Category: Not Factual

Vaccine skeptic appointed to lead controversial study on autism

A vaccine skeptic with a history of promoting discredited claims linking immunizations to autism has been chosen by the federal government to lead a crucial study on this topic. David Geier, who is known for long-standing false assertions regarding vaccines and autism, is engaged by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) despite widespread scientific rejection of these theories.

Geier, listed as a data analyst within HHS, has previously faced administrative action for practicing medicine without a license and has a dubious track record in public health research. His hiring raises serious concerns among experts that the upcoming study will propagate flawed conclusions that could erode public confidence in vaccines, undermining decades of credible research by credible scientists.

Alison Singer, president of the Autism Science Foundation, articulated the gravity of this appointment, criticizing the administration for seemingly starting with a predetermined conclusion to support the baseless theory that vaccines cause autism. She underscored that this approach completely contradicts the scientific method, which requires evidence to inform conclusions.

Moreover, HHS directives have shifted the oversight of the vaccine-autism study to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shortly after President Trump made controversial comments linking rising autism rates to vaccinations. The reallocation of responsibility to NIH and Geier’s involvement signifies a troubling trend in health administration that prioritizes speculative assertions over established medical findings, which overwhelmingly dissociate vaccines from autism.

Experts, including public health researcher Jessica Steier, emphasize that employing individuals like Geier undermines the integrity of public health work. Their involvement is seen as deeply damaging to vaccination initiatives at a time when public health is already strained by misinformation and skepticism, especially in the wake of public health crises exacerbated by lies propagated by Trump’s administration and anti-vaccine advocates.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/03/25/vaccine-skeptic-hhs-rfk-immunization-autism/?mc_cid=cb50cb3410&mc_eid=f0ea8849aa)

Trump’s False Claims on JFK Assassination Fuel Misinformation and Distrust

Donald Trump recently claimed that Lee Harvey Oswald, the assassin of President John F. Kennedy, did not act alone in the 1963 assassination. During an interview with Clay Travis on Outkick radio, Trump stated, “I do [think Oswald killed JFK personally], and I always felt that. Of course, he was … helped.” This assertion contradicts the long-held conclusion by the Department of Justice that Oswald acted independently in killing Kennedy.

Despite the established narrative surrounding Kennedy’s assassination, Trump’s remarks play into a broader trend of promoting unfounded theories and conspiracy beliefs. Historians and researchers have found no credible evidence to support claims of Oswald having accomplices, yet Trump’s endorsement of this theory reflects a disturbing propensity among Republican leaders to foster misinformation.

Trump’s comments came in conjunction with the recent release of thousands of documents related to the JFK assassination, which he described as “somewhat unspectacular.” Nevertheless, he encouraged the public to draw their own conclusions, implicitly suggesting that there’s more to the story than has been documented historically, a typical tactic in the Trumpian playbook of inciting doubt and distrust in established facts.

Such statements by Trump not only trivialize the serious historical events surrounding JFK’s assassination but also contribute to the persistent erosion of trust in credible information and institutions. Promoting conspiracy theories undermines public discourse and furthers a narrative that the American electorate, particularly Trump’s supporters, often finds appealing despite its dubious basis in reality.

This instance of Trump’s recklessness mirrors an enduring pattern within the Republican Party, which routinely aligns itself against factual reporting and embraces narratives that serve the interests of its elite base. By advancing such misleading theories, Trump continues to reinforce the divide in American political culture and promote a radical interpretation of history that serves his agenda.

Trump Labels Town Hall Protesters as Paid Agitators

In a recent town hall event, President Donald Trump came to the defense of Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) after the congressman faced significant backlash from attendees. During the event, organized in Asheville, many in the audience expressed their discontent with federal budget cuts linked to Elon Musk’s policies. Trump’s reaction was to label the protesters “Radical Left Lunatics,” suggesting they were part of a coordinated effort, referring to them as “paid agitators” with “fake signs.”

In a post on his platform Truth Social, Trump commended Edwards for showing restraint amidst the audience’s hostility. He portrayed the situation as a deliberate act by Democrats to disrupt the town hall, implying that such protests are indicative of Democratic tactics rather than valid opposition. “Don’t let infiltrated Town Halls fool you,” Trump asserted, attempting to frame the dissent as scripted chaos rather than genuine public concern over governance.

Edwards himself acknowledged the confrontational atmosphere, admitting that many attendees were Democrats. He remarked that he was prepared for the “progressive left” and believed that some media outlets facilitated the communication of his message to the public. Despite Trump’s claims of a united front, it appears that the meeting highlighted a deep divide between Republicans and constituents dissatisfied with the party’s direction.

Trump’s rhetoric is not unusual for a leader seeking to diminish the credibility of protesters and dissenters, which has become a common practice among Republicans aiming to undermine opposition voices. This tactic diverts attention from the actual concerns being raised by constituents and detracts from accountability regarding governmental actions or policies.

Ultimately, Trump’s support for Edwards and his characterization of the protesters reflect a broader trend within the Republican Party to delegitimize critics, using aggressive language and narratives that paint those who disagree as orchestrated agents rather than concerned citizens. This discourse serves to alienate voters and bolster Trump’s divisive political strategy.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/trump/paid-agitators-with-fake-signs-trump-praises-republican-rep-handling-infiltrated-town-hall-littered-with-radical-left-lunatics/)

Elon Musk’s Victimhood Claims Distract from DOGE’s Wasteful Practices and Republican Corruption

Elon Musk recently voiced alarming concerns about his safety, claiming that those he labels as “bad people” may want him dead due to his efforts to expose corruption in the Trump administration. In an interview with Fox News, Musk asserted that his position as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has put him in the crosshairs of individuals who profit from government fraud.

Musk’s allegations arrive amidst controversy over DOGE’s initiatives aimed at identifying waste and corruption, which have led to significant firings in various federal agencies. The tech billionaire makes sweeping claims that government fraud contributes to a staggering $2 trillion annual deficit, further asserting that it endangers the political and fiscal stability of the U.S. by pushing the country toward bankruptcy.

Following recent incidents of vandalism at Tesla dealerships, Musk attempted to tie these acts to what he calls “hatred and violence from the left.” He seems to suggest a coordinated effort against Tesla, stating he finds the level of aggression shocking and questioning who might be funding such actions. However, his characterization of Democrats as violent falls flat against the backdrop of actual political violence spurred by Republican rhetoric.

His claims of danger and victimhood seem strategically crafted to elicit sympathy and deflect attention from DOGE’s controversial approach to government operations. By shifting focus onto potential threats against himself, Musk attempts to reinforce his narrative of righteousness and crusade against corruption, despite evidence suggesting that such claims may be more self-serving than accurate.

In his discourse, Musk continues to align himself closely with Trump, suggesting that both are encapsulated in a battle against systemic waste and fraud within the government. This perspective not only distracts from their respective corrupt practices but also embodies a broader fascistic approach deeply embedded within the Trump administration that seeks to undermine democratic institutions and processes.

Trump Claims Ukraine War Ending Promise Was Just Sarcasm

President Donald Trump recently claimed that his promise to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours was merely sarcastic. During an interview with journalist Sharyl Attkisson, Trump attempted to downplay the bold assertion he made on the campaign trail, which seemed to suggest that he had a straightforward plan to resolve a conflict that has persisted for years.

Trump’s comments followed his persistent criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of the Ukraine conflict. Throughout his campaign, he blamed Biden for the escalation of the war, arguing that it could have been avoided if he were in power. However, now that Trump is back in office, he faces the stark reality of a complex geopolitical situation, which he seems unprepared to address effectively.

Despite claiming to pursue negotiations, Trump offered vague assurances that negotiations were “going reasonably well,” and he expressed optimism about securing a ceasefire agreement. This ambiguity illustrates a stark contrast to his previous more confident statements about resolutely ending the conflict. Attkisson was quick to remind Trump of the stark disparity between his campaign promise and the current inaction.

As Trump attempts to reshape his narrative, it’s evident that his initial proclamation to end the war lacks the credibility needed to restore faith among American and international audiences. Rather than demonstrating leadership, his flippant remarks showcase a troubling detachment from the immense human cost and geopolitical complexities associated with the conflict.

Ultimately, Trump’s sarcastic dismissal of his past statement raises questions about his sincerity and ability to govern effectively. Such rhetoric only serves to undermine trust and suggests a troubling lack of seriousness regarding the lives impacted by ongoing violence in Ukraine, where he pointedly attempted to downplay the situation’s gravity.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/tv/trump-says-he-was-being-sarcastic-with-vow-to-end-ukraine-war-in-24-hours-if-elected-but-id-like-to-get-it-settled/)

Trump’s Authoritarian Rhetoric Undermines Justice in DOJ Speech

Donald Trump delivered a provocative speech at the Department of Justice, labeling his courtroom opponents as “scum” and judiciary officials as “corrupt.” This declaration reflects Trump’s disturbing effort to undermine the DOJ’s independence, portraying himself as the nation’s “chief law enforcement officer” in a way reminiscent of authoritarian regimes.

In a lengthy monologue that lasted over an hour, Trump condemned his political defendants and asserted that those responsible for his legal challenges should face imprisonment. His rhetoric betrays a fundamental disregard for democratic principles, as he called for accountability only in terms that serve his agenda while demonizing those who oppose him.

Trump’s speech blatantly politicized the DOJ, a deviation from the tradition maintained by his predecessors who valued its neutrality. He accused former DOJ leadership of orchestrating espionage against his campaign and claimed they perpetrated “one hoax and disinformation campaign after the other,” demonstrating a pattern of projection reflective of his administration’s own misconduct.

Critics, including Rep. Jamie Raskin, condemned Trump’s actions, asserting that his speech marks a significant threat to the morale and integrity of the DOJ. Raskin’s remarks highlight that no president has ever employed such vitriolic language in that sacred space. By claiming the insurrectionists as “political prisoners,” Trump trivializes actual struggles against oppression and highlights his tendency to misuse ideological rhetoric.

Trump also praised Judge Aileen Cannon, whose rulings have favored him, demonstrating his preference for loyalty over justice. The speech ended with ominous promises to “restore the scales of justice,” while implicitly threatening the very foundations of American democracy through partisan prosecutions.

(h/t: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/14/trump-doj-speech-prison-opponents-00231438)

Trump Blames Biden for Global Crises While Undermining Democracy and Diverting Accountability

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Donald Trump recently unleashed a tirade against President Joe Biden, declaring that the outcomes of the “rigged” 2020 election are responsible for various global crises, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, the recent Gaza conflict, and soaring inflation. Trump’s unfounded claims are part of his persistent narrative intended to undermine the legitimacy of Biden’s presidency and revitalize his image as a potential future leader.

During his explosive remarks, Trump insisted that if he had retained the presidency, there would have been “no war” involving Russia, asserting that under his leadership, the world would have been more stable. He also seized on the notion that the U.S. would have maintained strong borders and a thriving economy, despite the fact that many economic indicators have shown recovery during Biden’s term.

In a harried declaration, Trump demanded imprisonment for those he claims were responsible for his electoral defeat. This demand fits into a larger pattern of rhetoric from Trump and his supporters, who often resort to extreme and misleading assertions to whip up their base and detract from the accomplishments of others. His emphasis on criminal accountability for his political defeat demonstrates a desperate attempt to galvanize support amidst growing scrutiny of his actions.

Trump’s comments reflect not only a clear attempt to shift blame for complex international events but also highlight the reality of his administration’s faltering policies regarding immigration and foreign affairs. His narrative is designed to frame Biden as the instigator of chaos, even as experts attribute ongoing crises to multifaceted issues beyond any single leader’s control.

This kind of inflammatory rhetoric serves to distract from the vital issues at stake in American governance, including the need for thoughtful dialogue on foreign policy and economic strategy, rather than feeding into a narrative of victimhood and conspiratorial thinking. Trump’s discourse indicates his continued focus on consolidating power and rallying his followers around a shared sense of grievance.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/news/trump-rages-at-crooked-biden-and-blames-rigged-2020-election-for-russia-mess-gaza-war-and-inflation-people-should-go-to-jail/)

Trump’s Egg Price Claim: A Striking Example of Deceit

The recent assertion by President Donald Trump regarding egg prices is one of the most egregious instances of misinformation he has propagated. At a press conference on March 12, alongside Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Trump boldly claimed that egg prices had decreased by 30% since he took office. This statement, however, has been thoroughly debunked by fact-checkers, notably by the account FactPost, which pointed out that egg prices have actually surged by 28% since Trump assumed the presidency.

This blatant lie exemplifies Trump’s consistent pattern of distorting economic realities to fit his narrative, as he attempts to deflect criticisms surrounding inflation and rising costs. Despite the actual statistics showing significant increases in food prices, including eggs, Trump continues to mislead the public while presenting an illusion of economic stability. The fallout from this misleading claim has been significant, with countless responses on social media condemning the disconnection from reality that Trump’s remarks reveal.

Opinionated commentators were quick to respond, with one user quipping about Trump’s fabricated data, suggesting it originates from an “alternate universe.” The public’s frustration is palpable, as the inflated food prices dramatically affect daily life for millions of Americans. It reinforces the perception that Trump is out of touch with the struggles faced by ordinary citizens as he prioritizes false narratives over factual integrity.

In the past, Trump has promised to reduce grocery prices “on day one” of his presidency, yet the reality is far from his assertions. He has previously cited alarming increases in food prices—bread, cereals, and egregiously, eggs—but instead of accountability, he shifts blame onto others, like President Joe Biden, for the current economic woes. It is confounding to observe Trump blaming others for issues he himself has failed to address effectively during his administration.

This incident regarding egg prices is not merely a slip of the tongue—it’s indicative of a larger trend in Trump’s communication strategy, which often entails ignoring truths in favor of a narrative that serves his interests. This approach not only misleads his base but also undermines the public’s trust in information critical to making informed decisions about their lives and finances. Trump’s persistent lies contribute to the broader issue of disinformation that is deeply damaging to American democracy.

(h/t: https://www.indy100.com/news/donald-trump-lie-are-egg-prices-down)

Trump’s Steel Tariff Threats Fuel Market Turmoil and Heighten Recession Fears

Donald Trump’s recent threats to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada have sent shockwaves through global stock markets. The announcement caused the S&P 500 to drop significantly, falling as much as 1.5% before recovering slightly. The chaotic trade situation has led to a “fear index” hitting its highest level in months, underscoring widespread investor concern about potential recessionary impacts resulting from Trump’s volatile trade strategies.

The President attempted to justify his aggressive trade actions as necessary to correct perceived imbalances, labeling Canadian tariffs on dairy as “outrageous.” In a boastful post on Truth Social, Trump proclaimed that he had directed an increase in tariffs from 25% to 50%, which would be one of the highest in the world, directly antagonizing a country that is traditionally an ally. Canadian officials, however, responded firmly, insisting they would not back down until their trade relationship is treated with the respect it deserves.

Mark Carney, Canada’s incoming Prime Minister, condemned Trump’s tariffs as an attack on Canadian workers and families and emphasized that any retaliatory measures would be targeted to minimize damage to local interests while maximizing impact in the United States. This escalating trade war could further destabilize both economies, with experts warning of potential global repercussions that could push both countries towards a recession.

The erratic nature of Trump’s policies and sudden reversals have only intensified market fears. While the President downplayed concerns by asserting that the U.S. economy is undergoing a necessary transition, his unpredictable tariff decisions leave investors wary. Companies are increasingly anxious about how tariffs will affect their operations and pricing strategies, contributing to a volatile market environment exacerbated by Trump’s approach.

Despite all this chaos, Trump continues to express extravagant optimism about the economy, citing supposed investments and job growth attributed to his administration. Yet, the reality on Wall Street and the broader economic landscape tells a different story, with criticisms over the likelihood of long-term negative effects from these policies mounting. As the market continues to react to Trump’s erratic trade decisions, the risk of deeper economic turmoil looms large on the horizon.

CDC’s Controversial Vaccine-Autism Study Risks Public Health Amid Trump Administration’s Anti-Vaccine Rhetoric

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is embarking on a controversial study examining a fabricated link between vaccines and autism, despite overwhelming evidence countering this claim. This decision has raised alarms among public health advocates, given that extensive scientific research has consistently debunked the supposed correlation between vaccinations and autism.

The misinformation surrounding vaccines traces back to a widely discredited study from 1998 by Andrew Wakefield, which falsely linked the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism based on just 12 children. Wakefield’s fraudulent claims led to his medical license being revoked and The Lancet retracting the study in 2010 after concluding that several aspects of his work were inaccurate and based on ethical violations.

Despite the established safety of vaccines, which have saved millions of lives globally, the Trump administration—which includes prominent vaccine skeptics like Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—has continued to promote anti-vaccine narratives. President Trump recently exaggerated autism statistics, framing a need for further research, which ultimately undermines public confidence in critical vaccination efforts.

As the CDC prepares for this study, concerns are mounting that investigating a debunked theory could harm public health initiatives, especially with rising measles cases in the U.S. The cost of this new investigation could strain resources already allocated to autism research, further diverting focus from evidence-based health policies.

In an era where misinformation thrives, the CDC’s decision to pursue this research underlines the ongoing threats to public health championed by Trump and his administration. As scientific consensus overwhelmingly supports vaccination, continuing to question it without substantial evidence could negatively impact efforts to control disease outbreaks, thus posing a significant risk to societal health.

(h/t: https://www.iflscience.com/us-to-spend-money-researching-heavily-debunked-link-between-vaccines-and-autism-78394?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2MB_yipWEblpP453c_941Mr-7P45hjCdKiKRUY3UQzfkl5UUolkxL4GHI_aem_RxyLLzThM1hOERoFUP-sVw)

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