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Pence Slams Trump: Too Soft on Putin

Mike Pence
Mike Pence (AP/Alex Brandon)

Former Vice President Mike Pence criticized President Donald Trump’s foreign policy style on Sunday, arguing that Trump has been too soft on Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Ukraine conflict. Pence made the remarks on CNN’s State of the Union while discussing the ongoing war and Trump’s recent summit remarks.

During the interview, host Jake Tapper pressed Pence on whether Trump had been “played” by Putin, noting Trump’s shift away from demanding an immediate ceasefire. Instead, Trump suggested that a peace deal could be reached quickly if Ukraine ceded control of the Donbas region to Russia. Five Ukrainians were reported killed the night before, further raising questions about the feasibility of Trump’s approach.

Pence responded by drawing on his time as Trump’s vice president, stating that while Trump’s diplomatic style often involved what he called a “velvet glove,” harsher measures were necessary. Pence urged immediate passage of a sanctions package in the Senate, describing it as broadly supported and capable of devastating Russia’s economy if enforced.

Pence emphasized that Putin only respects strength and warned that diplomacy alone would not stop Russian aggression. He argued that the U.S. must balance engagement with the threat of crushing economic consequences, while continuing to provide security assurances to Ukraine and working with European allies.

The remarks reflect ongoing divisions within the Republican Party over how best to address Russia’s war in Ukraine. Some Republicans favor a hardline stance with expanded sanctions and military support, while others, including Trump, have prioritized diplomatic solutions, even if that means concessions from Ukraine. Pence, who has frequently positioned himself as a foreign policy hawk, made clear that he believes any negotiation with Putin must be backed by overwhelming economic and military pressure.

As President Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepares to meet with Trump at the White House, the debate over America’s posture toward Russia remains unsettled. Pence’s comments underscore a larger Republican rift—between those who see diplomacy as the path forward and those who argue that only uncompromising strength can deter Putin’s ambitions.

Taxpayer Workaround Exposed: Texas Non-Profits Fund College for Illegal Immigrants

Texas Flag
Texas flag (Pete Alexopoulos/Unsplash)

Texas non-profit groups are bypassing state and federal restrictions by funding college tuition for illegal immigrants through newly created mutual aid funds. This comes after a federal court struck down the Texas Dream Act, which had allowed non-citizens to pay in-state tuition. Despite the ruling, activists are working to keep illegal immigrants enrolled in Texas public universities using private donations.

In June 2025, a federal judge invalidated the Texas Dream Act, ending in-state tuition eligibility for undocumented students. The ruling forced public colleges to charge these students out-of-state rates—typically three times higher. The decision affected an estimated 20,000 students across Texas campuses.

On July 11, 2025, left-leaning organizations Students Engaged in Advancing Texas (SEAT) and Texas Students for DEI (TXS4DEI) launched a mutual aid program titled “Keeping the Texas Dream.” The program aims to offset tuition costs for illegal immigrants now subject to out-of-state rates. Although it doesn’t cover full tuition, the fund narrows the financial gap to maintain student enrollment.

At the University of Texas at Austin, a separate group called Rooted launched its own initiative on August 3 to offer similar assistance. Backed by student and alumni activists, the Rooted Financial Assistance Program is designed to continue support for illegal immigrants, directly opposing the court’s decision and state policy.

Critics warn that these efforts represent a coordinated attempt to subvert the law through private financing. While technically legal, the programs raise significant concerns about undermining immigration policy, misusing nonprofit status, and diverting attention and resources from citizens and legal residents.

Legal challenges are expected as lawmakers and watchdog groups examine the long-term legality of such private funding channels within public institutions.

Shell Game at Kansas State: LGBT Center Closed, DEI Rebranded

DEI
DEI (Amy Elting/Unsplash)

Kansas State University shut down its Spectrum Center by July 31, responding to new state law banning DEI offices and related practices. Yet, the core messaging and ideology persist under a new label.
The institution renamed its DEI office the Office of Access and Opportunity while retaining promotion of DEI ideas like “microaggressions” and “intersectionality.” Conservative activists warn ideological programs continue despite the charade.

Kansas State’s dean of students, President Thomas Lane, announced the Spectrum Center would “cease operations” in a campus-wide letter on July 23. The closure followed the passage of Kansas’s Senate Bill 125, part of the 2025 budget bill, which penalizes DEI-related offices, training, and pronoun usage in email signatures .

After the shutdown, K-State quietly changed the name of its DEI office to the “Office of Access and Opportunity,” preserving much of its previous content. Trainings still address “microaggressions,” use the “Social Identity Wheel,” and encourage reflection on overlapping identities such as race, gender, and other classifications.

Young America’s Foundation (YAF) filed a Civil Rights Complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights in March. It asserts that this renaming is misleading and represents a “shell game” disguised as compliance. YAF also alleges continued programming includes ethnicity-based pay scales, racial-focused athletic initiatives, and so-called “decolonized spaces”.

Silas Thoennes, chairman of KSU’s YAF chapter, said, “The Spectrum Center was the embodiment of leftist ideology. Its closure was a win, but much work remains”.

This development echoes similar responses at Wichita State and the University of Kansas, which have also dismantled visible DEI structures but may use rebranded programs to continue promotion of the ideology

Bush Dynasty Eyes Comeback With Possible Maine Governor Run

Wisconsin
"Vote Here" sign (Photo by Grace Cary/Getty Images)

The Bush family may be preparing for a return to politics with Jonathan Bush, cousin of former President George W. Bush and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, exploring a 2026 run for governor of Maine. The move would revive one of America’s most prominent political dynasties after nearly a decade out of elected office.

Jonathan Bush has launched an exploratory committee and formed a policy group called Maine for Keeps to shape his campaign platform. He has focused his message on education, housing, and entrepreneurship, calling for an end to what he describes as Maine’s “learned helplessness.” His pitch emphasizes restoring the “Maine Dream” by combining business innovation with public service.

The potential campaign has full family backing. A fundraiser hosted at the Bush family’s Walker’s Point compound in Kennebunkport drew support from both George W. Bush and Jeb Bush, signaling the family’s willingness to mobilize its political network. The Bushes have had deep ties to Maine for over a century, with their summer estate long serving as a base for both family gatherings and political events.

The 2026 race is expected to be competitive. Democratic Governor Janet Mills is term-limited, opening the field to a range of candidates from both parties. Democrats are likely to run Shenna Bellows or Hannah Pingree, while Republicans see Jonathan Bush as a candidate who could appeal to Maine’s tradition of independent, moderate voters. Former GOP state senator Rick Bennett, now an independent, is also weighing a campaign.

Observers note that while the Bush family name carries weight nationally, Maine voters have a history of rejecting political dynasties in favor of local authenticity. Jonathan Bush’s challenge will be to balance his family’s legacy with a message tailored to Maine’s unique political culture.

Ousted MSNBC Host Launches Extreme Attack, Calls Trump ‘Embodiment of America’s Sins’

joy
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 28: Joy Reid speaks onstage during the 2019 Global Citizen Festival: Power The Movement in Central Park on September 28, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Global Citizen)

Former MSNBC host Joy Reid, who was dismissed earlier this year, resurfaced this week with a sweeping attack on President Trump. In a video posted to her Substack program, Welcome to Joy’s House!, Reid described Trump as “the physical embodiment of all of America’s sins,” while dismissing claims that God placed him in the White House. The comments reflect the continuing hostility toward Trump in left-wing media circles even after Reid’s removal from television.

Reid made the remarks during a discussion with commentator Wajahat Ali. She characterized Trump as “sloppy” and “unkempt,” mocking his hair and appearance, and dismissed his business background as a product of systemic bias rather than personal achievement. She further accused him of embodying greed and “the shamelessness of capitalism.”

The ousted anchor also took aim at Trump’s personal life, alleging that his marriage to First Lady Melania was distant since the birth of their son. She used the claim to argue that Trump is morally bankrupt and unfit for leadership.

Ali agreed with Reid’s characterization, praising her description of Trump as a figure who represents the nation’s moral failings. Reid’s choice of language, however, highlighted the tendency among progressive commentators to rely on personal attacks rather than substantive policy critiques.

Reid’s comments come at a time when President Trump is pressing forward with major reforms in higher education, immigration, and foreign policy. While critics continue to portray him as a cultural villain, supporters point to the strong policy agenda that has fueled his political comeback.

Melania Trump Sends Peace Letter to Putin Ahead of Alaska Summit

Melania Trump
(Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

First Lady Melania Trump reached out directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin with a “peace letter” ahead of the Alaska summit, calling for compassion and urging the protection of children caught in the war in Ukraine. The letter, hand-delivered by President Trump during his meeting with Putin, offered a personal appeal for peace and stability.

In her message, Melania Trump emphasized the innocence of children, writing that their laughter and freedom must be preserved even in times of conflict. She encouraged Putin to consider the lasting impact his decisions would have on future generations, framing her appeal as a call to shared humanity. The letter avoided political posturing and instead highlighted moral responsibility, a tone the First Lady has consistently brought to her public role.

President Trump presented the letter during talks in Anchorage. Putin read the letter before both delegations, though the summit itself ended without a formal ceasefire or breakthrough agreement. Even so, the letter was viewed as an effort to introduce a softer, more personal element into high-stakes diplomacy, contrasting the direct and firm positions taken by the administration.

Supporters of the First Lady note that her involvement underscores the Trump administration’s willingness to use every avenue—political and personal—in pursuit of peace. Critics argue that such gestures risk being symbolic, but many see value in emphasizing compassion alongside the hard realities of international negotiations.

The letter aligns with Melania Trump’s longstanding focus on children and families, consistent with her “Be Best” initiative launched during President Trump’s first term. While the war in Ukraine remains unresolved, her words highlighted the importance of moral clarity and the universal desire for children to grow up free from violence.

Court Orders Alex Jones to Sell Infowars Assets to Pay $1B Debt

Image via Twitter/@SaltyGoat17

A Texas judge has ruled that Alex Jones must use his Infowars media empire to pay over $1 billion in debts owed to families of the Sandy Hook Elementary School victims. The decision, issued Wednesday by Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin, places Jones’ assets under the control of a court-appointed receiver, who will oversee the sale of Infowars and other holdings tied to Free Speech Systems LLC.

Jones’ company filed for bankruptcy protection in 2022 after courts ordered him to pay nearly $1.5 billion to families who sued him for defamation. The lawsuits stemmed from Jones’ repeated claims that the 2012 Sandy Hook massacre—which left 20 children and six adults dead—was a staged hoax. Jones later withdrew those statements and issued an apology, but the families argued the damage had already been done.

The court’s ruling could force Infowars’ studios to shut down as assets are liquidated. Reports suggest satirical outlet The Onion is once again pursuing a bid to buy the brand and turn it into a parody site. “We’re working on it,” Onion CEO Ben Collins said in a social media post Wednesday.

Jones reacted defiantly to the ruling, vowing to keep broadcasting. “People want to hear this show. I will continue on with the network. They can harass me forever. … And they won’t get me off the air,” he told listeners Thursday.

Attorneys for the Sandy Hook families welcomed the decision, saying it moves them closer to accountability after years of legal battles. “Today’s order brings us a critically important step closer to achieving the goal that the Connecticut families have spent years fighting for: holding Alex Jones accountable for years of harm,” one lawyer stated.

Long Island THC Gummies Scandal: Suspect Freed Without Bail

Sakhorn38/Getty via Canva Pro

A Guatemalan national accused of supplying THC-laced gummies that sickened 12 Long Island middle school students has been released without bail, despite facing multiple felony drug charges. Suffolk County prosecutors said 22-year-old Wilmer Castillo Garcia distributed the marijuana-infused gummies traced to an Instagram account he allegedly operated.

The incident occurred in March at William Floyd Middle School, where a dozen students were hospitalized after ingesting the candies. Castillo Garcia has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, as well as third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance for allegedly selling cocaine and marijuana to an undercover officer in separate transactions. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Despite the seriousness of the accusations, New York’s bail reform laws prevented prosecutors from requesting bail. District Attorney Raymond Tierney blasted the policy, arguing that it leaves communities vulnerable. “This is yet another example of how New York’s bail laws are broken. We cannot even ask for reasonable security on a foreign national who allegedly provided THC gummies that sickened middle-schoolers to ensure he faces justice,” Tierney said.

Defense attorney Matthew Tuohy argued Castillo Garcia was not a flight risk, noting that he appeared in court voluntarily and hired his own lawyer. Tuohy said his client had a “very tough upbringing” but now has family in the U.S. supporting him. He insisted there was no intent to harm the children and called the situation “unfortunate.”

Castillo Garcia, who faces up to nine years in prison if convicted on the most serious charges, is due back in court on September 2. The case has reignited debate over New York’s controversial bail laws, which critics argue allow dangerous offenders to walk free while awaiting trial.

Texas GOP Targets Dems Over Quorum Walkout

Texas Flag
Texas flag (Pete Alexopoulos/Unsplash)

Texas state Rep. Briscoe Cain (R-Deer Park) has refiled legislation to vacate the seats of lawmakers who skip work without authorization, after House Democrats once again absconded to block a quorum during a special session. Gov. Greg Abbott called the second special session Friday, but only 97 members were present—three short of the quorum needed to conduct business.

The bill, filed by Cain on Friday, would amend state law so that any member who misses seven consecutive legislative days without an approved absence forfeits their office. The measure would take effect immediately with a two-thirds vote or, failing that, 91 days after the session ends if signed by the governor. “Texans deserve lawmakers who show up,” Cain has said of the proposal. “If you abandon your job, you don’t deserve the title.”

More than 50 House Democrats walked out of the first special session to block passage of a Republican congressional redistricting bill. Their absence prevented votes on GOP priorities including property tax relief. Cain, who still reported to Austin even as his wife was hospitalized after a heart attack, contrasted his presence with Democrats’ refusal to attend. He asked for prayers for his wife’s recovery in a video message after Friday’s adjournment.

Frustration among conservatives is mounting. Rep. Brian Harrison (R-Waxahachie) accused Democrats of “winning” by blocking every Republican priority and traveling the country to rally national opposition to Texas’ redistricting plans. He criticized GOP leadership—including Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows—for failing to punish Democrats, noting that no seats were vacated, no arrests were made, and no committee assignments were stripped.

Harrison said Republican voters deserve stronger leadership, pointing out that Texas supported President Donald Trump by a 14-point margin in 2024. “You demanded results and action,” he told voters, but instead Republicans delivered “weak, fecklessness.”

Other conservatives are calling for a harder line when the House reconvenes Monday. Rep. Andy Hopper (R-Decatur) urged removing absconding Democrats from committee chairmanships, stripping seniority, and even pursuing redistricting efforts to remove them from office. “House Conservatives must stand firmly together to demand that harsh penalties are enacted to ensure that Dems never even consider abandoning their post in the future,” Hopper said.

Bill Maher Calls Out Democrats for Dodging His Show

AOC
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) (Photo by Nathan Howard/Getty Images)

On Friday’s broadcast of HBO’s Real Time, host Bill Maher criticized prominent Democrats for refusing to appear on his program, saying party leaders are “too afraid of too many things.” Maher revealed that both Bill and Hillary Clinton, along with former Vice President Kamala Harris, have repeatedly declined invitations to join him, even during Harris’ 2024 presidential campaign.

In his closing monologue, Maher contrasted Democrats’ avoidance with Republicans’ willingness to engage. “People ask me all the time, why haven’t you ever had Hillary or Bill Clinton on? Why didn’t you have Kamala on during the last campaign? You think we don’t ask? We ask these people every week. They say no. It took eight years and a petition to get Obama on,” Maher said. He added that while he voted for all of them, they are still “afraid to come on the show of a guy who voted for them.”

Maher noted that Republicans often accept his invitations despite knowing they will face tough questions. “The Republicans, they show up, and when they do, they take their beating like a man,” he remarked. The host praised California Governor Gavin Newsom for appearing, saying at least he has not shied away from facing difficult conversations.

Maher also expressed frustration with progressive figures such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), New York Assemblyman and mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani (D), and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), who have all declined to come on his show. “I would love to have AOC on the show and Mamdani and Elizabeth Warren, but I can’t subpoena the guests,” he quipped.

Maher’s comments reflect a broader critique that Democratic leaders increasingly avoid unscripted interviews and challenging media appearances, while Republicans often use such opportunities to present their positions directly to audiences. His remarks highlight ongoing concerns about transparency, accountability, and the willingness of political figures to defend their views outside controlled settings.

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