Former CDC Director Reveals Political Interference by Kennedy Jr.

In a Senate committee hearing, former CDC Director Dr. Susan Monarez criticized Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for compromising public health by demanding political oversight on all CDC decisions. Monarez, who was ousted from her position just 29 days into her tenure, detailed how Kennedy required approval from political staff for essential policies, including changes to the childhood vaccination schedule.

During her testimony, Monarez recounted her refusal to comply with Kennedy’s orders to pre-approve ACIP recommendations and to dismiss career officials without justification. She emphasized that such demands conflicted with her commitment to scientific integrity, stating, “I had refused to commit to approving vaccine recommendations without evidence.” This conflict ultimately led to her termination, which sparked a wave of resignations within the agency.

Monarez highlighted how she learned about Kennedy’s decision to replace all liaison members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices via media reports, underscoring the disarray and lack of transparency within the current administration. She described Kennedy as “very upset” when she did not align with his politically motivated directives regarding vaccinations, which he claimed to discuss daily with former President Donald Trump.

In regard to the new composition of vaccine advisory panels, Monarez expressed concerns about their potential recommendations, fearing they could restrict vaccine access without adequate scientific review. She warned that a lack of permanent leadership within the CDC could have immediate and lethal implications, as evidenced by recent outbreaks of preventable diseases.

Monarez’s testimony, coupled with recent violent backlash against vaccine proponents, raises alarms about heightened tensions surrounding public health information. The testimony revealed an alarming trend of political interference in health policy and a dedication to spreading misinformation, which poses dire risks not just to individual health but to societal well-being as a whole.

Trump Labels Antifa as Terrorist Group Amid Political

Donald Trump announced he will designate antifa as a terrorist organization, pushing for investigations into those allegedly funding it. In a Truth Social post, he referred to antifa as a “sick, dangerous, radical left disaster,” declaring this designation as a priority for his administration. The lack of details about when this designation will occur raises concerns about its real intentions, especially given that Trump previously threatened similar actions during his first term without follow-through.

Trump’s call to label antifa comes amidst a pattern of targeting left-leaning activists, with late allegations surfacing after the tragic shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The president framed his rhetoric around “radical left political violence,” revealing his intent to pursue not just the perpetrators but also those financially supporting these groups. Such inflammatory proclamations from Trump signal his willingness to stoke division for political gain.

Despite Trump’s bold claims, the legal implications of designating domestic groups like antifa as terrorist organizations remain ambiguous. Current U.S. law permits labeling international entities as foreign terrorist organizations but lacks a similar framework for domestic designations, casting doubt on the faux authoritative stance Trump aims to establish.

The rhetoric of designating antifa as terrorists highlights a broader trend of Trump and the Republican party pushing for authoritarian measures under the guise of combating extremism. This narrative fits within a larger strategy to rally their base against perceived enemies, often misrepresenting peaceful protestors and activists as threats to national security.

This latest move is consistent with Trump’s history of employing fear-mongering tactics, reminiscent of past comments where he targeted protestors unfairly. The continuous escalation of labeling dissenters as terrorists opens dangerous avenues for suppression of civil liberties, further contributing to a climate of division in American society.

Trump Celebrates ABC’s Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Show

In a recent post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump prematurely celebrated what he incorrectly referred to as the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel’s show, which is merely suspended by ABC. Trump claimed this was a significant win for America and attacked Kimmel’s talent and performance ratings, asserting that Kimmel has worse ratings than other late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert. This reaction is yet another manifestation of Trump’s ongoing feud with Kimmel, who has consistently critiqued Trump’s presidency in his late-night monologues.

Trump’s celebration comes in the wake of comments from Brendan Carr, the FCC chair appointed by Trump, who threatened ABC over Kimmel’s controversial on-air remarks regarding conservative figure Charlie Kirk. Carr’s comments hinted at the potential for governmental repercussions if the network fails to address Kimmel’s behavior, emphasizing a troubling relationship between Trump’s administration and media freedom.

Following his initial comments about Kimmel, Trump swiftly shifted his attention to other late-night hosts, including Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, urging NBC to take similar action against them due to their supposed poor ratings. Trump’s continued attacks on late-night comedians reflect a broader trend of hostility towards media figures who oppose his narrative, highlighting his administration’s attempt to control public discourse.

The situation also illuminates the alarming intersections between Trump’s political strategy and media manipulation, where threats against television networks come with an undercurrent of intimidation. This is not an isolated incident, as other comedians and media personalities have received similar backlash from Trump, indicating a systematic approach towards silencing dissenting voices.

Trump’s fixation on Kimmel and other late-night hosts exemplifies his fragile ego and desire for validation, as well as his authoritarian tendencies to dominate the media landscape. By attempting to undermine and exert control over comedic criticism, Trump continues to erode the foundational pillars of free speech and open satire in American culture.

Trump FCC Chair Carr Threatens Jimmy Kimmel Over Comments

Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and a Trump appointee, has escalated his threats against ABC and Jimmy Kimmel following controversial comments made by the comedian about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. During his show, Kimmel accused the MAGA movement of distorting the narrative surrounding the tragic murder, suggesting that the accused, Tyler Robinson, was being mischaracterized as a leftist instead of a supporter of far-right ideologies.

Carr stated he can envision a path leading to Kimmel’s suspension if ABC does not take appropriate action against the host, warning that the FCC could intervene further if necessary. This aligns with a broader pattern of Republican-led attempts to silence dissenting voices in media and instill fear among broadcasters, reminiscent of authoritarian practices.

The backlash against Kimmel stems from his claim regarding Robinson, who is now allegedly connected to anti-conservative sentiments. Kimmel pointed to evidence suggesting that Robinson was motivated by a perceived hatred for Kirk and other right-wing figures, directly challenging the narrative pushed by reactionary factions aiming to shield their ideology from scrutiny.

Carr’s comments highlight the troubling dynamics of media control under Trump’s influence, where FCC oversight is employed as a weapon against critics of the administration. Such threats not only compromise journalistic independence but also reinforce the ongoing effort to dismantle accountability and fairness in broadcasting, positioning the FCC as a tool for potently authoritarian agendas.

The intimidation tactics showcased by Carr signal a dangerous precedent in American media landscape, as Trump’s administration, through regulatory agencies, seeks to quell voices opposing its narrative, under the guise of public interest. This exemplifies a targeted assault on free speech and a blatant attempt to reshape media discourse in favor of Trump’s loyalist base.

Trump’s Dismissive Response to Political Violence Highlights Indifference to Democratic Safety

During a press conference in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump displayed his ignorance regarding the recent murder of Melissa Hortman, the Democratic Speaker of the Minnesota House, who was killed by a right-wing extremist. While addressing the press, Trump was quick to deflect responsibility and instead blamed the “radical left” for inciting violence, echoing a familiar narrative he has pushed since taking office.

When asked about lowering the flag in honor of Hortman, who was tragically shot alongside her husband and dog in June, Trump’s shocking response was simply “The who?” This dismissive attitude highlights his lack of awareness and indifference toward the violence faced by Democrats, a concerning trend that undercuts the fabric of public safety and decency in political discourse.

The discussion also touched upon the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing figure whose death has further polarized political conversations. Trump, despite acknowledging occasional right-wing violence, still resorts to blaming the left for the overarching issues, reinforcing a dangerous narrative that absolves his supporters from accountability. Such rhetoric serves only to inflame tensions and foster division among the citizenry.

In an attempt to justify his inaction, Trump remarked that he hadn’t been approached by Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz about lowering the flags for Hortman. This misses the broader responsibility leaders have in recognizing and responding to acts of violence, particularly those motivated by ideological beliefs. The implications of such violence, notably when stemming from right-wing extremism, highlight the urgency for political leaders to foster unity rather than sow division.

Trump’s failure to acknowledge the full spectrum of violence, including attacks on prominent Democrats who have faced aggression in recent years, exemplifies a concerning trend where only certain narratives are amplified. This raises significant questions about how violence is perceived and politicized in today’s charged environment, contributing to a cycle of blame that endangers public safety and legitimizes extremist actions under the guise of political discourse.

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Trump Scolds Reporter Over Wealth Corruption Question

During a recent press conference on the White House lawn, Donald Trump reacted furiously to a question from an Australian reporter regarding his rising wealth while in office. The inquiry came amid reports suggesting that the Trump family had earned an astonishing $5 billion from a cryptocurrency venture. Rather than addressing the potential impropriety of mixing personal business with the responsibilities of the presidency, Trump deflected, claiming that his children manage his businesses.

Trump attempted to divert attention by boasting about a luxurious new ballroom project at the White House, projecting a cost upwards of $250 million. He framed this extravagant renovation as a patriotic act, insisting it would serve the country despite the extensive personal profit he stands to gain from his ongoing business activities. Such comments highlight Trump’s prioritization of personal gain over ethical governance, cementing suspicions of corruption.

This confrontation underscores a pattern of Trump’s dismissiveness toward inquiries that challenge his integrity or financial dealings. As he escalated his rhetoric against the reporter, Trump accused him of being detrimental to Australia’s interests, threatening to relay this perception to Australia’s leadership. This reaction not only evades legitimate scrutiny but also illustrates Trump’s authoritarian tendencies in punishing those who oppose or question him.

By attempting to silence dissent with aggressive language, Trump demonstrates a troubling disregard for the principles of accountability that underpin democratic governance. His administration’s ongoing mix of personal and presidential matters raises significant ethical questions about the integrity of his actions and the implications for American democracy.

Overall, this incident reflects Trump’s consistent approach of portraying himself as a victim whenever his legitimacy is questioned, while simultaneously advancing his personal interests at the cost of ethical governance. Such behavior is emblematic of the authoritarian tactics he employs, whereby criticism is met with hostility rather than an effort to engage constructively.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/trump-attacks-reporter-asking-about-his-making-money-in-office-you-are-hurting-your-country-right-now/)

Trump Threatens ABC’s Karl Amid Controversial Hate Speech Crackdown

Donald Trump verbally threatened ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl during a press engagement, escalating tensions over an anticipated crackdown on “hate speech.” This crackdown follows the murder of activist Charlie Kirk and comments from Trump’s Attorney General Pam Bondi about pursuing individuals who she claims engage in hate speech, which has garnered widespread criticism. Trump asserted his concerns about fair treatment by the media while expressing a desire to regulate what he deems unacceptable speech.

When asked by Karl how the administration’s approach aligns with the free speech arguments made by some of Trump’s allies, Trump’s response was combative and dismissive. He accused Karl of harboring hatred, reflecting his ongoing hostility toward journalism and reporters who challenge him. Trump’s remarks illustrate a dangerous shift in rhetoric, indicative of authoritarian impulses aimed at silencing dissent and criticism.

Trump referenced a recent lawsuit settlement with ABC, claiming the network had previously wronged him while openly suggesting that the network could face similar scrutiny under the proposed hate speech initiatives. This aligns with broader efforts by Trump and his allies to define and suppress so-called hate speech, which critics argue could lead to an erosion of free speech rights and a chilling effect on journalistic integrity.

The conversation took place as Trump was departing for London, highlighting his penchant for using public platforms to deliver thinly veiled threats against the press. His comments came amidst ongoing controversies about the treatment of media outlets that criticize his administration, further solidifying a pattern of behavior that undermines democratic principles and the role of the press as a check on power.

By framing the opposition in extreme terms, Trump strives to mobilize his base while attempting to eliminate any accountability for his administration’s actions. Such behavior signals his commitment to an authoritarian approach that disregards norms of governance and the foundational elements of American democracy.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/tv/trump-threatens-abcs-jon-karl-to-his-face-amid-grilling-on-hate-speech-crackdown/)

J.D. Vance on Charlie Kirk’s Show Targets Liberals

During a recent appearance on The Charlie Kirk Show, Vice President J.D. Vance delivered a chilling speech, transitioning from honoring the late Kirk to issuing a stark warning about leftist violence. Vance, speaking from the White House, suggested a significant threat from political extremism on the left, characterizing it as a serious issue of terrorism, and vowed to unify the nation against it.

Vance began the show by praising Kirk’s contributions to the MAGA movement, framing him as an idealist committed to conservative values. However, his tone shifted drastically in his final monologue, where he labeled the left as a singular source of violent extremism. He asserted, “this is not a both-sides problem,” indicating a belief in a uniquely malignant threat posed by liberals and journalists, whom he held partially responsible for Kirk’s death.

As his remarks escalated, Vance hinted at a crackdown on left-wing groups, highlighting a supposed network of NGOs involved in fomenting violence. He claimed there was a coordinated domestic terror movement utilized by the left and suggested that the political climate could justify more aggressive measures against dissenters, conflating critical speech with violence.

Despite the ostensibly respectful tone toward Kirk earlier in the show, Vance’s comments indicated a dangerous intertwining of political rhetoric with threats of violence. He proclaimed that critical voices from the left were creating conditions ripe for killings, using Kirk’s murder as a rallying point to stoke fear and justify potential authoritarian measures against opposition parties and their supporters.

The closing statements made by Vance align with a broader trend among Republican leaders where division is emphasized, and opposition is not only discouraged but framed as a potential justification for violence. This shift towards equating political dissent with domestic terrorism signals a troubling development within the party, posing a potential threat to civil liberties and freedom of expression in the United States.

(h/t: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2025/09/charlie-kirk-jd-vance-show-podcast-death.html?pay=1758030734996&support_journalism=please)

Trump’s $15 Billion Lawsuit Against The New York Times Threatens Free Press Amid Authoritarian Tactics

Donald Trump has initiated a $15 billion lawsuit against The New York Times, accusing the publication of long-standing defamation that he claims serves the “Radical Left Democrat Party.” In a vehement announcement shared via Truth Social, Trump labeled the Times as one of the “worst and most degenerate newspapers” in U.S. history, asserting that its coverage constitutes an illegal campaign contribution, particularly referring to an endorsement of Kamala Harris.

Trump’s angry tirade follows a report by the Times that scrutinized Steve Witkoff, a key envoy in the White House’s Middle East policy, implicating him in dubious business dealings linked to Trump. In his post, Trump suggested a coordinated agenda of misinformation aimed at tarnishing his reputation and the “America First Movement,” presenting himself as the victim of what he calls a malicious media campaign.

Previously, Trump has had notable legal victories against media outlets, including a $16 million settlement from Paramount related to a 60 Minutes segment and a $15 million payout from ABC News over defamation claims. This lawsuit against the Times adds to a growing catalog of litigation targeting various media organizations that Trump claims have defamed him.

Moreover, the timing of this lawsuit coincides with Trump’s ongoing legal battles, including a pending suit against the Wall Street Journal, concerning a letter he allegedly sent to Jeffrey Epstein, which Trump denies writing despite evidence to the contrary. Such actions further shed light on Trump’s contentious relationship with the media and his willingness to use the judicial system to address perceived slights.

Critics argue that Trump’s litigious approach towards media organizations is an alarming tactic that threatens free press principles in America. His repeated claims of defamation and efforts to silence dissent speak to a broader pattern of authoritarian impulses from Trump and his administration, which prioritize loyalty over truthful reporting.

Trump Demands RICO Charges Against Protesters For Free Palestine Shout

Donald Trump recently called for federal action against protesters who vocalized their opposition during a dinner in Washington, D.C. The incident, which involved protesters shouting “Free Palestine,” led Trump to suggest that Attorney General Pam Bondi investigate the possibility of charging these individuals under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

During a news conference, Trump characterized the protesters as “paid agitators” and claimed their actions were subversive. He expressed frustration that his administration’s achievements, especially regarding Middle East peace efforts, were being disrupted by those he labeled as disruptive forces. “She started screaming,” Trump stated, emphasizing his disdain for what he perceived as unjustified public outbursts.

The RICO Act, originally designed to combat organized crime, has become Trump’s proposed tool to silence dissent and retaliate against vocal opposition to his policies. His comments underscore a troubling trend where political dissent is framed as criminal behavior, further eroding the principles of free speech and democratic discourse in America.

Critics argue that such rhetoric not only misuses legal frameworks but also reflects an authoritarian impulse to stifle opposing voices. By labeling peaceful protesters as criminal elements, Trump continues to push a narrative that legitimizes harassment and punishment of dissenters under the guise of maintaining order and security.

As Trump navigates a politically charged environment, his call for RICO charges reveals a dangerous willingness to employ government resources against citizens exercising their right to protest. This act reinforces the perception that Trump is not only out of touch with the realities faced by marginalized communities but also actively seeks to weaken the foundations of democratic engagement in America.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/trump-2673996811/)

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