Elon Musk’s actions since gaining influence have resulted in numerous detrimental consequences, including a near-catastrophic airline incident due to his interference with the FAA, access to sensitive government data, and potentially unfair competitive advantages. Further, his influence has led to cuts in foreign aid, jeopardizing global stability, and jeopardized crucial social programs. These actions, none of which were authorized by the electorate, highlight the dangers of unchecked power in the hands of an unelected individual. The article urges citizens to actively oppose Musk’s influence on American governance.
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Donald Trump’s administration imposed steep tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, sparking a mixed reaction from US business leaders and strong criticism. The tariffs, justified by Trump as addressing illegal immigration and drug trafficking, are projected to increase inflation and lower US GDP. While some businesses see tariffs as a negotiating tool, others, including the US Chamber of Commerce, warn of significant economic harm to American consumers and businesses. Retaliatory tariffs have been announced by Canada and Mexico, and China plans legal action through the WTO.
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Tariffs, taxes on imported goods, are used to protect domestic industries by increasing the price of imports and encouraging consumers to buy domestically. Trump’s threatened tariffs on EU goods aim to address the US trade deficit, impacting businesses and consumers in both regions. European carmakers experienced significant stock declines following the announcement, highlighting the potential economic consequences of these trade measures. While some EU nations have trade surpluses with the US, the overall impact of potential tariffs is a major concern for global markets.
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Following a public speech criticizing the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education, Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai was reportedly forced to flee Afghanistan. Stanikzai’s criticism, delivered at a January 20th graduation ceremony, cited religious and ethical justifications for overturning the ban. Subsequently, he was allegedly ordered arrested by the Taliban’s supreme leader, leading to his departure for the UAE, though he cited health reasons. This incident highlights the ongoing oppression of women and girls under Taliban rule, a situation currently under investigation by the International Criminal Court.
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Following a 30-day pause on US tariffs, New Brunswick will maintain existing American alcohol on NB Liquor shelves but halt further purchases. Premier Susan Holt announced this decision alongside a four-point plan to review government procurement, support workers and businesses affected by potential tariffs, review internal trade barriers, and explore additional protective measures. While some contracts with US companies will be maintained for essential services, the province aims to replace US products with Canadian alternatives wherever possible. This response comes after several other Canadian provinces implemented similar measures, including banning US alcohol and limiting contracts with US companies.
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Elon Musk, acting as an unofficial co-autocrat with President Trump, has seized significant control over the US government. This power grab involves Musk unilaterally cancelling government grants, accessing and controlling the Treasury’s payment system, and gaining access to sensitive personal data on all US taxpayers. This action, achieved through Trump’s unauthorized “Department of Government Efficiency,” constitutes a de facto coup, bypassing Congressional authority and established checks and balances. Musk’s actions, enabled by his close relationship with Trump, represent a profound threat to American democracy.
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Following a federal court order temporarily blocking President Trump’s freeze on federal funding, the Department of Justice (DOJ) argued the order only addressed the OMB memo, not the president’s broader spending priorities. The DOJ contends the order’s ambiguity could unduly restrict executive branch authority and the separation of powers. Plaintiffs, 22 Democratic states and Washington D.C., challenged the funding freeze as a violation of the separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act. Despite the OMB rescinding its initial memo, the DOJ maintains the administration can still communicate with agencies about spending priorities.
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A tentative agreement has been reached between Costco and the Teamsters union, preventing a potential strike by 18,000 Costco workers across six states. The agreement, pending member ratification, comes after a vote authorizing a strike if a new contract wasn’t finalized by the previous contract’s expiration. The union sought a contract reflecting Costco’s substantial recent financial growth. Specific details of the tentative agreement are yet to be released.
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Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa announced a 27% tariff on Mexican goods, citing unfair treatment of Ecuadorian producers and a lack of a free trade agreement. This affects $541 million in Mexican imports to Ecuador in 2023, with pharmaceuticals being a significant component. The move follows strained diplomatic relations stemming from a raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito. While Ecuador is a small trading partner for Mexico, the tariff represents a significant escalation of trade tensions between the two nations.
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An undated memo signed by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to prioritize projects in communities exhibiting higher-than-average marriage and birth rates. This directive, impacting DOT grants and programs, aims to mitigate the effects of DOT activities on families and improve internal management, according to the memo. The policy’s potential impact on communities with lower rates remains uncertain and the DOT has yet to publicly comment on the memo. This decision follows other recent actions by the Trump administration focused on dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the department.
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John Q. Hosedrinker