logo
GOP lawmakers scheduled to speak at ‘Galactic Federation' conspiracy event

GOP lawmakers scheduled to speak at ‘Galactic Federation' conspiracy event

Yahoo24-02-2025

Illustration by Moor Studio | Getty Images
Two Republican state lawmakers are set to speak at a convention for a fringe conspiracy theory that claims extraterrestrials are helping shape national and global policy.
Sen. Mark Finchem, R-Prescott, and Rep. Leo Biasiucci, R-Lake Havasu, are listed as speakers at 'Quantum Summit 2' which will take place March 8 and 9 in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The event is being put on by a group of individuals who believe in the NESARA/GESARA conspiracy theory.
In its most basic form, NESARA/GESARA is a conspiracy theory that revolves around a proposed piece of economic reforms from the 1990s called the National Economic Security and Recovery Act that conspiracy theorists believe was enacted in secret by President Bill Clinton but was covered up by the U.S. Supreme Court via a gag order and suppressed by the 9/11 attacks, which were orchestrated by President George W. Bush.
GESARA refers to a supposed global version of the economic reforms that adherents similarly believe were instituted and then hidden.
In the early 2000s, the conspiracy theory gained popularity in the early internet days as Shaini Goodwin, calling herself the 'Dove of Oneness,' made bold predictions about NESARA and world events with dubious claims of 'insider knowledge.'
Goodwin is a 'graduate' of a new-age school whose leader often goes on homophobic and antisemitic rants that has been teaming up with QAnon. It is also tied to the NXIVM cult that was investigated for sex crimes and much more.
The conspiracy theory has regained traction in recent years as QAnon adherents have flocked to it due to its many similarities.
NESARA/GESARA has often also been called the 'grandfather' of the QAnon conspiracy movement. Goodwin initially promoted it as part of a larger scam that defrauded investors of millions of dollars, with promises of the erasure of all debts and the eventual abolishment of the Internal Revenue Services.
Believers often also claim that extraterrestrials have been in communication with them or leaders within the movement and are working to promote the NESARA/GESARA agenda. A promotional video for the Cape Canaveral event that Finchem and Biasiucci will speak at mentions discussions around encouraging the U.S. Space Force to work with the 'Galactic Federation.'
Fichem, Biasiucci and Republican leadership in the state House of Representatives and Senate did not respond to requests for comment, including if they are aware of the beliefs of NESARA/GESARA.
The topics to be covered at the summit include:
cryptocurrency
'collaboration between Space Force and the Galactic Federation'
flat earth theories
'the hidden realms of the inner Earth'
'Antarctica's mysteries and strategic importance'
transforming the United States' food supply to 'super organic standards'
chemtrail conspiracy theories
The event includes a litany of speakers with conspiratorial ties and beliefs, from UFOs to a man who claimed that he was the original author of The Matrix movie, a claim that was rejected in court.
Biasiucci and Finchem are not strangers to conspiracy conventions. In 2021, both spoke at a QAnon convention full of conspiracy theories and antisemitic propaganda. It is unclear what Finchem and Biasiucci are scheduled to speak about at Quantum Summit 2.
Finchem has also fundraised with QAnon adherents and had major support from the QAnon community during his failed bid for statewide office in 2022.
The event costs $432 for general admission, $185 for the 'Gala Dinner' and $532 for a VIP ticket.
SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: State lawmaker, husband killed in politically targeted shooting
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: State lawmaker, husband killed in politically targeted shooting

Yahoo

time11 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: State lawmaker, husband killed in politically targeted shooting

BLAINE, Minn. (AP) — A Minnesota lawmaker and her husband were shot and killed in their home early Saturday by someone posing as a police officer and a second lawmaker and his wife were wounded in what Gov. Tim Walz described as 'targeted political violence.' Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her spouse were killed in their Brooklyn Park home. The other lawmaker and his wife were shot multiple times in Champlin, authorities said at a news conference. Authorities were actively searching for a suspect in the hours following the shootings. 'We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence," Walz said at a press conference Saturday. 'Those responsible for this will be held accountable.' The wounded lawmaker was identified as state Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, was first elected in 2012. He previously served as vice chair of the Anoka Hennepin School Board, which manages the largest school district in Minnesota. Hoffman is married and has one daughter and represents a district north of Minneapolis. Hortman was the top House Democratic leader in the state Legislature and a former House speaker. She was first elected in 2004. She and her husband had two children. Drew Evans, superintendent of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said that authorities were actively searching for a suspect. Autopsies will be done to determine extent of injuries, but Hortman and her spouse died from gunshot wounds, Evans said. A 'shelter in place' order was in effect early Saturday. Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson said the suspect was posing as a law enforcement officer. 'Suspect exploited the trust of our uniforms, what our uniforms are meant to represent. That betrayal is deeply disturbing to those of us who wear the badge with honor and responsibility,' he said. Police Chief Mark Bruley said the suspect fled out of the back of Hortman's house after an exchange of gunfire with police. The suspect was dressed like a uniformed officer and operating a vehicle that 'looked exactly like an SUV squad car. It was equipped with lights, emergency lights and looked exactly like a police vehicle,' Bruley said. President Donald Trump said in a White House statement that the FBI would join in the investigation. 'Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law. Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America. God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!' Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Spring, called the attack 'evil' and said she was 'heartbroken beyond words' by the killings of Hortman and her husband, Mark. "With the law enforcement response ongoing and details still emerging, I will simply ask all Minnesotans to please lift up in prayer the victims of this horrific attack, as well as the law enforcement personnel still working to apprehend the perpetrator,' Demuth said in a statement. The shootings happened at a time when political leaders nationwide have been attacked, harassed and intimidated during a time of deep political divisions. GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, released the following statement. 'My family and I know the horror of a targeted shooting all too well," Giffords said. "An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself. Leaders must speak out and condemn the fomenting violent extremism that threatens everything this country stands for.' Giffords was shot in the head in 2011 by a gunman who killed six people and injured 12 others. She stepped down from Congress in January 2012 to focus on her recovery.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: former state House speaker. husband killed in politically targeted shooting
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: former state House speaker. husband killed in politically targeted shooting

Hamilton Spectator

time14 minutes ago

  • Hamilton Spectator

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: former state House speaker. husband killed in politically targeted shooting

BLAINE, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says former state House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed in a politically motivated assassination, and a second lawmaker and his wife were shot and wounded. Authorities were actively searching for a suspect hours after the targeted killings. 'We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence,' Walz said at a press conference Saturday. 'Those responsible for this will be held accountable.' The wounded lawmaker was identified as state Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, was first elected in 2012. He previously served as vice chair of the Anoka Hennepin School Board, which manages the largest school district in Minnesota. Hoffman is married and has one daughter and represents a district north of Minneapolis. Hortman was the top House Democratic leader in the state Legislature and a former House speaker. She was first elected in 2004. She and her husband had two children. Drew Evans, superintendent of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said that authorities were actively searching for a suspect. Autopsies will be done to determine extent of injuries, but Hortman and her spouse died from gunshot wounds, Evans said. A 'shelter in place' order was in effect early Saturday. Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson said the suspect was posing as a law enforcement officer. 'Suspect exploited the trust of our uniforms, what our uniforms are meant to represent. That betrayal is deeply disturbing to those of us who wear the badge with honor and responsibility,' he said. Police Chief Mark Bruley said the suspect fled out of the back of Hortman's house after an exchange of gunfire with police. The suspect was dressed like a uniformed officer and operating a vehicle that 'looked exactly like an SUV squad car. It was equipped with lights, emergency lights and looked exactly like a police vehicle,' Bruley said. President Donald Trump said in a White House statement that the FBI would join in the investigation. 'Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law. Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America. God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!' Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Spring, called the attack 'evil' and said she was 'heartbroken beyond words' by the killings of Hortman and her husband, Mark. 'With the law enforcement response ongoing and details still emerging, I will simply ask all Minnesotans to please lift up in prayer the victims of this horrific attack, as well as the law enforcement personnel still working to apprehend the perpetrator,' Demuth said in a statement. The shootings happened at a time when political leaders nationwide have been attacked, harassed and intimidated during a time of deep political divisions. GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, released the following statement. 'My family and I know the horror of a targeted shooting all too well,' Giffords said. 'An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself. Leaders must speak out and condemn the fomenting violent extremism that threatens everything this country stands for.' Giffords was shot in the head in 2011 by a gunman who killed six people and injured 12 others. She stepped down from Congress in January 2012 to focus on her recovery. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .

Cities brace for large crowds at ‘No Kings' demonstrations across the US
Cities brace for large crowds at ‘No Kings' demonstrations across the US

Yahoo

time27 minutes ago

  • Yahoo

Cities brace for large crowds at ‘No Kings' demonstrations across the US

Cities large and small were preparing for major demonstrations on Saturday across the U.S. against President Donald Trump. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] News Center 7 crews will be on scene of a rally in Dayton and will have the latest on News Center 7 at 6:00 & 11:00. The demonstrations come on the heels of protests flaring up around the country over federal immigration enforcement raids that began last week, and Trump ordering National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles, where protesters blocked a freeway and set cars on fire. TRENDING STORIES: 1 hospitalized after shooting in Montgomery County Israel strikes Iran; 'All of Israel under attack' from retaliatory missiles Video released of moments leading up to officer shooting armed man Police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades while officials enforced curfews in Los Angeles and Democratic governors called Trump's Guard deployment 'an alarming abuse of power' that 'shows the Trump administration does not trust local law enforcement.' Governors and city officials vowed to protect the right to protest and to show no tolerance for violence. Republican governors in Virginia, Texas, Nebraska and Missouri are mobilizing National Guard troops to help law enforcement manage demonstrations. There will be 'zero tolerance' for violence, destruction or disrupting traffic, and 'if you violate the law, you're going to be arrested,' Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin told reporters Friday. In Missouri, Gov. Mike Kehoe issued a similar message, vowing to take a proactive approach and not to 'wait for chaos to ensue.' Nebraska's governor on Friday also signed an emergency proclamation for activating his state's National Guard, a step his office called 'a precautionary measure in reaction to recent instances of civil unrest across the country.' Organizers say that one march will go to the gates of Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis warned demonstrators that the 'line is very clear' and not to cross it. Governors also urged calm. On social media, Washington state Gov. Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, called for peaceful protests over the weekend, to ensure Trump doesn't send military to the state. 'Donald Trump wants to be able to say that we cannot handle our own public safety in Washington state,' Ferguson said. In a statement Friday, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, urged 'protestors to remain peaceful and calm as they exercise their First Amendment right to make their voices heard.' Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said his administration and state police are working with police in Philadelphia ahead of what organizers estimate could be a crowd approaching 100,000 people. Some law enforcement agencies announced they were ramping up efforts for the weekend. In California, state troopers will be on 'tactical alert,' which means all days off are canceled for all officers. Why is it called 'No Kings'? The 'No Kings' theme was orchestrated by the 50501 Movement to support democracy and against what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration. The name 50501 stands for 50 states, 50 protests, one movement. Protests earlier this year have denounced Trump and billionaire adviser Elon Musk. Protesters have called for Trump to be 'dethroned' as they compare his actions to those of a king and not a democratically elected president. Why are they protesting on Saturday? The No Kings Day of Defiance has been organized to reject authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics, and the militarization of the country's democracy, according to a statement by organizers. Organizers intend for the protests to counter the Army's 250th anniversary celebration, which Trump has ratcheted up to include a military parade, which is estimated to cost $25 million to $45 million, and which the Army expects to attract as many as 200,000 people. The event will feature hundreds of military vehicles and aircraft and thousands of soldiers. It also happens to be Trump's 79th birthday and Flag Day. 'The flag doesn't belong to President Trump. It belongs to us,' the 'No Kings' website says. 'On June 14th, we're showing up everywhere he isn't — to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings.' What is planned at the 'No Kings' protests? Protests in nearly 2,000 locations are scheduled around the country, from city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, organizers said. Demonstrations are expected to include speeches and marches, organizers said in a call Wednesday. The group says a core principle behind all 'No Kings' events is a commitment to nonviolent action, and participants are expected to seek to de-escalate any confrontation. No weapons of any kind should be taken to 'No Kings' events, according to the website. How many people are expected to participate? The No Kings Day of Defiance is expected to be the largest single-day mobilization since Trump returned to office, organizers said. Organizers said they are preparing for millions of people to take to the streets across all 50 states and commonwealths. The Associated Press contributed to this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store