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Senator Mitt Romney declared that MAGA Republicanism, led by Donald Trump, now completely dominates the Republican Party, effectively ending any hope for a “post-Trump” era within the GOP. He attributed the Republicans’ success to their appeal to working-class voters, a demographic the Democrats have allegedly alienated through their focus on cultural issues over economic concerns. Romney predicted JD Vance as the likely 2028 Republican presidential nominee, highlighting the Democrats’ struggles to regain lost support among key demographics. This assessment follows Trump’s decisive victory in the 2024 election and his dominance in the Republican primaries.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee dismissed Kenneth Chesebro’s motion to withdraw his guilty plea in the Georgia election interference case, citing procedural defects and the untimely filing. Chesebro, a co-defendant of Donald Trump, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit filing false documents and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. The judge’s ruling emphasizes that standard legal procedures will continue despite Trump’s recent election victory and ongoing attempts to halt the case. Legal analysts suggest the ruling primarily addresses procedural issues, while the overall case against Trump and his co-defendants remains subject to ongoing legal challenges and potential delays.
Late-night hosts reacted to Donald Trump being named Time’s Person of the Year and Joe Biden’s extensive clemency actions. Seth Meyers and Jimmy Kimmel criticized Trump’s appearance at the New York Stock Exchange, highlighting the hypocrisy of his populist campaign promises. Kimmel also commented on Biden’s record-breaking number of pardons. Stephen Colbert, while acknowledging Biden’s clemency, joked about the event and contrasted it with the expected media focus shift to Trump. The hosts used humor to address these contrasting news events.
A video circulating online shows President-elect Donald Trump seated among others, prompting speculation—lacking definitive proof—that he had an accident. This follows similar unsubstantiated claims against Joe Biden. Social media users have offered various interpretations, ranging from flatulence to more serious accusations. Trump himself previously commented on similar allegations against Biden, fueling further online discussion.
Concluding his Senate term, Mitt Romney asserted that the Republican Party, now largely shaped by Donald Trump, has drifted from its traditional conservative base. He cited Trump’s disregard for truth and questionable behavior as reasons for his opposition, despite often aligning on policy. Romney predicts a Trump-aligned Congress and foresees J.D. Vance as a potential future presidential nominee. While attributing working-class support for Trump to Democratic missteps, Romney expressed concern over the GOP’s potential to retain this base due to its policy stances. He plans to retire from active politics, focusing instead on non-partisan public service initiatives.
ABC News settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Donald Trump for $15 million, including a charitable contribution to Trump’s presidential library and legal fees. The suit stemmed from anchor George Stephanopoulos inaccurately stating Trump was “found liable for rape” regarding E. Jean Carroll’s lawsuits, a claim rejected by the court. This settlement, reached before scheduled depositions, has drawn significant criticism from both Democrats and Republicans who accuse ABC News of cowardice and prioritizing profit over journalistic integrity. Legal experts also questioned the network’s decision to settle rather than defend itself in court.
ABC’s $15 million settlement with Donald Trump in a defamation lawsuit is a stunning development that raises serious questions about the state of journalism and the influence of powerful individuals. The sheer magnitude of the payout immediately commands attention, representing a significant financial blow to the network. It also sets a concerning precedent – a powerful figure can effectively silence critical reporting by wielding the threat of expensive legal battles.
The lawsuit stemmed from comments made on ABC concerning Trump’s liability in a previous sexual assault case. A federal jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming E. Jean Carroll, though not for rape, a distinction the judge later clarified was due to New York’s narrow legal definition.… Continue reading
The swift about-face by numerous CEOs, from initially abandoning Donald Trump following the January 6th, 2021 Capitol riot to now actively courting his favor as he prepares for a potential return to the White House, speaks volumes about the priorities of corporate America. It’s a stark reminder that loyalty in the business world often hinges less on principles and more on perceived self-interest.
This recent flurry of activity, characterized by public displays of support and expensive fundraising efforts, is driven by a simple calculation: securing a future operating environment conducive to profit maximization. The perceived threat of a Trump administration enacting policies unfavorable to certain industries likely motivates this rush to gain his favor.… Continue reading
ABC News settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Donald Trump for $16 million. The settlement resolves a suit stemming from George Stephanopoulos’ inaccurate reporting on E. Jean Carroll’s civil case against Trump. ABC issued a public apology and will pay $15 million as a “charitable contribution” to Trump’s presidential library, along with $1 million in legal fees. The settlement avoided depositions for both Trump and Stephanopoulos. The payment represents only a small portion of the library’s projected overall costs.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood