THREAD: federal election monitoring cuts security

KENNEDY’S Bold Move: Cutting Public Broadcasting’s Federal Funds Sparks Outrage

04 March 2025 — Senator John Kennedy has introduced the “No Propaganda Act” to slash federal funding for public broadcasting. He criticized NPR and PBS for using taxpayer money on what he calls opinion journalism. Kennedy pointed out that NPR recently spent $200 million on an office near the Capitol.

Kennedy believes taxpayer dollars shouldn’t fund media organizations engaged in biased reporting. He noted high salaries at NPR, with hosts earning over $500,000 annually and a chief diversity officer making more than $300,000 per year.

Many social media users back Kennedy’s move, criticizing public broadcasting as left-leaning and unnecessary if it can’t support itself financially. One user mentioned they stopped watching PBS long ago due to these concerns.

In January, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr began investigating NPR and PBS for potential legal violations related to airing commercials. This scrutiny adds pressure on these outlets amid ongoing debates about their funding and role in American media.

TRUMP’S Bold SSA Shakeup: What It Means for Americans

03 March 2025 — The Social Security Administration (SSA) is reshaping its Office of Analytics, Review, and Oversight (OARO) into existing divisions. This move aims to streamline management and boost data sharing. The SSA wants to improve fraud detection and tackle waste more effectively.

Additionally, the SSA will end agreements with the Retirement and Disability Research Consortium (RDRC), saving about $15 million in 2025. These changes align with President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which focuses on modernizing federal technology. However, there’s no direct confirmation that DOGE influenced these specific changes at the SSA.

Acting Social Security Commissioner Lee Dudek says these adjustments are crucial for maintaining program integrity. Democratic senators Ron Wyden and Chuck Schumer raised concerns about the removal of former Acting Commissioner Michelle King, claiming she was ousted for resisting data access pressures.

Future plans regarding further cuts by DOGE at the SSA remain unclear, sparking ongoing discussions among stakeholders. This reflects broader efforts under Trump’s administration to enhance efficiency in social services through governmental reforms.

ELECTION SECURITY at Risk: Federal Cuts Stir Fears

17 February 2025 — The dismantling of federal efforts to monitor election interference has alarmed national security experts and lawmakers. This move could open doors for foreign meddling in future elections. Experts warn that reduced monitoring capabilities present a vulnerability to U.S. election integrity.

Some lawmakers are urging immediate action to restore monitoring frameworks, aiming to prevent potential interferences. They stress the need for bipartisan support to reinstate oversight and security measures. Voter concerns about election integrity are rising, especially after past incidents of foreign interference.

Government officials advocate for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect electoral systems from threats. Lawmakers plan hearings on these changes, seeking expert testimonies on the implications for national security and democratic processes.

Stay tuned as this story develops further with ongoing updates and reactions from key stakeholders in Washington D.C.

FEDERAL Election MONITORING Cuts: Security Risks Soar

17 February 2025 — The dismantling of federal election monitoring efforts has sparked concern among lawmakers and national security experts. Critics argue this move opens the door for foreign interference in upcoming elections. The lack of strong oversight could lead to vulnerabilities being exploited, prompting bipartisan talks on restoring effective monitoring mechanisms.

Democratic officials call the decision irresponsible, claiming it threatens democracy by reducing transparency in election processes. They urge a recommitment to safeguarding electoral integrity. Republican leaders are divided, with some supporting reduced federal involvement to limit overreach.

This development has raised alarms and prompted congressional hearings to assess the impact on election security. Various stakeholders call for immediate action to restore monitoring capabilities against potential foreign manipulation. As critical electoral events approach, the need for reinstating protective measures becomes clear.

TRUMP’S DHS Shake-UP: Over 400 Employees Fired in Bold Efficiency Move

15 February 2025 — On February 15, 2025, former President Donald Trump announced a major overhaul of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), leading to over 400 employees losing their jobs. This action is part of Trump’s plan to restructure federal agencies and cut bureaucratic waste.

At a press conference, Trump stated, “We are taking strong action to ensure that our nation’s security is not compromised by a bloated and ineffective government workforce.” He emphasized that the layoffs focus on non-essential roles to streamline DHS operations.

The announcement has sparked debate about national security and the future of DHS programs like immigration enforcement and disaster response. Critics warn it could increase vulnerability, while supporters say it boosts efficiency.

To help those affected by layoffs, the DHS will launch an employability training program aimed at assisting them in moving into private sector jobs. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing American safety above all else.

TRUMP’S BOLD DHS Shakeup: Over 400 Employees Fired in Reform Blitz

15 February 2025 — The TRUMP administration has fired over 400 employees from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This is part of a larger push to reform federal agencies. The goal is to cut waste and incompetence, which they say have burdened taxpayers for years.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said, “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are making sweeping cuts and reform across the federal government.” These actions show a commitment to fiscal responsibility. The plan includes major personnel changes in several DHS agencies.

Critics worry that mass firings could disrupt essential services within DHS. However, supporters argue these steps are needed for efficient governance. The ongoing reforms fit with conservative values of reducing government size and spending.

FARAGE FIGHTS Back: A Bold Call to CUT UK Government Waste

13 February 2025 — Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, is pushing for a British version of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Inspired by President Trump’s efforts to cut federal waste, Farage aims to expose misuse of taxpayer money.

In a social media video, Farage slammed spending on projects like studying Star Wars’ environmental impact and classical music’s colonial history. He argues these programs waste funds and employ unnecessary workers.

Farage recently attended a Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania, aligning himself with American conservative strategies. He believes Britain should adopt similar measures to reduce government inefficiency.

Farage’s call for reform comes amid criticism from Elon Musk, who questioned his leadership capabilities. Despite this, Farage remains focused on tackling what he sees as financial mismanagement in the UK government.

TRUMP’S Watchdog Firings Ignite Fierce Backlash

27 January 2025 — President Donald TRUMP has fired at least a dozen government watchdogs, sparking controversy. These dismissals have drawn criticism over his administration’s handling of investigations. Lawmakers and watchdog organizations worry about the impact on federal accountability and oversight.

The fired watchdogs mostly came from agencies that monitor government spending and ethics. Critics argue this could weaken transparency in the federal system. Trump’s team claims it wants to streamline operations and cut inefficiencies, but specific reasons for each firing are unclear.

The decision has caused bipartisan outrage, with some lawmakers calling for a formal inquiry. Advocacy groups warn these firings threaten critical oversight functions’ integrity. This follows other controversial moves by Trump’s administration, like regulatory changes and media criticism.

As the nation approaches another election cycle, this incident highlights tensions between Trump’s administration and independent oversight bodies. Governance and accountability might become key political issues ahead, significantly affecting the broader political landscape.

TRUMP STRIKES Back: DEI Initiatives Face Shocking Cuts

23 January 2025 — The TRUMP administration has taken a bold step against federal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) offices. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that employees in these offices will be placed on paid administrative leave immediately. This move aligns with President Trump’s broader agenda to reshape federal policies and reduce what he sees as politically motivated initiatives.

In another major development, the Pentagon is deploying 1,500 active-duty troops to secure the US-Mexico border. This action underscores the administration’s commitment to tackling illegal immigration and boosting national security. The deployment marks a significant shift in immigration policy after Trump’s election victory, signaling a tougher approach to border control.

Meanwhile, President Trump signed his first piece of legislation aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration — the Laken Riley Act. Named after a Georgia nursing student murdered by an undocumented immigrant, this law highlights the administration’s focus on tightening immigration laws and ensuring public safety. The act received bipartisan support in Congress, showing changing political dynamics around immigration issues.

Additionally, far-right leaders Enrique Tarrio and Stewart Rhodes have spoken out after receiving clemency from Trump for their roles in the January 6 riot. They expressed hopes that Trump would seek retribution for their prosecutions, adding another layer of controversy to his early days back in office as he sets an

ROMANIAN ELECTION Shock: Russian Interference Sparks Outrage

11 January 2025 — Calin Georgescu, a populist candidate, was leading Romania’s election before it was nullified over alleged Russian interference. He gained support by embracing conservative values and criticizing left-wing figures like George Soros. Despite modest campaign spending, Georgescu’s social media presence drew in religious conservatives and those frustrated with government corruption.

Romania’s Constitutional Court canceled the election after intelligence reports accused Russia of using fake TikTok accounts to back Georgescu. The reports also claimed a cyberattack on the election system. These allegations led to an investigation into “electoral crimes,” sparking widespread protests from Georgescu supporters who believed the election was stolen.

Protesters flooded the streets, waving Romanian flags and demanding their votes be counted in a second round of elections. They denounced President Klaus Iohannis’s administration as illegitimate and called for his arrest, labeling government officials as “traitors.” The political unrest underscores deep divisions within Romania over foreign influence and electoral integrity.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S Secretive Move: Illegal Immigrants Relocated OUT Of California

22 October 2024 — The FEDERAL GOVERNMENT is moving illegal immigrants from California’s southern border to other states. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond says this strategy avoids street releases, which could harm optics before the November election. Desmond noted that about 155,000 migrants were released in San Diego from September 2023 through June.

Migrants used to be dropped off at the Iris Avenue train station in San Diego. Now, three buses take them daily to Yuma, Arizona. Additionally, three to four flights each week move illegal immigrants from San Diego to McAllen, Texas, where facilities can handle more people.

Desmond criticized the federal government’s actions as an attempt to hide the situation rather than tackle it directly by resuming street releases. He believes this decision is politically motivated and likely influenced by upcoming elections. Fox News Digital reached out for comments from Border Patrol but has not received a response yet.

Before these relocations began, mass migrant releases overwhelmed San Diego’s services and resources. Some migrants also arrive by boat along California’s coastlines, adding further strain on local infrastructure and resources.

CHICAGO On EDGE: Violence Fears Loom Over Democratic Convention

20 August 2024 — Federal, state, and local authorities are working to minimize violence during the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The Chicago Police Department, Secret Service, and other agencies have been planning for months. They aim to prevent demonstrations from turning violent.

Police Superintendent Larry Snelling emphasized the success of the 1996 convention when Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term. He noted that Chicago has hosted more major party conventions than any other city. However, the 1968 convention remains infamous due to large-scale protests against the Vietnam War.

The first anti-Israel demonstration is scheduled for Monday at Union Park, near the United Center. In 1968, anti-war protesters violently confronted police and National Guardsmen outside the convention hall. Vice President Kamala Harris’s nomination parallels Hubert Humphrey’s in 1968 as both assumed their roles without winning primary support.

SECURITY FAILURES at Trump Rally Spark Outrage

24 July 2024 — Two local law enforcement officers left their post to search for a suspicious man before the shooting at former President Donald Trump’s rally. This decision raises questions about whether a key position was left unattended as the shooter climbed onto a roof.

Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris testified that the officers were stationed at a second-floor window with a clear view of the roof where Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire. Paris admitted uncertainty about whether staying at their post would have allowed them to see Crooks climbing onto the adjacent building’s roof.

The testimony before the House Homeland Security Committee sheds light on security preparations for Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, but also highlights potential lapses in law enforcement decisions. The Butler County District Attorney and Secret Service have not responded to requests for comments on who ordered the officers to leave their post.

The incident has sparked growing concerns over multiple security failures that enabled Crooks to fire eight shots into the crowd, resulting in one death and two injuries. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned after being criticized by lawmakers for what she called the agency’s “most significant operational failure” in decades.

CONGRESS BLOCKED From Trump Rally Security Report

19 July 2024 — Congress was blocked from accessing the crucial Ops Report detailing the protection plan for former President Trump’s rally, a lawmaker revealed to Fox News Digital. The report should explain who was responsible for securing the rooftop from which Thomas Matthew Crooks fired.

Paul Mauro, an attorney and retired NYPD inspector, stated that if the Ops Plan did not cover that rooftop or wasn’t done at all, it represents a significant failure by whoever approved it. Mauro confirmed that as of Thursday afternoon, the FBI held the detailed written plan based on information from a highly trusted source.

The FBI declined to comment on the matter. Despite several reported sightings of Crooks an hour before he opened fire in Butler, Pennsylvania, he managed to slip through security cracks. One of his bullets grazed Trump’s ear and could have been fatal if Trump hadn’t moved his head at that moment.

NEW SECURITY Bill In South Sudan Sparks Western Outrage

12 July 2024 — The U.S. and other western nations criticized a new security bill in South Sudan that allows detaining people without warrants. They argue it undermines political and civil freedoms ahead of the December elections.

Passed on July 3, the bill has jeopardized peace talks and raised fears of arbitrary arrests before the country’s first-ever elections. President Salva Kiir has 30 days to either approve or veto the law.

Nine western envoys, including those from the U.S. and Britain, stated that signing this bill would hinder free political and civic expression, essential for peaceful elections. The U.S. State Department emphasized creating an environment where citizens can express views without fear is crucial for democracy in South Sudan.

BRITISH Election Sees NEW Voter ID LAW in Action

04 July 2024 — Polling stations across the UK opened this morning at 7 AM and will close at 10 PM. Ipsos pollsters are gathering exit poll data to provide an early picture of the election results. Detailed seat-specific results will only be available in the early hours of Friday.

British and Irish citizens, along with some Commonwealth immigrants, are eligible to vote if they are over 18. This election marks the first time voters must show legal identification to cast their ballots in person, a measure aimed at reducing voter fraud. The Electoral Commission has approved 22 forms of ID, including passports and driving licenses.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty were seen voting at Kirby Sigston Village Hall today. Reporting on the election is restricted while polling places are open, with broadcasters banned from discussing outcomes or publishing polls until voting ends. Violating these rules can result in imprisonment for news editors.

NPR BIAS Scandal: Calls for Defunding Surge as Political Imbalance Revealed**

18 April 2024 — Senator Marsha Blackburn aligns with former President Trump, advocating for the defunding of NPR due to perceived bias. This push gains momentum following the resignation of NPR editor Uri Berliner, who exposed a stark political imbalance within the organization’s Washington, DC office. Berliner disclosed that among 87 registered voters at NPR, not one is a registered Republican.

NPR’s chief news executive Edith Chapin contested these allegations, asserting the network’s dedication to nuanced and inclusive reporting. Despite this defense, Senator Blackburn condemned NPR for its lack of conservative representation and scrutinized the justification for funding it with taxpayer dollars.

Uri Berliner, while opposing defunding efforts and commending his colleagues’ integrity, resigned amid concerns over media impartiality. He expressed his hope that NPR would maintain its commitment to significant journalism amidst ongoing debates about its political orientation.

This controversy spotlights broader issues regarding media bias and taxpayer funding in public broadcasting sectors, questioning whether public funds should support organizations perceived as politically skewed.

DEFENSE BILL Slashed: Allies Fear for US Reliability

24 March 2024 — The House gave the green light to a $1.2 trillion defense bill on Friday, which includes crucial aid for Ukraine. However, the significantly trimmed budget and prolonged delays have left allies like Lithuania doubting the U.S.'s reliability.

The conflict in Ukraine, instigated by Russia, has been ongoing for over two years. While American backing for Kyiv has slightly lessened, European allies stand firm. Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuanian Foreign Minister, voiced concerns over Ukraine’s capacity to hold its front line based on the quantity of ammunition and equipment received.

Landsbergis also expressed apprehension about Russia’s potential future actions if Putin continues without restraint. He portrayed Russia as a “massive, aggressive empire with a bloodthirsty nature” that inspires other dictators globally.

This is an incredibly unsettling time," concluded Landsbergis underlining the worldwide repercussions of Russia’s unchecked aggression.

ALARMING DHS Revelation: 670,000 Border 'Gotaways’ in FY2023 — The Shocking Truth Behind the Numbers

11 December 2023 — Fox News recently uncovered a startling revelation from officials at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They disclosed to Arizona’s congressional delegation and House and Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees that an astounding 670,000 known “gotaways” slipped through the border in FY2023.

In addition to this alarming figure, lawmakers were made aware of a daily influx of approximately 5,000 illegal immigrants into the U.S. These individuals are handed off to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that aid them in reaching their final destinations. This rate could equate to nearly 1.8 million illegal migrants entering the country each year.

The DHS report also shed light on a record-breaking number of daily encounters by Border Patrol with migrants — over 12,000 in one day alone. This follows a record-setting year with more than 2.4 million encounters in FY23 and an unprecedented monthly high exceeding 260,000 last September.

When questioned about collaboration efforts with Mexico to control migrant flow at the southern border, DHS officials expressed concern for the “safety and security of noncitizens”. They highlighted risks these individuals often face due to dangerous travel methods like illicit train rides.