Nov 25

Today’s News 25th November 2024

  • US Officials Discussed Giving Nuclear Weapons To Ukraine
    US Officials Discussed Giving Nuclear Weapons To Ukraine

    Authored by Kyle Anzalone via AntiWar.com,

    According to the New York Times, US and European officials have discussed a range of options they believe will deter Russia from taking more Ukrainian territory, including providing Kiev with nuclear weapons. The outlet reports that Western officials believe the Kremlin will not significantly escalate the war before Donald Trump is sworn in as President in January.

    Following the election of Trump earlier this month, the US and its NATO allies began taking steps to rush weapons to Ukraine and give Kiev the ability to strike targets inside Russian territory with long-range weapons.

    American officials who were briefed on the intelligence community’s assessments told the Times that weapons will not alter the challenging situation that Kiev is currently facing. “US spy agencies have assessed that speeding up the provisions of weapons, ammunition and matériel for Ukraine will do little to change the course of the war in the short term,” the Times reports.

    Image: Wiki Commons

    Desperate to bolster Ukraine’s standing in the war before the transition of power on January 20, the Biden administration is looking at a range of serious escalations. “US and European officials are discussing deterrence as a possible security guarantee for Ukraine, such as stockpiling a conventional arsenal sufficient to strike a punishing blow if Russia violates a cease-fire.”

    The article continues, “Several officials even suggested that Mr. Biden could return nuclear weapons to Ukraine that were taken from it after the fall of the Soviet Union.”

    According to some officials who spoke with the Times, the administration believes that Russian President Vladimir Putin won’t significantly escalate the war until Trump returns to the Oval Office.

    “But the escalation risk of allowing Ukraine to strike Russia with US-supplied weaponry has diminished with the election of Mr. Trump,” the report says, adding, “Biden administration officials believe, calculating that Putin of Russia knows he has to wait only two months for the new administration.”

    That assessment is based on the belief that Trump and his incoming Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, will take a more favorable stance on Russia. However, Trump proved to be a Russia-hawk during his first administration by ramping up sanctions on Moscow, providing lethal arms to Ukraine, and expelling a large number of Russian diplomats from the US.

    In September, Putin said he preferred Vice President Kamala Harris to win the White House. “Trump has imposed as many sanctions on Russia as any president has ever imposed before, and if Harris is doing well, perhaps she will refrain from such actions,” he explained.

    US officials actually discussed a nuclear option, via the NY Times report:

    Much of the American political class has cast Trump and Gabbard as agents of Russia. However, extensive investigations into Trump’s ties to the Kremlin have come up empty. Additionally, the Times reported last week that there was no evidence Gabbard was in any way an asset of Putin.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 23:20

  • The Choice
    The Choice

    Authored by MN Gordon via EconomicPrism.com,

    “And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” 

    – Matthew 25:30

    Daycare for Adults

    Sometimes things must get worse before they get better. Reducing deficit spending and eliminating government waste, for example, will initially have a negative impact on GDP and employment. Though, this is exactly what is needed to restore America’s economic health.

    U.S. government spending has run riot for over 50 years. Over the last two decades, it has gone completely berserk. In fact, since 2004, the national debt has jumped from $8 trillion to $36 trillion.

    All this debt-based government spending has created massive distortions in the economy. The price of consumer goods, a glut of unproductive government jobs, the appearance of economic growth, and more. The effects of government spending range far and wide.

    Without question, government spending is responsible for the inflation of consumer prices. However, it is also responsible for the inflation of key government statistics. Specifically, GDP and employment.

    In 2023, nearly 25 percent of all job additions were government jobs. And over the last 12 months, government jobs increased by an average of 43,000 per month. In addition, according to the latest GDP figure, government spending accounted for 30 percent of the annualized growth.

    Should Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy make good on their intentions to hit the delete button on numerous federal agencies and eliminate $2 trillion in government spending, two notable things will happen. GDP will topple over and the unemployment rate will skyrocket.

    Nonetheless, if you care about America’s long term financial and economic health, this is the best thing that can happen. Jobs that are nothing more than daycare for adults shouldn’t exist.

    Egg Hunts

    Statistics like GDP and employment can be misleading if you don’t consider what goes into them. Are they the aggregate of real economic activity or are they composed of something phony?

    In short, when GDP and employment statistics are inflated by reckless fiscal policies, they stop being measurements of economic health and become barometers of self-destruction.

    How did we get here?

    The fall from grace can be traced to several sources. The passage of the federal income tax and the creation of the Federal reserve, both in 1913, are certainly part of the genesis.

    However, the rationale for using deficit spending to boost GDP and employment was triggered by the 1936 publication of John Maynard Keynes’ The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money.

    Not only is the book rigorously indecipherable. It also has the ill-effect of making those who read it dumber. Unfortunately, Keynes’ drivel became the standard for reckless economic thinking, which still drives economic policy to this day.

    Many politicians and establishment economists remain enamored with Keynes’ gibberish. They love that it provides an academic rationale for governments to do what they love to do most – borrow money and spend it on ridiculous programs. Central planners also love that it gives them an economic basis for carrying out their absurd designs.

    For example, Keynes advocated filling bottles with money and burying them in coal mines for people to dig up as a way to end unemployment. According to Keynes, this would provide jobs and money for the unemployed. Somehow, these public works egg hunts would create an economic boom and make everyone rich.

    Alien Invasions

    Over the years this reasoning has inspired countless government stunts to save the economy from itself. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and the American Rescue Plan of 2021 are two mega Keynesian inspired spending bills passed this century. The U.S. will never be able to overcome the consequences of these asinine programs.

    In practice, the execution of Keynesian inspired spending programs never live up to their promises of economic vitality. Debt ends up outpacing GDP growth by leaps and bounds.

    In 1980, federal debt was about $1 trillion while GDP was $2.8 trillion. Today, federal debt is over $36 trillion while GDP is around $29 trillion. Thus, over the last 44 years GDP has increased by a factor of 10 while federal debt has increased by a factor of 36.

    With this track record of economic growth significantly lagging the growth of government debt, any justification for using deficit spending as a means to grow the economy out of debt is absolute nonsense. Still, Nobel Prize winning economists are fully committed to chasing Keynesian economics to insanity.

    Just over a decade ago, Keynes devotee, Paul Krugman, took the logic of Keynesian economics and ran with it to the outer limits of deep space. In the process, he lost his mind.

    Following his righteous departure from planet earth, Krugman went on cable television and explained that the proper way to propel an economic growth chart up and to the right is to borrow massive amounts of money and spend it preparing for an alien invasion.

    The Choice

    Absurd fiscal policies over many decades have created an economy, and hundreds of thousands of employees, that are largely dependent on government spending. This is the economy that President-elect Trump is inheriting when he comes into office.

    He is up against an unworkable task. He must address a mega debt crisis that’s partly of his own making. The last time Trump was President the national debt increased by $8 trillion.

    At this point, the only way to fix the economy and America’s finances is to first burn them to the ground. The distortions accumulated over many decades are too great. They cannot be undone without first making things worse.

    Many years ago, Ludwig von Mises, in Human Action, presented the unpleasant choice team Trump must make.

    “There is no means of avoiding the final collapse of a boom brought about by credit expansion. The alternative is only whether the crisis should come sooner as the result of a voluntary abandonment of further credit expansion, or later as a final and total catastrophe of the currency system involved.”

    What Musk and Ramaswamy are advocating as part of their Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is the alternative of the crisis coming “sooner as the result of a voluntary abandonment of further credit expansion.” The crisis, to be clear, is a deep recession or depression.

    It is the right choice, given the poor state of Washington’s finances. But is it already too late to avoid a total catastrophe of the dollar?

    There is no way to know for sure. What is known is this:

    The mass culling of federal workers. The abrupt eradication of deficit spending. The collapse of GDP and the rise in unemployment. These things are needed to return the USA to a place of good health.

    Yet the interim period, which may last for a generation or two, will be of much weeping and gnashing of teeth.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 22:10

  • Western Officials Claim North Korean General Wounded In Recent Ukrainian Strike
    Western Officials Claim North Korean General Wounded In Recent Ukrainian Strike

    Western officials have claimed that a senior North Korean general was recently wounded in a Ukrainian strike on Russia’s Kursk region. 

    Details are scant, but the incident was vaguely described to The Wall Street Journal, which wrote, “It is the first time Western officials have said that a high-ranking North Korean military officer has become a casualty in the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict.”

    “Western officials didn’t disclose how the senior North Korean officer was wounded or his identity,” WSJ continued. “North Korea’s mission to the United Nations didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on the strike, which has been described in Western intelligence reports.”

    Illustrative file image: AFP

    Recent international reports have separately alleged that thousands of North Korean troops are in Kursk region assisting Russian efforts to repel occupying Ukrainian troops, which have held hundreds of square kilometers of territory since the August cross-border incursion.

    Last month, spokesman for the US National Security Council John Kirby warned that any North Korean troops fighting in Ukraine are “fair game and fair targets.”

    The US and UK (and more recently France) have authorized Ukraine to strike Russian territory using long-range weapons, citing as a rationale for the escalation the infusion of North Korean troops and foreign fighters into the Russian side.

    If it is accurate that a high-ranking North Korean officer was hurt in recent attacks on Russia, could it have been the result of sophisticated long-range Western missiles?

    The WSJ report cites a Russian blogger who says North Koreans were present at a location which was struck by Storm Shadows days ago:

    The Storm Shadows launched Wednesday struck an estate in Marino, a town in the Russian-controlled part of the Kursk region, according to videos geolocated by the Center for Information Resilience, an online investigation organization, that were verified by The Wall Street Journal. Marino is about 20 miles from the front lines in the province.

    The estate contains vast gardens and an underground area with domed ceilings lined with bricks and is run by the Russian government, according to its official website. Loud whooshes followed by thunderous explosions that set off car alarms could be heard on video taken by bystanders and shared on social media.

    Recent reports have also alleged that in return for sending troops, Russia has rewarded Pyongyang with new anti-air defense missile systems, along with other weaponry.

    Some hawkish officials in Europe are using the reports of N.Korea-Russia cooperation to urge limitless support for Kiev:

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Presidents Putin and Kim Jong-Un signed a joint defense pact this summer. The Kremlin has thus sought to present the transfer of North Korean troops into Russia (and possibly into Ukraine) as consistent with this legal agreement.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 21:35

  • Florida's Surgeon General Comes Out Against Fluoride In Water Supply
    Florida’s Surgeon General Comes Out Against Fluoride In Water Supply

    Authored by T.J. Muscaro via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),

    Florida’s Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo issued a new guidance on Nov. 22, advising against the long-standing practice of adding fluoride to the public drinking water supply.

    Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. York Du/The Epoch Times

    “Adding fluoride to water increases the risk of neuropsychiatric disease in children and reduces their IQ,” Ladapo said in a post on X. “We can strengthen teeth without consuming this neurotoxin.”

    In his guidance, Ladapo states that fluoride, which is known to strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to decay, is “widely available from multiple sources,” such as toothpaste and mouthwashes, and cites several studies that found a connection between negative mental side effects and fluoride exposure during childhood and pregnancy.

    Those side effects include an association with lowered IQ, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as decreased child inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility.

    His guidance also cited a report published in August 2024 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Toxicology Program, which also suggested a connection between fluoridated water and lower IQ in children, and U.S. District Court ruling that found “community water fluoridation at 0.7 milligrams per liter presents an unreasonable risk of injury to health under the Amended Toxic Substances Control Act” and called upon the Environmental Protection Agency to take action.

    The surgeon general announced his position in Winter Haven, Florida, which recently announced its own decision to remove fluoride from its public water supply.

    Winter Haven Commissioner Brad Dantzler said that the district judge’s ruling in September and Rober F. Kennedy Jr.’s potential nomination to lead the Department of Health and Human Services are reasons that fluoride should likely be removed from the city’s drinking water. Kennedy has previously argued for removing fluoride from the entire nation’s water supply.

    Ladapo admitted during his press conference to previously being in favor of fluoridation, which was seen as a public health measure. But, the toxicology report and the district court ruling made him take another look at the issue, and he said that he was appalled by the findings.

    “Due to the neuropsychiatric risk associated with fluoride exposure, particularly in pregnant women and children, and the wide availability of alternative sources of fluoride for dental health, the State Surgeon General recommends against community water fluoridation,” the guidance stated.

    Ladapo’s guidance also said that the Department of Health recognized the benefits of fluoride and advocated for “oral and overall health” through other means, such as expanding education, screening and operation of dental services in schools, and promotion of healthier habits in communities across the state.

    Water systems of more than 70 percent of Florida communities currently receive fluoridated water.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 21:00

  • France Backs Ukraine Firing Its Long-Range Missiles At Russia
    France Backs Ukraine Firing Its Long-Range Missiles At Russia

    This weekend France has belatedly made clear that it has joined allies Britain and US in authorizing Ukraine to use long-range missile for strikes on targets in Russian territory.

    The past week has witnessed significant escalation after Ukraine used both UK-made Storm Shadow missiles and US-supplied ATACMS in at least two separate cross-border assaults. And now:

    French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told the BBC that Ukraine can shoot French longer-range missiles into Russia in the “logics of self-defense.” The French Scalp missiles are the same as the UK’s Storm Shadow missiles, which Ukraine had already used in attacks on Russia.

    French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, via Reuters

    “The principle has been set… our messages to President Zelensky have been well received,” he said in the Saturday interview, however without disclosing whether French Scalp missiles have already been used in such a way.

    He argued that the Western allies should not put any limits on supporting Ukraine’s effort fighting back Russia. He called for the West to “not set and express red lines.“

    After saying this, he was then pressed by interviewer Laura Kuenssberg over if that could even mean sending French troops into the war. “We do not discard any option,” he responded.

    The top French diplomat continued, “We will support Ukraine as intensely and as long as necessary. Why? Because it is our security that is at stake. Each time the Russian army progresses by one square kilometer, the threat gets one square kilometer closer to Europe.”

    On the question of Zelensky’s push to join NATO, Barrot strongly hinted that Paris considers it as a possibility: “We are open to extending an invitation, and so in our discussions with friends and allies, and friends and allies of Ukraine, we are working to get them to closer to our positions,” he said.

    “Of course we will have to spend more if we want to do more, and I think that we have to face these new challenges,” he said of broader French and European defense spending.

    The Kremlin’s response to all of this was swift, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova declaring that FM Barrot’s comments are “not support for Ukraine, but rather a death knell for Ukraine.” 

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine have continued exchanging drones over each other’s territory at an intense pace. “Ukraine’s air force said that at least 73 Russian attack drones entered the country’s airspace on Saturday into Sunday morning, after a week in which both sides made battlefield history with new advanced weapons systems,” ABC reports.

    And Russia’s defense ministry said during the same period its military downed a reported 36 Ukrainian drones. Russia further described that in Ukraine it targeted “military airfields, production facilities and storage sites for drones, as well as concentrations of enemy manpower and military equipment.”

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 20:25

  • Trump Has Vowed To Close The Department Of Education – How Would That Work?
    Trump Has Vowed To Close The Department Of Education – How Would That Work?

    Authored by Aaron Gifford via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),

    In September 2023, Donald Trump’s presidential campaign announced 10 principles for reforming education. Chief among them was closing the Department of Education in Washington, and sending “all education work and needs back to the states.”

    U.S. Department of Education building in Washington on July 6, 2023. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

    The president-elect has maintained that pledge, even though he appointed a secretary of education (Linda McMahon) to lead a federal agency he vowed to eliminate.

    He also promised to support universal school choice, reverse “gender-affirming” care practices in schools, and leverage the department’s funding mechanisms to end Critical Race Theory and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in K–12 and higher education.

    But how exactly would Trump go about making these changes, and close the $80 billion department?

    Neal McCluskey, director of the Cato Institute Center for Education Freedom in Washington, said Congress created the Department of Education and is, therefore, the only agency that can eliminate it.

    Under Senate filibuster rules, support is required from 60 of the 100 members, but McCluskey doesn’t think there are enough votes to make that happen.

    “He can’t just snap his fingers and make it [Department of Education] go away,” McCluskey told The Epoch Times. “It seems unlikely if no Democrats get on board.”

    The department, established in 1979, is also the smallest federal cabinet with about 4,100 employees, McCluskey said.

    As something not considered a sacred pillar of the U.S. government, there may be enough bipartisan support to shrink the agency by moving some functions to other federal agencies.

    McCluskey said the Constitution does not guarantee the right to education.

    Public schools and higher education institutions are mainly funded at the state and municipal levels, while state and local boards of education mandate curriculum, graduation requirements, employee credentials, and annual operating budgets.

    Private colleges, though mainly funded by tuition and donations, still get federal financial aid for students.

    Higher education financial aid programs, for example, could be moved to the Treasury.

    Civil Rights functions for investigating discrimination and harassment complaints at schools and college campuses could easily be handled by the Department of Justice.

    The funding programs for low-income school districts and special needs programs would have a place with Health and Human Services.

    And The Census Bureau within the U.S. Department of Commerce is well-equipped to take on the data and services that have been provided by the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics and Institute of Education Sciences, McCluskey said.

    Through block grants, state education departments could easily handle the smaller federally funded programs for accelerated learning loss recovery in core subjects, nutrition, career and technical education, and various other areas related to academics or student wellness, McCluskey said.

    “It’s just a matter of how much control the federal government wants over these programs,” he said, adding that hundreds of millions of dollars could be saved if state employees administered a program instead of both state and federal employees.

    In awarding block grants, McCluskey added, Trump could withhold funding from state education agencies that continue DEI and CRT policies if the president deems, they “discriminate based on race.”

    Will Congress Support Downsizing?

    Changes to the Department of Education will be a high priority in the next legislative session.

    On Nov. 21, Sen Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced the “Returning Education to Our States Act,” which would eliminate the Department of Education and move its critical programs to other federal agencies.

    In a news release, Rounds said the department’s budget increased by 449 percent in its 45-year history, while student test scores have dropped in the past decade.

    “The federal Department of Education has never educated a single student, and it’s long past time to end this bureaucratic department that causes more harm than good,” Rounds said in the release.

    “We all know local control is best when it comes to education.”

    Similar legislation from Rep. Barry Moore, a Republican from Alabama, also called for abolishing the department and moving its funding to states.

    It was introduced in February 2023 but never passed the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

    The chair of that committee, Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Republican from North Carolina, states on her website that she supports returning “decision-making power and resource flexibility to the local level while keeping schools accountable for results to taxpayers, parents, and students.”

    Sen Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana, is expected to take over as chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

    He has criticized the Department of Education in recent years but stopped short of calling for its elimination.

    In June, Cassidy, Ohio Senator and now Vice President-elect JD Vance, and 20 other republican legislators introduced the Dismantle DEI Act that would cut federal funding for any federal department, contractors, or programs that institutionalize discrimination in hiring and employee training.

    The list of contractors and programs includes educational accreditation agencies.

    “Taxpayers expect the most qualified candidates to be hired, not the most favored,” Cassidy said in a June 13 news release.

    Will Policies Be Reversed?

    An Epoch Times review of announcements, news releases, and speeches on the Department of Education website under the Biden administration found that initiatives related to DEI and student loan forgiveness have been the department’s most publicized activities.

    Sarah Spreitzer, American Council on Education (ACE) chief of staff of government relations, said during a Nov. 7 ACE panel discussion that voters care about education reform and are pressuring the next administration to downsize the department “and give it a smaller role.”

    “When they think about their complaints about education, you know, blame the Department of Education,” she said.

    “I can see them moving some of the big pieces from the Department of Education, and you’re kind of left with a much smaller footprint of the department.”

    ACE leaders echo the Cato Institute’s sentiments that Trump is poised to use his executive authority to remove DEI and CRT from federally funded programs.

    Spreitzer said the president-elect did so on a limited basis with federal contractors during his previous term—without any court challenges she’s aware of—so he could easily dust that policy off and expand it after he’s sworn in.

    “The hook they’ll always have is that federal funding,” she said. “Whether it’s through your grant agreement, or whether it’s through your program participation agreement, you know putting new requirements in there is the hook they will use.”

    Will Teachers Accept Changes?

    American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten expressed mixed reactions to Trump’s election and his recent appointment of McMahon at a time when the U.S. Department of Education could face major change.

    “We look forward to learning more about Linda McMahon, and if she is confirmed, we will reach out to her as we did with Betsy DeVos at the beginning of her tenure.

    “We hope Donald Trump means it when he says he wants a focus on project-based instruction, career and technical education, and apprenticeships.

    “This will improve education and job options, making schools more relevant and engaging for young people,” Weingarten said in a Nov. 19 news release.

    “But we question the future of these popular ideas and more if the Trump administration follows through with plans to close the Department of Education, leaving in doubt a federal funding lifeline that disproportionately goes to children in need, children with disabilities, and young adults who are the first in their families to go to college.”

    The Epoch Times reached out to the Department of Education, but a response was not provided.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 19:50

  • North Carolina's Hurricane Rebuilding Director Is "No Longer Employed" With The State
    North Carolina’s Hurricane Rebuilding Director Is “No Longer Employed” With The State

    Laura Hogshead, who led North Carolina’s rebuilding efforts after hurricanes Matthew and Florence, is “no longer employed” with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety as director of recovery and resiliency for ReBuild NC, according to WRAL. 

    Chief communications officer Jody Donaldson announced Wednesday that Pryor Gibson, a lobbyist for Gov. Roy Cooper and former state representative, is now interim director of the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency.

    WRAL reported that Hogshead is no longer listed on the state’s website.

    Previously, her position was characterized on ReBuild NC’s website saying: “Hogshead oversees the expenditure of hurricane recovery funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for areas hit by hurricanes Matthew and Florence.”

    “Hogshead also oversees the expenditure of U.S. Department of Treasury Coronavirus Relief Fund and Emergency Rental Assistance allocations through the state’s pandemic-related emergency rental assistance program,” it continued. 

    Hogshead, long criticized for her leadership and the slow progress of ReBuild NC, faced tough questioning Monday from lawmakers during an Oversight Committee hearing. Gibson was also grilled over the office’s budgetary issues.

    ReBuild NC, established by Gov. Roy Cooper to aid low-income hurricane victims, managed nearly $800 million to rebuild homes after Hurricanes Matthew (2016) and Florence (2018) devastated the state.

    Despite years of criticism, Hogshead resisted calls to resign, asserting she was the best person for the role, even as Cooper acknowledged the program’s slow pace and called for improvement. Republican lawmakers criticized Cooper for not removing her.

    The program’s financial challenges have grown, with a reported $175 million shortfall for housing projects increasing to over $220 million. These funds are allocated to the Homeowner Recovery Program, which assists residents in repairing or rebuilding homes.

    State Sen. Danny Britt, R-Hoke, Robeson and Scotland counties commented: “Together in the House and Senate we have tried to hold [ReBuild NC’s] feet to the fire for their failures.”

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 19:15

  • 30 Detroit Police Officers Pulled Off Street Due To Inactive Law Enforcement Licenses
    30 Detroit Police Officers Pulled Off Street Due To Inactive Law Enforcement Licenses

    This is what ‘defunding the police’ does…

    The Detroit Police Department has removed at least 30 officers from active duty after discovering they were operating without valid law enforcement licenses.

    The officers come from various divisions, including homicide, road patrol, and the special victims unit, which handles cases of child abuse, domestic violence, and sex crimes, according to WXYZ.

    Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald commented: “As of this morning, their guns and badges were taken from them. They’ll be on administrative duty until we get this cleared up, hopefully as soon as possible.”

    The Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards said there were 32 officers without a license. 

    The ABC 7 WXYZ report said that the issue came to light two months ago when DPD found an officer without an active license, prompting an audit that initially uncovered three more cases and has since grown to 30.

    Fitzgerald added: “That is a big problem. We’re working through the list, we’re trying to figure out what’s needed, where we need to get the documentation necessary.”

    MCOLES said the officers “were hired between November 2019 and August of 2024. Initial indications suggest DPD did not request reactivation of these officer’s law enforcement licenses when they were hired or rehired. The investigation is ongoing and at this point involves at least 32 officers.”

    MCOLES Executive Director Tim Bourgeois added: “On a case-by-case basis the Commission will review the status of affected officer to determine if they are eligible for reactivation of their law enforcement licenses. The Commission collaborating with DPD to audit its entire roster and ensure all officers are actively licensed.”

    Commissioner Ricardo Moore commented: “It’s very shocking. I think that our personnel director needs to answer a couple questions to the board.”

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 18:05

  • An Amazing Country (With Some Questions)
    An Amazing Country (With Some Questions)

    By Peter Tchir of Academy Securities

    An Amazing Country (With Some Questions)

    A 10-day road trip visiting clients in San Diego, Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Baltimore, (and of course New York and Connecticut), as well as numerous Zoom calls, was a great reminder that there are more similarities than differences across this amazing country! There was some palpable concern amongst some, and something resembling giddiness amongst others. There were some deviations depending on the location and the industry – but as a whole, what stood out, was that people were trying to figure out what is next and what to do about it. Those whose party or candidate didn’t win even expressed some optimism about how things could go. Those who did win also questioned some of the early moves. Very healthy dialogues and introspection. Maybe, just maybe, this is driven by the fact that media rhetoric has toned down significantly since the election? It is almost amazing how quickly things have ratcheted down since the election across much of mainstream media. I do think, and I’m biased, that financial media generally does a better job at this because their main goal is to help managers and investors understand the broader landscape.

    Admittedly, many of our conversations were focused on Geopolitical Risk (with members of Academy’s Geopolitical Intelligence Group), but even on that front there is reason for some optimism.

    If you missed our recent Podcast, this is a good time to listen, as we tackle a lot of issues in the Middle East and how we see a potential end to the conflict in Ukraine evolving.

    This report should, hopefully, act as a bookend to recent reports on Learning to Speak Trump and 3D Chess or 52-Card Pickup?

    The only issue is that since I spent so much time away from my data and charts (I do miss them), this report will be high-level and more of a guide for Thanksgiving conversations than markets. We will follow up early this week on that front, once I’ve managed to get fully caught up on these choppy markets.

    So today, we will quickly address some of the questions that came up regularly.

    Hitting the Ground Running

    While we discussed appointments in some detail last week, there is one clear theme so far:

    • In 2016 the President-Elect was slow to pick his posts and left many jobs vacant – which slowed things down. He is obviously trying to change that this time.
    • Many people who were left in place during Trump’s first term did not fully support his agenda and it is believed (probably accurately) that they slow-played things and tried to subvert his agenda from the inside – something that he is trying to change this time.

    Whether you agree with some, all, or very few of his picks, this is clearly what is motivating him.

    Tariffs

    Tariffs were a big part of any discussion. This could play out in many ways, but our base case remains the same:

    • A negotiating ploy to bring countries (namely China) to the table. Many seem very concerned by his statements (which, if taken on face value, are concerning), but if Trump states that this is merely to get China to the table, they lose their power.
      • He did put tariffs in place, so his threat carries weight.
      • The last time he imposed tariffs, there were weeks, if not months, of trade negotiations, so fully I expect that to occur again.
    • China is weak right now economically, and will likely have to bear some of the cost through reduced profits (or more subsidies) and a weaker currency. I expect a stronger dollar to offset much of any impact from tariffs that do get implemented.

    I’m not overly worried about tariffs. My hope is that well-targeted tariffs, along with well-targeted subsidies for U.S. corporations, could really jump start “reshoring.”

    The Chips Act, and how many strings were attached to it, and why so little money had actually been sent to corporations ahead of the election, came up repeatedly in meetings. Primarily, sadly, this is an example of good/important policy (building foundries) being diminished by adding too many bells and whistles, thereby diluting the initiative. It does seem like there is an increased effort to get the money out the door as this administration winds down.

    Why Not a Better Discussion on Mexico?

    Right now, Mexico seems likely to be hit with tariffs and immigration related issues. Most, including me, seem to be trying to figure out why we are not having more holistic conversations with Mexico.

    If we can get things “right” with Mexico – it could be a boon for both countries.

    • We need to stop the flow of fentanyl (and other drugs) and the potential risk of terrorists coming through. Much of which is being aided (if not directed) by the cartels.
    • Many Mexicans need better jobs and a way to thrive in Mexico outside of the cartels.
    • U.S. companies need to be able to set up businesses in Mexico, but are finding many constraints – including, though not limited to, the reach of the cartels.

    I think many would like to see a much bigger dialogue about how the U.S. and Mexico could tackle problems together – many of which stem from the influence of the cartels. So far that doesn’t seem to be on the agenda, which is frustrating to many, as it seems like an obvious avenue to help both countries with their current (and future) concerns.

    Immigration

    This might be the “trickiest” Trump topic right now.

    My view, which is simplistic, and with less basis than my view on tariffs (where we have a lot of color from several of our GIG members), is still my best estimate at the moment.

    • Expect “high profile wins” that have largely universal support. In this category I would highlight criminals, especially where criminal activity has allegedly taken over small areas. I do think that places like the Roosevelt Hotel in New York, meant to be temporary relocation centers, have morphed into something, that while well-intentioned, isn’t working. That could be another “win” (and it seems like Mayor Adams is moving in that direction as well).
    • Don’t expect a full-blown effort to remove every undocumented (often illegal) worker. As you move to a “local” level, many companies depend on these people and are likely to use their influence to limit what happens to these workers, who as a group, have been here long before the term “border crisis” was a regular talking point. While there are various humanitarian and even broader economic reasons not to do this, it might just come down to being too expensive.
    • While there are a variety of opinions on the subject, many of our GIG members think there is a high likelihood that Trump will mobilize the national guard on the border. It does fit with the theme of “easy” wins. It will not be a particularly dangerous assignment (there should be no U.S. reserve casualties) and it shows that “he is doing something” and it will create some powerful photo ops. Basically, it just enforces the rules on the books.

    If there is one area where I’m really concerned that I’m downplaying how aggressive the administration will be (which would impact our nation in many ways), this is it.

    Wars

    A push to end the war in Ukraine.

    • Trump will come up with a deal that he thinks makes sense. Then with a combination of carrots and sticks, for both sides, with Russia’s frozen dollar reserves as a big bargaining tool, he will make something happen.
      • We don’t talk much about this in the U.S., but there is increasing concern that Ukrainians who have left almost 3 years ago are already questioning the idea of returning as they have made new lives for themselves. That risk only increases the longer the war goes on.
      • Georgia – no response. Crimea – blink, but just barely blinked. Donbas – minor pushback. Yes, it would be awful to give Putin his “win”, but effectively we have been doing that with far less pushback for over a decade now.

    Permission to destabilize Iran.

    • Israel has been making progress in its efforts to reduce the fighting ability of Iran’s proxies. It has demonstrated that Iran itself is vulnerable to attack and possibility limited in its ability to respond.
    • Much of the Middle East views Iran as the problem, which may also encourage efforts to continue to push back militarily on Iran.
    • It is probably too much to wish for regime change in Iran, but maybe this is the opportunity to press and try?

    Africa

    Our stance on Africa is unclear. Actually, that is too generous. Russia and China are gaining influence in the region. We paid little attention to it (we didn’t even have ambassadors in some prominent nations). We are paying the price. Deaths are occurring in the region in numbers that dwarf anything going on anywhere else in the world, but this isn’t making it to our headlines.

    Not sure what to do here, but it is time that we all pay more attention.

    NIMBY and D.O.G.E.

    As a whole I think people are curious to see how “Not In My Backyard” plays out. We have a lot of rules and regulations that might get re-evaluated.

    • Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, we have had the luxury of being the sole superpower. We implemented a lot of rules and regulations that made sense in that context.
    • As China’s rise, both militarily and especially economically, alters the global landscape, it may be time to revisit some of those issues.
    • Chips and processed materials (rare earths and critical minerals) all need to be part of what we re-evaluate to make sure we are not fighting with one arm tied behind our backs.

    Everyone is curious to see how this Department of Government Efficiency plays out! One thing being floated is offering large severances, which I think (and this ties back to my use of the QUIT rate last week) leads to a very negative self-selection process, and isn’t particularly efficient.

    Crypto

    Everyone who loved crypto and helped pump it higher continues to love it and pump it higher.

    No one who didn’t love crypto has changed their view and they think that it is something the U.S. government shouldn’t be buying (it doesn’t mean they haven’t bought crypto to ride this move, but their view on the use of crypto hasn’t changed).

    Bottom Line

    No shortage of things to talk about as you prepare for Thanksgiving, but I have the overwhelming sense that this is being done in a constructive way.

    And, so we can end on the lightest note possible (I think it is a light note), you can always bet the over/under on how long Trump and Musk can remain besties!

    Have a great holiday week and nothing on my market view has really changed (be underweight risk, overweight duration, but only modestly) and try to trade positions around until a real clear trend emerges.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 17:30

  • Major Cold Blast To Hit Helene-Ravaged NC With Families Living In Tents & Cars Amid FEMA Blunder
    Major Cold Blast To Hit Helene-Ravaged NC With Families Living In Tents & Cars Amid FEMA Blunder

    Nearly two months after Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, the controversies surrounding FEMA’s botched response could have been avoided if the federal agency had apolitical managers overseeing operations and had not diverted funds for illegal aliens. With winter looming over the Appalachian region, at least a thousand people—some of them children—are still living in temporary housing, such as tents.

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    “Attention Joe Biden or whoever is running this country  its 24/7 all hands on deck this week for  Helene ravaged areas to make sure people are sheltered properly for the coming cold.  The blundering so far has been inexcusable, You have a chance to finish strong here,” Meteorologist Joe Bastardi wrote on X. 

    Bastardi’s weather models forecast that a cold blast will descend into the region next week. 

    The incoming cold weather coincides with a report from local media outlet WLOS stating that “hundreds of local families are left with nowhere to go” in Western North Carolina, adding, “Now some of these children are living in tents and cars…”

    Bloomberg data shows temps across Asheville are expected to crash to sub-freezing levels through the end of the month into early December. 

    This is shocking, as WLOS provides new figures: 

    The Buncombe County Family Resource Center tells News 13 that they’ve identified 878 new homeless students since the storm. That is in addition to the 274 students identified in Buncombe County as homeless before Helene. It totals 1,152 kids without permanent homes, some living in tents, cars and campers.

    Scenes on the ground show “tent cities” in Swannanoa, North Carolina…

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Whole families live in tents with children. These people need help. 

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    “Do you realize that it’s gonna be below freezing in Asheville, North Carolina tonight? And in some parts of North Carolina it’s already below freezing. Do you realize how many people are living in tents? . @fema workers (who aren’t doing anything) are hanging out in heated trailers. While at the same time, we’re housing illegal immigrants in luxury hotels,” one X user said. 

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Meanwhile, the controversies at FEMA are piling up for the American people to see:

    FEMA ran out of money promoting “equity.” 

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Pushing free money to illegal aliens for luxury hotels and food.

    Yet residents of storm-ravaged North Carolina received?? 

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    What a shitshow. And now a humanitarian crisis as winter approaches.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 16:55

  • Loony Joy Reid Urges Viewers To Avoid Trump-Voting-Relatives Who Might "Turn You In"
    Loony Joy Reid Urges Viewers To Avoid Trump-Voting-Relatives Who Might “Turn You In”

    Authored by Steve Watson via Modernity.news,

    Crazed MSNBC hack Joy Reid has again suggested that her viewers should avoid their own family members if they voted for president Trump.

    In a demented rant, Reid suggested that leftists shun their relatives at Thanksgiving, and that they be afraid because they might get “turned in” to the MAGA authorities… or something.

    “People are rightfully alarmed. They have a reason to be alarmed,” Reid rambled in the video posted to social media. 

    She continued, “And if you would vote for that, people may not feel so confident that they’re safe with you.”

    “This is not crazy,” she said, sounding crazy.

    “This is legitimate feelings of fear of you and a feeling that you might not be someone they could trust,” Reid added.

    “If this thing goes way south, autocracies go south real fast, and things get ugly, and people get asked to do things, and turn people in, and point people out, and turn on them,” she further garbled.

    “Autocracy and fascism are things that are legitimate to be afraid of. So you may want to step back,” Reid proclaimed.

    Imagine being this paranoid, thinking that everything you don’t agree with is fascism.

    Imagine permanently believing you’re going to be rounded up and thrown into a camp by imaginary MAGA jackboots.

    It’s completely mental.

    Reid also made similar remarks on her show last week while interviewing Dr. Amanda Calhoun, a third-year Psychiatry Resident at Yale School of Medicine who suggested that people avoid their own family members following Trump’s victory.

    When Reid is inevitably fired, whether Elon Musk decides to become her boss or not, this is all you’ll see of her. Deranged selfie rant videos filmed on her iPhone from her living room.

    Something to look forward to.

    * * *

    Your support is crucial in helping us defeat mass censorship. Please consider donating via Locals or check out our unique merch. Follow us on X @ModernityNews.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 16:20

  • Matt Taibbi: America's Loss Of Trust In Media Can't Be Fixed
    Matt Taibbi: America’s Loss Of Trust In Media Can’t Be Fixed

    Submitted by QTR’s Fringe Finance

    This weekend I had the great pleasure of interviewing my friend Matt Taibbi.

    Taibbi is the head of Racket News and his reputation as a fearless investigative journalist precedes him. From his groundbreaking coverage of the 2008 financial crisis to his more recent explorations of censorship with the Twitter Files, politics, systemic inequality and the inner workings of Congress, Taibbi’s body of work reflects a deep commitment to uncovering truths and challenging conventional narratives.

    In our interview this weekend, we discussed:

    • The shift in media landscape toward independent journalism.

    • The results of the 2024 Presidential Election

    • The evolving and extreme rhetoric in political media coverage.

    • Legal and ethical challenges mainstream media faces with libel and reporting accuracy.

    • Trust erosion in mainstream media and its implications.

    • Misrepresentation and consequences of media bias in election reporting.

    • The impact of identity politics on voter demographics and electoral outcomes.

    • Concerns over institutional accountability in censorship and government actions.

    • The missing $1 trillion at the Pentagon every year

    • Escalation in the Russia/Ukraine war before President Biden leaves office

    The Rise of Independent Media

    Taibbi began by reflecting on his fondness for platforms like Substack, which have provided a haven for writers marginalized by corporate media. “We need a space for independent writers,” he said. “This company has been good about protecting free speech, and it’s shown that it can work financially for certain kinds of figures.”

    As the conversation delved deeper, Taibbi underscored the urgency of creating viable alternatives to legacy media. “The media landscape has shifted dramatically,” he observed, pointing to Hugh Hewitt’s recent move to Substack as part of a larger trend. “It’s an accelerating shift towards independent and alternative media,” he noted, emphasizing how disillusionment with mainstream outlets has driven audiences elsewhere.

    Mainstream Media’s Trust Deficit

    A recurring theme was the erosion of trust in mainstream outlets. Taibbi lambasted their sensationalism, particularly during the Trump and Russiagate years. “They got out of the habit of careful reporting,” he remarked. “For years, they were saying things without fear of blowback. But now, it’s coming home to roost.”

    He cited the infamous case of The View issuing a legal disclaimer mid-broadcast as an example of recklessness creeping into established media. “For the first time in years, they realized they actually have to follow libel law on television.”

    Asked about media’s relentless hyperbole, Taibbi quipped, “We went from ‘his policies are bad’ to ‘he’s literally Hitler’ in about 18 months. And they’re still doing it.” He described this phenomenon as part of a broader “moral panic,” comparing it to the media frenzy around COVID-19.

    Censorship and the Battle for Free Speech

    The conversation shifted to censorship, a topic Taibbi has explored extensively through his reporting on the Twitter Files and government overreach. He described witnessing a chilling lack of accountability in bureaucratic institutions. “When Tulsi Gabbard’s story broke about her being on a surveillance list, it gave people a sense of hopelessness,” he said. “That she remained on the list even after the story broke shows there’s no institutional fear of blowback.”

    Taibbi expressed cautious optimism about the recent political shift. “With the FCC chair tweeting about addressing censorship, it feels like we’re getting back to the basics—like the First Amendment,” he noted. However, he also warned, “Time will tell if this is an illusory perception.”

    The New Media Ecosystem

    The rise of independent voices like Joe Rogan, who commands an audience exponentially larger than traditional news outlets, exemplifies the power of intellectual honesty, according to Taibbi. “It’s not about getting everything right,” he said. “It’s about admitting when you’re wrong and being willing to hear all sides of a story.”

    He critiqued the selective coverage of mainstream outlets. “Traditional media only talks to people who fit their standards of suitability,” he said. “Rogan will talk to anyone—from the far left to the far right—and audiences respect that humility.”

    The Future of Journalism

    As the interview concluded, Taibbi pondered whether mainstream media could regain public trust. “Trust is a human thing. It’s not something you can fix with money or algorithms,” he said. “People forgive mistakes, but only if you own them. When you don’t, you lose double.”

    Reflecting on the state of American democracy, he added, “This election was a massive repudiation of the media. The public rejected their narrative—and that’s not something they can ignore forever.”

    In an era defined by skepticism and fragmentation, Taibbi’s insights served as both a critique and a roadmap for the future of journalism. His call to action was clear: a return to integrity, accountability, and, above all, trust.

    Russia Ukraine Escalation

    Taibbi offered sharp observations on the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing the media’s role and the complexities of international relations. One notable quote captures his critique of U.S. media: “We’ve seen a constant escalation in the rhetoric, where every misstep or diplomatic hiccup gets amplified into a catastrophic headline.” He suggests that the media environment exacerbates global tensions by prioritizing sensationalism over nuanced understanding.

    Taibbi also underscores the importance of considering historical and cultural contexts when discussing Russia’s actions, stating, “You can’t look at Putin’s moves in isolation; they’re part of a broader strategy tied to historic grievances and a long-standing opposition to NATO expansion.” This reflects his broader critique of Western policies, where he sees a failure to account for the geopolitical ramifications of military alliances and interventions.

    Finally, he criticizes the lack of open dialogue in global politics, stating, “The refusal to engage in direct talks or acknowledge valid security concerns only fuels the fire.” For Taibbi, this highlights a critical gap in how conflicts like this are approached, with too much focus on confrontation and too little on diplomacy.

    Watch The Interview

    The full 1hr 30 min video interview with Matt can be found here. 

    QTR’s Disclaimer: Please read my full legal disclaimer on my About page here. This post represents my opinions only. In addition, please understand I am an idiot and often get things wrong and lose money. I may own or transact in any names mentioned in this piece at any time without warning. Contributor posts and aggregated posts have been hand selected by me, have not been fact checked and are the opinions of their authors. They are either submitted to QTR by their author, reprinted under a Creative Commons license with my best effort to uphold what the license asks, or with the permission of the author.

    This is not a recommendation to buy or sell any stocks or securities, just my opinions. I often lose money on positions I trade/invest in. I may add any name mentioned in this article and sell any name mentioned in this piece at any time, without further warning. None of this is a solicitation to buy or sell securities. I may or may not own names I write about and are watching. Sometimes I’m bullish without owning things, sometimes I’m bearish and do own things. Just assume my positions could be exactly the opposite of what you think they are just in case. If I’m long I could quickly be short and vice versa. I won’t update my positions. All positions can change immediately as soon as I publish this, with or without notice and at any point I can be long, short or neutral on any position. You are on your own. Do not make decisions based on my blog. I exist on the fringe. The publisher does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in this page. These are not the opinions of any of my employers, partners, or associates. I did my best to be honest about my disclosures but can’t guarantee I am right; I write these posts after a couple beers sometimes. I edit after my posts are published because I’m impatient and lazy, so if you see a typo, check back in a half hour. Also, I just straight up get shit wrong a lot. I mention it twice because it’s that important.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 15:10

  • Locations Of US & Russian Warships As World War III Threats Soar
    Locations Of US & Russian Warships As World War III Threats Soar

    Last week’s “major shift” in policy, which allowed the Biden-Harris team to green-light Ukraine’s attacks deep within Russian territory using US-made ATACMS and British-made Storm Shadow missiles, has forced Russia to lower its threshold for using nuclear weapons against Ukraine while also launching new hypersonic weapons.

    On Thursday, President Vladimir Putin issued a stern warning that Ukraine launching long-range missile strikes on Russia’s territory utilizing newly approved US and UK long-range missiles risks transforming the modern battlefield in Ukraine into a global war. 

    “A regional Ukraine conflict instigated by the West has acquired elements of a global one,” Putin spelled out and noted that these missiles cannot be used without the direct operational involvement of Western military specialists.

    No one genuinely anticipated that the outgoing Biden-Harris regime would escalate the war in Ukraine with Putin to the brink of a major broadening conflict. This suggests that the Biden-Harris team and the Military-Industrial Complex seek to broaden conflict before Trump takes office in late January.

    Days ago, Ukraine’s former military Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhny was quoted by Politico as saying: “I believe that in 2024 we can absolutely believe that the Third World War has begun.”

    “Because in 2024, Ukraine is no longer facing Russia. Soldiers from North Korea are standing in front of Ukraine. Let’s be honest. Already in Ukraine, the Iranian ‘Shahedis’ are killing civilians absolutely openly, without any shame,” Zaluzhny continued, adding that North Korean and Chinese weapons are flying on the modern battlefield in Ukraine. 

    With the elevated risk of the war broadening, this new round of tension in Eastern Europe draws attention to the approximate positions of US Navy and Russian Navy assets worldwide.

    As of November 18, the US Naval Institute showed the approximate positions of the US Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world…

    Here’s more color on US naval asset positions worldwide:

    Ships Underway

    In Japan

    Amphibious warship USS America (LHA-6) is in port in Sasebo, Japan.

    In the Pacific

    Amphibious warship USS Boxer (LHD-4) departed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on Friday, according to ship spotters.

    Boxer has elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked.

    Aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) continues on its way to its new homeport of Yokosuka, Japan, as the Navy’s forward-deployed carrier assigned to US 7th Fleet.

    In Eastern Atlantic

    Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) is transiting en route to the Mediterranean after completing operations with allies and partners in the Norwegian Sea.

    Carrier Strike Group 8

    USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

    Carrier Air Wing 1

    • The “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.

    • The “Pukin’ Dogs” of VFA 143 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.

    • The “Sunliners” of VFA 81 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.

    • The “Knighthawks” of VFA 136 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.

    • The “Main Battery” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 144 – EA-18G – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.

    • The “Seahawks” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 126 – E-2D – from Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

    • The “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC) 40 Det. – C-2A – from Naval Station Norfolk.

    • The “Proud Warriors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72 – MH-60R – from Naval Station Norfolk.

    • The “Dragonslayers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11 – MH-60S – from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

    Cruiser

    USS Gettysburg (CG-64), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

    Destroyer Squadron 28

    Destroyer Squadron 28 is based in Naval Station Norfolk, Va., and is embarked on Harry S. Truman.

    • USS Stout (DDG-55), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

    The Wasp Amphibious Ready Group with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked deployed from the East Coast on June 1. The ARG consists of Wasp, USS New York (LPD-21) and USS Oak Hill (LSD-51).

    The 24th MEU is composed of a command element, Battalion Landing Team 1/8, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion 24 as the Logistics Combat Element.

    In the Eastern Mediterranean

    The Navy has two independently deployed guided-missile destroyers to the Eastern Mediterranean.

    • USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), homeported at Naval Station Rota, Spain. The destroyer is in port in Souda Bay, Greece

    • USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51), homeported at Naval Station Rota.

    In the Red Sea

    Navy Quartermaster folds the national ensign aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG-67) in the Central Command area of responsibility on November 13, 2024. US Navy Photo

    US ships continue to patrol the Red Sea as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, the U.S.-led multinational effort to protect merchant vessels moving through the region. Houthi forces in Yemen continue to attack merchant shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, while US naval forces in the region have continued strikes against Houthi weapons that US Central Command says are a threat to naval and merchant ships. Houthi forces say they are targeting ships with connections to the United Kingdom, the US and Israel or visit Israeli ports.

    Guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN-729) is operating in the Middle East. The Ohio-class submarine carries 154 Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles as well as special operations forces.

    As of Monday, the Navy has two independently deployed guided-missile destroyers in the Red Sea.

    • USS Cole (DDG-67), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.
    • USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.

    In the Persian Gulf

    US Coast Guard Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutters are forward-deployed to the region under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships with US and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East. Initially deployed in 2003 to support Operation Iraqi Freedom, PATFORSWA is now a permanent presence based out of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

    In the Indian Ocean

    The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is operating in the Indian Ocean. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered Abraham Lincoln and its attached destroyers to remain in the region as regional conflict intensified, according to a Pentagon statement.

    Carrier Strike Group 3

    Carrier

    USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), homeported at San Diego, Calif.

    Carrier Air Wing 9

    • The “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.

    • The “Black Aces” of VFA 41 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.

    • The “Black Knights” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 – F-35C – from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.

    • The “Vigilantes” of VFA 151 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.

    • The “Wizards” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 – EA-18G – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.

    • The “Wallbangers” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 117 – E-2D – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.

    • The “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC) 40 Det. – C-2A – from Naval Station Norfolk.

    • The “Raptors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 – MH-60R – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.

    • The “Chargers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 – MH-60S – from Naval Air Station North Island.

    Cruiser

    The carrier strike group did not deploy with a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser. Instead, USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG-121) assumed the cruiser role in the strike group, USNI News learned. USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112) is currently operating with the strike group but is an independent deployer.

    Destroyer Squadron 21

    Destroyer Squadron 21 is based in San Diego and is embarked on Abraham Lincoln.

    • USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported at Naval Station San Diego, Calif.

    • USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported at Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

    • USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG-121), homeported at Naval Station Pearl Harbor.

    • USS Spruance (DDG-111), homeported at Naval Station San Diego.

    • USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported at Naval Station San Diego.

    In Eastern Pacific

    On Monday afternoon, USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), with the Carrier Air Wing 2 embarked, departed for a deployment from California.

    Aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68) departed to San Diego, Calif., on Monday, according to ship spotters.

    Amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7) departed San Diego, Calif., on Tuesday, according to ship spot

    Aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) arrived in Bremerton, Wash., on Tuesday, according to ship spotters.

    In the Western Atlantic

    Aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is underway conducting routine operations in the Western Atlantic.

    Amphibious warship USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) returned to Norfolk, Va., on Friday, according to ship spotters.

    Aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) returned to Norfolk, Va., on Saturday, according to ship spotters.

    As for Russian naval assets, OSINT researcher Frederik Van Lokeren shared a map on X on Saturday. It highlights the locations of Russian warships across the Mediterranean (as of November 23). 

    “A period of heightened activity has ended with the vessels all present in the port of Tartus. The exception being Stereguschy class corvette Merkury which was reported in the Skagerrak between Denmark an Norway. The vessel most likely departed the Mediterranean directly following her port visit at Algiers, Algeria, during the previous week. Her passage at the Strait of Gibraltar went unnoticed by OSINT sources,” he wrote on his website “Russian Navy – News and Analysis.”

    President-elect Trump’s victory signals one critical mandate the American people have with Washington elites is no more wars. Yet, the outgoing administration is doing everything possible to derail Trump’s move once in the White House to end the war.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 14:35

  • Gov. Abbott Targets CCP Infiltration In Texas
    Gov. Abbott Targets CCP Infiltration In Texas

    Authored by Frank Fang via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),

    Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued two more executive orders targeting Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence in his state, after announcing an initial order on Nov. 18 aimed at protecting local dissidents from the Chinese regime’s harassment.

    Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a National Rifle Association event at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas on May 18, 2024. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

    Abbott signed Executive Order No. GA-49 on Nov. 20 to safeguard critical infrastructure from cyberattacks and issued Executive Order No. GA-48 on Nov. 19 to protect Texans from the CCP’s espionage operations.

    Executive Order No. GA-49 directs the Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Public Utility Commission of Texas to prepare for any potential cyberattacks aimed at the state’s critical infrastructure.

    Under Abbott’s order, the two agencies will create a task force to study potential vulnerabilities within government systems and critical infrastructure, run response simulations to cyberattacks, and put together a committee of state agencies to “simulate a restart of Texas’ electric grid in the event of a foreign attack,” according to a Wednesday statement.

    “China has made it clear that they can—and will—target and attack America’s critical infrastructure,” Abbott said in the statement. “Texas will continue to protect our critical infrastructure to ensure the safety of Texans from potential threats by the Chinese Communist Party or any hostile foreign government.”

    The order highlighted Volt Typhoon, one of China’s state-sponsored threat groups, and how it had targeted communications, energy, transportation, water, and wastewater systems in the United States and its territories.

    Volt Typhoon, which was dismantled by a multi-agency operation in January, had maintained “access and footholds within some victim IT environments for at least five years,” the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said in February.

    The order also cited FBI Director Christopher Wray’s warnings at the Vanderbilt Summit in Nashville in April, when he said that China “has made it clear that it considers every sector that makes our society run as fair game in its bid to dominate on the world stage.”

    ‘Hostile Foreign Actors’

    Executive Order No. GA-48 directs all state agencies and public institutions of higher education to “harden” their systems from potential infiltration by hostile nations, including more thorough background checks on state employees and contractors who can access critical infrastructure.

    Additionally, state agencies will be banned from contracting “companies owned or controlled by a foreign adversary government, and bidding companies must prove that “none of its holding companies or subsidiaries is owned by a foreign adversary government,” according to a Tuesday statement.

    Faculty members of higher education institutions are banned from taking part in “any foreign recruitment program by a foreign adversary nation,” such as China’s Thousand Talents Program, according to the statement.

    The Thousand Talents Program is one of many talent recruitment initiatives the Chinese regime has maintained for decades to attract overseas Chinese and foreign experts to work in China’s science and tech sectors. Through these programs, the CCP hopes to quickly turn China into an industrial and innovation powerhouse and ultimately outperform Western countries.

    The FBI warns on its website that Chinese talent programs pose threats to U.S. national security and usually involve “undisclosed and illegal transfers” of U.S. intellectual property to the Chinese side.

    “The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported that the Chinese government has actively targeted local and state officials as part of their strategy to undermine the national security of the United States,” Abbott said in a statement.

    “Hardening our state government is critical to protect Texans from hostile foreign actors who may attempt to undermine the safety and security of Texas and the nation.”

    As an example of the CCP’s infiltration, Abbott’s order pointed to the recent indictment against Linda Sun, former deputy chief of staff to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul. Sun was charged with spying for Beijing.

    Another name mentioned in the order is Christine Fang, a suspected Chinese intelligence agent who Abbott’s office said “developed deep connections” with California’s political figures and national politicians.

    ‘Texas Is Leading the Charge’

    On Monday, when Abbott announced Executive Order No. GA-47, the FBI’s field office in Houston took to the social media platform X to urge victims to come forward.

    “The government of the [People’s] Republic of China (PRC) may be cyberstalking, physically intimidating, and harassing Chinese citizens, naturalized U.S. citizens, and families of dissidents who speak [out] against the Chinese Communist Party in Texas,” the office wrote.

    Under Abbott’s order, the Texas Department of Public Safety will target and arrest any individual found to be engaging in CCP influence operations within the state.

    Washington-based advocacy group Campaign for Uyghurs took to X on Monday to applaud the governor’s decision, saying that CCP continues to carry out its “nefarious practice” of transnational repression in Texas.

    An example of Beijing’s transnational repression came to light in April last year, when two Chinese nationals were charged with allegedly establishing a secret police station in Manhattan in coordination with China’s Ministry of Public Security.

    Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued a statement on Wednesday applauding Abbott’s leadership.

    “Texas is leading the charge in combating the CCP with the help of Governor Abbott’s leadership,” McCaul stated. “We cannot sit idly by while China attempts to infiltrate our country and harm U.S. national security.

    “These executive orders send a strong message of deterrence to the CCP: Don’t mess with Texas.”

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 14:00

  • Bombshell Fauci Documentary Nails The Whole COVID Charade
    Bombshell Fauci Documentary Nails The Whole COVID Charade

    With the changing of the guard, it’s time for long-promised accountability over the unprecedented COVID scam. Not only has Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) promised to hold feet to the fire as the head of the Senate’s government oversight panel, we may actually have a shot at a special counsel investigation and more with Trump’s incoming Attorney General pick, Pam Bondi – a loyalist who’s on record supporting the lab-leak hypothesis.

    As regular readers vividly recall, ZeroHedge paid a hefty price for our early reporting on the pandemic, after we suggested that a Chinese lab playing weaponized God with bat COVID might have “something to do” with the COVID outbreak across town.

    Millions in ad revenue evaporated. Corporate media (brought to you by Pfizer!) penned numerous hit-pieces, and various companies such as PayPal, Amazon and Mailchimp dropped us like a hot rock; other outlets suffered similarly. However brave reporting from journalists like Matt Taibbi, Michael Shellenberger, Paul Thacker and Lee Fang – armed with factual evidence from Elon Musk’s purchase of Twitter (now X) and various FOIA lawsuits, has provided more than just breadcrumbs.

    Now, four years later, the entire charade has been exposed piece by piece.

    A new must-watch documentary by two-time Peabody Award-winning and four-time Emmy nominated director Jenner Furst, a self-described progressive who has broken with the Democratic party, ties it all together.

    Thank You, Dr. Fauci

    In early 2020, Furst was contacted to direct a puff piece on former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) director Dr. Anthony Fauci. The project was scrapped, however three years later, Furst began investigating what actually happened and created “Thank You, Dr. Fauci” – a project which has received virtually no press coverage, and even Rotten Tomatoes critics won’t touch.

    If you’re thinking ‘you had me at Fauci’ and just want to watch it, a free preview of “Thank You, Dr. Fauci”  is available, and the film can be rented directly on the film’s website, or by using Vimeo On-Demand or Gathr. People can also use Gathr to Book Private Screenings and Partner on TVOD Sales.

    If you’re like Elon Musk and you believe that  ‘Prosecute / Fauci’ should be your pronouns, this is what you need to watch to understand why we should prosecute Fauci.

    Heavily Censored

    While it’s difficult enough to find “Thank You, Dr. Fauci” thanks to search engine shadowbans and downrankings, perhaps the most notable form of censorship is the ongoing media blackout of the film according to Furst – whose previous work has been heavily reviewed, critically acclaimed, and streamed across Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, and Paramount.

    But not this one.

    “The media blackout of the film just proves that the real Covid story is still highly censored,” Furst told ZeroHedge, adding “Journalists still can’t cover Covid truthfully at major outlets, and the problem is way bigger than them or their editors. The most powerful lobbies on the planet, and the weight of the US government is still sitting on the free press like an 800 pound gorilla.”

    Elon to the rescue?

    Given the level of censorship the film has been subject to, Furst firmly believes that a massive free speech platform such X would be ideal to get the word out – if even for a couple of days.

    “I feel like Elon could change this conversation overnight, the country is divided only due to the success of propaganda on the left. No democrat can sit thru this movie and see Fauci or the pandemic the same way again. That’s why MSM doesn’t want to acknowledge this,” Furst told ZeroHedge.

    The documentary features notable figures at the heart of the pandemic response, including Dr. Robert Redfield – the former director of the CDC during the outbreak – who was completely shut out of Anthony Fauci’s inner circle while the NIAID boss and top virologists conspired via secret back channels to shape the narrative around COVID origins. Also featured are former State Department COVID investigator David Asher, and Richard Ebright – a Rutgers molecular biologist who’s spent years pushing back against the Fauci wagon-circling by the scientific community.

    COVID Origins

    As the pandemic gripped headlines around the world, the scientific community positioned Fauci – and eventually the Covid vaccines themselves – against Donald Trump, who was open to both the lab-leak theory and alternative treatments such as ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine.

    ‘Thank You, Dr. Fauci’ details the scramble at the highest levels to come up with a narrative that wouldn’t implicate Fauci – or the US Government, for funding decades of research dedicated to enhancing deadly viruses.

    Fauci’s top advisors – who initially believed the virus looked manmade, crafted and promoted the narrative that COVID-19 most likely jumped from bats to humans through an intermediary species, “probably at a wet market,” Fauci repeatedly insisted.

    The lab-leak theory was condemned as a conspiracy theory by the very scientists conducting gain-of-function research, completely ignoring the fact that the virus emerged across town from an NIH-funded facility in Wuhan, China that was creating chimeric bat COVID, where several workers fell ill with a mysterious respiratory virus weeks before the disease spread like wildfire.

    HIV Insertions and DEFUSE

    ‘Thank You Dr. Fauci’ highlights a preprint study from India which found HIV-like insertions in COVID-19 which appeared manmade (and which got ZeroHedge kicked off of Twitter after Fauci’s damage control ‘conclave’ freaked out).

    While the Indian preprint was retracted amid immense political pressure to push the ‘natural origin’ hypothesis and ‘conspiricize’ the lab-leak theory, a leaked proposal known as “DEFUSE” – to create an aerosolized chimeric bat COVID that could infect humans, could potentially explain what the Indian researchers observed.

    While DEFUSE was ultimately rejected by DARPA, it’s entirely possible that Ecohealth Alliance – the nonprofit which received NIH contracts to conduct GoF research after the Obama admin banned it in 2014 – simply went ahead with it anyway.

    Critical Questions

    ‘Thank You, Dr. Fauci’ raises many critical questions that will come into focus next year under the gavel of Rand Paul:

    • Was the pandemic that killed millions and cost trillions of dollars the consequence of scientific arrogance and spy games?
    • How did the Anthrax hoax of 2001 create unchecked power for Anthony Fauci?
    • Why hasn’t Fauci ever acknowledged that hoax, which resulted in then-Vice President  Dick Cheney giving him billions to fund perhaps the most dangerous research on the planet?
    • What is the real purpose of Gain-of-Function research?
    • Are past outbreaks potentially scientific accidents which were covered up?
    • What is Long Covid, and why are people suffering vaccine injuries with similar symptoms?
    • Will a lab-generated Bird Flu be the next chapter?
    • Are nameless scientists – in the US, China or elsewhere – quietly working on a new global pandemic?

    Meanwhile, the intelligence community continues to cover up the origins of the pandemic, which is why widespread distribution of this work is that much more important.

    Putting it all together, ​once the general public comes to understan that Covid was likely the product of US research offshored to a French-built lab in Wuhan, China, which resulted in millions of deaths and trillions in debt, not to mention runaway inflation which has crushed incumbent political powers around the globe, the charade will finally be over and the era of accountability must begin.

    Again, watch ‘Thank You Dr. Fauci’ here…

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 13:25

  • How Crypto Won The 2024 Election
    How Crypto Won The 2024 Election

    Authored by Austin Alonzo via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),

    Although President-elect Donald Trump and the Republican Party swept the 2024 general election, the cryptocurrency industry feels it is the real winner.

    Illustration by The Epoch Times, Getty Images, Freepik

    Powered by donations from some of the biggest figures in cryptocurrency and venture capital, three political action committees poured more than $100 million into efforts to influence the 2024 election.

    “This election was a huge win for crypto,” co-founder and CEO of Coinbase Global Inc. Brian Armstrong wrote on Nov. 7 in an article on X.

    Coinbase, a cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2012, donated about $55 million to the super PAC Fairshake, according to Federal Election Commission records. Armstrong personally donated $1 million.

    As Armstrong wrote, the industry had much to celebrate in early November. It saw its preferred candidates take the White House and win key seats in both houses of Congress. He declared that the 119th Congress will be the “most pro-crypto Congress ever.”

    In his message, Coinbase’s leader wrote something that is usually implied but rarely said in the world of political spending, too.

    “[Washington] received a clear message that being anti-crypto is a good way to end your career,” Armstrong said.

    10 Cents to $89,000

    Twenty years ago, few people had heard of cryptocurrency—a term used to refer to decentralized digital currencies as opposed to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) that are controlled and backed by a government or central bank. One week after the Nov. 5 election, a Bitcoin was trading for more than $89,000. Gold, by comparison, traded for about $2,600 an ounce on the same day.

    Between 2007 and 2009, a person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto conceived of and launched Bitcoin. It was a new type of digital money secured via encryption technology. Unlike traditional currency, Bitcoin can transfer value online without a bank or a payment processor. It is not backed by any government, central bank fiat currency, or physical asset.

    Bitcoin began as an obscure novelty worth less than 10 cents per token. However, its price has exploded in the last decade, creating significant public interest in the digital asset. According to the crypto website Coinranking, as of Nov. 13, Bitcoin’s market capitalization was about $1.83 trillion.

    Nevertheless, public opinion polling shows that a majority of Americans are not confident in cryptocurrency as an investment. A Pew Research Center study published in October found that just 5 percent of the people it surveyed in February said they were “very” or “extremely” confident in the reliability and safety of cryptocurrency.

    A Bitcoin chart is displayed on a laptop screen in Austin, Texas, on Nov. 12, 2024. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

    The same report found that 17 percent of Americans have ever invested in, traded, or used a cryptocurrency. As an investment, about 38 percent of respondents said cryptocurrency has done “worse than expected.”

    Rick Claypool, the research director in the president’s office of Public Citizen, told The Epoch Times that cryptocurrency, generally, is an extremely volatile investment vehicle without any intrinsic value—one that is now very risky for the average investor.

    Public Citizen, founded in 1971, is a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization. In May, it published a report describing the cryptocurrency industry’s investment in politics as part of a “strategy of combating enforcement crackdowns and designing a regulatory system that meets the industry’s specifications.”

    Regulators Take Aim

    The growing use of cryptocurrency over the last decade, and concern about the consumer risks, has led to a rush to begin regulating the fast-growing industry.

    The swift rise and fall of Sam Bankman-Fried and his cryptocurrency exchange FTX highlighted the potential for fraud in a lightly regulated sector of the economy.

    In March, Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison and ordered to pay $11 billion in forfeiture for what the U.S. Department of Justice called his “orchestration of multiple fraudulent schemes.” Bankman-Fried was accused of stealing more than $8 billion of his customer’s money through FTX and Alameda Research, a cryptocurrency trading firm he founded.

    Bankman-Fried was initially arrested in the Bahamas and extradited to the United States, where he was charged with multiple fraud offenses, in December 2022. FTX collapsed in November 2022.

    A year earlier, Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Gary Gensler asked the Senate’s Banking Housing and Urban Affairs Committee for additional resources to begin addressing regulatory concerns surrounding the cryptocurrency industry. In that testimony, he said the entire crypto asset class was “rife with fraud, scams, and abuse.”

    Under Gensler, who was appointed commissioner by President Joe Biden in April 2021, the SEC views most crypto assets as securities. Since 2022, the SEC has charged multiple firms with violating federal securities law by offering and selling unregistered securities.

    Securities and Exchange Commission chair Gary Gensler listens during a meeting with the Treasury Department’s Financial Stability Oversight Council at the Treasury Department in Washington on Oct. 3, 2022. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    As recently as Oct. 9, when he appeared at a conference at the New York University School of Law, Gensler said he continues to view the crypto industry as a hotbed of “fraudsters,” “grifters,” and “scams.”

    Gensler’s actions made him the crypto industry’s top political enemy, Claypool said.

    Election Targets

    In 2024, the industry began spending on political causes through three linked committees: Fairshake, Defend American Jobs, and Protect Progress. Claypool said while these PACs were founded and funded by crypto, none of the advertisements and political messaging they paid for said anything about cryptocurrency or a candidate’s positions on financial regulations.

    Fairshake was launched in May 2023. According to federal records, within its first six months, it received donations of $1 million or more from Armstrong, Coinbase, and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz’s co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz. By the end of 2023, it had raised about $85.7 million.

    Representatives of Coinbase, Andreessen, and Horowitz did not respond to a request for comment from The Epoch Times.

    According to its latest FEC disclosure, covering its activities through Oct. 16, the PAC raised about $118.4 million and spent about $153.3 million in 2024. Its top donors were Coinbase, executives at Andreessen Horowitz, and Ripple Labs Inc.

    Representatives of Ripple did not respond to a request for comment from The Epoch Times.

    Fairshake’s most significant independent expenditures against a single candidate, totaling more than $10 million, went toward opposing Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) in her bid to replace outgoing Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.). Porter lost in the state’s Democratic Party primary to Senator-elect Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) in March.

    Ahead of Porter’s primary, a new political group called the Stand With Crypto Alliance emerged. In its inaugural release, dated Feb. 7, Stand With Crypto said it planned to launch a “candidate questionnaire and voter education program” in California.

    Read the rest here…

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 12:50

  • Mysterious Drone Swarms Detected Over UK Airbases Hosting US Stealth Jets
    Mysterious Drone Swarms Detected Over UK Airbases Hosting US Stealth Jets

    The growing presence of mysterious drone swarms at or near US military bases has become a significant cause for concern. Reports suggest these unmanned aerial systems have now been spotted over British military installations.

    The Guardian reports that drone swarms have been spotted over three UK airbases: RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, and RAF Feltwell in Norfolk between last Wednseday and Friday.  

    The US 48th Fighter Wing is stationed at RAF Lakenheath. This base is home to the only F-15 wing in Europe, which includes two F-15E Strike Eagle squadrons and two F-35A Lightning II squadrons.

    A spokesperson for USAF in Europe said it is unclear if the drones were “considered hostile.” The spokesperson did not say if any counter-drone technologies were used during the incident but said the USAF retains “the right to protect” installations. 

    “We can confirm that small unmanned aerial systems [UASs] were spotted in the vicinity of and over RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall and RAF Feltwell between 20 and 22 November. The number of UASs fluctuated and they ranged in size [and] configuration.

    “The UASs were actively monitored and installation leaders determined that none of the incursions impacted base residents or critical infrastructure.

    “To protect operational security, we do not discuss our specific force protection measures but retain the right to protect the installation. We continue to monitor our airspace and are working with host-nation authorities and mission partners to ensure the safety of base personnel, facilities and assets,” the spokesperson said.

    The UK incident came just days after a drone swarm on Tuesday in Morris County, New Jersey, caused alarm because it was down the street from the military research and manufacturing facility Picatinny Arsenal.

    There have been other reports of drone swarms across some of America’s most sensitive national security sites, including Langley Air Force Base on Virginia’s shoreline late last year. 

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 12:15

  • Waste Of The Day: Federal Dept. HHS Goes All-In On DEI
    Waste Of The Day: Federal Dept. HHS Goes All-In On DEI

    Authored by Jeremy Portnoy via RealClearInvestigations,

    Topline: Under President Joe Biden, the Department of Health and Human Services has created a “diversity, equity and inclusion” infrastructure of dizzying complexity. 

    The agency’s 2025 budget request contains the word “equity” 829 times, adding onto a dollar total that is already impossible to fully tabulate.

    Key facts: HHS employed at least 294 DEI staffers at a cost of $38.7 million last year, according to a new report from OpenTheBooks.com. There were 247 with salaries above $100,000.

    It can be difficult to grasp just how bureaucratic HHS’ DEI system truly is. The agency-wide “Office of EEO, Diversity & Inclusion” has 92 employees. Within that are seven more DEI offices for specific health agencies like the Food and Drug Administration.

    Some of the smaller offices have several more divisions. The National Institutes of Health’s “Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion” has yet another “Diversity & Inclusion Division,” a marketing team, a customer outreach team and more.

    The DEI expenses do not stop there. 

    The agency has $5 million budgeted for its “Office of Climate Change and Health Equity” and the “Office of Environmental Justice.” Another $5 million will go toward “diversifying the doula workforce.”

    The Health Resources and Services Administration received $102 million this year for “training for diversity.” A third of it is to help universities “enhance the academic performance of minorities.”

    The NIH plans to spend $241 million over nine years on its FIRST program, which pays universities to weigh a candidate’s “commitment to diversity” as equal to their academic ability when hiring scientists. 

    Even the NIH’s $1.2 billion “Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies” program now has an “emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the research community,” according to its budget request.

    Search all federal, state and local government salaries and vendor spending with the AI search bot, Benjamin, at OpenTheBooks.com. 

    Background: DEI has also transformed HHS’ seven Offices of Minority Health, which have 207 employees earning $29.4 million in total. Add that to the $38.7 million from the general DEI staff at HHS, and pay is $68 million.

    The Offices of Minority Health have existed since 1985, but once Biden took office, he directed them to focus on “addressing historical and contemporary injustices.”

    Quickly, the Center for Disease Control’s Office of Minority Health renamed itself to the Office of Health Equity and “declared racism a serious public health threat.”

    Critical quote: “In medical research, lives depend on putting excellence first. The NIH distorts that value, subordinating it to political ideology and endangering those it’s supposed to serve,” National Association of Scholars fellow John Sailer wrote in the Wall Street Journal.

    Summary: Political agendas from the left or the right have no place in science and medicine. 

    The #WasteOfTheDay is brought to you by the forensic auditors at OpenTheBooks.com

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 11:40

  • Iran Announces Expanded Nuclear Enrichment After IAEA Rebuke
    Iran Announces Expanded Nuclear Enrichment After IAEA Rebuke

    Authored by Jason Ditz via AntiWar.com,

    In a 19-3 vote with 12 abstentions, the IAEA agreed to rebuke Iran for a “lack of cooperation.” The vote was driven by the US, UK, and their allies. Russia and China both voted against the resolution, along with Burkina Faso.

    The timing of the decision was particularly unfortunately, coming just days after IAEA chief Rafael Grossi’s visit to Iran, during which Iran agreed to measures designed to keep their stockpile of high-enriched uranium from growing. Iran also promised to ensure that it’s highest enrichment levels remain 60% or below, which is below the 90% level needed to make weapons.

    All that raised hope among officials actually invested in the safeguard efforts. The US-led effort for censure seems, as always, to underscore that Iran cannot take any steps that would satisfy them. Angered by the IAEA rebuke, Iran is promising a response.

    Centrifuges in an Iranian nuclear plant. Image: Tasnim News Agency

    A joint statement by Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization and Foreign Ministry announced they will take new measures, including bringing newer, more advanced centrifuges online. Such moves would of course be reversible, if the international community became more willing to negotiate and comply with the existing P5+1 nuclear deal.

    That seems unlikely in the near term. Though the P5+1 deal is nominally still in effect, the US withdrew from it in 2018, after repeated condemnations by President Trump. Since

    Trump’s return to office in imminent, it seems unlikely that the administration will be any more willing to make a deal than they were the last time.

    Iran is trying to assure that the new measures are only related to enrichment, which again remains well below the level of weapons-grade uranium. The statement issued also assured that Iran will continue with safeguard and technical cooperation with the IAEA, as it had previously agreed.

    In the end, the IAEA censure is less about anything Iran is doing than about continuing the narrative of the “Iranian nuclear threat.”

    That this is the second time this year that the IAEA has voted on such a measure despite there being no real change in Iran’s policy or action.

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    The US intelligence community has repeatedly confirmed that Iran has not decided to make a nuclear weapon. Seemingly every Iranian earthquake leads hawks to speculate a secret detonation has taken place, however, and the fear-mongering continues.

    Tyler Durden
    Sun, 11/24/2024 – 10:30

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