Three Things You Need to Know - January 23, 2018

Shutdown Averted

The crisis has been averted, Armageddon is put on hold… PEACE IN OUR TIME! Well, for another three weeks at least. The Senate voted overwhelmingly yesterday to open the government back up for business. The great government shutdown of 2018 turned into little more than a three day weekend.

Apparently - in order to get this done - Republicans promised to immediately proceed to discuss immigration reform and DACA. Sure the Democrats come out of this looking kind of silly, but look what is now part of the GOP platform. Amnesty. That sure wasn’t the case during the primaries. Just ask Marco Rubio. He’d probably be President right now if it had been.

Democrats will eventually get their amnesty vote, but not everyone is happy. In the weeks leading up to the shutdown, the left was ironclad in their opposition, but only sixteen held strong yesterday. A civil war is brewing within the Democratic Party. The old guard led by Schumer are living on borrowed time. Their days are numbered. Wanna know what the future looks like? Check out some of the loudest opposition voices yesterday.

Bernie Sanders cast his “no” vote and then proceeded to go on an epic tweet rant. We all know his Socialist past, but he’s now joined by a chorus of new young up and comers. Luis Gutierrez - the representative from Illinois - said:

“They caved. They blinked. That’s what they do.”

Who’s the they that he’s referring to? The Democratic establishment. You see, Gutierrez represents the new blood. You’ll never hear the words revolutionary or radical spoken from these new rising stars, but that’s exactly what they are. In the late 80’s Gutierrez was a member of the Puerto Rican Socialist Party, a Marxist -Leninist group. He’s also a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and is praised by the Democratic Socialists of America.

Kamala Harris has been called the “female Obama.” The one-term junior Senator from California is already being groomed for a run at the White House. She also voted against ending the shutdown and harshly criticized Schumer directly after the vote. Harris helped create California as a Sanctuary State, advocates free college, and was part of Al Gore’s group of Attorney Generals that looked to prosecute companies for questioning climate change.

Other notable “no” votes include Elizabeth Warren and Kirsten Gillibrand.

Radical progressives, overt Socialists, and Marxists. This is the direction the Left is sliding. The field is literally wide open for someone sane to come in and make a difference. An independent candidate might have more of a shot now than ever before. I wonder what Marco Rubio is doing in - say - 2020?

Turpin Family Update

Eight shiny new bicycles glistened in the sun on the front lawn of the Turpin family’s Fort Worth home.

A neighbor, Ricky Vinyard, remembers seeing the bikes and thinking they were perfect gifts for the large family.

Until he noticed the bikes were still untouched months and months after Christmas.

Their intended recipients never got to enjoy them.

The bikes were still there when David and Louise Turpin foreclosed on the trashed house. The ever-growing family left Texas behind and headed West in search of fame and fortune.

Louise chose to move to California because she wanted to be closer to Hollywood.

Louise was consumed with becoming a reality star and she believed that her 13 kids were the key to making her famous.

She was convinced they were going to be the next “Kate Plus 8” or 19 Kids and Counting.”

Louise even gave all her children names that began with the letter J, just like the famous Duggar family did.

When police arrested David and Louise last week, they were trying for a fourteenth child to help their delusional chances of getting their own show.

In a weird twist of fate, Louise and David got their wish. They are finally famous. Every day they can be seen on national television. Every day we gawk at their freakshow life.

But as we watch the Turpin’s story of heartbreaking abuse and neglect unfold in front of our eyes, let’s remember that we are NOT watching a reality TV show. This is real life. These monsters imprisoned, starved, and tortured their own children. The damage these 13 children endured at the hands of the people who are supposed to love them the most is more tragic and shocking than any show on television.

The Notorious R.B.G. on the Silver Screen

RBG is an epic motion picture coming soon to a theatre near you.

Imagine if Fox News produced a documentary about a current Supreme Court Justice, like Neil Gorsuch. Seems like the kind of thing Fox News might do. But it would be slammed by the Left as totally partisan propaganda. A legitimate news network like CNN would never make propaganda like that. Remember? Facts first. Apples are apples and all that.

A documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on Sunday. It’s titled RBG – get it? And who produced it? CNN. The news network describes Ginsburg as a “cultural icon.”

When has any conservative human ever been called a cultural icon?

At the premiere, the “Notorious R.B.G.,” which is the hip nickname her fans gave her, was introduced by Robert Redford. After a standing ovation from the crowd, which included CNN boss Jeff Zucker, Ginsburg was interviewed onstage.

It’s bad enough that a Supreme Court justice allows herself to be paraded like a popstar, rubbing elbows with Hollywood and CNN. But then the interview turned to the #MeToo movement. The crowd waited in hushed silence as Ginsburg recalled her own harassment as a Cornell student in the 1950s. She told of a chemistry professor who offered to give her a practice test, which she accepted. But when she showed up to take the real test the next day, it was the same “practice” test he’d already given her. “And I knew exactly what he wanted in return,” she said.

The crowd waited for the next part of the story. But that was it. No more story detail.

It’s very strange to hear a Supreme Court Justice, sit in front of an audience and convict her former professor of sexual harassment without sharing any additional evidence. In trying to support the #MeToo crowd, she accidentally illustrated the biggest pitfall of this movement – convicting people before they’re proven guilty.

That seems very wrong of a judge to do.

Ginsburg also forgot to acknowledge the #MeToo victims of the man who appointed her to the Supreme Court – Bill Clinton.

This is the problem with the radical Progressive agenda, not even a 25-year veteran of the Supreme Court can keep up with the inconsistencies. It gives a whole new meaning to the phrase justice is blind.

MORE 3 THINGS

Shocking Christian massacres unveiled

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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.