A few other random observations (all about ChatGPT, which I didn’t make clear):
3. Attempts to create an SNL skit were fruitless—it did not seem to have SNL in its training data & just generated generic scripts
4. ChatGPT is famously good at synthesis, but it’s often unable to combine critical ideas in new ways. If asked to produce a Marxist analysis of various texts, it often produces one paragraph of Marxist thought & one about the chosen text, but can’t combine the two concepts
We know that online influence campaigns can and do influence attitudes and behavior. The question with regards to Russia's influence campaign is not so much "did it have an impact?" but rather, "what were/are the impacts?" My personal/professional assessment is that the impacts extended far beyond the 2016 election, and we're still seeing them play out in real-time.
We shouldn’t overestimate Russia’s power and influence, but we’d be foolish to dismiss it.
One fascinating thing about the House Republican's self-immolation is how it is substanceless.
McCarthy's opponents have no specific complaints about McCarthy.
They just don't like him.
And McCarthy has no specific rationale for being Speaker.
He just wants power.

“I armed myself with patience and courage, and only after several months managed to dissolve my doubts and see my research crowned with happy confirmation.”