Sunday, October 18, 2026

If Republicans Won’t End the Monarchical Judiciary, They Must Expose It

In a recent article by Julie Kelly, the author critiques the judicial system, particularly focusing on federal judges. She emphasizes their unchecked power and lack of accountability, likening their behavior to that of monarchs. Kelly argues that it is essential for Congress, especially Republicans, to expose the judiciary’s abuses rather than ignore them.

1. Judicial Authority: Kelly claims that the real unchecked power in Washington, D.C. isn’t the presidency or Congress, but comes from federal judges who operate largely outside public awareness. These judges feel superior and often act as if they are above the law.

2. Judges’ Conduct: Kelly recounts specific incidents showcasing judicial misconduct. A notable example involves a judge sanctioning a Department of Justice attorney for alleged misconduct during a case involving immigration representation. This highlights how judges can impose severe penalties for minor errors.

3. Judicial Secrecy: There's a stark contrast between the transparency demanded from elected officials and the secrecy surrounding judicial proceedings. Judges, emboldened by their positions, have begun to openly criticize the administration in the media, violating ethical standards.

4. Specific Case of Judge Ana Reyes: Judge Reyes has been scrutinized for her emotional responses to cases involving Trump policies. Her conduct during a hearing about a golf course renovation included aggressive questioning and ordering testimonies inappropriately. Critics argue that her behavior shows bias against Trump officials.

5. Call for Transparency: Kelly advocates for live audio access to all judicial proceedings as a way to combat the current lack of accountability. She believes that this would allow the public to better understand the judicial process and hold judges accountable for their actions.

Julie Kelly argues that if Republican leaders in Congress will not take action against what she perceives as a rogue judiciary, they should at least make judicial proceedings more transparent. By advocating for real-time public access to court hearings, she believes that the judiciary's overreach can be exposed and potentially reformed. The need for accountability in the judicial system is presented as urgent, especially in light of rising partisanship and perceived abuses of power by federal judges. 

https://www.declassified.live/p/if-republicans-wont-end-the-monarchical?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=1666532&post_id=220923626&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=6dl2nb&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email

US Firms Account For 75% Of Chips Powering Russia's New Jet Drone

A recent report highlights the significant reliance of Russian Geran-4 drones on American-made electronic components, despite existing sanctions.

Roughly 75% of the Geran-4 drone’s onboard electronics come from U.S. companies, based on an investigation by Ukraine's Militarnyi.

The analysis identified 80 out of 105 electronic components sourced from the U.S., indicating Russia's substantial dependence on foreign technology.

Major manufacturers include Texas Instruments and National Semiconductor, which contribute a large number of parts vital for the drone's operation.

Each month, Russia produces about 3,000 Geran-4 drones, requiring over two million components from these American companies annually.

It remains unclear how these components reached Russia—whether stockpiled before sanctions or acquired through intermediaries.

Prior investigations have confirmed the presence of foreign components, including those from China, in the drone’s construction.

Russia's Geran-4 drones exemplify a critical dependency on foreign technology, raising questions about the effectiveness of sanctions in curbing access to essential components. 

https://www.zerohedge.com/military/us-firms-account-75-chips-powering-russias-new-jet-drone

What Inflation Obsession Misses

The perception of inflation and its deeper implications on affordability, emphasizing that the roles of government taxes and fees are often overlooked. It contrasts the author's perspective on oligarchy with that of Bernie Sanders, focusing on how government action significantly affects the cost of living.

1. Government as Oligarchs: The author identifies the federal, state, and local governments as the primary entities affecting affordability, contrasting this view with Bernie Sanders' focus on the private sector and billionaires.

2. Affordability vs. Consumer Prices: While discussions about inflation typically revolve around the price of goods like food and gas, the article asserts that these discussions need to expand to include taxes and government fees, which increase the overall cost of living.

3. Consumer Choices and the Market: The author highlights the concept of the "substitution effect," where consumers can change their purchasing choices based on price changes in the market. However, this flexibility does not apply to mandatory government payments, such as property taxes, which cannot be easily altered.

4. Limitations of the Consumer Price Index (CPI): The CPI measures price changes in a fixed basket of goods but does not account for all financial burdens like taxes. This limitation makes it insufficient for understanding the fuller picture of household affordability.

5. Rising Costs Beyond CPI: The article points out that prices for essential services, such as Medicare, have increased significantly, yet these costs are not included in traditional inflation measures, complicating the understanding of overall financial pressure on households.

6. The Burden of Government Costs: Government expenses, mandatory taxes, and regulatory fees contribute to increased costs, affecting businesses and households. As these costs rise, they can lead to further inflation.

7. Need for Comprehensive Measurement: The article proposes the idea of measuring government-imposed inflation to understand its impact on affordability better, suggesting that this could complement traditional inflation statistics like CPI.

The author argues that to grasp the true nature of inflation and affordability, there must be a clearer acknowledgment of how government actions shape these economic realities. Focusing on both consumer prices and government-related costs can provide a more comprehensive view of the financial pressures facing households today. The argument emphasizes accountability for government actions and warns against proposals for increased government size, which could exacerbate existing affordability issues. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/10/what-inflation-obsession-misses/

DOJ warns Calif. election officials they could face prosecution over suspected noncitizen ballots

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a warning to California election officials regarding the counting of ballots from suspected noncitizens. This warning is part of an ongoing conflict between the Trump administration and California over election procedures.

Criminal Liability: Acting Deputy Attorney General Trent McCotter informed state and local officials that counting ballots from individuals identified as potentially ineligible could result in criminal investigations and prosecution.

Legal Actions: This warning followed a lawsuit filed by the DOJ aimed at stopping California from counting mail ballots submitted by individuals deemed “likely” noncitizens until their immigration status is verified.

Consequences: McCotter stressed that knowingly facilitating or ignoring this issue could expose officials to serious legal consequences, including being prosecuted as aiders and abettors in federal crimes.

Political Context: The warning highlights the ongoing tensions between the federal government and California, particularly as the state continues to pursue policies viewed as contrary to federal immigration laws.

The DOJ’s warning marks a significant escalation in its confrontation with California regarding election integrity. Officials are now cautioned to be vigilant about the status of voters to avoid potential prosecution related to noncitizen voting. 

https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/elections/doj-warns-calif-election-officials-they-could-face-prosecution-over

DOJ indicts noncitizens for voting illegally in NC

Recently, the U.S. Justice Department, along with the Department of Homeland Security, has taken action against illegal voting. This is particularly important as Election Day approaches.

Ten noncitizens have been indicted in North Carolina for casting votes illegally.

Among those indicted, one individual was living in the country illegally.

One noncitizen allegedly participated in eight elections over two decades, while another voted in six elections.

Four of the ten accused voted in multiple elections, raising concerns about election integrity.

This indictment highlights ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to address and prevent illegal voting, particularly by individuals not authorized to vote. As the election period nears, these cases underscore the importance of lawful voting practices and proper voter registration. 

https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/elections/doj-indicts-noncitizens-voting-illegally-nc

Catholic Charities and the $62 Million Gospel of Somali Resettlement

Catholic Charities and Global Refuge have made $62 million from resettling Somali refugees in Minnesota. It raises concerns about the impact of these resettlement efforts on American communities and safety.

Financial Gains: Catholic Charities and Global Refuge have profited significantly from the resettlement of Somalis in Minnesota since the late 1970s, receiving federal funds without addressing the implications for local American populations.

Cultural Impact: Minneapolis, historically an industrial center, is now described as culturally transformed, with an influx of Somali immigrants leading to neighborhoods referred to as “Little Mogadishu.” This change has led to concerns about crime and fraud.

Political Figures: U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, who comes from the Somali community, is mentioned in connection with ongoing federal investigations into immigration fraud. Her family background raises questions regarding their status as refugees.

Role of Religious Organizations: The report criticizes the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and affiliated organizations for prioritizing financial incentives over the well-being of American citizens and for promoting policies that some see as harmful to national integrity and safety.

The article argues that the actions of Catholic Charities and the USCCB may reflect a broader pattern of prioritizing financial gains over community safety and American cultural preservation. It calls into question the motivations behind these organizations' advocacy for increased immigration and the balance between humanitarian efforts and protecting national interests. 

https://spectator.org/catholic-charities-and-the-62-million-gospel-of-somali-resettlement/

Zelenskyy is Lying – Secretary Marco Rubio Responds to False Claims About Ukraine, Starlink and Starshield

 In recent discussions, Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed multiple topics, including accusations regarding U.S. military support to Ukraine, the geopolitical dynamics in Central Asia, the impact of sanctions on Russia, and recent violence in the West Bank. This summary outlines key points from his statements and discussions.

1. Ukrainian Claims on Starlink and Starshield:

Rubio addressed allegations from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggesting that the White House had deliberately interfered with military communications by controlling the use of the Starlink satellite system. Rubio dismissed these claims as "nonsense."

He clarified that Starlink is a commercial product and that Ukraine currently does not have access to Starshield, a defense-oriented service. The U.S. military contracts Starshield, and its use in Ukraine is still under discussion.

2. Russia’s Enhanced Capabilities:

Rubio highlighted that Russia has recently upgraded its satellite system, which likely improves its targeting accuracy within Ukraine. This raises concerns about Ukraine's vulnerability if it cannot effectively utilize its satellite access.

3. Travel to Central Asia:

Rubio recently visited multiple Central Asian nations, aiming to strengthen U.S. relations with these countries, which he identified as strategic partners amidst rising tensions with Russia.

4. Sanctions Waivers on Russia:

In response to criticisms regarding the waiver of sanctions on Russian energy, Rubio explained that the U.S. must consider the broader impact on global economics. The waivers were put in place to analyze the effects of tariffs on various nations, including India, that depend on Russian energy.

5. Violence in the West Bank:

Addressing the recent violent events involving American journalists in the West Bank, Rubio expressed his concern and reiterated the need for Israel to prevent such incidents. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable environment in the region and vowed to gather more information regarding the attacks.

6. Concerns about Hybrid Attacks:

Rubio expressed concerns about potential hybrid attacks carried out by Russia and Iran, with specific plans for future military escalations possibly affecting Europe and beyond. He affirmed the U.S. position that these risks are significant given the complexity of the ongoing conflicts.

7. Eritrea-Ethiopia Situation:

In discussing the risk of war between Eritrea and Ethiopia, Rubio defended the earlier lifting of minor sanctions as unrelated to the current instability. He stressed the importance of dialogue and expressed a commitment to preventing further conflict in the region.

Secretary Rubio's statements reflect a focus on navigating complex international relationships and addressing misinformation surrounding military resources. He advocates for strategic partnerships in Central Asia, a careful approach to sanction policies concerning Russia, and strong messaging against violence in conflict zones. The administration's handling of these issues underscores the interconnectedness of global politics, particularly as tensions rise among various nations.

https://theconservativetreehouse.com/blog/2026/10/18/zelenskyy-is-lying-secretary-marco-rubio-responds-to-false-claims-about-ukraine-starlink-and-starshield/#more-288003

If Republicans Won’t End the Monarchical Judiciary, They Must Expose It

In a recent article by Julie Kelly, the author critiques the judicial system, particularly focusing on federal judges. She emphasizes their ...