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Interview With Professor Kevin Schultz

2025-08-12T09:08:00.001-04:00

University of Illinois Chicago Professor and Chair of the Department of History Kevin M. Schultz joins Jack and Andy in the diner to discuss his new book Why Everyone Hates White Liberals (Including White Liberals)

Why Everyone Hates White Liberals by historian Kevin Schultz is a provocative exploration of America's political divide and the complicated legacy of white liberalism. Blending history, politics, and cultural critique, Schultz traces how well-meaning white progressives have often alienated the very communities they claim to support. With sharp insight and historical depth, the book unpacks the contradictions of liberal ideology, from the civil rights era to the modern culture wars. Essential reading for anyone interested in race, class, identity, and the future of progressive politics in the U.S.

Racist Woman Makes Big Bucks (Video)

2025-05-06T08:09:00.000-04:00

In a disturbing incident that has ignited national outrage and debate, a white woman in Rochester, Minnesota, was caught on video using a racial slur against a 5-year-old Black child with autism at a public playground. The woman, identified as Shiloh Hendrix, has since raised over $600,000 through a crowdfunding campaign, prompting widespread condemnation and discussions about systemic racism and the monetization of hate.

The Incident

On April 28, 2025, at Roy Sutherland Playground in Rochester, Minnesota, a video captured by bystander Sharmake Omar showed Hendrix confronting a young Black child, accusing him of stealing from her son's diaper bag. When Omar questioned Hendrix about her behavior, she admitted to calling the child the N-word, stating, "If that's what he's going to act like," and proceeded to direct the slur at Omar as well.

Omar, who is of Somali descent like the child's family, reported that the boy was visibly distressed by the encounter. The child's parents, who were supervising their other children nearby, have expressed support for legal action against Hendrix.

The Fundraiser

In the aftermath of the video's virality, Hendrix launched a fundraising campaign on the Christian crowdfunding platform GiveSendGo, titled "Help Me Protect My Family." In her campaign, she claimed that her personal information had been leaked online, leading to threats against her family, and stated that she needed funds to relocate for their safety. The fundraiser has since amassed over $600,000, with a goal of $1 million .

The campaign attracted numerous donations accompanied by racist and far-right messages, prompting GiveSendGo to disable the comments section. The platform stated that while it does not endorse the views of campaign organizers or donors, it does not control the motivations of donors.

Community Response

The incident and subsequent fundraiser have sparked significant backlash from civil rights organizations and community members. The Rochester branch of the NAACP launched its own GoFundMe campaign to support the child and his family, raising over $340,000 before being closed at the family's request. The funds are intended for legal support and broader anti-racism efforts in Rochester.

Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN), condemned the support Hendrix received, stating, "It is truly sad that this alleged racist harasser is finding support nationwide for her reported use of the N-word against an innocent child".

Legal Proceedings

The Rochester Police Department has completed its investigation into the incident and submitted findings to the city's attorney's office for review and potential charges. Minnesota law defines certain types of assault as actions taken with "intent to cause fear," which could be applicable in this case.

Broader Implications

This incident highlights a troubling trend where individuals caught engaging in racist behavior are able to garner financial support by positioning themselves as victims of "cancel culture." The substantial funds raised by Hendrix have raised concerns about the monetization of hate and the platforms that facilitate such fundraising efforts.

Civil rights advocates argue that this case exemplifies how systemic racism persists in society, allowing individuals to profit from discriminatory actions while the victims are left to deal with the trauma and consequences.

Conclusion

The Rochester incident serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains in combating racism and ensuring accountability. As the community grapples with the aftermath, organizations and individuals continue to advocate for justice and systemic change to prevent such incidents from recurring.

Sources:

Trump's Alcatraz Revival: His Newest Stunt

2025-05-05T19:53:00.001-04:00

In a move that has sparked skepticism, President Donald Trump proposed reopening Alcatraz Island as a federal prison to house America's most dangerous offenders. Announced via his Truth Social platform, Trump described Alcatraz as a "powerful symbol of law and order," suggesting its revival would serve as a deterrent to crime and a statement of justice.

However, the practicality and motivations behind this proposal have been questioned by experts, politicians, and the public alike.

Historical Context and Operational Challenges

Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, operational from 1934 to 1963, was closed due to high maintenance costs and logistical challenges. The island's isolation meant that all supplies, including fresh water, had to be transported by boat, making it nearly three times more expensive to operate than other federal prisons at the time. Additionally, the facility's infrastructure suffered from exposure to saltwater, leading to significant deterioration over the years.

Since its closure, Alcatraz has been managed by the National Park Service as a historic site and tourist attraction, drawing over a million visitors annually. Reverting it back to a functioning prison would require extensive renovations, environmental assessments, and a shift in jurisdiction from the National Park Service to the Bureau of Prisons.

Political and Public Reactions

The proposal has been met with a mix of amusement and criticism. California State Senator Scott Wiener dismissed it as "absurd," while former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi questioned its seriousness. Tourists and locals in San Francisco expressed confusion and skepticism, with many viewing it as a symbolic gesture rather than a feasible plan.

Critics argue that the proposal aligns with Trump's pattern of making bold, attention-grabbing statements that lack substantive policy backing. The idea of reopening a notorious prison island, they suggest, serves more as a political statement than a practical solution to crime.

Expert Opinions

Criminal justice experts highlight that the U.S. already has facilities designed to house high-risk offenders, rendering the need for Alcatraz's revival questionable. They also point out that the resources required to renovate and operate Alcatraz could be better allocated to modernizing existing facilities or investing in rehabilitation programs.

Conclusion

While the notion of reopening Alcatraz captures the public imagination, the logistical, financial, and political hurdles make it an unlikely endeavor. As with many of Trump's proposals, it remains to be seen whether this idea will materialize into policy or fade as a symbolic gesture aimed at reinforcing a tough-on-crime image.

Musk’s Mars City Is A Dystopian Power Grab

2025-05-05T17:01:00.000-04:00

Elon Musk’s Latest Project Sounds Like Sci-Fi—But It’s Happening Right Now in Texas

When Elon Musk talks about Mars, people listen. Not because it’s likely, or even logical—but because the SpaceX and Tesla CEO has mastered the art of turning outlandish visions into cultural obsessions.

His latest venture? Building an actual city in Texas that he claims is a step toward life on Mars.

But scratch beneath the surface, and this isn't a utopian dream. It's a billionaire creating a private, corporate-run enclave—where the rules don't apply, the press isn't invited, and democracy is an afterthought.

Snailbrook: The “Mars-Inspired” City That’s Very Much on Earth

Welcome to Snailbrook, Musk’s quietly developing company town near Bastrop, Texas. Property records, insider leaks, and investigative reports reveal he’s buying up land—3,500+ acres so far—to construct a private municipality for his employees at SpaceX, The Boring Company, and Neuralink.

Billed as a prototype for Martian colonization, Snailbrook will be privately owned, populated by company employees, and governed by Musk’s team. That means:

Company housing
No traditional city council
No democratic oversight
A billionaire calling the shots

Sound like a sci-fi dystopia? It should. But this one’s very real—and already under construction.

The Mars Mirage: Science or Science Fiction?

Musk has long claimed humanity’s survival depends on becoming a “multi-planetary species.” But Mars is no utopia:

No breathable atmosphere
Lethal radiation
Temperatures as low as -80°F
A total lack of infrastructure

Even Musk himself has admitted that early settlers will probably die. So why pour billions into this fantasy?

Because Mars isn’t about survival—it’s about escape and control.

The Texas Loophole: How Musk Is Avoiding the Rules

By incorporating Snailbrook as a “village,” Musk is dodging traditional city planning and zoning laws. He’s leveraging Texas’s love affair with deregulation to create a private jurisdiction where he sets the terms.

There’s no zoning board, no public comment period, and no environmental review—all things a typical city would face. Musk isn’t just building structures; he’s laying the groundwork for corporate sovereignty.

And Texas? It’s helping him do it with tax breaks and a hands-off attitude.

Testing Grounds for a Techno-Dystopia

Snailbrook isn’t just about housing employees. It’s a sandbox for Musk’s more radical ideas:

Neuralink could recruit brain-chip test subjects from inside the city.
SpaceX may run operations without environmental oversight.
The Boring Company can experiment with tunneling under residents’ feet.

Without outside scrutiny, ethical red flags become green lights. And if things go wrong? There’s no city council, no whistleblower protections, no one to say “no.”

It’s a billionaire’s fantasy—but the consequences could affect all of us.

The Cult of Musk Is Fueling the Fire

None of this would fly without the cult-like status Musk enjoys. He’s positioned himself as part Steve Jobs, part Iron Man, part savior of mankind.

But let’s not forget:

He’s faced labor violations at Tesla.
He’s flubbed a $44B Twitter acquisition, turning it into a misinformation nightmare.
Neuralink is under federal investigation for alleged animal cruelty.

Yet somehow, the myth persists. Because Musk isn’t just selling products—he’s selling the future. And far too many people are buying in without asking what the price really is.

Why This Matters to the Rest of Us

This isn’t just about Elon Musk or Texas or Mars. It’s about the privatization of public life.

If Snailbrook succeeds, other billionaires may follow—building their own cities, writing their own rules, and eroding democratic governance one "innovation" at a time.

What Musk is doing isn't new. It echoes the company towns of the 19th century—except now it’s wrapped in Wi-Fi, self-driving cars, and brain chips.

The Bottom Line: Accountability Should Be Our Future

We should be skeptical—not just of Musk’s Martian ambitions, but of the system that lets one man accumulate so much unchecked power. A city, no matter how futuristic, should never be above the law.

It’s time we stop idolizing billionaires for dreaming big and start holding them accountable for the worlds they’re actually building—right here on Earth.

Because if we’re not careful, Musk’s “city for Mars” could become a model for a future where freedom is optional—and corporate loyalty is mandatory.

Sources

The Wall Street Journal, “Elon Musk Is Planning a Texas Utopia—His Own Town” (March 2023).
https://www.wsj.com/articles/elon-musk-town-texas-utopia-snailbrook-650b90e5
Business Insider, “Elon Musk is building a town for SpaceX, Boring Co., and Neuralink workers to live in” (March 2023).
https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-snailbrook-texas-town-spacex-boring-neuralink-2023-3
Scientific American, “Why We’ll Never Live on Mars” (Feb 2021).
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-well-never-live-on-mars/
Elon Musk on Twitter, May 2020 – “If you go to Mars, there’s a good chance you’ll die.”
Bloomberg, “SpaceX hit with environmental violations in Texas” (July 2023).
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-07-14/spacex-hit-with-environmental-violations
Reuters, “Neuralink under investigation for animal-welfare violations” (Dec 2022).
https://www.reuters.com/technology/elon-musks-neuralink-faces-federal-probe-over-animal-testing-2022-12-05/
The Guardian, “Tesla accused of union-busting” (Feb 2023).
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/feb/16/tesla-union-busting-workers-rights
The New York Times, “Inside Elon Musk’s Takeover of Twitter” (2022).
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/01/technology/twitter-elon-musk.html

Trump’s Misuse Of The Declaration Of Independence

2025-05-04T19:32:00.003-04:00

In a recent interview with ABC News' Terry Moran, President Donald Trump described the Declaration of Independence as a "declaration of unity and love and respect," prompting a visibly surprised reaction from Moran. This statement has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with many arguing that it reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the document's historical context and purpose.

The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, was a revolutionary document that articulated the American colonies' decision to break away from British rule. It enumerated grievances against King George III and asserted the colonies' right to self-governance. The document's preamble famously states that "all men are created equal," emphasizing individual rights and liberties. However, it was also a product of its time, with contradictions such as the coexistence of slavery and the proclamation of equality.

Trump's characterization of the Declaration as a symbol of "love and respect" has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that this interpretation overlooks the document's revolutionary intent and the historical realities of the era. Some historians and commentators suggest that such statements reflect a broader trend of oversimplifying or misrepresenting historical narratives for political purposes.

This controversy is not isolated. In a separate incident, Trump reportedly requested that the original Declaration of Independence be moved into the Oval Office. Advisers were reportedly alarmed by the idea, citing the document's fragility and the logistical challenges of such a move. Eventually, a replica was installed instead.

These actions and statements have reignited discussions about the politicization of historical symbols and the importance of accurate historical understanding. As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, debates over the interpretation and representation of foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence are likely to intensify.

In conclusion, President Trump's recent comments and actions regarding the Declaration of Independence have sparked significant controversy and debate. While some view these moves as efforts to honor American history, others see them as misrepresentations that oversimplify complex historical realities. As the nation continues to grapple with its past, the importance of nuanced and accurate historical discourse remains paramount.

Trump Versus Harvard

2025-05-02T21:15:00.000-04:00

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the academic and political communities, President Donald Trump announced his administration's intention to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the federal government and elite educational institutions.

The Announcement and Its Context

On May 2, 2025, President Trump declared via his social media platform, Truth Social, that his administration would be revoking Harvard's tax-exempt status, stating, “We are going to be taking away Harvard's Tax Exempt Status. It's what they deserve!”

This announcement follows a series of confrontations between the Trump administration and Harvard, including the freezing of over $2 billion in federal funding and demands for sweeping reforms in the university's admissions, hiring, teaching, and research practices. The administration has accused Harvard of failing to protect Jewish students during pro-Palestinian protests, alleging violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

Legal and Financial Implications

Revoking Harvard's tax-exempt status would have profound financial implications for the university. As a nonprofit institution under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. tax code, Harvard benefits from significant tax advantages, allowing it to allocate more resources toward scholarships, research, and educational programs. Losing this status could cost the university over $525 million annually and negatively affect alumni donations.

However, legal experts argue that the president does not have the unilateral authority to revoke a university's tax-exempt status. Under federal law, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) operates independently, and executive interference in specific audits is prohibited. Critics contend that Trump's actions may constitute an unlawful use of presidential power and set a dangerous precedent for using the IRS as a political tool.

Harvard's Response and Legal Action

Harvard University has strongly rebuked the administration's threats, with President Alan Garber calling the move "highly illegal" and "destructive" to higher education. The university has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging violations of its constitutional rights and infringement upon academic independence. Harvard maintains that the administration's actions lack legal merit and would severely harm its educational mission, financial aid, and research efforts.

Broader Implications for Higher Education

This confrontation is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration's scrutiny of educational institutions. The administration has established a task force to investigate universities for alleged failures in protecting Jewish students and for maintaining diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Other universities, such as Columbia, Cornell, and Princeton, have also faced funding freezes and demands for policy changes.

The administration's actions have raised concerns about academic freedom and the potential for political interference in higher education. More than 150 university and college presidents have signed statements condemning what they describe as "unprecedented government overreach and political interference" in education.

Conclusion

President Trump's threat to revoke Harvard's tax-exempt status represents a significant escalation in the administration's confrontations with elite educational institutions. While the legal and financial implications for Harvard are substantial, the broader concern lies in the potential erosion of academic independence and the precedent set for political interference in higher education. As legal battles unfold, the academic community and the nation at large will be watching closely to see how this conflict impacts the future of higher education in the United States.

Note: This article is based on information available as of May 2, 2025, and may be subject to change as new developments occur.

Musk Thinks He’s Like The Buddha

2025-05-02T12:51:00.000-04:00

In a recent interview at the White House, Elon Musk likened his role in leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to that of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Musk described DOGE as a “way of life,” suggesting that, like Buddhism, it can persist beyond its originator. He remarked that stepping down from DOGE leadership would be akin to “Buddhism without Buddha,” emphasizing the initiative’s sustainability without his direct involvement .

During his tenure, Musk reported that DOGE achieved approximately $160 billion in federal spending cuts, though this falls short of his $2 trillion target. Despite facing lawsuits, privacy concerns, and a 57% public disapproval rating as of April, Musk expressed optimism about DOGE’s future, stating it has been “70 to 80 percent” successful .

Musk’s comparison to a religious founder aligns with his evolving views on faith. He has previously identified as a “cultural Christian,” appreciating the teachings of Jesus, particularly the principle of “turning the other cheek,” while expressing skepticism about traditional religious doctrines . In a conversation with psychologist Jordan Peterson, Musk elaborated on his belief in Christian principles as beneficial for humanity, despite not being particularly religious .

As Musk transitions away from his governmental role to focus on his companies, including Tesla—which has experienced a 71% decline in net income since Inauguration Day—his portrayal of DOGE as a lasting movement reflects his broader philosophical approach to leadership and innovation .

For more details, read the full articles from The Daily Beast, The Washington Post, and New York Post.

Neil Young Slams Musk And Trump

2025-05-01T14:01:00.000-04:00

At the Autism Speaks’ Light Up the Blues benefit concert in Los Angeles on April 26, 2025, Neil Young debuted a politically charged song titled “Let’s Roll Again,” directly criticizing former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. The song includes the provocative lyric, “If you’re a fascist, get a Tesla,” and urges American automakers to produce cleaner, safer vehicles, highlighting China’s advancements in clean vehicle technology.

Young, known for his environmental advocacy and political activism, has a history of opposing Trump’s policies. He previously expressed concerns about potential repercussions for his criticisms, fearing detention or denial of re-entry into the U.S. during Trump’s presidency. Additionally, his wife, actress Darryl Hannah, claimed that the Trump administration attempted to hinder Young’s U.S. citizenship application.

“Let’s Roll Again” is part of Young’s ongoing efforts to advocate for environmental responsibility and political accountability through his music. He is scheduled to headline the Glastonbury Festival and continue his “Love Earth” tour later this year.

The $500,000 Trump Fan Club

2025-04-30T20:50:00.000-04:00

A new luxury private club in the heart of Washington, D.C., is making headlines for both its exclusivity and its deep ties to Trumpworld. Known as The Executive Branch, the members-only club was quietly launched by Donald Trump Jr., offering a conservative alternative to D.C.’s traditional social scene—with a reported membership cost exceeding $500,000.

According to a report by Politico, The Executive Branch is a project spearheaded by Trump Jr. and investor Omeed Malik, founder of 1789 Capital. The club is located just blocks from the White House and is aimed at high-net-worth individuals aligned with the Trump movement, particularly wealthy entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and former Trump administration insiders.

High Price, High Profile

Entry into the club comes with a hefty initiation fee—reportedly over half a million dollars, according to Axios. That puts The Executive Branch among the most expensive clubs in the country, with a cost structure that reflects not only access to elite networking but also political alignment with Trump-era values.

While not formally affiliated with the Republican Party or the Trump campaign, the club has become a magnet for conservative influencers, donors, and operatives, forming what some describe as an "unofficial headquarters" for MAGA loyalists in the capital.

Carefully Curated Membership

Membership is invite-only, with applicants subject to a rigorous referral and vetting process. Early members reportedly include prominent GOP donors, Trump White House alumni, and media personalities. While Donald Trump himself is not officially connected to the club, sources say he has expressed support for the concept.

In an interview with The Daily Beast, insiders said the club hopes to be a cultural hub for what they call “America First elites”—a stark contrast to what they see as the liberal-dominated social fabric of the District.

Trump's Legal Issues Escalate

2025-04-30T06:21:00.001-04:00

As President Donald Trump's second term enters its 100th day, his legal challenges intensify. A federal judge has scheduled a civil defamation trial for Trump against ABC News and host George Stephanopoulos, stemming from remarks about his liability in the E. Jean Carroll sexual assault case. The trial, set for June 9, 2025, could make Trump the first sitting president to testify in a defamation lawsuit. Concurrently, Trump's administration faces criticism for issuing over 140 executive orders, including a controversial refugee ban and significant federal workforce reductions. These developments are drawing scrutiny from liberal circles, highlighting concerns over executive overreach and accountability.

**Key Points:**

- Trump's defamation lawsuit against ABC News progresses with a trial date set for June 9, 2025.

- The lawsuit arises from statements made by Stephanopoulos regarding Trump's liability in the E. Jean Carroll case.

- Trump's administration has issued over 140 executive orders in its first 100 days, including a refugee ban and federal workforce reductions.

- These actions are raising concerns among liberals about executive overreach and accountability.

These developments underscore the ongoing legal and political challenges facing President Trump, with implications for his administration's policies and public perception.

Sources: Newsweek,

Trump's First 100 Days Marked by Controversial Policies and Protests

2025-04-29T10:29:00.000-04:00

As President Donald Trump completes his first 100 days of his second term, his administration has enacted a series of polarizing policies that have sparked widespread criticism and protests across the United States.

Trump's aggressive trade policies, including steep tariffs against China and Canada, have severely impacted manufacturing states like Michigan and stirred a trade impasse with China. While Trump plans to relax some 25% auto tariffs to boost domestic car production, businesses express uncertainty amid the volatile environment. Economists warn of inflationary pressures and recession risks triggered by inconsistent trade moves. Democrats criticize Trump for freezing or delaying $430 billion in federal funds for critical programs, calling it a dangerous deviation from the law.

Domestically, Trump has enacted over 140 executive orders, implementing controversial measures such as suspending refugee admissions, militarizing the southern border, and targeting pro-Palestinian demonstrators for visa revocation. He has purged tens of thousands of federal workers, ignored court rulings, and pardoned January 6 rioters. His "Department of Government Efficiency," led by Elon Musk, has introduced erratic agency shutdowns and cuts, stirring internal cabinet conflicts. Protests have risen nationwide, lawsuits challenge his moves, and Trump's approval ratings have begun to slip. The aggressive 100-day agenda has fostered chaos and deep divisions, setting the tone for a turbulent presidency.

In response to these policies, the "Hands Off!" protests erupted across the United States on April 5, 2025, marking the largest one-day, nationwide display of public resistance against President Trump's administration. Organized by over 150 grassroots organizations, including the 50501 movement, Indivisible, and the Women's March, the demonstrations voiced opposition to policies such as the militarization of the southern border, cuts to federal programs, and attacks on immigrants and minorities. The protests occurred in over 1,400 locations across all 50 U.S. states, drawing up to an estimated 3-5 million participants nationwide.

The Hands Off protests are part of a broader movement against the Trump administration's policies, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction and a call for accountability and change.

Sources AP News; The Guardian

Canada's Liberal Party Scores A Big Win

2025-04-29T07:03:00.003-04:00

The recent Canadian federal election results has Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal Party securing a narrow victory, retaining power in a minority government. The election was significantly influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policies, including threats of tariffs and annexation, which galvanized Canadian voters to support the Liberals. In his victory speech, Carney emphasized the need to defend Canada's sovereignty against perceived U.S. encroachment, stating, "Trump is trying to break us."

The election results also marked a significant shift in Canadian politics, with the New Democratic Party (NDP) experiencing a substantial defeat. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh lost his seat and announced his resignation, signaling a potential realignment within the Canadian left.

This outcome is particularly noteworthy for liberals, as it reflects a broader trend of resistance to right-wing populism and authoritarianism in North America. Carney's leadership is expected to influence Canada's domestic policies and its approach to international relations, especially concerning the United States.

Cybertruck Terrorism?

2025-01-02T09:57:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, January 1st Mathew Livelsberger died when he blew up a cybertruck in front of the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Independent looks into the life of Livelsberger in the article Who was Mathew Livelsberger, the US Army Veteran named as a suspect in the Cybertruck explosion?

Livelsberger spent 18 of his 19-year Army career with the Special Forces, according to his Linkedin profile. He is believed to have joined the Green Beret’s as a commmunicaton’s specialist in January 2006, before becoming a operations manager and team sergeant in February 2023.
The profile picture on the account shows a man sporting winter gear armed with an assault rifle, standing atop of a snowmobile in mountainous terrain.
His most recent role, from November 2024, was listed as a Remote and Autonomous Systems Manager for the Army.

He graduated summa cum laude from Norwich University and majored in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis.

The explosion was hours after another veteran used a truck was used to attack a crowd of New Year partiers in New Orleans. Both men were stationed in Fort Bragg the Independent reports.

President Biden said that the incidents are being looked into to see if the attacks were coordinated.

Elon Musk went on X (formerly Twitter) and stated, "was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself."

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Elon Musk Wants To Drop Nuclear Bombs Onto Mars

2024-12-31T09:13:00.003-05:00

At first, the mere idea of Elon Musk wanting to drop nuclear weapons on Mars for any reason appears to be satirical. After all, why would anyone want to drop such weapons of mass destruction on the Red Planet?

The billionaire has stated on more than one occasion a way to make Mars more Earth-like and thus easier to support permanent human colonies is to melt the planet's icecaps with nuclear weapons.

How many nukes would it take to hypothetically melt the ice caps and warm up the planet?

10,000 missiles.

Popular Mechanics told the tale with the article, Elon Musk Needs +10,000 Missiles to Nuke Mars, 'No Problem,' He Says.

Musk was prompted by a Twitter user who shared a Russian News Agency TASS article where a Russian space official called SpaceX’s Mars terraforming plans into question.

“For example, for a thermonuclear explosion on Mars’ pole, one of the plans of SpaceX, to have tangible results, more than 10,000 launches of missiles that can carry the largest payloads and are being developed now are needed,” that official said in an interview.

There are ways of making Mars more like Earth. Using life to create an atmosphere was mentioned by the author of Cosmos, the late Carl Sagan.

Genetically engineered microbes could be a way to produce a breathable atmosphere on Mars via the microbes’ photosynthesis. They would face harsh living conditions, but the recent Israeli mission to our moon is testament to how hardy microbes are. An unknown number of tardigrades were on board the craft and they might still be alive (and if so, they’re probably wondering what just happened to them).

With Musk being so close to President Trump is it out of the question that Musk floats a nuclear strike on Mars?

Only time will tell.

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Elon Musk Targets Everyday Americans

2024-12-26T09:00:00.004-05:00

While Elon Musk may not be the official President of the United States he plans to act in an imperial way. He has a history of making bold proclamations - which may not be based in fact -- as well as bold actions -- which later turn out to be not that wise. Exactly what are his plans when he is in charge of the new Department of Government Efficiency?

It turns out he's going to focus on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Musk states the agency creates too much red tape for businesses. What he is not stating is that the CFPB has placed cash in voters' pockets.

The Hill explores the issue in the opinion piece Elon Musk wants to 'delete' many Americans financial lifeline.

Since its founding, the agency has returned more than $19 billion in cash to people who have been scammed by financial institutions, including predatory payday lenders and even some of the largest banks in the country. It has done so under Republican and Democratic presidents, including major actions against Wells Fargo and Equifax during President Trump’s first term in office, which, combined, returned $425 million to consumers. (Those actions both began under the Obama administration, but Trump’s CFPB directors oversaw the execution of those fines.)

The CFPB enjoys bipartisan support. Why would an organization that protects Americans from fraudulent credit repair companies and loan scams be targeted?

Unsurprisingly, the people who run financial scams have powerful friends.

Musk’s post on X, for example, seems to have been prompted by complaints from Marc Andreessen, a venture capitalist whose companies have been sanctioned (and, in the case of LendUp Loans, shuttered) because of CFPB investigations and actions. Andreessen accused the agency of “terrorizing financial institutions,” and was clearly infuriated when the CFPB found that LendUp had misled customers about high-interest loans and overcharged U.S. service personnel.

How do you feel about Elon Musk potentially gutting the CFPB?

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A Pregnant Woman In Labor Fined For Being Homeless

2024-12-21T05:56:00.004-05:00

A pregnant woman in Kentucky was fined for street camping while she was in labor.

The Guardian reports:

Body camera footage obtained by Kentucky Public Radio from the city police force showed Lt Caleb Stewart walking up to a pregnant woman under an overpass in the city’s downtown area.
The visibly pregnant woman, whom the radio station is not naming, told the officer that her water had broken. “I might be going into labor, is that OK?”
“I’m leaking out,” she added.

She was walking to meet an ambulance. Ignoring the woman's medical condition the officer, Lt Caleb Stewart, made her walk to his vehicle so he could usher her a ticket. He then had the mattress that she had been using taken away.

The Guardian also reports the camera shortage recorded Lt Stewart state, "So I don’t for a second believe that this woman is going into labor.”

The woman gave birth shortly afterward and is now living in a shelter with her family.

The unhoused woman was cited due to the state's new law that bans street camping.

It's unlikely to resolve the housing crisis in Kentucky.

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Elon Musk States 'Recycling Is Useless'

2024-12-18T09:50:00.006-05:00

Elon Musk is the world's richest man, but that doesn't mean he's a great communicator even when he's making a good-faith effort to do so.

Recently he went on X and stated that "recycling is useless."

This statement launched a fierce debate on the merits of recycling. And part of that debate was on Reddit, of course.

Is Musk being serious? It's hard to tell when the man is trying to make a fact-based point and when he's spreading propaganda.

DW.com reported just some of Musk's problematic statements in the article Fact check: Elon Musk spreads US election lies.

"Since Elon Musk took over X, the platform has devolved into a hellscape of hate and disinformation — much of which comes from Mr. Musk himself," Imran Ahmed, head of the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), told DW.
Unlike most tech billionaires and political donors, Musk's political involvement is highly visible and has intensified ahead of the US presidential election on November 5. A recent CCDH report found that Musk's false or misleading claims about the US election got 1.2 billion views between January and July 2024 on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), which he owns.

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UnitedHealth's CEO Fights "Unnecessary" Care

2024-12-12T10:15:00.009-05:00

Andrew Witty, UnitedHealth's CEO, is rededicating the company's vow to keep healthcare out of subscriber's reach.

"Our role is a critical role, and we make sure that care is safe, appropriate, and is delivered when people need it," United Health CEO Andrew Witty said in the video address to the company's employees following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, which was leaked to journalist Ken Klippenstein. - Fox News Business

United Health is the parent company of United Healthcare. United Healthcare's CEO Brian Thompson was recently assassinated in broad daylight in New York City.

The internet is awash with subscriber's stories of how the insurance company withheld medical necessary treatment like this one.

Justine, 51, a UnitedHealthcare customer who works at a nonprofit in New York City, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 and underwent a double mastectomy in 2018. She asked that her last name be withheld for privacy reasons.

A year after surgery, she developed lymphedema, in which fluid builds up in her arm that can lead to infections and is treated by being fitted with custom-made compression sleeves.
Her employer-based insurance from UnitedHealthcare approved the sleeves, which cost $4,000 for a night sleeve, and several hundred dollars for a daytime sleeve replaced every three or four months.

But the company that made them said UnitedHealthcare failed to pay, citing various paperwork issues. "That continued for a long time," said Justine. "I kept feeling like, is this a run out the clock situation?" -Reuters

Elon Musk States He’s A Time Traveling Alien

2024-11-29T15:41:00.006-05:00

The Financial Times reports Elon Musk was joking around on X (formerly Twitter) when he admitted to be a time-traveling vampire.

Of course, Musk is not a time-traveling vampire.

However, he is hoping to spread the Maga philosophy to other nations.