The Fifth Column A Blockade of the Blockade #553
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Apr 15, 2026 A wide-ranging political roundup that tackles media fairness and the speed of misconduct allegations. They debate US strategy in the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions, and limits of military action. Conversations cover gambling and personal responsibility, the appeal of Viktor Orban to American conservatives, and tensions between religion, Trump, and the Pope.
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Vegas Roulette Temptation On A Road Trip
- Matt Welch and Michael Moynihan shared gambling stories showing how roulette and casino temptations reveal irrational thinking.
- Moynihan described nearly betting his last $4,000 on black while driving through Vegas at age 21.
Blockade Of The Blockade Creates Confusion
- The hosts debated Trump's maritime posture: creating a 'blockade of the blockade' in the Strait of Hormuz raises unclear rules of engagement.
- Matt Welch noted Chinese vessels seemed able to transit despite the announced U.S. blockade, complicating policy signals.
Regime Change Risks With An Unpredictable Leader
- The panel warned that advocating regime change against Iran is risky when executed by an unpredictable leader like Donald Trump.
- Michael Moynihan argued shifting rationales and on-the-fly goal changes undermine confidence in wartime planning.