Despite winning re-election on a platform of lowering costs, President-elect Trump faces significant public skepticism regarding his ability to reduce prices on groceries, housing, and healthcare. While confidence in his job creation abilities is somewhat higher, only a minority of Americans express strong confidence in his economic leadership. Republican support for Trump remains robust, with a large majority anticipating a successful second term, although even within the Republican party, confidence in his ability to lower specific costs remains less than absolute. Conversely, Democratic pessimism, while still prevalent, is somewhat less pronounced than at the end of his first term.
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Trump vehemently denies the circulating claims that he has relinquished the presidency to Elon Musk, labeling them a “hoax.” This denial, however, only seems to fuel the very speculation he’s trying to dismiss. The sheer force of his rebuttal suggests a level of concern far beyond a simple dismissal of a frivolous rumor.
The assertion that Trump ceded the presidency, rather than simply being bought or manipulated by Musk, hints at a more nuanced power dynamic. It suggests a deliberate transfer of authority, perhaps not legally binding, but certainly impactful in terms of influence and decision-making. The difference between “ceded” and “sold” implies a degree of agency on Trump’s part, while “sold” paints him as a mere commodity.… Continue reading
Democratic Representatives Markey and Lieu urged President Biden to curtail the president’s sole authority to launch nuclear weapons, citing concerns about the potential for unilateral action by a future president. Their letter emphasizes the inherent danger of this unchecked power, particularly given Donald Trump’s past rhetoric regarding nuclear weapons. The lawmakers proposed requiring Congressional authorization for any nuclear first strike, reserving unilateral presidential response only to an existing nuclear attack. This policy change, they argued, would be a significant part of Biden’s legacy.
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The potential cancellation of the US Postal Service’s contract for electric mail trucks by former President Trump is generating significant buzz, and understandably so. This isn’t just about a change of vehicles; it touches upon broader questions of presidential power, economic policy, and environmental concerns.
The whispers of a cancellation are particularly intriguing given that the original contract was awarded to build these EVs in the United States, specifically in states that voted for Trump. This seemingly contradicts his stated commitment to American jobs and manufacturing. It suggests a willingness to disregard existing commitments for reasons that remain unclear.
The independence of the USPS itself is also a key element here.… Continue reading
Democratic Senators Warren and Blumenthal urged President Biden to issue a policy directive restricting President-elect Trump’s ability to deploy U.S. troops domestically without explicit state or local requests for assistance, citing concerns about Trump’s past statements and potential misuse of the Insurrection Act. The senators’ proposed directive would limit military deployment to situations where state authorities are overwhelmed or unable to act, emphasizing the need to adhere to the Posse Comitatus Act’s restrictions on domestic law enforcement. This preemptive measure aims to counter Trump’s expressed intentions to utilize the military for domestic purposes, including immigration enforcement and suppressing perceived internal threats. The senators also requested that future administrations consult Congress before using the military domestically.
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Donald Trump’s nomination of Russ Vought, a key architect of the conservative Project 2025, to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has sparked controversy. Vought’s involvement in Project 2025, which advocates for expanding presidential power and reducing the influence of career civil servants, raises concerns about the potential implementation of its proposals. These proposals include significant changes to the federal workforce and increased presidential control over various government agencies. The nomination has drawn both praise from Republicans and criticism from Democrats who view it as a threat to governmental norms. Several other Project 2025 contributors have also received cabinet nominations under Trump.
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Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has stated he will not resign from his position, even if asked to do so by President-Elect Donald Trump. This declaration came during a press conference following a meeting of the Federal Reserve, where a reporter pointed out that some of Trump’s advisors have suggested Powell should step down. Powell’s firm “No” response to this question was followed by a clarification that he does not believe he is legally obligated to resign.
Further inquiries from journalists focused on the President’s authority to dismiss or demote Powell. The Fed Chair definitively stated that such actions are “not permitted under the law”.… Continue reading
The recent ruling by the Supreme Court declaring US Presidents as monarchs has sent shockwaves through the nation. The implications of this decision are staggering, as it essentially grants presidents immunity from criminal liability for any acts deemed “official”. This sets a dangerous precedent, effectively paving the way for unchecked power and authoritarian rule.
The fact that this ruling makes it practically impossible to hold a president accountable for any wrongdoing committed while in office is alarming. The lack of transparency and accountability in this system is a direct threat to our democracy. It feels like we are witnessing a slow-motion coup being perpetrated on our republic, with the Supreme Court acting as the arbiter of what constitutes an “official act”.… Continue reading
As I sit here contemplating the recent dissent from the Supreme Court’s liberal wing over the vast expansion of presidential power, I cannot help but feel a deep sense of despair and frustration. The three liberal justices on the Court must feel like they are fighting a losing battle, with their immense power rendered virtually powerless in the face of the destruction of human rights and democracy that is unfolding before our eyes.
It is disheartening to witness the erosion of ethics and the blatant disregard for democracy that seems to pervade our political landscape. The Supreme Court, instead of upholding the values of justice and equality, appears to be complicit in the vast expansion of presidential power, giving more authority to the government and setting a dangerous precedent for the future.… Continue reading
Phil needs to take several seats and stay in his lane. Calling on President Biden to dismiss Trump’s hush money conviction shows a fundamental lack of understanding of the American legal system. Trump was convicted by the state of New York, and only the governor of New York has the power to pardon individuals convicted of state crimes. Dr. Phil’s call for dismissal is not only misguided but also ignores the basic principles of the law.
Trump was given a fair trial, where a jury of his peers unanimously found him guilty. He had the opportunity to plead down early on but chose not to because that would require admitting wrongdoing.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood