Palantir Technologies, a company founded by Peter Thiel, is at the intersection of AI assets, the US military, data collection for the Trump regime, and elements of Silicon Valley pushing for a shift away from democracy. Palantir uses AI to analyze personal data, and it was chosen to compile a super-database of information from various government agencies, potentially to advance political agendas. This move raises concerns, as former employees and some Republicans worry about the potential for misuse. Behind Palantir’s selection are figures like Elon Musk, who has worked closely with Thiel, who have contributed vast sums of money to political causes that appear to devalue democracy.
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During a private dinner at the NATO summit, leaders, including Czech President Petr Pavel, urged then-White House chief Donald Trump to intensify economic pressure on Russia to encourage negotiations. Pavel and others argued for increased sanctions, highlighting their effectiveness, by referencing Trump’s past success in pressuring China through tariffs. While Trump remained reserved, he acknowledged the potential of economic pressure as a tool, as reported by Pavel.
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Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi issued a fatwa declaring US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “enemies of God” due to their perceived threats against Iran’s leadership. This decree calls upon Muslims globally to unite against the leaders, viewing any support for them as forbidden. A “mohareb,” or enemy of God, under Iranian law, can face severe penalties, including execution. This fatwa, mirroring past instances of religious decrees, was issued following a period of heightened conflict between Iran, Israel, and the US, with the fatwa urging Muslims to make the leaders regret their actions.
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In a recent interview with Meet the Press, New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani discussed his campaign platform and addressed criticisms. Mamdani reiterated his stance on wealth inequality, stating his belief that billionaires should not exist. The interview also delved into specific policy proposals, including his tax plan, and addressed accusations of antisemitism leveled against him.
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Kristi Noem, while governor of South Dakota, received $80,000 through her personal company, Ashwood Strategies, from a dark money group called American Resolve Policy Fund. This payment, described as a fundraising fee, was not included on her federal disclosure forms, which experts suggest is a possible ethics violation. The nonprofit, which doesn’t disclose its donors, paid Ashwood Strategies for raising funds, a highly unusual arrangement according to experts. Noem’s lawyer stated she complied with the law but didn’t respond to whether the ethics office was aware of the payment. This arrangement may have also run afoul of South Dakota law, according to some experts.
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The report from the Center for Gun Violence Solutions and the Center for Suicide Prevention reveals that gun-related suicides in the U.S. reached a record high in 2023, with over 27,300 deaths. Despite a nearly 9% decrease, gun homicides remained near record levels, while guns continued to be the leading cause of death for young people aged 1-17. Alarmingly, gun suicide rates surged among Black and Hispanic youth, aligning with increased gun ownership rates. Researchers emphasize that this crisis is preventable through a comprehensive public health approach, including interventions that limit access to firearms for those at high risk of suicide.
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The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has revealed a tragic loss, announcing the murder of twelve of its local staff members. Reports also indicate that other GHF personnel have been subjected to torture. This devastating news comes amid ongoing conflict and the distribution of aid, highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in the region. The GHF’s announcement underscores the dire conditions and the vulnerability of those providing critical assistance.
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Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the New York City mayoral primary has energized progressives, but he faces significant opposition from the billionaire class and the establishment, who are expected to heavily fund his opponents. India Walton, who lost her general election, cautions that Mamdani’s campaign should focus on grassroots efforts such as direct conversations to combat fear and spread their message. Key to victory is the importance of engaging working-class voters and countering corporate interests who will likely target Mamdani with negative messaging in the general election, as well as highlighting the importance of this win for the future of the Democratic party.
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The Justice Department is prioritizing the revocation of citizenship for naturalized citizens who commit crimes, expanding the criteria for denaturalization, and granting district attorneys wider discretion in pursuing these cases. This initiative, as stated in a recent memo, designates denaturalization as a top enforcement priority, potentially impacting millions of naturalized citizens. Immigration law experts have expressed serious concerns over the constitutionality of the initiative, particularly the reliance on civil litigation, which may compromise due process rights. This effort builds upon actions taken during previous administrations and is a continuation of actions taken by the Trump administration.
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Recent polling data paints a grim picture for President Trump’s federal spending proposals. Multiple surveys from prominent research organizations reveal overwhelmingly negative net approval ratings, ranging from -19 to -29 percent. CNN’s analysis indicates the public’s disapproval has remained consistent, with some polls showing identical negative figures since the start of June. Experts suggest the American public holds exceptionally strong negative views on the proposed legislation, with some considering it the most despised in recent history.
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John Q. Hosedrinker