In SNAP appeal, the Trump administration shockingly argued that they faced more harm than the countless individuals who couldn’t afford food. It’s a statement that immediately raises eyebrows, a seeming inversion of basic human empathy and societal responsibility.
The core of the issue, as I understand it, is a dispute over funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. The administration, in its legal arguments, appeared to prioritize its own perceived interests, perhaps political maneuvering or maintaining certain policies, over the well-being of those reliant on SNAP. This is where it gets interesting, or rather, incredibly frustrating.… Continue reading
Trump administration moves to dissolve ban on Abrego Garcia’s removal to deport him to Liberia: It’s hard not to feel a surge of bewilderment, maybe even a little anger, when you hear about the Trump administration’s relentless pursuit of Abrego Garcia. It’s almost unbelievable, this laser focus on one individual, especially when contrasted with the administration’s stated priorities, or lack thereof, when it comes to supporting everyday Americans. The fact that the government is allegedly spending a considerable amount of resources on this, while simultaneously claiming a lack of funds for vital programs like SNAP, is jarring. The apparent irony isn’t lost on anyone.… Continue reading
**Judge permanently blocks deployment of National Guard to Portland, saying Trump exceeded his authority**
The news that a judge permanently blocked the deployment of the National Guard to Portland is a welcome development, a clear indication that a branch of government is actively scrutinizing and attempting to curtail the overreach of presidential power. This ruling, specifically citing that Trump exceeded his authority, is important and serves as a critical check and balance. The judge’s decision, based on the fact that Trump’s deployment was “untethered from the facts” and reality, should ideally be straightforward, and the fact that it is even a victory to be celebrated points to the erosion of basic legal principles in these times.… Continue reading
I.R.S. Suspends Free Online Offering to File Taxes Directly
So, the IRS has decided to suspend its free online tax filing service, a move that’s stirring up a lot of frustration and, frankly, a bit of outrage. It seems the service, which allowed taxpayers to file directly with the government without paying for third-party software, won’t be available for the 2025 tax season. The general sentiment is that this is a step backward, and it’s not hard to see why.
Many people are questioning the timing and the reasons behind this decision. There’s a palpable sense that the interests of big tax software companies like TurboTax and H&R Block are being prioritized over the needs of average taxpayers.… Continue reading
All thermal power plants down, 12-hour blackouts introduced in Ukraine, as Russia executes freeze-out terror. This is the grim reality unfolding now, isn’t it? The reports are stark: Ukraine’s thermal power plants, a critical component of its energy grid, are down. This has forced the introduction of rolling 12-hour blackouts across the country, a significant disruption to daily life, especially with winter fast approaching. This isn’t just a military tactic; it’s a deliberate act, a form of “freeze-out terror,” designed to cripple Ukraine by targeting its essential infrastructure.
The core of the problem, as I see it, lies in the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure by Russia.… Continue reading
Trump Is pushing us toward a Crash. It could be 1929 all over again.
The economic landscape under Republican administrations, particularly since 1953, paints a concerning picture. History shows a clear pattern, with a significant number of recessions, a vast majority, beginning under Republican leadership. This context sets the stage for a worrisome present, especially when considering the actions of a figure like Donald Trump. His history of business failures, marked by multiple bankruptcies, raises serious red flags. Could the United States, under his influence, be heading towards a financial catastrophe mirroring the Great Depression?
The potential for a severe economic downturn under Trump’s guidance is a very real possibility, and it’s something that should concern everyone.… Continue reading
The Jobs Report Is Canceled. Here’s What Private Data Shows.
With the official jobs report sidelined due to the government shutdown, the focus shifts to private sector data, and the picture it paints isn’t exactly rosy. While the labor market hasn’t cratered, the available information suggests a modest weakening since the summer. It appears we’re in a bit of a holding pattern – not a sharp decline, but certainly not a surge of growth. The situation reminds me of treading water; we’re staying afloat, but not exactly making progress.
The data sources offer a mixed bag. Some reports suggest a slight decline in private-sector employment, while others show a modest rebound.… Continue reading
‘Trump is against humankind’: World leaders at climate summit take swipes at absent president.
It seems the absence of Donald Trump at climate summits hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the consensus leans toward a fairly critical assessment of his priorities. The general sentiment, as perceived from various comments, is that Trump’s actions are perceived as detrimental to global cooperation on climate change, and perhaps even to the well-being of the planet itself. The phrase “Trump is against humankind” appears to be a succinct summary of this viewpoint, encapsulating the belief that his policies and lack of engagement actively undermine efforts to address critical environmental issues.… Continue reading
Democrats name their price on ending the government shutdown, offering a specific solution to the ongoing impasse. The core proposal involves a one-year extension of expiring Obamacare tax credits, as outlined by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. This move is presented as the Democrats’ condition for voting to reopen the government, aiming to address a key point of contention and potentially break the deadlock. It seems the strategy is designed to put the ball in the Republicans’ court.
This offer is not without its critics, and the motivations behind it are being actively debated. Some observers perceive it as a strategic move to set the stage for future political battles, particularly the midterms in 2026.… Continue reading
Exclusive: US intel found Israeli military lawyers warned there was evidence of Gaza war crimes, former US officials say, is a headline that sets the stage for a story many might have suspected, yet few could definitively confirm. The core takeaway, according to former US officials, is that American intelligence intercepted information suggesting internal Israeli military legal counsel had serious reservations. They were apparently concerned that some of Israel’s military actions in Gaza could potentially be construed as war crimes. This revelation, described as startling by those who were privy to it, paints a picture of doubt and internal conflict within the Israeli military apparatus itself.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood