Blue Press Journal

Author: Staff Reporter

  • Trump’s Pardon of Binance Founder Raises Questions About His Sanity or Honesty

    Blue Press Journal – In a jaw-dropping interview with “60 Minutes” that aired on Sunday, former President Donald Trump claimed he didn’t know Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance cryptocurrency exchange, despite pardoning him just two weeks ago. The stunning revelation has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about Trump’s mental fitness or his willingness to deceive the American public.

    According to “60 Minutes” correspondent Norah O’Donnell, Zhao was convicted in 2023 of violating anti-money-laundering laws, causing “significant harm to U.S. national security” by allowing terrorist groups like Hamas to launder millions of dollars. Trump’s response to O’Donnell’s questioning was astounding: “I don’t know who he is. I know he got a four-month sentence or something like that. And I heard it was a Biden witch hunt.”

    The facts surrounding Zhao’s pardon are damning. Binance, under his leadership, failed to report suspicious activity, including transactions linked to terrorist organizations and child exploitation websites. Zhao pleaded guilty to failing to maintain an effective anti-money-laundering program and stepped down as head of the company. Moreover, Binance has had a suspiciously cozy relationship with the Trump family, supporting their lucrative foray into cryptocurrency ventures.

    The hypocrisy is glaring. Trump’s allies have long railed against President Joe Biden’s use of an autopen, claiming it invalidated his actions. Yet, when confronted with his own pardon of Zhao, Trump claims he didn’t know who he was pardoning. The double standard is stark.

    It’s impossible to give Trump the benefit of the doubt. Either he is suffering from dementia, unable to recall significant decisions he made as President, or he is lying to the American people. The evidence suggests the latter is more plausible, given the lucrative ties between Binance and the Trump family.

    Read full transcript here:

  • Trump Administration’s March Towards War in Venezuela Sparks Outrage and Concern in Congress

    Blue Press Journal – In a stark contradiction to his campaign promises, the Trump administration is inching closer to entangling the United States in a war with Venezuela, sparking widespread concern and outrage. Despite his vocal criticism of previous presidents for their involvement in foreign wars, Trump’s own administration is pushing towards a military intervention in the South American country with minimal checks, clarity, or justification.

    The latest reports suggest that U.S. officials have identified targets for airstrikes in Venezuela, including government installations, which could be approved imminently. This development has raised alarm bells among experts, who warn that such actions would undoubtedly constitute an act of war. The administration’s claim that the strikes are aimed at targeting drug traffickers is being questioned, as there is no evidence to support this assertion, and the proposed plan would likely exacerbate the chaos in the region.

    The Trump administration’s actions are being carried out without any formal debate, authorization, or clear plan to deal with the consequences. The War Powers Act, which requires the president to consult with Congress before engaging in military action, seems to be being disregarded. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has failed to respond to requests from the Senate Armed Services Committee to share the orders and legal rationales behind the anti-drug operation.

    The situation is further complicated by the administration’s broad definition of terrorism, which has led to the labeling of a wide range of individuals and groups as terrorists. This has raised concerns that the administration is asserting its right to drone strike anyone deemed a terrorist, without due process or accountability. The fact that members of the Trump administration are calling a broad swath of Americans terrorists, while also pursuing military action in Venezuela, is a chilling development that has many experts warning of the dangers of unchecked executive power.

    Trump’s campaign promise to keep America out of war now seems like a distant memory. His administration’s actions in Venezuela are a clear example of the kind of interventionism that he once criticized. The lack of transparency, accountability, and moral justification for these actions is a cause for concern, and many are questioning the true motives behind the administration’s push for war.

    The consequences of a war in Venezuela would be devastating, not just for the people of Venezuela but also for the United States. The chaos and instability that would ensue would likely lead to a humanitarian crisis, and the economic costs of such a war would be substantial. It is imperative that the administration provides clear evidence and justification for its actions, and that Congress exercises its constitutional authority to oversee and authorize military action.

  • Trump Abandons Shutdown Talks for Luxurious Weekend GOLF Getaway … Again

    Blue press Journal – As the government shutdown enters its second month, President Donald Trump is opting for a luxurious weekend escape to his Palm Beach country club, Mar-a-Lago, rather than engaging in negotiations to resolve the funding impasse. Despite the mounting pressure to find a solution, Trump was set to depart Washington on Friday morning, leaving behind the chaos and uncertainty faced by millions of federal workers.

    This marks Trump’s 13th trip to Mar-a-Lago since taking office, with taxpayers footing the bill for his frequent golf outings. The latest excursion is estimated to cost $3.4 million, bringing the total spent on Trump’s golf hobby to a staggering $60.7 million since January. The extravagance of these trips is a stark contrast to the financial struggles of federal employees, many of whom are facing furloughs and uncertainty about their next paycheck.

    The decision to abandon Washington for a weekend of leisure has been met with widespread criticism, with many questioning the president’s priorities. As the shutdown continues to devastate families and communities across the country, Trump’s actions seem tone-deaf and out of touch. The White House has defended the trip, citing the need for the president to have downtime and relax, but this excuse rings hollow given the urgency of the situation.

    Trump’s departure on Friday morning, scheduled for 10:00 a.m., will see him arrive in Florida around 12:40 p.m., where he is expected to remain through Sunday evening. As he enjoys the sun-kissed landscapes and luxurious amenities of Mar-a-Lago, millions of Americans will be left to wonder when their president will take their struggles seriously and work towards a solution to the shutdown. The disconnect between Trump’s actions and the needs of the country is glaring, and his decision to prioritize his own leisure over the welfare of federal workers is a damning indictment of his leadership

  • The Warnings Were There: A Democracy Under Siege

    Trump Told Us he Was Going to Destroy the American Democracy

    Blue Press Journal – Last year, the Sunday Opinion section of The New York Times carried a stark, all-caps headline that now rings with chilling prescience: “WE WERE ALL WARNED. DONALD TRUMP SAYS HE WILL PROSECUTE HIS ENEMIES ORDER MASS DEPORTATIONS USE SOLDIERS AGAINST CITIZENS PLAY POLITICS WITH DISASTERS ABANDON ALLIES. BELIEVE HIM.” At the time, some may have dismissed it as hyperbole, a dramatic flourish for a Sunday paper. But in retrospect, these words serve as a grim testament to a reality that has since unfolded, leaving our democracy facing unprecedented challenges.

    The actions taken since then have, in many ways, mirrored the dire predictions. Within his first week in office, the Trump administration initiated policies that bore the hallmarks of the promised mass deportations. We have witnessed the construction of what can only be described as medieval detention centers, the deployment of masked immigration agents to apprehend individuals, and defiance of federal court orders leading to the deportation of migrants to perilous situations in South America. The unsettling image of soldiers being deployed to quell supposed “bedlam” in American cities, a tactic eerily reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, has also become a stark reality.

    Furthermore, the economic landscape has been significantly impacted. The announcement of steep international tariffs in April sent shockwaves through global markets, threatening economic instability and raising concerns of a potential recession. These actions, seemingly driven by a disregard for established international norms and a transactional approach to foreign policy, raise serious questions about the priorities and motivations behind such decisions.

    It is difficult to escape the conclusion that the erosion of democratic norms and institutions has been a deliberate, if not explicit, consequence of the policies enacted. The warnings were not an attempt to sow fear, but rather a genuine alarm bell sounded by those who saw the potential for profound damage.

    The stark question that remains is: what does this mean for the millions who voted for this agenda? This includes not only the core MAGA base but also the significant number of independent voters who lent their support. Was this the outcome they envisioned? Did they vote to dismantle the very foundations of the democratic system that has, for all its imperfections, provided a framework for progress and stability?

    The consequences of these actions are real, impacting individuals, alliances, and society’s fabric. The warnings were clear, with a consistent execution, raising profound concerns for the future of American democracy. The time for polite disagreement is over; we must reflect and act to safeguard our democratic ideals now.

  • The Republican Federal Government Shutdown: A Crisis of Priorities

    Blue Press Journal – The federal government shutdown enters its second month, a new Washington Post/ABC poll reveals that 45% of surveyed Americans place the blame squarely on the shoulders of Republican lawmakers and President Trump. Meanwhile, 33% of respondents attribute the shutdown to Democrats, and 22% remain undecided. But what’s behind this partisan standoff, and what are the stakes for the American people?

    At the heart of the shutdown lies a contentious Republican budget bill, passed by party line vote earlier this year, that prioritizes massive tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires over critical healthcare funding. The bill’s provisions striped away vital safeguards for health insurance, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable to skyrocketing premiums and reduced access to care. Democrats, on the other hand, have sought to reinstate these safeguards, only to be met with resistance and a government shutdown from Trump and the Republican leadership.

    The Consequences of Inaction

    The expiration of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits would have devastating consequences for millions of Americans. If Congress fails to extend these tax credits, premiums would more than double on average for the roughly 20 million Americans who rely on them. The impact would be particularly severe for middle-class families and seniors.

    DemographicCurrent PremiumProjected Premium Increase
    Family of four (earning $85,000/year)$10,000/year$18,000/year (80% increase)
    60-year-old couple (earning $85,000/year)$15,000/year$30,000/year (100% increase)

    A Crisis of Priorities

    The shutdown is, in part, a reflection of the Republican Party’s priorities. By choosing to award massive tax breaks to their wealthy donors, they are effectively sacrificing the healthcare needs of millions of Americans. As Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) remarks, “The Republican budget bill is a blatant attempt to redistribute wealth from the middle class to the wealthy elite. It’s a morally reprehensible decision that will have far-reaching consequences for our nation’s health and economic security.”

    The numbers are stark. If the enhanced premium tax credits are not extended, nearly 4 million people could become uninsured by 2034 due to the increased costs. This would not only have a devastating impact on individuals and families but also on the broader economy.

    It’s essential that Americans hold their elected representatives accountable for their actions. We must demand that our leaders prioritize the needs of the many over the interests of the few. The fate of the Affordable Care Act and the healthcare of millions of Americans hangs in the balance.

    The federal government shutdown is a crisis of priorities, and it’s time for our leaders to get their priorities straight. The health and well-being of the American people must come first.

  • The Unraveling of the Trump Regime: How Long Can He Hold On?

    Blue Press Journal (Opinion) – As the nation grapples with the chaos and destruction wrought by the Trump administration, many are left wondering: how long do we have to tolerate this regime? The answer, much like the Trump presidency itself, remains shrouded in uncertainty. Despite his boasts of strength and stability, the truth is that Trump’s grip on power is weakening, and the cracks are beginning to show.

    The recent events in Chicago, where kids and cops were tear-gassed, serve as a stark reminder of the administration’s willingness to use force to suppress dissent. Meanwhile, a judge is holding ICE and CBP officials accountable for their actions, a move that underscores the growing pushback against the administration’s draconian immigration policies. The destruction of the East Wing of the White House, which has left Americans horrified, is a potent symbol of the regime’s disdain for the very institutions it is supposed to uphold.

    Even Trump’s loyal base is beginning to show signs of disillusionment. As UFC fighters start to turn away from him, it’s clear that the president’s aura of invincibility is starting to fade. His promises to make life better for his white male base, which included claims that he would “end inflation on day one,” “make America affordable again,” and “slash energy and electricity prices by half within 12 months,” have proven to be nothing more than empty rhetoric.

    In reality, Trump’s policies have made things worse. Instead of cutting energy prices, his killing off of Biden’s green energy projects in exchange for fossil fuel campaign money has led to skyrocketing electricity prices nationwide. The cost of groceries and housing has also increased, leaving many Americans struggling to make ends meet. As Trump himself once said, “We’re going to win so bigly, you won’t even believe it.” But for many Americans, the only thing that’s “bigly” is the size of their bills.

    The regime’s association with child rapists, including Jeffrey Epstein, has also come under scrutiny. Mike Johnson’s attempts to engineer a cover-up have been exposed, and Republicans are finally starting to demand answers. As one Republican representative noted, “The American people deserve to know the truth about the president’s association with these individuals.” Trump’s response, predictably, has been to deny any wrongdoing and attack his critics. But as the saying goes, “you can’t hide the truth forever.”

    As the international community watches in horror, Trump’s policies are damaging America’s relationships with its allies. His embrace of Putin and Netanyahu, his betrayal of Ukraine, and his saber-rattling against Venezuela have all contributed to a growing sense of unease. The tariffs he has imposed on Brazil, which were recently blocked by five Republican senators, are just the latest example of his misguided economic policies. As one senator noted, “These tariffs are a tax on American consumers, and they will only serve to hurt our economy.”

    In the end, it’s clear that Trump’s regime is weaker than he wants us to believe. The question is, how long can he hold things together? As the walls begin to close in, and his loyal followers start to abandon ship, it’s likely that we won’t have to tolerate this regime for much longer. As Trump himself once said, “I’m a winner, I’m a champion, I’m a master builder.” But for many Americans, the only thing he’s building is a legacy of chaos and destruction.

  • Trump’s Approval Rating Plummets to New Low

    Blue Press Journal – President Trump’s job approval rating has reached a new second-term low, with a staggering 19-point deficit in the latest Economist/YouGov survey. The poll, conducted over the weekend, reveals that only 39% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of the presidency, while a whopping 58% disapprove. This dismal rating is a clear indication that the American public is dissatisfied with Trump’s policies, which have been marred by controversy and criticism.

    The president’s decision to tear down the West Wing, impose tariffs, and deploy masked agents in cities across the country have all contributed to his plummeting approval rating. The poll shows that Trump’s approval has declined across all age groups, with young adults experiencing the most significant drop-off since the start of his second term.

    The survey also highlights Trump’s poor performance on key issues. Crime is the president’s strongest issue, but even that has a negative net approval rating of -1. Immigration and foreign policy fare worse, with negative net approval ratings of -10 and -13, respectively. On jobs and the economy, Trump’s net approval rating is a dismal -22, while his handling of inflation and prices has a staggering -31 net approval rating.

    These numbers are a stark contrast to Trump’s claims of a thriving economy and successful presidency. Instead, they suggest that the American public is increasingly disillusioned with Trump’s policies and leadership style. As the president continues to push his divisive agenda, it remains to be seen whether he can recover from this low point or if his approval rating will continue to slide.

  • Democrats Push Back Against Trump’s Tariffs on Brazil, Citing Impact on Morning Coffee

    Blue Press Journal – In a rare display of bipartisan pushback against President Trump’s trade policies, the Senate voted to block tariffs on Brazil, with five Republicans joining every Democrat in support of the resolution. The legislation, which would terminate the national emergencies declared by Trump to justify 50% tariffs on Brazil, aims to mitigate the impact of these tariffs on American consumers.

    Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York slammed Trump’s tariffs, stating, “Every American who wakes up in the morning to get a cup of java is paying a price for Donald Trump’s reckless, ridiculous, and almost childish tariffs.” The tariffs, which affect coffee imports from Brazil, have led to increased prices for American coffee lovers.

    The vote demonstrated a notable split within the Republican Party, with Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Thom Tillis of North Carolina defying the President’s stance on tariffs. However, despite this bipartisan support, the legislation is likely doomed due to the Republican-controlled House’s new rules, which allow leadership to prevent it from coming up for a vote.

    Furthermore, even if the legislation were to pass Congress, Trump would almost certainly veto it. The President has linked the tariffs on Brazil to the country’s policies and criminal prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro, a move that has been widely criticized as an overreach of executive power.

    The U.S. ran a $6.8 billion trade surplus with Brazil last year, according to the Census Bureau, making the tariffs a questionable economic decision. Democrats argue that the tariffs will only serve to harm American consumers and businesses, while failing to address the underlying trade issues with Brazil.

  • Feds Under Fire: Immigration Agent Accused of Threatening Citizen with Gun

    Blue Press Journal – In a shocking display of aggression, a federal immigration agent is accused of pointing a gun at a protesting citizen and making a chilling remark. According to a newly filed civil rights lawsuit, the agent, whose identity has not been released, allegedly brandished a gun at Chris Gentry, a combat veteran, while taunting him with the words “bang, bang” and “you’re dead liberal.”

    Gentry, a combat veteran, was lawfully standing on the side of the road, public area, expressing his opposition to the agents’ presence, was exercising his constitutional right to free speech. However, the agent’s actions have raised serious concerns about the use of excessive force and the politicization of law enforcement.

    This incident occurred in Chicago, a city that has become a focal point for controversy surrounding the Trump administration’s deployment of federal agents. Under the guise of a national crime-fighting initiative, the city has seen an influx of federal agents, sparking tensions with local residents and protesters.

    The accused agent’s behavior is particularly disturbing, as it suggests a blatant disregard for the rights and safety of citizens. The use of a gun and the utterance of a death threat are unacceptable and have no place in law enforcement. Furthermore, the agent’s comment, “you’re dead liberal,” implies a level of partisan bias that is unbecoming of a federal agent.

    This incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from civil rights groups and local officials. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Gentry, seeks damages and a thorough investigation into the incident.

    As the nation faces police brutality and systemic racism, this incident highlights the need for greater transparency and oversight of law enforcement. The federal government must act swiftly to address these issues and uphold high standards of professionalism and respect for citizens’ rights.

  • Trump and House Republicans Absent as Government Shutdown Drags On

    Blue Press Journal – The government shutdown has entered its second week, and the American public is growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress in resolving the crisis. While the effects of the shutdown become more apparent, President Donald Trump and most House Republicans are noticeably absent from the negotiations.

    Trump, who has touted himself as a great deal maker, is currently in Asia, leaving many to wonder if he has any concerns for the American public. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has opted to keep the lower chamber out of session this week, earning criticism for leading a “do nothing” Republican Congress.

    The absence of Trump and House Republicans from the negotiations has drawn growing scrutiny. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) expressed his frustration during a CNBC interview on Monday, “How can I negotiate? The president is in Asia for five days. Johnson is basically keeping… the House of Representatives out until January to stop and protect pedophiles. So who am I negotiating with right now?”

    Even some Republicans are criticizing Trump’s lack of engagement. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) told CNN’s Manu Raju, “I don’t know that we’ve ever had a shutdown… where the president was not engaged at the end. And so I think that that would certainly help.”

    The shutdown has already started to take its toll on the economy, with hundreds of thousands of federal workers furloughed or working without pay. The longer the shutdown continues, the more severe the consequences will be. It is clear that the Republicans have no interest in governing, and their absence from the negotiations is a stark reminder of their priorities.