2WAY Tonight with Mark Halperin Trump's Intel Team Says Iran Was a Serious Threat as Oil Prices Rise Amid Airstrikes by Israel, Iran
Mar 19, 2026
Steve Elmendorf, a seasoned Democratic strategist and former congressional staffer, and Todd Ricketts, businessman and co-founder of Freespoke Search, join to debate Iran strikes, Strait of Hormuz risks, and coalition prospects. They explain Freespoke’s independent search approach, wrestle with AI’s disruptive effects, and weigh political fights over Fed leadership, J.D. Vance’s odds, and DHS qualifications.
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Elmendorf Warns Lack Of Endgame Risks Worse Regional Outcome
- Steve Elmendorf said he's very worried that the effort in Iran was not well thought out and lacks a clear endgame.
- He fears a worse government, regional chaos, and Iran concluding it needs a nuclear deterrent like North Korea.
Temperament And Qualifications Drove DHS Hearing Drama
- The Senate hearing between Rand Paul and Markwayne Mullin highlighted temperament and qualification questions for DHS leadership.
- Steve Elmendorf stressed Mullin lacks national security experience to run a 250,000-person department despite the theatrical exchange.
Rand Paul's Harrowing Account Framed Senate Confrontation
- Mark Halperin recounted Rand Paul's vivid description of his cracked ribs, lung removal, and infection to explain his emotional Senate remarks.
- Paul's graphic hospital details framed his demand that Markwayne Mullin retract or apologize for mocking the assault.