In this episode, Nathan Charles takes on the MAGA movement’s obsession with superficial “manhood.” From Pete Hegseth railing about beards and “fat generals,” to Donald Trump’s spray-tan persona, to the millions of dollars in plastic surgery stitched into the faces of Republican leadership—MAGA’s brand of masculinity is all performance, no courage.
Drawing on his experience as a Navy SEAL officer and as a former federal prosecutor, Charles argues that real manhood is about service, responsibility, and the courage to face hard truths—even when they cut against you. He credits his friend Dan Barkhuff’s call to “ask young men for something,” and echoes the insight of TheDarkLeft that MAGA runs on grievance and feelings, not facts.
The result: a compelling case that the antidote to MAGA’s grievance politics is purpose, service, and the real strength that comes from putting others first.
Subscribe for sharp, unflinching takes on law, national security, and democracy—from a former Navy SEAL and federal prosecutor who’s not afraid to call things as they are.
By Nathan M. F. Charles — Former Navy SEAL officer, former federal prosecutor, and Managing Partner at Charles International Law. I write and speak on law, national security, immigration, and the health of American democracy.
