Insightful Political Commentary & Behind-the-Scenes Stories You Won’t Get Anywhere Else
Gain clear, experience-driven perspectives on politics, campaigns, and culture—written by veteran political strategist and author, Joe Rothstein.
Search by Category
Search by Topic
The Threat Behind Trump's Claims of Vote Rigging
Trump's vote rigging claims persist despite years without evidence. This commentary explores the risks they pose to democracy, elections, and public trust.
A Little Known Act of One U.S. Senator's Heroism; Others, Take Note
Inside the Pentagon Papers episode, Senator Mike Gravel and staff risked arrest to enter classified Vietnam War documents into the Congressional Record.
Hawaii Just Voted to End Citizens United; Others May Quickly Follow
Hawaii passed a law challenging Citizens United, launching a growing state movement to curb corporate political spending across America in multiple states.
Will GOP Drive The Getaway Car forTrump’s $1.8 Billion Robbery?
Trump faces backlash over a $1.7B taxpayer deal tied to January 6. Republicans are urged to stop what critics call corruption and conflict of interest.
Seinfeld's George and Some Advice for Trump
A Seinfeld-inspired reflection on Trump instincts and George Costanza’s “opposite” logic, exploring policy choices, public opinion, and political fallout.
Climate Researchers Write New Orleans' Obituary
Climate researchers warn New Orleans faces irreversible loss as rising seas, political inaction, and climate change reshape its future and global risk.
The Astonishing Battle for the Senate In Maine
A closer look at Maine’s Senate race, where political outsiders, public distrust, and entrenched power collide in a surprising and closely watched election.
The ‘You Can't Make This Stuff Up,' Story Behind Orban's Downfall
Hungary’s political shock: how Peter Magyar exposed corruption, secret tapes, and scandals that challenged Viktor Orbán’s 20-year grip on power and control.
Artificial Intelligence Is Creating Powerful, and Scary, New Political Campaign Tools
Artificial intelligence is reshaping political campaigns with powerful voter targeting, raising concerns about manipulation, data use, and democracy risks.
Perils of Running for Office. Why Do So Many Do It?
Discover the perils of running for office, from time, money, and pressure to public scrutiny, and why millions of Americans still choose to run.
America’s Throwing a Birthday Party. But For Trump, Not All Americans Should be Invited
A reflection on America’s 250th anniversary, political divides, planning challenges, and the urgent need to protect democracy and all citizens’ rights.
When “USA, USA" Is Not A Cheer
Personal reflection on the everyday toll of war on civilians, the consequences of Trump’s Iran decisions, and how Americans can respond to uphold democracy.
‘Tax the Billionaires!’ will be 2026 Campaign’s Version of ‘Affordability’
‘Tax the Billionaires!’ will be 2026’s version of affordability, as rising billionaire wealth sparks public backlash and drives state tax reforms nationwide.
The Future Looks Great, If We Survive You-Know-Who
The future looks bright if we survive today: explore emerging technologies, next-gen energy solutions, and billionaire-backed innovations shaping our world.
Wars of Choice. Violations of Trust.
The Gulf of Tonkin incident reshaped U.S. history and trust in government. A look at Vietnam, Iraq, and modern wars of choice that continue to cost lives and trillions.
Can Elon Musk Get Along on $800 Billion?
California’s proposed wealth tax sparks a debate on billionaires like Elon Musk. Explore the impact of extreme wealth concentration and a new $5 billion cap.
Trump Policies A Toxic Brew for U.S. Farmers
Trump’s policies are fueling economic disaster in farm country, from tariffs to ICE raids, devastating U.S. agriculture and rural communities nationwide.
Yes, Bezos Is A Jerk, but No, Don’t Cancel Your Washington Post Subscription
Jeff Bezos may be controversial, but the Washington Post remains a vital public utility. Discover why keeping your subscription is crucial for democracy.
Right-Wing Media and the Political Reality It Creates
A thoughtful analysis of right-wing media, key headlines shaping perspectives, and how this coverage affects public perception and Trump’s poll numbers.
Don't Mess With Minnesotans, or Other Prairie People
An opinionated look at ICE enforcement, media power, and voter suppression, examining protests, history, and why public accountability still matters.