Trump meeting Putin in Alaska, ICE camps expanding
The David Pakman Show - August 15, 2025
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Donald Trump is going to Alaska for a summit with Vladimir Putin, raising concerns about his history of deference to the Russian leader. Critics worry he may offer concessions, such as reducing NATO troops or providing access to rare earth minerals, despite Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Even the symbolism of the meeting benefits Moscow, with minimal concessions being the best-case scenario and a weakened NATO and reduced support for Ukraine the worst.
California Governor Gavin Newsom responded to Texas’s redistricting, which is expected to add five Republican seats, by proposing the Election Rigging Response Act. This temporary override of California’s independent commission would last until 2030, requiring legislative and voter approval. Masked ICE agents were sent to the announcement, using intimidation tactics that undermine public trust.
The Trump administration is planning a massive ICE expansion that could double detention capacity and add 10,000 new agents. This includes new mega-facilities and large family detention centers, with quotas driving arrests and deportations. The aggressive enforcement strategy fuels fear and intimidation, while undermining transparency and due process for immigrants.
Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative reportedly overstated federal savings, claiming $52.8 billion but delivering closer to $1.4 billion, none of which reduced the deficit. Cuts to USAID weakened global health programs and U.S. influence abroad, allowing rivals like China and Russia to fill the gap. Experts warn that the erosion of government expertise and morale could take decades to repair.
Trump’s plan to “audit” Smithsonian exhibits to promote “American exceptionalism” has raised concerns about historical revisionism. Overseen by senior domestic and budget officials, the review could whitewash sensitive topics like slavery and politicize curation. Distorting history in trusted institutions risks shaping public understanding for generations, potentially erasing critical truths about the nation’s past.
On today’s bonus show:
Trump’s approach to Ukraine risks weakening NATO and empowering Putin. And guest host Dan Koh explains the inner workings of the White House.
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Already getting there with a command and control economy, suppression of free speech, jailing of dissenters (Subway footlong sandwich, anyone?), false narratives and propaganda from the center, and so much more of the Soviet model still to come. Vlad's gonna LOVE it!
Predator drones are being used in Los Angeles to monitor protestors. Against 4 th amendment!!!!