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'Believes he's on an inspired journey': The Atlantic profiles RFK Jr.
MSNBC· 2025-11-24 17:33
anything that undermines the understanding, the correct understanding, the absolute scientifically based understanding that vaccines are safe and that if you don't take them, you're you're putting your child or yourself in greater danger. Anything that underlines that message is a problem. >> RFK Jr.., according to his own family, is causing real damage to the health of the United States of America. You don't seem willing to criticize him by name at all, unlike members of his family. >> So Jake, clearly cle ...
'Near-absolute unchecked power': Trump has the ability to run for a third term, judge warns
MSNBC· 2025-10-28 14:43
Legal & Political Analysis - Over 100 former DOJ officials oppose the prosecution of James Comey, viewing it as retaliatory and vindictive [1] - The prosecution is seen as an act of personal retribution by the president [1] - The president is perceived to be using the Department of Justice and US attorneys to carry out his agenda of revenge against political opponents [4][5] - Concerns are raised about the upcoming elections potentially not being free and fair [7] - Arresting figures like James Comey is seen as a tactic to intimidate the opposition [9] - The system's strength lies in the 51 different election systems across states and the District of Columbia [11] - The president's attempts to assert control over state election processes are noted, despite lacking legal power [12] Election Integrity & Presidential Power - The possibility of the president seeking a third term is a widespread concern [14] - The president has allegedly seized near absolute unchecked power [16]
'It's Nixonian': Historian explains significance of Kimmel's suspension
MSNBC· 2025-09-19 20:51
Freedom of Speech and Censorship - The discussion revolves around freedom of speech, censorship, and potential government overreach in media [1][2][3] - Concerns are raised about whether recent actions against media figures constitute cultural censorship or state pressure [2][21] - The industry acknowledges a distinction between cultural censorship and governmental censorship, with the latter posing a greater threat to free press [2][3][21] - Some argue that freedom of speech is under attack more than ever, drawing parallels to situations in countries with stricter censorship laws [1] Political and Corporate Influence - The industry notes that corporate pressures and decisions, rather than solely governmental actions, play a significant role in sidelining media figures [1] - The influence of political figures and voters on media content and decisions is also considered [1] - The potential for the FCC to investigate whether certain programs qualify as bonafide news is discussed, raising concerns about regulatory overreach [15][16][17] Historical Context and Future Implications - Historical parallels are drawn to the Nixon era and attempts to control the media, highlighting concerns about potential abuses of power [10][11] - The vulnerability of broadcast networks due to declining viewership and financial structures is emphasized [18][19] - The industry expresses concern about a chilling effect on media and the erosion of free speech, potentially leading to self-censorship [18][20][14]
Reporter digs into conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer's outsized influence on Trump
MSNBC· 2025-08-22 18:53
Key Figures & Influence - Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer, is compared to Joseph McCarthy due to her provocative online behavior and influence on President Trump [3][4][12] - Loomer's influence is significant, with Trump often acting on her suggestions and information [5][8] - Loomer uses an anonymous tip line to gather information and potentially influence personnel decisions within the administration [20] Administration Dynamics - Loomer's actions have led to dismissals at the National Security Council (NSC) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and impacted Secret Service protection and refugee admissions [11] - While influential, Loomer also faces internal opposition within the White House, with some officials finding her actions complicating [9] - President Trump values Loomer's perspective, believing she can identify disloyal individuals within the administration [19] Loomer's Tactics & Focus - Loomer distinguishes herself through online provocation and direct communication with the President via cell phone [5][13] - Loomer targets niche issues, including the bankruptcy board in Puerto Rico, Camp Lejeune water contamination claims, and Chevron's operations in Venezuela [16][17] - Loomer's approach involves publicly sharing information on Twitter, bypassing traditional channels of opposition research [14]
Inside MAGA’S chokehold on Washington as Senate confirms Trump lawyer Emil Bove to appeals court
MSNBC· 2025-08-02 16:38
This week, the Republican controlled Senate narrowly confirmed President Trump's former personal criminal defense attorney, Emil Boie, to a lifetime seat on the third US Circuit Court of Appeals. It did so following Boy's contentious 6 months as a senior official at the DOJ. Three whistleblowers came forward with allegations of misconduct by Boy's, including a claim that he told staff to ignore court orders, which he denied. Despite those allegations, only two Senate Republicans joined Democrats in voting n ...
Violation of military regulations: Tom Nichols rebukes Trump’s speech at Fort Bragg
MSNBC· 2025-06-11 16:10
Military & Politics - Trump's rally speech at Fort Bragg with active duty troops raised concerns about politicizing the military [1] - The speech was seen as a violation of military decor and regulations, potentially compromising the military's nonpartisan stance [10][11] - Concerns were raised about Trump viewing the military as his "personal muscle" for political purposes, similar to a Latin American dictatorship [17][19] - The deployment of troops in Los Angeles over the governor's objections exemplifies the risk of bypassing local and state governments [14][18] Leadership & Responsibility - Top military officers are urged to speak out against the assault on the integrity of the troops and uphold the Constitution [6][7][8] - The responsibility for the soldiers' behavior ultimately lies with their officers and leadership [13] - Trump's stacking of institutions with "sycophants and yesmen" hinders checks and balances [9] Historical Context & Potential Risks - The politicization of the military poses a danger to civil rights and democratic processes [20] - There is a risk of the military deciding which elected president to support and potentially undermining the Constitution [20] - The concern is that the military might perceive itself as the "true guardians of the nation," leading to authoritarian tendencies [21]