Attacks on Democracy

January 6th, election interference, acts of authoritarianism, voter suppression, and systematic undermining of democratic institutions.

1799

Stories

The world order we're leaving behind may be replaced by no order at all - The Guardian

The world order we're leaving behind may be replaced by no order at all - The Guardian

The article discusses the decline of the post-World War II US-led international order, with global leaders acknowledging a shift toward a more fragmented and transactional world driven by great power rivalry, especially between the US and China. Experts warn that building a new, rules-based multilateral system may be unlikely, leading to a future characterized by uncoordinated, bilateral deals, increased vulnerabilities, and diminished global cooperation. The collapse of the existing architecture could result in a world of divided spheres of influence, with weaker nations facing limited autonomy and increased risks, ultimately undermining global prosperity and stability.

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Noem swipes at Democrats over DHS shutdown after DC emergency declaration for Potomac spill

Noem swipes at Democrats over DHS shutdown after DC emergency declaration for Potomac spill

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized Democratic lawmakers for blocking funding for the department amidst a government shutdown and a federal disaster declaration for Washington, D.C., following a sewage spill in the Potomac River. President Trump approved emergency assistance to aid cleanup efforts, with FEMA and EPA coordinating federal response efforts, despite ongoing political disagreements over DHS funding and reform demands.

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Trump withdraws endorsement of Colorado Rep. Jeff Hurd, cites 'lack of support' on tariffs

Trump withdraws endorsement of Colorado Rep. Jeff Hurd, cites 'lack of support' on tariffs

President Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Colorado Republican Rep. Jeff Hurd after Hurd voted against Trump's tariffs on Canada, citing a lack of support for the tariffs. Trump is now endorsing Hurd’s primary opponent, Hope Scheppelman, who supports Trump's trade policies. Hurd’s vote was to terminate tariffs on Canada, which Trump criticized as harmful to American interests, and Trump has warned other Republican lawmakers against opposing his tariffs.

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If passed, SAVE act could create challenges, confusion for Nevada voters - Las Vegas Sun

If passed, SAVE act could create challenges, confusion for Nevada voters - Las Vegas Sun

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the SAVE Act, which would require voters to present documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register and at the polls, including a national photo ID, potentially making voting more burdensome and disproportionately affecting rural, minority, and elderly voters. Critics argue the legislation could lead to voter suppression, complicate registration processes, and cause logistical challenges, particularly in states like Nevada with vast rural areas. The bill faces uncertain prospects in the Senate, with concerns over legal conflicts and increased administrative hurdles.

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This absurd spectacle provided a brief respite from Trump's horror show - Raw Story

This absurd spectacle provided a brief respite from Trump's horror show - Raw Story

The article contrasts the dishonesty displayed by Attorney General Pam Bondi during congressional testimony under the Trump administration with the honest, heartfelt storytelling of playwright Ronnie Larsen. The author describes Bondi’s dismissive behavior as indicative of a broader decline in accountability and integrity in U.S. politics, while praising Larsen’s theatrical work for exemplifying truth and human connection as a means of healing. The piece underscores the importance of honesty in restoring trust and integrity in society amidst political dysfunction.

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Trump signals new tariffs plan. Here's how Section 122 works - Axios

Trump signals new tariffs plan. Here's how Section 122 works - Axios

Following a Supreme Court decision, President Trump indicated plans to use Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 to impose temporary tariffs, including a 10% tariff on all foreign goods, which would last up to 150 days before requiring Congressional approval. This act, never before invoked, allows the president to impose tariffs quickly during short-term emergencies but limits the duration and tariff levels, contrasting with broader powers under IEEPA. Trump also mentioned utilizing other trade laws, such as Section 301 and Section 232, to enforce tariffs and address unfair trade practices.

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Supreme Court tariff ruling: What is IEEPA, the law that Trump broke - Axios

Supreme Court tariff ruling: What is IEEPA, the law that Trump broke - Axios

The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that President Trump's tariffs, enacted using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), were illegal, stating that IEEPA does not authorize the president to impose tariffs unilaterally. The court emphasized that the Constitution grants Congress, not the President, the power to levy taxes and duties, and noted the lack of historical precedent for such sweeping tariffs under IEEPA. Following the ruling, Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on all countries, but questions remain about potential refunds to businesses and international responses.

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Trump's Own SCOTUS Justice Lashes His Illegal Power Grab - The Daily Beast

Trump's Own SCOTUS Justice Lashes His Illegal Power Grab - The Daily Beast

The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 ruling, declared that President Trump overstepped his authority in imposing widespread tariffs on foreign countries, using emergency powers without congressional approval. Justice Neil Gorsuch, one of Trump's appointees, criticized the president's move as an overreach of executive power and emphasized the importance of legislative deliberation. Trump's reaction was aggressive, calling the justices who ruled against him "lap dogs" and vowing to impose a 10% global tariff, while the ruling temporarily halted about $200 billion in tariff revenue.

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