New seamless travel through toll plazas on Motorway No 9 from October 29
-
Recently Browsing 0 members
- No registered users viewing this page.
Announcements
-
Topics
-
Latest posts...
-
56
Is Thailand Value for money
Yes. Definitely. I have a lovely home that I rent, for about 10% of what I would pay in California, I live very well on an income which is not huge, have access to great health care, at a tiny fraction of what it costs in the US, and do not have to put up with alot of the aggravation that I had to when I lived back there. It is a very personal choice. I have friends who seem to be dropping like flies. I could be dead next year. You just don't know. I am not extravagant, but I live very, very well. A nice house, a new car every few years, new motorbikes for my gal and I every few years, a great art collection, plenty of good wine in the wine cooler, a new 77" OLED TV, a world class home theatre, plenty of international travel, etc. For me, it is a great lifestyle, that I could only dream of in the US. Well worth the expense and very easy to justify. Life is way too short. In the US the prices and inflation are now mind blowing. The cheapest lunch we have found was $30 for two. That is 1,000 baht, anytime you want something basic. A bag of groceries is 3,000 baht. A friend of mine is looking for an apartment to move to in LA, and really small, simple places are 70,000 baht per month. Nice two bedrooms are closer to 100,000 baht. Decent homes start at 125,000 baht per month. The cost of nearly everything has gone up dramatically. Runaway inflation? I had my motorbike seat redone on a scooter. 400 baht. A friend of mine had similar work done in the US. $275. I recently had a guy come over and insulate my ceiling. I bought the insulation and paid him 2000 baht for labor. In the US? $500 and up. I recently had an electrician do some work on the house. Nearly a full day of work. Paid him 1000 baht. In the US? $500 and up. An oil change for my scooter costs me 200 baht, with Castrol oil. In the US? $75. When I travel here I stay in nice four star hotels in Bangkok. Usually 1800-2500 baht. In the US? $130 for a crappy motel. $200 and up for a nice room. I eat well here. In a smaller town you can get a three course meal for 150-250 baht. In the US? 2000 baht and up, plus tax and a nearly mandatory 15% tip. I visit the emergency room here to visit a specialist, and with x-rays I am out the door for 2000 baht, at a private hospital. In the US? $300-2000. An anecdote on this subject. A good friend of mine got in a bad motorcycle accident some time ago. He almost lost his leg. He got his first of 11 operations at Bangkok Hospital Samui. It costs him over a million baht. They wanted to do a second procedure. They quoted him 1,400,000 baht. He decided to transfer to Bangkok. He was quoted 460,000 baht for the same procedure, at a top private hospital there. The surgeon told him that he worked at a public hospital too, and could do the same operation there, for alot less money. He told him he would get him a quote. In the interim, my friend called a good friend of his, in San Diego, who is an orthopedic surgeon. Since my friend is a retired chiropractor, he knew all the terminology, and explained what he needed, and asked for the best price. His friend called him back the next day, and quoted him $960,000, with cash discounts! The local surgeon here got back to him, and told him he could do it for 46,000 baht. He transferred, and they did all the rest of his procedures. So, 1,400,000 at Bangkok Hospital, 460,000 at Vejthani Hospital, and 46,000 at the public hospital, with an excellent surgeon. VS. 31,000,000 baht in the US. Again, no complaints from this peanut gallery. Friends of mine, who are single, enjoy the company of a young, beautiful woman for a couple of hours, for 2500 baht. In the US? $800 an hour now for a beauty, with alot of attitude. I could go on and on, all day long. I live at a level here, that I would never be able to live at, in the US, in most of Europe, in Oz, or Canada. -
5
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 2 October 2024
Thai woman missing in Bang Yai, Nonthaburi, last seen in taxi by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai woman has been reported missing since September 28. She was last seen leaving her condominium near Westgate in the evening and has not been in contact with her family, friends, or workplace since. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339592-thai-woman-missing-in-bang-yai-nonthaburi-last-seen-in-taxi/ -
0
Thai woman missing in Bang Yai, Nonthaburi, last seen in taxi
A Thai woman has been reported missing since September 28. She was last seen leaving her condominium near Westgate in the evening and has not been in contact with her family, friends, or workplace since. Her concerned friends and family have been unable to reach her as she was not carrying her mobile phone or any other communication devices at the time of her disappearance. A Facebook user, Thanita Na Lampang, posted a video clip seeking assistance in finding the missing woman, Pakamon Ongart. According to the post, Pakamon, approximately 30 years old, was last seen in a pink dress and carrying a brown and white shoulder bag. She was captured on CCTV taking a green and yellow taxi from the Bang Yai market area yesterday, September 30. “We are looking for a missing person. Our senior, Pakamon Ongart, went missing from her condominium near Westgate on the evening of September 28. She has not returned home to her parents, did not go to work, and has not contacted any friends. She was not carrying her mobile phone or any communication devices. Everyone is very worried. If anyone sees her, please let us know.” Further details provided in the post specify that Pakamon was seen getting into a green and yellow taxi from the Bang Yai market area. Pakamon’s friends, Thanita and King expressed their deep concern and urged anyone with information on Pakamon’s whereabouts to come forward, reported KhaoSod. “She was wearing a pink dress and carrying a brown and white shoulder bag when she was last seen. She took a green and yellow taxi from the Bang Yai market area. If anyone has any information, please provide any leads. Thank you very much.” Contact numbers 063-2056383 (Neet) and 084-1319632 (King) have been provided for anyone with information to reach out. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02 -
251
I Voted Today
I emailed my vote for Donald Trump. Harris and Biden make me want to puke. -
0
Iran’s Strategic Influence: The “Axis of Resistance” Across the Middle East
Iran’s “axis of resistance” refers to a network of militia/terrorist groups and political factions throughout the Middle East that are supported by Tehran, primarily through its Revolutionary Guards and the elite Quds Force. This alliance allows Iran to project power in the region, targeting rival nations such as Israel and Saudi Arabia. While Hezbollah is the most prominent and well-armed of these groups, the axis stretches far beyond Lebanon, reaching into other countries across the Middle East. The Iranian government provides substantial financial and military support to these groups. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards funnel millions of dollars to arm and train various militia forces, ensuring that Tehran’s strategic interests are enforced. This support is not only aimed at countering Israeli influence but also at destabilizing Saudi Arabia and other rivals, cementing Iran’s foothold in the region. One of the key concerns for the international community is how Iran might respond to Israeli actions, particularly when Israeli forces recently attacked Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The world watches as tensions between Israel and Iran-backed forces escalate, raising the potential for broader conflict. In Lebanon, Hezbollah has been a focal point of attention for Israel. The group, heavily armed and with a significant presence in southern Lebanon near the Israeli border, plays a crucial role in Iran's regional strategy. Its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, a powerful figure both politically and militarily, was killed in recent Israeli strikes in Beirut. Nasrallah’s death is a significant blow to Hezbollah and the broader axis of resistance. His influence extended far beyond Lebanon, making him a central figure in Iran’s efforts to counter Israeli influence in the region. Iran’s support also extends to Palestinian groups, particularly Hamas. Financial and military aid from Tehran has helped Hamas develop its capabilities, including the use of drones in its 7 October attack against Israel. Analysts argue that the sophistication of Hamas’s assault on Israel’s Iron Dome defense system is evidence of Iran’s backing. Despite this, there have been moments of tension between Hamas and Iran, particularly when Hamas supported anti-Assad protesters during Syria’s civil war. Iran momentarily withdrew support from the group at that time. In addition to Hamas, smaller factions like the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) also receive backing from Tehran. Syria is another key battleground for Iran’s influence. The Iranian military, intelligence, and security services have been critical in bolstering the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Iran’s support isn’t limited to Assad’s forces but also extends to various pro-government militias, including the Fatemiyoun Brigade, the Baqir Brigade, the Zainebiyoun Brigade, and Quwat al Ridha. These militias are positioned to defend Assad’s government, ensuring that Iran maintains strategic influence should his regime ever be destabilized. In Yemen, Iran has employed the Houthi rebels as a proxy force to exert pressure on both Saudi Arabia and Israel. The Houthis, one of several groups vying for power in Yemen, have proven to be a disruptive force in the region. Professor Clarke noted that the Houthis are "prepared to make war on just about anybody," aligning with Iranian interests to keep them active in the ongoing conflict. Recently, the Houthis demonstrated their reach by firing a ballistic missile that struck central Israel in September. The missile’s debris fell near a train station and an open, unpopulated area, showcasing the threat posed by these Iran-backed forces. Iran’s “axis of resistance” continues to be a central element of its foreign policy, exerting influence and destabilizing rivals throughout the Middle East. As regional tensions rise, the actions of these groups, backed by Tehran, remain a focal point for both Israel and Saudi Arabia, as well as the international community. Based on a report from: Sky News 2024-10-02 -
0
Watch: Man Sparks Outrage by Smashing $4,000 Autographed Taylor Swift Guitar
Swifties are reeling after a video of a man smashing a $4,000 autographed Taylor Swift guitar went viral. The unnamed man stirred up controversy by destroying the guitar, signed by the 14-time Grammy winner, just moments after purchasing it. In the footage, which surfaced on Sunday, September 29, the white-haired man can be seen picking up the guitar before repeatedly smashing it with a hammer, sending shards of wood flying across the room. As the destruction unfolds, his laughter fills the air, seemingly delighted by the chaos he has caused. At one point, it appears he’s about to deliver a final, dramatic overhead smash before the host of the event steps in, taking the hammer away. Other comments were more critical of the man's behavior. One person sarcastically quipped, "What a normal, well-adjusted human." Another criticized the wastefulness of his act, noting, "Why didn't he give some of that cash to his poor neighbors who can't afford eggs and cereal. These are not serious people." While most fans were left bewildered, one commenter tried to look on the bright side, saying, "I hope the auction price went to a great cause!!!" The exact reason behind the man’s actions remains unclear, but some have speculated that the stunt could have been politically motivated. Earlier in September, Taylor Swift publicly endorsed Kamala Harris for president, and some believe this may have triggered the bizarre protest. "Yeah, this endorsement thing ain't working out too hot for Ms. @taylorswift13," one person remarked online. However, not everyone condemned the man’s actions, with some actually supporting him. One user stated, "I want to buy this guy a beer," while another boldly declared, "He's my hero." As of now, Taylor Swift has yet to comment on the viral video, leaving fans and critics alike to continue debating the motivations and implications behind the shocking act. Based on a report from: Newsweek 2024-10-02 -
0
Julian Assange: "I Pled Guilty to Journalism" in Bid for Freedom
In his first public address since being released from prison, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange declared that his freedom was not due to the justice system functioning as intended, but rather because he "pled guilty to journalism." Speaking at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, France, Assange gave his testimony to the Parliamentary Assembly, discussing the effects of his detention and conviction on human rights. The assembly consists of representatives from 46 European nations, and his speech was given ahead of a broader debate on his case and its implications. Assange’s supporters, particularly advocates of press freedom, praised his efforts, arguing that his work was vital in exposing military abuses that might otherwise have gone unchecked. However, his critics took a starkly different view. They accused him of recklessly endangering national security and putting lives at risk, particularly those of individuals who had provided information to U.S. forces in the Middle East. Some argued that Assange’s actions had exceeded the boundaries of traditional journalism, turning him into a criminal rather than a whistleblower. Assange’s legal journey reached its conclusion in a U.S. district court on the Northern Mariana Islands, an American commonwealth in the Pacific. There, he pleaded guilty to charges under the Espionage Act, admitting to conspiring to unlawfully obtain and distribute classified national defense information. His sentence amounted to the time he had already spent behind bars while contesting extradition from the U.K. to the United States. The Council of Europe’s human rights committee took a strong stance on the issue, designating Assange as a political prisoner and issuing a draft resolution condemning the harsh treatment he endured. The committee expressed its deep concern about the wider implications of his case on press freedom and human rights, highlighting what they described as a chilling effect on investigative journalism. As the debate surrounding his actions and their consequences continues, Assange’s legacy remains polarizing. For some, he is a champion of transparency and accountability in government. For others, his methods posed an unacceptable risk to lives and national security. What is clear is that his case has ignited significant discussions about the role of journalism, freedom of information, and the ethical boundaries that should govern both. Based on a report from: ABC News 2024-10-02 -
0
Meloni's Crackdown on Protests Sparks Fears of Growing Repression in Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been working to present a moderate image to the European political establishment, but her government’s recent crackdown on protests has raised alarms about the country’s shift towards more authoritarian governance. A new "security bill," passed by the lower house of the Italian parliament in mid-September, targets climate activists and criminalizes the obstruction of roads and railways, with penalties of up to two years in prison. Critics argue that, if the Senate approves the bill, it could effectively ban peaceful street protests in Italy. This legislative move follows a series of actions by Meloni’s government to deter protest activities, particularly in response to climate demonstrations that have drawn international attention. The government had already imposed harsh penalties for damaging artworks, raising fines to €60,000 after activists targeted Rome's Trevi Fountain and Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus.” These tougher measures aim to prevent disruptions like those seen during the G7 demonstrations in Turin earlier this year, where protesters blocked highways and burned photos of world leaders. The bill also extends prison sentences for those resisting the police and increases the punishment for inmates participating in hunger strikes, leading some to call it the "anti-Gandhi" law. Despite these criticisms, Nicola Molteni, Undersecretary for the Interior Ministry, defended the government’s approach. In a statement to POLITICO, he argued that the current administration has done more to protect the right to protest than previous ones, stating, “This government has never denied permission for or banned any protest unless it risked putting in danger the public order of our country.” He emphasized that the right to protest must not interfere with the rights of others, including the ability to work, access transportation, or receive emergency services. “This enters in a perimeter of illegality that cannot be tolerated,” Molteni said. However, as Meloni faces mounting political challenges—such as budget negotiations, coalition disagreements, and looming regional elections—her critics accuse her of using the protest crackdown as a diversionary tactic. Laura Boldrini, a former speaker and current MP for the center-left Democratic Party, expressed concern about the government's trajectory, stating, “This government is drifting in a repressive direction, limiting peaceful protest and dissent and pushing Italy in a direction outside the perimeter of a liberal democracy, toward a democraship in the style of Orbán.” The focus on security has been a key element of Meloni's tenure since she took office in 2022. One of her government’s first legislative moves was to crack down on illegal raves, with organizers facing up to six years in prison. Since then, Meloni’s administration has introduced measures that make it easier to imprison teenagers, pregnant women, and mothers with newborns, while also instituting automatic detention for migrants. Additionally, the government has rolled back reproductive and LGBTQ+ rights by allowing pro-life organizations into abortion clinics, banning surrogacy, and refusing to issue birth certificates for the children of same-sex couples. Human rights organizations have expressed concern about these developments. Antigone, an association that advocates for the rights of incarcerated individuals, criticized the government’s reliance on the penal system to address social issues. “The government has decided to manage social issues in the most illiberal possible way, using the penal system, rather than [using] dialogue, and resources, that you would expect in a democracy with the rule of law,” the group said. Meloni has been unapologetic about her focus on security, declaring it her top priority ahead of the security bill’s introduction. Molteni explained that security is essential for fostering economic growth and investment and for protecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly. However, environmental activists feel particularly targeted by the government’s crackdown. Climate campaigners have been labeled “eco vandals,” and Italy's powerful anti-mafia investigative units have been used to monitor their activities. Giacomo Baggio, a member of the Last Generation climate protest group, is currently facing a curfew and a ban on leaving his city pending a hearing, after he filed a complaint against the police for assault during a protest. Based on a report from: Politico 2024-10-02 -
0
Macron Faces Leadership Struggles After Appointing New Prime Minister
French President Emmanuel Macron is finding it difficult to maintain his usual command since his new government was established earlier this month. Sources familiar with the situation report that Macron’s leadership style, once firmly top-down, is now facing challenges in light of changes within his administration. Macron, who has been president for seven years, built his governance on a “Jupiterian” model, one where power flowed directly from the top. However, since the appointment of Prime Minister Michel Barnier and the introduction of a new cabinet, Macron’s influence appears to be diminishing. The new government includes a mix of staunch conservatives alongside Macron’s centrist allies, creating a complex dynamic. One of Macron’s long-time allies remarked on the noticeable shift in decision-making. "Mechanically, decisions don’t go up the chain of command as much as before, the data is not quite so precise, and the conversations with ministers aren’t as sharp," said the ally, who spoke under anonymity. The source went on to describe a “vacuum effect” at the top of the government. The changes have not only impacted Macron but also those working within his administration. A parliamentary adviser noted that many of Macron’s advisers have felt the effects of Barnier’s arrival. “[They] have lost 50 percent of their work and have been removed from cross-ministry meetings,” the adviser commented, highlighting the growing separation between Macron’s circle and Barnier’s new team. The decision to appoint Barnier, former chief Brexit negotiator for the European Union, as prime minister came after a summer snap election that left the French parliament fractured. While the election saw gains for both the far left and far right, no single political force came close to securing a majority. In response, Macron’s move to appoint a conservative veteran like Barnier is seen as an attempt to break the deadlock, but it has also created an unusual power-sharing arrangement between the president and the right, even if some centrist allies remain in the government. In fact, Macron himself has distanced himself from the newly appointed cabinet. “Not [my] government,” he reportedly commented last week. His discomfort with sharing power is evident, as he has often been known to bypass his prime ministers and take direct control in times of domestic crises. According to a government adviser, the new setup has left Macron unsettled. “When you change habits, it upsets, it unsettles, it can give you vertigo,” the adviser said. An official from Macron’s Renaissance party added that the president is now “looking for the instruction manual” as he navigates this unfamiliar terrain. Macron’s frustrations have also surfaced publicly. During an official visit to Canada last week, he faced criticism from pro-Palestinian protesters, leading to a rare outburst. “If only they knew how hard we fight to improve things … I cannot but feel a sense of injustice when I’m challenged like that,” he told reporters, adding, “In France, it is also the same situation.” Despite his continued efforts, some of Macron’s closest allies are skeptical about his ability to regain his previous level of control. One long-time confidant was blunt in their assessment. “The president can’t act and knows that he won’t regain the upper hand for the next three years,” the ally said, referring to the time remaining until the 2027 presidential election. As Macron grapples with the changing dynamics of his administration, it remains to be seen how he will adapt to the new political reality, where power is no longer concentrated solely in his hands. Based on a report from: Politico 2024-10-02 -
0
Le Pen Applauds Rise of Anti-Migration Movements Across Europe
Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s National Rally, praised the growing success of anti-migration and eurosceptic movements across Europe following the Freedom Party of Austria’s (FPO) historic win in the country’s general election. Le Pen hailed the victory as a clear message of national sovereignty triumphing over what she perceives as Brussels’ overreach into the affairs of individual European nations. Eurosceptic leaders across the continent echoed Le Pen’s sentiments, congratulating Herbert Kickl, the FPO’s leader, on the party’s first-ever election victory. They framed the success as part of a larger shift in Europe, where populist and nationalist forces are pushing back against pro-European Union policies. Le Pen remarked, “After the Italian, Dutch, and French elections, this groundswell which carries the defense of national interests, the safeguarding of identities and the resurrection of sovereignties, confirms everywhere the triumph of the peoples.” Le Pen’s National Rally, which has long opposed immigration and promoted nationalistic policies, is allied with the FPO in the European Parliament. Her own victory in France’s European elections earlier this year was so impactful that President Emmanuel Macron called for snap elections, resulting in a right-wing government being formed. The rise of anti-migration and eurosceptic parties, including Le Pen’s, signals a growing challenge to the European Union’s influence and control over member states. Le Pen’s vision aligns with the goals of the Patriots for Europe, a coalition determined to restore powers from Brussels to national governments and fundamentally reform the European Union. This movement is gaining momentum in various countries, with the Freedom Party’s triumph being the latest sign of this shift. Eurosceptic leaders from other countries were quick to express their enthusiasm. Geert Wilders, the long-time eurosceptic leader in the Netherlands, celebrated the FPO’s victory alongside his own successes. Wilders, who led his Party for Freedom to a major victory in the Dutch elections last year, also seeks to challenge EU influence, although his controversial stance on issues such as a potential "Nexit" and banning the Koran prevented him from becoming prime minister. On the social media platform X, Wilders declared, “The Netherlands, Hungary, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, France, Spain, Czech Republic, and today Austria! We are winning! Times are changing! Identity, sovereignty, freedom, and no more illegal immigration/asylum is what tens of millions of Europeans long for.” Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has often clashed with Brussels over migration and other issues of sovereignty, also congratulated Kickl and the FPO, declaring, “Another win for the Patriots: a historic victory for FPO in Austria! Congratulations to Herbert Kickl!” Both Kickl and Orbán have been known for their opposition to immigration, and their governments are friendly toward Russia, a stance that has further distanced them from EU leadership. The FPO’s platform also echoes these positions, highlighting concerns over open borders and mass immigration. Their manifesto expressed a belief that Austria’s sovereignty is being eroded by the European Union, stating, “The government of the state is increasingly no longer in Vienna, but in Brussels. The space of the state is being eliminated by the de facto principle of open borders. The people of the state are gradually being replaced by permanent mass immigration.” Under the leadership of 55-year-old Kickl, the Freedom Party won 28.8% of the vote, surpassing the center-right Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) at 26.3% and the center-left Social Democrats (SPÖ), who secured 21.1%, according to exit polls. Reflecting on the party’s historic performance, Kickl remarked, “We’ve made Austrian history because it’s the first time the Freedom Party is number one in a parliamentary election, and you have to think how far we’ve come.” This victory for the FPO, a party originally founded in the 1950s by a former Nazi lawmaker, signifies a remarkable political transformation and illustrates the increasing appeal of nationalist, anti-immigration platforms across Europe. The rise of these forces could reshape the political landscape of the continent in the years to come, as more and more nations gravitate toward movements that prioritize sovereignty, identity, and restrictive immigration policies. Based on a report from: Daily Telegraph 2024-10-02 -
0
Elon Musk: Trump as the ‘Only Way’ to Preserve U.S. Democracy, Says Billionaire
Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk recently expressed his belief that the future of American democracy hinges on former President Donald Trump winning the upcoming election. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, took to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to share his controversial perspective, emphasizing that Trump is essential for the nation’s democratic survival. "Very few Americans realize that, if Trump is NOT elected, this will be the last election," Musk declared. "Far from being a threat to democracy, he is the only way to save it!" Musk's comments center around a theory regarding immigration and voting patterns in the U.S. According to Musk, Democrats are hastening the naturalization process for undocumented immigrants to create a new voting bloc that would significantly favor their party in future elections. He suggested that this influx of new voters would tip the scales, leaving Republicans at a permanent disadvantage. Musk elaborated on this idea by stating, "Let me explain: if even 1 in 20 illegals become citizens per year, something that the Democrats are expediting as fast as humanly possible, that would be about 2 million new legal voters in 4 years." He highlighted the delicate balance in swing states, adding, "The voting margin in the swing states is often less than 20 thousand votes. That means if the ‘Democratic’ Party succeeds, there will be no more swing states!!" Musk's support for Trump extends to accusations against the current administration. He claimed that President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are strategically relocating asylum-seekers to key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Arizona. According to Musk, this is a deliberate effort to influence future elections in favor of the Democratic Party. The White House, along with the campaigns of Harris and Trump, has been contacted for responses to Musk’s statements. Immigration, an already contentious issue in American politics, has gained renewed prominence in the current campaign. Former President Trump has been particularly vocal about the subject, directing much of his ire toward Vice President Harris. Over the weekend, Trump intensified his criticism, calling for Harris to be impeached due to her handling of immigration policies. "Kamala’s Illegal Migrants. It’s the biggest crime story of our time. She should resign or be IMPEACHED!" Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform. His rhetoric didn’t stop there. While speaking at a campaign rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, Trump accused Harris of enabling violence through her policies, stating, "Hundreds of people have been murdered because of her action at the border, and thousands more will follow in rapid succession. She should be impeached and prosecuted for her actions." Trump's criticisms came shortly after Harris made a visit to the southern U.S. border, a trip aimed at showcasing her stance on border security. While Harris has portrayed herself as tough on immigration, she has been critical of Trump’s approach to the issue, particularly his failure to pass a bipartisan border bill. During a rally in Nevada last month, Harris took direct aim at Trump, accusing him of talking tough but not following through. "But Donald Trump doesn’t want to fix this problem. He talks a big game about a lot of things," Harris told the crowd. "He talks a big game about border security, but he does not walk the walk." As the 2024 election draws closer, immigration is sure to remain a central issue, with both sides trading jabs over who is better equipped to handle the complex challenge. Musk’s public endorsement of Trump, coupled with his inflammatory claims, adds another layer of intrigue to an already heated political landscape. Based on a report from: The Hill 2024-10-02 -
0
Hillary Clinton Warns of Upcoming Misinformation Targeting Kamala Harris
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has issued a stark warning about a potential "October surprise" aimed at distorting and misrepresenting Vice President Kamala Harris. In a recent interview with “Firing Line” host Margaret Hoover, Clinton expressed concerns that a concerted effort would be made to twist Harris’s image and achievements ahead of the upcoming election. Clinton highlighted the dangers of disinformation campaigns that begin online, often in dark corners of the internet, before spreading to larger platforms. “This is dangerous stuff,” she said. “It starts online often on the dark web. It migrates. It’s picked up by the pro-Trump media. It’s then reported on by everybody else, which makes sure it has about 100 percent coverage, and people believe it.” She warned that, as the election draws nearer, “the digital airwaves” will likely be filled with misinformation, which can easily gain traction and influence public perception. Looking ahead, Clinton speculated that Harris may become the target of a major disinformation campaign in the final weeks before the election. “I don’t know what it’s going to be,” she said about the anticipated “October surprise,” a term often used to describe last-minute efforts to influence an election. “But it will be something, and we’ll have to work very, very hard to make sure that it is exposed as the lie that it is.” Clinton also voiced concerns about the role foreign actors such as Russia, Iran, and China could play in fueling disinformation efforts, specifically through social media. She stressed the importance of the press maintaining a “consistent narrative” about the potential dangers posed by former President Donald Trump and his influence on the country. Based on a report from: The Hill 2024-10-02 -
0
U.S. Steps Back from Seeking Reelection on U.N. Human Rights Council
The Biden administration has decided not to pursue a second consecutive term on the United Nations Human Rights Council. This decision, announced by the State Department, marks a shift in the U.S. approach to the Geneva-based council, which has faced substantial criticism over the years. The U.S. had made it a priority to rejoin the council when President Biden took office in 2021, after former President Donald Trump withdrew from the body, citing what he described as a persistent anti-Israel bias. However, since rejoining, the Biden administration has expressed dissatisfaction with the council's stance on several issues, particularly in relation to votes concerning the Middle East. "We decided not to seek another (term) on the Human Rights Council at this time because we are engaged with our allies about the best way to move forward," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. The election process for the 47-member council is managed by the U.N. General Assembly, with candidate nations divided into various regional groups. The U.S. belongs to the Western Hemisphere and Others group (WEOG), and three other nations—Spain, Iceland, and Switzerland—are running from the same group. Miller assured reporters that these nations would adequately represent U.S. interests and values. “All of them are countries with a very strong record of support for human rights,” Miller said. “We thought they would carry the flag forward, but we will continue to remain engaged on human rights issues.” The U.N. Human Rights Council was established in 2006 to replace its predecessor, a human rights commission discredited due to its members’ poor human rights records. Despite initial optimism, the new council has faced similar accusations. Critics argue that nations with questionable human rights practices seek membership to shield themselves and their allies from scrutiny. The U.S. has been particularly vocal about the issue of electing candidates with poor human rights records, especially those running on uncontested slates. Throughout its membership, the U.S. has stood as one of Israel’s staunchest defenders, repeatedly condemning what it perceives as anti-Israel bias within the council. This stance played a significant role in the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw from the council in 2018. During his tenure, Trump pointed to the council’s disproportionate focus on Israel as a major flaw, a sentiment that his administration echoed loudly on the global stage. However, when President Biden took office, his administration quickly signaled a return to the council, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken criticizing Trump's withdrawal. Blinken argued that the decision had failed to produce any meaningful changes and instead allowed authoritarian regimes to gain influence in the absence of U.S. leadership. As Blinken stated at the time, the withdrawal “did nothing to encourage meaningful change, but instead created a vacuum of U.S. leadership, which countries with authoritarian agendas have used to their advantage.” Based on a report from: US News 2024-10-02 -
251
I Voted Today
https://www.realclearpolling.com/polls/president/general/2024/trump-vs-harris Not exactly looking good for Trump. You can tell because @illisdean isn't posting polls anymore. -
103
Two Friends in Drunken Dispute: One Knocked Unconscious After Argument Turns Violent
Sorry I assumed they were both Aussies, of course I was talking about the perpetrator.
-
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now