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Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican congresswoman from Georgia, recently accused far-right activist Laura Loomer of being "bankrolled" by Israeli intelligence, suggesting that Loomer is an "Israeli agent." This accusation intensified their ongoing feud, which has been marked by personal insults and political disagreements.

The conflict between Greene and Loomer centers around differing views on U.S.-Israel relations. Greene has been vocal in her criticism of Israel's actions, including labeling AIPAC (the American Israel Public Affairs Committee) a foreign agent and accusing Israel of genocide. In contrast, Loomer has been a staunch supporter of Israel, leading to a public rift between the two .

The feud escalated further when Loomer criticized Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Florent Groberg, labeling him an "anti-Trump Leftist." Greene defended Groberg, calling Loomer's comments disrespectful and accusing her of using such controversies to undermine Republicans she deems insufficiently loyal to Trump .

In retaliation, Loomer launched a series of personal attacks against Greene, using derogatory language and questioning her loyalty to Trump . The situation highlights the deepening divisions within the MAGA movement over issues related to Israel and loyalty to former President Trump.

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Despite his public comments, Governor Newsom has taken legislative actions to protect transgender rights. In September 2022, he signed Senate Bill 107 into law, making California the first sanctuary state for transgender youth by protecting access to gender-affirming medical care and preventing the enforcement of out-of-state laws regarding such care.

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Numbers show the imbalance

Hamas held a few hundred hostages.

Israel holds thousands of Palestinians, including many who have never been charged.

If the concern is innocent people suffering, the far bigger number of innocent Palestinians in Israeli prisons should matter just as much.

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Collective punishment vs. individual acts

When people say Israeli hostages were “just guilty of existing,” you can point out: so are thousands of Palestinians in prison.

Children as young as 12 have been taken from their homes in night raids, often beaten, interrogated without lawyers, and imprisoned for things like throwing a rock.

Their “crime” is often simply being Palestinian under occupation.

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Arguing Against “Israel Attacking Iran Helps Iranians Get Free”

Some people may believe that Israel’s strikes on Iran might help Iranians, presumably by weakening a repressive regime. Here’s a clear and grounded counter:

Key Facts on Israeli Strikes

In October 2024, Israel carried out massive strikes on Iranian military targets—such as missile sites, air defense systems, and a nuclear-related facility at Parchin—reportedly killing several officers. Wikipedia

In June 2025, further strikes targeted Iranian infrastructure, including operations to eliminate IRGC intelligence officials. Wikipedia

There was also an attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus in April 2024, killing officers and civilians alike. Wikipedia

Why This Does Not Help Iranians or Advance Freedom:

These are military strikes, not humanitarian interventions. They damage infrastructure and fuel instability—not liberation.

Collateral damage (like civilian casualties or diplomatic infrastructure destroyed) often harms ordinary Iranians, undermining any notion of solidarity.

Regimes under external military pressure often double down on repression, using nationalism and fear to crack down further on dissent.

True freedom for Iranians is more effectively supported through domestic civil society, sanctions targeting regime officials, diplomatic pressure, and international solidarity—not bombing.

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Gavin Newsom's political strategy.

On one hand, Gavin Newsom is trying to appeal to a broader audience, which includes conservatives and swing voters. This strategy can be effective in gaining support and winning elections, but it might mean diluting some progressive stances.

Regarding the LGBTQ+ community, it's encouraging that Newsom and Walz have been vocal about not demonizing them. However, as you pointed out, there's a notable gap when it comes to actively supporting trans rights. The trans community is currently under significant attack, and more vocal support from high-profile Democrats like Newsom could make a substantial difference.

Newsom's comment about toxic masculinity and misogyny is interesting. While he may be right that we shouldn't be too quick to label people, it's also crucial to acknowledge the deep-seated misogyny that often underlies homophobia and transphobia. These issues are interconnected, and addressing one without the other can be ineffective.

Ultimately, if your goal is to see a strong Democratic candidate take down Trump, Newsom might be a solid choice. He has a track record of progressive policies, even if he's not pushing as hard as some might like. His appeal to a broader audience could help secure a win, which might be a necessary first step to implementing more progressive policies.

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Palestinians are pawns in shaping Gaza’s future

Palestinians are pawns in shaping Gaza’s future

By James M. Dorsey

A Palestinian businessman is lobbying to become the post-war governor of Gaza amid a reported shifting of gears in the Trump administration’s strategy in Gaza ceasefire talks.

To read the article, participate in the poll, listen to the podcast, or watch the video, go to https://jamesmdorsey.substack.com/p/palestinians-are-pawns-in-shaping

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I see people (conservative folk) online saying they're watching cities burning down on the TV. What the hell are y'all watching? Cities are not burning. Change the channel. Remember what your Daddy always says: Fake News.