Evening Roundup, April 21
Tributes to Pope Francis and a discussion with Sam Sawyer; Pablo Torre & Jen Rubin launch their weekly sports feature; Mimi Rocah; Mike Zamore; Jamie Riley; Steven Cook; Brian O'Neill; & Jen Rubin
Sam Sawyer on the legacy of Pope Francis
After serving as the Supreme Pontiff for 12 years, Pope Francis passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88. Pope Francis was the first Latin American and first Jesuit to occupy the esteemed position. Recognized as one of the more progressive popes, his time in the Vatican will no doubt leave a lasting impact.
What people are saying about the death of Pope Francis
The Contrarian pays tribute to the man who asked of himself--and, by extension, asked the world to examine themselves similarly--"Who Am I to Judge?" We quote several great leaders who have paid their respects, including Former Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, Rep. and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Ukrainian President Zelensky, and many more...
Jen and Pablo Torre Step Up to the Plate!
We are excited to welcome Pablo Torre back on The Contrarian with the first interview in a new series of weekly videos! This week, Jen and Pablo discuss the connection of religion and sports, the capitalistic appeal of transfer portals, the new role of college sports coaches, and much more.
It’s not about immigration. It’s about upholding the Constitution.
By Mimi Rocah
A majority of the Supreme Court seems to get it—finally.
Mike Zamore on midnight SCOTUS ruling blocking Trump deportations
Early Saturday morning, the Supreme Court dropped an emergency decision blocking the Trump Administration from deporting Venezuelans in Texas under the Alien Enemies Act. This ruling came only a few weeks after a prior SCOTUS ruling permitting the use of the Alien Enemies Act.
Iran, Israel, and Ineptitude: Steve Cook on Trump's Middle East Policy
With news of SignalGate Part 2 breaking over the weekend, American foreign policy in the Middle East is under increased scrutiny. The Hamas-Israel conflict is ongoing, the U.S. is actively conducting airstrikes in Yemen against the Houthis, and there are tense negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Jen is joined by Steve Cook for a discussion.
Not with a bang but a backdoor
By Brian O’Neill
DOGE’s quiet access to government networks is a counterintelligence threat in plain sight.
Stop Waiting for a Formal Declaration of “Crisis”
Are we in a “constitutional crisis”? Yes, we are. It's already arrived.
I am amused, though I guess I shouldn’t be, by the theft of Kristi Noem’s purse in DC over the weekend. Crime is ever-present and losing your belongings at a restaurant is unfortunate. But Ms Noem is head of Homeland Security, a vast security organization charged with protecting US citizens. The irony, and Trump administration incompetence, is front and center here. She and two secret service agents couldn’t prevent this theft. How well is she doing with the country?
Phrase to be retired: "President Trump's agenda." This is invoked in defense of the indefensible. DoD apologists say they are advancing President Trump's agenda, as though this is the pinnacle of sanctity. What about "United States policy," United States interests," "the well-being of the American people?"