Category: Unpresidential

Trump Targets Reporter Over Military Reporting Reflecting Disturbing Republican Anti-Press Trend

President Donald Trump lashed out at CNN reporter Natasha Bertrand, demanding her termination after she reported on the shortcomings of a U.S. military operation in Iran. In a Truth Social post, Trump claimed that Bertrand’s coverage was “Fake News” and insinuated that she should be “thrown out like a dog,” reflecting his pattern of attacking journalists who oppose him or his narrative.

Trump’s vitriol was aimed at Bertrand’s reporting, which indicated that a preliminary intelligence assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) suggested that recent U.S. airstrikes had minimally impacted Iran’s nuclear program. While Trump boasted of “TOTAL OBLITERATION,” Bertrand’s work presented a contrasting, nuanced picture that highlighted the operation’s limited effectiveness.

CNN responded firmly, standing by Bertrand’s journalism and emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting even amidst Trump’s relentless assaults on the press. A spokesperson noted that the assessment Bertrand reported was presented with cautious confidence and stressed the responsibility of news organizations to inform the public about critical intelligence developments. 

In his insistence that Bertrand be let go, Trump showcased his disdain for media accountability, directly undermining journalistic integrity. This move aligns with his broader attempts to delegitimize critical reporting, particularly in light of his unsuccessful military endeavors and increasing scrutiny of his administration’s decisions.

The situation not only reflects Trump’s personal vendetta against specific reporters but also underscores a dangerous trend among Republicans who openly antagonize the free press, exacerbating tensions between government officials and independent journalism in America.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/fire-natasha-trump-launches-scathing-attack-on-cnn-reporter-demands-she-be-thrown-out-like-a-dog/)

Trump Administration Limits Congressional Oversight on Military Operations Amidst Iran Nuclear Strike Controversy

President Donald Trump’s administration is set to restrict Congress’s access to classified information following claims of a leak regarding U.S. military actions against Iran. This decision comes after reports indicated that recent airstrikes did not effectively damage Iran’s nuclear capabilities, contradicting Trump’s proclamations of success.

CNN’s report described how the targeted strikes allegedly only delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions by several months, a claim firmly rejected by Trump and his administration. They branded the report as “flat-out wrong,” dismissing the purported leaker as a “low-level loser” within the intelligence community. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric highlights the administration’s intent to shape the narrative surrounding military operations.

On social media, Trump extended his outrage to specific journalists. He targeted CNN reporter Natasha Bertrand, demanding her dismissal over what he termed “Fake News.” He insisted that the media’s portrayal of the airstrikes was misleading and asserted that they had achieved “TOTAL OBLITERATION” of the nuclear sites, despite evidence to the contrary.

In an alarming move, reports from Axios reveal that the Trump administration’s restriction on sharing classified information, particularly through the CAPNET system, serves to limit Congressional oversight and scrutiny. This change in policy underscores a dangerous trend of increasing secrecy and a lack of accountability regarding military actions.

The implications of these developments are significant, as limiting access to critical information undermines democratic processes and heightens risks of authoritarian control over military narratives. This shift represents a broader pattern of dismissing dissenting opinions and facts that contradict the administration’s agenda.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/trump-admin-to-limit-sharing-classified-info-to-congress-despite-president-calling-iran-leak-fake-news/)

Trump Envoy Calls Iran Failire Leak “Treasonous”

Steve Witkoff, the appointed Special Envoy to the Middle East by President Donald Trump, fiercely condemned the media for what he termed “treasonous” leaks regarding U.S. military strikes on Iran. His remarks followed reports from multiple news outlets indicating that the strikes only managed to delay Iran’s nuclear ambitions by a few months. Witkoff expressed outrage over the leaking of sensitive information, labeling it as a serious offense that warrants investigation and accountability.

During an interview on Fox News’s “The Ingraham Angle,” Witkoff stated that the act of leaking such information is “outrageous” and dangerous. He claimed that it could endanger lives in the future, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The leaked assessments contradicted initial claims from Trump administration officials that the strikes had successfully destroyed key Iranian facilities, raising concerns about the credibility of the administration’s statements.

Witkoff’s comments reflect the broader chaos and miscommunication characterizing the Trump administration’s foreign policy, particularly in the volatile Iranian context. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that an investigation into the leaks is underway, as Trump himself denounced the reporting outlets, calling them “scum.” This combative stance underlines a pattern within the Republican leadership that seeks to control the narrative while often neglecting factual accuracy.

Reports revealed that much of Iran’s enriched uranium had been relocated prior to the airstrikes, further undermining Trump’s assurances of a decisive military blow against its nuclear program. Experts have emphasized that effective assessments of damage typically require considerable time, countering the administration’s narrative of immediate success.

The Trump administration’s reliance on a militaristic approach not only disrupts diplomatic relations but may also escalate tensions in an already fragile geopolitical landscape. As the administration continues to combat these leaks and damage control efforts, the implications for U.S. foreign policy and global stability remain profound.

Trump’s TikTok Delay Reveals Self-Serving Agenda and Lawlessness

President Donald Trump’s decision to delay the TikTok ban raises serious concerns about his commitment to upholding the rule of law. After Congress passed a ban on the app, which has connections to the Chinese government through its parent company ByteDance, Trump has extended the deadline for compliance three times. This move, occurring just as a bipartisan law was set to enforce the ban, highlights Trump’s blatant disregard for constitutional authority and established legal processes.

Initially, the ban on TikTok aligned with Trump’s anti-China agenda; however, his recent actions reveal a troubling shift. Many believe that Trump has developed a soft spot for TikTok because he perceives it as a platform that aided his reelection campaign. This personal motive undermines the integrity of his duty, breaching his role as an enforcer of the law. His arbitrary extensions to TikTok’s operational timeline deviate from the law and appear to serve his interests rather than those of the American public.

Despite the law’s allowance for a one-time 90-day extension under specific circumstances—none of which are being fulfilled by TikTok—Trump’s repeated approvals of delays are overtly illegal. He cannot selectively choose which laws to enforce based on his political whims or alliances. Legal requirements exist for a reason, and by ignoring them, Trump exemplifies lawlessness, setting a dangerous precedent for future administrations.

The obligation to enforce laws is a foundational principle of the American presidency. When Trump asserts his leniency towards TikTok, he undermines the very structure of governance, creating a scenario where a president can disregard laws at will. The implications of such actions are profound and extend beyond TikTok; they threaten the stability of democratic processes and the integrity of future administrations.

Moreover, the reluctance of both parties to vocally oppose Trump’s actions is telling. If a Democrat were found in a similar situation, the outcry would be deafening. This double standard exemplifies the pervasive politicization of governance, where powerful figures operate above the law, fostering an environment ripe for authoritarianism. Trump’s unlawful delay of the TikTok ban is a stark reminder of the need for accountability among our leaders.

(h/t: https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/columnist/2025/06/25/trump-tiktok-ban-delay-extended/84323075007/)

Bikers for Trump Founder Joins Trump’s Homeland Security Team

President Donald Trump has appointed several of his staunch supporters to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC), including Chris Cox, the founder of the controversial group Bikers for Trump. This group, known for its aggressive antics at Trump rallies, has a track record of violent confrontations with protestors and members of marginalized communities.

The announcement from the Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, confirms the inclusion of figures such as former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, and Florida State Senator Joseph Gruters. The council’s formation is intended to provide Trump with “real-time, real-world and independent advice” on homeland security matters, further consolidating a connection between Trump’s administration and radical elements within his support base.

The HSAC is expected to align closely with Trump’s right-wing agenda, reflecting the administration’s priorities and utilizing advisory members who share its populist and nationalistic values. Critics have condemned this move, claiming it dangerously allows those with extremist views to influence national security decisions. The inclusion of Cox raises serious concerns, given Bikers for Trump’s violent history and their physical attacks against dissidents during rallies.

This advisory council’s first meeting is scheduled to take place on July 2, where members will likely strategize on how to reinforce Trump’s agenda within the framework of national security. The implications of having individuals tied to violent, ultranationalist groups in such influential positions cannot be understated, as they reinforce a troubling erosion of democratic norms.

Through these appointments, the Trump administration continues to blur the lines between governance and vigilantism, signaling a further descent into a form of governance that is increasingly hostile to dissent and civil society. For anyone concerned about the integrity of democratic institutions, these developments pose significant challenges moving forward.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/homeland-security-bikers-for-trump/)

Trump’s Explosive Press Conference Reveals Dangerous Ignorance on Middle East Diplomacy

Donald Trump’s inflammatory remarks during a live press conference captured the attention of viewers as he expressed anger towards both Israel and Iran. The unpredictability of his outburst prompted news networks to air his expletive-laden comments unedited, shocking audiences. Trump criticized both nations amid rising tensions from a fragile ceasefire, stating his intense dissatisfaction with Israel for its actions following recent missile threats from Iran.

During the event, Trump voiced frustration, saying, “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f— they’re doing.” This statement exemplifies Trump’s bombastic style, further confirming his lack of understanding and control over international relations. As he departed to attend a NATO summit, he brushed off questions from reporters, reflecting a dismissive attitude towards diplomatic discourse.

Additionally, Trump took aim at CNN, branding their reports on U.S. military actions as “fake news.” He accused the network of undermining the bravery of American pilots involved in military operations, illustrating his relentless criticism of media outlets that challenge his narrative. By doing so, he not only deflected accountability but also reinforced his ongoing war with the press.

Just before the press event, Trump took to social media to urge Israel to refrain from further attacks, emphasizing the seriousness of the current conflict while conveying a disregard for the established norms of international dialogue and diplomacy. This behavior highlights Trump’s preference for an aggressive, uninhibited communication style that prioritizes dramatic gestures over thoughtful policy discussions.

The incident reflects a troubling trend in Trump’s leadership, marked by reckless language and impulsive reactions that threaten to destabilize critical relationships in the Middle East. His presidency continues to signify a departure from conventional diplomacy, raising concerns over America’s standing on the global stage and its capacity to engage effectively with international partners.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/iran-israel-2672424131/)

Trump’s NATO Commitment Erosion Threatens Global Security and Alliances

President Donald Trump has recently declined to affirm his commitment to defending NATO allies from military aggression, stating instead that he is willing to be “their friends.” This statement was made while en route to a NATO summit in the Netherlands, highlighting his long-standing critical stance towards the alliance. Trump’s reluctance to fully support NATO commitments underscores a radical departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy, which has historically emphasized collective defense, particularly outlined in Article 5 of the NATO charter.

When pressed by reporters about his dedication to mutual defense obligations, Trump responded ambiguously, suggesting that the terms of Article 5 could be interpreted in various ways. He refrained from making any clear promises, stating, “It depends on your definition,” which exposes a disturbing lack of clarity in U.S. commitments to its allies. By only committing to maintaining friendships and “helping” other nation leaders, he diminishes the gravity of mutual defense agreements that are foundational to NATO’s existence.

Journalists attempted to extract a more detailed clarification from Trump, but he continued to evade direct questions, instead pledging to elaborate on his position later at the summit. This evasiveness is indicative of Trump’s broader strategy to undermine alliances and international cooperation, which many believe caters more to his isolationist tendencies rather than maintaining productive diplomatic relationships.

The implications of Trump’s statements are concerning for global stability. By undermining assurances to NATO allies, Trump not only jeopardizes their security but also weakens the united front that NATO has historically maintained against potential aggressors. His remarks signal a worrisome trend towards a more unilateral approach to international relations, prioritizing transactional relationships over established alliances.

In summary, Trump’s refusal to clearly support NATO’s Article 5 and his reluctance to commit to mutual defense raises serious questions about his administration’s foreign policy direction. This marks a significant shift from previous U.S. administrations, which consistently upheld the principle of collective security, potentially opening the door for aggression from adversarial nations.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/trump-refuses-to-say-hell-defend-nato-allies-from-attack-will-only-promise-to-be-their-friends/)

Trump Launches Hostile Media Attack Amid Controversial Iran Military Strike

President Donald Trump has launched another vehement attack on the media, branding reports about a controversial military strike on Iran as deceptive. Responding to critiques of the operation, Trump referred to journalists as “sleazebags,” accusing them of trying to undermine his administration’s efforts. His latest remarks were made via his platform, Truth Social, where he claimed that the targets of the strikes were “totally destroyed” contrary to reports stating otherwise.

Trump’s accusations prominently included CNN’s Allison Cooper and ABC’s Jonathan Karl, whom he insultingly nicknamed. He emphasized that media outlets are perpetuating false narratives to diminish his achievements, asserting that their credibility has plummeted to an all-time low. This rhetoric is consistent with Trump’s history of attacking the press, particularly those who report critically on his administration.

This incident is part of a broader pattern among Trump and his allies, who frequently dismiss unfavorable media portrayals as “fake news.” Such attacks not only erode public trust in journalism but also underscore an alarming trend of Republican authoritarianism aimed at silencing dissenting voices.

Moreover, the operation’s effectiveness has been brought into question, with reports indicating that the strikes merely delayed Afghanistan’s nuclear ambitions. This has raised concerns among analysts regarding the real ramifications of military actions that Trump attempts to frame as successes.

By continuing this hostile relationship with the press, Trump perpetuates a damaging environment where misinformation can flourish, further polarizing the political landscape. His disdain for accountability and transparency in governance reflects a dangerous approach that prioritizes personal image over factual reporting and responsible leadership.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-iran-2672419065/)

Trump Installed Fed Officials Parrot His Wishes

Recent statements from Federal Reserve officials reveal troubling alignments with President Donald Trump’s agenda, particularly in advocating for lower interest rates, which contradicts previously cautious stances. Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman has openly suggested that adjustments to the policy rate may be necessary soon, downplaying the risks associated with Trump’s tariffs and emphasizing the need to maintain a healthy labor market.

This shift signifies a worrying trend where appointees of Trump—who demands unwavering loyalty from his officials—begin to echo his economic policies. Earlier, Fed Governor Christopher Waller also indicated support for rate decreases, focusing on the idea that inflationary impacts from tariffs might be minor. The suggestions from Bowman and Waller clash with the traditional reluctance of the Federal Reserve to alter rates based on political pressure rather than economic fundamentals.

Despite some Fed officials still favoring a cautious approach, sentiments are changing. Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee acknowledged the potential for rate cuts if inflation remains stable in light of recent tariff increases. This indicates an unsettling readiness among certain Fed members to prioritize political concerns over the broader economic picture, which is concerning in light of the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its possible repercussions on global energy prices.

Trump has repeatedly criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell for failing to comply with his calls for lower rates, labeling him with derogatory terms. This aggressive rhetoric reflects Trump’s broader strategy to undermine independent institutions, revealing an alarming trend where critical economic decisions may be swayed by political allegiance rather than objective analysis.

As political pressures mount and Fed officials appear to be bending to Trump’s demands, the potential for compromised economic integrity grows. Allowing political influence to dictate monetary policy threatens to destabilize not only financial markets but also the broader economy, ultimately serving the interests of wealthy elites while neglecting the working class.

(h/t: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/23/economy/fed-july-rate-cut-trump)

Trump’s Attacks Expose Authoritarian Shift in GOP Rhetoric

President Donald Trump, consistently hostile toward the media, recently labeled journalists as “sleazebags” for reporting on his military actions against Iran. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed that his airstrikes had completely “destroyed” the targeted sites, dismissing contrary reports as attempts to demean his administration’s efforts. His rhetoric underscores a trend where facts are secondary to inflammatory language and personal attacks.

Among those specifically criticized were CNN’s Allison Cooper and ABC’s Jonathan Karl, both of whom Trump accused of misrepresenting the success of the strikes. Trump’s comments reflect a broader strategy within the Republican party to undermine credible news sources, which they label as ‘fake news’ to shift public discourse and deflect criticism. This tactic serves to rally their base around a narrative of victimization by the press.

The airstrikes, framed by Trump as a “spectacular military success,” are positioned in stark contrast to his administration’s previous diplomatic stances on Iran, raising concerns about the potential for increased conflict in the region. Trump’s dismissive attitude toward critical reporting not only reflects a personal vendetta but also aligns with a wider GOP shift toward authoritarianism, where dissenting views are silenced rather than engaged.

This ongoing war of words against the media comes as Trump grapples with declining favorability ratings, which he attributes to biased reporting rather than addressing the substance of his policies and their implications. By attacking reputable news outlets, he aims to strengthen his appeal among supporters while fostering division and mistrust in democratic institutions.

Ultimately, Trump’s actions emphasize a disturbing trend in American politics where the leader of the free world engages in hostile confrontations with the press, further unveiling the authoritarian undertones of his administration and the Republican party’s willingness to undermine democratic norms for political gain.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-iran-2672419065/)

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