The DSR Network Words Matter: A Fiasco Wrapped In A Disaster Inside a Catastrophe
Mar 19, 2026
Norm Ornstein, political scholar and longtime commentator on U.S. politics. He dissects a string of diplomatic blunders and risky Iran policy. He highlights intelligence gaps, regional escalation and economic fallout. He also warns about domestic security risks and the erosion of congressional and judicial checks.
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Kid's Bush-Lap Avoidance Story
- Norm Ornstein recounts his six-year-old son vomiting outside at a dinner with Gerald Ford, avoiding the presidential lap incident.
- He uses the moment to humorously illustrate how Trump can't avoid public humiliations.
Avoid Approving A Massive Unchecked Supplemental
- Congress should resist funding a $200 billion supplemental that would extend and deepen U.S. involvement in a costly conflict.
- Norm argues Republicans may trim funding to avoid expanding the Pentagon budget and debt.
Asymmetric Threats Could Reach U.S. Shores
- Iran and its proxies have prepared asymmetric options to strike the U.S. homeland, including using small boats and sleeper cells to extend drone/attack range.
- Norm warns existing counterterrorism and homeland resources will be strained under such threats.