"ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, and Claude all recommend the same 'nonsense' tariff calculation." read more
Bradley Bartell, a Wisconsin resident and Trump voter, is considering leaving the United States after his wife, Camila Muoz, was detained by federal immigration officials[1]. Muoz, a Peruvian citizen, overstayed her visa while in the process of obtaining permanent residency[1]. Bartell expressed to Newsweek that he is "seriously thinking about moving to Peru" if his wife is deported, though he acknowledges the difficulty this would pose for their 12-year-old son[1]. This situation highlights the broader impact of the Trump administration's extensive deportation initiatives, which have expanded to include nonviolent offenders and those without gang affiliations[1]. read more
His administration is suddenly changing tactics after a federal judge ruled that its mass firings of probationary workers were probably illegal. read more
On February 3, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a sovereign wealth fund (SWF) for the United States, aiming to create one of the world's largest such funds. Given the nation's $36 trillion debt, the administration is exploring funding options, including the potential sale of federal public lands. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated plans to "monetize the asset side of the U.S. balance sheet," referring to national parks, public lands, and natural resources as potential assets. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum estimated these federal lands could be worth up to $200 trillion. This approach has raised concerns about the preservation of public lands and their traditional uses, such as recreation and conservation. read more
If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID or any other TSA-approved identification, you may still be allowed to fly, but it depends on the circumstances and TSA's discretion. Here's how it works:
1. **Identity Verification Process**:
- If you lack proper ID, TSA officers may initiate an identity verification process. This involves providing personal information such as your name, current address, and other details to confirm your identity[1][3].
- You may be required to present secondary documents (e.g., a birth certificate or Social Security card) or answer questions about your identity[5].
2. **Additional Screening**:
- If your identity is successfully verified, you will undergo additional security screening, including a pat-down and thorough inspection of carry-on items[1].
3. **Risk of Denial**:
- If TSA cannot confirm your identity or if you decline to cooperate with the process, you will not be allowed to proceed through security or board the flight[1][3].
While this process provides an avenue for flying without approved ID, it is not guaranteed and can be time-consuming. It is strongly recommended to secure a REAL ID or alternative form of identification before traveling to avoid complications.
Citations:
[1] www.sportsdestinations.com
[2] www.npr.org
[3] www.reddit.com
[4] www.reddit.com
[5] www.tsa.gov
[6] www.dhs.gov
Oh, but wait, there's more!
[11] journals.sagepub.com
[12] aceproject.org
[13] www.pbslearningmedia.org
[14] www.un.org
[15] www.cbsnews.com
[16] publicintegrity.org
[17] www.idea.int
[18] cla.umn.edu
[19] aeon.co
[20] www.thirteen.org
[21] crsreports.congress.gov
[22] slate.com
[23] www.pbs.org
[24] licsjournal.org
[25] www.law.cornell.edu
[26] connecticuthistory.org
[27] www.carnegie.org
[28] www.justice.gov
[29] vote.uiowa.edu
[30] naacp.org
[31] www.reddit.com
[32] www.findlaw.com
[33] www.saturdayeveningpost.com
[34] www.propublica.org
[35] ocvote.gov
If you are illiterate, I don't believe you should vote.
#258 | Posted by ScottS
There is no coherent reason to argue that illiterate individuals should be denied the right to vote. Such a stance conflicts with the fundamental principles of democracy, equality, and human rights.
### **Historical Context**
Literacy tests have historically been used to disenfranchise marginalized groups, particularly African Americans and immigrants, in the United States. These tests were often applied subjectively or unfairly, serving as tools of systemic discrimination rather than genuine assessments of voter competence. For example, Southern states employed literacy tests after Reconstruction to deny Black citizens their suffrage, often requiring them to interpret complex legal texts while allowing white citizens to pass with minimal effort[3][5]. This practice was abolished by the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which recognized literacy tests as discriminatory[5].
### **Democratic Principles**
The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy and should not be contingent on literacy. Voting allows individuals to express their preferences and participate in shaping policies that affect their lives. Denying illiterate individuals the right to vote undermines the democratic principle of inclusivity and equal representation.
### **Legal Protections**
The Voting Rights Act explicitly protects individuals who struggle with literacy by allowing them to receive assistance at polling stations. Congress has affirmed that barriers such as literacy requirements disproportionately exclude certain groups from participating in elections, especially those affected by unequal educational opportunities[1][4]. Language minority provisions further ensure that election materials are accessible in multiple languages, addressing issues related to both literacy and language proficiency[4].
### **Practical Considerations**
Illiteracy does not equate to an inability to make informed decisions. Individuals who cannot read may still possess knowledge about political issues through other means, such as oral communication, community discussions, or media. Assistance at polling stations ensures they can cast their votes effectively without compromising their rights[1][6].
### **Conclusion**
Restricting voting rights based on literacy perpetuates discrimination and violates democratic ideals. Instead of excluding illiterate individuals from voting, efforts should focus on removing barriers and providing support to ensure that all citizens can participate in the electoral process equally.
Citations:
[1] www.propublica.org
[2] www.law.berkeley.edu
[3] en.wikipedia.org
[4] www.justice.gov
[5] www.britannica.com
[6] www.pbs.org
[7] ballotpedia.org
[8] www.archives.gov
[9] www.ebsco.com
[10] www.reddit.com
told you before, I don't know your ------ coded language - and I don't want to know it.
#322 | Posted by ScottS
I knew there was a reason i liked you!!