Minneapolis: Innocent Lives Lost and a Culture in Crisis
OPINION The Minneapolis shooter should not be the story here. The story should be about the children who died. Two young lives—10-year-old Harper Moyoski and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel—were cut short. Eighteen others were wounded, most of them kids. Families grieve, and the community aches. Innocence Stolen Harper and Fletcher should have gone home that night. Instead, their parents have to bury their babies. They are living a nightmare. Fletcher’s father begged in a statement: “Please remember Fletcher for the person he was and not the act that ended his life.” He’s right. The focus should stay on the victims, not the killer. Jesse Merkel, the father of 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel, made the following statement the day after his son’s death: “Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son, Fletcher, away from us. Because of their actions, we will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play… pic.twitter.com/d6ZgBmPAEu — FOX 9 (@FOX9) August 28, 2025 A Culture of Confusion — The Real Crisis But the elephant in the room is still there. And no one else will talk about it. The left blames guns and the real story gets ignored. America has built a culture of confusion. Children grow up believing lies: boys can become girls, and girls can become boys. Doctors push the delusion. Allies cheer it on. Parents sign off. Schools celebrate it. Politicians protect it. Innocence disappears. (RELATED NEWS: Major Hospital Drops Trans Treatments For Kids) No one thinks ahead. What happens when those children grow into adults? The result is devastating. Some never learn how to handle rejection or fail to build emotional strength. Instead of resilience, bitterness takes root. Isolation becomes normal. Enemies appear everywhere. And in the end, a life built on lies collapses under its own weight. This is the real crisis—not guns, but the culture. When reality shatters the fantasy, despair takes over. Some spiral into rage, depression, or violence. Every other mental illness gets treatment. This one gets affirmation. Instead of help, kids get hormones, surgeries, and new names. Then they hit adulthood and realize it was all a lie. The result is addiction, hatred, or, in this and other cases—mass shootings. The Shooter’s Own Words The Minneapolis killer admitted regret. He wrote: “I’m tired of being trans, I wish I never brainwashed myself.” “I regret being trans. I wish I was a girl, I just know I cannot achieve that body with the technology we have today.” He knew the truth. He knew the ideology lied. But no one stopped him. Friends heard him praise Hitler in middle school. Hate showed itself early. Still, adults looked away until the shooting, when his hatred of Jews, Christians, and Republicans was on full display. Parental Failure, Public Tragedy His mother signed off on his name change when he was only 17. She once worked at the very Catholic school he later targeted. Police Chief Brian O’Hara revealed the frustration investigators face: “We have not been successful in talking to the shooter’s mother,” he said. Instead of answering questions, she hired high-profile defense lawyer Ryan Garry. He defended her silence in a statement to Fox News: “She is completely distraught about the situation and has no culpability but is seeking an attorney to deal with calls like this.” Families bury their children. She avoids questions. (MORE NEWS: Kilmar Abrego Garcia and the Deep Immigration Divide) A Pattern Being Ignored This wasn’t a one-off. Seven recent mass shootings involved individuals in the LGBTQ community. But networks won’t touch the story. Politicians protect the narrative. Christians get blamed. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey even defended the trans community after the massacre. He scolded those who criticize gender ideology and mocked prayer, saying: “Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now. These kids were literally praying.” This is the same guy who knelt to pray and sob at the casket of George Floyd. He shifted the blame instead of telling the truth. WOW — Dem. Mayor of Minneapolis Jacob Frey CONDEMNS praying for the victims of the Catholic mass shooting. “Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers…these kids were literally praying!” Cruel and callous. pic.twitter.com/5mVAQAijn1 — Townhall.com (@townhallcom) August 27, 2025 You get it yet? Final Word We refuse to remember the coward of Minneapolis. His name dies here. We remember the children. Harper Moyoski and Fletcher Merkel. Their names live on. We remember the truth. And we demand the courage to face it. This culture of lies has taken too much. It will continue until we confront it. The time is now. Forget the Headlines. Challenge the Script. Deliver the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t tiptoe through talking points — we swing a machete through the media’s favorite lies. They protect power. We confront it. If you’re sick of censorship, narrative control, and being told what to think — stand with us. Share the story. Wake the people. Because truth dies in silence — and you weren’t made to stay quiet.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia and the Deep Immigration Divide
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, age 30, has become the center of immigration controversy. His case highlights deep divisions over asylum, deportation, and U.S. immigration enforcement. The left has embraced him as a victim. But his record tells a very different story. Refusing Deportation Deals Abrego Garcia had options. Immigration officials offered him a deal: remain in jail, accept deportation to Costa Rica, and plead guilty to human smuggling. He refused. BREAKING NEWS: Immigration officials said they intend to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Uganda, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for remaining in jail and pleading guilty to human smuggling charges. pic.twitter.com/CctJFocRib — NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) August 23, 2025 Why Costa Rica? Because a federal immigration judge had already ruled he could not be deported to his home country of El Salvador. The judge determined it was unsafe for him there due to gang violence. That decision forced the U.S. government to find third countries willing to accept him. Costa Rica was one option. Uganda became another. (RELATED POST: New Census Will Omit Illegal Immigrants) But instead of taking the deal, Abrego Garcia gambled. He rejected Costa Rica, pushed asylum claims in U.S. courts, and now finds himself trapped in legal limbo. Seeking Asylum in the U.S. This week, his attorneys requested asylum in the United States to stop his deportation to Uganda. The East African country recently agreed to accept illegal immigrants from the U.S. That move gave the Trump administration another option for relocation. But here’s the problem: Abrego Garcia already lost an asylum case in 2019. Back then, he filed too late. Immigration law requires that applications be submitted within one year of arrival. He came to the U.S. in 2012 at age 16 and waited years to apply. A judge denied it. Despite that denial, his lawyers are back in court. They filed a lawsuit before U.S. District Court Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland. She admitted she has no jurisdiction over immigration. But she did order that Abrego Garcia cannot be removed before an October hearing. He remains in detention in Virginia, within 200 miles of her court, so he can meet with his attorneys. Criminal Allegations and MS-13 Ties In 2019, the Prince George County Police Gang Unit identified Abrego Garcia as a member of MS-13. He was arrested outside a Home Depot with two other MS-13 gang members. He denies membership, but his record raises questions. A tip suggested he was affiliated with the dangerous gang. He was arrested with rolls of cash and drugs. The evidence against him has piled up. In 2022, Tennessee police stopped him for speeding. Body cam footage showed nine passengers in the car. They all listed the same address. He carried $1,400 in cash and no one had luggage. Authorities suspected human smuggling. According to Attorney General Pam Bondi a federal grand jury indicted him in 2025 for conspiracy to transport illegal immigrants through Mexico into Texas. The indictment claimed this was his full-time work. They said he used altered vehicles with hidden compartments. Guns, narcotics, women, and children were involved. 🚨 #BREAKING: Pam Bondi officially announces Kilmar Abrego Garcia will be returned to the US after the DOJ uncovered he made OVER 100 SMUGGLING TRIPS of illegals A grand jury found human trafficking was Garcia’s FULL TIME JOB, and he frequently ABUSED women. THIS IS THE… pic.twitter.com/MHbmJ4PpnX — Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 6, 2025 Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem also did not mince words this week. She called him an “MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, wife beater, child predator, criminal illegal alien.” A Pattern of Abuse The personal side of Abrego Garcia’s story is no cleaner. Court documents reveal that his wife, Jennifer Vasquez, filed for a protection order in 2021. She accused him of punching her, scratching her, and tearing off her shirt. Federal filings also allege he solicited explicit photos and videos of a minor beginning in 2020. NEW: @FoxNews has obtained the written domestic violence allegations from Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wife in 2021, in which she alleges he is a repeat wife beater & writes “At this point, I am afraid to be close to him. I have multiple photos/videos of how violent he can be and all… pic.twitter.com/s7yCji9jjq — Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) April 16, 2025 Playing the Legal System Despite this record, his attorneys frame him as a victim of Trump’s “mass deportations.” They argue he fears death at the hands of gangs in El Salvador. Yet that claim only arose after he allegedly participated in the murder of a rival gang member’s mother. The courts have repeatedly bent to keep him in the U.S. In March, he was deported to El Salvador. His wife sued. The Trump administration brought him back in June, only to charge him with federal smuggling. Now he is attempting asylum yet again. (MORE NEWS: Kimmel’s Italian Citizenship: Turning Away From America) Why the Left Defends Him Why does this man matter so much to the left? The answer is politics. He represents their narrative against President Trump. They see him as a living example of what they call “cruel” deportation policies. They even traveled to El Salvador to meet with him and push for his release. Final Word Abrego Garcia has lived in the United States for 13 years. In all that time, he never pursued legal citizenship. He never showed commitment to the laws of this nation. Instead, he chose shortcuts and excuses. Being American is not about having kids in this country, working a job that may or may not “contribute to society,” or appearing at court dates. It is about personal responsibility. It is about respect for the laws that create order and safety. You cannot claim love for America while ignoring its laws. You cannot demand rights while refusing to fulfill your duty to handle your business. And you cannot expect sympathy while engaging in crime. Kilmar Abrego Garcia is not a victim, although he likes to…
Back-to-School 2025: How Parents Are Spending
School is in full swing for most of the country. According to the Pew Research Center, about 70% of U.S. schools start classes before Labor Day. The other 30% begin after the holiday, mostly in New England and the Mid-Atlantic states where tradition and state laws shape school calendars. This long-standing divide over school start dates often sparks debate, but no matter when the first bell rings, families are preparing in similar ways. The 2025 Deloitte Back-to-School Survey of 1,200 parents reveals how spending habits, technology, and children’s influence are shaping this year’s shopping season. Spending Stays Steady Parents are spending almost the same amount on school supplies and necessities as they did last year. Deloitte found that: $587 per child was the average spend in 2024. $570 per child is expected in 2025. Our 2025 Deloitte Back-to-School Survey: Parents plan to spend more, shop earlier 🎒 Parents expect to spend an average of $597 per student this year 🛍️ 31% of families plan to start shopping earlier than last year 📈 77% of parents are concerned about rising prices impacting… pic.twitter.com/dIwLVVQ6R1 — Paul do Forno 🛒 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇵🇹 (@dofornop) July 14, 2025 That’s a small dip, but still a significant investment for households with multiple children. Deloitte also estimates over $30 billion in sales tied to back-to-school shopping this year, proving how vital the season is for retailers. “Parents are laser-focused on preparing their children for the school year, but we expect back-to-school spending to remain flat amid economic headwinds and financial concerns across income groups,” said Natalie Martini, vice chair and U.S. Retail & Consumer Products sector leader at Deloitte. (RELATED NEWS: Catherine Zeta-Jones and the U.S. Homeownership Divide) Children Drive Many Purchases Kids are not just along for the ride. They’re influencing spending decisions in a big way: 9 in 10 parents said their child has “must haves” on their list. 62% of parents said their child influences them to buy more. 57% are willing to spend extra on first-day outfits. Extracurriculars, fashion, and technology are top priorities. Parents continue to value how these purchases support their children’s well-being and social development. Shoppers Hunt for Value Even with inflation easing—Bankrate notes it sits at 2.7%—families remain cautious. Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst at Bankrate, explained: “While inflation has come down considerably, back-to-school shoppers are still being thoughtful about their buying habits and looking to save money where possible.” The Deloitte survey backs this up: 49% spread shopping across months to chase sales. 46% took advantage of Amazon Prime Day. 75% of parents are more willing to switch brands if prices rise, compared to 67% in 2024. This mindset reflects a clear shift. Value, flexibility, and deals drive decisions more than brand loyalty. (MORE NEWS: Phone Scrolling: The Top 10 States and Hidden Costs) Technology Is Changing the Game The most striking trend is the role of technology in shopping habits. Younger parents, especially Gen Z, lean heavily on digital tools to save money and personalize their purchases. Deloitte reports: 31% of parents use AI tools to compare prices, read reviews, and build shopping lists. 67% of Gen Z parents use AI. 41% of all parents shop through social media. 75% of Gen Z parents shop through social media. “As younger generations navigate ways to value seek, they’re turning to technology to find the best deals and compare prices,” Deloitte researchers explained. “For retailers that can appeal to the tech-savvy, there could be real rewards, as respondents who plan to use social media in their shopping journey spend 1.8x compared to non-social-media shoppers.” Brian McCarthy, principal in Deloitte’s Retail Strategy group, noted: “This year, parents are strategically approaching back-to-school shopping by spreading out purchases, leveraging promotions, and shopping across multiple discount retailers to maximize their budgets. Meanwhile, younger generations are embracing technology and social media at a higher rate as they hone their value-seeking strategies.” Where Parents Are Spending Mass merchant retailers are this year’s winners. Deloitte found: 46% of parents plan to spend the most at big-box and discount retailers. That’s up from 40% in 2024. Specialty stores and online platforms still play a role, but the convenience and competitive pricing of mass merchants are attracting the bulk of spending. Parents Still Cautious, Even as Pressure Eases The share of parents who feel financially strained has dropped, but careful budgeting remains the norm. 20% feel financially pressured to overspend, according to Bankrate. That’s down from 31% in 2022 and 26% in 2024. Bankrate also reports that only 30% of shoppers are rethinking their spending habits this year, compared to 41% in 2022. These numbers suggest families may be adjusting to inflation. However, Deloitte emphasizes that parents are still strategically stretching budgets, switching brands, and shopping sales to make every dollar count. The Bigger Picture The 2025 back-to-school season highlights three major shifts: Technology is central. Gen Z parents are leading the way in using AI and social media for shopping. Children’s influence is strong. Must-have lists, first-day outfits, and extracurricular needs shape spending. Value drives choice. Families spread purchases, hunt sales, and move away from strict brand loyalty. As Brian McCarthy noted, “Value for the money is the top driver of retailer choice, and parents are increasingly willing to switch brands or retailers to find the best deals.” Education by the Numbers According to Census.gov, 54.1 million students and 5.7 million teachers will head back into classrooms this fall. Whether school begins in August or after Labor Day, every household faces the same question: how to prepare, how to save, and how to balance budgets while meeting children’s needs. Final Word The 2025 Deloitte survey—now in its 18th year—makes one thing clear: Back-to-school shopping remains a major annual event for American families. While retailers who adapt to current trends stand to gain, parents are also finding new ways to win. Families are stretching budgets more effectively, using technology to uncover deals, and teaching kids how to prioritize needs versus wants. The result is a shopping season that feels more manageable…
Trump Scores Legal Victory, $500M Fraud Penalty Overturned
President Donald Trump just secured another major legal win. On Thursday, a New York appeals court struck down a massive $500 million fraud penalty in a stunning 5-0 ruling. The unanimous decision was a direct blow to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who campaigned on “getting Trump.” When New York Attorney General Letitia James ran in 2018, she called Trump an “illegitimate president,” promised to be a “pain in his ass,” said Trump was “fueling her soul,” said “I look forward every day to suing Trump.” Today, she filed a civil suit against Trump and his kids pic.twitter.com/mDB8w9jfNQ — Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 21, 2022 The ruling did not erase liability in the case. But it eliminated the crushing fine that had ballooned to more than $550 million with interest. For Trump and his two sons, this decision is a massive victory in a long, politically charged battle. (MORE NEWS: Texas House Passes “One Big Beautiful Map” in GOP Victory) A 5-0 Decision Against Excessive Punishment The New York Appellate Division spent nearly a year before releasing its decision. After 11 months of deliberation, the five-judge panel ruled the penalty was unconstitutional. In its 323-page decision, the court said that Engoron’s ruling went too far. Judges Dianne T. Renwick and Peter H. Moulton wrote the main opinion: “While the injunctive relief ordered by the court is well crafted to curb defendants’ business culture, the court’s disgorgement order, which directs that defendants pay nearly half a billion dollars to the State of New York, is an excessive fine that violates the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution.” The opinion was anything but narrow. All five judges agreed the fine was “excessive.” That unanimous vote shows the extreme overreach of Justice Engoron’s court. Restrictions Remain, but James Suffers a Blow The appeals court did keep some restrictions in place. Trump’s sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, remain barred from running a company in New York for a few years. The court also upheld the appointment of an outside monitor to oversee the Trump Organization’s business dealings for three years. Even so, Thursday’s ruling gutted the core of Engoron’s punishment. James’ legal team and Engoron had hoped to crush Trump financially. Instead, their campaign of lawfare suffered a devastating setback. A Political Prosecution from the Start Trump has always maintained his innocence. He called the case a sham and accused James of carrying out political persecution. The facts back him up. This trial dragged on for 11 weeks, right in the middle of the presidential campaign. Prosecutors worked to keep Trump off the trail. They wanted to smear his reputation. Yet the case had no victims. Deutsche Bank, the bank that issued the loans, testified it was satisfied with Trump’s payments. The loans were repaid on time and in full. No harm, no foul. But James twisted the law to claim that Trump “hurt the marketplace.” BLATANT INJUSTICE: “[Letitia James] said she was going to get Trump as part of her political campaign, and tried to throw whatever would stick.” @rogerseverino_ pic.twitter.com/FK93ygtGmF — Heritage Foundation (@Heritage) October 3, 2023 As Judge Peter Moulton noted during hearings last fall, the penalty was “troubling.” He questioned whether James’ use of the statute had “morphed into something it was not meant to do.” His skepticism has now been confirmed by a unanimous court. Letitia James Under Fire Letitia James has her own problems. Ed Martin, director of the Justice Department’s Weaponization Working Group, has called for her resignation. James is under investigation for mortgage fraud involving a Brooklyn townhouse and a Virginia home. (MORE NEWS: Trump and His ‘Art of the Deal’ for Ukraine Peace) According to the U.S. Federal Housing FHFA, she falsely claimed both homes as her primary residence to secure lower interest rates. On one application, she even listed her father as her husband. If found guilty, she could face 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. While James rails against Trump for “fraud,” she faces criminal scrutiny herself. That hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed. Trump Responds: “TOTAL VICTORY” President Trump celebrated the ruling on Truth Social. He declared: “TOTAL VICTORY in the FAKE New York State Attorney General Letitia James Case! … Importantly, the Vote was 5 to 0. I am so honored by Justice David Friedman’s great words of wisdom, which should be read by everyone. I would also like to thank the Court for having the Courage to make this Decision, which is already going down as one of the worst business persecutions in the History of our Country.” Trump’s words highlight the significance of the ruling. For months, the media portrayed him as a convicted fraudster. Now, a unanimous appellate court has dismantled the heart of the court’s decision. James Refuses to Back Down Despite the loss, James claimed victory. In a statement, she vowed to appeal: “The First Department today affirmed the well-supported finding of the trial court: Donald Trump, his company, and two of his children are liable for fraud. The court upheld the injunctive relief we won, limiting Donald Trump and the Trump Organization officers’ ability to do business in New York. It should not be lost to history: yet another court has ruled that the president violated the law, and that our case has merit. We will seek appeal to the Court of Appeals and continue to protect the rights and interests of New Yorkers.” Her statement shows she is not giving up. Her crusade of persecution continues. Even after a 5-0 ruling, James refuses to accept defeat. Why This Matters This ruling is about more than Donald Trump. It is about the abuse of power. The left has weaponized the courts to target political opponents. James promised voters she would take down Trump. She delivered a partisan prosecution, not justice. But the Constitution still matters. The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive fines. This unanimous ruling sends a strong message: political vendettas cannot override constitutional rights. The Bigger Picture The left wanted to…
Texas House Passes “One Big Beautiful Map” in GOP Victory
The Texas House approved a sweeping new congressional redistricting plan on Wednesday. Republicans call it “One Big Beautiful Map.” In an 88–52 party-line vote, lawmakers passed House Bill 4, a plan designed to strengthen GOP control and deliver up to five additional congressional seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Governor Greg Abbott praised the win on X. “Congrats to the Texas House on passing the One Big Beautiful Map. It will make Texas, and Congress, a brighter shade of Red.” House Speaker Dustin Burrows said, “The Texas House today delivered legislation to redistrict certain congressional districts to address concerns raised by the Department of Justice and ensure fairness and accuracy in Texans’ representation in Congress… This work has helped us deliver the legal, remedied maps Texas voters deserve.” Rep. Tony Tinderholt framed the outcome more bluntly: “Democrats broke quorum to try and stop us—but they FAILED. Texas now has a big, beautiful map, legally adding 5 more Republican seats.” Democrats broke quorum to try and stop us—but they FAILED. Texas now has a big, beautiful map, legally adding 5 more Republican seats. A huge win for all Republicans! #txlege pic.twitter.com/RhXvL0L191 — Rep. Tony Tinderholt (@reptinderholt) August 20, 2025 The Map Democrats Couldn’t Stop The new map redraws districts in Dallas, Houston, and other fast-growing areas. Republicans say it ensures fairness, accuracy, and compliance with federal requirements. Democrats tried to delay or derail the measure with a dozen amendments, including one pushing implementation to 2028 and another tying it to an independent redistricting commission. One amendment even attempted to block the map until the federal government released unrelated files about Jeffrey Epstein. All were defeated. (RELATED NEWS: Texas Dems Flee to Stop Redistricting Map) Republicans stayed united, rejecting every amendment and moving HB 4 to a quick vote. Conservatives say the map will “ungerrymander the gerrymandered” and help secure a stronger GOP majority in Washington. The Walkout That Backfired The vote followed the dramatic return of Democratic lawmakers who fled Texas two weeks earlier to block the bill. More than 50 Democrats traveled to Chicago to deny the House a quorum, halting business in Austin. Their absence drew national headlines, but the tactic failed. During the standoff, Speaker Burrows issued arrest warrants for absent members. He warned that Democrats who came back would only be allowed to leave the chamber under strict conditions, including release into the custody of Department of Public Safety officers who would ensure their return. Rep. Nicole Collier refused to sign the required permission slip and camped out in the chamber instead of going home. The walkout also carried financial costs. Democrats faced $500 fines for each missed day and had their pay withheld. By the time they returned, pressure from penalties and threats of arrest forced them back into the chamber, where Republicans swiftly advanced the map. Governor Abbott is now calling for added penalties and punishments for legislators who willfully leave during a session. Will they face prosecution? Attorney General Ken Paxton says, “We made that argument about 13 of the legislators… and we will be in front of the Texas Supreme Court.” WILL TX DEMS WHO FLED THE REDISTRICTING FIGHT FACE PROSECTUION?@KenPaxtonTX: “We made that argument about 13 of the legislators… and we will be in front of the Texas Supreme Court.” pic.twitter.com/Q2ymO9b6tz — The Will Cain Show (@WillCainShow_) August 20, 2025 Democrats Spin, Republicans Deliver Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu tried to cast the quorum break as a success, claiming it “rallied Democrats nationwide” and “reshaped the 2026 landscape.” But Republicans say the numbers tell the real story: Democrats delayed the inevitable and returned to pass the very map they tried to block. Conservatives frame the episode as proof of GOP discipline. Democrats relied on theatrics, while Republicans held the line, complied with legal requirements, and delivered results. What’s Next The bill still needs a vote from the full Texas Senate, but it is expected to pass overwhelmingly. Democrats will undoubtedly challenge the map in court, claiming it discriminates against minority voters. Republicans say HB 4 is constitutional, remedies DOJ concerns, and will stand up to scrutiny. (MORE NEWS: Phone Scrolling: The Top 10 States and Hidden Costs) For conservatives, the fight was about more than lines on a map. It also showed how far Democrats will go to block legislation. In the end, Republicans prevailed. For Republicans, the “One Big Beautiful Map” is a win and a promise of more victories to come. Expose the Spin. Shatter the Narrative. Speak the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t cover politics to play referee — we swing a machete through the spin, the double-speak, and the partisan theater. While the media protects the powerful and buries the backlash, we dig it up and drag it into the light. If you’re tired of rigged narratives, selective outrage, and leaders who serve themselves, not you — then share this. Expose the corruption. Challenge the agenda. Because if we don’t fight for the truth, no one will. And that fight starts with you.
Phone Scrolling: The Top 10 States and Hidden Costs
We scroll. A lot. Researchers at Toll Free Forwarding ran the numbers and found the states racking up the most phone “scrolling mileage. ”Their baseline is stark: “The average American spend[s] 6 hours and 35 minutes a day on screens, adding up to 2,403 hours annually… People check their devices an average of 58 times a day… Half of those checks happen within just three minutes of the last.” That’s not just habit. That’s a loop. How They Calculated “Scrolling Miles” First, they converted average daily screen time into seconds. Then they used a simple model of scrolling behavior. As the report explains, they multiplied seconds by “6.3 (length of an iPhone 16 Pro screen) over 10 (frequency of a scroll, in seconds), resulting in the distance traveled in inches per day.” Next, they converted inches to feet, feet to miles, and multiplied by 365 to find annual mileage. It’s an estimate. But it’s a vivid one. And it helps us picture the invisible distance our thumbs travel. (MORE TECH NEWS: Pregnancy Robots: Miracle or Ethical Nightmare?) The Top 10 Scrolling States Some states scroll far more than others. Here are the leaders: Arizona — 8h 50m daily — 115.37 miles/year Washington — 8h 17m — 108.18 miles/year Kentucky — 8h 3m — 105.18 miles/year Missouri — 7h 49m — 102.17 miles/year New Mexico — 7h 20m — 95.90 miles/year Texas — 7h 19m — 95.77 miles/year Maryland — 7h 14m — 94.59 miles/year Louisiana — 7h 9m — 93.42 miles/year South Carolina — 7h 6m — 92.76 miles/year Georgia — 6h 58m — 91.07 miles/year Those numbers reflect daily habits. They also reflect a decade-long surge. According to HostingAdvice.com, “Mobile media consumption grew 460% from 2011 to 2021.” So the trend isn’t subtle. It’s a tidal shift in how we spend time. The Productivity Price Tag Constant checking has a cost. It fractures attention. It delays deep work. It turns minutes into hours. And it adds up globally. As the analysis notes, “Wasted productivity costs the global economy an estimated $8.8 trillion each year.” That number is staggering. But it matches what many feel at work: more notifications, fewer focused hours. Here’s the kicker. Over half of those device interruptions “happen during work hours.” So the problem doesn’t wait until evening. It steals prime time. Is It Phone Addiction? Key Symptoms to Watch Not all heavy use equals addiction. But patterns matter. If you see several of these, take notice: You reach for your phone constantly. Dangerous situations, such as driving, don’t deter you from checking. Waking up at night to check notifications is commonplace. Anxiety, anger, or sadness take over when you can’t check your phone. Screen time is hurting work, school, or relationships. Any effort to cut back doesn’t last. These behaviors fit a cycle. Check. Reward. Repeat. And that cycle runs on brain chemistry. The Brain Behind the Scroll Dopamine drives motivation. Phones can hijack it. Likes, pings, and fresh content act as micro-rewards. Over time, that can blunt the system. You may feel less pleasure from everyday life. Even loved ones. That’s why heavy scrolling can foster isolation. (MORE NEWS: Catherine Zeta-Jones and the U.S. Homeownership Divide) Mood shifts follow — Anxiety rises, stress lingers, depression can deepen. Meanwhile, late-night use delays melatonin. That pushes sleep later. Then tomorrow’s focus suffers. And the loop strengthens. Why “Short Checks” Aren’t Short We tell ourselves, “Just a second.” But each check has a switch cost. The brain must get back in focus, and that takes time. It drains energy and it breaks momentum. When “half of those checks happen within three minutes of the last,” we don’t return to flow. We never got there. How to Reduce Scrolling Mileage (Without Going Off-Grid) You don’t need to ditch your phone. You need to design for focus. Start small. Then stack wins. Use friction on purpose. Move social apps off your home screen. Turn off non-essential alerts. Set your phone to grayscale to reduce visual appeal Create phone-free zones. No phones at meals. No phones in the bedroom. Buy an alarm clock and charge devices outside the room. Designate specific times for checks. Batch messages and social in two or three short windows. Use timers. Stop at the bell. Protect deep work. Schedule 60–90 minute focus blocks. Activate Do Not Disturb. Tell teammates when you’ll be back online. Rebuild dopamine the healthy way. Move your body daily. Get morning light. Seek real-world wins: a walk, a workout, a completed task. Fix sleep first. Set a screen curfew of 30-60 minutes before bed. Dim lights at night. Keep a consistent bedtime. Each change lowers the urge to scroll. Each win brings clarity back. What This Means for Leaders If you run a team, design environments that respect attention. Shorter meetings. Clear “quiet hours.” Fewer chat pings for non-urgent items. And measure outcomes, not online presence. When you protect focus, you protect profit. The Bottom Line Screens aren’t the enemy. Unchecked habits are. Our “scrolling mileage” shows how far we go without moving an inch. But we can turn that around. Add friction. Guard focus. Prioritize sleep. Then your time—and your attention—start working for you again. Cut through the noise. Drown out the spin. Deliver the truth. At The Modern Memo, we’re not here to soften the blow — we’re here to land it. The media plays defense for the powerful. We don’t. If you’re done with censorship, half-truths, and gaslighting headlines, pass this on. Expose the stories they bury. This isn’t just news — it’s a fight for reality. And it doesn’t work without you.
Pregnancy Robots: Miracle or Ethical Nightmare?
Humanoid robots may soon replace human surrogates in pregnancy for infertile couples. Reports from Chosun Biz suggest that China is developing a pregnancy robot with an artificial womb capable of carrying a baby to term. The idea has shocked many, but it reflects a growing effort to use technology to solve infertility. This innovation could replace the complex, expensive, and sometimes controversial process of human surrogacy. It also raises profound ethical, medical, and social concerns that the world is only beginning to discuss. (MORE NEWS: Court Nixes California AI Deepfake Law, Free Speech Wins) The Reality of Infertility Infertility is not rare. In the United States, about 19% of women ages 15 to 49 experience infertility if they have never given birth. 6% struggle to conceive even after having one or more children. 9% percent of men ages 15 to 44 also face infertility, according to CCRM Infertility. The causes are divided fairly evenly. One-third of cases are due to male factors, one-third to female factors, and one-third involve a combination. A 2019 NIH study revealed that African American women ages 33 to 44 are twice as likely to face infertility compared with Caucasian women. Couples often spend years and thousands of dollars on infertility treatments with no guarantee of success. Some pursue adoption. Others hold out hope for a biological child, even if it requires experimental or unconventional methods. That desperation fuels interest in surrogacy and even possibly technology like artificial wombs. According to Southwest Surrogacy, the CDC reports that the number of gestational carrier cycles rose from 3,202 in 2012 to 8,862 in 2021, with a high of 9,195 in 2019. The shortage of willing surrogates creates a gap that technology promises to fill. The question is whether a robot womb is an acceptable answer. The Birth of the Pregnancy Robot As reported in Chosun Biz, the pregnancy robot concept came from Dr. Zhang Qifeng, founder of Kaiwa Technology in Guangzhou, China. His company hopes to have a prototype ready by 2026. Qifeng says, “The artificial womb technology is already in a mature stage, and now it needs to be implanted in the robot’s abdomen so that a real person and the robot can interact to achieve pregnancy, allowing the fetus to grow inside.” (MORE NEWS: Catherine Zeta-Jones and the U.S. Homeownership Divide) The potential financial appeal is strong. Human surrogacy in many countries costs between $100,000 and $200,000. By comparison, Dr. Zhang claims that a pregnancy robot could carry a child for about 100,000 yuan, or $14,000. The enormous price difference alone is likely to attract attention from families who cannot afford traditional surrogacy. How a Robot Pregnancy Might Work Although details remain scarce, the idea is that the robot would replicate the biological environment of a womb. It would be filled with artificial amniotic fluid and connected to the baby through tubing that provides nutrients. The process would simulate every stage of pregnancy from conception to delivery. Experiments in animals suggest this may be technically possible. In 2017, researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia successfully kept a premature lamb alive in an artificial womb. The lamb floated in a transparent vinyl bag filled with warm water, and a tube was connected to the umbilical cord. That system acted more like an incubator than a full womb, but it showed that external gestation could sustain life beyond a very early stage. Legal Barriers Across the Globe Surrogacy is already a highly regulated or even banned practice in many countries. Italy, Germany, France, and Spain ban all forms of surrogacy. They are unlikely to approve the use of robots for pregnancy. In the United States, laws vary. States like Nebraska and Louisiana have banned surrogacy altogether, while others allow it only under strict guidelines. Introducing robot surrogates would pose new legal challenges about parentage, liability, and regulation. Ethical Concerns Safety is the most immediate question. Who decides when artificial wombs are safe for human pregnancy? If a child is harmed due to technical failure, who bears responsibility—the parents, the doctors, or the company? Child development is another concern. A mother’s body contributes not only nutrition and protection but also hormonal and biological cues that influence brain growth, bonding, and immune system development. Removing the maternal connection could have consequences that do not appear until years later. There is also the risk of social stigma. Would children born from artificial wombs be viewed as engineered products rather than natural human beings? Commercialization adds another layer. If pregnancy becomes a product sold by corporations, children risk being treated as commodities. This shifts reproduction from a personal or family matter to an industry driven by profit. Gender roles would be disrupted as well. Technology that removes women from pregnancy undermines their unique place in human life. God made women to be in the role of mother and nurturer. Assigning a generic, emotionless robot to this role would move the needle in the wrong direction for women. The Slippery Slope Toward Designer Babies Artificial wombs would further the creation of designer babies, where parents select physical or intellectual traits before birth. What begins as a solution for infertility could evolve into a system of human engineering. Governments could misuse the technology. Artificial wombs could be used for population control, eugenics, or mass manufacturing of children selected for certain traits. The line between innovation and abuse is thin. (MORE NEWS: Sydney Sweeney ‘Good Jeans’ Outrage Explained) Final Thought Artificial womb robots may sound like a solution for infertile couples, but the risks far outweigh the promises. Children are not products, and motherhood cannot be outsourced to machines. This technology threatens the sanctity of life, the God-given role of women, and the very meaning of family. Without clear moral boundaries, artificial wombs would reduce babies to commodities in a marketplace driven by profit rather than love. Once we sever pregnancy from the mother, we risk erasing the bond that defines human nurture and dignity. True solutions to infertility should support families, protect children,…
Catherine Zeta-Jones and the U.S. Homeownership Divide
Catherine Zeta-Jones, born in Swansea, Wales, to working-class parents, came from humble beginnings. She told The Sunday Times that she and her husband, Michael Douglas, enjoy a life of homeownership with four properties: one in Canada, one in Spain, and two in New York — a country house and an apartment. She said, “I know it sounds very jet set, and I love to surround myself with beauty but it’s not excessive, it’s very comfortable.” The couple spends much of their time in Spain. Michael, now 80 and retired from acting, says he likes to “watch my wife work.” The lifestyle of celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, with multiple properties around the world, stands in sharp contrast to the reality for most people. Their story raises a bigger question: what does homeownership actually look like for ordinary Americans today? (RELATED: Kimmel’s Italian Citizenship: Turning Away From America) How Many Americans Are Homeowners? According to Realtor.com, 65.1% were homeowners in the first quarter of 2025. That figure is down 0.06 percentage points from the last quarter of 2024 and 0.05 from the same time last year. The rate has stayed above 62.9% since 1965, with the peak at 69.2% in 2004. Housegrail.com shows that home ownership varies by region: 62% in northeastern states like Maine and Pennsylvania 67% in the southeast and south-central U.S., from Virginia to Texas 71% in north-central states like North Dakota and Minnesota 60% in the west, from Washington to New Mexico Mortgages and Second Homes In 2023, only 39.8% of homes were mortgage-free. Mississippi and West Virginia had the highest share of mortgaged homes. California, Washington, Utah, Colorado, Virginia, and Massachusetts had the lowest. Housegrail states, “approximately 2.7% of the 78.7 million occupied homes are second homes — about 1.5 million properties. Vacant homes make up 11% of the national total.” While many Americans struggle to pay off a single mortgage, a growing number of wealthy buyers are looking beyond U.S. borders and investing in property overseas. Americans Buying Property Abroad A 2022 Coldwell Banker survey found that 67% of affluent Americans already owned investment property abroad. The largest share was held by those 55 and older. Overseas properties owned by U.S. citizens: 47,000 homes in 2019 29,800 homes in 2020 53,500 homes in 2021 61,000 homes in 2022 Top destinations to buy a home: Central America – 23% (Belize 16.2%, Costa Rica 15.2%, Honduras 15.2%, Panama 14.3%, El Salvador 13.7%, Guatemala 13.2%, Nicaragua 12.2%) North America (Canada & Mexico) – 20.5% Asia – 20.4% South America – 18.1% Europe – 14.1% Australia & New Zealand – 10.8% Caribbean – 9.4% Main reasons for buying a home abroad: rising cost of living (26.5%), surging home prices (26.5%), political climate (25.6%), and strong dollar (20.8%). While affluent buyers like Catherine Zeta-Jones and others expand their portfolios abroad, younger generations in the U.S. are finding it harder than ever to afford even a first home. The Homeownership Reality for Young Americans Younger generations are far less likely to own homes than their parents at the same age, according to Motley Fool Money: Millennials (age 27–42 in 2024): 51.5% own homes, much lower than Gen X and Boomers at the same age. Baby Boomers: At age 30, around 60% owned homes. By their early 40s, about 70%. Gen Z (under 27 years old): Only a small share own homes, in the single digits to low teens. These numbers show a sharp generational divide, but they also beg the question: why are young Americans falling so far behind? Why Young People Struggle Housing Costs: Home prices have outpaced wages. Student Debt: Younger buyers carry more education debt. Delayed Milestones: Many aren’t getting married or having kids. If they do, it’s delayed. Mortgage Barriers: High interest rates from 2022–2024 worsened affordability in recent years. Young Americans face steep barriers, making homeownership — once a standard milestone — harder to reach than ever. (RELATED: Post-COVID Homeowners Are In Dire Financial Situation And No One Is Talking About It) The Future of the American Dream From celebrities like Catherine Zeta-Jones with homes around the world to young Americans struggling to buy their first home, housing in 2025 shows a sharp divide. For many, homeownership is still the dream. But for younger generations, it feels further away than ever. For homeownership to become more attainable, interest rates must come down. Higher borrowing costs have crushed affordability and reduced purchasing power. Lower rates would ease monthly payments, open the market to first-time buyers, and make homeownership a reality for those just starting out. Without real relief, the next generation risks becoming a generation of renters, locked out of ownership and the wealth-building it brings. With the right economic conditions, however, young Americans could finally begin to turn the tide. Forget the Headlines. Challenge the Script. Deliver the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t tiptoe through talking points — we swing a machete through the media’s favorite lies. They protect power. We confront it. If you’re sick of censorship, narrative control, and being told what to think — stand with us. Share the story. Wake the people. Because truth dies in silence — and you weren’t made to stay quiet.
Trump and His ‘Art of the Deal’ for Ukraine Peace
President Trump met with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday to see if a deal could be reached to end the war in Ukraine. After the meeting, Trump told European allies that Putin proposed Russia take full control of the Donbas region. This move, Putin argued, would stop the fighting and bring peace. A European diplomat told Fox News that “President Trump supports the terms of this proposal.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, pushed back on that claim on “Sunday Morning Futures,” saying, “The president has said that, in terms of territories, these are things that Zelenskyy is going to have to decide on. These are things that the Ukrainian side is going to have to agree to.” Another masterclass from Secretary Marco Rubio. A must watch! pic.twitter.com/7NY6EHZHyh — Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) August 17, 2025 Donbas at the Heart of the Deal The Donbas region, home to 6.5 million people, includes Luhansk and Donetsk, according to the Ukrainian Research Institute of Harvard University. Ukraine still holds about 30% of Donetsk. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has vowed not to surrender that land. He insists giving up Donbas would be unconstitutional and warns it could enable future Russian offensives. NOW – Zelensky says Ukraine’s constitution makes giving up land “impossible,” and should only be discussed at a trilateral meeting; if Russia “refuses,” more sanctions “must” be imposed. pic.twitter.com/7wicKa5erW — Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) August 17, 2025 Despite this, Trump urged Zelenskyy to accept Putin’s offer. Zelenskyy will meet Trump at the White House on Monday to discuss the peace proposal. Trump Shifts Toward Peace Agreement Trump initially supported a ceasefire. But after his talks with Putin, he shifted toward a full peace deal. Russia, Trump said, wants a long-term settlement, not just a temporary fix. On Truth Social, Trump said on Saturday: “It was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up.” On Sunday, he said, “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED! President DJT.” Mixed Reaction From Europe European leaders reacted cautiously. While they did not endorse Putin’s plan, they praised Trump’s leadership in seeking peace. (RELATED : The Trade Deal That Changed Everything: U.S.–EU Breakthrough) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told ZDF television, “And the good news is that America is ready to participate in such security guarantees and is not leaving it to the Europeans alone.” About the possibility of a peace agreement, he said, “If that works out, it’s worth more than a ceasefire.” The European Commission issued a statement on Trump’s efforts, saying they: “welcomed President Trump’s efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russia’s war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace.” But skepticism remained. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský posted: “From Putin, we heard the same propagandistic nonsense about the ‘roots of the conflict’ that his state television promotes. The problem is Russian imperialism, not Ukraine’s desire to live freely.” (RELATED: Alaska Hosts Historic Summit Between Trump and Putin) EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas posted on X: “President Trump’s resolve to get a peace deal is vital. The EU and our European partners worked to coordinate with President Trump ahead of Alaska meeting. But the harsh reality is that Russia has no intention of ending this war anytime soon.” Hungarian Prime Minister and friend of Trump, Viktor Orban expressed optimism, writing: “For years we have watched the two biggest nuclear powers dismantle the framework of their cooperation and shoot unfriendly messages back and forth. That has now come to an end. Today the world is a safer place than it was yesterday. May every weekend be at least this good!” Putin and Zelenskyy Respond Putin said his talk with Trump was “very frank.” He added: “We, of course, respect the position of the American administration, which sees the need for a speedy end to military actions. We would like to move to resolving all issues by peaceful means.” Several European leaders will join Zelenskyy in Washington by invitation of President Trump to continue negotiations for a peace deal and to keep them part of the process, as they are close to the region. On Sunday, Zelenskyy met in Brussels with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who will travel with him. Zelenskyy posted on X: “We agreed on the necessity of a ceasefire for subsequent diplomatic steps, effective security guarantees for Ukraine, and continued sanctions pressure on Russia.” I had an important meeting with President of the European Commission @vonderleyen in Brussels. Significant support for Ukraine in the context of the upcoming meeting with President Trump. Today, together and in several formats, we are determining what we will discuss in… pic.twitter.com/I8doSrACqR — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 17, 2025 Tomorrow will be the day to watch. Will Trump be able to make progress with Zelenskyy? Up to this point, he has been unwilling to make concessions. It remains to be seen if both sides can agree on a lasting deal. If anyone can make it happen, it is the Dealmaker-in-Chief. For him, negotiation is an art form he has long mastered. Forget the Headlines. Challenge the Script. Deliver the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t tiptoe through talking points — we swing a machete through the media’s favorite lies. They protect power. We confront it. If you’re sick of censorship, narrative control, and being told what to think — stand with us. Share the story. Wake the people. Because truth dies in silence — and you weren’t made to stay quiet.
Hunter Biden Mocks Melania Trump’s $1B Defamation Lawsuit
Biden Responds to Defamation Threat Hunter Biden isn’t backing down. On Thursday, the former first son responded to Melania Trump’s threat of a $1 billion defamation lawsuit. The claim stems from his statement that Jeffrey Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump. His answer was blunt: “F— that. That’s not going to happen,” he told Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan on YouTube. First Lady Melania Trump has threatened to sue Hunter Biden for $1B unless he retracts his false Epstein claims. “F**k that, that’s not going to happen.” – Hunter Biden Hunter is a low-life loser who belongs in a prison cell. Sue him into oblivion, Melania! pic.twitter.com/cTPE3aXnea — Christian Collins (@CollinsforTX) August 14, 2025 Public Challenge and Refusal to Retract “I also think they’re bullies, and they think that a billion dollars is going to scare me,” he said. “If they want to sit down for a deposition and clarify the nature of the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein — if the president, the first lady want to do that, and all of the known associates around them at the time of whatever time that they met, I’m more than happy to provide them the platform to be able to do it.” (MORE NEWS: Kimmel’s Italian Citizenship: Turning Away From America) Biden made it clear he wouldn’t retract his comments. He brushed off Melania Trump’s warning and doubled down during the interview. He framed the lawsuit threat as intimidation and showed no signs of backing down. Legal Demands and Early Retractions Melania Trump’s legal team sent Biden a formal notice the day before the interview. The letter stated that he could be sued for defamation if he didn’t withdraw the comments. Two others also received similar warnings: James Carville and The Daily Beast. Both complied quickly. Carville deleted an episode of his podcast and issued an apology after speculating about a possible Epstein connection. The Daily Beast removed its article. Unlike Biden, they backed down immediately. Details of the Demand Letter Fox News obtained details of the August 6 demand letter written by Melania Trump’s attorney, Alejandro Brito. In the letter, Brito wrote: “Failure to comply will leave Mrs. Trump with no choice but to pursue any and all legal rights and remedies available to her to recover the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that you have caused her to suffer.” Brito gave Biden a deadline of August 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to issue a full retraction and apology. The letter also accused Biden of trying to profit off Melania’s name and reputation. “Given your vast history of trading on the names of others – including your surname – for your personal benefit, it is obvious that you published these false and defamatory statements about Mrs. Trump to draw attention to yourself,” Brito wrote. Source Material and Public Record Biden defended his comments by citing several sources. (More News: EPA Pushes Green New Deal Into Political Obscurity) “What I said was what I have heard and seen, reported and written, primarily from Michael Wolff, but also dating back all the way to 2019 when the New York Times, I think … reported that sources said that Jeffrey Epstein claimed to be the person to introduce Donald Trump to Melania at that time,” he said in the interview that dropped Thursday. Michael Wolff is known for making controversial and unverified claims about Donald Trump. The 2019 New York Times reference added more fuel to a rumor that’s long been denied by the Trumps. Competing Accounts and Escalating Stakes Both Donald and Melania Trump have firmly denied the Epstein rumor. They maintain that they met in 1998 during New York Fashion Week at a party hosted by Paolo Zampolli at the Kit Kat Club. In her memoir, Melania Trump described their first meeting. She said Trump sat down next to her and started a conversation. “I found myself drawn to his magnetic energy,” she wrote. The couple married in 2005. Despite that timeline, Biden’s remarks have put the former first lady in a defensive position. And now that the deadline has passed with no apology or retraction, it’s unclear whether her legal team will file suit. President Trump’s Reaction President Trump confirmed his support for Melania’s lawsuit on Thursday, saying her told her to “go forward.” “I said, go forward. You know, I’ve done pretty well on these lawsuits lately. Jeffrey Epstein has nothing to do with Melania and I introducing. But they do that. They make up stories,” he told Brian Kilmeade on Fox News radio. Legal Exposure and Political Implications Biden’s refusal to retract has now moved from warning to reality. He continues to dismiss the legal threat and to stand by his statements. That could bring serious legal consequences. If Melania sues and proves her case, the damages could be massive. Biden is no stranger to legal battles. In January, hs father, former President Joe Biden pardoned him before two federal judges in California and Delaware were scheduled to sentence him on separate convictions. Without the pardon, he faced significant prison time. Hunter also sued multiple people for defamation. His targets included Garrett Ziegler, founder of Marco Polo, and Patrick Byrne, former owner of Overstock.com, over the salacious content of a laptop he left with a repairman in Delaware. He allegedly dropped the lawsuits because he ran out of money to pay his attorneys. With the deadline gone and no retraction, the fight could land in court. Legal experts note that public figures like Melania must prove “actual malice” in defamation cases — meaning the defendant knowingly lied or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. That’s a high bar, but not impossible. For now, Biden shows no sign of backing down. Melania’s team is equally firm. Whether the dispute ends with a retraction or a courtroom showdown, the feud between the former first son and the former first lady is set to keep making headlines. Cut through the noise. Drown out the spin. Deliver the truth. At…