Episode Details

On this episode, Liam interviews Brandan Buck about Joe Kent’s resignation from his position as the Director of the Counterterrorism Center and what it means about the direction of U.S. foreign policy. Brandan also talks about his own experience in the IC, what he witnessed in Syria, and the possibility of off-ramps in this war. Recorded on March 17th, 2026. ENGAGE Follow Brandan Buck on X: https://x.com/brandan_buck?s=21 Follow Liam on X: https://x.com/MLiamMcCollum Follow Human Reaction on X: https://x.com/humanreactionpc NOTES Watch Liam’s previous interview with Brandan on the “Woke Right” and the Old Right: https://youtu.be/ltdXgOI0GHg?si=taDHF-PZOntM3DLs Brandan Buck’s website: https://brandanpbuck.com/ Brandan Buck’s work at Cato: https://www.cato.org/people/brandan-p-buck CREDITS The Liam McCollum Show is a Human Reaction Production, hosted by Liam McCollum, produced by Sheehan Works, and edited by Bennett Studios. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction & Joe Kent Resignation 5:50 How Rare Is a Resignation Like This? 8:05 Will Others Follow? (Tulsi, Internal Pressure) 12:06 A Divided Republican Party 15:38 Trumpism: Anti-War vs Militarism 19:39 From Quick Strike to Long War 23:07 Syria, ISIS & Policy Contradictions 28:04 Iran’s Strategy & The Strait of Hormuz 31:58 Is There Any Way Out? 36:00 The Regime Change Illusion 38:57 Blowback & Long-Term Consequences 41:43 Middle East Power Balance & U.S. Role 46:36 Free Speech, Media & War Narratives 49:26 Final Thoughts & Where to Follow