Category: Not Factual

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.

Trump Falsely Claims to Have Visited Gaza, No Evidence Found

Donald Trump claimed during a recent radio interview that he had visited Gaza, a statement for which there is no documented evidence. This assertion was made while discussing the anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks, an event linked to Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza.

When prompted for clarification, a Trump campaign aide noted that Gaza is located within Israel, implying that Trump’s travels to Israel could include Gaza. However, this interpretation is misleading as Gaza is a separate territory and has never been part of Israel since its withdrawal in 2005.

Trump’s previous travels to the region, including a visit to Israel in 2017, did not include Gaza. Instead, he traveled to the West Bank, which is approximately 20 miles from Gaza, to meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.

During the interview, the host Hugh Hewitt posed a hypothetical question regarding the potential for Gaza to be rebuilt into a prosperous area akin to Monaco, reflecting on the extensive destruction in the region due to ongoing conflicts.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/07/us/politics/trump-gaza-israel.html)

Fact-Checking Trump’s Misleading Claims at Butler Rally

During a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump made several claims regarding immigration, the economy, and Hurricane Helene that were fact-checked for accuracy. Trump stated that illegal immigration was at its lowest when he left office, citing a chart with misleading data. In reality, his presidency ended in January 2021, and the low numbers he referenced in April 2020 were influenced by pandemic-related lockdowns.

Trump also misrepresented the federal response to Hurricane Helene, stating that victims would receive only $750 in aid. This amount is from FEMA’s Serious Needs Assistance program, which covers immediate needs and is not the total aid provided. As of October 4, FEMA had disbursed over $45 million for recovery efforts.

Additionally, Trump claimed that 13,099 murderers were allowed into the U.S. during the Biden administration, a misleading statistic that does not specify when these individuals entered the country. The figure refers to noncitizens with homicide convictions over a 40-year span and does not imply a direct correlation to current immigration policies.

On economic claims, Trump asserted that his administration achieved the greatest economy in history, but data shows that while unemployment dropped, GDP growth was lower than in previous administrations. Other economic indicators such as wages and business investment also contradict his assertion.

Lastly, Trump inaccurately claimed that Vice President Kamala Harris was tasked with managing border security. Her role is focused on addressing the root causes of migration rather than direct control over border enforcement, which falls under the Department of Homeland Security.

 

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon Did Not Endorse Donald Trump

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has not endorsed Donald Trump for president, directly contradicting claims made by the former president. Rumors surfaced online, particularly on Truth Social, where Trump asserted that Dimon had thrown his support behind him. However, a spokesperson for JPMorgan Chase confirmed that these assertions are inaccurate, clarifying that Dimon has not made any endorsements in the current presidential race.

In a recent interview, Dimon explicitly stated, “I’m not endorsing anyone at this time,” emphasizing his focus on policy issues rather than political endorsements. This aligns with previous reports indicating that Dimon had supported Trump’s GOP primary rival, Nikki Haley, as he sought to rally other business leaders behind her candidacy.

Trump then laughably denied any knowledge of his own post

Despite the false claims of Dimon’s endorsement circulating on social media, it is evident that he has maintained a position of non-partisanship in this election cycle. The misinformation has been propagated by various users on platforms like X, amplifying Trump’s false narrative.

Furthermore, while Trump has previously mentioned considering Dimon for a Treasury Secretary position should he regain the presidency, he later retracted those comments, suggesting uncertainty about the origins of such reports. This inconsistency highlights the ongoing pattern of misleading statements from Trump regarding endorsements and support.

Ultimately, Jamie Dimon’s stance remains clear: he has not endorsed Donald Trump, and the claims made by Trump are unfounded. This incident underscores the need for accurate reporting and fact-checking in the political discourse surrounding the upcoming presidential election.

Trump FEMA Claim Debunked: Agency Not Running Out Of Money Because Of Migrants

 

Former President Donald Trump has falsely claimed that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is running low on funds due to spending on migrant assistance. During a recent rally, Trump asserted that Vice President Kamala Harris had diverted billions from FEMA’s budget to house illegal migrants, echoing comments from Fox News host Jesse Watters. However, this claim has been debunked by multiple sources.

FEMA’s funding for disaster relief and migrant assistance comes from separate budget allocations. While FEMA has indeed allocated over $1 billion to aid communities supporting migrants this year, this funding is drawn from the Shelter and Services Program, distinct from the Disaster Relief Fund used for hurricane recovery efforts. This separation means that the financial challenges FEMA faces are not due to migrant-related expenditures.

On October 3, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged that FEMA is experiencing a cash crunch for disaster relief efforts but clarified that these financial difficulties are not linked to migrant assistance. The Disaster Relief Fund is specifically reserved for managing disasters, and its funds have not been diverted for non-disaster related purposes.

The current issues with FEMA’s budget stem from a lack of additional funding from Congress. Recent stopgap funding measures did not provide the necessary resources, forcing FEMA to prioritize immediate disaster needs while halting non-emergency rebuilding projects. Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about FEMA’s financial situation, urging Congress to reconvene and allocate more funds.

As Hurricane Helene wreaks havoc across parts of the Southeast, estimates suggest the storm could lead to damages exceeding $34 billion. The financial strain on FEMA could hinder its ability to respond effectively to ongoing disaster recovery efforts, especially with hurricane season continuing through November.

Trump’s claims about FEMA’s financial situation have been met with strong rebuttals from the Biden administration, with officials emphasizing the agency’s commitment to assisting all communities affected by disasters without bias. The administration has stressed the importance of accurate communication regarding disaster relief efforts, particularly during such critical times.

 

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