Category: Hire The Best People

Kash Patel Issues Unprecedented Polygraph Waivers to Dan Bongino

In a troubling development, FBI Director Kash Patel has granted polygraph waivers to Deputy Director Dan Bongino and two other senior FBI officials, according to a ProPublica investigation. This unprecedented move raises significant questions about the integrity of the FBI and Patel’s leadership, as it reportedly deviates from standard protocols for accessing sensitive information. Bongino’s exemption from a critical screening process reflects a broader concern regarding the politicization of key agencies under authoritarian influence.

Sources within the bureau expressed alarm over the lack of precedent for such waivers, revealing that only one similar exception had been documented in the past seven years. This previous waiver, attributed to an outside expert with inconclusive results, starkly contrasts with the blanket permissions granted to Patel’s appointed personnel, including Bongino, who lacks prior FBI experience.

The leaked report highlights that Bongino, who receives sensitive intelligence as part of his duties, had never completed a polygraph exam, a detail deemed shocking by former FBI officials. This deviation from norms not only undermines the vetting process critical for national security but also raises potential conflicts of interest and accountability issues within the agency.

Further complicating matters, Patel allowed two additional staff members to bypass polygraph examinations. Former senior officials expressed distress over the ease with which access to classified information has been obtained by Patel’s allies. The implications of compromising security protocols in such a manner demonstrate a potential erosion of trust and accountability in the nation’s premier investigative agency.

In response to the report, FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson dismissed the claims as “false” and filled with “falsehoods,” yet such denials do little to assuage the growing skepticism regarding Patel’s leadership and the operational integrity of the FBI. The departure from established procedures underlines the risks associated with leadership that prioritizes loyalty over professionalism and accountability.

DHS Bypasses Bidding to Fund Ads for Noem Allies

A recent investigation by ProPublica has revealed troubling practices within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Secretary Kristi Noem’s office invoked a “national emergency” at the southern border to circumvent competitive bidding regulations for a substantial $220 million advertising campaign. This maneuver raised serious ethical questions, particularly due to the involvement of a Republican consulting firm linked to Noem.

DHS justified this ad initiative by claiming it was essential for addressing a perceived “national border emergency.” This rationale allowed them to bypass standard bidding protocols and expedite contracts to certain firms without transparency. One notable advertisement, filmed during a government shutdown, featured Noem on horseback at Mount Rushmore, proclaiming punitive measures against lawbreakers.

ProPublica discovered that the agency’s primary contractor engaged the Strategy Group, a political consulting firm closely connected to Noem’s previous gubernatorial campaign. However, a lack of visibility around this firm’s federal contracting records raises significant concerns about accountability and integrity in government spending.

The bulk of the advertising budget, approximately $143 million, was allocated to a newly established Delaware entity named Safe America Media, with its subcontractors remaining undisclosed. The Office of Public Affairs at DHS, which is led by Noem’s spouse Tricia McLaughlin, is indicated as the funding source for these controversial contracts, intensifying accusations of impropriety.

Former Wartime Contracting Commission member Charles Tiefer criticized the entire situation, labeling it as “corrupt” and prompting calls for investigations by the DHS inspector general and Congressional Oversight Committees. Tiefer’s comments highlight a troubling trend of favoritism and lack of transparency in DHS’s contracting process, affecting taxpayer confidence in how their money is spent.

FBI Director Kash Patel Fires Veteran Over Personal Jet

FBI Director Kash Patel, a controversial figure known for his aggressive management style, has dismissed Steven Palmer, a 27-year veteran of the bureau, after media scrutiny revealed Patel’s use of FBI jets to travel for personal reasons. Reports indicate that Patel was incensed by negative media attention surrounding his flights to see his girlfriend, country music artist Alexis Wilkins, which were highlighted on social media and in news articles.

Palmer’s forced resignation is the latest in a series of retaliatory firings under Patel’s leadership, reflecting a troubling trend of purging individuals perceived as obstacles. This event marks Palmer as the third high-ranking official in Patel’s aviation unit to be ousted, demonstrating a disturbing pattern of retribution within the FBI.

Those familiar with the situation expressed confusion at Patel’s decision to blame Palmer for his own travel disclosures, as Patel’s flights were publicly accessible information. Critics have suggested that such actions reveal a broader effort to silence dissent within the bureau and maintain a facade of control amidst escalating scrutiny.

Former prosecutor Ron Filipkowski commented on the situation, emphasizing the absurdity of Patel firing someone for merely revealing his personal jet use. The incident underscores the issues of transparency and accountability within the FBI, as Patel prioritizes personal grievances over the integrity of the agency.

The fallout from this incident raises concerns about the direction of the FBI under Patel’s leadership, as the agency grapples with maintaining its reputation amid orchestrated firings that appear motivated by personal vendettas rather than professional conduct.

Justice Dept. Sanctuary Cities Group Disbands Under Trump Pressure

**Title:** Justice Dept. Sanctuary Cities Group Disbands Under Trump Pressure

The Justice Department’s working group focused on sanctuary cities has lost every member in a dramatic resignation that highlights the toxic political environment fostered under Donald Trump. The group’s creation was a direct response to the former president’s aggressive immigration policies, aiming to target cities that offer protections to undocumented immigrants. However, the pressure from the Trump administration to strictly enforce these measures ultimately led to the group’s collapse as its members could not justify the overrides of due process and civil rights.

Under Trump’s leadership, the DOJ’s focus shifted toward punitive measures against sanctuary cities, framing them as lawless entities. This messaging, steeped in anti-immigrant rhetoric, served to rally his base while undermining the very fabric of community safety and trust. Critics argued that these efforts were not just politically motivated but part of a broader agenda to intimidate local governments standing against federal policies.

The high turnover and final resignations were indicative of a mounting resistance within the DOJ against the administration’s authoritarian tendencies. Whistleblowers and former employees voiced concerns over the unfair treatment and political manipulation that permeated the DOJ, eroding its independence and integrity under Trump’s directive. As a result, many legal professionals chose to step away from a system they felt was compromising their ethical obligations.

This disbandment sent shockwaves through the legal community, exposing the ongoing harm inflicted by the Trump administration on public institutions dedicated to justice. Advocates for civil rights and immigration reform pointed to this event as emblematic of how far-reaching Trump’s influence has been in dismantling protective legal frameworks and encouraging a culture of fear among public servants.

As the dust settles on this latest fallout, the implications are clear: the ideological battles surrounding immigration policy continue to wield significant consequences for public service and the preservation of democratic values. The refusal of legal professionals to participate in what they viewed as unjust and discriminatory practices is a testament to their commitment to upholding the principles of justice that the Trump administration fundamentally challenged.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/08/30/justice-department-trump-sanctuary-cities-politics-resignations-immigration/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR7jhurjo3OT57Zf95AxGiM_xvgiEpstGMAZrFTZ3h-MCU8q_MPFnuGfEGlVSw_aem_UWPJuhFHqJR46GaW7mwkyw)

Trump Cabinet Meeting Descends Into Fascist Rhetoric and Absurdity

President Donald Trump’s recent cabinet meeting, lasting over three hours, showcased a disconcerting mix of authoritarian rhetoric and bizarre commentary. The lengthy session raised eyebrows not only for its duration, which exceeded that of classic films but also for the troubling implications of Trump’s remarks. His comments revealed an alarming acceptance of dictatorship for the sake of crime reduction, further indicating an erosion of democratic norms in favor of brutal authoritarianism.

During the meeting, Trump suggested that, if he were a dictator, Americans might be willing to accept such a regime if it meant less crime. This chilling remark plays into a narrative that glorifies authoritarian rule while disparaging legitimate legal processes, drawing on fear rather than facts to stoke support for undemocratic measures. It echoes sentiments that prioritize security over liberty, a hallmark of his administration’s troubling approach to governance.

In a further display of hostility toward the media, Trump dismissed MSNBC, claiming they are “worse” than violent gangs. This tactic not only dehumanizes journalists but also serves to reinforce a divisive narrative that legitimizes attacks on press freedom. Such comments draw alarming parallels to despotic regimes that delegitimize dissent by painting critics as enemies of the state, a dangerous strategy undermining the very foundation of democracy.

Trump’s bizarre wish for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement appeared to lighten the mood momentarily, but it stood in stark contrast to his earlier calls for implementing the death penalty in Washington, D.C., despite its abolition. This juxtaposition highlights a leader who fluctuates between trivial concerns and extreme punitive measures, showing a lack of coherent policy or ethical grounding.

The meeting concluded with Trump’s insistence on his plan to import 600,000 Chinese college students, which met significant backlash from his support base. Clinging to this controversial stance reveals a disconnection from the very constituents he aims to please while exemplifying a broader pro-competitive and anti-nationalistic agenda. Trump’s rhetoric continues to reflect a fascination with authoritarian solutions that undermine democratic institutions, showing an unsettling trajectory towards fascist characteristics in governance.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/5-wild-moments-from-trump-cabinet-meeting-that-lasted-longer-than-the-godfather/)

Trump’s Appointment of Airbnb Co-Founder as Chief Design Officer: A Cosmetic Focus on Governance

In a move that further underscores the questionable judgment of the Trump administration, President Donald Trump has appointed Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb, as the first chief design officer of the United States. This position comes with the dubious objective of redefining the federal government’s design language in an effort that critics deem more cosmetic than substantive.

Gebbia, who recently joined the Department of Government Efficiency and boasts a seat on the Tesla board, claims his goal is to make government services as enjoyable to use as shopping at the Apple Store. The administration’s insistence on aesthetic improvements over meaningful reform raises concerns about their priorities while facing pressing national issues.

Through an executive order establishing the National Design Studio, Trump intends to direct federal programs toward a so-called “America by Design” initiative. This studio is supposed to help agencies reduce inefficient design expenditures and enhance user experience. However, the focus on a superficial redesign rather than comprehensive policy reform illustrates a lack of seriousness in addressing real governance challenges.

Although Gebbia expressed gratitude for the opportunity to elevate U.S. design standards, skepticism remains about the effectiveness of this endeavor. With no guarantee of lasting impact or results, this initiative appears to be another instance of conflating image with integrity and results in the Trump administration.

Ultimately, this appointment raises broader concerns regarding Trump’s ability to prioritize substantial governance improvements over cosmetic changes, with the new role suggesting a typical pattern of neglecting systemic issues in favor of populist imagery. Critics will watch closely to see whether this venture adds real value or merely serves as another PR stunt for the administration.

Trump’s BLS Nominee E.J. Antoni Sparks Outrage Over Threat to Economic Data Integrity

President Donald Trump has ignited widespread concern by nominating E.J. Antoni, a senior scholar from the Heritage Foundation, to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This move comes after he dismissed Dr. Erika McEntarfer, the previous BLS commissioner, whom he unjustly accused of manipulating job data to undermine his presidency following disappointing economic reports.

Antoni’s controversial nomination was compounded by his own statements, suggesting a reluctance to release regular monthly job reports until the alleged issues he identified are “corrected.” His connection to Trump’s administration raises serious ethical questions, particularly as discussions about appointing a “MAGA Republican” to oversee labor statistics came just hours before McEntarfer was fired.

Political analysts and economists have sharply criticized Antoni’s qualifications, with some asserting he represents a significant threat to the integrity of accurate economic data. High-profile commentators from various political affiliations have labeled him as completely unqualified, arguing that his appointment would effectively dismantle the nonpartisan nature of the BLS.

The concerns around his candidacy were echoed by numerous officials, including Senator Patty Murray, who warned that confirming Antoni would undermine the reliability of data crucial to the nation’s economy. Critics describe him as “agenda-driven” and “untrustworthy,” adding that his limited academic background and lack of relevant publications diminish confidence in his ability to lead the Bureau effectively.

If confirmed, Antoni’s leadership is predicted to transform the BLS into a tool for political maneuvering rather than a source of objective economic insight, posing a significant danger to the public’s understanding of labor market conditions.

DHS Promotes ICE Jobs with Language Echoing White Nationalism and Trump-Era Rhetoric

A recent post by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) promoting career opportunities within the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency has stirred intense backlash. The controversial message read: “Serve your country! Defend your culture! No undergraduate degree required!” This language has been widely viewed as a dog whistle to white nationalists, invoking troubling echoes of white supremacy.

The promotion from DHS reflects a growing trend of militarization within immigration enforcement, a strategy that many critics argue aligns with the fascistic tendencies of Trump-era politics. By framing immigration enforcement as a patriotic duty and emphasizing the defense of culture, the DHS implicitly legitimizes the nationalistic rhetoric that has fueled racial tensions in America.

This initiative continues to deepen divisions within the country, reinforcing the narrative that minority communities are a threat to a perceived homogenous “American” culture. This rhetoric is a clear attempt to mobilize a base that views immigration through a lens of fear and hostility, further entrenching systemic racism under the guise of national security.

The push for hiring within ICE using such provocative messaging not only raises ethical concerns but also risks inciting violence by legitimizing racist ideologies. The agency’s recent actions signal a troubling alignment with white nationalist sentiments and a disregard for the rights and humanity of immigrants.

As the Republican party aligns itself more closely with these extremities, it becomes increasingly clear that Trump and his allies are actively working to destabilize the principles of democracy and equality. This trajectory demands vigilance and active resistance from those who stand for justice and inclusion in America.

(h/t: https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/8/6/2337083/-Are-you-an-old-uneducated-racist-Join-the-ICE-gestapo-today)

Trump Appoints Registered Sex Offender Lawrence Taylor to Youth Sports Council

Donald Trump has appointed former NFL linebacker Lawrence Taylor to a new council focusing on youth sports, despite Taylor being a registered sex offender. Taylor was convicted in 2011 for sexual misconduct involving a 16-year-old girl, leading to his registration as a sex offender in Florida.

On July 31, 2025, Trump signed an executive order to reestablish the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, where Taylor will be advising on strategies to promote physical education. The appointment has drawn scrutiny given Taylor’s criminal history and the nature of his offense.

A claim originating from the organization Republicans Against Trump highlighted the absurdity of Trump launching a youth sports initiative alongside someone with such a controversial background. This has sparked further discourse on the appropriateness of appointing a registered offender to a role involving youth affairs.

While Taylor expressed enthusiasm about joining the council, noting that he was unsure of his expected contributions, the implications of his appointment raise ethical concerns about Trump’s judgment. The council is designed to foster healthy habits among American youth, which stands in stark contrast to Taylor’s past actions.

The White House has yet to clarify whether it was aware of Taylor’s status at the time of his appointment, which casts a shadow over this initiative and raises questions about the administration’s commitment to safeguarding children, especially when linked to figures with troubling histories.

(h/t: https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/lawrence-taylor-trump-nfl/)

Nick Adams: Trump’s Disturbing Nominee and Hypocritical Ambassador Choice

In a move that reflects the extreme nature of his administration, President Donald Trump has nominated Nick Adams, a right-wing commentator known for absurd tweets about Hooters and toxic masculinity, as the U.S. ambassador to Malaysia. Adams, who became a U.S. citizen in 2021, has made a name for himself as a staunch Trump supporter and a figure aligned with far-right ideologies, claiming to be a “walking, talking masterpiece of masculinity.” His nomination underscores Trump’s reliance on loyal supporters unmoored from substantive qualifications, raising serious concerns about the competency of his administration.

Adams gained notoriety for his outrageous comments, including preferences for a “strong Trump supporter” as his ideal woman and bizarre ambitions to acquire Hooters to “save Western Civilization.” His views often flirt with white supremacy and hyper-masculinity, painting a disturbing picture of a growing far-right culture that prioritizes toxic views on gender and race. This troubling combination of ineptitude and extreme ideology positions him dangerously within the U.S.’s diplomatic framework.

Additionally, Adams’s history includes glorifying violent military actions, such as the bombings in Iran, which he deceptively dubbed “life-saving.” This rhetoric alongside his shallow understanding of international relations demonstrates the inherent risks of placing individuals with extremist views in key governmental positions, which could threaten U.S. foreign relations and undermine global stability.

By endorsing Adams, Trump signals to his base that loyalty outweighs qualifications, further entrenching a culture ofyes-men in the administration. Such appointments reflect a broader trend where ideology supersedes experience, undermining the professionalism and integrity expected of those in public service. The implications of appointing such figures to critical roles could have far-reaching impacts on American diplomacy.

Nick Adams’s nomination as ambassador is not just a reflection of Trump’s administration; it’s indicative of a troubling pattern where the far-right is given power over critical diplomatic missions. The erosion of standards in political appointments places the interests of Trump’s extremist base over the necessity for effective governance, further entrenching the divide in U.S. politics and international relations.

(h/t: https://newrepublic.com/post/197802/trump-far-right-troll-nick-adams-us-ambassador)

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