Meridian Weekly: Mar. 16-Mar 22, 2026

Meridian is a weekly, subscriber briefing for readers who want to step back from the daily cycle and understand what’s actually happening—politically, culturally, and geopolitically—and why it matters

The United States finds itself navigating a period of intense domestic contention and external peril, as partisan divisions over funding and security priorities coincide with military engagements abroad and persistent threats from adversarial powers. The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, now extending into its second month, has exacerbated travel disruptions and exposed vulnerabilities in border and aviation security, while ongoing military operations against Iran underscore a resolute stance on national defense. These developments reflect broader tensions in governance, societal values, and international relations, where policy choices often highlight stark ideological contrasts.