The MeidasTouch Podcast Tuesday Afternoon Breaking News Updates with Ben - 5/12/26
May 12, 2026
Breaking developments on a proposed U.S. plan toward Iran and warnings about Iran potentially ramping up nuclear enrichment. A close look at troubling inflation spikes hitting energy, food, housing and the widening K-shaped economy. Analysis of U.S. foreign policy strains—from NATO and China to Pakistan and India—and criticism of political distraction tactics and accountability failures.
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CIA Views Suggest China Sees A Weakened US Deterrent
- Citing a former CIA analyst, Meiselas relays that US credibility is so weakened China may not fear US intervention over Taiwan.
- He says the CIA believes Trump might flee and that China could wait for US decline rather than invade immediately.
Reflecting Pool Shows Trump's Preference For Cosmetic Fixes
- Meiselas uses Trump's reflecting pool obsession as a metaphor for superficial fixes that ignore structural problems.
- He recounts Trump's no-bid contracts and cosmetic changes that won't fix algae, leaks, or fundamental damage.
Don't Normalize Performative Calm From An Authoritarian Leader
- Meiselas argues Trump's occasional calm appearances don't erase his authoritarian and dangerous behavior.
- He urges media and citizens to call Trump a fascist and war criminal directly rather than normalizing him.