[Bruce]

If you’ve been following the real estate chatter lately, you’ve probably noticed a shift. New market reports show movement toward a buyer’s market, although every neighborhood tells a different story.

Current numbers don’t lie:

• There are roughly half a million more homes on the market than buyers ready to move.
• That extra stock is turning the page after years of frantic bidding that favored sellers.
• Three big trends are lining up to tip the scale.

Inventory keeps climbing.

• Nationally, housing stock is up 19 percent from a year ago, and January 2025 marked the fifteenth month the total grew.
• Analysts expect to close the year with at least 15 percent more homes listed than we have today.

Buyer demand has cooled.

• Many folks who could buy are on the fence, mostly because monthly mortgage bills still sting.
• High interest rates and stubborn home prices make affordability the headline issue.

Regional variations matter.

• That national average can hide big differences.
• A few hot metros are still lightly salted with competition.
• In contrast, others that felt balanced yesterday have already tipped into full-blown buyer’s markets.

The quality of the inventory is mixed.

Many listings you’re clicking through are stale and have been active for at least two months. If you’re hunting for a fresh deal, sifting through that older stock can be a chore, but the patience may pay off.

• New-build single-family homes hit a supply of 9.5 months in October, more than double the 4.2-month stock of existing houses.
• That 9.5 figure is the highest reported since the pandemic housing boom began to cool.
• If you are house-hunting right now, the longer supply runway will give you the upper hand for the first time in years.
• You can breathe, haggle a little, and still see fresh listings arrive.

Price tags and mortgage rates have stayed stubbornly high, so the buyers’ shift feels big only until you look at your monthly payment. Things are turning in your favor, yet the change is slow and streaky. Some neighborhoods perk up quickly, others plod along.

[Bruce]

People watching the electric vehicle scene, especially the buzz around Tesla’s Cybertruck, keep pointing out some tough challenges. Your worries are understandable, and they deserve a closer look. So, let’s yank those claims apart one by one, check the facts, and see where we land.

Tesla Cybertruck Value Depreciation

• The Tesla Cybertruck has dropped in value faster than just about anyone predicted.
• Analytics firms now say these trucks lose 37 to 38 percent of their sticker price in the first twelve months.
• In plain dollars, a brand-new AWD Foundation Series that starts at $100,000 could be worth only $65,400 after 6,000 city and highway miles.
• Quick comparisons show the Rivian R1T slipping by roughly 29 percent over the same stretch, making the Rivian look almost stable by contrast.
• Those numbers come from several financial reports and valuation trackers following the Cybertruck since deliveries ramped up in 2024.
• Hot rumor claims some early buyers flipped their trucks for $200,000 and then watched the value crash to $60,000 within months.
• That story sounds dramatic, but doesn’t align with the Factory-installed sticker we have on file, which began around $120,000.
• Dealerships say their pre-owned racks now hold Cybertrucks for an average of 75 days before a buyer finally pulls the trigger.
• Even Tesla itself is trimming prices by $10,000 here and there to move the metal, and that kind of discount usually whispers weaker demand than anyone wants to admit.

EV Battery Concerns

• Buyers can still rattle off horror stories about lithium-ion packs that lose range after only a few winters.
• That skepticism lives quietly in many truck owners’ minds.
• Batteries still sit at the top of the price list for any electric vehicle.
• Swapping one out on a high-end rig like the Cybertruck could easily run past the $50,000 mark.
• This is even if nobody has pinned down a final sticker shock.
• Over time, that same pack might sour: rough calculations hint that a ten-year-old Cybertruck could slide from a shiny 340-mile range to a meager 272 miles if it age-cripples by 2 percent a year.
• That sudden 20-percent dip in range, the slower, creeping loss toward 30 percent, freezes the market for anyone eyeing a second-hand EV.
• On the upside, the high-voltage guts tucked under a Tesla get an 8-year or 150,000-mile powertrain blanket, so the original driver isn’t completely exposed.
• The company insists that nasty failures show up so rarely that most problems slip under warranty and never hit the wallet.
• Yes, a replacement bill still scares many buyers, but saying the car is instant trash when the pack dies is a stretch.
• Even battered EVs can hold a decent trade-in price if they?
• I cared for the used market wobbles because folks keep doing the range math.

Shaquille O? Neal and Cybertruck Sales

• Look around online, and you won’t find a hard story about Shaquille Neal laying down cash for three Cybertrucks or flipping them after some spat between Elon Musk and President Trump.
• The rumor pops up in casual chatter, yet the details aren’t verified anywhere that counts.

Speculative Claims About Tesla and O’Neal

• People keep saying Shaquille O’Neal may have torpedoed Tesla’s sales, but honestly, that sounds more like gossip than hard proof.
• Musk has stirred plenty of political drama, and sure, a few folks reacted by boycotting the brand, yet nobody has pointed to O’Neal or any single sales call that moved the needle.
• So the chatter is interesting.
• I’ll give it that, but we’re still waiting for a smoking-gun piece of evidence at the end of the day.

Charging Infrastructure

• If you ask most drivers, the toughest headache with electric vehicles is still where to plug them in.
• A 2024 J.D. Power survey showed that a missing charging station was the number-one reason buyers said no to an EV, outranking even sticker shock and range anxiety.
• Tesla wins that race with over 7,000 Supercharger spots, and 17 other automakers can use the network.
• Oddly enough, though, non-Tesla EV owners report greater satisfaction with their cars overall, which hints that an awesome charging map doesn’t fix every problem.
• The public network keeps expanding, yet many smaller towns are still blank spots on the map.
• Anyone who tows trailers or takes cross-country trips without home charging feels that gap the most, making the full switch away from gasoline seem premature.
• Plus, longer-haul routes can suddenly look daunting if the charger drop-off line on the highway is too short.
• The Cybertruck-included EVs haven’t quite lived up to the blockbuster hype that once surrounded them.
• Sales numbers ebbed after the initial wave because people realized everyday headaches, like repair availability or insurance costs, still linger.
• Enthusiasm is high at shows and expos, but when buyers click taxes, tags, and titles into an online checkout, reality usually hits first.
• So far, in 2024, Tesla has pushed out around 39,000 Cybertrucks.
• Elon Musk talked about 250,000 rides a year, but that number feels like science fiction.
• Even February 2025 was grim; sales fell by over a third that month alone.
• Elon and his crew have parked over 10,000 shiny, unused trucks on the lot, and the pile is worth nearly $800 million.
• Because of that, they’re pulling back on the assembly line.
• Across the planet, Tesla’s other models are stumbling, too.
• In the Netherlands, sales fell off a cliff, with a 75 percent shortage in just a few months.
• The UK is down 62 percent, and even usually loyal China gave the brand a 6 percent chill.
• A bunch of reasons feed into that mess.
• The truck is pricey.
• At least $74,735 after rebates for the all-wheel-drive version or $62,490 if you want the long-range rear-wheel-drive.
• Add a design most people love or hate, plus eight different recalls since early 2024, and you get a recipe for cautious buyers.
• One of those recalls covered loose trim flaps on almost every single Cybertruck that rolled out, which is not great for word of mouth.
• Musk hopping into heated political waters has also shaken public feelings toward the brand.
• Some folks have said they refuse to park a Cybertruck in their driveway, and a few vandals have acted out that anger.
• A handful of early buyers returned their trucks.
• They no longer wanted the drama or were unhappy with the ride.
• Still, the story of many electric vehicle owners jumping back to gas cars doesn’t hold up very well.
• Q1 2025 EV sales across the board climbed by 11.4 percent compared to last year’s quarter, so the sky isn’t falling everywhere.
• Tesla’s trade-in values have dropped.
• Sure, it’s basically what happens when a new model falters in its launch year.
• But that doesn’t prove the entire EV wave is washing backward.
• California is still charging ahead.
• The state recently launched its Advanced Clean Cars II plan.
• And set a lofty goal of selling 100 percent zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
• The rule sounds fierce.
• But it stops short of outlawing gasoline cars for people who already own them.
• That little loophole gives drivers some breathing room while cleaner tech tries to scale up.
• People with old gas-powered pickups or sedans can keep driving them.
• This is because the new mandates target only the cars that roll off lots tomorrow.
• That carve-out calms some drivers, yet it highlights a bigger issue.
• Charging stations still lag behind the hype.
• The folks who vent their worries at town hall meetings are often uneasy about the sticker price on anything branded electric.
• If Congress tweaks or zaps those shiny EV tax breaks, shifts in Washington would only toss another wrench into a market full of squeaky gears.

Critical Analysis

• No one argues that the Tesla Cybertruck or any other battery rig sails through every challenge, yet calling them a complete flop feels like throwing a BB at a brick wall.
• The Cybertruck was the best-selling electric pickup in America for all of 2024, even though late 2025 numbers show the Ford F-150 Lightning stealing some of that thunder early on.
• The stainless-steel chassis, 0-to-60-in-2.6-seconds smack, and polarizing vault-like look speak to a certain crowd.
• But the same sticker shock scares off people who still think a tailgate party means propane and ice.
• Advancements in lithium chemistry and on-the-road charging plug holes here and there.
• But they still trail the timelines, states like California keep waving in press releases.
• An EV can upgrade a commuter with a garage socket.
• For ranchers or contractors who burn miles chasing work, the limitations are much louder than the sales pitch.
• Yes, Musk loves to court headlines in the Capitol and on cable, and that drama sometimes creeps into public trust.
• But inside the factory, the focus has quietly shifted toward Robo-taxis and pure-code visions like the Cybercab, perhaps proving that the company’s real bet lies beyond chrome grilles and leather seats.

Even so, the Cybertruck shows scars from the price climb, a string of update-after-update recalls, and sticker shock that leaves showrooms with more demos than drivers.

• Battery range and the still-sparse network of fast chargers hold many drivers back, especially those who rely on a truck for tough jobs.
• Rumors that Shaquille O’Neal bought three Cybertrucks or that a new model tanked in value from $200,000 to $60,000 never showed solid proof.

Electric pickups take up a bigger slice of the market every year. However, sticker shock, empty charging stalls, and plain user gist skepticism mean gasoline rigs are still the safer bet in remote counties or for buyers who haul constantly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XzqWuS5Cog

[Bruce]

When breeding a purebred German Shepherd, cautious planning, ethical concerns, and familiarity with the entire process are necessary. In this piece, I’ll tackle all your questions in detail based on general knowledge and best practices in dog breeding, ensuring my answer is brief but inclusive.

Where to Find a Male Purebred German Shepherd Stud

To find an appropriate male purebred German Shepherd for breeding:

Breed Clubs and Organizations:

• Contact the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA) or breed clubs within your locality.
• They usually have directories for breeders or stud registries.

Reputable Breeders:

• Contact well-established breeders of German Shepherds near you who may have stud dogs or can recommend one.
• Websites like the American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace can also list breeders that provide stud services.

Dog Shows and Events:

Attend AKC-sanctioned dog or German Shepherd specialty shows to interact with owners and breeders.

Online Platforms:

• Only use reliable sites such as AKC Marketplace or breed-specific forums like the Pedigree Database, not general classifieds like Craigslist, where quality or health testing may not be done.

Veterinarian or Trainer Referrals:

• Your veterinarian or professional dog trainer could refer you to reputable breeders with stud dogs.
• You must consider the male’s pedigree, health clearances like DM testing, OFA hip/elbow certifications, and temperament.
• Your female dog should be complemented by the male in terms of such traits as conformation and working ability so that healthy puppies can be bred from them.
• Meeting the student and owner personally to know their compatibility and living conditions is good.

Compensation Action for the Stud Dog Owner

Compensation for a student varies but is usually agreed upon through a written contract.

These agreements are made in various ways, including:

• Stud Fee: An upfront fee paid when confirming pregnancy.
• Or it could be a flat payment ranging between $500 and $2000+, depending on titles, demand, and pedigree.
• Pick of the Litter: Instead of being paid in currency, some stud owners prefer taking one or more puppies (usually first or second picks) when they become available.
• This is often true when a valuable litter is expected.
• Combination: Sometimes, there may be a small fee plus a puppy.
• No Pregnancy, No Fee: Some stud owners will refund your fee.
• Or you can choose to have another go at breeding at no additional cost.

Case Scenarios:

Stud Fee Only:

• Pay $1k in advance and keep all puppies if the breeding is successful.
• If pregnancy fails, the stud owner may offer a repeat breeding or a refund of some fees.

Pick of the Litter:

• The stud owner does not charge you but instead gets to choose one puppy from that particular litter and let you have the rest.

Failed Breeding:

• You may lose your stud fee (if non-refundable) or renegotiate for another attempt in case the female doesn’t conceive.
• Always state this in your contract.

Recommendation:

• A written stud contract outlining payment terms, repeat breeding policies, and responsibilities (e.g., health testing and travel costs) should be used.

How Many Times Do They Mate?

Frequency:

• German Shepherds typically mate 1–3 times over a few days to maximize the chance of conception, often every 48 hours during the female’s fertile period (estrus, usually days 9–14 of her heat cycle).

Determining Timing

Monitor your female’s heat cycle with a veterinarian’s help (e.g., progesterone testing) to pinpoint ovulation for optimal breeding timing.

Natural vs. Artificial Insemination

• Natural dog mating is preferred, but artificial insemination (AI) may be done if the stud and dam are not in the same location or for health reasons.
• AI may require fewer sessions but involves vet costs.

Where Do They Mate?

Location:

• Mating generally occurs at the stud dog’s home or facility, as males are often more comfortable in their environment, which can improve success.
• However, this can be negotiated:

At Your House:

• If the student travels to your home, you may cover travel costs or provide accommodations.

At Stud’s House:

You bring your female to the male dog’s location, which is more common.

Neutral Location:

A breeder’s facility or vet clinic may be used, especially for AI.

Considerations:

• Ensure the environment is safe, quiet, and free from distractions.
• Experienced handlers should supervise both dogs.

Gestation and Birth Timeline

Gestation Period:

• German Shepherds have a gestation period of approximately 63 days (9 weeks) from ovulation to birth.
• However, it can range from 58 to 68 days.

Development Stages:

• Weeks 1-3: Embryos develop; minimal visible changes in the female.
• Weeks 4–6: If a pregnancy is confirmed via ultrasound (around day 25–35), the female’s abdomen will begin to enlarge.
• Weeks 7–9: Puppies will grow quickly in this period.
• The female dog prepares for birth, and the vet may recommend X-rays to count puppies near term.

Birth:

• Labor usually lasts from start to finish in about 6–12 hours, with puppies born every 30–60 minutes.
• Veterinary help is recommended for first-time breeders or if any complications develop.

Litter Size for German Shepherds

Average Litter Size:

• On average, German Shepherds have litters of six to eight puppies.
• However, depending on the mother’s health, age, and genetics, one puppy can be born as few as one or as many as twelve.

Factors Affecting Size:

• First-time mothers or older females might produce smaller litters.
• Large litters incur health risks, so veterinary monitoring is necessary.

Instinctive Care:

• Most female dogs of this breed have strong maternal instincts and naturally nurse, clean, and keep their offspring warm.
• They also know how to stimulate urination/defecation and protect the litter.

Potential Issues:

• Sometimes, first-time mothers may become confused or neglectful, necessitating breeder intervention.
• Observe her vigilantly for signs like stress, aggression, or poor care, such as not nursing at all.

Support Needed

• If the mother rejects puppies or has health problems, assist with feeding them (bottle-feeding) or seek veterinary assistance.

Puppy Opening and Eye Development

Eyes Closed

• The eyes of German Shepherd puppies are closed for 10 to 14 days after birth.
• Their eyes open when they are 10 to 14 days old, allowing them to see and react to light.

Learning and Play

• 2-3 Weeks: The pups begin to hear and become more aware of their environment.
• They start wobbling about and exploring.
• 3-4 weeks: Puppies get more mobile, start playing with their littermates, and develop social behaviors.
• 4-8 Weeks: They actively play, learn bite inhibition, and start weaning on solid food around four weeks old.
• Socialization should occur between the third and twelfth months of a puppy’s life.
• It will involve gentle handling and introduction to various sounds and environments for them to develop into well-adjusted adults.

Price of German Shepherd puppies without AKC papers

• Price Range: Generally speaking, German shepherd puppies without AKC papers can fetch anywhere from $500-$1500, depending on:
• Location: Suppose the parents are health tested or come from working lines that have been individually tested.
• In that case, some puppies can still be sold for higher prices even without registration.
• However, the scarcity and the reputation of the breeder also determine pricing to a large extent.
• Lack of papers reduces value, as buyers seeking show or breeding dogs prioritize registration.
• However, puppies can still be marketed as pets or working dogs if their parents are health-tested and of good quality.
• That means you must ensure that the puppies are healthy and that their dewormings and vaccinations justify the price.
• Hence, they’re worth what you’re asking for.

Additional Advice for New Breeders

• Before breeding, your female dog should be checked for hip/elbow dysplasia, DM (degenerative myelopathy), and other frequent diseases in this breed.
• The male dog should also have similar clearances.
• As a breeder, it is important to know your local regulations on breeding, get the necessary permits, and follow all the guidelines set by AKC or GSDCA.
• Avoid having too many litters or doing it without a plan for where to take your pups afterward.
• Regarding breeding, there are many costs, such as vet care and stud fees, among other things.
• Are you financially ready?
• How about selecting potential homes for puppies
• Find an experienced breeder/mentor who can guide you.

Whelping Preparation 101

You can prepare in advance by setting up a whelping box, having your vet on call, and learning about canine labor and puppy care.

Tools to Help You Out

I can find specific German Shepherd stud listings on sites like the AKC Marketplace or at breeder profiles on GCA Forums to check their reputation. Another option would be for me to make a chart with litter sizes or puppy development milestones to help you see the whole thing more clearly. Could you tell me if you want me to do any of these things, or if you have your source of information on where to look for a student?

I also need your confirmation concerning whether I should make a chart or search for other resources. At the same time, it would be helpful if you could give me your location (but only if you feel comfortable) so I can direct you toward finding a suitable student.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_XGxCWZ58Y

[Bruce]

It seems to me that there are more and more police officers getting pulled over and getting charged and arrested for driving under the influence throughout the United States. It seems that when I was younger, cops were immune to getting tickets, and drunk driving for themselves, friends, and family members. Extending professional courtesy was the name of the game for police officers. One of the greatest benefits and powers of being a police officer was getting offered professional courtesy. I know many friends of mine who were police officers who got drunk as a skunk and got pulled over by their fellow police officer colleagues and got a ride home or called their spouse or family member to have them picked up. I even know of cases where a drunk cop got into an accident with a private citizen, where no tickets were issued, and the innocent victim got the wrong end of the stick. It is good to know that many police officers of all ranks who are caught driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs are being held accountable and written up for driving under the influence. Many drunk driving convictions can be career killers. Does anyone know what percentage of sworn police officers of all ranks have a driving under the influence arrest and conviction?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kt3L1L9E6DY

[Bruce]

GCA Forums News Edition from May 19 to May 24, 2025, contains various noteworthy discussions and happenings of that time. We’ve shared the most important ones below.

Highlights: Tensions in the Middle East

As new ground operations commenced in Gaza, both Israel and Hamas were engaged in armistice negotiations. This scenario is still in play, with a global focus on whether things will calm down or spiral out of control.

Political Updates

The new Donald Trump has not gone unnoticed, with him attacking the GOP with what most would consider an outlandish move of using Facebook or tweeting at him, blaming the Supreme Court, and other socio-economic factors of the nation.

Extreme Weather Issues:

Tornadoes struck Kentucky, leaving a trail of destruction that Tuscaloosa is already familiar with. Deaths are already standing at 18 confirmed. The state government is currently working on mitigation efforts and attempting to lend a helping hand to ravaged areas.

Scoops

New data have emerged within science showing that dogs resemble their owners, sparking ideas on canines imitating their masters’ personalities on and off the leash.

Social Studies

Observing the oversized garment industry brought about by the “Made in the USA” slogan, a Texas vendor noticed the fall in demand for such apparel within the USA borders.

Recent Breakthroughs in Adventure Sports:

A newly established company is set to offer xenon inhalation technology to Everest climbers, aiming to ease performance restrictions at great heights.

More Highlights

Kashmir Situation:

Even with an enforced ceasefire, people residing in Kashmir are still worried about the condition of their houses, illustrating the turmoil that persists in the region. Families in Kashmir have expressed concerns for the safety of their homes, reflecting ongoing instability in the region.

Barbie Research:

Some studies show that Barbie dolls’ professions are proportional to the height of their heels, bringing up important questions about gender inequalities inscribed in toys.

These narratives showcase a blend of sociopolitical and cultural debates concerning the United States and the rest of the world.

[Bruce]

Progress on President Donald Trump’s Proposals to Remove the IRS and Property Taxes

(as of May 27, 2025)

President Donald Trump has shown interest in amending or completely abolishing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and income taxes (alongside property taxes) as part of his tax policies for a second presidential term. With supporters heralding a modernized tax framework, critics have voiced concern over practical implementation. Given his latest statements, we have included an article with more details below. We also updated the plans to remove the IRS and lower property taxes based on posts from X and other web sources. As to your earlier question about the potential effects of these changes on non-filers receiving IRS Letter 11, I will also give you my input.

Proposals to Abolish the IRS

President Trump and his administration mentioned the suggestion to abolish the IRS and capital income taxes. Instead, they proposed tariffs and other indirect taxation measures as the primary means of revenue generation. He and his Commerce Secretary Lutnick have made certain statements that suggested the creation of an “External Revenue Service” (ERS), which was set up to collect tariffs and other indirect taxes, hence lessening the reliance on income taxes. It forms a part of Trump’s agenda, which seeks to reduce taxes for individuals and corporations, increasing the tax burden on imported goods.

The most important sections of the IRS abolition proposal overview are the following:

Complete Deletion of Income Taxes:

Trump proposes to eliminate federal income taxes, initially focusing on individuals below $150,000 or $200,000. Long-term plans indicate the complete abolishment of income taxation.

Revenue Generation Via Tariffs

This plan relies on collecting high tariffs on various imported items, such as ten percent for Chinese imports and twenty-five percent for cars, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor goods from Canada and Mexico. The target is to collect enough revenue to substitute for the roughly $3 trillion collected annually from income taxes.

External Revenue Service (ERS):

This new body, proposed to manage tariff revenue collection, will take over the IRS, shifting focus from domestic to international taxes.

Reductions in IRS Personnel:

The Trump administration has already taken actions to reduce IRS staff in controlled phases. The reduction of approximately 6000-7000 staffed auditors and compliance personnel in the 18% cut in “Phase 1” has already been reported, and added resignations and retirements reduced capacity even more.

Changes Taken and Progress Made

Actions Taken:

Trump has stopped federal hiring, which has led to the cessation of IRS agent hiring. This has limited the agency’s growth in response to the newly funded 87,000 agents from the Inflation Reduction Act.

This follows his rhetoric for the campaign concerning IRS impositions.

Legislative Support:

The Fair Tax Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and backed by 11 Republican legislators, seeks to eliminate the IRS and substitute income taxes with a national sales tax (consumption tax). Although it does not wholly align with the Trump tariff-centered tax proposal, the bill demonstrates congruent objectives of IRS elimination and tax system simplification.

Leadership Changes:

Trump has picked FORMER REP. BILLY LONG TO REPLACE IRS COMMISSIONER DANY WERFEL, whose tenure runs to 2027. While not particularly known for tax expertise, Long’s support of the Fair Tax Act and his alignment with Trump’s anti-IRS policies make this appointment plausible.

DOGE Involvement:

Under the charge of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is advocating for budget cuts, including for the IRS. Some of DOGE’s actions, like trying to obtain taxpayer information and drastically cutting programs, including the IRS Direct File, demonstrate an intent to reconfigure or eliminate the agency.

Issues and Objections

Collection Revenue:

Critics believe that using tariffs in place of income taxes is mathematically complicated.

America generates over $3 trillion in income tax revenue each year and spends that same approximate value on imports. To achieve tax revenue goals, tariffs would alternate between a minimum of doubling and a maximum of 200% to satisfy reduced consumption. The outcome is increased inflation, trade concerns, and reduced purchasing power for the consumer.

Economic Impact:

Focused on revenue generation, these encouraging domestic spending can lead lower-wage households to suffer due to stagnant spending power and disproportionate taxation hits on cars, electronics, and clothing tariffs.

IRS Functionality:

Reduced staffing at the IRS may result in lesser tax compliance within households and larger corporations, leading to lower confidence in revenue systems and thus deepening the federal deficit. Currently, 17.1% of GDP is spent on revenue and 23.4% on expenses.

Legislative Hurdles:

Even with a Republican majority, the income tax and IRS system still require multiple hurdles to be completely overcome.

Support for the Fair Tax Act has declined from 26 co-sponsors in 2023 to 11 in 2025. Also, budget reconciliation restrictions (e.g., Byrd rule) and non-revenue changes are limited.

Current Status

As of May 27, 2025, the proposal to abolish the IRS is still unlegislated, meaning no laws have been passed that would allow for the dismantling of the IRS or the complete substitution of income taxes for tariffs. The IRS remains functional, albeit at a skeleton staffing level, and the filing of tax returns is still compulsory. The administration’s tariff strategy (25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, 10% on China), combined with proposed staffing reductions, demonstrates an intent to weaken the IRS over time. Experts, however, stress that the income tax and the IRS will continue to endure because of their fundamental importance for federal revenue.

Suggestions Relating to the Taxation of Property

While the focus remains on eliminating income tax, Trump has also touched on the possibility of altering property tax, especially through modifying the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, which covers property tax. Since state governments and local authorities mostly impose property tax, any federal intervention would be tax deductions rather than elimination.

Highlights of the proposals about property taxes are the following:

• SALT Deduction Cap: Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the deductible limit for SALT was set at $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately), which curbed the deductible amount of state and local taxes, including property taxes, on federal returns.
• Some proposals suggest lifting this cap or raising it to help beneficiaries of high-tax states such as California, New York, or New Jersey.
• House GOP Bill: A recent House bill, passed on May 22, 2025, suggests increasing the SALT cap to $40,000 ($20,000 if married filing separately) starting in 2025.
• The increase would be phased in for incomes over $500,000 ($250,000 for married filing separately).
• Although an increase is proposed for federal deductions for property taxes, they are not expected to be abolished.

No Direct Federal Property Tax Abolishment:

Due to the nature of property taxes, which are state and local, Trump cannot abolish them directly. Any claim to abolish property taxes would involve providing better federal deductions or offsets instead of eliminating them.

Actions Taken And Developments

Campaign promises:

Due to pressure from lawmakers in high-tax regions, Trump has shown interest in eliminating the SALT cap. The House bill incorporates this but is currently pending Senate consideration, where it is expected to undergo multiple revisions.

2025: What Will Happen When The TCJA Expires (bgov.com)

Trump Is Back In Office: 2025 Tax Policy Changes Trump Plans to Enact Starting 2025-03-25

Real Estate Effects:

Raising the SALT deduction may incentivize federal investment by real estate investors, especially in high-tax regions. In addition to these policies that would benefit property owners, Trump’s wider plan includes protecting 1031 like-kind exchanges and offering 100% bonus depreciation.

What A Second Trump Term Could Mean For Real Estate And Taxes

Evidence Suggesting No Abolition Plans:

While some social media posts claim to abolish property taxes, no credible legislative or executive documents propose their complete removal. These arguments could come from misinterpretations of SALT deduction adjustments alongside loose anti-tax proposals.

Challenges and Criticisms

Funding Concerns:

Increasing the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions would decrease federal revenue. Estimates project that a $40,000 cap would reduce revenue by billions over ten years. This contradicts Trump’s tariff revenue goals since it lowers the tax base.

State and Local Control:

Property taxes are under the jurisdiction of state and local governments, making federal abolition infeasible without radical changes such as a constitutional amendment or the incentivization of states on a federal level, neither of which has been proposed.

Equity Issues:

The primary beneficiaries of increasing the SALT deduction will be high-income earners residing in states with steep taxes, which could worsen the wealth gap. Critics have pointed out that this goes against Trump’s desire to provide tax relief for the middle class.

Current Status

As of May 27, 2025, no proposal to eliminate property taxes on a federal level remains. The focus is on increasing the cap on the SALT deduction. The House bill suggests a higher cap as part of a broader tax deal that also seeks to extend the provisions of TCJA. This bill is in the Senate and has uncertain prospects due to fiscal concerns and differing Republican priorities.

Consequences for Non-Filers and IRS Letter 11

Considerations for Non-Filers

Individuals who fall into the non-filer category and receive the IRS Letter 11 (Final Notice of Intent to Levy) for unpaid tax dues and unfiled returns are potentially impacted by these proposals in this way:

Reduced Enforcement by the IRS:

Reduced audits and staffing benefit those who have not filed taxes, as deferral of compliance will likely postpone the enforcement of automated levies. This assumes that no automated systems can apply levies, which is not a safe bet. Letter 11 is designed to alert recipients about discretionary compliance options where their automated compliance processes have previously gone unaddressed (for example, prior CP59s).

A Possible Rebate:

Some non-filers will have their issues raised in Letter 11 resolved if income taxes are removed for non-filers and capped at $150,000. This is provided, of course, if the person does not exceed that income threshold and does not have SFRs assessed tax filings.

Alterations to the SALT Deduction:

The increased SALT deduction marginally eases tax liability, resulting in federally imposed tax for non-filers with property tax obligations; however, in the context of the state/local tax property, they will remain unrelieved until filings are made to access this benefit.

Ongoing Hazard:

Non-filers are subject to charges such as levies and liens regardless of proposal changes until the IRS is completely abolished, which is unlikely anytime soon.

Letter 11 can automatically be generated by the IRS systems using third-party income information, regardless of personnel cutbacks.

What Non-Filers Should Do

With the possibility of an IRS overhaul and changes in tax policies, non-filers with Letter 11 in hand should promptly:

File Missing Returns:

To contest the IRS substitute returns, submit Form 1040. This may lower liability by claiming deductions (like SALT), credits, or deductions. Include Form 15103 explaining the non-filing reason.

Request a CDP Hearing:

You must use Form 12153 within 30 days to appeal the levy and submit alternate actions (payment plans, offer in compromise). Given IRS cuts, enforcement action delays are critical.

Watch for Tax Policy Changes

If tax cuts for lower-income earners are implemented, non-filers may benefit. However, returns must be filed to claim exemptions. Relief through SALT changes also mandates filing.

Get Help:

If you need guidance, you can contact an LITC and a tax professional. The Taxpayer Advocate Service (877-777-4778) can also help.

Consequences of Not Taking Action

Levies and Liens:

While staff cuts may delay enforcement, non-filers with known income will continue to be subject to automated wage or bank account levies.

Missed Benefits: Non-filers will not benefit from Trump’s proposed tax cuts, such as no tax for those earning less than $150,000 or increased SALT deductions, unless they file returns.

Penalties and Interest: Penalties for non-response to Letter 11 increase the existing penalties, such as the failure-to-file penalty of 5% monthly, capped at 25%. Penalties for both interest and filing taxes increase even when the IRS is short-staffed.

Public Opinion and Political Environment

Support on GCA Forums News:

Several posts on GCA Forums News support the estimate Trump released with his IRS termination and tax cut plans. They claim boosts to productivity, unprecedented economic growth, and massive consolidations, citing “45,000 agents fired.” These statements, however, are unsubstantiated and revert to baseline, further corroborated by credible reporting of 6,000-7,000 layoffs and operational IRS.

Criticism of GCA Forums News

Many also point out the irrationality, assuming that income taxes will not be substituted with tariffs, which would be heavily priced on consumers. One comment points out the illogical premise of taxing consumers with uneven wealth, such as 800 families owning 90% of the entire wealth.

Political Dynamics

The Republicans hold Congress, which is inclined towards preserving certain elements of the TCJA and other Trump tax cuts. Due to revenue concerns, GOP circles are reluctant to abolish the IRS or the income tax. The Senate’s reaction to the House bill is going to be pivotal.

As of May 27, 2025, Proposals put forward by President Trump to eliminate the IRS and replace income taxes with tariffs are very preliminary. Actions being taken include staffing reductions and the imposition of tariffs. Still, no legislation eliminates the IRS or the income tax. While there is no direct proposal to abolish the property tax, the SALT deduction cap increase proposed would lower it indirectly, but it is congressionally controlled. These proposals alleviate short-term enforcement pressure for non-filers issued with IRS Letter 11. However, immediate action (filing returns and requesting a CDP hearing) is necessary to protect against levies and access potential relief from generous tax provisions. Due to the economic environment, the viability of the proposals is questionable. Thus, until changes are made to proposals, taxpayers must continue to comply with filing requirements.

If you need help, please share the tax years owed, income level, or property tax concerns, and I can help you. Official support is available at irs.gov or by calling the number on your Letter 11.

[Bruce]

VERY ANTISEMITIC’: Trump threatens to give $3 billion in Harvard grant money to trade schools. In his most recent statement, Trump declared he would funnel “$3 billion in federal aid away from Harvard, whose antisemitic policies and refusal to hand over requests for a list of foreign students have enraged the public, into trade schools.” This comes after his administration attempted to “freeze 2.2 billion dollars in grants for Harvard and also to block the enrollment of international students, which Harvard is legally contesting as unconstitutional.” The grants meant for medical research are set aside by Congress, and redirecting research funds to trade schools will surely face practical and legal challenges. In his public statement replying to this claim, Harvard firmly maintains its position as adherent to anti-discrimination laws and is amending policies to mitigate antisemitism further. While the approach is commendable and in line with a shift toward vocational education, it still lacks a roadmap for execution.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cj1BWSderJk<

• This reply was modified 2 weeks, 5 days ago by  Bruce.
• This reply was modified 2 weeks, 4 days ago by  Sapna Sharma.

[Bruce]

President Trump hasn’t immediately slashed Social Security benefits for Americans, claiming that his administration will not diminish advantages for the over 73 million individuals subscribed to the program. Nonetheless, his administration has undertaken policies, particularly through DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) under Elon Musk’s leadership, that have made concerning changes to the Social Security Administration (SSA), which are more than straining the access to benefits for older people, seniors, and people with disabilities. From the information available, here is the situation analysis, specific alterations, their impacts on older people, and the insights.

Has Trump Cut Social Security Benefits?

No Direct Benefit Cuts:

Trump refrained from offering any reduction in benefits as a campaign promise for the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance. Administration-dedicated formal policies are toward safeguarding the benefits, and no law or executive order has been put in place to reduce payments or eligibility for the programs above as of June 8, 2025.

Indirect Impacts Through Administrative Changes:

While there are still some gaps in the accessibility of the benefits, the promise of retaining the accessible benefits for users is greatly contradicted by the extensive employee layoffs, office closures, and policy shifts around these Services.

These modifications do not change the amounts allocated in nominal benefits. Instead, they impact the delivery of services.

Segments of Social Security Affected

Because of the Trump presidency, the structural processes of the SSA dealing with Social Security benefit delivery and access for seniors and other beneficiaries have thoroughly shifted. The key segments and changes include:

Staffing Reductions:

The SSA is undergoing cuts of approximately 7,000 positions due to voluntary separations, early retirements, and buyouts. These changes stem from years of underfunding, during which the SSA saw a half-century low staffing level.

Impact on Seniors:

• Less staff leads to a dramatic increase in call wait times exceeding 30 minutes, with under 40% of callers reaching agents (alongside over 11-month delays in processing disability claims), reduced in-person service at field offices, and sharp increases in claim processing times.
• This is especially problematic for seniors who depend on SSA staff to help them navigate complex processes involving change of address forms, benefit issues, or Social Security card replacements.
• For example, over 30,000 Americans died awaiting adjudication of their disability benefits in 2023.
• That number is expected to rise with worsening delays.

Field Office Closures and Reduced Phone Services:

• Applying for benefits or modifying direct deposit information through phone subsidiary systems has been fully eliminated, effective April 14, 2025.
• All beneficiaries must now attend field offices or utilize the online systems.
• This is part of the measures taken to resolve fraud-related issues.
• At the same time, critics say the fraud claims are an overstatement.
• Reported indications of leases terminated for dozens of offices also target field office closures.

Impact on Seniors:

• Many low-income and elderly individuals have limited computer access or reliable internet, rendering online systems impossible.
• Older people and those with mobility challenges find it hard to access field offices.
• Rural office closures make this worse.
• In Glendale, Arizona, retirees expressed frustration over their inability to contact offices and the long waiting lines.
• Delays created by these barriers effectively reduce access to already earned payments.

Overpayment Recovery Policies

• Clawback policies of 100% overpayments received are back in effect, which is expected to save $7 billion over a decade.
• The resumption of TOP to collect pre-2020 debts also targets OASDI and SSI debtors.

Impact on Seniors:

• Elderly overpaid persons, often marked eligible by SSA mistakes, face sudden cuts to benefits or large sums to return, financially devastating for people relying on fixed incomes.
• This impacts low-income seniors the most, who depend on Social Security as their main income source.

Proposed Elimination of Taxes on Social Security Benefits:

• Trump’s proposal suggests eliminating federal taxation on Social Security benefits, which impacts approximately 40% of beneficiaries.
• The “No Tax on Social Security Bill” was sponsored on January 31, 2025.
• As of now, it hasn’t advanced beyond the introduction phase.

Potential Impact on Seniors:

While this is a positive adjustment, for some seniors, the most they would save is about $90. It would be regarded as progressive relief for seniors earning between $32,000 and 60,000. Unfortunately, the majority of beneficiaries have reaped the benefits already. Education on social security predicts that this could worsen the accelerated trust fund insolvency. Under current law, it is projected to deplete by 2035, which could lead to a 17–33% benefit cut by 2033 if no alternative funding is found. Lower-income seniors who depend on Social Security would most painfully feel these cuts.

How These Changes Impact Seniors

These proposed tax policies and administrative changes impact seniors both immediately and in the long term:

Short Term Effects:

Reduced or Stopped Benefits:

A lack of staffing and long waiting lines limit phone and in-person services, making it more difficult for seniors to apply for benefits management.

This issue is especially problematic for rural communities, elderly individuals with low incomes, and the primary caregivers for disabled individuals.

Financial Burden:

For many Americans over 65, covering necessities such as healthcare and housing becomes increasingly difficult with adjusted benefit payments.

Heightened Risk in Specific States:

Older Americans residing in Maine, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Vermont, Mississippi, and Arkansas, where Social Security constitutes a major economic lifeline, face unique risks due to interrupted services.

Long-Term Threats

Trust Fund Insolvency:

Lowering or eliminating revenue from benefits taxes would accelerate the depletion of the Social Security Trust Fund, which could lead to benefit reductions during 2031–2033. Such adjustments would severely impact low-income

Seniors who rely on Social Security as their only source of income.

Decline of Service Infrastructure Maintenance:

This domestic “customer service crisis,” caused by longstanding staffing reductions and office consolidations, risks the Social Security Administration’s responsive capacity to serve beneficiaries, resulting in sluggish benefits processing.

Unequal Effects on Vulnerable Population

Elderly Poverty:

Millions depend on Social Security as the main source of income and benefits, dramatically decreasing the poverty rate among older adults. The combination of service barriers, potential cuts, and future changes directly affects the elderly population the most.

Seniors with Disabilities:

Because of limited access to offices and delays in processing disability claims, the issues faced by those with cognitive or physical disabilities are made worse.

Rural Seniors:

Limited access to technology, comparable to advanced age, creates a hurdle for those living far from the SSA offices, which are rapidly going offline and being replaced by virtual alternatives.

Critical Perspective

• The Trump administration has not reduced benefits further.
• Still, the focus on efficiency and fraud reduction through “DOGE” activities has led to politically motivated operational sabotage policies within the SSA.
• Allegations of rampant fraud, including payments to nonexistent individuals and citizens without Social Security numbers, have been debunked or wildly exaggerated. For example, improper payments account for less than 0.3% of Social Security benefits.
• Critics claim these cost-control access barrier measures, disguised under fraud and abuse narratives, are intentionally designed to dismantle the program.
• Musk and Trump’s rhetoric, including describing Social Security as a “Ponzi scheme,” raises fears around privatization, broader access restrictions, or further undermining the program.

Positive policy changes by the current administration include implementing the Social Security Fairness Act and permitting over 2.2 million beneficiaries previously impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset to receive retroactive payments totaling $14.8 billion.

Nevertheless, these advantages are masked by persistent operational concerns, impacting the timely delivery of benefits.

As of June 8, 2025, Trump has not reduced Social Security benefits in any direct way, but due to administrative shifts, such as staffing cuts, office closures, limited phone services, and stringent overpayment recovery policies, there have been proxies who pose significant barriers to accessing benefits, especially for seniors. These modifications slow down the process for the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance and SSI programs by stalling application submissions, increasing the backlog of wait times, and reducing service options. Though advantageous for some, the suggested removal of tax on benefits poses a risk of accelerating the trust fund’s insolvency, which could lead to steep cuts to benefits around 2033. Vulnerable seniors, particularly disabled, low-income, and rural, encounter immediate financial and logistical burdens alongside long-term risks to the program’s stability. Tracking congressional budgets and policy shifts made by the SSA will be imperative for seniors dependent on Social Security.

Please let me know if you’d like me to talk about this in more detail or highlight impacts on a specific group of seniors!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9Oj34v4QlM

[Bruce]

The sudden breakdown of relations between Musk and Trump, which began to deteriorate in June of 2025, looks to be the outcome of Washington politics, ego clashes, and personal insults. It is sufficient to turn an amicable partnership into a contested rivalry. Given the circumstances, provided below is a reasoned, unbiased evaluation of what factors have contributed to this fracture and a judgment on its nature, whether it is a fleeting conflict or a more profound schism impossible to mend.

Key Causes of the Fallout

Conflict Over Trump’s Budget Bill

• The feud started when Musk attacked Trump’s “Big and Beautiful” tax proposal, labeling it a “disgusting mess” for spurring the federal budget deficit and rolling back benefits such as tax credits for electric vehicles (EVs), which hurt Tesla’s business.
• Musk’s attacks were pivotal because he had supported Trump’s campaign, reportedly donating nearly $300 million and spearheading a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) restructuring initiative.
• Musk felt his support for Trump allowed him to influence policy, so the enacted provisions felt like a betrayal.

Feelings of Personal Injury and Public Insult

• Musk considered Trump’s jeers at him worsened by the latter’s critics.
• While addressing German leaders, Trump was reported to have said that Musk is only angry.
• This was because he lost EV subsidies, which was a dismissive and humiliating slight to some.
• While answering, Trump employed the lexicon of “disappointed” and “betrayed,” which only deepened the gulf between the two, hinting at a fracture more personal than policy-related.
• Note that Musk is known to be sensitive and has a low threshold for reacting to perceived public shame.
• Thus, the stronger response is very predictable.

Escalation Through Social Media

• X or Twitter is made for such nuclear responses to work as Musk, through his aide, opted to take a much more radical stance by posting on Trump’s social network.
• One of his more nebulous claims, which has since been deleted, was to state that Trump featured in the Epstein files alleging cover-up of their non-release.
• He has even suggested that Trump’s impeachment should be considered and that his tariff agenda could cause a recession.
• Musk was privately insulting Trump, calling him a “big-time drug addict,” which turned what was once a policy dispute into a very personal feud.

Both Sides Will Fight Until the End

• The claim that “without him, Trump would not have become president” shows Musk truly believes he has a pivotal role in everything, which irritates others, notably Trump, whose only role is to feel like the dominant figure in the arrangement.
• After everything, the social media attention further fueled the perception of the feud, giving each person a reason not to relent, as doing so would be considered ‘weak.’

Why the Sudden Change?

• The tangible underlying tension preceding it drove the move from “buddy-buddy” to this enmity.
• Although Musk and Trump seemed to have a close relationship as evidenced by joint appearances, Musk’s role with DOGE, and Trump’s purchase of a Tesla in March 2025, they were both two sides of the same coin and only maintained contact due to deeper interactions, like buying a Tesla and joint appearances, as those were only transactional.

Trigger Event:

• The budget bill repealed the EV tax credit, directly affecting Tesla’s financial interests, prompting Musk to break ranks.
• His departure from the administration shortly before the feud suggests he may have felt sidelined or disillusioned.

Emotional Reaction:

• Musk’s response and accusations against Trump reflect a pattern analysis showing impulsive responses after feeling double-crossed.
• Both sides’ self-destructive and reactive behavior ensured that the conflict escalated.
• This shows an escalation of response where each side attempts to retaliate for real or imagined wrongs.

Is This a Family Feud, and Will They Reconcile?

Family Feud Analogy:

• Some who view these events would insist it looks like a family fight.
• However, the reasoning behind this could be two high-profile leaders whose ambitions and egos have clashed.
• Shifting away from any emotional reasoning leads to two people arguing who are well-known publicly, which means reconciliation is unlikely.

Likelihood of Reconciliation:

• Reconciliation is plausible but unlikely anytime soon.
• As for Trump, he has mentioned that he has “no desire” to fix the relationship, calling Musk “disrespectful” to the presidency.
• Musk’s deleted posts suggest some regret but not enough for a full pivot.
• Vice President JD Vance seemed to hope that Musk might “come back into the fold” but conceded the challenge given Musk’s “nuclear” approach.

Factors Favoring Reconciliation:

• Shared history, mutual political interests, and the need that SpaceX fulfills in U.S. space and defense programs may drive a more favorable path toward a truce.
• There are reports that allies have helped negotiate what has been described as a “fragile truce,” which indicates some attempts to resolve the matter quietly.

Factors Against Reconciliation:

• Space X threats from Trump and Musk’s Epstein’s antics have utterly shattered any chance for peace.
• Then, of course, there is the lost revenue, with Tesla recently reporting a loss of $150 billion.
• Trump is discussing Musk’s contracts and payments, changing and removing them altogether.
• Finally, there is the new political party allusion, where Musk brought up possibly calling it “The America Party,” implying rather loudly that he opts for a much more independent route.

Objective Assessment

• Personal grievances alongside public grandstanding were at the forefront of this feud and some intense dissection, which has been the center of Trump and Musk’s back-and-forth.
• On the other hand, Musk felt a sense of betrayal defending the campaign.
• Likewise, Trump is mentioned to view Musk’s critique as an act of betrayal.
• Their unpredictable behavior, alongside the stakes of their business and political interests, transformed a simple dispute into a sideshow.
• While the duo is known to work together when interests align, the current split indicates that both sides deeply prioritize control over collaboration and instinctively reject any form of compromise.
• Essentially, for any meaningful unification, they would need to grant the other a complete surrender, an outcome neither appears particularly motivated to endorse.
• Driven by need instead of rekindled affection, an amicable yet limited ceasefire is the most likely outcome.

Additional Note

Without focus and evidence, inflammatory or incendiary accusations like Epstein’s should be dismissed; as such, these men have further strained the credibility of their mutual allegations by using sensationalism toward one another. During a volatile dispute, one must remain skeptical of unverified allegations and refuse to accept absurd statements at face value.

Please let me know if you’d like to explore business or political consequences or need other specifics tailored.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q61fLCh_LZA&list=RDNSQ61fLCh_LZA&start_radio=1