I like this thread, and it partly highlights why I was attracted to MMM.
One of the biggest lessons I've taken from MMM is the 'Frugality Muscle' concept.
Knuckling down on ridiculous expenses/overheads, and obtaining as much, or more, joy from life is a double edged sword of power.
More money to invest, and less need for money.
The EF question speaks to the 'less need for money' side.
If your annual expenses are $25k for you and family, then your 3 month EF in cash is $6,250.
Sure, we can argue the maths and hypotheticals, but in the end it is a minuscule amount that is unlikely to alter many planned retirement dates.
Even at 6 months EF we are talking small amounts.
Even if that multi pronged disaster strikes all on the same day, the prior work you've done becoming a frugal, happy, confident, healthy individual who hopefully has the gumption and fortitude to go out and find some other job the next day, will put you in good stead to survive a prolonged assault of misfortune. The ability to be flexible, roll with the punches, and keep on keeping on, is vital in any emergency or disaster.
For these reasons I think valid arguments can be made to either hold, or not hold an EF depending on your own situation.
Murdoch