Category: Vexatious Litigation

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/)

Hegseth’s Authority Targets Senator Mark Kelly Over Dissent

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s so-called “Department of War” has issued a threat to court-martial Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona. This comes after Kelly’s recent comments on a video where he asserted that U.S. troops have a constitutional duty to disobey unlawful orders. The Department of Defense stated they are investigating allegations of misconduct against Kelly under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, suggesting serious repercussions could follow.

The DOD emphasized that all service members must follow lawful orders, cautioning that personal beliefs cannot excuse disobedience. This punitive response highlights the extreme measures the currently authoritarian Republican leadership is willing to pursue against those who advocate for constitutional rights and refuse unlawful directives.

President Donald Trump has further incited tensions, claiming that Democrats reminding troops of their obligation to resist illegal orders could be guilty of treason and suggesting they could face the death penalty. In response, Kelly defended his stance, stating that standing up for the Constitution is fundamentally American, contrasting it sharply against Trump’s authoritarian and fascistic inclinations.

This alarming sequence of events has raised concerns about rising authoritarianism within military and governmental institutions under Trump. Kelly’s insistence on constitutional duty underscores the essential role of dissent in safeguarding democracy, which is critically under threat from those in power.

The implications of Hegseth’s threats reflect a broader authoritarian push from the Trump administration, seeking to punish dissent and uphold compliance through fear, further undermining democratic principles essential to the U.S. political landscape.

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 Fights Perkins Coie in Effort to Suppress Legal Dissent

Donald Trump has announced a lawsuit against the Perkins Coie law firm, referencing “egregious and unlawful acts” associated with an unnamed member of the firm, though he provided no further details in his post on Truth Social. This move follows Trump’s broader campaign to undermine legal accountability and autonomy among law firms that have opposed him, revealing a clear pattern of retaliatory actions against dissenting voices.

Trump’s recent executive order mandates the termination of federal contracts held by Perkins Coie’s clients if the firm has engaged in any work concerning those contracts. This aggressive stance not only aims to intimidate legal counsel but also reflects Trump’s authoritarian approach that seeks to undermine the legal system when it does not favor his interests.

Perkins Coie has responded to the executive order with a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the president’s directive violates constitutional protections. This illustrates the extent to which Trump is willing to disregard legal norms to enforce his will, further solidifying his ongoing attacks on the legal profession and democratic institutions.

The implications of Trump’s actions are troubling, as they threaten the independence of legal practices and foster a culture of fear among attorneys who may wish to represent those opposing his agenda. This form of intimidation is emblematic of Trump’s broader assault on dissent, aiming to solidify his power and stifle criticism.

In this context, Trump’s lawsuit against Perkins Coie is more than just a personal vendetta; it serves as a broader strategy to suppress opposition and manipulate the legal framework to serve his authoritarian ambitions. Such actions endanger the integrity of American democracy and pose significant risks to the rule of law.

(h/t: https://www.usnews.com/news/top-news/articles/2025-04-23/trump-says-he-is-suing-perkins-coie-law-firm)

Disney Faces Government Investigation Over DEI Practices Amid GOP’s Discriminatory Pressure

The U.S. government is investigating Disney’s diversity and inclusion (DEI) practices, as initiated by Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This investigation signifies increasing pressure on media companies to comply with the GOP’s discriminatory regulations aimed at dismantling DEI initiatives. Carr officially notified Disney and its ABC News unit via a letter, expressing concerns that the company may be promoting diversity in ways that contravene established government policies.

A spokesperson for Disney has confirmed the company’s intent to cooperate with the investigation, indicating they are reviewing the details of Carr’s letter. Disney’s ongoing alignment with DEI principles has come under scrutiny during the Trump administration, which has extended its mandate against such initiatives internationally. The American embassy in France recently reached out to French firms with U.S. contracts, mandating their compliance with Trump’s executive order prohibiting DEI programs.

Carr’s letter directly addresses Disney’s CEO, Robert Iger, emphasizing the need for compliance with FCC regulations and the elimination of any discriminatory practices cloaked in DEI terminology. He expressed a particular interest in how Disney has handled diversity within its media content, demanding clarity on their adherence to equitable employment opportunities.

Moreover, Carr has ramped up scrutiny of various media organizations since his appointment by Trump in November 2020. His investigations have targeted institutions like NPR and PBS, along with demands for transparency from tech giants such as Apple and Google regarding their editorial practices. Disney is not the only company facing this molten landscape; other major firms, including Verizon and Comcast, are also under investigation for their DEI policies amid the Republicans’ broader campaign against perceived “woke” ideologies.

This investigation adds to Disney’s existing political woes, notably its recent settlement of a $15 million defamation lawsuit brought by Donald Trump when an ABC journalist inaccurately reported on the former president’s legal issues. Additionally, Disney’s criticisms of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law have pitched it against Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, marking it as a persistent target for conservatives. Disney’s trajectory underscores the chilling atmosphere surrounding DEI initiatives under the current Republican regime.

(h/t: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62k20l5x24o)

Disney Faces Government Investigation Over DEI Practices Amid GOP’s Discriminatory Pressure

The U.S. government is investigating Disney’s diversity and inclusion (DEI) practices, as initiated by Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This investigation signifies increasing pressure on media companies to comply with the GOP’s discriminatory regulations aimed at dismantling DEI initiatives. Carr officially notified Disney and its ABC News unit via a letter, expressing concerns that the company may be promoting diversity in ways that contravene established government policies.

A spokesperson for Disney has confirmed the company’s intent to cooperate with the investigation, indicating they are reviewing the details of Carr’s letter. Disney’s ongoing alignment with DEI principles has come under scrutiny during the Trump administration, which has extended its mandate against such initiatives internationally. The American embassy in France recently reached out to French firms with U.S. contracts, mandating their compliance with Trump’s executive order prohibiting DEI programs.

Carr’s letter directly addresses Disney’s CEO, Robert Iger, emphasizing the need for compliance with FCC regulations and the elimination of any discriminatory practices cloaked in DEI terminology. He expressed a particular interest in how Disney has handled diversity within its media content, demanding clarity on their adherence to equitable employment opportunities.

Moreover, Carr has ramped up scrutiny of various media organizations since his appointment by Trump in November 2020. His investigations have targeted institutions like NPR and PBS, along with demands for transparency from tech giants such as Apple and Google regarding their editorial practices. Disney is not the only company facing this molten landscape; other major firms, including Verizon and Comcast, are also under investigation for their DEI policies amid the Republicans’ broader campaign against perceived “woke” ideologies.

This investigation adds to Disney’s existing political woes, notably its recent settlement of a $15 million defamation lawsuit brought by Donald Trump when an ABC journalist inaccurately reported on the former president’s legal issues. Additionally, Disney’s criticisms of Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law have pitched it against Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, marking it as a persistent target for conservatives. Disney’s trajectory underscores the chilling atmosphere surrounding DEI initiatives under the current Republican regime.

(h/t: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62k20l5x24o)

Elon Musk Echoes Trump’s Assault on Journalism Amid Pentagon Controversy

Elon Musk has recently escalated tensions regarding a New York Times report indicating he was scheduled to receive a briefing on potential U.S. military plans against China. He dismissed the article as “pure propaganda” and further threatened to pursue legal action against Pentagon officials he accused of leaking false information to the Times. Musk expressed his interest in seeing justice served against those he claims are responsible for disseminating “maliciously false information.”

In a post on social media, Musk’s comments mirrored the rhetoric of current President Donald Trump, who also targeted the Times following the report. Both figures dismissed the claims made by anonymous sources within the government, calling the article “fake news.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell joined Musk and Trump in condemning the report, calling it “garbage” and demanding a retraction.

Musk’s critique further highlights his controversial position as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), raising eyebrows about his dual role as a private sector mogul and a government official. His close business ties with the U.S. Department of Defense and his operations in China position him uniquely within a potentially conflicting situation, where corporate interests may intertwine with national security implications.

The Pentagon’s decision to brief Musk underscores concerns over the militarization of business leaders, as it raises questions about the influence of private enterprise in shaping national defense strategies. Critics argue that this blending of corporate power and government authority exemplifies troubling trends in the Trump administration that favor wealthy elites and undermine democratic accountability.

As both Musk and Trump continue to dismiss legitimate journalistic inquiry with accusations of misinformation, their narratives reflect a broader pattern of authoritarianism that seeks to delegitimize any dissenting voices. The potential for corruption and unethics in their dealings manifests clearly in their rhetoric, reinforcing concerns about the ongoing erosion of democratic norms under their influence.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/news/they-will-be-found-elon-musk-threatens-prosecutions-of-trump-pentagon-officials-after-bombshell-new-york-times-report/)

Trump Administration Seeks Supreme Court Support to Undermine Birthright Citizenship and Constitutional Rights

The Trump administration is actively seeking the Supreme Court’s intervention to implement its controversial restrictions on birthright citizenship. In recent emergency applications, the administration requested permission to partially enforce these restrictions while ongoing legal challenges unfold. This tactic highlights the Trump administration’s persistent attempts to undermine fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Specifically, the administration aims to restrict citizenship for children born in the U.S. to parents who are undocumented immigrants, targeting those born after February 19. This drastic measure not only strips away rights protected under the 14th Amendment but also reflects Trump’s ongoing xenophobic agenda aimed at rallying support from his far-right base.

Legal pushback has been strong, with three federal appeals courts already rejecting the Trump administration’s requests to enforce these restrictions. The courts have deemed such attempts problematic, stressing the importance of preserving birthright citizenship as a fundamental aspect of American democracy.

The intent behind these legal maneuvers is clear: Trump and his allies are determined to dismantle immigrant protections and reshape the nation’s approach to citizenship through executive power. JD Vance, Vice President and ally to Trump, has further complicated matters by claiming judicial constraints on the executive branch’s power, which threatens the judicial authority essential for a balanced government.

This attack on birthright citizenship is not merely an isolated incident but a continuation of Trump’s broader campaign against immigrants and refugees, which aims to reinforce a narrative of superiority for certain demographics. By undermining constitutional rights and working to eliminate fundamental protections, Trump’s actions underscore a troubling trend toward authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic values in the United States.

Trump DOJ Threatens Dem Congressman Over Musk Joke

Donald Trump’s Department of Justice has issued a warning to Representative Robert Garcia after the Democrat’s humorous jibe at Elon Musk, where he mockingly referred to the tech billionaire’s picture as a “dick pic.” This incident unfolded during a House hearing focused on Musk’s influence in government efficiency efforts.

Garcia’s remarks were interpreted as a challenge to Musk’s role in the Trump-administration-backed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which seeks to downsize federal agencies significantly. In a subsequent CNN interview, Garcia called for strong action against threats to democracy, igniting the ire of interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin.

Martin interpreted Garcia’s comments as potentially threatening toward Musk and his staff, asking for clarification under the pretext of protecting public figures appointed by Trump. Martin’s letter to Garcia, demanding a response by February 24, reflects a troubling misuse of prosecutorial power aimed at silencing dissent.

This is not Martin’s first attempt to suppress opposition to Trump. He has previously targeted notable figures like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and former special counsel Jack Smith, often invoking Trump’s false narratives regarding election fraud to justify his actions. Martin’s efforts exemplify a disturbing trend of retaliation against those who dare to criticize the Trump administration.

Garcia, unyielded by the threats, publicly defended his right to oppose Trump’s policies and called for accountability. The escalation of these tactics signals a broader pattern within the Republican Party to intimidate critics, revealing an authoritarian bent that threatens democracy itself.

(h/t: https://newrepublic.com/post/191787/trump-doj-threatens-democratic-congressman-garcia-elon-musk-dick-pic)

Trump’s $10 Billion Lawsuit Against CBS is a Frivolous Attack on Press Freedom

Former President Donald Trump has launched a ludicrous legal attack against CBS, claiming $10 billion in damages over the network’s ’60 Minutes’ interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. This frivolous lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court in Texas, is riddled with absurd accusations that CBS engaged in partisan election interference and misled the public during the presidential election process. Trump’s legal team alleges that the interview was unfairly edited to disadvantage him, a claim that has been categorically dismissed by CBS.

The suit has been met with widespread ridicule from First Amendment experts, who have condemned it as a dangerous overreach aimed at stifling press freedom. Prominent attorneys have asserted that Trump’s actions are not just meritless but also represent a blatant attempt to control how the media reports on political figures, undermining the fundamental protections of the First Amendment. Legal analysts emphasize that the media, not governmental entities or political candidates, should dictate the coverage of news events.

Trump’s lawsuit specifically demands CBS release the full, unedited transcript of the interview, further demonstrating his desperation to manipulate the narrative surrounding his political image. The rationale behind filing in Texas, particularly in a court presided over by a Trump appointee, raises suspicions of ‘judge shopping,’ a tactic often employed by litigants seeking favorable rulings.

CBS has firmly rejected Trump’s claims, asserting that the interview was accurately presented and that the lawsuit lacks any substantive basis. A representative for CBS stressed that their coverage was intended to inform viewers, not mislead them, directly countering Trump’s narrative of deceit. Furthermore, the legal action has drawn sharp criticism from experts who argue that such attempts to intimidate the media only serve to highlight Trump’s ongoing struggles with accountability and the truth.

During a rally in Nevada, Trump boasted about the lawsuit, showcasing his continued penchant for theatrics over substance. This legal maneuver is yet another indication of Trump’s relentless pursuit to reshape public perception while disregarding journalistic integrity. As the case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting the freedom of the press against politically motivated litigation.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/01/media/trump-cbs-lawsuit-harris-60-minutes-interview/index.html)

1 2 3 … 6