4 Things To Know This Afternoon

Iranian Regime Destabilization After Leadership Decapitation: Israeli officials believe Iran's government may now be vulnerable after key leadership figures were killed. The development comes amid reports of internal leaks and growing debate inside the U.S. government about how aggressively to confront Tehran. Pakistan and Afghanistan Edge Toward Open War: Violence between Pakistan and Afghanistan is escalating rapidly, with Pakistani strikes in Kabul killing civilians and raising fears of broader regional conflict. The situation is especially dangerous given Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Netanyahu Conspiracy Theories Spread Online: False claims about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's health are circulating online, fueled by AI paranoia and misinformation. Despite the rumors, Netanyahu appeared publicly with U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee. Joe Kent Removed From Trump Administration Role: Former congressional candidate Joe Kent is out as director of counterterrorism after accusations of leaks and poor leadership. His removal highlights tensions inside the administration and criticism over his past political positions. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

NATO Refuses to Help Reopen the Strait of Hormuz: Several NATO allies say they will not assist the United States in reopening the Strait of Hormuz after Iranian disruptions. President Trump says America can handle it alone while emphasizing U.S. energy independence and new offshore oil exploration. Cuban Uprising Intensifies Against Communist Regime: Protests in Cuba are escalating as demonstrators attack police stations and Communist Party buildings. The regime is attempting limited economic reforms, allowing Cuban exiles to own businesses while maintaining strict Communist Party control. TSA Pay Fight Sparks Airport Confrontation: A heated clash erupted between Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Greg Casar at the Austin airport over unpaid TSA workers during the government shutdown. Cornyn accused Casar of previously voting to defund TSA while Democrats continue blaming Republicans for the funding fight. Prediction Markets and Gambling Invade the News: The rise of sports betting and political prediction markets is beginning to reshape media coverage. As news outlets increasingly partner with betting platforms, concerns are growing about corruption, insider trading, and the erosion of journalistic integrity. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Iran Escalates Attacks in the Strait of Hormuz: Iran has struck multiple commercial ships in the Persian Gulf as tensions escalate. Insurers like Lloyd's of London and Chubb are maintaining coverage while the U.S. Navy deploys new counter-mine and anti-drone measures to keep global shipping lanes open. Inflation Holds at 2.4% Despite Global Uncertainty: Inflation remains steady at 2.4%, offering some economic stability even as Middle East tensions threaten energy markets. Rising oil prices could still push up gas and food costs in the coming weeks. The SAVE Act Hits a Wall in the Senate: The Senate currently lacks the votes to pass the SAVE Act, leaving Republicans divided on strategy. Some lawmakers are pushing procedural fights, while others argue the focus should shift to policies that can actually pass. Signs of Instability Inside Iran's Regime: Israel has reportedly begun striking Iranian Revolutionary Guard checkpoints inside major cities. Combined with a new message from the exiled Shah calling on Iranians to prepare for the next phase, it could signal growing pressure on the Iranian regime. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Oil Prices Drop as Iran Market Panic Fades: Oil prices have fallen more than 10% as fears about the Middle East begin to subside. I explain why Iran may be attempting an economic pressure campaign against the U.S. and why the media narrative around the conflict is so aggressively negative. Housing Market Rebounds as Mortgage Rates Ease: Existing home sales unexpectedly rose in February, surprising economists who predicted a decline. Lower mortgage rates are bringing buyers back into the market and even convincing some sellers to finally list their homes. SAVE Act Likely Dead in the Senate: The SAVE Act appears stalled before it even reaches the Senate floor. I explain why the filibuster isn't going away, why Republicans won't ban mail-in voting, and why eliminating the filibuster would be a major mistake. Iran Operation Update: Casualties and Battlefield Reality: Eight American service members have been killed and 150 wounded in the Middle East operation against Iran. I break down the real numbers, the military context, and why the media's portrayal of the operation deserves scrutiny. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Oil Prices Dip Below $100 Amid Middle East Tensions: Oil has fallen below $100 a barrel as Saudi Arabia and the UAE reroute supply and Western nations tap reserves. Markets are reacting positively, but rising energy costs could still affect parts of the U.S. economy. Atlanta's Suburbs and Exurbs Becoming More Expensive Than the City: New data shows housing costs outside Atlanta's city limits are surpassing the city itself. Remote work, population shifts, and restrictive zoning are pushing more Americans into expensive exurban communities. Kevin Kiley Leaves the Republican Party: California Congressman Kevin Kiley is leaving the GOP to become an independent while remaining in the House. The move comes as redistricting creates a tougher electoral map and could reshape his reelection strategy. ISIS-Inspired New York City Bomb Plot Suspect Speaks: One suspect in the failed New York City explosive attack admitted he was inspired by ISIS and wanted an attack larger than the Boston Marathon bombing. Meanwhile, NYPD officers are being praised for running toward danger to stop the threat. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

U.S. Jobs Report Signals Sudden Economic Weakness: The latest Labor Department report shows the U.S. unexpectedly lost 92,000 jobs as unemployment ticked up to 4.4%. Erick breaks down what's driving the slowdown, including tariff uncertainty, federal workforce cuts, and shifting expectations around artificial intelligence. Trump Escalates Iran Strategy Toward Regime Change: President Trump is now demanding Iran's unconditional surrender while Israeli operations target the regime's police-state infrastructure. The goal is to weaken the regime internally and potentially trigger a popular uprising. Trump Signals Cuba Could Collapse Next: The administration believes Cuba's regime may fall under mounting economic pressure. The Justice Department has indicted Cuban officials, and the White House is signaling it may take a more aggressive posture toward the island. Pipeline Expansion Fight Raises National Security Questions: A proposed natural gas pipeline expansion in Georgia has sparked protests from environmental groups. Erick explains why he plans to testify in favor of it, arguing energy infrastructure and data center growth are critical to national security. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

  Media Targets Pete Hegseth Over War Comments Some in the media are attacking Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for acknowledging the tragic realities of war. I explain why the criticism ignores his combat experience and is really about undermining the Trump administration. China Quietly Admits Its Economy Is Slowing China has revised its economic growth expectations downward, signaling deeper economic trouble. Meanwhile, U.S. pressure on Iran's oil trade is hitting Beijing's energy supply and exposing vulnerabilities in the Chinese economy. Europe Expands Support for Israel's Defense More European countries are joining defensive operations in the Middle East. Italy now joins Greece, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom in helping intercept Iranian missiles and drones targeting Israel. Iran Condemns U.S. After Warship Destroyed Iran is accusing the United States of violating international law after one of its ships was destroyed near Sri Lanka. I explain why that argument collapses under well-established laws of armed conflict.  

Israel Targets Iran's Police State: Israel continues striking Iran's internal security apparatus, dismantling the regime's vast police infrastructure that has long suppressed dissent. The campaign is aimed at weakening the regime's grip and creating space for internal opposition. Cornyn vs. Paxton Runoff in Texas: The Texas Senate race is heading to a heated runoff between John Cornyn and Ken Paxton. Rumors are growing that Donald Trump may intervene in the race, potentially offering Paxton a role in the administration to clear the path. NATO Intercepts Iranian Missile Bound for Turkey: NATO forces shot down an Iranian missile heading toward Turkey that appeared to target a U.S. installation. The Trump administration says the incident will not trigger NATO's Article 5 defense clause, but the escalation highlights the growing regional risk. Democrats Continue Blocking Homeland Security Funding: Congressional Democrats are still refusing to reopen funding for the Department of Homeland Security, leaving TSA employees working without pay during heightened tensions with Iran. The standoff raises major questions about national security priorities. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Middle East Unity Against Iran Escalates: Qatar has gone on offense against Iran, France has joined air operations in the UAE, and Europe is splitting over U.S.-Israel strategy. The regional war dynamic is shifting fast and it matters for American policy. France Steps In as Britain and Spain Hesitate: French jets are intercepting Iranian drones after Tehran struck a French base. Meanwhile, Britain relents on U.S. airspace access and Spain pushes back against American operations. Right-Wing Influencers and Iran: What Changed?: I break down the sudden reversal from prominent conservative voices on regime change, intervention, and Iran and why intellectual consistency still matters. Supreme Court Sides With Parents Over California Schools: The Supreme Court ruled California cannot hide student gender transitions from parents, affirming parental rights and exposing what was happening inside public schools. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Europe Shifts as Iran Escalates: Greece, Britain, and France have moved into defensive posture after Iranian targeting, while Spain pushes American air refuelers out amid criticism of U.S. and Israeli operations. Lebanon Turns on Hezbollah: After Israel wiped out Hezbollah's regrouped leadership, Lebanon is now cracking down, declaring unauthorized weapons fire illegal and moving troops against the terror group. Mississippi NIL Tax Break Controversy: The Mississippi House has passed legislation to exempt college football NIL earnings from state income tax, raising serious questions about fairness and state priorities. Democrats Refuse to Fund DHS: House and Senate Democrats are holding up Department of Homeland Security funding unless changes are made to ICE and Border Patrol, even as tensions with Iran intensify. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Senate Republicans Block Casey Means Nomination: I break down why Republicans are hesitating to confirm Casey Means as Surgeon General, citing her embrace of witchcraft practices and rejection of vaccine science. If you believe America faces a spiritual crisis or a rise in pseudoscience, this matters. Mortgage Rates Drop Below 6%: Mortgage rates fall to 5.98% for the first time in over three years. I explain what this means for homebuyers, how it compares historically, and why today's rates aren't as abnormal as the last decade made them seem. Hillary Clinton Testifies on Jeffrey Epstein: Clinton tells House investigators she had no knowledge of Epstein, but the hearing derails after a Republican member leaks a photo mid-session. I unpack the political fallout and what it means for GOP credibility. DHS Arrest at Columbia University: Federal agents detain an international student inside a Columbia dorm. I explain what we know, what we don't, and why escalating deportation enforcement raises serious questions about media credibility and immigration policy. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

FBI Raids LA Schools Superintendent: The FBI raids the home and office of the Los Angeles Unified School District superintendent just weeks after praise from Governor Gavin Newsom over rising test scores. The investigation is under seal, raising serious questions about possible misconduct.  Joint Chiefs Chairman Clashes With Pentagon Leadership: General Caine is reportedly pushing back against the administration's national defense strategy, warning that shifting focus to the Western Hemisphere risks weakening U.S. posture against China and escalating tensions with Iran. President Barnstorms After State of the Union: Following the State of the Union address, the president plans to campaign aggressively on economic revitalization, inflation relief, and tax refunds, while navigating Supreme Court tariff rulings and renewed 15% tariffs. Epstein Fallout Hits Harvard and Bill Gates: Larry Summers resigns from Harvard as Bill Gates apologizes for his nonprofit's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats bring an Epstein associate to the State of the Union, creating controversial political optics. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

State of the Union to Center on the Economy: President Trump is expected to focus heavily on affordability, housing costs, and drug prices while outlining what he inherited from Joe Biden and how his policies aim to stabilize the economy. New England Blizzard Buries the Northeast: Record snowfall has shut down parts of New York and Boston, raising fresh questions about climate narratives and the continued reliance on fossil fuels during extreme weather events. Wall Street's Growing AI Concerns: Major companies are questioning AI investment returns as job displacement fears grow and reports of AI hallucinations and security failures shake confidence in the technology sector. Limited Strike on Iran Under Consideration: Washington is buzzing with rumors of targeted strikes aimed at Iran's nuclear capabilities, as military leaders warn about stockpiles, escalation risks, and broader geopolitical consequences.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Markets Drop as Tariff Uncertainty Grows: Stocks fell nearly 2% as President Trump's 15% global tariff policy fuels economic uncertainty. The EU is reconsidering a trade deal, while Middle East tensions and AI disruption add pressure to the markets. Joint Chiefs Chairman Urges Caution on Iran: General Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reportedly warns against a prolonged military campaign in Iran, citing risks to American lives and strained weapons stockpiles. Rock Bottom Approval Among Independents: Ahead of the State of the Union, the president faces low approval from independents, largely driven by economic concerns — though Republicans still lead Democrats on immigration and crime.  Hockey Teams and Bipartisanship at the State of the Union:  House leadership hopes to bring the U.S. men's and women's Olympic hockey teams to the State of the Union as a rare show of unity in a deeply divided political climate. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

A Republican win in a Middle Georgia special election should have been easy, but it wasn't, and that's the real story. I explain why GOP voters are only showing up when Donald Trump is on the ground, why Democrats are outpacing Republicans in poll workers and poll watchers, and why election integrity requires more than complaints. If you care about the outcome in November, it's time to get trained, get involved locally, and become part of the process that actually runs American elections. Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

U.S. Military Buildup Near Iran: The United States has moved air refueling assets to the Middle East as Israeli intelligence signals preparation for a possible strike. This could be a show of force for negotiations — or something more. Federal Reserve Signals No More Rate Cuts: Newly released Fed meeting details show there are not enough votes for rate cuts, even if a new chair is installed. Markets and the White House may be expecting something the committee cannot deliver. Equal Time Doctrine vs. Fairness Doctrine: Media confusion over Stephen Colbert and James Talarico exposes widespread misunderstanding of broadcast law. The Equal Time rule — not the Fairness Doctrine — is what actually governs candidate appearances. Supreme Court Retirement Speculation: Rumors around Samuel Alito — and concerns about Clarence Thomas — raise the stakes for preserving the Court's 6–3 conservative majority and shaping the next generation of justices. Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Colbert, Tallerico, and the Equal Time Lie – New reporting shows CBS lawyers never blocked the interview; Stephen Colbert misled viewers to help a Texas Senate campaign, raising serious media ethics questions. Iran Signals Nuclear Concessions – Tehran hints at a deal while refusing transparency. The administration joins indirect talks as trust remains the central issue. DNA Twist in the Nancy Guthrie Case – No FBI database match and growing backlash against the sheriff's handling of the investigation intensify scrutiny in Arizona. Ivy League Losing the Hiring War – Major corporations shift recruiting to the SEC and other schools as concerns grow over work ethic, entitlement, and campus culture. Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Hollywood loses a conservative legend: Robert Duvall dies at 95. I reflect on his iconic career, his Republican politics in a hostile industry, and why his legacy still matters. Trump heads to Rome, Georgia for key GOP showdown: The president backs Clay Fuller in the fractured GA-14 special election as Democrats eye a pickup amid Republican infighting. Tariffs start hitting your wallet: Amazon and other companies signal consumer price hikes as businesses stop absorbing tariff costs heading into the midterms. RFK Jr.'s food policy could raise grocery prices: The push to eliminate the GRAS loophole would expand federal control, drive up costs, and hit lower-income Americans the hardest. Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Midterm Voter Frustration and the Supreme Court Stakes: I respond to listeners who say they're ready to abandon the GOP and explain why handing power to Democrats risks the Court, the Senate, and the long-term conservative agenda. Why Trump Won't Fire Key Officials — and Why It Matters: Loyalty politics inside the administration is preventing a public reset, and without visible accountability the president is burning political capital he will need before the midterms. The $50 Billion EV Market Collapse: Ending electric vehicle subsidies is reshaping the auto industry, exposing weak consumer demand, and signaling a shift away from government-driven markets. Is MAGA Actually Ending — and What Comes Next: Populist movements don't last forever. I break down how MAGA fragments after Trump and why a broader coalition is the only path to winning national elections. Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

Republican Midterm Chaos and Campaign Incompetence: I explain why Republicans are risking Senate losses through bad primary choices and incompetent campaign strategy, and why voters should be frustrated heading into the 2026 midterms. Trump, Starlink, and Covert Support for Iranian Protesters: Reports reveal the U.S. helped smuggle Starlink terminals into Iran, aiding protesters against the regime. I break down what this means for U.S.-Iran policy and nuclear tensions. DHS Funding Blocked as Shutdown Looms - Senate Democrats have blocked Department of Homeland Security funding. TSA, FEMA, and Coast Guard operations could face disruption while Border Patrol and ICE remain funded. DOJ Accused of Spying on Lawmakers Over Epstein Files: Speaker Mike Johnson and House leaders are furious after revelations that the Justice Department tracked lawmakers reviewing unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files, raising serious separation-of-powers concerns. Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.   Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson. www.erickerickson.com https://www.youtube.com/@ewerickson  https://rumble.com/ewerickson  Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.