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Wednesday, January 21, 2026

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE: TRUMP'S WONDERLAND SPEECH LEAVES DAVOS ASKING "HOW DO YOU SPELL 25TH AMENDMENT?"


DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

TRUMP'S WONDERLAND SPEECH LEAVES DAVOS ASKING "HOW DO YOU SPELL 25TH AMENDMENT?"

By A Very Confused Big Education Ape (WTF)

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND — In a speech that would have made the Mad Hatter proud and left Lewis Carroll spinning in his grave with equal parts horror and admiration, President Donald Trump descended upon the World Economic Forum on January 21, 2026, armed with what can only be described as a hookah-fueled fever dream masquerading as foreign policy.

"Off With Their Tariffs!" Screams the Queen of Mar-a-Lago

The question on everyone's lips isn't whether Trump is more Queen of Hearts or Mad Hatter—it's whether he's somehow managed to embody both simultaneously while smoking whatever that caterpillar was puffing on the mushroom.

"Off with their trade deals!" he might as well have shrieked, threatening 10% tariffs on any nation that dared refuse his most modest proposal: that Denmark simply hand over Greenland, you know, for "world protection." Because nothing says "protecting democracy" quite like 19th-century territorial acquisition dressed up in a "golden dome" of missile defense absurdity.

The speech featured such greatest hits as:

  • Claiming he'd "defeated inflation" (the economic equivalent of "I've invented a new kind of croquet using flamingos")
  • Proposing to send Americans $2,000 checks from tariff revenue (because that's definitely how economics works in Wonderland)
  • Insisting there are "no real wind farms in China" (they only make them for "stupid people"—his words, not mine)
  • Declaring NATO allies "unreliable" while simultaneously demanding they appreciate him more

"Curiouser and Curiouser," Said Canadian PM Mark Carney

Meanwhile, in a parallel universe where words still have meaning, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered what adults call a "speech" rather than a "verbal tantrum."

Carney warned of "rupture"—though given Trump's performance, one wonders if he initially wrote "rapture" and autocorrect saved us all from theological confusion. His message was clear: "If you're not at the table, you're on the menu."

In Trump's Wonderland, apparently, Greenland is the appetizer, Canada is the main course, and Europe is dessert—served with a side of 10% tariffs and a generous helping of diplomatic arson.

The Cheshire Cat Grins: Global Reaction


The world is reacting with what diplomatic cables are politely calling "distain and horror" (though "distain" might be a Freudian slip for "disdain" mixed with "stain"—as in, the stain this leaves on international relations).

Europe's Response:

The New Alliances: Like Alice trying to make sense of the Queen's croquet game, middle powers are forming new partnerships:

  • Europe is courting massive infrastructure investments in Greenland
  • Canada is building a "fortress economy"
  • Countries are eyeing partnerships with China and India—because when your traditional ally starts sounding like an imperialist time traveler from 1885, you start exploring your options

Stock Markets Take the Plunge

The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all tumbled faster than Alice down the rabbit hole. Turns out investors don't appreciate it when the President of the United States threatens the entire Western alliance over an island that isn't for sale while claiming he's achieved the "fastest economic turnaround in history."

"How Do You Spell 25th Amendment?"

That's T-W-E-N-T-Y-F-I-F-T-H, for those keeping score at home. Section 4, to be specific—the one about Cabinet members determining whether the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.

Though in fairness to Trump, the 25th Amendment doesn't specifically cover "acting like you've been smoking hookah with a fictional caterpillar before threatening to economically kneecap your oldest allies over territorial expansion fantasies."

The Looking Glass Cracks

French President Macron warned of a "shift toward autocracy" and a world where "international law is trampled underfoot"—which is diplomatic speak for "we've gone through the looking glass, folks, and everything is backwards now."

Denmark's Foreign Minister noted that while Trump's pledge not to use military force was "positive in isolation," the underlying problem remains. Translation: "Great, you won't invade, but you're still trying to buy a country that isn't for sale like it's a golf course in Scotland."

"We're All Mad Here"

The Cheshire Cat was right: we're all mad here. But there's a difference between whimsical Wonderland madness and the kind that makes NATO allies dust off their "Anti-Coercion Instruments" and prepare $100 billion in retaliatory tariffs.

As Trump told Carney: "Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark."

To which the rest of the world collectively responded: "And there it is—the Queen of Hearts energy we were waiting for."

The Moral of the Story

In Lewis Carroll's world, the madness was contained to a dream. Alice woke up. The Queen of Hearts couldn't actually behead anyone. The Mad Hatter's tea party was just that—a party, not policy.

But in Davos 2026, the rabbit hole is real, the tea party is setting foreign policy, and the world is watching in horror as the self-proclaimed "stable genius" threatens to dismantle seven decades of Western alliance over... what exactly? A "golden dome"? Tariff revenue? The chance to add Greenland to his real estate portfolio?

As Canadian PM Carney wisely noted: "Nostalgia is not a strategy."

Neither, it turns out, is channeling Lewis Carroll while high on whatever that caterpillar was smoking.

The world to Trump: Please wake up from this dream. We'd all like to get back to reality now.

Trump to the world: "Off with their heads! I mean, tariffs! I mean... where's my golden dome?"

Curiouser and curiouser, indeed.

The Big Education Ape is currently seeking asylum in a world where foreign policy isn't conducted via threats, mockery, and territorial acquisition fantasies. Applications being accepted through the looking glass.


MORNING NEWS UPDATE: JANUARY 21, 2026

 

MORNING NEWS UPDATE: JANUARY 21, 2026

U.S. News
  1. President Trump's travel disruption to DavosAir Force One turned back shortly after takeoff due to a minor electrical issue, delaying his trip to the World Economic Forum before he eventually arrived.
  2. Immigration crackdown and related developments — Ongoing enforcement actions and policy shifts under the administration continue to make headlines.
  3. Train crashes and safety concerns — Multiple incidents reported, raising questions about infrastructure.
  4. Amazon price changes and consumer impacts — Reports of adjustments amid broader economic pressures.
  5. Usha Vance pregnancy announcement — The Second Lady's pregnancy draws attention in personal/political news.
  6. Immigration Protests in Minneapolis: Tensions have escalated following the killing of a woman during a confrontation with federal agents. This has sparked significant protests and is becoming a central issue for political leaders.

  7. Arctic Air Hits the South: A massive cold front is sweeping through the Southern U.S., with cities like Houston issuing warnings to protect "people, pets, plants, and pipes" from sub-freezing temperatures.

  8. Supreme Court Case - Trump v. Cook: The High Court is hearing arguments today in a significant case involving the President, which could have lasting implications for executive authority.

Politics
  1. Trump's push for U.S. control of Greenland — Dominating discussions, with the president ruling out force but insisting no other nation can secure it, amid transatlantic tensions.
  2. Supreme Court hears arguments on Federal Reserve control — Case involving Trump's bid to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook, as the administration seeks greater influence over the central bank.
  3. Trump's Davos address and tariff threats — Special speech at the World Economic Forum, criticizing Europe's direction and threatening 10% tariffs on EU goods if opposition to Greenland plans persists.
  4. Congressional actions on mining and family support — House Republicans advance bills to reverse Biden-era mining bans in Minnesota and protect funding for pregnancy centers.
  5. Fed politicization accusations — Treasury Secretary accuses Jerome Powell of politicizing the institution amid ongoing pressure.
  6. Trump in Davos: President Trump has arrived at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. Despite a "minor electrical issue" on Air Force One that caused a temporary delay, he is scheduled to deliver a keynote address today focusing on "globalization's failure."

  7. The "Board of Peace": A major political friction point has emerged as the President proposes a "Board of Peace" that he suggests could eventually replace the United Nations. China has confirmed receipt of an invitation to join but has not yet committed.

  8. Greenland Dispute: Diplomatic relations with Europe are strained as the U.S. continues to push for control of Greenland, leading to threats of tariffs against several European nations.

World Affairs
  1. Trump's Greenland acquisition efforts — Escalating U.S.-Europe/Denmark tensions at Davos, with threats of tariffs and negotiations; Trump claims U.S. is uniquely positioned to secure it.
  2. World Economic Forum in Davos — Trump's keynote speech highlights U.S. economic strength, inflation control, and warnings to Europe, overshadowing broader global discussions.
  3. Potential trade war signals — EU and others prepare responses to U.S. tariff threats tied to Greenland.
  4. Venezuela oil cooperation — Trump announces increased Venezuelan oil production in collaboration with the U.S.
  5. NATO and transatlantic alliance strains — Discussions on Greenland's future and implications for alliances.
  6. EU "Trade Bazooka": In response to U.S. tariff threats, French President Emmanuel Macron is urging the European Union to deploy a "financial bazooka" to protect European markets and the transatlantic alliance.

  7. Japan's Snap Election: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called for a snap election on February 8, causing significant ripples in Asian markets and sending Japanese bond yields to record highs.

  8. Panda Diplomacy Ends: The last two giant pandas in Japan are scheduled to return to China next week as the long-standing loan agreement expires, marking a symbolic shift in bilateral ties.

Education
  1. Ongoing Trump administration dismantling of Education Department — Continued efforts to transfer programs, reduce federal role, and address perceived issues like "wokeism."
  2. Democrats rethinking education strategy — Figures like Rahm Emanuel urge focus on achievement over culture wars to regain ground.
  3. Decline in sexual violence investigations — Education Department opens far fewer cases under current leadership, with backlogs growing.
  4. Shifts in civil rights and policies — Guidance on race-conscious initiatives and other changes reshaping federal oversight.
  5. Broader reshaping in first year — Impacts on Head Start, special education, and immigration-related school issues persist into 2026.
  6. AI in Schools (BETT 2026): At the world's largest education technology exhibition in London, companies like Samsung and ASUS are showcasing AI-enabled devices designed to personalize student learning and streamline classroom management.

  7. Funding Uncertainty: School superintendents across the U.S. are bracing for federal funding shifts. While Congress is moving to maintain Title I and IDEA funding, there is ongoing debate over the sudden cancellation and reinstatement of mental health grants.

  8. Remote Learning due to Threats: Wake Preparatory Academy and other regional schools have been forced into remote learning today following a series of security threats, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in K-12 education.

Economy
  1. Trump's Davos claims on U.S. economy — Booming growth, defeated inflation, and productivity gains highlighted, with policy credits.
  2. Stock market volatility from tariff threats — Futures lower amid Greenland-related tensions; major indexes fell sharply earlier.
  3. Global growth outlookIMF projects steady 3.3% for 2026, with technology offsetting trade headwinds.
  4. Tariff pressures on Europe — Threats of 10% on EU goods if Greenland opposition continues, sparking "Sell America" trade fears.
  5. Safe-haven surges — Gold hits records as investors react to geopolitical uncertainty.
  6. Gold Hits Record High: Gold prices have surged past $4,800 per ounce as investors seek safe havens amid the geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the U.S.-Europe trade disputes.

  7. Fed Chair Probe: Investigations into Fed Chair Jerome Powell are complicating the final stretch of the leadership contest, though the President has stated he has no immediate plans to remove him.

  8. Market Growth in China: Despite a plunging birthrate and a real estate crash, China is reporting robust economic growth driven by a resilient export machine.

Technology
  1. AI dominance in VC investments — Escalating valuations and focus on AI startups like OpenAI mark 2026 trends.
  2. Photonics for Quantum pilot launch — 50 million Euro European project to advance photonic chips for quantum tech.
  3. Media technology expertise expansions — Firms like Black Dragon Capital strengthening regional influence via portfolio companies.
  4. Fusion and emerging tech updates — Ongoing developments in fusion energy and related innovations.
  5. Broader tech VC chase — High valuations and AI focus drive investment strategies.
  6. AFEELA Prototype: Sony Honda Mobility has premiered the latest prototype of its "AFEELA" electric vehicle, featuring immersive audio experiences that will be showcased during the upcoming Grammy Awards season.

  7. Global Innovation Rankings: ASUS was named one of the Top 100 Global Innovators of 2026, specifically for its advancements in 5G SEPs (Standard-Essential Patents) and generative AI.

  8. Tech-Powered Power Plants: A new proposal is circulating for major tech companies to fund and build their own power plants to meet the massive energy demands of AI data centers.

Health
  1. Heart disease and stroke statisticsAmerican Heart Association reports declines in deaths but still leading causes; stroke rises to #4.
  2. Medicaid's new sickle cell gene therapy approach — Paying only if treatments work, testing outcome-based strategies.
  3. 'Super agers' genetic advantages — Study shows reduced Alzheimer's risk genes in those with exceptional late-life brain health.
  4. Measles elimination status concerns — Rising U.S. cases prompt discussions on potential loss of status.
  5. Pregnancy center funding protections — Political pushes to maintain resources amid broader health policy debates.
  6. Sickle Cell "Pay-for-Success": The government is testing a new Medicaid strategy for expensive sickle cell treatments: only paying pharmaceutical companies if the therapies actually benefit the patients.

  7. HHS Funding Deal: Congress has reached a tentative deal to boost HHS spending and crack down on drug-industry middlemen, though the legislation still faces hurdles in the Senate.

  8. NIH Advisory Meetings: The National Institutes of Health is holding a series of virtual public meetings today, including sessions with the National Advisory Dental and Craniofacial Research Council.

Sports
  1. Baseball Hall of Fame electionsCarlos Beltran and Andruw Jones inducted.
  2. MLB trades — White Sox trade Luis Robert to Mets; other moves like potential Nolan Arenado discussions.
  3. NFL coaching newsBrian Daboll interviews; Bills GM criticism after firing.
  4. PBA Philippine Cup FinalsSan Miguel vs. TNT Game 1 tips off.
  5. College and other highlights — Rick Pitino nears milestone; various local and pro updates.
  6. College Football Lawsuit: Duke University has filed a lawsuit against its own quarterback, Darian Mensah, to block his transfer to another school, citing a contract that runs through the 2026 season.

  7. SEC Basketball: No. 21 Georgia narrowly defeated Missouri 74–72 after a go-ahead three-point play in the final seconds, marking a season-low scoring performance for the Bulldogs.

  8. NHL Rivalries: The league is seeing a surge in viewership and "national anger" at games, which analysts are attributing to intensified regional rivalries and high-stakes playoff positioning.