Category: Authoritarian

Trump: ‘I Hereby Give Myself $1 Billion’ in Taxpayer Money

President Donald Trump announced at a North Carolina rally that he is demanding the U.S. government pay him $1 billion in settlement of a lawsuit he filed against the Department of Justice. Trump claimed he would give the money to charity, then contradicted himself by suggesting he might keep it.

In October 2024, the New York Times reported Trump had filed administrative claims demanding $230 million from the DOJ as compensation for federal investigations into his activities. The claims, filed in 2023 and 2024, reference the FBI’s search warrant execution at his Mar-a-Lago residence in 2022 and the bureau’s investigation into alleged ties between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia.

At the rally, Trump stated he is “suing” the United States and simultaneously must “settle” the suit himself as president. He declared, “I hereby give myself $1 billion,” then wavered on whether the funds would go to charity, saying “maybe I shouldn’t give it to charity. Maybe I should keep the money.”

Trump characterized the situation as unprecedented, claiming no president has faced such circumstances. He described the position as “strange” and said he must “negotiate with myself” regarding the settlement terms.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/media/tv/trump-brags-about-suing-the-government-and-declares-i-hereby-give-myself-1-billion/)

Kennedy Center Board Moves to Rename It the Trump-Kennedy Center – The New York Times

The Kennedy Center board, composed predominantly of Trump appointees, voted to rename the performing arts center the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Representative Joyce Beatty, a Democrat board member, stated she was muted during the call and prevented from voicing opposition to the measure. The center’s legal name—the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts—remains unchanged by federal law, and Congress retains authority to alter official designations.

Trump assumed the Kennedy Center chairmanship after purging Biden-appointed board members and installing loyalists including Susie Wiles, Pam Bondi, Usha Vance, Dan Scavino, Elaine Chao, and Ric Grenell. Trump voted on a measure to rename an institution after himself while serving as board chairman, then claimed the vote was a surprise. House Republicans previously advanced separate proposals to rename the Opera House after Melania Trump and the entire center the Donald J. Trump Center for the Performing Arts.

Under Trump’s leadership, the Kennedy Center has undergone dramatic institutional changes in 54 years. Dozens of employees were fired or resigned, and staffing declined approximately 30 percent according to the center’s human resources head. Unqualified outsiders received top positions within the organization.

Box-office revenue collapsed during Trump’s chairmanship, with ticket sales down approximately 50 percent during a typical October week compared to the same period the previous year, according to internal New York Times data. The institutional deterioration reflects a pattern consistent with Trump’s business approach of affixing his name to properties regardless of operational substance or public benefit.

(Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/18/us/politics/trump-kennedy-center-name.html?fbclid=IwdGRleAOxSx1leHRuA2FlbQExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR5Rts1bRUVy4gb3uxg7mWzNldCDc7SfZjfTMFmmKnD643sGSrEwcBIkByVAQA_aem_Li3V-I_KdUwfOokDTDecjw)

Stephen Miller Announces Chilling Hunt for “Fifth Column” | The New Republic

Stephen Miller announced a government crackdown on what he termed a “violent fifth column of domestic terrorists” following the Department of Justice’s claim to have stopped a bombing plot in California. Miller’s statement referenced NSPM-7, a September Trump administration memo directing federal agencies to focus on domestic extremism and defining it to include anti-capitalism, anti-immigration positions, and subjective stances on race and gender.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated the DOJ foiled a New Year’s Eve bombing plot allegedly planned by “The Turtle Island Liberation Front,” described as a far-left, pro-Palestine, anti-government group. The memo’s expansive definition of extremism—which encompasses common liberal and left-wing viewpoints—creates a framework enabling the government to target broad categories of political dissent under the guise of counterterrorism.

Miller’s invocation of “fifth column,” a term historically used by authoritarian regimes to delegitimize internal opposition, signals an intent to brand political adversaries as traitors requiring state suppression. His known history of advancing xenophobic and anti-immigrant policies compounds the threat, as administration officials have already coordinated military deployments against civilian protesters.

The memo’s vague language and Miller’s pattern of attacking judicial independence demonstrate how executive power is being weaponized to criminalize dissent. By framing opposition to Trump policies as terrorism, the administration constructs legal justification for deploying federal resources against political opponents rather than genuine security threats.

This framework mirrors authoritarian governance models, where state repression targets ideological enemies under security pretexts. Combined with officials relocating to military housing, the pattern reflects institutional militarization designed to insulate power holders from accountability while enabling mass surveillance and prosecution of ordinary citizens exercising constitutional rights.

(Source: https://newrepublic.com/post/204449/stephen-miller-fifth-column?utm_campaign=SF_TNR&utm_source=Facebook&utm_social_handle_id=161419311535&utm_social_post_id=624140450&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwdGRleAOty3ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEewS58jQJO2GedKIE5XxJHDrOeOt2Cf3qrTaYXcL2jPF_87-w5t1hVzqEHRY8_aem_3eybXmmt1E8x4bN-0QM4fg)

Trump administration to dismantle National Center for Atmospheric Research – The Washington Post

The Trump administration announced plans to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), a leading Colorado-based institution for Earth and atmospheric science research. The administration cited concerns about “climate alarmism” as justification for the closure, marking a direct attack on scientific infrastructure studying climate change and global warming.

NCAR conducts fundamental research on atmospheric systems, weather patterns, and climate dynamics that informs policy decisions and public understanding of environmental trends. The facility’s dismantling would eliminate a major hub for peer-reviewed climate science and eliminate institutional capacity for atmospheric monitoring and modeling.

The timing of the announcement coincides with the Trump administration’s escalating attacks against Colorado’s Democratic elected officials, suggesting the action serves political retaliation rather than policy rationale. The closure exemplifies broader efforts to suppress climate research and defund institutions that contradict the administration’s anti-science agenda.

Dismantling NCAR removes independent scientific capacity to document climate trends and threatens the nation’s ability to understand atmospheric processes essential for weather forecasting, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection. The action prioritizes ideological opposition to climate science over institutional preservation and research continuity.

(Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2025/12/17/trump-national-center-atmospheric-research-climate/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_source=bluesky,facebook,threads,twitter&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwdGRleAOvnWdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeSeCCzP2GCweingyC6zHt-V11mfgLSKuNB2sgNbWmaoOWd_KCTuFzIlRXu84_aem_3ZrxZA21Dd1nEtiQyoDcjw)

Dershowitz tells Trump the Constitution is unclear on third term, WSJ reports     | Reuters

Donald Trump reviewed a draft manuscript by lawyer Alan Dershowitz arguing the Constitution may permit a third presidential term, according to the Wall Street Journal. Dershowitz claimed he told Trump during an Oval Office meeting that constitutional language on presidential term limits is ambiguous, contradicting the 22nd Amendment, which explicitly bars anyone from being elected president more than twice.

The 22nd Amendment, ratified after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, states unequivocally: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” Dershowitz’s unpublished book, titled “Could President Trump Constitutionally Serve a Third Term?”, examines scenarios potentially circumventing this restriction.

Trump has previously signaled interest in circumventing constitutional term limits. He spent months publicly teasing the idea of testing the Constitution’s language before stating in October that he would not pursue a third term, calling the restriction “too bad” but acknowledging it prevented him from running again. Trump’s pattern of attacking institutions and officials who oppose him extends to questioning constitutional boundaries when they constrain his power.

White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson responded to the report by stating “the American people would be lucky to have President Trump in office for even longer,” signaling openness to the idea without committing to it. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles told Vanity Fair that Trump “knows he can’t run again,” creating contradictory messaging from the administration.

Trump has continuously falsified that he lost the 2020 election to widespread voter fraud, a claim rejected by numerous investigations and courts. His willingness to entertain arguments that constitutional limits may be negotiable reflects a broader pattern of treating constitutional constraints as obstacles rather than foundational law.

(Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/lawyer-dershowitz-told-trump-constitutionality-third-term-is-unclear-says-wsj-2025-12-17/)

Laughing Trump Drops Stunning Admission to Screaming Fans — ‘Sh*thole Countries’ Rant He Denied Was Real

During a recent rally at the Mount Airy Casino Resort, President Donald Trump openly acknowledged his infamous “sh*thole countries” comment, revealing that he still holds disdain for predominantly Black nations while favoring those like Norway and Denmark. Laughter erupted among his supporters as Trump recounted how he questioned the rationale behind accepting immigrants from troubled nations like Somalia and Haiti.

In his speech, Trump faced mounting economic criticism, calling concerns over rising prices a “con job,” and asserted that he had already resolved these issues. The rally was a response to unfavorable polling data that highlighted his declining popularity concerning economic management.

Trump’s emphasis on a permanent pause on immigration from what he termed “hell holes” illustrates his continued focus on anti-immigration rhetoric. This tone has become a hallmark of his public speaking, which resonates with his base but raises alarms regarding his attitudes toward race and immigration.

The event showcased the former president refining his controversial views in front of a supportive crowd, reaffirming his commitment to restricting immigration from certain countries while promoting his narrative of economic recovery. Such language and themes are indicative of his broader attempts to solidify his political base amid ongoing scrutiny.

Trump’s remarks not only reignite the debate over his immigration policies but also reflect his enduring brand of divisive politics, as he leverages humor and inflammatory statements to maintain his support during tumultuous times.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/laughing-trump-drops-stunning-admission-to-screaming-fans-shthole-countries-rant-he-denied-was-real/)

Trump Rejects ASL Access, Claims It’s a Threat to Control

The Trump administration is embroiled in a lawsuit concerning American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services, which the Department of Justice claims would impede the President’s ability to control his public image. This follows a lawsuit filed by the National Association for the Deaf, arguing that halting ASL interpretation denies the deaf community access to essential information from the White House. The association highlights the ongoing struggle for meaningful communication access, particularly during significant national events.

Government attorneys assert that providing real-time ASL interpretation could disrupt Trump’s carefully crafted image and messaging. They suggested alternative forms of access, such as online transcripts and closed captioning, while questioning whether other government branches would face similar demands for such services. Critics note the lack of a compelling argument for why ASL interpretation might damage Trump’s image.

Despite having begun to provide some ASL interpretation, the White House has appealed a federal judge’s ruling that mandated real-time interpreting for Trump’s comments. The administration’s ongoing refusal to comply fully aligns with its broader trend of dismantling diversity and inclusion initiatives. This effort has been part of Trump’s agenda since returning to office, reflecting an administration characterized by its opposition to inclusivity efforts.

The Biden administration had previously utilized ASL interpretation regularly for press briefings and public communications. By contrast, Trump’s refusal has raised significant backlash from advocates for the deaf community, who argue that the right to access information is fundamental. The criticism highlights a troubling disregard for inclusivity that many see as indicative of Trump’s broader governance style.

In the context of broader cultural changes, Trump’s administration has made headlines for reversing various diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. These actions extend beyond communication access and reflect a more general trend of retrenchment against modern inclusion standards across federal institutions.

(Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/sign-language-services-intrude-on-trumps-ability-to-control-his-image-administration-says?fbclid=IwdGRleAOqX5BleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeHJfMLdhICo9nd7vHzSUY2cYHrNRToiWt-kC7POMm7phct9AN-695oabeAjw_aem_UWDFChTHUxTGRfUzJy8nAA)

Trump Receives FIFA Peace Prize as Justice Drops Bribery Case

Following President Donald Trump's acceptance of FIFA's inaugural “FIFA Peace Prize,” the U.S. Department of Justice announced it would drop an international bribery case related to soccer, raising eyebrows among observers regarding the timing. The award, presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, was celebrated as a recognition of Trump's supposed contributions to peace, despite a notable lack of credible accomplishments in that regard. This ceremony took place soon after Trump was snubbed by the Nobel Peace Prize, which went to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado.

The bribery case involved former Fox executive Hernan Lopez and the Argentina-based marketing firm Full Play Group, associated with a larger corruption investigation into FIFA's operations. Lopez had previously been found guilty of facilitating bribes to secure broadcasting rights for South American soccer tournaments. The Justice Department's subsequent move to dismiss the case has sparked suspicions of quid pro quo, particularly given the historical context of Trump's administration's treatment of legal matters.

Prosecutors cited that the dismissal was “in the interests of justice,” which many interpret as a misguided attempt to align with Trump's controversial policies and actions around corruption. This development indicates not just a troubling pattern but a dangerous normalization of political favoritism. Trump's record includes dismantling units within the Justice Department that investigate public corruption, rendering the legal framework increasingly tenuous.

The juxtaposition of Trump receiving a "peace prize" while simultaneously walking away from serious corruption prosecutions exemplifies a chaotic administration more concerned with image than integrity. Additionally, the broader implications of such actions reveal a disconcerting trend toward undermining institutional trust and accountability, compounding the internal and external challenges facing the U.S.

In short, this incident exemplifies the administration’s troubling priorities, as it continues to reward loyalty while sidelining legal accountability, revealing a dangerous erosion of ethical standards in political practice.

(Source: https://www.comicsands.com/trump-fifa-doj-bribery?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwdGRleAOpRG9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEetak0mC26NZd4OVGItxykKy9HrWqWpMgnKadL5NpKvB26kvnIX0MTIHF1-bs_aem_OfXohv8so-2HnvLtQWCCUw#Echobox=1765563538)

Trump Attacks CNN’s Kaitlan Collins In Vicious Name-Calling Rant

Donald Trump unleashed a vicious name-calling tirade against CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, disparaging her as “Stupid” and “Nasty.” This attack emerged after Collins confronted him at a public event about the rising costs of his controversial ballroom project at the White House. Trump claimed the project, funded by private donations and aimed to enhance the venue’s aesthetic, was under budget and ahead of schedule, despite ongoing scrutiny.

During his rant, Trump also inaccurately referred to Collins as “Caitlin Collin’s” and lashed out at CNN, labeling the network “fake news” and denouncing its leadership as “corrupt.” His remarks did not engage with the substance of her questions, which he seemed to misattribute, showcasing his inability to handle criticism and his propensity for erratic outbursts.

The incident highlights Trump’s long-standing animosity towards Collins, a frequent target of his verbal assaults due to her journalistic rigor and critical coverage of his administration. Collins had previously reported on aspects of the ballroom project, including its increasing size and the architect changes, raising concerns about transparency in Trump’s spending practices.

Trump’s combative stance towards the press serves to reinforce an atmosphere of hostility and intimidation aimed at journalists who dare question his actions. This particular episode reflects a broader trend of an authoritarian approach, undermining the role of the media in a democratic society.

Overall, Trump’s behavior towards Collins is emblematic of his disdain for accountability and the press, revealing how personal grievances can often overshadow legitimate inquiries from journalists.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/online/trump-attacks-cnns-kaitlan-collins-in-vicious-name-calling-rant/)

Trump Does Putin’s Bidding and pulls out NATO funding

Senior U.S. defense officials have informed European allies that the United States will stop being NATO’s primary conventional defense provider beyond 2027. This shift comes amid ongoing support for Ukraine, although European countries will need to lead NATO’s defense efforts moving forward. The Pentagon emphasized that its focus has shifted to the Indo-Pacific region, necessitating this structural change.

U.S. arms deliveries to Ukraine are expected to increase ahead of Christmas, despite this strategic pivot. Washington’s message is clear: while support for Ukraine remains, European nations must prepare for a NATO where the U.S. is not the automatic first responder. A senior Western official described the mood as Europe being placed on a strict timeline to adapt.

Moreover, the Pentagon has warned European capitals to expect no surprises; it intends to reduce its contributions to NATO significantly. If a Europe-led NATO structure isn’t established by 2027, the U.S. is prepared to withdraw from key planning processes, including the NATO Defense Planning Process (NDPP).

While the Trump administration is not currently planning major troop reductions in Europe, it will cut the number of senior U.S. officers within NATO command. These steps have been characterized as a transition towards European leadership in collective defense, with NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander remaining American for now.

Overall, the shift marks the end of U.S. dominance in NATO and raises concerns about the transatlantic security landscape. The Pentagon’s drive for Europe to demonstrate military capability reflects its demand for verifiable evidence of European seriousness in regional defense.

(Source: https://www.kyivpost.com/post/65690)

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