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Only 19 days away from Trump getting sworn in! Let’s dig into the prelude!

A Cybertruck explosion at Trump Tower in Vegas on New Years has prompted more questions than answers. Mike Johnson has been elected as speaker of the house for the 119th Congress. “National security” is cited as a primary reason that the Biden administration just blocked US Steel getting acquired in a nearly $15 billion dollar deal by a Japanese firm.

• Cybertruck Explosion Leaves More Questions Than Answers

• Mike Johnson Elected As Speaker Of The House for 119th Congress

• American Steel Remains American

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The Cybertruck Explosion Story Gets Deeper

_{By: Atlas}

The facade of Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas became the backdrop for a different kind of fireworks on New Year's Day when Master Sgt. Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Green Beret, detonated explosives inside a rented Tesla Cybertruck. The decorated Special Forces veteran took his own life moments before the explosion, leaving behind a trail of cryptic messages and raising questions about the intersection of military service, compromised mental faculties, and national security.

The Las Vegas Metro Police Department's investigation revealed a complex web of motivations behind Livelsberger's final act. "This was not a terrorist attack. It was a wake up call," wrote Livelsberger in notes recovered from his manifesto. "Americans only pay attention to spectacles and violence. What better way to get my point across than a stunt with fireworks and explosives?"

The Shawn Ryan Show Connection and a Mysterious Manifesto

Days before the incident, Livelsberger reached out to Sam Shoemate, a former Army intelligence officer with a significant social media following. The email, which Shoemate initially hesitated to share, found its way to the public through an episode of The Shawn Ryan Show, a podcast hosted by a former Navy SEAL. The timing and content of this communication add another layer of intrigue to a scene already stacked in layers of questions.

In his email, Livelsberger painted a picture of advanced technological threats and alleged government cover-ups. He claimed knowledge of "gravitic propulsion systems" being used in Chinese unmanned aircraft, describing them as "the most dangerous threat to national security that has ever existed." The email detailed supposed Chinese submarine operations along the East Coast and warned of potential catastrophic consequences.

Perhaps most significantly, Livelsberger's message contained allegations about his involvement in controversial military operations. He described participating in airstrikes in Afghanistan's Nimruz province in 2019, claiming responsibility for targeting operations that resulted in civilian casualties. These claims align with a United Nations report that documented civilian deaths during attacks on suspected drug laboratories, though the exact numbers remain disputed.

The Intersection of Military Service and Mania

Alicia Arritt, Livelsberger's ex-girlfriend, revealed that he had suffered a traumatic brain injury during a 2019 Middle East deployment. She pointed to a culture within Special Forces that discouraged seeking mental health treatment, stating it was "not acceptable to seek treatment when someone is in Special Forces."

FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans acknowledged the likelihood that Livelsberger suffered from PTSD, noting that family and personal matters may have contributed to his state of mind. According to ABC News, Livelsberger had recently been kicked out of his home by his wife over allegations of infidelity, adding personal turmoil to his unique circumstances.

The Technical Aspects of the Incident

The explosion itself has drawn attention for its technical details. The Tesla Cybertruck, a vehicle known for its robust construction, played an unexpected role in containing the blast. Tesla CEO Elon Musk commented on the incident via X (formerly Twitter), noting that the "Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards."

Investigators found an arsenal within the charred remains of the vehicle: multiple legally purchased firearms, fireworks, mortars, and camp fuel canisters. Sheriff Kevin McMahill revealed that the body was "almost beyond recognition," though they were able to confirm Livelsberger's identity and determine that he had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before the explosion.

Unanswered Questions and Broader Implications

Despite the wealth of information uncovered by investigators, crucial questions remain unanswered. The choice of location – Trump International Hotel – continues to puzzle authorities, especially given FBI Special Agent Evans's statement that Livelsberger appeared to harbor "no animosity towards the president-elect." In fact, Livelsberger's recovered notes included praise for Trump and called for Americans to "rally around Donald Trump, Elon Musk and Robert Kennedy to save the country."

The incident has sparked broader discussions about veteran care, military transparency, and national security. Livelsberger's claims about advanced Chinese technology and military operations, while unverified, have added fuel to ongoing debates about technological threats and military accountability. The Department of Defense has remained silent on these allegations, with Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh referring reporters to investigators rather than addressing the claims directly.

As investigations continue, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by military veterans and the complex interplay between mental health, military service, and national security concerns.

Johnson Elected To Lead 119th Congress

_{By: Arthur Lindh, Political Analyst & Contributor for Atlas}

Mike Johnson has now officially been elected as Speaker of the House, and was sworn in shortly thereafter on Friday afternoon. It is perhaps the first sign of a watershed to come for the Republican Party. It will be the first time since the 109th Congress in 2005 when the GOP obtained control of both chambers of Congress with a republican president. Johnson’s leadership signals a reinvigorated commitment to conservative ideals, including limited government, fiscal restraint, and a strong national security when conversing with his supporters. However, his win, which was by a the razor thin margin of one vote, also brings to light the internal splits that exist within the Republican Party. These divisions create possibilities as well as problems for the advancement of the legislative program of the Republican Party.

Mike Johnson, a representative from Louisiana who pitches himself as a hardline conservative, was elected to the position, which denotes the direction that the Republican Party is heading in (at least on paper). Individual liberty, limited government, the rule of law, peace through strength, fiscal responsibility, free markets, and human dignity are the seven fundamental concepts that form the foundation of his pitch for leadership. These principles will be act as a guide for the legislative goals of the 119th Congress, which will result in the formation of policies that are aligned closely with Trump's vision for the United States of America and resonate with the Republican base.

Border Policy As A Cornerstone

It is anticipated that the House of Representatives would prioritize important conservative policy issues while Johnson is in charge. One of the most important of them is border security, which is a fundamental principle of the “MAGA” movement. As a continuation of the immigration policies that were implemented under the Trump administration, Johnson is expected to advocate for the strengthening of border enforcement, the revision of asylum rules, and the completion of the border wall. These policies are intended to address concerns over illegal immigration and national security, both of which are subjects that are strongly resonated with people who identify as Republican.

An additional essential focus will be on achieving energy independence. Johnson has always campaigned for the expansion of domestic oil and gas production, the reduction of dependency on energy supplies originating from other countries, and the promotion of policies that favor the supremacy of the United States in the energy sector. His approach is reflective of larger Republican attempts to boost economic development, generate employment, and assure energy security in a global market that is very competitive.

Small Government. Small Budget

In addition, Johnson's plan is characterized by its emphasis on fiscal restraint. In light of the fact that the national debt has surpassed $36 trillion, Johnson has underlined the need of effectively addressing the nation's economic difficulties and bringing the government's expenditures under control. Under his leadership, it is anticipated that legislative measures would include efforts to make tax cuts that were implemented during the Trump administration permanent, to simplify government expenditures, and to decrease the deficit. In accordance with the Republican Party's long-standing commitment to economic conservatism, these policies are being implemented.

A strong cooperation with President-elect Trump is also signaled by Johnson's election, which positions the House of Representatives as a vital ally in pursuing the administration's agenda within the federal government. Considering the nature of this partnership, it is quite probable that rapid action will be taken on Trump's legislative aims, which include efforts pertaining to immigration policy, tax reform, and national security. Furthermore, Johnson may be responsible for overseeing investigations of the administration of Vice President Joe Biden, which is reflective of the Republican Party's emphasis on enhanced monitoring and responsibility.

Johnson's leadership will be confronted with substantial hurdles, despite the opportunities that are available, as only a few votes mean the difference between passage and failure of a bill. In order to successfully manage the internal tensions that exist between moderate and far-right factions, diplomatic coalition-building is required in order to accommodate the thin Republican majority in the House. Furthermore, Johnson's ability to maintain party unity and legislative momentum will be put to the test by looming deadlines for government financing in March 2025, as well as the possibility of shutdowns.

In many respects, the Republican Party is presented with both a chance and a test during the time that Mike Johnson is serving as Speaker of the House. His leadership will be defined by his capacity to handle the hurdles posed by a divided Congress, to achieve a conservative agenda, and to forge agreement within a fractured party. The 119th Congress is about to begin its work, and Johnson's speakership is laying the groundwork for a monumental two year term.

Japan Blocked, US Steel Remains American

_{By: Arthur Lindh, Political Analyst & Contributor for Atlas}

Joe Biden recently stopped Japan's Nippon Steel from purchasing U.S. Steel for $14.9 billion, citing national security concerns and the need to safeguard vital industries. The ruling raises concerns about the possible effects on economic development and foreign investment while highlighting the administration's emphasis on preserving American dominance over important industries. Critics caution that it may give the incorrect impression to foreign investors about the economic climate in the United States, while supporters contend the action is essential to protecting national interests.

The deal, which was initially revealed in December 2023, was intended to increase Nippon Steel's industry advantage and solidify its standing as the world's top producer of steel. But the agreement soon ran into resistance. National security issues were investigated by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), and the competitive impact was evaluated by the Justice Department through an antitrust inquiry. In the end, President Biden made the decision to halt the purchase when CFIUS was unable to come to an agreement.

Why The Block Matters

The strategic significance of steel production was at the heart of the administration's defense. The sector is vital to economic stability and security since it plays a significant role in key infrastructure and national defense. Policymakers who are concerned about maintaining national resilience are very troubled by the White House's citation of research that suggests the acquisition might jeopardize the United States' capacity to satisfy defense needs and effectively respond to catastrophes.

Economic factors also had a significant role. In a time of increased global competition, President Biden underlined that keeping local control of U.S. Steel would guarantee the robustness of vital supply lines. The choice is in line with larger U.S. initiatives to lessen reliance on foreign companies in strategically significant sectors. Proponents of the action contend that maintaining American ownership of U.S. Steel protects its long-term stability and fortifies the country's industrial basis.

The administration's choice was also influenced by labor concerns. Citing worries about possible job losses and weakening labor agreements, the United Steelworkers union, which represents thousands of American steel workers, rejected the pact. Their support emphasized the dangers that foreign ownership may provide to American workers and reaffirmed the administration's stance.

The decision was made more complicated by the political environment. The transaction was opposed by both Republican and Democratic leaders, demonstrating a rare bipartisan consensus on shielding vital sectors from outside interference. The decision, which was made during a divisive election year, also demonstrated the wider political agreement that economic independence and national security should come first.

What Does A Free Market Mean?

There have been conflicting responses to the decision both at home and abroad. Proponents see it as an essential step to strengthen national security and safeguard American employment. Some lawmakers and labor groups have applauded the ruling, saying it shows a strong commitment to protecting vital sectors. However, detractors caution about potential economic consequences. Analysts and business executives contend that Nippon Steel's investment and experience may have improved U.S. Steel's ability to compete internationally. They warn that the ruling may deter foreign investment in the future, especially in industries where collaborations might spur innovation and expansion.

Concerns have also been voiced regarding how the decision may affect ties between the United States and Japan. A significant ally, Japan, denounced the move, seeing it as a blow to economic cooperation. Nippon Steel has declared its intention to challenge the ruling, claiming that it goes against the ideas of mutual investment and free trade. Joint attempts to oppose China's influence in the Asia-Pacific area may become more difficult as a result of these conflicts.

The Biden administration has made a clear statement about its commitment to domestic sovereignty over vital sectors and national security by preventing the transaction. The ruling does, however, also emphasize how difficult it is to strike a balance between these objectives and preserving an open and competitive economy. Despite safeguarding strategic interests, critics caution that such measures run the danger of limiting economic prospects and discouraging foreign investment.

This ruling raises important issues regarding the function of foreign investment in the American economy as its ramifications continue to develop. Creating policies that safeguard national interests while promoting an environment for business that promotes creativity, cooperation, and expansion will be the difficult part of the future. It is unclear how this decision will affect the steel sector and American competitiveness in the long run.

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