Commentary Criticizes American Political Descent and Trump's Cabinet Choices
Commentator reflects on Joe Rogan's political influence and Donald Trump's expected cabinet, suggesting it's less controversial compared to predecessors. Past administrations are critiqued for historical misdemeanors and double standards. The piece highlights a perceived decline in US governance standards, with Trump's cabinet choices seen as relatively tame.
Federal Judge Reviews Sale of Alex Jones' Infowars Amid Bidding Dispute
A federal judge is assessing the sale of Alex Jones' Infowars to The Onion after a rival bidder, First United American Companies, disputed the auction results, offering $3.5 million against The Onion's $1.75 million. The outcome will affect defamation verdict payouts to Sandy Hook families, with The Onion's bid potentially prioritizing future revenue sharing over immediate proceeds.
Controversy Over Trump's Defense Department Pick
President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for leading the Pentagon, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, faces criticism for his lack of qualifications and past controversies. Despite bipartisan concerns and a sexual assault allegation, some Republican senators support Hegseth. Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Army veteran, leads opposition, calling Hegseth 'inordinately unqualified'.
Trump Wins 2024 Election, Anti-Trump Republicans Consider the Future
Following Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election, his Republican opponents reflect on their support for Vice President Harris and the future of their movement. Despite their efforts, the party remains aligned with Trump, prompting figures like former Congressman Joe Walsh to consider forming a new party or joining Democrats. As Trump reveals cabinet nominees, concerns about his governance and retaliation against critics rise among the anti-Trump GOP faction.
California Promises EV Rebates if Federal Credit Ends
California Governor Gavin Newsom pledges to revive the state's Clean Vehicle Rebate Program for electric vehicles if the Trump administration cancels federal tax credits. This move upholds California's dedication to clean transportation and green jobs, countering potential federal rebate restrictions affecting U.S. automakers.
Dispute Over Trump's Claim of Electoral Mandate
On NBC's 'Meet the Press,' Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt claimed Donald Trump won a presidential mandate, echoed by Senator Bill Hagerty on ABC's 'This Week.' Despite these assertions, The New York Times analysis shows Trump's victory margin is one of the smallest, with 49.86% of the popular vote and a 1.6% lead over Kamala Harris. Critics argue Trump lacks a genuine electoral mandate, while some Republicans insist on a 'massive and historic victory' despite the narrow popular vote. Trump’s team seeks to portray a strong mandate to facilitate his agenda.
President Joe Biden Influences Perceptions of Age in US Politics
At 82, outgoing US President Joe Biden, the oldest sitting president, redefined age perceptions in politics despite facing scrutiny and ultimately stepping down due to age-related concerns. His presidency coincided with an era of elder political leadership, challenging age biases and prompting discussions on ageism. Trump, 78, won the subsequent election, showing how age impacts voter preference and political narratives differently among parties.
Family Considering Leaving the US Amid Transgender Healthcare Concerns
The Haluf family moved from Missouri to Maryland fearing state bans on transgender healthcare for their 12-year-old daughter. With Trump's presidency, they now worry about potential federal restrictions and are contemplating leaving America to ensure their child's access to gender-affirming care.
Special Counsel Moves to Dismiss Federal Election Interference Case Against President-Elect Trump
Special Counsel Jack Smith requested the dismissal of President-elect Donald Trump's federal election interference case on Monday. This follows Trump's election victory, which typically results in federal criminal cases being dropped against a sitting president. The DOJ's policy avoids prosecuting presidents in office. Both this case and a classified documents case were paused and await decisions. There's uncertainty about Trump's state criminal cases in New York and Georgia.
Trump Skips Traditional Post-Election Transition Funding Limits
President-elect Donald Trump has not agreed to fundraising limits traditionally accepted by modern U.S. presidents for post-election transitions, allowing him to receive unlimited, secret donations. This move bypasses the typical $7.2 million in federal transition funds that come with transparency requirements, raising concerns about potential undisclosed influences on the incoming administration.