This newsletter provides crucial insights into the implications of a potential Trump second term on various sectors, including Washington, business, and global affairs. A key focus is tracking the impact of US tariffs and trade policies, offering up-to-date information on executive orders and their consequences. Furthermore, comprehensive and unbiased coverage of US politics and policy ensures readers remain informed about the latest developments. Readers can stay informed on the evolving political and economic landscape under a potential second Trump term. Access is free.
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The Trump administration openly defied a unanimous Supreme Court order to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, wrongly deported to El Salvador, to the U.S. Despite the court mandating the administration “facilitate” Abrego Garcia’s release and ensure his case proceeds as if he hadn’t been improperly deported, Trump and Bukele refused compliance. The administration misrepresented the ruling, claiming it only required providing transportation if Bukele chose to release Abrego Garcia, while falsely alleging Abrego Garcia’s MS-13 affiliation despite a judge finding his testimony credible. This defiance, enabled by ambiguous Supreme Court wording, has led to a judge ordering daily updates and considering contempt charges against the administration.
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Early American colonists vehemently opposed Britain’s practice of transporting convicts to the colonies and the subsequent trial of colonial defendants in England. This opposition is reflected in the Declaration of Independence’s grievances and likely influenced the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment, including exile. James Madison strongly condemned deportation, even of non-citizens, highlighting the cruelty inherent in such banishment, particularly when considering the loss of property and connections. Given Madison’s views, the prospect of a U.S. government exiling its own citizens would likely have been seen as exceptionally egregious.
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The New York Times’ assertion that the courts won’t stop Trump and his ilk is a chilling reflection of a deeply unsettling reality. It’s a statement that resonates with a growing sense of powerlessness, a feeling that the established mechanisms of accountability are failing us.
This isn’t merely a partisan concern; it speaks to a fundamental erosion of trust in institutions. The perception that the legal system is rigged, that justice is selectively applied, is a corrosive force that threatens the very fabric of democracy. It’s a belief fueled by a perceived double standard, where seemingly minor transgressions by ordinary citizens lead to harsh consequences, while egregious actions by the powerful go largely unpunished.… Continue reading
Following the imposition of sweeping tariffs, President Trump’s response to the ensuing economic turmoil involved golfing, fundraising events, and defiant pronouncements. His actions, marked by erratic decision-making and disregard for conventional responses, drew comparisons to historical figures known for detachment from their people’s suffering. While initially unwavering, Trump eventually yielded to pressure, temporarily pausing some tariffs after facing widespread criticism and market losses. This episode highlighted Trump’s governing style, characterized by impulsive actions and a seeming indifference to the consequences of his policies.
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In a speech at Hamilton College, Barack Obama urged Americans, universities, and law firms to actively resist the Trump administration’s policies, warning of potential sacrifices in defense of democratic values. He highlighted the administration’s efforts to pressure universities into abandoning student diversity programs and restricting free speech, citing instances where federal funding was threatened or withdrawn. Obama also criticized the administration’s targeting of law firms representing political opponents and its restrictions on press access, emphasizing that passive support for democratic ideals is insufficient in the current climate. He concluded by stating that active resistance, potentially including financial sacrifice, is now necessary to preserve these values.
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Obama and Harris both delivered remarks criticizing the Trump administration’s actions during his second term. Obama condemned Trump’s attacks on government institutions, immigration policies, and free speech, highlighting the contrast with potential responses to similar actions by previous presidents. Harris, while acknowledging predictable nature of Trump’s moves, expressed concern over the administration’s intimidation tactics and the resulting climate of fear. Both emphasized the importance of resisting these actions, with Harris highlighting the contagious nature of both fear and courage. The former vice president’s comments represent her most direct criticism of Trump’s second term to date.
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The liberal candidate’s victory in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race is a significant rebuke to both Donald Trump and Elon Musk, a development that’s sent ripples of excitement and relief across a considerable segment of the population. This win feels particularly potent because it directly counters the influence of powerful figures who have been actively involved in shaping the political landscape.
The margin of victory, a landslide by most accounts, suggests a stronger rejection of the tactics employed by these figures than many had anticipated. This outcome casts serious doubt on the effectiveness of their efforts, and even suggests that those efforts may have backfired.… Continue reading
Senator Chris Murphy argues that the Trump administration is purposefully dismantling democratic institutions, mirroring authoritarian regimes in Hungary and Turkey. He asserts that this action is a calculated strategy to ensure Republican dominance, achieved by weakening the opposition and manipulating election rules. Republicans, he claims, either remain willfully ignorant or are too afraid of Trump to oppose him, prioritizing their political careers over their principles. Murphy warns that unless the Democratic Party adopts a populist economic platform and actively combats this erosion of democracy, the United States faces an imminent threat to its democratic foundations.
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Despite the 22nd Amendment’s prohibition against a third presidential term, Donald Trump stated he’s “not joking” about the possibility, citing public interest in such a bid. While emphasizing his current focus, he acknowledged potential methods to circumvent the constitutional limit, including a scenario involving a Vice President’s ascension. These possibilities, echoed by Steve Bannon, remain legally unviable, requiring a constitutional amendment. Trump’s comments, however, highlight his continued flirtation with the idea.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood