The Rest Is Politics: US 167. Trump vs MAGA: Has Trump Lost His Base?
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Mar 13, 2026 A brisk unpacking of Trump's handling of the Iran strikes and rising US military doubts. They probe whether MAGA loyalty is eroding amid media criticism and high-profile dissent. Conversation touches on regional fallout, economic pain for Gulf allies, and political consequences for midterms and Latino voters. Tension around messaging, military readiness, and who truly defines MAGA keeps resurfacing.
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No Contingency For A Strait Of Hormuz Shutdown
- The Trump administration lacked contingency planning for a Strait of Hormuz shutdown, despite its obvious strategic risk.
- Anthony Scaramucci cites Gulf contacts and investors who say planners expected a quick regime collapse, not prolonged disruption to oil and trade.
MAGA Remains Largely Supportive Despite Public Split
- Republican support for military action remains high among party voters even as independents and Democrats turn against the campaign.
- Katty Kay cites polling showing about 84% of Republicans backing US involvement while independents trend against it, splitting the national picture.
Hawks Push For A Finish To Avoid Reentry Later
- Hawkish Republicans pressure Trump to pursue regime change to avoid returning later to rebuild Iranian capabilities.
- Katty Kay explains some GOP advisors fear a half-finished campaign would leave Iran to rebound and demand a finished outcome.