The German Bundestag approved a constitutional amendment allowing up to €1 trillion in national debt, primarily to fund defense (€500 billion) and infrastructure (€500 billion) projects over the next decade. This decision, spurred by the war in Ukraine and perceived threats from Russia, reverses Germany’s strict “debt brake” policy. The funds will modernize the military, increase aid to Ukraine, and address significant infrastructure deficiencies. However, this substantial spending increase raises concerns about potential long-term economic stability and increased borrowing costs.
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The $5 billion Emergency Housing Voucher program, designed to prevent homelessness, is exhausting its funds, leaving roughly 60,000 renters at risk of eviction. The program’s expiration, communicated in a March 6th letter from HUD, is due to the depletion of initial funding, and no additional federal money is expected. This leaves local housing authorities with no clear solution to support their existing tenants, potentially leading to a significant increase in homelessness. The situation is exacerbated by rising rents exceeding the program’s capacity and existing long waitlists for standard housing vouchers.
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A GOP representative, a vocal advocate for legislation supposedly designed to “protect” girls from transgender individuals, has been arrested for preying on a young girl. This arrest throws into stark relief the hypocrisy often associated with such pronouncements, highlighting the disturbing pattern of individuals who publicly champion child protection while secretly engaging in predatory behavior.
The irony is almost too heavy to bear. This elected official, who likely used his platform to fuel fear and prejudice against a vulnerable minority group, now finds himself facing serious consequences for actions directly contradicting his public rhetoric. It underscores a disturbing trend: those who loudly proclaim their commitment to safeguarding children are sometimes the very individuals who pose the greatest threat.… Continue reading
Following a rejected proposal for a full ceasefire and continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and energy facilities, President Zelenskyy urged sustained international pressure on Russia. This pressure should manifest as continued sanctions, unwavering aid to Ukraine, and strengthened alliances. Zelenskyy asserts that only a verifiable cessation of attacks on civilian targets will signal a genuine commitment to peace. This follows a previous, ultimately broken, agreement by Putin for a 30-day ceasefire.
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The Department of Defense removed an article detailing Jackie Robinson’s WWII service, along with numerous other articles celebrating the contributions of minority groups. This removal, seemingly connected to President Trump’s executive order on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), resulted in a “404” error for URLs now including “dei”. While the Robinson article remains accessible via Archive.org, 14 of 18 related Army website articles were deleted. This action is part of a broader pattern of removing historical content the administration deems DEI-focused.
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The mandated return to office for all FDA rank-and-file staff resulted in significant logistical challenges on the first day. Thousands of employees encountered overcrowded parking, lengthy security lines, and a shortage of basic office supplies, including chairs and desks, in makeshift workspaces. Many reported “chaos and lost work hours” due to these issues, with employees resorting to scavenging for essential items across the campus. The situation was further complicated by ongoing concerns about Legionella bacteria in the building’s water supply.
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To combat over $100 million in annual direct deposit fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement stricter identity verification measures starting March 31st. This necessitates in-person visits to field offices for new applicants and those changing direct deposit information, impacting those with limited online access or mobility. While the SSA aims to expedite direct deposit changes to one business day, concerns remain regarding the impact on accessibility, particularly given planned office closures and staff layoffs. Critics argue these changes create unnecessary obstacles for beneficiaries, potentially furthering privatization efforts.
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Minnesota Senator Justin Eichorn, a 40-year-old married father, was arrested for allegedly soliciting a minor for prostitution. This arrest occurred on the same day he sponsored a bill defining “Trump derangement syndrome” as a mental illness. Eichorn faces felony charges related to the solicitation, with the Bloomington Police Department actively processing the case. Police Chief Booker Hodges emphasized the seriousness of such offenses and called for stronger penalties.
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The Vancouver Auto Show will not feature Tesla vehicles this year. This decision follows Tesla’s continued refusal to participate in the event, a choice attributed to the automaker’s differing sales and marketing strategies. The absence marks a significant change for the show, as Tesla has been a popular draw in previous years. Organizers expressed disappointment but remain committed to showcasing a diverse range of vehicles.
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Canadian actress and entrepreneur Jasmine Mooney was detained for nearly two weeks in US immigration detention centers after her work visa was revoked. Held at the San Ysidro border crossing and subsequently transferred to Arizona, Mooney described inhumane conditions, including concrete cells with inadequate bedding and sanitation. Mooney, who had no criminal record, was ultimately released and returned to Canada. The circumstances surrounding the visa revocation and her detention remain unclear.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood