DOGE ‘doesn’t exist’ with eight months left on its charter, and the echoes of this claim reverberate with a certain chilling resonance. It’s a statement that, in the context of certain discussions, becomes less about the literal absence of a thing and more about the perceived end of an era, the fading of a presence that once loomed large. The assertion, it seems, arises from a complex narrative, a story interwoven with accusations of data theft, regulatory interference, and the potential for long-term damage, all of which culminate in a picture of an entity whose core purpose may have been fulfilled.… Continue reading
Amidst the Las Vegas Grand Prix, FBI Director Kash Patel, along with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, faced criticism regarding the use of taxpayer resources. Patel has been scrutinized for employing an FBI SWAT team to protect his girlfriend, and using government jets for personal trips, including golf outings. Critics, including former agents, have questioned the justification of these actions, particularly given the lack of reimbursement for personal use of government planes. Noem also came under fire regarding her department’s purchase of two luxury jets.
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Kelly: ‘We’ve heard very little’ from Republicans since Trump’s sedition posts, and that silence speaks volumes. It’s almost as if the air has been sucked out of the room, leaving a vacuum of accountability. Following Trump’s recent pronouncements, which were nothing short of incendiary, the expected chorus of condemnation from the Republican party has been remarkably faint. It begs the question: what exactly is the party’s stance on this?
It seems the silence isn’t a random occurrence. It is carefully considered. Perhaps this hesitancy to speak out is because they share the same views. Perhaps they fear retribution from Trump’s base.… Continue reading
On Saturday, the National Day Laborer Organizing Network led a demonstration at a Monrovia Home Depot, involving a “buy-in” where participants purchased and immediately returned ice scrapers. The action aimed to pressure the company to address immigration enforcement activities near their stores, particularly following the death of a day laborer fleeing ICE agents. Protesters, some wearing aprons with anti-ICE slogans, marched through the store while organizers blocked vehicle access to the front of the store during a news conference. Home Depot stated they do not coordinate with ICE and are not involved in the operations, adding that they are required to follow all federal and local rules and regulations.
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Norway has removed KNDS Deutschland’s EuroPULS from its rocket artillery competition, leaving U.S. and South Korean systems as the remaining options. This decision occurs amid deepening defense partnerships between Berlin and Oslo, making the exclusion a notable point of contention within the partnership. The U.S. offers HIMARS and GMARS systems, while South Korea’s K239 Chunmoo presents an alternative with local production capabilities. Ultimately, Norway’s choice will influence NATO’s deep-fires architecture, impacting the balance between U.S. influence, Asian suppliers, and Europe’s drive for strategic autonomy.
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Alright, let’s dive into the core of the matter: the European counter-proposal to the US Ukraine peace plan. It’s a critical piece of the puzzle, and it’s essential to grasp the key differences and the potential implications.
Compared to the US-drafted plan, the European counter-proposal shows some important shifts. One of the most significant changes is the removal of a clause that would have restricted Russia from invading its neighbors, while also stating NATO would not expand further. This clause, it seems, was a point of contention and was deemed unsuitable by the European side.
Next, the European counter-proposal reworks the post-agreement dialogue between Russia and NATO.… Continue reading
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was arrested and claimed he damaged his electronic ankle monitor “out of curiosity,” after being suspected of planning to abscond. A video released by the Supreme Court showed the device badly damaged and burned, with Bolsonaro admitting to using a soldering iron on it. The arrest, ordered by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, came amidst fears Bolsonaro would seek refuge in a foreign embassy, possibly the U.S. embassy, to avoid punishment for his role in a failed coup and his 27-year prison sentence. Supporters and detractors reacted strongly, with his allies condemning the arrest as political persecution, while opponents celebrated his detainment.
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Canada says it will resume US trade talks ‘when appropriate’. This stance, as it seems, is a reflection of a carefully considered strategy, born out of necessity and a changing global landscape. The current situation with the United States is, to put it mildly, complicated. While maintaining dialogue, as suggested, is crucial, the emphasis is clearly on timing, specifically, “when appropriate.” This suggests a pragmatic approach – not shutting the door, but not rushing to reopen it either. The Canadian government, it appears, is playing the long game.
The prevailing strategy seems to be twofold: continue engaging with the US, given the significant trade volumes involved, but simultaneously diversify and expand trade relationships elsewhere.… Continue reading
A group of European lawmakers has sent a letter to U.S. President Donald Trump, expressing concerns about potential appeasement of Russia. The letter, signed by parliamentarians from various European countries, follows criticism of a leaked peace plan perceived as favoring Russian interests in Ukraine. The signatories condemn any pressure on Ukraine and urge strong American leadership, warning that a perceived Russian victory would embolden authoritarian regimes. The letter specifically invokes Ronald Reagan’s policy towards the USSR and cautions against actions that could undermine the U.S.-led order, with the world closely watching the situation in Ukraine.
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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed strong optimism for the U.S. economy in 2026, citing President Trump’s trade deals, tariff agenda, and the recently passed domestic policy package as key drivers. He acknowledged some economic pressures, particularly in the housing sector and the impact of the government shutdown. Bessent also discussed healthcare cost reductions anticipated under the Trump administration. In addition, Bessent advocated for ending the Senate filibuster and voiced support for a U.S.-backed peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker