Senator Jeff Merkley expressed disappointment after Senate Republicans blocked his bill, the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025. This bill aimed to prevent the use of federal funds for military action in Venezuela without explicit Congressional approval. Merkley argued that Congress holds the constitutional power to declare war, criticizing the potential for unilateral action by former President Trump. The bill, co-sponsored by several other senators, also included exceptions for self-defense, counternarcotics operations, and humanitarian aid.
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Recent reports scrutinizing Donald Trump’s health have prompted a lengthy response on Truth Social where he accused publications like The New York Times of “seditious” behavior for reporting on his alleged deteriorating health. The former president claimed he has repeatedly “aced” cognitive exams and that the scrutiny of his health is fueled by fabricated reports. These remarks followed increased media attention on his physical and cognitive abilities, including instances of dozing off, bruising, and swollen ankles. Trump’s post reflects a growing concern over the former president’s fitness, mirroring the same criticisms he once leveled against his political rivals.
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The article expresses concern about the potential erosion of women’s suffrage, drawing parallels to the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States and its potential influence in the UK. It highlights the increasing visibility of those questioning the 19th Amendment, including figures within the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) who advocate for a “household vote.” This shift is seen as part of a larger movement, supported by powerful individuals and organizations, to subtly alter the cultural landscape and make previously unthinkable ideas, like limiting women’s voting rights, seem more acceptable. The author warns that these tactics are already present in the UK, exemplified by connections between conservative groups and political figures, and urges vigilance in defending democratic principles.
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Due to widespread and historic-level flooding, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, allowing the state to seek federal funds. The Washington National Guard has been mobilized to assist local communities, with over 300 members ready to respond. Emergency crews are prepared to evacuate up to 100,000 residents, particularly in low-lying areas along the Skagit River, which is predicted to exceed previous record flood levels. The situation is considered life-threatening, and residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and monitor alerts from local emergency management departments.
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The Defense Department recently launched GenAi.mil, a new generative AI tool aimed at integrating artificial intelligence into the Armed Forces. Despite the potential for such technology to be used in modern warfare, the platform successfully analyzed a hypothetical Caribbean boat strike scenario, determining it to be “unambiguously illegal.” The AI’s ability to navigate the Geneva Conventions seemingly surpassed the capabilities of human officers. While the implications of this technological advancement are significant, it also highlights potential issues within the chain of command.
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Disney announced a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI, signaling a significant move into the realm of generative AI. This collaboration will allow Sora users to create videos featuring over 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters, starting next year, under a new three-year licensing agreement. As part of the agreement, Disney will receive warrants to purchase additional equity and become a major OpenAI customer, using ChatGPT for its employees and developing new tools. This move comes as Disney seeks to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and protect its intellectual property, which includes both a cease and desist to Google and lawsuits against AI image creators like Midjourney.
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A recent Danish intelligence report issued a stark warning about the United States, echoing concerns previously raised by Dutch intelligence regarding political interference and human rights. This report highlights growing European unease regarding Washington’s global strategies, particularly as the U.S. shifts its focus towards the Pacific, potentially diminishing its role as a security guarantor in Europe. The report also acknowledges the complex dynamics of the China-U.S. relationship, particularly as Beijing challenges the U.S.’s global dominance and both countries vie for influence and resources. Furthermore, the report paints a concerning worst-case scenario where regional conflicts, involving both Russia and China, could erupt in the Baltic Sea and Taiwan Strait, respectively.
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In a blunder, former President Donald Trump amplified a social media post from a known troll account, “Gary Peterson,” on his Truth Social platform. The post, which purported to praise Trump’s “affordability tour,” was a mocking parody that altered the rally’s message and location. The troll account, recognized for its satirical content, has amassed a large following by ridiculing Trump supporters. This incident highlighted the president’s misstep amidst criticism of his response to affordability concerns.
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Ahead of the release of Jeffrey Epstein’s case files, survivors and Democratic members of Congress are requesting an independent review to ensure the records haven’t been tampered with or concealed. They are specifically requesting the Justice Department’s inspector general conduct a formal review of the files’ “chain of custody” due to concerns that records may have been altered or removed. The impending release of these files by a December 19 deadline, stemming from the Epstein Files Transparency Act, follows pressure from both parties for greater transparency. The investigation of the records is set to address concerns regarding how many individuals have had custody over the materials ahead of the release and their handling.
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Fed Chair Jerome Powell Says U.S. May Be Drastically Overstating Jobs Numbers, and the implications are significant. It seems the current economic data, particularly the jobs numbers, might not be as rosy as they’ve been painted. This is not just a casual observation; it’s a concern coming from the very top, the head of the Federal Reserve. It’s like a quiet alarm bell, subtly suggesting that the economy’s performance could be less impressive than the official reports indicate.
The crux of the issue boils down to how the Labor Department measures job creation, specifically how it deals with the constant churn of businesses opening and closing.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood