The news that US federal prosecutors have opened an inquiry into US Fed Chair Jerome Powell, as reported by the New York Times, is frankly alarming. It’s the kind of development that makes you question the very foundations of economic governance, especially given the current political climate. The focus seems to be on Powell’s testimony before the Senate Banking Committee regarding the renovation of Federal Reserve buildings. But, as Powell himself has pointed out in his video response, available online, this might be a pretext for something much deeper.
This situation feels like a deliberate attempt to undermine the Federal Reserve’s independence.… Continue reading
Recent departures from the Justice Department have illuminated a troubling picture of the agency under the Trump administration, according to former employees. Farewell letters describe a department grappling with compromised ethics, undue pressure, and a toxic atmosphere, with some warning of lasting damage. These departures include those who refused to drop cases for political reasons, whistleblowers, and those who were terminated without explanation. Many attributed their departure to prioritizing loyalty to the president over ethical obligations.
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Lt. Gen. Joe McGee, a three-star general and director for strategy, plans, and policy on the Joint Staff, has retired from his role, reportedly due to disagreements with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Dan Caine. McGee reportedly objected to the administration’s actions regarding the Caribbean and the Russia-Ukraine war. His departure is part of a larger trend of senior military officials leaving their positions since January, including the former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair and the first female chief of naval operations. This comes as the administration escalates its actions toward the Venezuelan government and shifts troops to the Caribbean.
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The Trump administration dismissed two federal prosecutors from the Eastern District of Virginia, Kristin Bird and Elizabeth Yusi, who reportedly opposed the criminal case against New York Attorney General Letitia James. This move follows a series of terminations within the office, including the removal of Erik Siebert, who also did not pursue cases against James or James Comey. This office has seen multiple departures, including the top national security official and the First Assistant U.S. Attorney, leaving uncertainty about representation at James’ upcoming arraignment. Ultimately, the Justice Department has declined to comment on the matter.
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On Friday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed Navy Chief of Staff Jon Harrison, who had been instrumental in the Trump administration’s efforts to restructure the Pentagon. Harrison, appointed in January, worked alongside Navy Secretary John Phelan to limit the influence of the navy under secretary. Harrison’s firing occurred shortly after Hung Cao was confirmed as navy under secretary, amidst reports of efforts to diminish Cao’s role. This dismissal continues months of personnel changes and policy shifts under Hegseth’s leadership, including cuts to top military personnel and a controversial speech criticizing diversity initiatives.
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Former Brexit Party MEP admits accepting bribes to shill for Russia, and frankly, it’s hard to understand why this revelation isn’t causing more of a stir. The pieces of the puzzle seem to be falling into place, and a disturbing picture is emerging. It’s like someone finally admitting what many suspected: that Putin’s fingerprints were all over Brexit. This is not just a vague feeling anymore; there’s now, allegedly, proof that some of the promises and campaigns of the Brexit movement were, in fact, directly funded.
This person’s actions certainly seem to qualify as something beyond just questionable; in the simplest terms, it appears to be a betrayal of trust and a profound affront to democratic values.… Continue reading
Moldova has arrested numerous individuals suspected of being trained by Russia to incite unrest before the upcoming elections. President Maia Sandu has accused Moscow of attempting to influence the vote through extensive financial investment in pro-Russian parties. Authorities conducted extensive raids, leading to the arrest of 74 people who were allegedly trained in Serbia by Russian instructors. Moldovan officials assert that Russia is actively orchestrating violence, going beyond just disinformation and cyberattacks to disrupt the electoral process.
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U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert resigned after facing pressure from the Trump administration for his monthslong mortgage fraud investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James, which has yet to result in criminal charges. This departure follows President Trump’s expressed desire to see Siebert removed, raising concerns about White House influence on the Justice Department. The investigation, launched by the administration, has been criticized by James’ lawyers as an act of political revenge, further eroding norms meant to shield the Justice Department from political interference. Siebert was nominated by Trump this year and had been investigating James over alleged paperwork discrepancies regarding her properties.
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Following the arrest of a suspect in the murder of Charlie Kirk, FBI Director Kash Patel faced scrutiny for his handling of the investigation. While lauding the FBI’s efforts, Patel received criticism from within the bureau and conservative circles for taking personal credit and for a premature social media post that was later retracted. The Director also faced concerns regarding his qualifications and the potential impact of his actions on the investigation, with some questioning whether he was equipped to lead the agency. Additionally, the investigation was marred by missteps, including delays in releasing photos and the handling of the rifle used in the crime.
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A federal lawsuit alleges that three high-ranking FBI officials were fired as a result of political pressure from the Trump administration, despite the director’s knowledge of the illegality of such actions. Director Kash Patel purportedly admitted to the firings being “likely illegal” but claimed he was powerless to stop them, as the White House and Justice Department were determined to remove agents involved in investigations related to former President Trump. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the fired agents, seeks reinstatement, back pay, and a declaration of the firings’ illegality, arguing that Patel prioritized political motivations over protecting the American people. The suit further asserts the firings were driven by a desire to remove experienced personnel, thereby undermining national security and causing reputational damage.
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