Category: Unpresidential

Trump Admits Many Deported Venezuelans Lack Criminal Records

The Trump administration has acknowledged that many Venezuelan men recently deported to El Salvador’s notorious mega prison have no criminal records. However, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials have manipulated this fact, arguing that their lack of a criminal history does not mean they are not a threat. This dubious assertion underscores a concerning narrative being pushed by Trump’s administration, which seeks to categorize individuals without comprehensive assessments.

In court filings, ICE official Robert Cerna claimed that insufficient individual data serves to illustrate heightened risks, a stark claim aimed at justifying the mass deportation efforts of this administration. Trump and his legal team are now appealing a court order that temporarily restrains these actions under the Alien Enemies Act, suggesting that the inability to deport alleged members of gangs like Tren de Aragua signifies a dangerous lapse in national security.

District Judge James Boasberg has since questioned the legality of these deportations and the timing of flights that allegedly disregarded his explicit orders. There are significant concerns that the Trump administration is openly defying judicial authority, a move that many experts and legal organizations argue threatens the fundamental check-and-balance system crucial for American democracy.

The courts have been tasked with examining whether there was intentional defiance of the judge’s order. Critics of this operation fear Trump’s claims of sweeping executive authority will lead to the wrongful detention of countless individuals in brutal conditions. With El Salvador’s president stating that these detentions could last up to a year, the implications are alarming, as they set a dangerous precedent for unlawful deportations.

Trump’s aggressive stance has also led to confrontations with judicial leaders, including a rare rebuke from Chief Justice John Roberts, dismissing Trump’s call for impeachment of the judge as inappropriate. The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers has condemned these actions, emphasizing the serious threat posed by allegations devoid of evidence and the denial of necessary legal recourse for those affected. Ultimately, the actions driven by Trump and his allies point toward a broader authoritarian drift and a blatant disregard for civil liberties.

(h/t: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-el-salvador-prison-deported-b2717582.html)

Trump’s Dismissal of FTC Commissioners Signals Dangerous Shift towards Authoritarian Control

Donald Trump has unilaterally dismissed the only two Democratic commissioners from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), confirming the partisan control he seeks over independent regulatory agencies. The fired commissioners, Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, both declared their terminations were illegal and indicative of Trump’s attempts to stifle opposition. Bedoya took to social media to express that his removal signifies Trump’s desire to transform the FTC into an agency that serves his interests rather than the public good.

Slaughter echoed these sentiments, asserting that the President’s decision undermines the integrity of the FTC, which was established to combat corporate misconduct. She emphasized the importance of independent voices in holding powerful corporations accountable and argued that this action reflects a broader trend of Trump’s administration toward authoritarianism and power consolidation.

This unconstitutional move raises serious concerns about the future of consumer protection in the United States. With Trump’s recent appointment of Andrew Ferguson, who has openly disparaged consumer protections, there is a clear intent to dismantle the safeguards designed to protect the public from corporate abuses. This development not only threatens the regulatory independence of the FTC but also endangers the very foundations of accountability within the government.

The implications of these firings are far-reaching, as they signify a deliberate effort by Trump to eliminate dissent within regulatory agencies. By removing key opposition figures from the FTC, Trump aims to silence scrutiny and shield his administration from accountability regarding corporate malfeasance. This move is a part of a larger strategy that aligns with Trump’s abhorrent approach to governance, which prioritizes loyalty to the President over the rights and well-being of American citizens.

As these events unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that the Trump administration is committed to eroding democratic standards and enabling unchecked corporate power. The dismissal of Bedoya and Slaughter marks another step in a worrying trend of authoritarian governance that directly threatens American democracy and the principles of fair regulation established by independent agencies.

(h/t: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/18/trump-fires-ftc-commissioners)

Trump’s Border Chaos: Defying Court Orders in Deportations

The Trump administration has instigated a serious constitutional crisis by rushing to deport hundreds linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, despite a federal court’s restraining order against such actions. President Donald Trump has invoked the outdated Alien Enemies Act from 1798 to expedite these unlawful deportations, proclaiming them as necessary for national security. This blatant disregard for judicial authority reveals an alarming trend indicative of authoritarianism within the Republican party.

Border czar Tom Homan overtly manifested this lawless approach when he stated on Fox News, “I don’t care what the judges think,” emphasizing the administration’s will to continue the deportations regardless of legal obstacles. This kind of rhetoric alongside federal court decisions suggests a troubling undermining of the judiciary and a fundamental disregard for the rule of law that is essential to a functioning democracy.

Adding to the chaos, Trump has unilaterally declared that all presidential pardons issued by Joe Biden are “void” because they were allegedly not signed with Biden’s pen. This unfounded assertion, lacking any legal merit, fits a pattern of behavior aimed at sowing discord and manipulating the justice system. Furthermore, Trump has threatened members of the January 6 committee, asserting that they should prepare for investigations, showcasing a continued effort to threaten and intimidate those who oppose him.

In a further attempt to consolidate his influence, Trump has assumed control of the Kennedy Center, ousting its leadership to install his own affiliations, which raises concerns about the politicization of cultural institutions. Such moves illustrate a broader strategy to reshape American institutions in his image, continuing a trend that undermines the independence of organizations that have historically enjoyed bipartisan support.

While Trump and his cronies pursue autocratic ends, other Republican figures express inconsistencies regarding their praise or condemnation of judicial decisions. The party’s selective support reflects a fundamental issue with their commitment to justice and equality under the law. The ongoing actions of the Trump administration underscore a reality where the norms of American democracy are being tested and eroded by an administration that embodies authoritarianism and disregard for human rights.

(h/t: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-news-today-pardons-biden-deportations-b2716768.html)

Trump Administration’s Lawless Deportations Spark Constitutional Crisis

The Trump administration has instigated a significant constitutional crisis by deporting hundreds of Venezuelan gang affiliates despite a federal court’s restraining order prohibiting such actions. President Donald Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act, a controversial law from the 18th century, to expedite these deportations, asserting that they were critical for national security. This wartime authority, previously used during major conflicts like World Wars I and II, has been criticized for its misuse in this context, especially considering its historical implications.

On Saturday night, U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg issued a temporary injunction barring any deportations under the law. Nonetheless, the administration proceeded with flights carrying individuals associated with the Tren de Aragua gang, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the judicial system. White House officials claimed they had arrested nearly 300 of these alleged criminals, insisting their removal was essential to protecting American lives.

Legal experts, including Dylan Williams of the Center for International Policy, denounced the administration’s actions, stating that it openly defies court orders and undermines the rule of law. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries also condemned the use of the Alien Enemies Act, citing a violation of legal standards that must be upheld by any administration. This reckless maneuver highlights the Trump administration’s insatiable quest for power, often at the expense of civil liberties and judicial integrity.

This incident is not an isolated case; it exemplifies a broader pattern of authoritarian behavior under Trump’s leadership. History shows that such executive overreach can lead to irreversible damage to democratic institutions. The ACLU has actively challenged these deportations, revealing the necessity of vigilance against attempts to erode constitutional protections, even as the administration claims to act on behalf of public safety.

As the situation unfolds, it is imperative to recognize the implications of these actions on U.S. democracy. The Trump administration’s declaration of a national security crisis through unlawful means not only jeopardizes the rights of countless individuals but also sets a dangerous precedent for future governance. A commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability is paramount to preventing the rise of authoritarianism in America.

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 Unconstitutional Executive Order Targets Lawyers to Undermine Legal Accountability

On March 15, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that unjustly suspends the security clearances of Mark Pomerantz and other employees at the law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison. This action comes as part of Trump’s repeated attempts to undermine legal accountability and restrict access to counsel for government entities, targeting a firm that previously investigated his business practices.

The executive order ominously echoes similar measures he attempted with Perkins Coie, which a federal judge recently deemed unconstitutional. This steadfast assault against law firms reflects a disturbing trend where Trump seeks to intimidate and manipulate legal representation, leaving both the industry and public concerned over his blatant disregard for lawful practices.

Judge Beryl Howell, who commented on the unsettling nature of Trump’s judicial interference, indicated that such actions induce fear within the legal community. The executive order continues to threaten not just individual lawyers but the broader structural integrity of the legal system, representing an alarming step towards authoritarianism.

Paul Weiss has highlighted that Pomerantz has not been affiliated with their firm for years, showcasing the absurdity of Trump’s focus on past associates to discredit legal institutions that demand accountability. This targeted order, along with Trump’s history of attacking those who prosecute him, paints a clear picture of a leader willing to sacrifice democratic norms to protect his interests.

As Trump continues to unleash measures directed at silencing legal scrutiny, it becomes increasingly apparent that his administration poses a significant threat to the principles of justice and governance. This ongoing campaign not only reveals his fear of legal repercussions but also exemplifies a broader strategy by the Republican establishment to stifle dissent and accountability.

‘They Are Sick Degenerates!’ Trump Flips Out On ‘Fake News’ Over Story Putin Kept His Envoy Waiting 9 Hours

Donald Trump unleashed a tirade against the media after a report claimed his Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, was kept waiting for nine hours by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Sky News story described this long wait as indicative of a classic power play by Putin. In response, Trump labeled the media “sick degenerates” and vehemently denied any such delay occurred, implying the report was fabricated.

Witkoff reportedly traveled to Moscow amid ongoing tensions related to the war in Ukraine, yet upon his departure, he had no agreements or deals to show for his efforts. Trump took to his Truth Social platform, claiming there were productive discussions with Putin and asserting a positive outlook on resolving the conflict, in stark contrast to the reported circumstances surrounding Witkoff’s visit.

Despite Trump’s denials, the media’s portrayal raises significant concerns about the integrity of communication between U.S. officials and foreign leaders. If Witkoff was indeed subjected to an extended wait, it reflects poorly on Trump’s diplomatic stance and undermines claims of productive negotiations. Furthermore, Trump’s incendiary remarks against the press echo a disturbing trend where the truth is dismissed in favor of deflecting criticism.

Trump’s insistence that reputable media sources invent stories to demean him highlights his ongoing war against what he deems “fake news.” His comments serve only to further polarize opinions about his administration and illustrate a troubling relationship with accountability and factual reporting.

These events illustrate a broader narrative of how Trump’s regime operates in a space where misinformation can be weaponized against the press, generating distrust among the public. The implications of such behavior not only affect media credibility but also contest the very fabric of democracy, where a well-informed citizenry is essential.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/trump/they-are-sick-degenerates-trump-flips-out-on-fake-news-over-story-putin-kept-his-envoy-waiting-9-hours-they-made-up-that-story/amp/)

Trump’s New Travel Ban Targets 43 Nations Fueling Fear and Division

President Donald Trump is pushing for a renewed travel ban that targets 43 countries, as he attempts to implement stricter travel restrictions more than two years after vacating office. Despite his earlier commitments to reintroduce the travel ban immediately upon taking office, Trump’s recent executive order on January 20 outlined a plan for a new list of countries that he deems deficient in vetting and screening for potential security threats.

The proposed travel ban is organized into a three-tier system. The “red” list consists of 11 nations whose citizens would face a total prohibition on entering the United States. This includes countries like Afghanistan, Iran, and North Korea. An “orange” list follows, limiting travel for ten additional countries, which will require specific visa requirements involving in-person interviews—countries such as Pakistan, Russia, and Haiti fall under this category.

Additionally, the “yellow” list comprises 22 countries primarily from Africa, which are being given a 60-day window to remediate issues Trump claims indicate a lack of adequate security measures. Failure to comply may result in these nations being downgraded to the more restrictive “red” or “orange” lists. Countries like Angola, Chad, and Zimbabwe are included on this yellow list.

According to sources within the administration, this proposal is still subject to adjustments and has not yet been finalized. Security officials and diplomatic representatives are currently reviewing the draft, assessing if these countries’ alleged deficiencies are accurate or if there are alternative policy considerations against these categorizations.

In the context of emerging immigration discussions, the ban serves as another example of Trump’s continued focus on border security and national safety. This approach starkly contrasts with former President Joe Biden’s repeal of restrictive policies, which he labeled a “stain on our national conscience.”

DOJ Seeks to Seal Trump Report Amidst Ongoing Judicial Manipulation and Accountability Evasion

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has requested that a final report detailing Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents remain sealed. This comes after Trump publicly praised U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, who presided over his case, echoing sentiments of a judicial system that has shown him favoritism. The DOJ’s position centers on the argument that releasing the report could violate the due process rights of Trump’s associates, specifically Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, who are implicated in the ongoing investigation.

Trump’s legal team, alongside DOJ attorneys, contends that the report was compiled using materials obtained through what they label as an unconstitutional investigation led by Special Counsel Jack Smith. They criticize the prosecutor’s actions as an overreach, expressing concerns about the potential fallout from the report’s public release, framing it as an assault on the rights of individuals entangled in an alleged conspiracy.

Despite the legal challenges at hand, Trump’s remarks at the DOJ highlighted his ongoing influence over certain judicial proceedings, with him describing Judge Cannon as a model of judicial strength and efficiency. This ongoing relationship raises serious questions about accountability and the impartiality of judicial members involved in cases surrounding the former president.

Interestingly, the classified documents taken from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate have since been returned to him by the FBI, though they no longer contain sensitive documents. This twist in the case underscores the chaos surrounding Trump’s handling of national security materials and the implications for U.S. governance. With the sensitive documents now secured by the White House, questions linger about what was once in Trump’s possession and the broader implications of mishandling classified information.

As the case unfolds, the legal maneuvers surrounding the sealed report reflect a broader trend within the Republican Party to shield Trump from accountability. The DOJ’s attempts to suppress the report continually serve the interests of an elite class that seeks to undermine democratic processes. Trump and his allies are clearly prioritizing their protection over public transparency, revealing an unsettling commitment to authoritarian governance.

(h/t: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/final-report-trumps-handling-classified-documents-released-doj/story?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dhfacebook&utm_content=app.dashsocial.com/abcnews/library/media/512448642&id=119823414)

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)

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