Representative Eugene Vindman is advocating for the release of a classified transcript from a 2019 phone call between Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, following the killing of Jamal Khashoggi. Vindman, a former National Security Council lawyer, claims the call’s contents were “shocking” and the public deserves to know what was said. He has launched a campaign, including a press conference with Khashoggi’s widow, and is working with other House Democrats to pressure Trump to release the transcript. Vindman’s efforts were spurred by Trump’s recent defense of the Crown Prince and disparaging remarks about Khashoggi, prompting him to seek accountability and transparency.
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The September jobs report, delayed due to the government shutdown, revealed a slowing labor market. Revisions to prior months showed that employment in July and August were overstated, with August’s job gains even turning into a loss. The report also indicated a decline in federal employment since January. Despite these economic indicators, a fresh survey shows that a majority of voters have a negative view of the economy.
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Donald Trump allegedly contacted Jeffrey Epstein after his 2016 election victory, contradicting his previous claims of not having spoken to the financier in years, according to Epstein’s brother. Mark Epstein stated that Trump called his brother, expressing surprise at the election outcome, despite Trump’s later denials. This revelation comes amid the release of Epstein’s files, which Trump had previously opposed, and after reports alleging Trump’s knowledge of Epstein’s activities. The president has consistently denied any wrongdoing and continues to label the issue a political “hoax.”
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The Epstein Files Transparency Act has been signed by Donald Trump, mandating the release of government documents related to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. These documents may overlap with thousands of emails released by Congress, revealing a significant number of communications between Epstein and former Trump adviser Steve Bannon in 2018 and 2019. The emails suggest that Bannon aided Epstein in trying to redeem his reputation by formulating public relations strategies. Additionally, Bannon took 15 hours of video of Epstein for a documentary, adding a layer of depth to the secretive relationship between the two.
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Following a question about Jeffrey Epstein, former President Donald Trump verbally attacked a female reporter, referring to her as a “piggy.” The White House defended Trump’s behavior, claiming his actions demonstrate transparency and openness with the press, despite his history of making sexist remarks. This incident is compounded by the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal, which has seen Trump’s approval ratings decline, with scrutiny intensifying over his past associations. Furthermore, this recent occurrence is indicative of Trump’s increasing frustration with negative news coverage, particularly surrounding the Epstein case and other controversies.
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Elections, balanced government, and the separation of powers are crucial for effective governance. Currently, the Speaker is not leading in a way that allows for essential questioning, and congressional authority is being abdicated. The lack of bipartisanship and the military’s reluctance to testify without it further hinder the ability of Congress to obtain necessary information, as seen in the recent case of the Southern Command head’s resignation. This environment restricts vital conversations and transparency.
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Representative Al Green plans to file articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump before the Christmas break. Green made this announcement in Washington D.C. on Thursday, stating he would introduce the measures as a privileged motion. Despite the planned action, the likelihood of success is low due to the Republican majority in the House of Representatives. Trump was previously impeached twice during his presidency but was acquitted by the Senate both times.
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Federal labor unions have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that its new “merit hiring plan” violates applicants’ First Amendment rights. The plan includes an essay question asking how applicants would advance the president’s agenda, which the unions argue creates an unconstitutional, politically-driven hiring system. Currently, the “loyalty question” is part of over 6,000 federal job postings, leading the unions to request a preliminary injunction to prevent its use. Federal employees have submitted anonymous declarations expressing concerns that the question infringes on their rights and could lead to retaliation.
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In a recent interview, Mark Epstein questioned whether Donald Trump reciprocated the use of his private jet for Jeffrey Epstein, as Trump reportedly flew on Epstein’s plane multiple times. Mark Epstein stated his brother told him he traveled on Trump’s jet “a number of occasions” and that the two were “very good friends” throughout the 90s. While Trump has admitted to being on Epstein’s plane but denies ever visiting his island and also called his former friend a “sick pervert”, the White House has yet to comment on Mark Epstein’s claims. Furthermore, Mark Epstein suggested Trump may be reluctant to release files regarding his investigation into Epstein’s alleged wrongdoings.
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In a recent video, six Democratic lawmakers with military or intelligence backgrounds reminded active-duty personnel they can refuse illegal orders, citing concerns about threats to the Constitution. This triggered an extreme response from the right, including former President Trump, who suggested the lawmakers’ actions were punishable by death. The lawmakers were simply reiterating service members’ oath to defend the Constitution and the right to refuse unlawful orders. Trump’s reaction is particularly concerning given his past actions and willingness to politicize the military, making the lawmakers’ warning a necessary one.
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John Q. Hosedrinker