Blue Press Journal

Tag: news

  • A Penny wise and a Pound foolish … IRS Cuts

    The saying goes “a penny wise and a pound foolish.” Maybe immigrant Elon Musk isn’t familiar with this good old American saying, but he should be.

    DOGE’s cuts to the IRS threaten to cost more than DOGE will ever save. The Trump administration believes that slashing federal agencies will save money, but reducing the IRS means the government will collect fewer taxes.

    Unlike other federal agencies, cutting the IRS results in less money collected and fewer tax abuses uncovered. Economic studies have shown that for every dollar spent by the IRS, the agency returns between $5 and $12, depending on the taxpayer’s declared income. A 2024 report by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office revealed that the IRS saved $13,000 for every additional hour spent auditing the tax returns of wealthy taxpayers – a return on investment that would make Wall Street hedge fund managers jealous, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.

    The Trump administration’s strategy to shrink the government has been haphazard and widespread, aiming to remove civil servants quickly from as many agencies as possible while demoralizing those who remain. ProPublica discovered that the recent IRS layoffs included highly skilled probationary workers who had recently joined the government or moved from another agency.

    In late February, the Trump administration began firing over 6,000 IRS employees. The agency has been hit hard because it spent 2023 preparing to hire thousands of new enforcement and customer service personnel, only beginning to hire and train them on a large scale in 2024. “Large businesses and wealthy individuals, “like Trumps friends”, are where you find the most sophisticated taxpayers, tax preparers, and lawyers who push the boundaries as much as possible. Well we could guess he wants to protect them not the middle class.

  • Debunking Trump’s Claims on Transgender Mice

    During his address to Congress, Trump mistakenly confused transgenic mice with transgender mice, raising concerns about his understanding of what he is saying.  It appears that no one is fact-checking his statements, or perhaps Grampa Trump was simply confused or uninformed. This is particularly alarming considering he has control over the nuclear button!

    Transgenic mice, also known as genetically modified mice, are mice whose genomes have been altered using genetic engineering techniques. These mice are commonly used in research as models for human diseases and to study genes. The NIH recognized the significance of this technology in 1994, noting its impact on various fields of biology.

    In a bizarre turn of events, Trump mentioned Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency during his speech, claiming the organization found wasteful spending in the federal budget, including $8 million allegedly spent on making mice transgender. This absurd statement was made on live television, highlighting the lack of understanding behind the proposed budget cuts.

    It is concerning that major decisions affecting federal agencies and employees are being made without proper research or consideration. It seems that when you vote for the clown, you also get the circus. Let’s hope for more informed and responsible leadership in the future!

  • Is Trump’s Economy Heading for a Recession?

    Economic Warning !!

    Trump inherited a thriving economy, with wages, consumer spending, and corporate profits all on the rise. Unemployment was at record lows. However, just over a month into his term, the outlook has taken a dark turn. The stock market is in turmoil, layoffs are increasing, and forecasters are slashing their growth estimates. Some even predict a potential shrink in the U.S. gross domestic product in the first quarter.

    Under Trump’s current policies, we are on the brink of a recession. His decisions have created uncertainty, with tariffs and trade wars threatening to raise prices and slow growth. Federal job cuts are looming, which could lead to higher unemployment rates and decreased spending. Deportations may drive up costs for industries reliant on immigrant labor.

    The chaos surrounding Trump’s economic policies is evident. Tariffs are announced and then delayed, government workers are hired and fired in a never-ending cycle. This lack of planning is detrimental to the economy.

    Trump’s policies will hinder economic growth, take money out of people’s pockets, and increase unemployment rates. Veterans and regions heavily reliant on federal jobs will be hit the hardest. Trump’s track record of bankruptcies and dishonesty about his net worth only adds to the uncertainty.

    Trump’s policies are detrimental to America and its citizens. His lack of understanding and chaotic decision-making are leading us towards an economic downturn. The future looks bleak under his leadership.

  • The Shift: Trump’s Preference for Putin Over Allies

    The burgeoning friendship between Trump and Putin poses a significant threat to America and its democratic allies in Europe, which are crucial in advancing U.S. national interests. It is evident that Donald Trump favors autocratic Russia over democratic Ukraine. This preference for Putin over democratic leaders is alarming and has been apparent since the beginning of Trump’s presidency. Trump’s admiration for Putin seems to stem from a desire to emulate his autocratic leadership style.

    When Trump discusses Ukraine and its ongoing conflict, there is a noticeable discrepancy in his rhetoric. He is quick to label President Zelensky as a dictator, yet fails to criticize Putin in the same manner. This double standard is concerning and raises questions about Trump’s true intentions.

    Senator Lisa Murkowski aptly pointed out that the Trump administration’s actions suggest a shift away from traditional allies towards a closer relationship with Putin, a known threat to democracy and U.S. values worldwide. The decision to side with Russia in the United Nations and the disrespectful treatment of President Zelensky are clear indications of this troubling shift.

    Despite the majority of Americans expressing distrust towards Putin, Trump continues to place his trust in the Russian leader. This blind loyalty to Putin is not only concerning but also goes against the interests of the American people and their democratic allies. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and hold our leaders accountable for their actions.

  • Veterans Regret Supporting Trump: A Cautionary Tale

    MAGA Veterans are starting to realize they may have made a huge mistake in supporting Trump. But hey, better late than never, right? Maybe they should have done a little research before jumping on the Trump train and believing all his lies. Now they’re experiencing some serious buyer’s remorse.

    Since Trump took office, there has been a mass firing of federal employees, including many veterans who make up a significant portion of the federal workforce. The Department of Veterans Affairs, a major employer of veterans, is planning to cut over 80,000 jobs. Veterans represent more than a quarter of the VA’s workforce, so they are feeling the impact of Trump’s downsizing firsthand.

    Nathan Hooven, a disabled Air Force veteran who voted for Trump, is now unemployed and feeling betrayed by the president. He’s not alone – many veterans who supported Trump are now facing the consequences of his actions.

    Matthew Sims, an Army veteran, lost his job at a VA clinic in Virginia after moving his family for the position. He voted for Trump but didn’t expect to be on the receiving end of his downsizing efforts. It’s like Trump is using a chainsaw instead of a scalpel when it comes to cutting government jobs.

    So to all the veterans who voted for Trump and are now feeling the heat, congratulations! You fell for the lies and now we all have to deal with the consequences of your decision at the ballot box. Thanks a lot.

  • Trump’s Congressional Address: Chaos, Lies, and Delusions

    Trump’s highly anticipated address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night was a rollercoaster of chaos and boredom, sprinkled with his signature blend of self-congratulatory remarks and blatant falsehoods. The speech kicked off with Trump proudly tossing out some polling numbers, conveniently omitting any context to support his claims.

    In a shocking twist of events, Trump declared, “For the first time in modern history, more Americans believe that our country is headed in the RIGHT direction than the WRONG direction—an astonishing record 27-point swing since Election Day alone.” Of course, this statement conveniently ignores the fact that Trump’s approval ratings have been plummeting faster than a lead balloon since he took office.

    Moving on, Trump introduced his co-President Musk, the world’s richest unelected bureaucrat, and praised him for supposedly uncovering massive savings and waste. Spoiler alert: these “savings” are likely as real as a unicorn riding a rainbow. DOGE has ‘lied” about most of the saving as verified by many news outlets. 

    Next, Trump launched into a tirade about elderly people supposedly scamming Social Security, a beloved program that prevents senior citizens from living in poverty. Classic Trump move, attacking a popular program to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. Because who needs financial security in their golden years, right?

    And let’s not forget Trump’s brilliant idea to slap tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, because nothing says “relief for working families” like higher prices on everyday goods. Genius move, really.

    Of course, Trump couldn’t resist throwing some love to law enforcement, despite his track record of pardoning criminals convicted of attacking law enforcement officers. Because nothing says “support for law enforcement” like pardoning the very people who put their lives on the line to protect us.

    Trump’s address was a masterclass in deception, delusion, and downright absurdity. But hey, at least we got some quality entertainment out of it, right? Lies, lies, and more lies. Classic Trump.

  • How Tariffs Hurt American Consumers and Farmers

    The Trump administration decided to spice things up this morning by slapping 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, and throwing in a new 10 percent tariff on imports from China just for fun. 

    In response, Canada retaliated by hitting the U.S. with 25 percent tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made it clear that these tariffs are here to stay until the U.S. decides to play nice. If not, Canada is ready to whip out some non-tariff measures that will surely make Trump think twice. China also joined the party by imposing tariffs on a variety of American goods, leaving farmers shaking in their boots – Trump’s usual strong supporters.

    The stock market took a hit, with the S&P 500 dropping by 1.76 percent, the Dow Jones falling by nearly 650 points, and the Nasdaq Composite down by 2.64 percent. That really great for those retirement accounts. Ontario Premier Doug Ford even threatened to cut off electricity exports to the U.S. if Trump’s tariffs go through, leaving 1.5 million Americans in the dark.

    States like Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Ohio, which helped Trump get into power, are now facing the consequences of his tariff tantrum. But hey, who needs affordable goods when you can have tariffs, right?

    These tariffs are like a gift that keeps on giving – adding thousands of dollars to the price of a new car and overall expenses for consumers. And let’s not forget about 

    Trump’s plan is just bad for American consumers. 

  • Tariffs on Canadian Potash: A Looming Crisis for U.S. Agriculture

    This article may be flying under the radar of mainstream media, yet its significance is paramount and deserves our undivided attention!

    Farmers, politicians, and agriculture experts are sounding the alarm about the potential impact of tariffs on Canadian potash, a crucial mineral necessary for fertilizer production. The United States currently imports over 80% of its potash from Canada, making any threats of a 25% tariff on Canadian exports a major concern for the agricultural industry.

    Bill Knudson, a professor at the Michigan State Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics, warns that imposing tariffs on potash would undoubtedly drive up prices and decrease farm profits. Amy Klobuchar has highlighted the potential consequences of such tariffs, stating that they could increase costs for corn farmers by $1.70 per acre and $1.42 per acre for soybeans.

    The U.S. relies heavily on Canadian potash, with over 80% of potash fertilizer imports coming from Canada. The industry emphasizes the importance of free trade and accessible markets for maintaining stability and growth.

    Despite ongoing threats from the Trump administration to impose tariffs on Canadian goods, it is crucial to recognize the significance of Canadian potash in supporting American agriculture. Potash, often referred to as Canada’s “pink gold,” is a vital component for plant growth and global food systems. The majority of potash used by U.S. farmers originates from mines in Saskatchewan, highlighting the dependency on Canadian imports.

    As tensions rise, it is essential to understand the critical role that Canadian potash plays in sustaining American agriculture. The looming threat of tariffs on potash imports from Canada could have far-reaching consequences for farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole. It is imperative to prioritize diplomatic solutions and constructive dialogue to avoid detrimental impacts on both countries’ economies.

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. halts efforts to develop new COVID-19 vaccine

    Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had a fantastic day spreading his anti-vaccine agenda on Wednesday. He decided to put a halt to efforts to develop a new COVID-19 vaccine and even managed to cancel the FDA’s planning meeting for the next flu season. Who needs vaccines anyway, right?

    Kennedy seems determined to make America sick again by pushing his harmful beliefs onto the public. He has a long history of criticizing the FDA and any attempts to create useful vaccines. His war on vaccines is both vocal and incredibly misinformed.

    During his latest rant, Kennedy spread lies and misinformation about measles, claiming there were more deaths linked to the recent cases than public health agencies have confirmed. He conveniently forgot to mention that the recent measles case in Texas is the first reported in the nation since 2015. But hey, who needs facts when you’re fear-mongering?

    It’s truly mind-boggling that Kennedy is ignoring the overwhelming evidence that vaccines save lives. The Texas Department of Health and Human Services reported 124 cases of measles since late January, all involving unvaccinated individuals. But sure, let’s continue to ignore science and put lives at risk because vaccines are just a big conspiracy, right?

    Let’s all thank Secretary Kennedy for his valiant efforts to make America sick again. Who needs modern medicine when you have baseless conspiracy theories to rely on? Bravo, Mr. Kennedy, bravo.

  • Republican Party is content to watch Trump burn down the economy

    President Donald Trump made bold promises to American voters, vowing to transform their financial futures, yet those assurances appear to have been nothing more than hollow rhetoric. The harsh truth of our economy is now bearing down on him, exposing the gap between his words and reality.

    Republican lawmakers and CEOs are starting to panic as consumer confidence drops due to Trump’s proposed tariffs and federal job cuts. The economy is already struggling with inflation and a slowing job market, causing stock markets to stagnate. Recent data shows that Americans are losing faith in the economy, with expectations of higher prices and fewer job opportunities on the rise.

    President Trump, however, is quick to distance himself from the rising inflation, claiming it has nothing to do with his presidency. In reality, inflation in the U.S. has increased more than expected, with prices of essentials like gasoline, housing, and groceries all on the rise. The consumer price index jumped by 3 percent last month compared to a year ago, according to the Labor Department.

    Despite warnings from experts before Trump took office, the president’s economic policies, such as tax cuts and tariffs, are fueling inflation. Republican Rep. Scott Fitzgerald has already heard concerns from constituents about the impact of Trump’s tariffs on their businesses, yet the GOP remains silent.

    It’s ironic that Trump, who has a history of bankruptcies, seems to have skipped his economics classes. Meanwhile, the Republican Party is content to watch the economy crumble, blaming everyone but themselves. Oh, the irony!