Realizing the Reality: Addressing Biden’s Absence of Second Term Plans and Confronting the Houthi Threat – A Critical Analysis

Mideast watch: Get Real on Houthi Threat

“The need for a more affordable way to defend against Houthi attacks on warships is significant,” cautions Dov Zakheim at The Hill. “Iran has long supported the Houthis,” and “this collection of tribal rebels has successfully held off the world’s greatest superpower for a considerable amount of time with no end in sight.” Despite American and British airstrikes against Houthi installations, the Houthis have enough capabilities to disrupt ships in the Red Sea. The cost of countering the Houthis had already reached $1 billion for the US in May. It’s time for the US military to consider acquiring a maritime version of the Iron Dome to reduce the cost disparity between threats and defense systems.

Crime beat: Philly’s Comeback

For years, Philadelphia has faced violent crime, open drug markets, and ineffective leadership, but new Mayor Cherelle Parker and Police Chief Kevin Bethel are taking a stand, as highlighted by Thomas Hogan in City Journal. They have cracked down on illegal ATV and dirt-bike riders terrorizing neighborhoods and cleared out squatter encampments in the Kensington neighborhood, known for its lawlessness. The entire graduating class of the Philadelphia Police Academy has been assigned to patrol in Kensington, resulting in a decline in crime rates. However, the progressive DA Larry Krasner’s alignment with these efforts remains uncertain.

Liberal: Biden’s Missing Second Term Plans

John Halpin from The Liberal Patriot argues that President Biden needs to clearly communicate his goals for a second term to voters. However, the Biden campaign website lacks any information about his plans, particularly regarding the economy, inflation, and immigration—all important issues to voters. In contrast, Donald Trump’s website offers a variety of ideas, providing a more robust campaign platform. Biden’s lack of a clear plan for the 2024 campaign contrasts with Trump’s proactive approach.

Culture critic: ‘Inhuman’ Attack on the Alitos

Peggy Noonan from The Wall Street Journal criticizes left-wing activist Lauren Windsor for attempting to provoke Justice Samuel Alito and his wife during a conversation. Windsor’s actions, which aimed to fabricate controversies from their responses, lacked humanity and respect. The Alitos remained composed, with Justice Alito gently dismissing Windsor’s political agendas. Windsor’s behavior is reminiscent of totalitarian tactics, and her actions are merely for garnering attention.

Conservative: No Web Welfare!

Dominic Pino from National Review celebrates the end of a COVID-era welfare program that provided financial support for broadband internet access. Contrary to fears of millions losing internet access with the program’s expiration, the impact has been minimal. Pino suggests that Congress should refrain from funding the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to focus on other pressing policy priorities instead of debating its continuation. It’s time for Congress to move on from pandemic-era policies and address more urgent issues.

— Compiled by The Post Editorial Board