Category: Bullying

Donald Trump’s rhetorical style is straight out of middle school. He’s like an eighth-grade girl.

Trump Administration Targets UC Berkeley with Foreign Funding Probe

The Trump administration has launched an investigation into the University of California, Berkeley, accusing it of failing to disclose substantial foreign funding. This development comes on the heels of a similar inquiry initiated against Harvard University, reflecting a broader clampdown on elite academic institutions under the guise of enforcing Section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The administration’s actions aim to control American research venues, with President Trump recently signing an executive order directing heightened scrutiny on foreign contributions exceeding $250,000.

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated that the investigation will focus on Berkeley’s alleged noncompliance in revealing foreign funding, positioning the inquiry as part of an essential effort to ensure accountability and transparency in higher education. However, experts have raised alarms about these measures, warning that they threaten academic freedom and the collaborative nature of global research initiatives vital for innovation.

Despite these accusations, UC Berkeley claims to have proactively cooperated with federal inquiries regarding funding reporting issues. The recent investigations coincide with a series of aggressive actions by the Trump administration against higher education, including cuts to federal funding and investigations targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This strategy, outlined in Trump’s Project 2025, is seen as an ideological assault on institutions that the administration perceives as bastions of liberal thought.

The drive to scrutinize foreign funding is fueled by concerns from the administration regarding foreign influence over U.S. education. Critics argue that while transparency is crucial, the administration’s approach could dismantle partnerships essential for research and innovation, including collaborations with leading academic institutions abroad. Such international partnerships are fundamental to producing cutting-edge research and fostering a competitive academic environment.

Ultimately, the investigations signify a broader effort by the Trump administration to exert control over American universities, threatening their independence and the very fabric of academic inquiry. The ramifications of these punitive measures could redefine the landscape of higher education, leaving institutions vulnerable to the whims of political agendas and jeopardizing their essential roles in advancing knowledge and progress.

(h/t: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-04-25/trump-education-department-uc-berkeley-probe)

Pam Bondi Targets Gender-Affirming Care for Minors in Alarming DOJ Investigations

Attorney General Pam Bondi has taken a contentious stance against doctors who provide gender-affirming care to minors, announcing that they will face investigations by the Department of Justice. In a recent memo, Bondi urged U.S. attorneys to leverage existing laws concerning female genital mutilation to scrutinize providers of transgender health care for children, threatening legal action against those “who exploit and mutilate our children.”

Bondi’s memo explicitly states that performing or attempting to perform gender-affirming surgery on those under 18 could be classified as a felony, punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison. By equating these medical procedures to female genital mutilation, she aims to stoke fear and deter medical practitioners from offering vital support to young individuals grappling with gender dysphoria.

Further restricting access to transgender health care, Bondi also directed investigations into pharmaceutical companies that may be making false claims about puberty blockers and hormones used in gender transition. She accused these companies of misleading the public regarding the potential long-term side effects associated with these treatments.

Bondi’s rhetoric reflects a broader political agenda among Republicans, particularly since President Donald Trump indicated his intention to limit access to gender-affirming care through executive orders. This approach threatens to deny federal funding to medical institutions that do not comply with these restrictions, effectively dismantling a critical aspect of health care for vulnerable youth.

These actions have prompted backlash from advocates for transgender rights, who argue that such measures distort data and misinterpret the realities of providing gender-affirming care. This alarming trend reflects a continuation of a patriarchal, authoritarian regime that seeks to impose its ideology on the medical system, further endangering the rights and well-being of marginalized communities.

Trump Targets ActBlue with False Allegations to Undermine Democracy

Donald Trump has signed an executive memorandum aimed at investigating ActBlue, the primary Democratic fundraising platform. This directive instructs Attorney General Pam Bondi to look into alleged violations associated with online fundraising practices, including accusations of inflated contributions and foreign interference in U.S. elections.

The memorandum explicitly singles out ActBlue, claiming that the platform is being used to unlawfully influence American elections. Accompanying documents suggest that ActBlue allegedly facilitates illegal donations that circumvent federal limits through a process of breaking contributions into smaller amounts attributed to multiple individuals.

In response, an ActBlue spokesperson denounced Trump’s actions as a “brazen attack on democracy,” labeling the claims against the platform as baseless and vowing to challenge the memorandum in court. This escalation is seen as a blatant misuse of federal power designed to quash political dissent and maintain Trump’s grip on authority.

Democratic organizations, including the Democratic National Committee, have echoed similar concerns, stating that Trump aims to obstruct grassroots fundraising efforts while enriching corrupt elites. Their joint statement emphasized that his administration’s chaos is escalating discontent among Americans, prompting attempts to stifle lawful opposition donations.

This move is part of Trump’s broader agenda to target organizations he perceives as adversaries. Throughout his presidency, he has initiated various measures against law firms and universities that resist his policies, heightening the opioid of his government’s authoritarian tendencies. Trump’s frequent baseless claims against ActBlue serve as a clear attempt to hinder political participation and transform democratic processes into tools for oppression.

(h/t: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/trump-expected-sign-memo-targeting-act-blue-rcna202673)

Wisconsin Judge Arrested for Obstructing Immigration Arrests

The FBI has arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan for allegedly obstructing immigration enforcement efforts by aiding an undocumented immigrant evade arrest. FBI Director Kash Patel announced her arrest on social media, claiming Dugan misled federal agents looking for Eduardo Flores Ruiz, a subject of an immigration case.

Dugan is facing charges of obstructing and concealing an individual from arrest. According to Patel’s now-deleted post, her actions heightened dangers to the public. Federal agents had to chase down Flores Ruiz after he fled when they arrived at the courthouse to apprehend him.

This arrest signifies a troubling escalation in the Trump administration’s scrutiny of judicial conduct regarding immigration cases. The Justice Department has made it clear that it will investigate local officials who do not comply with federal immigration directives. This policy reinforces a punitive approach that prioritizes strict enforcement over judicial integrity and local laws.

The incident raises serious concerns about the implications of such actions for judicial independence and the rule of law, particularly as the Trump administration continues to undermine checks and balances within the federal system. Dugan’s arrest reflects a broader pattern of aggressive tactics being utilized against those who do not align with the administration’s hardline immigration stance.

This situation not only impacts Dugan, who is currently in federal custody awaiting her court appearance, but also highlights the chilling effects of an administration that seeks to criminalize judicial discretion and enforce compliance through fear.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/25/politics/fbi-director-wisconsin-judge-arrested/index.html)

Trump’s Demand Ukraine Give Up Or Else

Donald Trump has launched a scathing critique against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggesting that Ukraine’s failure to secure Crimea earlier has led to the current dire situation. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump accused Zelenskyy of damaging peace prospects by insisting that Ukraine “will not legally recognize the occupation of Crimea.” His comments indicate a troubling disregard for Ukraine’s sovereignty and the complexities surrounding the ongoing conflict.

Trump’s rhetoric appears designed to deflect responsibility from Russia’s aggression, framing the issue as a failed opportunity on Ukraine’s part rather than addressing the reality of and the ongoing war. He argued that Zelenskyy should have fought for Crimea eleven years ago when it was allegedly relinquished to Russia without resistance, questioning why the Ukrainian leadership did not act then. This perspective blatantly ignores international law and the reality of military occupation.

Furthermore, Trump warned that continued escalations in rhetoric from Zelenskyy could jeopardize any potential peace talks, asserting that such statements only “prolong the killing field”. He urged Zelenskyy to prioritize peace, claiming that failing to do so could result in Ukraine losing its entire territory. This is a stark projection of Trump’s willingness to sacrifice Ukrainian sovereignty for a quick resolution without regard for the Ukrainian people’s right to self-determination.

The dangerous implications of Trump’s comments extend beyond mere political criticism; they reflect a broader pattern of undermining democratic values in favor of yielding to authoritarian pressures, operating under the guise of pragmatism. This tendency aligns with his administration’s previous posture toward Russia, including a troubling history of refraining from condemning Russian aggressions. Trump’s approach raises significant concerns regarding the U.S.’s commitment to defending democratic nations against foreign authoritarianism.

Overall, Trump’s latest tirade against Zelenskyy not only trivializes the profound challenges facing Ukraine but also echoes a larger narrative that positions authoritarianism as a viable political landscape. His words, coupled with historical actions, underline the ongoing threat of Republican politics that seek to undermine democracy both domestically and internationally, supporting regimes and leaders that align with their interests.

(h/t: https://www.irishstar.com/news/us-news/trump-blasts-zelensky-over-crimea-35106573)

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)

60 Minutes Executive Producer Resigns Amid Trump-Driven Press Pressure

The executive producer of 60 Minutes, Bill Owens, announced his resignation, citing a loss of journalistic independence amid Donald Trump’s targeted attacks on the program. In a memo to staff, Owens expressed his inability to continue leading the show in a manner consistent with its long-standing values, stating, “I would not be allowed to run the show as I have always run it.” This resignation comes during a tumultuous time for the program, which has faced increasing pressure since Trump filed a $10 billion lawsuit against CBS News.

Owens’ exit shocked the staff and executives at 60 Minutes, revealing deep concerns within the organization over Trump’s unfounded allegations of “unlawful and illegal behavior.” Sources indicated that there was widespread dismay among employees, as they felt Owens had stood firm against Trump’s pressures, which has only intensified since Trump disparaged the show on social media, claiming its reporting was “fraudulent” without providing any credible evidence.

Trump’s ongoing grievance stems from an interview with Kamala Harris that he deemed unfairly edited, a perspective that many in the network view as an infringement on editorial autonomy. As the situation escalates, controlling shareholder Shari Redstone’s motivations for settling Trump’s lawsuit raised concerns about compromising journalistic integrity and autonomy, as many staff members fear surrendering to Trump’s relentless campaigns against critical media outlets.

Despite Owens’ departure, he assured that 60 Minutes would persist in its mission to cover future administrations with the same commitment to integrity. His resignation is considered both a courageous stand for independent journalism and a troubling sign of the increasing attacks on press freedom. Experts warn that Trump’s actions could embolden his critics and further threaten the independence of media reporting.

Owens’ departure follows a historical precedent in which 60 Minutes, revered for its investigative journalism, now faces the challenge of protecting its editorial mission against the backdrop of increasing political interference. CBS News President Wendy McMahon reiterated her commitment to the program, although uncertainty looms over how the show will navigate its future in the wake of political pressure from powerful figures like Trump.

Trump’s Easter Rant Reflects Dangerous Delusions About American Capitalism and Democracy

On Easter Sunday, Donald Trump went on a social media spree on his Truth Social platform, broadcasting a series of posts that primarily featured all-caps messages. His comments ranged from blaming tariffs on business failures to unsolicited commentary on Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, ultimately portraying himself as the “GREATEST FRIEND AMERICAN CAPITALISM EVER HAD.” This misguided self-promotion underscores his ongoing attempt to claim undeserved credit for economic policies that have generally favored the wealthy elite rather than the average American.

Beginning his posts just before 4 PM, Trump initially shared a quote attributed to Albert Einstein, ostensibly promoting the idea that inaction is a greater evil than wrongdoing itself. This philosophical gesture was quickly overshadowed by several aggressive follow-up posts where Trump’s tone shifted dramatically, emphasizing his perceived grievances against critics who oppose his trade policies. He characterized those criticizing his tariffs as both poor businesspeople and ineffective politicians, further showcasing his tendency to deflect accountability for damaging economic consequences stemming from his own policies.

His posts did not stop at trade; Trump also publicly expressed optimism about Russia and Ukraine potentially entering into business dealings with the United States. Such statements reflect not only his delusions of grandeur regarding American economic dominance but also a dangerous disregard for the serious geopolitical ramifications of the conflict. It becomes increasingly clear that Trump views international relations through a commercial lens, prioritizing profit over progress and peace, which is characteristic of his administration’s approach.

Wrapping up his posting frenzy, Trump announced an upcoming White House Easter Egg Roll event, emphasizing that all funds would be directed to the White House Historical Association. This anecdote misdirects attention from the broader issues at hand, such as the increasing chaos within his administration and the disturbing implications of his ongoing assault on democratic institutions.

Trump’s Easter communication reveals a troubling pattern of behavior that prioritizes self-aggrandizement over substantive policy discussions. By projecting a false image of success and pitting himself against perceived threats, he not only misrepresents his actual influence on American capitalism but also continues to undermine the foundational values of democracy. This ongoing farce serves to reinforce the need for a rigorous examination of the consequences of Republican leadership and their anti-democratic actions.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/trump/trump-goes-on-all-caps-easter-posting-spree-angrily-calls-himself-greatest-friend-american-capitalism-ever-had/)

Trump’s Dangerous Misinformation Campaign Targets Immigrants and Undermines Justice

In a deeply troubling display of misinformation, President Donald Trump recently called for legal repercussions against Democrats and media members who supported Kilmar Ábrego García, a man wrongfully deported to El Salvador. Trump accused those defending García of perpetuating a “dangerous LIE,” branding him as a member of the violent MS-13 gang despite the absence of any substantive evidence supporting this claim. His remarks highlight a dangerous tendency to vilify immigrants and those advocating for human rights.

Trump’s rhetoric demonstrates a blatant disregard for both the facts of García’s case and the judicial processes involved. Two separate courts had explicitly ruled on García’s wrongful deportation, underscoring the administration’s failure to comply with legal guidelines and basic human rights. By framing this situation as an attack on America’s security rather than an injustice, Trump continues his ongoing campaign of fear-mongering, which serves to rally his base while undermining judicial integrity.

His assertive statements suggest a chilling comfort with escalating tensions surrounding immigrants, reflecting a broader Republican strategy that uses immigration as a divisive political weapon. By labeling opponents as “Radical Lunatic Democrats” and dismissing legitimate concerns for García’s rights as “unAmerican,” Trump not only stokes discriminatory sentiments but also reinforces a narrative that prioritizes punitive measures over justice and compassion.

This pattern of disregard extends beyond individual cases, revealing Trump’s administration’s systemic approach to ignoring court orders and promoting xenophobic policies. Such defiance of the judiciary raises serious questions about the administration’s respect for the rule of law and reflects a larger trend of authoritarian governance where dissent is met with aggression rather than reasoned debate.

Ultimately, Trump’s comments appeal to his base while undermining the legal system meant to guarantee justice and fairness for all, especially the most vulnerable. In a democracy, accountability should extend to all, including those at the highest levels of government who perpetuate harmful narratives against marginalized communities.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/trump-held-responsible-court/)

Trump’s Easter Message Blasts Immigrants and Judiciary

Donald Trump’s recent Easter message on Truth Social exemplifies his divisive rhetoric, quickly veering from warm wishes for a joyous celebration to vehement attacks on perceived enemies. He extended greetings for a “Happy Easter” but immediately followed up with accusations against “Radical Left Lunatics” and “WEAK and INEFFECTIVE Judges.” This reveals a troubling tendency to use a religious holiday as a platform for political vitriol.

Trump’s comments primarily targeted efforts to allow the return of deported immigrants, painting these individuals as dangerous threats. He particularly referenced Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father wrongfully deported to El Salvador, despite the reality that most deported individuals he cited have no criminal records and were denied due process. This rhetoric aims to further criminalize immigration, solidifying his base’s fears and misconceptions.

In a concerning twist, Trump attacked the judicial system for its ruling requiring the facilitation of Garcia’s return, describing it as a “sinister attack on our Nation.” This dismissive attitude towards judicial accountability is part of a broader pattern of undermining legal authority and detracting from the rights of immigrants, especially as a federal judge recently granted ICE the ability to conduct enforcement operations in places of worship.

Furthermore, Trump’s Easter messages included personal attacks on President Joe Biden, calling him “our WORST and most Incompetent President,” while continuing to propagate the unfounded notion of election fraud in 2020. These claims have been debunked repeatedly by reliable entities, marking Trump’s comments as not only inaccurate but also dangerous for democratic integrity.

Amidst a backdrop of suffering inflation and economic distress exacerbated by his administration’s policies, Trump’s promises of a “bigger, better, stronger” America ring hollow. His comments ignore the increasing struggles faced by everyday Americans, especially as his Health Secretary dismantles critical public health infrastructure, all while promoting doubt about vaccines. Such juxtaposition starkly highlights his priorities that favor elite interests over the needs of the American public.

(h/t: https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/trumps-happy-easter-message-1235321550/)

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