Category: Unpresidential

Trump Misleads Public on Border Closure Deal with Mexico

Donald Trump recently boasted about a conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, claiming they struck a deal to “effectively close the border.” This assertion, however, is misleading as Mexico has already been implementing strict measures to manage migration.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump celebrated what he called a “very productive conversation,” suggesting that he had successfully pressured Mexico into taking actions that they were already doing. Sheinbaum confirmed their discussion focused on migration strategies, stating that caravans were not reaching the U.S. border due to Mexico’s enforcement measures.

While Trump positions this as a win, it conveniently ignores the fact that illegal migration rates have been declining due to the Biden administration’s enhanced cooperation with Mexico, a fact Trump fails to acknowledge. His claim follows a series of threats to impose tariffs on both Mexico and Canada, which raises questions about the sincerity of his negotiations.

The Trump administration’s focus on a border wall and aggressive immigration policies has been criticized as a façade to distract from more pressing issues. By misrepresenting the success of his conversations with Sheinbaum, Trump appears to be attempting to reclaim a narrative of strength on immigration, despite the reality of the situation being far less favorable for him.

In essence, Trump’s declaration of victory is less about genuine policy achievements and more about political posturing. His rhetoric continues to exploit immigration fears for political gain, which undermines the complex reality of border management and international cooperation.

(h/t: https://www.wbrz.com/news/trump-speaks-with-mexico-s-president-claims-an-agreement-to-effectively-close-the-border/)

Trump’s CDC Pick Dr. Weldon: A Dangerous Choice for Public Health

Dr. Dave Weldon, a former congressman, has been unexpectedly nominated by President Trump to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With a long absence from the political arena, Weldon’s selection raises eyebrows, especially as he has aligned views with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is known for promoting anti-vaccine rhetoric. Despite decades of scientific evidence debunking the false link between vaccines and autism, Weldon has previously echoed similar sentiments, questioning vaccine safety.

Weldon’s professional background now consists of running a private medical practice in Florida, which casts doubt on his qualifications to manage a federal agency with a budget of $9 billion and a workforce exceeding 13,000 professionals. His lack of recent experience in public health policy is concerning, especially during a time when the nation faces ongoing public health crises.

Despite describing himself as a supporter of vaccination, Weldon’s past efforts to remove mercury from childhood vaccines indicate a troubling alignment with anti-vaccine conspiracy theories. This is particularly alarming given that Trump’s administration has repeatedly embraced misinformation and conspiracy over factual science, contributing to a public health crisis that has cost lives.

Weldon’s nomination signals yet another instance of Trump’s administration prioritizing loyalty and ideological alignment over scientific expertise. This troubling trend of appointing individuals with questionable views on public health continues to threaten the integrity of institutions meant to safeguard American health.

As the Trump administration pushes forward with this nomination, it highlights a broader pattern of undermining crucial health guidelines and promoting dangerous misinformation. Appointing a known vaccine skeptic to lead the CDC could further erode public trust in vaccination and public health measures, putting countless lives at risk.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/29/health/dave-weldon-cdc.html)

Trump’s Plan to Undermine Justice Department Highlights Authoritarian Ambitions

Donald Trump has unveiled a disturbing plan to retaliate against the legal system by firing the entire team of special counsel Jack Smith, who has been investigating him. This move, driven by Trump’s desire to shield himself from accountability, showcases his blatant disregard for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. Trump’s transition team is reportedly preparing to replace career attorneys with loyalists who will prioritize his personal interests over justice.

In an alarming escalation of authoritarian tactics, Trump aims to weaponize the Department of Justice against his perceived enemies. He intends to create investigative teams tasked with undermining the integrity of the 2020 election results, perpetuating his unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. This strategy mirrors the playbook of authoritarian regimes, which often seek to manipulate state institutions for personal gain.

Trump’s attacks on the judiciary and law enforcement reflect a dangerous trend where political leaders undermine democratic institutions. His recent comments labeling judges as ‘evil’ expose his intent to intimidate those who oppose him. Such behavior not only threatens the core principles of democracy but also sets a precedent for future leaders to follow in his authoritarian footsteps.

This blatant attempt to exert control over the Justice Department is not just a personal vendetta; it’s a calculated effort to dismantle checks and balances that are fundamental to a functioning democracy. By fostering an environment of fear and retribution, Trump is encouraging a culture where political loyalty supersedes justice.

As Trump continues to attack the legal system, it is crucial for the American public to recognize these actions as part of a broader authoritarian strategy. The implications of his plans could have devastating effects on the integrity of democratic governance in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/11/22/trump-jack-smith-prosecutors-firing-justice-department-investigation/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook)

Trump Appoints Snake Oil Salesman Dr. Oz To Run Medicare and Medicaid

Donald Trump has made a shocking decision by appointing Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a role for which he is grossly unqualified. Despite being a well-known television personality, Oz has no real experience managing a large government bureaucracy that oversees critical health services. This appointment exposes Trump’s reckless disregard for the qualifications necessary to run such an important agency and instead continues to prove he is placing Trump loyalists to be his eyes, ears, and hammer in a fascist movement.

Dr. Oz has long been criticized for promoting dubious health treatments and unproven remedies, making him a controversial figure in the medical community. His history of endorsing questionable products and ideas, often labeled as ‘snake oil’, raises significant concerns about his ability to make sound decisions for the health and welfare of millions of Americans. This is the same individual who infamously referred to the reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic as an “appetizing opportunity” that would only result in a 2-3% increase in mortality—an alarming statement that highlights his lack of genuine concern for public health.

In his statement, Trump touted Oz’s ability to ‘Make America Healthy Again’ and promised to cut waste and fraud. However, his track record suggests that Oz’s leadership might lead to further erosion of trust in medical science rather than reinforcing it. The idea that someone with such a dubious reputation in the health sector could be trusted to lead a vital healthcare agency is not just unthinkable—it is a direct threat to the integrity of America’s healthcare system.

Critics argue that this appointment reflects Trump’s pattern of placing loyalty over competency, showcasing a troubling trend where personal connections supersede the need for qualified leadership. With Oz’s questionable medical practices and lack of substantial administrative experience, there is a genuine fear that patient care and critical health services could suffer under his oversight.

As Oz prepares to potentially take the helm at CMS, there are serious implications for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. Trump’s choice of Oz signals a further departure from evidence-based medicine and an embrace of celebrity over accountability. The American public deserves leaders who prioritize science and ethics over popularity and personal relationships.

(h/t: https://www.axios.com/2024/11/19/trump-dr-oz-cms-cabinet)

Trump Nominates Project 2025 Author Brendan Carr To FCC

Brendan Carr, President-elect Donald Trump’s appointee to head the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has openly threatened broadcast media with stricter regulations under the guise of enforcing their public interest obligations. Trump’s choice of Carr, a staunch advocate for conservative media policies, raises alarm bells about potential government overreach into the media landscape. Notably, Carr’s comments come against a backdrop of Trump’s persistent grievances regarding media coverage, particularly following a contentious 60 Minutes interview with Vice President Kamala Harris.

During an appearance on Fox News, Carr indicated that he would closely scrutinize media operations, claiming that legacy media must change due to a loss of public trust. He cited Jeff Bezos’s assertion that Americans consider news media to be the least trusted source, suggesting that this sentiment justifies a shift in FCC policies to hold broadcasters accountable for their content.

Moreover, Carr’s support for a controversial merger between Paramount and Skydance appears contingent on the outcome of an ongoing FCC complaint related to CBS’s coverage of the Harris interview. His remarks signal a willingness to intertwine regulatory actions with political grievances, a move that could further undermine the independence of the FCC and jeopardize journalistic integrity.

In Carr’s view, the FCC should reassess its role in regulating broadcasters, who are granted access to public airwaves in exchange for serving the public interest. His statement about enforcing these obligations raises concerns that the FCC may become a tool for furthering partisan agendas, rather than a neutral body ensuring fair media practices.

With Carr’s history connected to the Heritage Foundation and Project 2025, concerns mount regarding his commitment to unbiased media oversight. His comments align with Trump’s broader narrative of combating perceived censorship and promoting ‘free speech,’ which often translates into silencing dissenting voices under the guise of regulation. The implications of Carr’s leadership at the FCC could reshape the information landscape and pose risks to the foundational principles of a free press.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/politics/trumps-fcc-pick-threatens-broadcast-media-promises-to-enforce-their-public-interest-obligation/)

Trump’s Dangerous Move to Target Military Officers for Courts-Martial Reveals Authoritarian Tendencies

In an alarming move, the Trump transition team is reportedly compiling a list of both current and former U.S. military officers for potential courts-martial. This initiative raises serious questions about the motives behind targeting military personnel who may have opposed or criticized the former president’s actions. The list appears to be part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and further consolidate power, echoing tactics often seen in authoritarian regimes.

Reports indicate that this effort is being driven by individuals connected to Trump’s inner circle, including prominent supporters who have openly embraced conspiracy theories. This behavior is reminiscent of fascist regimes, where loyalty to a singular leader is prioritized over democratic principles and accountability.

Among those associated with this troubling initiative is Matt Flynn, a leader in the QAnon conspiracy movement, alongside his brother Michael Flynn, a disgraced former general. Their involvement underscores the disturbing trend of militarizing political loyalty, where questions or criticisms of leadership are treated as acts of treason.

The implications of compiling such a list are profound, signaling a potential crackdown on military personnel who choose to speak out or maintain their integrity. This tactic not only undermines the values of democracy but also threatens the moral fabric of the armed forces.

As Trump and his allies continue to pursue these authoritarian strategies, it is imperative for the American public to remain vigilant and recognize the dangers posed by such actions. The normalization of hate and the silencing of dissent are hallmarks of a regime that prioritizes power over the principles of liberty and justice.

(h/t: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/trump-transition-team-compiling-list-current-former-us-military-office-rcna180489)

President-elect Donald Trump continues to avoid si…

President-elect Donald Trump continues to avoid signing the legally required ethics agreement mandated for a smooth presidential transition, raising serious ethical concerns about his leadership. This agreement is crucial for ensuring that Trump does not engage in conflicts of interest that could arise from his extensive business dealings, a fact that has been a significant point of contention throughout his presidency.

Trump’s reluctance to sign the ethics pledge illustrates his ongoing battle with transparency and accountability, as he attempts to shield his financial interests from scrutiny. Despite the fact that the ethics requirement was established under the Presidential Transition Act—legislation that Trump himself endorsed—his transition team has not prioritized compliance, jeopardizing national security as deadlines for essential agreements are missed.

Transition experts are alarmed by this delay, emphasizing that it could severely impair the incoming administration’s preparedness. The Biden administration’s General Services Administration had set deadlines for agreements that would provide Trump’s team with necessary resources and briefings, which are crucial for national security. The failure to comply with these requirements could leave the future administration unprepared to handle urgent issues from Day 1.

Furthermore, Trump’s ongoing business ventures, including his significant stake in Truth Social and other licensing deals, raise additional ethical questions. This lack of adherence to ethical standards, coupled with his refusal to sign the pledge, suggests a disregard for the foundational principles of governance that are essential for maintaining public trust.

As the transition process hangs in the balance, lawmakers like Rep. Jamie Raskin have expressed deep concerns about the implications of Trump’s actions, stating that ignoring established norms poses a threat to the fundamental institutions of American democracy. Without the necessary agreements in place, the implications for national security are dire, echoing past failures that have had catastrophic consequences.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/09/politics/trump-transition-ethics-pledge-timing/index.html?)

Trump’s Demands for Recess Appointments Highlight GOP’s Submission to His Agenda

Donald Trump is once again attempting to exert his influence over Republican senators, demanding their support for recess appointments to expedite the confirmation of his nominees. In a recent post, he insisted that any senator vying for leadership must commit to this controversial tactic, which has been met with skepticism from many in Congress. Recess appointments allow presidents to bypass the Senate when Congress is in recess, a practice that has been blocked by the opposition party in recent years.

Despite the contentious nature of this demand, the leading GOP candidates for the Senate majority leadership have quickly signaled their support for Trump’s wishes. Senators John Thune and John Cornyn, both seen as frontrunners, have expressed their openness to the idea, indicating a troubling trend where the party appears willing to undermine traditional legislative processes to placate Trump and his agenda.

Trump’s insistence on recess appointments highlights a significant power struggle within the Republican Party, as various factions vie for control. While some senators, like Rick Scott, have eagerly endorsed Trump’s approach, others remain cautious, recognizing the risks involved in expanding presidential powers. This clash reflects a broader concern about the erosion of checks and balances in the face of Trump’s demands.

Moreover, Trump’s call for recess appointments is not merely about filling positions; it is a strategic move to prevent the current Democratic-controlled Senate from pushing through judicial appointments. He has urged Republicans to block any such attempts during the leadership transition, revealing his willingness to disrupt the Senate’s functionality for partisan gain.

This situation poses serious implications for the Senate’s future operations, as Trump’s tactics could lead to further polarization and conflict. Recess appointments, once a rare and controversial measure, may become a tool for a party unwilling to engage in genuine legislative negotiations. As the GOP navigates this leadership election, the fallout from Trump’s demands will likely shape the Senate’s dynamics for years to come.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/10/politics/trump-senate-recess-appointments-gop-leader/index.html)

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 Says OK If An Assassin Shoots Through The Press

During a recent rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump made shocking remarks suggesting he would not mind if someone attempted to shoot through the media to reach him. This statement, made while he was critiquing the bulletproof glass shielding him, raises serious concerns about his attitude towards violence and the press.

Trump, who has a history of inflammatory rhetoric, referred to the media as “fake news” and “bloodsuckers” while gesturing towards the protective glass. His comments come in the wake of multiple assassination attempts against him, including a recent incident where a bullet grazed his ear and resulted in the death of an audience member.

The former president’s reckless comments not only trivialize the threats against his life but also serve to incite his supporters against the press. By implying that the media is a barrier to him, he dangerously promotes the idea that violence against journalists is acceptable.

Trump’s spokesperson attempted to clarify his remarks, claiming he was trying to protect the media. However, this belies the reality of Trump’s consistent pattern of hostility towards journalists who challenge him. His rhetoric has been known to embolden extremist behavior among his followers, leading to increased violence against the press.

This incident is a stark reminder of the toxic environment Trump has cultivated, where incitement and division take precedence over respect and dignity. As he continues his campaign for the presidency, the implications of his words and their potential effects on public safety and discourse cannot be overstated.

(h/t: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/donald-trump-lititz-pennsylvania-rally-shoot-through-media-bulletproof-glass/)

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