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A Republican plan to extend the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) before its 2025 expiration faces a steep price tag, potentially exceeding $4.6 trillion over ten years. Funding mechanisms include eliminating popular deductions like the mortgage interest deduction and student loan interest deduction, as well as imposing a 10% import tariff. This plan could disproportionately benefit wealthier Americans while burdening lower-income households through higher consumer costs and reduced social safety net programs. Proposed new tax cuts, such as eliminating taxes on overtime and tips, would further inflate the overall cost.
Artem Bugorskiy, a 45-year-old Russian national, has been charged with the intentional homicide of his 13-year-old son, Lucas, following an incident on a speedboat near Koh Ra. Bugorskiy allegedly threw his son overboard, then jumped in himself, refusing rescue attempts. Lucas suffered fatal propeller injuries. Bugorskiy denies the allegations.
A new poll reveals overwhelming public support across the UK for prioritizing closer trade ties with the EU over the US, even in traditionally pro-Brexit areas. Chancellor Rachel Reeves explicitly acknowledged Brexit’s negative economic impact and advocated for improved EU trade relations, echoing calls from various think tanks. This stance contrasts with the Labour government’s previous hesitation, suggesting a shift towards prioritizing economic growth through closer EU integration. The current post-Brexit trade arrangements are hindering UK businesses, highlighting the urgency for change.
A 45-minute phone call between then-President-elect Trump and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen regarding the US’s proposed purchase of Greenland was described by European officials as “horrendous” and “very tough,” marked by Trump’s aggressive demands and threats of retaliatory measures. Frederiksen firmly rejected the proposition, stating Greenland is not for sale and belongs to the Greenlanders. Trump’s pursuit stemmed from Greenland’s rich natural resources, crucial for economic and strategic interests. This incident highlighted existing tensions regarding Greenland’s autonomy and its relationship with both Denmark and the United States.
President Trump’s executive order aiming to revoke birthright citizenship for children of non-citizen parents has been deemed “blatantly unconstitutional” by a federal judge. The administration’s arguments, relying on 19th-century laws and misinterpretations of Supreme Court cases concerning Native American citizenship, are widely rejected by legal experts. The order’s fate hinges on whether judges prioritize historical precedent, particularly the 1898 *Wong Kim Ark* decision affirming birthright citizenship, or embrace the administration’s revisionist historical claims. Ultimately, the Supreme Court’s decision will reveal its stance on the Trump administration’s actions and its interpretation of constitutional history.
Phone calls between Donald Trump and British Prime Ministers Theresa May and Boris Johnson were reportedly so unpredictable that they left Downing Street staff in tears of laughter. These conversations frequently veered off-topic, with Trump raising subjects ranging from wind turbines to the Queen’s health. His relationship with the two prime ministers differed, warmer with Johnson than with May, potentially due to May’s Brexit approach and Trump’s views on women. Tensions currently exist between Trump and current Prime Minister Keir Starmer, partly due to leaked details of a previous call and a potential ambassadorial dispute.
Nigel Farage, speaking to a right-wing audience including members of Trump’s inner circle, expressed confidence in winning the next UK general election, hoping it occurs while Trump remains president. This sentiment reflects a deep-seated animosity within the Trump administration towards Keir Starmer’s Labour government, stemming from perceived betrayals and disagreements over policy. The Trump team views Starmer’s leadership negatively, citing issues like the handling of race riots and alleged child grooming cover-ups. Consequently, Trump’s administration is actively exploring strategies to undermine Starmer’s government, potentially including influencing the next UK election.
Elon Musk’s surprise video appearance at a German far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) campaign event in Halle has sparked widespread outrage and concern. His address to a crowd of 4,500 people, alongside AfD leader Alice Weidel, marked the second time in as many weeks that he’s publicly supported the party. This is particularly alarming given the AfD’s history and association with extremist ideologies.
Musk’s comments during the event focused on the preservation of German culture and the protection of the German people. He voiced concerns about multiculturalism, suggesting that it “dilutes everything.” This statement, delivered to a far-right audience, carries significant weight and is easily interpreted as an endorsement of exclusionary nationalist ideals.… Continue reading
A recent AP-NORC poll reveals a stark reality: a majority of Americans hold unfavorable views of both Elon Musk and the cryptocurrency Dogecoin, particularly in the context of its association with the current presidential administration. This widespread negativity highlights a significant disconnect between public sentiment and the influence wielded by these figures.
The poll indicates that a mere 36% of Americans view Musk favorably, while a substantial 52% express an unfavorable opinion. This disparity underscores a deep-seated unease surrounding Musk’s actions and public persona, suggesting a potential erosion of his once-strong public image. It raises questions about the long-term consequences of such widespread negative sentiment towards such a prominent and influential individual.… Continue reading
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Matt Underwood