Insights
Join 450+ former national security and intelligence officials as they break down today's most complex issues. Bound by a shared oath to defend the Constitution, The Steady State provides the expert commentary you need to navigate uncertain times.
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The Flags Are Up. The Fallen Are Hidden.
Nearly 200 American flags now conceal the names of 321 fallen diplomats. This is not a tribute to American greatness; it is a failure to honor those who served it.
When the Polls Turn, So Do the Principles
After two years of defending presidential misconduct and abandoning congressional oversight, Republicans are discovering the virtues of independence. The timing tells us everything.
The Biggest Heist in American History
What if the best outcome after the midterms is that those who abused their power walk away unpunished?
The Greeks Had a Word for Trump’s America
Rubio invoked ancient virtues. Greek history offers a warning about hubris, unchecked ambition, and the self-destruction of great powers.
America’s Diplomatic Credibility Is Not for Sale
Questionable appointments and potential conflicts of interest are undermining the integrity of American diplomacy.
America’s Elections: Trust Us, Don’t Verify
By turning away international observers, the Trump administration abandons a democratic commitment the United States once championed.
Hold Fast: Why Democracy is on the Midterm Ballot
The assault on democratic institutions is weakening the alliances, innovation, and the public welfare and public trust that made America powerful.
The Politics of Distrust
How disinformation turns Americans against the institutions that protect them.
Your Tax Dollars. His Campaign Ad.
When the government starts paying for political promotion, the line between public office and personal politics begins to disappear.
Bringing the Gang Back Together Again
What happens when the government uses sensitive personal data to decide whether you are eligible to cast a ballot?
Civic Witness Series - Questions from the Attic
What happens when the government uses sensitive personal data to decide whether you are eligible to cast a ballot?
The Predicate
The machinery for turning alleged misconduct at election protests into federal investigations of political organizations and their funding is already in place.
Hold Fast: What a President Actually Controls
A guide to the limits and powers of the executive branch over defense, intelligence, and emergencies
I Fought Corruption Abroad for Years. My Own Country Just Surrendered.
America Just Joined Russia and Belarus in Quitting the Fight Against Corruption
The Trump Enterprise: Government Meets Family Business
The presidency is a constitutional office. The Trump Organization is a business. The Trump family is a family. The Enterprise is the intersection.
We the People—If We Can Still Be One
Our greatest challenge now is whether we can preserve the unity and ideals that define us.
Three Clocks are Ticking
Military readiness, artificial intelligence, and executive instability are developing on different timelines—but their consequences could arrive together.
We Have Strategic Warning - The Midterms and Political Repression
We may not know the plan. We know enough about the intent and capability to recognize the threat.