3 Martini Lunch

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they analyze President Trump's latest tariffs, the FBI’s complicity in silencing on the Hunter Biden laptop, and the underwhelming leadership of House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. First, they break down Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on most nations and imported automobiles, explaining the economic arguments for and against them and what the impact could be, depending upon how other nations respond. Jim also exposes how tariffs are being applied to places with no human inhabitants or economic relevance. Plus, they explain why anyone who grew up in the 1980s should understand this issue. Next, they examine newly revealed internal FBI chats proving the agency knew in mid-October 2020 that the Hunter Biden laptop was real and under criminal investigation—yet remained silent while Democrats and the media buried the story. Finally, while it's good for the GOP, they wonder why House Democrats continue backing Hakeem Jeffries as their leader. His speaking style lacks impact, and he repeatedly pushes unpopular positions—most recently daring Republicans to vote on the SAVE Act, which mandates photo ID and proof of citizenship to vote. Please visit our great sponsors: This spring, get up to 50% off select plants at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTINI, plus an extra 15% off at checkout on your first purchase! at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini No missed calls, no missed customers with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://Openphone.com/3ml

Join Jim and Greg on 3 Martini Lunch as they break down GOP victories in two Florida House special elections, a tough Republican loss in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race, Sen. Cory Booker’s 25-hour filibuster, and a potential 2026 California governor’s race showdown between two Biden administration alumni. First, they’re relieved to see Republicans comfortably hold both open House seats in Florida. However, they wince as Democrats celebrate an easy win in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race, securing a liberal majority. While the left downplays the Florida results, Jim and Greg remind listeners that Democrats previously claimed they had a shot at flipping at least one seat. Meanwhile, Republicans must learn key lessons from Wisconsin ahead of the midterms. Next, they analyze New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker’s record-breaking 25-hour floor speech, which was long but was not aimed at blocking any legislation or nomination. While Democrats and the media hype it as energizing for their base, it's long term impact is likely minimal at best. Jim and Greg do marvel at Booker’s endurance and explain why he will probably benefit from this more than anyone. Finally, they examine former Health and Human Services Sec. Xavier Becerra’s entry into the 2026 California governor’s race. While some candidates say they would defer if former Vice President Kamala Harris entered the race, Becerra insists he’s staying in. Does this signal Harris won’t run? Or could it set up a fierce showdown between former Biden administration allies? Please visit our great sponsors: No missed calls, no missed customers with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://Openphone.com/3ml

Ricochet Co-Founder Rob Long joins Greg for another round of the 3 Martini Lunch! Today, they break down EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s aggressive cuts to government waste, a California lawyer’s disturbing tribute to an alleged murderer, and the media’s latest meltdown over Trump teasing a third term. First, they cheer Zeldin for shutting down the EPA’s costly and little-visited museum focused on environmental justice and climate change—saving taxpayers millions. With more wasteful spending and burdensome regulations under review, Zeldin is emerging as a major force at the agency and Rob suspects Zeldin will have an even brighter political future. Next, they recoil at a Los Angeles attorney naming his proposed health care ballot measure after accused murderer Luigi Mangione. The Luigi Mangione Access to Health Care Act as a possible state referendum requiring health insurance companies to approve any procedure doctors says is critical to survival or quality of life. But its namesake is charged with the brazen killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson last year in New York City. Rob and Greg discuss the left’s unsettling admiration for this suspect. Finally, they analyze President Trump’s recent comments about running for a third term. While the Constitution bars such a move, the real story is how effortlessly Trump can provoke the left and the media into another frenzy. Please visit our great sponsors: No missed calls, no missed customers with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://Openphone.com/3ml

Inez Stepman of the Independent Women's Forum fills in for Jim today on 3 Martini Lunch Join Inez and Greg as they break down President Trump's executive order ending collective bargaining for federal employees in key national security roles, the escalating turmoil at Columbia University, and the backlash Inez faced online for simply expressing gratitude for her husband. First, Inez explains why Trump's order removing collective bargaining for federal employees at the Pentagon, State Department, Homeland Security, EPA, and other agencies is long overdue. She argues that as head of the executive branch, the president should have the authority to determine who works for him. Inez also highlights the absurd difficulty of firing even the worst-performing federal employees under the current system. Next, they examine the latest controversy at Columbia University, where President Trump pushed for action against rampant anti-Semitism on campus. Interim President Katrina Armstrong reportedly agreed to Trump's demands to secure $430 million in federal grants but has now resigned amid faculty backlash. Inez shares why it's absurd that Columbia gets so much taxpayer money in the first place and how the school now finds intself in a tight political spot. Finally, Inez became the center of a social media storm after tweeting her appreciation for her husband taking care of their baby when Inez wasn’t feeling well. The post triggered outrage, with critics arguing men shouldn’t be thanked for basic parenting duties. Inez responds to the backlash and explores why her simple expression of gratitude sparked such intense reactions, particularly among women. Please visit our great sponsors: This spring, get up to 50% off select plants at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTINI, plus an extra 15% off at checkout on your first purchase! at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini No missed calls, no missed customers with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at https://Openphone.com/3ml

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they break down the plunging price of eggs, Trump withdrawing New York Rep. Elise Stefanik’s nomination for U.N. ambassador to keep her in Congress, and the UK’s absurd upcoming ban on ninja swords. First, they cheer the sharp drop in egg prices, with the average cost of a dozen falling from $8.17 to $2.92 in under a month. They highlight the role of administration policies and the return of egg-laying birds after millions were culled to curb bird flu. Next, they dissect Trump’s decision to pull Rep. Stefanik’s U.N. nomination—not due to her qualifications but because he needs every Republican vote in Congress. They also suggest it signals concerns over the GOP’s ability to win a special election in Florida next week and hold Stefanik’s seat in New York. Finally, they shake their heads as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pushes a ban on ninja swords in response to rising knife and sword attacks. Unsurprisingly, these attacks increased greatly after the UK enacted strict gun control. Jim and Greg argue that British leftists, like their counterparts in the U.S. and elsewhere, ignore the reality that violent crime stems from the attacker’s evil intentions, not the weapons. Please visit our great sponsors: This spring, get up to 50% off select plants plus an extra 15% off your first purchase at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTIN at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they celebrate a major MS-13 gang leader’s arrest, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s veto spree against a lot of lousy bills passed by Democrats, and a Texas congressman exposing NPR CEO Katherine Maher’s radical views using her own words. First, they break down the FBI’s arrest of the top MS-13 leader on the East Coast during an early morning raid in Virginia and carried out with federal, state, and local cooperation. Jim and Greg applaud the move, hoping more gang members are soon locked up or deported. And they are encouraged to see the Justice Department and FBI making this a priority. Then they stay in Virginia, where Gov. Youngkin recently vetoed nearly 160 bills from the Democrat-controlled legislature. The rejected measures covered gun control, a minimum wage hike, restricted speech outside abortion clinics, and a sweeping “environmental justice” agenda, among others. With a governor’s race looming, Jim warns that Democrats will push these policies into law if they perform well in November. Finally, they enjoy Texas Rep. Brandon Gill’s grilling of NPR CEO Katherine Maher. Gill methodically exposes Maher’s extreme views on reparations, looting, and other issues—simply by quoting her own past statements. Please visit our great sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Your well-being is worth it —and now, it’s within reach with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they analyze Republican special election losses and fears there could be more, the latest revelations on the Signal controversy, and the Biden press team’s heavy-handed control over the media. First, they break down GOP defeats for the state house and state senate in Pennsylvania, including one which Republicans should have won easily. They also highlight the high-stakes Wisconsin Supreme Court race, where Democratic turnout appears to be stronger. Plus, they note additional concerns over an upcoming Florida House race. But Jim says the good news is that the GOP still has time to recover in both Wisconsin and Florida. Next, they dive into The Atlantic’s publication of Signal messages from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, revealing details about planned U.S. military actions against the Houthis. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz downplayed the report by noting critical details that were not included in Hegseth's comments. So where does this debate stand now? Finally, they react to a former Jill Biden media staffer’s claims that President Biden’s press team not only demanded to know reporters’ questions in advance but also dictated which interview quotes could be published after the conversations took place. Please visit our great sponsors: This spring, get up to 50% off select plants plus an extra 15% off your first purchase at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTIN at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they dive into the Signal chat involving top national security leaders before the U.S. strikes on the Houthis, a surprisingly tight special election in a deep red Florida House district, and the privacy fallout as 23andMe files for bankruptcy and searches for a buyer. First, they break down Jeffrey Goldberg’s report in The Atlantic, which reveals he was inadvertently added to an encrypted Signal group chat of top national security officials discussing the imminent attack on the Iran-backed Houthis. The White House confirms the chat’s existence and contents. While Jim and Greg support the policy toward the Houthis, they argue such sensitive discussions must happen through more secure channels. Next, they analyze the unexpectedly competitive special election in Florida’s heavily Republican 6th Congressional District—previously held by National Security Adviser Michael Waltz. With mail-in ballots and early voting indicating a close race, Jim and Greg explain why special elections can produce surprising outcomes but there's no reason the GOP shouldn't win this election. Finally, they react to the news that genetic testing giant 23andMe is filing for bankruptcy and seeking a buyer—potentially putting customers’ DNA in the hands of the highest bidder. While this raises serious privacy concerns, Jim and Greg see it as a critical lesson: never voluntarily hand over your DNA. Please visit our great sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Your well-being is worth it —and now, it’s within reach with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month.

Join Jim and Greg for three good martinis on 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss President Trump’s approval of the F-47 fighter jet, the future political ambitions of the DeSantis family, and mounting evidence that Democrats have alienated young men in a historic way. Plus, they make a somber champagne toast to the late former Utah Rep. Mia Love. First, they welcome Trump’s approval of the F-47, a cutting-edge, sixth-generation stealth fighter capable of reaching Mach 2. This decision underscores the administration’s focus on military readiness and warfighting capabilities. Jim also explains how this decision impacts the growing debate about whether manned fighters are needed in the age of drones. Next, Jim shares insights from the National Review Institute’s Ideas Summit, where he interviewed Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and hosted a discussion with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and his wife, Casey. Rumors are swirling that Casey DeSantis is considering a 2026 gubernatorial run, and Jim explains why there's a very good chance Mrs. DeSantis will jump in the race. He also notes the surprising ways she would be different than her husband as governor. Then, they analyze fresh evidence that Gen Z men are shifting right, possibly in a huge, permanent way. Jim explores why this realignment doesn’t surprise him, pointing to how the left’s approach to education has driven young men toward conservatism. While time will tell, current data suggests this could be the most dramatic political shift among a generation in modern history. Finally, they raise a champagne toast to former Utah Rep. Mia Love, who passed away from brain cancer. She was just 49 years old. Greg shares excerpts from a recent column Love wrote about the America she cherished, while Jim reflects on her time in Congress and the political future she might have had until cancer robbed her of it. Please visit our great sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Your well-being is worth it —and now, it’s within reach with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month.

Undisputed King of Stuff and Sink the Rising Sun author Jon Gabriel fills in for Jim today. Join Jon and Greg as they analyze President Trump's executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, the release of an American prisoner from the Taliban, and a plurality of Democrats being fed up with their own party's leaders in Congress. First, they commend President Trump's decision to phase out the Department of Education, citing the decline in student performance since its creation in 1979. Jon and Greg explain how this move won’t end public education but will likely improve it by shifting control to state and local officials. They also push back against Democrats like Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who frame this as an existential crisis for schools. Next, they celebrate the release of American George Glezmann, who had been held hostage by the Taliban. While relieved that no Taliban members were freed in exchange, Jon and Greg criticize the Biden administration for failing to classify Glezmann as "improperly detained" for more than a year. They also slam the media for downplaying the plight of Americans imprisoned or killed by oppressive regimes and terrorist groups. Finally, they break down polling showing more Democrats view their congressional leadership negatively than positively. They also discuss the possibility of a tea party-style movement pushing the party further left and marvel at how Democrats continue to misread voter sentiment. Please visit our great sponsors: If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Undisputed King of Stuff and Sink the Rising Sun author Jon Gabriel fills in for Jim today. Join Jon and Greg as they discuss New York’s top court striking down non-citizen voting, the widening political divide between men and women—especially by education level—and a New York City mayoral candidate pushing for government-run grocery stores. First, they welcome the New York Court of Appeals decision to strike down a New York City law that allowed non-citizens to vote in local elections. They emphasize the importance of restricting voting to citizens and warn of the risks posed by non-citizen participation. Jon also explains why similar efforts have failed to gain traction in his state of Arizona. Next, they analyze NBC News polling that reveals a stark divide in political views between men and women, particularly between non-college-educated men and college-educated women. Jon explores why college-educated women have shifted so far left and shares insights from his college-age daughters and their peers about how they view politics and what ideas they are encountering on campus. Finally, they critique New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s proposal for government-run grocery stores with artificially low prices. They explain why it's bad economics and point to the Soviet Union as a glaring example of why this approach cannot work and always ends in misery. Please visit our great sponsors: This spring, get up to 50% off select plants at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTINI, plus an extra 15% off at checkout on your first purchase! at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they break down SpaceX’s dramatic rescue of American astronauts, Chuck Schumer’s struggle to survive mounting pressure from the left, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s relentless bid for political relevance. First, they celebrate the safe return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams after their planned eight-day mission stretched into more than nine months aboard the International Space Station. They credit SpaceX and Elon Musk for achieving what Boeing and the federal government could not—while dismissing weak arguments that the astronauts weren’t truly stranded. Next, they grab the popcorn as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faces an uproar from progressives after helping Republicans break the filibuster to keep the government open. With at least one House Democrat calling for new leadership and many others still fuming, Schumer attempted damage control on The View—only to alienate business owners by mocking their complaints over high taxes. Finally, they groan as Gov. Tim Walz keeps forcing himself into the political spotlight with speeches in multiple states. While he has every right to speak out, it’s now widely accepted that his addition to Kamala Harris’s ticket last year didn’t help, and there’s little indication he has any lasting influence in the party. Please visit our great sponsors: If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss a proposed metric for sports teams seeking taxpayer funds for new stadiums, a major blunder by the Associated Press, and the media figures who finally admit the government lied to us about COVID but also portray themselves as victims of those lies. First, they applaud a Democrat in the Illinois legislature for introducing the BEARS Act, which would require professional sports teams to win at least half their games three times in five years to qualify for taxpayer-funded stadium projects. While Jim and Greg oppose any public funding for stadiums, they argue that if it must happen, teams should have to earn it. Next, they dissect an embarrassing correction from the Associated Press. The AP falsely reported that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said President Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin were "very good friends," when she was actually referring to Trump and India’s Narendra Modi. Greg notes how these corrections always seem to fix a story that falsely painted the right in a negative light. Jim explains the journalistic standards that should prevent such errors. Finally, they react to the New York Times finally admitting that governments misled the public about the COVID outbreak and many pandemic-related policies. While they welcome the acknowledgment, they have no sympathy for the Times and others who spent years attacking anyone who questioned the official narrative. Jim also highlights how conservative instincts helped drive the momentum toward the truth about COVID’s origins and more. Please visit our great sponsors: If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. This spring, get up to 50% off select plants at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTINI, plus an extra 15% off at checkout on your first purchase! at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they analyze President Trump’s decision to strike Iran-backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen, former Sen. Kyrsten Sinema exposing the Democrats' hypocrisy on the filibuster, and Trump’s claim that President Biden’s pardons are invalid. They also pay tribute to two influential figures on the right who recently passed away. First, they support Trump’s move to target Houthi militants for their ongoing attacks on U.S. and allied ships in the Red Sea. Jim explains why the strikes are justified and responds to concerns about escalating conflict and whether Trump has congressional authorization. Next, they enjoy watching former Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema call out the Democrats’ blatant filibuster hypocrisy. Sinema became a pariah in her own party for refusing to kill the legislative filibuster. Now she's gleefully highlighting the same Democrats for demanding that Senate Democrats filibuster the government spending bill last week. Then, they consider Trump’s assertion that Biden’s pardons are invalid because they were signed with an autopen and possibly without Biden’s awareness. They cite past evidence of Biden’s confusion over executive orders but doubt Trump could legally overturn the pardons—a precedent he might later appreciate. They also offer some ingenious ideas for speeding up the resolution of all the legal challenges to Trump's policies. Finally, they pay tribute to two important figures on the right who died last week. First, they remember former Wyoming Sen. Alan Simpson. Then they reflect upon the life of longtime Reagan speechwriter Tony Dolan, who had a significant impact on Jim's career. Please visit our great sponsors: If I needed to find a doctor quickly, Zocdoc is what I’d use. Stop putting off those doctor’s appointments and head to https://zocdoc.com/3ML to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Join Jim and Greg for the Friday 3 Martini Lunch as they break down deep divisions among Democrats over the spending bill, the Virginia GOP’s steep challenges in this year’s elections, and the House Democrats losing two members in just over a week. First, Republicans finally get a chance to watch Democrats openly feud over whether to pass a spending bill to prevent a partial government shutdown. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer now reluctantly supports the bill, sparking an intense backlash from progressives. Jim also explains how Democrats are struggling to accept their minority status in Congress. Next, they wince at the prospects for Virginia Republicans in this year's elections. They usually don't go well for the party that holds the White House. Virginia is also home to the second most federal employees in the nation, and the DOGE cuts are likely to be unpopular in the DC suburbs. Republicans do have an excellent candidate in Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears, but will the headwinds against her be too strong? Finally, they discuss the passing of Arizona Rep. Raul Grijalva, marking the second House Democrat to die in under two weeks. They note the oddity of Grijalva’s X account continuing to post after his death and also examine how these vacancies will impact the House until special elections are held to fill those vacancies. Please visit our great sponsors: Oracle will cut your cloud bill in half—new US customers only, offer ends March 31st! Check eligibility: https://oracle.com/MARTINI This spring, get up to 50% off select plants plus an extra 15% off your first purchase at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTIN at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they discuss badly needed regulatory relief coming soon from the EPA, Russia rejecting a ceasefire with Ukraine while demanding more concessions, and Pete Buttigieg’s decision to skip a U.S. Senate run to focus on a 2028 presidential bid. First, after clarifying a point from Wednesday’s podcast, they cheer EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for targeting several of the most burdensome environmental regulations. Zeldin maintains that these rollbacks will cut costs and ease restrictions on businesses and families without compromising environmental standards. Next, they analyze Russia’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine and insisting on more concessions before any serious negotiations. Jim argues that Vladimir Putin wouldn’t honor any deal he signs, while Greg asks how President Trump could pressure Russia into reconsidering its position. Finally, they react to reports that former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg won’t run for U.S. Senate in Michigan and is instead eyeing a 2028 White House bid. They highlight his lack of achievements and Jim explains why he thinks the Democrats need a very different type of candidate in the next campaign. Please visit our great sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Build your support system, with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month. Oracle will cut your cloud bill in half—new US customers only, offer ends March 31st! Check eligibility: https://oracle.com/MARTINI

Join Jim and Greg for 3 Martini Lunch as they break down another Senate Democrat retirement that has Republicans eyeing a pickup, a suspicious document destruction order at USAID, and the GOP debate over federal spending. First, they react to New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen’s decision not to seek a fourth term, making her the third Senate Democrat to retire this cycle. This creates a prime GOP pickup opportunity in 2026, especially if former Gov. Chris Sununu enters the race. They also take a peek at key Senate races in North Carolina and Minnesota. Next, they react to a troubling directive at USAID, where employees were urgently ordered to shred or burn sensitive documents. The acting executive secretary’s directive raises alarms, and Jim questions why USAID would even possess so many classified materials. They argue this incident further fuels public skepticism about government waste and secrecy. Finally, they tackle the clash between President Trump and Republican Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie over federal spending. Massie opposes the GOP-backed bill to fund the government at current levels through September, prompting Trump to denounce him and vow that Massie will face a tough primary next year. Jim and Greg ask when Republicans will finally enforce fiscal discipline—and whether it will happen later this year. Please visit our great sponsors: Oracle will cut your cloud bill in half—new US customers only, offer ends March 31st! Check eligibility: https://oracle.com/MARTINI This spring, get up to 50% off select plants plus an extra 15% off your first purchase at Fast Growing Trees with code MARTIN at https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini

Join Jim and Greg on 3 Martini Lunch as they actually find a couple of good martinis today! They break down why voters still deeply distrust Democrats, assess the fallout from Monday’s market selloff, and examine the Pentagon cutting some very questionable projects. First, they dive into a revealing poll from the Democrats’ own data, showing that a strong majority of Americans believe the left doesn’t care about them, disrespects hard work, and is overly obsessed with political correctness. With the 2026 midterms approaching, Democrats face a steep uphill battle to regain voter trust. Next, they analyze the sharp declines in the Dow Jones, NASDAQ, and S&P 500 on Monday. Even more concerning, experts warn that continued selling could be ahead due to uncertainty over tariffs and recession fears. With wildly varying economic forecasts, Jim and Greg discuss what this could mean in the coming months. Finally, they shake their heads—and share a few laughs—at the 91 Pentagon programs just slashed by the Defense Department. From climate change to time itself, the bizarre and often absurd project names highlight just how much waste was lurking in the budget. Please visit our great sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Build your support system, with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month. Oracle will cut your cloud bill in half—new US customers only, offer ends March 31st! Check eligibility: https://oracle.com/MARTINI

Join Jim and Greg as they break down three major developments in the Middle East, from the slaughter of Christians and other minorities in Syria to the U.S. administration’s mixed messaging on Hamas, and Tucker Carlson trying to convince us that Iran should not be one of America's major concerns. First, they react to the horrific sectarian violence erupting in Syria just days after Jim’s departure. Reports confirm that over a thousand Christians, Alawites, and Druze were killed by forces aligned with HTS—the Islamist group that toppled Assad and had pledged not to persecute minorities. Jim rejects the claim that Assad was a better protector for them while Greg stresses that HTS is proving to be just another radical faction wielding power through oppression. Next, they analyze the Trump administration’s contradictory approach to Hamas. Just last week, Trump warned of death and destruction for the terror group if all hostages were not released. Yet by Sunday, his envoy was meeting directly with Hamas officials and even suggesting they might be “pretty nice guys.” Finally, they sigh as Tucker Carlson suggests Fox News and others are trying to foment a war with Iran and that if you look at the number of Americans Iran has killed "on American soil," we have far bigger concerns in our own country. Jim and Greg reject Carlson's terms for judging Iran and do not want a war with Tehran. But they do stress the importance of keeping Iran in check as it reportedly nears deployable nuclear weapons. Please visit our great sponsors" This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Build your support system, with Betterhelp. Visit https://BetterHelp.com/3ML to get 10% off your first month. Oracle will cut your cloud bill in half—new US customers only, offer ends March 31st! Check eligibility: https://oracle.com/MARTINI

Join Jim and Greg for this special edition of the 3 Martini Lunch as Jim shares why he returned to Ukraine and made his first visit to Syria, the mindset of Ukrainians entering the fourth year of war, and what he observed in Syria just months after the fall of the Assad regime. First, Jim explains what led to his third trip to Ukraine, how he got closer to the front lines than ever before, and how his travel companions persuaded him to add Syria to his itinerary. He also describes some of the tense moments he experienced in both countries, more than on his previous visits to Ukraine. Next, Jim recounts his time in Ukraine, detailing how locals reacted to major headlines from the Trump administration while he was there. He describes what he saw near—but not at—the front lines, including elderly Russian women wounded by their own country’s bombing yet receiving care in Ukraine. He also introduces us to “Twitch,” an American who overcame his own reluctance to follow God’s call and is now making a profound impact by helping injured Ukrainians. Finally, Jim takes us to Syria, where he witnessed life just months after Bashar al-Assad’s ouster in December and after many years of a brutal civil war. He explains the cautious optimism in parts of the country, including among Christian and Jewish minorities. And Jim offers us a verbal glimpse of Idlib, which he calls “jihad metropolis.” Join us for all this and more from Jim’s on-the-ground reporting in Ukraine and Syria. Please visit our great sponsors: Download the FREE CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning at https://Netsuite.com/Martini This spring, get up to 50% off select plants with code MARTINI https://fastgrowingtrees.com/Martini