Kathmandu— The US is witnessing a surge in controversial actions and statements from the Trump administration, ranging from direct military threats against Oman to alleged attempts to punish Colorado for legal proceedings involving a former county clerk. These developments, reported through Thursday afternoon Central time on August 20, 2026, are raising concerns about escalating domestic political polarization and increasingly lawless foreign policy. US Air Force Major John Watson was placed in pretrial confinement after publicly criticizing the president and calling for resistance to the administration, highlighting a growing willingness among some to risk personal cost to oppose the current government.

Threats of Military Action Against Oman

Last Monday, former President Donald Trump threatened military action against Oman if the nation did not align with his policies toward Iran, stating he would “bomb the shit out of them.” This threat targets a neutral country playing a role in de-escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and is considered a violation of international law. Reports also suggest consideration of tactical nuclear weapons against Iran and a claim by Trump that the Strait of Hormuz is “a new US territory”.

Rise of Far-Right Candidates

The Republican primary for Florida’s Sixth Congressional District saw victory for Randy Fine, a candidate who has made controversial statements about Palestinians and Muslims. His opponent, Dan Bilzerian, a neo-Nazi influencer, openly attacked Fine with antisemitic rhetoric and shared imagery referencing the Holocaust. This outcome underscores the increasing presence of extremist views within the MAGA faction of the Republican party.

Pentagon Official Uses Anti-Trans Slur

Pete Hegseth, described as the head of the US Pentagon under Trump, used an anti-transgender slur during a campaign stop in Iowa. He framed this language as part of a focus on “training, lethality, accountability, discipline, readiness” within the military, signaling a continuation of policies hostile to transgender service members.

Alleged Political Interference in Colorado

Following Governor Jared Polis’s decision to commute the sentence of Tina Peters, a former county clerk convicted of election tampering, reports surfaced detailing an alleged Trump administration plot to punish Colorado. An email revealed that after Trump publicly criticized Peters’ imprisonment, White House officials conducted a “brainstorm call” with federal agencies to discuss cutting funding to the state, resulting in the removal of hundreds of millions of dollars in grants and other actions.

Increased Election Monitoring and Media Restrictions

The Department of Justice announced plans to deploy 1,000 federal “election monitors” across the country for upcoming midterm elections. Simultaneously, reporters covering a groundbreaking event at Vandenberg Space Force Base were stopped at gunpoint and detained by security officers, raising concerns about increasing restrictions on press access.

Airman Speaks Out Against Administration

US Air Force Major John Watson was placed in pretrial confinement after publicly criticizing President Trump on CNN. He argued that the administration is “flagrantly violating the Constitution” and urged citizens to take a stand, even at personal cost. Watson acknowledged the risks of speaking out but emphasized the importance of sacrifice in challenging what he described as an unacceptable situation.

Major Watson’s case highlights a growing resistance movement within the US, while the administration continues to pursue policies that are drawing widespread condemnation and raising questions about the future of American democracy.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.