Epstein Scandal & White House Response - The White House allegedly held a meeting to discuss the Epstein scandal, despite initial denials from VP Vance [1] - Reports suggest a strategy meeting was cancelled in response to reporting about it, indicating an attempt to manage optics [1] - Trump's claims about banning Epstein from Mar-a-Lago are being questioned, fueling further scrutiny [1] - MAGA figures are expressing discontent with the administration's handling of the Epstein case, signaling a potential revolt [1] Trump's Actions & Economic Impact - Trump is accused of using Soviet-style tactics, creating an alternate reality and potentially chilling free speech [5] - The administration's interventionist approach is likened to that of strongmen in countries like Turkey and Argentina [4] - New tariffs are described as a $300 billion tax hike, disproportionately affecting working and middle-class Americans [4] - Concerns are raised about Trump's meddling in private companies, including suggesting CEOs should resign, leading to market instability [3] Free Speech & Corporate Influence - Bob Woodward criticizes Trump's First Amendment crackdowns as "pathetic" [5] - Corporations are allegedly influenced by Trump, with examples given of Paramount/Skyance merger and Colbert's cancellation [5] - A novelist who grew up in Russia draws parallels between Trump's actions and Soviet censorship, raising concerns about self-censorship [5] - There are concerns that people are afraid to voice their true feelings, leading to a distorted reality [5]

Career Transition & Editorial Focus - The individual transitioned from a corporate public relations firm to the Washington Post as an editorial writer [1] - The Washington Post's editorial section shifted its focus to personal liberties and free markets [4] - A new editor emphasized communicating with optimism about the country and the future [5] Concerns & Principles - The individual questioned how to communicate optimism when American democracy is perceived to be in peril [5] - The individual believed in holding America accountable to its founding principles [5] - The individual asserted the right to rail against affronts to democracy and the rule of law, citing the Constitution and the First Amendment [7] Departure & Reflection - The individual resigned from the Washington Post due to concerns about the editorial direction [4] - The individual reflected on their 18 years, 5 months, and 16 days at the Washington Post [2] - The individual thanked colleagues for their work [8]

From @WSJopinion: AI can’t replace free markets. Algorithms process data from the past while economic decisions are dynamic and forward-looking, write @Marian_L_Tupy and @PeterBoettke. https://t.co/gbLkbUOSye ...