The invention provides compounds of formula (I) or (II) and tautomers and salts thereof, wherein variables are as described in the specification, as well as compositions comprising a compound of formula (I) or (II) or a tautomer or salt thereof, methods of making a compound of formula (I) or (II) or a tautomer or salt thereof, and methods of using a compound of formula (I) or (II) or a tautomer or salt thereof as, e.g., inhibitors of bacterial RNA polymerase or as antibacterial agents.