FT Swamp Notes: Geopolitical Shifts and US Domestic Turmoil in Early 2026
This collection of Financial Times 'Swamp Notes' columns from early 2026 analyzes the profound geopolitical and domestic consequences of a hypothetical war between the United States and Iran. The articles characterize the conflict as a strategic failure for Washington, potentially altering global trade flows irreversibly and risking America's standing as a global partner. Domestically, the coverage highlights growing economic pain among Americans, declining poll ratings for President Trump, and increasing tensions between the executive branch and judicial institutions. Key figures such as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Attorney General Pam Bondi are depicted as aggressive political operators. The notes also explore the Democratic Party's foreign policy divisions and potential 2028 candidates like Rahm Emanuel. Beyond the Middle East crisis, the text examines the AI bubble, with concerns over debt-fueled infrastructure build-outs and disinformation risks. It further discusses Europe's opportunity to regulate Big Tech amidst US backlash and the ongoing stalemate in Ukraine. The overarching theme is a period of significant instability, marked by eroding democratic norms, corporate anxiety over political retribution, and a reshaping of international alliances.
Wire timeline
FT Swamp Notes: Geopolitical Shifts and US Domestic Turmoil in Early 2026
This collection of Financial Times 'Swamp Notes' columns from early 2026 analyzes the profound geopolitical and domestic consequences of a hypothetical war between the United States and Iran. The articles characterize the conflict as a strategic failure for Washington, potentially altering global trade flows irreversibly and risking America's standing as a global partner. Domestically, the coverage highlights growing economic pain among Americans, declining poll ratings for President Trump, and increasing tensions between the executive branch and judicial institutions. Key figures such as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Attorney General Pam Bondi are depicted as aggressive political operators. The notes also explore the Democratic Party's foreign policy divisions and potential 2028 candidates like Rahm Emanuel. Beyond the Middle East crisis, the text examines the AI bubble, with concerns over debt-fueled infrastructure build-outs and disinformation risks. It further discusses Europe's opportunity to regulate Big Tech amidst US backlash and the ongoing stalemate in Ukraine. The overarching theme is a period of significant instability, marked by eroding democratic norms, corporate anxiety over political retribution, and a reshaping of international alliances.
ft