President Trump announced a further 84% tariff on all Chinese imports, bringing the total to at least 104%. This escalation follows Beijing’s vow to resist, intensifying the ongoing trade war between the US and China. The White House contends that China’s retaliatory actions are misguided and that a deal remains possible, despite the lack of current negotiation. Both nations appear committed to their respective positions, signaling a continued period of trade conflict.
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The EPA vehemently denies allegations from anonymous sources claiming that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is using AI to monitor federal worker communications for anti-Trump or anti-Musk sentiment. While Reuters reported these claims, citing unnamed sources within the EPA, the EPA spokesperson stated that the report is categorically false. These allegations, however, underscore concerns about DOGE’s expanding power, its potential overreach into employee privacy, and its controversial role in reshaping the federal bureaucracy. Ongoing legal challenges against DOGE highlight the intense scrutiny surrounding its actions and authority.
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Merrell’s updated Nova 4 (men’s) and Antora 4 (women’s) hiking shoes offer enhanced comfort and durability compared to their predecessors. These shoes feature durable outsoles for superior traction on varied terrain and lightweight cushioning for support. A bellows tongue and elastic lace keeper enhance functionality, while recycled materials add a sustainable element. The athletic design makes these ideal for spring hiking adventures.
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Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s dissent in a 5-4 Supreme Court decision regarding the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged gang members sparked significant backlash from conservative commentators and Trump supporters. Barrett sided with the Court’s three liberal justices, opposing the majority’s decision allowing the deportations to proceed. While the majority opinion ultimately mandated due process for those facing deportation, conservative criticism focused on Barrett’s perceived betrayal of President Trump and her perceived liberal leanings. The case now returns to a lower court for further proceedings.
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Following President Trump’s imposition of import tariffs that triggered a global market downturn, Senator Kennedy downplayed public concern over the President’s weekend golf trip. Kennedy asserted that Americans understand presidents need weekend leisure and likely don’t hold this against him, despite acknowledging the “painful” effects of the tariffs. He further stated that the current economic situation is undeniably President Trump’s responsibility, with the president’s actions subject to future assessment based on success or failure.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) claims it is only closing underutilized hearing office space, citing a shift to virtual hearings. However, a draft plan reveals a goal of field office consolidation for next year, contradicting public statements. Simultaneously, the SSA plans to reduce its workforce by 5,500 employees, and difficulties accessing services are amplified by reduced phone service and online system issues. These actions, coupled with strict new identity verification policies, are causing widespread concern and accusations of deliberate undermining of the SSA.
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The New Civil Liberties Alliance, backed by Leonard Leo and Charles Koch, is challenging Donald Trump’s tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), arguing this application is unlawful. The suit, filed on behalf of a Florida-based importer, contends that the president overstepped his authority and that tariff power resides with Congress, citing potential conflicts with Supreme Court precedents. This action reflects growing right-wing opposition to Trump’s tariffs, with some Republicans expressing economic concerns and supporting legislative efforts to limit the president’s tariff-imposing power. The alliance argues that the tariffs’ purported connection to the fentanyl crisis is insufficient justification.
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Right-wing commentators have linked Donald Trump’s tariffs to a purported “crisis in masculinity,” arguing that a return to factory jobs will improve men’s lives and boost birth rates. This perspective, amplified by figures like Jesse Watters and Milo Yiannopoulos, frames the policy not primarily as an economic stimulus, but as a means to restore a perceived ideal of postwar American masculinity. The arguments, however, often devolve into misogynistic claims about women’s roles in the workforce and family. The economic viability of this approach, and the actual impact of the tariffs on job creation, remains uncertain.
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Home Depot co-founder Ken Langone, a major GOP donor, strongly criticized President Trump’s tariff policies, deeming them “bulls–t” and poorly advised. Langone specifically cited the 34 percent tariff on China and the 46 percent tariff on Vietnam as excessively aggressive and detrimental to negotiations. He questioned the flawed calculation methodology behind the tariffs, a sentiment echoed by other experts, including the economist whose work the administration cited. This criticism joins that of other prominent billionaires, indicating a growing concern among Trump loyalists regarding the economic impact of these trade measures.
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John Q. Hosedrinker