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 A network of federal employees called AltGov is responding to the chaos of the Trump administration. Using the social media platform Bluesky, they aim to share information, defend public institutions, and assist each other during layoffs. 1. Response to Emails: When an email was sent to 2. 3 million federal employees asking them to report on their recent work, many in the network discussed how to respond, given that some employees wouldn’t see it until after the deadline. 2. Recommended Response: The network proposed that members break down their oath of office into bullet points to send back in the email, focusing on their commitment to the Constitution. 3. Objectives of AltGov: The group aims to expose harmful policies, support public institutions, and prepare citizens to resist authoritarianism. They also assist members facing layoffs within federal agencies. 4. Public Presence and Growth: AltGov has created multiple Bluesky accounts to inform the public and debunk misinformati...

 Concerns have been raised about unelected regulators and global financial firms using people's money to pressure businesses into addressing climate change and social issues through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. This has particularly impacted the energy sector and financial stability in Europe. • The EU is enforcing ESG mandates via the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directives (CSRD), which apply to both European and U. S. -based companies operating in the EU. • A coalition of state financial officers, including the author, has urged President Trump to investigate the CSRD under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, arguing it imposes unfair burdens on U. S. businesses. • The CSRD requires companies to detail their ESG impacts and establish climate change plans, even mandating disclosures about their supply chains. • The introduction of "double materiality" expands reporting obligations beyond traditional financial risks to include societal...

 This content discusses the impact of inflation during President Biden's administration, highlighting the political consequences and public perceptions surrounding economic issues. It critiques both Biden's policies and the media's portrayal of inflation. 1. Political Consequences of Inflation: • High inflation contributed to Donald Trump's defeat of Kamala Harris in the last election, as it was a major concern for voters. Harris is blamed for the decline of the dollar's value under Biden. • Inflation is described as stemming from excessive government money printing, leading to decreased purchasing power for Americans. 2. Biden's Claims about Inflation: • Biden initially downplayed inflation, labeling it as a temporary issue while statistics showed significant price increases. • He promised financial assistance, claiming families would see more money in their pockets, but inflation effectively negated these benefits. 3. Responses to Economic Strain: • Media outl...

 The article discusses a recent statement made by Senator Elizabeth Warren regarding the transparency of government spending and highlights the constitutional provisions that support citizens' rights to know how their tax dollars are spent. The writer argues that current practices surrounding federal expenditures lack the necessary transparency. 1. Senator Warren's Statement: On January 30, Senator Warren claimed the Constitution does not guarantee citizens access to government spending information, which the author disputes by referencing Article I, Section 9, Clause 7. 2. Constitutional Obligation: This clause mandates that a regular account of public money receipts and expenditures must be published, suggesting a need for greater transparency. 3. Limitations of Current Disclosure: The article critiques current disclosure methods, which the author believes are insufficient to provide a true understanding of where public funds are directed, especially given the complexity of g...

 The documentary "Follow the Silenced" reveals the stories of people who experienced severe injuries after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. It highlights their struggle against censorship and the efforts to bring their experiences to light. • Personal Stories: The film features Brianne Dressen and Ernest Ramirez Sr. , who suffered life-changing injuries from the vaccines and faced suppression when sharing their experiences. • Censorship Issues: Both Dressen and Ramirez encountered repeated censorship on social media and crowdfunding sites, which significantly hindered their efforts to raise awareness. • Legal Challenges: They have taken legal action against the federal government and social media companies for violating their First Amendment rights related to vaccine injury discussions. • Call for Action: The documentary advocates for transparency, accountability, and free speech, challenging the narratives promoted by federal agencies and pharmaceutical companies. • Character...

 In Victor Davis Hanson's article, he discusses the dramatic changes in governance brought about by Donald Trump in his first month of office. The piece highlights the challenges faced by the previous administrations regarding spending, immigration, and military engagements. • Trump's approach is likened to a counter-revolution aimed at correcting decades of unsustainable spending and open borders. • Historical context is provided, comparing Trump’s swift changes to Franklin Roosevelt’s implementation of the New Deal. • There is a strong emphasis on the need to manage the national debt responsibly and to reevaluate immigration policies, particularly the influx of illegal immigrants. • The author asserts that the previous administrations' practices have led to a bloated bureaucracy that needs restructuring. • Hanson argues in favor of objective measures in areas like gender and sports and discusses the importance of empirical education methods in American institutions. • The...

 The President is using an Executive Order (EO) to gain more control over independent federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which is crucial for maintaining the reliability of America's electric power grid. 1. FERC's Mission and Reliability Issues: FERC is vital for ensuring grid reliability, but the power grid has become unreliable. 2. Presidential Authority: The President might use his authority to direct FERC to take actions to restore grid reliability through several potential approaches. 3. Constitutional Concerns: The existence of independent federal agencies raises questions about their constitutional legitimacy. The Constitution recognizes only three government branches. 4. Reliability Measures: Two approaches to improving reliability are proposed: • Moratorium on Intermittent Generators: FERC could stop connecting new large generators that produce energy unpredictably, which harms grid reliability. • New Standards by NERC: NERC mi...

 This document discusses how the Covid pandemic led to a significant attack on First Amendment rights in the United States. It describes a coordinated effort by government officials and health agencies to control information, suppress dissent, and evade accountability for their roles in the pandemic. • A virus from a foreign adversary sparked a domestic crisis that allowed the U. S. government to expand its power. • Bureaucrats coerced private companies to align with government directives, restricting what people could share about the crisis. • Key figures in public health were implicated in the virus's creation and subsequently worked to cover up their involvement. • They manipulated scientific findings through bribes and targeted journalists who questioned the narrative. • A shadow government emerged that bypassed normal accountability mechanisms, impacting civil liberties heavily. • The internet, once seen as a tool for free expression, was weaponized against dissidents, leading...

 Elon Musk is reforming the federal government with a business-like approach. This article discusses Musk's methods and the potential benefits of treating government operations more like a business. • Musk likens the U. S. federal government to a morbidly obese patient, needing to lose excess weight from inefficient practices and unnecessary hires. • Recently, federal employees received an email requesting a list of their accomplishments, which Musk used as a test to ensure they were engaging with their work. • The comparison between government and business highlights that both need to be efficient in delivering value, whether it's serving citizens or generating profits. • Musk has applied a similar approach at Twitter by downsizing aggressively to identify essential functions and improve performance. • Public opinion suggests a strong desire for government efficiency, with 72% of Americans supporting a federal agency for this purpose. • The article questions the effectiveness ...

 The article discusses President Claudia Sheinbaum's response to illegal immigration in Mexico, particularly in relation to the United States, and critiques her approach of deploying troops rather than addressing the root issues. 1. The author praises former President Trump's tariff threat for drawing attention to Mexico's role in U. S. security and illegal immigration. 2. The author argues that Sheinbaum must tackle the extensive network of NGOs that facilitate illegal migration, rather than merely offering 10,000 troops to the border. 3. Previous U. S. presidents attempted cooperative approaches with Mexico, which have often failed, illustrated by the ineffective Merida Plan and the "Bicentennial Framework. " 4. Sheinbaum's response exemplifies the ongoing problem, where Mexico benefits economically from supporting illegal migrants moving north. 5. Mexico's economy is significantly impacted by remittances from migrants in the U. S. , and the informal eco...

 President Donald Trump indicated that significant staff reductions may occur at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), suggesting a 65% cut to its workforce. • During a cabinet meeting, Trump mentioned that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin could cut nearly two-thirds of the agency’s employees. • The administration has already started laying off workers across various federal agencies to reduce government waste. • Trump criticized the existing workforce, claiming many were not fulfilling their roles and described some as "obstructionists. " • The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was established to help identify and reduce wasteful federal spending, reportedly uncovering $65 billion in such spending. • Zeldin pointed out issues of mismanagement at the EPA, alleging that funds were misallocated to left-wing nonprofits linked to Democratic initiatives. • White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers confirmed the administration's commitment to cutting waste and fraud, emp...

 A recent report by investigative journalist Breanna Morello reveals troubling changes made by the Biden administration to TSA guidelines, aimed at expediting airport security for unvetted illegal immigrants. The report raises significant concerns regarding national security and the prioritization of political agendas over public safety. • Policy Changes: The Biden administration altered TSA guidelines, allowing illegal immigrants to pass through security checkpoints without proper identification. This change reportedly aimed to create a new voting bloc of non-citizens, prioritizing political power over security. • Fast-Tracking Illegals: Documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit indicate that TSA was focused on speeding up lines for unvetted individuals. Most could board flights without any identification or with documents like arrest warrants that previously wouldn't have sufficed. • Operational Efficiency: The TSA claimed to have reduced ID verification tim...

 Foreign companies are increasingly withdrawing from China's struggling economy, showing a lack of confidence in the government's ability to stabilize the market. • Recent reports indicate that major firms, including the U. S. law firm Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton and a BlackRock fund, are exiting China. • Cleary Gottlieb plans to close its Beijing office, while BlackRock forfeited two office towers in Shanghai after failing to repay a significant loan. • Many law firms and real estate developers are leading this departure due to declining profits, which have decreased by nearly 18% over the past three years. • Foreign firms worry they cannot compete with domestic companies that receive favorable treatment from the Chinese government. • The availability of office space in major cities like Beijing has surged as a result of this exodus, with reports showing over 20% vacancy rates. • In Shanghai, vacancy rates are similarly high, with many cities surpassing a critical thr...

 The term "equality" is often viewed as an unquestionable good in modern Western society, especially in America, where it's considered part of the national identity that "all men are created equal. " However, the concept is complex and heavily debated among politicians and scholars. 1. Definition and Usage of Equality: Politicians appreciate "equality" because it seems just, is difficult to define, and is hard to achieve. It can refer to fairness before the law or broader concepts like egalitarianism which includes “equality of outcome” or “equality of opportunity. ” 2. Rule of Law vs. Egalitarianism: Equality before the law aims for impartiality in justice but is often opposed to egalitarian principles, which seek equal outcomes and may require treating individuals unequally to achieve these ends. 3. Human Nature and Scarcity: Human diversity and individuality make true equality nearly impossible. According to scholars like Rothbard, true equality wou...

 The article discusses the contrasting treatment of federal workers compared to those in the private sector, amidst job losses among federal employees. It focuses on the reactions to these layoffs and the implications for government bureaucracy. • The media exaggerates the impact of federal job losses, framing those affected as victims while overlooking issues related to government inefficiency. • Two-thirds of the public supports reducing excess in the federal workforce, according to a Harvard-Harris poll. • Democrats appear to prioritize the preservation of federal jobs, as they are concerned about maintaining political power that relies on a robust bureaucratic workforce. • Critics argue that federal employees should not have special protections compared to private-sector workers, who face job cuts during tough times. • The notion that federal workers are inherently selfless and dedicated to public service is contested; many are perceived as serving personal or political interes...

 Rafael Caro Quintero, a notorious drug lord and one of the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) most wanted fugitives, has been transferred from Mexico to New York City to face drug-trafficking charges. • Quintero, aged 72, was moved to the U. S. after the Mexican government handed him over, along with 28 other cartel members, due to pressure from President Trump regarding tariffs on Mexican goods unless drug smuggling is addressed. • Ray Donovan, former head of New York’s DEA office, stated that Quintero's arrival is significant for DEA agents due to his connection to the murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena in 1985. • The Justice Department has indicated that many of the detained cartel members are no longer just seen as criminals but as terrorists, following their designation as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. • Quintero is expected to be arraigned in Brooklyn Federal Court and may face charges related to drug trafficking, though no current murder charges are fil...

 Attorney General Pam Bondi discussed the potential release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's case on Fox News. However, the anticipated release did not occur, leading to frustrations and questions about the FBI's actions. • Pam Bondi announced on Fox News that new details regarding Jeffrey Epstein would be released soon, including flight logs and names of clients involved in his activities. • Despite the announcement, the expected list was not released the following day, which caused Bondi to express her anger and demand answers. • Bondi discovered that the FBI's New York City office possessed thousands of pages of records but was not cooperating with the Department of Justice (DOJ) or FBI headquarters in Washington, D. C. • Bondi spoke with the newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel, who was unaware of the New York office's refusal to comply with requests for documents. • Bondi issued a firm ultimatum for the New York office to turn over the files by 8 AM the...

 The attempt on former President Donald Trump's life during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13 has sparked significant intrigue and concern. The incident is marked by Trump's dramatic response, which could impact his political future. However, the motivations and background of the would-be assassin, Thomas Crook, remain shrouded in mystery. • Assassination Attempt: Thomas Crook attempted to assassinate Trump but was quickly subdued by law enforcement. • Investigation Challenges: An investigation into Crook's motivations is ongoing, with the FBI reportedly obstructing efforts to uncover the truth. Local authorities and those who knew Crook are frustrated by the lack of clear answers. • Family's Silence: Crook’s parents have refused interviews and lead a secluded life, leaving the community curious about their knowledge of his actions. • Criminal Network Allegations: A private investigator believes that Crook may have been part of a "criminal network" t...

A recently uncovered scandal involves a migrant facility in Pecos, Texas, which has been receiving significant payments despite being empty. The Justice Department is set to investigate this deal that has connections to a Biden official. • The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has been paying $18 million per month since March 2024 to keep an empty migrant facility operational. • The contract for this facility was secured by Andrew Lorenzen-Strait, a former ICE employee who transitioned to a role with the Biden administration in 2021. • Family Endeavors, the organization managing the facility, saw its financial assets grow dramatically after securing the no-bid contract, rising from $8. 3 million in 2020 to $520. 4 million in 2023. • The empty facility's contract has now been terminated, resulting in annual savings of over $215 million for taxpayers. • Previous reports highlighted the poor living conditions within the facility, which housed unaccompanied minors. • The HH...

 On his first day in office, President Joe Biden's actions reportedly led to significant job losses, particularly in construction. 1. Job Elimination: Biden's decision to halt the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline was said to have eliminated over 11,000 construction jobs and a total of approximately 52,100 jobs when including the broader impact across the U. S. , according to the U. S. State Department. 2. Border Wall Construction: The termination of the Trump border wall project was reported to have resulted in the loss of an additional 10,000 jobs. 3. Gas Prices: Following these decisions, gas prices in America reportedly surged to over $5 per gallon. This prompted Biden to seek assistance from OPEC to increase oil supply. 4. Media Response: The report suggests that there was a lack of sympathy from liberal media and commentators for those who lost their jobs in the energy and construction sectors. 5. Current Events: The article highlights how the media seeks to provok...

Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced that new files related to Jeffrey Epstein will be released soon, with details expected to surface shortly. • Bondi stated there are over 250 victims connected to Epstein, emphasizing the need to protect their identities before releasing the information. • Flight logs and names associated with Epstein's activities are anticipated to be included in the release. • Epstein, a financier and convicted sex offender, was found dead in jail, and there are ongoing discussions about his connections with various high-profile individuals, including politicians and business leaders. • Previous reports mentioned that Epstein's homes were equipped with recording devices, with claims suggesting he recorded private activities of influential visitors. • Bondi's announcement follows recent inquiries and pressure from public representatives regarding the release of Epstein-related documents. • There is ongoing debate about the legal grounds for keeping n...

 Charles Hugh Smith discusses the current state of housing as it relates to the middle class. Historically, homeownership provided stability and financial security, but now these foundations are eroding. 1. Homeownership's Historical Importance: Since World War II, owning a home has been crucial for achieving middle-class status and financial security through equity build-up. 2. Rising Costs: Ownership costs have become unpredictable and excessive, with increased insurance premiums and property taxes due to climate change and rising home values. 3. Mortgage Challenges: Current mortgage rates are higher than they were in previous years, making housing unaffordable for many potential buyers. Those with low rates are trapped in their homes. 4. Increased Ownership Costs: The total cost of homeownership now exceeds previous housing bubbles, turning house buying into a gamble rather than a secure investment. 5. Affordability Crisis: Housing has become increasingly unaffordable, similar t...

A coalition of attorneys general from 38 U. S. states is urging the FDA to take action against counterfeit versions of weight loss and diabetes medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. These fake drugs pose serious health risks to consumers. • Call for FDA Action: Attorneys general are pushing the FDA to protect the public from counterfeit GLP-1 medications. This includes using enforcement tools against those selling fake drugs. • Counterfeit Drug Risks: The letter highlights that counterfeit drugs can contain harmful substances or unknown drugs, leading to serious side effects, including hospitalization. Many consumers cannot identify fake from legitimate products. • Sources of Counterfeits: The fake medications often come from countries like China, Turkey, and India. Scammers have even sold repackaged insulin as Ozempic. • Illegal Online Sales: Some retailers are selling active ingredients of GLP-1 drugs without prescriptions, increasing risks of contamination. Consumers mixing the...

Ludwig von Mises referred to universities as "nurseries of socialism," highlighting the socialist bias prevalent in government-funded institutions. This article discusses how modern American universities have exacerbated this bias and the implications for students and academic freedom. • Many American universities are heavily influenced by government funding, leading to a lack of true customer accountability and critical thinking skills among students. • The social dynamic in universities prioritizes compliance over independent thought, with faculty often discouraged from opposing prevailing ideologies. • University boards tend to support administrators' decisions to maintain social status, often yielding to pressures related to diversity and inclusion, which can suppress dissenting opinions. • Research in universities is often constrained by funding sources, limiting the publication of work that critiques the government or standard practices in fields like environmental ...

The media is expressing strong concerns over changes to press access to President Trump, particularly regarding the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) and its influence over reporting. 1. Press Access Changes: • Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the White House will control which reporters can access President Trump, particularly in sensitive areas like the Oval Office. This marks a shift from previous WHCA control. 2. Reaction from WHCA: • The WHCA, represented by Eugene Daniels from Politico, condemned the change, stating it undermines the independence of the free press. Major news outlet editors echoed this sentiment, claiming that any limitation affects the essence of a democratic press. 3. Legacy Media’s Stance: • Some legacy media companies, including Associated Press and Bloomberg, emphasized the importance of an independent press for democracy and warned against any limitations to their special access to the White House. 4. Criticism of Corporate M...

The article by Ronald Beaty discusses the rising trend of homeschool co-ops as an alternative to public education, which many parents see as increasingly hostile to their values. By 2025, it is estimated that seven million children are being educated outside traditional schools, marking a significant shift towards educational freedom and autonomy. 1. Public School Concerns: Public schools are viewed as places promoting progressive ideas rather than civic education. Curricula often teach Critical Race Theory and other ideologies that some parents, particularly conservatives, find troubling. 2. Hostility to Family Values: Many parents believe schools have become antagonistic towards their values, leading to a decade-long rise in dissatisfaction with public education. 3. Homeschool Co-ops Emergence: Homeschool co-ops are groups of families coming together to provide education outside of public schools. They prioritize community engagement and often have diverse educational offerings. 4. I...

 Dr. Deborah Birx, former White House Coronavirus Response coordinator, disclosed that COVID-19 vaccines were not intended to stop infections but to reduce severe disease in high-risk groups. This statement has triggered significant discussions about public health practices and trust. 1. Vaccine Purpose Misunderstood: According to Birx, the COVID-19 vaccines aimed only to mitigate severe illness, not to prevent infection altogether. 2. Public Health Messaging Issues: Birx criticized health messaging during the pandemic for being misleading, which contributed to vaccine hesitancy and declining public confidence in health authorities. 3. CDC Definition Change: In 2021, the CDC modified its definition of "vaccine" by removing the term “immunity,” suggesting the vaccines' limited effectiveness. 4. Financial Gains for Pharmaceutical Companies: The pandemic has significantly benefitted pharmaceutical companies, raising concerns about their priorities being more about profit tha...

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at making healthcare prices transparent. This order seeks to shake up an industry that has long kept pricing secret and potentially allows consumers to find better deals on medical services. • The executive order mandates that healthcare providers and insurers publicly disclose their prices for services. • It targets the lack of transparency that has historically benefited insurers and providers, keeping patients uninformed. • Trump's 2019 rules on price transparency had low compliance, with only 14% of hospitals adhering to them by 2022. • The new directive intends to enforce stricter compliance and requires full disclosure of actual costs for procedures like MRIs and colonoscopies. • Critics, including some insurance industry groups, argue that the policy might raise premiums and disrupt current negotiating processes. • Andrew Bremberg, a former official in Trump's administration, remarked that this move represents a ...

The Trump administration has conducted a thorough review of U. S. foreign aid, aiming to eliminate a significant portion of funding and streamline its foreign assistance programs. The review focuses on ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively in alignment with American interests. 1. Foreign Aid Cuts: • The State Department identified nearly 15,000 grants, valued at $60 billion, for potential elimination. This includes over 9,100 grants from the State Department worth approximately $15. 9 billion and 5,800 grants from USAID totaling $54 billion, marking a drastic 92% reduction in USAID's spending. 2. Review Rationale: • The push for these cuts aligns with the "America First" policy by prioritizing spending that advances U. S. safety, strength, and prosperity while eliminating programs that are seen as less beneficial. 3. Background on Previous Funding: • Under the Biden administration, USAID funded numerous initiatives related to environmental justice, LGBTQI+ inclus...

The content discusses President Donald Trump's accomplishments during his first month in office and highlights the response from both supporters and critics. It emphasizes many successes that went unnoticed by the media. 1. Significant Wins: • Illegal border crossings decreased by 94% year-on-year. • The identification of $65 billion in federal waste, mismanagement, and corruption. • The federal government ended DEI initiatives. • Male athletes are barred from competing against females in federally funded schools. • American diplomats secured the release of a dozen U. S. hostages abroad. 2. International Relations and Security: • Trump's tariff threats prompted Colombia and Mexico to take action against illegal immigration. • A controversial Middle East peace plan was introduced, focusing on rebuilding Gaza. • The CIA offered buyouts to its staff, reflecting ongoing changes in government personnel. 3. Trump's Media Engagement: • Trump answered over 1,000 questions in his fi...

 CNN anchor Jake Tapper is set to release a book titled “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again” in May 2025. This book comes almost a year after a pivotal debate where the reality of President Biden's mental decline became undeniable. • In June 2024, the Democratic Party confronted the truth about Biden's senility, despite having prior knowledge. Their efforts to hide it through media manipulation fell short. • Tapper's book suggests that Biden's decision to run for reelection is rooted in narcissism and self-delusion and describes it as a reckless gamble that failed, contributing to a significant public deception. • The claim is made that Biden's mental incapacity renders his decisions inconsequential, with stakeholders around him prioritizing their benefit over the public interest. • The media’s complicity is called into question, as they were aware of Biden's condition and actively participated in the co...

 A new state bill could allow the sale of ivermectin without a prescription. State Rep. Wes Virdell introduced HB 3175, which aims to enhance personal medical freedom. • The bill directs the Commissioner of State Health Services to let licensed pharmacists dispense ivermectin OTC, as long as they choose to stock it. • Virdell cites a need for this bill after observing people using experimental treatments during COVID-19 while ivermectin, a well-known drug, was disregarded. • Ivermectin has been credited for its efficacy in killing parasites and has won a Nobel Prize for its discovery. • While some studies suggest it may reduce COVID-19 fatalities, the FDA does not approve ivermectin for treating COVID-19, asserting that current data does not support its efficacy. • Doctors can prescribe ivermectin off-label when they see fit, despite past FDA warnings against its use for COVID-19. • The bill is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2025, if passed. Previous attempts to pass simi...

 This article discusses the troubling state of the U. S. economy, highlighting signs that suggest an impending economic collapse and a potential new Great Depression. 1. Consumer Confidence: There has been a significant decline in consumer confidence, with the index dropping to its lowest since mid-2024. 2. Sentiment Index: The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index has also fallen to its lowest level since late 2023. 3. Retail Sales: U. S. retail sales experienced their largest drop in nearly two years, signaling a slowdown in economic growth. 4. Corporate Earnings: Walmart forecasts its first profit drop in three years, indicating struggles within the retail sector. 5. Housing Market: Sales of previously-owned homes fell by 4. 9%, with high mortgage rates and limited listings impacting potential buyers. 6. Cost of Living: Nearly 70% of single adults find it difficult to afford rent or mortgage payments, indicating financial strain. 7. Job Layoffs: Major companies like ...

Kyiv has finalized a deal with the Trump administration for the joint development of Ukraine's mineral resources, including oil and gas. This agreement is expected to strengthen Ukraine's relationship with the U. S. and support long-term security commitments. • The agreement is set for signing after the U. S. removed a previous demand for a share of $500 billion in revenue from resource exploitation. • Although explicit security guarantees are not included, the terms are seen as better than past proposals. • Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized that this deal is part of a larger strategy with the U. S. • The deal allows Ukraine greater control over its mineral wealth and is expected to enhance its economy and infrastructure by reinvesting profits. • Ukrainian officials are concerned about the absence of security guarantees, which were a major demand. • The agreement has been approved by key Ukrainian ministers, and President Zelenskyy may travel to the...

The idea that “Truth is the first casualty of war” highlights how wars often serve the interests of those in power while bringing suffering to ordinary people. This perspective is rooted in historical observations and will be explored in an upcoming conference. • The phrase about truth and war comes from ancient Greece and reflects how wars are primarily about conquest and state power. • Citizens face significant hardships during war, including death, injury, economic burden, and loss of freedoms, while soldiers bear the greatest costs. • Hermann Göring’s statement during the Nuremberg trials reveals how governments manipulate public perception to gain support for war. • The Mises Institute aims to revisit the costs of war at its upcoming conference on May 15–17, focusing on questioning official narratives of history. • Renowned speakers, including historians and experts on war, will present at the conference, which will stream live and be archived online. • Governments commonly misrep...

In Washington, DC, the government was once trusted and effective, making people happy and secure. This changed dramatically when disruptive forces began undermining the system. Brooke Harrington from Dartmouth College highlights this issue in an article for the New York Times, expressing concern about the consequences of this shift. 1. Unleashed Instability: Harrington states that under President Trump’s influence, initiatives like Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency have destabilized essential federal systems, threatening public trust and safety. 2. Historical Comparison: She compares the current situation to Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, suggesting that instead of improving institutions, the current administration is dismantling them, leading to a crisis of trust in the government. 3. Faith in Institutions: Trust in complex government systems and civil service has historically helped the U. S. recover from crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic. Harrington argues this trust ...

 Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and owner of the Washington Post, announced significant changes to the paper’s opinion sections. The new policy will focus on promoting "personal liberties and free markets" as core values. • Bezos stated that the opinion pages will now support the "two pillars" he believes are essential for America's success: personal liberties and free markets. • He declared that opposing viewpoints would be published elsewhere, suggesting that dissenting perspectives are not welcome on his platform. • Some reactions to Bezos's announcement were harsh, with critics expressing outrage. For instance, Keith Olbermann referred to the Post’s new direction as "fascist. " • There were also reactions from Post staffers, with some describing the change as a serious infringement on their editorial freedom. • Bezos defended his position, arguing that supporting free markets and personal liberties will help the paper distinguish itself in a com...

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has ended a contract with Family Endeavors, a nonprofit, which was receiving millions monthly to manage an overflow facility in Texas that remained unused. • The contract was terminated because Family Endeavors, which had a former U. S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement employee involved, failed to utilize the overflow facility in Pecos, Texas. • HHS continued to pay Family Endeavors $18 million each month for this empty facility since March 2024. • Family Endeavors' financial status grew from $8. 3 million in 2020 to $520. 4 million in 2023 due to this contract. • HHS’s termination of the arrangement aims to save taxpayers more than $215 million annually as national facility occupancy for licensed care facilities is below 20%. • The leader of DOGE, Elon Musk, is pursuing aggressive measures to cut government waste, aiming for a target of $100 trillion in spending cuts. The termination of the HHS contract with Family Endeavors hig...

 After Joy Reid's recent firing from MSNBC, Rachel Maddow expressed sadness on her show and suggested that the termination was racially motivated. This response prompted a strong reaction from Megyn Kelly, who criticized Maddow during her podcast. • Rachel Maddow reacted to Joy Reid's firing by voicing her sadness and implying racial bias in the decision. • Megyn Kelly responded harshly to Maddow's comments, emphasizing that her criticism of MSNBC was inappropriate. • Kelly accused Maddow of being hypocritical and self-righteous, stating, "She oozes sanctimony and self-righteousness. " • Kelly indicated that if any of her employees criticized her publicly in the same manner, she would fire them immediately, ignoring claims of viewpoint discrimination. • She also pointed out the contradiction in Maddow’s criticism of the network regarding racial bias since both Reid and another canceled anchor, Wagner, were non-white. • The situation highlights the struggles of lib...

 The world is undergoing significant changes, marking the beginning of a new era with profound implications, especially for the United States and its global influence. • The period between 1989 and 1991 saw the collapse of the Communist bloc, positioning the United States as the leading global power. However, this dominance has impacted the national psyche negatively. • Francis Fukuyama's idea, “The End of History,” suggested that Western-style liberal democracy and free markets would inevitably spread worldwide, implying that societies would adopt these frameworks. • Western leadership attempted to detach liberal democracy from its cultural roots while promoting it as a universal model, leading to a misunderstanding of global diversity and values. • Historical efforts to impose belief systems show that cultural and societal variations persist, as seen in failed attempts to reshape societies in Iraq and Afghanistan. • The U. S. and China have developed contrasting political models;...

Harmeet Dhillon, nominated to lead the Civil Rights Division at the Department of Justice, discussed her commitment to enforcing federal civil rights laws, particularly against racial quotas used by corporations. • Target's Initiative: During her confirmation hearing, Dhillon commented on a 2023 initiative by Target to hire 20% more black employees, which she deemed an "overt racial quota system" that could be illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. • Stance on Racial Quotas: Dhillon affirmed that if facts align with Schmitt's description, such practices are unconstitutional. She emphasized that racial discrimination in hiring is inappropriate and would be a focus of her role. • Civil Rights Enforcement: Dhillon mentioned the need for a close look at how DEI programs have been applied and stressed the importance of equal enforcement of civil rights for all groups. • Lack of Prosecutions: Senator Schmitt pointed out that there had been no civil rights prosecut...

The Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a lower court's order requiring the Trump administration to release billions of dollars in U. S. foreign aid by an 11:59 PM deadline. • Chief Justice John Roberts announced the high court's decision to hold the ruling from U. S. District Judge Amir H. Ali, pending further evaluation. • Judge Ali's ruling came after a lawsuit by nonprofits and businesses against the federal government's freeze on foreign aid. • The Trump administration had initiated a freeze on foreign assistance following an executive order aimed at cutting what was described as wasteful programs. • On Wednesday, the administration disclosed plans to cut over 90% of contracts from the U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID), impacting $60 billion in assistance. • The administration argued that these cuts are necessary to eliminate waste and are in line with its foreign policy. • Reports indicate Trump and Elon Musk's teams are rapidly terminating ...

 Eric Johnson, the Mayor of Dallas, recently spoke about various topics, including his shift from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, the future of sports in North Texas, and the city's growth challenges. This summary outlines his main points from the interview with Texas Monthly. 1. Schedule and Family Life: Johnson balances his mayoral responsibilities with family, mentioning his children's activities and plans for the weekend. 2. NFL Expansion: Johnson advocates for bringing a second NFL team to Dallas. He believes North Texas, being the fastest-growing metro area, can support two teams just like New York and Los Angeles. He argues that the local football culture and population size justify this ambition. 3. Dallas Cowboys: Although he is a lifelong Cowboys fan, Johnson clarifies that having a second NFL team would not diminish the Cowboys' status. He feels that competition could benefit the region and stimulate financial opportunities for all involved. 4. WNBA...

This solution is the Gold Standard for Elections, and we at SC Safe Election are making it happen. Our whitepaper outlines the gold standard for optimizing security, transparency, verifiability, and accessibility in all four stages of the election process. You can view it here. Many of us have participated in trials and demonstrations, and we can attest that we can count ballots efficiently—and it is fun! We must “unplug” our elections from the internet, machines, and third parties. Thanks for reading SC Safe Elections News! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. In his presentation at the Republican Governor’s meeting, Trump made it clear that he is serious about implementing a paper ballot system. Specifically, he stated that paper ballots with watermarks should be used and machines and computers shouldn’t. Our Gold Standards Election whitepaper outlines this method, which we tested with volunteers statewide. In the meantime, our election director is trying to ...

 The Democratic Party is facing significant issues regarding its finances and connection with donors. Many key supporters are frustrated and have chosen to halt their contributions. • Democratic donors are unhappy with the party, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of a coherent message and organization. • A significant source of frustration comes from recent election results, leading many to feel uninspired by the party's current direction. • Donors are voicing their thoughts openly, with one major donor stating, "The Democratic Party is f‑‑‑ing terrible. Plain and simple. " • Another donor echoed this sentiment, questioning why they should continue to contribute without clear goals or strategies from the party. • The Democratic Party is struggling to connect with the American people and has resorted to negative campaigning against figures like Trump and Elon Musk instead of developing positive initiatives. • Without the support of its donors, the party faces a crit...

 President Trump has proposed a new immigration program involving a "gold card" for wealthy foreign nationals. This initiative aims to provide an alternative to the existing EB-5 program by requiring a $5 million investment. • The gold card will offer residency, work rights, and a pathway to citizenship for those who purchase it. • Trump emphasized that this program is designed to attract job creators and skilled individuals, contrasting it with the current administration's immigration policies, which he claims lead to the entry of unvetted illegal immigrants. • The gold card program will replace the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program, which has been criticized for its susceptibility to fraud. • Trump believes that selling millions of these cards will generate revenue that can help reduce the nation's deficit. • The announcement suggests that the program might be ready in a few weeks, with recipients undergoing vetting. Through the new gold card initiative, Trump ai...