Democrats Divided: War, Money, and Midterms

0:00On this March 18th, here's what's shaping the world. The war in Iran is stirring of democratic primaries across several states as progressives challenge modern arrivals. They accuse these candidates of weak opposition to President Trump's bombing campaign and cozy ties to defense contractors and pro-Israel groups. Races in Michigan, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, and North Carolina are seeing at least half a dozen such battles ahead of November's midterms. Others highlight campaign donations from weapons-makers like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, plus support from the American-Israel public, Affairs Committee. Progressives say accepting that money undercuts any real anti-war stance, especially with the conflict starting February 28th. Candidates like Abdul El-Sahed, in Michigan and Nida Alam, in North Carolina, argue Democrats must reject such funds to prove their commitment. Democrats push back hard, insisting they've quickly condemned the war, and calling the attacks political theater to gain votes.

1:00In North Carolina's House primary on March 3rd, Alam spotlighted her opponents $3,000 each from two defense firms but lost by one, percentage point. Colorado sees state Senator Julie Gonzalez taking on Senator John Hagenloper over his defense budget votes, while Malat Kiros targets incumbent, Diana DeGit. These fights reveal bigger party rifts over endless wars, Pentagon spending, and corporate sway, risking democratic unity. Experts warned it could weaken their edge against Republicans in the midterms and set the tone for 2028. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor. See the episode description. Comfort you can hear. Sound you can relax into. S-O-L-I-SOLYPILO.COM.