Les Be Honest - February 19, 2026 - young-turks Recap

Podcast: young-turks

Published: 2026-02-20

Duration: 2 hr 14 min

Guests: Andrew Yang

Summary

The episode dives into the looming threat of war with Iran, the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and Les Wexner's testimony concerning Jeffrey Epstein. The hosts critique U.S. foreign policy and media narratives surrounding these events.

What Happened

Donald Trump has hinted that a decision about potential military action against Iran will be clear within the next 10 days. Axios reporter Barack Ravid suggests the Trump administration is closer to a major conflict in the Middle East than many Americans realize, with Israel heavily influencing U.S. actions. Despite skepticism about Iran being a direct threat to the U.S., the military buildup in the region, including the arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford and deployment of F-35 and F-22 fighters, suggests otherwise.

Former Prince Andrew has been arrested in the UK on suspicion of misconduct in public office, adding to the continuing scandals within the royal family. Meanwhile, Les Wexner testified before the House Oversight Committee, downplaying his ties to Jeffrey Epstein despite evidence of their close relationship, including giving Epstein power of attorney over his finances.

The episode highlights criticism of the bipartisan support for a military campaign against Iran, with figures like Democratic Senator Mark Warner backing the strategy. This situation is seen as a war driven primarily by Israeli interests, with limited strikes being considered by Trump under Israeli influence.

Economic impacts of Trump's policies are discussed, particularly the tariffs that increased from 2.6% to 13% on average imports, leading to a $1,000 tax increase per household, the largest since 1993. Kevin Hassett, Trump's economic advisor, has criticized a New York Fed report that outlines these tariff effects.

Internationally, European countries are advising their citizens to leave Iran, and Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued stark warnings about the consequences of any Iranian aggression. The military actions, including Operation Midnight Hammer, are portrayed as more supportive of Israeli security concerns than American.

The podcast also addresses criticisms against Randy Fine, a Congressman known for controversial statements about Muslims, and contrasts this with the treatment of others like Ilhan Omar, who faced censure for her comments on lobbyists. This highlights broader themes of media bias and governmental priorities that distract from substantial issues.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the 2026 Winter Olympics, where some U.S. athletes have expressed discomfort representing the country due to recent political actions. This reflects a broader discontent with the current U.S. political landscape and its international actions.

Key Insights

• Donald Trump's potential military action against Iran is heavily influenced by Israel, not a direct U.S. threat. The presence of military assets like the USS Gerald R. Ford and F-35 and F-22 fighters in the region suggests a readiness for conflict that contradicts public skepticism.
• Les Wexner's testimony downplayed his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, despite granting Epstein power of attorney over his finances. This relationship reflects the deep and often obscured connections Epstein had with influential figures.
• Trump's tariff policies have led to a significant economic burden, raising average import tariffs from 2.6% to 13% and costing U.S. households an extra $1,000 annually. This marks the largest tariff-related tax increase since 1993, contradicting claims of economic benefits.
• The 2026 Winter Olympics face controversy as some U.S. athletes express reluctance to represent a country amid recent political decisions. This sentiment mirrors broader discontent with the U.S. political climate and its international actions, impacting national pride on the global stage.

Key Questions Answered

What is the current status of the U.S. military presence in the Middle East?

The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and moving F-35 and F-22 jet fighters to the region. This is part of a larger military buildup, the largest since the 2003 Iraq invasion, amid rising tensions with Iran.

What has Les Wexner testified regarding his connection to Jeffrey Epstein?

Les Wexner testified before the House Oversight Committee, minimizing his connection to Jeffrey Epstein despite evidence of their close relationship, including granting Epstein power of attorney over his finances. Wexner claims he was conned by Epstein, although emails suggest they had a friendly relationship.

How have Trump's tariffs affected the U.S. economy?

Trump's tariffs have increased the average tariff rate on U.S. imports from 2.6% to 13% in 2025, resulting in an additional $1,000 tax per household. This has been criticized as the largest U.S. tax increase since 1993, with significant economic implications.