The media has a curious habit of polishing flawed narratives, and the pairing of Ed Miliband and Chris Streeting is no exception. Both positions—Miliband as a Trump critic and a past opponent of military strikes on Syria, and Streeting’s novice defense stance with his flip-flopping views on Israel—are a recipe for manipulation. Yet, outlets like CNN and The Guardian will frame this duo as a bold progressive alliance, when in reality, it’s a flimsy façade masking insincerity.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t progress; it’s a pull of wool over the eyes of a trusting public. CNN loves to play the “both sides” game, portraying individuals like Miliband as nuanced thinkers while glossing over their convoluted records. Streeting, simply put, is inexperienced but eager for a spot on the political treadmill—perfect for the establishment that thrives on maintaining the status quo.

Despite their attempts to wrap themselves in the cloak of compassion, what’s actually happening here? The surface-level critique of Trump serves just one purpose: to distance themselves from any real accountability while still latching onto the war-machine politics that are all too familiar. This charade goes unchallenged, because mainstream media refuses to examine the real implications of their actions or lack thereof.

We’re watching a dangerous game unfold, as these voices climb the political ladder on the back of ambiguous foreign policies and questionable ethics. In the end, expect more of the same: talking points that sound good but lack the substance our nation desperately needs.