The political world was rocked by a series of controversial actions from former President Donald Trump over a late-November weekend, showcasing a pattern of foreign election interference and contentious domestic moves that directly contradict his stated policy positions.
Executive Orders and Military Controversies
Trump ignited confusion by claiming on his Truth Social platform that he had cancelled all Executive Orders not directly signed by Joe Biden, alleging the use of an autopen was illegal. Legal experts were quick to point out that presidents cannot nullify executive orders via social media; it requires a subsequent official order. Furthermore, the use of autopens is a long-standing, legally sound practice employed by multiple administrations, including Trump's own.
Simultaneously, a significant scandal emerged involving Pete Hegseth, Trump's Secretary of War. The Washington Post reported that Hegseth allegedly issued an illegal order to 'kill everybody' on a Venezuelan boat struck by the US military in September, including survivors. With at least 76 people killed in 19 such strikes, military lawyers suggested such an order could constitute a war crime, as the US is not in a declared war with Venezuela. The Pentagon has vehemently denied the entire narrative.
Foreign Intervention and Immigration Quotas
In a brazen act of election meddling, Trump openly endorsed a candidate in the Honduran presidential election. He declared on Truth Social that if Tito Asfura wins, the US would be 'very supportive,' but if he loses, America would withhold aid. This direct interference stands in stark contrast to Trump's frequent complaints about other nations meddling in US elections.
In a related and perplexing move, Trump announced he would pardon Juan Orlando Hernández, the former Honduran president serving a 45-year sentence in a US prison for conspiring to import 400 tons of cocaine into the country. This decision appears at odds with his administration's military strikes on Venezuelan boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking.
Domestically, a disturbing report from the New York Times revealed that ICE agents in San Diego were arresting the spouses of US citizens, including military personnel, during their final Green Card interviews. Sources indicated this was done to meet White House-imposed quotas, detaining individuals without criminal records and forcing them into a protracted legal battle or deportation.
Airspace Warnings and Corporate Caution
Trump further escalated tensions with Venezuela by issuing an ominous warning on Truth Social, declaring the airspace above and around the country closed. This move, coupled with an earlier FAA security notice and the deployment of a US naval strike force to the Caribbean, has led to speculation about potential military action against the Maduro regime.
In a moment of corporate candour, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon explained his firm's refusal to donate to Trump's ballroom fund. He stated they must avoid any perception of 'buying favours,' citing legal risks and potential future scrutiny from the Department of Justice once Trump leaves office.
