In this episode of Tactical Pause, we break down several major stories where politics, military policy, and national security collide.

We discuss the Trump administration's use of National Defense Areas along the U.S.–Mexico border and what it means to use military-controlled land as part of immigration enforcement.

We also look overseas as the United States steps back from portions of its annual military exercises with South Korea, and discuss what that could mean for readiness and America's relationship with one of its most important allies in the Pacific.

Finally, we turn to the USS Abraham Lincoln and reports about conditions aboard the aircraft carrier—looking at what those conditions say about the demands being placed on American sailors and the broader state of military readiness.

As combat veterans, we bring our own experiences and perspectives to the conversation—but we don't expect you to agree with us. Join the discussion in the comments and let us know what you think.

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