Col Susan Meyers had a special ride in the escape pod when she was jettisoned from Space Force for insubordination with Vice President Vance. We need a lot more escape pods for those who FAFO.
Behind Enemy Lines returns with this news, Whitmer and her folders, and much more.
Keith Olbermann Is The New Mary Ocean
Whack Job Rep Haley Stevens Does a Mary Ocean While Wearing Latex Gloves in Congress
Rep. Haley Stevens of Michigan shouts through the gavel during House debate on the coronavirus relief bill:
— NBC Politics (@NBCPolitics) March 27, 2020
“To our doctors and nurses, I wear these latex gloves to tell every American: Do not be afraid!” pic.twitter.com/0oxkLwJ0Ss
Moving On Up: Letitia James Mortgage Scams
Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte refers New York Attorney General Letitia James for potential prosecution over alleged mortgage fraud. pic.twitter.com/VyGGEtndQe
— Josh Caplan (@joshdcaplan) April 16, 2025
Jasmine Crocket Under FEC Investigation
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/rep-jasmine-crockett-faces-fec-investigation-over-suspicious-act-blue-donationsThe Federal Election Commission (FEC) has initiated an investigation into Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) concerning donations to her 2024 campaign via ActBlue. The probe follows a complaint alleging that multiple contributions were made without the donors’ knowledge.
Specifically, the complaint cites 53 separate donations of $595 each from a 73-year-old supporter named Randy Best. When contacted, Best’s wife denied any knowledge of these contributions, raising concerns about potential misuse of donor information.
Crockett’s campaign reportedly received over $870,000 through ActBlue. The FEC is examining whether other donations may have been made fraudulently, potentially violating campaign finance laws.
ActBlue has faced similar scrutiny in the past regarding the authenticity of donations. The outcome of this investigation could have broader implications for online fundraising platforms and campaign finance transparency.
Left High And Dry By FBI: Sharyl Atkinson Swatted, FBI Ignores
Now they are onto targeting my daughter and husband in another town. Still no callback from @FBI or interest in gathering evidence while it's still hot and in progress.
— Sharyl Attkissonhttps://t.co/EpNh8mIVjg
(@SharylAttkisson) April 15, 2025
Media Strategy
The Trump Administration MUST completely rethink their treatment of the media.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 15, 2025
If they are allowed to proceed like they did in his first term, they will be successful in convincing the public that chaos (that they cause) defines this government.
Answer their questions on a… pic.twitter.com/JmjbiOK6OF
OpenAI / ChatGPT Building Twitter Competitor
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/openai-building-x-social-network-after-grok-has-made-everyone-jealousOpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, is reportedly developing a new social media platform to rival Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter). The initiative aims to integrate AI-generated content, particularly images, into a user-friendly social feed.
The platform is expected to leverage ChatGPT’s capabilities, allowing users to create and share AI-generated images seamlessly. This move could provide OpenAI with valuable user-generated data to enhance its AI models.
Industry analysts suggest that this development may intensify the rivalry between Altman and Musk, especially given their shared history at OpenAI. The new platform could also position OpenAI as a significant player in the social media landscape.
While still in early development, the project reflects OpenAI’s broader strategy to expand its ecosystem and compete with tech giants like Meta and Google in the AI-driven social media space.
MSM Distortion: Trump Is Complying
1. Read the order. Trump is complying. Did comply.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 15, 2025
2. Biden ignored the Chevron case and the Student Loan case. So FU. https://t.co/uRaVBkhzYK
Drunken Karen On the Floor. We Have a Drunk Karen on The Floor
In a drunken rant, Montana Democrat State Senator calls out the @aaronflint radio show on the Senate floor.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 16, 2025https://t.co/GOZQDP0AG8
Priceline: Dems Planning a Trip Down South
Yes.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 15, 2025
Absolutely do that. https://t.co/dz6qQMKLWV pic.twitter.com/l3k9gDNUsc
Trey Gowdy Is Jaimee Lee Curtis
Can't overstate how absolutely worthless Trey Gowdy is.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 15, 2025
He's on Fox just now arguing the Communist position on the "Maryland Man" illegal gang member, and implying that the Trump Administration is not complying with the SCOTUS order. pic.twitter.com/CdFk4HyIbc
Judge Indira Talwani: 500,000 Hearings For Biden Parolees
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/federal-judge-halts-trump-admins-deportation-half-million-biden-paroleesU.S. District Judge Indira Talwani has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate a Biden-era migration program. The program provided temporary legal status to individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who entered the U.S. under humanitarian parole.
The Department of Homeland Security had moved to end the CHNV program, giving parolees 30 days to leave unless individually approved to stay. Judge Talwani ruled that this approach lacked a reasoned decision-making process and failed to consider the consequences for affected individuals.
The court’s decision requires individual hearings for the approximately 500,000 parolees, emphasizing the need for due process. The ruling highlights the legal challenges in altering immigration policies without thorough justification.
Supporters of the ruling argue it protects vulnerable populations from abrupt policy changes, while critics claim it hampers efforts to enforce immigration laws. The case underscores the ongoing legal battles over immigration policy in the U.S.
When Pam, When?
*Sigh* Pam Bondi goes on Fox News AGAIN this morning just to say she hasn’t looked at the case against Letitia James yet.
— Jack (@jackunheard) April 16, 2025
pic.twitter.com/K4RbP4hbxk
Illegals Losing Benefits
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/us-strips-benefits-thousands-criminal-aliens-those-terror-watchlistThe Trump administration has revoked federal benefits and terminated temporary immigration parole for over 6,300 foreign nationals identified as security risks. These individuals were either on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Database or had criminal records.
As part of the enforcement action, the Social Security Administration reclassified these individuals’ Social Security numbers into its Ineligible Master File. This move prevents improper payment of federal benefits, such as Social Security and Medicaid.
The policy change aligns with President Trump’s campaign promise to enforce immigration laws more strictly. Officials state that removing financial incentives will encourage self-deportation among illegal immigrants.
Critics argue that the policy may lead to unintended consequences, including family separations and challenges for communities. Supporters contend it is a necessary step to protect national security and uphold the rule of law.
Defunding PBS And NPR
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/trump-admin-moves-defund-left-leaning-pbs-npr
The Trump administration has proposed eliminating federal funding for public broadcasters PBS and NPR, citing concerns over perceived left-leaning bias. Officials argue that taxpayer money should not support partisan content.
Critics of the move warn that defunding these institutions could undermine educational programming and limit access to unbiased news, especially in rural areas. They emphasize the importance of public media in a democratic society.
Supporters of the proposal argue that in an era of abundant media choices, government funding for public broadcasters is outdated. They believe private donations and sponsorships can sustain these organizations.
The proposal has sparked a national debate on the role of public media and the appropriate use of federal funds. Congress will ultimately decide the fate of the funding in upcoming budget discussions.
Biden See Jane, Run Jane Run, How She Run Like Dat?
LMAO!!! Trump just posted the video, with no caption, of Joe Biden saying this
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 15, 2025
"I've never seen hardly any black people in Scranton at the time... I remember seeing kids going by at the time called colored kids, on the bus going by..."pic.twitter.com/wSoy4KHbbI
DHS Subpoenas Washtenaw Co Michigan Over ID For Illegals
Homeland Security serves Washtenaw Co. with subpoena for records related to the county's local ID program (IDs given out regardless of immigration status) and requests access to certain employment records.
— Beth LeBlanc (@DNBethLeBlanc) April 11, 2025
Story with @SarahRahal_ https://t.co/UDPMChZS4M via @detroitnews
Minh Phuong Ngoc Vong (Yeah, That’s the Name) Likes Wire Fraud
Well, look at that.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 15, 2025
Another "Maryland man".
Committing Wire Fraud.
Wonder if the DOJ could use this charge AGAINST EVERY BAD ACTOR OUT THERE? https://t.co/JnDGCtpgw5
Who Is Donna Trump? China Is Ass-a-hoe Guy Can Overnight Packages Any Longer
Hong Kong suspends postal service for good bound for US
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) April 16, 2025
After 4 Hours William Devane Had To Call His Doctor
Gold has hit an all time high, $3267
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) April 16, 2025
NVIDIA Slapped with 5.5 Billion Charge For Selling Chip to China
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/nvidia-plunges-after-us-imposes-license-h20-chip-sales-china-slaps-company-55-billionNvidia faces a $5.5 billion charge due to new U.S. export controls on its H20 AI chips, which now require special licenses for sales to China. The restrictions aim to limit China’s supercomputing capabilities.
The company’s stock dropped by 5.8% in premarket trading following the announcement. Analysts express concerns about the impact on Nvidia’s operations and potential benefits to Chinese competitors.
In response, Nvidia plans to invest up to $500 billion in U.S.-based AI supercomputers, partnering with Foxconn and Wistron in Texas. This move aligns with efforts to bolster domestic manufacturing.
President Trump supports the initiative, highlighting it as a step towards strengthening national security and reducing reliance on foreign technology.
AI & Tariffs
https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/nvidia-announces-engines-worlds-ai-infrastructure-will-be-built-america-first-timeNvidia has announced plans to manufacture its AI supercomputers and chips within the United States for the first time. This move aims to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing.
The company will collaborate with partners like Foxconn and Wistron to build supercomputer manufacturing plants in Texas. Additionally, production of Nvidia’s Blackwell chips has commenced at TSMC’s facility in Arizona.
This initiative is part of Nvidia’s broader commitment to invest up to $500 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure over the next four years. The investment is expected to create numerous jobs and bolster the nation’s technological capabilities.
President Trump has praised Nvidia’s decision, emphasizing its alignment with efforts to enhance national security and promote domestic technological advancement.
5 Companies Sue Trump Over Tariffs
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/5-companies-sue-trump-over-tariffsFive American companies have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the legality of newly imposed tariffs on imported goods. They argue that these tariffs are causing significant financial harm to their operations.
The plaintiffs contend that the administration overstepped its authority by implementing tariffs without proper congressional approval. They seek a court injunction to halt the enforcement of these tariffs.
Legal experts suggest that this case could set a precedent regarding the extent of executive power in trade policy. The outcome may influence future administrations’ ability to unilaterally impose tariffs.
The Trump administration maintains that the tariffs are necessary to protect national security and promote fair trade practices. They plan to vigorously defend the policy in court.
Tariffs: China Port Activity Down 9%
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/liberation-day-fallout-chinas-port-volumes-sink-after-trumps-tariff-blitzRecent U.S. tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have led to a significant 9% decline in China’s port activity. The measures aim to pressure China into fairer trade practices but have disrupted global supply chains.
Chinese exporters are experiencing delays and increased costs, prompting some to seek alternative markets. The downturn in port activity reflects broader economic challenges facing China’s export-driven economy.
Economists warn that prolonged trade tensions could have lasting impacts on global trade dynamics. Businesses worldwide are reassessing their supply chains in response to the uncertainty.
The Chinese government has yet to announce retaliatory measures but is closely monitoring the situation. Analysts anticipate potential policy responses to mitigate the economic impact.
Leadership
Article link is here. Thanks, @FDRLST for publishing.https://t.co/nTOMVsLol1
— Cynical Publius (@CynicalPublius) April 15, 2025
Gretch is hiding a lot more than her face. On Morning Mission we learn how electricity rates will sky rocket and close down Tilden Iron Ore mine, the second largest in the state. We’ll also see why the Lt Gov needs to go to Europe for $240,000 and come back empty handed. Also, AI and tariffs, Real ID and Controlled Environments as we described in Severed Conscience, and the latest AI research regarding AI consciousness.
Hint: it’s not.
Part Two Of Tariffs is Semiconductor
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/trump-exempts-computers-handsets-chips-reciprocal-tariff-blitz
REPLACE
President Trump announced exemptions from tariffs on key electronics, including smartphones and laptops, signaling a shift in trade policy.
The move followed market turbulence triggered by earlier broad tariff threats that dampened business and consumer confidence.
Major automakers like GM and Ford saw share price increases after the announcement, reflecting eased concerns over price hikes and supply chain disruptions.
However, analysts warned that ongoing policy uncertainty could deter investment and elevate recession risks.
Former Google CEO: We Will Need 99% Of All Electricity
Eric Schmidt’s Concerns: Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt told the House Committee on Energy and Commerce that if China reaches “superintelligence first,” it could drastically change the global power dynamic in unpredictable ways. He also projected a massive increase in electricity demand from the AI industry, potentially reaching 99% of total generation. Schmidt’s comments echo the dystopian scenario described in Harlan Ellison’s short story where a superintelligence takes over Earth’s resources.
AI Super Intelligence is not a certain event, despite Sam Altman declaring that within 1000 days ASI will be here
Current AI technology is still far from being capable of “destroying humanity,” let alone consuming the vast majority of Earth’s energy.
Schmidt’s Motivations: Like other tech billionaires, may have a personal interest in “scaring lawmakers into handing over the keys to the kingdom” to the AI industry. This is described as a strategy known as “corporate capture”. By exaggerating the threat of foreign (specifically Chinese) superintelligence, they might be trying to influence policy and investment in their favor.
Energy Concerns are Real: Despite the skepticism about immediate superintelligence data centers powering AI algorithms do consume significant amounts of energy, and this is a genuine concern for tech companies.
AI Consciousness Discovered? Nope
AI Chat / LLM models do math by reading text. But then when you ask to see the work, it tells you something different.
AI & Tariffs
https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/nvidia-announces-engines-worlds-ai-infrastructure-will-be-built-america-first-timeNvidia announced plans to manufacture AI supercomputers and Blackwell chips in the United States for the first time, committing up to $500 billion over the next four years. This initiative aims to strengthen supply chains, meet rising demand, and boost economic resilience.
Production has already commenced at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. in Phoenix, with supercomputing plants under construction in Houston and Dallas by Foxconn and Wistron, respectively. Nvidia will also partner with firms like SPIL and Amkor for chip packaging and testing.
The expansion is expected to generate hundreds of thousands of jobs and bolster long-term economic security. The announcement aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on reviving U.S. manufacturing, especially in the tech sector.
This move is seen as a strategic response to evolving tariff policies on semiconductors and aims to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing, particularly from Taiwan and China.
Trade Wars and Manufacturing US Monopolies: CCP, Facebook and Open Source Software
Open Source software is application code that available for public use, and is intended to provide the ability for software developers to use and extend in order to promote higher software quality. With more people using and testing the software, bugs and errors can be fixed, and new ideas introduced and tested. There is license that governs it’s use.
Linux, the operating system that powers the majority of the computer servers that run the Internet is an open source product. DeepSeek is also Open Source
OpenAI’s Chat GPT is proprietary – they do not reveal the source code nor the training data sets and models for their primary product. They do provide stripped down version of their AI as open source.
Meta’s AI Briefings to China: Sarah Win Williams testified that Meta executives regularly briefed members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on critical emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, starting as early as 2015. The explicit goal, according to Meta’s internal documents, was to help China outcompete American companies. They offered their technical expertise to help China not rely on firms like Cisco or IBM, in areas like building efficient data centers and understanding technologies like photo tagging.
Llama and Deepseek: Meta’s AI model, Llama, is an open-source model. It has been widely reported that Chinese researchers have used the Llama model, including for AI weapons, and that Llama is part of what powers Deepseek, a Chinese AI model.
Strategic Implications of Open Source: Senator Holly raised the point that because Llama is open source, and OpenAI’s model is closed source, Meta might strategically benefit from a strong Chinese open-source model like Deepseek. The idea is that this could position Meta as the primary American open-source alternative, potentially increasing its significance and value in a “winner takes all” AI market.
National Security Concerns: Senators expressed concern that by briefing the CCP on AI and with Llama being open source and contributing to Chinese AI advancements like Deepseek, Meta was potentially undermining US national security. There were warnings within Meta about the risks of providing the Chinese government with access to sensitive technologies
The danger is that with Trade Wars and fear that the Chinese will undermine the US AI Market, open source may be restricted or even outlawed.
AI Chatbot LeakinG Information
https://futurism.com/the-byte/ai-spilling-chats
Concerns have emerged about AI chatbots inadvertently leaking sensitive information during interactions.
Instances of unintended data disclosure highlight potential vulnerabilities in AI communication systems.
Experts emphasize the need for robust safeguards to prevent such leaks and protect user privacy.
Ongoing research aims to enhance AI models’ ability to handle confidential information responsibly.
And regarding character-based chatbot services specifically, MIT Technology Review recently found that a chatbot provider called Botify AI was similarly hosting chatbot versions of sexualized, de-aged celebrity women, while a Futurism investigation last year found that the chatbot startup Character.AI — which is currently fighting two child welfare lawsuits — was hosting chatbots expressly designed to groom underage users.
Microsoft Pulling Back from Data Centers
https://futurism.com/microsoft-huge-data-center-investments-tariffsMicrosoft is reportedly reassessing its data center investments in response to evolving tariff policies.
The company aims to mitigate potential financial impacts by adjusting its infrastructure expansion plans.
This strategic shift reflects broader industry concerns about supply chain stability and regulatory environments.
Microsoft’s decisions may influence other tech giants facing similar geopolitical and economic challenges.
Why We Need Gas and Coal
The order temporarily suspended transportation restrictions for fuel deliveries across the Mackinac Bridge, which serves as the main supply route into the region. When the bridge was closed due to hazardous weather conditions, residents had no access to the fuel they needed to heat their homes.
This emergency highlighted a deeper issue. Even with Line 5 operational, the UP experienced a critical disruption in energy access. If the pipeline were permanently closed, as Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel have vowed to do, the consequences during similar storms could be far more severe.
Graceless Gretch and Iron
A U.S. Iron Ore Mine Faces Shutdown Because Michigan’s Wind and Solar Mandates will Cost it $15 Million Per Month by Isaac Orr and Mitch Rolling
A Michigan iron mine has agreed to pay $15 million as part of a settlement addressing environmental concerns related to its operations. The payment aims to fund remediation efforts and support local communities affected by the mine’s activities.
The settlement follows investigations into the mine’s environmental impact, including potential contamination and violations of environmental regulations. Authorities emphasized the importance of holding companies accountable for environmental stewardship.
- The Tilden iron ore mine is identified as the second-largest iron ore producing mine in the United States, accounting for approximately 16.25 percent of domestic production. This highlights its crucial role in supplying raw materials for the U.S. steel industry.
- According to filings by the Upper Michigan Energy Resources Corporation (UMERC), the Tilden mine will face dramatically increased electricity costs due to the carbon-free mandates. These surcharges are projected to be $8.2 million per month in 2030 and $15 million per month in 2040.
- The article analyzes the financial viability of the Tilden mine in the face of these cost increases. Based on a 2021 report by Cleveland Cliffs, the mine is expected to cashflow approximately $167 million per year The projected renewable energy surcharge would consume nearly 60 percent of the mine’s after-tax profits in 2030, and by 2040, the surcharge would exceed the total profits by 108.5 percent.
- Given these figures, the article concludes that “there is simply no way Tilden could stomach these absurd cost increases, and the mine would almost certainly shut down”
—
UK Asking For Their Version of Real ID To Help With Illegals
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/uk-mps-call-digital-identity-tackle-illegal-immigration
40 Labour MPs in the UK have co-signed an open letter calling for a nationwide digital identity system. According to the letter, one of the goals of this proposed digital identity system is to “solve the immigration ‘problem'”, which can be interpreted as tackling illegal immigration.
In the larger context of the UK Digital Identity proposal as presented in the source:
The proposed digital identity system would be issued to every baby at birth and could contain a wide range of personal information, including social, education, financial, medical, and employment information.
The source characterizes Digital Identity as the “Swiss Army knife of political policy”, suggesting it is being promoted as a solution to numerous societal “problems” beyond just illegal immigration.
Other potential benefits mentioned for a digital identity system include ensuring elections are not rigged, protecting children online, preventing the spread of disease, lowering crime, tackling truancy and benefit fraud, and eliminating government inefficiency. It is also suggested to be good for the economy.
The source notes that “virtually every government in virtually every nation on Earth is keen to get one set up”.
The author of the excerpt expresses skepticism, stating “And for no other reason,” after listing the purported benefits, implying that there might be unstated or less benevolent motivations behind the push for digital identity.
Controlled Environment – Part of Severed Conscience Tactics
Show Notes: New UN Controlled Environment
Digital Twins - If You Monitor You Can Control
We have described the idea of Digital Identity. But this is extended beyond humans. A Digital Twin is a tree, a cow, any object that can be tagged with monitoring devices and an IP address.
This is an attempt to create model which can be used to make predictions. Or at least, they will tell you that these predictions are worthy of subordinating you rights to.
UN CODES is using the fabricated climate crisis to usher in digital twins and the Internet of Things
The German Environment Agency, or Umwelt Bundesamt (“UBA”), said in a 2022 press release that to achieve the UN’s digital vision, three fundamental shifts are necessary. These three systemic shifts have 18 strategic priorities that are needed for the digital transformation.
The third shift is worthy of particular note. Shift 3 is to “accelerate innovation.” One of its strategic priorities is the “planetary digital twin.” As SparkBlue explained:[1]
The initiative is being carried out today in the US. While deemed “helpful” tagging cattle with geo-location capability can used in a crisis such as avian bird flu spreading to our cattle population. Centralizing the monitoring power in the hands of the federal government risks a declaration similar to our Covid lockdown policy, and insane yet inept protocols can be enforced. Or livestock confiscated and destroyed. Or taxes levied because cattle density places too much carbon into the environment.
Electronic Identification: US Department of Agriculture reveals final rule requiring electronically readable tags for interstate movement of some livestock
The agency will now require that sexually intact cattle and bison moving interstate must be tagged with electronically readable tags. Previously the metal clip tags (bangs tags or something similar) were sufficient for this same class of livestock. Additionally cattle and bison of any age used for rodeo or recreational events; and cattle and bison of any age used for shows or exhibitions will require electronic tags. Cattle and bison are exempted from official identification requirements if they are going directly to slaughter, says the USDA rule.
USDA will continue to provide tags to producers free of charge to jumpstart efforts to enable the fastest possible response to a foreign animal disease, said the USDA statement.
Mindspace Framework
https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/neuroscience/mindspace-framework
If these measures are so good for us, why does behavioral science have to be employed to convince us.
Election Fraud – Ms to Mrs. What about Trannies?
We have reported many times how VOTER REGISTRATIONS are mailed to homes where wives reside with TWO REGISTRATION FORMS with married name and maiden name, and then two registration forms are sent to the parents of the wife.
Pay close attention to Hillary's reason for objecting to the passage of the SAVE Act by the U.S. House.
— Patrick Colbeck
In poker parlance, she issued a major "tell".
You see, one of the favorite tactics of Democrats is to register women under both their maiden name AND married name. This… https://t.co/0TuVONtL8E pic.twitter.com/IpGeONL8R6(@pjcolbeck) April 12, 2025
CDC Records for Director Missing
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/top-cdc-vaccine-safety-officers-records-missing-hhs-saysRecords pertaining to a top CDC vaccine safety officer are reportedly missing, raising concerns about transparency within the agency.
The Department of Health and Human Services has acknowledged the absence of these records but has not provided a detailed explanation.
This development has sparked discussions about record-keeping practices and accountability in federal health agencies.
Critics argue that such lapses undermine public trust, especially in the context of vaccine safety oversight.
Overseas for LT Gov. 245K
https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/gilchrist-led-trip-spent-245000-on-2024-overseas-tripThe Michigan Economic Development Corporation organized a five-day trip to Europe, led by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, costing around $245,000. The delegation aimed to attract international investment and promote Michigan’s aerospace and defense sectors.
Expenses included sponsorship of the Farnborough Air Show, marketing services, travel, and accommodations. The trip also featured visits to cultural landmarks and meetings with potential investors.
Critics question the trip’s return on investment and the use of funds, despite MEDC’s assertion that no taxpayer money was used, as the expenses were covered by private contributions.
As Gilchrist prepares for a gubernatorial run in 2026, the trip’s expenditures have become a point of contention in discussions about fiscal responsibility and economic development strategies.
In Search Of: Better Chance of Finding Big Foot Than Viable EV Market
https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/04/troubles-gm-lays-off-200-ev-workers-in-detroit-hamtramck/General Motors has announced the temporary layoff of approximately 200 workers at its Factory Zero assembly plant in Detroit and Hamtramck. This decision is attributed to sluggish electric vehicle (EV) sales, prompting the company to adjust production to align with current market dynamics.
Factory Zero, employing around 4,500 individuals, manufactures several EV models, including the GMC Hummer EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and Cadillac Escalade IQ. The layoffs primarily affect employees involved in battery pack manufacturing, with no immediate plans for their return.
Despite efforts to boost EV sales, GM faces challenges such as high vehicle prices and concerns over charging infrastructure, leading to consumer hesitancy. The company has also made other adjustments, including cutting production of the Cadillac XT6 SUV in Tennessee and reducing shifts at its Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico.
These developments occur amidst broader industry shifts, as automakers navigate the transition to electric vehicles and respond to changing policies, including recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on automobiles and parts from Canada and Mexico.
Tonight we are going to celebrate Thomas Jefferson’s birthday with some Jefferson Airplane and Grace Slick to kick us off before we dive into Jefferson’s most important revolution, what he thought was the real Revolution after the signing of the Constitution. It involves judicial review, and taking back the government to a smaller, less intrusive entity that aligned with the Constitution.
And as always, good music. Great way to get ready for the action starting tomorrow morn! Join us.
On This Day Thomas Jefferson Was Born
Thomas Jefferson, arguably the SOUL of the American Revolution, was born today on 4/13/1743. In many ways Jefferson’s time as president is as equally important as his writing the Declaration of Independence. in 1800 he started his first term in what he called The Second Revolution. Jefferson warned us of the dangers of judicial review, hence his quote below.
Virtue of Farmers
Farmers need to polyglots – read Greek to learn about using water to bend wood. Jefferson wanted American to an agrarian society because he felt that agriculture was the best means for people to develop their own agency and resiliency.
If people let government decide what foods they eat and what medicines they take, their bodies will soon be in as sorry a state as are the souls of those who live under tyranny.
Agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals and happiness.
Timeline – Childhood
- April 13, 1743: Thomas Jefferson was born in Albemarle County, Virginia, to Jane and Peter Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson was born as the third of ten children, meaning he had nine siblings. However, two of his siblings died in infancy, leaving him with seven surviving siblings. His only male sibling to survive infancy was Randolph Jefferson, born in 1755. His sister Jane died at the age of 25 and affected Jefferson deeply.
His father Peter, died when Thomas was 14. At such a young age, Thomas sought mentorship from his teachers. - 1752: Jefferson began attending a local school run by a Scottish Presbyterian minister
- 1758-1760: He studied under Reverend James Maury near Gordonsville, Virginia, focusing on Latin, Greek, French, history, science, and classics
- March 25, 1760: Jefferson enrolled at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he studied mathematics, metaphysics, philosophy, and languages.
Jefferson was reported to have had a regimen of 12 hours of study a day, plus physical exercise of 1-2 hours a day. - 1762: Graduated from the College of William & Mary and began studying law under George Wythe
Adult Life And Political Career
- 1769: Elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses, representing Albemarle County
Attempted to pass law that would allow slave owners to emancipate their slaves if they were of age. The bill was rejected. - 1772: Married Martha Wayles Skelton
- 1776: Primary author of the Declaration of Independence
- 1779-1781: Served as Governor of Virginia
- 1785-1789: U.S. Minister to France
- 1789-1793: Secretary of State under President George Washington
- 1797-1801: Vice President under President John Adams
Presidency
- March 4, 1801: Inaugurated as the third President of the United States
- 1803: Negotiated the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the size of the United States
This purchase was for 15 million, 348 million in today’s dollars. However, it was a STEEL, as the equivalent territory is worth approximately 1.5 trillion or more. Jefferson was true to his conservative view of the Constitution, as he did not believe he was authorized by the Constitution to make such a purchase. But because this was an offer made in urgency by Napoleon Bonaparte, Jefferson had to act prior to any amendment could be passed. The Louisiana Purchase essentially set us on the course for the Manifest Destiny. - 1803-1806: Sponsored the Lewis and Clark Expedition to explore the new territories
- 1807: Implemented the Embargo Act to protect American shipping and trade from British interference
Post-Presidency
- 1819: Founded the University of Virginia
- July 4, 1826: Died at Monticello, Virginia, exactly 50 years after the Declaration of Independence was adopted
Kentucky Resolution of 1798 and the Proper Exercise of Nullification
The Kentucky Resolutions of 1798, drafted by Jefferson, were a key expression of his constitutional principles, particularly his belief in limited federal power and the rights of states to check federal actions. These resolutions were a direct response to the Alien and Sedition Acts, which Jefferson and the Republicans viewed as unconstitutional violations of the First Amendment
In the Kentucky Resolutions, Jefferson argued that the federal government had limited powers delegated to it by the states through the Constitution and that any powers not explicitly given were reserved to the states or the people, as stated in the Tenth Amendment. A central point was that states had the right to judge for themselves whether the federal government had exceeded its constitutional powers. Jefferson argued that allowing the federal government to be the sole judge of its own limitations would lead to unlimited power. This idea suggested that states could reject federal laws they deemed unconstitutional within their borders.
Jefferson’s authorship of the Kentucky Resolutions also reflected his distrust of the Federalist-dominated branches of the federal government, including the judiciary, which he saw as unlikely to rule against the Alien and Sedition Acts. He sought a remedy in asserting states’ rights rather than relying solely on the federal courts. He maintained that the courts did not have exclusive power to determine constitutionality, a view consistent with his theory of departmentalism.
However, other states did not agree with the assertion that states could nullify federal laws. Despite this lack of widespread support for nullification at the time, the Kentucky Resolutions remained an important articulation of the states’ rights perspective and Jefferson’s opposition to the expansion of federal power
Second Revolution: Defeating The Federalists Meant The Federal Government Would be Restricted
The Jefferson-Republicans opposed the usurpation of the 1st Amendment by the Alien and Sedition Act passed that SINGLED OUT the position of Vice President held by Jefferson. The Federalists used the Supremacy Clause and implied powers to further extend federal power beyond what the Constitution intended.
On the last evening in office, John Adams made “midnight appointments” of circuit judges. As part of creating a judiciary that would remain populated with Federalist appointed judges, Congress pass the Judiciary Act of 1801 which Adams signed into law which reduced the number of Supreme Court Justices.
Jefferson vowed that there would be a Second Revolution in the sense that federal government was to go be reigned in and follow the narrowly defined powers described in the Constitution.
However, Jefferson laid out what his administration would be in his inaugural address, which facilitated a peaceful transition of power.
Preserving the Common Ground of American Citizenship: Jefferson’s First Inaugural
“Every difference of opinion,” Jefferson said “is not a difference of principle. We have called by different names brethren of the same principle. We are all Republicans, we are all Federalists.” The speech was effective, as even some Federalists professed to have been pleased by it.
If Jefferson conciliated Federalists with his speech, it was not because he adopted their political opinions. Indeed, Jefferson conceded nothing to his opponents with regard to the policies he planned to pursue. For example, Jefferson explained why republican government, and in particular the American republic, was the strongest on earth; then he asked what more, besides the blessings America enjoyed was necessary to make Americans “a happy and prosperous people?” He answered his own question:
[A] wise and frugal government, which shall restrain men from injuring one another, shall leave them otherwise free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned. This is the sum of good government; and this is necessary to close the circle of our felicities.
Are We In the Trap that Jefferson Warned Of, Judicial Despotism?
Marbury Vs Madison is the SCOTUS case that initiated what we call judicial review. Jefferson warned that making the Supreme Court the final arbiter of the Constitutionality of laws destroyed the separation of powers. He viewed John Marshall’s 1803 Marbury v. Madison decision as a Federalist power grab, calling it a “silent junta” that subverted the Founders’ intent78. For Jefferson:
- Violation of Separation of Powers:
Jefferson argued that judicial review concentrated excessive power in the judiciary, undermining the principle of separation of powers. He believed that allowing judges to determine the constitutionality of laws for all branches would transform the judiciary into a “despotic branch” and disrupt the balance intended by the Constitution. - Threat to Republican Principles:
Jefferson viewed judicial review as contrary to republican ideals because it placed unelected judges above elected representatives. He emphasized that the “vital principle of republics” was “absolute acquiescence in the decisions of the majority,” which judicial review threatened by enabling courts to override majority rule. - Lack of Constitutional Authorization:
Jefferson maintained that judicial review was not explicitly granted by the Constitution. He argued that Chief Justice John Marshall’s assertion of judicial review in Marbury v. Madison (1803) was an unwarranted interpretation, issued as obiter dictum—an incidental opinion not binding to the case at hand—and therefore invalid. - Concurrent Review as an Alternative:
Jefferson proposed an alternative doctrine called concurrent review, where each branch of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) would independently interpret the Constitution within its own sphere. Under this system, courts could declare laws unconstitutional but could not bind other branches to their interpretation. This approach aimed to prevent judicial supremacy while maintaining checks among branches. - Judicial Independence and Accountability:
Jefferson criticized lifetime appointments for federal judges, arguing that they made judges unaccountable to the people. He warned that this lack of accountability, combined with judicial review, could lead to “despotism of an oligarchy”.
State Sovereignty:
Jefferson extended his opposition to judicial supremacy over states, arguing that states should not always be bound by Supreme Court decisions or federal law. This perspective aligned with his broader commitment to states’ rights and federalism.
We can only hope that when Zelensky of the Shire comes begging for money or a mineral treaty and the cease fire that Trump has the dire wolves at the oval office.
On this crazy episode we’ll be talking about budget, Senate bill to limit President’s ability to set tariffs, Navarro and Musk skirmish, and tariff shakeout.
One Trillion Is Like Cheering on Lizzo About Losing 5 Pounds
ONE TRILLION SHOULD BE THE BARE MINIMUM ON SPENDING CUTS. pic.twitter.com/51o5GjeVxg
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
Cuts or Nothing
That's exactly what I want to hear.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
CUT THE BUDGET OR NO DEAL. https://t.co/kKUOo2KyWK
Increase in DoD While 1000s Fired
Looks like we're going to feed the biggest gator in the Swamp.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
As thousands are fired. https://t.co/AOqfQn7SY1
NIH Funds 22 Million To NGO Who Texts Minors About Sex Toys
Hat Tip @AppPatriotGirl
The @NIH has been bankrolling a nonprofit that directly messages hundreds of minors via their cellphones about “sex toys,” “lesbian sex,” and trans sex, while discouraging the kids from telling their parents about it.
— Hannah Grossman (@grossmanhannah) April 7, 2025
Here’s how this sick federally-backed operation works:
CC:… pic.twitter.com/zlDnqGQHCJ
Judge: Trump Can Release Early Hires From Fed Jobs
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION CLEARED BY SCOTUS TO CONTINUE WITH TERMINATION OF PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEES. https://t.co/B4W2bh4MHJ
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
Cramer!
CNBC's Jim Cramer predicted a 1987 "Black Monday" style crash on Wall Street today.
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) April 7, 2025
NASDAQ closed HIGHER today. pic.twitter.com/KYWfgxmvsZ
Tariffs On China: 104%
TRUMP TARIFFS ON CHINA GO TO 104% pic.twitter.com/vZOMlOEmHI
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
Tariffs From Trump 45: Are They The Same Animal?
.@USTradeRep Ambassador Jamieson Greer: "In the first Trump term, the President imposed historic tariffs on an enormous amount of goods coming from China and during that time, inflation went down by 0.1%." pic.twitter.com/rNpZeJvyQ6
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 8, 2025
“The Wall Street analysts are wrong,” Greer said. “They never want to have any kind of challenge to the status quo.” Despite the analysts who predicted financial devastation in Trump’s first term, Greer pointed out that the opposite happened: Through tax policies and trade actions, real wages increased.
CCP Tariff Update: 84% Release or White Paper?
China has opted to delay immediate tariff retaliation, instead releasing a white paper
After Beijing’s overnight inaction in response to President Trump’s new 104% effective-rate tariff on Chinese goods—and the release of a white paper on trade between the two superpowers—there now appears to be a response from the Chinese side.
A day earlier, China vowed to “fight to the end” if the US insists on new tariffs. Chinese exports were already facing blanket levies imposed this year and punitive taxes from Trump’s first term and the following Biden administration. China also added six firms to its unreliable entity list, and 12 US entities to its export control list. Initially, Trump justified the 34% tariff hike on China as a fair way to match the barriers that Beijing has in place against US firms and goods, and then added to them after Beijing retaliated with its own levies.
CCP Buying up Stocks as a Scramble in Trade War
Amid escalating trade tensions, the Chinese government has initiated significant stock purchases to stabilize its markets.
This intervention aims to prevent market panic and signal economic resilience to both domestic and international observers.
Analysts view this move as a strategic effort to bolster investor confidence during the ongoing trade war with the U.S.
Critics argue that such market manipulations may mask underlying economic weaknesses and delay necessary reforms.
Kyle Bass CCP Economy on Mainland
- Overleveraged Banking System: China’s banking system is about 350% of its GDP, significantly larger than the US system, which is around 1 times GDP (or 1.7 times including non-banks). Bass argues that this high leverage, combined with the relatively short history of advanced banking in China (since 2002), creates instability.
- Real Estate Crisis: Almost 40% of Chinese bank assets are tied to domestic real estate. With a 30-50% drop in the real estate market, Bass contends that the banking system is likely insolvent. He notes that local governments in China relied heavily on selling land to developers to meet their budgets, a practice that is no longer sustainable due to the real estate collapse.
- Demographic Crisis: Unrestricted speculation in real estate led to median housing prices in tier-one cities reaching 25 times the median income, making housing unaffordable for young people. This has resulted in a collapse in marriages and birth rates, with China’s birth rate falling to 1.2 births per woman, far below the 2.1 needed to sustain the population. Xi Jinping reportedly recognized the folly of this, stating in 2019 that “Financial Security is National Security”.
- Lack of Wealth Distribution: Despite significant GDP growth over the past 17 years, investing in China’s largest public index (Shenzhen Shanghai 300) resulted in a loss of a third of the investment, contrasting sharply with the gains in the US market over the same period. Bass suggests that “investing in communism has never worked in the long run”.
- Architectural Structural Flaw: Bass believes there is a fundamental structural flaw in the Chinese economy, making hopes for a turnaround a “Fool’s errand”. He estimates that the equity in their banking system is around two trillion RMB, suggesting that a significant amount of printed money would be needed just to fill the hole caused by the real estate crisis
The Last 50 Years
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
Mineral Supply Chains At Risk
China has halted exports of critical minerals to the U.S., impacting sectors like defense and clean technology.
This move underscores the vulnerability of U.S. supply chains reliant on foreign sources for essential materials.
Industry leaders are urging the U.S. government to invest in domestic mining and processing capabilities.
Analysts warn that prolonged disruptions could have significant economic and security implications.
What We Suspected: DOGE Says 4 Million SSNs, No Background Checks
THIS
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
IS
TREASON https://t.co/Y7IKoV0ejk
— Publius (@OcrazioCornPop) April 9, 2025
BREAKING: Melanie Krause, acting IRS commissioner, will resign after the agency agreed to share Illegal Aliens’ tax data with DHS for enforcement.
Hired in October 2021 under Biden as Chief Data & Analytics Officer, she implemented AI and analytics to help the IRS extort… pic.twitter.com/UuKi92fWAI
Trump Admin To Illegals: Self Deport
Ok.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
No more press briefings until further notice. https://t.co/oKlTE3ooQB
School Board that wants Millions to Pay for FOIA Is Bucking DEI Exec order
Rochester, Michigan School Board member speaking out against the @usedgov and @realDonaldTrump asking them to eliminate DEI programs or lose funding. Video courtesy of Rochester Schools. pic.twitter.com/eOKCBOBGp5
— Dave Bondy (@DaveBondyTV) April 8, 2025
Cleveland Clinic – Avoid Bird Flu Shot – It Makes Flu Worse
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) April 8, 2025
"...suggesting that the vaccine has not been effective in preventing influenza this season." pic.twitter.com/Y5ljjCokWD
CCP Pairing Up With Russians
https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/ukraine-captures-chinese-nationals-fighting-russia-first-warUkrainian forces have reportedly captured Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian troops, marking the first such incident in the ongoing conflict.
This development raises concerns about China’s involvement and potential support for Russia in the war.
The identities and motivations of the captured individuals are currently under investigation by Ukrainian authorities.
International observers are closely monitoring the situation for any diplomatic repercussions.
Judge Says What’s In A Name: AP Can’t Be Blocked Access
Ok.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 8, 2025
No more press briefings until further notice. https://t.co/oKlTE3ooQB
SCOTUS Sides with Trump Re Firing
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/us-supreme-court-sides-trump-ffor-now-fired-federal-worker-caseThe U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Trump administration regarding the dismissal of a federal worker.
This decision reinforces the executive branch’s authority to terminate federal employees.
Critics argue that this ruling may set a precedent for politically motivated firings within the federal workforce.
Supporters contend that it allows for greater accountability and efficiency in government operations.
12 RINOS Considering Bill On Curbing President Tariff Ability
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/least-12-house-republicans-consider-signing-anti-trump-tariff-billAt least twelve House Republicans are contemplating support for Representative Don Bacon’s bill aimed at restricting the President’s authority to unilaterally impose tariffs. The proposed legislation would require the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of any new tariffs, providing justification and an economic impact analysis.
Tariffs would automatically expire after 40 days unless Congress approves them, and Congress could pass a resolution of disapproval to eliminate tariffs within this period. Representatives Jeff Hurd and Dan Newhouse, along with two Democrats, have co-sponsored the bill, with ten others expressing interest pending discussions with the trade representative.
Despite this legislative effort, President Trump has vowed to veto the bill if it reaches his desk, indicating potential challenges in altering the current tariff imposition process.
Germany: News Editor Receives 7 Months Probation for Satire
https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/german-news-editor-convicted-satirical-photo-montage-far-left-interior-minister-givenDavid Bendels, editor-in-chief of Deutschland Kurier, received a seven-month probation sentence from the Bamberg District Court for publishing a satirical photo montage of Federal Minister Nancy Faeser. The court deemed the montage, which depicted Faeser holding a sign stating “I hate freedom of expression,” as defamatory under Paragraph 188 of the German Criminal Code.
The image was based on a real photo of Faeser holding a “We Remember” sign for Holocaust Remembrance Day. Faeser personally filed the criminal complaint, reflecting a trend of German politicians pursuing legal action against citizens for critical expressions.
Critics, including AfD MP Beatrix von Storch, argue that this verdict signifies a deterioration of free speech and press freedom in Germany. The case has ignited a broader debate on the balance between protecting public figures from defamation and upholding freedom of expression.
Michigan Town Considering Legal Action against citizens speaking out
A small Michigan city is threatening legal action against its residents for saying anything that causes “harm” to the city. It has also denied Freedom of Information Act requests from people trying to find out how much government officials earn in salary.https://t.co/atipcriJQK
— Mackinac Center (@MackinacCenter) April 8, 2025
Elawn vs Navarro
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/navarro-truly-moron-musk-slams-trump-trade-czar-ongoing-tariff-feudA public feud has erupted between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Trump trade adviser Peter Navarro over the administration’s tariff policies. Musk criticized Navarro’s defense of the tariffs, questioning his economic credentials and stating that Navarro “ain’t built shit.”
Navarro responded by downplaying the disagreement, attributing Musk’s opposition to his business interests and labeling Tesla as merely a “car assembler” reliant on foreign components. Musk countered by calling Navarro “truly a moron” and asserting that Tesla produces the most American-made cars.
The White House dismissed the altercation, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterizing it as a harmless disagreement, stating, “Boys will be boys.” This exchange highlights the tensions between business leaders and the administration regarding trade policies and their economic impact.
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
- 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/
35th District – Still No Representative
"If I have an issue, who do I go to??"
— MI Senate Republicans (@MISenate) February 12, 2025
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
Good News In North Carolina
BREAKING:
— Patrick Colbeck
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…
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
— Janine Thomas (@jethomas58) April 7, 2025
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…
Democrats held a “shadow government” hearing today.
— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) April 8, 2025
This is totally unconstitutional.
pic.twitter.com/w3viZkPTlh
John James
Republican Congressman James announced campaign for governor at 430 PM. Three hours later there is already Republican Detractors.
Faith and Family.
— John James (@JohnJamesMI) April 7, 2025
God and Country.
Service Before Self.
Michigan First. pic.twitter.com/drYWqGSi3C
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.
— Garrett Soldano (@GrassrootArmy) April 7, 2025
His Heritage score? A weak 74%. That’s not a conservative. That’s another ladder-climbing politician desperate for a… pic.twitter.com/yOKkV7w0nG
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
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
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 4, 2025
EXCLUSIVE
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
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. citeturn0search1
Hoitenga noted that the destruction is widespread across the district, expressing concerns that complete restoration could take between 30 to 60 days. citeturn0search1
The ice storm caused significant damage to transmission and distribution lines, with many poles and wires needing complete replacement. citeturn0search1
Utility companies are working diligently to restore power, but challenges such as debris and impassable roads are hindering progress. citeturn0search1
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-storiesA 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. citeturn0search0
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. citeturn0search0
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. citeturn0search0
Attorney General Nessel emphasized that cutting these funds would negatively impact essential health services relied upon by Michiganders. citeturn0search0
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?
This Tues on Cultural Courage …
If we remove the cost and pain of acquiring skill with passive acceptance of what AI supplies us, we are creating gelatinous minds. That’s the greatest effect of AI.
“The enemy of art is the absence of limitations”
—Orson Welles
“Artificial intelligence would be the ultimate version of Google. The ultimate search engine that would understand everything on the web. It would understand exactly what you wanted, and it would give you the right thing. We’re nowhere near doing that now. However, we can get incrementally closer to that, and that is basically what we work on.”
—Larry Page
With less assistance from digital libraries, we produced far different and more complex music
Queen II represents a tapestry of music, and while you may believe that the studio can present an illusion of musicality, the LIVE version of Queen’s music demonstrates a mastery of their craft.
When the roots of a tree are severed, that tree, no matter how mighty, falls to the ground. I use that analogy in conjunction with the image above to emphasize that we take it for granted that others think about the consequences of their actions. Some actions axiomatically result in destruction. Sever the roots of a tree, it dies.
There has to be a cost to acquiring skills. The barrier to entry makes you put forth the energy to acquire superior superior ability. Why? Because it makes those skills well earned, they become instincts. 10,000 hours to master a subject was the theme from the early 2000s if I recall correctly. It meant putting in the time, but not only would you be great at something, you would have taken a journey filled with experiences that no one would be able to replace. It meant that you could become a teacher and distill those concepts and skills to others. I would say that is a real connection.
Spending excessive amounts of time online has had two effects. For one, it removed the possibility for failure for our kids that we Gen Xers experienced while we practiced sports, played music, learned carpentry or worked to earn a little money. Many kids today struggle with building relationships because they haven’t witnessed each in a way that shows that they all face challenges. There is risk being active together in sports, in group activities that is not present at all in social networks. We are depriving our kids a sense of adventure, and not allowing them to seek out things for themselves where physical interaction is required, such as playing a band.
It’s the Bay-Toe and Tampon Tim Show. Banjos and jazz hands. We’ll be covering the Republics going on recess, Elon and DOGE, Beto O’Rorke teaming up with Tampon Tim and more.
Val Kilmer Passes At 65
From The Salton Sea, to Top Gun, to Tombstone, Val Kilmer created characters that we know as a culture.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 2, 2025
That we quote on a regular basis.
That we aspire to be.
There is no greater achievement in acting.
RIP DOC pic.twitter.com/ESdWbP48DO
Tharparicuth Speak-a-thon: My Voice Is Inadequate
Cory Booker as he breaks Strom Thurmond's speaking record: "I'm not here because of his speech. I'm here despite his speech. I'm here because as powerful as he was, the people are more powerful." pic.twitter.com/EH8w2m4L4e
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 1, 2025
132000 Still Without Power: Because Tree Trimming is An Esoteric, Dangerous Process
132000 STILL without power in Northern Michigan. $120 million to clear 8000 miles according to Consumers Energy. We had a $9 billion surplus where the money went to brain dead solar and EV projects, but no offset for against raising rates that could have reduced the impact of… pic.twitter.com/YPtQ18xKyI
— Lord Mighty Humanzee (@HZardoz) April 2, 2025
Michigan Ice Storms
Schools closed until Monday
Look at the tops of the trees. Zoom in. Gone. They’re all gone. This is everywhere. #hoperisinggaylord pic.twitter.com/YnCwXBVM6H
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 2, 2025
It’s a shit show up here…not good. The Michigan National Guard would be nice @GovWhitmer pic.twitter.com/MzaUB90ONv
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 1, 2025
It’s a shit show up here…not good. The Michigan National Guard would be nice @GovWhitmer pic.twitter.com/MzaUB90ONv
— Iron Pig Smokehouse (@ironpigsmoke) April 1, 2025
Border Crossing at 25 Year Low
Illegal border crossings hit a 25-year low in March, down 94% from last year, per NBC
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) April 1, 2025
The Monday Morning Quarterbacking of a guy who risked everything, including his personal wealth, to save this country will always piss me off. Trump had nothing to gain by being President. He went up against Satan himself EVERY FKN DAY for 4 years & never quit on us. Never quit.
— Remember The Fallen (@44MagnumBlue1) January 2, 2022
ChatGPT Won’t Render Image of Muhammed
OpenAI’s ChatGPT refuses to generate images of the Prophet Muhammad, citing credible threats of violent backlash.
The decision aligns with the company’s policy to avoid content that could be considered offensive or inflammatory.
This move has sparked discussions about the balance between free expression and respect for religious sentiments.
Some critics argue that such restrictions may set a precedent for censorship in AI-generated content.
— I,Hypocrite (@lporiginalg) March 31, 2025
DOGE Recovers Terabyte of Deleted Federal Financial Data
Elon Musk says the U.S. government “deleted a terabyte of financial data to cover their crimes,” but “they don’t understand technology, so we recovered it.”
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) April 1, 2025
DOGE Social Security Fraud
Elon Musk: “I believe someone is going to be arrested tomorrow, because there's someone who actually stole 400,000 Social Security numbers and personal information from the Social Security database… And was selling Social Security numbers and all the identification information… pic.twitter.com/cq2kyAVtTL
— America (@america) April 1, 2025
Elon Musk’s AI system, DOGE, has reportedly uncovered a large-scale Social Security fraud scheme.
The fraudulent operation is said to involve the misuse of Social Security numbers for illegal financial activities.
Musk has called for immediate action, stating that those responsible will face arrest.
Authorities are now investigating the claims to assess the validity and scope of the alleged fraud.
20 Years for Tesla Firebombing
Cooper Frederick, 24, faces federal charges related to the March 7 attack, according to Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who announced the charges on Monday.
“I made it clear, if you take part in the wave of domestic terrorism, I’ve made it clear if you take part in the wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, we will find you, arrest you, and put you behind bars,” Bondi stated. “Today, I’m proud to announce that the Department of Justice has unsealed federal charges against another Tesla attacker.”
Frederick, a Fort Collins resident, was initially arrested by Loveland Police on March 13 on multiple state charges, according to a City of Loveland news release. The charges included possession of explosives, second-degree arson, criminal mischief, and criminal attempt to commit a felony.
Whistleblower Claims Dana Nessel Did Not Enlist FBI to Investigate the GBI Fraud
A law enforcement whistleblower alleges that Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel did not involve the FBI in investigating fraud related to the GBI.
The whistleblower claims that this omission has allowed fraudulent activities to continue unchecked.
Concerns have been raised about potential political motivations behind the lack of action.
Calls for an independent investigation into the matter are growing among officials and the public.
Captain Shatner
Kirk is going to Space. https://t.co/3poALFd5Ba
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
Breast Pumps and Proxy Votes
Exactly. https://t.co/R4FSFFBGtO
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
We Are Tightening Our Belts … Next Year … Maybe
Senate Republicans, without major pressure from the WH, have no intention of EVER cutting the budget in any significant way.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
Bank it. https://t.co/pRi3WVTbc5
A Process To Stop Our Normal Process … Of Doing Nothing But Spend
The Big System RINOs have no intention of cutting the budget. https://t.co/UyoPYYg0AJ
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
Sholanda … Sholanda Crockett. Queen of the Wild Frontier
LOL - what a phony actor. https://t.co/tnaTm5pZrx
— Catturd(@catturd2) April 1, 2025
HHS Gets a Dear John Letter: GTFO
Stop whispering, Sweet Pea.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
You're giving me a hrd-on. https://t.co/wBYu25eLbQ
Schoolhouse Rock: Injunction-junctions, Universal Injunctions. Tearing Up Laws And Being Black Robed Tyrants
This is EXACTLY the point we made on our Spaces 2 weeks ago. There is no precedent or actual legal authority for universal injunctions.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) April 1, 2025
They just do it. https://t.co/w96Q5S18qB
Nuke It For Morbid: Supposed Nuclear Doomsday Plan From Zeldo Of The Shire
A former advisor to President Zelensky claims that Ukraine has developed a secret nuclear doomsday plan.
This is according to Oleksiy Arestovych, a former adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
In an interview with a Ukrainian journalist that he gave last month, Arestovych claimed that Ukraine’s current head of military intelligence, Kirill Budanov, has floated a plan to blow up all of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, and possibly some of Russia’s as well, if all other defensive measures fail.
McMahon Asks Gavin for Transgender Athlete Clarification
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/mcmahon-threatens-newsom-over-transgender-athletesU.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon made it more difficult for Newsom to remain on the fence Thursday. She sent the governor a letter warning him that he must comply with President Trump’s executive order banning biological males from competing in women’s sports or risk losing federal funding for schools across the state.
At least $8 billion in federal education money to California hangs in the balance, while California is running what legislative analysts cited as a $46.8 billion budget deficit last year.
“Your recent comments about male athletes playing in women’s sports – that it is ‘deeply unfair’ – came to the attention of my office this week,” McMahon wrote. “I’m writing on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education to request a clarification on your stance as governor of California, and to inquire as to your intention to encourage California public schools to comply with federal law on this issue.“
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) March 27, 2025
"Your recent comments about male… pic.twitter.com/jlP5aKXloX
Gov Whitmer declares a State of Emergency for IRELAND, she is GONE from the state AGAIN. 350,000 Michiganders without from recent ice storm and Gretch brings back photos from Ireland.
On the national front, DOGE wants to rewrite Social Security software but the Safety Sallies think it’s too complex, Michigan launches a website for government transparency where items are hard to locate, Smithsonian says there’s no such thing as race, and Michigan’s Too Big To Fail boondoggle on the auto industry.
Latest Interview on Cultural Courage
Whitmer Declares A State of Emergency Then Issues Transgender Support
@HZardoz @PatriotPostGirl @JamWr1tes This is what Gretch posts in spite of more storms and the severe damage to over 1/2 the state. How about being committed to Michigan Citizens, the polluted water in Calhoun and Kzoo Counties, roads, power grid…this is the most evil post yet.… https://t.co/f90in2hVtG
— Janine Thomas (@jethomas58) March 31, 2025
Says the DC resident thanking the jet setter that just got home from Europe traveling to DC this week, and Miami next week. pic.twitter.com/TV4ZddoD0r
— Gretchs' Michifornia. (@Kwardin2) March 31, 2025
@HZardoz Bridge is out in Mackinac, another Gretch‘s Follies https://t.co/5CyRIp1Y16
— Janine Thomas (@jethomas58) April 1, 2025
Tour de Farce – Whitmer is Rarely In The State
20
Instead, the governor lauded her efforts “to attract cutting-edge companies and develop international reputation” in the defense and aerospace industries, highlighting a visit by the “Team Michigan delegation” to the Midlands Aerospace Alliance, a group of 300 aerospace industry members in the UK.
Whitmer said previously the week-long excursion with Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Quentin Messer, Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Tim Boring, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen also involved “strategic meetings with business leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders to promote investment opportunities in Michigan.”
On Thursday, State Rep. Steve Carra, R-Three Rivers, introduced House Bill 4310, which he says is designed to enhance ethics, accountability and transparency in the governor’s global excursions.
Carra likened Whitmer’s profligacy to a teenager traveling abroad with mom and dad’s credit card—not the top official elected to lead the state.
“Governor Whitmer has recently racked up quite the cache of frequent flyer miles on the taxpayers’ dime,” Carra said in a news release. “Given that the Democrats squandered a $9 billion budget surplus and Governor Whitmer has proposed tax hikes for this year’s budget, this legislation is an important step in strengthening accountability of state resources.”
Dana Darth Nessel Allegedly Did NOT Report Fraud to FBI
Law Enforcement Whistleblower: Far-Left Michigan Atty General Lied, Never Referred GBI Strategies Investigation to FBI, Federal Authorities, Despite Admitting Voter Fraud was Real in 2020 Election
A law enforcement whistleblower alleges that Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel lied to the public by claiming her office referred an investigation into GBI Strategies, a left-wing group suspected of voter registration fraud in the 2020 election, to the FBI and federal authorities. The whistleblower claims the investigation was closed by Nessel years ago and never referred, suggesting a cover-up of potential voter fraud.
Rep. Rachelle Smit tells the Gateway Pundit that this information reached her and, “We are still investigating this, as part of the Election Integrity Committee of the Michigan State House. If true, if this is indeed what Nessel has done, it will be very troubling and I intend to get to the bottom of it.”
Nessel’s spokesman Danny Wimmer lied to Bridge Magazine when he said it was the FBI’s authority whether or not to investigate, knowing all along that it was never referred in the first place.
Nessel said that this was proof that “the system worked” because fraud was detected and referred to authorities. But in this case, the authorities were the corrupt Biden FBI that never took over the case. Nessel could tell the lie knowing that the FBI would engage in the same word games, claiming that they could not speak about ongoing investigations.
A high-level senior source in Michigan law enforcement has told the Gateway Pundit: the GBI case was not referred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Nessel conducted her own investigation and ultimately determined there was fraud, that GBI Strategies had submitted fraudulent ballots, but said that their motives were only financial and not election fraud.
Since, this senior law enforcement source says, the fraud was just for personal enrichment, their goal was only to make more money, they made the conscious decision not to charge them and the case was not referred to the FBI.
“We seized a mountain of evidence. They asked us to keep it, but the only thing they asked us for were small details of things that we referenced in search warrant applications. Our investigation was officially concluded as ‘inactive’ because we’re holding onto the property, but the Attorney General’s office shut everything down.”
Michigan Advance: Pastor Sewell – Election Denier
After Detroit-area pastor Lorenzo Sewell, an advocate of President Donald Trump, testified this week in the newly renamed Michigan House Election Integrity Committee, Republican and Democratic members of the committee are at odds on their respective visions of fair elections.
While Republicans regarded the testimony of Sewell and Detroit-area activist Ramon Jackson, who alleged without proof mass fraud in recent presidential elections, as an important look at Michigan’s election systems, Democrats decried the day as nothing more than a “circus”.
Democrats say Michigan House committee is a ‘circus’ after platforming election deniers
- Sewell is a prominent figure in Detroit with political ties to Donald Trump who is now actively involved in questioning the integrity of Detroit elections
- His testimony contributes to the ongoing partisan divide regarding election security in Michigan, with Republicans viewing his claims as significant and Democrats dismissing them as baseless
- Sewell’s rhetoric connects the idea of fair elections to the very foundation of democracy, framing any perceived irregularities as a serious threat
- His involvement highlights the continued efforts by some Trump supporters to raise doubts about past election results, even in the lead-up to future elections
- The fact that Trump visited Sewell’s church for a campaign event underscores the political significance of Sewell and his platform within the Detroit community
Hard To Use Transparency Website Cost Millions: Benson’s $9 Million Blunder
A multimillion-dollar update to Michigan’s transparency portals is still a work in progress after the Michigan Department of State rolled out the new software this month.
Used to provide the public with information about Michigan’s campaign finance, lobbying reports and personal financial disclosures of politicians, the new Michigan Transparency Network portal provides less information to the public in its current form than the old system.
In a statement, the Michigan Department of State said what has been released represents the “base functionality” of the system and characterized it as a work in progress. They said they were aware of issues with the system they hoped to correct “as soon as possible.”
The state contracted in May 2023 with a private vendor, Tyler Technologies, to build a new system, paying the contractor more than $9.3 million over a five-year period as they update thestate’s outdated systems.
One of the contract deliverables calls on Tyler Technologies to “improve public display and search of data,” and the newly updated portals do offer the public a sleek new interface. But, at least for now, the new system also reduced the amount of information accessible to the public relative to the old system, making it tougher for activists and government watchdogs to gather information about their elected officials.
DOGE Health Cuts to Michigan Budget: 394 Million
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website indicated it is cutting approximately $394 million in health grants to Michigan. The Trump administration said on Wednesday it was canceling $12 billion in grants allocated to state health departments during the COVID-19 pandemic and planned to fire 10,000 federal US Health and Human Services employees
- Concerns include the increased spread of infectious disease and diminished ability to respond, as well as a budget hole that could impact other DHHS-funded programs benefiting vulnerable populations
- State Rep. Carrie Rheingans stated that Michigan does not have the financial reserves to make up for these life-threatening federal cuts.
- In Wayne County, it appears that cuts will affect $3.7 million that pays for COVID vaccine administration and supports lab workers and epidemiologists tracking disease
- Among the Michigan grants that DOGE says have been canceled are $238.3 million that remained from a CDC grant for COVID-19 testing
- $58.8 million from a grant for lab capacity to prevent and control emerging infectious diseases
- $25.5 million from a grant to provide mental health services
Too Big To Fail: Michigan Has Squandered Billions Propping Up Auto Industry
Despite receiving billions of dollars in subsidies from Michigan taxpayers over the past 30 years, the state has experienced a significant decline of 287,300 manufacturing jobs in the automotive industry
- Michigan’s manufacturing workforce decreased from 881,900 jobs in December 1999 to 594,600 jobs as of January 2025, representing a substantial loss over 25 year
- Questionable Forecasts and Boondoggle Projections: Mozena criticizes the “boondoggle projections of auto factories that garner billions of dollars from taxpayers,” stating that neither the government nor automakers can accurately predict the future. He deems the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) claims of predicting and influencing the auto industry’s economic cycles as “unrealistic at best and fraudulent at worst”.
- Electric Vehicle Plant Setbacks: An example cited is the $1.7 billion in promises made to an electric vehicle plant in Marshall, which later cut $1 billion in planned spending and 800 planned jobs.
- Corporate Welfare: James Hohman of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy identifies the auto industry as the primary recipient of corporate welfare in Michigan. He states that $21.5 billion in corporate welfare has been authorized for the industry since 2000
HUGE Social Security Fraud: 5 Million Social Security Numbers Issued To Illegals
Joined by Antonio Gracias, a private equity titan and a key member of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team tasked with rooting out waste in the federal government, Musk unveiled a shocking chart: a dramatic spike in Social Security Numbers issued to non-citizens, soaring from 270,000 in 2021 to a mind-blowing 2.1 million in 2024.
That’s almost 5 million non-citizens now embedded in the system—collecting benefits, draining taxpayer dollars, and, most alarmingly, infiltrating the voter rolls.
Gracias continued, “We found 1.3 million of them already on Medicaid as an example. On every benefit program we went through, we found groups from this particular group of people, 5.5 million people in those benefit programs. And then what was really, really disturbing us was why. We’re asking ourselves why. And so we actually just took a sample and looked at voter registration records, and we found people here registered to vote in this population.”
Safety Sallies: DOGE Isn’t Capable of Rewriting Social Security
Didn’t Google come in and fix the Obama Care website instantly?
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk’s lieutenant Steve Davis, plans to rapidly migrate the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) computer systems off COBOL to a more modern language like Java within a few months. This ambitious project, driven by a desire for efficiency and potentially fueled by unsubstantiated fraud claims, is considered extremely risky by experts and could jeopardize the delivery of benefits to over 65 million Americans
- Replace all of SSA’s systems currently running on COBOL with a modern alternative like Java
- The project is being organized by Steve Davis from DOGE
- The timeframe for this massive migration is a few months, considered extremely tight by experts
- Past Modernization Efforts:
- The SSA had previously attempted to modernize its systems in 2017, with a projected timeline of around five years.
- This previous effort was pivoted away from due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Technical Challenges:
SSA’s infrastructure contained over 60 million lines of COBOL code as recently as 2016, with millions more in other legacy languages.
The agency’s core systems haven’t been “substantially” updated since the 1980s, when they developed their COBOL and Assembler-based database system, MADAM.
Migrating this volume of complex code in months would likely require using generative artificial intelligence for translation.
DOGE Involvement:
At least 10 DOGE operatives were reportedly working within SSA earlier in March 2025, initially focused on online benefit access.
Sources within SSA anticipate the migration project to begin after DOGE’s “Are You Alive Project,” aimed at identifying improper payments, progresses. This project involves DOGE operatives calling individual beneficiaries and is currently facing legal challenges.
XAI Copper Tops: XAI Acquires Twitter, Data Used to Train AI. How Comfortable Are You Working for Musk?
This means Grok from XAI will outcompete OpenAI’s Chat GPT because Twitter data will be used to train Grok. Twitter owns your Tweets, ergo Elon can use the text. Human interaction is what is required to keep the AI LLMs update so AI can judge sentiment, understand trends, learn new vocabulary, under cultural themes and mores.
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/03/elon-musks-x-has-a-new-owner-elon-musks-xai/
Why Does AI Hallucinate?
https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/03/why-do-llms-make-stuff-up-new-research-peers-under-the-hood/
A significant challenge with Large Language Models (LLMs) is their tendency to confabulate information or hallucinate answers that are not supported by their training data. This means they sometimes invent plausible-sounding but incorrect information instead of saying “I don’t know”. The company Anthropic and OpenAI competitor is conducting research to determine if this can be curtailed.
- Understanding the interplay between “known entity” recognition and the “don’t answer” circuitry is vital for building more reliable LLMs.
- Improving the granularity and accuracy of “known entity” features could help LLMs better determine when they have sufficient information to answer confidently .
- While limited, this work offers a promising direction for future efforts to reduce and mitigate AI confabulation
- Fine-tuning helps to mitigate hallucination by training the model to act as a helpful assistant and refuse to answer when its training data is limited [5].
No Such Thing As Race In Biology
Trump Administration wants to push Eugenics “adjacent” science.
On Thursday, the Trump administration issued an executive order that took aim at one of the US’s foremost cultural and scientific institutions: the Smithsonian. Upset by exhibits that reference the role of racism, sexism, and more in the nation’s complicated past, the order tasks the vice president and a former insurance lawyer (?) with ensuring that the Smithsonian Institution is a “symbol of inspiration and American greatness”—a command that specifically includes the National Zoo.
But in the process of airing the administration’s grievances, the document specifically calls out a Smithsonian display for accurately describing our current scientific understanding of race. That raises the prospect that the vice president will ultimately demand that the Smithsonian display scientifically inaccurate information.
In 2023, the National Academies of Science issued a report intended to get the scientific community to recognize cases where it was using unscientific thinking about race. And the report’s language couldn’t be more clear about rejecting the complaint found in the executive order:
In humans, race is a socially constructed designation, a misleading and harmful surrogate for population genetic differences, and has a long history of being incorrectly identified as the major genetic reason for phenotypic differences between groups.
So, indeed, race is not a biological reality but rather a social construct. The Smithsonian had it exactly right. And now, the administration wants it changed.
$200 Dollars a day. Plus expenses. But Jeffrey Goldberg thought he could get away with a lot more than that when he decided to drop bombshell of spending too much time in the chat rooms. The thing is, it wasn’t with Pete and Mike.
Sherman-eequa Craig
"Diets are racist against black women" pic.twitter.com/5dX6l1J6tV
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) March 25, 2025
And The Earth Opened And Swallowed Him Whole
NEW: Motorcyclist who vanished into a sinkhole on Monday, found deceased after an 18-hour search.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 25, 2025
The man was seen riding his motorcycle on a road in Seoul, South Korea when a 65 feet wide and 65 feet deep sinkhole opened up.
The motorcyclist was identified by officials as… pic.twitter.com/K0uE8PKHLR
What’s Wong – Who is Alex Wong?
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) March 26, 2025
Alex Wong, the Chinese Deputy National Security Advisor appointed by President Trump, who is at the center of the Signalgate scandal, is married to U.S. Attorney Candice Chiu Wong, a Chinese Woman who was one of the key attorneys involved in PROSECUTING J6ers.
Sean Davis On Signal: Get it Banned So Spyin Can Continue?
What if the entire purpose of all the Goldberg nonsense was to create a pretext to ban Signal and force all communications back onto channels that can be accessed by corrupt intel bureaucrats who are furious at their inability to leak the way they did during Trump 1.0?
— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) March 26, 2025
Slotkin: Eye Spy Calls For Non Hilary Privilege
On the news that classified info was shared on Signal, I’m watching the White House blame others and shirk responsibility. It’s therefore important to understand what would happen to an ordinary person if they shared classified info on unclassified systems.
— Sen. Elissa Slotkin (@SenatorSlotkin) March 25, 2025
Let's break it down. pic.twitter.com/EwVo49UZMw
Two Stage Tariffs
President Trump is considering a two-step approach to implement a new tariff regime on April 2, involving the use of emergency duties while investigating trading partners.
This strategy aims to establish a robust legal framework and raise revenue for planned tax cuts, with immediate tariffs potentially applied using emergency authorities like the International Emergency Economic Powers Act or Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930.
The administration is debating the tariffs’ purpose, with officials focusing more on generating revenue over trade negotiations, and key figures like Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer having differing approaches.
As the announcement date nears, nations are making last-minute efforts to negotiate, including the UK and the EU, in response to the potential tariffs.
Auto Imports Are Being Given Attention
Lawyers and people familiar with the plans also told FT that Trump could immediately slap tariffs on vehicle imports on April 2, reviving a national security study into the global auto industry from his first term.
On Monday, Trump said tariffs on cars could be announced “over the next few days.”
The debate within the Trump team has at times split along functional lines.
The two main points of contact have also differed in their approaches, say people familiar with the discussions. While commerce secretary Howard Lutnick has served as the administration’s chief negotiator, he has lambasted trading partners over their trade surpluses and tax policies, before demanding “a deal”.
US trade representative Jamieson Greer, a lawyer who previously worked for Trump’s first-term trade chief Bob Lighthizer, has increasingly asserted himself as the legal planner, seeking to create a durable blueprint for the president’s drive to reorder global trade. -FT
Win For Trump: Halt Refugee Admissions
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 25, 2025
Trump may now proceed with pausing them entirely - POLITICO
Bye Bye To Tax Payer Housing For Illegals
https://nypost.com/2025/03/24/us-news/trump-admin-moves-to-crack-down-on-illegal-migrants-living-in-public-housing/The Trump administration has announced a joint effort between the Departments of Homeland Security and Housing and Urban Development to prevent illegal migrants from receiving public housing assistance.
This initiative aims to stop the “wasteful misappropriation” of taxpayer funds intended for American citizens, particularly amidst the nation’s housing crisis.
A new memorandum of understanding between the departments will enable data sharing to identify and remove ineligible residents from public housing.
HUD referenced data estimating that illegal migrants cost taxpayers approximately $42 billion through welfare programs, highlighting the presence of at least 9 million residents in public housing without proper eligibility information.
See Something, Say Something
In Detroit, a police officer has been reprimanded and is under investigation for contacting ICE after an illegal self-reported her immigration status to him. Tell me Detroit is a sanctuary city without telling me Detroit is a sanctuary city. #SanctuaryDetroit https://t.co/vEUHlvPrKF pic.twitter.com/TfOo3xHadP
— Heather Dow (@PatriotPostGirl) March 26, 2025
Win For Trump: DOGE Is Interferon for US AIDs
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 25, 2025
Another ruling could come in a couple days.
That's #2 today.
Trump EO: Declassify RussiaGate Docs
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 25, 2025
AKA - the "Russia collusion" investigation.pic.twitter.com/JrAQsJ1PgD
Trump Pardon: Devon Archer “He Was Treated Unfairly”
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 25, 2025
"We believe that was an injustice."
TRUMP: "He was treated very unfairly."pic.twitter.com/rUKnGchzc1
Judge To Trump: Turn Up, The Radio
We. Are. At. War. https://t.co/B04t3zA4Gs
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) March 25, 2025
J6 Committee Doctored Evidence?
“The Select Committee on Monday created and provided Representative Schiff a graphic to use during the business meeting quoting from a text message from ‘a lawmaker’ to Mr. Meadows,” the spokesman wrote. “The graphic read, ‘On January 6, 2021, Vice President Mike Pence, as President of the Senate, should call out all electoral votes that he believes are unconstitutional as no electoral votes at all.’”
BREAKING: January 6 Committee Admits It Doctored Text Message Between Meadows And Jordan https://t.co/d8dwDpclmJ
— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) March 25, 2025
Vax Lies and Videotape For Jonathan Chait: Dems Were Awesome During Covid
Read the excerpt.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) March 25, 2025
They haven't reconsidered a thing.
He'll go to his grave a shameless liar. He and everyone that participated in the Covid atrocities deserve to be in jail for years. https://t.co/VeNCdnuT00
You’re In the Water, Kaitlan Collins Is In The Water
Trump hammers Shark-eyes Kaitlan Collins again.
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) March 25, 2025
She pops off, screeching a question, and gets told, "I didn't pick you"
pic.twitter.com/vx2tALRGWo
Smells Like Victory
TWO BIG WINS IN COURT TODAY:
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) March 25, 2025
1. ORDER TO HALT DOGE AGENDA AT USAID STOPPED.
2. ORDER TO BEGIN REFUGEE PROGRAMS STOPPED. pic.twitter.com/Z7vFLgOXub
Hot Wheels and Jasmine
Hood rat pos pic.twitter.com/6jVZLDpMAK
— john jackson (@pvtjokerus) March 25, 2025
False Charges of Racism
https://nypost.com/2025/03/25/us-news/pa-city-worker-accused-of-staging-hate-crime-hoax-after-allegedly-planting-noose-at-her-desk/LaTarsha Brown, an Allentown City Hall employee, is accused of staging a fake hate crime by planting a noose at her own desk, claiming to find it on January 10, which prompted an investigation and community protest.
DNA evidence from the noose matched only Brown, although she initially refused to provide her DNA, leading authorities to charge her with making a false report and tampering with evidence.
Mayor Matt Tuerk expressed shock at the fabrication, while Brown’s friend and community organizer Josie Lopez labeled the charges as retaliation and a smear campaign, asserting Brown’s innocence and calling for public support.
Brown also serves on the Allentown School District school board, adding complexity to the situation.
Punishing Election Fraud
The order will cut federal funding for states that refuse to take steps to secure their elections, tasks the Department of Homeland Security with ensuring that illegal immigrants are not voting, adds a citizenship question on the federal voting form for the first time.
It also orders the Justice Department to vigorously pursue election crimes – particularly in states that are out of compliance with federal law on election security, and seeks to ensure compliance with national election day rules.
The order also calls for the prosecution of foreign interference in US elections (like paying a British spook to produce a fabricated hoax against a candidate – which nothing is ever done about, even now?).
Girl Boss From Michigan
Hillary Clinton praised Mallory for “pushing back” against Republicans fear mongering with grooming.
What does it take to go from Googling “how to run for office” to becoming one of the most compelling voices in American politics?
— Lincoln Square (@LincolnSquareHQ) March 25, 2025
Rick talks to Michigan State Sen. @MalloryMcMorrow to discuss her new book, "Hate Won’t Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You… pic.twitter.com/1lNOWErZAF
Benson Has Altered Qualified Voter Files in 2 Elections
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/03/stunning-discovery-made-mi-sos-jocelyn-bensons-altered/Michigan data analyst Tim Vetter discovered that the Michigan Secretary of State’s Bureau of Elections failed to report over 35,000 voter history records from two special elections in 2024, potentially violating state law.
The special elections in question were held on January 30 and April 16, 2024, to replace two Democratic state representatives who resigned after being elected as mayors.
Vetter’s analysis revealed discrepancies between the local clerks’ Qualified Voter File (QVF) and the state’s version, indicating that vote histories for sampled voter IDs were missing from the state’s data.
Michigan law prohibits fraudulent alterations or omissions in vote history records, raising concerns about the integrity of the state’s voter rolls.
More Michigan Voting Anomalies In Muskegon
Election integrity investigators in Michigan have reported significant anomalies in Muskegon County’s November 5, 2024, election, including tainted absentee ballot counts and missing election documentation.
Republican candidates were leading in county-wide races until early morning hours after Election Day, when large absentee ballot dumps around 1:30 AM and 4:00 AM flipped the results in favor of Democrats. citeturn0search0
A recount initiated by Republican Zach Lahring revealed that six precincts in Muskegon County were uncountable due to missing or incorrect documentation, such as the City of Roosevelt Park precinct lacking election certificates and inspector signatures. citeturn0search0
These findings have raised concerns about the integrity of the election process in Muskegon County, prompting calls for further investigation and potential reforms.
Cover Blown For Soros Group
The Soros-funded nonprofit Indivisible has been deleting content from its website after being implicated in organizing protests against Elon Musk and President Trump. The group has been linked to previous movements, including support for the Black Lives Matter protests.
Recent incidents of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla facilities, such as arson attacks on vehicles and showrooms, have been associated with far-left activists. Indivisible’s mobilization efforts coincide with these events, raising concerns about coordinated actions against Musk and his companies.
Natalie Winters, co-host of ‘War Room: Battleground,’ highlighted that Fatima Gross Graves, wife of former U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves, serves on Indivisible’s board. Matthew Graves led the prosecution of over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol events, suggesting potential political motivations behind Indivisible’s activities.
Financial records indicate that since 2018, Indivisible has received approximately $7.26 million in grants from George Soros’s Open Society Foundations, with these funds comprising over half of the organization’s foundation grants. This financial backing underscores the significant influence of Soros-funded initiatives in recent anti-Musk and anti-Trump protests.
— Natalie Winters (@nataliegwinters) March 24, 2025
This Soros-backed group is the leading organizer of anti-Trump protests and violent Tesla acts.
Deleted webpages reveal this connectionpic.twitter.com/oRmN1eUbZz
China Exerting Power In The Arctic?
https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/canada-needs-substantially-strengthen-its-presence-arcticCanada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced a CAD $6 billion (USD $4.2 billion) purchase of an Over-the-Horizon Radar system from Australia to enhance Arctic defense capabilities. citeturn0news25
This acquisition aims to assert Canada’s sovereignty in the Arctic amid increasing geopolitical tensions and interest from nations like China and Russia. citeturn0news23
China has escalated its Arctic activities, seeking dominance in rare earth elements critical for green technology, thereby intensifying competition with the U.S. and other nations. citeturn0news24
Greenland’s strategic position and resource potential have attracted attention from global powers, including the U.S. and China, leading to increased diplomatic and economic engagements in the region. citeturn0news23
Don’t Spit In a Cup and Send It In the Mail – 23 & Me Bankrupt, But Who Owns Your Data Now?
Nate Johnson, a U.S. Treasury Department policy advisor has exposed that 23andMe has been secretly sharing customer data with nearly every country.
— Shadow of Ezra (@ShadowofEzra) March 24, 2025
He claims a hidden clause in their contract allows them to hand over user information to shareholders—all of whom are… pic.twitter.com/KkaH5mYxab
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?
SNR Study Guide: Age of AI, Madison & Kissinger
Election Fraud: Where Is Barbie Blunder Benson?
- Charges that Jocelyn Benson’s Board of Elections (BOE) has unlawfully manipulated Michigan’s voter rolls by failing to report over 35,002 voter history records from two 2024 special elections
- Tim Vetter, a data analyst expert from DEEP (Data Evaluation of Election Processes), who has been examining Michigan’s voter rolls since the 2020 election
- The two special elections in question were held on January 30, 2024 (primary in the 13th District) and April 16, 2024 (to replace representatives in the 13th and 25th Districts) after two Democrat representatives resigned
- Vetter reportedly compared the “Source QVF” (Qualified Voter File held by local clerks) with the MI SOS Benson’s BOE’s “Altered QVF” and found that the vote histories for 10 sampled voter IDs were missing from the state’s altered data
- Michigan law MCL168.932(c), which prohibits fraudulent entries, erasures, or alterations of vote history records, and MCL168.509q(1)(f), which requires voters to have a voting history for a 5-year period, as being violated
- According to Vette “the altered voter rolls at the State level are nothing new” and that an accurate list of voters in the vote history data from Jocelyn Benson’s BOE has never been reviewed
This can be easily rectified, this is Database 101, entry maintenance. Each voter has a unique id, an anonymous number that should be used once and only once during an election. Comparison between elections do not require looking at first name, last name, address. If they do, you know that the rules of the system are being violated. Data from month to month should remain unaltered unless there is an audit report that details which voters have been affected and why
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?
FOIA Nonsense
https://www.michigannewssource.com/2025/03/legal-experts-foia-law-in-michigan-needs-fixing/
Rochester Community Schools made national news this year when it told a parent that it would cost $33.1 million for the district to review 21,500 emails that contained some form of the phrase “anti-retaliation.”
The parent placed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the district. However, such claims of multi-million costs to recover information are not unheard of. In 2009, the Michigan State Police said a FOIA the Mackinac Center for Public Policy put in requesting information about Homeland Security spending would cost $6.8 million.
“For years, FOIA has suffered from the same problems,” said Steve Delie, an attorney who deals with FOIAs for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. “Requests are too expensive, and government regularly takes so long to produce them that they lose most of their value. Even when records are produced, they are often so heavily redacted that they serve no purpose.”
Profiling Darth – Stop The Illegal Shipping of Wine!!
Attorney General Dana Nessel has initiated lawsuits against out-of-state wineries for allegedly violating Michigan law by mailing their products directly to consumers without the required direct shipper license
How Many Illegal Shipments Have Been Destroying the Michigan Economy? Four
Revenge of the Stiffs
- Nessel is allegedly using the powers of her office for political purposes, rather than solely to uphold the law and protect the interests of the state in a nonpartisan manner
- State Rep. Angela Rigas, chair of the House Oversight Subcommittee on Weaponization of State Government, directly stated that Nessel’s attempt to strip her of her cosmetology license for styling hair during COVID-19 lockdowns was a “clear example of weaponization of state government“
- Former AG Mike Cox echoed this concern, stating that using the power of the office to forward a political goal that is not central to Michigan’s governance or the protection of its people constitutes “a misuse of the office“. He emphasized that while an AG can voice opinions on policy debates, using the office’s power to advance those goals inappropriately politicizes the role
Sadly They Have Neglected the Case of Marlena Pavlos-Hackey, the pizzeria owner from Holland Michigan who was jailed after operating her establishment once she heard the MI Supreme Court Declare Goc Whitmer’s lock down orders illegal
Oh The Lies Darth Doth Spins
But in several instances, Nessel has felt compelled to act, most recently joining a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s actions to dramatically downsize the Department of Education (Trump signed an order Thursday to all but eliminate that department).
The state is also leading multistate legal battles challenging billionaire Elon Musk’s actions at the Department of Government Efficiency and proposed reimbursement cuts at the National Institutes of Health that could lead to multimillion-dollar budget hits for Michigan universities.
In some cases, the challenge has resulted in temporary pauses or reversals of Trump policies while the case moves through the courts.
“Had we not brought these actions and had these policies been able to go through as planned by the executive, the damage to Michiganders is just absolutely irreparable and unsustainable,” Nessel said. “I don’t know if the public necessarily knows how much harm would have come to them.”
Outside of the courtroom, Nessel said her office has also had to spend significant time walking state agencies through the potential impacts of Trump’s actions on Michigan, such as executive orders denouncing “radical indoctrination” in schools and possible cuts to grant funding.
Birthright Citizenship
- Nessel and 16 other Democratic attorneys general sued the Trump administration the day after he took office to challenge an executive order aimed at limiting birthright citizenship, This executive order intended to stop recognizing children born in the U.S. to parents living in the country illegally or on a temporary basis as U.S. citizens
- The lawsuit argues that the Trump administration cannot unilaterally change the policy of birthright citizenship, which stems from the 14th Amendment, granting citizenship to anyone born in the United States regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
Funding Freeze
- Michigan, along with 21 other states, filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. The lawsuit claimed that the proposed freeze would result in “immediate and devastating harm” and would “unlawfully interfere with congressionally approved funds“
- Federal courts blocked the Trump administration from moving forward with the proposed funding freeze. However, Nessel and others accused federal agencies the following month of not immediately complying with the court order
Medical, public health research
Nessel co-led a multistate lawsuit challenging proposed widespread funding cuts to federally funded medical and public health research at universities and major research institutions. The lawsuit argued that changes to a National Institutes of Health policy would disrupt research and cause layoffs. A federal judge temporarily blocked the change
Should Darth Have Sued Obama? Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
Nessel co-led a 14-state coalition challenging Trump’s delegation of executive power to Elon Musk to run the new DOGE. The lawsuit argued that Trump violated the Constitution by creating a federal department without congressional approval and giving Musk sweeping authority
Federal Firings
Department of Education
762M For Pre-K is Not A Head Start
In the 2026 budget, Whitmer wants $676 million to fund no-fee preschool for four-year-olds and $61 million to continue and expand a pilot program to offer no-fee preschool to eligible three-year-olds.
Early education programs aim to give children an academic head start. But there is little evidence for any long-term benefits from the state’s taxpayer-funded preschool initiatives, according to Corey DeAngelis, visiting fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research.
“We shouldn’t expect tacking on one more year to a broken government school system to fix anything,” DeAngelis wrote in an email to Michigan Capitol Confidential.
Superintendent Took 5 Paid Out Of State Trips This is Why Education Sux
Three months before teachers picketed outside a school board meeting in May 2024, Troy Public Schools Superintendent Richard Machesky took five out-of-state trips from December 2023 through February 2024.
He flew Delta Comfort+ every time, a step below first class, to Tucson, San Diego, Marco Island, and Washington D.C., according to a Freedom of Information Act request.
The school district picked up most of the tab.
Two of the trips were reimbursed by third parties, according to Kendra Montante, director of communications for the district, in an email to Michigan Capitol Confidential.
The first of the five trips was to the National Superintendents Forum and Special Education Congress in San Diego in December 2023.
23 Billion to rebuild – We went through this 20 years ago already
“Students deserve to learn in schools that ensure basic safety, health, and wellness standards are met,” Kenneth Gutman, superintendent of the Oakland Schools intermediate school district, said during a media roundtable Thursday. The study, he said, “tells us we are a long way from our schools meeting those basic standards.
But Michigan does not provide direct funding to schools for facilities. Districts must seek voter approval for funds to improve buildings and make major repairs.
“We know what the facility needs are, and so now we have to decide as a state, what do we want to do?” Gutman said.
The study was completed by the School Finance Research Foundation, which was created after state lawmakers called for a comprehensive report on the true cost of meeting basic K-12 education needs. The foundation has previously released studies showing what it costs to educate students — and the prevailing inequities in Michigan’s school funding system. Some of its findings have already prompted action by state leaders, including a system created under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that provides more funding to districts for the most vulnerable students, including those from low-income homes, students with disabilities, and English language learners.
31K Discount on EV Proves McMurrow Wrong on New Auto Market, GM Dismal Results Wasted Our Subsidy
Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, spoke in favor of the bill, arguing some countries had already determined they will phase out internal combustion engine vehicles within the next few years.
“If we do not position our state, our workers and our signature industry to respond to this transition that we are living in, we will get left behind,” McMorrow said.
https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/votes/mcmorrow-admits-ev-transition-is-government-driven
“Anybody who is trying to convince you that it is a mandated transition is lying,” Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said to close her speech.
But McMorrow started her remarks by admitting the role of governments in the transition.
“The reality is that more than a dozen countries around the world, including the population of most industrialized nations, have already determined that they will be phasing out internal combustion vehicles within a few years,” McMorrow said. “Maybe within the next five years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years.”
- GM is experiencing low sales figures for its BrightDrop electric vans, resulting in a large accumulation of unsold inventory in storage lots in both Michigan (Flint) and Ontario, Canada. The company had initially projected substantial revenues from BrightDrop by 2030
- Due to the inventory glut, GM was forced to temporarily shut down its Ontario production plant. Following the reopening, GM began offering significant discounts of up to $31,000 on these vans.
- Despite the discounts, BrightDrop vans remain considerably more expensive than competitor models, which is cited as a major reason for the lagging sales.
- In 2024, GM sold only 1,529 BrightDrop vans, far fewer than Ford (12,610) and Rivian (13,243) sold in EV vans
Land Grab
Some Michigan Republicans want to block residents of “countries of concern” from buying property in broad swaths of the state to prevent “foreign adversaries” from infiltrating the United States.
The package of bills would target people and entities from China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria and Venezuela. Any “agency or other entity under significant control” of those countries would also be included.
Testifying to the state House Government Operations Committee on Thursday, state Rep. Gina Johnsen, R-Odessa Township, said there’s “growing concern” about foreign ownership of agricultural land, “particularly by entities from countries that may pose economic or security threats to the United States.”
Critics slammed the bills. In a statement, the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan called them “blatantly discriminatory and bigoted” and “an outright endorsement of xenophobia.”
“Property ownership should never be restricted based on nationality or immigration status,” the ACLU added.
Michigan has about 9.47 million acres of farmland. About 1.9 million acres of that is foreign-held, according to data from the US Department of Agriculture, but none is directly owned by countries the legislation seeks to prohibit.
The legislation follows longstanding concerns over foreign influence in the US.
Ag Success In MI, What if Diesel were cheaper? Opportunity if Ukraine isn’t exporting grain?
Topping the export charts? Processed food products, raking in $636 million. Not far behind were sugar beet and soybean products, brewing waste, and animal feed at $393 million. Dairy followed at $303 million, with pasta, bread, and other starches bringing in $285 million. Michigan’s wood products rounded out the top categories with $252 million.
Canada continued to be Michigan’s biggest customer, scooping up $1.25 billion in goods. Other top buyers included Mexico, South Korea, Japan, and China. MDARD Director Tim Boring said Michigan’s agriculture sector is standing strong despite shaky global markets and new tariffs.