House Speaker Johnson delayed swearing in Representative Grijalva, reportedly due to the latter’s potential deciding vote on a petition related to the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. This delay coincided with the government shutdown at the beginning of October. With Congress and President Trump having since approved the files’ release, Johnson has now sworn in Representative Van Epps, whose vote is crucial for the narrow Republican majority. Van Epps, endorsed by Trump, won his election by a smaller margin than anticipated, causing concern among national Republicans.
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Following reports of a deadly strike in the Caribbean against an alleged drug-running boat, bipartisan members of Congress are demanding answers and promising oversight into the operations. The controversy stems from reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed officials to kill survivors, leading to accusations of war crimes and calls for greater transparency. While some Republicans are defending the administration, others, including Senate leaders, are expressing concerns and calling for an investigation to determine whether ethical, moral, or legal codes were violated. Democrats are strongly condemning Hegseth’s actions, with some calling for his resignation or firing due to the severity of the alleged violations of the laws of war.
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During a rally for Van Epps, while on House Leader Mike Johnson’s speakerphone, Trump emphasized the importance of winning the seat, citing the historic tax cuts and the upcoming “Great Big Beautiful Bill.” He falsely accused Behn of hating Christianity and country music. Trump framed the vote as a demonstration of Republican strength, while also announcing a Monday night telerally in support of Van Epps. The claims against Behn, including the accusation of hating Christianity, are part of a larger effort involving over $3.3 million in spending against her, despite Behn’s actual statements, which expressed concerns about religion’s role in legislation, never matching Trump’s characterization.
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Several political analysts and former officials expressed concerns regarding Donald Trump and the Republican party’s actions and rhetoric. Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell warned of a Democratic majority and potential subpoenas, while others discussed Trump’s actions in Venezuela, suggesting it was unpopular and could lead to an illegal war. Trump’s low approval rating and handling of multiple scandals were also criticized. Finally, the changing nature of the Republican party, along with Trump’s perceived untouchability, was a key talking point.
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In this collection of letters to the editor, multiple writers express concerns regarding current events. One letter calls for President Trump’s impeachment, citing his remarks about political opponents, his actions with foreign leaders, and his handling of disaster aid. Another writer criticizes the Sacramento City Unified School District’s financial decisions, while a final letter emphasizes the importance of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians, highlighting the need for awareness and caution.
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Republican Representative Troy Nehls has announced he will not seek reelection, citing a desire to focus on family and return home. This decision follows a trend of increasing departures from Congress, with reports suggesting fears of political violence and internal party infighting are contributing factors. Several other lawmakers are reportedly considering leaving office, citing heightened threats and a volatile political climate, further intensified by recent events and differing views on key issues. Notably, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Don Bacon have also expressed intentions to step down or retire, adding to the growing wave of political defections.
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US Representative Troy Nehls announces retirement, and it’s certainly a topic generating some buzz. It seems the announcement itself, coming from a Republican representative from Texas, has sparked a mix of reactions, ranging from a sense of relief to a bit of cynicism about the motives behind the decision. The timing, just after Thanksgiving, hasn’t gone unnoticed either, with some suggesting it’s a strategic move to minimize attention.
The core of the discussion seems to revolve around the broader political landscape and, unsurprisingly, the influence of Donald Trump. Several comments point to a perceived fear of Trump’s base, suggesting that some Republicans are more inclined to avoid confrontation rather than upholding their supposed duty to hold the executive branch in check.… Continue reading
Donald Trump is utilizing his presidency to financially benefit himself, directing campaign funds towards his own businesses. In the ten months since retaking office, the Republican National Committee and MAGA Inc. have spent over $857,000 at Trump’s properties. These expenditures are a part of a larger pattern where various GOP committees and candidates direct funds towards Trump’s businesses. He is also raising substantial sums for his political committees, including $28.1 million for a leadership PAC and $176.9 million for a super PAC.
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Ten months into his second term, President Trump’s approval ratings highlight stark regional divisions across the United States. While his popularity remains strong in traditionally Republican states like Wyoming and Idaho, he faces significant disapproval in Democratic strongholds such as Hawaii. Polling data reveals that Trump’s net approval is underwater in most states, with negative ratings in key battleground states that will likely impact the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Experts predict that such low approval ratings could lead to challenges for the Republican Party, potentially influencing congressional makeup and the president’s policy platform.
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Recent polling indicates a significant decline in J.D. Vance’s chances of securing the GOP presidential nomination in 2028. Initially holding a substantial lead, Vance’s margin over Donald Trump Jr. has narrowed considerably in recent months. The latest survey reveals Vance at 34% compared to Trump Jr.’s 24%, a stark contrast to the previous gap. This shift in popularity is speculated to be linked to Vance’s close association with the current administration, which is facing its own decline in approval ratings.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood