Notes in the Margin

"President Donald Trump scooped up shares of surveillance-state software maker Palantir weeks before he famously praised the stock on Truth Social."

Despite the fact that the government owes firms refunds due to Trump's tariffs being declared illegal, companies are turning down the opportunity in fear of angering the president.

Auction bidders are demanding higher fixed rates as compensation for the risk that inflation will accelerate further. 

The U.S. government has invoked eminent domain to seize 14.2 acres of Mount Cristo Rey, a sacred site topped by a 29-foot statue of Jesus.

"The year-over-year increases suggest lenders may be working through distressed inventory as higher borrowing costs and affordability challenges impact some homeowners."

The national average price for a gallon of gasoline was $4.46 on May 4, up from $4.11 on April 27.

When broken out by age, Massie has huge leads among voters under age 46. Voters over 66 are against Massie. Older voters consistently favor more war and government spending. 

On top of mounting numbers of retirees, record numbers of young men are claiming to be disabled or sick. 

Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D) said ... “Let my people go. I’m deada‑‑ serious. If you’re constantly beating on us, let us out.”

Trump's war and easy-money policies have pushed up beef prices to near record levels. So, naturally, the DOJ is trying to blame "antitrust violations."