 Senate testimony, raising fresh doubts about FBI credibility during the Trump-Russia probe. The analysis suggests explosive details that could reshape perceptions of the investigation, adding to growing scrutiny of intelligence agencies’ actions. This development might prompt further calls for transparency.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Comey’s testimony a mess? Shocker.
Jim: Another FBI clown show—Comey’s lies propped up the left’s Russia hoax.

Larry: If this exposes flaws, we need accountability—though with no Democratic leader, I’m losing hope for justice.

Can the Alaska Summit End Russia-Ukraine War? - Victor Davis Hanson, The Daily Signal

Hanson skeptically evaluates the Alaska Summit’s peace potential, arguing that entrenched interests and Western indecision make a resolution unlikely. He highlights a stalemate fueled by geopolitical posturing, casting doubt on diplomatic progress, and suggests more conflict lies ahead unless bold action shifts the dynamic. The analysis serves as a sobering forecast for the region.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: Peace in Alaska? Sure, if the politicians stop grandstanding and start negotiating—fat chance with this crowd.
Jim: Hanson’s right—Western weakness prolongs this war. Time to ditch the diplomatic dance and face reality.
Larry: Environmental cooperation could ease tensions.

How Trump and Putin’s Relationship Has Evolved - Liptak & Zeleny, CNN

This piece tracks the evolving Trump-Putin relationship, moving from early flattery to strategic distance, with insights into recent statements shaping the narrative. It underscores the complex dance of power on the global stage, potentially influencing future U.S.-Russia policy. The analysis offers a nuanced look at diplomatic shifts.

Leans: Left/smug-Left sanctimony
Bob: Trump and Putin’s bromance turned cold?

Jim: CNN spins this as Trump’s fault, naturally — the stench of bias leaks through.
Larry: We need equity in diplomacy, not power plays—yet with no Democratic voice, my faith is crushed.

Trump Vows Social Security Will Thrive for Another ‘90 Years’ - Philip Wegmann, RCP

Wegmann reports Trump’s ambitious pledge to secure Social Security for 90 more years, leaning on economic growth and policy adjustments. Skeptics question the feasibility citing funding challenges, but the promise energizes his base and could reshape retirement debates if delivered. It’s a bold move with long-term implications.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Trump’s promising Social Security for a century? Sure, if he can stop the bureaucrats from raiding the cookie jar first.
Jim: A rare sensible move—let’s hope he delivers, unlike the left’s endless entitlement traps.
Larry: This could help the vulnerable, but without a Democratic leader—I fear it’s all talk as my hope fades.

DC’s Intolerable Crime Situation - Heather Mac Donald, City Journal

Mac Donald condemns DC’s soaring crime rates, attributing them to lenient policies that have fueled urban decay, backed by data. She warns of broader societal risks if trends continue unchecked, calling for a tough stance to restore order. The piece challenges current governance approaches.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: DC’s crime mess? Who’d have guessed letting criminals roam free might backfire—shocker of the century.
Jim: Mac Donald nails it—leftist coddling breeds chaos. Time to lock up the thugs, not the cops.
Larry: We need community solutions, not punishment. I have faith that would work.

Mamdani’s Victory Over Fear - Spencer Ackerman, The Nation

Ackerman hails Mamdani’s political ascent as a bold stand against fear, framing it as a triumph of resilience with detailed examples of his campaign. The piece rallies the left, suggesting a new wave of progressive leadership, though its impact depends on broader support. It’s an inspiring narrative for supporters.

Leans: Left/smug-Left sanctimony
Bob: Mamdani’s “victory”? More like a victory lap for failed Marxist dreams.
Jim: Ackerman’s gushing over this commie clown. Expect nothing less from this source. Read my recent articles on Mamdani.
Larry: Mamdani’s courage inspires all of us on the people’s side.

Track Record of Progressive Mayors Paints a Grim Picture - Joel Kotkin, UnHerd

Kotkin critiques progressive mayors, linking their policies to rising homelessness, crime, and urban decline, supported by stark data. He argues these trends signal a failure of ideology, urging a rethink of governance, and serves as a warning to other cities. The analysis challenges progressive dogma.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: Progressive mayors tanking cities? Color me shocked—guess utopia’s just a fancy word for decay.
Jim: Kotkin exposes the left’s urban disaster—time to ditch the progressive pipe dream. Bring in the federal cops. Law enforcement is all that it takes. Try it.
Larry: Urban gardens could help. But without a progressive leader I am losing faith.

Redistricting in Historic Perspective - Michael Barone, Washington Examiner

Barone provides a historical lens on redistricting, emphasizing its role in political power shifts, with today’s battles reaching new heights. He details how past gerrymandering shapes current strategies, offering context for ongoing fights, and underscores the high stakes involved. The piece is a primer on electoral strategy.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: Redistricting’s a power grab—same old game, just with fancier maps and louder whining.
Jim: Barone gets it—redistricting’s a weapon, and the left’s losing this round. Good.

California Democrats To Redraw Congressional Maps - David Dayen, American Prospect

In Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a November 4 election to approve new mid-cycle congressional maps, aiming to secure up to five additional U.S. House seats for Democrats in response to President Trump’s gerrymandering in Texas, despite an ICE raid disrupting the event. The maps, set to replace the independent redistricting commission’s work for six years until 2030, require a two-thirds legislative vote and public approval, with Rep. Brad Sherman cautiously predicting at least three seat gains and stronger swing district security. Newsom framed this as a democratic defense against authoritarianism, urging other blue states to join, though the costly campaign and potential Republican advantage in a nationwide redistricting war pose significant challenges.

Leans: Left/smug-Left sanctimony
Bob: California Dems redrawing maps? Is there anything left to gerrymander in California?

Jim: Dayen’s cheerleading for this cheat—oh well. So much for democracy.
Larry: Redistricting should empower, not divide.

Why Dems Won’t Win Redistricting Showdown - Bevan, Trende & Walworth, RCP/SiriusXM

The trio analyzes polls showing Trump’s 45.9% approval rating surpassing Obama and Bush at similar points, while a U.S. News/Harris poll reveals widespread distrust in institutions, with 80% of Americans unable to agree on facts. They discuss California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s retaliatory mid-decade redistricting plan to counter Texas gerrymandering, warning that extreme partisan map-drawing could escalate tensions and potentially add 20 Republican seats if the Voting Rights Act is struck down.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Dems losing redistricting? Quelle surprise—guess their map magic isn’t so magical after all.
Jim: Bevan’s crew nails it—Dems flubbed this, and the GOP’s cleaning up. About time. The VRA is a big deal if it is kicked to the curb.
Larry: This loss hurts equity.

The Lies About Covid Were Eye-Opening for Americans - Charlie Kirk, CNBC

Kirk asserts that Covid misinformation opened Americans’ eyes to institutional distrust, backed by data on public skepticism. He argues the fallout will reshape future policy debates, tapping into a growing anti-establishment sentiment. The piece challenges mainstream narratives with a provocative stance.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: Covid lies exposed? Well, duh—trust in the elites was already a joke, and now it’s a punchline.
Jim: Kirk’s right—leftist Covid spin was a con, and Americans are finally waking up. The covid charade could be the real undoing of the Democrat party.
Larry: We need cooperation, not blame.

Do Consumers Really Benefit From Cheaper Imports? - Michael Pettis, Financial Times

Michael Pettis challenges the notion that cheap imports inherently benefit American consumers, arguing that the real advantage of trade lies in maximizing domestic production to boost welfare, not just lowering prices. He contends that persistent U.S. trade deficits, driven by weak foreign demand, shift production from manufacturing to services, increase debt, and widen income inequality, rather than enhancing consumer well-being. Pettis advocates for restructuring trade to prioritize domestic productivity and equitable distribution, suggesting that sustainable consumption growth depends on rising production, not reliance on imported goods.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Cheaper imports a scam? The author has a different angle.
Jim: I’m all for increasing domestic production. This article is a bit wonky for me.
Larry: Fair trade could help workers. Me and my comrades are for that.

Trade Agreements Must Put Workers First - Daniel Kishi, Compact Magazine

Kishi advocates for trade deals prioritizing workers over corporations, offering a roadmap for reform with practical suggestions. He argues current policies widen inequality, challenging mainstream economic thinking with a bold vision. The piece sparks debate on trade’s social impact.

Leans: Left/smug-Left sanctimony
Bob: Workers first? Sure, if the unions don’t just pocket the gains—nice thought, lousy execution.
Jim: Kishi’s lefty sermon ignores reality—trade’s about winning, not coddling.
Larry: This is a step toward equity.

Bessent Visit to IRS–With Whistleblowers–Sends Message - Miranda Devine, NY Post

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made an impromptu 45-minute visit to the IRS on Thursday, six days after President Trump ousted Commissioner Billy Long, bringing whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joe Ziegler to signal a hands-on approach to reform and modernization. The duo, who exposed alleged corruption in the Hunter Biden investigation and now advise Bessent, met senior leaders to push for integrity and efficiency, aligning with Bessent’s priorities of cost savings, privacy, and customer service. Despite critics’ warnings of a revenue shortfall, IRS receipts surged by 9.5% in April and 14.7% in May 2025, totaling $2.04 trillion, reflecting a successful overhaul under Bessent’s leadership.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: Bessent siccing whistleblowers on the IRS? About time someone shook up that den of thieves.
Jim: Devine’s spot-on—time to gut the IRS swamp with some real accountability. Any chance of shaking Lois Lerner’s tree? That’s a re-run I’d sign up to see.

Today’s Gen Z Doubts a Sign of More To Come - Amir Kanpurwala, RealClearPolitics

Kanpurwala connects Gen Z’s growing skepticism to societal shifts, predicting future unrest with data showing disillusionment. He suggests this trend may redefine political engagement for decades, marking a generational turning point. The piece offers a glimpse into tomorrow’s challenges.

Leans: Center/pragmatic centrism
Bob: Gen Z’s doubting everything? Good—they’re finally smelling the BS we’ve been wading through.
Jim: Kanpurwala sees the future—Gen Z’s rejection of leftist nonsense is a win.
Larry: We need to guide their energy toward climate equity.

DC Sub Chucker Loses His Lunch and His Sweet DOJ Job - Beth Brelje, The Federalist

Sean Charles Dunn, a DOJ international affairs specialist, was charged with felony assault after throwing a Subway sandwich at a CBP officer in Washington, D.C. on August 10, following a tirade of obscenities, leading to his immediate job loss under the Trump administration’s new zero-tolerance policy. The incident, captured on video, occurred amid heightened federal police presence, with Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasizing it as an example of the “Deep State” being addressed, while Dunn’s attorney Sabrina Shroff has a controversial history defending high-profile cases. President Trump’s recent federal takeover of D.C. police aims to curb such public disturbances, marking a shift from previous leniency and setting a precedent for law enforcement accountability.

Leans: Right/gloriously unrepentant
Bob: DOJ guy chucks his lunch and his job? Priceless—bureaucracy at its finest clown show.
Jim: Brelje exposes the DOJ’s circus—another leftist stooge bites the dust. If it was hot pastrami — I’ll take it.
Larry: Even here, we need humane policies—yet with no Democratic leader, just Crockett’s farce, my hope fades.

End Note:

Today’s stories weave a tapestry of distrust, power plays, and fading hope—yet amid the chaos, there’s a flicker of resilience. The proletariat’s voice, whether skeptical or silenced, reminds us that history bends toward those who dare to question. Hold fast, readers—this storm will pass.

Source Note:

All stories referenced here come from the RealClearPolitics homepage. For full articles and original context, visit the site directly.