Record Early Voting Sets Stage for Pivotal SC Primary as Norman, Pascoe, and Lynch Battle the Establishment

By Staff Writer

South Carolina Bulletin

Jun 08, 2026

South Carolina voters head to the polls Tuesday for a primary election that has already shattered every turnout record on the books, with more than 318,600 ballots cast during the early voting period nearly triple the 2024 figure of 120,178 and more than triple the 2022 total of 100,450.

The surge reflects a state hungry for change. For the first time in 16 years, the governor’s mansion has no incumbent on the ballot. Every congressional seat is up for grabs. An open Attorney General’s race will determine who controls the state’s top law enforcement post. And in the U.S. Senate primary, an entrenched incumbent is pouring massive resources into crushing an America First challenger. https://samueleburns.substack.com/p/record-early-voting-sets-stage-for

California Voter Fraud Evidence Mounts as Trump Battles Press, Iran Ceasefire Crumbles, and Legislative Chaos Deepens

  

By Staff

2026 President Donald Trump abruptly ended an interview with NBC's Kristen Welker on Sunday, walking off the set of Meet the Press after a heated exchange over his continued assertions of 2020 election fraud assertions that a growing body of evidence now suggests were far more grounded than the media establishment has ever been willing to admit.

"Let's call it quits, because I've had enough. Thank you, darling," Trump told Welker before departing. "You're a one-sided crooked network. Sorry."

The California Voter Fraud Nobody Wants to Discuss

Trump's election integrity claims long dismissed by the press as baseless received a significant evidentiary boost from an unlikely source. The California Senate's own Elections Committee.

A formal presentation delivered to the Senate Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee on August 26, 2025, by the California Research Bureau revealed findings that would have dominated headlines in any honest media environment:

14.17% of audited uncured ballots those rejected for missing or invalid signatures during the 2022 November election were likely fraudulently cast, with the voters themselves vehemently denying they ever voted

Over 7,700 registrants each had two votes credited to their Registration ID number in the November 2020 election

Nearly 124,000 more votes counted than voters with corresponding registrations

The CRB identified fourteen California counties where grand juries have issued reports on voter fraud risks focusing on the 2020-2024 elections. Yet the same grand jury system has produced wildly inconsistent findings Orange County declared no evidence of fraud, while the underlying data shows a system riddled with structural vulnerabilities.

California mails ballots to every active registered voter over 23 million in 2024 with nearly 10 million never returned. Those ballots simply float in the ether, creating an unverifiable chain of custody that the Carter-Baker Commission flagged as the largest source of potential voter fraud back in 2005.

The state requires no photo ID to vote. Signature verification the sole fraud protection varies wildly by county. Imperial County rejected 2.5% of mail ballots in 2024. Amador County rejected just 0.17%. Same state, same laws, wildly different standards.

Judicial Watch, representing the Libertarian Party of California, sued Secretary of State Shirley Weber and 27 county registrars, alleging systematic failure to purge voter rolls of ineligible voters as required by the National Voter Registration Act. The state reported 2,178,551 duplicate registrations in the 2024 cycle 15.6% of total registered voters with seven counties failing to provide any data at all.

The Heritage Foundation's voter fraud database documents 69 convictions in California between 1982 and 2025, including a Compton City Council race decided by a single vote where four individuals fraudulently registered in the district and multiple defendants pleaded guilty.

Trump's March 2025 executive order on election integrity targeted precisely these vulnerabilities, mandating paper ballots, voter verifiable records free of barcodes or QR codes, enforcement of the federal Election Day receipt deadline, and citizenship verification standards that nations like Germany, Canada, India, Brazil, Denmark, and Sweden already meet.

The Make Elections Great Again Act (H.R. 7300), currently before Congress, would codify photo ID requirements, abolish universal vote-by-mail, mandate paper ballots with barcode tracking, and require proof of citizenship for registration.

Middle East on the Brink

The interview aired as Israel and Iran traded direct strikes for the first time since the U.S. brokered April ceasefire. Iran launched missiles toward northern Israel Sunday night, accusing Jerusalem of violating the truce through strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs. Israel responded with what it called a large scale strike on strategic defense systems inside Iran.

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Monday it was halting strikes but warned hostilities would resume if Israeli operations in Lebanon continue. "A deal with President Trump is no longer feasible at this stage," an Iranian official linked to the negotiations told regional media.

Trump, posting on Truth Social, insisted negotiations continue. "Both sides, Israel and Iran, are looking to do an immediate CEASEFIRE! The Blockade will remain in place, and in full force and effect, until a Final Deal is reached."

The U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz launched alongside the February 29 offensive against Iran has kept global oil prices elevated. Crude surged more than 5% on the renewed hostilities before pulling back Monday.

Yemen's Houthi rebels added fuel to the fire, claiming an attack on Israel and warning that Israel-affiliated vessels in the Red Sea would again become targets. The Houthis sank four ships and killed at least nine mariners during the Gaza conflict, upending $1 trillion in annual Red Sea shipping.

Intelligence Shake Up

Trump's weekend appointment of Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence drew immediate fire from both parties. Pulte a former social media philanthropist and heir to the PulteGroup home building fortune has no intelligence or national security experience.

Trump told The Wall Street Journal he wants Pulte to begin reducing the size of the ODNI, calling the post-9/11 agency unnecessary and/or too big. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR) endorsed the downsizing effort, but Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) blasted Pulte's lack of qualifications.

The appointment follows months of public friction between Trump and outgoing DNI Tulsi Gabbard, who departs June 30. Gabbard's assessment that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon became a flash point as the administration moved toward military action. Trump publicly dismissed her conclusion, saying I don't care what she said and declaring she was wrong.

Legislative Gridlock

House Republicans face a growing legislative backlog with approximately one month of voting days before November midterms. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has cancelled nine of the past 17 scheduled voting days amid internal divisions.

The to do list includes government funding bills, a highway bill, the farm bill, and the $70 billion immigration enforcement package that passed the Senate last week. Congress must also reauthorize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act before it expires Friday a deadline complicated by Pulte's appointment.

Last week, four Republicans joined all Democrats to pass a resolution reining in Trump's war powers in Iran, while 18 Republicans crossed the aisle to approve $1.3 billion in additional Ukraine aid.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee seized on the dysfunction. House Republicans continue to remind voters that they are a complete and total failure when it comes to delivering for the American people.

The NBC Blow Up

The interview's climactic moment came when Welker pressed Trump on whether he had provided evidence of his claims about the 2020 election. The question itself reveals the media's bad faith the California Senate's own data, the duplicate registrations, the 14% likely fraud rate among audited ballots, the 124,000 excess votes over registered voters, all constitute precisely the evidence the press claims doesn't exist.

Trump's decision to walk out wasn't petulance. It was the rational response of a man who has spent years watching the same networks that suppress evidence of systemic election vulnerabilities then turn around and demand he produce evidence they've already buried.

Sources:

California Voter Fraud Evidence

California Senate Elections Committee Presentation (August 26, 2025) — This is the Devin Lavelle / California Research Bureau presentation that revealed the 14.17% likely-fraud rate among uncured ballots, the 7,700+ double-voted registrations, and the 124,000 excess votes:

• https://selc.senate.ca.gov/system/files/2025-08/devin-lavelle-crb-voter-fraud-presentation-senate-elections-2025-08-26-ada.pdf

Election Integrity Executive Order

Trump's March 25, 2025 Executive Order — "Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections," mandating paper ballots, voter-verifiable records, Election Day receipt deadlines, and citizenship verification:

• https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/preserving-and-protecting-the-integrity-of-american-elections/

Make Elections Great Again Act

H.R. 7300 (119th Congress) — The bill requiring photo ID, abolishing universal vote-by-mail, mandating paper ballots, and requiring proof of citizenship:

• https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7300/text

Judicial Watch Lawsuit

The Judicial Watch suit against California Secretary of State Shirley Weber and 27 county registrars over failure to purge voter rolls is referenced within the CRB Senate presentation (pages discussing National Voter Registration Act violations).

California Ballot Rejection Data

Sacramento Bee (March 20, 2025) — 122,480 mail ballots rejected (0.9%), with 59% for non-matching signatures, 27% late arrival, 11% no signature. Imperial County 2.5% rejection vs. Amador County 0.17%:

• https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article302379904.html

Heritage Foundation Voter Fraud Database

69 California convictions 1982-2025, including the Compton City Council case decided by one vote with fraudulent registrations — referenced in the CRB presentation.

Duplicate Registrations

The 2,178,551 duplicate registrations (15.6% of total) and California removing only 378,349 voters for death (11.9%) comes from the Election Administration and Voting Survey data, cited in multiple sources including the PBS/Poynter fact-checks:

• https://www.poynter.org/fact-checking/2025/trump-california-election-rigged-false-claim/

Trump NBC Interview Walkout

The Independent (June 8, 2026) — Trump storms out of Meet the Press interview with Kristen Welker over election fraud questioning and the $1.77 billion fund:

• https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-nbc-interview-walkout-weaponization-fund-b2991517.html

Iran-Israel Strikes

CNBC (June 8, 2026) — Iran announces end of military operations against Israel after Sunday night exchange:

• https://www.cnbc.com/2026/06/08/iran-end-military-operations-israel-lebanon-escalation.html

AP via KEYC (June 8, 2026) — Israel and Iran trade strikes, Houthi attacks, oil price surge:

• https://www.keyc.com/2026/06/08/israel-says-it-has-struck-iran-after-taking-missile-fire/

Bill Pulte Appointment as Acting DNI

Fox News (June 8, 2026) — Trump picks housing regulator Pulte as acting intelligence chief, plans to shrink ODNI:

• https://www.foxnews.com/politics/why-trump-picked-bill-pulte-lead-us-intelligence-critics-question-his-qualifications

House GOP Legislative Backlog

Washington Examiner (June 8, 2026) — Cancelled votes, FISA deadline, war powers resolution, Ukraine aid:

• https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/house/4597065/house-gop-legislative-backlog-midterms/

Carter-Baker Commission Quote

The "absentee ballots remain the largest source of potential voter fraud" line is from the 2005 Commission on Federal Election Reform report, co-chaired by Jimmy Carter and James Baker. It's referenced in the PBS fact-check:

• https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-trumps-claims-on-mail-in-voting-in-california

• 


In Marion County: How a $6 Billion Data Center Deal Got Rammed Through a Rural County While Nobody Was Looking

South Carolina Bulletin

Jun 08, 2026

By Staff Writer

A South Carolina Story of Shell Companies, Winter Storms, and Water Numbers That Don’t Add Up

On the night of January 22, 2026, as a winter storm bore down on South Carolina, the Marion County Council gathered for a special called meeting. Most residents were preoccupied with storm preparations. The agenda item was bland. Project Liberty. What happened inside those fluorescent lit chambers that night locked in the largest economic development deal in county history and residents are still trying to figure out what they signed up for.

Six months later, the full picture has emerged from council meetings, news reports, company statements, and investigative digging. It’s a masterclass in how rural economic development actually works. Shell companies, nondisclosure agreements, a friendly vote during a weather emergency, and water consumption numbers that strain credulity. https://samueleburns.substack.com/p/in-marion-county

As ADD America Pouts and Demagogic Democrats Pose, The Donald Actually Is Playing 4D Chess

The contrast between past wartime sacrifices made by Americans during World War II and contemporary reactions to economic disruptions caused by ongoing conflicts, particularly in relation to fuel prices and political leadership. It examines the current political climate, focusing on criticisms directed at President Trump by certain Democratic leaders as he seeks to address nuclear threats from Iran.

1. Historical Context of Wartime Sacrifice:

• During World War II, Americans made significant sacrifices, including rationing essential goods to support the war effort against fascism and militarism.

2. Current Economic Concerns:

• Today, Americans face rising gas prices affected by international conflicts, yet many are reacting with frustration over costs, akin to a "toddler-type temper tantrum. "

• Gas prices recently peaked at lower levels compared to past heights, suggesting that current trends may not warrant the level of outrage expressed.

3. Political Criticism of Leadership:

• Certain Democratic leaders are accused of using economic frustrations to score political points against President Trump, undermining his efforts.

• Leadership figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been criticized by Democratic Senators for their approach to managing relationships with Iran and the overall economic impact.

4. Trump’s Strategic Positioning:

• Trump is portrayed as a leader who remains steadfast in removing Iran’s uranium stockpile without resorting to military action, likened to playing "4D chess. "

• His strategy has several potential benefits: safeguarding allies, economic improvement by lifting sanctions if Iran complies, influencing global energy markets, weakening adversaries, and enhancing political fortunes.

5. Potential Impacts on Global Affairs:

• The removal of Iranian uranium could lead to lower oil prices, affecting economies like Russia's and limiting their military actions.

• Opens doors for diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, providing a platform for potential peace agreements.

6. Political Challenges Ahead:

• Trump faces ongoing challenges as Democrats continue to exploit public anger and frustrations, raising questions about how long he can maintain his strategic course amidst opposition.

The article presents a critical view of current American political dynamics, highlighting a disconnect between past sacrifices and present attitudes towards wartime economic impacts. It depicts President Trump’s approach to handling international conflicts, particularly with Iran, as a complex strategy aimed at achieving long-term security and economic benefits while navigating significant political opposition. The discussion underscores the necessity for patience in political leadership as various pressures unfold. 

https://issuesinsights.com/2026/06/08/as-add-america-pouts-and-demagogic-democrats-pose-the-donald-actually-is-playing-4d-chess/

What Forgiveness Is Not

The main focus was on forgiveness, especially in the context of the experiences and relationships affected by Covid-19. Engelhart shares personal insights from the conversation and explores the nature of forgiveness and accountability.

• Event Context: Mikki Willis spoke at the Supper Club about his documentary work during the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting social tensions.

• Personal Reflections: Engelhart noted the pain from lost friendships during the pandemic and the lack of anticipated apologies, highlighting the emotional impact on individuals.

• Key Idea: Life's challenges bring depth, just like shadows create depth in an image. Acknowledging pain can lead to growth, while focusing solely on darkness can obscure beauty and purpose.

• Relationship Healing: Engelhart observed conflicts that can be repaired over time with effort, using the example of her brother's friendship with Mikki, which was restored after initial estrangement.

• Entrepreneurial Loss: Many experienced significant losses during the pandemic, including Engelhart’s own businesses, and the need for forgiveness in moving forward was emphasized.

• Forgiveness vs. Accountability:

• Forgiveness allows individuals to let go of bitterness but doesn't imply forgetting or ignoring past wrongdoings.

• Accountability involves recognizing and learning from mistakes to prevent them from recurring.

• Personal Awakening: Engelhart concludes that true growth comes from overcoming hardships, transforming betrayal into wisdom, and using loss as motivation for a better future.

• Action Steps: The article encourages readers to acknowledge the truth of their experiences, forgive for their own sake, demand accountability, and continue building toward positive futures.

Engelhart's takeaway from the conversation with Mikki Willis centers on the importance of navigating the complexities of forgiveness without negating the need for accountability. The shadows of past experiences can offer lessons that shape a more profound understanding of personal growth and community resilience. Embracing both forgiveness and accountability is vital to healing and progress. 

https://brownstone.org/articles/what-forgiveness-is-not/

Spain-Style Blackout Risk Rises As ERCOT Flags Boston-Sized Data Center Loads Tripping Offline

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has raised concerns about the impact of large data centers and cryptocurrency facilities on the energy grid. A report revealed that these facilities failed critical tests that assess their ability to handle voltage changes in the grid.

• ERCOT's report highlights that large data centers and crypto sites can disconnect from the grid during voltage disturbances, potentially dropping over 5,000 megawatts of demand at once—equivalent to the electricity usage of Boston.

• Since 2023, ERCOT recorded at least 26 disconnection events involving these facilities.

• Current models show that Texas is not fully prepared for the expected surge in electricity demand due to the growth of these large customers.

• ERCOT is now prioritizing voltage ride-through capabilities to address the risks associated with new, high-demand loads.

• A notable event in Spain in April 2025 illustrated how issues with voltage and generator response can lead to large-scale blackouts, mirroring potential risks in Texas.

• The ongoing increase in renewable energy resources complicates grid stability as they do not provide the same inherent stability as traditional fossil fuel or nuclear power plants.

• There is a call for more nuclear and gas-fired power plants to support grid stability and accommodate growing electricity demands without excessive risk.

ERCOT is facing significant challenges as it adjusts to the increasing demand from data centers and cryptocurrency operations. Addressing these risks is crucial for maintaining grid stability as electricity use continues to grow. 

https://www.zerohedge.com/energy/spain-style-blackout-risk-rises-ercot-flags-boston-sized-data-center-loads-tripping-offline

Treason – At Home, at Work, and in the Shipping Department

Treason can manifest in unexpected ways, particularly through normal business interactions. A recent case involving an Iranian-American businessman has highlighted the risks of unintentional complicity in aiding foreign adversaries through regular commercial activities.

• Definition of Treason: Treason typically involves giving support to enemies of the state.

• Recent Example: Jamshid Ghomi, an Iranian-American businessman, was found to have supplied forbidden technology to the Iranian military over ten years while using complex business transactions to evade detection. His activities involved U. S. suppliers who were unaware of the true destination of their products.

• Significance of Technology: Modern warfare relies heavily on advanced technology, making the protection of sensitive information critical to national security.

• Export Controls Overview: Various U. S. export laws regulate transactions with foreign entities, especially concerning sensitive technologies. These laws are enforced by multiple government agencies, including Treasury, Commerce, and State.

• Country Restrictions: Certain nations, like Iran, have strict bans on dealings with American individuals and businesses. Export licenses are required for any type of interaction.

• Entity Screening: U. S. businesses must screen their supply chains for entities on restricted lists. Any transaction involving a restricted entity must be halted until proper licensing is obtained.

• Product Controls: Export regulations extend beyond physical goods to encompass information and technology that could potentially fall into dangerous hands, requiring strict compliance and due diligence.

• Obligations of Businesses: Companies must ensure that they know the final recipients of their goods and technology. If they fail to do so and an end product is linked back to enemy states, they may be held accountable.

• Overall Importance: The complexities of U. S. export controls necessitate that businesses remain vigilant to avoid inadvertently enabling foreign adversaries, which poses serious risks during international conflicts.

The case of Jamshid Ghomi illustrates how treason can occur through everyday business dealings. It underscores the importance of understanding and complying with U. S. export laws to prevent sensitive technology from being misappropriated by hostile nations. As companies engage in international trade, awareness and adherence to these laws are paramount to national security. 

https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2026/06/treason_at_home_at_work_and_in_the_shipping_department.html