Monday, March 23, 2026

Democrats Rattled After California Sheriff Seizes 650,000 Ballots in Election Integrity Crackdown

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has recently seized over 650,000 ballots from a previous election as part of an investigation into potential voting discrepancies in California. This investigation has sparked political controversy and debate regarding election integrity.

• Background of the Investigation: Sheriff Bianco is investigating allegations that Riverside County's election tally may have been inflated by over 45,000 votes, as claimed by the Riverside Election Integrity Team.

• Purpose of the Investigation: Bianco stated that the goal is to physically count the ballots and verify their accuracy against the recorded votes. He emphasized that there should be no errors in elections, regardless of size.

• Details of the Ballots: The investigation focuses on ballots related to Proposition 50, which passed with a 56% majority in Riverside County. Bianco clarified that this process is not a recount but a verification of the total votes.

• Responses from Election Officials: Riverside County Registrar of Voters, Art Tinoco, suggested the discrepancies arose from a misunderstanding, asserting that the real variance was only 103 votes.

• Political Reactions: Bianco's actions have caused unease among Democrats, with Attorney General Rob Bonta describing the investigation as unprecedented and lacking factual basis. Bonta expressed concerns about Bianco's unwillingness to collaborate and the implications for public trust in elections.

• Current Status of the Investigation: A Riverside County Superior Court judge has appointed a special master to oversee the ballot counting process. Bianco’s move is seen as politically significant, as he is a Republican candidate for governor and gaining popularity in the race.

The controversy surrounding Sheriff Bianco's seizure of ballots underlines the ongoing national discussion regarding election integrity. While Bianco aims to ensure accurate vote counts, Democratic officials have raised alarms about the potential for this investigation to create mistrust in election processes. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for future elections in California. 

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2026/03/democrats-rattled-after-california-sheriff-seizes-650000-ballots/

The Swamp Still Looks Pretty Healthy

The disappointment among some Americans, particularly Trump supporters, regarding the lack of accountability for political actions during Donald Trump's presidency. Despite promises of reform, many feel that significant changes and transparency have not materialized in Trump's second term.

• Expectations of Reform: Supporting Trump means hoping for true accountability against the powerful institutions seen as undermining him during his first term, including intelligence and law enforcement agencies.

• Approval Ratings: A Rasmussen Reports survey highlights declining approval ratings for FBI Director Kash Patel, with only 40% of voters viewing him favorably. Many believe he is not performing better than his predecessors.

• Trump's Promises: Voters expected Trump to "drain the swamp" and demand accountability for past political actions and investigations that often seemed biased, such as the Russia probe and handling of cases involving Clinton and Biden.

• Current Accountability Issues: Despite past investigations against Trump and his associates, key figures and topics related to possible misconduct, such as the origins of the Russia investigation and various incidents of political interest, remain unresolved, leading to criticism of lack of visible action.

• Challenges in Prosecution: There are institutional and legal obstacles to prosecutions that may hinder accountability efforts. Political pressures and the overlapping complexities of cases from years past further complicate the situation.

• Perception of Inaction: Many Trump supporters interpret the lack of reciprocal accountability as a failure of the system to self-correct, raising doubts about whether meaningful reform can occur from within established institutions.

As frustration grows among Trump's base regarding the failure to drain the swamp, the question arises: If the swamp was supposed to be drained, why does it still appear thriving? Without visible accountability, many Americans may lose faith in the system's ability to reform. The article serves as a cautionary note that without results, trust in political leaders and institutions may erode further. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/03/the_swamp_still_looks_pretty_healthy.html

Memo To Senate: Saving America’s Elections Is Your No. 1 Job Right Now

The ongoing debate in the U. S. Senate focuses on the SAVE America Act, which aims to enforce voter identification requirements and ensure that only U. S. citizens participate in elections. The discussion highlights various senators' priorities and the contrasting views on election integrity.

1. Voter Verification Importance: There is a strong belief among many Americans that verifying voters is crucial for free and fair elections. Citizens are encouraged to contact their senators to express this importance.

2. Senator Lisa Murkowski's Position: Senator Murkowski of Alaska is criticized for not supporting the SAVE America Act, showing more interest in issues related to Native Hawaiian women instead.

3. Legislative Actions: Other senators, like Cynthia Lummis, are pushing different bills, such as the Local Data for Better Conservation Act, while the SAVE America Act faces delays and opposition.

4. Public Support for Voter ID: Polls indicate that a significant majority, including 70% of Democrats, supports the idea of voter identification as a common-sense measure. This contrasts with the stance of some Democratic leaders who argue against such measures.

5. Call to Action: The article encourages citizens to reach out to their senators, particularly Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, to advocate for the SAVE America Act and to emphasize the importance of voter ID laws in maintaining election integrity.

6. Ongoing Debates and Challenges: While the legislative process continues, there are concerns that pressing issues related to election security are being overshadowed by less critical matters in the Senate.

The SAVE America Act represents a critical issue in the current political climate, with significant public backing for voter ID laws. Citizens are urged to voice their opinions to ensure that election integrity remains a priority in legislative discussions. The contrasting priorities of senators highlight the complexities and challenges faced in achieving consensus on such vital matters. 

https://thefederalist.com/2026/03/20/memo-to-senate-saving-americas-elections-is-your-no-1-job-right-now/

Food prices likely to rise as fertilizer exports out of the Middle East are disrupted, experts say

Due to the ongoing conflict in Iran and disruptions in fertilizer supplies, American farmers are facing significant challenges that could lead to rising food prices. Experts warn that these issues could have serious implications for the agricultural sector and food security in the United States.

1. Fertilizer Supply Disruption:

• The conflict in Iran has reduced exports of nitrogen fertilizer, essential for modern farming.

• The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for petroleum and fertilizers, is heavily impacted by this disruption.

2. Rising Costs for Farmers:

• Fertilizer prices have surged, with a reported 25% increase in urea prices since the conflict began.

• Farmers are already dealing with high inflation and increasing operational costs, leading them to potentially reduce crop yields or acreage.

3. Food Supply Concerns:

• The increased costs and supply shortages directly threaten the U. S. food supply as fertilizer is critical for crop yields.

• American farmers depend on both domestic and imported fertilizers, with conflicts causing global price fluctuations.

4. Economic Challenges:

• The agricultural sector is facing a generational decline in farm income due to various factors, including ongoing supply chain issues and rising prices.

• Farmers are experiencing fatigue, as they have had to navigate challenges from the COVID pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and now the Iranian conflict.

5. Call for Government Assistance:

• The American Farm Bureau has reached out to the government, requesting support measures such as maintaining safe shipping routes and waiving certain import duties.

6. Long-Term Concerns:

• Analysts predict a long-term decline in farming as younger farmers consider abandoning agriculture due to economic instability.

• The situation could result in increased dependence on food imports, which may further complicate the food security landscape in the U. S.

7. Technological Solutions:

• Some companies are exploring drone technology to reduce costs and improve efficiency, which may help farmers cope with increasing expenses.

The ongoing conflict in Iran is significantly impacting the fertilizer supply chain, escalating costs, and creating uncertainty for American farmers. As a result, consumers may soon feel the effects through rising food prices. There is an urgent need for governmental assistance and innovative solutions to ensure the stability of the agricultural sector and secure the nation's food supply. 

https://justthenews.com/politics-policy/energy/food-prices-likely-rise-fertilizer-exports-out-middle-east-are-disrupted

Imminent Threat? Iran Was Existential Threat

Recent political developments highlight a major rift within conservative circles regarding the U. S. military involvement in Iran. This division follows Donald Trump's decision to act against the Iranian regime, leading to significant controversy and resignations within government positions.

1. Trump's Decision and Political Fallout:

• Trump’s military actions in Iran have sparked outrage, particularly among those who previously supported him under the assumption that he opposed foreign military engagements.

• Joe Kent's resignation from the National Counterterrorism Center highlighted the growing divide among conservatives regarding military force.

2. Arguments Against Military Action:

• Kent claimed in his resignation letter that Iran was not an imminent threat and criticized U. S. involvement as driven by Israeli influence and media misinformation.

• Right-wing figures like Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene echoed these sentiments, suggesting the U. S. should not fight for foreign nations.

3. Counterarguments to Kent's Claims:

• The assertion that Iran poses no threat ignores historical context and the regime’s own threats against the U. S. and its allies.

• The idea that American military interventions are only justified in immediate threats is seen as a dangerous stance that could lead to catastrophic outcomes.

4. Historical Context and Responsibility:

• The article argues that American soldiers have historically fought for foreign allies, which is a longstanding tradition in U. S. military history.

• The rhetoric around waiting for clear threats before taking action is compared to previous failures to address aggressions that led to larger conflicts.

5. Consequences of Inaction:

• The piece argues that avoiding military action until a danger is undeniable can lead to more severe consequences, arguing that the Iranian regime represents an existential threat that should be addressed proactively.

The current debate emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to threats before they escalate. The discussion suggests that failing to act against a known hostile regime can ultimately lead to regret and overwhelming danger, advocating for a more proactive approach to national security. 

https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2026/03/23/imminent_threat_iran_was_existential_threat_153967.html

News roundup:

 International Energy Agency head says global economy faces ‘major, major threat’

Jewish volunteer ambulances set on fire in London investigated as hate crime: Police

Transportation Secretary Duffy says ICE agents are trained and can assist TSA

Pritzker tries to put past donations to AIPAC behind him

Senate votes to advance Mullin’s nomination to lead DHS

Trump to deploy ICE agents to airports Monday

Trump to Iran: Open Hormuz in 48 hours or U.S. bombs power plants

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass Leads Reelection with over 50% Disapproval Rating

California Sheriff Seizes More than a Half Million Ballots to Determine 2025 Election Integrity

Robot Goes Bezerk in California Restaurant Until Restrained by Staff

Rio de Janeiro Mayor Bans Chappell Roan Amid Accusations She Made Daughter of Brazilian Soccer Star Jorginho Cry

Jeffries: ICE Will Potentially ‘Brutalize,’ ‘Kill’ Americans at Airports

Air Canada Express jetliner crashes with firetruck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, killing two

Chi-SpyGate: Intel board to probe if spy agencies withheld China election secrets over politics

Trump looks to sever Cuba from sponsorship of its foreign patrons, Chinese & Russian influence

U.S. Supreme Court to hear asylum case Tuesday

Border wall contracts granted to company with history of scandals

Mamdani plan to drain $1B in reserves harms NYC budget, Comptroller Levine warns

Pressure builds on Congress as DHS shutdown threatens to drag into April

The Epstein files’ cottage industry

Democrats pile on Trump for post celebrating Mueller’s death

Yes, Trump Can Fight Iran And Save American Families Money At the Same Time

Cuba Prepares For Possible U.S. Military Action As Tensions Surge

Trump Draws Red Line: 48 Hours To Open Strait Or U.S. Strikes Begin

Birthright Citizenship is National Suicide

Daniel Greenfield discusses the implications of birthright citizenship in the context of national security. He highlights the challenges posed by individuals born in the U. S. to foreign nationals, particularly focusing on leaders of drug cartels and terrorist organizations who retain their American citizenship.

1. Case of Cartel Leadership: The new leader of Mexico's Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Juan Carlos Valencia Gonzalez, is a U. S. citizen born in California. His American citizenship complicates efforts by U. S. authorities to target him due to legal restrictions around citizenship.

2. Legal Framework: Current laws limit the government's ability to revoke citizenship, even for individuals engaged in activities against U. S. interests. Greenfield cites historical legal precedents that have made denaturalization increasingly difficult, noting a shift initiated by the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment regarding citizenship.

3. Historical Context: Previously, U. S. citizenship was linked to concepts of loyalty and allegiance, allowing for denaturalization in cases of treason or allegiance to foreign powers. Greenfield argues that this principle has eroded under modern interpretations of citizenship, primarily due to judicial activism.

4. Invariant Citizenship Principles: The author stresses that citizenship should be a voluntary act reflecting allegiance, rather than an automatic result of being born in the country. He argues that the current understanding of birthright citizenship undermines this principle and puts the nation at risk.

5. Citizenship and Allegiance: Greenfield makes the point that a person’s allegiance to the nation can no longer be taken for granted. He calls for a return to a system where citizenship is conditional upon an individual's ongoing loyalty to the U. S.

6. Potential Reforms: He suggests that the Trump administration and a more conservative Supreme Court may re-evaluate denaturalization laws. The focus should be on making the process of acquiring and maintaining citizenship more rigorous, emphasizing that citizenship should be earned rather than guaranteed by birthplace.

7. Crisis of Loyalty: Greenfield identifies a significant issue in the context of immigration policies leading to individuals holding citizenship without a corresponding allegiance to the United States. He points out that this creates vulnerabilities, particularly with individuals who may support terrorist activities against the country.

Greenfield advocates for a re-examination of birthright citizenship and the conditions under which citizenship is granted. He contends that without a meaningful connection between citizenship and allegiance, the integrity and safety of the nation will be compromised. Strengthening the ties between citizenship and loyalty is presented as essential for America's future stability. 

https://www.frontpagemag.com/birthright-citizenship-is-national-suicide/