Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, sapien platea morbi dolor lacus nunc, nunc ullamcorper. Felis aliquet egestas vitae, nibh ante quis quis dolor sed mauris. Erat lectus sem ut lobortis, adipiscing ligula eleifend, sodales fringilla mattis dui nullam. Ac massa aliquet.
This page includes actions by Kakistocrats, as well as authoritarian-adjacent Collaborators, as well as Liars, Cowards, and Appeasers, all of whom directly or indirectly undermined democratic principles and norms and move America toward autocracy
Qtr 3 - July 1 - Sept. 30, 2026
(Most Recent Action at the Top)
Apple and newly named CEO John Ternus
An American technology company known for consumer electronics, software, and online services
Appeaser
Sept 2 - John Ternus, Apple’s former hardware engineering chief, took over as CEO on Tuesday, and the company made a controversial decision on his first day. Apple renamed Lake Ontario to “Lake America” on the web version of its Maps app after President Trump requested the change following a recent executive order. U.S. users will now see “Lake America” on their maps, as per the update in the U.S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS), according to Reuters. Canadian users will still see “Lake Ontario,” while international users will see both names, similar to Google’s map alteration. The Hill has contacted Apple for comment.
Trump signed the order last week during his trade war with Canada, after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney withdrew negotiators from trade talks. In response, Trump imposed new 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, with Carney retaliating with matching tariffs, set to take effect on September 8. Trump mentioned he had considered renaming Lake Ontario for a long time, suggesting that with the lake and the Gulf of Mexico, which he called the “Gulf of America” last year, “now all we need is an ocean.” Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford rejected the renaming, with Ford likening it to “something out of ‘Saturday Night Live.’”
The Seneca Nation, part of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, urged Trump to reconsider, citing the 1794 Treaty of Canandaigua, which established the Seneca Nation’s boundaries on Lake Ontario. The Great Lake is known as “sga:nyodai:yoh” in Seneca, meaning “beautiful lake.” Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca stated, “The President cannot assert ownership over our culture or erase it through irresponsible political action.”
On Monday, MapQuest announced that its mobile app’s popularity surged online after users downloaded it for keeping the lake’s name as Lake Ontario. This move mirrored the controversy over Trump’s renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, which led Mexico to file a lawsuit against Google in May 2025. MapQuest has remained the top navigation app in Apple’s U.S. App Store, with Google Maps and Waze in second and third places.Trump also renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” shortly after returning to office, as part of an initiative to restore names he believes honor “American greatness.” Google Maps, adhering to its policy of following GNIS designations, now refers to the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
Trump signed the order last week during his trade war with Canada, after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney withdrew negotiators from trade talks. In response, Trump imposed new 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, with Carney retaliating with matching tariffs, set to take effect on September 8. Trump mentioned he had considered renaming Lake Ontario for a long time, suggesting that with the lake and the Gulf of Mexico, which he called the “Gulf of America” last year, “now all we need is an ocean.” Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford rejected the renaming, with Ford likening it to “something out of ‘Saturday Night Live.’”
The Seneca Nation, part of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, urged Trump to reconsider, citing the 1794 Treaty of Canandaigua, which established the Seneca Nation’s boundaries on Lake Ontario. The Great Lake is known as “sga:nyodai:yoh” in Seneca, meaning “beautiful lake.” Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca stated, “The President cannot assert ownership over our culture or erase it through irresponsible political action.”
On Monday, MapQuest announced that its mobile app’s popularity surged online after users downloaded it for keeping the lake’s name as Lake Ontario. This move mirrored the controversy over Trump’s renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, which led Mexico to file a lawsuit against Google in May 2025. MapQuest has remained the top navigation app in Apple’s U.S. App Store, with Google Maps and Waze in second and third places.Trump also renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” shortly after returning to office, as part of an initiative to restore names he believes honor “American greatness.” Google Maps, adhering to its policy of following GNIS designations, now refers to the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
Google
American multinational technology company
Appeaser
Aug 30 - Google Maps has updated its name for the body of water between northern New York and southern Ontario to “Lake America” for American users. This change follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Thursday, which he claimed would “immediately” rename the lake. However, Canadian officials have stated they will not recognize the new name. Google explained in a blog post that the update was made after the US Geographic Names Information System, the federal government’s official place name database, also changed the name. Consequently, US users of Google Maps will see “Lake America,” while Canadian users will continue to see “Lake Ontario.” Viewers worldwide will see both names. As of Sunday, Apple Maps still displays “Lake Ontario” and has not commented on the matter.
The name change is seen as retaliation after trade talks between the US and Canada broke down, leading to the Trump administration imposing a 50% tariff on many Canadian goods on August 22. Canada responded with similar tariffs, and Trump is now threatening additional 50% tariffs on auto and steel imports from Canada. Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned that these tariffs would be “devastating on the US,” describing them as a “tax on the American people.”
Many Google Maps users speculated whether the company would adopt the new name following Trump’s announcement. MapQuest, the original online mapping service, briefly gained attention by refusing to change the name of the Great Lake, stating, “We’re not changing it,” and inviting users to name the lake “whatever you want.” This post has received over 5 million views on X, far surpassing the engagement of the company’s other posts.
Mark Carney, the former Canadian prime minister who exited trade negotiations citing “unfair” last-minute changes by the US, emphasized on X that “naming reality means calling it Lake Ontario,” noting the name’s origin from the Wendat word Ontari’io, meaning “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big.”
Trump also renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” shortly after returning to office, as part of an initiative to restore names he believes honor “American greatness.” Google Maps, adhering to its policy of following GNIS designations, now refers to the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
The name change is seen as retaliation after trade talks between the US and Canada broke down, leading to the Trump administration imposing a 50% tariff on many Canadian goods on August 22. Canada responded with similar tariffs, and Trump is now threatening additional 50% tariffs on auto and steel imports from Canada. Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned that these tariffs would be “devastating on the US,” describing them as a “tax on the American people.”
Many Google Maps users speculated whether the company would adopt the new name following Trump’s announcement. MapQuest, the original online mapping service, briefly gained attention by refusing to change the name of the Great Lake, stating, “We’re not changing it,” and inviting users to name the lake “whatever you want.” This post has received over 5 million views on X, far surpassing the engagement of the company’s other posts.
Mark Carney, the former Canadian prime minister who exited trade negotiations citing “unfair” last-minute changes by the US, emphasized on X that “naming reality means calling it Lake Ontario,” noting the name’s origin from the Wendat word Ontari’io, meaning “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big.”
Trump also renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” shortly after returning to office, as part of an initiative to restore names he believes honor “American greatness.” Google Maps, adhering to its policy of following GNIS designations, now refers to the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America.”
Dr. Erica Schwartz
Director of the Center for Disease Control
Sycophant
Aug 8 - President Donald Trump’s new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Erica Schwartz, believes the government should track individuals who have had abortions. During her confirmation hearing, she emphasized the importance of “abortion surveillance,” despite concerns from advocates that federal tracking infringes on patient privacy and access to services.
Schwartz stated, “Abortion surveillance is absolutely a critical component of what the CDC is currently doing.” She also expressed the need to ensure that states do not misclassify emergency services to conceal abortions, advocating for clear case definitions to maintain accurate data.
However, HuffPost reported that there is no evidence of states intentionally misreporting abortion information to the CDC. Currently, the CDC’s abortion data collection is voluntary, with some states like California, New Jersey, and Maryland opting not to report annual figures.
Schwartz’s remarks are particularly concerning in states with abortion bans, where distinguishing between abortion and emergency services is crucial. Hospitals in these states are more likely to violate federal life-saving rules and delay treatment for pregnancy-related emergencies, increasing the risk of death for pregnant individuals.
Mini Timmaraju, president and CEO of Reproductive Freedom for All, criticized Schwartz’s confirmation, stating it places an anti-abortion agenda at the CDC’s core, rather than focusing on public health and safety.
Last month, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated efforts to make the Dobbs decision permanent nationwide, with Schwartz potentially playing a role in this initiative. The push to enhance abortion monitoring coincides with a rise in dystopian surveillance technology under the Trump administration and widespread opposition to such measures.
Schwartz stated, “Abortion surveillance is absolutely a critical component of what the CDC is currently doing.” She also expressed the need to ensure that states do not misclassify emergency services to conceal abortions, advocating for clear case definitions to maintain accurate data.
However, HuffPost reported that there is no evidence of states intentionally misreporting abortion information to the CDC. Currently, the CDC’s abortion data collection is voluntary, with some states like California, New Jersey, and Maryland opting not to report annual figures.
Schwartz’s remarks are particularly concerning in states with abortion bans, where distinguishing between abortion and emergency services is crucial. Hospitals in these states are more likely to violate federal life-saving rules and delay treatment for pregnancy-related emergencies, increasing the risk of death for pregnant individuals.
Mini Timmaraju, president and CEO of Reproductive Freedom for All, criticized Schwartz’s confirmation, stating it places an anti-abortion agenda at the CDC’s core, rather than focusing on public health and safety.
Last month, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated efforts to make the Dobbs decision permanent nationwide, with Schwartz potentially playing a role in this initiative. The push to enhance abortion monitoring coincides with a rise in dystopian surveillance technology under the Trump administration and widespread opposition to such measures.
Bill Cassidy
US Senator (R-LA)
Sycophant
Aug 8 - Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., announced on Friday that he will support President Donald Trump’s nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general, likely securing Blanche’s confirmation. In a floor speech, Cassidy acknowledged that his decision would attract criticism but stated, “All considered, I will vote for Mr. Blanche. I’ll be criticized for this vote. What’s new?” His support is crucial for Blanche’s confirmation to the significant position.
Cassidy expressed concerns about “episodes of apparent lawfare” but noted that even critics recognize Blanche’s legal expertise and administrative skills. The White House welcomed Cassidy’s announcement, with spokeswoman Lauren Bis stating, “This is great news and we look forward to his final confirmation shortly. Todd Blanche has done an excellent job as acting Attorney General and will continue doing so as Attorney General.”
Republicans need 50 out of their 53 senators to confirm Blanche. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, announced her opposition to Blanche, joining Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, in opposing the nomination. With Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., unavailable indefinitely and Democrats expected to vote against Blanche, a third GOP opposition would have blocked the nomination. Despite having “numerous constructive meetings” with Blanche, Murkowski stated, “I will oppose his nomination.” She emphasized the need for an Attorney General who will “check the worst impulses of this administration” and expressed doubts about Blanche’s ability to do so. Murkowski also criticized the “politicization” and “even weaponization” of the Justice Department, which she believes has intensified under the Trump administration. She questioned the Trump administration’s proposed $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, calling it a “slush fund.”
A McConnell spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment on how McConnell would have voted if present. The retiring Kentucky senator is not a guaranteed supporter of Blanche, having voted against some high-profile Trump nominees, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. In a recent interview with Punchbowl News, Trump criticized Murkowski, saying, “Murkowski, I was against. I’m against Murkowski. I do more for Alaska than any president in history. No president’s done for Alaska what I’ve done. She’s not good.”
Blanche, currently acting attorney general, has faced challenges in his confirmation process. Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., initially withheld their support due to concerns about his leadership at the Justice Department. They were particularly worried about the “anti-weaponization” fund, intended to compensate alleged victims of politically motivated prosecutions, which was part of Trump’s IRS settlement. The settlement also included a guarantee of audit immunity for Trump and his family business. Cornyn and Tillis sought written assurances that the fund would be rescinded and the audit immunity clarified, which Blanche eventually provided. Tillis also required Blanche to meet with Epstein survivors, a meeting Blanche initially declined but later held privately. Epstein survivor Dani Bensky described the meeting as “not productive” or “substantive,” while Blanche offered a different account.
Democrats have criticized the Justice Department for failing to redact personal information about Epstein survivors, while not doing the same for potential abusers. They have also raised concerns that the “anti-weaponization” fund might still be active and that loopholes could allow its revival.
Cassidy expressed concerns about “episodes of apparent lawfare” but noted that even critics recognize Blanche’s legal expertise and administrative skills. The White House welcomed Cassidy’s announcement, with spokeswoman Lauren Bis stating, “This is great news and we look forward to his final confirmation shortly. Todd Blanche has done an excellent job as acting Attorney General and will continue doing so as Attorney General.”
Republicans need 50 out of their 53 senators to confirm Blanche. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, announced her opposition to Blanche, joining Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, in opposing the nomination. With Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., unavailable indefinitely and Democrats expected to vote against Blanche, a third GOP opposition would have blocked the nomination. Despite having “numerous constructive meetings” with Blanche, Murkowski stated, “I will oppose his nomination.” She emphasized the need for an Attorney General who will “check the worst impulses of this administration” and expressed doubts about Blanche’s ability to do so. Murkowski also criticized the “politicization” and “even weaponization” of the Justice Department, which she believes has intensified under the Trump administration. She questioned the Trump administration’s proposed $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, calling it a “slush fund.”
A McConnell spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment on how McConnell would have voted if present. The retiring Kentucky senator is not a guaranteed supporter of Blanche, having voted against some high-profile Trump nominees, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. In a recent interview with Punchbowl News, Trump criticized Murkowski, saying, “Murkowski, I was against. I’m against Murkowski. I do more for Alaska than any president in history. No president’s done for Alaska what I’ve done. She’s not good.”
Blanche, currently acting attorney general, has faced challenges in his confirmation process. Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., initially withheld their support due to concerns about his leadership at the Justice Department. They were particularly worried about the “anti-weaponization” fund, intended to compensate alleged victims of politically motivated prosecutions, which was part of Trump’s IRS settlement. The settlement also included a guarantee of audit immunity for Trump and his family business. Cornyn and Tillis sought written assurances that the fund would be rescinded and the audit immunity clarified, which Blanche eventually provided. Tillis also required Blanche to meet with Epstein survivors, a meeting Blanche initially declined but later held privately. Epstein survivor Dani Bensky described the meeting as “not productive” or “substantive,” while Blanche offered a different account.
Democrats have criticized the Justice Department for failing to redact personal information about Epstein survivors, while not doing the same for potential abusers. They have also raised concerns that the “anti-weaponization” fund might still be active and that loopholes could allow its revival.
John Cronyn
US Senator (R-TX)
Sycophant
Aug 3 - Texas Senator John Cornyn recently capitulated to Donald Trump’s demands. The outgoing lawmaker faced criticism on Sunday after accepting vague assurances from acting Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding Trump’s $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund. Cornyn had initially required the Justice Department chief to formally end the fund as a condition for supporting Blanche’s promotion. However, a memo released by Blanche on Sunday night seemed to complicate Cornyn’s position.
Blanche’s note appeared to terminate the fund, stating it was “rescinded and shall have no force or effect.” Yet, journalists noted that the memo’s language suggested the fund might continue in some form and did not end Trump’s IRS immunity arrangement. Despite these ambiguities, Cornyn was satisfied.
“Senator Cornyn has reached an agreement with the Department of Justice, which will be issuing a formal order permanently terminating the anti-weaponization fund and making clear in a binding written document that the scope of the audit settlement is limited to only the plaintiffs, including the President, and the IRS,” said Cornyn spokesperson Natalie Yezbick.
The fund originated from a deal Trump made after dropping a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS. It included an addendum from Blanche, granting Trump immunity from further federal prosecution. The U.S. government was barred from pursuing claims against Trump, his family, or his business. The fund was intended as reparations, funded by U.S. taxpayers, to right-wingers who felt wronged by the previous administration.
The fund’s concept collapsed after backlash, lawsuits, and opposition from Republican lawmakers, who saw it as hindering party efforts on a reconciliation bill. Despite this, Trump has continued to support the fund. “It is dead, but I wish it weren’t, to be honest with you,” Trump said during a Cabinet meeting. “I think people were horribly treated, horribly abused.”
Blanche’s attempts to preserve the fund suggest it may not be as defunct as officials claim. “Let’s be clear: It’s more certain that Trump is still pursuing bounties for rioters today than when this started,” wrote legal journalist Adam Klasfeld. “Trump is openly stating that’s the goal, taking legal action to get there and refusing to do the one thing that would kill it.”
Cornyn, nearing the end of his final term, has been freed from party directives after Trump endorsed another candidate in Texas’s GOP primary. This independence has allowed him to resist some Trump administration orders, but apparently, only to a certain extent.
Blanche’s note appeared to terminate the fund, stating it was “rescinded and shall have no force or effect.” Yet, journalists noted that the memo’s language suggested the fund might continue in some form and did not end Trump’s IRS immunity arrangement. Despite these ambiguities, Cornyn was satisfied.
“Senator Cornyn has reached an agreement with the Department of Justice, which will be issuing a formal order permanently terminating the anti-weaponization fund and making clear in a binding written document that the scope of the audit settlement is limited to only the plaintiffs, including the President, and the IRS,” said Cornyn spokesperson Natalie Yezbick.
The fund originated from a deal Trump made after dropping a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS. It included an addendum from Blanche, granting Trump immunity from further federal prosecution. The U.S. government was barred from pursuing claims against Trump, his family, or his business. The fund was intended as reparations, funded by U.S. taxpayers, to right-wingers who felt wronged by the previous administration.
The fund’s concept collapsed after backlash, lawsuits, and opposition from Republican lawmakers, who saw it as hindering party efforts on a reconciliation bill. Despite this, Trump has continued to support the fund. “It is dead, but I wish it weren’t, to be honest with you,” Trump said during a Cabinet meeting. “I think people were horribly treated, horribly abused.”
Blanche’s attempts to preserve the fund suggest it may not be as defunct as officials claim. “Let’s be clear: It’s more certain that Trump is still pursuing bounties for rioters today than when this started,” wrote legal journalist Adam Klasfeld. “Trump is openly stating that’s the goal, taking legal action to get there and refusing to do the one thing that would kill it.”
Cornyn, nearing the end of his final term, has been freed from party directives after Trump endorsed another candidate in Texas’s GOP primary. This independence has allowed him to resist some Trump administration orders, but apparently, only to a certain extent.
David Barton
Founder of WallBuilders, a Christian nationalist advocacy organization
White Christian Nationalist
July 29 - Last Friday, President Trump issued an executive order instructing officials to place signs outside the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History (NMAH) indicating that the museum presents history inaccurately. This order is part of a prolonged effort by the Trump administration to undermine and control the Smithsonian Institution, which the administration claims has a liberal bias. The order references a 162-page report released by the White House on July 4, authored by the White House Domestic Policy Council. The report asserts that the Smithsonian Institution, particularly the National Museum of American History, under its current leadership and interpretive ideology, cannot be trusted to tell America’s story honestly and in a way that is inspiring, unifying, and worthy of the republic.
The Trump administration’s interest in controlling the Smithsonian Institution is influenced by right-wing Christian nationalist “historian” David Barton and his son Tim. They are the founder and president, respectively, of WallBuilders, a Christian nationalist advocacy organization established in 1988. WallBuilders aims to teach U.S. history, emphasizing its roots in Christian ideology. Despite lacking a history degree, David Barton identifies as a historian and has compiled a large collection of documents related to America’s founding, publishing several books. He has long promoted the view that the founding fathers did not intend for a separation between church and state. His work has been repeatedly rejected by professional historians, notably a 2012 book about Thomas Jefferson, which was withdrawn by its publisher after Christian university historians accused him of distortions and false information.
Despite this, David Barton has gained political influence, advising the Texas State Board of Education on public school curricula and attending several White House meetings during Trump’s second term. He has communicated with Trump officials about the content of Smithsonian museums. Although the White House has not disclosed the exact role of the Bartons, the report closely aligns with their ideology. For instance, it criticizes the NMAH for presenting slavery too negatively, suggesting it should highlight how the colonies inherited slavery from global and European practices and how America’s Founders contributed to a worldwide movement that ended slavery. The Bartons echo this sentiment, arguing that America’s anti-slavery record demonstrates “American exceptionalism.”
Both the Bartons and the report portray Christopher Columbus as an “American” hero and view any criticism of his actions as an attempt to undermine the American historical narrative. Additionally, the report criticizes the Smithsonian for supporting the 1619 Project, which the Bartons frequently criticize. The Bartons have long advocated for the idea that historians downplay the role of Christian values in the founding. In an April 2025 podcast episode, David Barton mentioned discussing the Smithsonian with White House individuals during a visit to DC. In a January 6, 2026, podcast episode, the Bartons stated that the White House had asked them to help identify problematic Smithsonian exhibits. Most recently, in a podcast episode released last week, Tim Barton said that members of the Committee on House Administration, which held a hearing about the report, sought the Bartons’ advice on questions to ask during the hearing.
The Trump administration’s interest in controlling the Smithsonian Institution is influenced by right-wing Christian nationalist “historian” David Barton and his son Tim. They are the founder and president, respectively, of WallBuilders, a Christian nationalist advocacy organization established in 1988. WallBuilders aims to teach U.S. history, emphasizing its roots in Christian ideology. Despite lacking a history degree, David Barton identifies as a historian and has compiled a large collection of documents related to America’s founding, publishing several books. He has long promoted the view that the founding fathers did not intend for a separation between church and state. His work has been repeatedly rejected by professional historians, notably a 2012 book about Thomas Jefferson, which was withdrawn by its publisher after Christian university historians accused him of distortions and false information.
Despite this, David Barton has gained political influence, advising the Texas State Board of Education on public school curricula and attending several White House meetings during Trump’s second term. He has communicated with Trump officials about the content of Smithsonian museums. Although the White House has not disclosed the exact role of the Bartons, the report closely aligns with their ideology. For instance, it criticizes the NMAH for presenting slavery too negatively, suggesting it should highlight how the colonies inherited slavery from global and European practices and how America’s Founders contributed to a worldwide movement that ended slavery. The Bartons echo this sentiment, arguing that America’s anti-slavery record demonstrates “American exceptionalism.”
Both the Bartons and the report portray Christopher Columbus as an “American” hero and view any criticism of his actions as an attempt to undermine the American historical narrative. Additionally, the report criticizes the Smithsonian for supporting the 1619 Project, which the Bartons frequently criticize. The Bartons have long advocated for the idea that historians downplay the role of Christian values in the founding. In an April 2025 podcast episode, David Barton mentioned discussing the Smithsonian with White House individuals during a visit to DC. In a January 6, 2026, podcast episode, the Bartons stated that the White House had asked them to help identify problematic Smithsonian exhibits. Most recently, in a podcast episode released last week, Tim Barton said that members of the Committee on House Administration, which held a hearing about the report, sought the Bartons’ advice on questions to ask during the hearing.
Donald Trump, Jr.
Son of President Donald Trump
Oligarch
July 22 - Dating back to the first Trump administration, members of the Trump family have faced criticism for intertwining business with politics. However, what distinguishes Donald Trump Jr.’s recent actions is his open and unapologetic exploitation of the current administration’s policies through 1789 Capital.
Many of the companies 1789 has invested in have secured substantial government contracts, while others, such as Polymarket, have directly benefited from new Trump policies or the rollback of existing laws. Notably, the firm acquired shares in some of the most sought-after private companies before they went public, including SpaceX, Anduril, Cerebras, and Reflection AI. This was often achieved by leveraging their political and business connections to secure stakes or enhance the companies’ sales.
Just two years ago, 1789 managed a modest amount of capital, amounting to a few hundred million dollars. However, it has since grown significantly, overseeing over $3 billion. According to a person familiar with the firm’s performance, its main investment fund has generated returns of approximately 200 percent as of June 30. While this is still an early stage in its investment cycle, these returns surpass the average returns of around 21 percent achieved by venture capital firms established in 2023, as reported by PitchBook, a financial data provider.
Mr. Trump and Mr. Omeed Malik, a former Democrat and banker, openly acknowledge their connections to President Trump’s broader circle of donors, influential supporters, and high-ranking officials. However, they dismiss any questions regarding whether their success stems from direct access to the president.
As a private citizen, Mr. Trump asserts that he is free to invest as he pleases and that he is not engaging in any illegal activities. He maintains that he only speaks to his father “every few weeks” and never discusses business matters with him. Furthermore, he clarifies that he holds “no policy position and no role within the administration whatsoever.” Mr. Malik frequently emphasizes that he has never even “set foot in the White House.”
In interviews, executives at companies invested in 1789 mentioned that they had never witnessed the firm seeking special treatment from the administration. However, they expressed that being associated with 1789 provided them with an opportunity to gain proximity to the Trump orbit.
Mr. Malik stated that both he and Mr. Trump have personal connections with individuals involved in the administration, which aids them in formulating investment strategies that align with White House policies.
Mr. Malik proposed the establishment of a new investment firm called 1789 Capital, leveraging his expanding network of Republicans.
His two co-founders and investors include Rebekah Mercer, a prominent donor to Republican causes whose father was the founder of the hedge fund Renaissance Technologies. Additionally, Christopher Buskirk, a co-founder of the Rockbridge Group, a secretive network of wealthy Trump supporters, is also an investor. Notably, Vice President JD Vance is also a co-founder of the Rockbridge Group.
By the end of 2023, 1789 Capital had successfully raised approximately $100 million in investments, with Mr. Malik, Mr. Buskirk, and Ms. Mercer contributing over $15 million. Subsequently, Mr. Malik established an office situated a few miles away from Mar-a-Lago.
Less than a week after his father’s re-election, Mr. Trump made an appearance at a Rockbridge event in Las Vegas. During the event, he addressed several hundred donors and announced his decision to join 1789.
With the involvement of the president-elect’s son, the firm experienced a surge in activity and momentum. With a surge in new investments, 1789 swiftly allocated funds to a diverse array of companies, including several that are now reaping the benefits of Trump administration policies. These policies are designed to ensure that military weapons, raw materials, and critical technologies are developed within the United States rather than in China.
Among these companies are defense contractors Anduril and Hadrian, as well as Axiom Space, a company that aims to construct a commercial successor to the International Space Station.
Last fall, 1789 invested in Vulcan Elements, a rare earths magnet manufacturer, which was then valued at approximately $200 million. A few months later, the company secured a $620 million loan commitment from the Defense Department. Consequently, Vulcan Elements’ value has now increased to roughly $2 billion.
Many of the companies 1789 has invested in have secured substantial government contracts, while others, such as Polymarket, have directly benefited from new Trump policies or the rollback of existing laws. Notably, the firm acquired shares in some of the most sought-after private companies before they went public, including SpaceX, Anduril, Cerebras, and Reflection AI. This was often achieved by leveraging their political and business connections to secure stakes or enhance the companies’ sales.
Just two years ago, 1789 managed a modest amount of capital, amounting to a few hundred million dollars. However, it has since grown significantly, overseeing over $3 billion. According to a person familiar with the firm’s performance, its main investment fund has generated returns of approximately 200 percent as of June 30. While this is still an early stage in its investment cycle, these returns surpass the average returns of around 21 percent achieved by venture capital firms established in 2023, as reported by PitchBook, a financial data provider.
Mr. Trump and Mr. Omeed Malik, a former Democrat and banker, openly acknowledge their connections to President Trump’s broader circle of donors, influential supporters, and high-ranking officials. However, they dismiss any questions regarding whether their success stems from direct access to the president.
As a private citizen, Mr. Trump asserts that he is free to invest as he pleases and that he is not engaging in any illegal activities. He maintains that he only speaks to his father “every few weeks” and never discusses business matters with him. Furthermore, he clarifies that he holds “no policy position and no role within the administration whatsoever.” Mr. Malik frequently emphasizes that he has never even “set foot in the White House.”
In interviews, executives at companies invested in 1789 mentioned that they had never witnessed the firm seeking special treatment from the administration. However, they expressed that being associated with 1789 provided them with an opportunity to gain proximity to the Trump orbit.
Mr. Malik stated that both he and Mr. Trump have personal connections with individuals involved in the administration, which aids them in formulating investment strategies that align with White House policies.
Mr. Malik proposed the establishment of a new investment firm called 1789 Capital, leveraging his expanding network of Republicans.
His two co-founders and investors include Rebekah Mercer, a prominent donor to Republican causes whose father was the founder of the hedge fund Renaissance Technologies. Additionally, Christopher Buskirk, a co-founder of the Rockbridge Group, a secretive network of wealthy Trump supporters, is also an investor. Notably, Vice President JD Vance is also a co-founder of the Rockbridge Group.
By the end of 2023, 1789 Capital had successfully raised approximately $100 million in investments, with Mr. Malik, Mr. Buskirk, and Ms. Mercer contributing over $15 million. Subsequently, Mr. Malik established an office situated a few miles away from Mar-a-Lago.
Less than a week after his father’s re-election, Mr. Trump made an appearance at a Rockbridge event in Las Vegas. During the event, he addressed several hundred donors and announced his decision to join 1789.
With the involvement of the president-elect’s son, the firm experienced a surge in activity and momentum. With a surge in new investments, 1789 swiftly allocated funds to a diverse array of companies, including several that are now reaping the benefits of Trump administration policies. These policies are designed to ensure that military weapons, raw materials, and critical technologies are developed within the United States rather than in China.
Among these companies are defense contractors Anduril and Hadrian, as well as Axiom Space, a company that aims to construct a commercial successor to the International Space Station.
Last fall, 1789 invested in Vulcan Elements, a rare earths magnet manufacturer, which was then valued at approximately $200 million. A few months later, the company secured a $620 million loan commitment from the Defense Department. Consequently, Vulcan Elements’ value has now increased to roughly $2 billion.
Brendan Carr
Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission
Sycophant
July 15 - After Paramount Skydance finalized its multibillion-dollar merger with Skydance Media, it presented Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officials who approved the deal with lavish gifts. ProPublica reports that the company distributed expensive tickets to the Kennedy Center honors gala, valued at thousands of dollars. Commissioner Olivia Trusty, whose vote was crucial for the merger’s approval, attended the black-tie event with a guest, courtesy of $12,000 tickets from Paramount. FCC Chair Brendan Carr received even more luxurious seats for himself and his wife: private skybox tickets with Paramount CEO David Ellison and other executives, valued at $125,000 each.
These gifts were not the first from Paramount to FCC commissioners. Ethics disclosures reveal that the company has provided gala tickets to seven of the ten commissioners over the past decade, raising significant concerns about a conflict of interest for government employees tasked with regulating broadcasting companies like Paramount. Carr has accepted Kennedy Center tickets at least seven times since his appointment in 2017, totaling $63,000, according to his financial statements.
Ethics experts informed ProPublica that such gifts undermine the FCC’s impartiality, and commissioners who accepted them should not participate in decisions related to Paramount’s merger. “There’s no way that any top federal regulator should ever, ever accept a gift from a regulated company with interests their work will foreseeably affect,” Walter Shaub, former director of the Office of Government Ethics, told ProPublica. “The appearance of taking gifts like that is terrible. What’s at stake is nothing less than the public’s trust in government.”
The FCC’s final approval is one of the last hurdles for Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros., which would consolidate control of networks CBS and CNN, streaming services Paramount+ and HBO Max, and numerous other media entities. Critics warn it could create a powerful media conglomerate under David and Larry Ellison, strong supporters of President Trump, who might pressure CNN to produce right-wing news.
Twelve Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday to block the merger, and the Writers’ Guild, representing 18,000 media workers, also sued the deal in federal court the following day, arguing it endangers workers’ livelihoods. Last month, the British government indicated it would investigate whether the new entity might harm competition in the entertainment industry.
Like many business deals during Trump’s second term, this one raises suspicions of corruption. The FCC appears compromised, and Trump openly backs a deal that could suppress critical news coverage of him while granting his supporters control over a significant portion of the entertainment industry. His own FCC seems to be under Paramount’s influence.
These gifts were not the first from Paramount to FCC commissioners. Ethics disclosures reveal that the company has provided gala tickets to seven of the ten commissioners over the past decade, raising significant concerns about a conflict of interest for government employees tasked with regulating broadcasting companies like Paramount. Carr has accepted Kennedy Center tickets at least seven times since his appointment in 2017, totaling $63,000, according to his financial statements.
Ethics experts informed ProPublica that such gifts undermine the FCC’s impartiality, and commissioners who accepted them should not participate in decisions related to Paramount’s merger. “There’s no way that any top federal regulator should ever, ever accept a gift from a regulated company with interests their work will foreseeably affect,” Walter Shaub, former director of the Office of Government Ethics, told ProPublica. “The appearance of taking gifts like that is terrible. What’s at stake is nothing less than the public’s trust in government.”
The FCC’s final approval is one of the last hurdles for Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros., which would consolidate control of networks CBS and CNN, streaming services Paramount+ and HBO Max, and numerous other media entities. Critics warn it could create a powerful media conglomerate under David and Larry Ellison, strong supporters of President Trump, who might pressure CNN to produce right-wing news.
Twelve Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday to block the merger, and the Writers’ Guild, representing 18,000 media workers, also sued the deal in federal court the following day, arguing it endangers workers’ livelihoods. Last month, the British government indicated it would investigate whether the new entity might harm competition in the entertainment industry.
Like many business deals during Trump’s second term, this one raises suspicions of corruption. The FCC appears compromised, and Trump openly backs a deal that could suppress critical news coverage of him while granting his supporters control over a significant portion of the entertainment industry. His own FCC seems to be under Paramount’s influence.
Jay Clayton
US Attorney for the Second District of New York and nominee to be new Director of National Intelligence
Sycophant
July 12 - The New York Times reported on Saturday, July 11, that the U.S. Department of Justice had summoned several of its journalists to testify before a federal grand jury following their coverage of security issues related to President Donald Trump’s new Qatari-donated Air Force One. Subpoenas were issued on Friday, July 10, requesting the journalists’ appearance before the grand jury on July 15 to discuss a potential violation of federal criminal law. These subpoenas were issued by Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney in Manhattan, and in some instances, delivered to reporters’ homes by federal agents, according to the news outlet. The organization described this action as “an extraordinary escalation in President Trump’s efforts to threaten and intimidate independent news organizations.”
A Department of Justice spokesperson, in a statement to Reuters, neither confirmed nor denied the subpoenas but stated that the administration was not targeting reporters but was concerned about leaks of classified information. The White House directed all inquiries to the Justice Department. Journalism advocacy groups criticized the subpoenas as a threat to press freedom and constitutional rights. The National Press Club called on the Justice Department to “immediately” withdraw the subpoenas, stating, “When federal agents arrive at the homes of journalists with subpoenas, it is not ordinary law enforcement. It is an extraordinary assault on the freedom of the press that strikes at the heart of the First Amendment.”
Clayton, who was recently nominated by Trump to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, faced calls from the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press for the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee to hold him accountable during his confirmation hearing on July 15. Stephen J. Adler, chairman of the Reporters Committee, stated, “When the public’s right to know is crushed, as the Trump Administration is trying to do with its subpoenas against The New York Times, all of us suffer irreparable harm, as does the freedom upon which this nation is built.”
On July 8, Trump announced he would use an older Air Force One “for old time’s sake” to fly from Ankara to the Royal Air Force base at Mildenhall in Britain, while the new plane stopped at the same base for U.S. service members stationed there to tour the aircraft. Video footage late on Wednesday showed Trump boarding the new Air Force One, gifted by Qatar, at the British base as it prepared to fly to the United States.
A Department of Justice spokesperson, in a statement to Reuters, neither confirmed nor denied the subpoenas but stated that the administration was not targeting reporters but was concerned about leaks of classified information. The White House directed all inquiries to the Justice Department. Journalism advocacy groups criticized the subpoenas as a threat to press freedom and constitutional rights. The National Press Club called on the Justice Department to “immediately” withdraw the subpoenas, stating, “When federal agents arrive at the homes of journalists with subpoenas, it is not ordinary law enforcement. It is an extraordinary assault on the freedom of the press that strikes at the heart of the First Amendment.”
Clayton, who was recently nominated by Trump to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, faced calls from the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press for the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee to hold him accountable during his confirmation hearing on July 15. Stephen J. Adler, chairman of the Reporters Committee, stated, “When the public’s right to know is crushed, as the Trump Administration is trying to do with its subpoenas against The New York Times, all of us suffer irreparable harm, as does the freedom upon which this nation is built.”
On July 8, Trump announced he would use an older Air Force One “for old time’s sake” to fly from Ankara to the Royal Air Force base at Mildenhall in Britain, while the new plane stopped at the same base for U.S. service members stationed there to tour the aircraft. Video footage late on Wednesday showed Trump boarding the new Air Force One, gifted by Qatar, at the British base as it prepared to fly to the United States.
Jeanine Pirro
US Attorney for the District of Columbia
Sycophant
July 3 - Olympian David Hearn has been indicted by a D.C. grand jury on a felony charge for alleged vandalism at the Washington, D.C., Reflecting Pool, as announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro on Thursday. Hearn, 67, is accused of removing a piece of sealant from the pool’s bottom on June 19, as observed by National Park Service employees. Pirro expressed her strong disapproval of such acts, stating, “This unchecked vandalism and civil disorder turns into criminal behavior, and that’s why we are here today.”
Hearn, residing in Bethesda, Maryland, claimed he stopped by the pool during a 64-mile bike ride last month and was arrested after reaching into the pool. He stated he was detained for five hours. His attorneys released a statement asserting his innocence, arguing that the indictment is an attempt by the administration to deflect blame for their own shortcomings. The case is being processed in D.C. Superior Court, where Hearn faces a charge for destruction of property, causing over $1,000 in damage, with a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
According to Pirro, when a park employee instructed Hearn to stop, he responded by questioning her concern for the pool, stating it wasn’t hers. Pirro mentioned there are about half a dozen vandalism cases related to the Reflecting Pool, but it’s uncertain if more felony indictments will follow, as some cases may result in misdemeanor charges. Her office is also investigating a significant gash in the pool’s liner, as noted in a court document by a Trump administration official.
Hearn has denied any wrongdoing, telling the Associated Press last month that he merely reached out to touch a piece of sealant out of curiosity and released it upon being told to stop by a park worker. “I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn stated in an interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”
President Trump has frequently blamed vandals for issues at the Reflecting Pool, which began experiencing problems after renovations, including peeling paint and algae growth. CBS News reported that a company owned by a Trump donor received a $1.7 million contract from the federal government to install a new water cleaning system for the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Frank Lands, deputy director for operations for the National Park Service, reported the damage to the U.S. Park Police on June 9, according to a court filing last month. At least five people have been arrested for alleged vandalism at the Reflecting Pool, with five others receiving federal citations, though details of the evidence against them remain undisclosed.
Hearn, residing in Bethesda, Maryland, claimed he stopped by the pool during a 64-mile bike ride last month and was arrested after reaching into the pool. He stated he was detained for five hours. His attorneys released a statement asserting his innocence, arguing that the indictment is an attempt by the administration to deflect blame for their own shortcomings. The case is being processed in D.C. Superior Court, where Hearn faces a charge for destruction of property, causing over $1,000 in damage, with a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
According to Pirro, when a park employee instructed Hearn to stop, he responded by questioning her concern for the pool, stating it wasn’t hers. Pirro mentioned there are about half a dozen vandalism cases related to the Reflecting Pool, but it’s uncertain if more felony indictments will follow, as some cases may result in misdemeanor charges. Her office is also investigating a significant gash in the pool’s liner, as noted in a court document by a Trump administration official.
Hearn has denied any wrongdoing, telling the Associated Press last month that he merely reached out to touch a piece of sealant out of curiosity and released it upon being told to stop by a park worker. “I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn stated in an interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”
President Trump has frequently blamed vandals for issues at the Reflecting Pool, which began experiencing problems after renovations, including peeling paint and algae growth. CBS News reported that a company owned by a Trump donor received a $1.7 million contract from the federal government to install a new water cleaning system for the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Frank Lands, deputy director for operations for the National Park Service, reported the damage to the U.S. Park Police on June 9, according to a court filing last month. At least five people have been arrested for alleged vandalism at the Reflecting Pool, with five others receiving federal citations, though details of the evidence against them remain undisclosed.
ARCHIVES - Authoritarian Actions
Email Us With Your Ideas and Feedback xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Send me periodic Email Reminders with the link to this website