This episode of The David Frum Show commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, contrasting the postwar American legacy of reconciliation with Donald Trump’s recent boastful statement. A discussion with Anne Applebaum follows, focusing on the Trump presidency’s corruption and its authoritarian tendencies to undermine institutions. Finally, listener questions are addressed, covering topics such as fostering political dialogue among high schoolers, the absence of a strong worker-based movement in the US, and the risks of data suppression under the Trump administration. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolution of Frum’s conservative values within the shifting political landscape.
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The NIH, in collaboration with CMS, will create a database using Medicare and Medicaid data to research autism’s causes. This “real-world data platform” will link insurance claims, medical records, and data from wearable devices. The initiative aims to identify the root causes of autism and other chronic diseases, with autism serving as the initial focus. However, concerns regarding data privacy and potential misuse have been raised by privacy experts and the autistic community. Despite assurances of data protection, anxieties persist given past instances of data breaches and the HHS Secretary’s history of promoting unsubstantiated claims about autism.
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Attorney General Pam Bondi was secretly recorded by O’Keefe Media Group discussing “tens of thousands of videos” related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, revealing details about the existence of child pornography and the FBI’s investigation. Nine days later, Bondi publicly confirmed the existence of these videos at a press conference, using nearly identical language. This recording, along with a separate recording of Prince Andrew’s associate, John Bryan, was released by O’Keefe, who suggests a potential cover-up involving powerful figures. The timing of Bondi’s public statement, following O’Keefe’s contact, raises questions about the government’s transparency regarding the Epstein case.
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For 68 days, Israel has completely blocked all humanitarian aid to Gaza, resulting in a worsening humanitarian crisis with at least 57 deaths from malnutrition and lack of medical care. Senator Sanders decried this situation, highlighting that Israel’s stated policy of using aid as a weapon violates international law and basic human decency. He further criticized the US’s complicity, citing billions in military aid to Israel and discussions of a US-led post-war administration of Gaza. Sanders urged an immediate end to US support for Israel’s actions and a surge in humanitarian aid to prevent mass starvation and death.
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President Trump’s aluminum tariffs, intended to boost domestic production, have instead driven up costs for American consumers and led to smelter closures. The tariffs have increased regional delivery premiums, making aluminum significantly more expensive in the U.S. compared to Europe. This cost increase is passed on to downstream users, resulting in price hikes for products like car cargo boxes. High energy costs, exacerbated by competition from the tech sector, are the primary obstacle to reviving U.S. aluminum smelting.
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On the night of May 8-9, Pakistan launched a cross-border drone attack on India, utilizing an estimated 300-400 Turkish-made Asisguard Songar drones. These drones, reportedly using civilian aircraft as cover, targeted 36 Indian locations, including religious sites. Indian forces successfully intercepted and shot down the drones, with forensic analysis currently underway on recovered debris. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Armed Forces confirmed the attack and subsequent defensive actions.
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Fifty-four Afrikaner South Africans have been granted US refugee status, arriving in Washington D.C. as early as Monday. This expedited process, significantly faster than the typical 18-24 month timeframe, follows a Trump executive order prioritizing Afrikaners facing alleged discrimination in South Africa. The resettlement includes assistance from multiple US agencies, and twelve states have agreed to receive the refugees. The swift action contrasts with the Trump administration’s previous suspension of the broader refugee resettlement program.
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In Worcester, Massachusetts, a video depicts a chaotic confrontation between ICE agents, local police, and residents protesting the detention of a woman and her family. Two individuals were arrested amidst the ensuing clash, which involved agents pushing back against protesters, including a mother with a baby. Local officials expressed outrage, condemning the actions and emphasizing the city’s commitment to being a welcoming community. The incident highlights concerns surrounding ICE’s enforcement tactics and the impact on families.
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Despite a Kremlin-declared three-day ceasefire, Ukrainian officials reported continued Russian attacks along the front line, including artillery fire and aerial strikes resulting in civilian casualties. A National Guard commander expressed deep skepticism regarding Russia’s intentions, citing past instances where ceasefires were used to resupply and reposition troops. Evidence suggests ongoing Russian troop and equipment movements near the front, reinforcing doubts about the sincerity of the declared pause in hostilities. The commander drew parallels to the 2014 annexation of Crimea, highlighting a pattern of Russian deception.
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Amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged both nations to de-escalate and engage in direct dialogue. While expressing condolences for the Pahalgam attack and supporting India’s counterterrorism efforts, Rubio also pressed Pakistan to cease support for terrorist groups. India reiterated its commitment to a measured response to cross-border terrorism, while also receiving calls for restraint from Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the EU. These global actors emphasized the need for de-escalation and dialogue to prevent further conflict and protect civilian lives.
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John Q. Hosedrinker