Category: Not Factual

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 Misleads New Mexico Crowd with False Claims of Victory

Former President Donald Trump recently held a rally in New Mexico, where he falsely claimed that he had won the state in the past, despite clear evidence to the contrary. Trump’s assertion of having ‘won it twice’ reflects his continued pattern of spreading misinformation regarding election results, a tactic he employs to energize his base while undermining public trust in the electoral process.

Trump’s rally drew a crowd, but his claims about New Mexico were met with skepticism, especially since his own advisors had suggested that campaigning there was futile. Ignoring this advice, Trump insisted that the state was winnable and propagated unfounded allegations that the votes were rigged against him.

His rhetoric included derogatory remarks about immigrants, portraying them as threats rather than contributing members of society. This inflammatory language not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also attempts to shift the narrative away from his electoral losses by framing it as a battle against a supposed conspiracy.

By claiming that ‘if God could count the votes’ he would win, Trump not only invokes a religious reference to bolster his arguments but also further sows discord and distrust in the electoral system. Such statements are part of a broader strategy to galvanize his supporters by painting himself as a victim of a rigged system.

Overall, Trump’s baseless claims and divisive rhetoric at the New Mexico rally serve to reinforce his narrative of victimhood and electoral fraud, diverting attention from his repeated failures and undermining the integrity of democratic processes.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/news/we-won-it-twice-trump-whips-up-screaming-fans-with-claim-he-really-won-their-state-he-did-not/)

Trump’s Lies About Schools and Transgender Surgeries Exposed

Former President Donald Trump has once again spread the harmful falsehood that schools in the U.S. are sending children for gender-affirming surgeries without parental consent. This baseless claim, first made during a rally in late August, has been thoroughly debunked by multiple reputable sources, including CNN, which revealed that Trump’s own campaign could not provide a single instance to support this outrageous assertion.

Despite being discredited, Trump has doubled down on his narrative, repeating it during discussions filmed by Fox News and on a podcast with Joe Rogan. He insists that there are places where children leave for school and return having undergone surgical changes, a claim that is not only misleading but also entirely fabricated. He fails to specify any such locations, exposing the lack of evidence behind his outlandish claims.

Experts in transgender healthcare have unequivocally stated that Trump’s assertions are false. There are no instances of schools facilitating gender-affirming surgeries, and any medical intervention for minors must involve parental consent. Leading medical professionals emphasize that surgeries, whether gender-affirming or otherwise, cannot be performed in school settings and require a qualified medical center.

Moreover, the process for minors seeking gender-affirming care is comprehensive and involves careful evaluation by medical professionals. Parental consent is not just a formality; it is a legal requirement that ensures informed decision-making regarding a child’s health. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other authoritative bodies have made it clear that no healthcare provider would perform surgery on a minor without the involvement and consent of parents.

Trump’s continued propagation of this false narrative reflects a dangerous trend of misinformation that undermines trust in educational and healthcare institutions. The overwhelming consensus among experts is that these surgeries are not performed in schools, and the claims made by Trump serve only to stoke fear and division as he aims to mobilize his base ahead of the upcoming elections.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/26/politics/fact-check-trump-rogan-children-gender-affirming-surgeries/index.html)

Trump’s Baseless Election Lies Exposed in Joe Rogan Interview

In a recent interview with Joe Rogan, former President Donald Trump reiterated multiple falsehoods regarding the 2020 election, continuing his pattern of spreading misinformation. Trump insisted that he didn’t lose the election, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. According to numerous investigations, including those by his own attorney general, significant fraud was never found, and Trump lost to Joe Biden by a clear margin.

During the conversation, Trump claimed that judges avoided ruling on the merits of over 50 lawsuits he filed to contest the election results. However, a study revealed that most of these cases were dismissed after hearings, and many were dropped by Trump before even reaching substantive arguments. This misrepresentation of the legal outcomes is a clear attempt to distort the narrative surrounding his election defeat.

Trump also falsely suggested that the majority of voting machines are unreliable and that the U.S. should revert to using paper ballots. In reality, over 90% of election jurisdictions already utilized paper ballots in 2020, contradicting Trump’s assertions. The misconception that voting machines are the sole mechanism of fraud has no basis in fact.

Furthermore, Trump claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic was used as a cover to rig the election through increased mail-in voting. This is misleading, as both Republican and Democratic officials encouraged mail-in voting to protect public health during the pandemic. Trump’s narrative of a grand conspiracy lacks substance and is rooted in his ongoing attempt to delegitimize the electoral process.

Ultimately, the 2020 election was found to be secure, with isolated cases of fraud that were insufficient to affect the overall outcome. Trump’s repeated lies not only undermine public trust in the electoral process but also pose a significant threat to democracy. The facts clearly demonstrate that Trump’s claims are unfounded and serve only to perpetuate division and misinformation.

(h/t: https://apnews.com/article/trump-election-lies-rogan-interview-ballots-voting-c8c06eb608c1b1ae8ca0e93ec1022b02)

Trump’s North Carolina Visit: Misinformation and Fearmongering Amid Hurricane Helene Recovery

Donald Trump recently visited North Carolina, where he attempted to exploit the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene for political gain. Instead of providing genuine support to affected communities, he focused on spreading dangerous misinformation about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Trump falsely claimed that FEMA’s disaster relief funds were being diverted to assist migrants rather than storm victims. This blatant lie has been debunked by FEMA, which confirmed that such reallocations do not occur.

During his rallies, Trump called on voters to support him as a means of ‘saving America,’ while simultaneously pushing for a mass deportation policy if he returns to the presidency. He made inflammatory claims about illegal immigration, suggesting that the U.S. is an ‘occupied country,’ which echoes his previous rhetoric that incites fear and division among Americans.

https://x.com/atrupar/status/1848399534436589575

At a faith leaders’ meeting, Trump emphasized his commitment to keeping discussions of race and gender out of schools, further perpetuating a culture of intolerance and ignorance. He framed these issues as threats to religious freedom, enabling his far-right supporters to rally around an agenda steeped in discrimination and exclusion.

Trump’s remarks were not without contradiction. He criticized the Biden administration’s response to Hurricane Helene, claiming that the federal government was neglecting disaster relief. Yet, his administration had previously diverted funds from FEMA for immigration-related expenses. This hypocrisy raises questions about his sincerity and ability to effectively manage disaster response.

As Trump continues to twist the truth and promote divisive policies, it’s crucial for voters to recognize the implications of his rhetoric. His campaign relies on misinformation and fearmongering, which ultimately undermines the very fabric of American democracy and the integrity of its institutions.

(h/t: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article294172909.html)

Trump’s Staged a McDonald’s Stunt

In a bizarre campaign stunt, Donald Trump pretended to work as a fry cook at a closed McDonald’s in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, in an apparent attempt to counter Kamala Harris’ claims of working at the fast-food chain during her college years. The event, which was staged with pre-selected supporters, lacked genuine engagement from the public, as evidenced by the presence of more reporters than actual customers. Videos circulated on social media showcased Trump awkwardly navigating the drive-thru, handing out unordered meals to a handful of supporters who were likely vetted by his campaign.

Evidence emerged that the McDonald’s location was closed specifically for Trump’s visit, with the franchise manager stating this was done at the request of Trump’s campaign.

This further highlights the artificiality of the event, as the restaurant typically operates on Sundays, raising questions about the authenticity of Trump’s claims to connect with working-class Americans. Critics have pointed out that this kind of staged performance is emblematic of Trump’s larger campaign strategy: to create an illusion of accessibility while remaining detached from the realities faced by everyday workers.

Moreover, the event seemed to be a desperate attempt to discredit Harris without any substantive proof for his allegations against her. Trump’s inability to provide evidence for his claims only further exemplifies how his campaign is built on misinformation and theatrics rather than factual discourse. As he fumbled through the drive-thru, many observers noted that this was less about job creation and more about self-promotion and generating media buzz.

In the midst of his McDonald’s charade, Trump also found time to make troubling comments regarding election integrity and his willingness to accept the results of the upcoming election, depending on whether he deems it ‘fair.’ This rhetoric only fuels existing fears about his commitment to democratic norms and the potential for civil unrest should he lose. With polls showing a competitive race, Trump’s antics may reflect a candidate increasingly aware of his precarious position.

As the election approaches, it is clear that Trump’s reliance on stunts like his McDonald’s performance does little to inspire confidence among voters. Instead, it serves as a reminder of his penchant for distractions over substantive policy discussions and his continued detachment from the very issues that matter to the American people.

(h/t: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/weekend-election-news-updates-trump-harris-oct-18.html)

Trump’s Disturbing Take on Lincoln and the Civil War

In a shocking display of historical ignorance, Donald Trump suggested that Abraham Lincoln could have avoided the Civil War by negotiating with the South, which aimed to preserve slavery. During a Fox News interview, Trump was asked about his favorite president, and after briefly mentioning Ronald Reagan, he expressed admiration for Lincoln. However, he opined that Lincoln should have ‘settled’ the conflict rather than allowing it to escalate into war.

This ludicrous statement raises serious questions about Trump’s understanding of American history. The Civil War was fought primarily to end the institution of slavery, and the notion that Lincoln could have simply brokered a deal with the Confederacy is not only absurd but also dangerously misleading. Trump’s comments indicate a troubling willingness to romanticize a period that was marked by horrific human rights violations.

Furthermore, Trump attempted to link historical events to contemporary issues, claiming that if he were president, Ukraine and other conflicts would have been avoided. He makes these assertions without providing any evidence, demonstrating his tendency to manipulate facts for political gain. His previous comments praising Confederate leaders and defending pro-slavery monuments only add to the pattern of his troubling rhetoric regarding race and history.

Trump’s remarks reflect a broader trend within his party to downplay the significance of the Civil War and its legacy of slavery. This revisionist history is not only factually incorrect but also undermines the struggles for civil rights that continue to this day. By suggesting a compromise with a pro-slavery South, Trump effectively disrespects the sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought against slavery and for equality.

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it is crucial for voters to recognize Trump’s dangerous rhetoric and the implications it has for understanding American history. His comments are a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against racism and the importance of accurately remembering our past.

(h/t: https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-suggests-abraham-lincoln-shouldve-let-the-south-keep-a-little-slavery)

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 Misinformation on Immigrants and Pets: A Deep Dive

Former President Donald Trump has reiterated his controversial claims regarding Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, suggesting that they are not only eating pets but also consuming unspecified ‘other things.’ These assertions were made during a recent town hall event and follow a previous debate where he first introduced the topic, claiming that local residents were concerned about their pets being eaten. Trump’s statements have been labeled as misinformation, as they stem from unverified reports linked to extremist online communities.

During a Univision town hall, Trump was questioned by an undecided voter about his belief in these claims. In response, he dismissed the question by stating that he was merely repeating what he believed to be reported in the media, without providing any credible evidence to support his assertions. This lack of substantiation highlights the baseless nature of his claims.

Fact-checkers and news organizations have quickly dispelled Trump’s allegations, emphasizing that they have no foundation in reality. His remarks have been criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Haitian migrants and for stoking fears among the local population. The unfounded nature of these claims is significant, given that they were shared with a large audience during a presidential debate.

The issue is further complicated by Trump’s broader narrative surrounding immigration, where he has frequently framed the arrival of migrants as a threat to American communities. His comments about Springfield, where he asserted that an influx of 30,000 migrants in a town of 52,000 would lead to disaster, reflect a common theme in his rhetoric that seeks to instill fear regarding immigration.

Overall, Trump’s repeated and unfounded claims about Haitian immigrants are part of a larger strategy that relies on misinformation and racial stereotypes, undermining the integrity of public discourse on immigration issues. His statements have sparked outrage and calls for accountability regarding the spread of such false narratives.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/trump/trump-now-claims-immigrants-are-eating-other-things-that-theyre-not-supposed-to-in-addition-to-pets/)

Trump Calls On FCC To Revoke CBS’ Broadcast License, From The Authoritarian Playbook

Donald Trump is calling on the FCC to revoke the license of CBS after 60 Minutes was found to have (dun dun dun) edited down one of Kamala Harris’ answers for time, something that happens quite regularly when Trump runs to his safe space Fox News.

The FCC obviously pushed back, but the people leading the FCC now pointing out Trump’s wishes obviously is anti-constitutional, will not be there once Donald Trump retakes power.

As I’ve said before, the First Amendment is a cornerstone of our democracy. The FCC does not and will not revoke licenses for broadcast stations simply because a political candidate disagrees with or dislikes content or coverage. – FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel

In the authoritarian playbook, clamping down on independent media will happen quick and we’ll never get it back. Recall when Hugo Chavez in Venezuela sent forces to take over independent private news agencies and brought them back online as propaganda outlets.

It wasn’t that long ago that the last independent news agency in Hungry was kicked off the air when Viktor Orban revoked all broadcast licenses of a free and open press, and now all Hungry has is pro-Orban propaganda outlets. Orban was recently a featured speaker at CPAC, the largest gathering of conservatives, on how to successfully import authoritarianism in a Western democracy.

So far Trump has previously threatened the broadcast licenses of ABC, NBC, PBS, NPR and simply for reporting on the things he says and does. And now Trump is threatening CBS because he ducked out of 60 Minutes like the pussybitch he is because they wouldn’t agree to not fact check him.

It will happen here. If not with Trump, then the next Republican because the authoritarian model has been fully adopted by the GOP.

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