Donald Trump’s efforts to “fix” elections and ensure permanent Republican control of the U.S. government are intensifying. After his 2020 defeat, Trump sowed distrust in election processes, prompting voter suppression laws across numerous states. These tactics included executive orders, attempts to manipulate census data, and pressure on states to redraw electoral maps. His actions, along with the support of his administration, raise concerns about undermining the integrity of elections, making it clear that his goal is to prevent future election losses.
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Amidst criticism of his administration’s actions, President Trump addressed concerns, stating that “a lot of people are saying, ‘Maybe we like a dictator.'” He also reiterated his intention to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago and signed executive orders against cashless bail and regarding flag burning. These actions have drawn criticism, with some comparing them to measures seen in countries under dictatorships, and warnings that these actions will only serve to benefit the predatory bail industry. The executive orders also included consequences for jurisdictions that maintain cashless bail systems. Public figures such as Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed their concerns regarding the orders as well.
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The article examines the perplexing disconnect between American voters’ expressed preferences for policies like universal healthcare and infrastructure and their support for politicians who actively oppose these measures. Three theories are proposed: the “ignorance theory,” which suggests voters are unaware of candidates’ stances; the “Svengali theory,” blaming media propaganda for brainwashing voters; and the “politics-as-entertainment theory,” arguing that voters are more engaged with political spectacle than policy substance. Ultimately, the author posits a “this-is-who-we-are” theory, suggesting that voters may consciously support policies and politicians reflecting their values, even if those values conflict with their material interests, and that American democracy may be faltering as a result.
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To counter potential authoritarianism, a unified narrative focusing on Trump’s dictatorial tendencies is crucial, suggesting the Democratic Party designate specific members and an independent spokesperson, like Sherrilynn Ifill. Furthermore, news outlets should prioritize coverage centered on the threat of dictatorship, rather than adhering to a both-sides approach. A shift away from incremental events and toward contextualized reporting, particularly at outlets like MSNBC, is needed. Journalism must strive to synthesize events, identify patterns, and offer a comprehensive understanding of the threats facing democracy.
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Donald Trump’s approval rating drops in latest poll, and it’s hard to ignore the collective sigh that seems to accompany each new release. The reaction isn’t exactly one of surprise, is it? It feels like a familiar headline, a recurring theme in the current political climate. Many see this as a sign of Americans “sobering up,” a phrase that speaks volumes about the frustrations and concerns surrounding his actions.
The numbers themselves tell a pretty stark story. The poll indicates a significant gap between those who strongly disapprove of his performance and those who strongly approve. One poll showed that nearly half of the respondents strongly disapprove, with a much smaller fraction strongly approving.… Continue reading
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals widespread concern about the state of democracy in the United States, with 57% of Americans fearing for its future. Partisan redistricting, specifically gerrymandering, is a significant point of contention, with a majority believing it is detrimental to democracy. The poll highlights deep distrust between Democrats and Republicans, yet also reveals unease with redistricting practices on both sides. As a result of this, states like Texas, where Republicans are redrawing maps, and California, where Democrats plan to do the same, are moving to redraw districts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
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Trump lays out his redistricting endgame: A 100-seat Republican majority. The thought of a 100-seat advantage in the House of Representatives, as Trump seemingly desires, raises a lot of red flags, doesn’t it? It certainly suggests a shift away from the principles of a democratic process, where the will of the people is paramount. It’s almost as if a large majority is necessary for someone to feel as though they’re leading with the best ideas and able to execute plans competently.
Trump’s desire for a supermajority seems to be driven by fear, perhaps a fear of future impeachments or investigations. The last time the Republicans had that kind of control, back in 1929, it didn’t exactly go smoothly, with the Great Depression looming right around the corner.… Continue reading
California Supreme Court rejects GOP effort to halt Newsom’s redistricting push, and honestly, it feels like a sigh of relief, doesn’t it? The sheer audacity of the GOP to try and derail a process that, in theory, should ensure fair representation for all Californians is… well, it’s par for the course these days. But let’s be clear, this isn’t just about California; it’s about the bigger picture.
The reality is, the Republicans seem to have a real problem with ballots. They are constantly trying to rig the system so the voters don’t actually get to decide who represents them, whether it’s through gerrymandering or any other tactic they can dream up.… Continue reading
Texas Representative Nicole Collier filed a writ of habeas corpus, arguing that her confinement in the state Capitol by the Republican majority is unlawful. Collier, along with other Democrats, had previously left the state to block the enactment of new congressional maps. House Speaker Dustin Burrows, a Republican, subsequently required Democratic legislators to sign a form agreeing to 24-hour police surveillance, which Collier refused to do. Collier’s lawsuit contends that the legislature lacks the power to detain a lawmaker based on concerns about future absences, thus making her confinement illegal.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood