Zuckerberg testifies, Republican warns against targeting Taylor Swift
The David Pakman Show - February 1, 2024
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Mark Zuckerberg hearing off the rails, apologizes to victims, fights with Ted Cruz
In a Senate hearing featuring Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Senators Josh Hawley and Ted Cruz focused on allegations of child sexual exploitation on Instagram. The exchange included Republican senators accusing Zuckerberg of negligence and demanding accountability for the platform's role in such incidents. The heated exchange included queries about warning screens for explicit content and the company's responsiveness to the issue. The hearing was loaded with theatrical elements, with Republican senators grandstanding and seemingly auditioning for nighttime Fox News appearances. Such hearings do little to achieve tangible solutions and mostly serve to benefit these right-wing politicians.
Trump spent $50 million in donor money on legal fees in '23
Failed former President Donald Trump spent $50 million of donor money on legal fees in 2023, with his political action committees (PACs) essentially operating as slush funds to tackle numerous civil and criminal cases. There are questions over the legality of such expenditures, as 10% of every dollar donated to Trump's campaign reportedly went to the Save America PAC, effectively financing Trump's legal bills. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) was approached for comment but declined, raising doubts about potential legal actions. The FEC, led by six commissioners, is unlikely to intervene, considering the political alignment of its members. The report highlights a carve-out allowing funds from leadership PACs to be used for legal bills, prompting concerns that Trump may utilize donor money to settle the $83.3 million judgment against him in the E. Jean Carroll case. Many Trump supporters are being potentially misled or scammed, not realizing that this is how their donations are being spent.
From yesterday’s show:
Congressman calls Trump "rapist" in floor of House
Congressman Jim McGovern from Massachusetts stirred controversy on the House floor by referring to former President Donald Trump as a rapist. McGovern was referencing the former president’s civil liability for sexual assault and defamation of E. Jean Carroll. The controversy arises from the distinction between criminal and civil liability, as Trump has not been criminally charged with rape but has instead been found civilly liable. Therefore it would be more accurate to call Trump a “civilly liable rapist.” The debate centers on whether labeling someone a “rapist” without criminal conviction is appropriate, considering the differing standards of proof in civil and criminal cases. While McGovern defends his statement, acknowledging the civil nature of the finding, some argue for the need to specify the distinction for accuracy.
From yesterday’s show:
Republicans obsessed with border now oppose deal to fix it
Republicans are facing criticism for their contradictory messaging on immigration and border issues. Despite initially emphasizing concerns about the border, the party opposes Joe Biden's proposed plan to address the situation, choosing political gains over genuine problem-solving efforts. The decision to reject Biden's offer to shut down the border, based on their terms if they collaborate on solutions, is indicative of a lack of sincerity in addressing the raised issues. This resistance reflects a broader pattern where immigration is perceived as a political tool for the Republican Party, irrespective of who holds power. The overall narrative suggests a prioritization of political strategy and self-interest over a genuine commitment to addressing national concerns, notably evident in their decision to axe the border bill.
More on the show:
-- Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn thinks her party is making a mistake by targeting Taylor Swift
-- Caller is upset with David and wrongfully believes he supports a military draft
-- Caller compares people's finances with their perception of the economy
-- Caller talks about the anti-semitism hearing in Congress that led to two the ousting of two university presidents
-- Caller is a former Trump supporter who changed his mind after reading a book
-- Caller asks what happens to Trump supporters once Trump is gone
-- The Friday Feedback segment
-- On the Bonus Show: Ron DeSantis cringe compilation, and much more...
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