Politics
“We Took the Freedom of Speech Away”: Donald Trump Revives Debate Over Flag Burning and the First Amendment
In a bold new statement, Donald Trump insists that flag burning should not be protected under the First Amendment, reigniting a decades-old constitutional debate already settled by the U.S. Supreme Court

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again sparked national debate — this time over one of America’s most sacred constitutional protections.
During a recent roundtable discussion, Trump revisited his long-standing belief that flag burning should not be considered protected free speech, declaring, “We took the freedom of speech away when it comes to that. You don’t burn the American flag.”
His remarks directly contradict decades of Supreme Court precedent affirming that burning the American flag, while deeply offensive to many, remains a form of symbolic expression safeguarded by the First Amendment.
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“You can’t have people burning the flag of this country and then say it’s freedom of speech,” Trump added. “That’s not speech — that’s disrespect.”
A Familiar Trump Controversy Returns
This isn’t the first time Trump has made such remarks. As president, he frequently criticized the court’s 1989 decision in Texas v. Johnson, which held that flag burning is protected political expression.
That landmark 5–4 ruling came after protester Gregory Lee Johnson burned an American flag outside the 1984 Republican National Convention in Dallas — an act the Court said fell under free expression.
Yet Trump has continued to challenge that view. During his presidency, he even suggested potential penalties, saying flag burners should “face consequences, maybe even jail time or loss of citizenship.”
At the time, Justice Anthony Kennedy, who voted with the majority in the Texas v. Johnson case, wrote, “It is poignant but fundamental that the flag protects those who hold it in contempt.”
Trump, however, has long argued that respect for the flag should outweigh such constitutional nuances.
Reactions From Both Sides of the Aisle
Trump’s latest statement drew mixed reactions across social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter).
Supporters applauded his stance as patriotic and necessary in an age of cultural division. One user wrote, “Finally someone said it. The flag isn’t just a piece of cloth — it’s our nation’s soul.”
Critics, however, accused Trump of once again undermining constitutional principles for political gain.

ACLU legal director David Cole told reporters, “The Supreme Court has made it abundantly clear that the government cannot prohibit expression simply because society finds it offensive.”
Others warned that restricting flag burning could open the door to broader censorship. “If we start making exceptions to free speech because we dislike it, we lose the core of democracy,” wrote one legal scholar at Harvard Law School.
Trump’s Broader Message: Patriotism Over Politics
Despite criticism, Trump framed his comments as a defense of patriotism rather than an assault on liberty.
“People have died for that flag,” he said. “We honor them by protecting it, not by setting it on fire.”
His remarks echo the populist rhetoric that has defined his political career — positioning himself as a defender of national values against what he often portrays as elite or un-American attitudes.
This strategy continues to resonate with many conservative voters, especially veterans and working-class Americans who view flag burning as an unforgivable act of disrespect.
The Legal Reality
While Trump’s statement drew cheers from some corners, constitutional experts quickly pointed out that his proposal would face steep legal hurdles.
The U.S. Supreme Court reaffirmed the right to burn the flag in the 1990 case United States v. Eichman, striking down a federal law banning flag desecration.
Even conservative justices have largely supported the principle, emphasizing that freedom of expression must extend even to unpopular or offensive acts.
However, Trump’s influence continues to shape how Americans interpret patriotism, loyalty, and constitutional freedoms — often blending emotional nationalism with legal gray areas.
What Comes Next?
With Trump once again commanding headlines as a leading 2025 political figure, his comments have reignited cultural tensions that have simmered for years.
Political analysts suggest that this latest controversy could energize his base ahead of key campaign events, appealing to voters who prioritize traditional symbols of American pride.
Still, constitutional purists warn that such rhetoric risks eroding the very freedoms the flag represents.
As Justice Kennedy once wrote, “The flag symbolizes freedom, and that freedom includes the right to burn it.”
Trump’s supporters might disagree — but in the end, that disagreement itself is what defines the First Amendment.
Politics
Donald Trump Heads to Walter Reed for Medical Exam — “Just a Routine Checkup,” Says White House
At 79, former U.S. President Donald Trump will undergo his second health evaluation of the year at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center amid reports of chronic venous insufficiency, with the White House assuring the visit is “routine and precautionary.”

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is set to undergo a medical examination at Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday, October 10 — his second such checkup of the year — as part of what the White House describes as a “routine yearly evaluation.”
The visit comes just months after Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that affects circulation in the legs and can cause swelling around the ankles — a common issue for individuals in their 70s.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s trip to the medical center will also include a “planned meeting” with U.S. troops stationed at the facility, where he is expected to deliver brief remarks.
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“While there, President Trump will stop by for his routine yearly checkup,” Leavitt said in a statement Thursday. “He looks forward to spending time with the brave men and women serving our nation.”
A Routine Visit — But at a Critical Time
Friday’s appointment marks Trump’s second examination at Walter Reed this year, following a physical conducted on April 11. That earlier report, released by White House physician U.S. Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, concluded that the president was in “excellent health” and that his high cholesterol was “well controlled.”
Trump’s return to the facility has drawn attention not only because of his age — at 79, he remains the oldest person to begin a presidential term — but also due to his increasingly demanding schedule, both politically and diplomatically.
Leavitt added that the former president “may travel to the Middle East later in the day,” where he hopes to finalize an emerging peace deal between Israel and Hamas following recent reports of a ceasefire agreement.
“He’s balancing his health, leadership, and diplomacy all at once,” said a senior White House aide. “It’s classic Trump — never slowing down.”

Understanding the Diagnosis: Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Trump’s diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in July raised mild concern among observers, though medical experts were quick to note that the condition is manageable.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, CVI occurs when veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart, often leading to swelling or discomfort. It is more common in older adults and people who spend long hours standing.
Dr. Barbabella’s team reportedly recommended lifestyle adjustments such as compression therapy and moderate exercise to support healthy circulation.]
“The president has followed all medical guidance and remains physically active,” said a source familiar with his care. “He’s in remarkably strong shape for his age.”
Trump’s Health and Public Life
The topic of Trump’s health has long intrigued both supporters and critics, given his grueling travel schedule, late-night speeches, and ongoing political commitments.
Since leaving the White House in 2021, Trump has maintained an active public life, frequently appearing at campaign-style rallies, policy roundtables, and media interviews.
Earlier this year, he made headlines after spending more than 12 hours on his feet during consecutive events across three states. “He’s got the energy of a 40-year-old,” joked a senior campaign aide.
Still, even Trump himself has occasionally acknowledged the realities of aging. “I feel great, but I listen to my doctors,” he said in a July interview on Fox News. “You can’t make America great again if you’re not taking care of yourself first.”
A President Who Won’t Slow Down
Despite his diagnosis, Trump’s circle insists he remains as active and sharp as ever. Aides say his daily schedule continues to include early-morning briefings, phone calls with advisors, and ongoing work on foreign policy initiatives.
His potential Middle East visit underscores that pace. If confirmed, it would be his second international trip this fall, following September’s high-profile visit to London for trade discussions.
“He’s always been unstoppable,” said a former Secret Service agent who served during Trump’s first term. “Even when he’s under the weather, he keeps moving — that’s who he is.”
What Comes Next
After his medical exam, Trump is expected to release a summary of results through the White House Office of the Physician, continuing his tradition of annual transparency reports.
While his doctors have described his condition as stable, medical professionals emphasize the importance of regular monitoring.
“Routine evaluations are critical for older adults in high-stress leadership roles,” said Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent. “As long as he’s following up regularly, there’s no cause for alarm.”
For now, Trump appears undeterred — viewing the exam as just another day on a packed presidential calendar.
“He’ll go in, shake a few hands, get checked up, and get right back to business,” one aide said with a grin.
And for Donald Trump, business — and politics — rarely ever stop.
Politics
“Historic Day for the Middle East…” Donald Trump Announces Israel–Hamas Peace Deal, Says “The World Is Watching Something Remarkable”
“Historic Day for the Middle East…” Donald Trump Announces Israel–Hamas Peace Deal, Says “The World Is Watching Something Remarkable”

In a stunning geopolitical moment that few saw coming, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Israel and Hamas have officially signed off on the first phase of a peace plan aimed at ending years of bloodshed and hostility in the region.
Speaking from his estate at Mar-a-Lago, Trump called the agreement “a monumental breakthrough that proves peace is always possible — even among the unlikeliest of adversaries.”
“Today, Israel and Hamas have taken the first step toward lasting peace,” Trump said during his announcement. “It’s not just a deal between two sides — it’s a message to the world that hope and diplomacy can prevail over hate and terror.”
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The First Phase: Ceasefire and Humanitarian Relief
According to preliminary details shared with the press, the initial phase of the agreement includes a comprehensive ceasefire, humanitarian corridors for aid delivery, and the establishment of a joint monitoring committee composed of representatives from both sides as well as neutral international observers.
A senior official familiar with the talks told Reuters that this stage also includes a temporary exchange of detainees and the creation of “safe zones” to allow displaced civilians to return to their homes.
The move is being hailed as the most significant peace effort since the Oslo Accords, which were signed three decades ago but ultimately collapsed amid renewed violence and mistrust.
A Legacy Move for Trump
Trump, who brokered several Middle East normalization deals during his presidency through the Abraham Accords, said he had been working “behind the scenes” with regional leaders for months to facilitate dialogue between Jerusalem and Gaza.
“This deal didn’t happen overnight,” Trump emphasized. “It required courage — from both sides — and a shared belief that war is not destiny.”
Diplomatic sources confirmed that Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia played key mediating roles, helping to bridge political and security gaps that had previously derailed similar negotiations.
“This is Trump trying to cement his foreign policy legacy beyond the Abraham Accords,” said one analyst from the Council on Foreign Relations. “If this holds, it could redefine his image from dealmaker to peacemaker.”
Global Reaction: Cautious Optimism
World leaders and international organizations reacted with cautious optimism.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres praised the announcement, calling it “a hopeful step toward stability in a region long plagued by pain.”
However, some experts warned that implementing the deal would require unwavering commitment from both sides. “The challenge isn’t in signing a document — it’s in changing decades of mistrust,” said former diplomat Dennis Ross, who served as a Middle East peace negotiator under multiple U.S. administrations.
In Tel Aviv, reactions were mixed. Some Israeli citizens welcomed the truce, while others voiced concerns that Hamas could use the ceasefire to regroup.
Meanwhile, in Gaza City, many residents expressed relief at the prospect of quiet after months of bombardment. “All we want is to live without fear,” said one local teacher, who asked not to be named for safety reasons.
Hamas Responds: “This Is a Beginning, Not an End”
In a rare joint statement, Hamas officials confirmed their agreement to the deal, emphasizing that the group sees it as “a step toward dignity, justice, and self-determination for the Palestinian people.”

“We have agreed to give peace a chance,” a Hamas spokesperson told Al Jazeera. “But our participation depends on Israel’s willingness to respect humanitarian boundaries.”
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office also released a statement acknowledging the accord and thanking mediators for their role, while maintaining that national security remains “non-negotiable.”
Trump’s Return to the Spotlight
The announcement comes as Trump continues to dominate American and global political conversations ahead of the 2025 landscape.
His statement on the deal echoed his trademark self-assured tone:
“Many people said peace between Israel and Hamas was impossible — I’ve always said, ‘Nothing’s impossible if you have the right people at the table.’ And today, we proved that.”
Political analysts believe the move could significantly boost Trump’s global standing and strengthen his appeal among voters who previously viewed his foreign policy as unpredictable yet effective.
“He’s positioning himself as the ultimate negotiator once again,” said political strategist David Axelrod. “Love him or hate him, Trump has a knack for making headlines that shift the global narrative.”
The Road Ahead
While the announcement is historic, experts warn that real peace will depend on the actions taken in the coming weeks. The next phases of the agreement reportedly include discussions on border management, reconstruction aid, and long-term security arrangements.
For now, both sides seem cautiously committed. As one U.N. observer noted:
“If this fragile peace holds, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter — not only for Israel and Palestine, but for the entire Middle East.”
And for Donald Trump, it could mark a return not just to political prominence — but to the global stage of history.
Politics
Trump Says ‘Young People of TikTok Owe Me for Saving Their Favorite App’ — Here’s What He Means
In a New TikTok Post, Trump Takes Credit for Saving the App, but What Does This Deal Really Mean for TikTok Users?

In a surprise return to TikTok on October 6, former U.S. President Donald Trump took to the platform for the first time in nearly a year, making a bold claim to the younger generation of TikTok users: “I saved TikTok, so you owe me big.” Seated in the Oval Office, Trump addressed his supporters and, with typical bravado, reminded them that his administration’s efforts were key to keeping the popular video-sharing app running in the U.S.
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Trump’s Role in TikTok’s Survival
It’s no secret that Trump had a contentious relationship with TikTok during his time in office, especially after he pushed to ban the app over national security concerns, citing its ties to China. However, as his presidency drew to a close, Trump worked on a deal that would allow TikTok to continue operations in the U.S., albeit under new ownership and heightened scrutiny.
The deal, which is still in the process of being finalized, involves a partnership between ByteDance, TikTok’s current Chinese parent company, and U.S.-based companies like Oracle and tech mogul Larry Ellison. Trump, having played a pivotal role in facilitating these negotiations, claims that without his intervention, TikTok would not have survived the political and legal hurdles of the time.
What’s at Stake for TikTok?
White House officials have confirmed that TikTok has reached a preliminary deal that would ensure its continued operation in the U.S. The deal includes a new U.S.-based venture valued at a staggering $14 billion, according to Vice President JD Vance. On the same day Trump made his TikTok return, Vance also took to the platform, commenting, “I got a little lazy the last few months, was focused on the job of being VP and not on TikTok.”
The deal, however, isn’t without its challenges. Although Trump’s signature may have paved the way for the transaction, there are still multiple procedural obstacles to overcome. One of the key hurdles involves antitrust laws, which are designed to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition. Additionally, the final composition of the ownership group will only be finalized by the deal’s closing, which could stretch into early 2026.

The Key Players Behind the Deal
Trump has already hinted at a few notable figures who could play significant roles in the new venture. Among them are Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle, who is set to oversee the inspection and monitoring of TikTok’s algorithm. Ellison’s firm would ensure that the app’s powerful algorithm is not being used for any “malicious purposes.” Also named in the deal are Michael Dell, the billionaire tech investor, and Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul whose influence spans across Fox News and News Corporation.
Interestingly, reports from Reuters suggest that ByteDance, despite its diminished role, will maintain a “bigger-than-expected” presence in the new venture. This raises questions about the app’s long-term future and its ability to balance national security concerns with business interests.
TikTok’s Future Under U.S. Control
With the deal moving forward, TikTok faces an uncertain future, though its continued popularity with American users seems assured. The app, which boasts millions of users across the U.S., is a haven for short-form videos and viral trends, particularly among younger generations. Its influence on entertainment, politics, and even marketing cannot be overstated, with celebrities, brands, and politicians like JD Vance using the platform to reach audiences directly.
But will TikTok’s new U.S.-based ownership change the way the app operates? Will ByteDance continue to hold influence, or will Oracle and other investors steer TikTok into a new era of accountability and transparency? Only time will tell.
For now, Trump’s claim that he “saved” TikTok is sure to fuel debate. While his actions undoubtedly played a significant role in keeping the app alive during his presidency, the long-term impact of his involvement remains to be seen. As TikTok continues to dominate the digital landscape, we can only wonder what’s next for this viral sensation.
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