• Step 1: Claim there’s massive fraud.

• Step 2: Demand radical disruption.

• Step 3: Dismantle the agency.

• Step 4: Watch everything fall apart.

He did it with Twitter. He did it with the U.S. Agency for International Development USAID). He’s doing it across dozens of federal departments under the Orwellian-named Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Now, he’s got Social Security in his sights.

But here’s the thing: the fraud Elon is shouting about? It barely exists.

Musk’s Pattern: Blow Up First, Ask Questions Later

Musk’s tactics haven’t changed much from his Twitter takeover days. As NPR reports, he’s bringing the same “break first, ask questions later” approach to the U.S. government, despite holding no actual authority himself. He issues directives, often via mysterious new emails like hr@opm.gov, and federal agencies scramble to comply—some out of fear, some out of confusion.

All the while, Trump cheers him on, urging more aggressive action, regardless of legality or coherence.

This duo’s “reform” efforts have created waves of chaos, mass firings, and budget-slashing. And now, they’ve trained their sights on one of the most beloved and scrutinized programs in American history: Social Security.

The Big Lie: “Vampires Collecting Social Security”

Musk and Trump claim Social Security is drowning in waste and fraud. Trump said the system is riddled with “shocking levels of incompetence,” and Musk has called it “a Ponzi scheme” and “the biggest fraud in history.” He even claimed, with zero evidence, that over 20 million Americans aged 100+ are receiving benefits. In one public rant, he described them as “a lot of vampires collecting Social Security.”

Let’s cut through the fog.

The real number? 202.

Not 20 million. Not 16 million. Not even 1,000.

Just 202 cases of improper payments to deceased individuals were found after an internal audit earlier this year.

And even that number is misleading. Most of the supposedly “fraudulent” recipients were already flagged and in the process of being removed from the rolls. The massive fraud Musk conjured up? It’s smoke and mirrors.

So How Much Fraud Is There Really?

The Social Security Administration is one of the most audited, watched, and scrutinized arms of the federal government. According to the agency’s own inspector general:

• Less than 1% of payments in recent years were improper.

• Only 3% of those improper payments were due to actual fraud

• In 2023, Social Security didn’t even make the GAO’s list of the top 16 agencies with high improper payment rates

Yet Musk keeps throwing out baseless claims: that there’s $500 to $700 billion in annual fraud, nearly half the total paid out in benefits each year. That’s not just wrong—it’s mathematically impossible.

The Real Consequences of Musk’s Lies

Here’s where it gets dangerous.

DOGE has already started gutting Social Security’s infrastructure:

• Canceled IT contracts have caused system crashes “nearly every day.”

• Cuts to phone support—a service used in 40% of all claims—could soon become reality, effectively locking out elderly and disabled Americans who can’t access online systems.

• Routine services like verifying birth certificates or processing disability claims are delayed or halted due to spending restrictions on basic resources.

In plain terms: People are suffering.

And all this is happening under the guise of fighting a fraud problem that doesn’t exist.

Musk Doesn’t Understand Social Security — Or Pretends Not To

In one Fox interview, Musk claimed entitlements are a scheme to attract and “pay” undocumented immigrants to turn them into Democratic voters. That’s not just wrong, it’s offensive.

Undocumented immigrants don’t qualify for Social Security. In fact, many pay into the system using fake or borrowed Social Security numbers, contributing billions of dollars annually—without receiving a dime in return.

Ironically, deporting those individuals en masse (as Trump and Musk are eager to do) would blow a massive hole in Social Security’s revenue. Estimates show their plans could cost the system up to $750 billion over a decade.

So let’s get this straight:

• They’re cutting services.

• They’re choking resources.

• They’re alienating contributors.

• They’re promoting false narratives.

• And all the while claiming they’re “protecting” your benefits.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Fooled

This isn’t about fraud.

It’s not about efficiency.

It’s about power and destruction.

Musk is not the man to save Social Security. He’s the man who might break it beyond repair. And if we don’t call out the lies now, we’ll be left picking up the pieces later.

Social Security doesn’t need a billionaire with a chainsaw.

It needs leadership that respects facts, not fantasy.

Subscribe for more reality-based breakdowns of Elon’s destroying the fabric of American government and society. I’m Jack—and I call it like I see it.

Erroneous Layoffs and Rehiring Frenzies… AGAIN

A notable pattern has emerged under Musk’s leadership: the abrupt termination of federal employees, followed by hasty attempts to rehire them.1 This cycle not only disrupts governmental operations but also undermines employee morale and public trust. Such erratic human resource practices suggest a lack of strategic planning and foresight within DOGE.

Invasive and Conflicting Directives

In a move that has sown confusion across federal agencies, Musk mandated that all federal employees submit weekly reports detailing their accomplishments, with non-compliance interpreted as resignation.2 This directive was met with resistance from key departments, including the FBI, HHS, and DoD, which advised their staff to disregard the order. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) went so far as to caution employees that responses to the DOGE email could be accessed by “malign foreign actors.”3 The conflicting instructions have left employees uncertain about their obligations and raised questions about the security and intent of such data collection.

Dubious Accounting and Exaggerated Savings

DOGE’s claims of achieving $55 billion in cost savings have been scrutinized and found to be grossly overstated.4 An analysis revealed that nearly 40% of the 1,125 canceled federal contracts did not result in any actual savings, with some funds already spent or legally committed. Additionally, DOGE’s accounting errors, such as misrepresenting an $8 million contract as $8 billion, further cast doubt on the credibility of their reported figures. These discrepancies highlight a concerning lack of financial oversight and accuracy within the department.

Conflicts of Interest and Agency Undermining

Musk’s dual role as a government official and CEO of Tesla presents clear conflicts of interest, particularly evident in actions affecting agencies overseeing his business ventures. For instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), responsible for regulating vehicle safety and investigating Tesla-related incidents, has faced significant layoffs orchestrated by DOGE.5 This downsizing hampers the agency’s ability to effectively oversee Tesla’s compliance with safety standards, especially concerning given the multiple recalls of Tesla’s Cybertruck. Such actions suggest an undermining of regulatory bodies that are critical to holding Musk’s enterprises accountable.

Cybertruck Recalls and Safety Concerns

The Tesla Cybertruck has been plagued by a series of recalls since its launch, with issues ranging from malfunctioning rearview cameras to faulty drive inverters that pose collision risks. These defects have resulted in the Cybertruck ranking worse than 91% of all 2024 vehicles in terms of reliability.6 Despite these safety concerns, Musk’s influence over regulatory agencies raises questions about the thoroughness and impartiality of oversight and enforcement actions related to his company’s products.

Erosion of Public Trust and Government Integrity

The combination of Musk’s erratic management decisions, inflated claims of cost savings, and potential self-serving actions has eroded public trust in the government’s commitment to efficiency and ethical governance. The apparent prioritization of personal interests over public welfare not only undermines the integrity of federal institutions but also sets a concerning precedent for the influence of private individuals in public administration.

Elon Musk’s involvement in the highest levels of the US government exemplifies a troubling blend of incompetence and corruption. His actions have disrupted essential governmental functions, compromised the accuracy of federal accounting, and potentially leveraged public office for private gain. Addressing these issues is imperative to restore confidence in the government’s dedication to serving the public interest with transparency and accountability.

4

Musk Watch

DOGE's disastrous accounting

A core purpose of the U.S. DOGE Service (DOGE), the group of Elon Musk associates infiltrating the federal bureaucracy, is to cut government spending. On February 17, Musk and DOGE claimed they had already cut $55 billion in spending through "fraud detection/deletion, contract/lease cancellations, contract/lease renegotiations, asset sales, grant cancel…

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a year ago · 368 likes · 48 comments · Judd Legum

AfD’s Rise: From Economic Populism to Far-Right Extremism

AfD was founded in 2013 as a reaction to the “Eurozone crisis,” positioning itself as an economic nationalist alternative to Germany’s mainstream parties. Initially, the party opposed financial bailouts for struggling EU countries, arguing that German taxpayers were unfairly subsidizing weaker economies.1 The party’s appeal grew as it capitalized on resentment towards the German government’s fiscal policies.2

By 2015-2017, AfD radicalized, shifting its focus from economics to anti-immigrant rhetoric, fueled by Chancellor Angela Merkel’s decision to accept over one million asylum seekers. The party embraced a platform of mass deportations, blood-based citizenship laws, and cultural nationalism.3 This ideological shift aligned it with other far-right parties in Europe, cementing its role as Germany’s most significant far-right force.

AfD’s Economic Vision: Deregulation and Anti-Worker Policies

While AfD claims to support the working class, its economic policies actively undermine labor protections. The party advocates for:4

• Weakening unions and collective bargaining – AfD seeks to limit the power of Germany’s strong labor unions, reducing worker protections.

• Rolling back minimum wage increases – AfD has opposed minimum wage hikes, despite branding itself as pro-worker.

• Cutting social security benefits – AfD proposes slashing **public welfare programs**, disproportionately harming lower-income workers.

• Deregulating industries – The party favors radical tax cuts and reduced corporate regulations, policies that benefit big business over labor.

Germany’s business community has largely rejected AfD, warning that its nationalist policies and anti-EU stance could destabilize trade and deter foreign investment.5 Still, the party has found sympathetic allies—including Elon Musk.

Elon Musk: From Tech Visionary to Right-Wing Agitator

Musk’s rightward shift began around 2020, fueled by his increasing opposition to government regulations and labor protections. He has framed himself as a defender of free speech, while aligning with far-right ideologies.

Personal Politics and the Role of Family Strife

It seems that a major catalyst for Musk’s political turn was his estrangement from his transgender daughter, Vivian Wilson. In 2022, Wilson severed ties with Musk, citing his dismissal of trans rights and authoritarian tendencies. Musk has repeatedly cited this as a reason for his opposition to progressive policies, blaming the “woke mind virus” for his child’s transition.67

Musk and AfD: An Alliance of Convenience

Musk has publicly supported AfD, even appearing at party events and criticizing Germany’s focus on historical accountability for Nazi crimes. His statements align with AfD’s efforts to whitewash Germany’s past and promote nationalist policies.8

Musk’s Labor Issues in Germany

Musk’s Tesla Gigafactory in Berlin has become a battleground for labor rights. Since its announcement in 2019, the factory has faced legal battles, protests, and union conflicts.

• Environmental and Legal Hurdles

  • Deforestation and water usage concerns – The Gigafactory’s construction involved clearing 194 hectares of forest, sparking **protests and lawsuits.9

  • Activist opposition – Environmentalists and labor activists have resisted Tesla’s expansion efforts, arguing that the company undermines local regulations.10

• Union Clashes and Worker Protections

  • IG Metall disputes – Tesla has clashed with Germany’s largest industrial union, IG Metall, over worker protections and fair pay.

  • Union election violations – In 2024, a German labor court ruled that Tesla’s works council violated election rules, reinforcing concerns about Musk’s anti-union stance.11

  • High absenteeism and labor strife – Musk has criticized German workers for absenteeism, but unions argue that poor working conditions are to blame.12

The Dangers of AfD’s and Musk’s Influence on Germany’s Economy

Germany’s economic model is built on strong labor protections, collective bargaining, and industrial regulation. AfD’s push for deregulation and Musk’s resistance to labor rights represent serious risks:

• Weakened worker protections – AfD and Musk’s agenda would strip workers of bargaining power, reducing wages and workplace safety.

• Reduced environmental oversight – Musk’s defiance of German regulations and AfD’s climate skepticism could harm Germany’s green transition.

• Destabilization of economic relations – AfD’s anti-EU stance and Musk’s disruptive influence threaten Germany’s economic stability.

A Call to Action Against Deregulation and Nationalism

The convergence of AfD’s nationalist deregulation agenda and Musk’s anti-labor politics poses a real threat to Germany’s workers, economy, and democracy. With Musk amplifying far-right narratives and AfD gaining mainstream visibility, business leaders, unions, and policymakers must push back to protect Germany’s economic future.

As AfD and Musk attempt to reshape Germany’s labor laws and economic policies, it is critical to resist their efforts to dismantle worker protections, environmental regulations, and social welfare programs. Germany’s economic success is built on fairness, regulation, and stability—values that neither AfD nor Musk respect. Like we’re facing in America, the fight for democracy in Germany is far from over, and at the center of the fight is self-interested billionaire, Elon Musk.

The Public Speaks: Polls Show Deep Concerns

Recent polls paint a stark picture of the nation's divided opinion on Musk’s role in government.

• A Pew Research Center survey (Feb 2025) found that 54% of Americans view Musk unfavorably, with a massive partisan divide: 73% of Republicans support him, while 85% of Democrats disapprove.

• A Quinnipiac University poll revealed that 55% of voters believe Musk has excessive influence over governmental decisions.

• According to Reuters/Ipsos, a majority of Americans worry that Musk’s aggressive cost-cutting measures will undermine essential community services.

• A Statista report highlights that the public perceives Musk’s influence in the Trump administration as far exceeding acceptable levels.

• Despite this, Republican leaders at CPAC continue to champion Musk, dismissing public concerns as overblown. Hard to see why, he could barely put together a coherent sentence:

The Risks of Musk’s Expanding Power

Musk’s growing presence in the federal government raises critical questions:

1. Privatization of Government Functions – With his business-driven approach, Musk’s initiatives could prioritize corporate interests over public welfare.

2. Threats to Social Programs– His cost-cutting measures could defund vital programs that millions rely on.

3. Lack of Accountability – Unlike elected officials, Musk holds power without democratic oversight, making it harder for citizens to challenge his decisions.

4. Suppression of Dissent – Reports indicate that Musk’s companies have retaliated against critics. What happens if this mentality extends into government policies?

What Can You Do?

The future of democracy depends on holding those in power accountable. Here’s how you can help:

✅ Share Your Stories – Have you been personally affected by Musk’s policies or leadership? Speak out and ensure your voice is heard.

✅ Engage on Social Media – Spread awareness about Musk’s role in government and encourage discussions on its implications.

✅ Pressure Your Elected Officials – Demand transparency and accountability. Call your representatives and ask them to investigate Musk’s influence in shaping public policy.

✅ Support Independent Journalism – Subscribe to reputable news outlets that provide fact-based reporting on Musk’s actions in government.

Musk may have billions at his disposal, but the power of an informed and engaged public is far greater. Let’s make sure our government remains accountable to the people—not a single billionaire.

The Biden administration took steps to address this issue by investing $80 billion into the IRS through the Inflation Reduction Act. This investment was intended to enhance staffing, modernize outdated systems, and ensure tax enforcement, particularly on high-income earners. Over a ten-year period, this funding was projected to more than double in returns, bringing in an estimated $186 billion in revenue by closing the tax gap—an impressive return on investment (CBO).

The Results: A Worthwhile Investment

Much like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)—which has cost taxpayers significantly less than it has returned—the IRS investment was set to pay dividends. And, in just two years, the impact was already clear. By 2024, the IRS had:

• Collected over $1 billion from high-income taxpayers who owed substantial back taxes (IRS.gov).

• Recovered $520 million from high-income non-filers (IRS.gov).

• Increased audits on large corporations and wealthy individuals, with plans to nearly triple audits on corporations worth over $250 million and increase audits tenfold on large partnerships (IRS.gov).

These efforts weren’t about targeting ordinary Americans; they were about ensuring billionaires and corporations paid their fair share—something that should be uncontroversial to anyone who values fairness in taxation.

Enter Elon Musk: Dismantling Oversight, Gaining Power

Yet, in the latest effort to protect the ultra-wealthy from accountability, Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are planning mass layoffs at the IRS—during tax season, no less (Reuters). This move comes at a time when the IRS was finally cracking down on tax evasion among the richest Americans.

Even more concerning, Musk and his associates are seeking access to the nation’s most sensitive taxpayer information—data traditionally reserved for top IRS officials. This means that Musk and his unelected allies could potentially access your personal financial data, all under the pretense of eliminating “fraud, waste, and abuse.”

Of course, no actual evidence has been provided to justify this intrusion. Instead, Musk has resorted to posting out-of-context screenshots on Twitter as supposed “proof”—the kind of flimsy evidence that wouldn’t hold up anywhere except in 4Chan conspiracy circles.

The Real Agenda: Power and Wealth, Not Efficiency

If this were truly about “fraud, waste, and abuse,” ensuring the IRS was adequately staffed and funded would be the logical course of action. After all, the IRS investment was working, generating billions in revenue from tax evaders. But logic and evidence don’t matter when the goal isn’t efficiency—it’s control.

Musk’s growing influence over the government isn’t about reform; it’s about consolidating power, shielding the ultra-wealthy from oversight, and expanding his own wealth and prestige at the expense of the nation. If we don’t push back, we’re not just watching a billionaire gut the IRS—we’re witnessing an attempt to reshape the government into a tool for the elite, rather than for the people.

It’s quite stunning that the supposed President of the United States is hearing about Elon Musk’s actions in real time because a reporter asked him about said actions.

But this isn’t the first time. Last Wednesday, Elon Musk met with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It had all the trappings of an officially sanctioned head of state meeting. It took place at the Blair House, also known as the President’s Guest House, which is across from the White House. It has office space for the State Department and is where foreign dignitaries stay when visiting the United States.

Yet when asked about it, Trump didn’t have the foggiest. Here’s a snippet of the exchange1:

“When Elon Musk met with Prime Minister Modi earlier today, did he do so as an American CEO or did he do so as a representative of the U.S. government?” a reporter asked Trump.

“Uhh, are you talking about me?” Trump replied.

“No, Elon Musk.”

“Well Elon—I don’t know. They met, and I assume he wants to do business in India, but India’s a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs.… No, I would imagine he met possibly because he’s running a company,” Trump replied.

Set aside for a minute the complete and utter corruption that is explicitly acknowledged in Trump’s response, how is it that he was unaware that Elon Musk was meeting in what appeared an official government capacity with the head of state of another country? How would the President of the United States not be aware of this? The exchange continued:

“How does Modi know if he’s meeting with a CEO or meeting with a representative of your government?” a reporter then asked.

“Well he’s meeting with me in a little while, so I’m gonna ask him that question,” Trump said.

So, Trump doesn’t know but rest assured, he’ll get to the bottom of it.

This is all coming on the heels of one of the most bizarre press conferences since, well, possibly ever, in which Donald Trump sat impotently at the Resolute Desk while Elon Musk held court with the press telling a lie a minute and admitting that he would be wrong about the claims he knowingly and unashamedly makes.

Just take a minute and image the scandal if during his presidency Biden had held a presser with George Soros in the Oval Office. During this press conference Soros repeatedly lies about the reasons he made unilateral cuts to Congressionally appropriated funds, and then, when pressed, admits that, well yes, he’s going to be wrong from time to time. Articles of Impeachment would have been submitted in Congress before the press conference concluded.

Back to our present reality, where an unelected billionaire is doing all of this with the complete endorsement of Congressional Republicans and a President who doesn’t seem to know what’s happening. I would think that it is far more efficient to be accurate when making cuts. It seems infinitely less efficient to hack and slash departments then end up it court for weeks on end.

That scenario also assumes that Elon is actually interested in ridding the government of waste, fraud, and abuse. But there is no evidence that this is the case. On the contrary, Elon seems far more interested in stopping the investigations into his companies and ensuring that he has a never-ending stream of money and data flowing to him. I mean have you seen the number of investigations that his companies are under for their corrupt and unethical behavior. It’s staggering.

Days before being unceremoniously shushed by Elon’s son in the Oval Office, Trump admitted that Elon and DOGE didn’t need American’s personal information. As The Hill reported:

When asked why DOGE needs access to American’s personal information like Social Security numbers, Trump said, “Well, it doesn’t. But they get it very easily.”

“I mean, we don’t have very good security in our country,” the president continued at a press conference Friday alongside Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

So, DOGE doesn’t need our personal information, but, hey, it’s easy enough to get so what’s the big deal? Quick questions: If they don’t need it then why are they allowed to access it? The answer is obvious: Trump is not in charge. Sure he’ll sign off on Executive Orders (that he has no clue about), and he’ll waste tax payer money to fly to the Super Bowl and do laps at the Daytona 500, but when it comes to who’s actually running the country, it’s clearly not Trump.

In the end, this entire saga isn’t just about corruption—it’s about control. Trump’s feigned ignorance, his deference to Musk, and his inability to offer anything beyond empty bluster make one thing abundantly clear: the real power isn’t sitting behind the Resolute Desk; it’s wielded by those who manipulate the system for their own gain. Whether it’s billion-dollar contracts, unchecked access to personal data, or cozying up to foreign leaders without oversight, Musk operates with impunity because Trump either can’t—or won’t—rein him in. So, while Trump plays the role of president on TV, the real decisions are happening elsewhere, and that should concern all of us.

It is happening through data manipulation, financial control, government overreach, and the suppression of free speech. It is happening because Elon Musk and the Trump administration have figured out how to seize power without needing to change a single law.

This is not alarmism. This is reality.

DOGE and the Silent Coup

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—Elon Musk’s personal kingdom within the federal government—is being used to bypass Congress, the courts, and every mechanism of democratic oversight.

DOGE was never authorized by Congress. It has no constitutional legitimacy. Yet it now controls federal payment systems, dictates the fate of entire government agencies, and, in some cases, can “delete” institutions Musk dislikes.

📣 What does this mean in practice?

• Musk can block federal payments—meaning Congress could pass a law, but if DOGE refuses to process the funds, it’s like the law never existed.

• Government agencies Musk dislikes can be erased. He has already redirected funds from regulatory agencies investigating his businesses.

• DOGE has direct access to personal and government data, giving Musk leverage over elected officials and private citizens alike.

This is not democracy. This is one man overriding the entire U.S. government, without firing a single shot.

The Legal Experts Are Sounding the Alarm

🚨 The American Bar Association (ABA)—hardly a radical organization—has condemned DOGE as unconstitutional, warning that its existence violates the separation of powers.1

🚨 Alan Charles Raul, a respected legal scholar and former White House lawyer under Reagan and Bush, has declared that DOGE’s restructuring of government agencies is illegal and undermines the rule of law.2

🚨 Timothy Snyder, one of the leading historians of authoritarianism, has warned that Musk’s control over government functions amounts to a digital coup.3

The White House’s Attack on Press Freedom

Musk and Trump aren’t just taking control of government—they’re trying to control reality itself.4

When the Associated Press (AP) refused to adopt Trump’s executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America”, the White House barred them from an event.5

This isn’t just petty—it’s a deliberate test.

📌 How far can the administration go in pressuring the media to repeat its propaganda?

📌 Will journalists submit, or will they resist?

📌 If the White House can control the language of the press, can they control the press itself?

This is classic Newspeak, straight from the pages of 1984. It is not just about renaming a body of water—it is about training the media to comply, to repeat, to obey.

If they get away with this, what will they demand next?

Musk’s Ultimate Weapon: Data and Blackmail

🚨 Musk now has control over federal payment systems.

🚨 Musk has access to the personal data of government officials.

🚨 Musk can manipulate government records to “erase” agencies, individuals, and history itself.

This is not democracy. This is authoritarianism through financial and digital control.

🚨 If Musk and Trump are not stopped, this is what comes next:

• Rigged Elections – They won’t need to cancel elections; they’ll just use data manipulation and media control to ensure the outcome.6

• The Death of Political Opposition – Not through arrests, but through financial blackmail, regulatory threats, and IRS audits targeting opponents.

• A Loyalist Bureaucracy – Every government worker who resists will be fired, silenced, or replaced with Musk-aligned loyalists.

• Permanent Rule – Trump doesn’t need to become dictator-for-life. He just needs to ensure that his party—and his allies—never lose again.

This is not speculation. This is the path already underway.

What Must Be Done?

✅ Recognize This for What It Is – This is not just corruption. This is a coup. Call it that. Speak out. Make it clear.

✅ Demand Congressional Oversight – Congress must act to immediately strip DOGE of its unconstitutional powers.

✅ Support Independent Journalism – The media is under attack. Subscribe to independent outlets, share real reporting, and reject propaganda.

✅ Push for Whistleblower Protections – Government employees who expose abuses must be protected from retaliation.

✅ Protest, Vote, and Stay Engaged – Musk and Trump are counting on silence and apathy to succeed. Don’t give them that.

The Bottom Line

✴️ Musk is not just a businessman.

✴️ DOGE is not just a department.

✴️ This is not just another political scandal.

🎯 This is a direct attack on the Constitution.

We must recognize and acknowledge what is happening and take action to preserve our democracy from the digital coup currently underway.

3

Thinking about...

Of course it’s a coup

Imagine if it had gone like this…

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a year ago · 8010 likes · 350 comments · Timothy Snyder

4

Unmasking Russia

Trump's Escalating War on the Free Press

A decade ago, when Trump reentered the political scene, he wasted no time branding the media as the “enemy of the people”—a phrase with unmistakably Soviet overtones. He grasped early on that controlling the information space and propaganda was key—a hallmark of authoritarian regimes. During his first term, ins…

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a year ago · 66 likes · 6 comments · Olga Lautman

USAID has long been one of the most effective arms of U.S. foreign policy, providing humanitarian aid, stabilizing fragile states, preventing conflicts, and ensuring that American farmers and businesses benefit from global markets.1 But Musk, backed by Trump, is hell-bent on eliminating it.

To put things in perspective: USAID’s entire annual budget is less than 1% of U.S. federal spending.2 Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s personal net worth is over ten times that amount. The idea that USAID is some massive financial drain is nothing more than a convenient hoax designed to mask Musk’s true agenda—consolidating power while dismantling an agency that has held his businesses accountable.

Musk’s USAID Lies

Musk’s campaign against USAID has been one of the most dishonest in recent memory. He has deliberately spread falsehoods and conspiracy theories to justify his actions. Here are some of the most blatant:

• The Condom Hoax – Musk falsely claimed that $50 million was spent sending condoms to Gaza under USAID. In reality, that money was part of an HIV prevention program in Mozambique—and wasn’t even used on condoms.3 This hoax was amplified by right-wing media and used as a justification for budget cuts.

• The Samantha Power Smear – Musk implied that former USAID Administrator Samantha Power embezzled $30 million in taxpayer money. This baseless accusation originated on a conspiracy website and has no factual basis.4

• The “Criminal Organization” Lie – Musk has repeatedly called USAID corrupt and beyond reform, despite the fact that his own companies have profited from USAID-funded initiatives.5

• Fake “Fraud” Claims – Musk falsely alleged that billions were “missing” from USAID’s budget, a claim debunked by independent auditors and watchdog groups.6

Musk’s method is simple but effective:

1. Invent a fake scandal.

2. Spread it through his own media channels (X, Tesla-affiliated sites, etc.).

3. Watch as right-wing influencers repeat the lie until it becomes accepted as fact.

4. Use the manufactured outrage to slash funding and seize control.

It’s a textbook case of disinformation and authoritarian governance.

What USAID Actually Does

If you only listened to Musk’s rants, you’d think USAID is some shadowy money pit. In reality, it’s one of the most cost-effective, results-driven agencies in the U.S. government.

Founded in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy, USAID has played a crucial role in strengthening U.S. economic and national security interests.7 Here’s what Musk is actively destroying:

• Protecting U.S. National Security – USAID helps stabilize conflict zones and weak states, preventing the rise of terrorist organizations. Programs in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen have reduced extremism, strengthened governance, and created economic opportunities, all of which make the U.S. safer.8

• Strengthening the U.S. Economy – USAID creates new markets for American goods by fostering economic growth in developing nations. This increases demand for U.S. agricultural exports, manufacturing, and technology, bringing billions in returns to American businesses.9

• Public Health & Disease Prevention – USAID has played a key role in global health advancements, including:

• Eradicating Smallpox

• Funding life-saving HIV/AIDS treatments

• Fighting Ebola and COVID-19

• Providing maternal and child healthcare to reduce infant mortality10

• Countering China & Russia’s Influence – As USAID retreats, China and Russia are stepping in to fill the void. Beijing, in particular, is using foreign aid as a strategic tool to expand its influence across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.11

In short, cutting USAID isn’t just cruel—it’s strategically stupid.

The Devastating Impact of Musk’s Actions

Musk’s gutting of USAID isn’t theoretical—it is already causing widespread harm:

• $500 Million in Food Aid is Rotting – USAID’s budget freezes have left nearly half a billion dollars worth of food aid sitting in warehouses, spoiling instead of feeding starving families.12

• HIV/AIDS Treatment Programs Have Shut Down – Clinics in sub-Saharan Africa that provide lifesaving antiretroviral drugs have been forced to close.13

• Collapse of Refugee Support – USAID-backed refugee camps in Syria, Yemen, and Sudan have been abandoned, leaving hundreds of thousands of displaced people with no access to food, shelter, or medicine.

• Harm to American Farmers – USAID-funded programs buy surplus crops from American farmers, ensuring steady demand and stabilizing prices. The cuts mean rural economies will take a major hit, particularly in Midwestern states.14

This isn’t “cutting government waste.” It’s inflicting deliberate harm on America’s allies, its own citizens, and its economy.

Musk’s Own Ties to USAID

The most infuriating part of this entire saga? Musk himself has benefitted from USAID funding.

• Tesla has received millions in government subsidies, including funding for clean energy initiatives that involved USAID-backed projects.15

• Starlink (owned by Musk) has been used in USAID-funded operations, including internet connectivity in war zones and disaster relief efforts.16

In other words, Musk has no problem taking taxpayer money when it benefits him—but now that USAID is holding his companies accountable, he’s orchestrating its destruction.

The Long-Term Consequences

The collapse of USAID will have far-reaching consequences for America’s security, economy, and global leadership.

• More Global Instability – Expect more refugee crises, more extremist recruitment, and greater chances of U.S. military intervention.

• Increased Illegal Immigration – USAID stabilizes economies in Central America, reducing migration to the U.S.Cutting these programs will worsen the border crisis.17

• Handing Influence to China & Russia – Beijing is already stepping in to replace U.S. aid, using it as leverage to expand its power.18

What Can Be Done?

This isn’t a done deal—we can fight back:

📞 Call Your Representatives – Demand that Congress restore USAID funding and investigate Musk’s abuses.

📢 Spread the Word – Debunk the lies. USAID is not a wasteful agency—it is a vital tool of American power.

This isn’t about efficiency. It’s about power. If they can dismantle USAID today, what’s next? Medicare? Social Security? The next vital institution?

We have to draw the line now.

It’s hard to pinpoint the most disturbing aspect of Musk’s takeover, but it’s becoming easier to discern with reports that Musk and DOGE want access to taxpayer data. Apparently the request is “under review,” but it’s not exactly clear by whom. Whoever it is, hopefully they have the common sense and backbone to decline such access. Of course, Republicans are claiming this is necessary to root out the coveted “waste, fraud, and abuse,” but they really aren’t arbiters of good judgement or common sense. It’s incredibly disturbing to think that the same group that accidentally published classified information on their website, the same website that was hacked just days after launching, are potentially gaining access to the private information of American citizens.

CALL YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS IMMEDIATELY AND DEMAND THEY STAND UP TO MUSK. THIS ISN’T NORMAL.

FAA Firings

DOGE, the Trump administration, or maybe both (it’s hard to tell how things work in this government), have fired hundreds of FAA probationary employees. This is coming just weeks after the first US commercial flight crash in 16 years, which has been followed by multiple other deadly crashes in the following weeks.1 The statement from the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), the union representing these employees is worth reading in its entirety. Here’s a snippet:

That’s right, the Meritocracy Administration isn’t even using a government email. 🙄 The incompetence remains stunning…

While the Musk/Trump administration will likely try to make the case that they weren’t “critical” employees, it is well known that the FAA has struggled with staffing. Transportation Secretary and Real-World alum, Sean Duffey, claims to have a plan to get more air traffic controllers into the ranks, but as of yet, they’re only cutting staff.

These cuts to an only ready beleaguered department seem unwise and ill-timed. It’s not surprising that Musk isn’t concerned with the safety and well-being of the American public, but what about the President? It’s becoming more and more clear that Musk is the actual one in charge.

With no plan to actually address the issues and, in fact, making them worse, I think it’s safe to assume air travel is only going to get more dangerous.

Deleting Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Data

Musk has been on a personal crusade to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a department created after the Housing Bubble Crash to protect American citizens from billionaires and unethical corporations. The CFPB has returned about $20 billion dollars to Americans and has passed multiple regulations to protect consumers. Quite naturally a billionaire would want to destroy such an agency. Now Musk is escalating the attack, but moving to DELETE sensitive and vital data that documents the CFPB’s work. A judge has halted this for now. To understand the stakes, I recommend reading the court filing by Erie Meyer, who was the Chief Technologist and Senior Advisor to the Director at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau until February 7, 2025.

A quick summary, Meyer notes that the deletion of these records could have serious consequences including:

• The potential deletion of consumer complaint records, enforcement actions, and supervisory reports on financial institutions.

• The loss of personally identifiable information (PII), which could leave consumers vulnerable to fraud and eliminate recourse for financial harm.

• Financial system instability, as the loss of compliance and enforcement data could allow bad actors to manipulate markets unchecked.

• Market manipulation and unfair competition, where certain tech companies entering financial services could gain illegal access to consumer data, while audit logs preventing misconduct are erased.

In other words, nothing good for the American public, but a lot of potential gains for billionaires, such as Musk.

Musk’s Incompetence Unleashed on OSHA:

I recommend this piece from Judd Legum and Rebecca Crosby at Public Information.

Popular Information

In botched DEI purge, OSHA trashes workplace safety guidelines

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has ordered the digital and physical destruction of 18 publications on workplace safety practices, according to an internal February 7 email obtained by Popular Information. The email says the publications have been removed from the OSHA website and tells staff that any physical copies should be …

Read more

a year ago · 488 likes · 27 comments · Judd Legum and Rebecca Crosby

These are the key stories I’m watching this week, but I’m sure new ones will be added to the list as the Musk Administration moves quickly to destroy America.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump are running a government-wide smash-and-grab, hollowing out oversight, dismantling regulatory agencies, and lining their own pockets—all under the guise of “efficiency.” With Musk at the helm of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), we are witnessing a wholesale assault on transparency, accountability, and national security.

From a fake transparency website to direct interference in federal payment systems, from shutting down financial regulators to controlling the fate of agencies investigating his own companies, Musk is not just influencing the government—he IS the government. Let’s break it all down.

THE STUNNING LACK OF TRANSPARENCY

DOGE’s Lies and Misinformation

Musk claims DOGE is “transparent,” yet:

• He spread outright lies about U.S. aid sending $50 million worth of condoms to Gaza—a hoax amplified by right-wing media and used as justification for budget cuts.1

• He falsely claimed FEMA misused $59 million on migrant housing, leading to the firing of multiple officials based on misinformation.2

• He attacked USAID with baseless fraud allegations while his own team gained access to and manipulated the agency’s data.

Where is the “Waste Tracking?”

• Musk promised the public a tool to track government inefficiencies through Waste.gov.3

• Reality check: The site is a blank WordPress template with placeholder text about an imaginary architecture firm.

• So much for “transparency.”

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST FOR DAYS

The Business Empire That Keeps Expanding

• Since Trump’s return, Musk’s businesses have gained a stranglehold on federal contracts, with 11 agencies stalling or killing investigations into his companies.

• DOGE’s influence has redirected billions in government funds to Musk’s ventures, with no oversight.4

Government Money Flowing Straight to Musk’s Pockets

• $400 million in State Department funds is earmarked for “armored” Tesla vehicles—while Musk personally oversees federal spending.5

• A Pentagon investigation into Musk’s undisclosed meetings with foreign leaders was quietly shut down after Trump fired key oversight officials.6

THE SYSTEMATIC DESTRUCTION OF CONSUMER PROTECTIONS

Dismantling the CFPB to Benefit Big Tech

• The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been frozen, its director fired, and all investigations halted7—just as Musk’s company X rolls out its digital wallet.8

• The removal of financial oversight benefits Big Tech and Wall Street while leaving consumers vulnerable to predatory fees and fraud.9

ASSAULT ON SCIENCE, MEDICAL RESEARCH, AND REGULATION

Slashing Critical Research to Cut Costs

• NIH funding has been gutted by DOGE, impacting 2,500 research institutions and crippling efforts to fight cancer, heart disease, and dementia.

• The cuts are not about fiscal responsibility; they are ideological attacks on science and medicine.10

NATIONAL SECURITY NIGHTMARE: DOGE HACKING AMERICA

Unauthorized Access to Treasury Payment Systems

• A U.S. Treasury threat intelligence analysis labeled DOGE an “insider threat” after Musk’s team gained unauthorized access to federal financial data.11

• DOGE staff directly interfered with USAID payments, contradicting White House claims that they had no involvement.12

Manipulating Federal Finances

• A DOGE-affiliated technologist was granted full “write access” to federal payment systems handling $5.45 trillion annually—raising the risk of financial tampering.

• Treasury initially denied this access existed, until documents revealed the truth.13

MUSK CONTROLS HIS OWN REGULATORS

FAA Safety Protections are Disappearing14

• Musk now oversees the very FAA office that regulates SpaceX, after FAA Chief Mike Whitaker resigned on Inauguration Day.

• SpaceX’s Starship recently exploded, scattering debris over the Caribbean, yet Musk dismissed it as “barely a bump in the road.”

• Musk’s push to weaken spaceflight safety regulations is an unprecedented conflict of interest that could endanger lives.

USAID GUTTED: $500 MILLION IN FOOD AID AT RISK

• Nearly $500 million in humanitarian food aid is at risk of spoilage after DOGE’s cuts left USAID unable to distribute supplies.

• Critical counter-terrorism vetting was shut down, increasing the likelihood of funds being misused.

• Musk, who claims to care about “waste,” has instead destroyed a vital program that feeds the world’s most vulnerable.15

Fight Back Against the Musk-Trump Power Grab

What we’re witnessing isn’t just corruption—it’s a coordinated, systemic takeover of our democracy by a billionaire with unchecked power and a president who enables him. Musk and Trump are dismantling oversight, controlling regulatory agencies, and rewriting the rules to serve corporate interests instead of the American people. This isn’t efficiency—it’s authoritarianism wrapped in a tech-bro PR stunt.

🚨 Here’s what YOU can do to fight back: 🚨

📞 Call Your Elected Officials

• Demand they investigate Musk’s unchecked power, restore consumer protections, and block DOGE’s reckless policies. Congress must act NOW to protect our financial systems, scientific institutions, and national security. Find your representative here: www.house.gov/representatives

✊ Protest & Mobilize

• Show up at town halls, rallies, and public hearings to voice opposition to Musk’s influence over the government. Join or support grassroots organizations fighting against corporate overreach.

📢 Spread the Word

• Share this article, talk to your friends, and flood social media with the truth. Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit to push back against misinformation.

🗞️ Stay Informed

• Follow credible investigative journalists and independent media exposing Musk and Trump’s authoritarian playbook. Sign up for newsletters from watchdog groups like ProPublica, OpenSecrets, and The Center for Public Integrity.

💡 Support Whistleblowers –

• Government employees who expose wrongdoing need legal protections. Demand Congress strengthen whistleblower laws so those inside the system can speak out without fear of retaliation.

🔥 This is a fight for our democracy. The longer we stay silent, the deeper Musk and Trump’s grip on power becomes. Call, protest, share, and stay informed. The future of our country depends on it.

🔗 Share this NOW and take action today!

The Threat of China’s Cyber Espionage

China’s Salt Typhoon hacking group has penetrated U.S. telecommunications infrastructure, compromising sensitive data, real-time phone calls, and even law enforcement wiretaps.1,2 This is being called the worst telecom hack in U.S. history, with attacks on major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobil.3

Key Risks from China’s Cyber Warfare:

• Persistent access to U.S. telecommunications networks, allowing China to monitor private calls and texts in real time.

• Infiltration of U.S. universities and research institutions, targeting cutting-edge technology and defense research.

• Compromising law enforcement surveillance systems, allowing China to learn who U.S. intelligence agencies are monitoring and how.

• Using outdated Cisco router vulnerabilities to exploit government and corporate networks worldwide.4

Despite U.S. sanctions and FBI warnings, China has only ramped up its cyberattacks—and America remains vulnerable.5

Elon Musk’s Dangerous Ties to China

While China hacks its way into U.S. systems, Elon Musk—the man with an unprecedented level of influence over the Trump administration—is deeply entangled with China.6

How Musk’s China Connections Threaten National Security:

• Tesla’s dependence on China: 40% of Tesla’s battery supply chain is controlled by Chinese companies, and its largest factory is in Shanghai.

• Chinese government subsidies: Tesla received over $500 million in Chinese state-backed loans and tax breaks, making Musk financially dependent on China’s goodwill.

• Public praise for China’s policies: Musk has echoed Chinese government propaganda, from minimizing human rights abuses to suggesting Taiwan should become part of China.

• Weakening U.S. policies against China: When Trump first proposed steep tariffs on China, reports surfaced that Chinese officials hoped Musk would intervene—and shortly after, Trump backed off his most aggressive measures.

With Musk holding the keys to some of America’s most sensitive technology, his deep financial and political ties to China should be a massive red flag.

DOGE: The Ultimate National Security Nightmare

Trump has handed Musk near-unchecked power through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has become a massive security risk.

DOGE’s Threats to U.S. Security:

1. Leaking Classified Intelligence

   • DOGE accidentally published classified U.S. intelligence data, including information on the National Reconnaissance Office, which oversees spy satellite programs.7

   • This data is highly valuable to foreign adversaries, yet DOGE’s reckless oversight led to its public exposure.

2. Hacking Its Own Government

   • DOGE personnel gained unauthorized access to the Treasury Department, Medicare records, and CIA personnel files.8

   • The security protocols meant to prevent unauthorized access were bypassed or ignored.

   • AI models are now being trained on sensitive government data, making it easier for adversaries like China to manipulate or steal critical U.S. intelligence.

3. Wasting Government Resources

   • Despite Musk’s claims of “transparency”, the DOGE-run Waste.gov website is literally a placeholder WordPress page, offering zero insight into government waste.9

   • This exposes Musk’s incompetence and deception, while actual government accountability programs have been defunded and dismantled.

With China actively hacking U.S. infrastructure, Musk serving as a shadow president, and DOGE dismantling national security safeguards, America is more vulnerable than ever.

What Needs to Happen Now:

🚨 Investigate Musk’s conflicts of interest—his financial and political ties to China pose a direct national security threat.

🚨 Restore cybersecurity measures—Trump’s policies and DOGE’s actions have made America an easy target for foreign cyberattacks.

🚨 Protect U.S. intelligence and government data—undo the reckless breaches caused by DOGE’s mismanagement.

🚨 Strengthen U.S. defenses against China—Salt Typhoon’s telecom hacks should be treated as acts of cyber warfare.

This isn’t just about politics—it’s about whether America can protect itself from foreign and domestic threats. And right now, we’re failing on both fronts.