Gas Bandit's Political Thread V: The Vampire Likes Bats

HCGLNS

HCGLNS

My statement is based kn two things; the next four years will be an unimaginable disaster for the American people, and it will all be the Democrats fault.

Tribalism worships victories and achievements of their own and blame others for all else. Without any actual accomplishments, what will their be to remember and celibrate? Feelings will fade quickly and all of the moronic things cumsock will be responsible for will still be felt, they will never be assigned to him.

I'm not saying his moronic policies will not linger and percolate for decades of pain and suffering. I'm saying none of it will be attached to him, and America will move on to the next big thing.

"History doesn't remember failures, but historians can find them."
 
PatrThom

PatrThom

HCGLNS said:
it will all be the Democrats fault.
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I don't think we can lay this blame 100% at the feet of "The Democrats," because "Didn't do a good enough job of educating/convincing the American public" isn't a tale you can pin on the D any more than you can say, "The fact that students are so dumb these days is all the teachers' fault." I mean, you could certainly say it, but it's not true.

The populace is being goaded (encouraged, even!*) into thinking with their amygdala instead of their prefrontal cortex, and this is the result.

--Patrick
*Think about video games. Which ones are the most popular? Turn-based ones that reward careful consideration and planning? Or action-based ones which require timing and split-second decision making? And this is not a comment about video games destroying minds or anything like that, it is about measuring different games' popularity as a barometer to measure sentiment. I wonder if @MindDetective or someone else knows whether anyone has tried to do this? Chart the ebb and flow of game emergence/popularity (not just video games) and try to correlate it with the dominant social norms, as opposed to painting games as the reason for/cause of social behavior? Especially since the emphasis on "engagement" means that people are no longer able to spread their leisure time across multiple games, so they are forced to distill their attention down to fewer and fewer games.
 
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Bubble181

Bubble181

Sadly, I think it's far too early to call Trump a failure.
He's a villain and a crook and in many ways a pawn in the hands of several interest groups (on the one hand, the extreme right/fascists/Christian fundamentalists who want to install a pseudo-monarchial theocratic state with strict mores; on the other hand big tech/oil/etc who want to install an oligarchy with as little power as possible for lawmakers and consumers).
But history is written by the victors.
It may well be that we look back on Trump as an aberration, as an exponent of general global unhappiness with certain movements, a result of successful hybrid warfare even, the failure of the "completely open" internet under the control of a select few. It may also be that we look back on Trump the we we now look back on Stalin, Lenin, Mao, Hitler - the worst humanity has to offer but somehow managing to convince millions. Or Reagan and Nixon - heroes to half the country, terrible people to the other half. Or he might be the Nero/Caligula of the American hegemonial period.

Perhaps, in a few hundred years, when all of the time period between 1850 and 2050 is considered one big period of radical change and evolution (second Renaissance? Second "decadent fall of the West and rise of a new world order"? Who knows?), he'll be remembered the way we now remember someone like Henry VIII.

We've already lost sight of what is and isn't really real, and what is or isn't propaganda. This will only get worse. Good luck to historians, I say.
 
@Li3n

@Li3n

Bubble181 said:
We've already lost sight of what is and isn't really real, and what is or isn't propaganda. This will only get worse. Good luck to historians, I say.
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They seem to have done pretty well at figuring it out so far... like, they know for sure Marie Antoinette never said "let them eat cake"... letting the general public know, that's way harder, because, unlike what is being implied by the idea that AI will make it worse, propaganda's effectiveness was always been high all over history.

In the end, the actual thing that make it work isn't being able to fake evidence better, but that old X-Files tag line. People just have to want to believe...
 
GasBandit

GasBandit

Staff member
1/ Israel and Hamas agreed to a 42-day ceasefire. The deal temporarily pauses the 15-months of fighting in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli forces have killed at least 46,500 Palestinians – mostly civilians – in response to the Hamas-led October 7 terror attack, which left around 1,200 dead and some 250 people taken hostage. Over 110,200 people have been injured in Gaza during this period. The deal will take effect on Sunday and will be implemented in phases. In the first phase, 33 hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for approximately 1,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. During this phase, Israel will reduce its military presence in Gaza and allow Palestinians to return to the north, despite extensive destruction in the area. In the second phase, the remaining living hostages will be exchanged, accompanied by a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel estimates that about 60 living hostages remain in Gaza. The third phase will involve the return of deceased hostages’ remains and a “major reconstruction plan for Gaza will begin.” In recent days Trump’s incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, “work[ed] in tandem” with Biden’s Middle East adviser, Brett McGurk, on the negotiations, which were mediated by the U.S., Qatar and Egypt. Witkoff reportedly met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday to stress Trump’s goal of wanted a deal by Jan. 20. Trump previously warned that there would be “hell to pay” if an agreement wasn’t reached before his inauguration. Netanyahu, meanwhile, thanked Trump for what he described as promises that “Gaza will never be a haven for terror.” (NBC News / NPR / ABC News / New York Times / Washington Post / Bloomberg / Wall Street Journal / CNN / Associated Press / Axios / CNBC)

2/ Recap of today’s Trump’s Cabinet confirmation hearings: Pam Bondi, nominated for attorney general, vowed to “depoliticize” the Justice Department but faced criticism for refusing to commit to prosecutorial independence from Trump, including whether she would prosecute journalists or drop cases at Trump’s request. Bondi stated, “No one is above the law,” and denied any plans to enforce a so-called “enemies list.” Bondi repeatedly declined to answer whether she would open an investigation into special counsel Jack Smith, calling his conduct “horrible.” She also sidestepped questions about upholding a TikTok ban and pardoning Jan. 6 defendants, saying decisions would be made on a “case-by-case basis.” Marco Rubio, the nominee for Secretary of State, supported NATO, called China a “dangerous near-peer adversary,” and endorsed Taiwan’s “porcupine strategy” to deter invasion. Rubio aligned with Trump’s “America First” vision, stating, “Placing our core national interests above all else is not isolationism. It is the commonsense realization that a foreign policy centered on our national interest is not some outdated relic.” Other nominees included Chris Wright for energy secretary, who pledged to implement Trump’s fossil fuel expansion plan, calling it a “bold energy agenda,” despite environmental concerns, and Russell Vought for budget director, who signaled plans for significant spending cuts. (Associated Press / Politico / Washington Post / NBC News / ABC News / CNN)

3/ Senator Joni Ernst announced her support for Pete Hegseth’s nomination as defense secretary, increasing his chances of Senate confirmation despite allegations of sexual assault and concerns about his record. Ernst, initially skeptical of Hegseth’s candidacy due to allegations of sexual assault and mismanagement, cited private assurances and his commitments to Pentagon audits, addressing sexual assault in the military, and ensuring opportunities for women in combat as reasons for her support. Her decision eliminates the need for unanimous Republican support and leaves only a few undecided senators as potential opposition. Senate Democrats, meanwhile, criticized the FBI’s background check on Hegseth, highlighting omissions such as not interviewing key witnesses, including an ex-wife and an accuser. Despite these concerns, no Senate Republicans have publicly opposed Hegseth, with a vote scheduled for January 20. (New York Times / NBC News / New York Times)

4/ Inflation rose to 2.9% in December, driven by higher gas and egg prices, while core inflation, excluding volatile food and energy costs, declined to 3.2% – its smallest increase in months. The mixed inflation report highlighted ongoing challenges with elevated prices for essentials, like housing and food, but showed signs of cooling in areas such as rent and clothing. Analysts noted that if core inflation continues its downward trend, the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates later this year. However, economic uncertainty surrounding Trump’s proposed tariffs and immigration policies could pressure future inflation, complicating the Fed’s decision-making. (Wall Street Journal / Bloomberg / CNBC / Washington Post / Associated Press)

5/ Biden will deliver his last Oval Office address to the nation at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday, reflecting on his political career that spanned over 50 years and the accomplishments of his presidency. It will be Biden’s fifth address from the Oval Office. In his last, he explained his decision not to run for reelection. The speech is expected to highlight his key domestic achievements, such as creating 16.6 million new jobs, reducing prescription drug costs, and passing significant infrastructure and climate legislation. In a farewell letter previewing his primetime remarks, Biden wrote that it had been “the privilege of my life to serve this nation for over 50 years.” Biden said the country is “stronger, more prosperous and more secure” than it was four years ago, noting how his efforts to guide the nation out of the COVID pandemic and stabilize the economy, which he described as “the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression,” are central to his legacy. On foreign policy, Biden emphasized in his letter his administration’s success in rebuilding alliances, supporting Ukraine against Russia, and countering adversaries like Iran. He defended the withdrawal from Afghanistan while noting its costs. Looking ahead, Biden has pledged to remain engaged in public life, emphasizing that he would not be “out of sight or out of mind.” (CBS News / New York Times / NBC News / ABC News)

  • Biden’s Presidential Legacy: Guided the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic; initiated the largest infrastructure investment since Eisenhower; implemented historic climate policies; vaccinated over 250 million Americans; reduced unemployment significantly; passed a $1 trillion infrastructure package to modernize roads, bridges, and broadband; allocated $370 billion to clean energy; rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement; protected millions of acres of land; capped insulin prices at $35 per month; expanded benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits; strengthened NATO; supported Ukraine against Russian aggression; and balanced significant progress with unresolved challenges like inflation, immigration, and concerns over his age in a politically divided era. (New York Times)
  • Exit Interview: Jill Biden reflected on her tenure as first lady, balancing family crises, political challenges, and her efforts to support Joe Biden’s presidency and legacy. Despite personal and political disappointments, Jill Biden emphasized resilience, loyalty, and her hope for a positive future. “I hope that women see me as a reflection of themselves,” she stated, highlighting her roles as a working woman and educator. Jill remained focused on family unity, navigating the complexities of political life, and supporting Kamala Harris’s campaign following Biden’s decision not to seek reelection. She also expressed disappointment over Nancy Pelosi’s actions during Biden’s final months in office, reflecting Pelosi’s suggestion that Biden step aside in the 2024 presidential race. “We were friends for 50 years,” Jill Biden said. “It was disappointing.” At the time, Pelosi publicly questioned Biden’s viability after his shaky debate performance, stating, “It’s up to the president to decide if he is going to run,” despite Biden repeatedly declaring he would remain in the race. “Let’s just say I was disappointed with how it unfolded,” Jill Biden said. “I learned a lot about human nature.” (Washington Post)
poll/ Biden’s approval rating stands at 36% – matching the lowest of his term. 61% of Americans believe Biden’s presidency was a failure, with 38% calling it a success. His ratings on key issues such as immigration, foreign affairs, and the economy also remain low, with the highest approval — 46% — on protecting democracy. Biden’s favorability is at 33%, close to his lowest as vice president, and public perceptions of the country’s economic conditions and overall direction remained negative throughout his term. Among Democrats, his approval is at 71%, but younger party members were more critical, with 51% saying he didn’t go far enough in using presidential power. (CNN)

poll/ 44% of Americans view Trump favorably, while 49% view him unfavorably. 62% oppose pardoning those convicted in the Jan. 6 Capitol attack; 44% expect their personal finances to improve under Trump; and 48% believe Trump’s tariffs will hurt the economy compared to 31% who think they will help. (NPR)

poll/ About 2 in 10 Americans are highly confident that the Justice Department and FBI will act fairly during Trump’s second term. Half of respondents expressed low confidence in the agencies, while one-third were somewhat confident. Among Republicans, 25% were highly confident in the fairness of the DOJ and FBI, and one-third were not confident at all. (Associated Press)
 
GasBandit

GasBandit

Staff member
1/ Biden, in his farewell address, warned of the rise of an oligarchy and a “tech-industrial complex” that he said threatens democracy, basic freedoms, and economic fairness in the United States. Biden, speaking from the Oval Office, stated, “Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth of extreme wealth, power, and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy.” He invoked Eisenhower’s warning of a “military-industrial complex” and drew parallels to the risks posed by technology giants, saying, “Six decades later, I’m equally concerned about the potential rise of a tech-industrial complex.” Biden criticized social media platforms for abandoning fact-checking, lamenting that “The truth is smothered by lies told for power and for profit.” Reflecting on his legacy, he said, “It will take time to feel the full impact of all we’ve done together. But the seeds are planted.” As he prepares to leave office, Biden urged Americans to “be the keeper of the flame” and “stand guard” to protect democracy. (Associated Press / NPR / ABC News / NBC News / Wall Street Journal / The Guardian)
  • Biden’s claim that he “could have beaten Trump” in the 2024 election has reportedly left Harris disappointed and saddened, straining their relationship during their final days in office. According to close allies, Harris viewed Biden’s remarks as a reflection of the “one-sided loyalty” in their partnership, which had grown over the years but faced challenges as Harris took the lead on the Democratic ticket. While Biden insisted he stepped aside to unify the party, saying, “I didn’t want to be one who caused a party that wasn’t unified to lose an election,” Harris expressed private frustration over the perception his comments created. The tension was visible during public appearances, including at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, where the two barely interacted despite being seated together. Harris reportedly feels Biden’s statements undermined her campaign and added to the difficulties of her transition out of public office. (Wall Street Journal)
2/ Big Tech executives, including Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, and TikTok CEO Shou Chew, are playing prominent roles in Trump’s inauguration. Zuckerberg and other tech leaders are co-hosting high-profile events during Trump’s second inauguration, aligning themselves with an administration that could shape policies favorable to their industries. Chew has also been invited as an honored guest, despite the platform facing a U.S. ban set to take effect the day before. Other wealthy tech executives like Peter Thiel and Musk are also throwing exclusive parties, while corporations and donors have contributed millions to Trump’s inaugural committee in exchange for VIP access. (New York Times / Washington Post / Axios / New York Times / NBC News)

3/ Trump is considering an executive order to delay the impending U.S. ban on TikTok, which is set to take effect Sunday unless ByteDance, its Chinese owner, divests from the company. This move comes as both Trump and the outgoing Biden administration face legal and political challenges related to the app, including its national security risks and bipartisan support for the ban. Trump, who had previously backed banning TikTok, has shifted his position, citing its influence among voters. Legal and logistical hurdles remain significant, with the app’s future hinging on divestiture, legal action, or potential intervention by the new administration. (NBC News / CNN / Wall Street Journal / New York Times / Gizmodo)

4/ House Democrats urged Attorney General Merrick Garland to release the second volume of special counsel Jack Smith’s report on Trump’s handling of classified documents, even if it requires dropping charges against two of Trump’s co-defendants. In a letter led by Rep. Jamie Raskin, Democrats argued that the public has a “right to know” how Trump allegedly retained classified materials and obstructed the investigation. They stated that dropping charges against Waltine Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira may be necessary, as Trump is expected to end those prosecutions once in office. Garland had previously refused to release the report while legal proceedings for Nauta and De Oliveira were ongoing. Trump has denied any wrongdoing, and Smith resigned after filing his report, which concluded that Trump committed “unprecedented” acts to retain classified materials and subvert the 2020 election. (CBS News / Politico / NBC News / Axios)

5/ House Speaker Mike Johnson removed Rep. Mike Turner as chair of the House Intelligence Committee, citing the need for a “fresh start” under a new Congress and Trump. Turner, an advocate for Ukraine aid and hawkish national security policies, clashed with Trump-aligned House conservatives, who had pressed for his removal. Turner’s support for renewing surveillance powers and his bipartisan approach to committee oversight further alienated hard-liners. Johnson downplayed Trump’s role in the decision, but acknowledged “concerns from Mar-a-Lago.” Turner’s removal drew bipartisan criticism, with top Democrat Rep. Jim Himes stating it “makes our nation less secure.” Johnson plans to name Rep. Rick Crawford as Turner’s replacement. (Associated Press / Politico / Axios)

6/ Recap of today’s Trump’s Cabinet confirmation hearings: Doug Burgum, Lee Zeldin, and Scott Bessent testified in Senate hearings, defending their nominations to lead the Interior Department, EPA, and Treasury, respectively, while emphasizing Trump’s agenda on energy, environmental deregulation, and tax cuts. Burgum supported Trump’s “energy dominance” strategy, saying “When energy production is restricted in America it doesn’t reduce demand. It just shifts productions to countries like Russia and Iran, whose autocratic leaders not don’t care at all about the environment, but they use their revenues from energy sales to fund wars against us and our allies.” Although Lee Zeldin said “I believe that climate change is real,” he avoided committing the EPA to regulating greenhouse gases, signaling alignment with Trump’s rollback of environmental protections. Scott Bessent defended making the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, saying “Failing to extend the tax cuts would represent the largest tax increase in history.” He also advocated for expanded tariffs and addressed questions about Bitcoin and federal debt. All three nominees highlighted the administration’s priorities of economic growth, deregulation, and reduced environmental oversight, setting the stage for legislative battles in the coming months. (CNN / Washington Post / NBC News / New York Times / Associated Press)

  • Trump’s Energy pick Chris Wright called climate change a “real issue” in Senate hearings, but critics highlight his ties to fossil fuels and past climate denial. His confirmation could reshape U.S. energy and climate policy. (Mother Jones)
  • Trump’s advisers are developing oil sanctions strategies aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war while simultaneously increasing pressure on Iran and Venezuela. The incoming Trump administration is weighing two options regarding Russian oil sanctions: intensifying measures to pressure Russia or offering relief as part of a peace deal with Ukraine. Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent supports stronger sanctions, calling existing efforts insufficient. Trump is also preparing to reinstate a “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran and Venezuela, targeting their oil industries. Analysts warn these moves could disrupt global oil markets, drive up prices, and strain diplomatic relations with countries dependent on Russian, Iranian, or Venezuelan oil. Trump has signaled upcoming talks with Putin as part of the Ukraine peace effort, but his team faces challenges balancing sanctions enforcement with avoiding economic instability. (Bloomberg)
  • Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appointed state Attorney General Ashley Moody to replace Marco Rubio in the U.S. Senate following Rubio’s nomination as Secretary of State by Trump. DeSantis praised Moody as a strong supporter of Trump’s “America First” agenda and his own conservative priorities, such as fighting illegal immigration, limiting federal bureaucracy, and opposing “woke ideology.” Moody will hold the Senate seat until a special election in 2026. (NBC News / Associated Press / ABC News)
7/ The House passed a bipartisan bill mandating the deportation of immigrants with uncertain legal status who are convicted of committing sex crimes, domestic violence, or similar offenses, despite existing laws already permitting such deportations. The bill passed with significant Democratic support, as Republicans prioritized strict immigration measures during their governing trifecta with Trump. The bill adopts broader definitions of domestic violence and includes mandatory deportations for immigrants convicted of stalking, child abuse, or violating protection orders. This is part of a series of immigration bills emphasizing harsher enforcement, such as the Laken Riley Act, which mandates detention for immigrants accused of theft. (New York Times / Vox)

8/ Rudy Giuliani reached a settlement with two Georgia election workers he defamed, allowing him to keep his New York apartment and a Florida condo, in exchange for an undisclosed payment and his agreement to cease defamatory statements. Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss had previously won a $146 million judgment against Giuliani for false claims of election fraud, but settlement negotiations resolved the debt collection dispute. Freeman and Moss described the last four years as a “living nightmare” and welcomed the resolution. Giuliani denied liability in the settlement and reiterated his satisfaction with the outcome. The settlement doesn’t resolve contempt rulings against Giuliani in related cases, which could still result in penalties. (CNN / NBC News / ABC News / New York Times)

9/ The White House issued long-overdue guidance on open government data – six years after Congress mandated its release – requiring agencies to make public records accessible by default, protect privacy, and create data inventories to promote transparency. The guidance fulfills a key mandate of the bipartisan 2018 law but comes without presidential leadership or oversight, which hindered progress since its passage. Advocates praised the milestone for embedding openness in government practices but emphasized the need for accountability to restore public trust. (Civic Texts)

poll/ Trump is set to enter his second term as president with higher public approval and optimism than his first term. 55% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of the presidential transition, and 56% expect him to do a good job as president. (CNN)

poll/ 2 in 10 Americans are confident Trump can make meaningful progress on reducing food, housing, or health care costs, while one-third believe he can improve the broader economy. (CBS News)

Dept. of Context and Consequence.
  1. The U.S. failed to enforce its warnings to Israel, enabling human rights abuses in Gaza while continuing military support. Biden’s administration repeatedly issued warnings to Israel over its actions in Gaza, but failed to enforce any meaningful consequences, resulting in continued human rights violations and significant international criticism. Despite the administration’s red lines, including withholding military aid if humanitarian conditions did not improve, the U.S. provided billions in arms while Israel restricted aid, displaced civilians, and was accused of actions labeled as war crimes and genocide by international bodies. The lack of enforcement of U.S. policies eroded American credibility, with some experts calling Biden’s warnings a “smokescreen” and noting that such inaction emboldened Israel. Diplomats and officials criticized the State Department’s dismissal of internal dissent and human rights advocacy, while organizations like the ICC and Amnesty International highlighted atrocities in Gaza. As protests and anti-American sentiment grew in the Muslim world, Biden’s approach to Israel became a defining and controversial aspect of his foreign policy. (ProPublica)
  2. Trump shaped the Gaza cease-fire by offering incentives and aligning with Israeli interests, but the agreement reflects broader diplomatic efforts and the realities on the ground rather than a singular achievement. Israel and Hamas agreed to a phased cease-fire deal after 15 months of conflict, exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners and setting conditions for Gaza’s reconstruction. The deal, influenced by Trump’s presidency and Biden’s earlier proposal, reflects Hamas’s weakened position and Israel’s strategic concessions under Netanyahu’s hard-right government. Trump’s promises of favorable policies toward Israel and pressure from his administration played a key role in securing the agreement. The cease-fire remains fragile, with ongoing risks of renewed hostilities and unresolved tensions between all parties. (The Atlantic)
  3. The GOP has shifted away from prioritizing national security in favor of political loyalty and culture wars. Pete Hegseth’s Senate confirmation hearing for secretary of defense showcased concerns about his qualifications, character, and the GOP’s prioritization of party loyalty over national security. Despite critical questions on nuclear weapons, Geneva Conventions, and military standards, Hegseth’s vague answers underscored his focus on cultural issues and allegiance to Trump. Democrats criticized his lack of experience and past accusations, while Republican senators avoided substantive policy discussions, opting instead for partisan rhetoric. Allies and adversaries likely viewed the hearing as a weakening of U.S. defense credibility, raising questions about leadership at the Pentagon. (The Atlantic)
  4. Trump’s “light speed” deportation plan faces logistical, legal, and ethical hurdles, raising questions about feasibility and impact. Trump plans to implement a large-scale deportation campaign immediately after taking office, targeting undocumented immigrants and those with criminal records, according to top aides. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has identified approximately 11 million individuals as deportable, including over 650,000 with criminal histories and 1.4 million with prior deportation orders. Logistical and legal challenges, such as limited detention capacity, workforce shortages, and resistance from certain countries, may constrain the scope of such efforts. The Biden administration’s use of temporary protective measures and parole programs has created additional groups that Trump could target, but his strategy may face significant political, legal, and operational barriers. Critics and experts express concerns over the economic and humanitarian consequences of mass deportations. (Washington Post)
  5. The U.S. military is debating the ethical and legal implications of potential domestic deployments under Trump’s leadership. Trump’s plan to potentially deploy U.S. military forces on domestic soil has sparked debates among military officials, lawyers, and ethicists about legality, ethics, and potential consequences. Concerns include whether troops would be used for political purposes, the lack of training for domestic operations, and the possibility of excessive force. Legal experts highlight the broad authority the Insurrection Act grants the president, while some fear misuse of this power could harm constitutional rights. Retired officials stress the importance of clear rules of engagement to avoid incidents like past misinterpretations during domestic deployments. The debate reflects broader questions about the military’s role in civilian law enforcement and its limits under the Constitution. (Politico)
 
Bubble181

Bubble181

56% of Americans think he'll do a good job.

With all due respect to those of you stuck there, get the fuck out of that third world country where the population is willingly handing over power to a dictator, and try to move to countries where some modicum of democracy still exists.
 
MindDetective

MindDetective

Bubble181 said:
56% of Americans think he'll do a good job.

With all due respect to those of you stuck there, get the fuck out of that third world country where the population is willingly handing over power to a dictator, and try to move to countries where some modicum of democracy still exists.
Click to expand...
Are you hiring a psychology professor by chance? Must be at least at the associate professor level and preferably with tenure.
 
Bubble181

Bubble181

MindDetective said:
Are you hiring a psychology professor by chance? Must be at least at the associate professor level and preferably with tenure.
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Shockingly, apparently there are openings in psychology/human sciences at my alma mater :-p No clue about tenure or level though.

But yeah, I know, most people can't just pick up and leave the country - whether it's jobs, family, property,...
It still sucks that over half the country seems to think it'll all be just fine and dandy over there, though
 
Ravenpoe

Ravenpoe

Bubble181 said:
Shockingly, apparently there are openings in psychology/human sciences at my alma mater :-p No clue about tenure or level though.

But yeah, I know, most people can't just pick up and leave the country - whether it's jobs, family, property,...
It still sucks that over half the country seems to think it'll all be just fine and dandy over there, though
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I obviously don't think he'll do a good anything, but I'm at the point now where I'm like whatever, fuck it, invade Greenland, do it coward.
 
Celt Z

Celt Z

I'm trying to avoid any coverage of the debacle down in DC today, but I just have to share one thought: there has been much ado about Melania's outfit (rightfully so, it sucks), but she's following one of the most important rules of picking an outfit, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have."

Note she is dressed as a widow.
 
Krisken

Krisken

Why be subtle? America is racist as fuck, he's not losing any fans over this. Hell, he lost more lying about being a top hard core Path of Exile 2 gamer and getting caught.
 
GasBandit

GasBandit

Staff member
1/ Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States after defeating Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, winning 49.9% of the popular vote with a margin of 1.48 percentage point – one of the narrowest popular vote margins in modern U.S. history. Trump called his inauguration, which fell on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, “Liberation Day,” saying his victory would be remembered as “the most consequential election” in U.S. history. In his second inaugural address – eight years after he depicted a bleak vision of the country he described as plagued by “American carnage” – Trump declared that “America’s decline is over” and promised that “the golden age of America begins right now.” Trump called his election a “mandate to completely reverse a horrible betrayal” and vowed that the nation’s challenges would be “annihilated” in a “thrilling new era of national success.” Trump outlined a platform focused on border security, energy independence, government reform, and promoting traditional American values as part of his policy agenda. Trump pledged to reinstate strict border policies, deploy the military for border enforcement, and designate cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. His energy plans include rolling back regulations, withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord, and prioritizing domestic energy production. He promised to overhaul federal bureaucracy, reduce remote work, and eliminate policies he described as radical or burdensome. Trump also committed to defending traditional gender roles and revisiting the naming of American landmarks. Trump announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as “the Gulf of America” and to revert Denali, North America’s highest peak, to its former name, Mount McKinley. He also pledged to seize control of the Panama Canal, declaring, “We’re taking it back,” and vowed to “pursue our Manifest Destiny into the stars” while talking about planting an American flag on Mars. At 78, Trump is the oldest president ever inaugurated, surpassing Biden’s record by five months. His return to power follows his 2020 election loss, two impeachments, four indictments, one conviction, and a civil ruling finding him liable for sexual abuse. Trump enters office with a unified Republican government, giving him fewer institutional constraints as he advances his populist agenda. The inauguration was moved inside the Capitol Rotunda – the same building where a mob of Trump’s supporters four years earlier violently tried to overturn his election loss to Biden – for the first time in 40 years due to the freezing weather in Washington, D.C. After Trump declared that his life was “saved by God to make America great again,” country music singer Carrie Underwood’s performance of “America, the Beautiful” was interrupted by a technical malfunction, leading to a long delay before she was forced to sing the song a cappella. Earlier in the day, Biden hosted Trump and Melania for coffee at the White House before as part of an Inauguration Day tradition. As the Trumps got out of their car, Biden greeted them with, “Welcome home.” (New York Times / Wall Street Journal / The Guardian / Associated Press / Politico / NPR / CBS News / NBC News / Bloomberg / Washington Post / Semafor)

2/ Trump reportedly plans to pardon nearly all Jan. 6 defendants and commute sentences for those convicted of serious crimes. According to individuals briefed on the plans, Trump intends to grant blanket clemency to over 1,500 people charged in the Capitol riot, including those convicted of seditious conspiracy and assaulting police officers. This would also include dismissing about 300 pending cases, some involving violent offenses. Over 1,580 individuals were charged, with approximately 1,270 convictions secured, many of which were for misdemeanors. (Washington Post / CNN / NBC News)

3/ Trump plans to declared a national energy emergency, revoke clean energy policies, and withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement – again. In his inaugural address, Trump announced plans to boost oil and gas extraction, open federal lands like Alaska for drilling, and reverse Biden-era clean energy initiatives, including fuel economy standards and renewable energy leases. Trump criticized Biden’s use of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, vowing to refill it “right to the top” and cut energy prices by prioritizing fossil fuel development. The energy emergency declaration, which aims to increase U.S. energy dominance, includes measures to expand liquefied natural gas exports and unlock domestic critical minerals for technology production. Trump’s decision to remove the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C, requires a formal withdrawal letter to the United Nations. It takes one year to finalize. Hours after Biden was sworn in as the 46th president in 2021 he signed an executive order to rejoin the Paris climate agreement, reversing Trump’s 2017 decision to withdraw from treaty. (New York Times / CNBC / Politico / Bloomberg / NBC News / Politico)

4/ Trump will sign executive orders to end birthright citizenship, declare a national emergency at the southern border, and reinstate his “Remain in Mexico” policy. The Trump administration plans to reinterpret the 14th Amendment to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants – a move expected to face legal challenges. After Trump’s inauguration, the administration canceled all appointments scheduled through the CBP One app, a legal pathway for migrants to enter the U.S., stranding families who had waited months. Additional Trump measures include resuming border wall construction, deploying U.S. troops to the border, designating cartels as terrorist organizations, and expanding deportation efforts nationwide. (Washington Post / CNN / Washington Post)

5/ Trump is expected to sign executive orders recognizing only two biological sexes and ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in federal agencies. One order directs federal agencies to replace “gender” with “sex” on official documents like passports while restricting transgender individuals’ rights to “privacy in intimate spaces” in facilities such as prisons, migrant shelters, and rape shelters. The second order eliminates DEI initiatives across federal agencies, including environmental justice programs and equity-related grants. White House officials framed these actions as part of a “restoring sanity” agenda, with Trump calling it a return to “merit-based” and “color-blind” policies. (NBC News / Politico)

6/ Trump launched a cryptocurrency memecoin, $Trump, days before his inauguration. The token, classified as a memecoin — a type of cryptocurrency with no intrinsic real-world value — reached a market capitalization of over $5 billion within 24 hours of its release. Trump-affiliated entities, however, own 80% of the token’s supply. The coin’s release comes as Trump is preparing to lead a pro-crypto administration that is expected to enact policies benefiting the digital assets industry, including deregulation and shielding crypto firms from enforcement actions. Critics condemned the timing and implications of the launch, calling it as a blatant effort to profit from the presidency and blur the lines between public office and private business interests. (Politico / Bloomberg / The Verge / New York Times / Axios)

poll/ 55% of Americans support deporting all undocumented immigrants, with 87% favoring deportation for those with criminal records. 71% oppose puberty blockers and hormones for minors struggling with gender identity, and 60% prefer prioritizing domestic issues over international engagement. 73% of respondents oppose Trump investigating or prosecuting his political opponents, and his overall favorability remains below 50%. (New York Times)

poll/ 46% of American have a favorable opinion of Trump, while 48% have an unfavorable opinion (FiveThirtyEight)
poll/ 37% of Americans approve of the job Biden did as president, while 57% disapprove. (FiveThirtyEight)
 
GasBandit

GasBandit

Staff member
Notables.

  1. A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began Sunday, with three Israeli hostages and 90 Palestinian prisoners exchanged in the first phase of the agreement. The six-week truce, brokered by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, aims to gradually release 33 Israeli hostages and 1,000 Palestinian prisoners while delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza. Displaced Palestinians returned to devastated homes, where over 90% have been destroyed. Prime Minister Netanyahu faces internal political pressure to resume the war, while Hamas claims the ceasefire as a victory. The United Nations described the first day of the truce as “good,” with hundreds of aid trucks entering Gaza. (ABC News / NBC News / Bloomberg / Semafor / Washington Post)
  2. TikTok began restoring service in the U.S. after Trump announced plans to issue an executive order delaying the app’s federal ban and providing service providers with assurances they would not face penalties. The federal ban, enacted under a 2024 law requiring TikTok’s Chinese owner ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations, took effect Sunday, temporarily shutting down the platform. Trump, however, said his administration would work on a joint ownership plan to address national security concerns, though critics questioned the legality of delaying the enforcement of a bipartisan law upheld by the Supreme Court. (The Verge / New York Times / Washington Post / Axios / NBC News)
  3. Vivek Ramaswamy is leaving the Trump administration’s “Department of Government Efficiency” to run for governor of Ohio, leaving Elon Musk to lead the initiative aimed at cutting federal spending. Ramaswamy’s departure follows internal tensions and criticism of his limited participation in DOGE’s efforts. DOGE, meanwhile, already faces a lawsuit challenging its legal status under federal transparency rules. (Politico / CBS News / Washington Post)
  4. Trump forced dozens of career diplomats to resign, clearing the way for loyalists to reshape U.S. diplomacy. Critics warn this could destabilize foreign policy and deepen the politicization of federal agencies. (Washington Post)
  5. Trump plans to revoke the security clearances of 51 former intelligence officials on his first day in office, targeting those who criticized him in 2020 over Hunter Biden’s laptop. (Axios)
  6. Biden issued preemptive pardons for members of his own family, Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, members of the Jan. 6 committee, and others, hours before Trump’s inauguration. Biden said the pardons were not an acknowledgment of wrongdoing but a safeguard against retribution from Trump, who has vowed to target his political adversaries. (CNN / Associated Press / New York Times / Washington Post / CNBC)
  7. Biden commuted the sentences of nearly 2,500 nonviolent drug offenders, marking the largest single commutation of individual sentences by a U.S. president. (Associated Press / New York Times)
  8. Biden declared that the Equal Rights Amendment should be considered the 28th Amendment to the Constitution, affirming his belief that it has met all ratification requirements despite expired deadlines. Biden’s statement is symbolic and doesn’t compel the National Archives to certify the ERA, which has been blocked by legal disputes over missed deadlines. The ERA, first proposed in 1923, has been debated for decades and is unlikely to advance under the incoming Trump administration or the Republican-controlled Congress. (Associated Press / NPR / Politico / Wall Street Journal / Washington Post / ABC News)
  9. Cecile Richards, the former president of Planned Parenthood and prominent advocate for abortion rights, died at age 67 from brain cancer, her family announced. Richards led Planned Parenthood from 2006 to 2018. In November 2024, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her lifelong contributions to women’s rights. (The 19th / New York Times / NPR)
 
GasBandit

GasBandit

Staff member
Portrait of a president.

  1. Biden ended his five decades in public office with a mixed legacy, marked by significant legislative achievements, internal party tensions, and personal controversies, as he hands power over to Trump. Biden, now 82, leaves office amidst criticism from Democrats who blame his decision to run for re-election and his subsequent withdrawal for the party’s defeat in 2024. His term saw major policy successes, such as economic investments and foreign policy efforts, but he struggled with low approval ratings and fractured relationships within his own party. Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, and doubts about his cognitive state further fueled criticism. Despite accomplishments like uniting allies on Ukraine and facilitating a ceasefire in Gaza, Biden departs feeling under-appreciated. Veteran strategist James Carville called his exit “one of the great tragedies of American politics,” saying Biden “stayed too long.” (NBC News)
  2. Biden’s presidency achieved significant legislative and foreign policy victories but failed to preserve democracy, as his decision to seek reelection ultimately paved the way for Trump’s return. Biden’s administration included successes like managing the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, strengthening the economy, supporting Ukraine, and weakening China’s influence. However, his decision to run for reelection, despite concerns over his age and political viability, overshadowed these accomplishments. Democrats delayed addressing his fitness for a second term, culminating in a disastrous debate performance and a chaotic withdrawal from the race that left his party unprepared to challenge Trump. While Biden’s age did not appear to compromise his decision-making, his diminished energy eroded public confidence, and his failure to heed warnings contributed to the very democratic backslide he vowed to prevent. (The Atlantic)
  3. Biden’s single term in office is likely to be overshadowed by Trump’s return to the White House. Biden’s presidency began with bold aspirations to restore normalcy, rebuild democracy, and lead on the global stage but faltered due to challenges like inflation, a chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, and limited progress on institutional reforms. His domestic accomplishments, such as major spending bills and climate provisions, and his international leadership in Ukraine and Israel are now vulnerable to reversals under Trump. Biden’s inability to secure a second term dims his legacy, positioning him as a transitional figure rather than a transformational one. (Politico)
  4. Analysts Michael Podhorzer and Eric Levitz offered contrasting explanations for Democrats’ 2024 election loss, with Podhorzer blaming low anti-Trump voter turnout and Levitz arguing that Democrats failed to address key issues like inflation, crime, and immigration. Podhorzer contended that Trump’s 2024 victory was not a result of increased support for MAGA but rather a collapse in turnout among Democratic voters, particularly in urban areas, as anti-Trump voters grew less alarmed about his return. He emphasized that America didn’t “swing rightward” but instead saw disillusioned voters disengage, urging Democrats to focus on mobilizing progressive, anti-MAGA voters rather than moving right. In contrast, Levitz argued that Democrats’ loss stemmed from their failure to win arguments on key issues, as voters became more conservative on topics like crime, immigration, and economic management. Levitz highlighted Republicans’ gains among young and first-time voters, cautioning that Democrats must broaden their coalition to win future elections. Both analysts agreed on the critical importance of diagnosing Democrats’ challenges accurately to avoid further setbacks. (Vox / Weekend Reading)
  5. Trump narrowly won the 2024 popular vote by 1.5 points, yet the cultural momentum around his victory has felt far greater than the slim margin suggests. Ezra Klein argues that Republicans have harnessed social media, corporate frustration with progressive culture, and a backlash against “wokeness” to dominate cultural narratives despite mixed electoral results, such as narrow House and Senate dynamics. Trump’s alignment with tech influencers like Elon Musk and cultural figures has amplified his appeal, particularly among men and Silicon Valley insiders. However, Klein warns that interpreting a close election as a sweeping mandate could lead to overreach and eventual backlash against this more culturally confident version of Trumpism. (New York Times)
  6. Senator Chuck Schumer convinced Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race after a blunt meeting, citing his low chances of winning and potential harm to his legacy and the Democratic Party. In a private meeting at Biden’s Delaware home in July 2024, Schumer told Biden “If I were you, I wouldn’t run, and I’m urging you not to run.” Schumer warned Biden that he risked going down in history as one of the “darkest figures” if he lost to Trump and cost Democrats control of Congress. Schumer, who had avoided addressing Biden’s age and political struggles publicly for months, laid out the overwhelming opposition among Senate Democrats, citing internal polling showing Biden had just a 5% chance of victory. Biden, visibly shaken but not argumentative, asked for a week to decide. The intervention followed months of mounting pressure from Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Obama, who privately agreed that Biden’s candidacy was no longer viable after his disastrous June debate performance against Trump. Ultimately, Biden conceded, ending his campaign. (New York Times)
  7. Nancy Pelosi’s intervention to push Biden out of the 2024 presidential race fractured their decades-long relationship, with Biden and First Lady Jill Biden refusing to reconcile in his final days in office. Pelosi’s family expressed frustration with Jill Biden’s public criticism of the former speaker, calling it vindictive, especially after Pelosi’s fall in Luxembourg when Biden failed to offer immediate support. The rupture stemmed from Pelosi’s behind-the-scenes efforts to convince Biden to withdraw after his disastrous debate performance, which she argued jeopardized the Democratic Party’s future. While Pelosi framed her actions as respectful and necessary, Biden saw them as a betrayal, leading to a lasting grudge that allies say he is unlikely to let go. (Politico)
  8. Six close advisers to Biden worked to obscure his declining physical and cognitive state throughout his presidency, shielding him from scrutiny and manipulating his schedule to maintain public confidence. This inner circle, including family members and senior staff, adjusted his workload, withheld information, and ensured limited media exposure to control the narrative. Their efforts allowed Biden to carry out key legislative achievements but ultimately failed to prevent concerns about his age and fitness from dominating his presidency. Biden’s frailty came into sharp focus after a poor debate performance in 2024 led to the collapse of his reelection bid, leaving his legacy and accomplishments vulnerable to reversal under Trump’s returning administration. (New York Times)
  9. Trump’s return to power has triggered widespread fear among critics, prosecutors, and officials, as he vows to punish those who opposed him. Trump has pledged to investigate his perceived enemies, including those involved in his prosecutions and the Jan. 6 investigation, raising concerns about abuse of power and political retribution. His promise to pardon Jan. 6 rioters and his appointment of loyalists like Kash Patel to lead the FBI have heightened fears of systemic retaliation and the erosion of democratic norms. Many critics now fear violence from Trump supporters or targeted government actions, creating a climate of anxiety and uncertainty as his administration prepares to take control. (New York Times)

The midterm elections are in 652 days.
 
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