3-11-25 DailyBriefs.info    MP3  PDF  PODCAST
Here are 10 key takeaways from the provided sources, ordered by perceived importance, with a supporting sentence for each:

1.

The global food system is under significant stress due to razor-thin margins, reliance on just-in-time delivery, and inflation, leading to shrinkflation and potential for widespread shortages and even famine1 .... The article about shrinking packages argues that this trend is a warning sign of a fragile food industry with no wiggle room left, vulnerable to shocks like inflation, which could lead to supermarket closures and severe food shortages3 ....

2.

The US national debt is growing at an unsustainable rate, with potential fiscal calamity looming, and some GOP members are pushing for significant spending cuts as a condition for further government funding10 .... Interest on the debt is over a trillion per year, and the debt is increasing by $5.5 billion daily, prompting a plan for substantial rescissions to be demanded before passing the next continuing resolution11 ....

3.

Trade wars initiated by the US, involving tariffs on allies like Canada and Mexico as well as China, are escalating and pose a serious threat to the global economy, potentially leading to a major power conflict14 .... The article warns that these trade actions, beyond mere trade disputes, signal a reshaping of the world order and could trigger a significant war17 ....

4.

The debate surrounding lab-grown foods, exemplified by lab-grown milk, raises significant questions about nutritional value, health effects, and true sustainability compared to traditional agriculture20 .... While touted as climate-friendly, some critics like Dr. Joseph Mercola consider lab-grown milk to be ultraprocessed junk food that cannot match the nutritional profile of real dairy20 ....

5.

Influential pro-Israel groups exert considerable influence on US foreign policy in the Middle East, potentially pushing for increased military support for Israel and a more aggressive stance against Iran, reminiscent of the lead-up to the Iraq War21 .... A letter from JINSA calling for more support for Israel against Iran echoes the rhetoric used before the Iraq invasion, raising concerns about similar future military engagements24 ....

6.

Media bias, exemplified by a 60 Minutes segment critical of Trump's firing of Inspectors General, may reflect a vested interest in protecting the "Administrative State" and could be influenced by ties to the intelligence community27 .... The article suggests that CBS has a bias in favor of the administrative state and questions the effectiveness of the featured former special counsel28 ....

7.

Hugh Ross Williamson, a 20th-century author, was a controversial figure who challenged accepted historical narratives, particularly those concerning the Catholic Church, and faced professional repercussions for his eventual conversion to Catholicism30 .... Williamson's choice of a staunchly Catholic figure as the subject for a play at an Anglican festival and his later conversion led to controversy and job loss30 ....

8.

The concept of "redox reactions" is fundamental to cellular energy production and overall health, with NAD+ being a crucial molecule for this process, and maintaining healthy levels is essential for preventing cellular dysfunction39 .... Without NAD+, cells cannot efficiently convert food into energy, repair DNA damage, or maintain proper cellular communication, highlighting its vital role in bodily functions40 ....

9.

Stacey Abrams' nonprofit received a substantial $2 billion Biden administration grant for "green appliances," raising questions about the justification for such funding and prompting investigations into her past campaign finance violations44 .... Newly confirmed EPA chief Lee Zeldin is scrutinizing the grant awarded to Abrams' relatively new NGO, which has a history of campaign finance violations46 ....

10.

The search for understanding "long COVID" continues to be a medical mystery, with experts admitting a lack of progress in identifying causes or effective treatments, and the potential role of vaccines in similar chronic conditions is notably absent from mainstream discussions45 .... Despite significant research efforts and funding, scientists report that they don't fully understand why some people develop debilitating chronic conditions after a COVID-19 infection51 .

The provided texts cover a range of topics including a historical figure's controversial conversion and defense of Catholicism, the subtle shrinking of food product packaging as a warning sign of broader economic issues in the food industry, and a proposal for Congressional action to rescind previously approved government spending. Another source discusses the impending arrival of lab-grown milk in supermarkets, framing it within the context of climate change concerns and criticisms of "fake foods." Finally, one article critiques a news segment for its portrayal of dismissed government officials and suggests a deeper narrative of corruption within the administrative state, while the last piece analyzes the conflicting rationales and potential consequences of President Trump's tariff policies. 

Date: March 11, 2025 Prepared for: Interested Parties Subject: Analysis of Key Themes and Ideas from Recent Online Articles

This briefing document summarizes the main themes, important ideas, and key facts presented in a collection of recent articles from LewRockwell.com and The Unz Review. The articles cover a diverse range of topics, including cultural criticism, economics, politics, and health.

1. Hugh Ross Williamson: A Forgotten Defender of Tradition (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article highlights the life and work of Hugh Ross Williamson, particularly his defense of traditional Catholicism and the Traditional Latin Mass.

• Key Ideas/Facts:Williamson was an Anglo-Catholic convert to Catholicism, influenced by T.S. Eliot and G.K. Chesterton ("He was always talking about Chesterton,” his daughter recalled, “and he thought his Orthodoxy was one of the best books he’d read.").

• He faced discrimination for his conversion, reportedly being removed from "The Brains Trust" because "you present the wrong image now you are a Catholic." Mrs. Greene stated, “a trendy Anglican clergyman was fine but a Catholic convert was not.”

• Williamson was a multifaceted individual, including an actor who performed under the name Ian Rossiter.

• A significant part of his later life was dedicated to defending the Traditional Latin Mass against modernist reforms, having a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Canon of the Mass, which was the subject of his book The Great Prayer, published in the year of his conversion.

2. Bad News Comes in Small Packages (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article analyzes the subtle but significant trend of "shrinkflation" in the food industry as a symptom of deeper economic problems.

• Key Ideas/Facts:Supermarket products like Folger’s coffee, Chobani Yoghurt, and Fritos are being offered in smaller packages while maintaining the same price. The resizing is often less than 10%.

• Downsizing packaging is a costly "last resort" for producers, requiring new molds and recalibration of machinery. "Resizing packaging is a last resort for any producer of goods. A simple downsizing is costly enough that he wouldn’t entertain the idea unless he’s backed into a corner and can’t do anything else."

• The food industry has faced repeated economic pressures over the last decade, leading to reduced wiggle room in pricing and minimal backup supply.

• Dramatic government spending has led to significant inflation ("In the last ten years, more currency has been created than in the previous 230 years put together. Dramatic inflation is unavoidable.").

• Consecutive months of significant inflation could lead to supermarket closures, starting with the most indebted.

• Food shortages have begun and are a serious concern because food is a necessity that cannot be postponed. The author warns of potential "food riots" and even "famine" if the situation worsens.

• The downsizing of packaging is a "warning sign" that the food industry is under severe pressure and may become unsustainable.

3. It’s Rescission Time (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article advocates for a large-scale rescission of government spending, dubbed "The Mother of All Rescissions" (MOAR), to combat runaway fiscal deficits.

• Key Ideas/Facts:The author criticizes the GOP for potentially ratifying the entirety of the Biden budget through a "clean CR [continuing resolution]," negating any purported savings.

• The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 mandates that rescinded appropriations authority must be recycled and respent.

• The article proposes a $300 billion rescission package (MOAR) targeting areas like "Idiotic Foreign Aid Contracts," "Discretionary Appropriations," and "Bloated Pentagon Spending."

• The strategy suggests linking the passage of MOAR to the expiration of the current CR on March 14th, potentially leading to a government shutdown if it is not approved. "Either pass MOAR or shut down the government when the current CR expires on March 14th. You choose."

• Voting against MOAR should have political consequences, such as primary challenges for Republicans and targeted attacks for Democrats in pro-Trump districts.

• Rising interest expense, having crossed $1 trillion per year, is pushing the nation towards a fiscal "doom loop."

• The proposed 6.5% rescission of Biden-level spending for FY 2025 is considered a necessary but not drastic measure to address fiscal calamity.

4. Lab-Grown Milk Coming to a Supermarket Near You (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article explores the emerging field of lab-grown milk as a lower-carbon and cruelty-free alternative to traditional dairy.

• Key Ideas/Facts:Boston-based startup Brown Foods is developing "UnReal Milk," a lab-grown whole cow's milk produced without cows.

• "UnReal Milk" uses mammalian cell culture to replicate the nutrition, taste, and texture of traditional dairy and can be processed into butter, cheese, and ice cream.

• Brown Foods claims its production method significantly reduces carbon emissions (82%), water use (90%), and land use (95%).

• Lab validation of "UnReal Milk" is underway with input from MIT Professor Dr. Richard Braatz.

• Analysts project that animal-free dairy could eventually capture up to 33% of the $893 billion traditional dairy market.

• Bill Gates' Breakthrough Energy Ventures and Israeli companies are also investing in lab-grown milk startups.

• Different approaches to lab-grown milk exist, including fully lab-based (Brown Foods), growing cell-cultured mammary cells with dairy farmers (Senara), and focusing on cultured milk fats (Wilk).

• Chile-based NotCo uses plant combinations and AI to replicate animal products.

• "Biomilq," a US company, is engineering cell-cultured human milk for newborns and infants, aiming to provide a nutritious alternative to dairy and benefit the planet.

• Dr. Joseph Mercola has criticized the push for synthetic milk substitutes, attributing the justification to preventing "climate change."

5. Rachel Corrie and the Enduring Fight for Freedom, by Wyatt Peterson (The Unz Review.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article commemorates Rachel Corrie, an American activist who was killed by an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) bulldozer in Gaza in 2003, and critiques the influence of hawkish pro-Israel groups on US foreign policy.

• Key Ideas/Facts:Rachel Corrie was part of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a group that supports the Palestinian cause through non-violent direct action.

• In January 2003, Corrie and other ISM members traveled to the Gaza Strip, where the Israeli military was engaged in demolishing Palestinian homes. Corrie described the situation as "a very systematic destruction of a people’s ability to survive. And that is incredibly horrifying.”

• On March 16, 2003, Corrie was killed while attempting to block an IDF bulldozer from demolishing the home of a Palestinian pharmacist, Dr. Nasrallah. She was wearing a fluorescent vest and using a bullhorn to make her presence known.

• The article criticizes the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs (JINSA), a hawkish think tank dedicated to strengthening US-Israel ties. JINSA is accused of having played a significant role in "fomenting the catastrophic invasion of Iraq in 2003" by fabricating WMD intelligence.

• The author suggests that JINSA is currently applying "maximum pressure" on President Trump to initiate further military actions in the Middle East.

• The article frames Rachel Corrie's activism as part of an "enduring fight for freedom" against perceived injustices in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader influence of neoconservative foreign policy.

6. The Glow of the Gaslight (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article expresses skepticism about the effectiveness and integrity of government Inspectors General (IGs) and anticipates potential prosecutions of high-profile figures for past corruption.

• Key Ideas/Facts:The author questions the job performance of Hampton Dellinger, whose role included protecting whistleblowers and enforcing the Hatch Act, citing the suspensions without pay of FBI whistleblowers.

• The article broadly criticizes Inspectors General for not adequately protecting the public against "waste, fraud, and crime."

• Michael Horowitz, the DOJ Inspector General since 2012, is singled out for remaining in his position throughout controversies like RussiaGate, the FISA Court issues, the Mueller investigation, the 2020 election fraud, and the January 6th riot.

• The author expresses hope that Pam Bondi and Kash Patel will develop significant corruption cases dating back to at least 2016, potentially involving "well-know names, including Presidents Obama and Biden."

• Dan Bongino is mentioned as potentially taking on duties as FBI Deputy Director, which the author suggests could contribute to these investigations.

7. The Trade Wars: You Are Not Prepared (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article warns of the potential for a damaging global trade war, highlighting the inconsistencies and potential pitfalls of current US tariff policies.

• Key Ideas/Facts:The author describes 2025 as an "interesting" year filled with significant global events, but argues that the brewing trade war is a potentially overlooked but crucial issue.

• President Trump's administration has implemented tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing reasons such as fentanyl, dairy, and cars. The author ironically notes that Trump himself signed the USMCA trade agreement with Canada and Mexico.

• The article points out the instability of US trade policy, with announced tariff pauses being followed by threats of new tariffs. "You can start them with a simple declaration but you can’t end them the same way."

• The author dismisses the idea of a "reverse Kissinger" strategy to drive a wedge between China and Russia, arguing that their relationship is currently strong, with China buying a significant portion of Russian exports and increasing military cooperation.

• China's economic reliance on the US as a key buyer of its goods is also noted, further complicating the dynamics of a potential trade war.

• The article suggests that the consequences of a full-blown trade war could be severe and that the public is likely "not prepared" for them.

8. Triumph of the Villains: Marcus, Memes and Talking Tolkien, by Tobias Langdon (The Unz Review.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article uses personal anecdotes and references to Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings to explore themes of unexpected victory, the downfall of powerful forces, and the subversion of narratives.

• Key Ideas/Facts:The author recounts contrasting experiences at school sports days, one easily won and the other badly lost, as a metaphor for unexpected outcomes.

• Sauron, the powerful villain in The Lord of the Rings, is ultimately defeated not by might but by the humble Hobbits, Frodo and Sam, illustrating Tolkien's theme of the mighty being brought low by the minute. The article quotes Tolkien's description of Sauron's power wavering and his armies scattering upon the Ring's destruction.

• The article discusses "Gríma in glasses at The Daily Gondor," a satirical online feed that reimagines characters from The Lord of the Rings in a contemporary media context. Gríma Wormtongue, a deceitful advisor, is portrayed as overseeing a "truth-telling" media outlet, highlighting the irony and manipulation often found in modern media.

• The satirical names of journalists for "The Daily Gondor" and "Bag End Dispatch" play on Tolkien's world and real-world parallels, such as Shuldur Goldstonemountain reporting on dwarven control of Palantírí outlets.

9. What Are the Goals of Trump's Tariffs? (LewRockwell.pdf)

• Main Theme: This article analyzes President Trump's stated and potential goals for imposing tariffs, expressing skepticism about their economic benefits and highlighting potentially flawed economic reasoning.

• Key Ideas/Facts:President Trump announced another pause on some tariffs on Canadian and Mexican products but suggested tariffs could go higher in the future.

• Trump's stated reason for the tariffs on USMCA partners is their failure to control illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

• Trump believes that tariffs will generate revenue that can be used to strengthen the US economy, leading to job creation and factory openings ("you’re not going to know where to spend all that money.”).

• The author argues that taxing and spending are not necessarily the keys to a strong economy and criticizes the idea that foreign exporters solely pay the tariffs, suggesting that Americans ultimately bear some of the cost. "Based on his assertion that it is not Americans but foreign exporters who actually pay the tariffs, Trump isn’t just promising a free lunch. He’s promising breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus coffee and dessert, all at the expense of people in other countries."

• The article draws historical parallels to the McKinley Tariff of 1890 and the Wilson-Gorman Tariff of 1894, which were associated with economic difficulties.

• The author suggests that the Republican Party, while attempting to appeal to the working class, is embracing protectionist policies that contradict traditional "free market" principles.

• The article concludes with a warning about the potential negative consequences of Trump's tariff policies. "Be very afraid."

10. Do you have low energy levels? You may need to increase your NAD+ levels (expose-news.com)

• Main Theme: This article explains the crucial role of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and overall health, and discusses ways to maintain healthy NAD+ levels.

• Key Ideas/Facts:NAD+ is a vital molecule involved in redox reactions, acting as an electron carrier essential for converting food into ATP, the primary energy currency of cells. "Without NAD+ your cells cannot convert food into energy."

• Redox reactions involve the exchange of electrons between molecules; NAD+ exists in an oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH) form.

• Mitochondrial damage from toxins like seed oils, microplastics, and EMFs can lead to "reductive stress," reducing NAD+ levels.

• High NAD+ levels are associated with good health, supporting energy production, DNA repair, cellular communication, and immune function. "Having high levels of NAD+ is one of the best signs of good health that you could possibly have."

• Maintaining healthy NAD+ levels involves avoiding mitochondrial poisons and ensuring sufficient niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) intake, which the body uses to produce NAD+. A suggested starting point is 50mg of niacinamide three times a day for adults.

• The article also discusses other important electron carriers involved in redox balance, including NADP+/NADPH, FAD/FADH2, GSH/GSSG, and the lactate/pyruvate and ketone body systems.

• While expensive NAD+ boosting supplements like NMN and NR exist, the article suggests that lifestyle choices and niacinamide supplementation are simpler and more cost-effective ways to support NAD+ levels.

11. ☕️ POWER FORWARD ☙ Tuesday, March 11, 2025 ☙ C&C NEWS 🦠 (coffeeandcovid.com)

• Main Theme: This article provides commentary on a legal case involving USAID contracts, highlighting a shift in the judge's stance following a strong dissenting opinion.

• Key Ideas/Facts:The article refers to "Pandemic Day, March 11," marking the anniversary of the WHO's official declaration of the global outbreak.

• Judge Ali, who was previously involved in a temporary restraining order (TRO) requiring immediate payment of all current USAID contracts, has now issued a 48-page preliminary injunction.

• The judge's decision reflects a more cautious approach, acknowledging "limitations on its own authority" and denying nearly all the relief requested by the Plaintiff NGOs. "Plaintiffs’ proposed relief highlights further difficulty with their argument," the judge wrote.

• Instead of mandating immediate payments, Judge Ali has requested a status report by March 14th proposing a schedule for next steps.

• The Trump Administration now has a "solid, appealable preliminary injunction" instead of the earlier TRO.

• The author suggests that a "brawny Dissent" influenced Judge Ali's revised decision, particularly regarding the issue of whether the court could compel the obligation of funds that Congress had appropriated but the agency had not yet obligated.

• The State Department has indicated it is considering appealing the preliminary injunction.

• The author observes that Judge Ali's orders have "shrunk faster than processed food package sizes," referencing the theme of shrinkflation discussed in another article.

Conclusion:

These articles from LewRockwell.com and The Unz Review present a snapshot of current concerns and perspectives across various domains. Key recurring themes include critiques of government policies (economic, foreign, and regulatory), a defense of traditional values and institutions, and warnings about potential future crises (economic collapse, trade wars, food shortages). The articles also highlight the importance of individual health and well-being in the face of modern challenges.

Title: A Forgotten Defender of Tradition - LewRockwell.pdf by lewrockwell.com. This article profiles Hugh Ross Williamson, an Anglican clergyman who converted to Catholicism, highlighting his controversial plays for the Canterbury Festival, his defense of traditional Catholic views, the influences on his conversion, and the consequences he faced.

Key Takeaways:

•

Hugh Ross Williamson was a writer who converted from Anglicanism to Catholicism and became a vocal defender of traditional Catholic doctrines1 .

•

His play about Cardinal Pole, who opposed Henry VIII's establishment of the Anglican Church, caused controversy and was boycotted at the Canterbury Festival1 ....

•

Williamson's conversion was influenced by the Anglo-Catholicism of T.S. Eliot and the writings of G.K. Chesterton, and it resulted in financial and professional difficulties for him and his family4 ....

Key words

•

Canterbury Festival: What do T.S. Eliot, Charles Williams, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Hugh Ross Williamson have in common? The answer is that they were all commissioned to write plays for the annual Canterbury Festival8 .

•

Cardinal Pole: The controversy surrounding the play was caused by Williamson’s choice as his subject of Cardinal Pole, who had opposed Henry VIII’s establishment of the Anglican Church and who had remained staunchly and defiantly Catholic in the midst of England’s rupture from Rome3 .

•

Traditional Latin Mass: The final years of Hugh Ross Williamson’s life were dominated in defending the Traditional Latin Mass from the efforts being made by iconoclastic modernists to eliminate it9 .

Title: Bad News Comes in Small Packages - LewRockwell.pdf by lewrockwell.com. This article discusses the increasing trend of product "downsizing" or "shrinkflation" in supermarkets, arguing that this is a symptom of deeper economic vulnerabilities within the food production and retail industry.

Key Takeaways:

•

Supermarkets are reducing the size of product packaging for various food items while maintaining prices, a phenomenon referred to as downsizing or "shrinkflation"10 .

•

This downsizing is a costly measure for producers and suggests that the food industry is facing significant economic pressures and has little "wiggle room" left11 ....

•

The food industry's reliance on minimal backup stock and short payment terms makes it particularly vulnerable to inflation and potential widespread food shortages13 ....

Key words

•

Downsizing: Packaging for products, particularly foodstuffs, is getting downsized10 ....

•

Inflation: If significant inflation were to occur in any given month, food industry profits would be eliminated for the month15 .

•

Food shortages: But what if all food products were, without warning, in short supply? What if a percentage of the supermarkets began shutting their doors across the country?17 .

Title: It’s Rescission Time - LewRockwell.pdf by David Stockman. This article advocates for the use of congressional rescission to cut federal spending, proposing a large package called "The Mother of All Rescissions" (MOAR) to be passed before the next continuing resolution.

Key Takeaways:

•

The article argues that Congress should use the tool of rescission to cut already appropriated but unspent federal funds18 .

•

It proposes a $300 billion rescission package (MOAR) targeting areas like pandemic relief, foreign aid, and wasteful defense spending, to be voted on as a precondition for the next continuing resolution19 ....

•

The author warns of impending fiscal calamity due to rising debt and interest expenses, emphasizing the need for significant spending cuts21 ....

Key words

•

Rescission: This method of cutting existing spending authority does require Congressional approval within 45 days, but rescissions are subject to an up-or-down vote and no filibuster in the Senate18 .

•

Continuing resolution (CR): So what the DOGE team needs to do right now is bundle up a massive pile of rescissions and send them to Capitol Hill to be voted upon as a pre-condition to consideration of the next CR18 ....

•

Fiscal calamity: Yet here’s the thing: Real median household income only grew by 10% during that eight-year period. So what the DOGE team and their allies in the House Freedom Caucus should be shouting to the rafters is why in the hell should govenrment bureaucracies be getting a raise nearly twice as large as Main Street America has experienced since 2016? And, besides, the 2016 funding level was the result of the Obama years, which were not exactly characterized by austerity. In any event, the proposed 6.5% or $100 billion across-the-board rescission from what would otherwise be FY 2025 CR levels would still result in discretionary appropriations at $1.558 trillion. That’s a +9.3% gain from Obama levels and should be more than enough for a government that is otherwise plunging into fiscal calamity23 ....

Title: Lab-Grown Milk Coming to a Supermarket Near You - LewRockwell.pdf by Timothy Alexander Guzman, Silent Crow News. This article reports on the development of lab-grown cow's milk, with "UnReal Milk" expected to debut in the U.S., and discusses the environmental arguments and other initiatives in this emerging field.

Key Takeaways:

•

The company Brown Foods is preparing to launch "UnReal Milk," the first lab-grown milk that aims to replicate traditional cow's milk using mammalian cell culture26 ....

•

Proponents argue that lab-grown milk offers significant environmental benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land use compared to conventional dairy farming26 ....

•

The development of animal-free dairy products, including lab-grown milk, is gaining traction and investment, with some analysts projecting it could capture a significant share of the traditional dairy market29 ....

Key words

•

Lab-grown milk: ...because they are in the process of creating lab-grown milk which can become a reality in your local supermarket31 .

•

Greenhouse gas emissions: They say that dairy farmers are looking for ways to reduce their reliance on cows because they “fart” greenhouse gases known as methane gas26 ....

•

Mammalian cell culture: Gupta said that “UnReal Milk is produced using mammalian cell culture— replicating the nutrition, taste, and texture of traditional dairy27 .

Title: Rachel Corrie and the Enduring Fight for Freedom, by Wyatt Peterson - The Unz Review.pdf by Wyatt Peterson. This article reflects on the anniversary of Rachel Corrie's death, her activism in Palestine with the International Solidarity Movement, and critiques U.S. foreign policy towards Israel.

Key Takeaways:

•

Rachel Corrie was an American activist who was killed by an Israeli bulldozer in Gaza while protesting the demolition of Palestinian homes33 .

•

Corrie was involved with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a pro-Palestine organization that uses non-violent direct action34 ....

•

The article is critical of the U.S. government's strong support for Israel, including military aid and the suppression of criticism of Israel under the guise of combating anti-Semitism, and notes the use of American-made Caterpillar D9 armored bulldozers in the destruction of Palestinian homes36 ....

Key words

•

International Solidarity Movement (ISM): One such person was Rachel Corrie, who, twenty-two years ago this month, was linked up with a group called ‘Olympians for Peace and Solidarity,’ organizing peace events to help raise awareness of the Palestinians’ plight, before joining the International Solidarity Movement (ISM)34 .

•

Caterpillar D9 armored bulldozers: Since reclaiming the presidency in January, Trump has delivered a total of $12 billion in military aid to Israel, invoking “emergency authorities” to bypass Congress and ensure Israel receives the 2,000-pound bombs and Caterpillar D9 armored bulldozers that the Biden administration had previously withheld37 ....

•

Anti-Semitism: On January 29, Trump signed an executive order “to combat anti-Semitism vigorously, using all available and appropriate legal tools, to prosecute, remove, or otherwise hold to account the perpetrators of unlawful anti-Semitic harassment and violence”38 ....

Title: The Glow of the Gaslight - LewRockwell.pdf by James Howard Kunstler. This article critiques a "60 Minutes" segment about Trump's firing of Inspectors General, suggesting a bias in the reporting and highlighting alleged corruption within federal agencies.

Key Takeaways:

•

The author criticizes CBS's "60 Minutes" for its narrative that President Trump unfairly fired federal agency Inspectors General, suggesting that many of these IGs failed to address government waste and corruption effectively42 ....

•

The article alleges that many federal employees engaged in "the Resistance," which the author describes as Democratic Party activism, potentially violating the Hatch Act44 .

•

Kunstler implies that media outlets like CBS are aligned with the "US Intel Community" and are invested in protecting the "Administrative State" from scrutiny regarding corruption45 .

Key words

•

Inspectors General: CBS 60-Minutes’ Gaslighter-in-Chief Scott Pelley was at it again Sunday night trying to put over the story that Donald Trump had unfairly cashiered a broad swathe of federal agency Inspectors General — whose job it is to investigate crime, mischief, and administrative malfeasance42 .

•

The Resistance: You can state categorically that thousands of federal employees have been engaged in what they call “the Resistance” since the first Trump administration44 .

•

Administrative State: Which might lead you to ask: how and why, exactly, is CBS so deeply invested in protecting the Administrative State (let’s call it) from allegations of corruption?45 .

Title: The Trade Wars: You Are Not Prepared - LewRockwell.pdf by lewrockwell.com. This article discusses the escalating global trade war initiated by the U.S., exploring potential geopolitical motivations and warning of its serious consequences.

Key Takeaways:

•

The U.S. has initiated tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, leading to retaliatory actions and the emergence of a significant global trade war46 ....

•

One theory posits that these trade actions are part of a "reverse Kissinger" strategy aimed at isolating China by aligning with Russia, although the author notes that this theory has flaws48 ....

•

The article argues that this trade war is not merely about trade but is a sign of a shifting global order and could ultimately lead to a "Great Powers war"51 ....

Key words

•

Tariffs: Specifically, the deep state that operates the puppet known as Donald Trump enacted a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods and a 20% tariff on Chinese goods because of . . . checks notes . . . fentanyl? . . . or dairy? . . . or cars? . . . or something46 ....

•

Reverse Kissinger: Well, one theory that’s been floated (and denounced!) by the inside-the-Beltway policy wonks is that Trump is attempting a “reverse Kissinger”48 ....

•

Great Powers war: As we shall see, the trade war isn’t just a spat over the flow of fentanyl or the price of aluminum. It’s about the future of the global economy, and, ultimately, the next Great Powers war51 ....

Title: Triumph of the Villains: Marcus, Memes and Talking Tolkien, by Tobias Langdon - The Unz Review.pdf by Tobias Langdon. This article reflects on the perceived subdued reaction of the left to Trump's reelection, drawing analogies to Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" and introducing the satirical "The Daily Gondor."

Key Takeaways:

•

The author observes a lack of significant outrage and rioting from the left following Donald Trump's reelection, unlike during his first term56 ....

•

This passivity is likened to the armies of Sauron in "The Lord of the Rings" losing their will after his downfall, with the author suggesting a decline in the influence of certain groups on the left58 ....

•

The article highlights "The Daily Gondor," a satirical online publication that uses the setting of Tolkien's Middle-earth to parody leftist media and their perceived biases, including their approach to topics like race and immigration62 ...

• Hugh Ross Williamson's conversion to Catholicism was influenced by the Anglo-Catholicism of T.S. Eliot and the works of G.K. Chesterton. His religious beliefs led to his removal from "The Brains Trust" television program because a Catholic convert was deemed to present the "wrong image." As a Catholic, he became a defender of the faith, particularly the Traditional Latin Mass.

• Food producers are downsizing packaging as a last resort due to repeated economic hits and a lack of "wiggle room" in the industry, suggesting they can no longer absorb rising costs or maintain previous profit margins. This widespread downsizing indicates a concerning trend of significant underlying economic pressures affecting the entire food industry, possibly linked to inflation.

• The purpose of the "Mother of All Rescissions" (MOAR) is to cut $300 billion in government spending by rescinding previously appropriated funds, targeting fraud, waste, and abuse. Stockman suggests that Congress should either pass MOAR or face a government shutdown when the current continuing resolution expires, with "nay" votes potentially leading to primary challenges.

• Lab-grown milk is claimed to offer a lower-carbon, cruelty-free alternative to conventional milk, with Brown Foods stating its production slashes carbon emissions, water use, and land use significantly without livestock. Brown Foods, founded by Sohail Gupta, Bhavna Tandon, and Avhijeet Kapoor, is one company preparing to showcase lab-grown whole cow's milk.

• Rachel Corrie's activism in the Gaza Strip focused on supporting the Palestinian cause through non-violent direct action, including protesting against the Israeli military's demolition of Palestinian homes. On March 16, 2003, she was killed in Rafah when she was struck by an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) bulldozer while trying to prevent the demolition of a Palestinian doctor's home.

• The author of "The Glow of the Gaslight" points to Michael Horowitz, the DOJ Inspector General, remaining in his position since 2012 despite numerous instances of alleged government corruption and mishandling, such as RussiaGate and the FISA Court issues. The author suggests this longevity despite apparent oversights indicates a lack of effective oversight by the Inspectors General.

• President Trump's stated reason for imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico was their alleged failure to control illegal immigration and drug trafficking across their borders. Despite this, he also expressed the belief that foreign exporters, not Americans, actually pay the tariffs, suggesting a potentially flawed understanding of the economic impact of these trade policies.

• In "Triumph of the Villains," the author draws an analogy between Sauron's defeat in The Lord of the Rings and real-world events, where seemingly invincible powers can be brought down by unexpected and less powerful forces. Sauron's armies lose their will and scatter upon the destruction of the Ring, much like how established powers can crumble when their central authority is undermined.

• President Trump's stated reason for imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico was their failure to control illegal immigration and drug trafficking. However, he also asserted that foreign exporters pay the tariffs, implying that Americans would not bear the cost, which contradicts the general understanding that tariffs are ultimately paid by domestic consumers through higher prices.

• NAD+ is a vital molecule that acts like a "taxi service" carrying electrons throughout cells, which is essential for converting food into energy (ATP), repairing DNA damage, and maintaining cellular communication. Mitochondrial damage from toxins like seed oils, microplastics, and EMFs can lead to "reductive stress," which negatively impacts NAD+ levels.

• Anglo-Catholicism: A movement within the Church of England that emphasizes its Catholic heritage and traditions, often incorporating liturgical practices and theological perspectives similar to Roman Catholicism.

• Appropriations Authority: Legal authorization granted by a legislative body to spend public funds for specific purposes.

• Continuing Resolution (CR): A type of appropriations legislation that provides temporary funding for federal agencies and programs at their current levels when Congress has not enacted new appropriations bills by the start of the fiscal year.

• Deep State: A shadowy, unelected group of individuals within government agencies or institutions believed to secretly manipulate or control government policies.

• Discretionary Appropriations: Government spending that is not mandated by law and is subject to annual decisions by Congress through the appropriations process.

• FISA Court: The United States Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, a secret court that issues warrants for electronic surveillance and physical searches in foreign intelligence cases.

• Iconoclastic Modernists: In the context of the article on Hugh Ross Williamson, this term refers to individuals who advocate for radical changes and the rejection of traditional forms, particularly within the Catholic Church.

• Inflation: A general increase in prices and a fall in the purchasing value of money.

• Injection Moulding: A manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into a mould.

• Inspectors General (IGs): Independent oversight officials within government agencies who conduct audits and investigations to prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse.

• JINSA (Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs): A conservative think tank that advocates for a strong U.S.-Israel security relationship.

• Mitochondria: Organelles within cells responsible for generating most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy.

• NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide): A crucial coenzyme found in all living cells that is involved in many metabolic processes, especially energy production through redox reactions.

• NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide + Hydrogen): The reduced form of NAD+, carrying electrons to the electron transport chain in the mitochondria.

• Nazgûl: In Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the Ringwraiths, Sauron's most powerful servants.

• Neoconservatives: A political ideology characterized by a belief in assertive foreign policy, often advocating for military intervention to promote democracy and American interests abroad.

• Oxidative Stress: An imbalance in the body between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects through neutralization by antioxidants.

• Palantírí: In Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, seeing-stones that allow communication and visions across distances.

• Preliminary Injunction: A temporary court order issued early in a lawsuit prohibiting certain actions until a final decision is made in the case.

• Redox Reactions (Reduction-Oxidation Reactions): Chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons between molecules; one molecule loses electrons (oxidation) while another gains electrons (reduction).

• Reductive Stress: A condition where there is an excess of available electrons in the mitochondria, leading to a slowdown or blockage of the electron transport chain and reduced NAD+ levels.

• Rescission: The cancellation of previously appropriated budgetary authority.

• RussiaGate (Crossfire Hurricane, Mueller Special Counsel): A series of investigations into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 United States presidential election and potential collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia.

• Tariffs: Taxes imposed by a government on goods imported from another country.

• Traditional Latin Mass: The form of the Roman Catholic Mass celebrated according to the liturgical books in use before the Second Vatican Council.

• TRO (Temporary Restraining Order): A short-term court order that temporarily prohibits a party from taking a certain action, typically issued in emergency situations until a more formal hearing can be held.

• USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): A free trade agreement between Canada, Mexico, and the United States that replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

• WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction): Weapons that can cause widespread death and destruction, such as nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who was Hugh Ross Williamson and why is he described as a "forgotten defender of tradition"?

Hugh Ross Williamson (who also used the stage name Ian Rossiter) was a multifaceted individual—an author, historian, playwright, and actor—who converted to Catholicism. He is considered a "forgotten defender of tradition" primarily for his outspoken defense of the Catholic faith, particularly during a time when it was less accepted, and for his staunch opposition to the modernizing changes in the Catholic liturgy, especially the elimination of the Traditional Latin Mass. His conversion was influenced by Anglo-Catholic figures like T.S. Eliot and the writings of G.K. Chesterton, and he faced professional repercussions for his faith, including being removed from the BBC's "The Brains Trust."

2. The article mentions downsizing in supermarket product packaging. What is this trend and why is it significant for consumers and producers?

Supermarkets are increasingly offering food and other products in smaller packages while maintaining the same price. This trend, though often subtle (less than a 10% reduction), is significant for producers as even small changes require costly redesigns of molds and recalibration of machinery. It's usually a last resort, indicating they are facing economic pressures they cannot easily overcome through price increases alone. For consumers, it effectively means paying the same for less, which is a hidden form of price increase. The widespread nature of this downsizing across the food industry suggests a broader economic issue.

3. What is the "Mother of All Rescissions" (MOAR) proposal and what is its aim?

The "Mother of All Rescissions" (MOAR) is a proposed package of significant spending cuts, suggested to be around $300 billion, aimed at rescinding funds from the current level of government spending, particularly the Biden budget. The proposal suggests that Congress should pass MOAR before the current Continuing Resolution (CR) expires, or face a government shutdown until the savings are approved. This initiative is intended to address the rapidly rising national debt and interest expenses, which are pushing the nation towards fiscal crisis.

4. What is "UnReal Milk" and what are the claimed benefits of lab-grown milk?

"UnReal Milk" is the world's first lab-grown whole cow's milk being developed by the startup Brown Foods. It is produced using mammalian cell culture without the need for live cows, aiming to replicate the nutrition, taste, and texture of traditional dairy. The company claims its production method offers significant environmental advantages, including an 82% reduction in carbon emissions, 90% reduction in water use, and 95% reduction in land use compared to conventional dairy farming. It can also be processed into other dairy products like butter, cheese, and ice cream.

5. Who was Rachel Corrie and what was she doing in the Gaza Strip when she was killed?

Rachel Corrie was an American peace activist and member of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM). In January 2003, she traveled to the Gaza Strip as part of a solidarity campaign to support the Palestinian cause through non-violent direct action. At the time of her death in March 2003, the Israeli military was engaged in a campaign of demolishing Palestinian homes in Rafah. Corrie and other ISM activists were present, attempting to obstruct these demolitions through peaceful protest and direct action.

6. The article "The Glow of the Gaslight" discusses Inspectors General. What is the author's opinion of their effectiveness?

The author of "The Glow of the Gaslight," James Howard Kunstler, holds a highly critical view of the effectiveness of Inspectors General (IGs), particularly within the Department of Justice. He suggests they have largely failed to protect whistleblowers and uncover significant waste, fraud, and crime within the government, citing the treatment of FBI whistleblowers during the RussiaGate investigation as an example. He expresses hope that figures like Pam Bondi and Kash Patel will be more successful in exposing corruption that the IGs have allegedly overlooked.

7. What are some of the potential consequences of the brewing global trade war mentioned in "The Trade Wars: You Are Not Prepared"?

The brewing global trade war, characterized by tariffs and trade disputes, carries several potential consequences. While the specific impacts can be complex and depend on which tariffs are implemented and for how long, the article suggests that trade wars are easier to start than to end. The imposition of tariffs can disrupt established trade relationships, potentially leading to retaliatory tariffs from other countries, increased costs for businesses and consumers, and instability in global markets. The article also argues that attempts to leverage trade disputes to create geopolitical wedges, such as between China and Russia, are unlikely to succeed given their current strong relationship.

8. What is NAD+ and why is it considered a vital molecule for the human body?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is described as arguably the most vital molecule in the body. It plays a central role in redox reactions, acting as an electron carrier essential for converting food into cellular energy (ATP). Without sufficient NAD+, cells cannot efficiently produce energy, repair DNA damage, or maintain proper communication. High levels of NAD+ are associated with good health, while low levels can lead to fatigue and impaired cellular function. Maintaining healthy NAD+ levels is crucial for overall energy and well-being, and strategies include avoiding mitochondrial toxins and ensuring adequate intake of niacinamide (vitamin B3), which the body uses to produce NAD+.

A Forgotten Defender of Tradition - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/no_author/a-forgotten-defender-of-tradition/

2.

Bad News Comes in Small Packages - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/no_author/bad-news-comes-in-small-packages/

3.

It’s Rescission Time - LewRockwell.pdf - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/david-stockman/its-rescission-time/

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Author: David Stockman

4.

Lab-Grown Milk Coming to a Supermarket Near You - LewRockwell.pdf - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/no_author/lab-grown-milk-coming-to-a-supermarket-near-you/

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Author: Timothy Alexander Guzman, Silent Crow News

5.

Rachel Corrie and the Enduring Fight for Freedom, by Wyatt Peterson - The Unz Review.pdf - unz.com https://www.unz.com/article/rachel-corrie-and-the-enduring-fight-for-freedom/

◦

Author: Wyatt Peterson

6.

The Glow of the Gaslight - LewRockwell.pdf - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/james-howard-kunstler/the-glow-of-the-gaslight/

◦

Author: James Howard Kunstler

7.

The Trade Wars_ You Are Not Prepared - LewRockwell.pdf - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/no_author/the-trade-wars-you-are-not-prepared/

8.

Triumph of the Villains_ Marcus, Memes and Talking Tolkien, by Tobias Langdon - The Unz Review.pdf - unz.com https://www.unz.com/article/triumph-of-the-villains-marcus-memes-and-talking-tolkien/

◦

Author: Tobias Langdon

9.

What Are the Goals of Trump's Tariffs_ - LewRockwell.pdf - lewrockwell.com https://www.lewrockwell.com/2025/03/no_author/what-are-the-goals-of-trumps-tariffs/

10.

expose-news.com_2025_03_11_do-you-have-low-energy-levels_.pdf - expose-news.com https://expose-news.com/2025/03/11/do-you-have-low-energy-levels/

◦

Author: Rhoda Wilson

11.

☕️ POWER FORWARD ☙ Tuesday, March 11, 2025 ☙ C&C NEWS 🦠.pdf - coffeeandcovid.com https://www.coffeeandcovid.com/p/power-forward-tuesday-march-11-2025

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Welcome to Lenny and Maria deep dive podcast show review of source articles produced by the website daily briefs dot info.

Lenny: Hello everyone, and welcome back to the show. I'm Lenny.

Maria: And I'm Maria. Today, we've got a fascinating collection of articles to delve into, covering everything from forgotten historical figures to the latest in food technology and global politics.

Lenny: That's right, Maria. Our first stop takes us to a piece titled "A Forgotten Defender of Tradition" from lewrockwell.com. It highlights the story of Hugh Ross Williamson, a writer who, alongside literary giants like T.S. Eliot, Charles Williams, and Dorothy L. Sayers, was commissioned to write plays for the annual Canterbury Festival1 .

Maria: Interesting! So, what made Williamson a "forgotten defender of tradition," Lenny?

Lenny: Well, while Eliot, Williams, and Sayers remained Anglicans, Williamson eventually converted to the Catholic Church in 19552 . This came two years after his controversial play about Cardinal Pole, the last Catholic Archbishop of Canterbury who opposed Henry VIII's establishment of the Anglican Church, was performed and even boycotted at the Canterbury Festival2 ....

Maria: A play about a Catholic figure at an Anglican festival sounds like it was bound to stir things up!

Lenny: Absolutely! Even the actor who played Cardinal Pole thought it was a "curious one for an Anglican festival"3 . Apparently, audiences were low, suggesting a boycotting by angry Anglicans, and the Archbishop of Canterbury himself was notably absent4 . The article suggests that Williamson, much like Hilaire Belloc, "positively courted" controversy and became a strong defender of the Catholic Church against what Belloc called "tom-fool Protestant history"4 ....

Maria: So, his defense of tradition was rooted in his Catholic faith?

Lenny: Precisely. The article mentions that two years before the Cardinal Pole play, Charles Williams wrote a play about the Gunpowder Plot, suggesting government agents facilitated it to entrap Catholics5 . Later in his career, Williamson also delved into historical revisionism, arguing for Shakespeare's Catholicism in his 1962 book6 . His conversion, by the way, was influenced by the Anglo-Catholicism of T.S. Eliot and the works of G.K. Chesterton6 .

Maria: It sounds like he faced consequences for his beliefs too.

Lenny: He did. After his conversion, despite being the chairman of the popular BBC show "The Brains Trust," he was informed that he was no longer needed because he presented the "wrong image" as a Catholic7 .... He was told a "trendy Anglican clergyman was fine but a Catholic convert was not"8 . Despite this, Williamson continued to write historical works defending the faith and, later in life, became a staunch defender of the Traditional Latin Mass against modernist reforms9 .... He even wrote a book about the traditional Mass called "The Great Prayer" in the year of his conversion10 . He strongly disagreed with the idea that the new liturgical rite was closer to the Mass of the early Church, a claim he and scholars like Cardinal Ratzinger considered false10 .... He famously likened the push for liturgical "primitivism" to a "Hunt the Acorn" theory, where one seeks an original, simpler form rather than appreciating the fully developed tradition11 .

Maria: A fascinating look at a figure who stood firm in his convictions despite facing opposition. Our next article shifts gears significantly, focusing on the seemingly mundane world of supermarket packaging.

Lenny: Yes, Maria. "Bad News Comes in Small Packages," also from lewrockwell.com, discusses the trend of downsizing in supermarket products, particularly foodstuffs12 . Things like coffee, yogurt, and snacks are being offered in smaller packages12 .

Maria: It's something you might not immediately notice, a few ounces here and there. Why is the article calling it "bad news"?

Lenny: The author argues that while a small change in size might seem insignificant to the consumer, it's a major event for food producers13 . Even slight downsizing requires designing and machining new molds and recalibrating all the machinery in every factory that produces the bottles13 .... These injection-molding machines are "notoriously temperamental" and fine-tuning them is a costly and time-consuming process14 .

Maria: So, it's not a decision they would take lightly?

Lenny: Exactly. Resizing packaging is a last resort for producers, only entertained when they are "backed into a corner" and have no other options15 . The fact that an entire industry is downsizing suggests something more concerning than just a few companies trying to remain competitive. One commentator even noted that price increases and smaller packaging come in "tidal waves," and we are currently in one15 .

Maria: The article then connects this to the bigger picture of food supply, right?

Lenny: Yes. The author contends that the supply of food is of the greatest importance16 . While we've been accustomed to full supermarket shelves, there have been recent scares like the baby formula shortage16 .... In the past, major supermarkets had their own warehouses for backup stock, and supplier payment terms were longer, allowing for more flexibility17 .... Markups were also more substantial18 . However, over the last decade, the food industry has faced repeated economic hits, leading to retail markups as low as 2%, demands for three-day payment turnarounds, and the disappearance of most local warehouses19 . Supermarkets now rely on semi-weekly deliveries with minimal backup supply20 .

Maria: It sounds like the industry is operating on a very thin margin.

Lenny: Precisely. The author states that the food industry has "no wiggle room left" and is vulnerable to inflation20 .... Dramatic government spending has led to unavoidable inflation20 .... If significant inflation were to occur for just three consecutive months, we could see supermarket closures across the country, starting with the most heavily indebted21 .... Unlike other products, our need for food cannot be postponed22 .... The author, who warned of food shortages a decade ago, sees the current downsizing as a warning sign23 .

Maria: A sobering perspective on something as seemingly trivial as package sizes. Moving on, our next article, "It’s Rescission Time" from lewrockwell.com, delves into the world of government spending and potential cuts.

Lenny: That's right, Maria. This piece discusses the possibility of rescission, a tool to unspend money that has already been appropriated by Congress24 . The author suggests that GOP politicians might inadvertently ratify "runaway spending" through a "clean CR" or continuing resolution, undermining any purported savings25 .

Maria: So, even if some cuts are made, the overall spending might still remain high?

Lenny: That's the concern. The article highlights the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which limits the executive's power to withhold appropriated funds26 .... However, congressional rescission is presented as a "pretty good workaround"24 . It requires Congressional approval within 45 days but is subject to an up-or-down vote without a filibuster in the Senate24 . The author proposes a massive rescission package, dubbed "The Mother of All Rescissions" or MOAR, totaling $300 billion28 .

Maria: That's a significant amount. What would it target?

Lenny: The proposed MOAR would include rescission of leftover pandemic relief appropriations, wasteful foreign aid spending, funding for wasteful DOD weapons programs, and a 6.5% across-the-board rescission of FY 2025 CR funding levels for all discretionary appropriations29 .... The goal would be to pass MOAR as a precondition for considering the next CR and potentially forcing a government shutdown until the savings are approved28 .... The author also suggests political consequences for voting against MOAR31 .

Maria: The article paints a stark picture of the nation's finances.

Lenny: It does, warning that the nation's fiscal accounts are on the verge of plunging into a "doom loop" of rising Treasury yields, interest expense, and public debt31 .... The public debt has reportedly risen by nearly $850 billion since the end of FY 202432 . Even the proposed $300 billion MOAR is considered merely a "down payment" on the $2 trillion of annual deficit reductions actually needed33 . The article also points out the substantial increase in defense and nondefense appropriations since FY 2016, noting that the proposed rescission still leaves discretionary appropriations above Obama-era levels, despite real median household income growth being significantly lower34 ....

Maria: A deep dive into the complexities of government finance. Our next article takes us to the realm of food innovation, discussing "Lab-Grown Milk Coming to a Supermarket Near You" from lewrockwell.com.

Lenny: Yes, Maria. This article explores the development of lab-grown milk, with a brand called "UnReal Milk" potentially debuting in the U.S.38 .... One of the main drivers behind this innovation is the desire to combat "Climate Change" by reducing the environmental impact of traditional dairy farming, particularly methane emissions from cows39 ....

Maria: The idea of milk without cows sounds quite futuristic. How is it made?

Lenny: "UnReal Milk" is produced using mammalian cell culture, aiming to replicate the nutrition, taste, and texture of traditional dairy41 . The company claims its production method slashes carbon emissions by 82%, water use by 90%, and land use by 95%42 . Lab tests have reportedly confirmed the presence of all essential dairy proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, making it structurally identical to conventional milk42 ....

Maria: What's the potential market for this?

Lenny: Some analysts project that animal-free dairy could eventually capture up to 33% of the traditional dairy market44 . The article notes significant investment in the lab-grown food sector, including involvement from figures like Bill Gates and developments in countries like Israel, which is seen as a hotspot for lab-grown milk startups44 .... Different approaches to producing milk without cows are being explored, including blending biotechnology with traditional farming and focusing on cultured milk fats47 . Interestingly, lab-grown breast milk is also being engineered for newborns and infants48 .

Maria: But there are also criticisms and concerns raised, aren't there?

Lenny: Absolutely. The article includes a quote from Dr. Joseph Mercola, who has long criticized "Big Ag" and their plans for fake foods. He argues that the justification of preventing climate change is used to sell these ultraprocessed foods, which he believes will worsen adverse environmental effects49 .... Mercola contends that lab-created foods are essentially junk food and cannot replace the complex nutrients found in natural products50 . He also suggests that consuming these alternatives may lead to similar health issues as a processed food diet50 . The article concludes by highlighting the increasing push towards lab-grown alternatives for various foods, all in the name of fighting climate change51 .

Maria: A controversial development with potential benefits and drawbacks. Our next article takes a sharp turn towards international politics, focusing on "Rachel Corrie and the Enduring Fight for Freedom" from The Unz Review.

Lenny: Yes, Maria. This piece reflects on the current geopolitical climate, noting an increased likelihood of war in the Middle East despite Trump's return to the presidency52 . The author points to the significant military aid being sent to Israel, bypassing Congress, and the administration's strong support for Israel's actions, including the blockade of Gaza53 ....

Maria: The article raises questions about the influences shaping US foreign policy, doesn't it?

Lenny: It does, suggesting that US foreign policy is largely directed by influential pro-Israel Jewish groups whose primary allegiance is to the state of Israel54 . The article mentions a letter from the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA) calling for increased American support for Israel's war agenda against Iran54 .... It draws parallels between the rhetoric leading up to the Iraq War and the present day, noting the involvement of influential JINSA members in promoting the invasion of Iraq57 ....

Maria: The article then shifts its focus to the memory of Rachel Corrie.

Lenny: Yes. As the drums of war beat louder, the author reflects on Rachel Corrie, an American peace activist who was killed by the Israeli army in Gaza in March 2003 while protesting the destruction of Palestinian homes59 .... The article details her activism with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a pro-Palestine organization that engages in non-violent direct action61 .... It describes the widespread destruction of Palestinian homes by the Israeli military using US-made bulldozers63 . Eyewitness accounts of Rachel Corrie's death as she stood in front of a bulldozer are recounted, highlighting the horrific nature of the event64 ....

Maria: And what was the aftermath of her death?

Lenny: The Israeli military investigation controversially absolved the IDF of any wrongdoing, ruling Rachel's death an accident for which she was responsible67 . This ruling was criticized by human rights groups and even the US ambassador to Israel as not being thorough or credible67 .... A lawsuit filed by Rachel's parents in Israeli courts was ultimately dismissed based on a "combat activities" exception69 .... The family alleged that important evidence was withheld as part of a cover-up71 .... Despite these setbacks, Rachel's parents continue to fight for Palestinian rights through the Rachel Corrie Foundation for Peace and Justice72 . The article concludes with a critique of Trump's unwavering support for Israel, calling for more people with the integrity of Rachel Corrie73 .

Maria: A tragic story highlighting the complexities and human cost of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Our next article, "The Glow of the Gaslight" from lewrockwell.com, takes a look at media narratives and government accountability.

Lenny: That's right, Maria. This piece critiques a CBS "60-Minutes" segment that portrayed Donald Trump's firing of federal agency Inspectors General (IGs) as unfair74 . The author questions the effectiveness of these IGs in preventing waste, fraud, and crime during both the Trump and Biden administrations75 ....

Maria: The article suggests a different perspective on these firings?

Lenny: Yes. It implies that many federal employees were part of the anti-Trump "Resistance" and that the fired Special Counsel, Hampton Dellinger, didn't do a good job protecting true whistleblowers, such as those within the FBI who testified before Congress77 .... The author also questions why Michael Horowitz of the DOJ, who was in place throughout "RussiaGate," the FISA Court mischief, the Mueller investigation, the 2020 election fraud claims, and the Jeffrey Epstein case, remains on the job despite seemingly overlooking significant issues76 ....

Maria: The article then accuses CBS of having a particular agenda?

Lenny: It does, suggesting that CBS is "captured" by the US Intel Community and serves their interests, thus presenting a biased narrative to protect the "Administrative State" from allegations of corruption80 . The author mentions Trump's $20 billion lawsuit against CBS for allegedly manipulating an interview with Kamala Harris80 .... The piece also touches on reports of investigations and firings within the DOJ and FBI in New York related to corruption and the Epstein case, suggesting that significant evidence may have been destroyed due to Epstein's alleged ties to the intelligence community82 .... The author anticipates that AG Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, along with the incoming FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, will uncover widespread corruption within the government dating back to at least 2016, potentially involving prominent figures84 ....

Maria: A critical look at the media and the deep state. Our next article, "The Trade Wars: You Are Not Prepared" from lewrockwell.com, discusses the escalating global trade tensions.

Lenny: That's right, Maria. This article describes the current global situation as "interesting," highlighting numerous significant events while emphasizing the importance of the brewing trade war86 .... It notes recent actions, including Trump's imposition of tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing reasons like fentanyl and dairy, and on China88 .... These actions have led to retaliatory tariffs from Canada and threats of further measures90 . China has also vowed to fight back and has even imposed agricultural tariffs on Canada90 .... The EU is also considering countermeasures in response to potential US tariffs90 ....

Maria: The article frames this as more than just economic disputes, doesn't it?

Lenny: Yes. The author argues that this trade war signifies a fundamental shift in international relations, with the US, as the former undisputed superpower, seemingly reneging on its own trade deals and security pacts92 . While some might be tempted to see this as a dismantling of the old world order, the article cautions that a trade war is never just that and doesn't necessarily benefit the average person92 . It then explores the "reverse Kissinger" theory, which suggests that Trump's actions are a strategic attempt by the deep state to partner with Russia to isolate China, much like Kissinger partnered with China to isolate the Soviet Union during the Cold War93 ....

Maria: But the article also casts doubt on this theory.

Lenny: It does, pointing out that current relations between China and Russia are strong, with increasing trade and military cooperation97 .... Unlike the Sino-Soviet split of the past, there's no clear wedge for the US to exploit. Ultimately, the author concludes that this trade war is not really about trade itself but about the shaping of a New World Order and could potentially lead to a "Great Powers war"99 ....

Maria: A worrying prospect indeed. Our next article, "Triumph of the Villains: Marcus, Memes and Talking Tolkien

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