Three Things You Need to Know - January 8, 2018

January 08, 2018

WRITER

Bannon's Ghost Writing Debut

After reading Michael Wolff’s new book, I’m posthumously giving it a working title. Hell hath no FIRE AND FURY like a Steve Bannon scorned. “Fire and Fury” must have been easier to fit on the binding. They say the Devil’s greatest accomplishment was convincing the world he doesn’t exist, but Wolff rivals this in convincing his readers that this book actually about Trump rather than his real pro… I mean AN-tagonist.

Oh there’s plenty of juicy Trump details to chew on during this 300+ page bomb dropping bonanza. I’m sure some of it is true, A LOT is just rumor, but - make no mistake - this is not a book about Trump. The description of the book on the front cover, “Inside The Trump White House” is merely the vehicle used to highlight the real focus of this narrative… Steve Bannon.

I say NARRATIVE, because that’s primarily what you’re getting here. You get 5 parts confirmation of what we already knew about Trump. YES, his election caught everyone by surprise… apparently even his own campaign. YES, Trump and his team had close to ZERO POLITICAL EXPERIENCE and stumbled their way through the first nine months. This is all confirmation of what we already knew. You also get 5 parts rumor and tabloid-level gossip. Did Trump REALLY not want to win and rather just use his candidacy as a launching point for a new TV network? Is his marriage with Melania THAT bad? Does Trump REALLY try and bed all his friends’ wives? We’ll probably never know. That sure didn’t stop Wolff from publishing it though.

Regardless, the other 90% of the book was all Bannon narrative. Trump’s picture on the cover was equivalent to bookstore clickbait. Bannon and his agenda was constant throughout the entire book. According to Wolff, Steve was the only one in the administration that was smart, well read, and had a plan. Even things that could be considered as critical of Bannon, were nothing that he wouldn’t readily and wholeheartedly admit about himself anyway.

For Bannon, Fire and Fury was about launching his next phase. To separate and distinguish between Trumpism and Bannonism. This was the last paragraph:

“The disruption had just begun.

Trump, in Bannon’s view, was a chapter, or even a detour, in the Trump revolution, which had always been about weaknesses in the two major parties. The Trump presidency—however long it lasted—had created the opening that would provide the true outsiders their opportunity. Trump was just the beginning.”

Buckle up ladies and gentlemen. The next few years might be a wild ride.

Time Is Up Golden Globes

Justin Timberlake, Reese Witherspoon, Natalie Portman, and mostly everyone at the Golden Globes last night, all wore the same thing: lapel pins with the words “Time’s Up” on them.

They wore the pins to show their support for all those who have experienced sexual misconduct, especially in the entertainment industry.

How very brave of these celebrities to compromise the integrity of their designer outfits with a lapel pin!

Give me a break.

It’s just another empty gesture by the Hollywood elite.

They tried to make a meaningless, indulgent award show into something more than just a meaningless, indulgent award show and failed miserably.

If Hollywood was genuine in their interest to stop sexual assault, they would have stayed home.

They should be embarrassed to attend the Golden Globes after all the years they condoned the actions of their peers and never uttered a word.

But they can’t turn a chance to celebrate themselves down.

And when the host, Seth Meyers, joked about Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey’s demise, they boo-ed him.

They gave Kirk Douglas a standing ovation and special award even though he has long been rumored to have raped actress Natalie Wood when she was 16 years old.

Meryl Streep couldn’t say one bad thing about Weinstein all night, only vaguely referencing him by telling Ryan Seacrest, “I think that people are aware now of a power imbalance and it’s led to abuse and we want to fix that.”

How courageous!

It just goes to show that Hollywood has apparently not learned its lesson. They can dress in black and wear lapel pins, but that’s not adequate contrition for their sin of silence.

“Time’s Up” on your hypocrisy, Hollywood.

Fire and Fury

“Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House” by Michael Wolff. You may have heard of it. Judging by the media coverage about it over the weekend, it was the only thing that mattered in the entire world.

So much for changing the narrative in 2018.

A book like “Fire and Fury” is business as usual. Dozens of books like this are written about every president while they’re in office. It wouldn’t even really be newsworthy except that the President heaped attention on it. And that’s a problem the President needs to fix.

Here is the simple solution for a President who so obviously wants to be liked: he must accept the fact that at least half the country will never like him. Just stop griping about books like “Fire and Fury,” because there will be a new book just like it every few weeks for the next three years.

The President tweets as if this is a winnable game. It’s not. He can’t control what the critics say, but he can control how he responds. So, he should just focus on his job. Show that he cares more about the country than criticism about him.

Americans are sick of the daily grind of this war on the president. The President won’t be able to stop the media war against him, but he could certainly stop throwing gas on the fire with every tweet.

A year into the Trump presidency, you would think this incessant game of he said/media said would have died down. But we’re stuck in the same annoying loop.

So what if this annoying game doesn’t stop in 2018? What do we do? You and I have a choice to make about today and about this new year – are we going to be part of the solution or part of the problem?

Making America Great Again has unfortunately become a punchline, but shouldn’t that really be the goal of every American, regardless of politics? It’s our job to build a better country in spite of the politicians and media. What can you do to make your home great again? Your neighborhood? Your community? How can you serve a fellow American today?

Less focus on the President, the media, and your side winning. Less focus on ourselves. More focus on serving others. That is what matters most.

MORE 3 THINGS

Silent genocide exposed: Are christians being wiped out in 2025?

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Is a Christian Genocide unfolding overseas?

Recent reports suggest an alarming escalation in violence against Christians, raising questions about whether these acts constitute genocide under international law. Recently, Glenn hosted former U.S. Army Special Forces Sniper Tim Kennedy, who discussed a predictive model that forecasts a surge in global Christian persecution for the summer of 2025.

From Africa to Asia and the Middle East, extreme actions—some described as genocidal—have intensified over the past year. Over 380 million Christians worldwide face high levels of persecution, a number that continues to climb. With rising international concern, the United Nations and human rights groups are urging protective measures by the global community. Is a Christian genocide being waged in the far corners of the globe? Where are they taking place, and what is being done?

India: Hindu Extremist Violence Escalates

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In India, attacks on Christians have surged as Hindu extremist groups gain influence within the country. In February 2025, Hindu nationalist leader Aadesh Soni organized a 50,000-person rally in Chhattisgarh, where he called for the rape and murder of all Christians in nearby villages and demanded the execution of Christian leaders to erase Christianity. Other incidents include forced conversions, such as a June 2024 attack in Chhattisgarh, where a Hindu mob gave Christian families a 10-day ultimatum to convert to Hinduism. In December 2024, a Christian man in Uttar Pradesh was attacked, forcibly converted, and paraded while the mob chanted "Death to Jesus."

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommends designating India a "Country of Particular Concern" and imposing targeted sanctions on those perpetrating these attacks. The international community is increasingly alarmed by the rising tide of religious violence in India.

Syria: Sectarian Violence Post-Regime Change

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Following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024, Syria has seen a wave of sectarian violence targeting religious minorities, including Christians, with over 1,000 killed in early 2025. It remains unclear whether Christians are deliberately targeted or caught in broader conflicts, but many fear persecution by the new regime or extremist groups. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a dominant rebel group and known al-Qaeda splinter group now in power, is known for anti-Christian sentiments, heightening fears of increased persecution.

Christians, especially converts from Islam, face severe risks in the unstable post-regime environment. The international community is calling for humanitarian aid and protection for Syria’s vulnerable minority communities.

Democratic Republic of Congo: A "Silent Genocide"

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In February 2025, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an ISIS-affiliated group, beheaded 70 Christians—men, women, and children—in a Protestant church in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, after tying their hands. This horrific massacre, described as a "silent genocide" reminiscent of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, has shocked the global community.

Since 1996, the ADF and other militias have killed over six million people, with Christians frequently targeted. A Christmas 2024 attack killed 46, further decimating churches in the region. With violence escalating, humanitarian organizations are urging immediate international intervention to address the crisis.

POLL: Starbase exposed: Musk’s vision or corporate takeover?

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Is Starbase the future of innovation or a step too far?

Elon Musk’s ambitious Starbase project in South Texas is reshaping Boca Chica into a cutting-edge hub for SpaceX’s Starship program, promising thousands of jobs and a leap toward Mars colonization. Supporters see Musk as a visionary, driving economic growth and innovation in a historically underserved region. However, local critics, including Brownsville residents and activists, argue that SpaceX’s presence raises rents, restricts beach access, and threatens environmental harm, with Starbase’s potential incorporation as a city sparking fears of unchecked corporate control. As pro-Musk advocates clash with anti-Musk skeptics, will Starbase unite the community or deepen the divide?

Let us know what you think in the poll below:

Is Starbase’s development a big win for South Texas?

Should Starbase become its own city?

Is Elon Musk’s vision more of a benefit than a burden for the region?

Shocking truth behind Trump-Zelenskyy mineral deal unveiled

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President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have finalized a landmark agreement that will shape the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. The agreement focuses on mineral access and war recovery.

After a tense March meeting, Trump and Zelenskyy signed a deal on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, granting the U.S. preferential mineral rights in Ukraine in exchange for continued military support. Glenn analyzed an earlier version of the agreement in March, when Zelenskyy rejected it, highlighting its potential benefits for America, Ukraine, and Europe. Glenn praised the deal’s strategic alignment with U.S. interests, including reducing reliance on China for critical minerals and fostering regional peace.

However, the agreement signed this week differs from the March proposal Glenn praised. Negotiations led to significant revisions, reflecting compromises on both sides. What changes were made? What did each leader seek, and what did they achieve? How will this deal impact the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and global geopolitics? Below, we break down the key aspects of the agreement.

What did Trump want?

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Trump aimed to curb what many perceive as Ukraine’s overreliance on U.S. aid while securing strategic advantages for America. His primary goals included obtaining reimbursement for the billions in military aid provided to Ukraine, gaining exclusive access to Ukraine’s valuable minerals (such as titanium, uranium, and lithium), and reducing Western dependence on China for critical resources. These minerals are essential for aerospace, energy, and technology sectors, and Trump saw their acquisition as a way to bolster U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. Additionally, he sought to advance peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, positioning the U.S. as a key mediator.

Ultimately, Trump secured preferential—but not exclusive—rights to extract Ukraine’s minerals through the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, as outlined in the agreement. The U.S. will not receive reimbursement for past aid, but future military contributions will count toward the joint fund, designed to support Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace negotiations under U.S. leadership aligns with Trump’s goal of resolving the conflict, giving him leverage in discussions with Russia.

These outcomes partially meet Trump’s objectives. The preferential mineral rights strengthen U.S. access to critical resources, but the lack of exclusivity and reimbursement limits the deal’s financial benefits. The peace commitment, however, positions Trump as a central figure in shaping the war’s resolution, potentially enhancing his diplomatic influence.

What did Zelenskyy want?

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Zelenskyy sought to sustain U.S. military and economic support without the burden of repaying past aid, which has been critical for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. He also prioritized reconstruction funds to rebuild Ukraine’s war-torn economy and infrastructure. Security guarantees from the U.S. to deter future Russian aggression were a key demand, though controversial, as they risked entangling America in long-term commitments. Additionally, Zelenskyy aimed to retain control over Ukraine’s mineral wealth to safeguard national sovereignty and align with the country’s European Union membership aspirations.

The final deal delivered several of Zelenskyy’s priorities. The reconstruction fund, supported by future U.S. aid, provides a financial lifeline for Ukraine’s recovery without requiring repayment of past assistance. Ukraine retained ownership of its subsoil and decision-making authority over mineral extraction, granting only preferential access to the U.S. However, Zelenskyy conceded on security guarantees, a significant compromise, and agreed to pursue peace talks under Trump’s leadership, which may involve territorial or political concessions to Russia.

Zelenskyy’s outcomes reflect a delicate balance. The reconstruction fund and retained mineral control bolster Ukraine’s economic and sovereign interests, but the absence of security guarantees and pressure to negotiate peace could strain domestic support and challenge Ukraine’s long-term stability.

What does this mean for the future?

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While Trump didn’t secure all his demands, the deal advances several of his broader strategic goals. By gaining access to Ukraine’s mineral riches, the U.S. undermines China’s dominance over critical elements like lithium and graphite, essential for technology and energy industries. This shift reduces American and European dependence on Chinese supply chains, strengthening Western industrial and tech sectors. Most significantly, the agreement marks a pivotal step toward peace in Europe. Ending the Russia-Ukraine war, which has claimed thousands of lives, is a top priority for Trump, and Zelenskyy’s commitment to U.S.-led peace talks enhances Trump’s leverage in negotiations with Russia. Notably, the deal avoids binding U.S. commitments to Ukraine’s long-term defense, preserving flexibility for future administrations.

The deal’s broader implications align with the vision Glenn outlined in March, when he praised its potential to benefit America, Ukraine, and Europe by securing resources and creating peace. While the final agreement differs from Glenn's hopes, it still achieves key goals he outlined.

Did Trump's '51st state' jab just cost Canada its independence?

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Did Canadians just vote in their doom?

On April 28, 2025, Canada held its federal election, and what began as a promising conservative revival ended in a Liberal Party regroup, fueled by an anti-Trump narrative. This outcome is troubling for Canada, as Glenn revealed when he exposed the globalist tendencies of the new Prime Minister, Mark Carney. On a recent episode of his podcast, Glenn hosted former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss, who provided insight into Carney’s history. She revealed that, as governor of the Bank of England, Carney contributed to the 2022 pension crisis through policies that triggered excessive money printing, leading to rampant inflation.

Carney’s election and the Liberal Party’s fourth consecutive victory spell trouble for a Canada already straining under globalist policies. Many believed Canadians were fed up with the progressive agenda when former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned amid plummeting public approval. Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative Party leader, started 2025 with a 25-point lead over his Liberal rivals, fueling optimism about his inevitable victory.

So, what went wrong? How did Poilievre go from predicted Prime Minister to losing his own parliamentary seat? And what details of this election could cost Canada dearly?

A Costly Election

Mark Carney (left) and Pierre Poilievre (right)

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The election defied the expectations of many analysts who anticipated a Conservative win earlier this year.

For Americans unfamiliar with parliamentary systems, here’s a brief overview of Canada’s federal election process. Unlike U.S. presidential elections, Canadians do not directly vote for their Prime Minister. Instead, they vote for a political party. Each Canadian resides in a "riding," similar to a U.S. congressional district, and during the election, each riding elects a Member of Parliament (MP). The party that secures the majority of MPs forms the government and appoints its leader as Prime Minister.

At the time of writing, the Liberal Party has secured 169 of the 172 seats needed for a majority, all but ensuring their victory. In contrast, the Conservative Party holds 144 seats, indicating that the Liberal Party will win by a solid margin, which will make passing legislation easier. This outcome is a far cry from the landslide Conservative victory many had anticipated.

Poilievre's Downfall

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What caused Poilievre’s dramatic fall from front-runner to losing his parliamentary seat?

Despite his surge in popularity earlier this year, which coincided with enthusiasm surrounding Trump’s inauguration, many attribute the Conservative loss to Trump’s influence. Commentators argue that Trump’s repeated references to Canada as the "51st state" gave Liberals a rallying cry: Canadian sovereignty. The Liberal Party framed a vote for Poilievre as a vote to surrender Canada to U.S. influence, positioning Carney as the defender of national independence.

Others argue that Poilievre’s lackluster campaign was to blame. Critics suggest he should have embraced a Trump-style, Canada-first message, emphasizing a balanced relationship with the U.S. rather than distancing himself from Trump’s annexation remarks. By failing to counter the Liberal narrative effectively, Poilievre lost momentum and voter confidence.

This election marks a pivotal moment for Canada, with far-reaching implications for its sovereignty and economic stability. As Glenn has warned, Carney’s globalist leanings could align Canada more closely with international agendas, potentially at the expense of its national interests. Canadians now face the challenge of navigating this new political landscape under a leader with a controversial track record.

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