opinion Archives

2 - Analysis / Culture / Culture & Institutions / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Politics / Politics / Voice

What the 250th Looks Like From Here

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, cultural discussions on patriotism reveal a divide. While celebrations unfold nationwide, significant critique from mainstream media and cultural elites questions the legitimacy of national pride. This contrasts with data showing that many Americans, particularly in rural areas, maintain their love for country.

2 - Analysis / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Voice

The Patriotism Standard

May 30, 2026May 30, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - 1 Comment

The New Yorker published an essay questioning patriotism’s cultural status, positing that expressions of national pride have become problematic due to their association with certain demographics. Critics argue this view selectively targets patriotic symbols from some groups while ignoring similar expressions from others, revealing a bias in cultural critique based on class and aesthetics.

Waves & Tidings

Waves & Tidings #1 — The Noise Machine

April 4, 2026April 4, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

The current media landscape is characterized by a relentless cycle of loud, hollow reactions to events, prioritizing performance over substance. While headlines focus on superficial narratives, significant decisions affecting lives occur silently, often unnoticed. Beneath the noise lies the crucial need to seek deeper understanding, as the real stories risk being overlooked.

Editorial / Editorial / Opinion / Politics / Politics / Voice

Opinion | The “People’s State of the Union” Is Not Civic Engagement — It’s Political Undermining

February 19, 2026February 19, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Democrats, after condemning parallel political events, have launched their own “People’s State of the Union” to challenge President Trump’s legitimacy post-2024 election. This move reflects a double standard, undermining democratic norms and promoting permanent outrage instead of governance. For democracy to thrive, respect for electoral outcomes is essential.

Government / Law and Order / Laws / Opinion / Voice

Stop Crying “Gestapo”: America’s Protest Class Has No Idea What Real Oppression Looks Like

January 30, 2026January 30, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Calling federal law enforcement the “Gestapo” isn’t resistance—it’s ignorance. While American activists riot and cry authoritarianism, real oppression is unfolding in places like Iran and Gaza, where dissent is answered with mass death, not arrest. Perspective matters—and the modern protest class has lost it.

Opinion / Politics / Socialism / Voice

Opinion | The Democratic Socialist Wave Has Arrived—But Are They in Way Over Their Head?

November 21, 2025November 21, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Zorhan Mandami’s election as New York City’s Mayor signals the Democratic Socialist movement’s rise in American politics, promising expansive social programs amid fiscal challenges. However, achieving these goals amidst a shrinking tax base raises concerns about sustainability. The argument posits socialism’s historical failures and advocates for reforms grounded in reality rather than ideology.