Tulsi Gabbard, Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the intelligence community, was briefly added to the TSA’s “Quiet Skies” program, triggering additional security screenings due to her international travel and foreign contacts. Gabbard’s subsequent public statements led to her quick removal from the list, despite assertions that her criticism of Kamala Harris was the cause. Security officials note that her past overseas engagements, including a controversial Syria trip, are unusual and raise concerns given the lax standards of the Quiet Skies program. Trump’s potential bypassing of standard background checks for his nominees further complicates the situation, leaving questions about the vetting process for such a sensitive position.
Read More
Donald Trump’s history of disrespectful and abusive behavior towards women is irrefutable, encompassing verbal assaults, alleged sexual assault, and documented instances of harassment. This behavior, ranging from demeaning comments to alleged physical attacks, reveals a profound contempt for women’s dignity and equality. His election normalized this misogyny, sending a dangerous message that such behavior is acceptable, thereby jeopardizing the safety and well-being of women and girls. The consequences of electing such a leader extend far beyond individual actions, impacting societal norms and attitudes towards women.
Read More
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s past statements reveal a pattern of intense criticism towards Donald Trump, including labeling him a threat to democracy and comparing him to historical dictators like Hitler and Mussolini. Kennedy’s attacks, dating back to 2016, encompassed accusations of racism, exploitation of societal fears, and environmental destruction. Despite these past criticisms, Kennedy now serves in Trump’s administration, stating he regrets his previous comments and supports Trump’s vision. This shift follows Kennedy’s unsuccessful independent presidential run and subsequent endorsement of Trump.
Read More
Anthony Weiner served nearly two years in prison for sexting, including sending obscene material to a minor. His actions, which involved repeated offenses over several years, indirectly impacted the 2016 presidential election. Emails related to Hillary Clinton’s email controversy were discovered on Weiner’s laptop, leading to a renewed FBI investigation and impacting the election outcome. Weiner now seeks to re-engage with the public despite his past.
Read More
In her memoir, *Freedom*, Angela Merkel reflects on her relationship with Donald Trump, initially misjudging him as “completely normal” before recognizing his emotional nature and affinity for authoritarian leaders. She describes Trump’s transactional approach to international relations, contrasting it with her own focus on factual cooperation. Merkel also discusses her interactions with Vladimir Putin, acknowledging some validity in his criticisms while highlighting his manipulative tactics and ultimately his role in the Ukraine invasion. The book covers her political career and includes a belated endorsement of Kamala Harris for president.
Read More
Donald Trump’s selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services is alarming due to Kennedy’s history of promoting conspiracy theories. Kennedy has publicly espoused unfounded claims linking vaccines to autism and suggesting the COVID-19 pandemic was a deliberate plan. His past statements comparing public health measures to Nazi atrocities further raise concerns about his suitability for the position. Experts warn that appointing someone so prone to conspiracy theories could severely jeopardize public health.
Read More
Facing numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, including sex trafficking and claims of sexual relations with a minor, Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration as Donald Trump’s Attorney General. Gaetz cited the controversy surrounding his nomination as a potential distraction from the Trump/Vance transition team’s work. Despite withdrawing, he expressed continued commitment to Trump’s success and praised the former president for the nomination. Trump, in turn, acknowledged Gaetz’s withdrawal, highlighting his respect for Gaetz’s decision to avoid becoming a distraction.
Read More
A newly released police report details graphic allegations of sexual assault against Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense. The report, which includes the account of the alleged victim, “Jane Doe,” describes Hegseth as intoxicated and blocking the woman from leaving his hotel room before the alleged assault. Hegseth claims the encounter was consensual, a claim disputed by the woman’s account; no charges were filed, though the case was reviewed. Despite Trump’s support, these revelations may jeopardize Hegseth’s Senate confirmation.
Read More
Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue sharply criticized Donald Trump’s controversial Attorney General nominee, Matt Gaetz, highlighting ongoing sexual misconduct allegations against him. Gaetz, despite facing a closed Justice Department investigation and a House Ethics Committee investigation into statutory rape claims, has been selected for the position. Kimmel drew parallels between Gaetz’s situation and that of Sean “Diddy” Combs, prompting calls for the release of the House Ethics Committee’s findings. The comedian urged Republican leadership, specifically Speaker Mike Johnson, to act transparently regarding the matter.
Read More
Donald Trump’s opposition to the PRESS Act, bipartisan legislation protecting journalists and whistleblowers, demonstrates his disregard for press freedom. His public statements, including calls for retribution against critical media outlets and even suggesting harm to journalists, contradict his claims of supporting a free press. This stance is further solidified by a former advisor’s promise of retaliation against the “liberal media.” Trump’s actions and rhetoric suggest a belief that First Amendment protections only apply to those supporting his agenda.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker