Trump’s Smart Move to Cut Nonprofit Funding

 The Trump administration is reshaping the nonprofit sector by cutting federal funding, particularly to smaller charities. This change has sparked discussions about nonprofit independence, accountability, and financial stability.

1. Funding Cuts: A report indicates that federal grants to everyday charities (not including hospitals or universities) decreased by over 40% from February to September 2025 compared to the previous year. This loss is alarming for nonprofits that typically rely on federal support for essential services.

2. Types of Nonprofits Affected: The funding cuts include support to NGOs both in the U.S. and abroad, as well as to groups focused on criminal justice, arts, and media organizations such as NPR and PBS. Some organizations perceive these cuts as politically motivated due to their alignment with the administration's agenda.

3. Impact on Nonprofit Operations: Nonprofits may need to appeal to a broader audience for donations instead of relying on government funds. This could change their approach and operations, possibly forcing them to adopt strategies that align better with public expectations.

4. Dependency on Government Funds: Many nonprofits have become reliant on federal funding, which can overshadow their original missions. This reliance has made them behave similarly to government contractors rather than independent entities.

5. Call for Reset: Experts suggest that the relationship between public funds and nonprofits needs reevaluation. Currently, the heavy funding from the government influences nonprofits to advocate for more government spending, contributing to a cycle of dependency.

The changes made by the Trump administration signal a potential shift in how nonprofits operate, encouraging them to seek community support rather than government funding. This could enhance their accountability but may also challenge their financial stability amid declining federal assistance. 

https://www.city-journal.org/article/trump-funding-nonprofit-charities

Privileged DSA leader who lives in parents’ $1.5M house got fired for not showing up to electrician gig — then convinced socialist comrades to pay him $95K

 Gustavo Gordillo, a prominent leader in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and a former union electrician, has come under scrutiny after being fired from his apprenticeship. Following this, he successfully persuaded the DSA to pay him and his co-chair a significant salary of $95,000 each, raising questions about his qualifications and motivations.

1. Firing from Apprenticeship:

Gordillo was terminated from his electrician apprenticeship at IBEW Local 3 due to a prolonged absence and failure to participate in required work and classes.

The union confirmed that his lack of a solid work record led to the decision.

2. Financial Support and Background:

Despite being actively involved in socialist politics, Gordillo resides in a $1.5 million home that his wealthy parents purchased for him.

His father had been paying for his rent through a corporation until 2019.

Gordillo's portrayal of his life struggles during DSA meetings has been challenged as insincere.

3. Appeal to DSA for Pay:

In a DSA meeting, Gordillo presented an emotional case for a salary and was successful in influencing members to approve a yearly salary package that amounts to $190,000 for him and his co-chair with benefits.

Some members viewed his appeal as inauthentic and disconnected from the reality of those in working-class circumstances.

4. Criticism from Within the DSA:

There is internal dissent within the DSA regarding Gordillo's financial compensation and the decision to pay co-chairs substantial salaries.

Concerns have been raised about the authenticity of members like Gordillo, especially since the organization historically did not pay its leaders.

5. Community Reactions:

Neighbors expressed mixed feelings about Gordillo, praising him as a nice individual while also criticizing how he embodies the available opportunities in a community that is becoming increasingly expensive.

Discussions about renovations at his property have triggered further debate on affordability and class disparities in the area.

The case of Gustavo Gordillo highlights tensions surrounding leadership in socialist movements when juxtaposed with personal wealth and privilege. As the DSA navigates its financial commitments to its leadership, The controversy over Gordillo's salary and lifestyle continues to prompt critical conversations about representation, authenticity, and the core values of socialist principles. 

https://nypost.com/2026/08/19/us-news/privileged-dsa-leader-got-fired-for-not-showing-up-to-electrician-gig-then-got-95k-party-salary/

We Must Resist the Sharia-ization of America

 Kurt Schlichter expresses strong concerns about the increasing influence of Islam in the United States. He argues that this influence is a result of accommodating policies towards Muslim practices and beliefs, which he views as a threat to American values and culture.

1. Concerns about Islamization: Schlichter claims that American leaders are enabling the Islamization of the nation through the construction of mosques, public prayer events, and other accommodations that reflect Islamic customs and beliefs.

2. Cultural Compatibility: He argues that while minority religions should have the right to practice their faith, they should not impose their beliefs or alter American society fundamentally. Schlichter states that America has a Christian cultural heritage which he believes should not be changed.

3. Double Standards: The author highlights a perceived double standard where newcomers are expected to change American traditions rather than integrating into existing customs. He suggests that Americans are being pressured to accept changes contrary to their values without reciprocal expectation from incoming cultures.

4. Political Alliances: Schlichter posits that a coalition between Democrats and Muslims is forming to undermine traditional American society. He believes that the goal of this alliance is to gain political power at the expense of American citizens.

5. Historical Comparisons: He draws parallels with European countries that have undergone similar changes, suggesting that the U.S. is on a similar trajectory if current trends continue.

6. Calls to Action: Schlichter urges Americans to actively resist the spread of sharia law and Islamic practices in public spaces. He cites examples from states like Texas and Florida where new policies have been enacted to prevent the establishment of facilities catering specifically to Islamic practices.

7. Rejecting Intimidation: The narrative emphasizes that Americans should not be afraid of being labeled Islamophobic or racist for opposing these changes. There is a call to strengthen resolve against perceived encroachments by radical Islamic ideologies.

8. Cultural Preservation: He asserts that Americans have the right to preserve their cultural identity and should oppose any ideology that threatens this identity. He urges the Republican Party and individuals to defend American culture proactively.

Kurt Schlichter's opinion piece focuses on the perceived threats posed by the Islamic community to American cultural integrity. He argues for a strong defensive posture against what he sees as the creeping influence of Islam and calls for a unifying response among patriotic Americans to preserve their values and societal norms. Schlichter concludes that the question facing Americans is whether they will resist these changes or fall into a state of submission to foreign ideologies. 

https://townhall.com/columnists/kurtschlichter/2026/08/19/we-must-resist-the-sharia-ization-of-america-n2681483#google_vignette

US National Debt Tops $40 Trillion

 The U.S. national debt has reached over $40 trillion for the first time, reflecting years of borrowing due to wars, recessions, tax changes, and the expansion of federal programs. This milestone marks a significant point in the nation’s fiscal history.

The U.S. Treasury reported the total public debt is about $40.047 trillion. The more critical figure is the publicly held debt, which exceeds 100% of the GDP, indicating a tight economic relationship between government debt and the economy.

U.S. debt has been a part of the financial landscape since its founding, primarily growing during times of war or economic crises. Over the 20th century, federal responsibilities expanded, contributing to ongoing debt accumulation.

Major spending occurred during significant events, such as World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic, which involved trillions in emergency spending.

Since 2001, the federal government has run annual deficits, meaning it consistently spends more than it collects. This trend includes projected borrowing of over $2 trillion for the current year. Interest payments on this debt are rising significantly, putting pressure on the federal budget.

Current Treasury yields are at their highest in nearly 20 years, affecting the costs of new debt issuance for the government and potentially for households and businesses.

The long-term fiscal outlook is concerning, with predictions of publicly held debt reaching 120% of GDP in a decade and 175% in 30 years, driven largely by rising costs of social programs and interest.

The government’s large spending commitments, such as Social Security and Medicare, are politically sensitive, making quick changes difficult.

The crossing of the $40 trillion debt mark reflects a complex challenge that has developed over decades. Both Republican and Democratic administrations have contributed to this trend, making it essential to consider long-term solutions regarding spending, taxes, and economic growth beyond any single president’s policies.

https://www.newsmax.com/finance/streettalk/u-s-national-debt-40-trillion-dollars/2026/08/19/id/1266675/

Minnesota’s “Outstanding Refugee” Arrested and Charged with Million Dollar Medicaid Fraud, Tied to Sex Trafficking Ring

 Recent news highlights various controversies occurring in Minnesota. Key issues include allegations against a prominent refugee awardee, abuses related to Medicaid, and rising incidents of antisemitism in NYC schools.

1. Salman Elmi’s Fraud Charges:

Salman Elmi, who was awarded the “Outstanding Refugee Award” for his entrepreneurship, has been charged with a Medicaid fraud scheme involving over $1 million.

He is alleged to have collaborated with others to operate fraudulent health agencies, billing Medicaid for unnecessary services while exploiting vulnerable individuals.

Elmi and his associates reportedly recruited young women facing hardships and involved them in a scheme that took advantage of their identities for fraudulent claims.

2. Statements from Officials:

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) condemned Elmi’s actions as representing neither the awards' intentions nor the broader refugee community.

Spokespeople highlighted the need for recognizing those who genuinely contribute positively to society amidst such deceit.

3. Broader Implications of Human Trafficking:

The scheme is linked to a larger issue of human trafficking within Minnesota, with experts asserting these types of fraud are often perpetrated by seemingly normal individuals living in the community.

Advocates for trafficking victims indicate that these arrests might only reveal a fraction of the problem.

4. Other Noteworthy Incidents:

The news also discusses various disturbing occurrences in New York City schools related to antisemitism and reported fraudulent voting by noncitizens, suggesting a chaotic political climate.

Furthermore, individuals in Florida's GOP primaries are noted, including candidates seen as extreme or controversial.

The complexities of these legal issues bring to light the fragility of community safety and trust, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. As these stories unfold, they highlight the essential need for thorough oversight and accountability in public programs, as well as attention to the serious implications of fraud and human trafficking in local communities. The developments involving Elmi, along with other related events, represent significant warning signals regarding systemic issues that affect both refugee populations and the integrity of social services in Minnesota. 

https://gellerreport.com/2026/08/minnesotas-outstanding-refugee-arrested-and-charged-with-million-dollar-medicaid-fraud-tied-to-sex-trafficking-ring.html/

Natalie Winters on DARPA, Air & China

Natalie Winters' recent reporting on this exact beat is clear and consistent: American defense expertise and taxpayer money are flowing into China's military-industrial complex, with DARPA and other U.S. agencies implicated as funders of research at blacklisted Chinese institutions.

The most recent piece (August 17, 2026) centers on Brian Cantwell, a former Stanford aerospace chairman who spent 14 years on an Executive Independent Review Team overseeing the F119, F135, and F136 engine programs tied to the F-22 and F-35.

The key findings:

Cantwell spent May 9 – June 3, 2025 at Beihang University, one of China's most sensitive defense-linked schools

The visit ran under a Chinese "expertise introduction" (引智计划) program — a state apparatus explicitly designed to recruit foreign technical specialists

He delivered six technical lectures, met with Chinese research teams, advised graduate students, toured labs and an aeroacoustic wind tunnel

His host school, Beihang's School of Aeronautic Science and Engineering, operates an Advanced Long-Endurance UAV Technology Research Center

Washington has spent 25 years restricting tech transfer to Beihang over missile and UAV concerns

The punchline Winters drives home: Stanford never publicized any of this. Americans only learned about it from Chinese-language university webpages. Beijing was proud; Stanford was silent.

A separate piece (August 13, 2026) reveals a private nuclear war backchannel between former U.S. military chiefs and CAEP — the China Academy of Engineering Physics, blacklisted since 1997 for developing Beijing's nuclear weapons.

Americans involved included:

Adm. Mike Mullen (former JCS Chairman)

Adm. James Ellis (former STRATCOM commander)

Ernest Moniz (former Energy Secretary)

Sam Nunn (former Senate Armed Services Chairman)

Rose Gottemoeller (former NATO Deputy Secretary General)

The channel was financed by the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), which congressional investigators have called an "instrument of the CCP's approach to political warfare." The meetings were not U.S. government diplomacy — they were a privately financed CCP influence operation, documented in Chinese-language materials that have since been scrubbed.

Winters' November 2025 reporting connects this directly to DARPA. Her investigation found that research at China's top semiconductor lab — an institution targeting America's chip dominance — was funded by:

DARPA

Office of Naval Research

Army Research Office / Army Research Laboratory

National Institutes of Health

NSF and DOE

Her framing: American tax dollars are underwriting the very CCP research designed to close the technology gap. Beijing treats chip supremacy as a national survival project, and Washington has been sleepwalking into subsidizing it.

The through-line across all three investigations is the same: the revolving door between American academia, defense funding agencies, and China's military-industrial complex is wide open. Ex-generals, former cabinet officials, and Stanford aerospace chairs are lending credibility and technical know-how to blacklisted Chinese institutions — while U.S. agencies like DARPA quietly fund the underlying research.

The transparency asymmetry is the tell: China publicizes these relationships as strategic victories, while American institutions bury them.

https://nataliegwinters.substack.com/p/revealed-researcher-on-us-darpa-air?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3382126&post_id=210418075&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=6dl2nb&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email

Only the Homeless Population Is Growing In Newsom’s California

 Two significant issues affecting California under Governor Gavin Newsom’s leadership: the rise in homelessness and the migration of taxpayers out of the state, resulting in substantial financial losses.

1. Increase in Homelessness:

California has witnessed a 20% increase in homelessness from 2019 to 2025, despite spending $37 billion aimed at addressing this crisis.

The growth in the homeless population is about 40% when comparing 2025 figures to those from 2018.

The Trump administration previously attempted to cut federal housing aid to California due to allegations of fraud within its homeless programs.

2. Outmigration of Taxpayers:

From 2020 to 2025, California experienced an exodus of 1.6 million more people leaving than moving in.

The state’s overall population is now 200,000 lower than it was in 2020.

Many departing residents relocated to states like Arizona, Texas, and Florida, where tax rates are lower and businesses are more favorable treated.

3. Loss of Tax Revenue:

In 2023 alone, California lost billions in tax revenues as many taxpayers moved out.

Los Angeles County faced significant losses, with over 17,000 tax filers leaving and taking nearly $1.9 billion in income with them.

Other counties, such as Orange and San Diego, also saw substantial numbers of residents depart.

4. Increased Government Spending:

Despite the losses, California’s government spending has risen dramatically, with per-capita spending increasing by 68% in the last eight years.

The number of government employees per capita has also risen by 27%.

5. Concerns About Future Tax Initiatives:

Proposition 40, a proposed initiative to tax billionaires' wealth, could exacerbate the state’s issues if passed.

Mark Cuban, a notable investor, warns that this tax may drive not just billionaires but also entrepreneurs out of California.

Under Governor Newsom, California is facing a paradox where homelessness is increasing significantly despite massive financial outlays to combat it, while a notable number of productive citizens are leaving, leading to substantial tax revenue losses. The state's approach to governance appears to prioritize spending over attracting and retaining taxpayers, which could lead to even greater challenges in the future. The editorial indicates a pressing need for reevaluation of policies to address these critical issues effectively. 

https://issuesinsights.com/2026/08/19/only-the-homeless-population-is-growing-in-newsoms-california/