Following the dismissal of his initial defamation lawsuit, Donald Trump has filed an amended 40-page complaint against The New York Times, Penguin Random House, and two reporters, while maintaining a $15 billion compensatory damages claim and seeking punitive damages. The amended complaint presents an itemized list of allegations, referencing specific publications and statements. The suit, filed in Florida, revises a previous suit that was dismissed due to its excessive length and redundant content. The legal action pertains to news articles and a book discussing Trump’s work on “The Apprentice” and his inheritance, alleging factual inaccuracies in the reporting.
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During a press conference regarding insulin price reductions, California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced concerns about President Trump’s cognitive and physical health. Newsom described the president as “unhinged,” “unmoored by reality,” and potentially “in decline.” The Governor’s office later referenced Trump’s weight, and suggested he use a weight-loss injection. These remarks followed Trump’s comments about using certain cities as training grounds, which Newsom deemed “illegal” and “delusional.”
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A former US Marine Corps colonel and combat veteran resigned after 24 years of service due to concerns about Donald Trump’s perceived disregard for the Constitution. The resignation occurred on the same day Trump addressed military leaders, prompting Krugman to reflect on the importance of questioning potentially immoral or illegal orders. Krugman cited the January 6th riots, pardoning of insurrectionists, and the administration’s treatment of Afghan allies as key factors in his decision, claiming Trump was testing the limits of presidential power. He warned of a potential “collapse” if the gaps in the laws regarding presidential power were not addressed.
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Hungary intends to host Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump within the next couple of weeks, despite the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing an arrest warrant for Putin. Although Hungary has announced its withdrawal from the ICC, it is still legally obligated to cooperate with the court’s decisions until mid-next year, alongside the other 124 member states. The ICC emphasizes that member states are bound by law, regardless of their agreement with ICC rulings. Putin has limited foreign travel since the pandemic and the Ukraine invasion, particularly after the arrest warrant was issued.
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Illinois Governor JB Pritzker accused White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller of enabling President Trump’s immigration policies. Pritzker stated that Miller is the driving force behind Trump’s tactics within the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, aiming to make Trump an authoritarian leader. He criticized Miller’s role, particularly in light of the National Guard’s deployment in Chicago, and responded defiantly to Trump’s suggestions of jail time. The conflict escalated as Vice President Vance criticized Pritzker for his opposition, framing the administration’s actions as efforts to protect Chicago residents.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a recent phone call with former US President Donald Trump, requested he broker peace in Ukraine, citing Trump’s recent ceasefire efforts in the Middle East as a precedent. The call occurred shortly after a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine’s energy grid, which caused widespread power outages. Zelensky urged Trump to pressure Russia into negotiations to end the ongoing conflict, hoping that success in one region could lead to success in another. While Trump and Putin previously met in August, they failed to establish a peace deal.
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Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed concerns about President Trump’s mental state, suggesting diminished capacity, and warned of a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism. Pritzker drew parallels between current federal actions, particularly the deployment of federal officers in Chicago, and the rise of Nazi Germany, emphasizing a slow encroachment on democratic values. The governor also expressed worry for the people of Chicago and the entire country, foreseeing these actions as a broader issue. Pritzker’s comments come amidst ongoing tension with the Trump administration regarding immigration enforcement and potential use of the Insurrection Act.
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President Donald Trump has confirmed he authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations within Venezuela, citing concerns over drug trafficking and the release of prisoners into the U.S. This acknowledgment follows recent U.S. military strikes in the Caribbean against alleged drug smuggling boats, some originating from Venezuela. The administration is also considering potential land operations and has declared drug cartels to be unlawful combatants. This has drawn criticism, with Venezuela condemning the actions and some U.S. lawmakers raising concerns about the administration’s escalation without Congressional authorization.
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Senate Democrats, including Elizabeth Warren, have criticized the Trump administration’s $20 billion bailout of Argentina, led by far-right President Javier Milei, while American families face rising costs and social program cuts. Sen. Tim Scott blocked the “No Argentina Bailout Act,” arguing the bailout supports an important ally, despite criticisms that Argentina undermines U.S. soybean exports and potentially benefits Trump allies with significant investments in the country. Democrats suggest the bailout is politically motivated, as it aligns with Argentina’s upcoming midterm elections, and comes amidst a government shutdown.
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While Donald Trump catalyzed the Republican Party’s radicalization, it predated his political rise, as evidenced by the presence of young Republican leaders at the 2017 Charlottesville rally. Trump’s unique contribution was providing a platform for public cruelty and hatred, which drew immense support. His refusal to apologize or back down created a media frenzy, overshadowing rivals and solidifying his popularity. Politicians like Vance emulate Trump’s refusal to condemn supporters, understanding that embracing this behavior is advantageous for their future campaigns.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Newsom: Trump in “Decline,” Needs Intervention
During a press conference regarding insulin price reductions, California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced concerns about President Trump’s cognitive and physical health. Newsom described the president as “unhinged,” “unmoored by reality,” and potentially “in decline.” The Governor’s office later referenced Trump’s weight, and suggested he use a weight-loss injection. These remarks followed Trump’s comments about using certain cities as training grounds, which Newsom deemed “illegal” and “delusional.”
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