Congress Just Burned $500 Billion on Expired Programs—And No One Stopped It
If lawmakers can’t even cut expired programs, what does that say about the rest of the budget?
Good Morning
Congress is spending half a trillion dollars on programs that aren’t even legally authorized. A new CBO report exposes how 1,264 expired initiatives kept receiving funding last year—no votes, no oversight, just money funneled into the void. This isn’t a mistake. It’s how Washington works: keep the cash flowing, ignore the rules, and hope no one notices.
Meanwhile, Trump is making waves again—floating the idea of Canada joining the U.S., handing Elon Musk new marching orders to root out Pentagon fraud, and declaring a new national holiday out of thin air. Democrats are now threatening a government shutdown over his executive actions, setting the stage for yet another showdown.
Half a trillion in waste. A potential new state. A fight brewing over executive power. Let’s break it all down.
Congress Just Burned $500 Billion on Expired Programs—And No One Stopped It
Congress isn’t just bad at managing money—it’s flat-out reckless. A bombshell CBO report just revealed that lawmakers dumped $516 billion into expired programs last year—funding initiatives that legally shouldn’t even exist.
Nearly 1,264 programs had already expired, yet Congress kept funneling money into them anyway. No votes, no oversight, just half a trillion dollars vanishing into the abyss. Worse, 24 zombie programs alone sucked up $470 billion, some running on autopilot for decades. If that’s not corruption, what is?
This isn’t incompetence—it’s a deliberate scam. Congress knows these programs are expired. They’re supposed to review and reauthorize them, but instead, they rubber-stamp billions in unapproved spending while pretending to care about deficits. It’s the perfect con: bury the numbers, keep the cash flowing, and let taxpayers eat the losses.
And here’s the kicker—another 251 programs are about to expire this year. Does anyone actually believe Congress will cut them? Not a chance. This isn’t a budgeting problem—it’s a systemic fraud. If they won’t even cut expired programs, what does that say about the rest of the budget? H/T The Gateway Pundit
Trump’s Bold Proposal: Canada as the 51st State
In a recent statement, President Trump suggested that Canada joining the United States as the 51st state “would be the greatest thing they could ever do.” He emphasized the strong relationship between the two nations and implied that such a union would be mutually beneficial.
This proposal has sparked significant debate. Supporters argue it could strengthen economic and security ties, while critics raise concerns about national sovereignty and cultural differences. The idea of annexation is not new but has rarely been taken seriously in modern political discourse. The Canadian government has yet to issue an official response to Trump’s remarks. H/T The Hill
Leftist Attacks Backfire, Elevate Trump’s Status
Efforts by leftist groups to undermine President Trump appear to have had the opposite effect, bolstering his reputation among supporters. Despite numerous attempts to discredit him, Trump’s resilience has only solidified his standing, turning challenges into opportunities to reinforce his narrative of outsider resistance.
Analysts suggest that continuous attacks have inadvertently contributed to a “legend” status for Trump, as he positions himself as a figure who thrives amid adversity. This dynamic has energized his base, who view him as a champion against establishment forces, further entrenching political divisions. The Blaze
Vice President Vance Challenges Judicial Authority
Vice President JD Vance has openly criticized federal judges who have blocked key initiatives of the Trump administration. He argues that the judiciary is overstepping its bounds, hindering executive actions aimed at implementing the administration’s agenda.
This confrontation highlights a growing tension between the executive branch and the judiciary. Vance’s remarks reflect a broader frustration within the administration regarding legal obstacles that impede policy implementation. The situation raises questions about the balance of power and the role of the courts in reviewing executive decisions. The Hill
• Obama-Era Solar Plant Deemed a $1.6 Billion ‘Disaster’: The Ivanpah Solar Power Facility, funded with $1.6 billion in federal loans during Obama’s tenure, is shutting down after underperforming and harming wildlife.
• Elon Musk Calls for Judge’s Impeachment: After a federal judge blocked his Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury records, Musk demands the judge’s removal, escalating tensions between the executive and judiciary.
• Democrats Threaten Government Shutdown Over Trump’s Actions: Senator Andy Kim warns that Democrats may force a shutdown if President Trump doesn’t curb his executive overreach, particularly concerning agency consolidations.
• Kristi Noem Defends Musk’s Access to DHS Data: Homeland Security Secretary Noem supports Elon Musk’s authorized access to department data, emphasizing the need for an audit to enhance government efficiency.
• Zelensky Proposes Mineral Partnership to Trump: Ukrainian President Zelensky offers a deal to President Trump, suggesting U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for security guarantees.
1. Trump and Netanyahu Envision Gaza as the Next ‘Riviera’
In a bold move, President Trump, alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, announced plans for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip. Trump stated, “The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too.” He envisions transforming the area into a thriving tourist destination, referring to it as the next “Riviera.” This initiative includes dismantling unexploded ordnance, leveling destroyed buildings, and developing the region. Critics express concerns over potential geopolitical ramifications and the feasibility of such an ambitious project.
2. Musk Tasked with Uncovering Pentagon Waste
President Trump has directed Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to audit the Pentagon for potential fraud and abuse. Following initial reviews of agencies like USAID, Musk’s focus will shift to the Department of Education before targeting the military. The Pentagon’s nearly trillion-dollar budget is under scrutiny, with expectations of uncovering significant financial inefficiencies. Critics raise concerns about Musk’s lack of experience in defense matters and potential conflicts of interest, given his companies’ contracts with the military.
3. ‘Gulf of America Day’ Proclaimed by Trump
On his way to the Super Bowl, President Trump proclaimed February 9, 2025, as “Gulf of America Day” after flying over the newly renamed body of water. This follows his executive order to change the Gulf of Mexico’s name to the Gulf of America, aiming to honor American heritage. The proclamation encourages citizens to observe the day with appropriate programs and ceremonies. The move has sparked debate, with some viewing it as a patriotic gesture, while others see it as unnecessary and provocative.
4. Secret Service Neutralizes Drone Threat Near Trump Motorcade
Amid heightened security concerns, the Secret Service shot down a drone that was observed following President Trump’s campaign motorcade in Pennsylvania. Law enforcement had warned of potential threats from Iranian operatives within the U.S., possibly equipped with surface-to-air missiles. The incident underscores ongoing security challenges and the persistent threats faced by high-profile political figures.
5. Trump Signals New Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports
President Trump announced plans to implement a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, aiming to protect domestic industries and address trade imbalances. This move is expected to have significant implications for international trade relations and could lead to retaliatory measures from affected countries. Supporters argue it’s a necessary step to bolster American manufacturing, while critics warn of potential economic repercussions.
“A billion here, a billion there—pretty soon, you’re talking real money.”
— Everett Dirksen
Congress doesn’t even pretend to care about spending anymore. If half a trillion dollars can vanish into expired programs without consequence, what else is getting rubber-stamped in the dead of night? Meanwhile, Trump isn’t slowing down—whether it’s expanding the U.S. border north or taking on the Pentagon’s budget, his moves are setting off alarms across Washington.
Stay sharp, stay informed, and never stop asking where your money is going. See you in tomorrow’s issue.
~ Scott 🇺🇸