Yes, it’s still somehow free to subscribe to this nearly daily newsletter, and if you are already a subscriber, let’s hear from you, thanks! Greg Mitchell is the author of fourteen books and director of four films for PBS since 2022. In a previous life, he was a longtime editor at the legendary Crawdaddy.
Jimmy wondered about Melania’s out-of-blue Epstein denial.
Indeed, many are raising eyebrows over the Melania statement, partly because it appears that it was not okayed by her fanny-slapping hubby. Some suggest that surely there is a major story breaking this weekend that she wanted to get out in front of. Then there’s Heather Cox Richardson’s comment:
And then, at 7:49 tonight, the president’s social media account posted a graphic video of a man killing a woman with a hammer. The screed that accompanied the video attacked Haitian immigrants, former president Joe Biden, and “the Radical Democrats in Congress.” The post echoed the usual vicious racism to which Trump turns to feed his base. But it is hard to miss that hours after his wife gave an unexpected press conference about Jeffrey Epstein, Trump posted a video of a woman’s murder.
Then, this morning:
Inflation Surges as Effects of Iran War Show in Prices
The Consumer Price Index jumped 3.3 percent in the year through March, reflecting the rising costs for energy and other goods affected by disruptions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, as opposition to Israel reaches lofty levels among grassroots Democrats:
DNC rejects resolution condemning influence of pro-Israel Aipac lobby
Panel’s decision a blow to progressives who are unhappy with group’s involvement in Democratic contests
Paul Krugman with new war warnings:
There remain three plausible ways this could turn out:
1. U.S. strategic defeat: The Strait is reopened, but with Iran in control of the chokepoint and charging tolls on ships passing through
2. Quagmire: Having failed to impose its will with bombs, the U.S. sends in ground troops
3. Nightmare: Trump follows through on threats to annihilate Iran’s civilian infrastructure
One might have thought that (2) and (3) were off the table. After all, the past six weeks have delivered an object lesson in the limits of “lethality.” But MAGA doesn’t learn lessons. Pete Hegseth — who appears to be lying about why Iranian attacks on U.S. personnel succeeded — still has a job. Trump is still threatening everyone with ALL CAPS. And nothing should be taken for granted. That said, at this point (1) — with Iran the clear winner while America slinks away — is both the least bad and most likely outcome.
Music Picks
With Bruce now playing “Chimes of Freedom” at every tour stop, while omitting some of the verses (among the greatest song poetry of our time or any time), I thought I would post while it is still briefly at YouTube—it usually gets yanked within days—one of Dylan’s greatest live performances ever, at Newport, the year before “going electric.” Among other things I like the way he briefly smiles at himself, perhaps amazed that he wrote this. Never equaled by anyone.
Then there’s Isa Briones, a star of “The Pitt,” now on Broadway as ‘50s singing star Connie Francis, here with her signature hit “Who’s Sorry Now?”
From Tunes to Toons
Wuerker:
KAL:
Ann Telnaes labeled this: “No suffering on Hegseth’s part. Sec. of Defense Pete Hegseth’s war mongering just inflicts pain on others.”
Barry Blitt:
Bennett:
Deering:
Sheneman:
Photo Finish
From my camera to you: Chapel next to Lyon cathedral at sunset, France.
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As to possible result #1, there's another, more of a compromise, outcome: Iran doesn't control the Strait; it's either under neutral administration or no actual administration, but Iran is entitled to a passage fee for every vessel (presumably something less than the $3 Million it demanded). This to some extent compensates Iran for the damage caused by what was a unilateral and unjustified attack. And presumably Iran can prepare itself so it can regain control of the Strait if it is again attacked.
Greg, You're captured photo of the "Cathedral at Sunset {in} Lyon" was striking and so inspirational.;
as was Bob's incredible Newport '64 performance of "Chimes of Freedom".
(The reaction of Bob's fans in the final two minutes of the video has to be seen to be believed,)