On Democracy with FPWellman On Democracy with FPWellman

9/11 25 years later and we are in more danger than ever

Sep 11, 2026 · 32m

Summary

On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, host Fred Wellman critiques President Trump’s fabricated rescue story and the current administration’s handling of the Iran conflict. Retired Brigadier General Steve Anderson joins to argue that the US is less safe today due to the loss of global allies and the politicization of the military under Pete Hegseth. The episode contrasts current leadership with the unity and decency shown in 2001, highlighting the failure of Congress to hold hearings on ongoing wars and the erosion of institutional meritocracy in the Department of Defense.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: PreNuvo whole body scan Trump's false 9/11 rescue story Fact-checking Trump's 9/11 claims and Medal of Honor Critique of Trump's Pentagon 9/11 ceremony speech Reflection on 9/11 legacy and intro to guest Host's personal 9/11 memory and show premise Gen. Anderson's 9/11 experience in Korea National unity and Bush's response to 9/11 Decency, allies, and the Iran war strategy Sponsor: Chapter Medicare advice DHS changes and politicization of the military Long-term damage to DoD and Hegseth's leadership Strategic errors in Iran and lack of diplomacy Congressional cowardice and failure to hold hearings Vet Voice Foundation and veteran advocacy Closing thoughts on democracy and safety
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