Troops in DC, Intel Bailout, and Authoritarian Drift

In this episode of Hardpoints, Mike and Neal weave personal stories—like sleepless nights, scout projects, and time outdoors—into heavier discussions on U.S. politics, national security, and the economy. They critique the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. as a troubling sign of authoritarian overreach, debate the implications of a proposed government stake in Intel, and unpack Trump’s approach to Russia and Ukraine. Along the way, they highlight the fragility of democratic institutions, the danger of moral compromise, and the importance of individual responsibility. The episode closes with personal reflections on service, youth mentorship, and building tools for climate literacy.