Reports indicate that Donald Trump is orchestrating the sale of TikTok’s U.S. assets to a consortium of right-wing billionaires and allies. This deal, involving figures like Marc Andreessen and Larry Ellison, is expected to convert the platform into a propaganda tool, raising concerns about democratic values and consumer privacy. Despite claims of prioritizing national security, the move is viewed as a power grab aimed at controlling information and silencing dissent. The acquisition aligns with a broader strategy of media consolidation by Trump’s allies, echoing authoritarian tactics seen elsewhere and threatening the integrity of American media.
Read More
President Trump has repeatedly and incorrectly claimed to have settled conflicts between Azerbaijan and Albania. This claim, repeated in multiple interviews and appearances, misrepresents the countries involved. In a recent Fox News appearance, Trump described a scenario in the Oval Office involving the leaders of these nations, emphasizing the closeness achieved during the supposed resolution. The accuracy of these claims is questionable, considering the ongoing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Read More
The Cleveland Chief of Police announced that the autopsy results confirmed Delta State University student Trey Reed’s death as a suicide by hanging. The Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s findings aligned with the initial investigation and the Bolivar County Coroner’s office. All investigative materials have been turned over to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for review. Despite the ruling, Reed’s family, represented by Jones Law Firm, will pursue an independent autopsy and investigation.
Read More
David Letterman weighed in on the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! at the Atlantic Festival, condemning the move as a result of an “authoritarian criminal administration” in the Oval Office. Letterman, who hosted late-night shows for decades, stated he never faced pressure from any governmental agency regarding his political humor. He criticized the Federal Communications Commission’s Brendan Carr and expressed his belief that Kimmel’s situation reflects a broader trend of managed media and manipulation within the industry. Letterman also mentioned the end of Stephen Colbert’s run on late night at CBS, saying that it was “inexcusable”, as the show was being manipulated to appease the president.
Read More
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live “indefinitely” by Disney-owned ABC came after an explicit threat from Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr. Carr, wielding the FCC’s power to regulate broadcast TV and approve mergers, pressured ABC-affiliated stations to stop airing the show, citing concerns about Kimmel’s comments regarding Charlie Kirk’s death. This governmental overreach, mirroring a prior tactic used on Paramount, led to the suspension, demonstrating an attempt to dictate the speech of private TV networks and entertainers. The FCC chair’s actions stand in stark contrast to First Amendment principles and have been condemned by some.
Read More
In response to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the House has extended funding for lawmakers’ personal security. The program, initially implemented after a shooting involving Minnesota state lawmakers, offers up to $10,000 monthly for personal security and $20,000 for home security. This extension will remain in effect until November 21st. House Speaker Mike Johnson has assured the public that Congress is actively exploring long-term security solutions for its members following the tragic event.
Read More
Following threats from the FCC, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show, representing a significant attack on free speech. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr demanded Kimmel’s removal due to a joke, backed by threats to ABC’s broadcast licenses. This action aligns with Trump’s authoritarian efforts to control the media and stifle criticism, as seen in the past with other world leaders. The administration’s actions, paired with media capitulation, are designed to instill fear, especially considering the concentration of power within media conglomerates, allowing for greater leverage and control. The incident serves as a concerning warning of Trump’s intentions in the US.
Read More
The indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show by ABC has ignited calls for a boycott against Disney and other media conglomerates. These boycott efforts were spurred by complaints from FCC chair Brendan Carr regarding Kimmel’s monologue, and followed similar objections from Nexstar Media and Sinclair. Public figures and groups like the Working Families Party and 50501 are urging action, highlighting concerns about censorship and the potential impact on freedom of speech. Calls for a boycott are spreading through various social media platforms with some users claiming Disney is concerned about financial repercussions.
Read More
On Thursday, a group of New York elected officials, including Comptroller Brad Lander and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, were detained by Department of Homeland Security agents during a protest at federal immigration courts in Lower Manhattan. The officials were arrested after attempting to inspect holding cells for immigrants and demanding access to the facilities. According to Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas, the group’s actions were in response to the “terrorizing” of New York communities by federal agents. DHS officials stated the actions were a publicity stunt, while others claimed the actions were necessary to protect immigrants’ rights.
Read More
In North Codorus, Pennsylvania, a suspected stalker ambushed police officers who were attempting to arrest him, resulting in a deadly shootout. The suspect, armed with an AR-style rifle, had been hiding inside his ex-girlfriend’s home after being captured on a trail camera. Upon entering the home, four plainclothes detectives were immediately fired upon, with three officers killed and another seriously wounded. The suspect was ultimately shot and killed by other officers, concluding a 15-hour ordeal that began with the ex-girlfriend’s concerns over the suspect’s behavior.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker