The Biden administration’s cooperative approach to the transition of power stands in stark contrast to Trump’s actions in 2020. While Biden has pledged an orderly transfer and even plans to attend Trump’s inauguration, Trump and his allies view this as humorous “capitulation,” mocking Biden’s civility. This contrasts sharply with Trump’s previous refusal to cooperate during the 2020 transition, including delaying discussions and withholding resources. The Biden administration’s actions prioritize upholding democratic norms, while Trump’s team focuses on perceived political advantage.
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President Biden voiced his concern over President-elect Trump’s planned tariffs on Mexico and Canada, deeming them counterproductive to the strong relationships the U.S. enjoys with its neighbors. Biden expressed hope that Trump would reconsider this decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining positive relations with these allies. Despite a decrease in border crossings since Trump’s previous term, the tariffs are intended to pressure Mexico and Canada on immigration and drug issues. Biden also acknowledged the upcoming challenges of a Republican-controlled Congress and the need for compromise.
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In a massive overnight attack, Russia launched nearly 200 missiles and drones targeting Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure, causing widespread power outages. This attack underscores the critical need for continued support of Ukraine’s defense. The U.S. has prioritized air defense exports to Ukraine, delivering hundreds of missiles and other critical military aid, including artillery and armored vehicles. This aid is part of a broader international effort involving over 50 countries committed to supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom. The resilience of the Ukrainian people continues to defy Russian expectations.
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Biden’s expressed hope that Trump will reconsider his tariff plan highlights a significant point of contention between the two administrations. The president’s concern centers on the potential negative impact of these tariffs on relationships with key allies, Canada and Mexico. He views such a move as counterproductive, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with these neighboring nations.
The statement reveals a fundamental disagreement over economic policy. Biden clearly believes that escalating trade tensions through tariffs will harm the US economy and its standing on the global stage. His emphasis on the geographical proximity and allied status of Canada and Mexico underscores the perceived folly of imposing trade barriers on such close partners.… Continue reading
A U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, effective immediately, has been announced by President Biden. The agreement, designed to permanently halt hostilities, includes a phased Israeli withdrawal over 60 days, contingent on Lebanese military deployment. Israel retains the right to self-defense against further threats, while the U.S. and partners will monitor implementation. This ceasefire aims to end the violence that has killed dozens in Israel and hundreds in Lebanon, displacing tens of thousands and causing billions of dollars in damages.
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Facing a looming Trump presidency, President Biden is urged to utilize his remaining time to counter anticipated policy reversals. Key actions include halting the expansion of immigration detention facilities, commuting death row sentences, and expediting the distribution of funds allocated to climate, healthcare, and infrastructure projects. Advocacy groups are pushing for these measures to protect civil liberties and mitigate the potential impact of Trump’s agenda. Despite limitations inherent in a lame-duck presidency, Biden’s actions could significantly impede Trump’s ability to enact sweeping changes.
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To expedite the confirmation process of other judicial nominees, a deal was struck between Senate Republicans and Democrats, resulting in the postponement of votes on four of President Biden’s appellate court nominees. This agreement allows for the swift confirmation of seven district court judges next week and six more in December, bringing Biden’s total confirmations closer to President Trump’s first-term total of 234. The four postponed nominees, including Adeel Abdullah Mangi, who would have been the first Muslim American appellate judge, lacked sufficient support for confirmation. Despite concerns from liberal groups, the deal prioritized a larger number of district court judge confirmations.
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The Biden administration’s authorization of long-range ATACMS strikes inside Russia represents a significant policy shift, potentially bolstering Ukraine’s defense against a large Russian-North Korean force. This action, likely influenced by the upcoming Trump presidency, allows Ukraine to target key Russian infrastructure, such as command centers and logistics, thereby weakening their offensive capabilities. Retired General Ben Hodges emphasizes that while not a “game changer” in itself, the ATACMS authorization is a positive step, although its restricted use remains a concern. However, the long-term impact remains uncertain given President-elect Trump’s stated intentions to quickly end the war, raising concerns about future U.S. support for Ukraine.
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President Duda, speaking before departing for Jordan, hailed President Biden’s authorization for Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles within Russia as a potential turning point in the war. This decision, mirroring similar approvals from France and Britain, signifies a unified Western front providing robust support to Ukraine. Duda emphasized the importance of this aid in countering Russia’s escalating attacks on civilian infrastructure and the mobilization of allies, including North Korean troops. He viewed the timing as significant, contrasting the Western resolve with Chancellor Scholz’s recent phone call with Putin, suggesting a potential attempt to broker a ceasefire before a potential Trump presidency.
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President Biden’s recent approval of antipersonnel mines for Ukraine marks a significant shift in US policy, reversing a long-standing stance against these controversial weapons. This decision, while intended to bolster Ukraine’s defense against the ongoing Russian invasion, has sparked considerable debate and criticism. The justification centers around the dire circumstances on the ground, where Ukraine faces a relentless onslaught and needs every advantage to defend its territory.
The argument for providing these mines highlights the escalating nature of the conflict. Russia’s use of drones dropping petal mines over Ukrainian positions underscores the already brutal reality of the war. The assertion is made that if Ukraine chooses to employ these weapons to protect itself, it should have the option to do so, particularly given the extensive demining efforts that will be required regardless of the outcome of the war.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood