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(last updated 2024-08-09/Close of previous day debt was $35123327978028.47 )

7/28/25

Obama's Mama, A Women The Left Won't Celebrate

Obama's Mama: A Women The Left Won't Celebrate

"In reality, we should show Obama's Mama some respect. She was a 17 year old SNOW WHITE Girl who got pregnant by a 36 Year Old MARRIED Black Man from Kenya. She would be the typical Abortion client. She could have had an abortion. Instead, she went on with the pregnancy and gave birth to a little boy who became the 44th President of the United States of America. Those on the LEFT should be celebrating her as if she was Harriet Tubman or a Lady who didn't give up her seat on a bus. Instead, they don't mention her. It would be too much of a PRO LIFE STORY."

Stanley Ann Dunham: A Story the Left Should Celebrate—But Won’t

Barack Obama’s rise to the presidency was historic, groundbreaking, and a testament to the American dream. Yet, the story of his mother, Stanley Ann Dunham, is one that the modern Left rarely celebrates—and for reasons that expose their ideological contradictions.

Dunham’s life defies the narratives that progressives often push. At 17, she became pregnant by a 36-year-old married Kenyan man, Barack Obama Sr., while attending high school in Hawaii. By today’s standards, she would have been a prime candidate for abortion—young, unmarried, and facing an uncertain future. Yet she chose life, and that decision brought forth America’s first Black president.

The Left’s Conundrum: Why They Can’t Celebrate Her

The Left champions abortion rights as a fundamental freedom, often framing it as essential for women’s empowerment. Yet Dunham’s story undermines their rhetoric in several ways:

1. She Rejected Abortion Despite the Circumstances

- A pregnant teenager in the early 1960s, with no financial stability and a father who abandoned her, could have easily been persuaded to terminate the pregnancy.

- Instead, she embraced motherhood, raising a child who would change history.

2. Her Story Undermines the Victim Narrative

- Progressives often portray single mothers—especially those impregnated by older men—as victims of exploitation. Yet Dunham was independent, intellectually curious, and resilient.

- She later earned a PhD, worked in international development, and raised a future president.

3. She Was White—And That Doesn’t Fit the Left’s Racial Politics

- The Left prefers narratives where Black success stems solely from Black struggle, not from interracial relationships or white parents.

- Dunham’s whiteness complicates their racial storytelling. Obama’s success is often attributed to his Black identity, while his mother’s influence is downplayed.

4. The Left’s Hypocrisy on Power Dynamics

- If a 36-year-old conservative man impregnated a 17-year-old girl today, the Left would call it "grooming" or "abuse."

- Yet because Obama Sr. was a Black African immigrant, progressives ignore the power imbalance—revealing their double standards.

The Democrats’ Selective “Carve-Outs”

The Democratic Party excels at making exceptions to fit their agenda. They claim to support women’s autonomy, yet they dismiss Dunham’s choice as insignificant. They preach racial justice, yet they erase the white woman who raised a groundbreaking Black leader.

- If Dunham Had Aborted Obama: The Left would mourn the loss of a potential leader but defend her "right to choose."

- Because She Didn’t: They ignore her, because her story proves that unplanned pregnancies can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Why the Right Should Claim Her Story

Conservatives and pro-life advocates should celebrate Stanley Ann Dunham as a testament to the power of life and resilience. She:

- Chose life despite societal pressures.

- Raised a child who shattered racial barriers.

- Proved that single mothers can defy expectations.

Her story is an antidote to the Left’s abortion absolutism. It shows that even in difficult circumstances, giving life can lead to greatness.

Conclusion: The Left’s Uncomfortable Silence

The Left can’t celebrate Stanley Ann Dunham because her existence undermines their political narratives. She was a white woman whose unplanned pregnancy produced a historic Black president—something that doesn’t fit neatly into their boxes of victimhood and identity politics.

Her life is a rebuke to abortion advocates, a challenge to racial essentialists, and a reminder that greatness often comes from unexpected places. The fact that Democrats ignore her speaks volumes about their selective outrage and ideological rigidity.

Stanley Ann Dunham should be a feminist icon—a woman who defied expectations and changed history. Instead, she remains in the shadows, because her truth is too inconvenient for the Left to acknowledge.

#Obama #StanleyAnnDunham #Abortion #Kenya

Lower The Interest Rates

Lower The Interest Rates

That Fed Chair is a Jerk. If he would lower the rates more people would and could senter the housing market. It would also help on the housing shortage. No wants wants to sell their house with a 3% rate and go buy at 7%. It doesn't take a Fed Chair to figure that out. A Caveman can get it.

The Fed Chair’s Stubborn Rates Are Crushing the Housing Market

The Federal Reserve’s stubborn refusal to lower interest rates is strangling the housing market, worsening the housing shortage, and locking millions of Americans out of homeownership. Current Fed Chair Jerome Powell seems oblivious to the pain his policies are causing—or worse, he simply doesn’t care. While economists and policymakers debate complex inflation metrics, the reality is simple: high mortgage rates are freezing the market, and only a caveman wouldn’t see it.

The Housing Market is Paralyzed

Right now, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 7%, more than double what it was just a few years ago. This has created a bizarre standoff in the housing market:

- Homeowners won’t sell because they’re locked into ultra-low 3% mortgages from the pandemic era. Why would anyone trade a 3% rate for a 7% one?

- Buyers can’t afford to buy because high rates have made monthly payments unmanageable, even if home prices stabilize.

- Builders aren’t building fast enough because high financing costs slow construction, worsening the supply crisis.

This gridlock means fewer homes are changing hands, inventory remains near historic lows, and prices stay high. The Fed’s insistence on keeping rates elevated isn’t just hurting buyers—it’s making the housing shortage worse.

Lower Rates Would Unlock the Market

If the Fed cut rates even modestly, three key things would happen:

1. More Sellers Would List Their Homes – Even a small drop in mortgage rates would encourage some homeowners to finally sell, increasing supply.

2. Buyers Could Actually Afford Homes – Lower rates mean lower monthly payments, bringing more first-time buyers into the market.

3. Construction Would Pick Up – Developers rely on financing, and cheaper borrowing costs mean more new homes get built, easing the long-term shortage.

Instead, the Fed keeps preaching patience, acting like the economy is still overheating when the real pain is being felt by ordinary people who just want a place to live.

The Fed’s Inflation Obsession is Misguided

The Fed’s primary argument for keeping rates high is inflation. But here’s the problem: housing costs are a major driver of inflation. By keeping mortgage rates high, the Fed is directly contributing to the very problem it claims to be fighting.

- High rates discourage new construction → less supply → higher rents and home prices → higher inflation.

- Homeowners staying put → fewer existing homes for sale → higher prices due to scarcity → higher inflation.

It’s a self-defeating cycle. The Fed is so focused on "cooling demand" that it’s ignoring the supply crisis making housing unaffordable.

A Caveman Could Figure This Out

You don’t need a PhD in economics to see the problem. The logic is simple:

- Low rates = more buying and selling.

- High rates = frozen market, higher prices long-term.

Yet the Fed keeps rates high, pretending this is the only way to fight inflation while ignoring the collateral damage. Meanwhile, corporations and wealthy investors keep buying up homes in cash, pricing out regular families.

What Should Happen Next?

The Fed needs to cut rates now before the housing crisis gets worse. Every month they delay:

- More young families are priced out forever.

- More homeowners stay trapped in homes they’d otherwise sell.

- The shortage grows, making affordability even worse in the long run.

Powell’s stubbornness isn’t just bad policy—it’s economic malpractice. If he doesn’t act soon, the housing market will remain broken, and an entire generation will be locked out of homeownership.

Bottom Line: The Fed Chair is a jerk for not seeing what’s obvious to everyone else. Lower the rates. Fix the housing market. It’s not that complicated.

#Powell #Trump #FederalReserve #FedChair #InterestRates

Russia Has Interfered In US Elections Since The Beginning Of The Cold War

RUSSIA WILL BE RUSSIA

Russia Has Interfered In US Elections Since The Beginning Of The Cold War - This Was/Is Nothing New

ALERT: Russia has tried to manipulate our elections since the beginning of the COLD WAR. That is 'WHAT THEY DO'. Also, they funded the North Vietnamese during the Vietnam Conflict [BTW, I said Conflict because War was never declared. We lost 58K for NOTHING]. However, Russia spent more on propaganda here in the US at the time than they spent on arming the North Vietnamese. Basically protesters were paid to spit on the returning Troops from Vietnam.

The only reason the Democrats were using Russia is because their candidate didn't win. That is no reason to play around with a nuclear power.

#Russia #Putin #ColdWar #Elections #Election

Obama Had A Shady Time In Office

Obama Had A Shady Time In Office

"-He entered office and set on an 'Apology' World Tour

-He used the IRS to quash the TEA Party movement and had all of Romney's donors audited.

-He used US Tax Dollars to influence Israeli elections

-He lied about the Affordable Care Act

-When he entered office we were fighting in 2 Countries - Iraq/Afghanistan. When he left office we had been fighting in 7 Countries - Iraq/Afghanistan/Syria/Pakistan/Yemen/Somolia/Libya. 80% of the kills were innocent civilians...mainly Sunni Muslims. He was kind to the Shiite in Iran. He gave them a Pallet of cash in the middle of the night.

-He left office 30x's richer than he was when he entered office. Was he side hustling? That attitude changed when Trump entered office. Was Obama selling books and Netflix memberships in the Oval Office? Maybe the Military Industrial Complex bought bulk books and memberships.

-He demanded and concocted a fake Intel report to sabotage Trump 1.0.

The Stuff Is About To Hit The Fan..."

The Controversial Legacy of Barack Obama: A Critical Examination

Barack Obama’s presidency (2009-2017) was marked by soaring rhetoric, historic firsts, and progressive policy ambitions. However, beneath the polished veneer of "hope and change," his administration was riddled with controversies, scandals, and questionable decisions that have left a lasting impact on America and the world. From political targeting to foreign policy failures, Obama’s legacy is far more contentious than his admirers acknowledge.

The "Apology Tour" and Weakness on the World Stage

One of Obama’s first acts as president was embarking on what critics dubbed the "Apology Tour," where he seemed to distance America from its historical leadership role. In speeches across Europe and the Middle East, Obama suggested that the U.S. had been arrogant, dismissive, and even oppressive in its foreign policy. This approach projected weakness at a time when strength was needed, emboldening adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran.

Rather than asserting American exceptionalism, Obama’s rhetoric often framed the U.S. as a nation in need of atonement. This set a dangerous precedent, undermining global confidence in American resolve and creating power vacuums that hostile regimes were eager to fill.

Weaponizing the IRS Against Political Opponents

One of the most egregious abuses of power during the Obama administration was the IRS targeting conservative groups, particularly the Tea Party movement. Documents later revealed that the IRS deliberately delayed or denied tax-exempt status to organizations with "Tea Party," "Patriot," or "Conservative" in their names, effectively silencing political opposition ahead of the 2012 election.

Even more disturbingly, Mitt Romney’s major donors were systematically audited—an unmistakable act of political intimidation. While the Obama administration feigned ignorance, the timing and specificity of these audits suggest a coordinated effort to suppress dissent. If such tactics had occurred under a Republican president, the media outcry would have been deafening.

Meddling in Foreign Elections (While Accusing Others of It)

Obama frequently accused Russia of interfering in U.S. elections, yet his administration engaged in its own form of election meddling—using taxpayer dollars to influence Israel’s 2015 elections. Reports confirmed that the State Department funneled money through the group *OneVoice* to campaign against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch critic of Obama’s Iran nuclear deal.

This hypocrisy was staggering: while Democrats later spent years hyperventilating over alleged Russian interference, Obama’s team actively worked to sway a foreign ally’s democratic process.

The Lies of Obamacare

The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) was sold to the American people on a foundation of deception. Obama famously promised, "If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor," and "If you like your health care plan, you can keep your health care plan." Both claims were blatantly false. Millions of Americans lost their preferred coverage, premiums skyrocketed, and choices dwindled as insurers fled the collapsing marketplace.

The law was also passed through legislative trickery, with Democrats exploiting budget reconciliation rules to avoid bipartisan support. The disastrous rollout of Healthcare.gov—a $2 billion website that barely functioned—was emblematic of the administration’s incompetence.

Expanding War While Pretending to End It

Obama campaigned on ending wars, yet by the time he left office, the U.S. was engaged in seven conflicts—up from two when he took office. Beyond Iraq and Afghanistan, Obama escalated drone strikes in Pakistan, Yemen, Somalia, and Libya while intervening in Syria’s civil war.

Worst of all, an estimated 80% of drone strike casualties were innocent civilians, predominantly Sunni Muslims. Meanwhile, Obama showed shocking leniency toward Iran’s Shiite regime, sending them a literal pallet of cash ($1.7 billion in unmarked bills) in a secret midnight flight. This ransom payment—disguised as a "settlement" for a decades-old arms deal—funded Iran’s terrorist proxies across the Middle East.

Suspicious Personal Enrichment

When Obama entered office, his net worth was roughly $1.3 million. By the time he left, estimates placed his wealth at $40 million or more—a 30-fold increase. While some of this came from book deals and speaking fees, the timing raises questions.

Did the military-industrial complex suddenly develop a passion for Obama’s memoirs? Did Netflix pay him $50 million for a production deal because of his filmmaking genius—or as a favor for policies that benefited Big Tech? Compare this to Donald Trump, who *lost* wealth as president, and the contrast is striking.

The Fake Dossier and Sabotaging Trump

Before leaving office, Obama’s intelligence officials greenlit the infamous Steele Dossier—a fabricated opposition research document funded by the Clinton campaign and used to justify spying on Trump’s team. This politically motivated abuse of surveillance powers ignited the Russia collusion hoax, which consumed Washington for years before being exposed as a sham.

Obama’s role in this scheme cannot be overlooked. His administration weaponized intelligence agencies to undermine his successor—an unprecedented assault on democratic norms.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Double Standards

Barack Obama’s presidency was defined by broken promises, political targeting, foreign policy failures, and personal enrichment. While the media painted him as a transcendent figure, his administration operated with a ruthless, Chicago-style political machine that punished enemies and rewarded allies.

As new revelations continue to emerge, history may judge Obama not as a unifying visionary, but as a divisive leader who expanded executive overreach, destabilized the Middle East, and set dangerous precedents for weaponizing government against opponents. The stuff, indeed, is about to hit the fan.

#Obama #FBI #CIA #Brennan #Clapper #Clinton #SusanRice

An Associate of Jeffery Epstein was found dead in France in his jail cell on 2.19.2022

An Associate of Jeffery Epstein was found dead in France in his jail cell on 2.19.2022. They say he also hung himself...

Jeffrey Epstein associate Jean Luc Brunel found dead by suicide in prison

#JeffreyEpstein #Suicide #JeanLucBrunel

7/27/25

A Post From Dan Bonjino, Deputy Director of The FBI, and Former Secret Service Agent

A Post From Dan Bonjino, Deputy Director of The FBI, and Former Secret Service Agent

Via X/Twitter:

"During my tenure here as the Deputy Director of the FBI, I have repeatedly relayed to you that things are happening that might not be immediately visible, but they are happening.

The Director and I are committed to stamping out public corruption and the political weaponization of both law enforcement and intelligence operations. It is a priority for us. But what I have learned in the course of our properly predicated and necessary investigations into these aforementioned matters, has shocked me down to my core. We cannot run a Republic like this. I’ll never be the same after learning what I’ve learned.

We are going to conduct these righteous and proper investigations by the book and in accordance with the law. We are going to get the answers WE ALL DESERVE. As with any investigation, I cannot predict where it will land, but I can promise you an honest and dignified effort at truth. Not “my truth,” or “your truth,” but THE TRUTH.

God bless America, and all those who defend Her.

Respectfully,

Dan"

Who Is Dan Bonjino?

Dan Bongino: From NYPD Beat to the Secret Service, then a show on FOX News, and now FBI Deputy Director

Dan Bongino’s journey embodies a uniquely American arc—a fusion of law enforcement grit, media stardom, and political ambition that culminated in his controversial appointment as Deputy Director of the FBI in 2025. His career reflects the volatile intersection of conservative media and government service in modern U.S. politics.

Early Career and Law Enforcement Foundations

Born in Queens, New York, in 1974, Bongino’s path began with academic pursuits in psychology. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the field from Queens College before adding an MBA from Pennsylvania State University. His law enforcement career launched in 1995 as an NYPD officer, where he served four years before joining the U.S. Secret Service in 1999.

As a Secret Service agent, Bongino received a Department of Justice award for financial fraud investigations and rose to the elite Presidential Protective Division in 2006. He protected both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, coordinating high-stakes visits to war zones and global summits. His resignation in 2011—to pursue politics—drew criticism from colleagues who accused him of leveraging his service for publicity.

Media Ascendancy and Political Campaigns

After leaving government service, Bongino pivoted to media and politics with equal fervor. He launched The Dan Bongino Show, a podcast that grew into a conservative media powerhouse with 8.5 million radio listeners at its peak. Simultaneously, he mounted three unsuccessful Republican campaigns:

- 2012 U.S. Senate race in Maryland (lost to Democrat Ben Cardin)

- 2014 Congressional bid (narrowly defeated by 1.5%)

- 2016 Florida House race (third in primary)

His media presence amplified during the Trump era. He became a Fox News host and founded the Bongino Report as a conservative alternative to the Drudge Report. His provocative style sparked controversies, including:

- A permanent YouTube ban in 2022 for COVID-19 misinformation

- A public clash with Cumulus Media over vaccine mandates

- Temporary Twitter suspensions for disputing election integrity claims

Table: Key Career Milestones

| Year | Event |

|----------|-----------|

| 1995–1999 | Served as NYPD officer |

| 2006–2011 | Protected Presidents Bush/Obama (Secret Service) |

| 2012–2016 | Ran for Senate (MD) and Congress (MD/FL) |

| 2019 | Launched Bongino Report |

| 2021 | Hosted Unfiltered on Fox News |

| 2025 | Appointed FBI Deputy Director |

FBI Leadership and Epstein Controversy

In February 2025, President Trump appointed Bongino as Deputy FBI Director under Director Kash Patel—a role not requiring Senate confirmation. His transition from media firebrand to law enforcement leader was rocky. Colleagues expressed concern about his history of inflammatory commentary, particularly regarding conspiracy theories about the "Deep State" and the Robert Mueller investigation.

By July 2025, Bongino faced a career-defining crisis during the Justice Department’s review of Jeffrey Epstein’s death. He clashed fiercely with Attorney General Pam Bondi over the handling of Epstein files, arguing for greater transparency while Bondi’s DOJ concluded Epstein died by suicide with no "client list". Key flashpoints included:

- Bongino’s discovery of a surveillance video from Epstein’s jail (later criticized for a 60-second gap)

- Accusations he leaked claims that the FBI wanted more disclosures

- Threats to resign after Bondi briefed Trump that his name appeared in Epstein documents

The feud exposed Bongino’s struggle to adapt to institutional norms. As one FBI lawyer warned, his media instincts conflicted with the bureau’s discretion. Though he returned to work after a brief absence, his relationship with the White House remained strained.

Political Identity and Legacy

Throughout his career, Bongino embraced combative partisanship, declaring in 2018: "My entire life right now is about owning the libs". A member of the conservative "Groundswell" network, he amplified theories like "Spygate" and dismissed the Trump-Russia investigation as a "scam". His appointment to the FBI symbolized Trump’s effort to reshape the bureau in his ideological image.

Health struggles also marked his journey. In 2020, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma after a neck tumor discovery but announced he had "beaten" cancer in 2021.

Conclusion: The Unconventional Enforcer

Dan Bongino represents a new model of government servant: a media-savvy operator whose ascent reflects the blurring lines between commentary and governance. His FBI tenure—defined by the Epstein turmoil—highlights tensions between populist expectations and institutional realities. Whether navigating jailhouse surveillance tapes or White House feuds, Bongino remains a polarizing figure whose career embodies America’s era of political disruption. As the Epstein saga unfolds, his capacity to balance his partisan past with his law enforcement present will determine his legacy at the FBI.

#FBI #Bonjino #DanBonjino

Dems Rail Against Colbert's Cancellation -- Here's Why

#TheLateShow #Colbert #CBS

Trump announces EU trade deal with 15% tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, after the announcement of a trade deal between the U.S. and EU, in Turnberry, Scotland, on July 27, 2025.

Evelyn Hockstein | Reuters

Trump announces EU trade deal with 15% tariffs

The Invisible Tax: How Tariffs Work and Who Really Pays

The Invisible Tax: How Tariffs Work and Who Really Pays

Tariffs—often described as trade taxes or import duties—are among the oldest and most contentious tools of economic policy. At their core, tariffs are taxes imposed by governments on imported goods, calculated either as a fixed fee per unit (specific tariff) or a percentage of the item's value (ad valorem tariff) . While politically framed as tools to protect domestic industries or punish "unfair" trade practices, their economic impact is far more complex. As global trade tensions escalate in 2025, with U.S. average effective tariff rates reaching 22.5%—the highest since 1909—understanding their mechanics and true costs becomes critical .

How Tariffs Operate: Economic Mechanics

Tariffs function by inserting a price wedge between the global market and domestic consumers. For example:

- A 10% tariff on a $100 imported product raises its domestic price to $110.

- The $10 difference is collected as government revenue, but crucially, this "tax" can depress global demand, potentially lowering the world price (e.g., to $95). If the domestic price then becomes $104.50, foreign producers effectively absorb part of the cost.

This dynamic triggers four ripple effects:

1. Consumer Substitution: Higher import prices push consumers toward domestic alternatives, benefiting local industries.

2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Domestic manufacturers relying on imported inputs face inflated production costs.

3. Currency Adjustments: Reduced import demand weakens demand for foreign currency, appreciating the domestic exchange rate. This makes exports costlier abroad, hurting competitiveness .

4. Inflationary Pressure: Tariffs act as supply shocks, eroding wage purchasing power and raising production costs. Empirical data shows each 10% tariff hike raises producer prices by ~1% .

Table: U.S. 2025 Tariff Impact on Consumer Prices

| Category | Short-Run Price Increase | Long-Run Price Increase |

|--------------|------------------------------|----------------------------|

| Apparel | 36% | 17% |

| Footwear | 40% | 19% |

| Motor Vehicles | 13.1% | 10.0% |

| Fresh Produce | 6.5% | 3.7% |

| Overall CPI | 2.0–2.3% | 1.7% |

Source: Yale Budget Lab and J.P. Morgan Research

Who Pays? The Burden Distribution

Contrary to political rhetoric, tariffs are primarily paid by domestic stakeholders, not foreign exporters:

1. Consumers Bear the Brunt:

- Full Pass-Through: Studies of recent U.S.-China tariffs show 90–100% of costs passed to consumers .

- Regressive Impact: Lower-income households spend disproportionately more on tariff-affected goods (e.g., apparel, food). In 2025, U.S. tariffs cost the bottom 10% of households 3.8% of income versus 1.1% for the top 10%—a burden 3.5× heavier .

- Annual Costs: $1,400 per household for the poorest decile vs. $5,600 for the richest .

2. Domestic Industries Face Squeeze:

- Input-Dependent Sectors: Manufacturers using imported materials (e.g., steel) see costs surge. The 2025 aluminum tariffs raised input expenses so sharply that the Midwest premium market faced "paralysis" .

- Exporters Lose Edge: Currency appreciation from tariffs makes U.S. exports pricier. Long-run U.S. exports could fall 17–18% under current policies .

3. Government Gains—With Caveats:

- Tariffs generated $2.9 trillion for the U.S. treasury from 2026–2035 in static scoring.

- However, dynamic losses (reduced growth, employment) slash $467 billion from this revenue .

4. Foreign Producers Adjust Marginally:

- Large economies like the U.S. can force partial absorption of tariffs by foreign firms (e.g., Chinese exporters lowering prices). Yet this effect is often offset by currency shifts .

Broader Economic Consequences

Tariffs function as efficiency taxes, distorting resource allocation:

- GDP Contraction: U.S. GDP is projected to be 0.4–0.6% smaller long-term under 2025 tariffs—equivalent to $135–$180 billion annually. Unemployment may rise by 594,000 jobs .

- Sectoral Imbalances: While U.S. manufacturing output could grow 2.5%, construction and agriculture shrink by 4.0% and 0.8% respectively due to resource reallocation and higher input costs .

- Trade Wars Amplify Losses: Retaliatory tariffs deepen recessions. EU retaliation alone could double U.S. GDP losses, while Canada’s economy may contract 2.0%.

Table: Global GDP Impact of U.S. 2025 Tariffs

| Economy | Long-Run GDP Change | Key Drivers |

|-------------|-------------------------|----------------|

| United States | -0.4% to -0.6% | Higher input costs, reduced exports |

| Canada | -2.0% | USMCA non-compliant tariffs, retaliation |

| China | -0.2% | Lower export demand |

| EU | -0.1% to -0.3% | Weaker exports, real income loss |

| Mexico | +0.1% | Production shifts from Asia |

Source: EU Commission and Yale Budget Lab

Historical Context and Modern Relevance

Tariffs have evolved through three distinct U.S. eras:

1. Revenue Dominance (1790–1860): Tariffs funded ~90% of federal income.

2. Protectionism (1861–1933): Industrial shielding peaked with Smoot-Hawley’s 20% average tariffs.

3. Reciprocity (1934–2016): Trade agreements prioritized barrier reduction .

The 2025 measures mark a protectionist resurgence, justified as correcting trade imbalances. Yet economists widely agree tariffs are ineffective for deficit reduction:

- Trade gaps reflect saving-investment imbalances, not tariff levels. The U.S. deficit persists because domestic spending exceeds income—a dynamic unchanged by tariffs .

- Manufacturing employment gains are marginal: Even eliminating the goods trade deficit would lift factory jobs from 8% to 10% of the workforce—too small to offset broader economic losses .

The Case For and Against in 2025

Arguments For Tariffs:

- Infant Industry Protection: Shielding emerging sectors (e.g., clean tech) during development.

- National Security: Reducing reliance on geopolitical rivals for critical goods (e.g., semiconductors) .

- Bargaining Leverage: Used to pressure Mexico on immigration or China on intellectual property .

Arguments Against Tariffs:

- Net Economic Loss: The 2018–19 China tariffs caused $51 billion in consumer/firm losses—only partially offset by protected-sector jobs .

- Supply Chain Chaos: Companies shift sourcing to third countries (e.g., Vietnam) rather than reshoring, creating inefficiencies .

- Inflation-Output Tradeoff: The Fed faces a dilemma: counter tariff-driven inflation with rate hikes (crushing growth) or tolerate erosion of real incomes .

Conclusion: The Self-Defeating Tax

Tariffs epitomize economic circularity: a tax sold as protection for domestic interests, yet paid overwhelmingly by a country’s own consumers and exporters. As Milton Friedman observed, they "protect the consumer against low prices" while eroding purchasing power and global competitiveness . The 2025 wave—with its regressive burdens, efficiency losses, and retaliation risks—reinforces a century of economic consensus: tariffs act as self-inflicted wounds, enriching narrow sectors at the expense of broader prosperity. In trade, as in medicine, the Hippocratic oath applies—first, do no harm.

For further reading, see the Yale Budget Lab’s real-time tariff tracker or the WTO’s analyses of trade policy mechanisms .

#Tariffs #Tariff #Trade #TradeDeals

5 things to know about tariffs and how they work

30 Great Business Ideas for Entrepreneurs in 2025

30 Great Business Ideas for Entrepreneurs in 2025

Looking to start a business but unsure where to begin? Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or aiming to build a scalable enterprise, these 30 business ideas offer inspiration and opportunities for success. From low-cost ventures to ambitious projects, there’s something for every skill set and interest.

Top Business Ideas for 2025

1. Lawn Care Service

Turn your love for the outdoors into a profitable business. With minimal equipment and the potential to expand into landscaping, this is a great option for those who enjoy hands-on work.

2. Rideshare Driving

A low-risk way to enter entrepreneurship. Use your car to drive for platforms like Uber or Lyft, offering flexibility and independence.

3. Pet Sitting

With 70% of U.S. families owning pets, pet sitting is a growing niche. Offer peace of mind to pet owners while earning income.

4. T-Shirt Printing

Combine creativity and commerce by starting a T-shirt printing business. Sell online or in bulk to reach a global audience.

5. Cleaning Service

A straightforward business with low overhead. Offer premium services like floor waxing or power-washing to stand out.

6. Online Reselling

Turn your eye for fashion into profit by reselling clothing and items online through platforms like Poshmark or Mercari.

7. Online Teaching

Leverage the demand for online education by teaching a subject you’re passionate about, or teach English as a foreign language.

8. Online Bookkeeping

Use your accounting skills to start an online bookkeeping service, catering to small businesses and freelancers.

9. Consulting

Share your expertise in areas like marketing, HR, or leadership by starting a consulting business.

10. Medical Courier Service

With the healthcare industry expanding, medical courier services are in demand. Transport lab specimens, prescriptions, and equipment.

11. App Development

Tap into the growing need for mobile and VR apps by starting an app development business.

12. Transcription Service

Offer transcription services from home, specializing in medical or legal transcription for higher earnings.

13. Professional Organizing

Help clients declutter and organize their spaces, following the trend toward minimalism.

14. Freelance Copywriting

Use your writing skills to create content for businesses, blogs, and websites. SEO knowledge can boost your value.

15. Home Care Service

With the aging population growing, home care services are in high demand. Assist seniors with daily tasks and errands.

16. Translation Service

If you’re multilingual, offer translation services for documents, websites, and more as global markets expand.

17. Digital Marketing

Help businesses cut through online clutter with SEO, social media management, and content marketing services.

18. Food Truck Operator

Take your culinary skills on the road with a food truck. Lower overhead costs and mobility make this a popular choice.

19. Real Estate

Become a real estate agent and help clients navigate the housing market. Certification is required in most states.

20. Graphic Design

Create eye-catching visuals for businesses, from flyers to digital ads, with minimal equipment needed.

21. Dropshipping

Start an e-commerce business without holding inventory. Partner with wholesalers to fulfill orders.

22. Personal Training

Share your fitness expertise by offering in-home training sessions and customized nutrition plans.

23. Resume Writing

Help job seekers stand out with professionally crafted resumes and cover letters.

24. Podcast Hosting

Launch a podcast on a topic you’re passionate about. Monetize through ads, sponsorships, and events.

25. Newsletter Creation

Build a subscriber base and monetize through ads and partnerships. Focus on a niche topic to attract a dedicated audience.

26. Event Catering

Turn your culinary skills into a catering business for weddings, parties, and corporate events.

27. Handyman Services

Offer repair and maintenance services for homes and businesses. Build a reputation for reliability.

28. Personal Shopping

Use your fashion sense to help clients curate their wardrobes and lifestyles.

29. Photography/Videography

Capture special moments or events for clients. Invest in quality equipment and editing software.

30. Professional Organizing

Help clients declutter and optimize their spaces, offering storage solutions and organization tips.

What Makes a Successful Small Business?

The most successful small businesses often involve digital marketing, cleaning services, and real estate. These industries cater to evergreen needs and have low barriers to entry.

How to Start a Business with No Money

Begin by keeping your current job and launching your business as a side hustle. Develop a solid business plan, explore crowdfunding, and seek investors. Work with professionals like attorneys and accountants to ensure compliance and financial health.

Work-from-Home Business Ideas

Ideal home-based businesses require minimal inventory, low startup costs, and flexible schedules. Examples include freelance writing, graphic design, and online teaching.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to maximize profits or pursue a passion, these business ideas offer a range of opportunities. Choose one that aligns with your skills, interests, and financial goals to set yourself up for success.

By Tejas Vemparala, Senior Writer at Business News Daily

Updated: February 5, 2025

#BusinessIdeas #Entrepreneurs #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneur #SelfEmployed #Business

Barack Obama And The University of Phoenix

Barack Obama And The University of Phoenix: [Opinion]

"Arne Duncan was Obama’s Education Secretary. They were basketball buddies. They had a scheme that was opposite of the 'Pump and Dump' somewhat like what Mitt Romney was doing. Obama and Duncan put mass regulations on the University of Phoenix and the stock tanked. Then the two of them along with a few others bought the University of Phoenix, then deregulated it. Then the stock blew up. If a Republican did that it would be a WORLD SCANDAL.

What else do you expect from a CHICAGO politician...???"

#ArneDuncan #BarackObama #UniversityofPhoenix #MartyNesbitt #TonyMiller #DepartmentofEducation

Bid to buy for-profit college by former Obama insiders raises questions

"As the Obama administration cracks down on for-profit colleges, three former officials working on behalf of an investment firm run by President Barack Obama’s best friend have staged a behind-the-scenes campaign to get the Education Department to green-light a purchase of the biggest for-profit of them all — the University of Phoenix.

The investors include a private equity firm founded and run by longtime Obama friend Marty Nesbitt and former Deputy Education Secretary Tony Miller. The firm, Chicago-based Vistria Group, has mounted a charm offensive on Capitol Hill to talk up the proposed sale of the troubled for-profit education giant, which receives more than $2 billion a year in taxpayer money but is under investigation by three state attorneys general and the FTC."

Obama’s Best Friend’s For-Profit University Faces Federal Investigation

Idaho AG drops ‘transparency’ lawsuit over University of Phoenix deal

High Stakes Treason - About John Brennan

Using open-source information, High Stakes Treason reveals what seems to be a major treasonous act of financial fraud committed against the American people and its allied international communities by former head of the CIA John O. Brennan.

High Stakes Treason presents verified open-source information to show former CIA Director John O. Brennan conducted a long-term criminal scheme to manipulate intelligence protocols and key counterterrorism (CT) personnel to increase the value of stock he held illegally to make millions. Brennan repeatedly filed, or caused to be filed, false official statements to hide his illegal ownership of stock in an indispensable government contracting company while maintaining his control over the CT initiatives of the Obama Administration—a clear conflict of interest. High Stakes Treason uses Brennan’s own words to describe in detail how he established sweeping new intelligence protocols for the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) and how these protocols enabled complete control over counterterror activities of the entire US government.

The book shows specific examples of how Brennan then apparently used a single unwitting NCTC analyst as his personal cutout to implement the new intel protocols and hide specific intelligence from the FBI and the CIA, enabling successful terror attacks against the United States—including the Boston Marathon Bombing. High Stakes Treason’s use of documentation reveals the identity of the NCTC analyst and documents Brennan’s apparent efforts to conceal his meetings with this analyst through multiple false entries in the White House Visitor Log. It also presents SEC documents which show Brennan was able to increase the value of his stock from $50,000 to $4,850,000 as Congress increased counterterrorism funding after each successful attack on our country.

#JohnBrennan #CIA #Treason