Washington Today Weekend Edition: Iran, Cuba, & CPAC
Mar 28, 2026
Henry Olson, senior fellow and commentator on conservative politics. William LeoGrande, American University professor and Cuba expert. Adam Smith, ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee. They discuss U.S. policy and political reactions to the Iran conflict. They examine Cuba’s economic crisis and U.S. pressure. They analyze CPAC’s framing of international threats and implications for Republican politics.
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No Clear Plan For Iran Objectives
- Rep. Adam Smith says there is no plan to achieve stated objectives in the Iran conflict and briefers provided no specifics.
- He cites 13 U.S. service members dead, 1,000+ civilian deaths, and rising economic costs like gas and inflation as reasons to stop the war now.
Public Opinion Opposes Escalation But May Not Restrain It
- Polling shows 59% of adults think U.S. action against Iran has gone too far, with 90% of Democrats and 63% of independents agreeing.
- Smith warns Trump can keep escalating despite public opposition, so public opinion may not constrain policy.
Two Clear Paths To Dangerous Escalation
- Smith outlines two primary escalation risks: deploying ground forces or more aggressively targeting Iranian infrastructure and civilians.
- He argues both raise costs and are unlikely to achieve objectives even if attempted.