January 2025

DC Residents Flee Trump Inauguration: Fear and Frustration Amidst Celebrations

Alejandra Whitney-Smith, a DC resident and attorney, will spend Trump’s inauguration weekend in a cabin to avoid the “hostile negative energy” associated with the event, particularly given her mother’s experience during the January 6th Capitol attack. Many other residents share similar sentiments, opting for getaways due to concerns about Trump’s second term and his divisive rhetoric. Conversely, Trump’s inauguration is generating significant interest among his supporters, with high hotel demand reflecting their enthusiasm. This stark contrast highlights the deeply divided political climate in the US.

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Trump’s Meme Coin Hits $32 Billion Market Cap: Is This Illegal?

Trump launches a meme coin, and overnight, the cryptocurrency, dubbed $TRUMP, skyrockets to a staggering $32 billion market cap. This astonishing development is prompting widespread disbelief and outrage across the political spectrum. The sheer speed of its rise is unprecedented, hinting at significant artificial inflation rather than organic market forces.

The timing, days before a potential return to the presidency, adds a layer of complexity and suspicion to the situation. Many are questioning the ethics, legality, and potential conflicts of interest associated with such an undertaking. The inherent conflict between holding a position of immense public power and profiting from a personal financial venture of this nature is a blatant violation of the principles of good governance.… Continue reading

RFK Jr.’s Syrup Ban Threatens Trump Heartland Corn Farmers

Despite strong support for Donald Trump in western Ohio’s corn-growing regions, his nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to head the Department of Health and Human Services raises concerns. Kennedy’s proposed ban on high fructose corn syrup and seed oils could significantly impact corn farmers, potentially displacing billions of bushels and drastically lowering prices. While immediate implementation is unlikely, the long-term effects remain uncertain, leaving farmers cautiously observing the situation. Many farmers prioritize a broader assessment of Trump’s administration rather than focusing solely on this one issue.

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Netanyahu, Trump Back Full-Scale Israeli Retaliation Against Hamas

Following a government vote ratifying the U.S.-brokered ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced President-elect Trump’s unwavering support for resuming hostilities should Hamas violate the agreement. Trump also pledged to restore military supplies previously withheld. Netanyahu attributed the deal’s success to Israel’s military pressure, highlighting the impact of its actions against the Iranian axis in weakening Hamas. This agreement, therefore, hinges on Hamas’s adherence to its terms, with military action remaining a possibility.

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Russia Offers 10-Day Leave for Capturing Ukrainian Drones

Ukraine’s inexpensive, heavy bomber drones, nicknamed “Baba Yagas,” are proving highly effective against Russian forces, inflicting substantial casualties despite underreporting due to verification challenges. These drones, including models like the Vampire and Kazhan, carry significant payloads and operate at ranges up to 12 miles, posing a significant threat despite facing countermeasures. Their success is evidenced by Russia’s repurposing of captured drones and the creation of a supply chain for their maintenance. The psychological impact on Russian soldiers is also considerable, with folklore surrounding the drones adding to their fearsome reputation.

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Social Security Reclaims $31 Million in Overpayments to Deceased

Through a 2021 Congressional act granting temporary access, the Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service has already recovered over $31 million in improper Social Security payments made to deceased individuals using the SSA’s Full Death Master File. This initiative, projected to recover over $215 million by 2026, demonstrates significant progress in combating fraud and waste within the Social Security system. The Treasury advocates for permanent access to the file to further enhance program integrity and safeguard taxpayer funds. The incoming administration’s stance on continuing this effort remains unclear.

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Biden’s Labor Chief: Pro-Billionaire, Anti-Working Class?

Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su expressed deep concern that a second Trump administration, advised by billionaires like Elon Musk, would dismantle numerous pro-worker policies enacted under President Biden. These policies include crucial protections for workers facing extreme heat, expanded overtime pay, and increased enforcement of labor laws resulting in over $1 billion recovered for wage theft victims. Su highlighted the Biden administration’s successes in infrastructure investment, union support, and worker safety regulations, contrasting them with the potential rollback of these achievements under a Trump presidency. She emphasized the importance of a strong Labor Department to protect vulnerable workers and enforce existing labor laws.

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Biden Admin Secretly Funded Ukraine’s Drone Program, NYT Reports

The Biden administration secretly funneled $1.5 billion to Ukraine’s drone program in September 2024, a previously undisclosed effort to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russia. This support included funding for drone manufacturing and facilitated collaborations between American and Ukrainian tech firms, significantly enhancing Ukrainian drone production and effectiveness. The initiative, accelerated in response to Russia’s extensive drone use and Ukraine’s 2023 counteroffensive setbacks, yielded over 200,000 domestically produced drones by year’s end. These drones, crucial in reconnaissance, combat, and naval operations, have demonstrably impacted the conflict, contributing to significant losses for the Russian military.

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