We must have a free press. I turn to MeidasTouch again and again for news and information.
There is an old saying-“You don’t know what you have until it’s gone “.
The way events happened in USA-People trying to take away Democracy ,Freedom,Rights, and anything else they can grab.We must fight . We need an informed independent press .
Even Reuters was repeating the “great conversations” line and saying ships were getting through. Great conversations with his idiot cabinet members means nothing. Were they talking about how much money they have made? Cue Meidas…at 6:00 a.m. and it’s all lies. Strait is closed..talks have ceased and dump is dumping his BS overnight. Thank you MT!
That is terrifying, disgusting, reprehensible.... not enough words to describe the complicity of media with the current administration. Thankfully, we have Meidas. The next question though, is how and when will the media 'get the message' and turn back to legitimate reporting? They may need to go down with the ship if they don't realize their complicity. Too bad, but it's their choice.
If 1934 Germany and 2024 US are overlaid, they are remarkably alike. Each includes disaffected low- and mid-tier wage earners in dire economic straits. Germany: external poverty forced by international affairs (the Treaty of Versailles) awakened resentment, nationalism, racism, and xenophobia. The US, internal: a racist, religiously zealous, self-interested, exclusive, nationalist oligarchy exacerbated racial, class, and caste schisms and tiers. Disaffected youth have no ability to pursue identity, agency, and a seat at society’s table; they are lost. In Germany, WW I youth faced no favorable prospects. In the US GenZ is stifled by a Boomer/GenX ceiling. Underlying this is war, expansionism perceived to be a panacea, and a weak megalomaniac as its dysfunctional figurehead.
MEIDAS TOUCH NETWORK: Subscription revenues are important but based on the embedded ad content, certainly not your only source of revenue. By blocking the content of some posts so only those who pay can read them, you do then entire community a disservice. If you want an informed community, at a minimum you could allow those among us who cannot afford to pay for a subscription (many here have stated that to be the case) the ability to watch the videos and read the entire posts. If you want to impose your will, you could limit non-subscribers’ abilities to post, but that too seems punitive. It might be reasonable to put limits on premium posts such as Mr. Filipkowski’s unquestionably premium content, but again, maybe just by restricting reply posts to those who are sufficiently well-positioned financially to subscribe. I also disagree with that pay-to-play model. What are you trying to build, a community forum or an indie media empire?
I read and watched the substack videos for a while before I decided to become a paid subscriber. There are many that I like; but, I could not be a paid subscriber to all of them.
I had to figure out which ones to pay for. I used several different criteria, one of which was if you could make comments if you were not a paid subscriber. I immediately determined I would not pay . I don't like the idea that if you can't afford to pay you should not be able to speak.
Also, along the money line, there have been many requests by people who cannot pay monthly how to make donations. We have no idea how many of those people have made donations. They contribute according to their means.
Next, as you mentioned there are ads, in addition there is merch, plus most recently big money contributions( which irritate me as the many subscribers were not asked about this ahead of time).
Any way, that is my 2cents worth and Kelvin I would be most upset if you could not make comments because you are not a paid subscriber!
Although I agree with you both, the platforms need money. So they have to ask. I have been both . Paid and unpaid . I never felt I missed that much. The special features yes. As far as paying goes. Meidas has been my go to since covid. I hate social media and only came here because of them . When I can , I send the money Instead of supporting the DNC as they have lost my trust. I can't support anyone else. Lack of funds . I still follow others. I really hope you guys know we all don't care if you pay or not. You still belong here. We need everyone. Everyone can not afford to pay subscription fees. I ignore the plees for $. It is just a necessary evil.
Speaking only for myself, I would love to stay here, but it is hard when a main daily post is blocked such that I cannot read it, read the important comments others made, and reply if appropriate. That is on MTN. I'll wait a bit to see what happens. If this continues, I will move on, sadly, but I will
I am not leaving just yet (and will not if MTN does the right thing), but thanks for my hat and coat. Maybe close the door a bit; it is getting breezy in here 😊
As you do, I make economic choices. I choose to commit resources where in my view they bring the most needed, effective and immediate returns, such as food pantries, legal aid for underserved people, and pets, often overlooked in this catastrophe.
Information is free but the costs associated with locating it, compiling it, editing it, and distributing it are not. MTN has subscriber and small donor revenue, merchandise revenue (https://tinyurl.com/59h2erax, revenue from product sponsors (in-post ads and otherwise, revenue from YouTube (https://tinyurl.com/bdhh5s4s) and from Patreon (https://tinyurl.com/57kzb75z). Per Barrett Media (https://tinyurl.com/2s7p8mww) and Bloomberg (https://tinyurl.com/4ac5kr2t), MTN receives funding from “Soros Fund Management, as well as a group of other U.S.-based investors.” Likely also elsewhere. Noteworthy is that it was a PAC before this reincarnation: https://tinyurl.com/4rp46snb
I am asking because I am bombarded many times per week, sometimes daily, with “Just for you” or “Can I ask you something” e-mail messages that have tried to induce me to subscribe at discounts between 20% and 35% off the full price. 35% was a one time offer last holiday season until it returned for an encore in March. It is irritating hounding.
I am asking for the many among us who may get much of their information about world affairs from MTN, which overall seems to be a reasonable and well-balanced source of information, especially Mr. Filipkowski. When posts are blocked after the initial teaser, non-subscribers are shut out (so am I). When they cannot post, their questions – their voices – go unheard. Why? Because they cannot put money they do not have into the corporate slot machine. Altruism must be baked into this model somehow. Where is the advantage in denying access to those who cannot afford to pay but want to learn?
To your final point, first thank you, Susan. That, however, already is the case. "Sunday AM News Updates: More Threats of War Crimes — 4/19/26 and “The Price of War” (4/18/26) both locked me out as to the story beyond the intro and completely as to posting. It is not just me, it is many people.
Yes, almost everything costs money. I don't get separate e-mails with "offers" from substacks that I subscribe to. I do periodically see offers in the e-mails.
I only watch a few videos on you tube as many don't have closed captions or a transcript and due to my bad hearing I can't always make out what is being said. No point to watching people speak and not knowing what they say. Guess I could learn to read lips. lol
They want people to sign up for the audio, once again, no point. I have trouble hearing consonants so the audio ends up sounding like a bunch of vowels.
While I was drafting this, this came by e-mail (when is enough, too much?):
"I wanted to do something for you… Ben Meiselas Apr 19
Hey everybody, it’s Ben Meiselas, co-founder of the MeidasTouch Network.
I wanted to do something for you. I’ve heard from a lot of you who’ve been wanting to subscribe to the MeidasTouch Substack, but the price has been a barrier. I understand that. So for a limited time, we’re offering 30% off on the honor system. If you’ve been meaning to join, this is your moment. We’re expanding fast right now. More reporting, more shows, more voices.
If you’ve been on the fence, I’d really love to do something for you to help you access all the member features. Get 30% off and become a paid subscriber today. Thanks for being here and for subscribing. "
Just as irritating, to my mind, is when you donate to a cause, you then get bombarded with more requests for more money. Now there are 3 Demo e-mails, that come almost daily, wanting money for something or other. I don't even read them anymore, just delete,delete,delete.
Maybe this is wayward thinking, but when I lived paycheck to paycheck I had to figure almost everyday what I could and could not afford and how to make do.
I am of the opinion that the Democratic Party needs to do the same. Don't waste money frivolously, tighten your belts...
Also, about subscribing. Even if you don't pay the substack takes into account that you are a subscriber!
Thank you. I definitely can relate, which is why I refuse to fund candidates with ActBlue. I can only imagine the bombardment. Thank you for your thoughts. Maybe others will read this and share their opinions. Maybe MTN will read it and find an equitable and economical way to include everyone
Calling reporters personally to seed a fabricated breakthrough, then watching corporate desks run it as stenography, is the playbook working exactly as designed. Shipping data and Iranian officials contradicted it within hours, but the lie already cleared the news cycle.
That’s the asymmetry: fabrication is cheap, verification is slow, and by the time the correction lands the frame is set.
Meanwhile the actual story, Iran still controlling the Strait and global alliances reorganizing without Washington at the center, is the one that will matter in six months.
Trumpery is a noun meaning worthless nonsense, rubbish, or showy but valueless finery, often referring to trashy material objects or deceptive, flimsy ideas. Originating from the Middle French tromper (to deceive), it implies something superficially appealing but essentially deceptive or valueless.
For that reason, as a Brit it always amuses me to see how proud Trump is of his ridiculous surname and how silly it looks - to English people at least - emblazoned on all his buildings, fake university, ponzi schemes, bankrupt casinos and so on. It is even more appropriate if, as it is said, he suffers from a certain incontinence...
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PEDO PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
It's also a way for the insiders to make money. Invest big while the market is crashing, watch it rise with the BS coming out of the White House, then sell before it crashes again. The pattern is obvious.
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PEDO PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
They sell short before the bad news is known publicly and buy inexpensive futures before there is rise on good news. They make money up and down and since the only money in play that is not theirs is ours, in this zero sum game, guess who usually loses
Are most of the regimes back-and-forth announcements of negotiations and threats and recent attack on a cargo possibly the work of speculators on the WH inside gaming the markets?
Is Trump tipping off friends who trade the markets so they can make some bank before the market closes on these proclamations? Is there any regulatory enforcement, anyone who would even investigate these events as insider trading? The amount of corruption is mind boggling, we see so much with the naked eye, I cant imagine what else is going on that we don't see. It makes me sick.
Actually oil prices are a scam. If Trump wanted to make America great, he'd undermine the value of Iranian oil. We are energy independent, yet Big Oil is price gouging.
States have the capacity to sue Big Oil and have been doing so.... Google: Multiple US states, cities, and municipalities are suing major oil companies (including ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, and TotalEnergies) for climate change damages, deceptive marketing, and environmental destruction. Cases often hinge on costs related to sea-level rise, infrastructure damage, and delaying the transition to renewable energy, focusing on accusations of consumer fraud and public nuisance
I also think that big companies in trucking, shipping, etc could sue Big Oil for lost profits.
Thank you for your incomplete, position-directed opinions on global macroeconomics. If dark money greed were not a factor (it is), oil and coal tax subsidies could be eliminated and the industries could be subjected to enhanced environmental and worker safety regulations. Had you read my post fully, you might have noticed that I advocated for energy sources alternative to fossil fuels. Your ad-hominem attack was a special bonus.
I've posted this several times. The US has enough domestic oil (supply) that WE don't need ANY oil from the Midele East.
Here's something I posted this morning.
War profiteering. "Controlling inflation is the most important job of federal economic regulation and austerity (a lack of government participation in the lives of its people, particularly in any supportive way) is the best way to get there."
Consumers can easily relate to the impact of crude oil prices, which topped $100 on April 13 but have since fallen back. It means higher prices for gasoline and diesel. As of April 17, 2026, the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline in the US is approximately $4.06 to $4.09 per gallon. Prices in Florida are hovering around $4.045 per gallon, while specific locations in South Florida, such as Palm Beach, have exceeded $4.07 per gallon. California consistently has the highest average gas prices in the United States, hovering around $5.88 - $5.89 per gallon. Other states with exceptionally high prices include Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada,
Why Oil Refiners Are the Real Winners of $100 Oil Prices
Written by Chris Markoch on April 15, 2026
Key Points
-Refiners are benefiting from historically high crack spreads, driving strong margins even as crude oil prices rise.
-Valero, Marathon Petroleum, and Phillips 66 each offer unique advantages, from geographic positioning to diversification.
-Supply constraints and depleted inventories create a near-term window for continued refinery outperformance.
"However, the number investors should focus on is $54. That’s the approximate crack spread per barrel. In simple terms, the crack spread refers to the gap between what a refiner pays for crude oil and the price at which it sells the finished product. Historically, that number is between $10 and $20. At $54, the number is high, even for a disruption scenario.
"The lag in refinery capacity growth has been in place since 2023. Industry experts cite that demand has exceeded capacity by an average of 400,000 barrels per day during that time. And this comes at a time when no new U.S. refinery has been built since the 1970s.
"This tight market creates an opportunity to invest in oil refiners, particularly U.S. companies that are stepping in to fill the gap left by Middle Eastern and European refiners. They’re paying a higher input price for crude oil, but since product prices are rising with or above crude, the companies are seeing expanding margins."
++++++
If Trump wants to cut inflation.....cut gas prices....
Google says as of January 1, 2025, there were 132 operable petroleum refineries in the United States. Of these, 131 were actively operating, while one was reported as idle. Saudi Arabia and several other foreign entities own significant oil refining assets in the United States. As of April 2026, foreign entities own approximately 28% to 30% of total U.S. refining capacity.
Didn't happen under Bush 43. Will not happen now. They all are in bed together economically. Why did 47 go to the Gulf as his first stop? Why is MBS his bestie? He will not close the oil industry dairy that provides his milk: Trump pressed oil executives to give $1 billion for his campaign https://tinyurl.com/3xy6sxnv
SEC started an investigation the first time someone bought a bunch of stock 10 min before the first big trump lie. STARTED. Then Chairman of SEC not only stopped the investigation, the investigators were ordered to ignore it in the future
Not just stocks and commodities but near certain bets on betting platforms. The enforcers have been replaced with those who enjoy the perquisites and their safety, or there are none
When will the media stop reporting his lies? He likes to argue with celibrities thinking he is their equivilent. That it is why he attacks the pope. People should not respond as he is not worth it!
Thank you for always bringing us and the world the truth and straight facts. We can rely on your integrity, honesty and your team to always speak truth to power. You do a great job everyday. Thank you!
Thank you for your message today Ben. You are absolutely right that it is tough to get by these days. It's painful to go to the grocery store or fill up my car. All because of this corrupt regime and the do-nothing GOP while they are lining their pockets and getting richer. It seems the demented old pedophile is using Axios's Barak Ravid to put out headlines to manipulate the markets. It's so obvious. Trump does not run this country for the good of the American people. He is trying to tear it down. He says he wants to be president of Venezuela. Let's send him there now. Have a great day Ben!! Have a great day Meidas Mighty!!
In most counties if the President or Prime Minister is unhinged , corrupt or not up to the job the electorate will seek to remove him. At present in the U.K. thé prime minister is under fire an may well lose his job over his lack of judgement in appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Unites States last year.
What is wrong with your congress and senate? They appear to be totally spineless in allowing this deranged madman continue in office. They have the power to remove him so shame on them for doing nothing!
There seems to be no answer for your question about the cowardly, spineless, silent, ignorant and inept Republican Congress running/not running the US government. There are many Democratic politicians speaking up and out about this regime and trying to legislate but because of our constitution there are impediments to what one side in the minority can lawfully do. It’s a seriously frustrating situation for most Americans who believe in right and wrong Suzanne‼️
I just want to say that my fiancee and I are so grateful for this network. This is the only one that we pay for because unfortunately there are some others I'd love to pay for but being on a fixed income we can't pay for all of them. This has so much on it and we really enjoy the posts from it. Some of the news is not very enjoyable but the way you guys present the news, we love it. It's truth and it's where I go when I want to know what's really going on so thank you for all you do!
First thing I look for in the morning and the last thing at night is the MTN fact based, data driven, news reports. Thank you for bringing it tirelessly!
Good morning Ben. Thank you for always keeping me updated. You are the 1st place I go to every morning to get the unadulterated facts. You’re the only person I look to all day & night. I don’t know how you continue to go at this pace. I do wish you’d get some rest. I’m a Jewish mother so I can say that. 😉
☕️☕️☕️cheers for truth and caffeine!
We must have a free press. I turn to MeidasTouch again and again for news and information.
There is an old saying-“You don’t know what you have until it’s gone “.
The way events happened in USA-People trying to take away Democracy ,Freedom,Rights, and anything else they can grab.We must fight . We need an informed independent press .
Even Reuters was repeating the “great conversations” line and saying ships were getting through. Great conversations with his idiot cabinet members means nothing. Were they talking about how much money they have made? Cue Meidas…at 6:00 a.m. and it’s all lies. Strait is closed..talks have ceased and dump is dumping his BS overnight. Thank you MT!
That is terrifying, disgusting, reprehensible.... not enough words to describe the complicity of media with the current administration. Thankfully, we have Meidas. The next question though, is how and when will the media 'get the message' and turn back to legitimate reporting? They may need to go down with the ship if they don't realize their complicity. Too bad, but it's their choice.
At our peril. Besides here, where are you to go to believe anything. There are still people who doubt Ben.
Exactly sister. Fight as much as we can. I agree it's sad what happened to our media. Thank God for MTN!💕
4th Gov branch USA!
Where are 2 and 3?
If 1934 Germany and 2024 US are overlaid, they are remarkably alike. Each includes disaffected low- and mid-tier wage earners in dire economic straits. Germany: external poverty forced by international affairs (the Treaty of Versailles) awakened resentment, nationalism, racism, and xenophobia. The US, internal: a racist, religiously zealous, self-interested, exclusive, nationalist oligarchy exacerbated racial, class, and caste schisms and tiers. Disaffected youth have no ability to pursue identity, agency, and a seat at society’s table; they are lost. In Germany, WW I youth faced no favorable prospects. In the US GenZ is stifled by a Boomer/GenX ceiling. Underlying this is war, expansionism perceived to be a panacea, and a weak megalomaniac as its dysfunctional figurehead.
MEIDAS TOUCH NETWORK: Subscription revenues are important but based on the embedded ad content, certainly not your only source of revenue. By blocking the content of some posts so only those who pay can read them, you do then entire community a disservice. If you want an informed community, at a minimum you could allow those among us who cannot afford to pay for a subscription (many here have stated that to be the case) the ability to watch the videos and read the entire posts. If you want to impose your will, you could limit non-subscribers’ abilities to post, but that too seems punitive. It might be reasonable to put limits on premium posts such as Mr. Filipkowski’s unquestionably premium content, but again, maybe just by restricting reply posts to those who are sufficiently well-positioned financially to subscribe. I also disagree with that pay-to-play model. What are you trying to build, a community forum or an indie media empire?
I read and watched the substack videos for a while before I decided to become a paid subscriber. There are many that I like; but, I could not be a paid subscriber to all of them.
I had to figure out which ones to pay for. I used several different criteria, one of which was if you could make comments if you were not a paid subscriber. I immediately determined I would not pay . I don't like the idea that if you can't afford to pay you should not be able to speak.
Also, along the money line, there have been many requests by people who cannot pay monthly how to make donations. We have no idea how many of those people have made donations. They contribute according to their means.
Next, as you mentioned there are ads, in addition there is merch, plus most recently big money contributions( which irritate me as the many subscribers were not asked about this ahead of time).
Any way, that is my 2cents worth and Kelvin I would be most upset if you could not make comments because you are not a paid subscriber!
Although I agree with you both, the platforms need money. So they have to ask. I have been both . Paid and unpaid . I never felt I missed that much. The special features yes. As far as paying goes. Meidas has been my go to since covid. I hate social media and only came here because of them . When I can , I send the money Instead of supporting the DNC as they have lost my trust. I can't support anyone else. Lack of funds . I still follow others. I really hope you guys know we all don't care if you pay or not. You still belong here. We need everyone. Everyone can not afford to pay subscription fees. I ignore the plees for $. It is just a necessary evil.
Thank you, ramonaj!
Speaking only for myself, I would love to stay here, but it is hard when a main daily post is blocked such that I cannot read it, read the important comments others made, and reply if appropriate. That is on MTN. I'll wait a bit to see what happens. If this continues, I will move on, sadly, but I will
You will be missed.
I am not leaving just yet (and will not if MTN does the right thing), but thanks for my hat and coat. Maybe close the door a bit; it is getting breezy in here 😊
Susan, thank you for the excellent input.
As you do, I make economic choices. I choose to commit resources where in my view they bring the most needed, effective and immediate returns, such as food pantries, legal aid for underserved people, and pets, often overlooked in this catastrophe.
Information is free but the costs associated with locating it, compiling it, editing it, and distributing it are not. MTN has subscriber and small donor revenue, merchandise revenue (https://tinyurl.com/59h2erax, revenue from product sponsors (in-post ads and otherwise, revenue from YouTube (https://tinyurl.com/bdhh5s4s) and from Patreon (https://tinyurl.com/57kzb75z). Per Barrett Media (https://tinyurl.com/2s7p8mww) and Bloomberg (https://tinyurl.com/4ac5kr2t), MTN receives funding from “Soros Fund Management, as well as a group of other U.S.-based investors.” Likely also elsewhere. Noteworthy is that it was a PAC before this reincarnation: https://tinyurl.com/4rp46snb
I am asking because I am bombarded many times per week, sometimes daily, with “Just for you” or “Can I ask you something” e-mail messages that have tried to induce me to subscribe at discounts between 20% and 35% off the full price. 35% was a one time offer last holiday season until it returned for an encore in March. It is irritating hounding.
I am asking for the many among us who may get much of their information about world affairs from MTN, which overall seems to be a reasonable and well-balanced source of information, especially Mr. Filipkowski. When posts are blocked after the initial teaser, non-subscribers are shut out (so am I). When they cannot post, their questions – their voices – go unheard. Why? Because they cannot put money they do not have into the corporate slot machine. Altruism must be baked into this model somehow. Where is the advantage in denying access to those who cannot afford to pay but want to learn?
To your final point, first thank you, Susan. That, however, already is the case. "Sunday AM News Updates: More Threats of War Crimes — 4/19/26 and “The Price of War” (4/18/26) both locked me out as to the story beyond the intro and completely as to posting. It is not just me, it is many people.
Yes, almost everything costs money. I don't get separate e-mails with "offers" from substacks that I subscribe to. I do periodically see offers in the e-mails.
I only watch a few videos on you tube as many don't have closed captions or a transcript and due to my bad hearing I can't always make out what is being said. No point to watching people speak and not knowing what they say. Guess I could learn to read lips. lol
They want people to sign up for the audio, once again, no point. I have trouble hearing consonants so the audio ends up sounding like a bunch of vowels.
While I was drafting this, this came by e-mail (when is enough, too much?):
"I wanted to do something for you… Ben Meiselas Apr 19
Hey everybody, it’s Ben Meiselas, co-founder of the MeidasTouch Network.
I wanted to do something for you. I’ve heard from a lot of you who’ve been wanting to subscribe to the MeidasTouch Substack, but the price has been a barrier. I understand that. So for a limited time, we’re offering 30% off on the honor system. If you’ve been meaning to join, this is your moment. We’re expanding fast right now. More reporting, more shows, more voices.
If you’ve been on the fence, I’d really love to do something for you to help you access all the member features. Get 30% off and become a paid subscriber today. Thanks for being here and for subscribing. "
Just as irritating, to my mind, is when you donate to a cause, you then get bombarded with more requests for more money. Now there are 3 Demo e-mails, that come almost daily, wanting money for something or other. I don't even read them anymore, just delete,delete,delete.
Maybe this is wayward thinking, but when I lived paycheck to paycheck I had to figure almost everyday what I could and could not afford and how to make do.
I am of the opinion that the Democratic Party needs to do the same. Don't waste money frivolously, tighten your belts...
Also, about subscribing. Even if you don't pay the substack takes into account that you are a subscriber!
Thank you. I definitely can relate, which is why I refuse to fund candidates with ActBlue. I can only imagine the bombardment. Thank you for your thoughts. Maybe others will read this and share their opinions. Maybe MTN will read it and find an equitable and economical way to include everyone
Me too!
Thank you, C Bowlby!
The Friday blitz is the tell.
Calling reporters personally to seed a fabricated breakthrough, then watching corporate desks run it as stenography, is the playbook working exactly as designed. Shipping data and Iranian officials contradicted it within hours, but the lie already cleared the news cycle.
That’s the asymmetry: fabrication is cheap, verification is slow, and by the time the correction lands the frame is set.
Meanwhile the actual story, Iran still controlling the Strait and global alliances reorganizing without Washington at the center, is the one that will matter in six months.
—Johan
trumpery
/ˈtrəmp(ə)rē/
Trumpery is a noun meaning worthless nonsense, rubbish, or showy but valueless finery, often referring to trashy material objects or deceptive, flimsy ideas. Originating from the Middle French tromper (to deceive), it implies something superficially appealing but essentially deceptive or valueless.
Sums up DONphille, DONvict, DONwith very well.
In the UK to Trump is known as a FART !!!!
For that reason, as a Brit it always amuses me to see how proud Trump is of his ridiculous surname and how silly it looks - to English people at least - emblazoned on all his buildings, fake university, ponzi schemes, bankrupt casinos and so on. It is even more appropriate if, as it is said, he suffers from a certain incontinence...
Stem and stern
Oh my goodness! Thanks for this amazing truth. He is living up to his name, which is a pathetic human being.
Yes, he certainly likes to blow his own trumpet.
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
Brilliant. Thank you.
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PEDO PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
Fabricated break through sends the stock market soaring, as intended.
Don’t worry the SEC is investigating and will get right on it.
“Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain! “
Atkins? Trump appointee. I think not. Respectfully.
Sarcasm?
Yes
😉✌️
It's also a way for the insiders to make money. Invest big while the market is crashing, watch it rise with the BS coming out of the White House, then sell before it crashes again. The pattern is obvious.
And the rich get richer.
And $ are worth less!
IMPEACH AND DUMP TRAITORS, NAZIS PEDO PREDATORS AND ENABLERS , IMPERIALIST CRIMINALS, WAR MONGERS, CAREER CRIMINALS, CRIMINAL GRIFTERS, FASCIST PIGS, FRAUDSTERS, RACIST, AND CON REPUBLICONS EVERYWHERE. RELEASE ALL UNREDACTED EPSTEIN FILES AND JAIL CON RTRUMP. AVOID CON RTRUMP'S AND THE REPUBLICON'S RECESSION AND DEPRESSION. FIX CLIMATE CHANGE, FOR THE FAIR DEAL, NOT THE RAW DEAL. VOTE BLUE AND SAVE DEMOCRACY. STOP THE RTRUMP OLIGARCHY. BOYCOTT CRIMINAL RTRUMP & ELON THE NAZIS.
They sell short before the bad news is known publicly and buy inexpensive futures before there is rise on good news. They make money up and down and since the only money in play that is not theirs is ours, in this zero sum game, guess who usually loses
Are most of the regimes back-and-forth announcements of negotiations and threats and recent attack on a cargo possibly the work of speculators on the WH inside gaming the markets?
Is Trump tipping off friends who trade the markets so they can make some bank before the market closes on these proclamations? Is there any regulatory enforcement, anyone who would even investigate these events as insider trading? The amount of corruption is mind boggling, we see so much with the naked eye, I cant imagine what else is going on that we don't see. It makes me sick.
Actually oil prices are a scam. If Trump wanted to make America great, he'd undermine the value of Iranian oil. We are energy independent, yet Big Oil is price gouging.
And putins richer to bombard Ukrain- all due to rump...
You've posted before and that is nothing but baloney. Prices are fixed via OPEC.
We have access to virtually an unlimited suppy as we control Venzuela, and huge reserves like Nigeria and the North Sea are restricted via OPEC.
I laid out how price gouging is taking place at domestic refineries. Do you. support price fixing? Price gouging?
Trump has tried to eliminate all domestic competiton. Alternative energy. Solar is cheaper than fossil fuels.
Once upon a time senators from both parties who were not behiolden to big oil saw that we have been screwed since about 1973 and tried to change it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No_Oil_Producing_and_Exporting_Cartels_Act
States have the capacity to sue Big Oil and have been doing so.... Google: Multiple US states, cities, and municipalities are suing major oil companies (including ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, and TotalEnergies) for climate change damages, deceptive marketing, and environmental destruction. Cases often hinge on costs related to sea-level rise, infrastructure damage, and delaying the transition to renewable energy, focusing on accusations of consumer fraud and public nuisance
I also think that big companies in trucking, shipping, etc could sue Big Oil for lost profits.
Thank you for your incomplete, position-directed opinions on global macroeconomics. If dark money greed were not a factor (it is), oil and coal tax subsidies could be eliminated and the industries could be subjected to enhanced environmental and worker safety regulations. Had you read my post fully, you might have noticed that I advocated for energy sources alternative to fossil fuels. Your ad-hominem attack was a special bonus.
So...what about price fixing? Price gouging?
I've posted this several times. The US has enough domestic oil (supply) that WE don't need ANY oil from the Midele East.
Here's something I posted this morning.
War profiteering. "Controlling inflation is the most important job of federal economic regulation and austerity (a lack of government participation in the lives of its people, particularly in any supportive way) is the best way to get there."
Consumers can easily relate to the impact of crude oil prices, which topped $100 on April 13 but have since fallen back. It means higher prices for gasoline and diesel. As of April 17, 2026, the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline in the US is approximately $4.06 to $4.09 per gallon. Prices in Florida are hovering around $4.045 per gallon, while specific locations in South Florida, such as Palm Beach, have exceeded $4.07 per gallon. California consistently has the highest average gas prices in the United States, hovering around $5.88 - $5.89 per gallon. Other states with exceptionally high prices include Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada,
Why Oil Refiners Are the Real Winners of $100 Oil Prices
Written by Chris Markoch on April 15, 2026
Key Points
-Refiners are benefiting from historically high crack spreads, driving strong margins even as crude oil prices rise.
-Valero, Marathon Petroleum, and Phillips 66 each offer unique advantages, from geographic positioning to diversification.
-Supply constraints and depleted inventories create a near-term window for continued refinery outperformance.
"However, the number investors should focus on is $54. That’s the approximate crack spread per barrel. In simple terms, the crack spread refers to the gap between what a refiner pays for crude oil and the price at which it sells the finished product. Historically, that number is between $10 and $20. At $54, the number is high, even for a disruption scenario.
"The lag in refinery capacity growth has been in place since 2023. Industry experts cite that demand has exceeded capacity by an average of 400,000 barrels per day during that time. And this comes at a time when no new U.S. refinery has been built since the 1970s.
"This tight market creates an opportunity to invest in oil refiners, particularly U.S. companies that are stepping in to fill the gap left by Middle Eastern and European refiners. They’re paying a higher input price for crude oil, but since product prices are rising with or above crude, the companies are seeing expanding margins."
++++++
If Trump wants to cut inflation.....cut gas prices....
Google says as of January 1, 2025, there were 132 operable petroleum refineries in the United States. Of these, 131 were actively operating, while one was reported as idle. Saudi Arabia and several other foreign entities own significant oil refining assets in the United States. As of April 2026, foreign entities own approximately 28% to 30% of total U.S. refining capacity.
Please tell your state AG about this.
Didn't happen under Bush 43. Will not happen now. They all are in bed together economically. Why did 47 go to the Gulf as his first stop? Why is MBS his bestie? He will not close the oil industry dairy that provides his milk: Trump pressed oil executives to give $1 billion for his campaign https://tinyurl.com/3xy6sxnv
SEC started an investigation the first time someone bought a bunch of stock 10 min before the first big trump lie. STARTED. Then Chairman of SEC not only stopped the investigation, the investigators were ordered to ignore it in the future
Rump a-kissers doing dirty rump work
Not just stocks and commodities but near certain bets on betting platforms. The enforcers have been replaced with those who enjoy the perquisites and their safety, or there are none
Appreciate the honest news. That man manipulates the markets each time and I think investors on Wall Street know this too, yet they fall for the lie.
The ones “in the know” are making money on the lie
I noticed exactly what you said. It was shocking to see so many outlets giving immediate credence to a known habitual liar.
That's why I read the Guardian AND Meidas Touch! And Heather and Joyce and Katie and Dan and the Contrarian. So many good truth-tellers now.
..and Aaron Parnas 🍁
And Scott McFarlane
When will the media stop reporting his lies? He likes to argue with celibrities thinking he is their equivilent. That it is why he attacks the pope. People should not respond as he is not worth it!
Without responsive counter arguments Trump has free reign !!
Never or until they're purged of propagandists and forced to report only truth!
Thank you for always bringing us and the world the truth and straight facts. We can rely on your integrity, honesty and your team to always speak truth to power. You do a great job everyday. Thank you!
Thank you for your message today Ben. You are absolutely right that it is tough to get by these days. It's painful to go to the grocery store or fill up my car. All because of this corrupt regime and the do-nothing GOP while they are lining their pockets and getting richer. It seems the demented old pedophile is using Axios's Barak Ravid to put out headlines to manipulate the markets. It's so obvious. Trump does not run this country for the good of the American people. He is trying to tear it down. He says he wants to be president of Venezuela. Let's send him there now. Have a great day Ben!! Have a great day Meidas Mighty!!
In most counties if the President or Prime Minister is unhinged , corrupt or not up to the job the electorate will seek to remove him. At present in the U.K. thé prime minister is under fire an may well lose his job over his lack of judgement in appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Unites States last year.
What is wrong with your congress and senate? They appear to be totally spineless in allowing this deranged madman continue in office. They have the power to remove him so shame on them for doing nothing!
There seems to be no answer for your question about the cowardly, spineless, silent, ignorant and inept Republican Congress running/not running the US government. There are many Democratic politicians speaking up and out about this regime and trying to legislate but because of our constitution there are impediments to what one side in the minority can lawfully do. It’s a seriously frustrating situation for most Americans who believe in right and wrong Suzanne‼️
100%
I love America, where we are free. If you want to keep our freedoms you best vote for a candidate who wants to get all money out of politics.
Does he know it's public knowledge that Sinatra couldn't tolerate Trump's presence. It's amusing that he would play his music.
I just want to say that my fiancee and I are so grateful for this network. This is the only one that we pay for because unfortunately there are some others I'd love to pay for but being on a fixed income we can't pay for all of them. This has so much on it and we really enjoy the posts from it. Some of the news is not very enjoyable but the way you guys present the news, we love it. It's truth and it's where I go when I want to know what's really going on so thank you for all you do!
Where do we put questions for ask the editor? I want to know why we still have an electoral college?
Thank you for all your great truthful updates.
First thing I look for in the morning and the last thing at night is the MTN fact based, data driven, news reports. Thank you for bringing it tirelessly!
Good morning Ben. Thank you for always keeping me updated. You are the 1st place I go to every morning to get the unadulterated facts. You’re the only person I look to all day & night. I don’t know how you continue to go at this pace. I do wish you’d get some rest. I’m a Jewish mother so I can say that. 😉