political realism – The Interfaith Intrepid

Pax Chinacana

chinese national flag waving amongst trees outdoors

There’s a phrase that has defined global power for decades: Pax Americana. A Latin term meaning “American Peace,” it describes the era of global order shaped largely by the United States after World War II. Not peace in the purest sense, but a system where America sat at the center—militarily, economically, culturally, diplomatically. Whether countriesContinue reading “Pax Chinacana”

A Progressive’s Paradox: Voting for a Republican to Keep a Worse Republican at Bay in the 2025 NYC Mayoral Race

Introduction: The Unthinkable Choice As a lifelong progressive, I never thought I’d find myself in the position of voting for a Republican. Yet, here we are, in the lead-up to the 2025 New York City mayoral race, and my stance has evolved—out of necessity, not ideology. This election, I’m seriously considering casting my vote forContinue reading “A Progressive’s Paradox: Voting for a Republican to Keep a Worse Republican at Bay in the 2025 NYC Mayoral Race”

Why I Believe Zohran Will Capitulate — And Capitulate Hard — If He Wins

Let’s be honest: if Zohran wins the mayoral race, he will be under unprecedented pressure immediately. Not day one, but literally the day after the election results are in, even before he officially takes office. Trump has already signaled what he can do — withholding federal funding from New York City is not an emptyContinue reading “Why I Believe Zohran Will Capitulate — And Capitulate Hard — If He Wins”

Survival Over Ideology: Why Zohran Is the Worst Option for NYC Right Now

Let’s be real. I’m a progressive. I believe in fighting for structural change, for social justice, for a city that reflects the values of compassion, equity, and innovation. I’m not a conservative. I’m not a liberal playing safe. And yet, as I look at the 2025 NYC mayoral election, I see something that most people,Continue reading “Survival Over Ideology: Why Zohran Is the Worst Option for NYC Right Now”

No More Half-Measures: Why I’m Not Cheering for Zohran Mamdani

I’m done with half-measures. I’m done with the hollow victories. I’m done with celebrating incremental changes from a party that was never built for real transformation. The Democratic Party has long promised progress, and even when it delivers, the progress is fragile—easily reversed the moment the political winds shift. I’ve watched it happen again andContinue reading “No More Half-Measures: Why I’m Not Cheering for Zohran Mamdani”

Beyond the Celebration: A Comprehensive Look at Critiques of Zohran Mamdani

Zohran Mamdani’s primary win has sparked genuine excitement on the left. But while many are celebrating, some serious critiques—from both leftist corners and more moderate progressive outlets—offer warnings that align with my own concerns about both his election chances and his ability to govern effectively. Zohran Mamdani’s primary win has sparked enthusiasm, but important leftistContinue reading “Beyond the Celebration: A Comprehensive Look at Critiques of Zohran Mamdani”

Don’t Get Too Comfortable: Why I’m Not Celebrating Just Yet After Mamdani’s Win

So, Zohran Mamdani just won the NYC Democratic primary for mayor. Big news. For many progressives and leftists, this feels like a huge moment — the kind of political shift we’ve been dreaming of for years. A DSA-endorsed, anti-Zionist, tenant-first candidate beating out a well-known establishment figure like Andrew Cuomo? That’s not nothing. But here’sContinue reading “Don’t Get Too Comfortable: Why I’m Not Celebrating Just Yet After Mamdani’s Win”