Category: Authoritarian

Trump Nominates Project 2025 Author Brendan Carr To FCC

Brendan Carr, President-elect Donald Trump’s appointee to head the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has openly threatened broadcast media with stricter regulations under the guise of enforcing their public interest obligations. Trump’s choice of Carr, a staunch advocate for conservative media policies, raises alarm bells about potential government overreach into the media landscape. Notably, Carr’s comments come against a backdrop of Trump’s persistent grievances regarding media coverage, particularly following a contentious 60 Minutes interview with Vice President Kamala Harris.

During an appearance on Fox News, Carr indicated that he would closely scrutinize media operations, claiming that legacy media must change due to a loss of public trust. He cited Jeff Bezos’s assertion that Americans consider news media to be the least trusted source, suggesting that this sentiment justifies a shift in FCC policies to hold broadcasters accountable for their content.

Moreover, Carr’s support for a controversial merger between Paramount and Skydance appears contingent on the outcome of an ongoing FCC complaint related to CBS’s coverage of the Harris interview. His remarks signal a willingness to intertwine regulatory actions with political grievances, a move that could further undermine the independence of the FCC and jeopardize journalistic integrity.

In Carr’s view, the FCC should reassess its role in regulating broadcasters, who are granted access to public airwaves in exchange for serving the public interest. His statement about enforcing these obligations raises concerns that the FCC may become a tool for furthering partisan agendas, rather than a neutral body ensuring fair media practices.

With Carr’s history connected to the Heritage Foundation and Project 2025, concerns mount regarding his commitment to unbiased media oversight. His comments align with Trump’s broader narrative of combating perceived censorship and promoting ‘free speech,’ which often translates into silencing dissenting voices under the guise of regulation. The implications of Carr’s leadership at the FCC could reshape the information landscape and pose risks to the foundational principles of a free press.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/politics/trumps-fcc-pick-threatens-broadcast-media-promises-to-enforce-their-public-interest-obligation/)

Trump’s Dangerous Move to Target Military Officers for Courts-Martial Reveals Authoritarian Tendencies

In an alarming move, the Trump transition team is reportedly compiling a list of both current and former U.S. military officers for potential courts-martial. This initiative raises serious questions about the motives behind targeting military personnel who may have opposed or criticized the former president’s actions. The list appears to be part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and further consolidate power, echoing tactics often seen in authoritarian regimes.

Reports indicate that this effort is being driven by individuals connected to Trump’s inner circle, including prominent supporters who have openly embraced conspiracy theories. This behavior is reminiscent of fascist regimes, where loyalty to a singular leader is prioritized over democratic principles and accountability.

Among those associated with this troubling initiative is Matt Flynn, a leader in the QAnon conspiracy movement, alongside his brother Michael Flynn, a disgraced former general. Their involvement underscores the disturbing trend of militarizing political loyalty, where questions or criticisms of leadership are treated as acts of treason.

The implications of compiling such a list are profound, signaling a potential crackdown on military personnel who choose to speak out or maintain their integrity. This tactic not only undermines the values of democracy but also threatens the moral fabric of the armed forces.

As Trump and his allies continue to pursue these authoritarian strategies, it is imperative for the American public to remain vigilant and recognize the dangers posed by such actions. The normalization of hate and the silencing of dissent are hallmarks of a regime that prioritizes power over the principles of liberty and justice.

(h/t: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/trump-transition-team-compiling-list-current-former-us-military-office-rcna180489)

Trump’s Demands for Recess Appointments Highlight GOP’s Submission to His Agenda

Donald Trump is once again attempting to exert his influence over Republican senators, demanding their support for recess appointments to expedite the confirmation of his nominees. In a recent post, he insisted that any senator vying for leadership must commit to this controversial tactic, which has been met with skepticism from many in Congress. Recess appointments allow presidents to bypass the Senate when Congress is in recess, a practice that has been blocked by the opposition party in recent years.

Despite the contentious nature of this demand, the leading GOP candidates for the Senate majority leadership have quickly signaled their support for Trump’s wishes. Senators John Thune and John Cornyn, both seen as frontrunners, have expressed their openness to the idea, indicating a troubling trend where the party appears willing to undermine traditional legislative processes to placate Trump and his agenda.

Trump’s insistence on recess appointments highlights a significant power struggle within the Republican Party, as various factions vie for control. While some senators, like Rick Scott, have eagerly endorsed Trump’s approach, others remain cautious, recognizing the risks involved in expanding presidential powers. This clash reflects a broader concern about the erosion of checks and balances in the face of Trump’s demands.

Moreover, Trump’s call for recess appointments is not merely about filling positions; it is a strategic move to prevent the current Democratic-controlled Senate from pushing through judicial appointments. He has urged Republicans to block any such attempts during the leadership transition, revealing his willingness to disrupt the Senate’s functionality for partisan gain.

This situation poses serious implications for the Senate’s future operations, as Trump’s tactics could lead to further polarization and conflict. Recess appointments, once a rare and controversial measure, may become a tool for a party unwilling to engage in genuine legislative negotiations. As the GOP navigates this leadership election, the fallout from Trump’s demands will likely shape the Senate’s dynamics for years to come.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/10/politics/trump-senate-recess-appointments-gop-leader/index.html)

Trump Expresses Regret Over Leaving Office While Peddling Dangerous Lies

In a recent rally held in Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump lamented his departure from the White House, claiming he “shouldn’t have left.” This statement reflects his persistent delusions regarding the legitimacy of the 2020 election and suggests a troubling unwillingness to accept defeat in future elections.

Throughout his speech, Trump escalated his baseless assertions of widespread voter fraud, insinuating that the only way he could lose again in 2024 would be through Democratic cheating. This rhetoric continues to undermine the integrity of the electoral process and incites division among his supporters.

Trump’s remarks also hinted at a dangerous attitude towards violence, as he expressed indifference to the idea of reporters being shot at while criticizing the media. Such comments are alarming, especially considering the violent events that occurred on January 6, 2021, when a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol based on his false claims.

Despite a clear lack of evidence for his claims, Trump continues to capitalize on fear and division as he campaigns for the upcoming election, labeling the Democratic Party as “demonic.” This kind of inflammatory language is reminiscent of his previous tactics that incited unrest and violence.

As the election draws near, Trump’s unwillingness to concede and his promotion of dangerous rhetoric raise significant concerns about the future of democracy in America. It is evident that should Trump regain power, he would likely resist leaving the White House again, posing a serious threat to democratic norms.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/03/us/politics/trump-pa-rally-election.html)

Trump Regrets Leaving White House as He Peddles Lies About Voter Fraud

In a recent rally in Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump expressed regret over leaving the White House, stating he “shouldn’t have left” as he continues to push his baseless claims of widespread voter fraud. This rhetoric not only signals his persistent delusions about the 2020 election outcome but also hints at his unwillingness to accept potential defeat in the upcoming 2024 elections. His remarks come just days before the election, showcasing a campaign centered around grievance rather than policy.

Trump’s comments during the rally reflected a tone of resentment and self-pity as he lamented his departure from office. Significantly, he implied that the Democratic Party is “demonic,” illustrating his descent into extreme rhetoric that has characterized his political narrative. This kind of language not only alienates moderate voters but also stokes unnecessary hostility among his supporters.

Moreover, Trump’s continued insinuations that he will not recognize the election results unless he deems them “fair” raises alarms about the potential for further political unrest. His previous behavior, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riots, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in his rhetoric. His insistence on the presence of “hundreds of lawyers” at polling booths further exemplifies his unfounded paranoia surrounding electoral integrity.

Additionally, Trump’s sluggish and hoarse delivery during the rally indicates a lack of vigor that many observers may interpret as a fading influence. His obsession with personal grievances, rather than engaging in a constructive dialogue about the future, suggests that he is increasingly out of touch with the needs and concerns of American voters.

As he marches toward the 2024 election, Trump’s fixation on his past grievances over substantive policies highlights a troubling trend in his leadership style. With the specter of his divisive presidency still looming, voters must consider whether embracing such a figure is beneficial for the nation moving forward.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/03/us/politics/trump-pa-rally-election.html)

Trump Says OK If An Assassin Shoots Through The Press

During a recent rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump made shocking remarks suggesting he would not mind if someone attempted to shoot through the media to reach him. This statement, made while he was critiquing the bulletproof glass shielding him, raises serious concerns about his attitude towards violence and the press.

Trump, who has a history of inflammatory rhetoric, referred to the media as “fake news” and “bloodsuckers” while gesturing towards the protective glass. His comments come in the wake of multiple assassination attempts against him, including a recent incident where a bullet grazed his ear and resulted in the death of an audience member.

The former president’s reckless comments not only trivialize the threats against his life but also serve to incite his supporters against the press. By implying that the media is a barrier to him, he dangerously promotes the idea that violence against journalists is acceptable.

Trump’s spokesperson attempted to clarify his remarks, claiming he was trying to protect the media. However, this belies the reality of Trump’s consistent pattern of hostility towards journalists who challenge him. His rhetoric has been known to embolden extremist behavior among his followers, leading to increased violence against the press.

This incident is a stark reminder of the toxic environment Trump has cultivated, where incitement and division take precedence over respect and dignity. As he continues his campaign for the presidency, the implications of his words and their potential effects on public safety and discourse cannot be overstated.

(h/t: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/donald-trump-lititz-pennsylvania-rally-shoot-through-media-bulletproof-glass/)

Trump’s Dangerous Request to Murdoch: Censor Negative Ads and Free Speech

Donald Trump recently declared his intention to ask Rupert Murdoch to intervene at Fox News, demanding that the network stop airing negative advertisements against him for 21 days leading up to the election. This request, made during his appearance on the Fox & Friends show, exemplifies Trump’s continued efforts to control the narrative surrounding his campaign. Trump, who claimed to be ‘the most stable human being’ during the segment, expressed his frustration over the perceived unfairness of negative ads from opponents, particularly those targeting him.

In his complaints, Trump noted that he has seen a surge of advertisements attacking him while his own campaign is underrepresented. He indicated that he believes this imbalance in advertising could harm his chances in the upcoming election. Trump’s plea to Murdoch to halt negative ads highlights a troubling trend of political figures seeking to censor dissenting views, a move that undermines the fundamental principles of free speech.

The irony of Trump’s request is striking, particularly considering the Republican Party’s long-standing narrative about protecting free speech. Their hypocrisy is evident when contrasting Trump’s demands with their previous claims regarding the censorship of conservative voices. For instance, the uproar over the purported suppression of the Hunter Biden laptop story demonstrates how Republicans selectively champion free speech only when it aligns with their interests.

Trump’s desire to control what the media reports about him extends beyond Fox News. He has previously suggested shutting down networks like CBS, ABC, NPR, and CNN, all of which have been critical of his actions and statements. This alarming trend shows a blatant disregard for journalistic integrity and an authoritarian approach to governance, as he attempts to silence critics and control the flow of information.

As Trump continues to express his grievances regarding media coverage, it becomes increasingly clear that his agenda involves not just winning an election but also shaping the media landscape to serve his narrative. This manipulation of media and free speech raises significant concerns about the future of democratic discourse in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/politics-news/donald-trump-rupert-murdoch-negative-fox-news-ads-1236035125/)

Trump Blames Zelensky for Ukraine War in Recent Interview

In a recent podcast interview, former President Donald Trump attributed blame for the ongoing war in Ukraine to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, rather than Russian President Vladimir Putin. This statement contradicts the established timeline and facts surrounding the invasion, which began with Russia’s troop buildup and subsequent attack on Ukraine on February 24, 2022.

Trump’s remarks came as he critiqued President Biden’s foreign policy and military support for Ukraine. He described Zelensky as an effective salesman for securing U.S. aid, asserting that Ukraine has received unprecedented financial support during the conflict. Trump claimed that Zelensky should have negotiated with Putin to prevent the war, framing the situation as a failure on Zelensky’s part.

During the interview, Trump said, “He should never have let that war start. That war is a loser,” highlighting his view that the responsibility for the destruction caused by the invasion lies with the Ukrainian leadership. This is not the first time Trump has expressed skepticism about Zelensky’s role in the crisis.

In previous statements, Trump suggested that a deal could have been reached to stave off the conflict, implying that Zelensky’s actions contributed to the current devastation. His comments reflect a continued strategy of blaming Ukrainian officials while minimizing the responsibility of Russia for its aggressive military actions.

This narrative aligns with certain viewpoints promoted by Russian state media, which often seeks to blame Ukraine for the consequences of the invasion. Trump’s remarks serve as a notable example of disinformation that distorts the events leading to the war, undermining the clear responsibility of Putin’s regime in initiating the conflict.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/17/us/politics/trump-zelensky-putin-ukraine-war.html)

Trump’s Call for Military Action Against Political Opponents Sparks Outrage

Donald Trump has ignited significant backlash from Democrats following his recent comments suggesting that the U.S. military should be deployed against political adversaries during the upcoming presidential election. In a Fox News interview, Trump referred to his opponents as ‘the enemy within,’ indicating that this group poses a greater threat to democracy than foreign entities or illegal immigrants.

During the interview, Trump singled out Congressmember Adam Schiff, asserting that he represents a danger to fair elections. Trump’s rhetoric has raised alarms among political analysts and historians, who draw parallels between his proposed actions and authoritarian regimes led by figures like Viktor Orbán and Vladimir Putin.

Kamala Harris’s campaign responded sharply, comparing Trump’s remarks to his previous threats to act as a dictator should he regain the presidency. Harris’s campaign pointed out that these statements reflect a serious threat to democratic norms, calling for vigilance among Americans who value their freedoms.

In addition to targeting Schiff, Trump has reiterated claims of widespread voter fraud without evidence, furthering fears that he may incite violence or unrest if he perceives electoral outcomes as unfavorable. Schiff himself has condemned Trump’s comments, likening them to the incitement of the January 6 Capitol attack and warning of the potential for political violence.

(h/t: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/oct/14/trump-military-enemy-within-armed-forces-election-day)

Trump Promises Mass Deportation Using 1798 Law Amid Controversy

During a recent rally in Aurora, Colorado, former President Donald Trump announced plans to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to initiate mass deportations of immigrants. Trump described immigrants as “the worst criminals in the world” and vowed to expedite the removal of individuals he referred to as “savage gangs”. This law, historically associated with the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II, would empower the president to enact broad deportation measures.

Trump’s rhetoric included specific threats to Haitian-American immigrants, whom he stated would need to return to Haiti regardless of their legal status in the U.S. He asserted that local police would receive immunity from prosecution for actions taken under this mass deportation scheme, which he claimed would affect up to 20 million people.

The former president’s comments have elicited pushback from local officials, including Aurora’s Republican mayor Mike Coffman, who stated that the city is not overrun by gangs, contrary to Trump’s claims. The mayor emphasized that Aurora is a safe city, countering Trump’s characterization of the area as a “war zone”.

Critics have highlighted the potential human rights implications and economic consequences of Trump’s proposed deportations, warning that it could lead to widespread suffering among immigrant communities. Trump’s approach reflects a continuation of his administration’s hardline stance on immigration, aiming to galvanize support among his base by invoking fear related to crime and safety.

As Trump seeks to re-establish his influence in the political landscape, his latest remarks signal a return to familiar themes of fear and division surrounding immigration policy. The potential implementation of the Alien Enemies Act raises significant concerns about civil liberties and the treatment of immigrant populations in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.salon.com/2024/10/11/theyre-animals-vows-mass-deportation-under-law-used-to-justify-japanese-internment-camps/)

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