Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• White House posted video montage of ICE arrests using Sabrina Carpenter's music without permission. — The White House posted a video montage showing ICE agents making arrests while using music by Grammy-award-winning recording artist Sabrina Carpenter as the soundtrack. Carpenter responded publicly, stating "This video is evil and disgusting. Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda." Her post received 24 million views on X within 7 hours.
• White House Spokesperson Abigail Jackson issued a hostile statement attacking recording artist Sabrina Carpenter for criticizing use of her music in ICE arrest video. — After Sabrina Carpenter publicly objected to the White House's use of her music in a video montage of ICE agents making arrests, calling it "evil and disgusting," White House Spokesperson Abigail Jackson issued a statement to Axios that attacked Carpenter personally, stating "Anyone who would defend these sick monsters must be stupid, or is it slow?" The statement refused to apologize and framed deportations as removal of "dangerous criminal illegal murderers, rapists, and pedophiles."
• White House video using Sabrina Carpenter music to mock migrants — The White House released a video that used music by pop icon Sabrina Carpenter to mock migrants. Carpenter publicly condemned the video, calling it "evil and disgusting." The incident occurred amid broader Trump administration immigration rhetoric and policy actions.
• Sabrina Carpenter forced White House to delete ICE recruitment video — Grammy-winning recording artist Sabrina Carpenter won a dispute with the White House after they used her song in an ICE recruitment video without permission. The White House deleted the video and withdrew it after Carpenter's critical response on social media reached 138 million views on X (formerly Twitter).

Supporting reports

• White House launches "Media Bias" portal database — The White House published a release announcing the launch of a public database at wh.gov/mediabias designed to catalog what the administration characterizes as false reporting, distortions, and hoaxes by news outlets and journalists. The portal is described as "fully sortable and routinely updated" and is coordinated with a White House Rapid Response account on X to contest media coverage in real time. The release frames the initiative as providing "unfiltered truth" to the American people.
• White House issues call to submit "media bias" tips to newly launched portal — The White House issued a release calling on Americans to submit reports of alleged media bias and false articles to a newly launched "Media Bias Portal" accessible at whitehouse.gov/biastips. The release characterizes news media as "Fake News" engaged in "baseless lies" and "left-wing lunacy," and frames citizen submissions as essential to "combat" and "hold the Fake News accountable." The portal's stated purpose is "truth and transparency."

Supporting reports

• Trump posted over 160 posts on Truth Social in less than 5 hours overnight, including QAnon content, conspiracy theories, and attacks on Democratic opponents. — Between midnight and early morning on December 1–2, Trump posted more than 160 times on Truth Social in under 5 hours, flooding the platform with clips, some duplicated in apparent automatic loops, conspiracy theories (including claims about Michelle Obama using Biden's autopen to issue pardons), attacks on Democratic figures including Gavin Newsom, Nancy Pelosi, Ilhan Omar, and Barack Obama, and an AI-generated video of Elon Musk discussing revocation of temporary protections for Somali migrants. The posts ranged from nostalgia content to political attacks and conspiracy amplification.

Supporting reports

• Former JAGs declare alleged orders constitute war crimes — The Former JAGs Working Group, composed of former military judge advocate generals, issued a statement unanimously declaring that the giving and execution of the alleged orders to kill survivors "constitute war crimes, murder, or both" and called for prosecution of anyone who issues or follows such orders. The group noted that the military's legal guardrails, which Hegseth had systematically dismantled after purging JAGs from the Army and Air Force in February 2025, would have prevented these alleged crimes had they remained in place.
• Hegseth defended strikes as legal and justified on social media — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth posted on X that the strikes are "specifically intended to be 'lethal, kinetic strikes'" designed to stop lethal drugs, destroy narco-boats, and kill narco-terrorists. He stated "We have only just begun to kill narco-terrorists" but did not directly deny the allegation that he ordered killing of crew members in the water.
• Pete Hegseth allegedly ordered killing of crew members on suspected drug-smuggling vessel — The Washington Post reported that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth gave a spoken order to kill all crew members aboard a vessel suspected of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean Sea. The report triggered bipartisan congressional scrutiny, with Senate Armed Services Committee leaders Roger Wicker and Jack Reed and House Armed Services Committee leaders Mike Rogers and Adam Smith announcing investigations into the alleged strikes.
• White House claimed September 2 boat strike was lawful self-defense — White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the administration believes the September 2 strike on a boat off Venezuela was lawful because it "was conducted in self defense to protect Americans and vital United States interests." This justification would permit the president or those acting in his name to be judge, jury, and executioner without regard to law. Leavitt attributed the orders to Admiral Bradley rather than Defense Secretary Hegseth.
• Senator Angus King stated boat strike would be war crime if facts alleged are true — Senator Angus King, a lawyer who sits on both the Senate Intelligence Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee, told CNN that if the facts alleged about the September 2 boat strike are accurate—specifically that there was a second strike to kill survivors in the water—"that's a stone cold war crime. It's also murder." King stated that Congress would investigate who gave which orders and when.
• Senator Angus King stated September 2 strike was war crime if facts alleged — Senator Angus King (I-ME), a lawyer on the Senate Intelligence Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee, told CNN that if the facts alleged are true—that a second strike was specifically conducted to kill survivors in the water—"that's a stone cold war crime. It's also murder." King stated the law is clear and Congress will investigate who gave which orders and when.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth posted mocking AI image about boat strike — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted an AI-generated fake cover of a children's book featuring Franklin the Turtle in military gear firing a rocket launcher at a burning boat with survivors, titled "Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists" with the caption "For your Christmas wish list…" The post appeared to mock concerns about a September 2 strike on survivors of a boat attack off Venezuela that has been characterized as a potential war crime.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth posted support for Admiral Bradley — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted that "Admiral Mitch Bradley is an American hero, a true professional, and has my 100% support. I stand by him and the combat decisions he has made—on the September 2 mission and all others since." The post appeared to shift responsibility for the September 2 boat strike to the admiral while maintaining public support, a tactic commentators characterized as "underbussing."
• U.S. military strike on Venezuelan fishing boat alleged as war crime — A U.S. military strike on a Venezuelan fishing boat is characterized as potentially constituting a war crime. Reports indicate a second strike may have been ordered after survivors were observed clinging to life. MAGA Congressman Carlos Gimenez dismissed calls for investigation, insisting that Pete Hegseth and Trump's denial of wrongdoing should be accepted without further inquiry.
• White House Press Secretary contradicts Trump on deadly second strike in military operation — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt held a press conference addressing a controversial second military strike that killed survivors of an initial boat strike. Leavitt admitted the second strike occurred but claimed neither Trump nor Defense Secretary Hegseth ordered it, attributing the decision to Admiral Bradley. She characterized the strike as lawful self-defense. Trump had denied knowledge of the incident the previous night on Air Force One. The contradiction raised questions about command responsibility and adherence to international law and the Geneva Convention.
• Hegseth ordered lethal September 2 Caribbean boat strike — The New York Times reported that five US officials confirmed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the lethal September 2 attack on a vessel in the Caribbean, though officials also claimed that Special Operations commander Admiral Frank Bradley directed the initial missile strike, followed by additional strikes that killed survivors and sank the boat. The narrative matched White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's briefing statement.
• Pentagon and Congressional officials expressed concern about scapegoating of Admiral Mitch Bradley. — Officials in Congress and the Pentagon stated they are increasingly concerned that the Trump administration intends to scapegoat Admiral Mitch Bradley, the military officer who directed U.S. forces to kill two survivors of a targeted strike on suspected drug smugglers in Latin America. Lawmakers made initial moves to investigate whether the attack constituted a war crime. Pentagon officials described feeling angry at uncertainty over whether Hegseth would take responsibility for his alleged role or leave military and civilian staff to face consequences.
• Rep. Carlos Gimenez changed position on legality of killing survivors. — After initially stating that the story about a second strike killing survivors must be fake news because Hegseth would never do such a thing, Rep. Carlos Gimenez appeared on CNN and changed his position. When asked "If there were survivors clinging for their lives on that boat, was it legal to go ahead and kill them?" Gimenez responded "If the mission was just to have a second strike to kill the survivors, that's questionable."
• Sen. Markwayne Mullin defended the second strike as necessary. — Senator Markwayne Mullin appeared on Fox News and stated "If there was a second strike, it wouldn't be to just simply take out the survivors. It's because there was still a threat or opportunity for them to run." This represents a Republican senator's defense of the lethal strike on survivors.
• Senate Majority Leader John Thune declined to evaluate Hegseth's leadership. — Senate Majority Leader John Thune, when asked about Hegseth's leadership at the Department of Defense, stated "I don't have, at this point, I guess, an evaluation of the secretary. Others can make those evaluations." This represents a refusal to comment on the Defense Secretary's fitness for office during an ongoing investigation into potential war crimes.
• Inspector General report finds Hegseth sent classified information over Signal — Acting Inspector General Steven A. Stebbins released a report on December 2 concluding that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sent sensitive, nonpublic, operational information over the non-secure messaging app Signal on his personal cell phone, violating Department of Defense policy. The report detailed that U.S. Central Command sent Hegseth seven emails classified as SECRET/NOFORN before and during strikes on Houthi militants in Yemen on March 14 and 15. Hegseth transmitted information including details about targets, weapons packages, aircraft, and strike times to people on a Signal chat. The report noted that if the information had fallen into adversaries' hands, Houthi forces might have been able to counter U.S. forces or reposition to avoid strikes, creating a risk to operational security and potential harm to U.S. pilots.
• Coast Guard records revealed that 21% of boats interdicted prior to new Trump policy contained no drugs. — Senator Rand Paul requested records from the Coast Guard on boat interdictions for the 12-month period before the Trump/Hegseth policy of striking suspected drug-smuggling vessels went into effect. The Coast Guard responded with data showing that of 212 total vessels interdicted in the year prior to the new policy who were suspected of trafficking drugs, only 55 actually had drugs on board. Additionally, 21% of boats stopped off the coast of Venezuela possessed no drugs at all, indicating a significant false-positive rate in targeting decisions.
• Trump administration lawyers warned of criminal behavior in boat strike — Zeteo reported that Trump administration lawyers have been warning senior colleagues that if the Washington Post's reporting on the second strike is true, it would be blatantly illegal, with one administration official saying, "There's defending the homeland, and then there's criminal behavior."
• CNN National Security Correspondent Barbara Starr responded to Pete Hegseth's criticism of the press. — CNN National Security Correspondent Barbara Starr responded to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's statement that reporters "sit in your air conditioned offices" and plant "fake stories." Starr stated "How dare you sir. Close to every member of the press corps you despise has made multiple reporting trips to combat zones, been under fire, some reporters wounded, some killed. Some today still with PTS. Mr. Hegseth should we indeed finally accept it's just not possible for you to show any basic respect?" This represents a direct rebuke of the Defense Secretary's attack on the press.
• George Will published opinion piece titled "A Sickening Moral Slum of an Administration." — Conservative columnist George Will published an opinion piece in the Washington Post with the title "A Sickening Moral Slum of an Administration." In the piece, Will wrote "Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth seems to be a war criminal. Without a war. An interesting achievement." This represents significant criticism from a prominent conservative voice.
• Pete Hegseth posted unauthorized mock children's book cover depicting Franklin the Turtle as a military combatant. — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on social media a mock cover of the children's book series "Franklin the Turtle" titled "Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists," showing the character dressed in military gear, standing in a helicopter, and firing a weapon at boats. Hegseth captioned the image "For your Christmas wish list." The publisher, Kids Can Press, issued a statement condemning the unauthorized use, stating that Franklin the Turtle "stands for kindness, empathy, and inclusivity" and that the depiction "directly contradicts these values."
• White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that Hegseth had authorized Admiral Bradley to conduct the strikes. — White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt made scripted remarks at a news briefing acknowledging that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had authorized Admiral Mitch Bradley to conduct the strikes. She stated that Bradley "worked well within his authority and the law, directing the engagement to ensure the boat was destroyed." The remarks triggered backlash within the Department of Defense, with officials expressing anger at the uncertainty over whether Hegseth would take responsibility for his role or leave military and civilian staff to face consequences.
• White House Press Secretary defended legality of second strike without substantiation — On Monday following the Washington Post report, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the second strike during the September 2 operation, stating that everything was within the military's legal authority. Leavitt provided no details, evidence, or legal reasoning to substantiate the claim that killing survivors clinging to wreckage complies with law.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth denied knowledge of a second military strike that killed survivors of a targeted operation. — During the Cabinet meeting, Hegseth stated that he did not know about a second strike that killed survivors in the water following an initial strike on a suspected drug-smuggling boat. He claimed he relied on military commanders for information and had not been involved in the second strike, while simultaneously defending the decision as correct and stating "we have his back" regarding the commander who authorized it. He also attacked the press, claiming reporters sit in "air conditioned offices" and plant "fake stories."
• Pete Hegseth posted statement of support for Admiral Mitch Bradley regarding combat decisions in the September 2 strike. — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X that Admiral Mitch Bradley is "an American hero, a true professional" and stated "I stand by him and the combat decisions he has made - on the Sept 2 mission and all others since." The post came amid reporting that Pentagon officials and Congress were investigating whether the strike that killed survivors constituted a war crime and that military officials believed Hegseth was attempting to scapegoat Bradley.
• Hegseth distanced himself from second boat strike — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth continued to distance himself from the second strike carried out on a boat in the Caribbean to kill two survivors in September, saying he watched the first strike he authorized live but "a couple of hours passed" before he was informed of the follow-up strike. Hegseth claimed he "did not personally see survivors" because the vessel was "on fire and was exploded," and attributed the action to "the fog of war."
• Classified Inspector General report shows Pete Hegseth shared sensitive war plans over Signal app — A classified Inspector General report set for public release on Thursday documents that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth risked endangering troops' lives by sharing sensitive war plans over the Signal messaging app, a security breach that violated protocols for handling classified information.
• Hegseth claims declassification authority and denies wrongdoing — On Wednesday, December 3, the day after the inspector general report was released, Defense Secretary Hegseth claimed he had declassified the information he shared and therefore had not acted inappropriately. He stated on social media that the report had cleared him, writing "No classified information. Total exoneration." Hegseth asserted that he determined the material he shared did not need to be classified because "there were no details that would endanger our troops or the mission." However, the inspector general's report acknowledged that while Hegseth had the authority to declassify information, his actions created a risk to operational security that could have resulted in failed mission objectives and harm to U.S. pilots.
• Secretary Hegseth claimed total exoneration in IG report response — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth responded to the Pentagon Inspector General's report by claiming "total exoneration" and stating "case closed," asserting that no classified information was shared. His spokesperson Sean Parnell echoed the claim of total exoneration. However, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) contradicted this characterization on CNN, stating that "no one can rationalize that as an exoneration."
• Congressional briefing on boat strike held in closed session — On December 4, Admiral Frank Bradley and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine appeared before House and Senate armed services and intelligence committees in a closed briefing to discuss the September 2 boat strike. Bradley denied receiving a "kill them all" order from Defense Secretary Hegseth, though lawmakers disagreed sharply on what the video showed. Democratic lawmakers expressed deep concern about potential war crimes; Republican lawmakers defended the strikes as justified.
• Representative Himes characterized boat strike video as deeply troubling — Representative Jim Himes (D-CT), the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, described a video of the U.S. strike against two survivors of the September 2 boat strike as "one of the most troubling things I've seen in my time in public service." Himes stated the video showed "two individuals in clear distress without any means of locomotion, with a destroyed vessel,... killed by the United States."
• Admiral Bradley briefed Congress on September 2 boat strike — Admiral Frank Bradley, who oversaw the September 2 missile strike on a boat that killed 11 people, met with lawmakers on Thursday to discuss the operation. He is expected to tell them that he considered the survivors viable targets rather than shipwrecked, defenseless mariners. Bradley is expected to testify that U.S. personnel observing the operation believed the survivors possessed communications equipment and may have been capable of calling other drug smugglers for help recovering cargo, though it is unclear if they made contact with anyone.
• Rep. Adam Smith questioned legality of strikes on survivors — Representative Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, characterized the decision to strike two survivors on an incapacitated vessel as "highly questionable." Smith stated that the military's assumption that the survivors were still "in the fight" was based on an "unbelievably broad definition" of what constitutes active combat, given that the vessel was destroyed and the survivors had no means of locomotion.
• Rep. Jim Himes called briefing one of most troubling experiences — Representative Jim Himes, House Intelligence Committee ranking Democrat, stated that the briefing on the boat strikes was "one of the most troubling things I've seen in my time in public service." Himes characterized the killing of two individuals in clear distress, without means of locomotion and with a destroyed vessel, as deeply problematic.
• Rep. Mike Turner expressed concerns about accuracy of military intelligence — Representative Mike Turner (R-OH), who was chair of the House Intelligence Committee until Trump ordered Speaker Mike Johnson to remove him, expressed concerns about whether the accuracy of information being used in military operations meets the standard for informed congressional oversight. Turner stated that members have "very much concerns" about the level of accuracy and noted that if the individuals targeted were captured, tried, and convicted, they would not be subject to capital punishment, yet they are being killed without due process.
• Senator Tom Cotton endorsed boat strikes as lawful — Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Tom Cotton, emerging from the briefing on the September 2 boat strikes, characterized all four strikes that day as "righteous," "entirely lawful and needful," and exactly what military commanders should do. Cotton stated he saw two survivors trying to flip a boat loaded with drugs back over to stay in the fight.
• Inspector General report finds Hegseth violated Pentagon policies on classified information handling — The Department of Defense inspector general released a report concluding that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth violated Pentagon policies by using the Signal messaging app to share classified details about upcoming airstrikes in Yemen, including aircraft types and strike times, two to four hours before missions on 15 March. The report determined his actions created operational security risks that could have resulted in failed missions and harm to pilots. Hegseth also failed to retain associated messages, violating federal record-keeping requirements.
• Messages from Hegseth's Signal account contained specific strike timing details — CNN reported that messages sent from Secretary Hegseth's Signal account to a group chat offered specific, real-time updates about planned military strikes, including one message that read "This is DEFINITELY when the first bombs will drop." The messages were so specific that they identified exact timing of operations. It remains unclear whether Hegseth properly declassified the information before sharing it with other top Trump officials and a reporter from The Atlantic who was accidentally added to the chat.
• Pentagon may not turn over Strike Bridge communications logs to Congress — The New York Times reported that military officials had used a written texting system known as "Strike Bridge" to communicate during planning and execution of military operations, including communications between Admiral Bradley and SEAL Team 6 operators directing drone strikes. The system automatically saves messages. Several congressional officials stated that lawmakers had requested to review logs related to the operation, along with written documentation including Hegseth's "execute order" and rules of engagement. It remains unclear whether the Pentagon will turn over these records to Congress.
• Senator Jack Reed demanded complete release of strike footage — Senator Jack Reed, ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, stated that the Department of Defense has no choice but to release the complete, unedited footage of the strike, given that the President has agreed to do so. Reed stated that the briefing confirmed his "worst fears" about the nature of the Trump administration's military activities and demonstrated why the Senate Armed Services Committee has repeatedly requested and been denied fundamental information, documents, and facts about the operation.
• Senator Rand Paul called for public release of strike video — Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) stated that the video of distressed, shipwrecked, or incapacitated people on boats being bombed should be shown to every American, calling for public disclosure of the controversial military operation.
• Trump agreed to release video of second strike — When asked whether he would release video of the second strike to the public, President Trump stated: "Whatever they have, we'd certainly release. No problem." This represents a commitment to public disclosure of the controversial military operation.
• Admiral Bradley briefed Congress on September 2 boat strike in Caribbean — Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley, Special Operations commander, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine conducted a closed-door briefing for congressional members regarding a U.S. military strike on September 2 against a small boat in the Caribbean. The strike killed nine of eleven people aboard; a second strike 41 minutes later killed the two survivors. Bradley stated the vessel appeared to be afloat due to cocaine packages and survivors could have floated to safety to continue drug trafficking, contradicting earlier claims that survivors were communicating with other vessels. The administration claims the operation targets drug cartels under a formal armed conflict determination, but has not provided legal authority and has ignored War Powers Resolution requirements for congressional approval beyond 60 days.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth responded to social media post about boat strikes — Andrew Kolvet of Turning Point USA posted on social media: "Every new attack aimed at Pete Hegseth makes me want another narco drug boat blown up and sent to the bottom of the ocean." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth quoted Kolvet's post and responded: "Your wish is our command, Andrew. Just sunk another narco boat." U.S. Southern Command confirmed a strike against a small boat in the eastern Pacific, stating that intelligence confirmed the vessel was carrying illicit narcotics and four male individuals aboard were killed.
• U.S. military conducted more than 20 strikes on small boats with at least 87 deaths — As of the date of the article, the U.S. military had carried out more than 20 strikes on small boats that the Trump administration claims are run by "narco-terrorists," resulting in at least 87 deaths. These operations began in September 2025 following the initial September 2 strike and have continued without formal congressional authorization beyond the initial War Powers Resolution notification.
• CNN reports boat was not headed for U.S., contradicting administration claim — CNN reported that the boat struck on September 2 was not headed for the United States, contradicting a claim made by President Trump. Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley, overseeing Special Operations that day, told Congress the intelligence indicated the boat was headed to meet a larger vessel bound for Suriname to transfer drugs. Bradley confirmed the military could not locate the second vessel. U.S. drug enforcement officials stated that drugs trafficked through Suriname are generally bound for Europe. Bradley also confirmed that after the people on the boat appeared to see American aircraft, they turned the boat back toward land.
• New York Times reports survivors of first strike were waving before second strike — Journalists Julian E. Barnes and Charlie Savage reported that survivors of the first strike on the boat were waving to something overhead before a second strike killed them. The report notes that the administration had not announced its new policy of striking alleged drug traffickers rather than arresting them, so the men had no way of knowing they were under attack. Some observers believed the men were waving to be rescued; others supporting the administration's position speculated they were signaling other alleged traffickers, though no other vessels or aircraft were in visual range.
• Pentagon announced 22nd airstrike against suspected drug smuggling vessel in eastern Pacific — The Pentagon announced a lethal strike on a boat suspected of carrying illegal narcotics in the eastern Pacific Ocean on 4 December, killing four men. The US Southern Command described the strike as a "lethal kinetic strike on a vessel in international waters operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization" and stated that intelligence confirmed the vessel was carrying illicit narcotics. This was the 22nd attack in the campaign against boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, bringing the death toll to at least 87 people. The strike was the first publicly announced operation in nearly three weeks.
• Pentagon announces lethal strike on boat in eastern Pacific, killing four men — The US military, at the direction of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel in international waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing four men described as narco-terrorists. The strike, the 22nd such operation since September, was conducted by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and targeted a boat suspected of carrying illegal narcotics. The operation brings the death toll of the campaign to at least 87 people. The strike occurs amid mounting congressional scrutiny over the legal basis for the attacks.
• TPUSA operations head Kolvet called for drug boat destruction; Hegseth confirmed action — Andrew Kolvet, now running operations at The America First PAC (TPUSA) after Charlie Kirk's death, posted on social media: "Every new attack aimed at Pete Hegseth makes me want another narco drug boat blown up and sent to the bottom of the ocean." Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth responded: "Your wish is our command, Andrew. Just sunk another narco boat," and posted a video of what he described as a homicide committed by the Department of Defense.

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• Laura Loomer confirmed attendance at Pentagon press event — Far-right activist Laura Loomer confirmed on social media that she would attend the Pentagon's right-wing media briefing, stating "Very excited for New Media week at the Pentagon this week. I am really looking forward to being a member of the Pentagon Press Corp."
• Pentagon hosted right-wing media at first in-person press event since mainstream press walkout — The Department of Defense hosted right-wing media outlets at the Pentagon for its first in-person press event and briefing since the mainstream press corps walked out in October. Attendees included far-right activist Laura Loomer, Turning Point USA, the Daily Signal, and Tim Pool's Timcast. Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson and Secretary Hegseth provided a briefing and meet-and-greet.
• Pentagon issues report defending new press corps composition — On Wednesday, December 5, 2025, the Pentagon issued a statement defending its new press corps, describing a "whirlwind of activity" and reporting that more than 70 independent journalists, bloggers, and social media influencers had completed three days of onboarding. Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson stated the new media "operates differently than traditional media" and is "better equipped to inform a broader swath of the American public," framing the rightwing composition as an effort to reach more Americans.

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• X feature reveals foreign origin of high-engagement MAGA accounts — A new feature on X that permits users to see where accounts originate revealed that numerous high-engagement MAGA accounts claiming to represent patriotic Americans actually originate from Russia, Eastern Europe, India, Nigeria, Thailand, and Bangladesh. Since X pays certain content creators for tweets that drive engagement, posters from other countries have a financial incentive to post material that feeds American user anger and encourages reposting.

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• White House launches website publicly naming and criticizing media organizations and journalists — The White House unveiled a new website section on Friday that publicly catalogs and criticizes media organizations and journalists, labeling them "media offenders of the week" and creating an "Offender Hall of Shame" with a searchable database of articles ranked by outlet. The page names the Boston Globe, CBS News, and the Independent as current offenders, accusing them of misrepresenting Trump's remarks about Democratic lawmakers. A leaderboard ranks the Washington Post as the top offender, followed by MSNBC and CBS News. The site categorizes articles under labels such as "bias," "malpractice," and "left wing lunacy."
• White House launched "Media Bias Tracker" targeting news organizations — The White House added a "Media Bias Tracker" to its website that named the Boston Globe, CBS News, and the Independent as "media offenders of the week" and featured the Washington Post, CBS News, CNN, and MS NOW in its "Offender Hall of Shame." The page includes a database of articles with categories including "bias," "lie," and "left-wing lunacy" to describe coverage.

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• Trump posted offensive social media message threatening citizenship stripping on Thanksgiving — On Thanksgiving at midnight, President Trump posted on his social media account threatening to strip citizenship from naturalized immigrants, used an offensive slur to describe Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and ended with a message excluding those who "hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for." The post raised concerns among officials and medical experts about the president's mental acuity and fitness for office.
• Trump posts social media screeds blaming immigrants for National Guard shooting — Following the November 26 shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members stationed in Washington, D.C., by Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, Trump's social media account posted screeds against immigrants using the incident as justification. Lakanwal, who worked for the CIA in Afghanistan, came to the U.S. in 2021 as part of the post-withdrawal evacuation and was granted asylum earlier in 2025. Trump blamed "Joe Biden and his Thugs" for the evacuation, falsely claiming "hundreds of thousands of people poured into our Country totally unvetted and unchecked," disregarding Trump's own role in the 2020 Doha Agreement and his administration's vetting of Lakanwal.
• Trump posted Thanksgiving message attacking Minnesota and Congresswoman Omar — Trump posted a Thanksgiving message at 11:27 PM that attacked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as "seriously retarded," claimed Somali refugees are "completely taking over" Minnesota, and attacked Congresswoman Ilhan Omar with racist and Islamophobic language, including references to her hijab and false claims about her immigration status and family relationships.
• Trump made racist claims about Somali refugees in Minnesota — On Truth Social, Trump claimed "hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia" are "completely taking over" Minnesota, used a racial slur to describe Governor Tim Walz, and falsely claimed Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar "probably came into the U.S.A. illegally." The posts contained no factual basis and were part of a broader pattern of inflammatory rhetoric targeting immigrant communities.

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• Trump blamed Biden for DC shooting despite Afghan vetting under Trump administration — Trump blamed President Joe Biden for the shooting in Washington, D.C., claiming the Afghan suspect was not vetted before entering the U.S. in 2021. When challenged by a reporter with evidence that the DOJ Inspector General reported thorough vetting of Afghans brought to the U.S., Trump responded with hostility, calling the reporter "stupid" multiple times. Fox correspondent Jennifer Griffin later reported that the suspect was vetted by the NCTC and CIA before working with the agency in Afghanistan, and that his asylum was approved under the Trump administration in April 2025.
• Trump made false claims about Afghan suspect's asylum status — Trump claimed the Afghan suspect in the D.C. shooting was "flown in under the Biden admin" and stated "when it comes to asylum, when they're flown in, it's very hard to get them out." However, Fox correspondent Jennifer Griffin reported that the suspect applied for asylum during the Biden administration but his asylum was approved under the Trump administration in April 2025, and that he had been vetted by the CIA and NCTC before working with the agency in Afghanistan.
• Trump posts social media screeds blaming immigrants for National Guard shooting — Following the November 26 shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members stationed in Washington, D.C., by Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, Trump's social media account posted screeds against immigrants using the incident as justification. Lakanwal, who worked for the CIA in Afghanistan, came to the U.S. in 2021 as part of the post-withdrawal evacuation and was granted asylum earlier in 2025. Trump blamed "Joe Biden and his Thugs" for the evacuation, falsely claiming "hundreds of thousands of people poured into our Country totally unvetted and unchecked," disregarding Trump's own role in the 2020 Doha Agreement and his administration's vetting of Lakanwal.

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• White House leaked false "peace deal" claims to media outlets regarding Ukraine negotiations — White House officials leaked stories to ABC and CBS falsely claiming Ukraine had agreed to a "peace deal," repackaging Russian-authored terms as American proposals. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated more work was needed; Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov admitted Moscow had not received final counterproposals and had not been formally briefed by the U.S. on consultation results. U.S. officials continued telling reporters only "minor issues" remained, despite actual sticking points including territorial surrender, NATO/EU membership abandonment, and military dismantling.

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• Trump administration canceled third-quarter GDP report — The Trump administration announced the cancellation of the US third-quarter GDP advanced estimate report. The announcement came hours after Trump's Crypto Czar David Sacks posted that AI-related investment accounts for half of GDP growth and that a reversal would risk recession. The timing raised questions about whether the report's contents prompted the cancellation.

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• Axios reporter's sourcing from Russian envoy not disclosed in reporting — Axios reporter Barak Ravid, who broke the story of the Ukraine peace plan, faced criticism after it appeared his source was Kirill Dmitriev, the sanctioned Russian envoy. The source was not disclosed in Ravid's reporting. Multiple journalists noted that if Ravid obtained the report from a Kremlin operative and published it as a US plan without confirmation from US officials, it represented a serious journalistic failure. State Department officials told journalist Jimmy Rushton that nobody had seen the document or was aware it existed until Axios reported it.

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• State Dept official characterized Ukraine peace plan as Russian active measures operation — Multiple foreign policy experts and journalists characterized the Ukraine peace plan as a Russian active measures operation. Spiegel investigative journalist Christo Grozev stated he saw an early version six months ago that was "purely Russian concept" nearly identical to the current plan. Jurgen Nauditt detailed how Kirill Dmitriev drafted the plan and leaked it to Axios as a PR move to pressure Kyiv, with Witkoff only briefed afterward. Nauditt noted Witkoff's deleted tweet ("He must have got this from K.") revealed the Russian origin.

Supporting reports

• Miami Herald journalist explained Epstein files complexity — Miami Herald investigative journalist Julie K. Brown provided detailed explanation of the various categories of Epstein-related documents, including DOJ/FBI federal criminal case files, federal grand jury files, Oversight Committee files obtained by subpoena, civil case files from dozens of lawsuits, Treasury/IRS files, potential CIA files, and FAA records. Brown noted that many documents remain sealed or redacted despite releases, that media organizations have filed requests to unseal more documents, and that the process is slow and requires judge rulings. Brown also noted that not all claims against Epstein were filed in court and many were settled through quiet agreements.

Supporting reports

• Trump reverses position and calls for Epstein files release after Republican defection — After months of opposing the release of Epstein documents and warring with Republican congressmembers Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, Trump performed a U-turn when approximately 100 Republicans prepared to vote for release despite his opposition. Trump then called for the documents to be made public, reframing his capitulation as a strategic move. Fox News subsequently presented the reversal as Trump "calling their bluff" and a masterstroke rather than a forced concession.

Supporting reports

• House Democrats release Epstein emails implicating Trump; rightwing media suppresses coverage — House Democrats released emails in which Jeffrey Epstein claimed Donald Trump "knew about the girls," allegedly showing Trump spent hours at Epstein's home with a victim. Fox News and other conservative networks largely ignored the story. When Republicans prepared to vote for full Epstein file release despite Trump's opposition, rightwing media maintained silence. Only after Trump reversed course and called for release did Fox News cover it, reframing his capitulation as a strategic masterstroke rather than a humiliating U-turn forced by party defection.

Supporting reports

• X platform releases "about this account" transparency tool revealing foreign locations of prominent MAGA influencers — Elon Musk's X platform deployed a new transparency feature called "about this account" allowing users to view account location data, join dates, username change history, and app download methods. Upon rollout, users discovered numerous high-follower MAGA and rightwing influencers presenting themselves as patriotic Americans were actually operating from Russia, Nigeria, India, Thailand, and other countries. Accounts like MAGANationX (400k followers), IvankaNews (1M followers), and Dark Maga were exposed as foreign-based. The discovery prompted widespread discussion about foreign actors and bot networks influencing US political discourse on the platform.
• X platform revealed major MAGA influencers are foreign actors — Elon Musk's X platform rolled out an "About This Account" feature showing account location, join date, username changes, and app download method. The feature revealed that dozens of major MAGA and right-wing influencer accounts masquerading as "America First" or "MAGA" proponents actually originate from overseas locations including Russia, India, and Nigeria. Examples include MAGANationX (nearly 400,000 followers, based in Eastern Europe) and IvankaNews (1 million followers, based in Nigeria).

Supporting reports

• State Department spokesperson contradicted Rubio's denial of plan authorship — State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott called senators' accounts of Rubio's statements "blatantly false" and stated that the U.S. had in fact written the plan. This direct contradiction of Rubio's own words to senators forced Rubio to reverse course and claim U.S. authorship, creating public confusion about the plan's origins and the administration's internal coherence.
• Secretary of State Rubio contradicted senators about Ukraine peace plan origin — Secretary of State Marco Rubio made conflicting statements about the Ukraine peace plan's authorship. After Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) publicly recounted a private call in which Rubio characterized the plan as a received proposal not authored by the US, Rubio posted on X claiming the US authored the plan based on Russian input. State Department officials later backpedaled on Rubio's claims, with one diplomat calling the situation "unbelievable."
• Secretary of State Rubio claims US authored Ukraine peace plan — Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted on Twitter that a 28-point peace plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine, which would force Kyiv to make major concessions, was "authored" by the US. This contradicted a Republican senator's claim that Rubio had distanced himself from the plan during a phone call earlier that day, stating it came from Russia.

Supporting reports

• Labor Department cancelled October CPI inflation report — The Labor Department announced the cancellation of the October CPI inflation report and rescheduled the November CPI inflation data release to December 18th. Both the employment situation data for October and November and the CPI inflation data are now scheduled to be released after the Federal Reserve's next meeting, during a period of Fed data blackout.

Supporting reports

• JD Vance recommended far-right conspiracy theorist for Washington Post — Vice President JD Vance stated at a Breitbart conference that he had texted Jeff Bezos, owner of the Washington Post, recommending that Bezos hire Matt Boyle to run the Post's entire political reporting shop. Boyle is described as a "nutty far-right conspiracy theorist" who currently runs Breitbart.

Supporting reports

• White House officials discussed CNN host removals with Larry Ellison in Warner Bros Discovery acquisition context — Senior White House officials internally discussed preference for Paramount Skydance to acquire Warner Bros Discovery. Larry Ellison, Paramount's largest shareholder, engaged in at least one phone call with a White House official discussing potential removal of CNN hosts including Erin Burnett and Brianna Keilar, whom Trump reportedly dislikes. The conversation also covered replacing hosts and programming changes such as running CBS's 60 Minutes on CNN. These discussions occurred as Paramount positioned itself as the preferred bidder ahead of a November 20 deadline for non-binding bids.
• White House officials discussed media acquisitions with Larry Ellison — Senior White House officials discussed internally their preference for Paramount Skydance to acquire Warner Bros Discovery. One official discussed potential programming changes at CNN with Larry Ellison, the largest shareholder of Paramount, including the possibility of removing CNN hosts whom Trump dislikes, such as Erin Burnett and Brianna Keilar.

Supporting reports

• House of Representatives voted 427–1 to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act. — After four months of delays and Speaker Johnson's early adjournment to prevent signatures, the House voted on legislation requiring the Department of Justice to release unclassified Epstein-related records. The vote passed 427–1, with only Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) voting no and five members not voting. The overwhelming bipartisan support reversed Trump's earlier opposition to the bill; Trump had called it a "hoax" and withdrawn endorsements from Republicans supporting it before reversing position on November 17.
• House passes Epstein Files Transparency Act 427–1 — The House of Representatives voted 427–1 to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, directing the Department of Justice to release all unclassified Epstein-related records within 30 days with victims' names redacted. Representative Clay Higgins of Louisiana cast the sole opposing vote, arguing the bill abandoned criminal justice procedure protections. Five members did not vote. The Senate has already agreed via unanimous consent to pass the bill immediately upon receipt from the House.
• House votes on Epstein Files Transparency Act discharge petition — The House voted on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a discharge petition requiring Attorney General Pam Bondi to release sealed Justice Department investigative files within 30 days, including flight logs, travel records, witness transcripts, immunity deals, and records related to Epstein's death in federal custody. The vote followed four months of procedural delays by Speaker Johnson, including early adjournment and withholding the swearing-in of Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ), whose signature provided the 218th required for the discharge petition. Trump initially opposed the bill, withdrew his endorsement from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene over her support, then reversed position on Sunday and said he would sign it if it reached his desk.
• House passes bill to release Epstein files; Massie and Khanna call for accountability — The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to force the complete release of Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) held a press conference with Epstein survivors outside the Capitol, calling for the same accountability faced by UK figures tied to Epstein, including Prince Andrew's loss of titles and Peter Mandelson's removal as ambassador. Khanna renewed calls for Prince Andrew to testify before the House oversight committee.
• House passes Epstein Files Transparency Act with overwhelming bipartisan support — The House of Representatives voted 427–1 on November 18, 2025, to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, requiring the Justice Department to release all unclassified materials related to Jeffrey Epstein. The Senate unanimously agreed to expedite passage. President Trump, who initially resisted the measure, reversed course on November 17 and called for release, declaring "we have nothing to hide." The bill now awaits Trump's signature at the White House.
• House prepares vote on legislation to compel release of Epstein-related government files — The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on legislation requiring the release of US government files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Democrats and four dissident Republicans gathered sufficient signatures to force the vote over objections from Speaker Mike Johnson. Initially, Trump opposed the legislation, but reversed course on Sunday evening and called for its approval. The bill's passage in the Senate remains uncertain, with Subramanyam predicting Trump will pressure the Republican majority to block it.
• House passed bipartisan Epstein files disclosure resolution — The House passed a bipartisan resolution sponsored by Representatives Ro Khanna (D) and Thomas Massie (R) compelling the Department of Justice to release the entire contents of Epstein investigative files, with the exception of victim information. The vote was 427–1, with only Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) voting against. The resolution now advances to the Senate. The measure followed a discharge petition after Speaker Mike Johnson initially declined to bring it to a floor vote.
• Senate passed legislation to force DOJ to release Epstein files — The Senate passed legislation to force the Justice Department to release the Epstein Files within 30 days by unanimous consent after only one House lawmaker voted against it earlier in the day, moving the bill to Trump's desk. One administration official told Zeteo, "We lost this one badly."
• House passes bipartisan bill to force release of DOJ Epstein files — The House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill on Tuesday to compel the release of justice department records related to Jeffrey Epstein. The measure secured overwhelming support after Donald Trump reversed his five-month opposition and called on Republicans to back it. Epstein survivors, joined by Representatives Ro Khanna, Thomas Massie, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, held a news conference outside the Capitol demanding accountability and transparency. The bill now moves to the Senate.
• House passes Epstein Files Transparency Act with near-unanimous vote — The U.S. House of Representatives voted 427-1 on November 18 to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation requiring the release of investigative documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. The Senate approved the bill by unanimous consent the following day. President Trump, who had initially opposed the measure, reversed course and indicated he would sign it. The sole dissenting vote came from Louisiana Republican Clay Higgins, who cited concerns about protecting witness identities.
• House passes Epstein Files Transparency Act — The House of Representatives voted 427–1 to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of all unclassified Epstein-related records within 30 days, with victims' names redacted. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to pass immediately under a unanimous-consent agreement. The bill will then be sent to President Trump, who has stated he will sign it. However, a recent directive from Trump to the Department of Justice to open a new investigation into Epstein's connections may allow the DOJ to withhold records under the bill's "ongoing investigations" exception.
• Senate agrees to pass Epstein Files bill via unanimous consent — Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced that the Senate has agreed via unanimous consent to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act the moment it arrives from the House, expected Wednesday morning. No senator objected to the unanimous-consent motion. The bill will proceed directly to the President's desk without amendments or delay.
• Senate passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent. — The Senate passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent without debate, moving the legislation to the president within hours of House passage. The rapid Senate action followed the House's 427–1 vote.
• Senate passes Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent — The Senate passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent after Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer requested and obtained agreement for automatic passage upon the bill's arrival. Senate Majority Leader John Thune declined to delay or amend the measure, bypassing House Speaker Mike Johnson's expectation that the Senate would stall the bill with amendments.
• Became Law: Epstein Files Transparency Act — Congress enacted the Epstein Files Transparency Act (Public Law 119-38), requiring the disclosure of sealed documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's criminal case. The law mandates the release of previously withheld records to the public, expanding access to judicial proceedings and evidence. This legislative action increases transparency in a high-profile criminal matter of significant public interest.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatens to revoke ABC News license during bilateral meeting with Saudi crown prince — During a bilateral meeting with Mohammed bin Salman on 18 November 2025, President Trump told reporters that ABC News's license should be revoked because its coverage is "fake" and "97% negative to Trump." Trump stated the FCC chairman should examine the matter. This continues a pattern: Trump has made at least 28 license-revocation threats against major networks over eight years, despite the FCC lacking authority to revoke national network licenses—it can only license local stations.
• Trump attacked female reporters during press conference — During a press conference, President Trump verbally attacked two female reporters—Catherine Lucey of Bloomberg and Mary Bruce of ABC News—who asked questions about his connection to Jeffrey Epstein and the appropriateness of his family conducting business with Saudi Arabia. Trump called Bruce a "terrible person and terrible reporter," suggested the FCC should revoke ABC's license, and told Lucey to be "Quiet! Quiet, piggy!" in response to her follow-up question.
• Trump lashed out at ABC reporter and called for FCC action against network — Asked by ABC News reporter Mary Bruce about why the House needs to vote on releasing the Epstein files when he could order the release himself, Trump lashed out and called on Federal Communications Commission chair Brendan Carr to "take a look at" revoking the network's broadcast license. The threat represents an attempt to use regulatory power to punish a journalist for asking a critical question.
• Trump threatens ABC News broadcasting license over Khashoggi question — During the White House meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Trump castigated an ABC News journalist for asking a question about the 2018 murder of Jamal Khashoggi. Trump suggested that ABC should lose its broadcasting license in response to the question, using the moment to attack the press outlet rather than address the substance of the inquiry.
• White House issues statement attacking ABC News as "fake news" and "Democrat spin operation" — The White House published a statement on its official website characterizing ABC News as a "Democrat spin operation masquerading as a broadcast network" rather than journalism. The statement lists allegations of past ABC reporting errors, editorial choices, and coverage decisions spanning 2017–2025, including a 2024 settlement with George Stephanopoulos over defamation claims, and asserts that ABC's coverage of Trump administration actions has been systematically negative and misleading.

Supporting reports

• Trump approval rating falls to 41 percent amid economic discontent — Trump's job approval has fallen to 41%, with disapproval at 58%, representing career-high disapproval among men, White voters, and those without a college degree. Approval of Trump's handling of the economy hit a new low. The decline accelerated during the recent government shutdown and following the May "Liberation Day" tariff announcement. For comparison, Biden's approval was 44% with 54% disapproval at the same point in his presidency.
• Consumer sentiment falls to 2022 lows amid economic discontent — Preliminary November 2025 consumer sentiment data show sentiment falling back to the low point reached in 2022 during the post-pandemic inflation crisis. Seventy-six percent of voters view the economy negatively, up from 67% in July 2025 and 70% at the end of Biden's term. Large majorities report that costs for groceries, utilities, healthcare, and housing have risen. Voters overwhelmingly blame Trump rather than Biden for current economic conditions, with even 42% of Republicans blaming Trump.
• Manufacturing employment declines following tariff implementation — U.S. manufacturing employment has contracted sharply since May 2025, with goods-producing industries shedding jobs while service sectors remain stable. Construction and transportation/warehousing employment, which had boomed in Biden's final year, have collapsed. The auto industry has swung from expansion to contraction. Manufacturing has contracted for eight consecutive months as of October 2025, with suppliers reporting longer delivery times and manufacturers citing tariffs as a major constraint on production.
• Agriculture Secretary blamed Biden for beef price increases contradicted by industry — Trump sent Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to blame former President Biden for potential spikes in beef prices. The claim was immediately contradicted by the CEO of Omaha Steaks, exposing the false attribution and undermining the credibility of the administration's economic messaging.
• Trump administration claimed economy in "Golden Age" despite weakening conditions — Trump's national economic adviser Kevin Hassett appeared on multiple networks claiming the job market is in a "quiet time" and the administration declared the economy a "Golden Age," despite data showing purchasing power down, inflation rising, and tariffs driving up costs. Trump allies on Capitol Hill claimed groceries and gas are "much lower," statements contradicted by economic reality.
• Arbor Data Science reported record grocery prices — Arbor Data Science reported that U.S. grocery prices are now at an all-time high, with the average cost of groceries for a family of four reaching a record $1,030 per month.
• White House economic advisor blamed Democrats for cost-of-living issues — White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett, when asked about when the public would feel impact from administration moves to reduce cost of living, blamed Democrats for current conditions. When confronted with false claims about Thanksgiving costs being down 25%, he deflected by blaming Biden administration policies.
• Dr. Oz declined to commit to ACA subsidy protection — Dr. Oz, when asked on CNN whether he could promise that people would be able to afford insurance after ACA subsidies expire next month, responded only that "the president is laser focused on this" without committing to protecting subsidies or ensuring affordability.
• Fox News polling shows 46 percent of Americans believe harmed by Trump economic policies — Fox News polling released on November 20, 2025, shows that 46 percent of Americans believe they have been harmed by Trump's economic policies. The network's reporting acknowledged that Americans are "hurting financially." The U.S. Labor Secretary admitted that manufacturing numbers are "not where we want them to be," contradicting Trump's campaign promises and reflecting the impact of his erratic trade wars, sudden tariff spikes, and hostility toward industries he characterizes as "woke."

Supporting reports

• Trump reversed position and called for House Republicans to vote for Epstein file release — President Trump posted on Sunday night, November 16, that he wants House Republicans to "vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," reversing his prior opposition. By Monday afternoon, November 17, Trump stated he would sign the bill if it reached his desk. The reversal followed sustained public pressure and constituent calls to representatives.
• Trump reversed course on Epstein files, calling release a "Democrat Hoax" — On Truth Social, Trump reversed his earlier position and said House Republicans "should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," but then characterized the effort as a "Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics" designed to deflect from Republican success. The reversal came after initially opposing the release.
• Trump reverses opposition to Epstein files release — President Trump reversed his months-long opposition to the Epstein Files Transparency Act after it became clear the bill would pass the Republican-controlled House with substantial GOP support. Trump initially dismissed the issue as a "Democrat hoax" and "cover up" narrative, but shifted to public indifference, stating "I DON'T CARE!" on social media and later telling reporters he would allow the files' release while urging the media not to focus on the scandal.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files — President Trump reversed his previous opposition to releasing the Epstein files on November 17, 2025, calling for their disclosure and labeling the controversy a "Democrat hoax." Trump's reversal followed failed White House efforts to persuade Republican members Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace to withdraw from a discharge petition. Trump told reporters he would sign the bill if it reached his desk, though he retains veto power.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files after failed pressure campaign on House Republicans — President Trump spent the previous week pressuring House Republicans, including Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace, to oppose the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. When the measure appeared likely to pass despite his efforts, Trump reversed course and publicly called for Republicans to support the release on Sunday evening via Truth Social. The reversal represents a rare instance of Trump being unable to control his MAGA base and being forced to accede to grassroots pressure rather than lead it.
• Trump reversed position on Epstein files release after House discharge petition neared completion — After initially fighting the release of FBI-collected Epstein investigation files, Trump abruptly reversed course on the evening of November 17, posting that House Republicans should vote to release the files "because we have nothing to hide." This reversal came as a discharge petition neared the threshold to force a House vote, with reports indicating as many as 100 House Republicans prepared to support release despite Trump's earlier opposition. Trump later told reporters he would sign the measure if it reached his desk.
• Trump reverses position and endorses Epstein records release bill — After five months of resisting the release of justice department files on Jeffrey Epstein, President Trump reversed course and called on Republican lawmakers to support the House bill forcing disclosure. Trump's initial opposition had prompted bipartisan pushback from Representatives Massie and Khanna. His reversal came hours before the House vote and secured the bill's passage with overwhelming bipartisan support.
• Trump Calls for Release of Epstein Files — President Donald J. Trump reversed his previous opposition and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, "we have nothing to hide." This shift came after significant pressure from House Republicans and public demand for transparency regarding the files. The House is set to vote on a discharge petition that would require the Justice Department to release the files.
• Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, into law on November 19, 2025 — President Donald J. Trump reversed his position and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, “we have nothing to hide.” This shift came after significant pressure from within the party, as many House Republicans indicated they would support the release, despite Trump's previous opposition. The House is set to vote on a bill requiring the Justice Department to release these files.
• Trump signs Epstein Files Transparency Act into law — On November 19, 2025, President Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress had passed the same day. The law required the Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents and records relating to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, immunity deals, internal DOJ communications about charging decisions, and documentation of Epstein's detention and death within 30 days, with redactions permitted only for classified information, victim privacy, child sexual abuse material, active investigations, and properly classified national defense or foreign policy information. All other redactions required written justification in the Federal Register and to Congress.
• Trump signed Epstein files release bill into law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law after initially opposing its passage for months and later claiming indifference to the outcome. Trump announced the signing on social media in the evening of November 19, 2025.
• Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law. — In a rant on Truth Social, Trump announced that he signed the bill forcing the Justice Department to release the Epstein files into law. It's unclear how many of the files will be released by the DOJ, considering the legislation notes that the attorney general can withhold or redact any information that names victims or could interfere with a current federal investigation.
• Trump signs bill directing DOJ to release Epstein investigation files — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law on November 20, 2025. The law requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified Epstein-related records, including flight logs, witness interview transcripts, immunity deals, non-prosecution agreements, internal DOJ communications, and records related to Epstein's death in federal custody. The DOJ has 30 days from enactment (deadline December 20, 2025) to release the documents, with an exception for records tied to "ongoing investigations."
• Trump signs bill to release Epstein files — President Trump signed legislation on November 20, 2025, directing the Department of Justice to release files from the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill permits redaction of victims' identifying information but bars officials from withholding documents due to "embarrassment, reputational harm or political sensitivity." Trump reversed his earlier position opposing release after facing bipartisan pressure and indications the House would pass the measure. The legislation passed swiftly through both chambers after Trump signaled approval.
• Epstein Files Transparency Act Signed into Law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation requiring the Department of Justice to release government files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill passed the House overwhelmingly and the Senate unanimously after a discharge petition overcame Speaker Mike Johnson's initial opposition. Congressman Ro Khanna, a key Democratic sponsor, warned Trump administration officials that failure to comply with the release requirement could result in prosecution for contempt of Congress or criminal violations.
• Trump signs law mandating DOJ release of Epstein documents within 30 days — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, establishing a 30-day deadline for the Department of Justice to release unclassified materials related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The bill passed the House with 427 votes and the Senate by unanimous consent, marking rare bipartisan support. Trump had initially opposed the bill before reversing course amid party rebellion. Republican senators immediately warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using exemptions to withhold or redact materials.
• Trump signals willingness to meet with NYC mayor-elect Mamdani — President Trump announced he had signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein's investigation. This decision came after the House and Senate passed the bill, despite Trump's earlier attempts to block its release. The announcement was made amidst Trump's ongoing efforts to shift focus to his administration's achievements.
• Trump posted demand for House Republicans to vote to release Epstein files — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, mandating the release of Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, requires the disclosure of unclassified materials in a searchable format, with exemptions for active investigations and materials depicting minors. Republican senators have warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using these exemptions to withhold information, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
• House Republicans reversed positions on Epstein file release following Trump's post — President Trump signed legislation passed by Congress requiring the Department of Justice to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law permits redactions only to protect victim identities but bars redactions based on embarrassment or political sensitivity. However, experts and transparency advocates warn that DOJ officials could exploit a provision allowing withholding of materials connected to ongoing law-enforcement investigations—particularly a newly announced Trump-directed investigation into Bill Clinton and other political opponents with Epstein associations—to block or delay full disclosure.
• — Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani "would like to meet with us" and that "we'll work something out." Mamdani confirmed his team had reached out to the White House to discuss federal policies affecting New York, particularly the affordability crisis. The potential meeting follows Trump's campaign attacks on Mamdani, including calling him a "communist lunatic," threatening to pull federal funding from NYC if he won, and suggesting stripping Mamdani of his citizenship. Mamdani will be sworn in as NYC's 111th mayor on January 1.
• — Trump posted on social media that House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, characterizing the matter as a "Democrat Hoax" and stating "we have nothing to hide." Trump claimed the files would deflect from Republican achievements and that Democrats would have released them before the election if they had anything. He also stated that some Republicans were being "used" and urged focus on Republican accomplishments instead.
• — Multiple House Republicans, including Rep. Troy Nehls and Republican Senate candidates Derek Dooley and Rep. Mike Collins, reversed their previous positions opposing the release of Epstein files immediately after Trump's social media post demanding the release. Nehls had days earlier called the release an "Epstein hoax" designed by Democrats to distract from Trump's administration but announced he would now vote to release the files, making unanimous release likely.