Inside Ossoff’s meticulously viral campaign

Politics — 2026-08-18 03:45:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Responds to Ossoff’s Criticism with Personal Attack as Senate Race Heats Up

President Donald Trump lashed out at Senator Jon Ossoff on Monday, calling him a “Pee Wee Herman lookalike” in response to Ossoff’s viral remarks at a Midtown Atlanta rally. The exchange highlights the escalating tensions in Georgia’s high-stakes Senate race, where Ossoff has drawn national attention for his sharp critiques of Trump’s handling of the war in Iran and his administration’s priorities.

Ossoff’s comments, delivered as part of a prepared speech, accused Trump of neglecting his presidential duties in favor of personal luxury, referencing the president’s executive assistant and alleged gifts from foreign leaders. The speech quickly gained traction online, amassing over five million views and prompting swift backlash from Republicans, including Trump himself.

Trump’s response—resorting to a personal insult—reflects a familiar pattern in his public rhetoric, where he often attacks critics with disparaging remarks rather than addressing substantive policy issues. This approach has been a hallmark of Trump’s communication style throughout his political career, frequently drawing criticism for lowering the tone of political discourse.

The incident underscores the broader dynamics of the Georgia Senate race, with Ossoff leveraging viral moments and disciplined messaging to energize Democratic voters. Meanwhile, Trump’s involvement and combative responses continue to shape the national spotlight on the contest.

As the campaign intensifies, voters are left to weigh the candidates’ records and rhetoric, with Trump’s penchant for personal attacks once again at the forefront of the political conversation.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/08/18/jon-ossoff-georgia-viral-controlled-campaign-01039859

Former federal prosecutor sues DOJ for ‘unlawful and retaliatory’ firing : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-08-17 16:01:00 — www.npr.org

Early in President Trump’s second term, the Justice Department announced it would no longer enforce violations of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) except in extraordinary circumstances, such as cases involving death or serious property damage. Trump also pardoned 23 people who had been convicted under the statute.

Trump Administration Scaled Back Enforcement of Clinic Protection Law

The FACE Act, enacted in the early 1990s, was designed to protect access to reproductive health care services, including abortion clinics, by prohibiting intentional interference. Supporters argue the law is necessary to address violence and obstruction targeting clinics and providers, while opponents claim it infringes on free speech rights.

During President Trump’s second term, the Justice Department shifted its approach, stating it would only pursue FACE Act violations in the most severe cases. This marked a significant departure from previous enforcement practices and signaled a clear change in federal priorities regarding reproductive health care access.

Trump Pardoned Dozens Convicted Under FACE Act

In addition to curtailing enforcement, Trump pardoned 23 individuals convicted under the FACE Act. These actions were consistent with his administration’s broader efforts to align federal policy with anti-abortion activists and reduce penalties for those interfering with clinic access.

Conclusion

President Trump’s record on the FACE Act demonstrates a clear stance: limiting federal enforcement and granting pardons to those previously convicted under the law. These decisions reflect his administration’s alignment with anti-abortion positions and have had lasting effects on the federal government’s approach to protecting access to reproductive health care services.

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Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/08/17/g-s1-138997/former-federal-prosecutor-sue-doj-retaliatory-firing

Donald J. Trump: “RT @realDonaldTrumpEarlier this month, India’s Chief Election Commissioner, …

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-08-17 18:57:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Pushes for Photo ID Laws, Cites India’s Election Process—But Key Claims Don’t Match Facts

President Donald J. Trump recently called for the passage of what he calls “THE SAVE AMERICA ACT,” arguing that the United States should require a valid photo ID for all voters. Trump claimed, “Earlier this month, India’s Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration — How can you have Elections in the U.S. without a valid Photo ID? India’s last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document.”

Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims About India’s Elections

Trump’s statement draws a direct comparison between the U.S. and India’s election systems, but several elements of his claim are misleading or inaccurate:

• India’s Voting ID Requirements: While India does require identification to vote, it accepts a wide range of documents—not just photo IDs. Options include passports, driver’s licenses, and even ration cards. The process is not limited to a single “valid Photo Identity Document.”
• Mail-In Voting Figures: Trump asserts that “less than 1% voted by mail” in India. While it is true that mail-in voting is rare in India, this is largely due to the country’s different logistical and legal frameworks, not simply because of ID requirements.
• Conversation With India’s Election Commissioner: Trump claims that India’s Chief Election Commissioner questioned the U.S. about its lack of a photo ID requirement. There is no public record or confirmation from Indian officials that such a conversation took place.

Exaggerations and Calls for New Legislation

Trump’s push for the “SAVE AMERICA ACT” is based on the assertion that the U.S. lacks sufficient voter identification measures. However, in reality, many U.S. states already require some form of identification at the polls, though the specifics vary widely. Trump’s statement exaggerates the uniformity and strictness of India’s system, and misrepresents the current state of U.S. election laws.

Conclusion: Trump’s Pattern of Misleading Election Claims

President Trump’s latest remarks continue a pattern of making exaggerated or false claims about election integrity and foreign comparisons. By mischaracterizing India’s election process and overstating the lack of voter ID requirements in the U.S., Trump seeks to bolster support for stricter voting laws. Voters and lawmakers should examine the facts carefully before accepting these assertions at face value.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/40952

Trump reportedly casts mail-in ballot in Florida Republican primary | Donald Trump

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-08-17 20:10:00 — www.theguardian.com

Donald Trump Criticizes Mail-In Voting While Casting His Own Ballot by Mail

Donald Trump has once again drawn attention for his contradictory stance on mail-in voting, as he cast his ballot by mail in Florida’s Republican primary, according to Palm Beach county voting records cited by Politico. The White House confirmed the president’s mail-in vote to the New York Times, which reported that this marks at least the third time Trump has voted by mail since registering in Palm Beach county in 2019.

Persistent Attacks on Mail-In Voting

Despite his own repeated use of mail-in ballots, Trump has spent years attacking the practice. He has called for restrictions on mail-in voting and has falsely claimed that widespread voter fraud through mail-in ballots led to his 2020 election defeat. In March, Trump signed an executive order restricting the use of mail-in ballots ahead of the November midterm elections, a move that was partially blocked by a federal judge.

False Claims and Comparisons

Trump has continued to spread misinformation about mail-in voting. In a recent post on Truth Social, he implied that mail-in voting is insecure and repeated his false claims of election fraud in the United States. He wrote, “Earlier this month, India’s Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration – How can you have Elections in the U.S. without a valid Photo ID? India’s last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!” This statement continues Trump’s pattern of using misleading international comparisons to argue for stricter voting laws in the U.S.

Official Confirmation and Ongoing Legal Battles

After Politico reported on Trump’s mail-in ballot, the New York Times noted that it could not access Trump’s voting records through the Palm Beach county supervisor of elections website, as the records are “protected from public disclosure.” However, a White House spokeswoman confirmed that Trump voted by mail, stating that he is a resident of Palm Beach and participates in Florida elections, though he primarily lives at the White House in Washington, DC.

Conclusion

Trump’s actions continue to contradict his rhetoric. While he has repeatedly criticized mail-in voting and promoted false claims of election fraud, he has personally used mail-in ballots multiple times. This ongoing contradiction highlights the gap between Trump’s public statements and his private actions, raising questions about the motivations behind his attacks on mail-in voting and the integrity of his claims.

Source article

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/17/trump-mail-vote-florida-republican-primary

Live Results: Wyoming midterm primaries

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-08-17 19:00:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump’s Endorsements Shape Wyoming’s High-Stakes Republican Primaries

President Donald Trump’s influence continues to loom large over Wyoming’s Republican primary landscape, as he has thrown his support behind key candidates in the state’s most competitive races. Trump has endorsed Megan Degenfelder for governor and Harriet Hageman for the U.S. Senate, signaling his ongoing effort to shape the party’s direction in one of the nation’s most reliably Republican states.

Trump’s Picks and Their Impact

Trump’s endorsement of Degenfelder, currently Wyoming’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, positions her as a frontrunner in a crowded gubernatorial field. Degenfelder and state Sen. Eric Barlow are nearly tied in fundraising, but Trump’s backing could prove decisive in a state where his approval remains high. The winner of the Republican primary will face Democrat Kenneth Casner in November.

For the U.S. Senate, Trump has again endorsed Harriet Hageman, who previously unseated Liz Cheney in 2022 with Trump’s support after Cheney became one of his most vocal Republican critics following the January 6 Capitol attack and Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Hageman’s fundraising—about $2.4 million, nearly ten times her closest competitor—reflects the power of Trump’s endorsement in Wyoming.

A State Shaped by Trump’s Legacy

Wyoming has consistently delivered some of Trump’s strongest electoral margins, making it a testing ground for his continued sway over the Republican Party. The excerpt notes that Wyoming was Trump’s best-performing state in both 2024 and 2020, and his second-best in 2016. His endorsements are likely to carry significant weight with the state’s overwhelmingly Republican electorate.

No Endorsement in the House Race

While Trump has made his preferences clear in the governor’s and Senate races, he has not endorsed any candidate in the crowded Republican primary for the U.S. House seat being vacated by Hageman. This contest, featuring nine candidates and significant self-funding, is expected to be the most expensive on the ballot.

Conclusion: Trump’s Endorsements Remain a Decisive Factor

As Wyoming voters head to the polls, Trump’s endorsements are shaping the state’s political future, reinforcing his ongoing influence over the Republican Party. With open seats for governor, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House for the first time in decades, the results will serve as a barometer for Trump’s continued dominance in GOP politics, especially in states where his support is strongest.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/live-results-wyoming-midterm-primaries

Trump says concern about USS Abraham Lincoln is 'a CNN fake report'

Administration News — 2026-08-17 19:01:00 — thehill.com

Trump Dismisses Concerns Over USS Abraham Lincoln as “CNN Fake Report,” Attacks Reporter in Oval Office

President Trump on Monday dismissed concerns regarding the status of service members aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, labeling the issue as “a CNN fake report.” During an Oval Office exchange, Trump lashed out at a CNN reporter, telling her, “Quiet, quiet. You’re very disrespectful,” before moving on to another journalist.

False Claims and Disparagements

Trump’s characterization of the concerns as a “CNN fake report” is a clear attempt to discredit reporting on the matter without addressing the underlying issues. By branding the report as fake, Trump not only sidestepped questions about the welfare of service members but also continued his pattern of attacking the credibility of media outlets that present information he disagrees with.

In addition to dismissing the report, Trump personally attacked the CNN reporter, calling her “very disrespectful” when she attempted to ask follow-up questions. This public disparagement of a journalist is consistent with his repeated efforts to undermine the press and avoid accountability.

Pattern of Misinformation

This incident is emblematic of Trump’s broader record of making false or misleading statements and using personal attacks to deflect scrutiny. By labeling unfavorable coverage as “fake,” Trump seeks to delegitimize critical reporting rather than provide substantive responses to legitimate concerns.

Conclusion

President Trump’s response to questions about the USS Abraham Lincoln demonstrates his ongoing strategy of dismissing negative news as “fake” and attacking those who challenge him. This approach not only undermines trust in the media but also raises concerns about transparency and accountability when it comes to issues affecting U.S. service members. Readers should remain vigilant in seeking out verified information and holding leaders accountable for their statements and actions.

Source article

Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/6034334-trump-dismisses-uss-lincoln-report/

Donald J. Trump: "RT: https://truthsocial.com/users/realDonaldTrump/statuses/117113347902795107"

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-08-17 19:54:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Cites India’s Election Rules to Push for Photo ID Laws in the U.S., Misstates Key Facts

President Donald J. Trump has invoked India’s election practices to argue for stricter voter identification laws in the United States, making several misleading claims in the process. “Earlier this month, India’s Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration — How can you have Elections in the U.S. without a valid Photo ID? India’s last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!” Trump stated.

Misleading Claims About India’s Election System

Trump’s assertion that “every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document” in India’s last election is not entirely accurate. While India does require identification at the polls, the country accepts a wide range of documents as valid ID, not just photo IDs. These can include ration cards, bank passbooks, and other forms of documentation, some of which do not contain photographs. This stands in contrast to Trump’s implication that India’s system is based solely on strict photo identification.

Exaggeration of International Comparison

Trump also claimed that “less than 1% voted by mail” in India, suggesting this as a model for the U.S. However, India’s low rate of mail-in voting is largely due to differences in infrastructure, population distribution, and the country’s unique electoral context. The comparison overlooks the fact that the United States has a long history of absentee and mail-in voting, which is especially important for voters with disabilities, those living overseas, and military personnel.

Push for the ‘Save America Act’

By referencing India’s election commissioner and practices, Trump is using international comparisons to bolster his call for the passage of the “Save America Act,” which he claims would require valid photo ID for all U.S. voters. However, his statements misrepresent the flexibility of India’s identification requirements and the realities of mail-in voting both in India and the United States.

Conclusion

President Trump’s recent comments about India’s election system contain several inaccuracies and exaggerations. While he uses these claims to advocate for stricter voter ID laws in the U.S., the facts show that India’s system is more flexible than he suggests, and the contexts of the two countries’ elections are not directly comparable. As debates over voting rights and election integrity continue, it is crucial for public figures to present accurate information to ensure informed policy discussions.

Source article

Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/40953

Trump tells 10-year-old rescued by teen lifeguard: ‘I don’t know if I’d do it’ | Donald Trump

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-08-17 18:09:00 — www.theguardian.com

Trump Honors Teen Lifeguard Who Rescued Boy from California Surf

During a meeting in the Oval Office, Donald Trump praised 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams for rescuing 10-year-old Nathanial Rai from dangerous waves along the California coast. Speaking directly to Nathanial, Trump said of Ryder, “He’s a real hero. I don’t know if I’d do it. I wouldn’t, probably. You’re lucky I wasn’t on the service that day.”

Public Recognition for Bravery

Trump met with both the young lifeguard and the rescued boy after previously stating on social media that Ryder deserved a civilian honor for his actions. Trump also indicated he would be inviting Ryder to the White House to reward his bravery. The dramatic rescue, captured on video and widely shared online, showed Ryder holding onto Nathanial as waves crashed over them before a second lifeguard, Aaron Bohnen, helped bring them both to safety at Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz.

Calls for Lifeguard Recognition

The incident unfolded as California lawmakers considered legislation to officially designate lifeguards as first responders. Analysts noted that such a move could provide lifeguards with greater recognition, support, and benefits. The debate highlighted the rigorous training required for first responders and the need to determine appropriate standards and funding for lifeguards.

Conclusion

Trump’s comments and actions brought national attention to the heroism of young lifeguard Ryder Williams and reignited discussions about the professional status of lifeguards. While Trump’s remarks were characteristically candid, the focus remained on recognizing bravery and the ongoing debate over lifeguard protections and recognition.

Source article

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/17/trump-oval-office-california-resuced-teen-viral

Where the Iran war stands as 60-day window to reach peace deal expires

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-08-17 17:55:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Threatens Oman, Criticizes Allies as Iran War Deadline Passes

President Trump sharply criticized U.S. allies on Monday as the deadline to reach a deal to end the war with Iran expired. Trump threatened to bomb Oman, a nation that has been mediating negotiations, and called for military exercises with South Korea to be scaled back, citing South Korea’s refusal to join the war effort as a reason.

Trump’s Threats and Attacks on Allies

Trump’s threat to bomb Oman marks a significant escalation in rhetoric against a country that has played a key role in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict with Iran. By targeting Oman, Trump risks undermining ongoing negotiations and alienating a crucial mediator in the region.

In addition to threatening Oman, Trump called for a reduction in military exercises with South Korea. He cited South Korea’s refusal to participate in the war as a justification for scaling back joint military activities. This move signals a willingness to penalize longstanding allies for not aligning with his administration’s military objectives.

Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims and Positions

Trump’s statements and threats represent a pattern of lashing out at allies and escalating tensions during sensitive diplomatic moments. The claim that South Korea should be punished for not joining the war overlooks the complexities of international alliances and the importance of maintaining strong partnerships in the region.

Furthermore, threatening to bomb Oman, a neutral party working to mediate peace, contradicts the stated goal of ending the war through negotiation. Such threats could destabilize diplomatic channels and prolong the conflict.

Conclusion

President Trump’s recent actions—threatening to bomb Oman and calling for reduced military cooperation with South Korea—highlight his confrontational approach to international relations and his willingness to disparage and penalize U.S. allies. These statements raise concerns about the impact on diplomatic efforts and the future of key alliances. As the situation with Iran remains unresolved, Trump’s rhetoric and decisions continue to shape the course of U.S. foreign policy and global stability.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/war-with-iran

Trump to Travel to Myrtle Beach to Rally for Darline Graham

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-08-17 17:19:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Intensifies Efforts to Influence South Carolina Senate Runoff

President Trump is ramping up his involvement in South Carolina’s competitive Senate runoff, traveling to Myrtle Beach on Friday to campaign for Senator Darline Graham, his chosen candidate to succeed the late Lindsey Graham. This visit is the latest in a series of actions by the president to sway the outcome of the special primary election following Mr. Graham’s unexpected death in July.

Trump’s Direct Intervention

At the urging of President Trump, Darline Graham—sister of the late senator—was appointed to the seat on an interim basis by Governor Henry McMaster. Trump has gone to significant lengths to boost Ms. Graham’s candidacy, including urging her appointment to serve out the remainder of her brother’s term, making her the state’s first female senator. He then gave her his endorsement in the crowded primary for a full six-year term, passing over longtime ally Representative Russell Fry.

After Ms. Graham finished first in the August 11 special primary but failed to avoid a runoff, Trump personally worked the phones to urge high-level officials, including Mr. Fry, to publicly support Ms. Graham. The president’s upcoming rally in Myrtle Beach, announced by the South Carolina Republican Party, is aimed at consolidating support among Fry’s voters as Ms. Graham faces Representative Ralph Norman, a congressman known for occasionally breaking from Trump’s agenda.

Fact-Check and Context

While the excerpt does not cite specific false claims or disparaging remarks by Trump regarding this race, it clearly documents his direct involvement and efforts to influence the outcome. Trump’s pattern of intervening in state-level races to support loyalists and sideline dissenters is well established, and this case fits that mold. The president’s actions—urging appointments, endorsements, and lobbying other officials—demonstrate his willingness to put his thumb on the scale in key elections.

Conclusion

President Trump’s hands-on approach in the South Carolina Senate runoff underscores his ongoing strategy to shape the Republican Party in his image. By backing Darline Graham and leveraging his influence over party officials and voters, Trump is once again making clear that loyalty to his agenda remains a central criterion for his support. As the runoff approaches, all eyes will be on whether Trump’s intervention will be decisive in this closely watched race.

Source article

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/17/us/politics/south-carolina-senate-runoff-graham-norman-trump.html