China-Linked Influence Group Paid to Cultivate Dozens of U.S. Journalists and Manufacture “Positive” Coverage of the Chinese Communist Party. Here Are Their Names.

 A report reveals that a political group supported by the Chinese government financed trips for 54 American journalists from major media outlets to influence their coverage of China. The program aimed to create "positive" narratives about the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) by providing journalists with curated experiences and access to Chinese officials.

1. Funding and Purpose:

The initiative, associated with the Better Hong Kong Foundation, aimed to enhance U.S. media coverage of China.

Journalists received compensation in the form of airfare, hotels, meals, transportation, and exclusive access to Chinese officials and institutions.

2. Journalist Participation:

Notable participants included journalists from well-known outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, NPR, and The Washington Post.

Common requirements included at least five years of experience and a commitment to share positive stories about China.

3. Organized Trips:

Trips were meticulously arranged, featuring meetings with high-ranking Chinese officials and visits to state-run media.

These were not independent reporting opportunities but state-curated experiences designed to shape the participants' perspectives.

4. The Role of the Better Hong Kong Foundation:

The Foundation worked closely with the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), which helps implement the CCP's foreign influence.

Their methods reflect the CCP's broader strategy of using influential figures to advocate for pro-China narratives abroad.

5. Impact on Reporting:

Several journalists who participated in the program later published favorable articles about China.

For example, Joshua Keating wrote pieces showcasing China's advancements after his sponsored trip, without disclosing the sponsorship, which could lead to questions about objectivity.

6. Long-term Strategy:

The practice highlights a systematic approach to media influence, where financial support is tied to the desired narratives presented.

The goal is to alter Western perceptions of China, ensuring that information aligns with the CCP's interests.

7. Government Connections:

The trips included briefings from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, indicating direct involvement of the Chinese government in shaping media coverage.

Reports from the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission describe these efforts as measures to control international perceptions of China.

8. Examples of Influence:

Specific journalists noted in the program have published articles that align closely with CCP perspectives, often without transparency about their participation in the program.

The revelations of the Better Hong Kong Foundation's influence on American journalists highlight the intersection of media and foreign policy. The program sought to cultivate favorable coverage of China by integrating American journalists into a structured narrative that resonates with CCP interests. This raises significant concerns about the integrity and independence of journalism as it relates to foreign influence efforts. The implications for U.S. media are profound, as they shed light on how external entities can impact domestic perceptions through targeted outreach to the press.

https://nataliegwinters.substack.com/p/revealed-china-linked-influence-group?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3382126&post_id=210104595&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=6dl2nb&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email

Americans Remain Sharply Divided Over Military Action Against Iran

 American support for military action against Iran is mixed, reflecting a divide by political affiliation and demographic factors.

1. Current Support Levels: In the I&I/TIPP Poll conducted in August, 42% of respondents support U.S. military action against Iran, while 44% oppose it. The remainder are unsure.

2. Political Party Differences:

A large majority of Democrats (68%) oppose military action.

Independents show a split (47% oppose, 34% support).

Republicans overwhelmingly support military action (71% in favor).

3. Demographic Variations:

Men show more support for military action (52% support) compared to women (32% support).

Support decreases with lower income levels, with higher earners showing more backing for action.

4. Military Expansion Concerns: If Iran refuses to negotiate over its nuclear program, 47% support expanding military operations, with strong backing from Republicans (74% support). Democrats are against this option (55% oppose).

5. Preferred Approaches: The public shows limited support for ground troop involvement. Most prefer continuing diplomatic efforts or withdrawing forces if Iran doesn't negotiate.

6. Current Situation: Diplomatic talks with Iran are stalled, with Iran making significant demands from the U.S. regarding sanctions and military presence.

Public sentiment regarding military action against Iran is cautious and influenced by political alignment, gender, and income levels. Many Americans prefer diplomatic solutions over military escalation, reflecting wariness from past military engagements. 

https://issuesinsights.com/2026/08/10/americans-remain-sharply-divided-over-military-action-against-iran-ii-tipp-poll/

A Modest Proposal: Performance Reviews for Senators

 The effectiveness of Congress often hinges on the looming threat of elections. This behavior leads to the passage of short-term funding measures to avoid government shutdowns.

Congress is rushing to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government until December instead of facing a shutdown on October 1.

Many House and Senate members are up for election in November, prompting their urgency to act.

The situation is likened to Pavlov's experiment, where lawmakers respond to impending elections with productivity, akin to dogs salivating at the sound of a bell associated with food.

Senators often neglect their responsibilities, only to engage with constituents closer to election time.

The author sarcastically proposes a solution where constituents could vote monthly on whether to retain or dismiss their senators, though these votes would not be binding.

This idea aims to keep senators aware of public opinion and motivate them to act consistently.

The anticipation of removal can influence senators' behavior, potentially leading to more regular legislative processes and less reliance on temporary funding resolutions.

The threat of elections encourages Congress to perform its duties better, suggesting that a mechanism akin to a monthly public vote could enhance accountability and lead to more effective governance. 

https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2026/08/10/a_modest_proposal_performance_reviews_for_senators_154402.html

The Marxist-Islamist Alliance Feeds On DSA Naïveté

 Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic nomination for the Senate in Michigan, which excited far-left party members and media. However, the significance of his close victory raises questions about this coalition's impact. El-Sayed's win reflects the growing alliance between radical progressives and Islamists, both groups aiming to undermine Israel and Western democracy.

This alliance began with a small group of far-left candidates known as the Squad, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ilhan Omar, who challenged establishment Democrats. The media supported them, viewing them as a progressive counter to "Trumpism." Their rhetoric of shared victimhood and anti-colonialism may protect Islamists, especially if they succeed in their goals against the West.

The text mentions Ocasio-Cortez’s comments on climate change and unemployment, suggesting that while the Squad seemed unserious, they still gained media attention. Historically, Republicans viewed figures like Bernie Sanders as manageable, believing Democrats would not allow socialist candidates to rise too high. This view changed with the emergence of figures like Joe Biden and new elected officials who don't align with traditional American values.

The narrative continues with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whose actions demonstrate a disconnect from American ideals. His endorsement of candidates like Brad Lander, who challenge pro-Israel positions, highlights a shift in the party's dynamics. Candidates like Darializa Avila Chevalier openly attack the Israeli lobby, signaling a deeper Marxist-Islamist agenda within the party.

Amidst this, a group of thirteen centrist Democrats is attempting to assert their capitalist beliefs. However, they may not fully grasp the deeper ideological struggle against Marxism and Islamism, both of which threaten Israel and Western democracy, albeit with different end goals. If their alliance succeeds, history suggests that former allies could face severe consequences. 

https://spectator.org/the-marxist-islamist-alliance-feeds-on-dsa-naivete/

The Omnipresent State: From Free Citizen to Servant of Bureaucracy

The value of self-reliant citizens in democracy, their historical significance in Germany, and the decline of civic culture due to modern bureaucratic governance. It paints a contrast between the past, especially the Hanseatic League era, and the challenges of present-day political dynamics.

1. Self-Reliance as a Civic Value:

The self-reliant citizen is crucial for democracy and has historically contributed to Germany's prosperity through values of honor, sovereignty, and hard work. However, political elites view these self-reliant individuals as threats.

2. Historical Reflection on Lübeck:

The struggles of modern vacationers due to persistent rain lead them to explore Lübeck, a city filled with historical institutions that showcase values of community care and social responsibility from the Hanseatic era.

3. Responsibility to the Community:

Historical wealthy citizens of Lübeck demonstrated their success not solely through possessions but by actively engaging in community welfare, particularly in supporting the needy, signifying a sense of honor and communal responsibility.

4. Erosion of Civic Values:

The narrative notes the decline of individual initiative and civic culture, particularly after the 1848 Revolution, which highlighted an unfulfilled desire for self-determination, overshadowed by authoritarian impulses.

5. Modern Bureaucratic Structures:

The contrast between past wealth-generating citizens and today's bureaucratic framework emphasizes how civil society has been replaced by managed welfare state systems, leading to restricted individual freedoms.

6. Civic Pride vs. State Dependency:

The modern era is criticized for producing citizens who are dependent on the state rather than self-reliant. The trend of growing state control and surveillance is seen as undermining individual dignity.

7. Call for a Return to Tradition:

Acknowledge the past as crucial for future renewal. Understanding cultural heritage and civic values is necessary to address contemporary challenges and restore individual dignity.

8. Political Disconnect from History:

The rejection of historical symbols, such as the flags of the civic movement, reflects a political culture that has lost touch with its historical roots, favoring ideological disputes over genuine representation of citizen interests.

The journey from historical Hanseatic Lübeck to the current political situation showcases a stark decline in civic culture and individual dignity. A return to liberal values and civic responsibility is essential for empowering citizens and revitalizing community spirit. Recognizing and integrating past traditions is vital for facing future challenges. 

https://spectator.org/the-omnipresent-state-from-free-citizen-to-servant-of-bureaucracy/ 

Marijuana is America's most commonly used drug now, and the reason may be worse than you think

 Recent reports highlight a significant increase in cannabis-related hospitalizations, particularly among young Americans, driven by their struggles with mental health and coping with societal pressures.

Emergency room visits for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), which causes cyclical vomiting from frequent cannabis use, increased by approximately 16% from October 2025 to May 2026, per a CDC report.

The 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicated that around 21.4 million Americans use cannabis daily or nearly daily, surpassing cigarette and alcohol use.

THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, is commonly used by many young individuals to self-medicate for anxiety and depression.

About 33.7% of marijuana users are aged 18-25. Most "Zoomers" (Gen Z) have reported mental health issues, with 34% taking medication and 19% self-medicating.

Contributing factors to mental health issues include social media addiction and economic concerns, with a large portion of Zoomers doubting their ability to achieve major life milestones.

The cannabis industry is projected to reach nearly $47 billion in legal sales by 2026.

The rise in cannabis use and its related health impacts among young Americans reflects a growing need for mental health support and awareness of the risks involved with self-medication. 

https://www.wnd.com/2026/08/marijuana-is-americas-most-commonly-used-drug-now/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=marijuana-is-americas-most-commonly-used-drug-now

Left Treats History as 'Assertion of Power' in Smithsonian 'Ideological Takeover'

 Dr. Matthew Spaulding, a professor at Hillsdale, criticized the Smithsonian Museum of American History for undergoing an "ideological takeover," claiming that the museum no longer tells America’s story but instead promotes a political agenda that potentially distorts history. His remarks coincide with a White House report revealing significant changes in how American history is represented at the museum.

Ideological Shift: The museum reportedly replaced the traditional American story with narratives rooted in relativism and nihilism, focusing more on divisions caused by power dynamics rather than celebrating American history.

White House Report Findings: A report published on July 4 indicated that the museum's leadership has adopted a new ideologically charged framework, shifting the focus away from a unified American narrative to one that emphasizes disunity and discouragement.

Executive Order: This shift is linked to an executive order by Donald Trump aimed at restoring truthful representation in American history at national sites, which revealed concerning trends of "wokeness" in the museum.

Content Criticism: Spaulding noted that visitors now find disturbing exhibits that include contemporary issues unrelated to America’s historical narrative, such as the personal diaries reflecting gender identity conflicts and discussions of sexual practices.

Historical Neglect: Traditional historical figures like Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton are presented without context or acknowledgment of their roles in abolitionist movements, overshadowed by an emphasis on their flaws.

Changing Mission Statement: The museum altered its mission statement, removing references to "American history" and focusing on empowerment rather than a factual account of the past, aligning with a postmodern perspective on history.

Concerns for Education: Spaulding and others express alarm that the Smithsonian—historically trusted and influential in shaping educational curricula—has become a platform for political propaganda rather than a venue for historical education.

Political Implications: The ideological shift in museums reflects broader social movements and Marxist influences, raising concerns about the narrative being taught to future generations.

The Smithsonian Museum of American History, once a pillar of American education, is now seen as promoting a divisive, politically charged version of history that risks altering public perception and education surrounding the nation's past, especially as the country approaches its 250th anniversary. The call to action emphasizes the need to address these changes and realign the museum with a more accurate representation of American history. 

https://www.westernjournal.com/left-treats-history-assertion-power-smithsonian-ideological-takeover-professor/