now we get to wonder why

we're no strangers to troops dying due to ongoing conflict pretty much everywhere

so why are they seemingly hiding a small number like this?

> so why are they seemingly hiding a small number like this?

They deny everything, no matter how low the stakes. See, for example, the reflecting pool fuss.

Because they are flailing? Fuel prices will decide the midterms. There are pockets of die hards but after asking plenty of trump voters, they aren't happy. As long as the democrats in the US keep the identity shit to a minimum and make gains on actual issues likr housing and healthcare they can't lose.

> so why are they seemingly hiding a small number like this?

Reflexive lies are basically the policy of this administration and party. They have demonstrated no interest in telling the truth about anything. The proper question is: Why would they start telling the truth now?

Their base has already demonstrated that there is no red line. There is no lie they could tell that would suddenly disillusion the MAGA-types.

During conflict, which side is winning or losing is usually counted in number of body bags sent home. These tend to influence voters tremendously. Anything to tell a good story on that front.

> so why are they seemingly hiding a small number like this?

Because they claimed a "flawless victory".

In today's information environment, why would you ever admit to anything that hurts you? There seems to be no penalty for dishonesty.

Roy Cohn, one of young Trump's "educators" (also tied to McCarthy's Red Scare)

He taught Trump to always take credit for the good things and blame someone else for the failures. When there is no one to blame, hide it and/or deny it loudly