Two primary strategies, “buy-borrow-die” and “buy-hold for decades-sell,” allow the wealthy to avoid paying taxes on investment gains, either entirely or at drastically reduced rates. The “buy-borrow-die” strategy utilizes loans against appreciated assets to avoid income tax until death, while “buy-hold for decades-sell” minimizes the effective tax rate on long-term investments through decades of untaxed compounding. While arguments exist that the wealthy lack the means to pay taxes before selling assets, this is demonstrably false; solutions such as deferring tax payments until sale, with appropriate adjustments for compounding, are readily available. The persistence of these loopholes ultimately stems from political inaction rather than genuine financial constraints.
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Elon Musk’s recent complaints about Democrats celebrating Tesla’s declining stock price contrast sharply with his past actions, including celebrating job losses. Public disapproval of Musk is widespread, with two-thirds of Americans stating they would not buy a Tesla, largely due to their negative perception of Musk himself. This negative sentiment is fueled by Musk’s controversial statements and actions, including attacks on political figures and concerns about his influence on the government. A majority of Americans now believe Musk holds excessive influence over Trump, further contributing to the public backlash.
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According to Gawker founder Nick Denton, Elon Musk’s actions on X demonstrate a focus on appeasing a small, extreme segment of his audience, mirroring similar strategies employed by Joe Rogan and even previously by Gawker itself. This prioritization of a niche audience, exemplified by Musk’s use of inflammatory rhetoric, leaves him vulnerable, as it neglects a broader, potentially more influential, median voter. Denton argues that this strategy currently dominates online discourse, hindering a move towards centrism. Ultimately, however, the median voter and market forces will eventually assert their influence.
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Elon Musk’s purported climate heroism is undermined by his actions as a shadow president in the Trump administration. His involvement has led to the dismantling of Biden’s climate initiatives, including cuts to subsidies for renewable energy and EV chargers. This behavior is attributed partly to Musk’s personal views and a strategic move to cripple Tesla’s competitors by foregoing subsidies. Ultimately, however, his actions are largely driven by a desperate attempt to avoid Kamala Harris’s proposed tax on billionaire’s unrealized gains, highlighting the dangerous influence of extreme wealth on American politics.
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US Postmaster General Louis Dejoy’s resignation is a significant event, sparking a wide range of reactions. Many see it not as a victory, but rather as a prelude to further challenges for the Postal Service. The concern is that his departure paves the way for someone even less favorable to the institution, potentially accelerating efforts towards privatization and further undermining its operations.
The timing of Dejoy’s resignation is also viewed with suspicion. Some believe he fulfilled his purpose – namely, weakening the USPS before a potential return to power by a particular political faction – and now departs having achieved his objectives.… Continue reading
Zelenskyy’s assertion that Russia successfully influenced some members of Trump’s team is a statement laden with implications, suggesting a level of penetration into the highest echelons of American power that is deeply unsettling. The scale of this influence, however, remains a subject of debate. While Zelenskyy’s phrasing might appear diplomatic, the underlying sentiment seems to point towards a much broader problem than a few isolated cases.
The sheer audacity of the alleged influence campaign is striking. Imagine, just thirty years ago, the idea of a US president echoing Russian propaganda would have seemed almost unthinkable. Yet, the reality of the situation appears to have surpassed even the most cynical predictions.… Continue reading
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In response to President Trump’s executive order eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, NASA has removed its commitment to land the first woman and person of color on the moon from its Artemis program website. This decision follows similar actions by other federal agencies to comply with the order, despite the Artemis program’s initial goal, set in 2019 under the previous Trump administration, to achieve this milestone. The removal of this statement notably contrasts with NASA’s recent efforts to increase diversity within its workforce and comes before the Artemis III mission’s scheduled launch in mid-2027. The Artemis program will continue, focusing on lunar exploration and preparation for future Mars missions.
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Numerous Canadians and other foreign nationals, including a Canadian actress, have faced arbitrary detention and deportation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), prompting calls for Canadians to avoid U.S. travel. These incidents involve individuals detained without due process, highlighting a strained relationship between the U.S. and Canada exacerbated by President Trump’s policies. The situation is further complicated by Trump’s rhetoric regarding Canada’s potential statehood and ongoing trade disputes. This escalating tension discourages Canadians from crossing the border and underscores a need for Canadian government intervention.
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The SEC’s recent decision to drop its case against a cryptocurrency firm with alleged ties to the Trump administration is sparking intense debate. The CEO’s announcement of the dismissal has ignited a firestorm of commentary, ranging from accusations of blatant corruption and “buying your way out” to celebrations of capitalist triumph.
The sheer speed and abruptness of the case’s dismissal fuel suspicion for many. Four years of legal battles concluded with the SEC seemingly abandoning its pursuit, leaving many wondering about the underlying influences at play. The timing raises eyebrows, especially considering the case was initiated during a different presidential administration.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood