Category: Unpresidential

Trump Enlists Ellison, Dell, and Murdochs for TikTok Deal

President Donald Trump has announced that tech moguls Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and the Murdoch family will play significant roles in the acquisition of TikTok’s US operations. This collaboration emerges amidst Trump’s ongoing efforts to exert control over the popular social media platform, which has been embroiled in various controversies regarding data privacy and security. According to Trump, their involvement is indicative of a substantial shift in the consortium managing TikTok.

During an appearance on Fox News, Trump stated that Ellison, the CEO of Oracle, and Dell, who leads Dell Technologies, are key figures in this TikTok consortium alongside Lachlan and Rupert Murdoch. Their participation signals an aim to ensure that TikTok’s operations adhere to the stringent standards set by recent legislative measures, which mandated that a majority of its investors be American, a stipulation intended to curb foreign influence.

The shift in the investor group seems to counter Trump’s previous mentions of a consortium that included different prominent investors like Silver Lake and Andreessen Horowitz. This change indicates the administration’s strategy to reinforce American oversight of TikTok amidst national security concerns surrounding its Chinese ownership. With the Murdochs involved, Fox Corp. appears to be capitalizing on this potential acquisition to enhance their digital media investments, as traditional revenue streams like broadcast television continue to decline.

Adding to the political complexity, Trump’s interaction with Chinese President Xi Jinping was acknowledged, suggesting diplomatic movements aimed at finalizing the deal. The prior restrictions placed on TikTok have positioned this acquisition as a critical pivot in U.S. tech policy, as it aims to assimilate TikTok within American regulatory frameworks while safeguarding user data.

As this deal unfolds, it remains vital to scrutinize the motivations behind these alliances. Trump’s history of aligning with wealthy elites, combined with the Murdochs’ media influence, may pose significant implications for how digital information is managed and distributed, potentially undermining the public’s right to unbiased media representation.

Trump’s DOJ Hides Investigation into Homan’s $50,000 Bribe

Tom Homan, the White House border czar, faced scrutiny after accepting $50,000 from FBI agents posing as business executives, aiming to help them secure government contracts in a potential second Trump administration. This covert operation was recorded by the FBI, and it came to light that Homan had solicited these payments while touting his role in a mass deportation agenda under Trump.

The investigation into Homan began in the summer of 2024 based on claims he solicited bribes. However, the inquiry was abruptly stifled following Donald Trump’s return to the presidency in January 2025. Sources indicate that the Justice Department, influenced by Trump’s appointees, labeled the investigation a partisan “deep state” probe, leading to its closure without clear justification.

Despite strong evidence of corruption, including recordings of Homan accepting cash, officials opted not to pursue criminal charges against him. Experts noted that while Homan could have faced conspiracy or fraud charges, his status at the time limited legal options. The political dynamics under Trump’s Justice Department undoubtedly played a significant role in stalling legal repercussions.

Homan has a controversial history tied to Trump’s immigration policies, notably the separation of families at the border. His consulting firm aimed to help companies gain government contracts related to border security, raising ethical concerns about conflicts of interest as he transitioned into a role that would oversee such contracts.

The FBI closed its investigation amid political fallout, with Homan denying any wrongdoing. The Trump administration continuously deflected blame onto the Biden administration, dismissing allegations as unfounded. This incident illustrates the corruptible intersections of power, influence, and accountability within Trump’s Republican regime, highlighting ongoing issues of integrity and ethics at the highest governmental levels.

Trump Pushes Supreme Court to End TPS for Venezuelans

Donald Trump has once again urged the U.S. Supreme Court to terminate the deportation protections granted to over 300,000 Venezuelans living in the United States, known as Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This comes after a previous ruling that deemed Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, lacked the authority to end these protections. The Justice Department filed an emergency application asking the Supreme Court to nullify this ruling, emphasizing that allowing these Venezuelans to remain in the country contradicts what they deem ‘national interest.’

Trump’s administration has consistently positioned immigration enforcement as a priority, aiming to strip migrants of temporary legal protections, thus widening the pool of individuals subject to deportation. The TPS program, established to offer humanitarian assistance, protects individuals from countries facing turmoil, like Venezuela, which was designated for TPS under the Biden administration in both 2021 and 2023. Biden’s administration extended this status shortly before Trump’s return to office, yet Noem subsequently moved to revoke it for certain Venezuelans.

Lower courts have expressed challenges in complying with emergency orders from the Supreme Court, leading to confusion regarding procedures and legal authority. An earlier Supreme Court ruling in May had favored Trump’s administration allowing the deportation protections to continue while litigation unfolded. However, recent federal court rulings have highlighted the irregularities in Trump’s approach toward immigration policies.

Despite Trump’s fervent campaign against immigration, it is crucial to recognize that Venezuelan nationals have pursued TPS as a lifeline during profound humanitarian crises in their home country. The potential eradication of these protections raises ethical questions and illuminates the extent of Trump’s administration’s commitment to what many perceive as harsh and inhumane immigration policies.

This ongoing battle over immigration policy underlines a broader trend within the Republican agenda, which focuses on stringent measures against vulnerable communities. As Trump continues to objectify and target migrant populations, the implications for American values and humanitarian standards remain significant and deeply concerning.

Trump Fires Virginia U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert Over Alleged Politics

President Donald Trump has challenged claims regarding the resignation of Erik Siebert, the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, asserting he was dismissed instead. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated, “he didn’t quit, I fired him!” This statement reflects Trump’s tendency to manipulate narratives to suit his agenda and discredit those who oppose him.

Trump withdrew Siebert’s nomination following news that he had received strong backing from Democratic Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, which Trump labeled as support from “absolutely terrible, sleazebag” politicians. This move underscores Trump’s contentious relationship with even the suggestion of bipartisan approval, painting any Democratic endorsement as a personal affront.

Earlier reports suggested that Siebert resigned amid pressure from the Trump administration to investigate New York Attorney General Letitia James, who has pursued legal action against Trump’s business practices. Siebert’s assertion of insufficient evidence against James highlights the administration’s ongoing attempts to politicize legal matters to target perceived adversaries.

James, who has previously filed criminal charges against Trump’s business empire, faced accusations of misconduct that were propagated by Trump allies, including Bill Pulte of the Federal Housing Finance Authority. This pattern of using government resources to challenge political foes is symptomatic of a broader authoritarian approach, characteristic of Trump’s administration.

With this dismissal, Trump continues to demonstrate a willingness to disregard norms and ethical considerations in pursuit of his objectives. His actions signal a troubling trend where legal and governmental processes are weaponized for political gain, reflecting the escalating environment of distrust and hostility towards opponents within Trump’s sphere of influence.

Trump Declares TV Criticism Against Him Is ‘Illegal’

Donald Trump has alleged that criticism directed at him on television has reached a level he considers “illegal” and no longer constitutes free speech. During an interaction with reporters at the White House, Trump claimed that a significant majority of media coverage against him is biased, citing an unverifiable figure that suggests 97% of news stories about him are negative. He denounced this pattern as “cheating,” accusing media outlets of acting as “offshoots” of the Democratic National Committee, suggesting that their reporting is intentionally misleading.

This outrageous assertion comes amid the fallout from the suspension of ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following Kimmel’s comments about the assassin of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who had been killed in an act linked to far-right extremism. Trump’s remarks appear to minimize the serious implications of advocating violence against individuals, particularly from a media landscape that is often portrayed through the lens of partisan conflict. He failed to acknowledge the broader context of the assassination and the dangers of inflammatory rhetoric.

Trump’s claims were further backed by FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who warned ABC about consequences following the network’s actions. Carr’s threats represent a troubling intertwining of government pressure and media operations, indicating a chilling effect on free expression. By labeling the critical coverage of Trump as “illegal,” the former president undermines the principles of a free press, which are crucial in holding those in power accountable.

Contrary to Trump’s assertions, the First Amendment protects even harsh criticism, a cornerstone of American democracy. His remarks exemplify a continued pattern of authoritarian tendencies that threaten the integrity of democratic institutions. The alarming trend of casting dissenting opinions as illegitimate or criminal is reminiscent of fascistic regimes, which suppress criticism to maintain control.

Trump’s rhetoric not only reflects a disdain for media scrutiny but also signals a broader Republican agenda that seeks to dismantle free speech protections. This blatant disregard for journalistic integrity serves the interests of wealthy elites while undermining the working class’s access to truthful information. The implications of Trump’s statements extend beyond mere political maneuvering; they pose a direct risk to democratic freedoms and the rule of law.

EPA Silences Scientists Under Trump’s Anti-Science Agenda

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented a suspension on research publications by its scientists, as reported by employees who spoke under anonymity due to fear of repercussions. The decision reflects a troubling trend toward stifling scientific discourse, coinciding with the broader anti-science agenda often associated with Donald Trump and Republican policies.

This move by the EPA comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding the Trump administration’s approach to environmental regulations and public health. By curtailing the dissemination of research, the agency appears to prioritize political loyalty over scientific integrity, which could have detrimental consequences for public knowledge and environmental safety.

In the context of increasing authoritarianism, this directive raises alarms about the future of science under an administration that has consistently enacted policies favoring corporate interests over the environment. This shift aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to promote misinformation and undermine trust in scientific institutions.

As the Trump administration continues to face scrutiny for its handling of a range of issues, from environmental policies to public health crises, employees within the EPA express concerns that these tactics serve to suppress necessary scientific dialogue. This situation reflects a disturbing pattern of prioritizing political ideology over factual scientific understanding.

The implications of such censorship could extend to a range of issues, reinforcing a narrative that promotes ignorance over informed policy-making. With experts silenced, the ability to address urgent environmental challenges could be severely compromised, cementing the damaging legacy of a regime hostile to facts and expertise.

Vance Jokes About Trump’s Caribbean Airstrikes

At a recent rally in Michigan, Vice President JD Vance expressed pride in President Donald Trump’s controversial decision to authorize airstrikes against Venezuela-based vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking. This action has drawn laughter from attendees, who seem to find humor in militaristic responses to drug crime.

Trump claimed that the airstrikes, which were broadcast on his Truth Social platform, targeted “narcoterrorists” and highlighted a narrative portraying these actions as crucial to national security. While officials in the Trump administration, including Vance, showcased the airstrikes as a deterrent against drug smuggling, they have also dismissed legal concerns regarding military actions in international waters, raising alarms about the implications for international law.

During the rally, Vance recounted a conversation with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who allegedly stated that drug boats have ceased approaching American waters. Vance dramatically warned, “I would stop too,” framing the airstrikes as essential operations and suggested that a dedicated military under Trump’s command prioritizes American safety.

The administration’s rationale for the strikes centers on a national crisis concerning drug trafficking, with Hegseth alluding to a dire statistic: approximately 100,000 American lives lost each year due to drugs, which they attribute to prior policy failures regarding borders and trafficking. Vance echoed this sentiment, promoting a narrative that positions the current government as actively fighting for the American people’s interests.

However, the underlying ethical and legal implications of conducting such bombings raise significant questions about the administration’s approach and whether these actions embody a troubling precedent for U.S. foreign policy, questioning the morality of using military force in such contexts.

Trump’s Debunked Claims Flood UK News Conference with Starmer

During a recent news conference in the UK, President Donald Trump reiterated a series of discredited claims, undermining both factual accuracy and public understanding. While addressing issues such as inflation, tariffs, and migration, Trump employed falsehoods that reflect his pattern of misinformation, particularly regarding the legitimacy of his 2020 election defeat. He absurdly claimed victory in an election he lost to Joe Biden, a statement with no basis in reality.

On the subject of inflation, Trump incorrectly asserted that inflation had been resolved under his leadership. In fact, statistics confirm a troubling increase in inflation rates since May, contradicting his narrative. Trump’s typical exaggerations include his erroneous claims regarding Biden-era inflation, falsely stating it was the worst in history when it was not even the highest in over 40 years.

Trump also misrepresented U.S. tariffs, claiming that China was shouldering the financial burden when, in reality, American importers pay these tariffs, often passing the costs on to consumers. This fundamental misunderstanding highlights his lack of economic insight, which is a consistent theme in his public arguments.

His remarks about U.S. aid to Ukraine were equally misleading, as Trump claimed a staggering $350 billion in wartime expenditures, a gross exaggeration compared to actual figures supported by credible sources. Additionally, Trump’s unfounded claims regarding undocumented immigration emphasized his propensity for hyperbole, asserting figures not grounded in reality.

Misstatements also extended to events surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot, where Trump claimed he had evidence of Nancy Pelosi rejecting security assistance, a narrative lacking factual basis. Overall, Trump’s UK press conference served to perpetuate his agenda of misinformation, posing a challenge to democratic engagement and truth in political discourse.

Vance Threatens Consequences for Celebrating Charlie Kirk’s Death

Vice President JD Vance has intensified his criticism of the left following Charlie Kirk’s assassination, asserting that the First Amendment does not exempt individuals from consequences for celebrating his death. He indicated that those who express joy over Kirk’s murder should face repercussions, especially if they are employed by educational institutions funded by American taxpayers.

During a Fox News interview, Vance stated, “If you are a university professor… celebrating Charlie Kirk’s death, maybe you should lose your job.” This mindset reflects Vance’s intention to use governmental power against those perceived as inciting violence, which critics argue undermines free speech. Vance’s comments are viewed as a significant overreach aimed at stifling dissenting voices.

As discussions within the Trump administration evolve, Vance noted plans to investigate organizations allegedly funding left-wing political violence. He warned that entities encouraging violent acts against political speech would be treated as terrorist organizations. His remarks come amid Trump’s declaration to designate Antifa as a terrorist group, reinforcing a narrative that prioritizes suppressing leftist movements while downplaying right-wing extremism.

The implications of Vance’s threats extend beyond mere rhetoric; they signal a dangerous trajectory toward increased governmental intervention in civil discourse. The administration’s focus on left-wing groups as the instigators of violence starkly contrasts with a lack of accountability for right-wing radicals, revealing a partisan double standard.

Vance’s relationship with Kirk, noted as instrumental to his political rise, adds a layer of personal grievance to his statements. His endorsement of the idea to telecast the trial of Tyler Robinson, the alleged shooter, underscores a broader narrative of seeking justice amid the politically charged aftermath of Kirk’s death.

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.

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