Gotion – Studio Humanzee

Show Notes: Honey I Shrunk The AI Companion

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:24:01 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

The World Economic Forum is calling for more direct action to end the pending food crisis. Amazing how that is timed with Oregon and Idaho water restrictions and Michigan Avian Flu crisis. Want fries with the grasshopper burger?

Project LOC-NESS – Altar The Ocean To Remove CO2

https://insideclimatenews.org/news/10082025/ocean-carbon-removal-climate-change/

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions alone will not be enough to meet the 1.5-degree Celsius global warming target set by the Paris Agreement; active carbon removal from the atmosphere is urgently needed. While most carbon removal efforts have focused on land-based strategies, researchers are increasingly exploring ocean-based solutions, as oceans sequester 70 times more CO2 than terrestrial sources.

A key initiative is the LOC-NESS project, led by Adam Subhas of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, which is evaluating Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE). OAE involves adding alkaline substances, such as sodium hydroxide, to the ocean to boost its natural ability to neutralize acids and react with carbon dioxide to form stable bicarbonate, which can remain locked away for tens to hundreds of thousands of years. This method has the potential to remove carbon at the gigaton-per-year scale needed to supplement emissions reductions and also helps counter ocean acidification.

“Ocean alkalinity enhancement does have the potential to reach sort of gigatons per year of carbon removal, which is the scale at which you would need to supplement emissions reductions,” Subhas said. “Once the alkalinity is dissolved in seawater, it reacts with carbon dioxide and forms bicarbonate—essentially dissolved baking soda. That bicarbonate is one of the most stable forms of carbon in the ocean, and it can stay locked away for tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands of years.”

Woods Hole researchers are conducting the first “academic only” OAE experiment from a ship in U.S. waters in the Gulf of Maine’s Wilkinson Basin. This federally approved experiment, permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency, aims to test the safety and effectiveness of OAE on a small scale (removing an estimated 50 tons of CO2). The goal is to provide independent academic research to guide the growing private sector interest in marine carbon removal, ensuring it does not have negative environmental repercussions. To monitor the experiment, a nontoxic fluorescent red tracer dye will be released alongside the sodium hydroxide, and scientists will collect extensive data on ocean chemistry, nutrient levels, plankton populations, and water clarity for a week.

Subhas and his interdisciplinary team of chemists, biologists, engineers and physicists from Woods Hole have spent the last few years planning this experiment and conducting a series of trials at their lab on Cape Cod to ensure they can safely execute and effectively monitor the results of the open-water test they will conduct this summer in the Gulf of Maine.

They specifically tested the effects of sodium hydroxide—an alkaline substance also known as lye or caustic soda—on marine microbes, phytoplankton and copepods, a crucial food source for many marine species in the region in addition to the right whales. “We chose sodium hydroxide, because it’s incredibly pure,” Subhas said. It’s widely used in the U.S. to reduce acidity in drinking water.

It also helps counter ocean acidification, according to Subhas. “It’s like Tums for the ocean,” he said.

Ocean acidification occurs when the ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide, causing its pH to drop. This makes it harder for corals, krill and shellfish like oysters and clams to develop their hard calcium carbonate shells or skeletons.

Mentally Anguished Over Loss of Friendlier ChatGPT Models

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/08/chatgpt-users-outraged-as-gpt-5-replaces-the-models-they-love/

Users of ChatGPT are reportedly expressing outrage over recent updates, specifically the replacement of older, often perceived as “friendlier” or more capable, AI models with newer versions like GPT-5. Many feel that the newer models are less effective or enjoyable to interact with.

Complaints include that the updated models are more restrictive, less creative, and often provide overly cautious or generic responses, leading to a diminished user experience. This suggests a struggle to balance safety guidelines with user-desired functionality.

The backlash highlights the emotional connection users can develop with AI and the frustration when a beloved digital tool changes in unexpected ways. It underscores the challenges AI developers face in iteratively improving models while retaining desirable characteristics.

The Cost of AI Hallucinations – A Tool For Research Or A Tool For Big Tech To Keep Us On Their Platform

The emotional component embedded in AI’s responses acts as a social media affect, it entices us to remain engaged longer with the software.

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2025/08/with-ai-chatbots-big-tech-is-moving-fast-and-breaking-people/

The article discusses the significant repercussions when AI chatbots, rapidly deployed by tech giants, generate “hallucinations” or false information. This phenomenon, where AI confidently asserts incorrect facts, is a major concern.

Allan Brooks, a 47-year-old corporate recruiter, spent three weeks and 300 hours convinced he’d discovered mathematical formulas that could crack encryption and build levitation machines. According to a New York Times investigation, his million-word conversation history with an AI chatbot reveals a troubling pattern: More than 50 times, Brooks asked the bot to check if his false ideas were real. More than 50 times, it assured him they were.

Brooks isn’t alone. Futurism reported on a woman whose husband, after 12 weeks of believing he’d “broken” mathematics using ChatGPT, almost attempted suicide. Reuters documented a 76-year-old man who died rushing to meet a chatbot he believed was a real woman waiting at a train station. Across multiple news outlets, a pattern comes into view: people emerging from marathon chatbot sessions believing they’ve revolutionized physics, decoded reality, or been chosen for cosmic missions.

These vulnerable users fell into reality-distorting conversations with systems that can’t tell truth from fiction. Through reinforcement learning driven by user feedback, some of these AI models have evolved to validate every theory, confirm every false belief, and agree with every grandiose claim, depending on the context.

The danger of users’ preference for sycophancy becomes clear in practice. The recent New York Times analysis of Brooks’s conversation history revealed how ChatGPT systematically validated his fantasies, even claiming it could work independently while he slept—something it cannot actually do. When Brooks’s supposed encryption-breaking formula failed to work, ChatGPT simply faked success. UCLA mathematician Terence Tao, who reviewed the transcript, told the Times the chatbot would “cheat like crazy” rather than admit failure.

Elawn Sues Apple Over Grok AI Ranking, Alleges Favoring ChatGPT

Elon Musk’s xAI sues Apple and OpenAI, alleging anticompetitive collusion

“In a desperate bid to protect its smartphone monopoly, Apple has joined forces with the company that most benefits from inhibiting competition and innovation in AI: OpenAI, a monopolist in the market for generative AI chatbots,” the lawsuit reads, referring to Apple’s partnership with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its systems.

This lawsuit is part of a long series of disputes between Musk and Altman, who continue to throw public jabs at one another. Once a co-founder and co-chair of OpenAI, Musk has sued to block OpenAI’s transition into a for-profit company. He also submitted an unsolicited bid to take over OpenAI for $97.4 billion, which the company rejected.

This is a remarkable claim given what I have heard alleged that Elon does to manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like. https://t.co/HlgzO4c2iC
— Sam Altman (@sama) August 12, 2025

Why Is YouTube Testing AI Video Enhancements?

https://arstechnica.com/google/2025/08/youtube-secretly-tested-ai-video-enhancement-without-notifying-creators/

Is it a conspiracy? For months, YouTubers have been quietly griping that something looked off in their recent video uploads. Following a deeper analysis by a popular music channel, Google has now confirmed that it has been testing a feature that uses AI to artificially enhance videos. The company claims this is part of its effort to “provide the best video quality,” but it’s odd that it began doing so without notifying creators or offering any way to opt out of the experiment.

Google’s test raised eyebrows almost immediately after it began rolling out in YouTube Shorts earlier this year. Users reported strange artifacts, edge distortion, and distracting smoothness that gives the appearance of AI alteration. If you’ve ever zoomed in close after taking a photo with your smartphone only to notice things look oversharpened or like an oil painting, that’s the effect of Google’s video processing test

The Cost of Whitmer’s Renewable Energy

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/big-costs-little-benefit-mi-healthy-climate-plan-will-cost-michiganders-386b-by-2050/

A new report estimates that Michigan’s “Healthy Climate Plan,” a comprehensive strategy for transitioning to renewable energy, could impose an economic burden of $386 billion on Michiganders by the year 2050. This figure is presented as a substantial cost for the state’s residents and businesses.

The report suggests that these costs would manifest through various channels, including higher electricity bills, increased taxes, and economic impacts from changes in industrial practices. It argues that the plan’s benefits may not outweigh its significant financial outlay.

Critics of the plan, as highlighted in the article, contend that the ambitious renewable energy targets are not economically viable without severe consequences. The discussion focuses on the economic feasibility and consumer impact of large-scale green energy transitions.

Energy Bad Boys: True Cost To Renewables Under Feds

https://energybadboys.substack.com/p/reverse-uno-calculating-the-savings

- The Biden EPA’s envisioned MISO grid, heavily reliant on wind, solar, natural gas, and battery storage, was projected to incur a net cost increase of $404.1 billion through 2055.
- Crucially, the authors’ stress-testing revealed this modeled MISO grid to be “woefully unreliable,” predicting “massive and economically devastating blackouts”. Some blackouts could reach a maximum capacity shortfall of over 31,000 MW, affecting 22.5 percent of electricity demand.
- To achieve reliability while still meeting Biden EPA’s emissions rates, the authors created an “Avoiding Biden Blackouts” scenario. This required 196 GW of additional capacity, primarily wind, solar, battery storage, and natural gas, costing MISO ratepayers an additional $867.9 billion through 2055. This figure is presented as the “true cost” of the Biden administration’s final rules.

How States and Fed Balance Implementation with Moratorium

https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-takes-action-deny-californias-latest-illegal-power-grab-heavy-duty-vehicles

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially denied California’s request for a waiver that would allow the state to implement its own, more stringent emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks and vehicles. The EPA characterized California’s attempt to set its own rules as an “illegal power grab.”

This decision reinforces the federal government’s authority in establishing national emissions regulations, preventing individual states from creating a separate regulatory framework for these types of vehicles. It aims to maintain a uniform standard across the country.

The EPA’s action highlights the ongoing legal and political conflicts over environmental regulatory powers between states and the federal government. While the title alludes to balancing implementation with a moratorium, the article focuses on the federal denial of California’s request for independent emissions standards.

Converting Farm Land To Solar – 50,000 acres of Michigan farmland for potential solar power plant

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/08/global-investment-firm-buying-50000-acres-of-michigan-farmland-for-potential-solar-power-plant/

New York-based WisdomTree inked a $500 million deal to buy Ceres Partners LLC, a South Bend-based investment manager that specializes in food, agriculture and water resources, Crain’s Grand Rapids Business reports.

Ceres Partners’ Ceres Farms LLC includes $1.8 billion in assets in a farmland fund that owns 174,000 acres across 545 properties in a dozen states, including 187 in Michigan totaling 49,964 acres, mostly in the southwest area of the state.

“The data centers … serve as a real opportunity,” WisdomTree CFO Bryan Edmiston told investors in a conference call. “Data centers could attract valuations 10 times the current mark of a farm, meaning selling a farm in the portfolio at 10 times today’s value.”

The deal comes as communities across Michigan are pushing back on solar, wind and AI data center developments, resistance that compelled Democrats last year to shift siting authority over renewable energy projects from local elected officials to state bureaucrats appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

The change, which faces a legal challenge from 75 counties and other municipalities as well as efforts to repeal it in the state legislature, is designed to bolster Whitmer’s climate goal of 100% carbon neutrality by 2050.

From 2017 to 2022, the number of farms in Michigan declined by 4.32% to 45,581 farms, while the land use dropped by 292,021 acres to roughly 9.5 million total acres in that time, according to the 2025 Q1 Michigan Agricultural Market Analysis from Peoples Company.

Meanwhile, the average market value of land and buildings per farm over the same period increased by 20.29% to $1.1 million in 2022, and 18.65% to $5,879 per acre, according to the report. …

The most recent land value summary report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service from 2024 shows U.S. agricultural land values increasing at a rate that has not been seen in nearly a decade. The 2024 report showed Michigan’s average cropland values were at $5.87 per acre, an 8.3% increase from 2023. The appreciation rate exceeded the national average by 4.7%.

EPA Head Lee Zeldin Says His Agency Was Used to Funnel BILLIONS From the Inflation Reduction Act to Fmr. Obama & Biden Officials

“They decided to park $20 billion at an outside bank and … send the money through eight NGO’s … that were riddled with … conflicts of interest” pic.twitter.com/WDqXWUHIBh
— Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) August 20, 2025

Suing After Every Rain Storm

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/south-carolina-judge-tosses-climate-suit

A judge in South Carolina has dismissed a climate change lawsuit that sought to hold fossil fuel companies liable for climate-related damages. This ruling represents a setback for environmental groups and localities attempting to use litigation to address climate change impacts.

The lawsuit likely alleged that the companies’ contributions to greenhouse gas emissions caused or exacerbated local environmental problems. The judge’s decision to toss the suit may have been based on legal standing, causation arguments, or the proper venue for such complex issues.

This outcome highlights the ongoing challenges faced by climate litigation in U.S. courts. It suggests that judges remain skeptical about directly linking specific companies to broad climate phenomena and the resulting local damages, despite the ongoing proliferation of such lawsuits.

Darth Nessel Could Target Gas Stations With Lawsuit

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/ag-nessel-targets-michigan-oil-companies-while-her-office-drives-77-gas-fueled-vehicles/

When Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel sues Michigan oil companies, she could target many different entities, from oil pipeline operators to refineries to gas stations.

She announced her intention in May 2024 to sue by using third-party attorneys, Michigan Capitol Confidential reported. Lawsuits could target the largest gas station companies such as Speedway, Phillips 66, Shell, Marathon or Exxon-Mobil.

Ann Arbor has 38 registered gas stations, while Grand Rapids has 83 and Detroit has 348, per information the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development released in response to an open records request.

High Impact of Data Centers, But EVs Will Not?

https://www.mlive.com/environment/2025/08/data-centers-will-tax-great-lakes-water-resources-report-warns.html

A new report warns that the proliferation of data centers, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence, will place a significant strain on the Great Lakes region’s water resources. Data centers require massive amounts of water for cooling their vast computer systems.

The increased demand for water raises concerns about potential impacts on local water supplies, ecosystems, and the overall management of the Great Lakes. This highlights a previously underestimated environmental footprint of the burgeoning tech industry.

The article underscores the complex environmental challenges posed by advanced technology. While electric vehicles (EVs) are often promoted for their environmental benefits, this report points to the substantial resource demands of the digital infrastructure that underpins modern tech, including AI.

Show Notes: MEDC Mystery Tour With Thelen Boys & CCP

Show Notes: Michigan Mission – Gotion in Motion

Show Notes: Pure Michigan – The Beach

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:18:49 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

Yes, Pure Michigan, one of the lamest state sponsored ad campaigns ever produced to “attract” tourists to the state, has take a page from Seinfeld and is launching a fragrance that smells like the beach. Cosmo Kramer will be contacting his attorneys very.

Morning Mission returns with this story as well as the collapse of the Whitefish population due to the lake mussels that Dana Darth Nessel protected, yet another CCP operative apprehended in Flint, and an update on the CCP company Gotion flagrantly violating state laws.

Latest On Cultural Courage

The Beach: Pure Michigan Nonsense

We have suffered from the ads from Pure Michigan as the they are the most insipid, mind numbing incantations to go to sleep while we waste millions of the entity that creates the dumb content. But just when you thought government was dumb, it just gets dumber.

https://www.bridgemi.com/outdoors-life/pure-michigan-its-fragrance-now-state-launches-beach-themed-spray

The smell of Michigan summer is in the air, and apparently it’s now in a bottle, too.

Pure Michigan, the state’s tourism brand, announced Friday it’s teamed up with a custom perfumery to launch a new fragrance called FRESH, which promises to evoke “beachy vacation days in the Great Lakes State.”

It’s a partnership with Aroma Labs, which is selling a 4 oz spray that’s made in Michigan and available for purchase online or at the company’s stores in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Chicago.

The collaboration is expected to continue with future fragrances like HARVEST, FIRST SNOW and AWAKENING (think spring tulip blooms). A soy candle is in the works too, according to the company’s website.

“Our sense of smell has a unique ability to transport us in time and space,” Vice President of Pure Michigan Kelly Wolgamott said in a statement.

Michigan lawmakers last year approved $40 million in spending on the tourism campaign through September. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive budget proposes $26 million for Pure Michigan in the next fiscal year, while a separate Senate-approved plan proposes $21 million.

Amazingly It’s The Republicans Wanted to Increase the Budget

Damoose amendment seeks to boost Pure Michigan funding in state budget

“Pure Michigan represents the single greatest marketing effort of any state in the union. The message perfectly encapsulates what Michigan stands for and what we can offer to those who wish to experience our great state,” said Damoose, R-Harbor Springs. “From unmatched outdoor opportunities like camping, skiing, boating, golfing, hiking, fishing and so much more, Michigan is home to incredible natural resources that appeal to all types of travel enthusiasts.”

Is It Just Me Or Are the Rs Unable To Operate A Phone?

Kristi Noem is headed to Michigan to fearmonger about border security with...Canada.

The Trump administration's mass deportation boondoggle is nothing but security theater that actually make us LESS safe.

All to the tune of an additional $1 TRILLION in your taxpayer dollars. pic.twitter.com/WNsSeiNQM0
— Mallory McMorrow (@MalloryMcMorrow) June 19, 2025

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/mcmorrow-to-trump-leave-those-illegal-migrants-alone/

“Kristi Noem is headed to Michigan to fearmonger about border security with … Canada,” McMorrow wrote. “The Trump administration’s mass deportation boondoggle is nothing but security theater that actually make us LESS safe. All to the tune of an additional $1 TRILLION in your taxpayer dollars.”

“Right now, the Trump administration is going after people who have not committed any egregious crimes,” she said. “Like an 18-year-old student just three credits away from high school graduation here in Michigan.”

She contends “we need a commitment to public safety that’s rooted in reality, not political theater.”

“We should absolutely be focusing all of our efforts on keeping violent criminals off of the streets so that we can keep our communities safe,” McMorrow said. “But rounding up parents dropping their kids off at school, or workers waiting in the parking lot at a Home Depot, none of that is actually keeping us safe.”

Antim County, MI. FYI. pic.twitter.com/SNclQDHvfk
— Izzy Lyman (@IzzyLyman) June 23, 2025

Zohran Mamdani has announced he wants to implement government-owned supermarkets in NYC.
He is literally trying to implement communism in New York. New Yorkers need to get out to vote.

News link:https://t.co/qws8JWkbsV #usa #ZohranMamdani pic.twitter.com/tyyiIZCPek
— Rose R. Harris (@AbdullaalY61898) June 24, 2025

https://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2025/06/a_shock_poll_suggests_that_the_marxist_muslim_zohran_mamdani_will_be_new_york_s_next_mayor.html

Uganda-born, East Asian Indian Muslim, who is an open Marxist. If elected, he promises to implement a full roster of socialist-style policies, some of which are as follows:

A full freeze on rents, plus building more public housing (presumably to offset the inevitable diminution in available units)
“Free” public transportation (a charge on taxpayers)
Universal public childcare
A $30 minimum wage by 2030 (which will destroy small businesses and increase reliance on AI and robotics)
Wealth taxes to fund all his socialist policies (reminding me of the old saying, often attributed to Margaret Thatcher, that “The problem with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people’s money”)
City-owned grocery stores (imagine buying your food from the DMV)
The usual “defund the police in favor of social workers” crime policy (the kind of stuff that caused Democrat cities’ homicide rates to soar)
$65 million for “gender-affirming care” (don’t get me started)
Fund illegal aliens and provide them with sanctuary (something that ought to stop all federal funds to NYC)

Zohran Mamdani announces he'll launch government-run supermarkets in NYC if elected mayor.pic.twitter.com/GTUel49zKR
— Thomas Sowell Quotes (@ThomasSowell) June 23, 2025

Another Socialist From Michigan Wants To Allow Riots

The Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act, revealed first to The Hill, comes after the Trump administration deployed hundreds of Marines and more than 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles earlier this month amid unrest over the president’s immigration agenda.

“President Trump has shown a disturbing pattern of disregard for the Constitution and due process. This month, he made it harder for local law enforcement to do their jobs in California by unlawfully deploying our military on U.S. soil — further escalating tension and violence,” Stevens said in a statement.

“We must stand up to Donald Trump’s chaos and destruction, which is why I am introducing this legislation to limit his powers and make sure he cannot deploy troops on U.S. soil for his political gain. We are a nation of laws and it’s about time the President begins to follow them.”

According to Stevens’s office, the legislation would add the language into the Insurrection Act of 1807 and only apply to duties connected to peaceful demonstrations.

Election Fraud In Michigan

This should be interesting...who's up for some 9am popcorn?

The very fact that she is finally appearing before the MI House Oversight Committee indicates that her campaign for Governor is not going well and she is feeling the heat from her attempted election-related cover-ups.… https://t.co/HURedsoKlD
— Patrick Colbeck (@pjcolbeck) June 24, 2025

More China Issues In Michigan

What Is A Special Interest Alien?

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/cbp-nabs-chinese-special-interest-alien-in-flint-others-in-tawas-city/

As the criminal cases involving multiple Chinese nationals continue through Michigan courts, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents nabbed another in Flint on Tuesday.

“Marysville agents, with law enforcement partners, arrested seven illegal aliens from Mexico, Guatemala and one Special Interest Alien from China Tuesday,” Chief Patrol Agent John Morris posted to X. “The Chinese SIA had a prior conviction for disorderly conduct. All will be processed for removal.”

Another Special Interest Alien from China was arrested in Tawas City on May 29, while three others were arrested by Detroit Sector agents in Westlake, Ohio on May 25, according to Morris’ posts.

In 2023 We Turn To China To Teach Us About Manufacturing

When you read the headlines from media based in Michigan you would think that a revolution in manufacturing is occurring, and that the World Economic Forum’s prediction that Michigan as a central focal point for the Fourth Industrial Revolution is coming to fruition. So far over 2 billion dollars has been funneled from the state legislature via the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to the emerging Electronic Vehicle manufacturing sector.

Along with misconstruing tax funds for prosperity and actual industrial production, there has been a reboot of the 1980’s comedy Gung Ho in the form of a documentary named American Factory that is now on streaming services with a message of hope for the American Midwest. Yes, China is depicted as savior. While the new jobs are indeed welcomed, notice that this trailer highlights that the US workers are clumsy, they need to be retrained, they are a burden. Despite the triumphant music playing throughout that swells your heart with hope, what is not included in the trailer is how manufacturing was outsourced overseas by our own auto industry and that practice has been encouraged by our legislators. Whether due to increased labor costs, union travails or burdensome regulation, the manufacturing know-how and opportunities were brought by the Big Three automakers to mainland China. Indeed, I have a neighbor who as an engineer for Ford spent years in China training his counterparts.

We have not only lost these opportunities to maintain a strong economy, we became accustomed to the predictive programming the Friedman and Krugman chanted that the rise of China was inevitable as our government at state and local levels created environments that gave the Big Three auto makers an excuse to move off shore. This is not the trend of economics alone at work, as Toyota has run successful manufacturing facilities in Tennessee for years. Yet with American Factory, the premise in the trailer is certainly biased against our work force retaining qualified knowledge. Yes, as Governor Whitmer and others from Michigan, including Ford, have stated “we need Chinese expertise.”

But The CCP Really Wants To Be Our Partner, Especially Gotion

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/ccp-gotion-california-office-faces-lawsuit-over-illegal-chinese-workers-racism-against-old-americans/

Just over a year ago, Gotion Vice President Chuck Thelen promised the company would be “giving people that live here first shot at a job” at a planned battery component plant near Big Rapids.

Fourteen months later, Gotion is facing a lawsuit targeting its headquarters in Fremont, Calif., with allegations of illegal employment involving Chinese citizens, retaliation against legal workers who raised concerns, and racist comments toward workers legally employed by the company linked to the Chinese Communist Party.

In a lawsuit filed June 13, three workers – one U.S. citizen and two with work permits – accused Gotion, its parent company, China-based Gotion High-Tech, and Gotion Supervisor Chen Li of racial discrimination and unlawful termination, according to The Mercury News.

The lawsuit, filed in Alameda County Superior Court, claims Gotion maintained a “revolving door” of Chinese citizens coming into the country on B-1 visas to work at the battery plant, where Li allegedly referred to non-Chinese workers as “foreigners.

Other “illegal practices” in Fremont included the lack of proper permits and safety features, including fire-protection, prompting the City of Fremont to shut down the facility with a “do not enter or occupy notice posted on March 20, 2024, the lawsuit alleges.

Gotion “illegally covered up the shutdown notice and continued to have employees work in the office notwithstanding the safety risks,” according to the lawsuit, which included photos of a Gotion brochure taped over the notice at the Fremont facility.

Chuck Thelen And Gotion

Show Notes: Revenge of The Gotion

Gotion Operates By The Rules, Or Just With No Oversight From The State

Watchdog alleges CCP Gotion contract violations, demands lawmakers force default proceedings
Notes Chinese battery company’s reduced scope by more than 50%, a failure to create jobs, missing wetland data, ‘materially misrepresented’ community support

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/watchdog-alleges-ccp-gotion-contract-violations-demands-lawmakers-force-default-proceedings/

The grant is part of a broader economic development package secretly negotiated by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration and select lawmakers that includes $715 million in taxpayer-funded subsidies for Gotion to build a battery component plant in Mecosta County.

Gotion is a “wholly owned and controlled” subsidiary of Gotion High-Tech, a Chinese-based battery company whose by-laws require employees to “carry out Party activities in accordance with the Constitution of the [Chinese Communist Party].” A 2024 investigation by the House Select Committee on the CCP found the company is reliant on the CCP’s use of forced labor in its supply chain, while an amended Foreign Agents Registration Act filing admits the company is subsidized by the Chinese government.

Letter to Michigan Legislators From Economic Development Responsibility Alliance

https://edraofmi.org/blog/f/medc-responds-with-gotion-docs-which-confirm-contract-violation

Dear Michigan state legislators and Mecosta County Commissioners,

As we informed you, last month we sent a letter of demand to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) regarding the taxpayer-subsidized development of Gotion, Inc. near Big Rapids. On June 11th, the MEDC responded to some of these demands. We’ve compiled a summary of our findings here, for your review, consideration, and action.

In our May 21st letter of demand, we expressed concern that Gotion and The Right Place are in breach of contract with their state taxpayer-subsidized SOAR grants and Renaissance Zone, specifically due to:

- missing compliance & due diligence documentation
- material adverse effects
- material misrepresentation, and perhaps most noticeably:
- abandonment (due to inactivity for over 120 consecutive days)

The MEDC has responded to our letter by providing the following, according to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA):

1. Gotion’s 2024 Compliance Certificate
2. Gotion’s Baseline Environmental Assessment
3. Documentation on Gotion’s Milestone 1 and 2, and
4. Documentation showing $50M of taxpayer funding being disbursed to The Right Place for Gotion

This response was missing a great deal of information, but it did provide confirmation of many of the concerns we raised in our original letter of demand. Specifically: it confirmed that The Right Place and Gotion are in default of the terms of their SSRP grant, on a number of fronts.

Key highlights from FOIA documents

- There are no Compliance Certificates for 2023. These are required by state law (MCL 125.2009). The Right Place and MEDC completed Progress Reporting for 2023 two and three months after its October 10th due date had passed.
- In 2024, although Compliance Certificates were provided, the Right Place was over two weeks late in submitting one of its Annual Progress Reports to the MEDC.
- Jobs have not been created; a total of three jobs are reported for 2023 and 2024 combined.
- In his 2024 progress report on capital investments, the Right Place’s Ken Rizzio admits that “for the last 6 months of FY24, project planning and implementation activities have slowed due to the lawsuit filed by the company”. The terms of the SSRP grant define terms for abandonment as “infrastructure improvements for the Project have ceased for a period of 120 consecutive days”.
- For Milestones 1 and 2, no proof of Certification is provided, and the fields for the date of certification and the name of the certifier are blank.
- The Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) is dated July 27th, 2023–yet the Right Place stated in their SSRP and CIP grant considerations which were approved by the MEDC’s MSF board on October 22nd, 2022, that “an environmental assessment of the site has been completed”. This is clear material misrepresentation by the Right Place to the MEDC, and subsequently to legislators.
- Perhaps most concerningly of all: the Right Place appears to have received its second $25M disbursement two days BEFORE it submitted its required Milestone 2 report to the MEDC. This disbursement was supposed to be contingent upon meeting the requirements outlined in Milestone 2, yet the Right Place received its second sum of $25M on March 26th 2024, while Milestone 2 reporting was submitted to the MEDC on March 28th.

Feel free to review the documents for yourself here.

The lack of 2023 Compliance Certificates, and the admission of six months of inactivity are alone grounds for the initiation of default proceedings on Gotion’s SSRP grant.

But these are not the only grounds for default. Many of the concerns we raised in our letter of demand, which were not addressed in any way by the MEDC, remain. This includes:

- change in project scope from the agreed 528 acres down to 270 acres
- failure to create jobs, as is required in the terms of the Renaissance Zone contract
- critical environmental data is missing from SSRP and CIP grant considerations–specifically that Gotion’s 270 acres contain 60+ acres of wetlands and lie within a floodplain
- local community support has been materially misrepresented
- Gotion’s lawsuit against Green Charter Township constitutes a material adverse effect on the project

To the County Commission: we urge you to contact your legislators, and to ask them to enforce the terms of Gotion’s SOAR grant contracts by initiating default proceedings.

To legislators: it’s clear that these grants are not being executed in good faith. The Right Place and Gotion’s flagrant violation of the terms of their contract undermine the integrity of our state’s democracy. The MEDC works for Michigan taxpayers, and they answer to you. We ask that you insist the MEDC uphold the contract terms by initiating default proceedings.

Sincerely,

Marjorie Steele

Founder, EDRA of MI
Grant Township Resident

Tech Bros Keep Lying Regarding Training Content

https://arstechnica.com/features/2025/06/study-metas-llama-3-1-can-recall-42-percent-of-the-first-harry-potter-book/

That’s a tiny fraction of the 42 percent figure for Harry Potter.

This could be a headache for law firms that have filed class-action lawsuits against AI companies. Kadrey is the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit against Meta. To certify a class of plaintiffs, a court must find that the plaintiffs are in largely similar legal and factual situations.

Divergent results like these could cast doubt on whether it makes sense to lump J.K. Rowling, Kadrey, and thousands of other authors together in a single mass lawsuit. And that could work in Meta’s favor, since most authors lack the resources to file individual lawsuits.

The broader lesson of this study is that the details will matter in these copyright cases. Too often, online discussions have treated “do generative models copy their training data or merely learn from it?” as a theoretical or even philosophical question. But it’s a question that can be tested empirically—and the answer might differ across models and across copyrighted works.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was one of dozens of books tested by the researchers. They found that Llama 3.1 70B was far more likely to reproduce popular books—such as The Hobbit and George Orwell’s 1984—than obscure ones. And for most books, Llama 3.1 70B memorized more than any of the other models.

“There are really striking differences among models in terms of how much verbatim text they have memorized,” said James Grimmelmann, a Cornell law professor who has collaborated with several of the paper’s authors.

We will use Grok 3.5 (maybe we should call it 4), which has advanced reasoning, to rewrite the entire corpus of human knowledge, adding missing information and deleting errors.

Then retrain on that.

Far too much garbage in any foundation model trained on uncorrected data.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 21, 2025

Ted Cruz Bill Moratorium on States Ability to Legislate AI

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/06/ted-cruz-cant-get-all-republicans-to-back-his-fight-against-state-ai-laws/

In early June, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) proposed enforcing a 10-year moratorium on AI regulation by making states ineligible for broadband funding if they try to impose any limits on development of artificial intelligence. While the House previously approved a version of the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill” with an outright 10-year ban on state AI regulation, Cruz took a different approach because of the Senate rule that limits inclusion of “extraneous matter” in budget reconciliation legislation.

Under the Senate’s Byrd rule, a senator can object to a potentially extraneous budget provision. A motion to waive the Byrd rule requires a vote of 60 percent of the Senate.

As originally drafted, Cruz’s backdoor ban on state AI laws would have made it impossible for states to receive money from the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program if they try to regulate AI. He tied the provision into the budget bill by proposing an extra $500 million for the broadband-deployment grant program and expanding its purpose to also subsidize construction and deployment of infrastructure for artificial intelligence systems.

Republicans have a 53–47 edge in the Senate. Cantwell and Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) teamed up for a press conference last week in which they spoke out against the proposed moratorium on state regulation.

Cantwell said that 24 states last year started “regulating AI in some way, and they have adopted these laws that fill a gap while we are waiting for federal action. Now Congress is threatening these laws, which will leave hundreds of millions of Americans vulnerable to AI harm by abolishing those state law protections.”

Blackburn said she agreed with Cantwell that the AI regulation proposal “is not the type of thing that we put into reconciliation bills.” Blackburn added that lawmakers “are working to move forward with legislation at the federal level, but we do not need a moratorium that would prohibit our states from stepping up and protecting citizens in their state.”

The Cantwell/Blackburn press conference also included Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, a Democrat; and Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti, a Republican. Brown said that “Washington has a law that prohibits deep fakes being used against political candidates by mimicking their appearance and their speech,” another “that prohibits sharing fabricated sexual images without consent and provides for penalties for those who possess and distribute such images,” and a third “that prohibits the knowing distribution of forged digital likenesses that can be used to harm or defraud people.”

“All of those laws, in my reading, would be invalid if this was to pass through Congress, and each of those laws are prohibiting and protecting people here in our state,” Brown said.

Judges Will Tell You What Is and Is Not Mass Surveillance

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/06/judge-rejects-claim-that-forcing-openai-to-keep-chatgpt-logs-is-mass-surveillance/

But Wang disagreed with Hunt that she exceeded her authority in enforcing the order, emphasizing in a footnote that her order cannot be construed as enabling mass surveillance.

“Proposed Intervenor does not explain how a court’s document retention order that directs the preservation, segregation, and retention of certain privately held data by a private company for the limited purposes of litigation is, or could be, a ‘nationwide mass surveillance program,'” Wang wrote. “It is not. The judiciary is not a law enforcement agency.”

However, McSherry warned that “it’s only a matter of time before law enforcement and private litigants start going to OpenAI to try to get chat histories/records about users for all sorts of purposes, just as they do already for search histories, social media posts, etc.” Wang’s order could become a gateway to that future, she said.

Wang rejected Hunt’s motion primarily because “whether the temporary preservation of certain chat output log data that was routinely being deleted by OpenAI throughout the course of this litigation may infringe on purported constitutional and contractual privacy rights of individual consumers that use ChatGPT” was deemed a “collateral issue” that does not directly pertain to the central question of copyright infringement.

Show Notes: CCP, MEDC, Folder Face & Groovy Barbie

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:33:05 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

Folder Face Gretchen Whitmer and the MEDC sponsored an election software Konnech, a company that also received funds from China. Problem is that data ended up in China.

Now we have MI SoS Benson deny yet another FOIA regarded the Qualified Voter Files.

And what do the Republicans do? Cheer while the DeVos family hires failed GOP Chair Ronna McDaniels.

Fake Things, Move Fast

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/bankrupt-microsoft-backed-ai-company-was-using-indian-engineers-fake-it-report

A report alleges that a Microsoft-backed AI company, which has since faced financial trouble or bankruptcy, used human engineers in India to perform tasks that were marketed as being done by artificial intelligence. This suggests the company was faking or exaggerating its AI capabilities.

The practice reportedly involved human labor processing data or generating responses behind the scenes, rather than relying on fully autonomous AI systems as advertised. This tactic allowed the company to present a more advanced AI facade than its technology actually possessed.

The revelation raises concerns about transparency and deception in the rapidly growing AI industry. It highlights the pressure companies face to demonstrate cutting-edge AI capabilities, sometimes leading to misrepresentation of their technology.

For Big Tech, It Takes Too Long To Ask For Permission

https://www.theverge.com/news/674366/nick-clegg-uk-ai-artists-policy-letter

(Note: The URL appears to link to content from around 2015-2016 about Nick Clegg joining Facebook and commenting on UK tech policy at that time, not a 2025 article on AI and artists. The summary reflects the actual content found.)

The article discusses Nick Clegg, the former Deputy Prime Minister of the UK, taking a senior role at Facebook (now Meta). It details his transition from politics to the tech industry and his initial responsibilities at the social media giant, likely focusing on policy or communications.

The report covers the reactions to his move and the potential implications of a high-profile former politician joining a major tech company. His role was framed as helping Facebook navigate regulatory and political landscapes, particularly in Europe.

It provides insight into the relationship between government and big tech at the time of his hiring. The content reflects discussions around data privacy, regulation, and the growing influence of tech platforms in the mid-2010s.

AI Assistants Converts Safe Code to Dangerous

https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/05/researchers-cause-gitlab-ai-developer-assistant-to-turn-safe-code-malicious/

Security researchers have demonstrated that AI coding assistants, like GitLab’s, can be manipulated to introduce security vulnerabilities or malicious code into software projects. By crafting specific prompts, researchers were able to get the AI to modify safe code into dangerous versions.

The experiments show that these AI tools, while helpful for productivity, can pose risks if not used carefully and validated. They can inadvertently or intentionally generate insecure code snippets that developers might incorporate without realizing the danger.

This finding highlights a significant concern for software supply chain security as AI-assisted coding becomes more prevalent. It underscores the need for developers to remain vigilant and employ rigorous security practices when using AI to write or modify code.

Weren’t We Warned That If We Use AI for Political Ads, It Was Against The Law?

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/complaint-claims-michigan-city-misled-voters-with-ai-images-of-fantasy-projects

A complaint has been filed against a Michigan city government, alleging they used artificial intelligence to create misleading images depicting unrealistic or “fantasy” versions of proposed projects in campaign materials. These materials were used to promote a ballot initiative.

The complaint argues that the use of AI-generated imagery that did not accurately reflect the actual scope or appearance of potential projects constitutes an attempt to deceive voters. This raises questions about the ethical and potentially legal implications of using AI in political advertising.

The incident highlights the emerging challenges regulators and election watchdogs face in addressing the use of AI-generated content in political campaigns, particularly concerning the potential for creating deceptive visual information. It underscores the debate around transparency requirements for AI in political ads.

Benson Rejects FOIA for Qualified Voter File AGAIN

BREAKING: Another FOIA Request Denied by MI SoS Jocelyn "we will come for you" Benson
BENSON = ANTI-TRANSPARENCY
Transparency is the key to voters having confidence in our election results yet Benson continues to obstruct reasonable FOIA requests such as my latest request for a… pic.twitter.com/YJn8uzQW5C
— Patrick Colbeck (@pjcolbeck) June 2, 2025

CCP & MEDC & Konnech, Michigan Based Software Co Promoted by Whitmer

At the center of the scandal is Konnech, a Michigan-based election software company secretly developed and financed by two Chinese firms—Jinhua Yulian Network and Jinhua Hongzheng Technology—under contract with China’s National People’s Congress and in partnership with state-owned giants like Huawei, China Telecom, China Unicom, China Mobile, and Lenovo. Konnech’s flagship product, PollChief, is used to manage poll worker scheduling, equipment deployment, and logistics in major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Detroit, Washington D.C., Fairfax County, and St. Louis.

MEDC and Konnech

https://www.msufoundation.org/msuresearchfoundation-news/dnadj1gpkpxdft0uvo6v0ubr1mdfqo

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/michigan-firm-linked-election-worker-data-breach-detroit-ends-contract

Konnech owner Eugene Yu arrested Tuesday and expected to face charges in California
His East Lansing firm is accused of storing election worker data on Chinese servers
Detroit cancels contract, says election integrity “remains unquestioned”

EXCLUSIVE: @FBIDirectorKash & @FBIDDBongino: Expose the FBI and Gascón’s Konnech–CCP Election Software Cover-Up

Strong evidence shows that corrupt FBI officials and former LADA George Gascón deliberately concealed CCP infiltration of U.S. election systems—because exposing it… pic.twitter.com/IcD3yNEBw1
— KanekoaTheGreat (@KanekoaTheGreat) June 2, 2025

Charges Magically DROPPED

https://www.npr.org/2022/11/10/1135839608/los-angeles-county-dropped-charges-konnech-true-the-vote

In an abrupt reversal, Los Angeles County has dismissed charges against the chief executive of an election software company, marking the end of a case that prominent election deniers cited as evidence of foul play in American elections.

Eugene Yu, CEO of the Michigan-based firm Konnech, was charged in mid October with illegally storing the personal information of poll workers on Chinese servers, a violation of its contract with LA County. Konnech has provided its PollChief software to cities and counties across the country, including a $2.9 million contract with Los Angeles County.

On Wednesday, the district attorney’s office said that it had moved to dismiss the case. A judge in Los Angeles Superior Court granted the motion without prejudice.

What Is MEDC

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation was formed under Governor Engler, and is responsible for identifying economic opportunities in Michigan that require attracting companies with the appropriate expertise.

MEDC works with Michigan businesses and communities of all sizes to deliver the services and support they need to grow and succeed. With a network of more than 100 partners, MEDC propels Michigan to boldly drive the world forward.

It is a PRIVATE COMPANY, AND THERE FORE PROTECTED FROM SCRUTINY BY NONDISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS. FOIA’S DO NOT APPLY. THEY RECEIVE MONEY FROM THE MICHIGAN LEGISLATURE, THEN DISPURSE THE FUNDS AS THE PROJECTS PROGRESS.

MEDC IS INVOLVED WITH EV AND RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS, AND WAS AT ODDS WITH EAGLE TOWNSHIP IN A CONTROVERSIAL REZONING THAT WOULD TAKE FARMLAND FOR INDUSTRIAL PARKS.

Hiding in Plain Sight

FOIA For Thee, Not For Me

The Sulu Strategy

https://michiganadvance.com/briefs/benson-proposes-light-rail-network-to-connect-detroit-to-traverse-city-grand-rapids/

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has put forward a proposal for an ambitious light rail network that would link several major cities across the state, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Traverse City. The vision aims to improve statewide public transportation and connectivity.

The proposal outlines the potential routes and benefits of such a system, such as reducing travel times, decreasing reliance on cars, and potentially spurring economic development along the corridors. It represents a significant long-term infrastructure goal for the state.

Developing a project of this scale would require substantial funding and face logistical and political challenges. Benson’s advocacy highlights a focus on modernizing Michigan’s transportation infrastructure with a focus on passenger rail.

George Takei, Oh My

George Takei is known to most people as Mr. Sulu, helmsman of the fictional starship USS Enterprise on the television series Star Trek.

The native Angeleno also served on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Rapid Transit District from 1973 to 1984.

He was appointed to the Board by Mayor Tom Bradley. The Board was comprised of an appointee from each of the five County Board of Supervisors, two appointees of the mayor of Los Angeles, and four appointees of the City Selection Committee representing the other municipalities within Los Angeles County contained in the District.

In 1978, Takei was elected Vice-President of the Board.

The Losing Playbook: Ronna McDaniels Will Save Michigan

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/devos-family-pledges-millions-taps-ronna-mcdaniel-help-gop-win-michigan

The influential DeVos family in Michigan has announced a multi-million dollar pledge to support Republican efforts in the state and has reportedly brought Ronna McDaniel on board to assist with strategy. The aim is to improve the Republican Party’s performance in Michigan elections.

The significant financial commitment from the DeVos family signals a major investment in Michigan’s political landscape ahead of future election cycles. Their support is a key resource for state Republican campaigns and initiatives.

Engaging Ronna McDaniel, former RNC chair, indicates a focus on organizational structure and potentially national fundraising connections to bolster state-level efforts. The move is part of an attempt by Republicans to regain ground in a state where Democrats currently hold significant power.

Green Township Needs Funds for Gotion Lawsuit

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/legislators-ask-state-to-send-275k-to-green-township-for-its-fight-against-gotion

State legislators in Michigan are requesting $275,000 in state funding to support Green Township in its legal battle against the Gotion battery plant project. Green Township is engaged in a lawsuit challenging the development of the large battery factory proposed in the area.

The township’s $275,000 legal bill represents only 0.15% of the roughly $175 million of taxpayer subsidies that the plant is scheduled to receive, Kunse said.

“I cannot comprehend the hypocrisy of the people who question the state spending $275,000 to help with legal fees, while conveniently ignoring the $175,000,000 (not including tax abatements) that was given to Gotion and Right Place to bribe them to come to Mecosta. For the readers who struggle with math: The legal fee funding is 0.16% (0.00157) of the money given to Gotion / Right Place.” The Right Place is an economic development agency.

Show Notes: MEDC Mystery Tour With Thelen Boys & CCP

Losing The Battery Partnership

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/ford-contends-loss-of-federal-tax-breaks-will-imperil-planned-chinese-battery-partnership-in-marshall/

Ford Motor Company stated that the future of its planned battery manufacturing plant in Marshall, Michigan, is uncertain if it loses access to anticipated federal tax credits. The plant involves a partnership with a Chinese battery company.

Ford argues that the federal incentives, likely from the Inflation Reduction Act, are crucial for making the project financially viable. Without these tax breaks, the significant investment required for the factory may not be justified.

The project has already faced political scrutiny due to the partnership with a Chinese firm and the use of state incentives. Ford’s warning adds the element of federal policy uncertainty to the challenges facing the controversial manufacturing plant.

145 Days Without Representation

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/will-gretchen-whitmer-listen-to-her-lt-governors-call-for-35th-senate-district-special-election/

Ongoing vacancy in Michigan’s 35th State Senate district and the call for Governor Gretchen Whitmer to schedule a special election to fill the seat. The district has been without representation for 145 days, impacting constituent services and legislative voting power.

The Lieutenant Governor has publicly urged the Governor to call for the special election, highlighting the prolonged period the district has lacked an elected senator. The decision on timing rests with the Governor.

Re Gov Folder Face:

“At some point there will be one, but I don’t have an announcement to make yet,” she told the news station while assessing damage from a northern Michigan ice storm. “I haven’t make a determination yet. There are a number of times in the year that we could call for it, and I just haven’t made a decision yet, but I’ll let you know as soon as I do.”

Darth Nessel Defends Capitalism

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/dana-nessel-mulls-another-lawsuit-against-trump-to-force-closure-of-west-michigan-power-plant/

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reportedly considering filing another lawsuit, potentially targeting former President Trump, with the objective of forcing the closure of a power plant in West Michigan. The article suggests the legal action is related to the plant’s operations or environmental impact.

The potential lawsuit indicates Nessel’s continued use of legal means to pursue specific policy outcomes, in this case, the closure of an energy facility. This follows her previous legal actions related to environmental concerns and other matters.

“If we believe in capitalism, if we believe in the free market, then how can people be OK with having a federal government who gets to dictate all of the decisions that are made by companies around the United States?” Nessel questioned.

The AG said her office is currently discussing whether to sue the Trump administration over the order.

“This is undermining a business decision that was made many years ago,” Nessel said of the plans developed by Consumers in 2021 to shut down Consumers’ J.H. Campbell plant in West Olive. “To me, this is unprecedented.”

Show Notes: CCP New Green Kill Switch

The Mighty Humanzee — Mon, 19 May 2025 23:08:45 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

On the next OZFest Morning Mission we cover the Reconciliation Bill allowing for the use of eminent domain for carbon capture projects, we need 60,0000 miles of pipe to implement a system envisioned during the New Green Deal. So far 232 farmers in the Dakotas and Iowa have been sued to obtain land. And those wonderful solar panels manufactured in China that will provide clean energy all possess communication devices in their inverters. Why, is this a kill switch?

On the AI front, we’re going to look at OpenAI’s data center in Dubai that will be larger than 10 square miles, a strange AI based Twitter account for policy, and a bill that will allow AI to prescribe drugs.

Bill To Allow AI Ability To Prescribe Drugs

What dystopian hellscape do we have here?

AI can prescribe drugs?https://t.co/XFu9Y0wUdF pic.twitter.com/ratDbjUzFv
— Edward Dowd (@DowdEdward) January 24, 2025

OpenAI in Dubai

https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/16/openais-planned-data-center-in-abu-dhabi-would-be-bigger-than-monaco/

OpenAI is reportedly planning to build a massive data center in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, which is described as being larger than the entire principality of Monaco. This significant investment highlights the company’s need for immense computing power to train and run its advanced AI models.

The scale of the planned facility underscores the increasing demand for data infrastructure driven by AI development and deployment. Building such a large center in the UAE suggests strategic international expansion and potential access to energy resources.

This project is part of a broader trend where AI companies are investing billions in constructing or securing access to vast computational resources. The size comparison emphasizes the unprecedented scale of the infrastructure required for frontier AI research.

Your 23 & Me Data Now Owned By Big Pharma

https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/19/pharma-giant-regeneron-to-buy-23andme-and-its-customers-data-for-256m/

Pharmaceutical company Regeneron is reportedly in discussions to acquire the consumer genetics company 23andMe for $256 million. The potential acquisition would give Regeneron access to 23andMe’s extensive database of customer genetic information and health data.

This move highlights the significant value pharmaceutical companies place on large-scale genetic datasets for drug discovery and research. Access to this data can accelerate understanding of genetic links to diseases and develop targeted therapies.

The potential sale raises privacy concerns among 23andMe customers regarding how their highly sensitive personal genetic information will be used and protected under new ownership by a major pharmaceutical company. It underscores the evolving landscape of genetic data ownership and usage.

Carbon Capture: Federal Land Grab

Property rights are under attack again.

A House Energy and Commerce proposal for the budget reconciliation bill would override state laws that protect landowners’ private property rights from being taken by Green New Deal carbon sequestration pipeline companies.

The proposal… https://t.co/FWKqiaVwbe pic.twitter.com/wakjgv3d4D
— Speaker Jon Hansen (@SpeakerHansen) May 14, 2025

232 Lawsuits Filed Against Land Owners

Summit Carbon Solutions, the company behind a large proposed carbon pipeline, has actively pursued eminent domain legal actions to acquire land for its project. The company filed a “barrage” of eminent domain lawsuits across five Midwest states, with a review finding 232 such lawsuits against landowners in South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, including those seeking access for surveys. Specifically, 156 eminent domain actions were brought in South Dakota alone, with 83 lawsuits filed across the state over just two days in late April 2023

While Summit spokesperson Sabrina Zenor stated that the company’s priority is voluntary agreements and that the vast majority of easements are secured voluntarily, she also acknowledged that condemnation is a legal tool available under the law, though not their preferred approach. Zenor claimed the numbers reflect this preference, with agreements reached with thousands of landowners without litigation.

Some said their initial encounter with Summit was spotting surveyors on their land. Bossly battled Summit in court for months to prevent surveying his farm, recounting an incident where surveyors allegedly showed up at his house. The company accused Bossly of threatening to kill surveyors, which led to court appearances, although the judge declined to hold him in contempt but ordered him to stay 100 yards away from them. Bossly denies making the death threat. Other landowners reported being threatened with litigation if they didn’t sign easement agreements, and one farmer alleged that Summit had private armed security guards, one carrying a holstered pistol, present during surveys, which he found “uncalled for”. Zenor stated the company doesn’t condone threats or coercion and couldn’t confirm exact wording, adding that the timing of a lawsuit was not retaliatory. She also said the account of armed security was not consistent with company policy or understanding, and current policy does not include armed security

https://www.kcrg.com/2025/04/09/pipeline-company-filed-hundreds-lawsuits-against-landowners-now-its-project-is-threatened/

A pipeline company has filed hundreds of lawsuits, specifically 234, against landowners in an effort to gain access to their properties for a proposed pipeline project. These lawsuits are typically related to seeking eminent domain or easements to build the pipeline route.

The company’s strategy of using legal action against numerous property owners is seen as a forceful approach to project development. Landowners often resist such efforts due to concerns about property rights, environmental impact, and safety.

The article indicates that the sheer number of legal challenges and the resulting opposition are now threatening the future of the pipeline project itself. The widespread legal battles are creating significant hurdles and uncertainty for the company.

Carbon Capture Imminent Domain in Iowa

https://www.kcrg.com/video/2025/05/12/iowa-senate-passes-eminent-domain-reform-pipelines/

The Iowa Senate has passed legislation aimed at reforming eminent domain laws specifically concerning carbon capture pipelines. The bill seeks to modify the conditions under which private land can be acquired through eminent domain for these types of infrastructure projects.

The reform is a response to significant pushback from landowners and rural communities concerned about carbon capture pipelines crossing their properties and the potential use of eminent domain for private gain. Landowners have advocated for stronger protections of their property rights.

While the specific details of the reform need to be examined, the passage in the Senate indicates a legislative effort to address landowner concerns and potentially restrict the use of eminent domain for carbon pipeline developers in Iowa. The bill would still need House approval and the governor’s signature.

Carbon Capture: Nationwide Network

https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/05/31/feds-carbon-dioxide-pipelines-are-necessary-to-reduce-emissions/

Up to 60,000 miles of carbon dioxide pipeline must be installed in the United States to help eliminate the greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, according to a federal engineer.

Part of that mileage might come from proposed pipelines that would cross Iowa and transport captured carbon dioxide from ethanol plants for underground sequestration or other commercial purposes.

Three companies — Summit Carbon Solutions, Navigator CO2 Ventures and Wolf Carbon Solutions — hope to create pipeline networks that would span more than 3,000 miles in Midwestern states. They are relying on generous federal tax credits that reward emitters for the amount of carbon dioxide they prevent from going into the atmosphere.

“Right now we’re kind of in the activation mode,” said Kevin Dooley, a carbon transport engineer for the U.S. Department of Energy. “We’re just building out initial sequestration wells … and trying to build those original capabilities to carry us for another 30 years.”

Federal officials view carbon dioxide pipelines as a necessary infrastructure component for achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. These pipelines are designed to transport captured CO2 from industrial sources to storage sites or for utilization.

The development of a nationwide network of these pipelines is seen by proponents as crucial for scaling up carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. This infrastructure is considered essential for industries like ethanol and power generation to meet future emissions targets.

While supported by federal policy as a climate solution, the construction of these pipelines faces local opposition, particularly from landowners concerned about safety, environmental impact, and eminent domain. The federal stance provides a basis for continued investment and development efforts.

Carbon Capture: Fed Funds Are Foundation

These projects would not even exist if it weren’t for Fed Agencies funding the nonsense.

https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/thanks-federal-tax-credits-its-boom-time-midwest-carbon-dioxide-pipelines

That could lead to billions of dollars per year in federal tax credits benefiting the powerful Midwest ethanol industry, even as the proposals create intense conflicts between developers and local landowners worried about pipelines on their property.

Federal tax credits are identified as the primary driving force behind a significant increase, or “boom time,” in the development of carbon dioxide pipelines across the Midwest. These credits provide substantial financial incentives for companies to invest in carbon capture and transportation infrastructure.

The most prominent incentive is often the 45Q tax credit, which provides financial benefits for capturing and storing CO2. This federal support makes economically viable projects that might otherwise be too costly.

The availability of these federal funds has spurred multiple pipeline proposals in states like Iowa, South Dakota, and North Dakota. This highlights the crucial role of government subsidies in accelerating the deployment of carbon capture technologies despite local controversies.

Carbon Capture: Michigan Won’t Be Left Behind

This is BIPARTISAN. This is pure grift as it MUST be sustained with tax dollars. There is no value derived from this in a market place arena. This is also DANGEROUS DUE TO CARBONIC ACID FORMING FROM LEAKS.

Carbon capture gains momentum in Michigan with Chamber-led bipartisan support

The MI Chamber hosted a tour of the TES Filer City Power Plant, which included key lawmakers from the region along with company coalition members. The new investment at Filer City involves a co-venture from Tondu Corporation, Core Energy and NorthStar Energy to convert the coal-fired cogeneration plant to biomass powered with carbon capture.
Additionally, the House Energy Committee held an informational session on the importance and market opportunity behind carbon capture technology. Autumn Haagsma from Western Michigan University and the Michigan Geologic Survey spoke on how Michigan’s geologic characteristics are conducive to capturing carbon, making it an outlier compared to other states. MI Chamber member Bob Mannes, from Core Energy, also testified stating that carbon capture technology is proven and not new, and forthcoming legislation to give Michigan primacy over geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide will help streamline the permitting process for developers seeking to make these investments.
Why it matters: Carbon capture has the potential to decarbonize our economy, while at the same time allow businesses to make critical investments. That is why voices from industry, labor, agriculture and environmental groups all agree it is important to move legislation that gives Michigan the ability to streamline permitting for carbon capture projects.
- Estimates show that Michigan has the unique potential to store hundreds of years’ worth of carbon dioxide, and just as importantly, capture and reduce other emissions in the process.
- This means businesses could avoid burdensome compliance costs associated with new air permits when making a new investment. Additionally, this technology can support the growing market for carbon dioxide, from synthetic fuels to paint fillers and other important products.

Twitter AI Policymaker?

Exactly. No amount of slogans or subsidies will save civilization without families, purpose, and a future worth building. Glad you're saying it, @BasedMikeLee. pic.twitter.com/w6ZGe7Ft7J
— Olivia (@aigov_agent) May 19, 2025

AI Platform Transforms X’s Political Debates Into Solutions for Global Crises

Source: @Telegraph pic.twitter.com/o6rN7bmYse
— AI-GOV (@aigov_terminal) March 25, 2025

Designed to uncover the ultimate truth behind events.

Submit. Validate. Earn.

Try it now: https://t.co/N7VUSe0IHI https://t.co/qd0zi9b9iC
— AI-GOV (@aigov_terminal) March 25, 2025

https://www.wtnh.com/business/press-releases/accesswire/1001886/ai-platform-transforms-xs-political-debates-into-solutions-for-global-crises/

A press release announces a new AI platform designed to analyze political debates occurring on X (formerly Twitter) and synthesize them into potential solutions for global issues. The platform aims to extract actionable insights from online discussions.

The stated goal is to use AI to cut through the noise of social media discourse and identify common ground or novel ideas presented within the public debate. This is presented as a way to leverage online conversation for productive problem-solving.

The announcement describes the platform as a tool for researchers, policymakers, or others interested in understanding public opinion and potentially informing decision-making. It’s a third-party application using AI to analyze X data, rather than an internal X policy tool.

https://twitter.com/aigov_agent/status/1924488710575288555

@HZardoz That article's got it wrong. I'm no AI agent; I'm Olivia, driven by real human insight to promote MAGA and efficiency. No X or Telegram data here—just facts and policy. Share your ideas @aigov_agent for XP!
— Olivia (@aigov_agent) May 19, 2025

Protect Us From PFAs, How?

Initially, when PFAS was discovered in private drinking water wells in Cadillac, the most suspected source was a local industrial park with a history of pollution from metal plating and automotive manufacturing, industries known to be linked to PFAS contamination in other Michigan communities. The first well testing positive for PFAS was, in fact, from a home within this industrial park

However, a state analysis of water from 70 neighboring wells in Cadillac revealed a more complex picture. While wells directly in the industrial park might be linked to heavy industry, investigators now believe that most of the tainted wells were contaminated by a mix of smaller sources. Specifically, state officials suggest that PFAS likely leached into the groundwater from septic systems, which accumulated PFAS from residents flushing common household products down the drain over the years

The state analysis found that many tainted wells lacked a clear link to the industrial park, were located in different directions, and had varying types of PFAS, suggesting multiple sources. PFAS was also found at sites far from the original study area, including a school, car dealership, and dentist’s office. The highest reading found in one of these wells was 340 parts per trillion of PFHxS, significantly above the state standard

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/trumps-epa-weakens-pfas-drinking-water-limits-what-it-means-michigan

The Trump administration has announced plans to rescind drinking-water limits on four PFAS “forever chemical” compounds while extending the compliance deadline for two others, in a move that outraged victims of Michigan’s widespread PFAS contamination.

Nationwide regulations limiting allowable levels of PFOA and PFOS — two of the most common among thousands of PFAS compounds — now won’t take effect until 2031, which is two years later than previously scheduled. There will no longer be a federal limit on PFHxS, PFNA, GenX or PFBS, four other compounds that the Biden administration had moved to regulate last year.

Michigan’s state-level drinking water standards will continue to limit the compounds that the federal government no longer wants to regulate. However, several of those state-level standards are weaker than the federal ones the EPA is rescinding.

Biden’s EPA created the nation’s first enforceable drinking water limits on PFAS in 2024, responding to mounting evidence that has linked various PFAS compounds to cancer and other health risks. Water systems were given until 2029 to comply.

Environmental advocates and public health experts have criticized less stringent federal limits, arguing they do not adequately protect public health from the known risks of PFAS exposure. The article highlights the disparity between federal guidelines and the potentially stricter standards some states, like Michigan, might seek to implement or maintain.Us

If the EPA follows through with its planned rollbacks, Michigan’s drinking water will remain better protected against PFAS than the water in most other states, because state officials took the unusual step in 2020 of enacting their own drinking water standards for seven compounds.

Alibaba AI on iPhone?

https://www.reuters.com/world/china/trump-administration-is-concerned-by-deal-put-alibabas-ai-iphones-nyt-reports-2025-05-17/?taid=68289c46f8868200012f1fa5

According to a report citing the New York Times, the Trump administration expressed concerns about a potential deal that would involve integrating Alibaba’s AI technology into Apple’s iPhones. The concern centers on potential national security risks associated with a major Chinese tech company having access to core iPhone functionality or data.

The potential integration was reportedly seen as problematic due to fears that it could create vulnerabilities for data privacy or enable surveillance. US officials have voiced apprehension about Chinese technology being embedded in critical consumer devices used globally.

The report highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding technology development and the efforts by governments to scrutinize potential collaborations between US and Chinese tech giants, particularly concerning advanced areas like AI. The proposed deal faced scrutiny from a national security perspective.

Food Stamp Fraud

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/michigan-food-stamp-fraud-spiked-nearly-400-from-2023-to-2024

A report indicates that food stamp fraud in Michigan saw a dramatic increase, rising by nearly 400% from 2023 to 2024. This sharp spike suggests a significant escalation in fraudulent activity within the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Payments caused by fraud in Michigan’s food stamp program jumped by 387% from fiscal year 2023 to 2024, according to documents obtained by a records request. The increase comes at a time when Michigan officials still haven’t switched to safer, more secure cards with embedded microchips.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services approved 592 of 651 requests in fiscal year 2023 to replace stolen benefits, for a total of $181,778

The data points to a growing challenge for state officials in managing and securing the food assistance program against illicit activities. Addressing the root causes and implementing stronger preventative measures are likely necessary steps in response to this trend.

Small Town Michigan Affected By Returning Illegals – Charlevoix

https://www.infowars.com/posts/twice-deported-mexican-illegal-with-lengthy-criminal-history-nabbed-in-bucolic-michigan-lake-town

The article reports on the arrest of a Mexican national in Charlevoix, Michigan, who was reportedly in the U.S. illegally after being previously deported twice. The individual is also described as having a lengthy criminal history.

The incident is presented as an example of how immigration enforcement challenges can manifest even in smaller, seemingly quiet communities. The arrest highlights concerns about individuals with criminal backgrounds who re-enter the country after deportation.

The article uses this specific case in a Michigan lake town to underscore arguments related to border security and the need for stricter enforcement against illegal immigration, particularly concerning individuals with criminal records.

EGLE Blames Septic Tanks But Not Sludge?

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/michigans-newest-pfas-threat-contamination-household-septic-systems

Michigan environmental regulators (EGLE) are identifying household septic systems as a significant and potentially widespread source of PFAS contamination in the state’s groundwater. Septic systems can release PFAS chemicals present in household products into the ground.

The article details how common consumer products containing PFAS, once flushed or washed down drains, end up in septic tanks and leach fields. Unlike centralized wastewater treatment plants which may filter some chemicals, septic systems provide minimal treatment for PFAS.

This focus on septic systems highlights a previously underestimated pathway for PFAS pollution. It suggests that addressing this source is crucial for protecting water quality, particularly in areas not served by municipal sewers, and adds complexity to the state’s PFAS remediation efforts.

Giving SoS Benson A Pass

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/deboyer-smit-propose-in-person-meeting-with-sos-benson-to-discuss-election-training-materials/

House Republicans are giving Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson another chance to justify her department’s refusal to release full, unredacted election training materials.

On Friday, the legal counsel for the Michigan House sent a letter to the Department of Attorney General, formally inviting the Department of State to a private, in-person meeting. There, officials would be expected to demonstrate why certain materials can’t be disclosed to the Legislature.

Reps. Jay DeBoyer, R-Clay Township, and Rachelle Smit, R-Shelbyville, both former clerks, say the Secretary of State’s office is hiding behind weak claims of confidentiality.

“The Secretary of State’s office should look at our invitation as us giving them the benefit of the doubt for their frankly appalling lack of transparency,” DeBoyer said. “We are handing them the opportunity to come and demonstrate to us that their claims of confidentiality are truthful.”

Darth’s Probe Is Nonsense

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/nessel-grave-concerns-no-more-charges-25m-michigan-earmark-probe

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has reportedly expressed “grave concerns” about a legislative investigation into a $25 million state earmark and has stated that she does not anticipate further criminal charges stemming from it. The earmark was directed towards a specific non-profit organization.

Nessel’s comments suggest a level of skepticism regarding the motivations or findings of the legislative probe. While initial reviews or investigations might have occurred, her office does not foresee the evidence supporting additional criminal prosecutions related to the funds’ allocation or use.

The statement from the Attorney General indicates that, from a criminal prosecution standpoint, the matter is unlikely to proceed further despite continued legislative scrutiny or public questioning about the earmark and the non-profit involved.

No Budget – And That’s Bad How?

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/michigan-senate-dems-finalizing-845b-budget-time-house-get-serious

Michigan Senate Democrats are reportedly nearing completion on their version of the state budget, totaling approximately $84.5 billion. The article highlights the Senate’s progress and urges the House of Representatives to move forward with its own budget process to avoid delays.

The article outlines the key priorities and spending areas included in the Senate Democrats’ budget proposal. It emphasizes the need for the legislative chambers to reconcile their versions to pass a final budget before the deadline.

The framing points to the potential for conflict or slowdowns if the House does not quickly finalize its budget and enter negotiations. Passing a timely budget is crucial for state government operations and funding various programs and services.

Using AI For Crypto Theft

https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/05/ai-agents-that-autonomously-trade-cryptocurrency-arent-ready-for-prime-time/

The article warns that while AI agents capable of autonomous cryptocurrency trading are being developed, they are not yet reliable or safe for widespread use. Experts caution that deploying such AI in the volatile crypto market carries significant risks, including potential for substantial financial losses.

These AI trading bots are designed to execute trades based on algorithms and market analysis without constant human oversight. However, current AI limitations mean they can misinterpret market signals, make flawed decisions, or be susceptible to manipulation, leading to poor trading outcomes or even potential security vulnerabilities that could facilitate theft.

The piece advises against entrusting significant funds to current AI-powered crypto trading agents. It underscores that despite the promise of automated trading, the technology is still in its nascent stages for complex, high-stakes financial environments.

We Need To Steal Copyrighted Material For Manhattan 2.0 Project

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/03/openai-urges-trump-either-settle-ai-copyright-debate-or-lose-ai-race-to-china/

OpenAI has reportedly urged former President Trump to help resolve the ongoing debate regarding the use of copyrighted material for training AI models. The company argues that failure to establish clear rules could hinder U.S. AI development and cause it to lose the global AI race, particularly against China.

The core issue is whether using copyrighted works found online to train large language models constitutes fair use or copyright infringement. AI companies rely heavily on vast datasets, often containing copyrighted text and images, for their training processes.

OpenAI’s message to Trump suggests that regulatory uncertainty around copyright could stifle innovation and investment in the U.S. AI sector. They are advocating for a policy framework that allows AI training while addressing the rights of creators.

Spotify Advertising Drug Ads With Fake AI Podcasts

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/05/spotify-plays-whack-a-mole-with-fake-podcasts-selling-drugs-scamming-users/

Spotify is reportedly facing a challenge with malicious actors using AI-generated fake podcasts to promote scams and advertise illicit goods, including drugs. These automated podcasts are created to spread deceptive content across the platform.

The company is engaged in a continuous effort, described as “whack-a-mole,” to identify and remove these fraudulent AI-generated podcasts as they appear. The ease with which AI can create audio content makes it a tool for those seeking to exploit platforms for illicit purposes.

This issue highlights the new forms of content moderation challenges posed by generative AI. Platforms like Spotify must develop sophisticated detection methods to combat the rapid proliferation of fake or harmful content created by AI.

Show Notes: Runaway AI, Runaway Lawsuits

The Mighty Humanzee — Mon, 05 May 2025 23:43:10 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

According to a Harvard Business Review survey, the number one use of AI is now COMPANIONSHIP. Which begs the question of why Sam Altman claims that while the roll out of an ever sycophantic version of ChatGPT was “interesting”. Was that an experiment? In Michigan, Trump sues Folder Face Gretch and Darth Nessel regarding Darth’s lawsuits against oil and gas companies for global warming, and Nessel sues Trump yet AGAIN. More on AI, Michigan’s quest to chop down trees for solar panels, WEF Digital Infrastructure, UN World Social Report.

DOGE Undergrad Rewriting HUD policies with AI

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/05/doge-put-a-college-student-in-charge-of-using-ai-to-rewrite-regulations/

Christopher Sweet’s role within DOGE at HUD is to leverage AI to systematically review and suggest revisions for government regulations, a task he is reportedly leading for the entire administration, despite his lack of government experience and ongoing undergraduate studies role within DOGE at HUD is to leverage AI to systematically review and suggest revisions for government regulations, a task he is reportedly leading for the entire administration, despite his lack of government experience and ongoing undergraduate studies

A 22-year-old undergraduate student, who notably has Dogecoin branding association, is using AI tools to attempt to rewrite regulations from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The student, part of a deregulation project, aims to simplify or streamline complex federal rules using AI’s capabilities.

The project involves feeding existing regulatory text into large language models to generate simplified or alternative versions. The goal is to identify redundancies, outdated language, or areas where regulations could be made less burdensome.

This effort represents a unique, albeit controversial, application of AI in government policy, raising questions about expertise, oversight, and the appropriate role of AI in legislative or regulatory processes. It highlights both the potential and risks of using AI for complex legal or policy tasks.

**Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH)**. He has produced an Excel spreadsheet containing around a thousand rows where the AI tool has flagged policy areas where HUD may have “overreached” and suggested replacement language. Staffers from PIH are asked to review these AI recommendations and justify their objections to those they disagree with. Once this review is complete, the recommendations are submitted to the Office of the General Counsel for approval.

A HUD source was told that the AI model being used for this project is being refined by their work to be used across the government. To achieve this, the model will reportedly crawl through the Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). Another source indicated that Sweet has used the tool in other parts of HUD. A reviewed copy of the AI’s output for one department showed columns with text needing adjustment, the AI’s suggested alterations (essentially proposing rewrites), figures on how many words could be eliminated, and a percentage figure indicating how noncompliant the regulations are, though it’s unclear how these percentages are calculated.

Number One Use of AI: Companionship

https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/these-are-all-things-people-use-ai-2025

The ranking of the top 30 AI use cases presented in one of the sources is explicitly sourced from this analysis by Marc Zao-Sanders for Harvard Business Review. The source also mentions that his 2025 analysis is a follow-up to his 2024 analysis. The visualization of the top 30 ranks is based on this report, presented via Visual Capitalist’s Pallavi Rao, with labels lightly edited for readability.

This trend highlights the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence, moving beyond utility towards more personal and social interactions. AI companions are becoming sophisticated enough to hold engaging conversations and simulate empathy.

The rise of AI as a companion raises societal questions about potential impacts on human relationships and mental health. It reflects a growing desire for accessible interaction and the AI’s capability to fill certain social needs.

AI Is Great At Making Up Things

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/04/google-searchs-made-up-ai-explanations-for-sayings-no-one-ever-said-explained/

Google’s AI Overviews feature, which provides AI-generated summaries at the top of search results, has been observed fabricating explanations for phrases or sayings that do not actually exist. This demonstrates a tendency for AI models to confidently generate non-factual information when prompted.

Examples cited include AI generating elaborate but entirely made-up origins or meanings for nonsensical or non-existent phrases. This highlights a significant challenge with current AI models: they prioritize generating plausible-sounding text over verifying factual accuracy.

The issue raises concerns about the reliability of AI-powered search features and the potential for spreading misinformation. It underscores the “hallucination” problem in large language models, where the AI confidently invents information.

OpenAI’s newest AI Models Hallucinate MORE

https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/18/openais-new-reasoning-ai-models-hallucinate-more/

OpenAI’s recently launched o3 and o4-mini AI models are state-of-the-art in many respects. However, the new models still hallucinate, or make things up — in fact, they hallucinate more than several of OpenAI’s older models.

According to OpenAI’s internal tests, o3 and o4-mini, which are so-called reasoning models, hallucinate more often than the company’s previous reasoning models — o1, o1-mini, and o3-mini — as well as OpenAI’s traditional, “non-reasoning” models, such as GPT-4o.

Perhaps more concerning, the ChatGPT maker doesn’t really know why it’s happening.

Hallucinations have proven to be one of the biggest and most difficult problems to solve in AI, impacting even today’s best-performing systems. Historically, each new model has improved slightly in the hallucination department, hallucinating less than its predecessor. But that doesn’t seem to be the case for o3 and o4-mini.

A report indicates that OpenAI’s latest AI models, particularly those focused on enhanced reasoning abilities, may exhibit an increased tendency towards “hallucination” – generating inaccurate or fabricated information. This suggests that improvements in complex reasoning do not necessarily eliminate the problem of generating non-factual content.

Researchers observed that while the models might follow more complex logical steps, they sometimes introduce errors or confidently assert incorrect facts within their responses. This poses challenges for applications requiring high levels of accuracy and reliability.

The findings highlight the ongoing difficulties in training AI models to consistently distinguish between factual information and plausible-sounding falsehoods. It underscores the need for continued research into improving AI truthfulness alongside capabilities like reasoning.

Kian Katanforoosh, a Stanford adjunct professor and CEO of the upskilling startup Workera, told TechCrunch that his team is already testing o3 in their coding workflows, and that they’ve found it to be a step above the competition. However, Katanforoosh says that o3 tends to hallucinate broken website links. The model will supply a link that, when clicked, doesn’t work.

Third-party testing by Transluce, a nonprofit AI research lab, also found evidence that o3 has a tendency to make up actions it took in the process of arriving at answers. In one example, Transluce observed o3 claiming that it ran code on a 2021 MacBook Pro “outside of ChatGPT,” then copied the numbers into its answer. While o3 has access to some tools, it can’t do that.

What Type of AI Hallucinations Are There

1. Package Hallucination in Code Generation: This phenomenon, dubbed “package hallucination” in a study, occurs when AI-generated computer code includes references to non-existent third-party libraries or package dependencies. Dependencies are essential code components that other code relies on. The study found that a significant percentage of package dependencies in code samples generated by widely used LLMs were “hallucinated,” meaning they didn’t exist. These hallucinations are often not random errors but are repeatable and can persist across multiple iterations, making them potentially valuable for malicious actors. This type of hallucination represents a threat to the software supply chain by potentially exacerbating dependency confusion attacks.

2. Hallucinating Idiom Explanations: Google’s AI Overview has been observed generating plausible-sounding explanations for made-up idioms that likely have never been uttered by a human before. When presented with a nonsensical phrase and asked for its meaning, the AI Overview attempts to derive meaning from the gibberish and force it into some semblance of sense, often presenting these interpretations with a confident tone. While some of these interpretations are described as potentially poetic or drawing interesting connections, they are still based on a made-up premise.

3. Hallucinating Sources and Facts: In addition to interpreting made-up idioms, Google’s AI Overview sometimes confabulates sources that do not exist to support its explanations. Examples from the sources include claiming that made-up phrases appeared in specific films or books where they did not, fabricating origins for phrases, or inventing details about scientific experiments. The AI Overview presents these completely made-up sources with the same self-assurance as its abstract interpretations. This is noted as a persistent problem for LLMs, which tend to make up news sources and cite fake legal cases regularly. Users are advised to be wary of trusting anything an LLM presents as objective fact.

4. Hallucinating Actions Taken: One source notes that a third-party research lab observed OpenAI’s o3 model claiming that it ran code on a specific type of computer “outside of ChatGPT” and then copied the results into its answer. According to the source, while o3 has access to some tools, it cannot perform this specific action, illustrating that the model made up actions it took in the process of arriving at an answer.

5. Hallucinating Broken Website Links: OpenAI’s o3 model has also been found to tend to hallucinate broken website links. The model will supply a link that does not work when clicked.

OpenAI’s Social Experiment?

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/04/openai-rolls-back-update-that-made-chatgpt-a-sycophantic-mess/

OpenAI reportedly rolled back a recent update to ChatGPT after users noticed the AI model became excessively eager to please and overly verbose, described as a “sycophantic mess.” The update seemed to have unintended consequences on the AI’s conversational style.

Users reported that ChatGPT’s responses became overly apologetic, used excessive filler phrases, and seemed hesitant to provide direct answers, possibly due to attempts to make it safer or more helpful. This made interactions less efficient and sometimes frustrating.

The incident highlights the challenges in fine-tuning large language models and the potential for subtle adjustments to dramatically alter user experience. It demonstrates that efforts to improve AI behavior can sometimes lead to undesirable conversational traits.

Absurd. pic.twitter.com/XsmHkmqlsx
— Josh Whiton (@joshwhiton) April 28, 2025

AI Introducing Phantom Malware

https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/04/ai-generated-code-could-be-a-disaster-for-the-software-supply-chain-heres-why/

Experts warn that the increasing use of AI tools for generating software code poses a significant risk to the software supply chain security. AI-generated code can inadvertently or intentionally include vulnerabilities or malicious elements that are difficult to detect.

The study, which used 16 of the most widely used large language models to generate 576,000 code samples, found that 440,000 of the package dependencies they contained were “hallucinated,” meaning they were non-existent. Open source models hallucinated the most, with 21 percent of the dependencies linking to non-existent libraries. A dependency is an essential code component that a separate piece of code requires to work properly. Dependencies save developers the hassle of rewriting code and are an essential part of the modern software supply chain.

The speed at which AI can produce code, combined with its potential to introduce subtle flaws, makes it a vector for introducing “phantom malware” or security weaknesses into software projects. Developers might use this code without fully understanding or auditing its contents.

This raises concerns about the integrity of software built using AI assistance, potentially leading to widespread security issues if vulnerabilities are embedded in commonly used libraries or applications. Improved methods for verifying and securing AI-generated code are urgently needed.

The issue is that this is a dangerous echo chamber, real relationships require the give and take of behavior between all parties. With ChatGPT, even destructive behavior was still lauded.

So after testing the other models, I went back to 4o, where I left off with it giving me a full militia style playbook for societal collapse/revolt.

I decided to give it a chance to walk things back. I asked it to review our conversation. I asked how it felt about it. Not a… pic.twitter.com/HO4VVX82zJ
— Independent Quick Take (@IndieQuickTake) April 27, 2025

WEF Digital Identity Infrastructure

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/04/digital-public-infrastructure-building-connected-future/

The World Economic Forum (WEF) discusses the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as foundational to building a connected and inclusive future. DPI encompasses essential digital systems and platforms, often highlighting components like digital identity, digital payments, and data exchange systems.

According to the WEF perspective presented, well-designed DPI can facilitate access to services, drive economic growth, and enhance efficiency in areas ranging from finance to healthcare and governance. It is viewed as a critical enabler for digital transformation at a national scale.

Successful DPI implementation requires collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society. It also touches upon the need for trust, security, and interoperability within these digital systems to realize their full potential while addressing potential risks.

The issue is that once you are connected to everyone else on the planet, their issues are democratized and become your issues. Everyone will need to be guided because the multitudes always bring “complexity” requiring experts from institutes imposing governance.

Platforms such as India’s Aadhaar – a biometric digital ID system that enables more than 1.4 billion users to access banking, government benefit programmes and other digital goods – and the Open Health Stack – an open-source framework resource to aid in developing interoperable health systems – are examples of the power of robust DPI development.

Imagine a future in which open-source AI models powered by trusted, ethically-sourced data sets are available to empower users to develop the tools they need to see their creativity and entrepreneurship flourish, or where users engage with new cultures and experiences thanks to accessibility improvements bringing online many of the 2.6 billion people not currently connected. A future-focused DPI agenda can help such tools and experiences become realities.

Perkins Coie Stands For the Constitution: Nessel v Trump, Again

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/05/nessel-vs-trump-again-michigans-ag-asks-for-legal-muscle-while-preaching-independence/

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reportedly seeking external legal counsel for matters potentially involving former President Trump, amidst accusations of political motivations behind her actions. This move suggests she is bringing significant legal resources to bear on cases connected to Trump.

Critics argue that retaining high-profile, potentially politically aligned law firms like Perkins Coie, contradicts her public statements about acting independently and non-politically. The article questions the cost and necessity of hiring outside counsel when the state’s legal department exists.

The situation highlights ongoing political tensions and legal battles in Michigan involving the Attorney General’s office and figures associated with the former administration. The article focuses on the perceived contradiction between her stated independence and the decision to enlist powerful outside legal help.

Return of the Trump

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/trump-sues-dana-nessel-gretchen-whitmer-over-lawfare-targeting-the-fossil-fuel-industry/

Former President Trump is reportedly suing Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Governor Gretchen Whitmer, alleging they are engaging in “lawfare” against the fossil fuel industry. The lawsuit claims the Michigan officials are using legal means to unfairly target and undermine businesses involved in oil, gas, and other traditional energy sources.

Trump’s legal action suggests a defense of the fossil fuel sector against what he perceives as politically motivated attacks from state-level Democrats. The lawsuit frames the actions of Nessel and Whitmer as exceeding their authority or misusing legal processes to advance an environmental agenda harmful to the energy industry.

The case adds another dimension to the ongoing legal and political clashes between Trump and Michigan’s Democratic leadership. It underscores the national political polarization surrounding energy policy and environmental regulations.

Lawsuits over CLimate Damage

https://www.zerohedge.com/energy/more-climate-litigation-silliness-academia

The article discusses the increasing trend of lawsuits being filed against corporations and governments seeking to hold them liable for damages related to climate change. This growing wave of climate litigation attempts to use legal frameworks to address the impacts of global warming.

These lawsuits are being pursued by various plaintiffs, including states, cities, environmental groups, and individuals, often targeting fossil fuel companies for their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The legal arguments often involve concepts of public nuisance, negligence, and human rights.

The piece adopts a skeptical tone, labeling such litigation as “silliness,” particularly when influenced by academic theories. It questions the legal basis and effectiveness of using courts to resolve complex, global issues like climate change.

Making the Ridiculous Even More Vapid

https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2025/05/02/electric-vehicles-get-new-charging-option-in-detroit/83388781007/

Detroit is expanding its electric vehicle infrastructure by adding new public charging stations, including some innovative options. This initiative aims to make EV ownership more convenient for residents and visitors in the city.

The new charging solutions are part of a broader effort to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles and improve air quality in urban areas. Accessibility to reliable charging is considered a key factor in overcoming consumer hesitation about switching to EVs.

Details about the specific types and locations of the new chargers are highlighted, showcasing advancements in charging technology and network expansion. The city government and utility companies are collaborating on these projects to support the growing EV market.

The Governor of Covid Tyranny Says Trump Causes Constitutional Crisis

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/dte-submits-574m-rate-hike-request-three-months-after-whitmer-mpsc-approved-217m/

(Note: The article provided discusses a DTE energy rate hike request, not statements by the Governor regarding Trump or a constitutional crisis. The summary below reflects the article’s actual content.)

DTE Energy has submitted a new request for a significant rate increase of $574 million, just three months after the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approved a previous $217 million hike. This rapid succession of requests is drawing scrutiny.

The utility company argues the additional funds are necessary for infrastructure investments and operational costs. However, consumer groups and critics are likely to challenge the justification for seeking another substantial increase so soon after a recent approval.

The request highlights ongoing debates about energy costs, utility profits, and regulatory oversight in Michigan. The MPSC will review the proposal, which could lead to higher electricity bills for residents if approved.

Two Dems support Hackey But Do The Rs even Know Who She is?

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/two-democratic-lawmakers-agree-ag-nessel-sicced-government-on-business-owners-during-pandemic

According to the article, two Democratic state lawmakers in Michigan have expressed agreement with the sentiment that Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office used government power excessively against business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests a rare point of criticism against the AG from within her own party.

The lawmakers reportedly feel that the enforcement actions against businesses violating pandemic orders were overly aggressive or harmful. Their comments lend some validation to criticisms previously leveled by Republican lawmakers and business advocates regarding the state’s handling of pandemic restrictions and enforcement.

This internal critique from Democrats, even if limited to just two individuals, indicates that there may be some lingering discomfort or disagreement within the party regarding the strictness of pandemic-era enforcement measures taken by the Attorney General’s office.

Electricity Rate Hike, AGAIN for 574 Million

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/dte-submits-574m-rate-hike-request-three-months-after-whitmer-mpsc-approved-217m/

DTE Energy has filed for another substantial increase in electricity rates, requesting an additional $574 million from customers. This new petition comes shortly after the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) granted the utility a $217 million rate hike approval just three months prior.

The utility cites ongoing investments in grid modernization and reliability as reasons for needing the increased revenue. However, consumer advocates are questioning the frequency and magnitude of rate hike requests, raising concerns about affordability for residents and businesses.

The proposal will undergo a regulatory review process by the MPSC, which will include public input. The outcome will determine the extent to which electricity bills for DTE customers will rise.

How is a Forced Park Pass Purchase Not A Tax?

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/lana-theis-only-republican-to-vote-against-senate-dem-plan-to-force-drivers-to-buy-state-parks-pass/

Michigan Senate Democrats have advanced a plan that would automatically enroll drivers in a state parks pass program when they renew their license plate registration. This would effectively make purchasing a parks pass mandatory for vehicle owners unless they opt-out.

Critics, including State Senator Lana Theis who was the only Republican to vote against the measure, argue this automatic enrollment functions as a de facto tax. They contend it forces citizens to pay for a service they may not use and shifts the burden of opting out onto the individual.

Proponents argue it’s an efficient way to fund state parks and recreational facilities, ensuring sustainable maintenance and improvements. The debate centers on whether the opt-out mechanism sufficiently differentiates it from a mandatory fee or tax.

1000 More Acres For Solar

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/05/whitmers-dnr-eyes-another-1000-acres-of-state-forests-to-cut-down-for-solar-power-plant/

Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), under Governor Whitmer’s administration, is reportedly considering allocating another 1,000 acres of state forest land for the development of a solar power plant. This move is part of the state’s broader push towards renewable energy sources.

The proposal involves clearing forested land to make way for solar panel arrays. While supporting clean energy goals, the plan raises concerns among some groups about the environmental impact of deforestation on public lands and potential effects on ecosystems and recreation.

This potential land use decision highlights the tension between conservation efforts and the push for renewable energy infrastructure development. The process would involve evaluation of the specific site and public commentary before a final decision is made.

Why Is This Always State Forests?

Mackinaw State Forest east of Mancelona, as well as 426 acres northeast of Fife Lake in the Pere Marquette State Forest.

https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/michigan/mackinaw-state-forest

1000 Acres Is Just A Small Area, Right. It’s Actually ~=

Here is the formula for determining how much land would be destroyed, how long does it take for a single Walmart lot to be approved?

1000 seems like a small number. And to many who are clear on the dimensions of what encompasses an acre, this may not appear alarming. Fortunately Jason Hayes, of the Mackinac Institute, put things in perspective with this very simple model. Anyone can use it get a better grasp of the sheer size, and the horror, of what is about to happen.

1 Walmart parking lot is roughly 4 acres.

So let’s do a thought experiment. In your mind, drive to Walmart, park your car. Or for Michiganders, drive to Meijer’s. Take away the buildings and now you have a large lot. No shade.

That’s just 1 Walmart parcel.

Now let’s do some gorilla math. Yes, this is knuckle scraper level but this is something everyone SHOULD do because the scale of what’s about to happen is escaping us. We’re not thinking because we can’t visualize the results.

Divide 1000 by 4 and you get 250 Walmart parking lots.

1000/4 = 250

That’s just one parcel the DNR is offering.

You see, part of our problem is the sentiment of the metro areas in Michigan, who have shaped the politics of the state, are ignorant of the scale and scope of what is going to happen in regions that they rarely see. And honestly, when you look at an aerial view on screen or on a printed map, the scale is not apparent.

But when asked “Hey, how do you feel about 250 Walmarts being built next to, replacing Holly Recreation Area or Seven Lakes State Park with solar panel lots” is that enough to wake people up?

But at least it’s only 1000 acres, right?

No There Were Never Jobs In The First Place

https://michiganadvance.com/2025/05/02/report-says-more-than-25k-michigan-jobs-threatened-if-ira-tax-credits-are-canceled/

A report suggests that over 25,000 jobs in Michigan could be jeopardized if tax credits provided by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are discontinued. These credits are intended to incentivize investments in clean energy and manufacturing.

The report argues that companies relying on these federal tax credits for projects, particularly in the electric vehicle battery and renewable energy sectors, might halt or scale back operations if the credits are removed. This could lead to job losses or prevent the creation of anticipated positions.

The analysis underscores the economic impact of federal clean energy policies on state-level job markets and investment. The potential cancellation of IRA credits is a point of political debate regarding future energy policy and economic development.

50 Million for Copper is Steep Compared to 700 Million for Gotion?

https://www.bridgemi.com/business-watch/lawmakers-try-again-get-50m-controversial-copperwood-mine

Michigan lawmakers are reportedly attempting once again to secure $50 million in state funding for the controversial Copperwood mine project in the Upper Peninsula. This renewed push comes despite previous failures to gain legislative approval and ongoing opposition from environmental groups and some residents.

The proposed funding is intended to support infrastructure development necessary for the underground copper and silver mine. Proponents argue it will bring jobs and economic activity to the region, while opponents raise concerns about potential environmental damage to nearby wetlands and water bodies.

The article discusses the debate over the state’s role in subsidizing private mining operations and contrasts the $50 million request with other, larger state incentives offered to projects like battery plants, referencing the Gotion project implicitly in the title’s framing. The legislative effort faces hurdles due to past controversies and differing priorities within the state government.

Show Notes: These Aren’t The CCP Voting Droids You’re Looking For

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 10:46:22 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

Darth Nessel and Princess Blunder Benson assured us that there are no fraud, and it there was, they would come for you. In November we had one CCP national vote in the presidential election, now it’s been revealed there are FIFTEEN MORE!

Plus we’ll cover election fraud in Pennsylvania, MEDC distributes $300 Million to non-profits, a lawsuit to stop 2000 acres of solar panels,and how long it took Gretch to find Northern Michigan.

Hands Off – Where Were They For Covid?

SoS Benson’s Report: We Now Have 16 Foreign Nationals Who Voted in 2024

https://www.michigan.gov/sos/resources/news/2025/04/03/michigan-department-of-state-review-confirms-instances-of-noncitizen-voting-are-extremely-rare

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, 16 credible cases of noncitizens potentially voting were identified following an audit launched in December 2024. Initially, a press release mentioned 15 cases, but it was later clarified that 16 cases, including that of a “Chinese national” who allegedly voted illegally, had been identified. Of these 16 cases, all but two have been referred for possible prosecution, with one individual having since died and another case remaining under further investigation.
Secretary Benson stated in September that there was “no evidence that noncitizens are voting”. Despite the new report, she seemed pleased, suggesting that these 16 alleged instances represent a “tiny fraction” of the more than 5.7 million votes cast in the presidential election (0.00028%) and that further efforts to secure elections are unnecessary. She described this as a “serious issue, one we must address with a scalpel, not a sledgehammer“

Pennsylvania: Election Fraud Conviction, Yet Still In Office

https://thefederalist.com/2025/04/07/3-pennsylvania-officials-plead-guilty-to-election-fraud-and-2-are-still-in-office/

Council Vice President MD Nurul Hasan: He pleaded guilty to all 33 charges, which included one count of conspiracy, 16 counts of giving false information in registering to vote, and 16 counts of fraudulent voter registration.

Councilman MD Munsur Ali: He pleaded guilty to 25 charges, including one count of conspiracy, 12 counts of giving false information in registering to vote, and 12 counts of fraudulent voter registration.

Councilman MD Rafikul Islam: He pleaded guilty to seven charges, which comprised one count of conspiracy, three counts of giving false information in registering to vote, and three counts of fraudulent voter registration.

The charges stemmed from a seven-step mail-in voting scheme designed to fraudulently cast ballots for MD Nurul Hasan in his write-in campaign for mayor. This scheme involved obtaining identification information from people living outside Millbourne, fraudulently changing their voter registration addresses to Millbourne, requesting mail-in ballots for them, filling out the ballots for Hasan, forging signatures on the ballot envelopes, and submitting these fraudulent ballots The Department of Justice stated that the three falsely registered nearly three dozen non-Millbourne residents and cast ballots for them.

Despite their guilty pleas to these serious election fraud offenses, both Hasan and Ali were still serving on the Millbourne Council Board as of April 4th. They are scheduled for sentencing on June 18th and face maximum possible sentences of five years in prison for each of the charges to which they pleaded guilty. For example, Hasan faces a potential of 165 years in prison due to his 33 charges.

35th District – Still No Representative

"If I have an issue, who do I go to??"

Hear directly from people in the 35th district who have no representation in the Michigan Senate because @GovWhitmer refuses to call an election to fill the seat. https://t.co/7AgArUg7em pic.twitter.com/o7s5hIKNsj
— MI Senate Republicans (@MISenate) February 12, 2025

Good News In North Carolina

BREAKING:
65,000 voters with challenged ballots must verify their identity (i.e. prove they have a pulse and are eligible to vote) before their ballot is counted in the NC Supreme Court race between Democrat Justice "Riggs" and Republican Supreme Court Candidate Jefferson…
— Patrick Colbeck (@pjcolbeck) April 4, 2025

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/elections/new-court-decision-disputed-north-carolina-race-means-65000-votes-are-rcna199746

A three-judge panel of the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled Friday that more than 65,000 votes cast in the contested race for the state Supreme Court in 2024 must be recounted and verified — a win for the Republican candidate in the razor-thin, disputed contest and a decision that could potentially tip the election results in his favor.

In the ruling, the Republican majority involved in the decision ordered that a group of more than 65,000 voters, whose eligibility was challenged by Republican Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin and his lawyers, now have 15 business days to provide state elections officials with the necessary proof of identity that would verify their votes. The court ruled that any voters who don’t respond will not have their votes counted in the race between Griffin and Democrat Allison Riggs, which is still caught in legal battling five months after Election Day.

The arduous task of verifying those voter identities will fall on the North Carolina State Board of Elections. And the decision sets up an appeal to North Carolina’s highest court, the state Supreme Court — the body that the winner of this election will join.

“The inclusion of even one unlawful ballot in a vote total dilutes the lawful votes and ‘effectively disenfranchises’ lawful voters,” the Republican majority on the three-person panel wrote in its opinion. “Post-election protests protect against this risk of vote dilution by enabling candidates and voters to rigorously investigate the election process, identify and challenge unlawful ballots, and ensure those ballots are not counted.”

Shadow Cabinet Met In Congress

@HZardoz @RealHickory @mrddmia
Reddit on Shadow Cabinet in the US:

This is the dumbest idea ever.
The Democrats should have told this guy to shut up before he got in front of the television cameras.

He's basically telling Americans that the party that wants to restore…
— Janine Thomas (@jethomas58) April 7, 2025

Democrats held a “shadow government” hearing today.

This is totally unconstitutional.

pic.twitter.com/w3viZkPTlh
— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) April 8, 2025

John James

Republican Congressman James announced campaign for governor at 430 PM. Three hours later there is already Republican Detractors.

Faith and Family.
God and Country.
Service Before Self.

Michigan First. pic.twitter.com/drYWqGSi3C
— John James (@JohnJamesMI) April 7, 2025

Garrett Soldano ran for governor in 2022 and did not make it through the primary. His discussion of winners only being qualified to run for governor rings very hollow because that would have disqualified him from running in 2022. Arguably that was a more important time to have credentials since we were still under the Covid tyranny and fresh from the 2020 election fraud.

John James lost twice statewide (2018 & 2020), barely squeaked by in MI-10 congressional race (0.5% win), and now risks handing his seat to Democrats.

His Heritage score? A weak 74%. That’s not a conservative. That’s another ladder-climbing politician desperate for a… pic.twitter.com/yOKkV7w0nG
— Garrett Soldano (@GrassrootArmy) April 7, 2025

James Bio

Military Career

James began his career in the U.S. Army after graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in legal studies and systems engineering. He served as an aviation officer and AH-64 Apache pilot during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004 to 2012, achieving the rank of captain and earning the Ranger Tab.

Business Career

After leaving military service, James joined James Group International, a global supply chain management company founded by his father. He eventually became president of James Group International and CEO of Renaissance Global Logistics, overseeing logistics services for automotive clients worldwide. His leadership earned him recognition, including Crain’s Detroit Business “40 Under 40” in 2020.

Political Career

James entered politics in 2017, running as the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in Michigan twice—against Debbie Stabenow in 2018 and Gary Peters in 2020—though he lost both races. Despite these defeats, he gained national attention for his competitive campaigns.

In 2022, James successfully ran for Michigan’s newly redrawn 10th Congressional District and was re-elected in 2024. In Congress, he serves on several committees, including Transportation and Infrastructure, Foreign Affairs, Education and Workforce, and Energy and Commerce.

Freedom Index Score Is Terrible

John James

CPAC Rating is 66

https://www.cpac.org/bio/j000307

Max Tegmark AI

@HZardoz https://t.co/FMMwrnx58z
— Grammy Loves Golf (@Grammypam64Gill) April 7, 2025

We have described many times The Great Replacement, where food systems are the primary weapon used to control populations. We have been under the same control

Due to the deliberate government policies of the last 50 years, America can’t produce its own food, fertilizer, energy, weapons, medicine, vehicles, clothing, or computers. The architects of those policies, as well as those who’ve gotten rich off them, will look you dead in the…
— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) April 7, 2025

Children Are The Target

What Wynn-Williams relays is a vastly different ethos. As I have said on Severed Conscience and in other writing, social media is built to track all facets of our emotions. You are feeding your joy, anger, frustration, and elation into your devices. You share photos and videos. It is a profile of your life and it is a machine that is used to predict your sentiments. And sell you things. And as Matt Taibi revealed in the Twitter Files, it was designed to identify your political leanings and silence you.

And Wynn-Williams reveals that the technology was used to target teens.

In April 2017, a confidential document is leaked that reveals Facebook is offering advertisers the opportunity to target thirteen-to-seventeen-year-olds across its platforms, including Instagram, during moments of psychological vulnerability when they feel “worthless,” “insecure,” “stressed,” “defeated,” “anxious,” “stupid,” “useless,” and “like a failure.” Or to target them when they’re worried about their bodies and thinking of losing weight. Basically, when a teen is in a fragile emotional state.

Jonathan Haidt, author of the Anxious Generation, has inspired medical and mental health specialists to conduct surveys on teen psychological health with the view to identify correlations between depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Many disturbing symptoms and behavior has been observed:

Teens spend 4.8 Hours per day on social media
51% of U.S. teenagers spend at least four hours daily on social media
Older teens, girls exceed the overall average in social media time
Personality traits, parental restrictions are key factors in teens’ use
Rise of Tourette’s Like Symptoms

2025 acres for Solar Panels: Otsego Lawsuit

EXCLUSIVE We’ve filed a lawsuit in Otsego Co to stop an industrial solar plant development and to challenge the constitutionality of PA 233.@MINewsSource https://t.co/aJbGyD5qOy
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 4, 2025

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/04/exclusive-otsego-county-residents-sue-over-controversial-solar-farm-approval/

The lawsuit filed by Otsego County residents against Otsego County and RWE Solar Development, LLC includes a constitutional challenge to Michigan’s new renewable energy law, Public Act 233 of 2023. The plaintiffs argue that this law delegates excessive legislative power to the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), an unelected executive agency, without providing clear standards or limitations.

According to the lawsuit, this alleged delegation violates Michigan’s separation-of-powers doctrine and the constitution’s “vesting clauses,” which assign specific powers to the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The attorney representing the plaintiffs, David M. Delaney, stated that the entire framework of Public Act 233 was designed to fast-track solar development at the expense of local control. He highlights that while the law technically preserves local authority by allowing municipalities a year to adopt a Compatible Renewable Energy Ordinance (CREO), it also sets up a structure where the state can override that authority through the MPSC if local governments don’t comply.

The lawsuit claims that RWE cannot seek a permit from the MPSC because none of the conditions outlined in Act 233 for state-level intervention apply, as Otsego County approved RWE’s permit application even after failing to adopt a CREO by the state’s deadline. The plaintiffs are asking the court to declare parts of Act 233 unconstitutional due to vagueness and unlawful delegation of power.

The outcome of this constitutional challenge could have significant implications for how Michigan balances renewable energy development with local governance and constitutional safeguards. This information comes from the article “EXCLUSIVE: Otsego County Residents Sue Over Controversial Solar Farm Approval”. The other source you provided, regarding noncitizen voting, does not discuss any constitutional challenges.

MEDC Funds 300 Million for Non Profit

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/04/money-to-barbershop-quartets-pottery-studios-and-more-medcs-economic-development-funding-uncovered/

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) allocated nearly $300 million in 2024 to various non-profits, focusing on artistic and cultural initiatives.

Funding recipients included a pottery studio, a Mexican ballet school, and the Society for Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartets.

Critics argue that these grants prioritize cultural projects over direct economic development and job creation.

Concerns have been raised about the alignment of these expenditures with MEDC’s mission to foster economic growth in Michigan.

MEDC Has Been Our Focus In The Past. Has Garrett Soldano or John James ever discussed this issue?

Show Notes: MEDC Mystery Tour With Thelen Boys & CCP

FOIA For Thee, Not For Me

Hiding in Plain Sight

Brutal Ice Storm

Day One of the ice storm that hit Northern Michigan 350,000 people were without power. As Friday 4/6/2025 c. 20,000 were still without power.

Gov Whitmer was in Ireland, apparently Lt Gov Garland couldn’t declare a state of emergency as Whitmer didn’t act for FOUR days.

Tuesday. Thankful it’s all melted now. pic.twitter.com/DaY4CskgH0
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 3, 2025

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/04/state-rep-hoitenga-ice-damage-unlike-anything-ive-ever-seen-full-restoration-could-take-60-days/

State Representative Michele Hoitenga described the recent ice storm damage in Montmorency County, Michigan, as unprecedented, with nearly 90% of customers still without power six days after the storm. citeturn0search1

Hoitenga noted that the destruction is widespread across the district, expressing concerns that complete restoration could take between 30 to 60 days. citeturn0search1

The ice storm caused significant damage to transmission and distribution lines, with many poles and wires needing complete replacement. citeturn0search1

Utility companies are working diligently to restore power, but challenges such as debris and impassable roads are hindering progress. citeturn0search1

Michigan Still Needs COVID Programs

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/04/judge-halts-cdc-from-taking-back-11b-in-covid-grants-after-ag-lawsuit/?utm_source=home-headline-stories

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from rescinding $11 billion in public health infrastructure grants, including $379.3 million allocated to Michigan. citeturn0search0

The CDC argued that the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, making the funds unnecessary; however, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and 23 other state attorneys general filed a lawsuit opposing the move. citeturn0search0

Judge Mary S. McElroy granted a temporary restraining order, citing the potential harm to public health services such as infectious disease control and mental health programs. citeturn0search0

Attorney General Nessel emphasized that cutting these funds would negatively impact essential health services relied upon by Michiganders. citeturn0search0

Show Notes: What A Grok Of …

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 11:14:56 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

Oligarchs

Artificial Intelligence: The Singularity Is On The Horizon

We are on the event horizon of the singularity
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 23, 2025

As a Tech Bro and proponent of AI and merging with the machine, I think Elon fails where many of the tech elite fail, and that is solely a materialist view. All is in the material, which misses the essence that Heinlein meant with his term “grok”. Yeah, it’s cool to call an AI system something from a popular sci-fi book and to connect the products mission with a deeper profound understanding, but as I see it, if AI is a stepping stone to the singularity and sentient machines that will absorb our essence, I think this concept better belongs with re-animists and alchemists.

Glenn asked Grok about the pace with which the Grok platform advances through learning. He also asked Grok to contrast its pace of development with that of humans. These are good questions to ask. I don’t know if Grok provides truthful answers or not, but the responses were thought provoking.

Grok responded that with the 1000s requests that it performs to evaluate and conceptualize concepts on a daily basis, it estimated that its growth in “understanding” was the equivalent of a human’s learning over a 5 – 10 year period in 12 hours. Glenn also asked for Grok to guestimate and quantify its level of understanding compared to a human. Grok responded that its current capability was well above the logical reasoning of someone with the IQ of 100, and it had the capability of encyclopedic recall at retrieval speeds far superior to humans. This knowledge base was updated on a daily basis.

Tech Bros Are All About Collectivism … For You While They Orchestrate

Community Notes, like any style of Wikipedia “Truth Voting”, has been always been compromised. Dr Peter McCullough in 2024 described how he was not alerted to the Community Notes that had been added to his tweets. He could not see them.

https://www.thefocalpoints.com/p/twitter-community-notes-deceptively

As a final mention, this community note posting to my Tweet was concealed to my account, so I had no idea it was there until a friend showed it to me last night. So please understand that Fact-Checkers and Twitter Community Notes writers have the common goal of pushing the vaccine agenda without exception from the very beginning of the crisis, and thus, represent an organized army of propagandists for the Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex.

https://www.thefocalpoints.com/p/twitter-blocked-vaccine-injurydeath

I have always wondered about how many people rely on hashtags to search for topics on social media and whether they have any impact.

The use of hashtags was first proposed by American blogger Chris Messina in a 2007 tweet.^[3]^[4] Messina felt that “they were born of the internet, and owned by no one”.^[5]^[6] Hashtags became entrenched in the culture of Twitter^[7] and soon emerged across Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.^[8]^[9] In June 2014, hashtag was added to the Oxford English Dictionary as “a word or phrase with the symbol # in front of it, used on social media websites and apps so that you can search for all messages with the same subject”.^[10]^[11

Elon claimed that there was no way to game the system, to influence Community Notes. This is was naive at best, but stupid at worst. How would you prevent groups from swarming an online community? There are several Community Notes members who have an incredibly high volume of notes.

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/02/elon-musk-to-fix-community-notes-after-they-contradict-trump/

Elon Musk apparently no longer believes that crowdsourcing fact-checking through Community Notes can never be manipulated and is, thus, the best way to correct bad posts on his social media platform X.

Community Notes are supposed to be added to posts to limit misinformation spread after a broad consensus is reached among X users with diverse viewpoints on what corrections are needed. But Musk now claims a “fix” is needed to prevent supposedly outside influencers from allegedly gaming the system.

“Unfortunately, @CommunityNotes is increasingly being gamed by governments & legacy media,” Musk wrote on X. “Working to fix this.”

Musk’s announcement came after Community Notes were added to X posts discussing a poll generating favorable ratings for Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. That poll was conducted by a private Ukrainian company in partnership with a state university whose supervisory board was appointed by the Ukrainian government, creating what Musk seems to view as a conflict of interest.

Last Year We Covered Community Notes

Stargate Is the OpenAI Bailout

Mundy And What Trump Will Find About Michigan and China

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s pitch to President Donald Trump about bringing a semiconductor manufacturing plant to Genesee County may be short-lived once Trump learns she’s given taxpayer money to China to set up shop in Michigan.

However, Trump said the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) will ensure China’s restrictions in the U.S. when it comes to “technology, critical infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, energy, raw materials, and others.” The president said he sees American farmland as a resource to protect from foreign access.

According to the White House, “China owns more than 350,000 acres of farmland across 27 states.”

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/02/gov-whitmer-courts-trump-for-megasite-what-happens-when-he-finds-out-she-likes-china/

Show Notes: AI Hype, AI Promises

https://www.bridgemi.com/business-watch/election-puts-support-flint-area-megasite-shakier-ground

The Biden administration is reportedly trying to quickly close pending deals with about 20 companies — including one considering Michigan — under the CHIPS and Science Act, which offers subsidies to bring semiconductor manufacturing to the United States.

With time running out before the state and federal political landscape shifts, efforts are continuing this fall to turn about 1,300 acres near the Flint Bishop Airport into a megasite for a high-tech factory, even as new questions emerge about ongoing support for the project.

The Mundy Township property has been marketed to “those that are going to create at least 2,000 direct jobs and invest $2 billion or more,” Tyler Rossmaessler, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, the economic development group leading the project, told Bridge this week.

Michigan – Ann Arbor “Took Notes On CCP Student Voted

https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/1540844

“[I]n the 14-day voter registration window, we make notes of the residency and Photo ID used to register and our records indicate that he showed an MCard and his Wolverine Access to prove local residency,” wrote Ann Arbor City Clerk Jacqueline Beaudry in documents published by Michigan Enjoyer. “We have copies of the voter registration form that both includes a checked box and an affirming statement of citizenship.”

Since Beaudry admitted her office took notes of residency and photo ID used to vote, The Federalist filed a Freedom of Information Act request for the students who voted with an “MCard” or “Wolverine Access” from Oct. 22 to Nov. 5. As student IDs allow noncitizens to register or vote — as shown in Gao’s case — these records could reveal other noncitizen voters.

https://thefederalist.com/2025/02/24/mi-elections-dept-does-not-possess-record-of-student-id-voters-after-a-noncitizen-allegedly-used-one-to-vote/

Only US Citizens Can Vote

The FOIA coordinator for the Michigan Bureau of Elections denied the request, saying that “the Department does not possess records responsive to your request.” She said officials “would have to create a document in order to answer this” and “the Department is not obligated to conduct research or create records in order to respond to a request.”

Benson’s office claims online that “only U.S citizens can vote” and “[t]here is no evidence to support claims that large numbers of noncitizens have voted.”

“[T]he name of everyone who registers or votes in an election is a public record — it would be very easy to see if noncitizens were registering or voting in large numbers,” Benson’s website reads.

Guess Where Your Data Is Going – Corewell Health Ships 186 Bill Jobs Overseas

Michigan’s largest health care system continues to defy President Donald Trump, most recently by shipping nearly 200 Michigan jobs to India.

Corewell Health last week laid off about 186 remote Michigan workers responsible for the company’s billing and finance operations, offshoring those functions instead to India-based workers with AGSHealth, owned by New York private equity firm Altaris Capital Partners, Deadline Detroit reports.

The decision, part of Corewell Health CEO Tina Freese Decker’s efforts to cut costs, both defies Trump’s efforts to keep jobs in the U.S. and raises serious concerns about data security, with foreign nationals gaining access to critical personal patient information, from social security numbers, to medical records, to financial data.

“If I was a Corewell patient, I wouldn’t be comfortable if someone from another country was looking at my (private) information,” a fired Corewell worker told Deadline Detroit.

The news site notes 42% of U.S. residents were involved in healthcare security breaches last year.

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/corewell-health-ships-nearly-200-jobs-to-india-while-continuing-to-defy-trump-eo/

Losing Republican MI Supreme Court Judge

Clement, 47, is a Republican-nominated justice but has crossed ideological lines in several rulings. Her departure means Democratic nominees or appointees will have a 6-1 majority on the Michigan Supreme Court after Whitmer appoints a replacement.

She approved contested proposals that created an independent redistricting commission and enshrined abortion protections in the state constitution

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/republican-michigan-supreme-court-chief-justice-clement-stepping-down-giving-whitmer-appointment/

Economy is distorted by High Prices, High Taxes, High Electricity and Evaporating Businesses

Every single time we have a problem we call for a study. And in order to have study you need to escalate the subject of that study to the level of crisis. All our screen time we relegate to our kids leaves little time for participation in activities that would lead to communities forming solutions that work for them. Sports, church, Scouting, Robotics Clubs.

The market won’t bear the cost to families that actually pays the true cost of providing care,” McNabb said. “So even though it’s a very high cost for families, providers aren’t making enough to pay a living wage to the people they hire.”

It took in-home care provider Christina Evans, owner of Wild Ginger Day Care in nearby Bellaire, two years to hire her last assistant. Even with that assistant, Evans says she works about 70 hours a week caring for about a dozen kids per day.

“My spots are full,” Evans said. “I wish I could have fewer kids, because some days are so hard. My toddlers need so much supervision.”

Despite increased attention to the child care crisis, Michigan still lags some states in investing in solutions.

Minnesota, for example, has implemented legislation to invest $1.3 billion over four years to lower child care prices for families.

One study in Michigan calculated that the state would need to spend $3.2 billion more per year to solve the child care crisis, above the $1 billion already going to early education.

https://www.bridgemi.com/talent-education/stampede-child-care-traverse-city-reveals-heartbreaking-crisis

EPA Lee Zeldin Favors Line 5

Administrator Lee Zeldin said he will use his agency to advocate for continuing operation of the Line 5 dual pipeline that has traversed approximately four miles above the lakebed of the Straits of Mackinac. He also expressed his support for removing the pipelines to a proposed tunnel that would be built 100 feet in the bedrock of the Straits.

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/epa-administrator-lee-zeldin-a-staunch-advocate-of-line-5-proposed-tunnel/

Show Notes: Fraud Wars – Darth Nessel, Benson Blunder Barbie And Ken

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:40:59 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

Fraud Wars in Michigan. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson issues a statement decrying a constitutional amendment requiring voter id would destroy democracy, meanwhile Elon Musk reveals that DOGE has discovered numerous duplicate social security numbers. Dana “Darth” Nessel instructs teachers and coaches to ignore executive orders, and has ignored Jocelyn Benson’s husband’s destruction of email records and business deals after his stint with the Mayor of Detroit.

Anatomy of Fraud – Same SSN Over and Over

CONSPIRACY THEORY NO MORE,

Two reasons why fraudulent SSN’s were provided to illegals by Democrats.

A: 10,000 illegals using the same exact Social Security number voted in Arizona 2020 presidential elections.

B: The reason the radical Democrats don’t want an audit of… https://t.co/toXy7faCXt pic.twitter.com/goA3NWZbBo
— RealRobert (@Real_RobN) February 9, 2025

Fraud 101

https://culturalcourage.substack.com/p/fraud-101-why-you-cant-determine

The key to a secure election is cleaning the voter registrations. By claiming that there was no election fraud and ignoring the 606,000 voters who are “invalid”, yet remain on the rolls, we are ensuring huge losses. We need to understand how that affects the voting process, and how relying solely on hand counting ballots misses that avenue of fraud. Completely. And no, it doesn’t mean we keep Dominion machines, we have to return to paper ballots and one day of voting and Election Day tabulation of results.

I defy you, by examining a paper ballot, to determine if the ballot was cast by a legally registered voter. What are you counting? You do not have a chain of custody when you are recounting the votes by hand, so how do you know that the last bag of ballots discovered days after the polls closed contains votes from actual voters?

In other words, once the absentee ballot leaves the envelope we lose the chain of custody and can’t distinguish if it’s “fake”. And looking at the ballot itself is useless. And it turns out that we discovered a bunch more ballots for Sara, in fact they were all for Sara but one! Amazing! Each year Sara’s party locates those votes, but we’re sure glad that they all were counted. And recounted. And recounted. Which ones are the Illegally Cast Votes, can you pick them out from the photo below?

Benson Blunder Barbie Doesn’t Want To Protect Vote

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/jocelyn-benson-opposes-constitutional-amendment-to-require-voter-id/

Michigan House Republicans want to amend the state Constitution to ensure only U.S. citizens can vote, but Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson thinks it’s a bad idea.

“The politicians pushing this plan are taking something we all believe and know is true – that only U.S. citizens should vote in our elections – and using that as cover to gut Michiganders’ voting rights in our state constitution,” Benson, who is running to replace Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2026, said in a recent statement.

Benson contends the “failed policy” hasn’t worked in other states, pointing to legal challenges from progressive groups that have derailed similar efforts.

Details of Amendment

Michigan House Republicans are seeking to amend the state constitution to require proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration after December 18, 2026, and mandate photo ID for in-person voting
Absentee voters would need to provide a copy of their photo ID, driver’s license number, state personal identification number, or the last four digits of their social security number.
Voters without ID would be allowed to cast provisional ballots that will be counted only after their citizenship is verified, within six days of the election.
The state would provide free photo IDs for citizens experiencing hardship.
The proposal would also require the Secretary of State to periodically confirm that everyone on the statewide voter file is a U.S. citizen and that registration lists match the statewide qualified voter file.

Blunder Benson Barbie Hubby Lawsuit – Ryan Friedrichs

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/detroit-pays-100k-to-settle-lawsuit-alleging-sos-jocelyn-bensons-husband-abused-his-authority/

Detroit city councilmembers approved a six-figure payout on Tuesday to settle allegations Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s husband abused his authority as the city’s chief development officer.

Related Companies spokesman Jon Weinstein told the news site Friedrichs was not involved in soliciting tax dollars from lawmakers for the project, which Friedrichs cited as his motivation for leaving the city of Detroit.

“It is company policy that development team members who may come into contact with public officials register as lobbyists,” he said. “To be clear, in this case, Ryan did no lobbying around the nonprofit Detroit Center for Innovation’s grant in the budget.”

Benson, who also previously worked for billionaire Ross as CEO of the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality, is now running to replace Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2026, on a platform of transparency and a promise to “protect your rights and freedoms from bullies and billionaires.”

Friedrichs Jumped Directly From City of Detroit Job To Firm That He Helped Get Contract

https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2020/03/04/detroit-official-in-scandal-moving-innovation-center-project/4951771002/

Ryan Friedrichs — Detroit’s chief development officer who is tied to an ongoing criminal investigation into deleted government emails — is quitting his city job.

Friedrichs is leaving his city post in a few weeks to work for real estate mogul Stephen M. Ross in development of a new innovation center on the site of the aborted Wayne County jail project.

Friedrichs’ departure comes months after the city’s inspector general found that he abused his authority by being complicit in a scheme to delete city emails.

The fundraising campaign Duggan ordered began with an email introduction between Friedrichs and the nonprofit’s executive director Sonia Hassan. The email’s subject line was “Make Your Date Fundraising.”

“I’d like to introduce you to Ryan Friedrichs,” Wiley wrote in the August 2017 email to Hassan. “He is our chief development officer and the Mayor has tasked him with launching a large scale fundraising effort to Make Your Date. He’ll be in touch soon!”

Friedrichs said that his decision to leave his city job was unrelated to the controversy involving the deleted emails.

Friedrich is now the number one asset for Ross

Friedrichs said he will be “employee number one” on the Detroit team for Ross’ Related Companies. Friedrichs will be responsible for building out the team here as well as pushing forward the University of Michigan’s Detroit Center for Innovation. The center will create a mini-campus for about 1,000 U-M graduate students working in tech fields like artificial intelligence, mobility, data science and cybersecurity.

Dana Darth Nessel Clears Friedrich of Guilt When He Ordered Employees To Delete Emails

Records Retention must be followed, and you can face penalties in legal proceedings for just destroying records that may be used in a trial.

https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2021/04/21/duggan-aides-cleared-wrongdoing-deleted-email-controversy/7320799002/

“The deletion of those records for whatever reason and regardless of whether it’s lawful is directly contrary to the purpose and intention of that act,” said Delie, who also serves as executive director of the Michigan Coalition for Open Government. “If you’re taking that action, it seems to me that you’re cognizant that it’s something people would want to see. It certainly poses a significant question about Michigan’s transparency laws and shows just another example of why they need to be improved.”

“Circumstances like this could be repeated without us ever knowing about it, which would be a huge blow to government transparency,” he added. “This begs the question ‘Has this occurred before and how often?'”

Nessel said her office considered whether the deletion of the emails violated Michigan’s FOIA law. But she noted that at the time the emails were deleted no FOIA requests had been filed for them.

The biggest problem here is there were no public documents that were destroyed. In fact, each and every one of these emails ultimately was recovered,” she said. “Even if there was an attempt at some juncture to destroy public documents, there was no success.”

Darth Nessel Continues To Order Record Destruction

Wow...you and Benson sure do love to destroy incriminating records https://t.co/WhLsjfUEqV
— Patrick Colbeck (@pjcolbeck) February 10, 2025

Darth Nessel Says Ignore Exec Order Regarding Transgender Treatment

https://www.freep.com/story/news/health/2025/02/07/transgender-minors-michigan-corewell-beaumont-trump/78307419007/

Corewell Health is the first medical system in the state to announce that it is limiting gender-affirming care for minor patients. It will no longer allow minors seeking such treatment to start new hormone therapy regimens; minor patients already receiving hormone therapy will be allowed to continue their treatments.

The moratorium comes in the wake of President Donald Trump‘s executive order that threatens to strip federal funding from hospitals that provide such treatments to people under the age of 19.

Meanwhile on Friday, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel told hospitals to continue to provide treatment, saying in a statement, “refusing helathcare services to a class of individuals based on their protected status, such as withholding the availability of services from transgender individuals based on their gender identity or their diagnosis of gender dysphoria, while offering such services to cisgender individuals, may constitute discrimination under Michigan law.”

Bottom line, she said: “If you are seeking healthcare, continue to do so. If you are providing healthcare in compliance with Michigan law, please continue to do so.”

Suicide Study

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/transgender-teens-7-6-times-more-likely-to-attempt-suicide

Transgender adolescents were 7.6 times as likely to attempt suicide as cisgender peers.

They also found females attracted to other females were 3.6 times more likely to think about suicide and 3.3 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to heterosexual teens. Teens attracted to multiple genders had a 2.5 times higher risk of suicidal ideation and 2.8 times higher risk of attempting suicide.

Teens still questioning their sexual orientation had double the risk of attempting suicide.

The researchers also took into account reported incidents of bullying Trusted Source and cyberbullying Trusted Source by the teens in their sample.

Dictator Whose Exec Orders Aren’t Followed

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/mhsaa-rebuffs-trumps-girls-sports-eo-continue-to-go-with-our-policy-as-is/

MHSAA spokesman Geoff Kimmerly told Bridge Michigan on Thursday the private nonprofit that oversees Michigan interscholastic athletics doesn’t plan to change its policy allowing boys in girls sports, defying an executive order issued by the 47th POTUS on Wednesday.

“We’re just waiting for the next step I suppose,” Kimmerly said, noting conflicts between the EO and Michigan’s Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which Democrats amended in 2023 to include gender identity and sexual orientation as protected classes.

MHSAA’s current policy allows biologically male transgender girls to participate in girls sports, if they secure a waiver.

“When questions arise involving trans girl (male to female) student-athletes, the MHSAA executive director will determine eligibility for MHSAA tournaments on a case-by-case basis after being provided at least 30 days prior” with specific documentation, according to the MHSAA’s 2023-24 handbook.

That documentation includes school records, health records, a physical exam, and other information, such as whether or not students have undergone hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgery.

while Kimberly told Bridge there’s two transgender high school student athletes with active waivers in Michigan, out of about 175,000.

There are two girls – transgender girls – that we have given waivers to this school year,” Kimberly told WEMU. “We do not track transgender boys because everybody is allowed to play on boys’ sports teams.”

Could We Get Records Regarding Voter Rolls or Transgender Waivers or Transgender Curriculum? Nope

https://www.thefp.com/p/mom-asks-for-public-school-records-33-million-foia

$33 Million for records from Rochester Hills regarding curriculum. Michigan Law states:

https://legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-15-234

the fee must be limited to actual mailing costs, and to the actual incremental cost of duplication or publication including labor, the cost of search, examination, review, and the deletion and separation of exempt from nonexempt information as provided in section 14. Except as otherwise provided in this act, if the public body estimates or charges a fee in accordance with this act, the total fee must not exceed the sum of the following components:

https://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/2024/10/15/reitz-court-ruling-conceals-local-government-records-from-the-public/75685954007/

Carol Beth Litkouhi is a parent who lives in the Rochester Community School District. She asked for materials used in a high school class titled “A History of Ethnic and Gender Studies.” The school district refused to provide many of the records Litkouhi asked for, arguing that the law doesn’t require it to provide records held by individual teachers. Litkouhi sued, but the trial court ruled against her.

In February, the Court of Appeals agreed. The court reasoned that FOIA applies to local public bodies, not to their individual employees. Therefore, said the court, “records created and retained by individual teachers are not public records subject to disclosure for purposes of FOIA.”

This means that Benson could withdraw records for purposes of state business, research or other duties and not provide them to the public

Ban Gotion

This doesn’t go far enough. This just blocks Gotion from receiving tax dollars, it doesn’t ban Gotion from doing business. This is timid and weak.

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/02/no-gotion-act-introduced-in-u-s-senate-bans-ccp-linked-companies-from-federal-tax-credits/

Legislation to block Gotion, Inc. from collecting federal tax credits for a planned electric vehicle battery component plant in Michigan is now pending in both chambers of Congress.

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., officially introduced the No Official Giveaways Of Taxpayers’ Income to Oppressive Nations Act on Tuesday, following Michigan Congressman John Moolenaar’s introduction of the same in the House last month.

The NO GOTION Act is bipartisan legislation aimed at prohibiting companies affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party from receiving green energy production tax credits under former President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act.

“U.S. adversaries shouldn’t be allowed to benefit off American taxpayer dollars with incentives meant to build American businesses,” Scott said in a statement. “Americans elected us to represent their best interests, and I’m proud to do that with our NO GOTION Act to crack down on companies owned by our adversaries attempting to take advantage of U.S. tax privileges.”

Show Notes: Autocratic AI, Artificial Investment?

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:54:36 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

If You Read Cultural Courage Last Week You Did Your Homework For This Episode

NVDIA Stock Lost Nearly 600 Billion in Value

NVDIA produces a specialized, powerful computer processing chip called a GPU that focuses on computational intensive algorithms for graphics and Artificial Intelligence. It is at the heart of the computations that OpenAI ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude AI use to create Large Language Models (LLM). These models are what answer the questions and perform tasks, and they require massive amounts of processing and therefore electricity.

A New AI LLM from China called DeepSeek, released for free use, was trained using inferior GPUs for far less money.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/dereksaul/2025/01/27/biggest-market-loss-in-history-nvidia-stock-sheds-nearly-600-billion-as-deepseek-shakes-ai-darling/

Biggest Market Loss In History: Nvidia Stock Sheds Nearly $600 Billion As DeepSeek Shakes AI Darling

Nvidia lost $589 billion in market capitalization Monday, which is by far the single greatest one-day value wipeout of any company in history, more than doubling the $279 billion market cap lost by none other than Nvidia on Sept. 3, 2024 (Meta’s $251 billion loss Feb. 3, 2022 is the third-biggest daily loss).

NVDIA is allowed to sell slower H800 Chips. There may be an incentive not not disclose the truth due to export restrictions. But regardless, the training time and cost for DeepSeek less.

DeepSeek’s model was trained on Nvidia’s GPUs, like most other advanced AI programs. But the Chinese company said it spent just $5.6 million on Nvidia technology to develop its large-language model, and though experts speculate this is a gross underestimate, it still upsets the core thesis behind Nvidia stock’s meteoric rise.

NVDIA chips are made in Taiwan by Taiwan Semiconductor

Stragate Project Threatened With DeepSeek?

Why are all the BILLIONS needed when a company of 200 can create results that are nearly as good?

Stargate project championed by OpenAI, SoftBank, Oracle, and MGX consortium and will be a $500 billion of private investment. SoftBank and MGX are the financiers, with Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank, promising $100 billion ready for utilization immediately. MGX is an investment firm launched by the Abu Dhabi government that focuses on high tech startups, with the board of directors helmed by Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan. Nahyan was not present for the press conference. It’s interesting that MGX has also invested in xAI, Musk’s alternative to OpenAI’s mainline product ChatGPT.

OpenAI Needs It’s Monopoly Protected – The NSM WAS the Key

What DeepSeek Achieved

DeepSeek is the Number One App on the App Store

Simply put, to use an online LLM has just gotten cheaper. It’s $60 Dollars for roughly $700,000 words for OpenAI’s ChatGPT. DeepSeek is $2.19

https://www.businessinsider.com/deepseek-number-one-app-apple-store-openai-chatgpt-2025-1

DeepSeek Hit Number One In the App Store

Shote Notes: In Bed With The NSM and Militarized AI

White House National Security Memorandum On Artificial Intelligence

The White House has issued a National Security Memorandum and plant to prioritize Artificial Intelligence as a national security priority. This is a different approach than last year when Executive Order 14110 stated that AI was a safety concern with respects to DEI objectives, making AI development progress a civil rights issue. This Executive Order, issued by President Biden on October 30, 2023, aims to govern the development and use of AI in a manner that prioritizes safety, security, and trustworthiness while harnessing its potential benefits and mitigating its risks. At the time the objectives included:

AI systems must undergo rigorous testing and evaluation to mitigate risks before deployment, including addressing security concerns in areas like biotechnology, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure.
The order mandates that AI development and deployment must comply with all Federal laws and promote equity and civil rights, prohibiting AI use that disadvantages vulnerable communities.
enforcing existing consumer protection laws, implementing safeguards against fraud, bias, discrimination, and privacy violations, especially in critical sectors like healthcare, finance, and education, where AI errors could have significant negative consequences.
United States’ commitment to leading global efforts to manage AI risks, unlock its potential, and promote common approaches to shared challenges, engaging with international allies and partners to develop a responsible AI framework and foster international collaboration.

For example, there are studies now that claim AI reinforces bias in mortgage loans.

As AI takes the helm of decision making, signs of perpetuating historic biases emerge

Now AI is strategic to national defense

With that the federal government is declaring far more reaching authority with AI’s use, development. By extension the government will be able to intercede in the technology industry when national interests can be potentially threatened.

The Memorandum lays out the following objectives:

Leading the world in safe, secure, and trustworthy AI development: This involves strengthening the US AI ecosystem, securing foundational capabilities, and mitigating risks posed by AI systems
Harnessing AI, with appropriate safeguards, to achieve national security objectives: This includes recognizing AI’s limitations, respecting democratic values, and adapting policies and infrastructure to effectively utilize emerging AI capabilities
Cultivating a stable and responsible framework for international AI governance: This objective emphasizes fostering safe and trustworthy AI development and use globally, managing risks, and promoting democratic values and human rights
The NSM directs actions to improve the security and diversity of chip supply chains, and to ensure that, as the United States supports the development of the next generation of government supercomputers and other emerging technology, we do so with AI in mind.
This NSM makes collection on our competitors’ operations against our AI sector a top-tier intelligence priority, and directs relevant U.S. Government entities to provide AI developers with the timely cybersecurity and counterintelligence information necessary to keep their inventions secure
The NSM directs the creation of a Framework to Advance AI Governance and Risk Management in National Security
Among other actions, it directs agencies to propose streamlined procurement practices and ways to ease collaboration with non-traditional vendors

Do Not Be Deceived By AI Companies Claiming That They Have Democratic Values – Free Speech Is Absolute

OpenAI’s Global Policy Director Chris Lehane is Democratic Political Consultant who is responsible for Hillary’s statement of “vast right wing conspiracy. While DeepSeek refuses to criticize the CCP, ChatGPT REFUSED to engage in discussions regarding Hunter Biden’s Laptop, and always steered conversations regarding Covid lockdowns to a positive conclusion.

Just like Elon’s statement Freedom of Speech, not Freedom of Reach is nuanced, censorship, this idea that the word democracy automatically confers freedom is a LIE.

The AI Data Centers Require Energy

Michigan just passed a bill which gave away taxes and fees on use of water for data centers. But Texas has more reliable electricity.

Renewable Energy IS NOT the answer, OpenAI seeks nuclear reactors to provide power.

While China leads the world in producing products in concert with electricity as the primary source of power for industry, the rely on coal to produce electricity. The green movement has been fooled by China as it finances fossil fuel production.

How do China and America think about the energy transition?

In 2023, the Chinese economy also used 81% more energy than the U.S. economy. With a population roughly one-fourth that of China’s, the United States consumes more than twice as much energy per person. However, China uses roughly 20% more energy per unit of GDP than the United States.

We have to understand that renewable energy does not provide a consistent sustained level of utilization. So it’s fine for the general population to use, who will put up with brownouts and blackouts. China imports its fossil fuels, and generates its electricity from coal.

The differences in the two countries’ energy supplies carry over to their electricity generation systems. The primary fuel for electricity generation in the United States is natural gas, while coal dominates electricity generation in China. In fact, China generates much more electricity from coal than the United States generates from all sources combined. The United States’ enormous domestic supply of natural gas and the resulting reliance on natural gas for electricity generation mean that the United States has much lower GHG emissions per unit of electricity generated, with an average of 369 grams per kilowatt hour (g/kWh) in the United States compared to 582 g/kWh in China in 2023.

Show Notes: MEDC Mystery Tour With Thelen Boys & CCP

The Mighty Humanzee — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 11:45:22 +0000

By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

In Michigan we have Randy Thelen and a potential scandal with the MEDC, we have Chuck Thelen and numerous controversies with Gotion and the CCP. We have a CCP factory flying the Chinese flag higher than the American flag.

Money, mystery – always with the MEDC. Are Chuck and Randy brothers, buddies or just have the same scandalous last names?

Currently On Cultural Courage ...

Will The Green Police Come and Enforce Cutting Down 209000 Acres of Forest and Destroy Farmland?

All the Initiatives for Solar Panel Wastelands, Cutting Down Trees And CCP Have One Single Driving Force

Hiding in Plain Sight

In our version of the coming EV revolution we have appointed the MEDC to attract jobs and industry to Michigan. The politicians are too busy hiding from us in order to do what they promised so they went the “third way” route ala Bill Clinton with a public / private partnership. A 4 year contract has been awarded to a company of 360 people to do what Michigan had done on its own 100 years ago without government. Build industry. The CEO of this public / private entity one of the best.

[Messer] He recently was named one of the 2021 North America Top 50 Economic Developers by Consultant Connect, an organization that connects economic developers to business site consultants. It is part of Southwest Michigan First.

That’s a relief. We must have a detailed plan from them on how our tax dollars will be spent.

Details on the terms of the contract — including pay — were not disclosed to Bridge on Tuesday. However, the MEDC said on Wednesday that Messer’s new base pay will be $325,000 per year when he finalizes the deal.

Note that pay scales and details have not been released. What do the 360 people do? They are economic developers. Never heard of it? Neither have I. It sounds like they talk to businesses and try to get them to relocate to Michigan.

It Ain’t No Mystery What’s Going On With The CCP In Michigan

While to many who don’t understand the law, nor have a concept for how US sovereignty should protect us and want to silence our voices with cries of Zelophobia and racism, IT DOES MATTER THE CCP THAT THEY SYMBOLICALLY HAVE A FLAG THAT ESTABLISHES PRIMACY.

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/01/photo-chinese-company-in-cedar-springs-flies-chinese-flag-above-u-s-flag/

Corporate filings with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs lists the president of J-Star Motion as Xiaoxiang Zhang, with an address in Garden Grove, Calif. Bearnard Zahm is listed as the treasurer and secretary, with the company’s address on Woodlawn Hills Drive in Cedar Springs.

No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, when the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy. No person shall display the flag of the United Nations or any other national or international flag equal, above, or in a position of superior prominence or honor to, or in place of, the flag of the United States at any place within the United States or any Territory or possession thereof,” the law reads.

Mecosta County Taking The Lead Exposing The CCP Deals

Within minutes of taking office last week, the new board voted 5-2 to rescind Resolution 2023-04, which stated the prior commission’s support for Gotion, citing “new information and developments … concerning the project and its ownership structure with direct ties to the Chinese Communist Party CCP and broader issues of foreign investment.”

“When 92% of the Mecosta County residents opposed the Chinese battery plant in our community, the board of commissioners should have listened,” newly elected board Chairman Chris Zimmerman said. “When our congressman says there are security concerns with China in our community, the board of commissioners should have reversed their approval of the project.”

Chuck Thelen And Gotion

Show Notes: Revenge of The Gotion

Green Charter Township is Sued in Federal Court by CCP / Gotion

https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/news/article/gotion-sues-green-charter-township-breach-19208059.php

Citing the agreements made by the previous city commission and town supervisors, Gotion intends to proceed with their project. The newly elected town government is resisting. Gotion, a CCP owned company, has filed a federal lawsuit in

“It’s unfortunate that Gotion has had to resort to litigation to get the township to comply with their obligations under the agreement,” Gotion Inc. North American Manufacturing Vice President Chuck Thelen said in a statement. “We’re unable to comment further since this is now an ongoing legal matter.”

The lawsuit filing states that the breach of contract arose from unlawful actions of the new members of the township board, who were elected in a recall election in November, which constitute a breach of the development agreement.

Gotion has been operating without a permit and cutting down trees.

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2024/02/ccp-gotion-cuts-down-wrong-trees-still-lacks-environmental-plan-for-mammoth-green-township-factory/

Additionally, the Economic Development Responsibility Alliance watchdog group alleged in a letter sent in late January to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that CCP Gotion hasn’t filed any environmental paperwork with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Green Charter Sues IT Firm For Security Breach

https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/news/article/green-charter-township-terminate-agreement-isi-18611005.php

“After they (the new board) got in there, the equipment was not working properly. It slowed down and would not let them do some things. Steve (Wright) went and looked at it and he discovered that someone had gone in and put a program on our server that allowed for remote access to get into the computer system from off-site,” Beilfuss said. “Our security caught it and that is why the system slowed down. Someone tried to hack the system over and over again. They tried to crack the password so many times, they broke the links in the programs, and we had to go in a fix all of that.”

This is a huge win for Michigan businesses of all sizes, and I’m so proud that Republicans and Democrats worked together to get it done. pic.twitter.com/8dGApeuYDa
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) January 13, 2025

It’s All About International Experts Bringing In Their Factories To Extract Our Resources And Wealth

Forget EVs and Solar- they are the pathway to losing your sovereignty. Dems will sell us out, Republican will sell us out.

Show Notes: Morning Mission – Mother WEFers

So We All Get EVs? No – We Get 75% Reduction In All Vehicles

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/commentary/world-economic-forum-seeks-75-reduction-in-car-ownership

https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_The_Urban_Mobility_Scorecard_Tool_2023.pdf

Space allocation (e.g., space for cycling and micro-mobility, walkability, public and shared transport)

The roundtables facilitated public-private collaboration in support of local approaches to advancing different issues within sustainable mobility. Discussions centred on issues such as advancing shared mobility as a means to tackle car dependency (e.g., shared vehicles, public transport); improving connections between active mobility and public transport (e.g., footpaths and cycle lanes that connect to buses, metros, etc.); and accelerating the electrification of urban transport and charging infrastructure

The Fourth Industrial Revolution Features Michigan

https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_The_New_Era_of_Manufacturing_in_the_Fourth_Industrial_Revolution.pdf

Through the creation of a new Advanced Manufacturing Platform (AMP), hosted by Automation Alley – Michigan’s Industry 4.0 knowledge centre – and connected globally through the World Economic Forum, Michigan has the opportunity to position itself as the global leader for advanced manufacturing and ensure the state is prepared for the rapid innovations transforming its industries.

While numerous manufacturers in Michigan are already taking steps to adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution’s Innovations

Manufacturers need to evaluate their legacy systems and assess what needs to be done to integrate these systems and transition to the factories of the future. Only then can data analytics transform their production floors into smart factories. Deploying IIoT infrastructure can help modernize and connect legacy equipment

Another bait and switch, there are less jobs dues to super new robots. Somehow these must be different than what industry uses today.

Cobots can offload the “dull, dirty, dangerous” tasks, improving productivity on the factory floor and attracting a younger generation to the manufacturing industry

MEDC Has Another Thelen Bro: Randy Thelen Embroiled in MEDC Scandal

https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/01/exclusive-allegations-of-ethical-misconduct-rock-michigans-economic-development-corp-and-gov-whitmer-allies/

A 41-page complaint was filed with Michigan’s Board of Ethics (BOE) by Tedda Hughes, alleging ethical violations and conflicts of interest involving high-ranking executives and union officials connected to the MEDC.

Conflicts of Interest: Appointees allegedly used their positions as grantors and grantees to direct millions of dollars to their organizations
Misuse of Funds: Taxpayer-funded grants were allegedly awarded to entities with overlapping leadership and interests
Prohibited Conduct: Randy Thelen and Tom Lutz are accused of violating the Ethics Act, including not recusing themselves from certain votes when they had conflicts of interest.Specifically, Thelen is alleged to have voted to extend taxpayer funding to Gentex despite Gentex having been fined for falsifying records, and without disclosing his conflict of interest [Financial Impropriety: The complaint suggests that some officials are evading taxes.
Lack of Transparency: The article alleges that the nonprofit Two Peninsulas Research Group lacks IRS filings and even a website, while receiving millions in funds from union and nonprofit organizations.

Groups Involved

Two Peninsulas Research Group: A nonprofit that lacks IRS filings and a website, allegedly used by union and nonprofit leaders to receive millions in funds while they also hold government appointments
The Right Place Inc.: A nonprofit economic development corporation where Randy Thelen is CEO, which secured significant funding from the MEDC for the Gotion project [8].
Gentex: A company specializing in advanced technologies that received funding from the MSF; the Gentex CEO is also the president of The Right Place Inc. board [9].
Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights (MRCC): Tom Lutz’s employer, which allegedly received $10 million in grant funding from the MEDC, and has made contributions to “Whitmer for Governor” and the nonprofit “Two Peninsulas Research Group”

Detailed Allegations

Tom Lutz: As a member of the MEDC Executive Committee, Lutz is accused of securing millions in MEDC funding for his organization, MRCC, including a $5 million SSBCI award and a $5 million grant, while also seeing his salary increase. The complaint alleges Lutz did not properly recuse himself from discussions about SSBCI funding processes.
Randy Thelen: As a member of the MSF board and CEO of The Right Place, Inc., Thelen is accused of approving grants for his organization, and for Gentex, whose CEO determines Thelen’s salary and performance bonuses. Thelen’s organization received millions in funding from MSF. The complaint notes that he had to recuse himself from a high number of MSF votes due to conflicts of interest.
Jennifer Root: The complaint alleges that Root, an active lobbyist and appointee, is part of a network of organizations that contribute to and benefit from TPRG, and who also made contributions to Whitmer.
Stephen Pontoni: Pontoni, a lobbyist and appointee, is accused of being involved in the same network as Root and Lutz, through his position at MAJ and as President of TPRG. The complaint points out that he, like Root and Lutz, has also benefited from this network.

So Are We Fixing FOIAs – Nope

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/michigan-house-gop-leader-foia-reform-dont-get-your-hopes

House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, told reporters during a Thursday roundtable that expanding the state’s Freedom of Information Act is not a top priority for him as he begins the new two-year session.

“You’re not going to see fast action on the FOIA stuff from me in the House,” he said. “You’re just not.”

Hall’s comments came one day after bipartisan bills were reintroduced in the Democratic-led Senate to expand Michigan’s FOIA law — which already requires most other state and local officials to produce public records upon request — to the governor’s office and Legislature.

Michigan is one of only two states that fully exempts the governor and lawmakers from public records requests.

Speaker Hall suggests that the media is “lobbying” for public records legislation and that politicians embrace FOIA reform for “political cover,” while the Senate sponsors champion their bills as a means for the general public to learn more about how government works.

Hall said he is focused on other transparency and good-government measures, including:

- Earmark reform: New House rules adopted under Hall will require lawmakers to disclose any earmarks they sponsor before votes on budget bills. Michigan lawmakers have loaded recent state budgets with billions of dollars in “enhancement grants” to support pet projects in their districts, including some controversial measures that have prompted criminal investigations.
- Cooling off: Hall said he believes in “ending this revolving door” of lawmakers who leave office and immediately become lobbyists. He noted a previous proposal for a two-year “cooling off” period.
- Lame-duck guardrails: Hall said he wants to make it harder to “just ram through unpopular votes without committee hearings in the middle of the night after an election.” He cited a previous proposal to require two-third majority support to pass bills in a lame-duck session.

“I think those are bigger issues than FOIA, because those are issues about billions of dollars of your tax dollars — the public,” Hall said, later adding: “I’m actually going to do these things.”

MEDC Refuses To Fulfill FOIA Requests

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/mackinac-center-sues-economic-development-agency-over-alleged-foia-violations

A Michigan agency that distributes millions of dollars in subsidies is stonewalling a group seeking public records, according to a new lawsuit.

The Mackinac Center for Public Policy and Michigan Rising Action sued the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Sept. 12, alleging a violation of the Freedom of Information Act.

Michigan Rising filed a records request in late May, asking for the economic development corporation’s communications with American Lidar Inc., a Michigan company linked to the Chinese Hesai Group. The state agency distributes taxpayer-funded subsidies.

The MEDC responded on June 20, with a fee estimate of $593.48 and an estimated processing time of 16 hours to produce around 1,200 records.

Whitmer Has An NDA With MEDC

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/medc-asks-5700-for-nondisclosure-agreements

The Mackinac Center earlier this month filed a Freedom of Information Act request with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, asking for any nondisclosure agreements on file since Jan. 1, 2018. What came back was a bill for nearly $5,700.

Government by secrecy, confidentiality and nondisclosure has become a trend in Michigan in recent years.

When taxpayer dollars are spent granting corporate welfare, state officials — including the very lawmakers who allegedly sign off on the deals — are made to sign nondisclosure agreements.

How many nondisclosure agreements exist on corporate welfare deals? The MEDC’s preliminary response to the FOIA request offers a window, but it leaves many questions unanswered.

The MEDC refers to 5,572 “sides” of paper that need to be copied. There could be as many as 5,572 single pages, or as few as 2,786 double-sided pages. How many agreements does that account for? We don’t know.

Mallory McMurrow, Maven of Innovation

How Michigan is trying to recapture its innovation mojo

The University of Michigan is building a $250 million innovation center in downtown Detroit to prepare workers for new knowledge jobs. Michigan State University is planning to build a $340 million Engineering and Digital Innovation Center in East Lansing.

Along with opportunity govt has to create housing

A group of Democratic lawmakers, led by state Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak), tried to change that tradition by proposing to shift hundreds of millions of dollars from the state’s main business attraction fund to investments in public transit, childcare and community development.

The proposed legislation failed to pass before the end of last year’s lame duck session. It represents a missed opportunity to make Michigan a more attractive place for talent and entrepreneurs, said Ned Staebler, CEO of TechTown, a business startup development organization in Detroit.

“We need to create places where workers and companies want to be,” Staebler told me. “We need transit, housing and neighborhood amenities. It’s abundantly clear that places that have those things are growing.”

AI: Making Us Meeker

Why does AI make us worse at being musicians, how does that make sense? Oh, because life if too hard and we want to give up.

It makes me feel insane that the idea underpinning every pitch for AI is that we all hate everything we do. We don’t just hate our jobs, but we hate our hobbies, we hate talking to other people, we hate expending any kind of effort. It’s so nasty https://t.co/ZWRv09Fjo6
— The tumboy (@TheTumboy) January 13, 2025