{"Articles":[ {"id":"4532568-1776353575", "title":"Trump says Iran talks to continue over weekend and Tehran ‘agreed’ to no nuclear weapons", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4532568%2Ftrump-iran-peace-negotations%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump suggested on Thursday that a second round of in-person peace negotiations with Iran could take place over the weekend. “Probably maybe over the weekend,” Trump told reporters about when a second round could begin. The president also praised the U.S. sea blockade against Iran, despite the ongoing two-week ceasefire deal that has […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> suggested on Thursday that a second round of in-person peace negotiations with Iran<\/a> could take place over the weekend.<\/p>

\"Probably maybe over the weekend,\" Trump told reporters about when a second round could begin. <\/p>

The president also praised the U.S. sea blockade against Iran, despite the ongoing two-week ceasefire deal that has paused the Iran war.<\/p>

\"The blockade has been incredible,\" he said. \"It's held. They're not doing any business. They're unable to do any business because of the blockade.\"<\/p>

The president appeared confident that an end to the war would come soon. \"I think we're very close to making a deal with Iran,\" he said.<\/p>

\"And if that happens, oil goes way down, prices go way down, inflation goes way down,\" he added. \"And you're going to have, much more importantly than even that, you won't have nuclear holocaust.\"<\/p>

Trump also said Iran had agreed to no longer work toward obtaining a nuclear weapon, a major sticking point for the administration: \"Iran's agreed to that, and they've agreed to it, very powerfully,\" he said. Tehran, however, has not publicly committed to abandoning its nuclear program.<\/p>

\"We have a very good relationship with Iran right now, as hard as it is to believe,\" Trump said on Thursday. \"And I think it's a combination of about four weeks of bombing and a very powerful blockade.\"<\/p>

The first round of peace talks, led by Vice President JD Vance<\/a> in Islamabad, Pakistan, this past weekend, failed to produce a long-term end to the war.<\/p>

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday that a second round of negotiations will likely also take place in Islamabad, praising Pakistan as a crucial partner in the negotiations.<\/p>

THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION\u2019S TAX DAY STRATEGY OVERSHADOWED BY IRAN WAR<\/a><\/p>

Trump on Thursday also announced a 10-day ceasefire<\/a> between Israel and Lebanon. The deal, according to Trump, also includes the terrorist organization Hezbollah, which operates in Lebanon. Iran has pushed for Israel to stop bombing Hezbollah as part of the conditions for ending its war with the U.S.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26106658144165.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532127-1776352879", "title":"Eleven House Republicans vote to rebuke Trump and protect 350,000 Haitian migrants", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4532127%2Feleven-house-republicans-vote-rebuke-trump-protect-haitian-migrants%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Eleven House Republicans broke with their party and voted with nearly every single Democrat to overturn President Donald Trump‘s effort to end temporary protection status for Haitian migrants. A three-year extension of TPS for Haiti passed the House in a 224-204 vote. The measure only passed thanks to the help of the GOP defectors. By […]", "description":""

Eleven House Republicans<\/a> broke with their party and voted with nearly every single Democrat<\/a> to overturn President Donald Trump<\/a>'s effort to end temporary protection status for Haitian migrants.<\/p>

A three-year extension of TPS for Haiti passed the House in a 224-204 vote. The measure only passed thanks to the help of the GOP defectors. By voting to extend TPS, the House could shield 350,000 Haitian nationals from deportation for at least three years.<\/p>

House Democrats were able to force the vote using a discharge petition. The parliamentary procedure, rarely used, allows legislation to bypass the committee process and come right to the House floor for a vote if it has the support of at least 218 lawmakers.<\/p>

Four Republicans originally joined all Democrats to reach the 218-signature threshold. Those original Republicans were Reps. Mike Lawler (R-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL).<\/p>

On Thursday, those four were joined by seven other GOP or GOP-adjacent lawmakers to hand Trump a defeat. The seven additional members were Reps. Kevin Kiley (I-CA), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Michael Turner (R-OH), and Mike Carey (R-OH).<\/p>

Many of the Republicans who voted for the measure represent districts with sizable Haitian immigration communities.<\/p>

The measure now heads to the Senate, where it will need at least 60 votes to overcome the filibuster. If the bill does pass the Senate, Trump is likely to veto, meaning two-thirds of both chambers of Congress would need to vote to override.<\/p>Maria Elvira Salazar

Salazar represents a large Haitian community in Miami and its suburbs in South Florida. She has also championed a controversial immigration reform bill that would give a pathway to legal status to millions of illegal immigrants. The Florida Republican has also been an outspoken critic of mass deportations.<\/p>

\"In Congress, I\u2019ve been one of the strongest voices fighting for TPS protections for Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Haiti, and leading the fight for Cubans seeking a legal, lasting solution,\" Salazar wrote on X earlier this month<\/a>. \"Because the reality is clear. They cannot safely return home.\"<\/p>Mike Lawler

Lawler, who faces an uphill reelection battle, represents a district with the second-largest Haitian population in the country.<\/p>

The New York Republican spoke at a press conference Wednesday in support of the measure, highlighting the devastating effects ending TPS for Haiti would have on his district. <\/p>Nicole Malliotakis

Nicole Malliotakis told the Washington Examiner on Wednesday that letting TPS expire would be \u201cuncompassionate and misguided.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ve heard from nursing homes in our district that will lose skilled and dedicated nursing staff if TPS is not renewed,\u201d she said. \u201cThese are Haitian immigrants who are working, paying taxes, and contributing to our economy and fulfilling a healthcare need.\u201d<\/p>Brian Fitzpatrick

Fitzpatrick, also holding a competitive seat, is a centrist Republican not afraid to buck his party. <\/p>

Fitzpatrick voted against Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year and then led a bipartisan effort to extend Obamacare subsidies.<\/p>Don Bacon

Bacon, a Trump critic, is retiring at the end of his term after holding his increasingly blue-trending seat centered on Omaha, Nebraska, since 2017.<\/p>

\"Removing TPS status for Haitians living in the United States would cost 350,000 workers their ability to work at a time when we\u2019re already facing serious workforce shortages,\" Bacon wrote on X<\/a>. <\/p>Kevin Kiley

Kiley left the Republican Party earlier this year to become an independent, although he still caucuses with the House GOP.<\/p>

Kiley was drawn out of his current district after California voters passed a redistricted congressional map in response to the Texas legislature doing the same.<\/p>Carlos Gimenez

Gimenez, the only Cuban-born member of Congress, has been \"sounding the alarm\" on the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and how it affects his district.<\/p>Mario Diaz-Balart

Diaz-Balart has been a longtime supporter of TPS for Haiti, after writing a letter to former President Barack Obama requesting this status following an earthquake in the country.<\/p>

\u201cI am grateful that President Obama has granted TPS for Haitians currently residing in the U.S.,\" he wrote in 2010 <\/a>when Obama granted Haitians TPS. \"This designation is timely, compassionate, and much needed. My office is ready to assist Haitian nationals seeking TPS.\u201d<\/p>Rich McCormick, Michael Turner, and Mike Carey

McCormick, Turner, and Carey had not voted for the measure on any procedural votes ahead of the final passage on Thursday.<\/p>

Carey worked in a bipartisan manner in 2024 to urge the Biden administration to designate TPS for Mauritania. Both he and Turner represent sizable Haitian populations centered on Springfield, Ohio.<\/p>

AMNESTY OR DIGNITY? IMMIGRATION BILL SHOWS GOP SPLIT OVER MASS DEPORTATIONS<\/a><\/p>

The Washington Examiner reached out to McCormick, Turner, and Carey's offices. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103630698808_4327ce.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532667-1776351995", "title":"Daily on Energy: Europe is running out of jet fuel, White House pressures oil drillers, and EPA unveils AI water reuse plan", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fdaily-on-energy%2F4532667%2Fdaily-on-energy-europe-jet-fuel-white-house-oil-drillers-epa-water-reuse%2F", "byline":"Callie Patteson and Maydeen Merino", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"WHAT’S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Thursday, Daily on Energy readers! We’re less than one week away from baby elephant Linh Mai making her public debut at the Washington, D.C., Smithsonian National Zoo! Linh Mai is the first Asian elephant to be born at the zoo in nearly 25 years and has been out […]", "description":""

WHAT\u2019S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Thursday, Daily on Energy readers! We\u2019re less than one week away from baby elephant Linh Mai making her public debut at the Washington, D.C., Smithsonian National Zoo! Linh Mai is the first Asian elephant to be born at the zoo in nearly 25 years and has been out of the public eye since she was born in early February. \ud83d\udc18\ud83d\udc18\ud83d\udc18 Visitors will be able to see the friendly baby elephant starting April 22, which is also Earth Day. <\/p>

As the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, European leaders are warning that the war will tighten flight availability across Europe because of jet fuel shortages. In fact, many airlines could run out of fuel in just six weeks. \u2708\ufe0f\ud83d\udee2\ufe0f<\/p>

Plus, today\u2019s newsletter takes a closer look at a mining ban in northern Minnesota that the Senate voted to roll back. We have everything you need to know below! \ud83c\udf32\ud83e\udea8\u26cf\ufe0f<\/p>

Welcome to Daily on Energy, written by Washington Examiner energy and environment writers Callie Patteson (@CalliePatteson<\/a>) and Maydeen Merino (@MaydeenMerino<\/a>). Email cpatteson@washingtonexaminer dot com or mmerino@washingtonexaminer dot com for tips, suggestions, calendar items, and anything else. If a friend sent this to you and you\u2019d like to sign up, click here<\/a>. If signing up doesn\u2019t work, shoot us an email, and we\u2019ll add you to our list.<\/p>

EUROPE\u2019S JET FUEL COUNTDOWN: Your \u201cEuro summer\u201d plans could be in trouble as European airlines are running out of fuel. <\/p>

International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol told<\/a> the Associated Press earlier today that Europe might just have \u201csix weeks or so [of] jet fuel left.\u201d The longer the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the worse the economic effects of the war will be, he warned, saying \u201ceverybody is going to suffer.\u201d <\/p>

\u201cI can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be canceled as a result of lack of jet fuel,\u201d Birol said of Europe. <\/p>

WHITE HOUSE LOOKS TO INDUSTRY TO EASE OIL STRAINS: The White House is reportedly upping its pressure on oil and gas firms to increase production levels in its latest bid to lower crude prices.<\/p>

The details: Four people with direct knowledge of the conversations told<\/a> Politico that Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum planned to speak with executives from Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Occidental Petroleum, Continental Resources, and other major firms today over the phone.\u00a0<\/p>

During the call, Wright and Burgum reportedly plan to ask the executives to increase their drilling operations. Wright first made a bid to oil and gas firms during CERAWeek last month, when he said high prices brought on by the war should encourage producers to increase their operations. <\/p>

The industry\u2019s position: It\u2019s a steep ask from the administration, as drilling new wells is a months-long process that costs millions of dollars. Most drillers and producers look for signs of consistent pricing within the markets before making significant changes to their investment decisions or operations in the short-term. And, as prices have been on a rollercoaster around the $100 per barrel line for the last six weeks, executives have already said that they\u2019re wary of drilling more. <\/p>

In the latest Dallas Fed survey of oil and gas executives, released<\/a> last month, roughly half of the exploration and production executives surveyed said the number of wells they expect to drill in 2026 is unchanged.  <\/p>

Even Chevron executives have told Callie that their plan is to keep production stable over the next couple of years. Kim McHugh, vice president of Chevron\u2019s shale and tight base business, said that in the DJ Basin alone, the company plans to keep production at around 400,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day over the next five years. <\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s not about volume, it\u2019s about what we can create, the cash flow that we can create with the volume,\u201d McHugh said.<\/p>

SPEAKING OF PRICES: Oil prices remain elevated today, but still below the $100 per barrel line. Around 3 p.m. EDT, international benchmark Brent Crude was up 4.38% and selling at $99.09 per barrel. West Texas Intermediate was also up 3.22% and priced at $94.23. <\/p>

Meanwhile, gasoline prices have steadily fallen in recent days, with the national average sitting at $4.093 per gallon as of today. This is down from $4.166 per gallon one week ago. <\/p>

President Donald Trump touted<\/a> this small dip in gasoline prices, insisting to reporters earlier today that prices at the pump are \u201cnot very high.\u201d <\/p>

\u201cIf you look at what they were supposed to be in order to get rid of a nuclear weapon with the danger that entails,\u201d Trump said. \u201cSo the gas prices have come down very much over the last three, four days.\u201d<\/p>

EPA INTRODUCES WATER REUSE ACTION PLAN FOR DATA CENTERS: The Environmental Protection Agency relaunched an initiative to utilize recycled water to power key industries, such as microchip fabrication facilities and data centers. <\/p>

The initiative, called the Water Reuse Action Plan (WRAP) 2.0, is a partnership with states and local governments to promote water recycling. WRAP was introduced in the first Trump administration. The initiative comes as the administration has supported the expansion of data centers, which demand a significant amount of water for cooling. <\/p>

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said that water reuse is a top topic in conversations with leaders in the artificial intelligence industry. <\/p>

These tech companies are \u201cvery aware and very proud about their efforts to lean into water reuse because I think they believe this is the only way that their project is feasible for many reasons \u2013 from the economics to the public vetting of a project,\u201d Zeldin said.<\/p>

ZELDIN DEFENDS ENDANGERMENT FINDING REPEAL: Meanwhile, Zeldin said he is \u201cconfident\u201d with the decision the agency made to overturn the 2009 Endangerment Finding. <\/p>

Zeldin, spoke at the Semafor World Economy 2026 conference earlier today, where he defended his agency\u2019s move to repeal the landmark climate finding that greenhouse gas emissions pose a threat to public health and are subject to regulation. <\/p>

The Trump EPA has argued that the agency does not have the authority to regulate emissions under the Clean Air Act. <\/p>

\u201cI am very confident in the decision that we made,\u201d Zeldin said. \u201cWhen you look at Section 202 of the Clean Air Act, it doesn't say anything about combating global climate change.\u201d <\/p>

The agency\u2019s move has been met with legal challenges<\/a> by states, environmentalists, and health groups. Zeldin was asked whether the agency was prepared to defend its decision if litigation reaches the Supreme Court. <\/p>

\u201cEvery single litigation that we are involved with, we instantly lean into defending the merit of the decisions that we make,\u201d Zeldin said. <\/p>

Along with repealing the finding, the EPA also eliminated tailpipe emission standards for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and engines for model years 2012 to 2027 and beyond. It also ended fuel-saving car features, such as the stop-start option. The administration claims that consumers strongly dislike the car feature. <\/p>

AN UPDATE ON FERC\u2019S EXPECTED DATA CENTER RULING: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission announced this morning that it plans to issue a ruling in just a few months on how large loads like data centers can connect to the already straining grid.<\/p>

Quick reminder: In October, Energy Secretary Wright directed<\/a> FERC to initiate a rulemaking process to accelerate the connection of large loads to the grid. Wright offered several recommendations, such as requiring loads to pay full network upgrade costs. At the time, Wright gave<\/a> FERC until April 30, 2026 to issue a final ruling. <\/p>

Ruling delayed: FERC has said it will take action by June 2026 on the ruling. FERC chairman Laura Swett told reporters that the order of intent regarding the ruling demonstrates how much the commission and staff has been working on this issue.<\/p>

\u201cThis is an all hands on deck effort,\u201d Swett said. \u201cFERC staff has been working tirelessly around the clock since it started, it is clear that we need a little more time to get it right for the rest of the country. And I personally am committed to delivering bold action, and in working with my colleagues to do just that.\u201d <\/p>

Some pushback: FERC has never asserted jurisdiction over retail load interconnections, which have historically been regulated by the states. Industry groups, including the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, cautioned FERC against regulating large loads like data centers, saying it would interfere with the states\u2019 ability to set retail rates. <\/p>

Former FERC chairman Mark Christie has also advised against using federal jurisdiction for data center interconnection, saying it could threaten to raise retail consumer costs and reliability. <\/p>

\u201cFERC has never even tried to regulate retail load interconnections and should leave it to the states, who have done it for decades, know what they are doing from experience and are perfectly capable of meeting these challenges,\u201d Christie wrote<\/a> in an Utility Dive opinion. <\/p>

Christie\u2019s opposition on the issue has been known for months. As the Trump administration has prioritized building out data centers quickly to lead in the AI race, Christie was replaced<\/a> as FERC chairman last summer.  <\/p>

INTERIOR RESPONDS TO TOTALENERGIES DEAL PUSHBACK: As we touched on yesterday, the Department of the Interior is facing criticism from a former agency solicitor over its buyout agreement with TotalEnergies that killed two offshore wind farms along the East Coast. <\/p>

A department spokesperson defended the deal when asked for comment, telling Daily on Energy that the agency is \u201cadvancing American energy through reliable energy sources that make sense.\u201d <\/p>

\u201cEvery decision the Department and administration makes is with American wallets, families, and communities in mind. The Trump administration is sending a clear signal that we\u2019re refocusing on energy you can count on; prioritizing baseload power over unreliable, unsecure renewable sources,\u201d the spokesperson said. <\/p>

In case you forgot: Former agency solicitor Tony Irish has accused Interior of breaking the law through its settlement agreement with the French energy major, as it is paying the company through the Justice Department's Judgment Fund. There are strict rules on when agencies can access the funds, including to settle imminent litigation. Irish has claimed the agreement does not meet these requirements, and therefore does not have the basis of a pre-litigation settlement. <\/p>

Regarding these allegations the spokesperson said, \u201cAs for the former disgruntled employee, his claims about this project are not just outdated, they\u2019re based on assumptions and not facts. He\u2019s been out of the loop for so long that he can\u2019t offer a credible perspective.\u201d<\/p>

SENATE OVERTURNS MINNESOTA MINING BAN: Senators voted to pass a measure that would lift a mining ban in northern Minnesota imposed by the Biden administration. <\/p>

The Senate passed a Congressional Review Act resolution, 50-49, that would cancel the Biden administration\u2019s 20-year mining ban on 225,504 acres in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, near the Canadian border. <\/p>

The resolution passed the House in January and will now be sent to Trump\u2019s desk for his signature. <\/p>

The Boundary Waters are located within the Superior National Forest, which contains reserves of copper, nickel, and cobalt. The bill lifts the mining ban, essentially opening up the land for future mining projects. <\/p>

Democrats argued that Republicans are misusing the CRA, stating it is not intended to overturn public land orders. <\/p>

Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota said today\u2019s Senate vote is using an \"unprecedented mechanism.\u201d <\/p>

She added, \u201cNow, for the first time, the CRA is being used to rescind a public land order that bans mining in the Boundary Waters for 20 years.\u201d<\/p>

GOP \u2018no\u2019 votes: Sens. Susan Collins and Thom Tillis voted with Democrats against the resolution. <\/p>

Read more by Maydeen about the CRA measure here<\/a>. <\/p>

ICYMI \u2013 WRIGHT SAYS REVIEW OF BIDEN-ERA PROJECTS COMPLETE: Energy Secretary Wright said yesterday afternoon that the Department of Energy\u2019s review of Biden administration approved projects has been completed \u2013 and most projects are moving forward. <\/p>

\u201cWe did a rigorous business evaluation, unfortunately, of a lot of projects that didn\u2019t even have a business plan or a credible pathway to success,\u201d Wright said in a hearing on the 2027 fiscal year budget. \u201cBut I am happy to say that effort has finally come to a completion.\u201d <\/p>

He said that the majority of projects passed the administration\u2019s review, later clarifying that roughly 80% of the more than 2,200 projects evaluated have moved forward. <\/p>

Some of these projects are moving forward as they were started under the Biden administration, while other deals are being modified. <\/p>

He acknowledged that the agency made some mistakes in its review and was willing to reengage on various projects as needed. Several projects that the administration previously said it was terminating funding for have been named on the list of projects that will be retained or modified by the agency.<\/p>

The full list of the projects that have moved through the agency\u2019s review can be found here<\/a>. <\/p>

RUNDOWN <\/p>

Canary Media<\/a> Big grid batteries are finally on a roll in New England<\/p>

The Guardian<\/a> Puerto Rico\u2019s rainforest center reborn: in pictures<\/p>

Straight Arrow News<\/a> What 50 years of oil shocks explain about the future of gas prices<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/DOE.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530632-1776351674", "title":"Trump says Hezbollah will be part of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4530632%2Ftrump-hezbollah-israel-lebanon-ceasefire%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump said Hezbollah would be part of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, mere hours after announcing a 10-day pause in hostilities between the two feuding nations. “They’re going to be having a ceasefire, and that’ll include Hezbollah,” Trump said on Thursday afternoon before departing for Las Vegas. Trump also said he had […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> said Hezbollah<\/a> would be part of the ceasefire between Israel<\/a> and Lebanon<\/a>, mere hours after announcing a 10-day pause in hostilities between the two feuding nations.<\/p>

\"They're going to be having a ceasefire, and that'll include Hezbollah,\" Trump said on Thursday afternoon before departing for Las Vegas.<\/p>

Trump also said he had a \"great talk\" with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu <\/a>and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Earlier in the day, Trump announced a ceasefire between the two nations that will begin at 5 p.m. Thursday.<\/p>

The original announcement did not include Hezbollah in the ceasefire deal. But Trump again clarified that the deal does in fact apply to the group.<\/p>

\"I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon and they're going to take care of Hezbollah,\" Trump told reporters. \"They're going to be working on Hezbollah right now, but we'll have an agreement between Israel, very importantly, and Lebanon.\"<\/p>

Israel had continued to attack Hezbollah, the U.S.-designated terrorist organization based in Lebanon, even after the United States and Iran had agreed to a two-week ceasefire earlier this month.<\/p>

Iran had repeatedly claimed that any permanent ceasefire deal with the U.S. must include Israel ceasing its attack against Hezbollah. <\/p>

TRUMP ANNOUNCES 10-DAY CEASEFIRE BETWEEN ISRAEL AND LEBANON<\/a><\/p>

Trump also claimed leaders from Israel and Lebanon will meet at the White House in the coming days, although that could change as the leaders negotiate the exact timing of their meeting.<\/p>

\"They'll be meeting, probably coming to the White House, over the next four or five days,\" Trump said. \"That'll be the first time they met in 44 years, which is pretty unneighborly.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26101754825241.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532534-1776350461", "title":"Sports media care more about political outrage than sports", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4532534%2Fsports-media-care-more-about-political-outrage-than-sports%2F", "byline":"Zachary Faria", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Much like liberal political media, sports media have lost track of their purpose and become a collection of petulant whiners hoping to whip up controversy. They would rather outrage their readers than inform them. The Athletic, the once interesting sports outlet that has been consumed by the New York Times, has a major story as baseball season kicks […]", "description":""

Much like liberal political media, sports<\/a> media have lost track of their purpose and become a collection of petulant whiners hoping to whip up controversy. They would rather outrage their readers than inform them.<\/p>

The\u00a0Athletic, the once interesting sports outlet that has been consumed by the New York Times, has a major\u00a0story<\/a>\u00a0as baseball<\/a> season kicks into gear. This story is a grand bit of news, \u201cImportant work,\u201d according to one of its baseball reporters, Stephen Nesbitt. The groundbreaking piece of reporting is that the Texas Rangers have added a statue of a Texas Ranger to their stadium, which, of course, must be racist.<\/p>

SAGE STEELE SAYS ESPN CELEBRATING LIA THOMAS WAS A \u2018TURNING POINT\u2019 FOR HER AT COMPANY<\/a><\/p>

The statue in dispute is a generic Texas Ranger that is said to be\u00a0modeled\u00a0after a particular Texas Ranger, Jay Banks. It is not a statue honoring Banks, to be clear. Writing for the\u00a0Athletic, Sam Blum then delves into the history of Banks, who, again, supposedly served as the\u00a0model\u00a0for this statue of a\u00a0generic\u00a0Texas Ranger.<\/p>

Now, I want you to picture yourself as a big baseball fan looking for baseball news on a particular day. The MLB<\/a> season is about 20 games in, meaning first impressions of teams are being put to the test. You click over to the Athletic, a website that presumably covers sports, to look for news and analysis, and you are greeted with some 2,000 words about a man (who was not a baseball player) whose form may have served as the model for a statue of a generic law enforcement man to be put on display inside the ballpark of the Rangers.<\/p>

The obvious question is: Who cares?<\/p>

SPORTS REPORTERS HELPED KILL SPORTS REPORTING<\/a><\/p>

This isn\u2019t the kind of story that someone who follows baseball would care about, because it isn\u2019t a baseball (or sports) story at all. This is the\u00a0Athletic\u00a0(which is owned by the\u00a0New York Times) attempting to punish the Rangers for the organization\u2019s perceived politics. This is made obvious because Blum uses some of those 2,000 or so words to whine that the Rangers didn\u2019t do an \u201cLGBTQ Pride Night,\u201d played full capacity games during the COVID-19 pandemic, and didn\u2019t boycott games over the death of George Floyd. It is more obvious when you remember that the national media want to force the Rangers to be\u00a0renamed<\/a>, claiming that their organizational identity is itself racist.<\/p>

This piece would be a snoozer if the\u00a0New York Times\u00a0itself had published it. Coming from an ostensible sports outlet such as the\u00a0Athletic, it is even more out of place. This is exactly the kind of liberal outrage-mongering that has overwhelmed legacy sports media, corrupting it into a tool of Democratic politics at the expense of people who simply want to keep up with their favorite teams and favorite leagues. Legacy sports media care less about sports than they do about pushing the liberal activist ball forward, and that is why the\u00a0Athletic\u00a0has decayed to the point that this is considered \u201cimportant work.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26104082076958-e1776365605274.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532571-1776350310", "title":"Trump says gas prices are ‘not very high’ compared to cost of nuclear Iran", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4532571%2Ftrump-gas-prices-not-very-high-nuclear-iran%2F", "byline":"Barnini Chakraborty", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump said on Thursday that gas prices were “not very high” compared to the cost of allowing Iran to potentially get a nuclear weapon. Trump was asked by reporters how long Americans would have to deal with elevated gas prices while departing the White House for a visit to Nevada. “Well, they’re not […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> said on Thursday that gas prices<\/a> were \"not very high\" compared to the cost of allowing Iran to potentially get a nuclear weapon. <\/p>

Trump was asked by reporters how long Americans would have to deal with elevated gas prices while departing the White House for a visit to Nevada<\/a>.<\/p>

\"Well, they're not very high,\" Trump said. \"If you look at what they were supposed to be in order to get rid of a nuclear weapon with the danger that entails. So the gas prices have come down very much over the last three, four days.\"<\/p>

\"We have to make sure that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon, because if they do, you want to talk about problems, you'd have problems,\" the president added. <\/p>

According to\u00a0AAA<\/a>, the national average price for a gallon of gas stood at $4.10 on Wednesday. California had the highest average prices in the country, at $5.87 per gallon.<\/p>

The White House has argued that the rise in gas prices is a temporary result of Iran<\/a> blocking oil from passing through the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that discussions with Middle Eastern counterparts about the Iran oil crisis <\/a>left him hopeful that relief could come relatively soon.\u00a0<\/p>

BESSENT 'OPTIMISTIC' GAS PRICES WILL FALL TO $3 A GALLON BY MIDSUMMER<\/a><\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m optimistic that sometime between June 20 and September 20, we can have $3 gas again,\u201d Bessent said at a White House press\u00a0briefing. He added that the pace of any decline will hinge on how negotiations tied to the war in Iran unfold.<\/p>

Political strategists from both parties said the uncertainty poses a challenge for Republicans seeking to hold on to their House and Senate majorities, as higher energy costs driven by the war ripple through the broader economy.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-1fptvmywr-1776363668049.jpg?1776350267&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532559-1776350299", "title":"Bowser reinstates juvenile curfew in DC after council let it expire", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4532559%2Fmuriel-bowser-reinstate-juvenile-curfew-dc%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Mayor Muriel Bowser reinstated a citywide juvenile curfew Thursday through an emergency order, hours after the Washington D.C. Council allowed a law enabling targeted curfew zones to expire.  The order imposes an 11 p.m. curfew on anyone under 18 from April 16 until May 1, and restores authority for the police chief to designate curfew […]", "description":""

Mayor Muriel Bowser<\/a> reinstated a citywide juvenile curfew Thursday through an emergency order, hours after the Washington D.C.<\/a> Council allowed a law enabling targeted curfew zones to expire. <\/p>

The order imposes an 11 p.m. curfew on anyone under 18 from April 16 until May 1, and restores authority for the police chief to designate curfew zones.\u00a0<\/p>

Bowser said the move was necessary to maintain public safety after \u201cseveral weeks of disorderly behavior\u201d involving large groups of teenagers<\/a> gathering in the Navy Yard neighborhood.\u00a0<\/p>

The emergency declaration allows the Metropolitan Police Department\u2019s interim chief to designate zones where youths under 18 cannot gather in groups of nine or more starting as early as 8 p.m. if authorities believe public safety is at risk.\u00a0<\/p>

The action comes after the D.C. Council<\/a> declined to extend<\/a> the Juvenile Curfew Second Temporary Amendment Act, which expired on Wednesday. At the time, Bowser urged lawmakers to renew the measure, warning that letting it lapse during spring break could lead to more disorder.\u00a0<\/p>

Instead, the mayor opted to use emergency powers as a stopgap measure until the council can revisit the issue at its next meeting on April 21. <\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s not the only tool, but we need it,\u201d she told reporters Wednesday night. \u201cWhen we have a curfew zone, and we tell children<\/a> not to take over an area, it has worked.\u201d<\/p>

Under the curfew law, minors are generally prohibited from being in public during late-night hours unless they are accompanied by a parent, traveling to or from work or school, or engaged in other exempted activities. Parents can face fines or community service if their children violate the rules.<\/p>

BOWSER UNVEILS PLAN TO BUILD NEW JAIL AND REHABILITATE YOUTH IN BUDGET PROPOSAL<\/a><\/p>

The curfew policy has been a recurring point of tension between Bowser and the council. Supporters argue it provides a necessary tool to prevent violence and large-scale disturbances. Critics, on the other hand, have questioned its effectiveness and raised concerns about increased police<\/a> interactions with young people.\u00a0<\/p>

The policy was first enacted in 2025 in response to a series of disruptive and sometimes violent youth gatherings, dubbed \u201cteen takeovers,\u201d in neighborhoods such as Navy Yard and U Street. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/AP25311772487581.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530620-1776350228", "title":"Democrats governed California into the ground. Now they can’t field a candidate", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4530620%2Fcalifornia-democrats-cannot-field-a-candidate%2F", "byline":"Tiana Lowe Doescher", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. Even when President Donald Trump won the Electoral College and the […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

Even when President Donald Trump<\/a> won the Electoral College and the popular vote in 2024, Kamala Harris<\/a> still won California by nearly 3.2 million people, or nearly 1% of the nation's whole population. The Golden State remained the fifth-bluest in the country, and thanks to its economy \u2014 if California<\/a> were its own country, its GDP would rank as the fourth-largest in the world \u2014 its current governor is seen as the Democratic Party's 2028 front-runner.<\/p>

And yet, according to the polling, if the 2026 race to replace outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA) were held today, the victor would be Steve Hilton, the charismatic Republican alumnus of Fox News, Stanford University's conservative Hoover Institution, and the Tory government of David Cameron in the United Kingdom.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS ARE LOSING THE WORKING CLASS ONE MOVING TRUCK AT A TIME<\/a><\/p>

The first answer to \"what the hell happened here\" is the overnight collapse of Democratic front-runner Eric Swalwell,<\/a> the congressman who ended his gubernatorial bid and resigned his House seat after being accused by multiple women of rape. But that answer barely scratches the surface of the quandary that decades of Democratic dominance in California have effectively cratered the party's internal infrastructure.<\/p>

On Wednesday, Washington Examiner columnist Joe Concha forensically analyzed the not-so-coincidental timing of Swalwell's collapse, noting that Swalwell may have been the front-runner among Democrats, but not among the entire \"jungle primary\" which allows the top victors of the June 2 contest, regardless of political party, to proceed to November's general election. Rather, Hilton was leading in the high teens, followed by Republican Chad Bianco in the mid-teens, and then Swalwell tied with former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter<\/a> for an effective third place. As Concha summed it up, \"Democrats were simply splitting the pie too much, so somebody had to go. And that somebody was Swalwell because of the open secrets about him within the party that could be weaponized at a time of their choosing.\"<\/p>

Unfortunately, the interesting question here is not why Democrats kept Swalwell around so long despite the open secret of his womanizing and rumors of his alleged criminal sexual misconduct \u2014 the interesting question is why Swalwell became a liability for the party. The answer is not his well-known conduct, but rather, because the gubernatorial field in the most important indigo state in the union was uniformly Democratic, and therefore fractured.<\/p>

Consider the full roster of candidates in the first major post-Swallwell poll conducted by Emerson. Hilton leads at 17%, followed by Bianco, who is tied with Tom Steyer, the billionaire hedge fund manager and Democratic donor who graduated from standard progressive activism to bankrolling Trump's first failed impeachment and then his own failed 2020 presidential bid. Porter is tied at 10% with Xavier Becerra, former President Joe Biden's secretary of health and human services, who was famously reviled by top administration veterans. Matt Mahan, the mayor of San Jose, polls at 4.5%, followed at 4.3% by former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has not held public office in over a decade.<\/p>

For all that Republicans can mock Newsom as a painfully slick career politician, Newsom acolytes don't actually balk at the caricature because, for better or worse, it is true. Newsom was indeed born on third base, bankrolled by the Getty family with a telegenic visage to match his ambitions, but he padded his resume with the correct stepping stones of predecessors. He served and was reelected as mayor of San Francisco and then lieutenant governor, clocking in a total of 30 years in local and state California government of some kind.<\/p>

The current Democratic pool is distinctly national. Swalwell's only government experience within his actual state was a combined six years over 14 years ago as a local prosecutor and Dublin City Council member. Porter, an anti-corporation Elizabeth Warren acolyte, was a professor with no formal government experience before going to Washington, and Steyer obviously has zero history of public office. In fact, of the top five Democratic candidates for governor, the only two with a history in state government are Becerra, who replaced Harris as the state attorney general, and Villaraigosa, who served in the California State Assembly a quarter-century ago.<\/p>

It's not that California must elect a candidate with experience in statewide office or in state government. It's that Democrats have not done so in 144 years.<\/p>

While California has elected two total Republican outsiders to the governor's mansion in recent memory \u2014 Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronald Reagan \u2014 every Democrat elected governor since George Stoneman has served in state office, in a legislative role or as a statewide executive. For reference, Stoneman was a Union general in the Civil War.<\/p>

The total lack of California government experience in the Democratic primary points to the party's biggest problem: Nobody responsible for the state's actual governance thinks that the fruits of their labor are compelling enough to carry them to a gubernatorial victory.<\/p>

And why should they? As I detailed last week<\/a>, the state has lost 10% of its working class in the past decade for good reason: If you\u2019re an adult younger than 35 in California, you are more likely to be living with your parents, 39%, than you are to own your own home, 15.5%, and if you do get to own a home, it is more likely to be an inheritance, 18%, than a purchase of a new build, 7.7%. What state government official thinks they would have a strong campaign while defending California's multibillion-dollar deficit to fund Medicaid for illegal immigrants or the state's policy of refusing to hand over the 33,179 illegal immigrants with Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers out for their arrest for crimes completely unrelated to their immigration status?<\/p>

JUNGLE PRIMARIES AND THE CURIOUS TIMING OF SWALWELL'S DOWNFALL<\/a><\/p>

With a practical record of governance like this, your primary gets national party celebrities, and even then, their records are painfully thin. Of California's 52 members of the House delegation sent to Washington during the 118th Congress, Swalwell missed the third-highest number of votes, and Porter the single-highest number of votes. Porter introduced zero bills that became law while Swalwell introduced one. Both were too busy starring on MS Now to do the grunt work of actually legislating.<\/p>

For a time, Swalwell was the best of a mediocre bunch for the Democrats. He had high name recognition thanks to his cable news addiction, and unlike Porter, whose reputation for berating staff and allegations of domestic abuse were made public long ago, Swalwell had been cosseted by a friendly and uncurious press corps. Alas, the polling got too disparate and the opposition too strong for comfort. Democrats must now hope to coalesce around another national celebrity, lest they have to defend the state's actual garbage governance.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/cali-high-speed-rail.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532563-1776350075", "title":"Kamala Harris blames gas prices on ‘Trump’s war of choice’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4532563%2Fkamala-harris-gas-prices-trump%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Former Vice President Kamala Harris blamed high gas prices on President Donald Trump’s involvement in Iran in a video posted Wednesday on X.  “Since the start of Trump’s war of choice, it’s 15 more dollars every time you fill up your tank of gas,” she said while outside a gas station in Charlotte, North Carolina. […]", "description":""

Former Vice President Kamala Harris<\/a> blamed high gas prices<\/a> on President Donald Trump\u2019s<\/a> involvement in Iran<\/a> in a video posted Wednesday on X.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cSince the start of Trump\u2019s war of choice, it's 15 more dollars every time you fill up your tank of gas,\u201d she said while outside a gas station in Charlotte, North Carolina<\/a>.<\/p>

Kamala was in Charlotte as part of her book tour.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ve got a president who is paying more attention to what he thinks is in his best political interest and personal interest as opposed to what is in the best interest of working people in America,\u201d she said.<\/p>

BESSENT \u2018OPTIMISTIC\u2019 GAS PRICES WILL FALL TO $3 A GALLON BY MIDSUMMER<\/a><\/p>

The war in Iran has contributed to rising gas prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, through which much of the world's oil is transported.<\/p>

The United States blockaded the strait<\/a> after recent negotiations between Washington and Tehran to end the war had faltered.<\/p>

Gas prices have been slowly dropping over the past week, according to AAA<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/gaspump.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531658-1776348373", "title":"Senate Democrats raise massive campaign funds as GOP candidates lag", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4531658%2Fsenate-democrat-raise-massive-campaign-fund%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Congressional candidates filed their first-quarter fundraising numbers of 2026 this week, as Democratic Senate candidates pulled in strong numbers in the heart of midterm elections primary season. Just over six months away from general Election Day in 2026, Democratic Senate candidates in key races across the country reported large fundraising hauls for the first three […]", "description":""

Congressional candidates filed their first-quarter fundraising<\/a> numbers of 2026<\/a> this week, as Democratic Senate<\/a> candidates pulled in strong numbers in the heart of midterm elections primary season.<\/p>

Just over six months away from general Election Day in 2026, Democratic Senate candidates in key races across the country reported large fundraising hauls for the first three months of the election year. The first-quarter fundraising pull left Democratic candidates such as Sen. Jon Ossoff<\/a> (D-GA), State Rep. James Talarico<\/a> in Texas, and former Gov. Roy Cooper<\/a> (D-NC) pulling ahead in the Senate candidate fundraising leaderboard.<\/p>

But key Republicans are not too far behind, as incumbent Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and John Cornyn (R-TX) landed in the top 15 fundraisers<\/a> across the midterm election candidates, per Federal Election Commission data.<\/p>

So, here's a look at the 2026 Q1 fundraising numbers for some of the most closely watched Senate races.<\/p>Georgia

Ossoff is leading the pack of 2026 Senate candidates when it comes to fundraising, sitting on a massive stockpile of $77.97 million raised and $31.7 million in cash on hand. The incumbent Democratic senator raised a total<\/a> of over $14 million in the first quarter of 2026.<\/p>

Cook Political Report, which shifted the 2026 Georgia<\/a> Senate race to \"leans Democrat\"<\/a> from a \"toss up\" this week, described Ossoff's war chest as having \"eye-popping amounts of cash.\"<\/p>

With the primary date scheduled for May 19, Rep. Buddy Carter<\/a> (R-GA), Rep.\u00a0Mike Collins<\/a>\u00a0(R-GA), and former University of Tennessee football coach\u00a0Derek Dooley<\/a>\u00a0are the three front-runners for the GOP nomination. Carter boasts the cash advantage among the three Republicans, raising a total of $6.7 million and holding $3.7 in cash on hand. Collins and Gov. Brian Kemp<\/a> (R-GA)-backed Dooley have just over $2.1 million and $2.2 million in cash on hand, respectively.<\/p>

Carter raised<\/a> about $469,795 in the first quarter of 2026, Collins raised<\/a> about $1.038 million, and Dooley raised<\/a> about $663,502.<\/p>

The latest\u00a0Emerson College poll<\/a>\u00a0showed Collins leading in the primary over his GOP opponents, but the report also said Carter had the closest margin against Ossoff in the general election, which Ossoff led in every hypothetical general election matchup.<\/p>

GEORGIA SENATE RACE SHIFTED TO \u2018LEANS DEMOCRAT\u2019 IN POSITIVE SIGN FOR JON OSSOFF<\/a><\/p>Maine

In Maine<\/a>, Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) significantly leads the field in cash on hand, boasting over $10 million. This is millions more than Democratic candidates Gov. Janet Mills (D-ME) and oyster farmer Graham Platner (D-ME), who each have just over $1 million and $2.7 million, respectively.<\/p>

But, in the first quarter of 2026, Platner raised<\/a> the most with a total of $4.08 million, while Collins raised<\/a> $3.07 million and Mills raised<\/a> $2.65 million. Both Platner and Mills' numbers were slightly down from the prior fundraising quarter, according to Politico<\/a>.<\/p>

Cook Political Report listed Maine as a toss-up race, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's <\/a>(D-NY) pick of Mills trailing<\/a> Platner as he faces several controversies. The latest Emerson College poll<\/a> from late March has Platner leading in the primary against Mills, and both Platner and Mills leading Collins in a hypothetical primary matchup.<\/p>

GRAHAM PLATNER THREATENS TO UPEND SCHUMER BATTLE PLAN IN MAINE<\/a><\/p>Michigan

In Michigan<\/a>, where Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) is retiring, the Democratic primary is neck-and-neck<\/a>, while former Republican congressman Mike Rogers has a cash lead of over $4.2 million on hand.<\/p>

State Sen. Mallory McMorrow ended the first quarter with over $3.69 million in cash on hand, similar to Rep. Haley Stevens' (D-MI) over $3.38 million, with physician Abdul el Sayed trailing with $2.5 million.<\/p>

McMorrow led the pack of candidates in Q1 2026, raising<\/a> just over $3 million, while el Sayed pulled in<\/a> over $2.295 million, Rogers raised<\/a> $2.24 million, and Stevens raised<\/a> just over $2 million.<\/p>

Cook Political Report rates the race as a toss-up, framing it as a major possible pick-up for the GOP. Michigan's primary date is on Aug. 4.<\/p>

\"Michigan is the GOP\u2019s best opportunity to flip a seat and throw a serious wrench into Democrats\u2019 majority math,\" Cook Political Report's race summary reads<\/a>.<\/p>North Carolina

In North Carolina<\/a>, Cooper has hauled in a massive war chest, boasting about $16 million more in cash on hand than his Republican opponent, former Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley.<\/p>

Cooper raised<\/a> $5.75 million in the first three months of 2026, landing at $18.45 million in cash on hand. Whatley hauled in<\/a> a total of $2.1 million in the first quarter, leaving him with $2.5 million in cash on hand.<\/p>

As the two duke it out to see who will replace retiring Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), the seat<\/a> is tagged as leaning Democratic, but several recent polls<\/a> have Whatley within single digits of Cooper.<\/p>Ohio

Incumbent Sen. Jon Husted<\/a> (R-OH) is likely to take on former Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown<\/a> to see who will represent Ohioans, though the primary is scheduled for May.<\/p>

Brown is pulling a cash lead in the now toss-up race<\/a>, garnering over $16.5 million in cash on hand at the end of the first quarter, compared to Husted's $8.2 million. Brown raised<\/a> $10.1 million in the first three months of 2026, while Husted raised<\/a> $2.9 million, a financial blow to the GOP as they look to hold the Buckeye State's seat.<\/p>

JON HUSTED LEADS SHERROD BROWN AMONG OHIO UNION VOTERS IN NEW POLL<\/a><\/p>Texas

In terms of cash on hand, Talarico leads in the Lone Star state with over $9.8 million, followed by Cornyn with over $4.9 million, while Texas<\/a> Attorney General Ken Paxton trails behind with less than half of Cornyn's war chest.<\/p>

Talarico raised<\/a> over $19 million total in the first quarter after the Texas primary, while Cornyn raised<\/a> $1.7 million, and Paxton raised $1.15 million. The Texas Senate primary took place on March 3, sending Cornyn and Paxton to a runoff on May 26.<\/p>

TALARICO CAMPAIGN NOTCHES $27 MILLION IN FIRST QUARTER<\/a><\/p>

Texas is currently in the \"likely Republican\" category.<\/p>

\"If state Attorney General Ken Paxton does indeed win the Texas Republican Senate nomination on May 26, we would shift this race into the Lean Republican column,\" Cook Political Report's race summary reads<\/a>. \"Democrats maintain that they could make this race competitive even if Sen. John Cornyn emerges as the nominee, but we\u2019re skeptical of that argument.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/AP25272593551687.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532443-1776347763", "title":"Republicans might treat DHS reconciliation as ‘wish list’ opportunity: Sarah Bedford", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4532443%2Frepublicans-dhs-reconciliation-wish-list-sarah-bedford%2F", "byline":"Sydney Topf", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Washington Examiner investigations editor Sarah Bedford said Republicans will use a reconciliation bill to include their “wish list” agendas, as other reconciliation bills are less likely to come through due to the GOP’s slim majority in Congress. Republicans are currently using the budget reconciliation process to fund the Department of Homeland Security for the remainder […]", "description":""

Washington Examiner investigations editor Sarah Bedford<\/a> said Republicans will use a reconciliation<\/a> bill to include their \u201cwish list\u201d agendas, as other reconciliation bills are less likely to come through due to the GOP\u2019s slim majority in Congress<\/a>.<\/p>

Republicans are currently using the budget reconciliation process to fund the Department of Homeland Security<\/a> for the remainder of President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s presidency, in an effort to end the current partial government shutdown and avoid future ones over DHS funding.<\/p>

\u201cBecause there is a sense as we get closer and closer to the midterms, Republican primaries are even closer than that, members recognize that this one reconciliation bill that has the DHS funding in it might be the only train leaving the station,\u201d Bedford said Wednesday on the Hugh Hewitt Show<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Bedford said Republicans will attempt to add their agenda items to the reconciliation bill because the lawmakers recognize a second or third reconciliation is \u201cnot guaranteed.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cThere are not a lot of Republicans who have specific asks that are going to be willing to let that train leave the station without at least trying to get their goods on board,\u201d Bedford said.<\/p>

\u201cYou\u2019re going to have Republicans probably object to the idea of just doing DHS funding if they see a chance, probably their only chance potentially, to get their wish list funded.\u201d<\/p>

The reconciliation bill would end the partial DHS shutdown without Democratic support as long as all Republicans vote in favor of the bill, which could be a challenge if Republicans attempt to include their own provisions in the legislation.<\/p>

Trump supports the reconciliation bill funding the DHS, posting on Truth Social shortly after meeting with Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso<\/a> (R-WY) and Sen. Lindsey Graham<\/a> (R-SC), who chairs the committee that will launch the effort in the Senate, saying it is \u201con track.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cRadical Left Democrats like Cryin\u2019 Chuck Schumer<\/a>, and Hakeem \u2018High-Tax\u2019 Jeffries, will do their best to stop us, but we don\u2019t need their votes on this Bill, as long as Republicans UNIFY, and stick together,\u201d the president wrote on Truth Social.<\/a><\/p>

JOHNSON WON\u2019T REOPEN DHS UNTIL THUNE MAKES GOOD ON MEGABILL PROMISE<\/a><\/p>

Trump called on Republican lawmakers to have the bill on his desk by June 1.<\/p>

\"The Department cannot wait any longer for full funding,\" he wrote on Truth Social. \"We must beat the Radical Left Democrats at their own game.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-jvh6o4gk2-1776359578844-e1776360107864.jpg?1776345697&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532315-1776347029", "title":"Eric Swalwell exit gives Xavier Becerra boost in California governor race: poll", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fstate%2F4532315%2Feric-swalwell-exit-xavier-becerra-boost-california-governor-race-poll%2F", "byline":"Barnini Chakraborty", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s stunning political collapse and hasty exit from California’s crowded governor’s race has opened up an opportunity for Obama-era Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra ahead of the June 2 primary, according to a new poll published Thursday.  With Swalwell out, Democrats are now splitting their vote between billionaire Tom Steyer, former Rep. […]", "description":""

Former Rep. Eric Swalwell's<\/a> stunning political collapse and hasty exit from California's<\/a> crowded governor's race has opened up an opportunity\u00a0for Obama-era Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra<\/a> ahead of the June 2 primary, according to a new poll<\/a> published Thursday.\u00a0<\/p>

With Swalwell out, Democrats\u00a0are now splitting their vote between billionaire Tom Steyer<\/a>, former Rep. Katie Porter<\/a>, and Becerra, who gained 15 points among Democratic voters without Swalwell as an option on the ballot, according to Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling.\u00a0<\/p>

Swalwell led the field of 10 Democrats in last month's poll. <\/p>

The newest poll, conducted on April 14-15, 2026, still shows\u00a0the two Republicans in the contest, former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco, beating the Democratic field in the blue state race. The candidates are vying for the office of Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA). Newsom is widely believed to be running for president in 2028.\u00a0<\/p>

The Emerson College Polling\/Inside California Politics poll of 1,000 likely primary voters from either party found Hilton with 17%, Bianco and Steyer at 14%, Becerra and Porter tied at 10%, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan with 5%. Twenty-three percent of voters were still undecided. <\/p>

Thursday's poll results will determine which candidates will appear at next week's Inside California Politics governor's debate. The show's parent company,\u00a0Nextsar\u00a0Media Group, said it would use 5% support as the cutoff.\u00a0<\/p>

California's all-party primary is June 2. Assuming no gubernatorial candidate captures 50% or more, the two top finishers will face off in the Nov. 3 general election.<\/p>

For months, Democratic leaders have been worried that a fragmented field could split the vote and risk shutting Democrats out of the November contest altogether by boosting the two Republican candidates. Some Democratic activists had seen Swalwell as a candidate capable of consolidating support and countering anti-President Donald Trump momentum, but his exit has upended that calculation.<\/p>

On April 10, the\u00a0San Francisco Chronicle\u00a0reported a former staffer had alleged Swalwell had sexually assaulted her twice while she was too intoxicated to consent. Swalwell categorically denied the allegations \u2014\u00a0but within 48 hours, four additional women came forward with their own claims. He suspended his campaign over the weekend and announced his immediate resignation from Congress on Monday.<\/p>

NEWSOM ADMITS CALLING SPEEDY SWALWELL SPECIAL ELECTION TO UNDERCUT MIKE JOHNSON<\/a><\/p>

Steyer\u2019s campaign moved quickly to capitalize on the fallout, highlighting a fresh round of endorsements. The new backing includes Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA) and six state legislators, two of whom had previously supported Swalwell.<\/p>

Porter\u2019s campaign has yet to roll out new endorsements, but it circulated a memo arguing she stands to gain the most from Swalwell\u2019s exit. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/AP25008810501797.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532090-1776346450", "title":"Judge clarifies below-ground construction of White House ballroom project can proceed", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4532090%2Fjudge-allows-below-ground-construction-white-house-ballroom%2F", "byline":"Jack Birle", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A federal judge clarified Thursday that his order halting construction of the White House ballroom only applies to above-ground construction, adding that below-ground construction of enhanced national security features for the complex may proceed. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, issued an opinion clarifying his order late last […]", "description":""

A federal judge clarified Thursday that his order halting construction of the White House<\/a> ballroom only applies to above-ground construction, adding that below-ground construction of enhanced national security features for the complex may proceed.<\/p>

U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, issued an opinion<\/a> clarifying his order late last month to halt construction of the new White House East Wing, which includes the proposed ballroom that President Donald Trump has championed. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which sued over the ballroom project, requested Leon clarify what construction was covered under his exception, allowing the continuation of construction deemed important to safety and security. The Justice Department had asked the judge to treat all construction<\/a>, both above-ground and below-ground, as covered under the security exception. Leon flatly rejected the DOJ's request.<\/p>

\"Defendants argue that the entire ballroom construction project, from tip to tail, falls within the safety-and-security exception and therefore may proceed unabated,\" Leon wrote. \"That is neither a reasonable nor a correct reading of my Order!\"<\/p>

Leon wrote that below-ground construction, including \"top-secret excavations, bunkers, bomb-shelters, protective partitioning, military installations, and hospital and medical facilities,\" may continue, along with \"above-ground construction strictly necessary to cover, secure, and protect such facilities\" but that all other above-ground construction must halt.<\/p>

The DOJ argued in a filing, backed up by a declaration from a senior Secret Service official, that both below-ground and above-ground construction needed to continue for security reasons. The administration's filing to the district court noted that above-ground elements of the ballroom included security upgrades for the White House, which it stressed were as critical to install as the underground facilities.<\/p>

Leon said in his Thursday order that the DOJ's latest filings contradict earlier court filings in which it separated the national security upgrades from the above-ground construction and argued the security threats came only from stopping below-ground construction.<\/p>

\"Defendants now insist that the 'overall above-ground ballroom is necessary to accommodate and effectuate the below-ground additions (including by providing adequate, reinforced cover).' But Defendants do not explain why the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom\u2014the source of the National Trust's claimed injury and likely unauthorized by statute\u2014is required for security purposes now,\" Leon said.<\/p>

\"Instead, the supporting declaration states merely that an 'above-ground slab and topping structure is [sic] needed' to protect the underground elements,\" Leon said.<\/p>

SECRET SERVICE WARNS COURT OF \u2018NUMEROUS SECURITY RISKS\u2019 IF WHITE HOUSE BALLROOM PROJECT HALTED NOW<\/a><\/p>

Leon said his order halting above-ground construction of the new East Wing would not go into effect for another seven days, past his Thursday order to allow time to properly pause construction, but warned that \"any above-ground construction over the next seven days that is not in compliance with my Amended Order is at risk of being taken down pending the resolution of this case.\"<\/p>

The Justice Department could appeal the order to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, where the appellate court handed the administration a small victory last week by extending a pause on Leon's order going into effect, or to the Supreme Court's emergency docket, where the Trump administration has had overwhelming success over the past 15 months.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26094742581501.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530459-1776345308", "title":"The long sail of the USS Gerald R. Ford", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fbeltway-confidential%2F4530459%2Fthe-long-sail-uss-gerald-r-ford%2F", "byline":"Tom Rogan", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"To have a chance at joining Delta Force, the U.S. military’s most elite special operations unit, tryouts must first complete approximately three weeks of increasingly arduous marches while carrying increasing weight loads. This test phase of the selection course ends with a roughly 40-mile march known in the military as “The Long Walk.” Few are […]", "description":""

To have a chance at joining Delta Force, the U.S. military's<\/a> most elite special operations unit, tryouts must first complete approximately three weeks of increasingly arduous marches while carrying increasing weight loads. This test phase of the selection course ends with a roughly 40-mile march known in the military as \"The Long Walk.\" Few are able to meet the watch in completing this arduous test.<\/p>

The crew of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier will soon complete their own 'long sail' version of the long walk.<\/p>

When the crew steps foot back in Norfolk, Virginia, in May, they will have spent more than 300 days or 11 months on operations. The carrier strike group's escorts have been rotated over this long stint away from home, but not so the Ford's crew. Indeed, as the U.S. Naval Institute notes<\/a>, this will be the longest carrier deployment since the end of the Cold War. Most carrier deployments last 7 to 9 months.<\/p>

Yes, numerous U.S. Army units spent up to 15 months deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq during those wars. Still, 11 months at sea is no easy task. Think about more than 4,500 people stuck in a floating metal apartment building. It is crowded, it is stressful, and there are no days off. Crew members work 12-hour shifts, seven days a week. Where crewmembers mess up or slack off, their colleagues must do extra work. Where they really mess up, people and equipment might be lost forever.<\/p>

Making matters tougher, the Ford has been on especially stressful combat duty for much of its tour.<\/p>

First, the Ford was off the coast of Venezuela, preparing for the eventual Delta Force operation to seize dictator Nicolas Maduro. Since Feb. 20, the crew has been involved in operations against Iran. They've had to keep the carrier's air wing flying so that its combat missions can be accomplished. The durable intensity of this deployment will have seen marriages fail, relationships end (and, contrary to Navy<\/a> regulations, begin), friendships made and lost, and fights and fires break out.<\/p>

Indeed, a March fire in one of the carrier's laundry areas led to two separate port calls for repairs. Still, these calls were short and plainly designed to minimize repair timelines rather than provide shore leave for the crews. The Navy wanted this carrier back at sea and back on operations as soon as possible.<\/p>

A deployment of this length carries a cost not simply to the well-being of crews and their families back home, but to the ship itself. Wear and tear become a major problem. It means things breaking down more often and more seriously. The Ford's extended deployment has meant rescheduling maintenance and other operations in Norfolk. Readying the Ford for its next deployment will almost certainly take longer than it would have if the ship returned home on a standard timeline.<\/p>

And while the Navy exists to fulfill the lawful orders of the commander in chief, President Donald Trump, this deployment underscores the broad near- to medium-term costs to readiness that the Iran war has predictably created for China-related contingencies<\/a>. Just as this war's depletion of key munitions reduces the U.S. military's probability of victory<\/a> in any China war, keeping crews and ships at sea for such a long time does the same.<\/p>

AMERICA'S NATO AND ISRAELI ALLIANCES ARE IMPERFECT BUT IMPORTANT<\/a><\/p>

Still, Americans should be proud of what this crew continues to accomplish. They have chosen to live a life of service in the nation's interest. <\/p>

The Ford's complement and carrier air wing are not yet home. But when they are, they'll deserve our gratitude (and our round of beers).<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP26057386985470.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532088-1776344308", "title":"NPR collects $113 million from philanthropist and anonymous donor after Trump defunding", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4532088%2Fnpr-collect-113-million-dollars-philanthropist-anonymous-donor%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"NPR has collected a total of $113 million from philanthropist Connie Ballmer, once a member of the NPR Foundation trustee board, and an anonymous donor, after the media organization was defunded by the Republican-controlled federal government last year. NPR announced the charitable donations on Thursday, describing them as “two of the largest gifts” in the […]", "description":""

NPR<\/a> has collected a total of $113 million from philanthropist Connie Ballmer, once a member of the NPR Foundation trustee board, and an anonymous donor, after the media<\/a> organization was defunded by the Republican-controlled federal government last year.<\/p>

NPR announced the charitable donations on Thursday, describing them as \"two of the largest gifts\" in the public radio network's history.<\/p>

\"NPR's mission is unwavering, but our means must evolve,\" NPR CEO and President Katherine Maher said in a statement<\/a>. \"This remarkable investment will enable NPR to continue to deliver the nation's finest public service journalism, meeting audiences where they are today and will be in the years to come.\"<\/p>

Ballmer donated $80 million to NPR to boost its investments in technology, and the anonymous donor contributed $33 million to develop tools and services that other public media organizations across the nation can use for their broadcasts. No specific details were provided.<\/p>

\"I support NPR because an informed public is the bedrock of our society, and democracy requires strong, independent journalism,\" Ballmer said. \"My hope is that this commitment provides the stability and the spark NPR needs to innovate boldly and strengthen its national network.\"<\/p>

Ballmer is the co-founder of her own philanthropic organization, which she started with her husband, former Microsoft<\/a> CEO Steve Ballmer, in 2015. Besides co-launching the Ballmer Group, Connie Ballmer has donated at least $25 million to the Obama Foundation and served on its board.<\/p>

The wealthy couple has given away as much as $3 billion over the past five years, according to<\/a> their interview with the Chronicle of Philanthropy in March 2025. In 2024 alone, they gave $767 million.<\/p>

The multimillion-dollar donations come several months after NPR lost all federal funding, following a bill passed by Congress<\/a> and signed by President Donald Trump<\/a>. That legislation was the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The law clawed back $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the independent body that funded NPR and PBS.<\/p>

Republicans thought the money was a waste, arguing that NPR and PBS had a left-wing bias<\/a>.<\/p>

Trump also issued an executive order last year to ensure NPR and PBS were defunded. In late March, an Obama-appointed federal judge ruled that the order was unconstitutional.<\/p>

JUDGE BLOCKS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION\u2019S \u2018UNENFORCEABLE\u2019 ORDER TO CUT NPR AND PBS FUNDING<\/a><\/p>

NPR still airs content today even after the CPB voted to end operations in January. The public radio network insists its mission remains unchanged.<\/p>

NPR complained about the Republican-led funding cuts in its Thursday statement. NPR said it lost about 1% to 2% of its annual budget, leading to mass layoffs throughout its station network. The nonprofit network once operated more than 1,000 public radio stations. Now, roughly 240 stations are considered full NPR News member stations.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26090650977428.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531737-1776344178", "title":"Jared Golden tanks Democrats’ effort to rein in Trump’s Iran war powers", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4531737%2Fjared-golden-tanks-democrats-effort-rein-in-trump-iran-war-powers%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) became the sole Democrat to protect President Donald Trump’s war in Iran on Thursday as he took down the Democratic-led resolution to end the war. The Democrats’ previous push to halt the Trump administration’s war in Iran ended last month after four members of the party sank the effort, but this […]", "description":""

Rep. Jared Golden<\/a> (D-ME) became the sole Democrat to protect President Donald Trump's<\/a> war in Iran<\/a> on Thursday as he took down the Democratic-led resolution to end the war.<\/p>

The Democrats' previous push to halt the Trump administration's war in Iran ended last month after four members of the party sank the effort, but this time three of the four defectors came around.<\/p>

\u201cThe purported aim of this and other\u00a0war\u00a0powers resolutions is to stop the hostilities,\" Golden said in a statement to the Washington Examiner. \"Thankfully, the United States and Iran are currently in a ceasefire, and we are negotiating over critical questions of national security and international order.\"<\/p>

\"I believe we must maintain a strong negotiation position over Iran\u2019s nuclear program, freedom of movement in the international waters at the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, and how to achieve a durable peace between our two nations,\" Golden continued. \"At this moment, a resolution like this would weaken our hand.\u201d<\/p>

Golden, a centrist Democrat who is retiring at the end of his term, stuck to his original \"no\" vote. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who is facing a tough primary battle, joined Democrats in both efforts, but ultimately did not get enough support from his fellow caucus members to pass the measure.<\/p>

Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) also aided in tanking the resolution by voting \"present\" after his previous vote to end the war. <\/p>

The four Democrats who helped Trump skirt the initial war powers rebuke in the House last month were Reps. Juan Vargas (D-CA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Golden. They joined 215 Republicans in sinking a war powers resolution that could have terminated the war in Iran immediately.<\/p>

Even if the resolution cleared the lower chamber, it likely wouldn\u2019t have gotten the 60 votes necessary in the Senate, where similar efforts have repeatedly failed. Regardless, Trump could still veto it even if it passed Congress.<\/p>

These resolutions seek to put Congress on record in condemning the conflict and to prevent the president from launching further strikes.<\/p>

\"The most patriotic thing that we can do is stand up to ensure that our men and women in uniform aren't being recklessly sent into a costly war of choice, more than 12 of whom have already lost their lives, hundreds of whom have been seriously injured,\" House Minority Leader Hakeen Jeffries (D-NY) said on the House floor ahead of the vote. <\/p>

HOUSE DEMOCRATS SEE MOMENTUM FOR REINING IN TRUMP'S IRAN WAR POWERS<\/a><\/p>

The vote comes the week after nearly 80 Democrats in the House and Senate called on the Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment and remove Trump from office over his initial threats to escalate the war by targeting Iran\u2019s civilian infrastructure. Democrats said if the threat were carried out, it would have amounted to a \u201cwar crime\u201d that would punish the people of Iran for the actions of its government.<\/p>

Trump struck a\u00a0two-week ceasefire<\/a>\u00a0with Iran last week, but the\u00a0United States\u00a0escalated its presence and has broadened its naval blockade of\u00a0Iran, authorizing the search and seizure of vessels tied to Tehran\u2019s shadow fleet anywhere in the world, according to a new update from\u00a0U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/golden.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532237-1776343517", "title":"CFTC Chairman Michael Selig vows to continue financial rulemaking despite vacancies", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4532237%2Fcftc-michael-selig-vows-continue-financial-rulemaking-amid-vacancies%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Michael Selig told lawmakers Thursday he will continue advancing financial regulations despite serving as the lone commissioner on the five-member panel.  Testifying before the House Agriculture Committee, Selig faced sharp criticism from Democrats who argued the arrangement undermines the agency’s bipartisan structure. But Selig, who took on the role in […]", "description":""

Commodity Futures Trading Commission<\/a> Chairman Michael Selig told lawmakers Thursday he will continue advancing financial regulations despite serving as the lone commissioner on the five-member panel.\u00a0<\/p>

Testifying before the House<\/a> Agriculture Committee, Selig faced sharp criticism from Democrats<\/a> who argued the arrangement undermines the agency\u2019s bipartisan structure.<\/p>

But Selig, who took on the role in December, said ongoing rulemaking efforts cannot pause while the commission operates with four vacant seats.<\/p>

\u201cIn the interim, we cannot, for the sake of the American people, slow down in our rule making,\u201d Selig said. \u201cIt\u2019s very important that we get investor protections, consumer protections, and safeguards for our markets.\u201d <\/p>

The CFTC comprises five commissioners, typically with a bipartisan balance, but Selig is now the only sitting member following a wave of departures and stalled nominations under President Donald Trump<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Lawmakers from both parties acknowledged the situation, with some warning the lone decider on the panel risks concentrating authority in a single official.\u00a0<\/p>

Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), the committee\u2019s top Democrat, pressed Selig on whether he would commit to delaying new rules until additional members are confirmed. Selig declined. <\/p>

\u201cI cannot, unfortunately, commit to not do my job that I was appointed to do by the president,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>

The dispute reflects broader tensions over the agency's direction as it takes on expanding oversight of digital assets and prediction markets. Selig has pushed an aggressive agenda in his first months, including new guidance and planned rule-making in prediction markets.\u00a0<\/p>

Selig said he has made \u201csignificant progress\u201d on his agenda, pointing to efforts to modernize regulations and reduce compliance burdens while strengthening enforcement. <\/p>

But Democrats raised concerns about both governance and possible political influence, particularly as the Trump administration reshapes financial regulation.\u00a0<\/p>

Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) delivered the sharpest rebuke, accusing the administration of conflicts of interest tied to prediction markets and the Trump family's involvement in related companies. <\/p>

\u201cI believe that this President is using public power for private profit,\u201d McGovern said, alleging the administration\u2019s policies could benefit politically connected actors. <\/p>

McGovern pointed out that the president\u2019s son, Donald Trump Jr.<\/a>, is an adviser for prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket. McGovern questioned whether the president\u2019s eldest son had had knowledge of certain events, such as the Iran war ceasefire announcement, and placed favorable wagers on them.\u00a0<\/p>

Selig rejected those claims and defended the agency\u2019s independence and zero tolerance when it comes to fraud or abusive practices. <\/p>

\u201cWe treat all market participants alike,\u201d Selig said. \u201cWe do not pick winners and losers or engage in favoritism or bring politics into any of these matters. We take them very seriously, and I think it's insulting that you're insinuating [that].\u201d<\/p>

The hearing also highlighted the strain on the agency\u2019s staffing and resources. Lawmakers noted the CFTC\u2019s workforce has shrunk significantly in recent years as its responsibilities have grown to include fast-moving digital asset and derivatives markets. <\/p>

FUTURES MARKETS AND CRYPTO HIGH ON AGENDA OF AGENCY\u2019S NEW LEADER<\/a><\/p>

Selig acknowledged the challenges but said the agency is leveraging technology and hiring to maintain oversight. <\/p>

\u201cWe are utilizing new tools, some from AI to automation. \u2026 And we take this responsibility very seriously,\u201d he said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP25323792727448.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532166-1776342912", "title":"DeSantis delays Florida redistricting session until after Virginia map referendum", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4532166%2Fdesantis-delay-florida-redistricting-session-after-virginia-referendum%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has pushed back the state’s redistricting special session to occur April 28 and May 1, moving it until after Virginia voters decide their own redistricting question on April 21. The delay places Florida’s redistricting session behind a high-stakes vote in Virginia that both parties are watching closely, with control of […]", "description":""

Florida<\/a> Gov. Ron DeSantis <\/a>(R-FL) has pushed back the state\u2019s redistricting<\/a> special session to occur April 28 and May 1, moving it until after Virginia<\/a> voters decide their own redistricting question on April 21.<\/p>

The delay places Florida\u2019s redistricting session behind a high-stakes vote in Virginia that both parties are watching closely, with control of the House of Representatives<\/a> potentially hanging in the balance.<\/p>

Next week, Virginians will vote on whether to temporarily return map-drawing authority to the Democratic-controlled legislature. The proposed map would reshape the state\u2019s congressional delegation, shifting its current 6\u20135 Democratic edge to a 10\u20131 advantage.<\/p>

DeSantis had initially called for a special session as early as next week to revisit Florida\u2019s congressional lines but signaled flexibility as lawmakers continue to negotiate the state budget.<\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s possible you could do a little tweak, but you can\u2019t really push it very far,\u201d DeSantis said at a press conference in Tallahassee. \u201cYou\u2019ve got to get it done probably within the next couple weeks. That will happen one way or another.\u201d<\/p>

Florida\u2019s constitution includes strict anti-gerrymandering provisions, which could add difficulties to reshaping the map.<\/p>

State legislative leaders have so far taken a cautious stance regarding the redistricting efforts.<\/p>

\u201cAs a reminder, Senators should be aware that in prior cycles, significant litigation has followed passage of new maps,\u201d said State Sen. Ben Albritton (R-FL) in a memorandum<\/a>. <\/p>

\u201cThe Florida Supreme Court has previously limited the scope of legislative privilege when it comes to redistricting,\u201d the state senator said. \u201cSitting legislators may be compelled to produce records or be subject to questioning under oath about conversations with colleagues, with legislative staff, or with outside parties who may attempt to persuade the Legislature to pass maps that favor or disfavor a political party or incumbent.\u201d<\/p>

SPANBERGER AND DEMOCRATS SPEND BIG ON \u2018NAKED QUEST FOR POWER\u2019 IN VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING<\/a><\/p>

In the House, Speaker Rep. Daniel Perez (R-FL) indicated lawmakers are waiting on the governor\u2019s proposal before taking further action.<\/p>

\u201cWe look forward to seeing the governor\u2019s proposed map,\u201d Perez said in a statement<\/a> to Politico. \u201cThe other issues mentioned in the proclamation will be evaluated once we have seen the draft legislation.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP23279784259445-e1773952868338.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531684-1776342885", "title":"Clarence Thomas warns of progressivism’s threat to US ahead of 250th anniversary", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsupreme-court%2F4531684%2Fclarence-thomas-progressivism-threat-to-us%2F", "byline":"Jack Birle", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas warned of the threat progressivism poses to the United States and its founding principles during a speech about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas addressed a crowd on Wednesday at the University of Texas at Austin, where he discussed the semiquincentennial on July 4, in a roughly […]", "description":""

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas<\/a> warned of the threat progressivism<\/a> poses to the United States and its founding principles during a speech about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence<\/a>.<\/p>

Thomas addressed a crowd on Wednesday at the University of Texas at Austin, where he discussed the semiquincentennial on July 4, in a roughly 50-minute speech. He warned that it is \"unclear\" if the founding principles of limited government and individual rights will endure, pointing to the rise of progressivism, which began during Woodrow Wilson's presidency in the 1910s.<\/p>

\"Since Wilson's presidency, progressivism has made many inroads into our system of government and our way of life,\" Thomas said. \"It has coexisted uneasily with the principles of the declaration, because it is opposed to those principles. It is not possible for the two to coexist forever.\"<\/p>

Thomas said that, with the exception of \"pro-slavery reactionaries on the eve of the Civil War,\" progressivism was the first major political movement in the U.S. to oppose the country's founding principles. He said that the movement \"strove to undo the declaration's commitment to equality and natural rights, both of which they denied were self-evident.\"<\/p>

\"Progressivism seeks to replace the basic premises of the Declaration of Independence and hence, our form of government,\" Thomas said. \"It holds that our rights and our dignities come not from God, but from government. It requires of the people a subservience and weakness incompatible with a constitution premised on the transcendent origin of our rights.<\/p>

\"You will not be surprised to learn that the progressives had a great deal of contempt for us, the American people.\"<\/p>

Thomas's comments come as the Supreme Court works its way through a deluge of cases that pit the executive and judicial branches against each other. One of the Supreme Court's most conservative justices, Thomas is considered a strong originalist, meaning his opinions tend to interpret the Constitution through the lens of what the country's founders intended at the time.<\/p>

Thomas warned in his speech that progressivism globally \"caused the most awful century that the world has ever seen,\" pointing to the horrors of Adolf Hitler's Nazi Germany, Joseph Stalin's Soviet Union, Benito Mussolini's fascist Italy, and Mao Zedong's communist China.<\/p>

\"All were intertwined with the rise of progressivism and all were opposed to the natural rights on which our declaration are based,\" Thomas said. \"Many progressives expressed admiration for each of them shortly before their governments killed tens of millions of people. It was a terrible mistake to adopt progressivism's rejection of the declaration's vision of universal, unalienable natural rights.\"<\/p>

He also stated that progressivism was a shield that Wilson used to defend the Supreme Court's infamous ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson, which permitted \"separate but equal\" racial segregation, and he noted how it allowed the 28th president to resegregate the federal workforce and for the government to \"launch sterilization programs on those deemed by the experts of the day to be unfit to reproduce.\"<\/p>

Thomas, the most senior justice on the high court, has been a conservative titan for the nearly 25 years he has been on the Supreme Court. Ahead of the 250th anniversary of the U.S., he told the assembled crowd not to be \"passive spectators\" for the occasion and find the same courage of the signers of the Declaration of Independence to stand up for the country's founding principles.<\/p>

\"By all means, celebrate the Declaration of Independence,\" Thomas said. \"It is the most important act of American history, the foundation of our Constitution, and as [President Abraham] Lincoln said, the sheet anchor of our republic. But I implore you to celebrate it by standing up for it, by defending it, and by recommitting yourselves to living up to its ideals.\"<\/p>

WHY COLORADO\u2019S LGBT LAWS KEEP GETTING STRUCK DOWN BY THE SUPREME COURT<\/a><\/p>

The U.S. will celebrate its 250th anniversary on July 4 with events nationwide celebrating the Declaration of Independence.<\/p>

Supreme Court justices will return to Washington on Friday, when they are expected to release at least one opinion, followed by oral arguments in various cases over the next two weeks, beginning on Monday. The high court's term is expected to conclude with all opinions being released by the end of June, days before the country's semiquincentennial.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26105786851041.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531963-1776342386", "title":"Army Secretary Dan Driscoll praises ousted senior leader: ‘I, too, love General George’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4531963%2Farmy-secretary-driscoll-praises-ousted-senior-leader%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Army Secretary Dan Driscoll shared his support for Gen. Randy George, the ousted Army chief of staff, who was abruptly forced to retire by War Secretary Pete Hegseth earlier this month. Driscoll told lawmakers during a Defense Appropriations subcommittee hearing on Thursday that he was with his children in North Carolina during their spring break […]", "description":""

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll<\/a> shared his support for Gen. Randy George, the ousted Army chief of staff, who was abruptly forced to retire by War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> earlier this month.<\/p>

Driscoll told lawmakers during a Defense Appropriations subcommittee hearing on Thursday that he was with his children in North Carolina during their spring break when George was told to put in his resignation paperwork.<\/p>

\"When we drove back from North Carolina, I drove straight to General George's house,\" he said. \"We walked right in, and we all gave him a hug. There is no person that has more respect for General George and his 42 years of service, his Purple Heart, his wife Patty, their grandkids, their kids. I adore them, and he was an amazing, transformational leader. I, too, loved General George.\"<\/p>

In addition to removing George, Hegseth also fired Gen. David M. Hodne, the head of the Army\u2019s Transformation and Training Command, and Maj. Gen. William Green Jr., the Army\u2019s top chaplain. The personnel decisions came as a surprise to Driscoll\u2019s office, a U.S. official told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

Driscoll and Hegseth's relationship has been the source of intrigue, especially in the aftermath of George's forced retirement, but the Army<\/a> secretary has affirmed he intends to stay in the role.<\/p>

\u201cServing under President Trump has been the honor of a lifetime and I remain laser focused on providing America with the strongest land fighting force the world has ever seen,\u201d Driscoll said in his statement to the Washington Examiner last week. \u201cI have no plans to depart or resign as the Secretary of the Army.\u201d<\/p>

Several lawmakers on both sides of the aisle praised George in budget and readiness hearings with Driscoll and Vice Chief of the Army and acting Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Christopher LaNeve. LaNeve began his tenure as vice chief of staff of the Army in February, demonstrating a rapid rise within senior leadership, given he is now learning the ropes of the chief of staff position.<\/p>

\"The civilian leadership, the design of our system is that they get to pick the leaders that they want, and we execute on those orders,\" he said. \"And what I can say about General LaNeve, sitting beside me, is his family is \u2014 his kids are in serving now. He served 35 years. And my commitment to you, I think is, as you get to know General LaNeve, you will find him to be a patriotic American too, whose family is multi-generational service.\"<\/p>

Both the chairman of the whole committee and the chair of the subcommittee, both Republicans, shared positive sentiments about George.<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT'S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said, calling George \"an outstanding general officer, outstanding Chief of Staff, and I just want the record to reflect how much we regret, I personally regret at least, he's no longer in active service. He's a real loss to us, in my opinion.\"<\/p>

The subcommittee chairman, Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA), responded to Cole's comments, saying, \"I think most of us here agree with your comments. General George should be congratulated on the work he did for this country and the service he provided, and we hold him in high esteem.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/AP25155598959291.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531954-1776342152", "title":"Senate reverses Biden ban on mining in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fenergy-and-environment%2F4531954%2Fsenate-reverses-biden-ban-mining-minnesota-boundary-waters%2F", "byline":"Maydeen Merino", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Senate voted to pass a measure that would lift a Biden administration mining ban in northern Minnesota, opening the door to drilling for critical minerals in an area that environmentalists have sought to limit from development. On Thursday, the Senate voted 50-49 to pass a Congressional Review Act resolution led by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) […]", "description":""

The Senate<\/a> voted to pass a measure that would lift a Biden administration mining<\/a> ban in northern Minnesota, opening the door to drilling for critical minerals in an<\/a> area that environmentalists have sought to limit from development. <\/p>

On Thursday, the Senate voted 50-49 to pass a Congressional Review Act resolution led by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) that would terminate the Biden administration\u2019s 20-year mining ban on 225,504 acres in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness near the Canadian border.<\/p>

The measure passed the House<\/a> in January and will now be sent to President Donald Trump's desk for his signature.<\/p>

\u201cNever again can any Democrat President or administration unilaterally ban mining in this vital portion of the Superior National Forest, killing jobs and locking away trillions of dollars of critical minerals essential to our way of life,\" Stauber said in a statement.\u00a0\"Mining is our past, our present, and our future \u2013 and the future looks bright!\"<\/p>

The Boundary Waters are located within the Superior National Forest, which contains reserves of copper, nickel, and cobalt. Those critical minerals are essential for technology applications in the energy and defense sectors.<\/p>

The Trump administration has been seeking to expand the domestic critical mineral supply chain to reduce its reliance on Chinese minerals.<\/p>

Republicans claimed that the Biden administration made a procedural misstep in imposing the ban in 2023 and failed to report the restrictions in the Congressional Record. Earlier this year, the Interior Department submitted a public land order to the record. That made the rule eligible for cancellation under the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress to cancel rules with only a simple majority in the Senate.<\/p>

Over the past year, Republicans have used the CRA to repeal Biden administration policies that do not align with the current administration\u2019s agenda. A federal agency cannot propose a similar rule in the future once a CRA is signed into law.<\/p>

Democrats argued that the CRA is not intended to overturn public land orders, as it is typically used to overturn agency rules.<\/p>

Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) said Thursday on the Senate floor ahead of the votes that \u201cthis is an unprecedented use of a mechanism that would have far-reaching consequences.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIt would threaten public lands across the country,\u201d Klobuchar said. \u201cSecretaries of the interior have long had the ability to issue public land orders to reserve federal land for specific uses.<\/p>

\"Now, for the first time, the CRA is being used to rescind a public land order that bans mining in the Boundary Waters for 20 years.\u201d<\/p>

The Biden administration enacted the ban on the grounds that it was needed to preserve the environment and recreational activities. Proponents of the restriction argued that mining would cause irreparable harm to the region.<\/p>

Twin Metals, a subsidiary of the Chilean miner Antofagasta, has been trying for years to develop a mining project in the affected area. The Trump administration could reissue the company\u2019s mining lease, but it would still need to undergo environmental review and permitting.<\/p>

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION BEGINS WORK ON NEW YORK GAS PIPELINE FOUGHT BY GREENS<\/a><\/p>

Stauber has argued that his bill would not allow mining in the Boundary Waters or weaken environmental safeguards.<\/p>

The measure \"simply returns the decision to established permitting processes, where science, not politics, guides the outcome,\" Stauber said. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/boundary-waters.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532119-1776340312", "title":"Trump announces 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4532119%2Ftrump-announce-10-day-ceasefire-israel-lebanon%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann and Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon will take effect later Thursday after representatives from both nations met in Washington. Trump said he had “excellent conversations” with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They agreed to commence the temporary ceasefire at 5 p.m. Thursday. “On Tuesday, the […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel<\/a> and Lebanon<\/a> will take effect later Thursday after representatives from both nations met in Washington.<\/p>

Trump said he had \"excellent conversations\" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu<\/a>. They agreed to commence the temporary ceasefire at 5 p.m. Thursday.<\/p>

\"On Tuesday, the two Countries met for the first time in 34 years here in Washington, D.C., with our Great Secretary of State, Marco Rubio,\" Trump wrote on Truth Social<\/a>. \"I have directed Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Rubio, together with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Razin' Caine, to work with Israel and Lebanon to achieve a Lasting PEACE.\"<\/p>

IRAN WAR DISRUPTS GLOBAL ALUMINUM SUPPLY, PROLONGING SHORTAGES FOR MONTHS<\/a><\/p>

The Israeli embassy declined to confirm the agreement to the Washington Examiner, and the Lebanese embassy did not return a request for comment.<\/p>

Trump said in his ceasefire announcement that he tasked Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to work with both sides to reach a long-term deal.<\/p>

\"It has been my Honor to solve 9 Wars across the World, and this will be my 10th, so let's, GET IT DONE,\" Trump said.<\/p>

He also said he will invite Netanyahu and Aoun to have direct talks at the White House.<\/p>

The agreement does not appear to include Hezbollah<\/a>, the terrorist group that Israel continued targeting in Lebanon even after the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran<\/a> took effect last week.<\/p>

Hezbollah is a U.S.-designated terrorist organization based in Lebanon, though it also has a party with a parliamentary bloc in the government, making it very entrenched within the fabric of the country. Israel and Hezbollah have fought several wars<\/a>, including one going on now<\/a>, in part because Lebanon has been unable to achieve the objectives<\/a> of the agreements that ended their last two wars in 2006 and 2024.<\/p>

The announcement follows a historic meeting at the State Department<\/a> on Tuesday, the first time since 1993 in which Israeli and Lebanese leaders held direct talks. <\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese Ambassador to the U.S. Nada Hamadeh Moawad led their respective delegations, while Rubio<\/a>, counselor Michael Needham, and U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa were also present.<\/p>

Rubio, in his opening remarks before the private meeting, called the moment a \u201chistoric opportunity\u201d in which they are seeking to bring \u201ca permanent end to 20 or 30 years of Hezbollah\u2019s influence in this part of the world and the \u2013 not just the damage that it\u2019s inflicted on Israel, the damage that it\u2019s inflicted on the Lebanese people.\u201d<\/p>

This is a breaking news story and has been updated.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103630698808.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4532008-1776340302", "title":"CBP to launch portal for up to $175 billion worth of tariff refunds. What to know ", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Ffinance-and-economy%2F4532008%2Fcbp-launch-portal-tariff-refund-what-to-know%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Customs and Border Protection is preparing to launch a new online portal to process what could amount to as much as $175 billion in tariff refunds to businesses after the tariffs were deemed illegal.   The portal will go live on April 20 and will be used by importers to file claims for duties collected under […]", "description":""

Customs and Border Protection<\/a> is preparing to launch a new online portal to process what could amount to as much as $175 billion in tariff<\/a> refunds to businesses after the tariffs were deemed illegal.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

The portal will go live on April 20 and will be used by importers to file claims for duties collected under tariffs imposed in 2025 using emergency economic powers. A federal court later deemed those tariffs were not lawfully enacted, triggering a sweeping repayment effort now underway.  <\/p>

Here\u2019s what to know: <\/p>Why refunds are being issued

The tariffs were imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which the Trump administration<\/a> used to target a wide range of imported goods. The policy generated tens of billions in federal revenue but quickly faced legal challenges from businesses and trade groups. <\/p>

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court<\/a> allowed a lower court ruling to stand that found the administration had exceeded its authority, sending the case back to the U.S. Court of International Trade to oversee the refund process. <\/p>

A federal judge then ordered CBP to return the duties, including both finalized and unfinalized entries, setting off a massive logistical challenge. <\/p>How much money is at stake

Estimates suggest between $166 billion and $175 billion in tariffs could be refunded, making it one of the largest repayment efforts in U.S. history. <\/p>

The duties were collected across more than 53 million import transactions, highlighting the scale of the task facing the agency. <\/p>How the portal will work

CBP\u2019s new web-based portal will allow importers or their brokers to file refund claims through the agency\u2019s Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries portal, submitting declarations that detail tariff payments. <\/p>

Businesses will be required to submit documentation showing tariff payments tied to specific import entries. The portal is expected to streamline the process by allowing bulk claims rather than requiring importers to file individually. <\/p>

CBP said it is working toward a system designed to automatically verify claims and issue consolidated payments from the Treasury Department<\/a>, rather than requiring importers to file lawsuits or submit paperwork for each shipment.\u00a0<\/p>

Officials said the portal is still under development but is expected to streamline what would otherwise be a labor-intensive process. <\/p>Who qualifies

Refunds are expected to go through primarily to importers \u2014 not consumers \u2014 who directly paid the tariffs when goods entered the United States. <\/p>

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TELLS COURT ITS TARIFF REFUND SYSTEM WILL LAUNCH MONDAY<\/a><\/p>

Businesses that passed tariff costs on to customers may still receive refunds, though it remains unclear whether those savings will be returned to customers. <\/p>

CBP said it will issue tariff refunds for valid claims within 90 days of approval, but added that it could take longer if claims contain errors or inaccuracies that require fixing. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2262132996.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531643-1776339918", "title":"Trump’s timeline: Iran, Iran, Pope, NATO. Republicans want it to be: Tax cut, tax cut", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwashington-secrets%2F4531643%2Ftrump-truth-social-timeline-iran-pope-nato-tax-cuts%2F", "byline":"Rob Crilly", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Welcome to Washington Secrets. Today, we look at the president’s Truth Social feed and hear from Republicans exasperated that he is not doing more to sell his biggest win so far. Plus, what is a New York Post reporter doing in Islamabad this week? President Donald Trump’s tax cut increased this year’s refund by an […]", "description":""

Welcome to Washington Secrets. Today, we look at the president's Truth Social feed and hear from Republicans exasperated that he is not doing more to sell his biggest win so far. Plus, what is a New York Post reporter doing in Islamabad this week?<\/p>

President Donald Trump\u2019s<\/a> tax cut increased this year\u2019s refund by an average of $350.<\/p>

In a midterm year, free money is the sort of thing that could help Republicans<\/a> staunch losses in a difficult part of the cycle and maybe (with a following wind) allow them to keep control of one or both chambers of Congress.<\/p>

But you wouldn\u2019t know it from Trump\u2019s social media feed.<\/p>

A Secrets review of the past week\u2019s posts shows a president obsessing over the war in Iran, slating allies, beating up on Democrats, and neglecting a winning issue, much to the frustration of Republican strategists.<\/p>

Today, Trump flies to Las Vegas for an event promoting his \u201cno tax on tips\u201d policy with a chance to reset.<\/p>

But during the past week, his Truth Social bully pulpit has neglected the issue. He has posted 30 times about the war in Iran<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cIran\u2019s Navy is laying (sic) at the bottom of the sea, completely obliterated - 158 ships. What we have not hit are their small number of, what they call, \u201cfast attack ships,\u201d because we did not consider them much of a threat.\u201d<\/p>

Five times, he attacked the United Kingdom or other allies, including the broader NATO alliance.<\/p>

\u201cNATO wasn\u2019t there for us, and they won\u2019t be there for us in the future! President DONALD J. TRUMP.\u201d<\/p>

He posted three times attacking Pope Leo XIV<\/a>. And that's without counting the now-deleted AI image of Trump as Jesus<\/a>.<\/p>

\"Will someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable.\u201d<\/p>

Taxes only get a mention in passing and are listed among Trump's reasons for endorsing election candidates.<\/p>

A top GOP campaign strategist said the president\u2019s rhetoric had to be entirely focused on touting the progress of his economic agenda if Republicans were to avoid \u201ca disastrous midterm election of epic proportions.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cWith GOP control of Congress and the fate of his final two years in office hanging by a thread, things like arguing with the Catholic Church and posting memes that create harmful news cycles make it feel like he's more interested in taking a buzzsaw to that fraying lifeline,\u201d the strategist said. \u201cThe only thing saving us as a party right now is the fact that Democrats are even less popular, and that could very easily change in the next six months.\"<\/p>

Another said it beggared belief that the president wasn\u2019t taking a victory lap.<\/p>

\u201cIt is what he campaigned on, and he is delivering,\u201d he said. \u201cWhat is so hard about this?\u201d<\/p>

Trump has not been entirely silent on taxes.<\/p>

During a Fox Business interview on Wednesday, he said that the tax cuts had \u201cturned out as good or better than I said it would be.\u201d<\/p>

Yet during a photo op at the White House, when a DoorDash driver who styled herself as \"DoorDash grandma<\/a>\" delivered burgers in a stunt to tout how much she had saved by keeping all of her tipped income, Trump went off in another direction when taking questions from the media. They deluged him with questions about the war in Iran, a much more difficult issue when it comes to November\u2019s elections.<\/p>

And Marjorie Taylor Greene<\/a>, the former member of Congress, pointed out that many people simply saw a billionaire standing beside a grandmother who had to work a delivery job to make ends meet.<\/p>

\u201cTrump doesn\u2019t care bc he doesn\u2019t feel it and all he cares about is fighting his war with Iran,\u201d Greene posted.<\/p>

There are still almost seven months to turn things around, however, and many voters are not thinking about midterm elections.<\/p>

\u201cThe focus for winning voters around is domestic, domestic, domestic,\u201d said James Johnson, cofounder of polling firm J.L. Partners. \u201cToday\u2019s visit to Las Vegas shows that the White House understands that, but the key will be whether they can message that consistently.\u201d<\/p>

Johnson added that a winning strategy would focus on the danger of Democratic gains in Congress.<\/p>

\u201cPeople tend to vote against things rather than for things,\u201d he said. \u201cSo Republicans need to [paint] a credible and alarming picture of what Democratic control would mean for the country, whether on crime, immigration, or the very tax refunds they\u2019ve just received.\u201d<\/p>Take Trump seriously but not literally

Trump\u2019s telephone messaging is a stroke of genius. He can say whatever he likes to some credulous reporter, safe in the knowledge that they, their editors, and their publication would never undersell their \u201cexclusive\u201d 90-second \u201cinterview\u201d with the president.<\/p>

The war is nearly over? Never mind that Trump has been saying this since the first bombs dropped in Tehran. The line gets recycled three times a week as the media undergo some kind of collective amnesia.<\/p>

So Secrets has some sympathy for the New York Post\u2019s Cailtin Doornbos, who telephoned the president from Islamabad earlier this week and then breathlessly reported on how Trump called her back later with some logistics advice.<\/p>

\u201cYou should stay there, really, because something could be happening over the next two days, and we\u2019re more inclined to go there,\u201d Trump said of Islamabad. \u201cIt\u2019s more likely, you know why? Because the field marshal is doing a great job.\u201d<\/p>

Cue subsequent updates from Doornbos on X asking Pakistanis<\/a> for suggestions about what to do during her unexpected extra days in their capital.<\/p>

In the meantime, the field marshal in question (Asim Munir, who is the key mediator in talks) jetted off to Tehran for talks, and Trump\u2019s two-day deadline expired with little action in Islamabad.<\/p>

Still, as a former resident of Islamabad, Secrets hopes that Doornbos has made it up into the Margalla Hills and eaten her share of keema matar.<\/p>Quote of the day

War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> delivered an update on the war in Iran with a slew of references to Jesus and the Bible this morning. It is hard to pick a winner, but let's go with his assault on journalists, comparing them with the Jewish religious grouping portrayed as opponents of Jesus in the Gospels:<\/p>

\"Our press are just like these Pharisees. Your politically motivated animus for President Trump nearly completely blinds you from the brilliance of our American warriors.\"<\/p>Lunchtime reading

Justice Thomas: Progressives vs the Declaration<\/a>: \"Since Wilson\u2019s presidency, progressivism has made many inroads in our system of government and our way of life. It has coexisted uneasily with the principles of the Declaration. Because it is opposed to those principles, it is not possible for the two to coexist forever.\"<\/p>

Pedro Pascal v Pedro Piscal: actor in legal battle with Chilean spirit brand<\/a>: David Herrera registered the brand name with a Chilean commercial regulator in 2023 and began selling his pisco in off-licenses and restaurants. \u201cWe tried a few names, and Pedro Piscal stuck.\"<\/p>

You are reading Washington Secrets, a guide to power and politics in D.C. and beyond. It is written by Rob Crilly, who you can reach at secrets@washingtonexaminer.com<\/a> with your comments, story tips, and suggestions. If a friend sent you this and you\u2019d like to sign up, click here<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2271173093.jpg?w=594" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531904-1776339735", "title":"Trader Joe’s to pay out $7.4 million lawsuit: Are you eligible for a payout?", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fbusiness%2F4531904%2Ftrader-joes-pay-7-million-lawsuit-are-you-eligible-payout%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Trader Joe’s is paying out a $7.4 million settlement as part of a class-action lawsuit for customers who made purchases with a credit or debit card in 2019. The lawsuit, Keim v. Trader Joe’s, alleges the company put customer security at risk at some of its stores between March 5, 2019, and July 19, 2019, […]", "description":""

Trader Joe\u2019s is paying out a $7.4 million settlement<\/a> as part of a class-action lawsuit <\/a>for customers who made purchases with a credit<\/a> or debit card in 2019.<\/p>

The lawsuit, Keim v. Trader Joe\u2019s, alleges the company put customer security at risk at some of its stores between March 5, 2019, and July 19, 2019, according to the settlement\u2019s website.<\/a><\/p>

The website states printed receipts at some of Trader Joe's stores showed the first six and the last four digits of credit and debit card numbers. <\/p>

Court documents<\/a> state, \u201cStores printed point-of-sale transaction receipts that revealed ten digits of its customers\u2019 debit and credit card numbers, in willful violation of their FACTA rights. Like speed limits, seatbelt laws, and food-safety laws, FACTA exists to protect the public against the risk of harm caused.\u201d<\/p>

Plaintiff Brian Keim said this case took seven years<\/a>. <\/p>

Affected customers must file a claim<\/a> by June 9. The final approval hearing for the lawsuit is August 10.<\/p>

ANDROID USERS MAY QUALIFY FOR PART OF $135 MILLION GOOGLE DATA SETTLEMENT<\/a><\/p>

\u201dThe final payment amount will depend on the total number of valid and timely claims submitted by Settlement Class Members, but Plaintiff estimates $102.45,\u201d the lawsuit reads.<\/p>

Trader Joe\u2019s has neither admitted to wrongdoing nor validated these claims.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/traderjoe.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531812-1776339386", "title":"ODNI files criminal referrals for ex-inspector general and whistleblower tied to first Trump impeachment", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4531812%2Ftulsi-gabbard-criminal-referrals-tied-first-trump-impeachment%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A criminal referral tied to the intelligence community’s handling of the complaint that sparked President Donald Trump’s first impeachment was sent to the Justice Department on Wednesday, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. “ODNI can confirm a criminal referral was sent to the DOJ related to one or more former employees […]", "description":""

A criminal referral tied to the intelligence community\u2019s handling of the complaint that sparked President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s first impeachment was sent to the Justice Department<\/a> on Wednesday, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.<\/p>

\u201cODNI can confirm a criminal referral was sent to the DOJ related to one or more former employees of the Intelligence Community and their role in the 2019 impeachment of President Trump,\u201d a spokesperson told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

The referral targets \u201cone or more\u201d former intelligence officials, but Fox News reported<\/a> that an intelligence official described the referral as broad while specifically directed at former Intelligence Community Inspector General Michael Atkinson and the whistleblower whose complaint triggered the 2019 impeachment proceedings.<\/p>

The move follows a wave of newly declassified records<\/a> released by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Monday. Those documents, along with congressional transcripts, showed the whistleblower contacted congressional Democrats before filing his complaint to the inspector general, suggesting a level of coordination with Trump's opponents that was not known at the time Congress and the media treated the whistleblower complaint as nonpartisan.<\/p>

The documents have been framed by administration officials as evidence of a \u201ccoordinated effort\u201d inside the intelligence community to advance a narrative that led to Trump\u2019s impeachment. <\/p>

\u201cNewly-declassified records expose how deep state actors within the Intelligence Community concocted a false narrative that Congress used to usurp the will of the American people and impeach duly-elected President @realDonaldTrump in 2019,\u201d Gabbard said in a post on X.<\/p>

At the center of the controversy is the August 2019 whistleblower complaint concerning Trump\u2019s July 25, 2019, phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky<\/a>. In that call, Trump urged Zelensky to examine business dealings involving Hunter Biden<\/a> and the actions of former Vice President Joe Biden related to Ukraine\u2019s prosecutor general.<\/p>

However, the younger Biden was already under a low-profile federal investigation by late 2018 that was prompted by unusual foreign transactions related to his former role on the board of a Ukrainian energy company, Burisma. That investigation later pivoted from possibly illegal foreign lobbying and toward separate tax and firearms offenses once the statute of limitations ran out on the foreign lobbying allegations.<\/p>

The complaint against Trump, which ultimately led to his impeachment by the House and acquittal in the Senate, relied largely on secondhand information about the president's private conversation with Zelensky. The whistleblower acknowledged in the filing that he was \u201cnot a direct witness to most of the events described,\u201d instead citing accounts from multiple U.S. officials.<\/p>

Atkinson, who reviewed the complaint, determined it met the statutory definition of an \u201curgent concern\u201d and forwarded it to Congress, despite noting that the whistleblower had indications of political bias, including support for a rival political candidate.<\/p>

Newly declassified testimony adds another layer to the dispute. During a closed-door deposition in October 2019, Atkinson confirmed that the whistleblower had prior contact with congressional Democrats before filing the complaint \u2014 a detail that was not disclosed on the original submission form.<\/p>

That omission has fueled concerns about coordination between the whistleblower and lawmakers leading the impeachment inquiry, which was spearheaded by then-House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff<\/a> (D-CA). House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford (R-AR) said Monday that the transcripts revealing the omission had been \"withheld from the American public for far too long.\"<\/p>

Democrats, meanwhile, ratcheted up concerns about weaponization of justice on Thursday in response to Gabbard's referrals.<\/p>

\u201cThis is yet another desperate attempt by Tulsi Gabbard to crush and criminalize dissent and manipulate the levers of power in favor of Trump \u2013 much like she\u2019s attempting to do in our elections,\" said Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), the ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee.<\/p>

WHISTLEBLOWER CONTACTED DEMOCRATS BEFORE FILING TRUMP COMPLAINT THAT LED TO FIRST IMPEACHMENT, RECORDS SHOW<\/a><\/p>

During Trump's first term, the DOJ\u2019s Office of Legal Counsel concluded that the complaint against Trump did not fall within the ODNI\u2019s jurisdiction because it involved the president\u2019s communications with a foreign leader, setting off a standoff over whether it should be transmitted to Congress. Atkinson ultimately moved to notify lawmakers himself.<\/p>

The scope of the current referral remains unclear, and the DOJ did not respond to a request for comment on whether it had received the complaint.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AP25030644683915.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531681-1776339080", "title":"Hegseth compares journalists to ‘pharisees’ in latest anti-media rant", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4531681%2Fhegseth-compare-journalist-pharisee-anti-media-rant%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"War Secretary Pete Hegseth once again blasted the media’s coverage of the Iran war on Thursday, taking his criticism one step further by comparing journalists to pharisees from the Bible. He found the comparison quite apparent after listening to his pastor preach on a passage in Mark 3, which detailed how Jesus healed a sick […]", "description":""

War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> once again blasted the media's coverage of the Iran<\/a> war on Thursday, taking his criticism one step further by comparing journalists<\/a> to pharisees from the Bible.<\/p>

He found the comparison quite apparent after listening to his pastor preach on a passage in Mark 3<\/a>, which detailed how Jesus healed a sick man on the Sabbath. In response, the pharisees began plotting to kill Jesus because he challenged their understanding of the Jewish holy day of rest.<\/p>

\"I sat there in church, and I thought our press are just like these pharisees,\" he told reporters. \"Not all of you, not all of you. But the legacy Trump-hating press, your politically motivated animus for President Trump nearly completely blinds you from the brilliance of our American warriors.\"<\/p>

The pharisees were a group of religious leaders known for their strict adherence to the written law in Judaism.<\/p>

In this tirade during the latest Pentagon<\/a> press conference on the Iran war, Hegseth said the pharisees were the \"so-called and self-appointed elites of their time,\" while making that comparison to reporters in the briefing room.<\/p>

\"The pharisees scrutinized every good act in order to find a violation, only looking for the negative,\" he said. \"The hardened hearts of our press are calibrated only to impugn.\"<\/p>

Hegseth then contrasted the press with the public, who he says have \"goodness in their hearts\" and \"see past the pharisees in our press.\"<\/p>

The remarks were the latest instance of the Cabinet member invoking his Christian faith to make a point on the military operation in Iran or its coverage in the news media.<\/p>

\"I just can't help but notice the endless stream of garbage, the relentlessly negative coverage you cannot resist pedaling despite the historic and important success of this effort and the success of our troops,\" he said. \"Sometimes, it's hard to figure out what side some of you are actually on.\"<\/p>

Hegseth went on to say some in the press corps are \"incredibly unpatriotic\" and accused them of covering the Biden administration<\/a> favorably while doing the opposite for the Trump administration<\/a>. He pointed to press coverage for the U.S. military's \"disastrous and disgraceful\" withdrawal from Afghanistan<\/a> in 2021 as an example of the difference.<\/p>

\"You called it the greatest airlift in American history,\" the War Department<\/a> head claimed without directly referring to a specific report. \"It's almost like you're cheering only for one side.\"<\/p>

The \"greatest airlift\" comment appears to have been spread by conservative figures in 2021 after then-President Joe Biden described<\/a> the Afghanistan withdrawal as \"one of the biggest airlifts in history.\" Fox News commentator Mark Levin paraphrased<\/a> the initial comment, the twisted interpretation of which was then repeated by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) in an August 2022 letter<\/a> to Biden.<\/p>

Operation Epic Fury advances as a tentative two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains in effect. A U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, blocking access to Iranian ports, is a key point of tension right now.<\/p>

HEGSETH SAYS IRAN IS \u2018DIGGING OUT\u2019 BOMBED FACILITIES AND WARNS OF CONTINUED US MILITARY PRESENCE<\/a><\/p>

Hegseth warned the Islamic regime that the U.S. military is prepared to resume fighting if necessary.<\/p>

\"If Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power, and energy,\" he said. \"The world watched, and so did you, as the U.S. military moved seamlessly from major combat operations to a world-class blockade. We can make that transition again, very quickly and even more powerfully than ever.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26106466670685.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531856-1776339008", "title":"ICE arrests under Trump near 457,000", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fimmigration%2F4531856%2Fice-arrests-under-trump-near-457000%2F", "byline":"Anna Giaritelli", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Federal law enforcement at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is closing in on achieving half a million arrests of illegal immigrants in the United States during President Donald Trump’s second term, according to a senior administration official. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons disclosed to House appropriators on Thursday that the agency, along with help from […]", "description":""

Federal law enforcement at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> is closing in on achieving half a million arrests of illegal immigrants in the United States during President Donald Trump's<\/a> second term, according to a senior administration official.<\/p>

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons disclosed to House appropriators on Thursday that the agency, along with help from other federal agencies, had collectively taken into custody almost 457,000 people between Jan. 20, 2025, and mid-April.<\/p>

\"We've significantly increased our operational tempo since Jan. 20. We've arrested nearly 457,000 aliens,\" Lyons told the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security during a budget hearing.<\/p>

Trump vowed to carry out the \"largest-ever\" deportation operation in U.S. history, and he is well on track. ICE has averaged nearly 1,000 arrests per day, well over double the average daily arrests made over the past decade.<\/p>

STATE BY STATE: HERE'S WHERE ICE HAS MADE THE MOST ARRESTS UNDER TRUMP<\/a><\/p>

ICE has maintained that the large majority of people arrested have criminal histories, which include those with convictions, as well as those who have been charged but not convicted.<\/p>

Roughly 281,000 illegal immigrants, or 61%, of the 457,000 people arrested had criminal histories. The 457,000 also included 1,600 known or suspected terrorists.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/ice-agent-mask-arrest.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531046-1776338579", "title":"Somali fugitive fleeing Minnesota fraud charges is an Ilhan Omar donor", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Finvestigations%2F4531046%2Fsomali-fugitive-minnesota-fraud-charges-ilhan-omar-donor%2F", "byline":"Mia Cathell", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A convicted Somali fraudster-turned-fugitive now accused of stealing nearly $11 million from Minnesota’s Medicaid program previously donated to Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), according to matching business registration records and campaign finance filings reviewed by the Washington Examiner. Abdirashid Ismail Said, who is fleeing a slew of felony charges in what the state has dubbed its […]", "description":""

A convicted Somali<\/a> fraudster-turned-fugitive now accused of stealing nearly $11 million from Minnesota<\/a>\u2019s Medicaid program previously donated to Rep. Ilhan Omar<\/a> (D-MN), according to matching business registration records and campaign finance filings reviewed by the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

Abdirashid Ismail Said, who is fleeing a slew of felony charges in what the state has dubbed its \u201clargest-ever Medicaid<\/a> fraud prosecution,\u201d cut a $1,000 check, the maximum amount allowed<\/a>, to Omar when she first ran for the Minnesota<\/a> House of Representatives in 2016.<\/p>

The donation receipt<\/a>, dated November 2015, shows that Said described himself as a \u201cself-employed business owner.\u201d<\/p>

His address listed on Omar\u2019s 2015 campaign contributions form matched<\/a> the location of Said\u2019s consultancy firm, \u201cPrestiege Consulting and Marketing,\" which he misspelled when he incorporated<\/a> the company, before he moved<\/a> its office to a strip mall in northeast Minneapolis, where many of his various business ventures, including Ultimate Healthcare<\/a>, were ostensibly located under one roof.<\/p>

Said, then the owner of Ultimate Healthcare, was convicted<\/a> of fraudulently billing Medicaid for sham personal care services between 2016 and 2017.<\/p>

During the criminal proceedings, Said\u2019s associates submitted written testimony<\/a> to the court claiming he was fundraising as part of a community project for the construction of a school in Somalia that would teach orphan girls.<\/p>

One community member spoke to \u201chis deep conviction in educating the girl child,\u201d going on to mention that Said had personally helped her pay rent and handle legal fees.<\/p>

Another testified that Said \u201cdoes not let his friends or neighbors down,\u201d often helping them through tough financial times. Speaking of his \u201cgenerosity,\u201d the character witness, a self-described Medicare \u201ccertificator\u201d<\/a> at Nurse On Call, wrote in sworn statements that Said \u201ccomes thru all the time when called on to help.\u201d<\/p>

In lieu of prison time, Said was sentenced to 100 hours of community service followed by two years of supervised probation.<\/p>Current criminal case against Said considered Minnesota\u2019s largest Medicaid fraud prosecution

Said is suspected<\/a> of orchestrating a sprawling healthcare fraud scheme that swindled the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the state\u2019s Medicaid<\/a> agency, out of approximately $11 million in fraudulent reimbursement claims.<\/p>

According to the charging documents<\/a>, Said managed a \u201ccriminal enterprise\u201d of bogus healthcare businesses whose staff submitted forged timesheets to support billing for services that were never actually performed. The network of Medicaid-funded providers, operating out of the old Ultimate Healthcare office, allegedly paid Said through his consulting company, Prestiege, as a workaround while he was banned from directly accessing Medicaid funds.<\/p>

Prosecutors say Said attempted to conceal the fraud conspiracy by lying to the court about the nature of his financial transactions with co-conspirators. Said claimed that his cut of the funds was not part of a kickback arrangement, rather that they were merely loans from friends given to pay off restitution to the government for his prior fraud conviction.<\/p>

At a probation violation hearing, Said said<\/a> prosecutors simply do not understand the Somali community\u2019s \u201cculture\" of transferring money between friends, sometimes without a paper trail, and mistake such cultural differences as funneling funds or evidence of fraud.<\/p>

HOW MINNESOTA\u2019S SOMALI FRAUD INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX HAS STOLEN MILLIONS FROM MEDICAID<\/a><\/p>

\u201cThis is part of our culture, to help people,\u201d Said said, arguing that Somalis tend to help one another out financially under the table.<\/p>

When the judge asked if he had a physical payment agreement or terms and conditions outlined for the loans in question, Said said, \u201cNo, your honor. In our culture, we trust one another.\u201d<\/p>

Per police, Said\u2019s phone data showed him telling a fellow fraudster who was charged alongside him, \u201cWe gonna party bro. Insha Allah.\u201d According to their texts, the co-conspirator replied, \u201cNext pay period bro I\u2019ll bill 50k,\u201d explicitly stating, \u201cI\u2019m gonna over bill the hours \u2026 And do a hit and run.\u201d<\/p>

Said failed to appear<\/a> at a pretrial hearing on April 7 and has not turned up since, indefinitely derailing his jury trial that was scheduled to begin this week.<\/p>

At the outset of the case, now rendered \u201cdormant,\u201d prosecutors in the Minnesota attorney general\u2019s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit raised concerns about Said fleeing, warning that there is \u201ca substantial likelihood\u201d that he would take off. Officials noted that Said has \u201csignificant family ties outside of the United States,\u201d namely his wife and child residing in Nairobi, Kenya.<\/p>

\u201cGiven the nature and severity of the charges, and SAID\u2019s familial ties outside the jurisdiction of Minnesota, I believe there is a potential SAID may flee, hide, or otherwise prevent the execution of the warrant,\u201d the prosecution wrote in an initial request<\/a> to seal the 79-page criminal complaint.<\/p>

FEEDING OUR FUTURE FRAUDSTER SENTENCED TO JUST ONE YEAR IN PRISON BY JUDGE COMMITTED TO \u2018COMBATING RACISM\u2019<\/a><\/p>

Said had the option of posting a $50,000 bond with certain conditions, such as surrendering his passport, or paying an extra bond amount of $150,000 without the added travel restrictions. He chose the latter, which allowed him to keep his passport.<\/p>

The unconditional bond stipulations were ordered by Hennepin County Judge Juan Hoyos, an appointee of former Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton, over the objections of prosecutors who asked that bail be set at $1 million.<\/p>

As of Wednesday, Said has an active warrant out for his arrest. Authorities continue to search for him. His whereabouts remain unknown, as he is set to stand trial on charges of perjury, theft by swindling, aiding and abetting theft, and racketeering.<\/p>Not the first fraudster Omar has accepted campaign cash from

Omar\u2019s congressional office did not respond to a Washington Examiner inquiry about whether the congresswoman intends to return Said\u2019s donation or redirect the money to another cause, as she has in the past<\/a> with other campaign contributions sent from suspected fraudsters.<\/p>

In 2022, Omar forwarded campaign funds to a variety of community organizations \u201cout of an abundance of caution\u201d after she received donations from two suspects implicated<\/a> in the Feeding Our Future plot, an organized fraud ring that involved dozens of fake food distributors, predominantly operated by members of Minnesota\u2019s Somali diaspora, defrauding a federally funded child nutrition program by about $250 million.<\/p>

Those two Omar donors, Ahmed Abdullahi Ghedi<\/a> and Abdihakim Ali Ahmed<\/a>, later pled guilty to wire fraud and money laundering, marking the 45th and 47th convictions secured in the largest-known fraud scheme in U.S. history to take advantage of pandemic-era public assistance programming, particularly funds meant to provide meals to underprivileged children during the COVID-19 crisis.<\/p>

Omar, following sweeping search warrants that named Ghedi and Ahmed, passed her 2021 donations from the Feeding Our Future fraudsters on to food pantries primarily serving immigrant populations<\/a> in Minneapolis, including Sabathani Community Center, an African-founded<\/a> nonprofit organization.<\/p>

\u201cAll of these charities provide food assistance, amongst other critical services, to several communities in Minneapolis,\u201d an Omar spokesman told<\/a> Sahan Journal, a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to covering immigrants and minority communities in Minnesota.<\/p>

Omar, herself a Somali refugee, also faced scrutiny at the time for authoring a bill believed to have incentivized the Feeding Our Future co-conspirators to set up phantom tax-exempt entities and enroll them as food distribution sites in the child nutrition program.<\/p>

In response to the 2020 school shutdowns, Omar worked to vastly expand the flexibility of food delivery support systems, introducing<\/a> legislation that was supposed to guarantee that children, who otherwise relied on free or reduced-price school lunches, still got fed outside of the traditional school setting.<\/p>

Omar\u2019s Maintaining Essential Access to Lunch for Students Act<\/a> granted waivers permitting nonschool-based distributors to bypass Agriculture Department regulations<\/a> governing how meals are distributed to students and who is authorized to do so.<\/p>

Officials say the Feeding Our Future scammers exploited the relaxed federal enrollment requirements, which allowed nonprofit groups to participate in the program and claim reimbursements. Qualifying distributors were able to recoup the cost of prepared meals purportedly served to children under the auspices of the program, though many of the Feeding Our Future shell companies never actually fed any children.<\/p>

Omar has since defended<\/a> her sponsorship of the MEALs Act, despite its ties to the Feeding Our Future indictments.<\/p>

\u201cDo you regret pushing for that bill, the MEALS Act? Do you think it led to the fraud?\u201d Fox News Digital asked Omar. She said, \u201cAbsolutely not,\u201d insisting, \u201cIt did help feed kids.\u201d<\/p>

ILHAN OMAR\u2019S OBSCURE FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES UNDER SCRUTINY AMID MINNESOTA FRAUD SCANDAL<\/a><\/p>

Much of the child nutrition money obtained by the Feeding Our Future fraudsters instead went toward<\/a> high-end real estate, flashy cars, designer clothes, and overseas vacations.<\/p>

Authorities say Ghedi and Ahmed, the defendants who donated a total of $5,400<\/a> to Omar\u2019s reelection campaign, spent their share of the child nutrition money on luxury property, particularly putting the funds toward the purchase of a $2.8 million mansion in Minneapolis.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/ilhan-omar-ice-son.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531732-1776338314", "title":"Two weeks to stop the war: Trump’s trepidatious Iran timeline", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fbeltway-confidential%2F4531732%2Ftrump-trepidatious-iran-war-timeline%2F", "byline":"Peter Cordi", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump said last month that the war in Iran would be over “within two weeks … maybe three.” Yet, with the regime still intact and unwilling to give up nuclear enrichment, it seems things are just getting started. The Trump administration’s Iran war timeline feels a lot like the COVID-19 lockdown timeline. “Two […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump said last month that the war in Iran would be over \u201cwithin two weeks<\/a> \u2026 maybe three.\u201d Yet, with the regime still intact and unwilling to give up nuclear enrichment<\/a>, it seems things are just getting started.<\/p>

The Trump administration\u2019s Iran war timeline<\/a> feels a lot like the COVID-19 lockdown timeline. \u201cTwo weeks to stop the spread,\u201d they said, yet lockdowns and mandates persisted for months or years; some places still haven\u2019t recovered. Similarly, we have been hearing for nearly two months that the war is about to end \u2014 yet War Secretary Pete Hegseth just warned on Thursday that the United States is \u201creloading with more power than before\u201d and White House Deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller recently said the war could continue \u201cindefinitely.\u201d<\/p>

After launching Operation Epic Fury, Trump said the bombings would continue \u201cthroughout the week.\u201d Two days later, he projected a timeline of \u201cfour to five weeks.\u201d The next day, Hegseth said, \u201cIt could be three\u201d weeks or as high as eight. The following week, Trump said the war would be over \u201cvery soon.\u201d He said on March 9 that \u201cWe've already won,\u201d and on March 11, he said the war would be over \u201csoon\u201d because there is \"practically nothing left to target.\u201d The next day, he said Iran was \u201cpretty much at the end of the line.\u201d He declared victory once again on March 24 and March 26, saying \u201cwe\u2019ve won this war,\u201d and \u201cthey\u2019re defeated.\u201d And this week, he said the war is \u201cvery close<\/a> to being over.\u201d<\/p>

US EXPANDS IRAN BLOCKADE TO TARGET DARK FLEET SHIPS WORLDWIDE<\/a><\/p>

And yet the regime, while battered, is still standing, continuing to commit war crimes and domestic atrocities. Coming full circle, Trump said a couple of weeks ago that the war was ending \u201cvery shortly \u2026 We\u2019re going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks.\u201d<\/p>

Trump\u2019s two-week timelines don\u2019t stop with Iran; he\u2019s made similar projections<\/a> regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, the proposed acquisition of Greenland, the Israel-Hamas war, the TikTok deal, and various trade deals.<\/p>

I fully support Trump\u2019s move to strike Iran. I think it would be suicidal to allow the regime to obtain nuclear weapons and create a jihadi North Korea crisis<\/a>. The conflict also significantly weakens China<\/a>, by far Iran\u2019s largest trading partner and our greatest adversary. But while Trump understandably wants to maintain flexibility over his timeline, his projections repeatedly undercut his \u201cwe won\u201d messaging. And while I acknowledge the value of strategic rhetoric and public posturing, I wish we had more clarity from the White House, because the war is driving up costs that impact us all. Those costs may also be a factor in Trump\u2019s ever-changing timeline<\/a> and repeated declarations of victory, as he attempts to soft-launch an unpopular long-term conflict that we're paying for through taxation and inflation just months before the 2026 midterm elections.<\/p>

Whether or not regime change is the best solution in a vacuum, ending this war without toppling the Iranian regime would be extremely dangerous<\/a>. The people who chant \u201cdeath to America\u201d and call us \u201cthe great Satan\u201d will be even more radicalized if they\u2019re allowed to stay in power.<\/p>

A February piece in the Foreign Affairs magazine, by the Council on Foreign Relations, argued that the way to enact regime change in Iran without putting troops in place would be to weaken it enough that the Iranian people could \u201cdo the rest.\u201d The U.S. and Israel have killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and a slew of other top political and military figures, annihilated the country\u2019s navy, and damaged or destroyed <\/a>the vast majority of its defense industrial base, production facilities, launchers, and stockpiles. Yet the Iranian people are either unwilling or unable to finish the job from the inside.<\/p>

Did Trump think doing 80% of the job would force the regime to give up? As the ceasefire<\/a> deadline gets closer, it does become more probable, but as it stands now, Iran seems emboldened. With over 50,000 U.S. troops in the region, in addition to other military assets, Trump has three options: Give up and allow a more radicalized regime to regain its strength, strike Iran\u2019s civilian infrastructure to put more pressure on its leaders, or conduct a ground invasion.<\/p>

The ground invasion option is most likely to accomplish all of Trump\u2019s objectives for the war, but would certainly cause the most loss of American lives in the process. Striking infrastructure<\/a> could cause the regime to buckle, but they appear to be suicidally determined to continue fighting, similar to Japan at the end of World War II. And throwing in the towel would look terrible for Trump, no matter how he tries to frame it, because at the end of the day, we will have only set Iran back temporarily while further radicalizing them.<\/p>

PRESSURE BUILDS ON TRUMP TO FIND OFF-RAMP ON IRAN WAR<\/a><\/p>

The first 80% of the job was easy. The last 20%, should we choose to finish it, will likely take more time and manpower than the rest combined. That\u2019s not going to be popular during the midterm elections, and it\u2019s definitely not going to drive down the cost of oil. Trump is in a pickle right now, but if anyone can get out of it, I believe it would be him.<\/p>

With peace talks going nowhere and the ceasefire winding down, the only thing that can be sure is the two weeks to stop the war, much like the \u201ctwo weeks to stop the spread,\u201d will last a whole lot longer than a fortnight.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103630660422_440a46.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531747-1776337670", "title":"Europe’s fuel supply will only last ‘maybe six weeks or so,’ IEA says", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fenergy%2F4531747%2Feurope-fuel-supply-last-six-weeks-iea%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The head of the International Energy Agency on Thursday said that Europe’s jet fuel supply is dwindling and could cause flight cancellations in the near future if oil transportation through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume. Speaking in an interview with the Associated Press, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said that due to the […]", "description":""

The head of the International Energy Agency on Thursday said that Europe\u2019s<\/a> jet fuel supply is dwindling and could cause flight cancellations in the near future if oil<\/a> transportation through the Strait of Hormuz<\/a> does not resume.<\/p>

Speaking in an interview with the Associated Press, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said that due to the significant fuel<\/a> shortage in Europe, the continent could run out of jet fuel in \u201cmaybe six weeks or so.\u201d <\/p>

Birol called the shortage \u201cthe largest energy crisis we have ever faced,\u201d one that was ignited by the war in Iran and led Tehran to close off the strait, through which 20% of the world\u2019s oil supply flows. U.S. forces have since implemented their own blockade, barring any vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports from going through the waterway.\u00a0<\/p>

Airports Council International Europe, an international association that represents hundreds of airports across Europe, echoed similar concerns last week and said the region faces \u201csystem\u201d shortages that will affect travel. The organization added that demands from military operations have also affected airlines' supplies. <\/p>

Birol issued an additional warning: that the IEA sees the impact going beyond air travel, and the shortages will also cause \u201chigher petrol prices, higher gas prices, higher electricity prices.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

President Donald Trump<\/a> has suggested that countries<\/a> facing fuel shortages due to the war should either buy from the United States or go to the Strait of Hormuz and \u201ctake\u201d oil from Iran. <\/p>

\u201cAll of those countries that can\u2019t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,\u201d Trump said in March.<\/p>

European nations, including the United Kingdom<\/a> and France<\/a>, have favored a diplomatic approach to the war, rather than offering military support to U.S. and Israeli forces fighting Iran.<\/p>

IRAN THREATENS TO HALT RED SEA TRADE IF US HORMUZ BLOCKADE CONTINUES<\/a><\/p>

U.S. and Iranian leaders have agreed to peace negotiations after a two-week ceasefire was settled, with the reopening of the strait being a top priority for Washington. Both parties sent envoys to Islamabad, Pakistan, for negotiations last weekend, but the meeting concluded without a breakthrough agreement.<\/p>

A second round of talks has yet to be scheduled, according to Pakistani officials.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26106357948719.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531705-1776337442", "title":"On This Day: Tensions are high as British invasion is imminent in New York", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fcolumnists%2F4531705%2Fon-this-day-tensions-high-british-invasion-imminent-new-york%2F", "byline":"Salena Zito", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. April 16, 1776 Tensions are high. Gen. George Washington is […]", "description":""

The following is an installment of \u201cOn This Day,\u201d a series celebrating America\u2019s 250th anniversary<\/a> by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.<\/p>

April 16, 1776<\/p>

Tensions are high. Gen. George Washington<\/a> is anticipating the British to arrive<\/a> in New York at any moment. He himself has only been there for two days, still uneasy about the lay of the land. He directs engineers in the day\u2019s General Orders<\/a> to press the defense works forward using everyone possible to complete the American patriots\u2019 defensive line in New York<\/a>.<\/p>

General Orders<\/p>

Head Quarters, New-York, April 16th 1776.<\/p>

Parole New-Hampshire.<\/p>

Countersign Falmouth.<\/p>

If the British Troops which evacuated Boston, or any part of them, are destined for this place, their Arrival may be very soon expected\u2014The Engineers and Overseers of the works, are therefore to use every possible dispatch in compleating them\u2014To this end, the Engineers are to apply to the Adjutant General, for as many Men as can usefully be employed, and he will give orders accordingly.<\/p>

Col. Prescot\u2019s Regiment is to encamp on Governors-Island, as soon as the weather clears, they are to give every assistance in their power, to facilitate the works erecting thereon\u2014The Qr Mr General will furnish Straw for the Tents, and Firewood.<\/p>

As some Inconvenience have arisen to the Citizens of this place, by having the Countersign demanded of them, so early as Nine-O\u2019Clock\u2014The General orders that Taptoo-beating be delayed for the future \u2019til Ten, flattering himself (as there is no distinguishing Citizens from Soldiers, nor no other possible method of keeping the latter to their quarters, and of consequence, from rioting and disorderly behaviour) that it will be found less Inconvenient to the Inhabitants (to say nothing of the security which is to be derived from it) to give the Countersign at that hour, than submit to the greater Inconveniencies, which may arise out of the neglect of it. After this Hour, it is strictly enjoined upon the Officers to see that their Rolls are called and that the Men are in quarters.<\/p>

General Thompson will hasten the embarkation of the regiments for Albany, as fast as possible, and is to fix with the Muster Master General Mr Moylan, upon a time and place for mustering of them\u2014These Regiments may be embark\u2019d and sent off one at a time, or otherwise as it can be done quickest\u2014The General to set out with the last\u2014The Colonels to prepare their Muster-Rolls immediately.<\/p>

All Persons having business with the Adjutant General, are to repair to his own Office, and not to Head Quarters to transact it.<\/p>

The General Court Martial of which Col. Stark was President is dissolved.<\/p>

A General Court Martial to sit to morrow Morning, at Mr Frances\u2019s Tavern, at ten O\u2019clock\u2014All Evidences and Persons concern\u2019d, to attend the court.<\/p>

ON THIS DAY: DESPITE PENDING BRITISH ATTACK ON NEW YORK, GEORGE WASHINGTON SENDS TROOPS TO CANADA<\/a><\/p>

Soldiers stream into the city, arriving from every colony: Pennsylvania, South Carolina, North Carolina, Massachusetts, and so on. This swells the ranks but adds to Washington\u2019s concern \u2014 a concern that he has struggled with since first taking command: discipline.<\/p>

With no clear distinction between citizen and soldier, enforcing order in the chaotic city remains his constant burden.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/IMG_5170.jpg?w=392" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531788-1776336778", "title":"Thom Tillis says Trump should apologize to the pope", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4531788%2Fthom-tillis-trump-should-apologize-pope-leo%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) called on President Donald Trump to apologize to Pope Leo XIV, arguing the president has treated the pontiff as a political figure rather than a religious leader.  “I, for one, think apology is an underused art in politics,” Tillis said in a Wednesday interview with NBC News. “When you’re wrong, you’re […]", "description":""

Sen. Thom Tillis<\/a> (R-NC) called on President Donald Trump<\/a> to apologize to Pope Leo XIV<\/a>, arguing the president has treated the pontiff as a political figure rather than a religious leader. <\/p>

\u201cI, for one, think apology is an underused art in politics,\u201d Tillis said in a Wednesday interview<\/a> with NBC News. \u201cWhen you\u2019re wrong, you\u2019re wrong, or if you made a mistake, or maybe it was just a misconception, just get past it. Move on. This president has done so many positive things that I want to focus on.\u201d<\/p>

Tillis also pushed back on Trump\u2019s Sunday Truth Social post<\/a>, calling the pope \u201cweak on crime\u201d and \u201cterrible for Foreign Policy.\"<\/p>

\u201cTo say soft on crime or soft on the border, that\u2019s what you say to an opponent in the next election,\u201d Tillis said. \u201cOr, you know, maybe a presidential or prime minister candidate in some other country, but not to the pope of the Catholic Church<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>

Tillis acknowledged that while the pope might be a political figure at some level, Leo is still the leader of the Catholic Church. <\/p>

\u201cHe is speaking the very same things that he would speak at church, whether or not this Iranian conflict was going on,\u201d Tillis said. <\/p>

Tillis also spoke about the artificially generated image Trump posted in which he resembled Jesus, which gathered backlash from the president\u2019s closest allies. Trump denied that the image depicted him as Jesus and later removed the post.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI worry less about the post,\u201d Tillis said. \u201cI think he took it down, and I think that\u2019s an acknowledgment that it was probably something that should have never been posted. I\u2019ll take at face value his confusion with it being a doctor.\u201d<\/p>

HERE'S WHERE HOUSE AND SENATE RETIREMENTS STAND IN 2026<\/a><\/p>

Tillis, who is set to retire at the end of the year, said he would tone down his language if he were running again. <\/p>

\u201cIf I were running for reelection, I\u2019d probably use a few different words, try to communicate the same thing, like I did in Trump 1,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I just don\u2019t have to deal with that filter.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26062635462558.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531585-1776336221", "title":"Newsom admits calling speedy Swalwell special election to undercut Mike Johnson", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4531585%2Fgavin-newsom-campaigns-off-of-speedy-eric-swalwell-special-election%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Gavin Newsom fundraised off of his expedited special election call to fill disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell’s seat. Newsom’s political action committee has begun fundraising on his effort to keep House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) majority as slim as possible after Swalwell resigned earlier this week due to multiple sexual misconduct allegations. “The people […]", "description":""

Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> fundraised off of his expedited special election call to fill disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell's<\/a> seat.<\/p>

Newsom's political action committee has begun fundraising on his effort to keep House Speaker Mike Johnson's (R-LA) majority as slim as possible after Swalwell resigned earlier this week due to multiple sexual misconduct allegations.<\/p>

\u201cThe people of California's 14th District deserve representation in the House as soon as possible, and with a very slim Republican majority in Congress I was not going to give Mike Johnson even a single extra day before filling this seat,\" Newsom wrote<\/a>.<\/p>

The\u00a0special election<\/a>\u00a0is set for Aug. 18, following Newsom's\u00a0proclamation<\/a>\u00a0on Tuesday to start the process for the election. Swalwell resigned at 2 p.m. Tuesday, just days after he was first accused of sexually assaulting a former staffer. At least four other women came forward with similar allegations.<\/p>

The House margins remain in flux week by week as a slew of resignations, deaths, and other factors have led to many special elections this Congress, all while Johnson navigates the slimmest margin in history, often only having a one-vote margin on major legislation.<\/p>

Newsom's overt call to keep Johnson's majority slim comes as former Republican Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales also resigned this week amid sexual misconduct allegations, leaving Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) to call a special election for his seat.<\/p>

\u201cAn announcement on the seat will be made at a later date,\" Abbott's press secretary Andrew Mahaleris told the Washington Examiner. <\/p>

Abbott held off on filing for the late Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner's seat for over a year, but never outwardly expressed why he held off on holding the special election as long as possible.<\/p>

NEWSOM SETS DATE FOR SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL SWALWELL'S HOUSE SEAT<\/a><\/p>

Brandon Herrera, the Republican candidate for Gonzales's old district in the November midterm election, told the Washington Examiner earlier this week that \"everything seems to be pointing to a special election in November, just based on state law.\"<\/p>

Newsom held off on scheduling a special election following the\u00a0death of Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa<\/a>\u00a0in January. The special election\u00a0for LaMalfa\u2019s remaining term<\/a>\u00a0will take place on Aug. 4 if no candidate takes more than 50% of the vote in the June 2 primary.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-txem9roum-1776353314094.jpg?1776339045&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531593-1776336104", "title":"Hegseth says Iran is ‘digging out’ bombed facilities and warns of continued US military presence", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4531593%2Fpete-hegseth-iran-digging-bombed-facilities-military%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Iran is attempting to “dig out” its bombed-out facilities during the ceasefire, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced on Thursday morning. The country is “digging out [its] remaining launchers and missiles,” he told reporters during a press briefing, adding that it does not have the “the ability to replenish [its] remaining launchers and missiles.” […]", "description":""

Iran<\/a> is attempting to \"dig out\" its bombed-out facilities during the ceasefire, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth<\/a> announced on Thursday morning.<\/p>

The country is \"digging out [its] remaining launchers and missiles,\" he told reporters during a press briefing, adding that it does not have the \"the ability to replenish [its] remaining launchers and missiles.\"<\/p>

The United States and Israeli militaries carried out thousands of military strikes during the war, which began on Feb. 28. The ceasefire commenced on April 7, largely degrading Iran's capabilities, though not eliminating them entirely.<\/p>

Hegseth warned the Iranians that the U.S. military<\/a> is prepared to restart offensive operations if needed.<\/p>

\"If Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power, and energy,\" he said. \"The world watched, and so did you, as the U.S. military moved seamlessly from major combat operations to a world-class blockade. We can make that transition again, very quickly and even more powerfully than ever.\"<\/p>

IMF WARNS OF GLOBAL RECESSION RISK IF IRAN WAR ESCALATES<\/a><\/p>

The secretary did not specify which facilities the U.S. believes Iran is trying to dig out, what was stored there before its bombing, or how widely the country is trying to unearth its buried facilities.<\/p>

Spencer\u00a0Faragasso, a senior fellow with the Institute for Science and International Security, told the\u00a0Washington Examiner that it's believed Iran is trying to recover its underground missile storage and production facilities, but has not seen indications the country is trying to dig through nuclear facilities that American forces destroyed last year in Operation Midnight Hammer<\/a>.<\/p>

He said it would be a \"major development\" if the U.S. got intelligence indicating Iran was trying to dig through the facilities believed to be where its highly enriched uranium is buried. Iran has more than 900 pounds of uranium enriched well beyond the point of civilian usage, which would be enough for multiple nuclear bombs<\/a>.<\/p>

\"We know exactly what they have, and they know that. And they will either give it to us, which the president has laid out, we'll \u2014 they'll give it to us voluntarily,\" Hegseth said during a briefing last week. \"We'll get it. We'll take it \u2014 we'll take it out. Or if we have to do something else ourselves, like we did Midnight Hammer or something like that, we reserve that opportunity.\"<\/p>

Following last weekend's U.S. and Iran negotiations in Pakistan that did not result in a broad, longer-lasting agreement, President Donald Trump<\/a> announced that the U.S. military would begin a blockade of vessels going to or from Iranian ports, to match the Iranians' effort to shut down shipping in the waterways that don't benefit it.<\/p>

To date, the U.S. military has deterred 13 ships that were either heading to or coming from Iranian ports since the blockade went into effect on Monday. In one instance on Tuesday, an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel tried to evade the U.S. blockade after leaving Bandar Abbas, but the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance successfully redirected the vessel.<\/p>

\"Any ship that would cross the blockade would result in our sailors executing pre-planned tactics designed to bring the force to that ship, if need be, board the ships and and take her over. And that includes a series of escalated force options, which could include warning shots and others,\" Gen. Dan Caine<\/a>, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during the briefing.<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT'S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

U.S. forces have not yet had to board any vessels that sought to defy the U.S. blockade.<\/p>

A White House official told the Washington Examiner on Wednesday that Trump is\u00a0\"content\" with leaving the naval blockade in place \"until the\u00a0Iranians\u00a0show they are serious about making a deal.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Caine-and-Hegseth.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531555-1776335620", "title":"Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax shoots his wife and himself in murder-suicide: Police", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4531555%2Fjustin-fairfax-murder-suicide-wife%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and his wife were both found dead inside their Annandale home on Thursday morning in what police are calling a murder-suicide. Using the same firearm, Fairfax fatally shot his longtime wife in their unfinished basement before running upstairs to the primary bedroom and shooting himself just a few minutes […]", "description":""

Former Virginia<\/a> Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax<\/a> and his wife were both found dead inside their Annandale home on Thursday morning in what police<\/a> are calling a murder-suicide.<\/p>

Using the same firearm, Fairfax fatally shot his longtime wife in their unfinished basement before running upstairs to the primary bedroom and shooting himself just a few minutes after midnight. The late Democratic politician was believed to have been motivated by a personal problem.<\/p>

The married couple was going through a \"complicated or messy divorce\" at the time of the shooting, Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis told reporters outside the crime scene.<\/p>

In January, Fairfax called the police to report a domestic abuse incident, claiming his wife, Cerina, assaulted him. After reviewing cameras inside their home, police determined that the alleged assault never happened.<\/p>

\"The allegation that Mr. Fairfax made in January, that Mrs. Fairfax assaulted him, was proven to be untrue,\" Davis said.<\/p>

The spouses lived together in separate bedrooms while they were going through a divorce, the police chief noted. They were married for 20 years.<\/p>

\"It's tragic in nature, certainly a fall from grace for a relatively high-profile family that seemingly had a lot of things going in their favor,\" Davis continued. \"So tragic for the children to lose both parents, extra tragic for them to actually be in the home when it occurred.\"<\/p>

The Fairfaxes left behind two teenagers, a boy and a girl.<\/p>

Local police are actively carrying out a search warrant of the home to recover evidence, including the firearm used in the murder-suicide.<\/p>

Fairfax served as lieutenant governor under former Gov. Ralph Northam<\/a> from 2018 to 2022. Ineligible to run for consecutive terms under state law, Fairfax unsuccessfully ran for governor in the 2021 election cycle.<\/p>

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING REFERENDUM TIGHTENS INTO A DEAD HEAT AS EARLY VOTING SURGES<\/a><\/p>

After his exit from politics, Fairfax continued working as a lawyer.<\/p>

In 2019, the then-lieutenant governor was accused of sexual assault against multiple women dating back to 2000 and 2004. He strongly denied the allegations at the time.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26106485288605.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531602-1776333824", "title":"Trump pulls millions in funding from Catholic charity", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4531602%2Ftrump-pulls-millions-funding-catholic-charities-war-of-words-pope-leo%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Trump administration pulled millions of dollars in federal funding from a Catholic charity that provides care for migrant children as tensions between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV have continued to escalate following days of public clashes over the war in Iran.  The Department of Health and Human Services canceled an approximately $11 […]", "description":""

The Trump administration<\/a> pulled millions of dollars in federal funding from a Catholic charity that provides care for migrant children as tensions between President Donald Trump<\/a> and Pope Leo XIV<\/a> have continued to escalate following days of public clashes over the war in Iran<\/a>. <\/p>

The Department of Health and Human Services<\/a> canceled an approximately $11 million contract with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami<\/a>, a decadeslong partner in housing and caring for unaccompanied migrant minors.<\/p>

Cutting funding for the program threatens to shutter a South Florida charity that has served vulnerable children for more than 60 years, with church leaders warning services could end within months without federal support. <\/p>

HHS chose not to renew the grant as the number of refugee care cases has dropped to record lows amid the Trump administration's immigration enforcement push, an HHS spokesperson told the Washington Examiner. The final decision to not renew the grant was made on Feb. 16, the agency official said.<\/p>

The White House dismissed the report <\/a>as \"Fake news.\" The administration decided not to renew 49 charities' grants because of the decrease in unaccompanied minors, deputy press secretary Kush Desai said. Only two were Catholic charities.<\/p>

The move is part of a broader plan to close and consolidate \u201cunused facilities as the Trump Administration continues efforts to stop illegal entry and the smuggling and trafficking of unaccompanied alien children,\u201d an HHS official told the Miami Herald<\/a>.<\/p>

HEGSETH-AFFILIATED PASTOR DOUG WILSON SAYS TRUMP \u2018HAS TO DO BETTER\u2019 AFTER AI JESUS DEBACLE<\/a><\/p>

The agency provided figures showing that the population of unaccompanied migrant children has significantly decreased under Trump\u2019s strict immigration policies. The Miami Catholic charities location has roughly 1,900 migrant children in its care, a significant drop from the peak of 22,000 under former President Joe Biden<\/a>. <\/p>

Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski, in a statement to the Miami Herald, agreed that there has been a decline in the number of migrant children attending the program but added that \u201cit is baffling that the U.S. government would shut down a program that it would be hard-pressed to replicate at the level of competence\u201d shown by the church.<\/p>

Funding cuts for the charity come as Trump has repeatedly attacked the pope in recent days, calling him \u201cweak on crime\u201d and criticizing his stance on foreign policy, particularly his opposition to the war. <\/p>

On Tuesday, Trump asked that the pontiff be reminded of the thousands of innocent protesters killed by the Iranian regime<\/a> after nationwide protests there in January.<\/p>

POPE LEO SAYS WORLD IS BEING \u2018RAVAGED\u2019 BY \u2018TYRANTS\u2019 AFTER FEUD WITH TRUMP<\/a><\/p>

Following Trump\u2019s comments, Leo delivered a speech in Cameroon and warned that the world is being ravaged by \u201ctyrants.\u201d He has emphasized peace and warned against justifying violence through religion, signaling a clear disagreement with U.S. policy. <\/p>

A few days prior, War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a>, who has often referenced religion in his public speeches, asked Americans to pray for the success of the U.S operation in Iran \u201cin the name of Jesus Christ.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103630660422.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530191-1776333600", "title":"The danger of ‘made in China,’ from fruit cups to pharmaceuticals", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530191%2Fdanger-of-made-in-china-fruit-cups-pharmaceuticals%2F", "byline":"Cara Kingan", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Parenting today can feel like a never-ending exercise in risk management. We worry about what our kids eat, the air they breathe, and the schools they attend. Yet one of the most important questions rarely makes it into everyday conversation: Where do our children’s medications come from, and how confident are we in how they’re […]", "description":""

Parenting today can feel like a never-ending exercise in risk management. We worry about what our kids eat, the air they breathe, and the schools<\/a> they attend. Yet one of the most important questions rarely makes it into everyday conversation: Where do our children\u2019s medications<\/a> come from, and how confident are we in how they\u2019re produced?<\/p>

Becoming a mother brought this concern top of mind. Navigating doctors\u2019 appointments for my little one led me to learn more about recommended treatments and how they were developed. My background in medicine and research empowered me to question drug safety, but many American families are left in the dark, unsure of which questions to ask or how to protect their loved ones.<\/p>

The United States has long led the world in biomedical research and pharmaceutical innovation, setting what many call \u201cgold standard science\u201d for safety and ethics. Those breakthroughs are the result of careful preclinical research, rigorous oversight, and a culture that puts safety first, especially for our children. Done right, U.S.-led biomedical research gives parents something priceless: confidence that medicines for their families have been tested, validated, and monitored under the most demanding standards in the world.<\/p>

RECLAIMING AFFORDABILITY: THE SANDWICH GENERATION IS BEING SQUEEZED BY THE COST OF CARE<\/a><\/p>

Unfortunately, that leadership and confidence are eroding. American-led research is stagnating while other countries continue to grow their capabilities. China has now surpassed<\/a> the U.S. in annual clinical trial activity, reflecting the migration of research and development overseas.<\/p>

Most concerning, many foreign research facilities are not subject to the same level of scrutiny, quality control, or ethical requirements that define American research and production. This disparity is particularly evident in the offshoring of animal studies essential to early-phase pharmaceutical development. A recent FDA framework prioritizes new approach methodologies (NAMs) to replace animal testing, but researchers in the U.S. are urging caution. While technologies like artificial intelligence<\/a> models hold promise, they are not yet proven to protect patients as effectively as current methods. By relocating to regions with uneven, rudimentary oversight and lower ethical standards, the industry risks compromising both scientific integrity and animal welfare, ultimately endangering Americans.<\/p>

When a past health issue brought me to the cardiac intensive care unit, I found myself completely dependent on the treatment approaches of our medical system. While recovering, I remember being served a fruit cup from the hospital, labeled \u201cMade in China.\u201d If something as simple as a fruit cup isn\u2019t made at home, I wondered, what else in our daily lives and our healthcare system is being outsourced to a foreign country? As companies move the research that leads to lifesaving treatments beyond our borders, parents like me lose the small control we have over what goes into the medicines our kids use.<\/p>

Every child and family deserves medicines developed under the highest safety standards, free from foreign compromise. When corners are cut abroad, the consequences arrive on our pharmacy shelves, in our hospitals, and in our children\u2019s bodies. That\u2019s why I work with The Cure Coalition to strengthen domestic research and manufacturing and keep our families\u2019 care under U.S. oversight.<\/p>

The research happening in laboratories today will determine what treatments are available when children face serious illnesses tomorrow. If we allow critical research models to disappear or replace proven approaches with NAMs too quickly, we are gambling with our kids\u2019 future<\/a> and turning them into the first line of experimentation.<\/p>

BABIES AND FAMILIES SHOULD NOT BE EXOTIC<\/a><\/p>

As parents, we still have the power to change things. We can ask more questions: Where was this medicine researched? Where was it manufactured? What safety standards apply? We can support policies that rebuild U.S. biomedical leadership, invest in responsible research, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. And we can stand with organizations that fight to restore safety and trust to American medical research.<\/p>

My family has been fortunate to welcome a new addition this past February. While I\u2019m excited to watch my daughter grow and experience the world, like so many parents, I can\u2019t help but worry. I want my children, and children across the country, to grow up healthy and safe, and with access to dependable, gold-standard medicines and treatments should they need them. And I want every parent to have that peace of mind too.<\/p>

Cara Kingan is the executive director of The Cure Coalition<\/a>. She began her career in medicine, with a background in laboratory research, pharmaceuticals, clinical and surgical practice, and public health. She has published written works, counseled on insurance processing, and piloted new-to-market medical devices. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25130034790936.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531541-1776333586", "title":"Iran just sentenced four protesters to death. Why hasn’t Pope Leo criticized Iran?", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fbeltway-confidential%2F4531541%2Firan-sentenced-four-protesters-to-death-pope-leo-not-criticized-iran%2F", "byline":"Christopher Tremoglie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"One might never know it by the rhetoric of Pope Leo XIV, but the Islamic theocracy that rules over Iran is a brutal regime. The country is regularly linked to terrorist paramilitary organizations wreaking havoc and causing enormous amounts of violence, destruction, and suffering to innocent people throughout the Middle East. Despite such horrific acts, […]", "description":""

One might never know it by the rhetoric of Pope Leo XIV<\/a>, but the Islamic theocracy that rules over Iran is a brutal regime.<\/p>

The country is regularly linked to terrorist paramilitary organizations wreaking havoc and causing enormous amounts of violence, destruction, and suffering to innocent people throughout the Middle East<\/a>. Despite such horrific acts, Pope Leo seems more concerned with disparaging and criticizing President Donald Trump<\/a> for standing up to this rogue, theocratic, and totalitarian government than vociferously condemning Iran for committing such atrocities.<\/p>

More innocent people are being killed in Iran, by the Iranian government, as the Tehran Revolutionary Court sentenced four Iranians to death<\/a> for their dissent in nationwide protests in January, accusing them of \u201coperational action for the hostile government of the United States and hostile groups.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

Yet the pope has remained silent so far. Well, not exactly silent, per se, as the pontiff again called<\/a> for a rejection \u201cof violence and war, and embrace peace,\u201d in a post on X on Wednesday. Later, while speaking in Cameroon, Leo made more comments, which, arguably, appeared to be another criticism of President Donald Trump, his administration, and the military operation against Iran, even if the pontiff did not mention anyone by name. <\/p>

\u201cJesus told us, 'Blessed are the peacemakers,'\u201d said<\/a> Leo. \u201cBut woe to those who manipulate religion in the very name of God for their own military, economic, or political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.\u201d<\/p>

Yet, the pope\u2019s newfound affinity for public criticism and condemnation in geopolitics once again did not include Iran. It\u2019s an inexplicable and shocking consistent moral failure by the pontiff, who is quite the lion when criticizing Trump but a little lamb when it comes to condemning the Iranian regime.\u00a0<\/p>

According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, the four protesters, Mohammadreza Majidi-Asl, Bita Hemmati, Behrouz Zamaninejad, and Kourosh Zamaninejad, were being murdered for \u201cparticipation in protest gatherings on January 8 and 9, 2026,\u201d \u201cchanting protest slogans,\u201d \u201cthrowing objects including bottles, concrete blocks, and incendiary materials from rooftops,\u201d and \u201cdestruction of public property.\u201d According to HRANA<\/a>, Majidi-Asl, Hemmati, Zamaninejad, and Zamaninejad were \u201csubjected to pressure during interrogation, and concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of forced confessions during that period.\u201d<\/p>

But yet, the Vicar of Christ, the leader of the Catholic Church, St. Peter\u2019s chosen successor, and all the titles that Leo\u2019s defenders have recently hailed to emphasize his righteousness while remarking about his feud with Trump, has (so far) said nothing. Neither have the clergy who rushed to Leo\u2019s defense and criticized the president. This repeated, silent omission by the pontiff fueled Trump\u2019s criticism of him, and it\u2019s why many Catholics agreed with the president\u2019s criticism of Leo. The pope\u2019s condemnations seem to go only one way, and many Catholics have grown weary of this theological discord.<\/p>

Trump referenced<\/a> the pope\u2019s glaring rhetorical inconsistency with a Truth Social post earlier this week, reminding the pontiff of the thousands killed by Iran.<\/p>

\u201cWill someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable,\u201d Trump said<\/a>.<\/p>

And Trump has a valid point. Moreover, while many have rushed to condemn Trump\u2019s rhetoric toward Pope Leo, they have given the pontiff an inexcusable pass. It\u2019s inexcusable and warrants legitimate criticism. The pope clearly has different standards of outrage when it comes to Trump and when it comes to Iran\u2019s terrorist regime. Why?<\/p>

Unfortunately, instead of objectivity and consistent, universal calls for peace, the pontiff has made Trump the villain. Leo is engaged in the current phenomenon aligned with left-wing, socialist, and communist organizations that prioritize rebuking Trump while saying little, if anything, about regimes that brutally murder thousands of innocent people. <\/p>

Logic would dictate that authoritarians and totalitarians who kill dissenters should be at the top of the list of the pope\u2019s outrage. It should raise many questions and concerns that such government administrations and regimes escape papal condemnation.<\/p>

POPE LEO ATTACKED TRUMP FIRST, ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND<\/a><\/p>

A papal criticism of war and calls for peace are fine. Everyone should want wars to end and world peace to exist. The pope is right to do this. Yet, his inability to condemn Iran looks suspiciously weak and, as Trump said, \"terrible for foreign policy.\"<\/p>

If Leo wants to comment on geopolitical affairs, he should, and no one should protest him doing so. But if he has enough conviction to criticize the war in Iran, he should also have enough courage and strength to denounce Iran at the same level he rebukes Trump. Rushing to excuse Leo's behavior and omissions on Iran simply because he is the pope is inexcusable.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-zh6pcxcap-1776348569417.jpg?1776334275&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531549-1776333305", "title":"Trump administration’s clash with Pope Leo strikes deeper note than other political feuds", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4531549%2Ftrump-administration-clash-pope-leo-deeper-note%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The open feud between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV has plunged the country into a novel phenomenon, marking a new low for the Vatican’s relationship with the United States. There are many firsts of the Trump-Leo feud. It features the first American pope, born in Chicago; the U.S.’s first Catholic vice president, JD […]", "description":""

The open feud between President Donald Trump<\/a> and Pope Leo XIV<\/a> has plunged the country into a novel phenomenon, marking a new low for the Vatican's relationship with the United States.<\/p>

There are many firsts of the Trump-Leo feud. It features the first American pope, born in Chicago; the U.S.'s first Catholic vice president, JD Vance, who backed Trump<\/a> against the Vatican on Tuesday, despite tying his faith to his political identity<\/a> and writing a book about his conversion to Catholicism; and the Iran war, which sparked the largest disruption to the global energy supply in history.\u00a0<\/p>

Clashes between presidents and the Vatican have been recorded since the Progressive Era, when President Theodore Roosevelt canceled a meeting with Pope Pius X. And, as with Leo\u2019s criticism of Washington\u2019s attacks on Iran, the catalyst of the latest altercation, popes have long frowned on modern warfare.<\/p>

Pius condemned World War I as a \u201cghastly scourge.\u201d Pope Paul VI is said to have held an \u201cacrimonious<\/a>\u201d private meeting with President Richard Nixon, decrying the Vietnam War. Pope John Paul II chastised the Iraq War during President George W. Bush\u2019s tenure in the White House. Past presidents typically took the Vatican\u2019s criticisms in stride. Roosevelt offered \u201cthe heartiest goodwill and sympathy between sincere and honest men of different faiths.\u201d Bush bestowed on John Paul II the Medal of Freedom, the nation\u2019s highest civilian honor.\u00a0<\/p>

But the increasingly severe rhetoric and public, direct grievances aired in recent weeks between Trump and Leo are no \u201celegant row<\/a>,\u201d as Roosevelt described his skirmish with Pius.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI don\u2019t want a Pope who thinks it\u2019s OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon,\u201d Trump said in a post<\/a> on Truth Social, calling Leo \u201cterrible\u201d for foreign policy. \u201cI don\u2019t want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States because I\u2019m doing exactly what I was elected, IN A LANDSLIDE, to do.\u201d<\/p>

The budding war of words between the president and the pope differentiates itself from past bickering as politicians have traditionally directed criticism toward the Catholic Church as a whole, with disagreements between the Vatican and Washington typically centered on social issues, such as abortion and same-sex marriage. Trump has diverged in both aspects, attacking Leo with personal criticism and denouncing the pope\u2019s worldview in blunt terms. <\/p>

\u201cHe wasn\u2019t on any list to be Pope, and was only put there by the Church because he was an American, and they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald J. Trump,\" the president said. \"If I wasn\u2019t in the White House, Leo wouldn\u2019t be in the Vatican. Leo should get his act together as Pope, use Common Sense, stop catering to the Radical Left, and focus on being a Great Pope, not a Politician.\u201d<\/p>

Notably, both Trump and Leo have escalated the conflict, diverging from past papal-political feuds, when parties involved were typically more oblique or backed off on attacks. For instance, in 2016, Trump and Pope Francis clashed over immigration, but the president ended up papering over<\/a> their differences.\u00a0<\/p>

This time around, both men are leaning into the feud, triggering national criticism and even the defense<\/a> of Leo by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops\u2019 Committee on Doctrine. The situation is also unique in that, as the first American pope, Leo\u2019s voice is viewed as holding particular weight in the U.S., adding another layer to the conflict. Americans viewed him positively by a sweeping majority in an NBC News poll<\/a> released last month.\u00a0<\/p>

In an unusual move for the typically reserved papacy, Leo called out Trump directly in late March, calling on him to seek an \u201coff-ramp<\/a>\u201d in the Iran war. He went on to slam Trump in early April in response to the president\u2019s warning that \u201ca whole civilization will die\u201d in Iran if the regime did not make a peace deal with the U.S.<\/p>

\u201cToday, as we all know, there was this threat against all the people of Iran. This is truly unacceptable,\u201d Leo said outside his home south of Rome in Castel Gandolfo.<\/p>

Trump stood by the statement, saying that <\/a>\u201cWhen I talk about civilization, it will be much different, because their military will be totally gone,\u201d and arguing that the threat helped trigger a ceasefire.\u00a0<\/p>

This week, Leo again sent a direct message to Trump. <\/p>

\u201cI have no fear of the Trump administration, or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the church is here to do,\u201d he told reporters on Monday. \u201cWe are not politicians, we don\u2019t deal with foreign policy with the same perspective he might understand it, but I do believe in the message of the gospel, as a peacemaker.\u201d<\/p>

Trump has likewise refused to back off. On Tuesday, he asked \u201csomeone please tell Pope Leo\u201d that the Iran war is necessary<\/a> to keep the regime from obtaining nuclear weapons, and that the country has killed \u201c42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months.\u201d <\/p>

TRUMP SAYS IRAN HASN\u2019T STOPPED NEGOTIATING, WILL GIVE US \u2018EVERYTHING WE WANT\u2019<\/a><\/p>

On Monday, he dismissed a reporter who asked if he would apologize to the pope. <\/p>

\u201cNo, because Pope Leo said things that were wrong. He was very much against what I\u2019m doing with regard to Iran,\u201d Trump said. \u201cHe\u2019s weak on crime. He went public. I\u2019m just responding to Pope Leo. There\u2019s nothing to apologize for.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25132720510427-1.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531545-1776332277", "title":"WATCH LIVE: ICE and CBP heads testify before House", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4531545%2Fwatch-live-ice-cbp-heads-testify-before-house%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The House Appropriations Committee will hold a budget hearing for several Department of Homeland Security agencies on Thursday at 10 a.m. MULLIN TO CALL ‘ENTIRE DHS WORKFORCE’ BACK TO WORK DESPITE SHUTDOWN Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott, Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting Director Todd Lyons, and Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow […]", "description":""

The House Appropriations Committee<\/a> will hold a budget hearing for several Department of Homeland Security<\/a> agencies on Thursday at 10 a.m.<\/p>

MULLIN TO CALL \u2018ENTIRE DHS WORKFORCE\u2019 BACK TO WORK DESPITE SHUTDOWN<\/a><\/p>

Customs and Border Protection<\/a> Commissioner Rodney Scott, Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting Director Todd Lyons, and Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow will all testify before the committee on their respective agencies' budgets.<\/p>

CBP, ICE, and USCIS each fall under the DHS, which has been in a shutdown for over 60 days after its funding lapsed on Feb. 14. ICE and parts of CBP are funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, so those agencies have been able to maintain operations during the shutdown.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/021026_WEX_HOUSE_HEARING_ICE-1-e1770747854327.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531502-1776331830", "title":"Hasan Piker ‘rooting for the violent downfall of this country’: Joe Concha", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4531502%2Fhasan-piker-rooting-for-violent-downfall-of-country-joe-concha%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Washington Examiner columnist Joe Concha said left-wing streamer Hasan Piker is a bad pick for the Democratic Party, after Piker spoke at Yale University on Tuesday.  “I’m pretty sure he’s the enemy, considering that this is the same guy who was rooting for the violent fall of this country,” Concha said on Fox News’s Fox […]", "description":""

Washington Examiner columnist Joe Concha<\/a> said left-wing streamer Hasan Piker is a bad pick for the Democratic Party<\/a>, after Piker spoke at Yale University<\/a> on Tuesday.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m pretty sure he\u2019s the enemy, considering that this is the same guy who was rooting for the violent fall of this country,\u201d Concha said on Fox News\u2019s Fox & Friends First on Thursday. <\/p>

Piker spoke to the Yale Political Union, the university\u2019s debate society,\u00a0on Tuesday.<\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s an interesting resolution, \u2018End the U.S.<\/a> Empire,\u2019 because how do you end something that\u2019s already in the process of dying? Because that\u2019s the situation with the American empire as it stands today,\u201d Piker said, addressing Yale University\u2019s Political Union.<\/p>

Concha criticized Democrats<\/a> who have appeared on Piker\u2019s podcast Fear&. He argued that Piker\u2019s alignment with the Democratic Party could be a problem.<\/p>

\u201cIf Democrats want to make Hasan Piker its next team mascot, in an effort to capture more anti-American, pro-antisemitic<\/a> voters, roll the dice and take your chances, guys, but this is not somebody they should want to be aligned with,\u201d Concha said.<\/p>

Piker\u2019s words have been deemed highly controversial by some lawmakers. Ahead of Piker\u2019s appearance at Yale, Sen. Rick Scott<\/a> (R-FL) posted on X<\/a>, \"This is WILD. I spoke at the Yale Political Union last year on why we need to buy made-in-America products. Now, they are hosting a guy who said I should be killed.\u201d<\/p>

Concha said, \u201cThis is the same guy who said America deserved 9\/11, the same guy who called Jews inbreds.\u201d<\/p>

Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) addressed a letter to Congress<\/a> on Oct. 29, 2024, raising concerns of antisemitism by Piker and his presence on Twitch.\u00a0<\/p>

The letter reads, \u201cMr. Piker has demonized Orthodox Jews as \u2018inbred\u2019.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cHere is Mr. Piker in his own words: 'America deserved 9\/11<\/a>.' The 3,000 Americans incinerated or otherwise murdered in the Twin Towers; the falling men and women plummeting to their deaths from 110-story skyscrapers; according to Mr. Piker, all of them had it coming. They deserved it,\u201d Torres said.<\/p>

IN FOCUS: DEMOCRATS\u2019 SHAMEFUL MAINSTREAMING OF HASAN PIKER<\/a><\/p>

Piker briefly addressed his past 9\/11 comments on Pod Save America, <\/a>where he said they were \u201ctaken out of context.\u201d<\/p>

Twitch CEO Dan Clancy\u00a0addressed concerns about how the platform addresses hate in a blog post<\/a> on Nov. 1, 2024.<\/p>

\u201cOver the past few weeks, we\u2019ve seen members of the community voice concerns about how we handle potentially harmful content. There is no place on Twitch for racism, hatred, or harassment of any kind, including antisemitism and Islamophobia,\" Clancy said in a statement.<\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Piker.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531421-1776331293", "title":"Mamdani says he keeps ‘in touch’ with Trump in spite of disagreements", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4531421%2Fmamdani-trump-relationship-in-touch-despite-disagreements%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani touted his active collaboration with President Donald Trump despite their partisan differences on certain issues, especially the Iran war. Speaking on Thursday’s broadcast of CBS Mornings about his first 100 days in office, Mamdani provided viewers a glimpse into his unlikely relationship with Trump. “I would say the two […]", "description":""

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani<\/a> touted his active collaboration with President Donald Trump<\/a> despite their partisan differences on certain issues, especially the Iran<\/a> war.<\/p>

Speaking on Thursday's broadcast of CBS Mornings about his first 100 days in office, Mamdani provided viewers a glimpse into his unlikely relationship with Trump.<\/p>

\"I would say the two of us are in touch,\" he said. \"We've had a number of meetings now in the Oval Office, and we are honest [and] direct about the fact that we have many disagreements.\"<\/p>

The mayor has visited Trump at the White House<\/a> twice since the democratic socialist won the New York City<\/a> election last fall. In February, the two discussed how they could work together on building more housing for New Yorkers. Mamdani posted a photo<\/a> of himself and Trump, who held a newspaper mockup that credited him for delivering 12,000 homes. That appeared to be the number of new housing units they discussed.<\/p>

While housing was the purpose of that meeting, Mamdani asked Trump to facilitate the release of a Columbia University<\/a> student who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a>. After the meeting, Trump agreed to release her.<\/p>

It remains to be seen whether their professional, cordial relationship lasts. It could possibly be undermined by hot-button issues on foreign policy<\/a>.<\/p>

During the interview, Mamdani discussed his opposition to Trump's military operation in Iran.<\/p>

\"I'm deeply opposed to the war. I think it's something that should be opposed, not just on a political level or an economic level, but frankly, a moral level,\" he told CBS Mornings.<\/p>

MAMDANI ANNOUNCES PLAN TO OPEN NYC\u2019S FIRST CITY-RUN GROCERY STORE IN 100-DAY ADDRESS<\/a><\/p>

The mayor said his opinion about the Iran war is \"no secret\" and that he is \"very honest\" with the president about that point of disagreement.<\/p>

\"We've had a conversation about a number of issues, and that includes our disagreements on foreign policy,\" he added. \"I'll keep the frequency and the nature of those conversations private because that's the premise of them, but I will tell you that in those conversations, it is one that is driven by actually being candid.\"<\/p>

Supporters of both men were shocked by how friendly relations seemed to be between the two, given their different political stances. However, Mamdani touched on the reason they are able to get along: \"There is one place of agreement that we have, which is that we both love New York City.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25325767791684-1.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4527070-1776330000", "title":"May Social Security direct payment worth $994 goes out in 15 days", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4527070%2Fmay-social-security-direct-payment-worth-994-15-days%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The May 2026 Supplemental Security Income payments, worth up to $994, will be issued to recipients in 15 days. SSI payments are typically issued to beneficiaries on the first day of each month. Beneficiaries are people with limited income who are either blind, aged 65 or older, or have another qualifying disability. The amount beneficiaries […]", "description":""

The May 2026 Supplemental Security Income<\/a> payments, worth up to $994, will be issued to recipients in 15 days.<\/p>

SSI payments are typically issued to beneficiaries on the first day of each month. Beneficiaries are people with limited income who are either blind, aged 65 or older, or have another qualifying disability.<\/p>

The amount beneficiaries receive varies based on several factors, including the number of people filing<\/a>. For example, individual filers can receive up to $994, couples filing jointly can receive $1,491, and those providing essential care to SSI recipients can receive up to $498.\u00a0<\/p>

In addition to the previous prerequisites for receiving SSI payments<\/a>, recipients must also be U.S. citizens or noncitizens in one of the alien classifications granted by the Department of Homeland Security.<\/p>

CONGRESS IS ABOUT TO UNDO DOGE\u2019S BIGGEST WIN<\/a><\/p>

Additionally, recipients must live in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands, and must not be absent from the United States for a full calendar month or 30 consecutive days.<\/p>

A full calendar<\/a> for the Social Security Administration payments can be viewed on the agency\u2019s website.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Social-Security-money-13-2.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530417-1776330000", "title":"King’s state visit won’t revive special relationship", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530417%2Fking-state-visit-wont-revive-special-relationship%2F", "byline":"Dennis Lennox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"There is a temptation, as the United States marks its semiquincentennial, to imagine history repeating itself with comforting symmetry. A British monarch will cross the Atlantic. Crowds will gather. The familiar language of kinship — “our cousins,” “the mother country,” “the special relationship” — will be dusted off once again. It is an appealing tableau. […]", "description":""

There is a temptation, as the United States marks its semiquincentennial<\/a>, to imagine history repeating itself with comforting symmetry.<\/p>

A British monarch will cross the Atlantic<\/a>. Crowds will gather. The familiar language of kinship \u2014 \u201cour cousins,\u201d \u201cthe mother country,\u201d \u201cthe special relationship\u201d \u2014 will be dusted off once again. It is an appealing tableau. It is also a fiction.<\/p>

When Queen Elizabeth II visited for the bicentennial in 1976, the moment landed differently. The Cold War imposed strategic clarity on Washington and London. The shared memory of wartime leadership under Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt still shaped both nations.<\/p>

THE KING IS COMING. DON\u2019T MENTION THE WAR!<\/a><\/p>

Even disagreements existed within a broader alignment. Her visit affirmed continuity. It was not just ceremony. It reflected a partnership that still felt instinctive.<\/p>

A state visit by King Charles III will be something else entirely.<\/p>

The optics may look familiar: formal welcomes, a congressional address<\/a>, toasts invoking shared history. But the underlying reality has changed.<\/p>

Start with culture.<\/p>

The old Anglo-American world was never as uniform as nostalgia suggests. But it did share a recognizable foundation. The Book of Common Prayer shaped language and ritual. Anglican hymns, biblical cadence, and a common literary tradition created a cultural shorthand that needed little explanation. As Winston Churchill<\/a> once put it, \u201cthe same language, the same hymns.\u201d<\/p>

That world has largely disappeared.<\/p>

Britain has secularized. America, though more religious, has fragmented along different lines. This is no longer divergence within a shared tradition. It is the erosion of the tradition itself.<\/p>

More significant is the weakening of political alignment.<\/p>

By the era of Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, the special relationship<\/a> rested on more than wartime necessity. It reflected a shared understanding of markets, limited government and liberty.<\/p>

That consensus is now threadbare.<\/p>

London and Washington increasingly approach core issues \u2014 energy, defense spending, and the role of government \u2014 from different premises.<\/p>

There is also an irony that is hard to ignore.<\/p>

One grievance listed in the Declaration of Independence was the denial of trial by jury, long seen as central to Anglo-American liberty. Yet as the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the British Parliament<\/a> is moving to curtail jury trials in certain cases. That divergence reflects more than legal reform. It underscores a broader drift in assumptions once shared across the Atlantic.<\/p>

It is tempting to dismiss these differences as cyclical.<\/p>

They are not.<\/p>

Britain has, over decades, reoriented its priorities in ways that limit its ability<\/a> to act as a full partner. This is not about sentiment or politics. It is about capacity.<\/p>

A reliable ally must project power, sustain commitments and act independently when necessary. Britain remains a country of extraordinary institutions and enduring appeal. It is a wonderful place to visit.<\/p>

But its ability to operate as an ally and decisive global power has diminished.<\/p>

Defense constraints, economic pressures and a narrower strategic outlook have reduced what was once formidable capability.<\/p>

None of this diminishes the personal significance of a royal visit.<\/p>

His Majesty<\/a> will be received with courtesy and, in many quarters, genuine affection. Americans remain fascinated by the monarchy and its rituals. There is also something to be said for a head of state who is not partisan and can stand above politics.<\/p>

But symbolism is not substance.<\/p>

The 1976 visit resonated because it reflected reality. Two countries largely moving in the same direction.<\/p>

SCRAPPING LORDS IS A STEP TOWARD WASHINGTON\u2019S DYSFUNCTION<\/a><\/p>

The upcoming state visit risks doing the opposite. It invokes a unity that no longer meaningfully exists.<\/p>

When the king comes, it should be understood for what it is: a visit between two friendly but increasingly distinct nations.<\/p>

Dennis Lennox (@dennislennox<\/a>) is a political commentator and public affairs consultant.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26050607699324.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531511-1776329972", "title":"Pope Leo says world is being ‘ravaged’ by ‘tyrants’ after feud with Trump", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4531511%2Fpope-leo-world-ravaged-tyrants-trump-feud%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Pope Leo XIV warned that the world is being “ravaged by tyrants” after engaging this week in a feud with President Donald Trump over the war in Iran. “The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters,” Leo said in a […]", "description":""

Pope Leo XIV<\/a> warned that the world is being \"ravaged by tyrants\" after engaging this week in a feud with President Donald Trump<\/a> over the war in Iran<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cThe world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters,\u201d Leo said in a speech in Cameroon on Thursday.<\/p>

The pope is currently on a four-country tour of Africa. On Thursday, he stopped in Cameroon, a country shaken by a violent civil war that has left 65,000 dead and over half a million displaced. Upon arriving in the country\u2019s capital, Yaounde, Leo urged the government to break \"the chains of corruption.\u201d<\/p>

In his Thursday comments, the pope also condemned those who \"manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.\u201d<\/p>

War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> previously called for Americans to pray for victory in Iran \"in the name of Jesus Christ,\" and frequently references his Christian faith, praying for God to strike down the nation\u2019s enemies.<\/p>

The pontiff has openly criticized the war in Iran, insinuating the United States is a perpetrator of the \u201cdemonic cycle of evil,\u201d and adding that God does not bless any war or nations that \u201cdrop bombs.\u201d<\/p>

Leo also explicitly called out Trump\u2019s threat that \u201ca whole civilization will die tonight\u201d before the two-week ceasefire deal in Iran was brokered last week. <\/p>

\u201cToday, as we all know, there has also been this threat against the entire people of Iran,\u201d Leo said. \u201cAnd this is truly unacceptable. There are certainly issues of international law here, but even more, it is a moral question concerning the good of the people as a whole, in its entirety.\u201d<\/p>

THE POPE, THE PRESIDENT, AND A PRESS THAT\u2019S JUST MAKING IT UP<\/a><\/p>

On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social, saying<\/a> the pope was \u201cweak on crime\u201d and \u201cterrible for foreign policy.\u201d<\/p>

That same day, Trump posted an AI-image of himself dressed in a robe and appearing to heal a hospitalized man. The post was deleted late Monday morning, with the president denying that the image depicted him as Jesus.<\/p>

On Monday, the pope responded, saying he did not intend to attack anyone. <\/p>

\u201cThe things I say are not meant as attacks on anyone,\" adding that he has \"no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel.\u201d<\/p>

This is a breaking news story and has been updated. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-gtmayfe0q-1776056592544-e1776056645617.jpg?1776097630&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531463-1776328406", "title":"US expands Iran blockade to target dark fleet ships worldwide", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4531463%2Fus-expands-iran-blockade-target-dark-fleet-ships-worldwide%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The United States has broadened its naval blockade of Iran, authorizing the search and seizure of vessels tied to Tehran’s dark fleet anywhere in the world, according to a new update from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. “In addition to enforcing the blockade, all Iranian vessels, vessels with active OFAC sanctions, and vessels suspected of […]", "description":""

The United States<\/a> has broadened its naval blockade of Iran<\/a>, authorizing the search and seizure of vessels tied to Tehran\u2019s dark fleet anywhere in the world, according to a new update from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cIn addition to enforcing the blockade, all Iranian vessels, vessels with active OFAC sanctions, and vessels suspected of carrying contraband are subject to belligerent right to visit and search,\u201d USNAVCENT said. \u201cThese vessels, regardless of location, are subject to visit, board, search, and seizure.\u201d<\/p>

The directive widens the scope of enforcement, allowing U.S. forces to interdict ships beyond the immediate region if they are linked to Iran or sanctioned by the Treasury Department\u2019s<\/a> Office of Foreign Assets Control.<\/p>

Officials say contraband includes weapons systems, ammunition, explosives, military technology, and petroleum products, as well as nuclear-related materials.<\/p>

Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed the change during an early morning briefing with War Secretary Pete Hegseth.<\/p>

\"Under the command of Adm. Paparo, we'll actively pursue any Iranian-flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran. This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil. As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions, or insurance requirements.\"<\/p>

So far, the military has stopped 13 ships but has not boarded any of them. <\/p>

Iran\u2019s \u201cdark fleet\u201d is a network of aging oil tankers that operate outside standard maritime regulations to evade sanctions. These ships often rely on manipulated tracking data, falsified documentation, and opaque brokering networks to disguise the origin and destination of Iranian oil shipments.<\/p>

\u201cThe use of these tankers, particularly combined with deceptive shipping practices, creates a dangerous operating environment that can pose serious sanctions and safety risks to legitimate shipping activities,\u201d OFAC said in a statement<\/a>.<\/p>

The expanded enforcement follows Sunday\u2019s blockade announcement by U.S. Central Command<\/a>, which said it would intercept vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports in an effort to choke off Iran\u2019s seaborne trade.<\/p>

Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM\u2019s commander, underscored the strategy\u2019s economic impact. <\/p>

\u201cAn estimated 90% of Iran\u2019s economy is fueled by international trade by sea,\u201d he said<\/a> Tuesday. \u201cIn less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, U.S. forces have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea.\u201d<\/p>

CENTCOM emphasized that the blockade would be applied globally and \u201cimpartially against vessels of all nations\u201d entering or departing Iranian ports across the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.<\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

At the same time, officials said U.S. forces would not interfere with ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz <\/a>to non-Iranian destinations.<\/p>

\"The U.S. action is a blockade of Iran's ports and coastline, not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Enforcement will occur inside Iran's territorial seas and in international waters,\" Caine said Thursday.<\/p>

The escalation comes as a temporary ceasefire nears expiration next week, leaving open the question of whether President Donald Trump<\/a> will extend military operations against Iran. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Strait-of-Hormuz.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530142-1776326400", "title":"Global uncertainty is inevitable. It’s affordability toll doesn’t have to be", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530142%2Fglobal-uncertainty-iran-war-affordability%2F", "byline":"Melissa Hockstad", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Americans across the country are reading countless headlines about the possible price increases as a result of the international conflict unfolding in the Middle East. Geopolitical instability shines a light on how interconnected and complex our global supply chains are.  From disruptions in key agricultural regions to trade route instability, global conflict has a direct […]", "description":""

Americans across the country are reading countless headlines about the possible price increases as a result of the international conflict <\/a>unfolding in the Middle East. Geopolitical instability shines a light<\/a> on how interconnected and complex our global supply chains are.\u00a0<\/p>

From disruptions in key agricultural regions to trade route instability<\/a>, global conflict has a direct and measurable effect on the affordability and accessibility of the everyday products people rely on.\u00a0<\/p>

We understand that affordability is top of mind<\/a> for consumers, and grocery prices are among the most visible indicators of economic stress. But what is often less visible is just how complex modern supply chains have become. Despite sourcing the vast majority of ingredients and inputs from U.S. farms and domestic suppliers, consumer packaged goods companies depend on global supply chains for certain imports due to unique growing conditions and other limiting factors around the world.<\/p>

RED-HOT INFLATION RAISES THE RISK OF DISASTER FOR REPUBLICANS<\/a><\/p>

In this already dynamic environment, policymakers face an important question: What steps can be taken closer to home to support affordability when other factors remain out of our control? <\/p>

One critical answer lies in regulatory consistency. As policymakers consider new requirements on ingredient safety and transparency for grocery products, it is essential to recognize that a fragmented, state-by-state approach risks compounding the very cost pressures consumers are already feeling. <\/p>

The result is not theoretical. A recent economic impact study conducted by\u00a0Policy Navigation Group found that the patchwork of different state ingredient laws being implemented across the country will result in a significant 12% increase in grocery costs for the average U.S. household.<\/p>

By contrast, a national uniform standard for ingredient safety and transparency<\/a> would provide clarity predictability, and, importantly, it would also ensure that all consumers, regardless of where they live, benefit from consistent standards and clear information about the products they purchase.\u00a0<\/p>

This is not an argument against strong safety or transparency measures. On the contrary, the CPG industry shares the goals of maintaining science- and risk-based rules that ensure ingredient safety and of enhancing consumer transparency. But how those standards are implemented matters. It\u2019s not just global supply chains that are interwoven and complex. America\u2019s supply chains are too. Why are we adding to the complexity?<\/p>

At a time when geopolitical forces are impacting grocery prices, domestic policy choices should aim to reduce, not amplify, cost pressures. The complexity of global supply chains means that even small inefficiencies can have outsize effects. Layering on a fragmented regulatory landscape risks turning manageable challenges into systemic ones.<\/p>

Affordability is a shared priority \u2014 for industry, for policymakers, and, most importantly, for consumers. Achieving it requires acknowledging the realities of how food moves from farm to table or a household good moves from supplier to pantry in a globalized world. It also requires collaboration: industry leaders providing transparency and accountability, and policymakers crafting rules that support both consumer protection and economic efficiency.<\/p>

MAMDANI\u2019S CITY-RUN GROCERY STORES PRODUCT OF \u2018SMILING SOCIALIST CON-MAN\u2019: JOE CONCHA<\/a><\/p>

Geopolitical uncertainty may be beyond our control, but its impact<\/a> on American households is not. By embracing national uniformity for ingredient safety and transparency, Congress can help deliver on the affordability agenda Washington seeks.<\/p>

In a moment defined by global volatility, thoughtful domestic policy can make a meaningful difference. <\/p>

Melissa Hockstad is president and CEO of the Consumer Brands Association.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/pce-inflation.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531419-1776324258", "title":"Attacks by Trump and Vance fuel debate over ‘Just War’ doctrine", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4531419%2Fattacks-by-trump-and-vance-fuel-debate-over-just-war-doctrine%2F", "byline":"Jamie McIntyre", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"IS IRAN A ‘JUST WAR’? Pope Leo XIV has posted another provocative statement on X, calling for the world to “reject the logic of violence and war, and embrace peace founded on love and justice.” “Enough of war and all the pain it causes,” he pontificated. It is just the kind of thing one might […]", "description":""

IS IRAN A \u2018JUST WAR\u2019? Pope Leo XIV has posted another provocative statement on X<\/a>, calling for the world to \u201creject the logic of violence and war, and embrace peace founded on love and justice.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cEnough of war and all the pain it causes,\u201d he pontificated. It is just the kind of thing one might expect from the leader of the Catholic Church, but to President Donald Trump, it's left-wing, liberal claptrap.<\/p>

\u201cWill someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable?\u201d Trump posted<\/a> on Truth Social late Tuesday night.<\/p>

The fact that Trump just won\u2019t let it go has alienated Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, once considered one of Trump\u2019s closest allies,\u00a0irked Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC)\u00a0among others in Congress, and started a debate over whether Iran is a \u201cjust war.\"<\/p>

VANCE: \u2018JESUS DOES NOT SUPPORT GENOCIDE\u2019: At a Turning Point USA forum<\/a> in Georgia on Tuesday, Vice President JD Vance, a relatively recent convert to Catholicism, argued the Pope is ignoring the theory of when war is morally permissible, a \u201cnecessary evil.\u201d<\/p>

\"I like that the Pope is an advocate for peace. It is certainly one of his roles,\u201d Vance said. \u201cOn the other hand, how can you say that God is never on the side of those who wield a sword? Was God on the side of Americans who liberated France from the Nazis? Was God on the side of Americans who liberated Holocaust camps? \u2026 I certainly think the answer is yes. I agree, Jesus does not support genocide.\u201d<\/p>

Vance went on to advise the Pope to stay in his lane and avoid politics. \u201cWe can have disagreements about whether this or that conflict is just. But I think it is important in the same way it is important for the vice president of the United States, to be careful when I talk about matters of public policy, I think it is important for the Pope to be careful when he talks about matters of theology,\" Vance said. \u201cWhen the Pope says that God is never on the side of those who wield the sword, there is a more than 1,000-year tradition of just war theory.\u201d<\/p>

During a Tax Day news conference<\/a> on Capitol Hill, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), a devout Christian, said he was \u201ctaken a little bit aback\u201d by the Pope\u2019s suggestion that Jesus doesn't hear the prayers of those who engage in war. \u201cI'm not one to criticize clerics and religious leaders,\u201d Johnson said. \u201cBut obviously, if you wade into political waters, I think you should expect some political response. And I think that the pope's received some of that.\u201d<\/p>

CATHOLIC BISHOPS: POPE \u2018EXERCISING HIS MINISTRY AS THE VICAR OF CHRIST\u2019: In a statement<\/a> in support of the Pope, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said the Pontiff\u2019s public calls for peace are well within the church\u2019s teaching about just wars.<\/p>

\u201cFor over a thousand years, the Catholic Church has taught just war theory, and it is that long tradition the Holy Father carefully references in his comments on war. A constant tenet of that thousand-year tradition is a nation can only legitimately take up the sword \u2018in self-defense, once all peace efforts have failed,\u2019\u201d said \u200b\u200bBishop James Massa, chairman of the Bishops\u2019 Committee on Doctrine.\u00a0<\/p>

\"Citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2308,\u201d Massa said. \u201cTo be a just war, it must be a defense against another who actively wages war, which is what the Holy Father actually said: \u2018He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.\u2019\u201d<\/p>

\u201cWhen Pope Leo XIV speaks as supreme pastor of the universal Church, he is not merely offering opinions on theology; he is preaching the Gospel and exercising his ministry as the Vicar of Christ. The consistent teaching of the Church is insistent that all people of good will must pray and work toward lasting peace while avoiding the evils and injustices that accompany all wars,\u201d the statement concluded.<\/p>

OPINION: THE POPE, THE PRESIDENT, AND A PRESS THAT\u2019S JUST MAKING IT UP<\/a><\/p>

Good Thursday morning and welcome to Jamie McIntyre\u2019s Daily on Defense, written and compiled by Washington Examiner National Security Senior Writer Jamie McIntyre<\/a> (@jamiejmcintyre<\/a>) and edited by Christopher Tremoglie<\/a>. Email here<\/a> with tips, suggestions, calendar items, and anything else. Sign up or read current and back issues at DailyonDefense.com<\/a>.<\/p>

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP OR READ BACK ISSUES OF DAILY ON DEFENSE<\/a><\/p>

HAPPENING TODAY: THE PUSH FOR MORE TALKS: Pakistan\u2019s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who has won President Trump\u2019s confidence, met today in Tehran with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an attempt to arrange a second round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran to end the war, which is about to reach the seven-week mark.<\/p>

\u201cThe Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process, and we really appreciate their friendship and their efforts to bring this deal to a close,\u201d White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday. \u201cWhile there have been many countries around the world who want to offer their help, the president feels it's important to continue to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis.\u201d<\/p>

In an interview with the New York Post on Tuesday, Trump expressed confidence that Munir would be able to attend another negotiating session in Islamabad as early as this week.<\/p>

\u201cSomething could be happening over the next two days, and we\u2019re more inclined to go there,\u201d Trump said.\u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s more likely, you know why? Because the field marshal is doing a great job.\u201d<\/p>

US INCREASES ECONOMIC PRESSURE ON IRAN TO GET A DEAL DONE<\/a><\/p>

ALSO TODAY: HEGSETH, CAINE BRIEF AGAIN: Early morning war briefings have become a regular thing at the Pentagon, and this morning Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine will answer reporter questions at 8 a.m.<\/p>

The briefing will be livestreamed on the Pentagon\u2019s website<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT\u2019S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

THE BATTLE OVER TRUMP\u2019S $1.5 TRILLION DEFENSE BUDGET: Yesterday\u2019s House Budget Committee hearing marked the official start of what is promising to be a spirited and highly partisan debate of President Donald Trump\u2019s $1.5 trillion budget request for the U.S. military.<\/p>

OMB Director Russell Vought testified at the first of what will be a number of hearings on the record-high 42% increase request for the 2027 fiscal year, which starts in October.<\/p>

The tone was set early by committee chairman, Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), who said while he was hoping for \u201chonest, constructive comments and good faith debate,\u201d he expected to hear some false narratives and fearmongering conjecture, and even flat-out misrepresentations of the truth.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cI suspect we'll be a little more amped up and I'm pretty amped up myself,\u201d Arrington said in his opening statement, calling for committee members to stick to \u201cfactual context.\u201d In his next sentence, he launched into a blistering attack on the previous administration. \u201cI don't know of a president in my lifetime, maybe in history, but in my lifetime that has inherited such a complete and utter mess as President Trump did in January of last year.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cYou know how bad this economy is when we hear Joe Biden being invoked, we hear trans people being invoked. I was waiting for Jimmy Carter to be blamed next,\u201d said Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA), the ranking Democrat on the committee.<\/p>

\u201cI believe in a strong national defense. I believe the United States,\u201d Boyle said. \u201cI believe the world is at its best when the United States is the strongest military, but the idea that we're going to pay for a 42% increase in this military, in this department of defense, and at the same time cut Medicaid, Medicare, not pay for child care \u2026 is a reflection of priorities that are out of whack.\u201d<\/p>

Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) zeroed in on $350 billion set aside for what she called a \u201cwar of choice against Iran,\u201d which she called \u201ca shocking surge in Pentagon spending.\"<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ve never in the history of this country seen spending like this, paid for by slashing health care, education and housing,\u201d Balint said. \u201cMr. Vought, yes or no, is $350 billion for the war in Iran lowering costs for Americans?\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIt is certainly not defunding child care. We fully fund child care in this budget,\u201d Vought said.<\/p>

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER<\/a><\/p>

THE RUNDOWN:<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: US increases economic pressure on Iran to get a deal done<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Trump is content with leaving naval blockade in place until Iran shows it\u2019s serious about a deal: White House<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Trump touts meeting between leaders of Israel and Lebanon that \u2018will happen tomorrow\u2019<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Gerald R. Ford becomes longest-deployed US aircraft carrier since Vietnam War<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Iran used Chinese spy satellite to target US bases in Middle East<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: \u200b\u200bTrump says China agreed not to send weapons to Iran<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Golden Dome will be operational by summer 2028<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Johnson forced to cancel foreign spy powers vote over privacy-hawk opposition<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Magyar demands Hungarian president step down or else be removed by force<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Opinion: Trump would be justified to pull US out of NATO. He still shouldn\u2019t do it<\/p>

The Hill<\/a>: Hegseth Set to Meet Lawmakers on Pentagon\u2019s $1.5 Trillion Budget Ask<\/p>

AP<\/a>: Senate rejects effort to halt arms sales to Israel, but most Democrats vote to block them<\/p>

New York Times<\/a>: Done and Dusted? Trump\u2019s Portrayal of the War in Iran Collides With Reality.<\/p>

Politico<\/a>: Navy Plays Deadly Game of Hide-and-Seek with Iranian Mines<\/p>

Wall Street Journal<\/a>: China\u2019s Economy Starts Year on Strong Footing, but Iran Risks Loom<\/p>

AP<\/a>: After criticizing the pope, Trump slams Italy\u2019s Meloni over lack of support for Iran war<\/p>

Reuters<\/a>: Israeli Security Cabinet Discusses Possible Lebanon Ceasefire, Senior Official Says<\/p>

Washington Post<\/a>: Senate rejects fourth resolution to block further strikes<\/p>

Washington Post<\/a>: Trump Says China Has Agreed Not to Send Weapons to Iran<\/p>

Breaking Defense<\/a>: Golden Dome Czar Signals Space-Based Interceptors Not Guaranteed, as DOD Weighs Cost<\/p>

Wall Street Journal<\/a>: Pentagon Approaches Automakers, Manufacturers to Boost Weapons Production<\/p>

Defense One<\/a>: Airbus\u2019 Autonomous Supply-Helicopter Effort May Pave the Way for an Armed Model<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Space Force Lays Out Vision For What It Thinks It Needs in 2040<\/p>

DefenseScoop<\/a>: DOD Components Face \u2018Aggressive\u2019 Timeline for Maven Smart System Transition<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Air Force, Navy Fighters Patrolling for Threats During US Blockade of Iran<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Space Force Accepts Upgrade to Deep-Space Telescope on Hawaii<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Air Force Graduates Final Class of New A-10 Pilots as Aircraft Retirement Looms<\/p>

Defense News<\/a>: US Air Force Debuts Operational AI Wargame System<\/p>

The War Zone<\/a>: CH-47 Chinook Air-Launching Swarms of Drones Touted as Future Feature<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: USAF Nominates First-Ever Chief Modernization Officer<\/p>

THE CALENDAR: <\/p>

THURSDAY | APRIL 16<\/p>

8:30 a.m. 37th and O Sts. NW \u2014 Georgetown University School of Foreign Service Asian Studies Program conference: \"Japan: Contending with Change at Home and Abroad,\u201d with former national security adviser Jake Sullivan https:\/\/events.georgetown.edu\/event\/39482-japan-contending-with-change<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. 608 Dirksen \u2014 Senate Budget Committee hearing: \"The President's FY2027 Budget Proposal,\" with testimony from OMB Director Russell Vought http:\/\/budget.senate.gov<\/a><\/p>

11 a.m. 390 Cannon \u2014 House (Select) Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party Committee hearing: \"China's Campaign to Steal America's AI Edge.\" https:\/\/selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

3 p.m. 2118 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee hearing: \"Military Department Personnel Chiefs: Personnel Posture,\" with testimony from Army Lt. Gen. Brian Eifler, deputy chief of staff, G-1; Air Force Lt. Gen. Caroline Miller, deputy chief of staff for manpower and personnel; Navy Vice Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko, chief of naval personnel; Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Bowers, deputy commandant manpower and reserve affairs; and Katharine Kelley, Air Force deputy chief of space operations for personnel, http:\/\/www.armedservices.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

3:30 p.m. 2212 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee hearing: \"Defense Intelligence Enterprise - Challenges, Priorities, and Resourcing for FY2027,\" with testimony from Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Bradley Hansell; Gen. Joshua Rudd, director and commander, National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command; Lt. Gen. Michele Bredenkamp, director, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and Lt. Gen. James Adams, director, Defense Intelligence Agency http:\/\/www.armedservices.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

FRIDAY | APRIL 17<\/p>

9:30 a.m. 2212 Rayburn \u2014 House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing: \"Budget Hearing - National Guard and Reserves Forces,\" with testimony from Lt. Gen. Leonard Anderson, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve; Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of the U.S. Army Reserve Command; Lt. Gen. John Healy, chief of Air Force Reserve; Rear Adm. Richard Lofgren, acting chief of Navy Reserve; and Gen. Steven Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau http:\/\/appropriations.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. \u2014 Carnegie Endowment for International Peace virtual discussion: \u201cThe U.S. and Israel's War With Iran: Where Do We Go From Here?\" with Suzanna Maloney, vice president and director, Brookings Institution Foreign Policy Program; Danny Citrinowicz, senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies Iran and the Shi'ite Axis Program; and Aaron David Miller, senior fellow, CEIP American Statecraft Program https:\/\/carnegieendowment.org\/events\/2026\/04\/us-and-israels-war-with-iran<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. \u2014 National Institute for Deterrence Studies virtual seminar: \"Readiness, Resilience, and Credibility: The ICBM Mission Today,\" with Maj. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser, commander, 20th Air Force https:\/\/thinkdeterrence.com\/events\/readiness-resilience-and-credibility<\/a><\/p>

THURSDAY | APRIL 23<\/p>

9:30 a.m. G-50 Dirksen \u2014 Senate Armed Services Committee hearing: \"The posture of the U.S. Central Command and U.S. Africa Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for FY2027 and the Future Years Defense Program,\" with testimony from Adm. Brad Cooper, commander, U.S. Central Command; and Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, commander, U.S. Africa Command http:\/\/www.armed-services.senate.gov<\/a><\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-18-at-7.32.03-AM.png?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530929-1776322938", "title":"WATCH LIVE: Hegseth and Caine give update from Pentagon as US blockades Iran", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4530929%2Fwatch-live-hegseth-caine-us-blockade-iran%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will give an update from the Pentagon on Thursday at 8 a.m. as U.S. forces blockade ships headed to and from Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz.  TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS […]", "description":""

War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> and Gen. Dan Caine<\/a>, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will give an update from the Pentagon on Thursday at 8 a.m. as U.S. forces blockade ships headed to and from Iranian<\/a> ports through the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT\u2019S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

President Donald Trump<\/a> has said the blockade will remain in place until Iran shows \u201cthey are serious about making a deal,\u201d the Washington Examiner previously reported<\/a>. The move followed failed peace talks with Iran, which had agreed to a two-week ceasefire, one that the U.S. has reportedly upheld.<\/p>

Additionally, U.S. forces have continued military operations targeting \u201cnarco-terrorists\u201d as part of Operation Southern Spear, with strikes earlier this week on suspected drug-trafficking boats leaving six suspected narco-traffickers dead.<\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26096639589571.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529038-1776322800", "title":"What to expect in New Jersey special election to replace Mikie Sherrill", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4529038%2Fwhat-to-expect-new-jersey-special-election-replace-mikie-sherrill%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The special election to fill Democrat New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s old House seat will take place Thursday and is all but assured to result in the election of the newest member of the Squad. Democrats have nominated Analilia Mejia, a social justice activist and former political staffer for Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) 2020 presidential […]", "description":""

The special election to fill Democrat<\/a> New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill\u2019s<\/a> old House seat will take place Thursday and is all but assured to result in the election of the newest member of the Squad. <\/p>

Democrats have nominated Analilia Mejia, a social justice activist and former political staffer for Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) 2020 presidential campaign. Mejia is a progressive stalwart who has called for a $25 minimum wage, the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and was quick to criticize Israel for targeting Hamas after the October 7th massacre. <\/p>

Mejia is endorsed by Sanders, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez<\/a> (D-NY), Greg Casar (D-TX), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Maxwell Frost (D-FL), among others.<\/p>

Republicans, meanwhile, have nominated Randolph Township Mayor Joe Hathaway. The GOP candidate is running as a centrist and highlighting his avowedly pro-Israel stances. Hathaway said his first priority<\/a> in Congress would be to join the Problem Solvers Caucus, a group of lawmakers focused on finding bipartisan solutions. <\/p>

The contest heavily favors Mejia even though polling has been sparse. Mejia\u2019s internal polling shows<\/a> her with a 17-point lead over Hathaway.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cLet\u2019s be honest: this race isn\u2019t competitive for Republicans,\u201d Republican strategist Dennis Lennox told the Washington Examiner. \u201cIt\u2019s not evidence of some national Democratic wave, which we have seen elsewhere in special and off-year elections. It\u2019s evidence that Democrats are doubling down on socialism.\u201d<\/p>

Former Vice President Kamala Harris won the seat by 8 percentage points over President Donald Trump in 2024. Sherrill, then the incumbent, carried it by 15 percentage points in her successful run for governor last year. Sherrill resigned the seat in November to focus on her gubernatorial transition.<\/p>

Mejia narrowly won an 11-way Democratic primary on Feb. 5, beating out former Rep. Tom Malinowski. Going into the primary, Malinowski was heavily favored but came under criticism from pro-Israel groups. <\/p>

ERIC SWALWELL TO RESIGN FROM CONGRESS AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS <\/a><\/p>

The American Israeli Public Affairs Committee spent more than $2.3 million on negative ads targeting Malinowski and boosting former New Jersey Lt. Gov. Taesha Way. <\/p>

The spending effort may have inadvertently boosted Mejia, who won the primary with 29.3% to Malinowski 27.6%. Way finished firmly in third place with 17.4%.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-d7vt09ipn-1776289793527-e1776290894291.jpg?1776275580&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530518-1776322800", "title":"Foreign cash is sabotaging America in AI race against China", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530518%2Fforeign-cash-sabotaging-america-ai-race-china%2F", "byline":"Jason Isaac", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump’s National Artificial Intelligence Legislative Framework, unveiled March 20, puts America on offense in the global AI race — but foreign-funded activists are mounting a coordinated campaign to choke off the data center buildout that America needs to win. Data centers are the backbone of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the digital economy. […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump\u2019s National Artificial Intelligence Legislative Framework<\/a>, unveiled March 20, puts America on offense in the global AI race \u2014 but foreign-funded activists are mounting a coordinated campaign to choke off the data center<\/a> buildout that America needs to win. <\/p>

Data centers are the backbone<\/a> of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the digital economy. They\u2019re under coordinated attack from groups bankrolled by overseas donors who see American technological dominance as their chief threat, and the fight over whether we build them is really a fight over whether the United States intends to lead or surrender.\u00a0<\/p>

Trump has made the answer unmistakable. He has put winning the AI race at the center of American economic competitiveness and national security \u2014 our edge over China <\/a>depends on it \u2014 and he has already moved to make sure the buildout of AI infrastructure does not become a hidden tax on working families struggling to make ends meet. Leadership means building fast, protecting working families and staying ahead of China.<\/p>

TRUMP AI FRAMEWORK PUTS BALL IN CONGRESS\u2019S COURT. TIME TO ACT IS RUNNING OUT<\/a><\/p>

The framework makes clear that winning AI means building the power-hungry infrastructure to support it. It ties American economic competitiveness and national security to rapid deployment of these facilities. And in March, Trump\u2019s Ratepayer Protection Pledge<\/a>, signed by CEOs of the nation\u2019s largest companies, ensures families won\u2019t foot the bill for AI growth. When power demand surges, utilities and tech firms commit to shielding ratepayers first.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

That is exactly why the opposition campaign deserves such intense scrutiny. It is a coordinated national effort to slow the electricity and industrial expansion needed for AI, manufacturing, and growth \u2014 not just a handful of neighbors objecting down the road. This goes far beyond spontaneous local objections.\u00a0<\/p>

But don\u2019t take my word for it. The evidence of a coordinated campaign is overwhelming.<\/p>

In December 2025, more than 230 organizations sent a letter to Congress demanding a moratorium on new data centers, branding the AI boom one of the biggest environmental threats of our generation. Signers included Indivisible ($7.4M foreign funds), 350.org ($9.5M), Oil Change International ($5.9M), GAIA ($6.4M), and Sierra Club ($2.1M).<\/p>

Just follow the money. The Americans for Public Trust report from last October documents nearly $2 billion flowing from five foreign charities into U.S. activism, litigation, and policy fights. Quadrature Climate Foundation sent over $530 million to American groups. KR Foundation from Denmark gave $36 million. Oak Foundation more than $750 million. Laudes Foundation nearly $20 million. Children\u2019s Investment Fund Foundation over $553 million. These funds grease a machine that churns out protests, lawsuits, and lobbying \u2014 from national headquarters down to local Sierra Club chapters coaching residents in Louisiana, Kansas, New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, and Minnesota to block zoning<\/a> changes.<\/p>

Extinction Rebellion, which favors street disruption over traditional activism, signed that moratorium letter too. Indivisible chapters escalate the chaos with mass rallies. The money trail runs straight from foreign donors through to U.S. nonprofits<\/a> to \u201cgrassroots\u201d obstruction.<\/p>

The real-world consequences of that obstruction are now impossible to ignore. In Indianapolis, both Indivisible and the Sierra Club \u2014 organizations that have received foreign funding\u2014mobilized multiple public meetings and protests to drive opposition against a proposed data center. Indivisible\u2019s Indiana chapter went further, singling out council member Ron Gibson by name in an X post. Gibson was subsequently the target of violence. When foreign-funded groups put elected officials\u2019 names in the crosshairs of an online pressure campaign, working Americans end up bearing the cost.<\/p>

Now the radicals in Congress are amplifying it. Just last month, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) introduced an AI data center moratorium bill. Even Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) of their own party called it nonsense. When the radical Left wants to freeze AI infrastructure and foreign-backed nonprofits are helping bankroll the broader anti-development ecosystem, it is fair to ask whether the real goal is protection or paralysis. It\u2019s working families who pay the price.\u00a0<\/p>

When data centers stall, the ripple effects hit fast. Farmers lose access to the AI tools that cut fertilizer and fuel costs. Trucking companies run less efficient routes, driving up freight prices. Small manufacturers and local businesses pay more for the cloud services that keep them competitive. Those costs don\u2019t disappear, they show up at the grocery store, in shipping fees, and in monthly energy costs<\/a>.<\/p>

TRUMP\u2019S AI FRAMEWORK IS A GOOD START. HERE\u2019S WHAT\u2019S MISSING TO PROTECT CHILDREN<\/a><\/p>

America cannot surrender its AI edge to this playbook. Data centers power the systems that keep our economy moving, from farms and freight to factories and finance. If foreign-funded activists can choke off that backbone, China won\u2019t hesitate to build it<\/a> instead. That\u2019s not just falling behind, it\u2019s handing over the advantage without a fight.<\/p>

Policymakers see the stakes. Trump\u2019s framework demands federal consistency to cut red tape and speed deployment. His pledge locks in consumer safeguards. Leaders on the Right should call this opposition what it is: a foreign-influenced campaign dressed as local concern. The question hangs plain. Who benefits when overseas cash slows America\u2019s technological surge?<\/p>

The Honorable Jason Isaac is founder and CEO of the American Energy Institute. He previously served four terms in the Texas House of Representatives.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26093615510714.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530822-1776322800", "title":"RFK Jr. testifies as MAHA coalition comes under strain: What to know", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fhealthcare%2F4530822%2Frfk-jr-testifies-maha-strain-what-to-know%2F", "byline":"Gabrielle M. Etzel", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle during congressional hearings scheduled for the coming days on President Donald Trump’s 2027 budget request.  Kennedy is kicking off the series of budget-related hearings at the House Ways and Means Committee and House Appropriations Committee […]", "description":""

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.<\/a> is likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle during congressional hearings scheduled for the coming days on President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s 2027 budget request. <\/p>

Kennedy is kicking off the series of budget-related hearings at the House Ways and Means Committee<\/a> and House Appropriations Committee<\/a> on Thursday, marking his first appearances before Congress since September.<\/p>

The secretary\u2019s main objective will be to defend Trump\u2019s 2027 budget request to cut HHS discretionary spending by roughly $16 billion<\/a> compared to last year\u2019s allotment from Congress. <\/p>

But the hearings also will serve as a check-up on the slightly more than one year of Kennedy\u2019s leadership of HHS, which has been fraught with several controversies, including the turnover in leadership at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a>, infectious disease outbreaks, and rising healthcare costs.<\/p>

Kennedy is also slated to testify before the House Energy and Commerce Committee on Tuesday, April 21, followed by back-to-back hearings on April 22 before the Senate Finance and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committees. <\/p>

This block of hearings could prove a make-or-break moment for Kennedy, who has reportedly had tensions with certain Trump advisers over more controversial \"Make America Healthy Again\" <\/a>policies that are unpopular with voters. White House advisers have reportedly told Kennedy and other HHS officials to lay low on vaccine policy reforms<\/a> until after the midterm elections this fall.\u00a0<\/p>

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi<\/a> and Former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem<\/a> each were fired by the president this spring following poor performances during congressional testimony. <\/p>

Here are a few themes to watch for during the budget hearings.<\/p>CDC without a director and vaccine turmoil

Troubles at the CDC will likely be a central feature of Democrats' questions during the upcoming hearings.\u00a0<\/p>

The nation\u2019s premier public health advisory agency has been without a permanent director since Kennedy ousted the Senate-confirmed CDC Director, Susan Monarez<\/a>, in August following a clash over vaccine policy. Monarez testified before the Senate afterward that she was fired for refusing to rubber-stamp<\/a> Kennedy\u2019s requests to slim down the childhood vaccine schedule.\u00a0<\/p>

The Trump administration is well past the 210-day limit to appoint a new CDC director to go through the Senate confirmation process. Currently, National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya<\/a> is also overseeing the CDC.<\/p>

Kennedy, who had a long career of anti-vaccine advocacy before public office, has also led the reshaping of the CDC\u2019s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, whose decisions are directly tied to insurance coverage for vaccines.<\/p>

The Ways and Means Committee hearing will be the first time Kennedy has testified before Congress since the ACIP recommended delaying the infant dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine<\/a>, which prevents liver cancer later in life. It is also his first hearing since the CDC recommended cutting the number of childhood inoculations<\/a> from 17 to 11.\u00a0<\/p>

Both moves were blocked by a federal judge, who argued that ACIP and CDC overstepped their authority. <\/p>Trump\u2019s skinny HHS budget

Much of the hearing will focus on Trump\u2019s $111.1 billion discretionary budget request for HHS, a 12.5% reduction compared to 2026 spending levels.\u00a0<\/p>

The MAHA agenda is front and center in the president\u2019s request, with an expansion of nutrition education and food safety modernization through various Food and Drug Administration programs.\u00a0<\/p>

Included in the budget proposal is an allotment to establish the Administration for a Healthy America, nicknamed AHA. The new agency is ostensibly intended to save $5 billion by \u201ccreating efficiencies\u201d in department programs through consolidating projects that are now divided between HHS\u2019s 28 subagencies. <\/p>

Members on both sides of the aisle are also likely to bristle at the proposed $5 billion in cuts to the National Institutes of Health, the agency that funds basic medical science research projects at universities across the country. <\/p>

A bipartisan Congress ignored the Trump administration\u2019s request last year to slash the NIH budget by 40%, instead increasing the agency\u2019s funding by $415 million over the previous year.<\/p>Addressing rising healthcare costs

Kennedy will also likely advocate Trump\u2019s agenda to lower healthcare costs, a leading domestic policy concern for voters heading to the polls in November\u2019s midterm elections.\u00a0<\/p>

The secretary\u2019s testimony is an opportunity for him to press Congress to enact the president\u2019s Great Healthcare Plan agenda<\/a>, published by the White House this spring, which includes broad strokes of a plan to subsidize healthcare expenses through partially funded health savings accounts. It also includes codifying Trump\u2019s efforts to lower prescription costs through negotiating with pharmaceutical companies to match the lowest international prices.\u00a0<\/p>

Members on both sides of the aisle will undoubtedly press Kennedy on health insurance and prescription drug costs.<\/p>

A Gallup poll last month<\/a> found that healthcare affordability and access are the No. 1 issue for voters heading into this year\u2019s elections, outpacing more traditional top-of-mind troubles such as the economy and inflation.\u00a0<\/p>

A different Gallup poll from earlier this year<\/a> found that 1 in 3 adults, about 82 million people, use a cost-cutting technique to offset medical bills, such as rationing prescriptions, borrowing money, or skipping meals. <\/p>Abortion pill politics at FDA

Socially conservative Republicans will likely ask Kennedy this week about the status of an ongoing safety review of the abortion drug mifepristone<\/a>.<\/p>

Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary<\/a> promised during their Senate confirmation hearings last year that the agency would conduct an in-depth safety review of mifepristone following reports that complication rates in practice were significantly higher than the FDA warning label projections.\u00a0<\/p>

Anti-abortion advocates argue that the FDA\u2019s 2023 decision to remove in-person screening requirements for the drug has led to the slight increase in abortions nationwide since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.<\/p>

Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO), as well as Vice Chairman Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and committee member Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ), signed onto a letter with 172 other Republican<\/a> representatives late last year calling on the FDA to reinstate in-person screening requirements for the pills. <\/p>

HUNDREDS OF HOSPICE PROVIDERS SUSPENDED IN LOS ANGELES OVER $600 MILLION IN SUSPECTED FRAUD<\/a><\/p>

Several members of the Appropriations Committee, including Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) also signed on to the November 2025 letter to the FDA.<\/p>

Next week\u2019s Senate hearings will also likely feature abortion-related questions from conservative senators, including Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), and Josh Hawley<\/a> (R-MO).<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26040689123362.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531063-1776322800", "title":"Democrats vow to block next Trump Supreme Court pick amid Alito speculation", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4531063%2Fdemocrats-vow-block-trump-supreme-court-pick-alito-speculation%2F", "byline":"Ramsey Touchberry", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Justice Samuel Alito hasn’t tipped his hat on retiring just yet, but Senate Democrats are already entrenched in opposing the confirmation of a successor that would deliver President Donald Trump his fourth lifetime appointment to the high court. Democrats need to first retake the majority and for a vacancy to arise. But with the party’s […]", "description":""

Justice Samuel Alito<\/a> hasn\u2019t tipped his hat on retiring just yet, but Senate Democrats are already entrenched in opposing the confirmation of a successor that would deliver President Donald Trump his fourth lifetime appointment to the high court.<\/p>

Democrats need to first retake the majority and for a vacancy to arise. But with the party\u2019s once long-shot prospects of sweeping the November midterm elections improving<\/a> and speculation of Alito\u2019s retirement swirling after the 76-year-old conservative justice was hospitalized last month<\/a>, Trump and GOP leaders are \u201cprepared\u201d for a replacement<\/a> before the elections while Republicans have full control of Washington.<\/p>

Democrats are eager to scuttle that outcome, should they get the chance, citing Republicans under then-Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) blocking Obama-era Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland. The notion that Trump could fill vacancies of one or more aging justices is becoming a midterm rallying cry for both parties. <\/p>

\u201cUnder the circumstances, obviously, we should not be proceeding with a new\u201d nominee, said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), who some outside progressive groups want to replace Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) as Democratic leader. <\/p>

Van Hollen said the \u201cMcConnell formula\u201d was reason enough to resist another Trump appointee to the nation\u2019s highest bench that slants 6-3 in conservatives\u2019 favor.<\/p>

\u201cWhat Republicans sort of taught us with that is it's just about kind of a pure power move,\u201d Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) said. \u201cIt's hard to answer the hypothetical, but we learned a lesson that we're not going to forget.\u201d<\/p>

McConnell, retiring from Congress at the end of his term that concludes in January 2027, blocked Garland\u2019s nomination for most of 2016 following the death of conservative Justice Antonin Scalia. The move paved the way for Trump appointee Neil Gorsuch\u2019s confirmation in 2017. <\/p>

At the time, McConnell recounted<\/a> past statements from Democrats, including Joe Biden when he was a senator, to argue there was a \u201clong-standing tradition\u201d against filling vacancies in a presidential election year, particularly with the Senate controlled by the opposing party of the president.<\/p>

Republicans are keen to avoid the nightmare scenario that plagued Democrats in 2020, when the death of 87-year-old liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg allowed Trump to nominate Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Her confirmation only further tilted the court from a 5-4 conservative majority to its current 6-3 majority.<\/p>

Justice Clarence Thomas is also among the court\u2019s aging conservative members at 77 years old, but has not been the subject of the same retirement speculation as Alito. Chief Justice John Roberts, the other conservative member, is 71.<\/p>

Although not explicit in their remarks that Alito should retire, Republicans and the president aren\u2019t hiding their \u201cpreference\u201d that he cement his legacy and the GOP-led Senate secure a conservative successor while they can.<\/p>

\u201cThese guys, they make their own decisions,\u201d Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) told the Washington Examiner. \u201cBut if you were going to do something, obviously doing it when we have an opportunity \u2014 control of the Senate and the White House and everything else \u2014 is obviously, from a timing standpoint, would be certainly our preference.\u201d<\/p>

Trump said in a Fox Business interview he already had a short list of possible candidates and acknowledged the job is \u201cprobably not easy to give up for people\u201d when \u201cthey reach a certain age.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIt could be two, could be three, could be one,\u201d Trump said. \u201cI don\u2019t know \u2014 I\u2019m prepared to do it. But when you mention Alito, he is a great justice.\u201d<\/p>

But not all Democrats were eager to endorse the hypothetical power play of thwarting a Trump nominee so far out from the elections \u2014 or at least not publicly.<\/p>

MIDTERM ELECTIONS HANG OVER SENATE ALITO SPECULATION<\/a><\/p>

Centrist Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) urged Democrats to \u201cwin elections\u201d if they\u2019re dissatisfied with the Supreme Court and chastised those wanting to expand the 9-seat bench to add liberal justices. And Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI), set to become the second-ranked Democrat next year, said he lacked \u201cany constructive thoughts.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cI don\u2019t do the 'promising retaliation for something that hasn't even happened yet,'\u201d Schatz said.<\/p>

David Sivak contributed to this report.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25263590576882_5f6c2b.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531409-1776321175", "title":"Gas prices: Sixth day with a drop in fuel costs over the last seven days", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4531409%2Fgas-prices-sixth-day-with-a-drop-in-fuel-costs-over-the-last-seven-days%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The national average price for a gallon of regular gas decreased again on Thursday, falling to $4.093. It was the sixth price decrease in the national average for gas prices in the last seven days, according to AAA. Gas prices had been rising daily throughout the country, primarily due to the military conflict between U.S., […]", "description":""

The national average price for a gallon of regular gas decreased again on Thursday, falling to $4.093. It was the sixth price decrease in the national average for gas prices<\/a> in the last seven days, according to AAA<\/a>. Gas prices had been rising daily throughout the country, primarily due to the military conflict between U.S., Israel, and Iran. <\/p>

Fuel costs were a little more than 1 cent per gallon cheaper compared to Wednesday\u2019s price of $4.108 per gallon. Gas prices were over seven cents per gallon lower than a week ago, when regular gas cost $4.166 per gallon, according to AAA. This week marks the first time since February that the national average price for a gallon of regular gas was less expensive than the previous week. <\/p>

Despite the recent drop in costs, gas prices are still higher than a month ago, when a gallon of regular gas cost just $3.718. Thursday\u2019s prices are also more expensive than last year, when gas prices had dropped to just $3.169 per gallon. Fuel costs have increased substantially since then, most particularly since the end of February.<\/p>

Since gas hit $2.79 per gallon<\/a> on Jan. 12, a five-year low, prices have gradually increased. Initially, winter weather nationwide was blamed for rising fuel costs, as snowstorms in January and February disrupted oil refinery operations and production. However, fuel prices began to soar after the Iran war began in late February. During the first week of March, a gallon of regular gas increased to $2.98<\/a>. By March 31, the national average price of regular gas had risen to $4.02 per gallon<\/a>.<\/p>

Thursday's drop in gas prices came the day after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent<\/a> said he believed a major decline in gas prices would occur somewhere over the summer. He predicted fuel costs would decline to much more affordable prices near $3 per gallon<\/a> sometime between June and September. He said the drop was contingent upon progress in the war with Iran.<\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m optimistic that sometime between June 20 and September 20, we can have $3 gas again,\u201d said<\/a> Bessent on Wednesday.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ll see,\u201d he added. \u201cBut I think over the summer we could see gas prices starting with a three sooner rather than later.\u201d<\/p>

Bessent's message contradicted<\/a> U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright<\/a>, who warned on Monday that gas prices could continue to rise through the summer, stating fuel costs could rise slightly more before the U.S. elections in November.<\/p>

\u200b\u200bDespite recent increases and overall fluctuations in the national average gas price, costs vary by region. The most expensive gas prices in the nation are in the western United States. The most affordable gas prices are found in the Midwest and the Great Plains states.<\/p>

CHRIS WRIGHT WARNS GAS PRICES MAY STAY HIGH THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER<\/a><\/p>

California remains the state with the highest statewide average gas price in the country, at $5.864 per gallon. This is followed by Hawaii at $5.659 per gallon. Next is Washington state at $5.388, and then Oregon at $4.992. Nevada rounds out the five most expensive gas prices at $4.953 per gallon.<\/p>

Oklahoma continues to have the lowest gas prices in the country, at $3.435 per gallon. This is followed by Kansas at $3.502 per gallon. North Dakota is next with a statewide average of $3.612 per gallon. Then there is Nebraska at $3.626 per gallon, followed by Iowa at $3.632 per gallon.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/gas-prices-33.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4522571-1776319200", "title":"America’s NATO and Israel alliances are imperfect, but important", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4522571%2Famerica-nato-israel-alliances-imperfect-but-important%2F", "byline":"Tom Rogan", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. Have America’s NATO allies let down the U.S. during the […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

Have America's NATO<\/a> allies let down the U.S. during the current war with Iran<\/a>?<\/p>

The answer is a manifest \"yes.\"<\/p>

Does this mean NATO membership no longer serves U.S. interests?<\/p>

The answer is a manifest \"no.\"<\/p>

Yes, the failure of individual NATO members to help the U.S. during this conflict is a big problem. Too many allies have rejected or caveated U.S. basing requests. Many have also appeased Iran's deliberate attacks on their own interests. As I explained<\/a> on Mar. 17, \"Iran\u2019s closure of the [Strait of Hormuz] might not involve NATO commitments, but it is clearly a major European security concern. Iran is deliberately causing significant economic harm to European nations and populations.\" America's closest ally, the United Kingdom, deserves particular criticism. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's performative dithering has badly damaged the special relationship<\/a>.<\/p>

IRAN PEACE DEAL REQUIRES A TIGHT NUCLEAR FOCUS<\/a><\/p>

Still, no ally is perfect, and it is silly to suggest that NATO has lost its value. This truth bears emphasizing. After all, some of those who suggest that we now leave NATO simultaneously suggest we double down on Israel<\/a> in the alternative. They are wrong. We must focus on the benefits and challenges each of our allies provides, not segregate them on the basis of flawed assessments.<\/p>

Again, NATO's challenges are real. The alliance has accrued far more from America than it has provided in recent years. The Baltic states and Poland notably excluded, it was not until President Donald Trump<\/a> turned to office that most NATO allies finally began to invest in defense spending<\/a>. It is a disgrace that three years of the worst land war in Europe since 1945 didn't move that needle. It is a disgrace that the U.K. is now badly trailing Poland and Germany in defense spending<\/a>. It is a disgrace that some allies, such as Spain, match their woeful defense spending with patently anti-American foreign policies. Trump is thus right to consider re-basing U.S. military assets<\/a> away from allies Belgium, Spain, and Italy.<\/p>

Nevertheless, NATO continues to provide the U.S. with vast political influence, economic and security benefits, and a great moral cause.<\/p>

On that moral concern, just as America is right to help defend Europeans from Russian imperialism, the U.S. is right to help defend the Jewish democratic state against fanatics who yearn for a second Holocaust. Beyond morality, Israel provides the U.S. with reliable military basing rights and has killed many terrorists and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers with a lot of American blood on their hands. This is no small issue. In his book The Good Soldiers, David Finkel describes the effect of an Iranian explosively formed penetrator on a U.S. Army Humvee:<\/p>

\"When the door was finally pried open, it was as if a pressurized container had been punctured. Out came a leg. Out came an arm. Out came a headless torso. Out came a flood of blood that coated the pavement. Everything that had been inside \u2014 four soldiers and an Iraqi interpreter \u2014 was now outside, or at least pieces of them were, and those who were watching, who had seen things like this before, could only look away.\"<\/p>

Beyond the security dimension, Israel has a booming technology sector that injects innovative dynamism into the U.S. industrial and defense base. Cooperation in this area makes both of our nations wealthier. Israeli-American personal connections also run deep across realms of faith, culture, and business. These things matter.<\/p>

As with many NATO members, however, Israel isn't a perfect ally.<\/p>

For one, Israel has continued to prioritize its relationship with Russia at the expense of Western interests. This strategy made some sense prior to the fall of Bashar Assad, being that Israel needed to deconflict with Russia in relation to its military action in Syria. It is no longer justifiable. While it has belatedly now provided some defensive support to Ukraine, Israel continues to provide a financial safe haven for U.S.-sanctioned Russian oligarchs and illicit finance. And on Tuesday, Israel allowed<\/a> a sanctioned Russian vessel carrying stolen Ukrainian grain to dock at its Haifa port.<\/p>

More concerning is Israel's repeated sharing of highly sensitive military technologies with China. <\/p>

Israel provided key technical support for China's development of its formative J-10 fighter jet. In 2004, Israel was caught selling upgraded Harpy drones to China, and in 2013, missile cooling systems. The U.S. intelligence community also suspects that Israel provided China with key technical information on the Patriot air defense system. China has far too easily accessed high-tech Israeli research in Artificial Intelligence, Nanotechnology, and semiconductor chips. Until very recently, Chinese-Israeli cooperation at the XIN Center in Tel Aviv was in plain view. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was repeatedly warned about these concerns by top U.S. officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy<\/a>. Unfortunately, Netanyahu made clear his lack of concern<\/a>.<\/p>

In 2024, I interviewed former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren. I mentioned how U.S. security officials had told me that technology Israel had shared with China would lead to U.S. military deaths in any future war. Oren responded<\/a>, \"I have sat through meetings with three administrations, now, where I have heard not dissimilar things.\" To his credit, Oren argued robustly that this Israeli cooperation with Beijing had to end. He is right.<\/p>

Other bilateral agitations also need resolution. For all its great victories in the American and allied national security interest, the Israeli Mossad intelligence service conducts aggressive espionage on U.S. soil of a kind unmatched by any other ally (even the industrious French DGSE). Similarly, Netanyahu's tolerance for pogroms against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank isn't just morally repugnant \u2014 it fuels anti-American jihadi narratives<\/a> and undermines America's other Middle Eastern alliances.<\/p>

Top line: The Israeli alliance benefits America for moral, economic, and security reasons. But this alliance is imperfect.<\/p>

To be sure, we mustn't ignore America's share of blame for the challenge in our alliances. Just as the Obama and Biden administrations undermined Israeli security with the weak JCPOA nuclear accord and their appeasement of Iran, Trump damaged America's NATO influence when he threatened to militarily seize<\/a> the Danish territory of Greenland. Alongside Trump's scorn for the sacrifices of Danish and British troops in Afghanistan<\/a>, Trump has offended hundreds of millions of otherwise nominally pro-American allied citizens. But like Israel, NATO continues to serve American interests.<\/p>

NATO aligns allies in support of America's global diplomatic and economic objectives. It fosters an intelligence-sharing network of unprecedented scale and capability. The alliance would generate significant economic and likely even limited military support for Washington should China ever attack Taiwan, Japan, or the Philippines. Hence why tentative NATO moves to boost activity in the Pacific have so upset Beijing. NATO also protects major economic benefits for Americans.<\/p>

As the calculations show<\/a>, \"NATO members imported approximately $1.1 trillion in goods and services from the U.S. in 2025. They also invested approximately $300 billion more in new foreign direct investments into the U.S. last year. In 2021, the year before the U.S. imposed major sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, Russian imports from the U.S. were worth approximately $17.3 billion. Russian foreign direct investments into the U.S. that year were estimated at $800 million.\"<\/p>

Throwing all of this away in a doomed <\/a>gambit to placate Vladimir Putin's bankrupt mafia state, or over the admittedly serious Iran disagreement, would be the art of the dolt.<\/p>

ARTEMIS II REMINDS AMERICANS TO STRIVE FOR THE STARS<\/a><\/p>

All alliances are complicated. But the value of an alliance must ultimately be measured on an encompassing, cost-benefit basis.<\/p>

Israel manifestly passes that test, and so does NATO.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26022784372461_17a41c.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4527040-1776319200", "title":"Third round of April Social Security payments goes out in six days", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4527040%2Fthird-round-april-social-security-payments-six-days%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The third round of April Social Security payments for retirees, now capped at $5,181, will be issued in six days. When will payments arrive? Retirees born on or after the 21st of a month will receive this payment on April 22.  The first round went out on April 8 to those born on or before […]", "description":""

The third round of April Social Security payments for retirees, now capped at $5,181, will be issued in six days.<\/p>When will payments arrive?

Retirees born on or after the 21st of a month will receive this payment on April 22<\/a>. <\/p>

The first round went out on April 8 to those born on or before the 10th of a month, and the second round went out on April 15 to those born between the 11th and 20th of a month.<\/p>When am I eligible?

Citizens are eligible for Social Security payments beginning at 62 years old.<\/p>How can I maximize my check?

Social Security payment amounts are determined by several factors, including age of retirement, the amount paid into Social Security, and the number of years paid into Social Security.<\/p>

Payments largely depend on a recipient\u2019s retirement age<\/a>. A beneficiary retiring at the youngest age could receive up to $2,969 per month<\/a>, while a 70-year-old retiree could receive up to $5,181 per month, according to the Social Security Administration.<\/p>

Beneficiaries can see a personalized estimate of how much they could expect each month using the SSA\u2019s calculator<\/a>.<\/p>

TRUMP DELETES PHOTO DEPICTING HIMSELF AS JESUS AFTER BACKLASH<\/a><\/p>How is it financed?

Social Security is financed by a payroll tax paid for by employers and employees.<\/p>

Social Security payment amounts are set to shrink unless Congress takes action to prevent it. Analysts estimate that the SSA will no longer be able to issue full payments<\/a> as early as 2034, due to a rising number of retirees and a shrinking workforce.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/SSI-money-1-2-e1776103405877.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529780-1776319200", "title":"How to solve the tariff refund mess", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Frestoring-america%2Ffairness-justice%2F4529780%2Fhow-to-solve-tariff-refund-mess%2F", "byline":"David Burton", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"On Feb. 20, the Supreme Court held in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump that the tariffs imposed by the administration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 were unlawful. What the court did not do is explain what the remedy should be, whether those who paid the tariffs should get their money back […]", "description":""

On Feb. 20, the Supreme Court<\/a> held in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump that the tariffs imposed by the administration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 were unlawful. What the court did not do is explain what the remedy should be, whether those who paid the tariffs<\/a> should get their money back and, if so, how the refund process would work. On March 27, the U.S. Court of International Trade ordered Customs and Border Protection to refund the IEEPA tariffs.<\/p>

CBP<\/a> estimates that over 330,000 importers have made a total of over 53 million entries in which they have deposited or paid IEEPA tariffs and that the total amount of IEEPA tariffs paid is approximately $166 billion.<\/p>

Although the IEEPA tariffs have been paid by importers of record, virtually every American has borne some of the economic burden of the tariffs because the tariffs resulted in price increases paid by consumers, in the case of imported retail goods, and in price increases paid by consumers and producers, in the case of imported manufacturing inputs. They have also resulted in lost jobs and lower wages. They have caused lost profits or even losses and business failures. They have reduced capital investment and future productive capacity.<\/p>

Some of the burden of the tariffs was also undoubtedly borne by foreign producers selling goods in the United States, but the administration's narrative that almost all of the burden of tariffs is on foreigners is simply false. Because of administrative complexity, cost, and fundamental issues related to lack of information, it will never be possible to untangle all of this in a fully fair manner that accurately recompenses those who bore the actual economic burden of the tariffs by paying higher prices, earning lower wages, or losing their job or business.<\/p>

Policymakers may not be satisfied with a result where importers, having long since sold the imported goods, usually at higher prices reflecting the payment of the tariffs, receive a windfall. Such a windfall would accrue to the benefit of the importers who imported directly or retained a customs broker.<\/p>

Congress should enact legislation that does at least eight things. Most importantly, Congress<\/a> should provide explicit statutory guidance regarding importer disposition of the refunds. This could leave it up to the importer to decide. It could require that the importer make a good-faith effort to refund the tariffs to its customers who paid higher prices due to the IEEPA tariffs. Lack of actual information makes this deeply problematic, however. The legislation would need to explain the mechanics of how this would work in practice and provide safe harbors for good-faith compliance.<\/p>

Almost as importantly, Congress should impose a permanent moratorium on class-action litigation regarding the tariff refunds. The first such lawsuit was filed against Costco, UPS, FedEx, and Lululemon on March 11, and other firms have already been sued. More are likely to follow against many importers. If Congress does not address the class-action lawsuit issue, the result could be thousands of class-action lawsuits, years of delay, massive enrichment of lawyers, and a patchwork of outcomes as each lawsuit is litigated, settled, or a judgment rendered, with different results for each importer of record. This would also require the administration of settlement funds or judgments by third-party class-action administrators, involving the delay and expense of class notification, claim verification, claimant communications, claim disbursement, and fund tax<\/a> administration. Failure to address this issue is likely to result in delays in importers refunding tariffs to consumers or workers to prevent having to refund the tariffs twice \u2014 once to the group the importer chose to refund the tariffs to and again to whomever the class-action lawsuit judgment requires the refund be paid to.<\/p>

Congress should explicitly require that the unlawful IEEPA tariffs be refunded by CBP within one year. A shorter time frame is probably unrealistic given the magnitude of the problem. Congress should require that any import transaction that was \u201cliquidated\u201d with unlawful IEEPA tariffs be reliquidated without the tariffs so that the tariffs can be refunded. Liquidation is the bureaucratic term for calculating the correct amount of tariff due.<\/p>

Congress should require CBP to institute a much simpler system for refunding the unlawful tariffs than the current protest system. Such a system should make use of the existing Automated Commercial Environment. It should require that the importer of record establish only five things: (1) the importer\u2019s identifying contact information, (2) the importer\u2019s payment information, or how the refund should be paid to the importer, (3) the date, (4) the amount of IEEPA tariffs paid, if liquidated, or the date and amount of deposit paid, if not liquidated, and (5) the minimum information required to accurately identify the underlying importation transaction. To its credit, based on filings with the CIT, CBP appears to be working on this.<\/p>

VANCE HEADS TO IOWA TO STUMP FOR REP. ZACH NUNN<\/a><\/p>

Congress should also preempt any state laws purporting to impose requirements on refund disposition, instruct CBP to prioritize liquidation and payment of small business claims, and clarify that customs brokers have a fiduciary duty to return tariff refunds to their clients.<\/p>

Congress should also consider appropriating additional resources to CBP to hire temporary personnel to process the refunds. CBP, making the heroic assumption that it can process refunds in five minutes, estimates that it will take 4,431,161 man-hours to process the refunds. This is the equivalent of about 2,300 full-time employees for a year, assuming 1,900 hours annually per employee. It will take longer and involve more people because it is unrealistic to expect an average processing time of five minutes.<\/p>

David R. Burton is a senior research fellow at Advancing American Freedom. He focuses on securities regulation, tax matters, entrepreneurship, business law, financial privacy, regulatory and administrative law issues, and the efficacy and ethics of markets.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2262132996.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530137-1776319200", "title":"What Americans can learn from Vietnam", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530137%2Fwhat-americans-can-learn-from-vietnam%2F", "byline":"Jon Miltimore", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Over the weekend, my wife and I joined friends for dinner. They had just returned from a vacation in Costa Rica, and we began talking about places we might travel together. “We should check out Vietnam,” I said. My friend and his wife looked at me like I was joking.  Like many Americans, they didn’t […]", "description":""

Over the weekend, my wife and I joined friends for dinner. They had just returned from a vacation in Costa Rica, and we began talking about places we might travel together.<\/p>

\u201cWe should check out Vietnam<\/a>,\u201d I said.<\/p>

My friend and his wife looked at me like I was joking. <\/p>

Like many Americans, they didn\u2019t realize that Vietnam is a major tourist<\/a> destination. Data show that nearly 18 million tourists visit Vietnam annually. While that is far below European destinations like France (102 million), Spain (94 million), Italy (65 million), and Germany (35 million), Vietnam\u2019s year-on-year growth rate of nearly 40%<\/a> is among the highest in the world.<\/p>

Tourists are going to Vietnam for the same reasons they take trips anywhere else: They want beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, convenience, and affordable prices. (And of course,\u00a0good food<\/a>.)\u00a0<\/p>

Like most Americans, my baffled friends were under the impression that Vietnam is a very poor country. This is a misconception.<\/p>

For years, I\u2019ve been writing about Vietnam\u2019s economic miracle<\/a>. In 1990, Vietnam was indeed very poor. In fact, its per capita GDP<\/a> of $98<\/a> ranked dead last in the world, behind famously impoverished countries like Somalia and Madagascar.<\/p>

While some may assume Vietnam\u2019s poverty was primarily the result of its war with the United States, the primary cause was its own economic policies. Following the U.S. withdrawal from Hanoi in 1975, Vietnam fully embraced communism<\/a>.<\/p>

In his book How Nations Escape Poverty<\/a>, historian Rainer Zitelmann explains that in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, the country introduced a series of collectivist food programs<\/a>. The results were disastrous. Vietnam, once a major rice exporter, could no longer feed its own population. The collectivized farms produced little food. The food that was produced was distributed based on family status.<\/p>

\u201cState employees received more,\u201d Zitelmann wrote, \u201cfactory workers less.\u201d<\/p>

This, of course, is not what socialists promise in their utopian visions, but similar patterns of inequality are conspicuous in other socialist regimes. The USSR, for example, had its\u00a0nomenklatura (literally \u201clist of names\u201d), a term for party elites who\u00a0enjoyed privileges<\/a>\u00a0unavailable to ordinary citizens.<\/p>

This period, known today in Vietnam as Thoi Bao Cap, was a dark chapter in the country\u2019s history. And it shows that socialist systems deliver neither prosperity nor equality, as those who waited hours in line for a single sack of rice can attest.<\/p>

In 1986, however, something changed. Communist leaders acknowledged the system was not working. At the Communist Party\u2019s Sixth National Congress in December of that year, they introduced a series of reforms known as Doi Moi, meaning \u201cinnovation\u201d or \u201crenovation.\u201d<\/p>

Before\u00a0Doi Moi, the Vietnamese state controlled \u201calmost everything<\/a>,\u201d the BBC noted. Afterward, reforms gradually shifted economic decision-making away from central planners.<\/p>

The results were dramatic. In\u00a0a 2013 paper<\/a>, economists Brian McCaig and Nina Pavcnik found that Vietnam\u2019s real GDP grew at an average annual rate of 7% between 1986 and 2008.<\/p>

Growth has continued since then. As of 2024, per capita GDP stood at<\/a> roughly $14,400, about 150 times higher than in the mid-1980s. (Adjusted for inflation, the increase is roughly 3,000\u20135,000%, depending on the baseline and methodology.)<\/p>

Vietnam is still a poor country by U.S. standards, and its economy is not a capitalist<\/a> ideal. It ranks about middle of the pack<\/a> of global economic freedom indices, slightly ahead of France and Paraguay, and slightly behind India and Spain. Economists rightly point out that Vietnam still has work to do<\/a>.<\/p>

Still, the country's transformation shows how even a moderately freer economic system can empower people to dramatically improve their living standards, turning one of the world\u2019s poorest countries into a society of opportunity in a single generation.<\/p>

The formula for prosperity, which is also on display in Javier Milei\u2019s Argentina<\/a>, is simple, and it was articulated 250 years ago.<\/p>

\u201cLittle else is requisite to carry a state to the highest degree of opulence from the lowest barbarism, but peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice,\u201d Adam Smith observed in The Wealth of Nations, \u201call the rest being brought about by the natural course of things.\u201d<\/p>

America\u2019s founders read Smith and understood the secret sauce of prosperity, which is why they created a decentralized system of government designed to facilitate trade and limit state power through checks and balances.<\/p>

WINDS OF CHANGE IN LATIN AMERICA<\/a><\/p>

Those checks and balances have eroded over time, though not entirely<\/a>. As populists on both the left and right propose expanding the role of government, Americans would do well to look at Vietnam, which stands as a case study for what happens when the state retreats and allows markets to operate.<\/p>

Maybe, like me, they\u2019ll even decide to see the country\u2019s transformation with their own eyes.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/AP24072520172579-scaled.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530302-1776319200", "title":"How Trump reshaped immigration court to crush asylum ", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4530302%2Fhow-trump-reshaped-immigration-court-to-crush-asylum%2F", "byline":"Anna Giaritelli", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Asylum grant rates have plummeted to historic lows since President Donald Trump took office, and those figures continue to fall as the administration takes a wrecking ball to the immigration courts. The Trump administration has found a legal way to ensure that asylum claims by immigrants who illegally entered the United States are largely denied, […]", "description":""

Asylum grant rates have plummeted to historic lows since President Donald Trump<\/a> took office, and those figures continue to fall as the administration takes a wrecking ball to the immigration courts.<\/p>

The Trump administration has found a legal way to ensure that asylum<\/a> claims by immigrants who illegally entered the United States are largely denied, resulting in their deportation<\/a>. The result has dramatically cut asylum approval rates to single-digits from nearly 50% during the Biden administration, according to<\/a> the latest figures.<\/p>

For the millions of people who entered the country via the southern border and sought asylum under former President Joe Biden and believed they would be able to remain, most will, in fact, be ordered deported, adding to the number of people that ICE can target for arrest and to the overall deportation numbers Trump hopes to achieve by 2029.<\/p>

All of this is occurring through the immigration courts, which operate independently of other courts and behind closed doors, unlike immigration arrests seen on the streets. By swapping out roughly one in four judges with high asylum approval rates, the Trump administration is filling the bench with decision-makers who align with its tough approach to illegal immigration.<\/p>What is immigration court?

Immigration courts are separate from other courts, meaning judges there decide only federal immigration matters, not criminal or civil cases.<\/p>

Immigration courts are administrative, not judicial, courts. Their purpose is to hear cases involving non-U.S. citizens whom the government seeks to remove from the U.S.<\/p>

Although other federal courts fall under the judicial branch of government, immigration courts fall under the executive branch because the Justice Department\u2019s Executive Office manages them for Immigration Review.<\/p>

The office has 60 courts nationwide where judges will conduct removal hearings, bond hearings over whether a defendant should be detained, and credible fear reviews during the asylum-seeking process.<\/p>

The EOIR requested $899 million in its fiscal 2027 budget request<\/a> to fund approximately 5,300 staff. <\/p>Trump cuts judges

As of December 2025, the immigration courts had 3.38 million cases before them, according to<\/a> the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at New York's Syracuse University, a nonpartisan data research center that analyzes federal immigration statistical information.<\/p>

Margy O'Herron, senior fellow for liberty and national security at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, notes that new cases added to the dockets from between fiscal 2022 and 2024, when a record-high number of illegal immigrants were apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border, are still being felt by the court, given that cases take years to resolve.<\/p>

\"EOIR continues to manage a substantial pending caseload. The high volume in new case filings ... still represents the agency\u2019s most significant workload challenge,\" O'Herron wrote in a recent analysis<\/a>.<\/p>

Those millions of cases are being decided by more than 600 judges nationwide after more than 200 judges were fired or resigned in 2025 and Q1 of 2026, according to a March 2026 report by the Congressional Research Service. The 115 judges who departed in Trump's first year represented the most departures seen since 2011 and came at a time when the court was particularly overwhelmed.<\/p>

Unlike federal judges, who cannot be fired by the president, Trump has removed immigration judges who have had high asylum grant rates and sought to replace them with temporary military judges, as well as permanent judges.<\/p>

Judges must be lawyers and are appointed by the attorney general to their posts once hired. Their performance is judged over time by a chief immigration judge.<\/p>

The result gives the executive branch a way to affect immigration policy outside of Congress, which has the constitutional responsibility of setting immigration levels.<\/p>Getting into court

The immigration process begins when a person determined to be illegally present in the United States is encountered by federal law enforcement at the border or inside the country. <\/p>

The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for enforcing immigration law through apprehending, detaining, and removing illegal immigrants, while the Department of Justice handles the legal process.<\/p>

DHS agency U.S. Customs and Border Protection is assigned to the nation\u2019s borders, while U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement primarily works within the country. Whether a person is apprehended while crossing the border illegally or only caught once inside the country, he or she will be turned over to ICE to be detained while going through immigration proceedings. <\/p>

Federal law enforcement may release an illegal immigrant into the country rather than keep that person in detention. Each person is given a Notice to Appear in immigration court, which the DHS has filed to signal that the person has violated immigration law and should be removed, initiating legal proceedings.<\/p>

The government attorneys bringing the federal charge against the defendant, or illegal immigrant, work for ICE's Principal Legal Advisor office. Attorneys are hired through a competitive process and are nonpartisan, many having worked for the office for decades.<\/p>

Unlike U.S. citizens facing criminal proceedings, immigrants are not provided legal counsel for their immigration proceedings and must pay out of pocket for a lawyer.<\/p>Once in court

ICE may release someone in federal custody to remain in the U.S. during court proceedings and place them in a program known as Alternatives to Detention. The program uses ankle monitors and a phone app to track and communicate with immigrants rather than indefinitely detaining people who are deemed a low threat.<\/p>

Once a Notice to Appear has been filed with the court, the defendant is informed of the date to appear at a regional immigration court for the first hearing.<\/p>

\"You, the alien (and your lawyer if you have one), will present your case and applications for immigration,\" ICE states in a rundown online about court proceedings. \"The government lawyer will be the opposing party relief and protection to show the judge why you should against you in immigration court.<\/p>

\"The immigration judge will generally enforce the rules of the court, make sure that the process is fair, consider all the evidence, and eventually make a final decision about whether you may stay in the United States or will be removed,\" ICE's website states.<\/p>

Immigrants may argue that they should not be removed from the U.S. after illegally entering or overstaying a visa on the basis that they have or are seeking immigration relief, including asylum, temporary protected status, a family-based petition, or a special immigrant juvenile visa, among other protections.<\/p>

It is incumbent on each immigrant to prove to the court that they should not be removed.<\/p>

\"The burden of proof is on the government to show an immigrant is removable in cases in which the immigrant entered the United States after inspection by an immigration officer, such as with a visa or as a refugee,\" O'Herron said.<\/p>

\"If an immigrant entered without inspection \u2014 by crossing the border between ports of entry, for example \u2014 the immigrant has the burden of proof of establishing that they should be admitted,\" O'Herron said. \"Regardless of how immigrants enter the United States, they have the burden of proof of establishing eligibility for relief.\"<\/p>Reaching a conclusion

Judges will make their decisions based on immigration laws set forth in the Immigration and Nationality Act.<\/p>

STATE BY STATE: HERE'S WHERE ICE HAS MADE THE MOST ARRESTS UNDER TRUMP<\/a><\/p>

A judge may give a decision at the hearing or mail a decision months later. If an application for protection is denied, the judge is likely to initiate deportation. Even if the judge approves the application, the government lawyer could appeal it.<\/p>

Immigrants whose cases are denied have 30 days to appeal the decision to the Justice Department's Board of Immigration Appeals.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/AP25349778729309.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530458-1776319200", "title":"America is on the verge of bankruptcy. Nothing will matter when the crisis hits", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530458%2Famerica-on-verge-bankruptcy-crisis%2F", "byline":"Les Rubin", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"We are all concerned about the many problems we face today: inflation, affordability, a world at war, the list goes on. That will all be irrelevant if the United States goes bankrupt. Make no mistake, that is where we are headed if we continue our current path. No, we are not bankrupt yet, but we […]", "description":""

We are all concerned about the many problems we face today: inflation, affordability<\/a>, a world at war, the list goes on. That will all be irrelevant if the United States goes bankrupt. Make no mistake, that is where we are headed if we continue our current path.<\/p>

No, we are not bankrupt yet, but we are insolvent. That is simply financial jargon, meaning we cannot pay our obligations as they come due. However, if we can still borrow, we can continue to meet those obligations and avoid bankruptcy. So, we borrow and pay, borrow and pay, and pile up unfathomable debts.<\/p>

We currently have around $39 trillion of interest-bearing debt (and approximately $136 trillion if you include unfunded obligations) owed by the Treasury to many different people, countries, and institutions. It all matures at different dates. Last year alone, about $8 trillion in interest-bearing debt came due, requiring repayment. We also ran a deficit <\/a>of nearly $2 trillion, meaning expenses exceeded revenue by that amount. In total, we needed to fund roughly $10 trillion in obligations.<\/p>

REPUBLICAN TAX CUTS MUST NOT BE BLAMED FOR RISING DEFICITS AND DEBT<\/a><\/p>

Since we had no revenue source to pay the maturing debt or cover the annual deficit, we are effectively insolvent. But we have a \u201ccredit card\u201d that still works, so we borrowed the money, $10 trillion to be exact. $8 trillion paid maturing debt, and $2 trillion covered the deficit. This is a classic Ponzi scheme, with ever-increasing borrowing covering ever-increasing obligations.<\/p>

It is not an illegal scheme because there is no deception. Investors in U.S. debt fully understand what is happening. The Treasury\u2019s own financial statements are explicit, stating that the \u201ccurrent fiscal path is unsustainable.\u201d This structure will eventually collapse. No one knows when. It will happen, as Hemingway famously described bankruptcy, \u201cgradually, then suddenly,\u201d when investors lose confidence and are no longer willing to lend at reasonable interest rates.<\/p>

When that moment comes, as buyers stop purchasing U.S. debt, the entire system will come under severe stress. Since there is no practical way to cover a shortfall of that magnitude, the outcome would be catastrophic. We would either default on our obligations, which raises serious constitutional and legal concerns, or we would resort to printing money to pay our bills. Either scenario is devastating.\u00a0Default would trigger global financial shockwaves, while printing money on that scale would lead to runaway inflation and the collapse of the currency\u2019s value.<\/p>

If the U.S. were to lose the confidence of its creditors, every other issue we argue about today would become secondary overnight. Debates over taxes, healthcare, foreign policy, and social priorities all depend on a functioning financial system. If that system breaks down, the government itself is forced into crisis mode. Basic obligations such as paying Social Security, funding national defense, and maintaining essential services would no longer be guaranteed. The stability we take for granted would quickly give way to emergency measures, uncertainty, and economic contraction.<\/p>

In that environment, the value of savings, investments<\/a>, and income security would all be at risk. Many businesses would go bankrupt, credit markets would freeze, and everyone would suffer severe consequences. At that point, the overriding question is, can we survive? That is why everything else we care about ultimately depends on solving this problem first.<\/p>

We have seen versions of this story in other countries, but there is a critical difference here. This is the U.S., the central engine of the global economy. A breakdown here would not remain contained. World commerce would be disrupted, and the global economy would be dragged down with it.<\/p>

That is a sobering reality. The precise sequence of events is impossible to predict, but if the U.S. loses its ability to borrow, there is no good scenario.\u00a0<\/p>

We cannot allow that to happen. We would be leaving our children and grandchildren, and all future generations, with a broken financial system. How dare we do that to them? It is unconscionable and morally wrong.<\/p>

CONGRESS SHOULD STOP PAYING STATES<\/a><\/p>

So how do we avoid this catastrophe? We must restore financial sanity in Washington before our creditors lose confidence and stop financing our debt. Congress must ultimately solve this problem, but elected officials will not take politically difficult steps, such as raising taxes or cutting spending, without sustained public support. They are focused on the next election, not the next generation.\u00a0With public support, they will be empowered to do the right thing.<\/p>

So, it is up to us, the people, to understand the issue and demand that our representatives act while there is still time and while our system still functions. We cannot bury our heads in the sand and pretend this is not a serious problem. This is truly the most imminent existential problem we face \u2014 yet no one is addressing it.<\/p>

Les Rubin is the founder and president of Main Street Economics<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/0c4de9fc670add9ad8150e4dcfec25f0-e1776275007449.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530848-1776319200", "title":"340B keeps rural hospitals alive. Big Pharma wants it gone", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Frestoring-america%2Ffaith-freedom-self-reliance%2F4530848%2F340b-keeps-rural-hospitals-alive%2F", "byline":"Taylor Millard", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A new analysis from healthcare consulting firm Trilliant Health contains some grim news for people concerned about the plight of hospitals serving poorer and rural populations. On average, in 2024, hospitals brought in just $311.9 million per year from patient care, and needed an average of $34.6 million from nonpatient sources, including grants, investments, and […]", "description":""

A new analysis from healthcare<\/a> consulting firm Trilliant Health contains some grim news for people concerned about the plight of hospitals serving poorer and rural populations.<\/p>

On average, in 2024, hospitals brought in just $311.9 million per year from patient care, and needed an average of $34.6 million from nonpatient sources, including grants, investments, and retail pharmacy operations, to balance the books.<\/p>

But for nonprofit hospitals, the picture is still worse, with patient care making up an even smaller share of total revenue than at for-profit systems. The Trilliant analysis does not provide an exact breakdown but does note that \u201cnonprofit hospitals had an average net patient revenue as a percentage of total revenue of 89.8% as compared to 97.6% for for-profit hospitals.\u201d That indicates that they are much less able to finance their operations through patient care than the likes of for-profits, like hospital giant HCA.<\/p>

Fewer than half of U.S. hospitals had a profit margin of more than 5% in 2023, and 39% lost money altogether.<\/p>

In many cases, the outside revenue streams were the difference between staying open and shutting down.<\/p>

\u201cIn 2024, 507 out of the 1,779 hospitals evaluated had a negative operating margin but positive net income due to revenue from non-patient-related activities,\u201d Trilliant Health analysts wrote.<\/p>

Even large nonprofit hospital<\/a> systems face the same imbalance: Patient care alone often doesn\u2019t cover the cost of operations, forcing them to rely on outside revenue to stay afloat.<\/p>

At NYU Langone Hospitals, operating expenses exceeded patient revenue by roughly $825 million, yet the system still reported more than $500 million in net income \u2014 largely driven by nonpatient revenue. Vanderbilt University Medical Center showed a similar gap, with operating expenses exceeding patient revenue by about $856 million, but still posting a profit thanks to nonpatient income.<\/p>

The problem is core to the business. Labor tied directly to patient care represented the largest share of hospital operating expenses, according to the study, with nonpatient-related labor costs half as much and drug costs even lower.<\/p>

The statistics underscore the difficulty for providers to break even on the services they\u2019re meant to deliver.<\/p>

The data also underline a major reason policymakers intent on forcing through cuts to the 340B drug discount program can be expected to encounter steep opposition.<\/p>

Many hospitals rely on revenue streams outside of patient care to stay afloat \u2014 an atmosphere that becomes more precarious if some funds are disrupted.<\/p>

Under 340B, safety net hospitals, which disproportionately serve rural, working-class populations like those dominant in many red areas of America, are able to acquire drugs from pharmaceutical companies that participate in Medicare and Medicaid<\/a> at a discount. They can then provide those drugs to patients on a discounted basis or sell them to better-off patients and use the price differential to cover other expenses accrued in keeping hospital doors open.<\/p>

Drugmakers dislike the program because it cuts into profits. Defenders of 340B argue that pharma sector profits are already robust and that the program is an efficient way of keeping hospitals serving less well-off populations open and functional.<\/p>

The Drug Pricing Program provided almost $100 billion in total benefits to 1,166 rural hospitals in 2022, according to the American Hospital Association. Rural hospitals used that money to fill in government funding gaps, including unreimbursed Medicaid and Medicare shortfalls.<\/p>

The Medicare deficits are particularly disturbing for hospitals.\u00a0The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services projected<\/a>\u00a0that negative Medicare margins at hospitals would increase from 79% in 2023 to 83%-85% in 2027.\u00a0<\/p>

It stands to reason that the hospitals would go to the federal government for help in plugging more financial gaps if that 340B program money disappeared or was severely curtailed. That would mean saddling taxpayers with more public debt in a hospital bailout.<\/p>

Even 340B program opponents believe that any major program changes will lead to more taxpayer expenses.<\/p>

Joe Grogan, a former assistant to President Donald Trump and a pharmacy executive, said that \u201csome hospitals are going to be under pressure\u201d if 340B is reformed in the way drug companies trade groups wish.<\/p>

Grogan said the Catch-22 is that the federal government doesn\u2019t \u201chave the money to shore up community hospitals\u201d and reform 340B. The price of a bailout, which would be needed to cover the financial hit to 340B hospitals if the changes Grogan favors were made, could be as high as $500 billion.<\/p>

WINDS OF CHANGE IN LATIN AMERICA<\/a><\/p>

An alternative might be to increase Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, as the AHA has advocated. But an increase in entitlement spending along these lines would spike the deficit and national debt, which already is approaching $40 trillion. That, in turn, could sustain pressure on the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high \u2014 something that Trump and Republicans definitely do not want.<\/p>

This is the danger that 340B opponents find themselves confronting. While the chance for reform is tempting, especially to free-market purists, the idea of throttling healthcare in red states or adding to America\u2019s debt<\/a> and credit woes to procure a more favorable regulatory environment for drug companies is a tough political sell.<\/p>

Taylor Millard is a Virginia-based\u00a0writer\u00a0and an editor and reporter at InsideSources.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/iStock-1428114896-e1761238191304.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530892-1776319200", "title":"Lawmakers using taxpayer money for misconduct payouts could soon face public shaming", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4530892%2Fpublic-shaming-misconduct-settlements%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"EXCLUSIVE — Two House Republicans are proposing the return of public shaming in response to the torrent of bad behavior by their colleagues, like ex-Reps. Eric Swallwell (D-CA) Tony Gonzales (R-TX). Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Josh Brecheen (R-OK) told the Washington Examiner they are introducing legislation requiring any member of Congress who uses taxpayer […]", "description":""

EXCLUSIVE \u2014 Two House Republicans<\/a> are proposing the return of public shaming in response to the torrent of bad behavior by their colleagues, like ex-Reps. Eric Swallwell<\/a> (D-CA) Tony Gonzales<\/a> (R-TX).<\/p>

Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Josh Brecheen (R-OK) told the Washington Examiner they are introducing legislation requiring any member of Congress who uses taxpayer money to settle misconduct lawsuits to be publicly exposed to the entire House.<\/p>

Specifically, the duo's bill would require lawmakers to stand in the center of the House, in front of their colleagues and the public tuning in at home on C-SPAN, while the chamber's clerk reads the settlement amount, the reason for the payment, and whether it has been reimbursed.<\/p>

\u201cThis type of good governance legislation ensures that members who are found personally liable and use taxpayer dollars to settle a lawsuit cannot hide their actions,\u201d Bice said. \u201cThe American people deserve to know whether their lawmakers have been accused of sexual assault, harassment, or other violations of the Congressional Accountability Act.\u201d<\/p>

Under the bill, lawmakers who use taxpayer money to settle misconduct lawsuits would have 30 days to appear in the chamber for public shaming. If the lawmaker refuses, then they would lose access to all committee assignments and leadership positions. <\/p>

Resigning, as Swalwell and Gonzales did to head off expulsion votes, would not save the members from further embarrassment. The Bice-Breechen bill says that if a former member refuses to comply, they will lose access to the House floor and other perks given to ex-lawmakers.<\/p>

Supporters say the measure is meant to shine a light on bad behavior that often goes unnoticed. Congressional law already requires the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights to track and disclose on its website settlements made by congressional offices and agencies for misconduct. <\/p>

Critics say the current system, however, is opaque. They note that reports only list settlements and the category of workplace violation but do not specify who was responsible and the nature of the complaint.<\/p>

ERIC SWALWELL TO RESIGN FROM CONGRESS AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ACCUSATIONS <\/a><\/p>

\u201cThe American People deserve accountability for Members of Congress who abuse their position to victimize others \u2014 especially when tax dollars are used in settlements,\u201d Rep. Michael Cloud (R-TX) said. <\/p>

\u201cWhile well-intended, previous efforts required the public release of even 'alleged violations' \u2014 even false ones,\u201d Cloud said.\u00a0\u201cThis runs contrary to the foundational legal principle of due process \u2014 a principle rooted in Scripture long before it was codified in law.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-ytb67pg4x-1776294204104-e1776301118601.jpg?1776279900&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531002-1776319200", "title":"Trump sets stage for showdown with Powell over who runs the Fed in mid-May", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4531002%2Ftrump-showdown-powell-fed-may%2F", "byline":"Zach Halaschak", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump has now threatened to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell if he doesn’t step aside when his term ends in mid-May, setting the stage for a legal battle as the nomination of Powell’s successor is in limbo. The escalation came Wednesday morning when the president said he planned to fire Powell if […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> has now threatened to fire Federal Reserve<\/a> Chairman Jerome Powell<\/a> if he doesn\u2019t step aside when his term ends in mid-May, setting the stage for a legal battle as the nomination of Powell's successor is in limbo. <\/p>

The escalation came Wednesday morning when the president said he planned to fire Powell if he tried to stay on as acting chairman beyond the end of his term, if his replacement has not been confirmed.<\/p>

RED-HOT INFLATION RAISES THE RISK OF DISASTER FOR REPUBLICANS<\/a><\/p>

\u201cThen I\u2019ll have to fire him, OK?\u201d Trump said on Fox Business in response to a question about Powell refusing to step aside. \u201cIf he\u2019s not leaving on time \u2014 I\u2019ve held back firing him. I\u2019ve wanted to fire him, but I hate to be controversial. I want to be uncontroversial.\u201d<\/p>The situation

Powell\u2019s term is set to expire on May 15. But the confirmation of his replacement, former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, is in question. That is because Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate banking committee, has vowed to block Trump's Fed nominees until the Justice Department concludes its investigation into Powell. That\u2019s despite Tillis praising Warsh as a nominee.<\/p>

Powell\u2019s term as chairman of the Fed's Board of Governors ends on May 15. He has said that he would continue serving as chairman beyond the end of his term if his successor is not confirmed and that doing so would be consistent with precedent.<\/p>

Even if Trump succeeded in firing him as chairman of the Board of Governors, though, he may not be able to fire him from the monetary policy committee that sets interest rates. That's because Powell's term as a Fed governor goes into 2028. And the committee, the Federal Open Market Committee, chooses its chairman by vote.<\/p>

\u201cWhich in the past has always been the same chair acting as chair, until a new one is confirmed,\u201d Jai Kedia, an economist at the Cato Institute, told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

Traditionally, the Fed is insulated from White House pressure. Trump, though, has tried hard to sway the central bank\u2019s monetary policy.<\/p>

Earlier this year, in an astonishing video statement, Powell disclosed that he was being investigated by the Justice Department for claims he made during congressional testimony about the Fed headquarters renovation. He has said the inquiry is an effort by Trump to influence interest rate policy.<\/p>

During the Fox Business interview released on Wednesday, Trump emphasized that the inquiry was designed to look into cost overruns at the Fed buildings.<\/p>

The buildings at the center of the renovation, the Eccles Building and 1951 Constitution Avenue, had an estimated budget of $1.9 billion in 2023, but by 2025, those costs had ballooned to $2.5 billion. Both are located near the National Mall in Washington.<\/p>

In light of the investigation, Powell has said he intends to remain<\/a> on the board until the Justice Department investigation into him has ended.<\/p>

\u201cI have no intention of leaving the board until the investigation is well and truly over with transparency and finality,\u201d Powell told reporters at a recent news conference.<\/p>

Traditionally, Fed chairs retire from the board after their term as chairman is up, allowing the president to fill the vacancy. Powell\u2019s situation is unusual, though, given the investigation.<\/p>

Powell said he still has not made up his mind about whether he will remain on the board after the investigation ends.<\/p>

\u201cI will make that decision based on what I think is best for the institution and for the people we serve,\u201d the chairman said.<\/p>What\u2019s next

All of this could be over and Warsh potentially confirmed to sit in on the June Fed meeting if the Trump administration dropped the inquiry.<\/p>

But as of Wednesday, Trump appeared dug in and said he didn\u2019t plan to drop the investigation into Powell, saying that he wanted to learn more about the renovations for the Fed headquarters.<\/p>

\u201cI have to find out,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>

And even if Trump attempts to fire Powell, it would likely end up tied up in the courts. <\/p>

Trump has already attempted to fire Lisa Cook, who is a member of the central bank\u2019s board of governors.<\/p>

Cook, 61, stands accused by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte of mortgage fraud, which led Trump to attempt to fire her. Cook successfully sued for a temporary restraining order blocking the move and has participated in Fed meetings since that time.<\/p>

Powell attended oral arguments before the Supreme Court in the Cook matter.<\/p>

\u201cHis capacity to fire Federal Reserve officials, I think, is yet to be determined \u2014 very much in question,\u201d Stephen Kates, a financial analyst at Bankrate, told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

Still, some think that the administration will end up relenting and give up the investigation so that Tillis will drop his blockade and allow Warsh to become chairman.<\/p>

\u201cI think it's mostly bluster,\u201d Ryan Young, senior economist at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, told the Washington Examiner. \u201cI think it goes back to Trump's old strategy that he learned from his mentor Roy Cohn: never admit when you got something wrong.\u201d<\/p>

FED NOMINEE KEVIN WARSH FACES IMPOSSIBLE TASK IN RATE CUTS SOUGHT BY TRUMP<\/a><\/p>

There is an incentive for Trump to drop the investigation as well, because he thinks that the Fed will start lowering interest rates once Warsh is confirmed and is in charge of the Fed board.<\/p>

\u201cWhen Kevin gets in, I do,\u201d Trump said during the Fox Business interview when asked whether he thinks rates will go down later this year.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26012598382150.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4527963-1776315600", "title":"Swalwell is just latest embarrassment in California gubernatorial race", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4527963%2Fswalwell-latest-embarrassment-california-governors-race%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) was on the verge of consolidating Democratic votes ahead of the June 2 primary for governor of the biggest state in the union. He was leading six other Democrats in polls and had just secured endorsements from California’s two largest government unions, which promised to spend millions of dollars on his […]", "description":""

Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a> (D-CA) was on the verge of consolidating Democratic votes ahead of the June 2 primary for governor of the biggest state in the union. He was leading six other Democrats in polls and had just secured endorsements from California's<\/a> two largest government unions<\/a>, which promised to spend millions of dollars on his campaign.<\/p>

But all of that came crashing down around him after a local newspaper published allegations that he sexually assaulted a former female employee. Within hours, a national cable network aired additional sexual harassment allegations from three other women, and several campaign staffers resigned, Sens. Adam Schiff<\/a> (D-CA) and Ruben Gallego<\/a> (D-AZ) withdrew their endorsements, and current and former House Democratic leaders Hakeem Jeffries<\/a> (D-NY) and Nancy Pelosi<\/a> (D-CA) called on Swalwell to leave the race.<\/p>

By Sunday, the largest government union in the state, the California Teachers Association, had withdrawn its endorsement, as had SEIU California, the umbrella organization for the state\u2019s local SEIU government unions. That was followed by a letter from more than 50 former Swalwell staffers announcing that they stood with his accusers and calling on him to drop out. By Sunday night, he was gone from the race, and by Monday, he had resigned from Congress.<\/p>

Unfortunately for Democrats, ballots for the June 2 election have already been printed and will start hitting voters\u2019 mailboxes on May 4. So Swalwell\u2019s name will still be among voters' choices, alongside billionaire Tom Steyer, who has poured $120 million of his own money into the race, former Democratic California Rep. Katie Porter, and four other candidates, all stuck in single digits.<\/p>

Swalwell\u2019s collapse makes it more plausible, though still unlikely, that the two leading Republican candidates for governor, former Fox News host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, could secure the top two spots in the primary, blocking all Democratic candidates out of the general election. According to the RealClearPolitics polling average, with Swalwell gone, Hilton and Bianco lead with 14.7% and 13% of the vote, respectively, followed by Porter at 11.3% and Steyer at 10%. Before his fall, Swalwell had surged to second place overall, and first among Democrats, at 13.7%.<\/p>

No Republican has won statewide office in California since then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's reelection in 2006. Getting boxed out of the general election in a state where Vice President Kamala Harris took 59% of the vote would be humiliating for the California Democratic Party. But this race has been a dumpster fire for Democrats from the start.<\/p>

First, there was Porter\u2019s viral, combative interview with a local CBS News affiliate in October 2025. Asked how she would appeal to President Donald Trump's voters, Porter dismissively responded, \u201cHow would I need them in order to win, ma\u2019am?\u201d Minutes later, Porter threatened to end the interview, saying the reporter\u2019s questions were \u201cunnecessarily argumentative,\u201d adding, \u201cI don\u2019t want to keep doing this. I don\u2019t want to have an unhappy experience with you, and I don\u2019t want this all on camera.\u201d But it was all on camera, and Porter\u2019s poll numbers have flatlined ever since.<\/p>

Then, in November, Xavier Becerra, President Joe Biden\u2019s secretary of Health and Human Services, took a political hit when his chief of staff, Sean McCluskie, was implicated in federal corruption charges after Gov. Gavin Newsom\u2019s (D-CA) former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, was caught directing $225,000 from Becerra\u2019s old campaign account to McCluskie\u2019s spouse for a no-show job. Becerra himself was not implicated in the scandal, but for a candidate running on competence and experience, and whose HHS had already lost track of more than 300,000 illegal immigrant children, it was a serious blow.<\/p>

California Democrats could not even manage the basic task of holding a gubernatorial debate without turning it into a farce. The one major debate on the calendar, scheduled for late March at the University of Southern California, was canceled a day before it was to begin after the qualifying criteria, based on minimum polling and fundraising requirements, produced an all-white stage and excluded all the Democratic candidates who were members of racial minorities. It was a fitting humiliation for a party that prioritizes identity over substance and results.<\/p>

The real but untold story behind the Democratic Party\u2019s dumpster fire governor\u2019s race is one about who decided not to run. Harris could have won in a cakewalk, but she chose not to enter. She has her eyes on another presidential run in 2028. If she thought she could burnish her resume with gubernatorial experience, she would have jumped at the chance.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS' TWO-TIERED JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS<\/a><\/p>

But she obviously didn't think governing California would help her. Harris\u2019s decision raises real questions about whether the California governorship is still seen as a legitimate stepping stone to higher office. Newsom will be running in 2028 and will have to defend his record in a state with one of the nation\u2019s highest unemployment rates, the highest homeless population, and one of the highest poverty rates. As governor of California, Harris would also have been forced to defend the highest gas prices in the country, a declining population, and billions of dollars wasted on a high-speed train to nowhere.<\/p>

California is the largest and wealthiest state in the country. Top-tier Democrats should be jumping at the chance to govern it. Instead, Democrats know the state has become ungovernable and are avoiding the job at all costs, leaving compromised candidates such as Porter, Steyer, and Swalwell to fight over the wreckage.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26098769833287.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530238-1776315600", "title":"The hallucinated village: Social media and the mental cost of digital residency", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530238%2Fsocial-media-mental-cost-digital-residency%2F", "byline":"Jacqueline Cartier", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In the spring of 2020, the digital world served as our global lighthouse, providing orientation and connection when the analog world went dark. As physical communities shuttered, we migrated to the screen, not out of preference, but necessity. These platforms became classrooms, boardrooms, shopping centers, and the “village” for isolated lives. They performed their function, […]", "description":""

In the spring of 2020, the digital world<\/a> served as our global lighthouse, providing orientation and connection when the analog world went dark. As physical communities shuttered, we migrated to the screen, not out of preference, but necessity. These platforms<\/a> became classrooms, boardrooms, shopping centers, and the \u201cvillage\u201d for isolated lives. They performed their function, sustaining connection and economic continuity when nothing else could. <\/p>

As we navigate 2026, the emergency has long since passed, yet we are still circling the shore\u2019s beacon instead of returning to the harbor. The current legal and cultural narrative often frames social media companies as predatory antagonists<\/a>. That framing misses a deeper structural reality; the assumption that these platforms are the source of the problem. It is equally possible they simply revealed it, and, for a time, helped people hold it together. <\/p>

These are not architectures of malice, but systems of design inertia. Software designed to connect and engage is simply doing what it was built to do. The crisis isn't found in the intent of the code, but in a conditioning period that turned a social engagement platform into a temporary support system that later evolved into a structural pattern. <\/p>

SELF-IMPROVEMENT OR SELF-DECEPTION? THE HIDDEN RISK OF AI BUILDING ITSELF<\/a><\/p>The proximity deficit\u00a0

We are now navigating a generational proximity deficit, shaped during a 1,000-day period when digital engagement became our only social muscle. For many, the screen<\/a> became a sanctuary, a predictable light in an uncertain world. <\/p>

But that sanctuary did not show us reality, it presented a curated version of it. While many were struggling, feeds remained a gallery of the ideal. Because we were starved for connection, we didn\u2019t just observe this \u2014 we lived it vicariously. <\/p>

We didn\u2019t become addicted to technology. We became dependent on the version of reality it provided. What begins as reliance can, over time, resemble a form of digital Stockholm Syndrome, not through coercion, but through patterns formed under constraint. <\/p>

We traded unscripted human proximity for a high-definition hallucination. In earlier discussions of AI, this pattern has been described as a form of recursive hallucination<\/a>, where systems reinforce their own outputs. Here, we see a human parallel \u2014 a social loop where perception begins to replace reality. Now, real-world interaction can feel jarring by comparison.<\/p>The corporate void\u00a0

In the corporate world, this shift is often framed as a productivity debate. But efficiency was never the full value of proximity. Innovation is not scheduled; it emerges from interaction. The physical workplace<\/a> enabled accidental collisions of ideas, the unscripted exchange that drives progress. In fragmenting the workforce into digital tiles, we removed that engagement. Without the diverse synergy of an active, analog community, talent remains latent and untapped, leaving leadership isolated, to operate in a recursive loop, mirroring its own past perspectives, and \u201challucinating\u201d its own future growth. <\/p>The social desert\u00a0

For many adults, the workplace was also a primary social structure. Not a distraction, but a source of belonging. In its absence, isolation has expanded in ways productivity metrics cannot capture. Digital interaction is efficient, but transactional. It cannot replicate the informal awareness that sustains connection. What has been lost is not just collaboration, but community. <\/p>The economic nanny\u00a0

At the household level, reliance took a different form. During the migration, digital platforms became essential infrastructure. In many homes, the screen became what might be called an \u201cEconomic Nanny,\u201d filling gaps created by remote work<\/a>, inaccessible childcare, and economic pressure. This was not neglect. It was adaptation, a response to a system under strain. <\/p>The predictive mirror\u00a0

The true shift in the post-pandemic era is the role of personalized AI. In the earlier days of social media, platforms were essentially passive bulletin boards. Today, that architecture has been replaced by a predictive mirror, AI. These systems do not wait for engagement, they anticipate it. They learn patterns of behavior and reflect them back. This is where the system evolves from connection into emotional reinforcement, experienced by the user as validation, as patterns formed in crisis continue beyond it. <\/p>The algorithm as infrastructure\u00a0

We cannot simply blame corporations<\/a> for this evolution. These systems are fulfilling a structural imperative to maximize engagement \u2014 it is their core function. With the integration of AI across most platforms, that engagement loop has been recalibrated into something faster and more responsive. <\/p>

This is where the concept of recursive hallucination becomes relevant \u2014 not as error, but as pattern reinforcement. AI has transformed social media into a system of recognition and reflection. What we respond to is not just delivered back to us, it is refined and repeated. In that process, the platform begins to mirror its user. It does not evaluate, it does not challenge, it responds. Over time, that response can feel like affirmation, even when it is simply the continuation of an established pattern. <\/p>Reclaiming the village\u00a0

AI ISN\u2019T BECOMING SENTIENT \u2014 IT\u2019S BECOMING YOU<\/a><\/p>

The path forward is not retreat from technology, but realignment of purpose. If the pandemic created a proximity deficit, the solution is not deeper digital immersion, but restoring balance. <\/p>

For the corporate world, this means reinvesting<\/a> in environments where unscripted interaction can occur. For society, it means recognizing that the screen was a bridge, not a destination. The challenge of 2026 is not to abandon our tools, but to realign them with the world we are rebuilding. They carried us through isolation. Now they must serve something greater: the restoration of human connection.<\/p>

Jacqueline Cartier is a corporate and legislative strategist focused on communications, crisis leadership, public trust, and emerging technologies that shape human behavior and decision-making. Follow her on LinkedIn<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/iStock-1371763060-e1774296222511.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530821-1776315600", "title":"Virginia redistricting referendum tightens into a dead heat as early voting surges", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2F4530821%2Fvirginia-redistricting-referendum-tight-race-early-voting%2F", "byline":"Samantha-Jo Roth", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Early voting is underway in Virginia on a closely watched redistricting referendum that is shaping up to be a razor-thin race, with both parties increasingly treating the April 21 vote as a pivotal and unpredictable fight for control of the House. The ballot measure would temporarily return map-drawing authority to the Democratic-controlled legislature, which has […]", "description":""

Early voting is underway in Virginia<\/a> on a closely watched redistricting referendum<\/a> that is shaping up to be a razor-thin race, with both parties increasingly treating the April 21 vote <\/a>as a pivotal and unpredictable fight for control of the House.<\/p>

The ballot measure would temporarily return map-drawing authority to the Democratic-controlled legislature, which has already passed a new congressional map to be used for 2026, 2028, and 2030, pending legal challenge. The new map shifts Virginia's 6-5 Democratic majority to 10-1 in favor of Democrats.<\/p>

The outcome carries implications far beyond Virginia. Both parties see the referendum as part of a broader national battle over congressional maps, as Republicans move to redraw districts in several states and Democrats weigh how aggressively to respond. <\/p>

But what once looked like a clear advantage for supporters has tightened into a competitive contest, with early voting patterns, polling, and on-the-ground organizing all pointing to a dead heat in the final stretch. <\/p>

Just weeks ago, Virginia Republicans saw the measure as all but decided against them. Things changed, however, when the early votes started to roll in. <\/p>

At first, said Virginia-based Republican strategist Brian Kirwin, \u201cit felt pretty defeatist.\" Democrats dominated early advertising, he noted, but Republican engagement has surged in recent weeks as awareness of the measure has grown. Now, he said, \u201cIt looks like it might be neck and neck,\u201d a sharp change from expectations a month ago.<\/p>

Kirwin said GOP voters increasingly view the proposal as a power grab, arguing it would shift representation heavily toward northern Virginia and dilute the influence of more rural regions.<\/p>

\u201cThey think this is about going from six-five to ten-one,\u201d he said. \u201cThat\u2019s not about fairness. That\u2019s about power.\u201d<\/p>

Early voting data underscore the uncertainty. More than 1 million early ballots had been cast as of mid-April, roughly in line with turnout at a comparable point in the previous cycle, according to data<\/a> from the Virginia Public Access Project.<\/p>

The geographic split has been notable. Republican-leaning districts are posting some of the highest raw turnout totals, while the largest share of ballots is still coming from population centers, particularly northern Virginia, where participation has surged and now accounts for a majority of votes cast statewide.<\/p>

The competing trends underscore how difficult it is to draw firm conclusions about which party has the advantage heading into election day.<\/p>

Polling reflects a similarly mixed picture. A new Washington Post-George Mason University Schar School survey <\/a>suggests Republicans currently hold an enthusiasm edge, with GOP voters more likely than Democrats to say they are certain to cast a ballot. Despite that gap in motivation, the survey still shows the redistricting amendment ahead among likely voters, holding a narrow lead overall.<\/p>

That split has shaped both parties\u2019 closing strategies. Democrats are banking on expanded early voting access and strong turnout in suburban regions, while Republicans are counting on a traditional election day surge.<\/p>

\u201cThere\u2019s no history of who shows up in April for a referendum,\u201d Kirwin said, describing the electorate as largely unpredictable. \u201cEverybody is basically making educated guesses.\u201d<\/p>

Democratic strategists argue the numbers are moving in their favor as more early voting sites open in heavily populated areas.<\/p>

Jared Leopold, a Virginia Democratic strategist, pointed to increased participation in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads as a sign that turnout is broadening beyond initial rural spikes.<\/p>

\u201cI think it is very encouraging,\u201d Leopold said. \u201cIf Democrats turn out, we\u2019ve got the numbers on our side.\u201d<\/p>

Leopold and other Democrats also see the referendum as part of a broader political moment, with voters using the election to respond to President Donald Trump and Republican-led redistricting efforts elsewhere.<\/p>

\u201cIt would send a clear message that Democrats are not going to allow Donald Trump to gerrymander the maps nationally,\u201d Leopold said.<\/p>

Former President Barack Obama stepped into the fight to boost the \u201cyes\u201d campaign, appearing in statewide television and digital ads in March. GOP-aligned groups quickly responded with targeted outreach to black voters, citing his past opposition to gerrymandering and warning the proposed maps could weaken their influence.<\/p>

Democrats have publicly brushed off those attacks, but the exchange has added to the increasingly sharp tone of the campaign. Some party operatives privately point to potential warning signs, including Gov. Abigail Spanberger\u2019s approval rating slipping below 50% as the debate over the maps intensifies.<\/p>

Ben Tribbett, another Virginia Democratic strategist, framed the effort as a pragmatic response to national trends, arguing that Democrats can no longer afford to unilaterally adhere to redistricting reforms while Republicans redraw maps in their favor.<\/p>

\u201cThe base needs to see that we\u2019re willing to fight,\u201d Tribbett said, adding that failing to act could depress turnout and cost Democrats elections.<\/p>

Still, opposition to the measure is not limited to Republicans. Brian Cannon, a Democrat and advisory council member for the anti-gerrymandering group No Gerrymandering Virginia, said the proposal violates core democratic principles regardless of which party benefits.<\/p>

\u201cGerrymandering is cheating,\u201d Cannon said. \u201cIt\u2019s picking winners ahead of elections. As a Democrat, I would love to see Democrats win more seats, but not by undermining free and fair elections.\u201d<\/p>

Cannon also warned the measure could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging both parties to redraw maps whenever they gain power.<\/p>

\u201cThis is opening a Pandora\u2019s box,\u201d he said. \u201cThe people who lose in that are the voters.\u201d<\/p>

Political observers say the fight reflects a broader shift in how redistricting battles are playing out across the country. Karen Hult, a political science professor at Virginia Tech, said the referendum has become nationalized in a way that blurs the line between state and federal politics.<\/p>

\u201cVoters are being asked to decide not just who represents them, but whether they want to influence control of the U.S. House,\u201d she said.<\/p>

That framing could cut both ways. Hult noted that tying the measure too closely to national partisan battles may already be backfiring with some voters who supported Virginia\u2019s independent redistricting commission in 2020.<\/p>

\u201cThere\u2019s a sense of confusion and concern,\u201d she said, particularly among voters wary of reversing a reform they recently approved.<\/p>

Adding to the uncertainty, the Virginia Supreme Court is expected to weigh in <\/a>on the measure's legality after the election, raising the possibility that the outcome could ultimately be decided in court.<\/p>

With control of the House hanging in the balance, both parties are watching Virginia closely for signals about the political environment heading into the midterm elections.<\/p>

Kirwin argued that even a close result could signal vulnerability for Democrats in a state they control, while Leopold cautioned against overinterpreting the outcome of an unusual spring election.<\/p>

\u201cThis is a really unique election,\u201d Leopold said. \u201cI wouldn\u2019t read too much into what it means for November.\u201d<\/p>

SPANBERGER AND DEMOCRATS SPEND BIG ON \u2018NAKED QUEST FOR POWER\u2019 IN VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING<\/a><\/p>

What is clear is that turnout is likely to decide the race.<\/p>

\u201cThis is all about who shows up,\u201d Tribbett said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-v3scvxv7i-1776291199076.jpg?1776328689&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531377-1776312413", "title":"Fourteenth ‘narco-terrorist’ killed this week in Operation Southern Spear ‘kinetic strike’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4531377%2Ffourteenth-killed-this-week-in-operation-southern-spear-strike%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"U.S. Southern Command announced on Wednesday another military strike on a suspected drug vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. It was the fourth strike conducted by the military in the Southern Hemisphere in the last five days. Three suspected drug traffickers were killed in the latest operation, putting the total of the number of fatalities […]", "description":""

U.S. Southern Command announced on Wednesday another military strike on a suspected drug vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean<\/a>. It was the fourth strike conducted by the military in the Southern Hemisphere in the last five days. Three suspected drug traffickers<\/a> were killed in the latest operation, putting the total of the number of fatalities<\/a> in military strikes in the Southern Hemisphere in the last week at 14.\u00a0<\/p>

Southern Command announced its latest strike late Wednesday night in a press release and on its social media platforms. <\/p>

\u201cOn April 15, at the direction of the commander of U.S. Southern Command, Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations,\u201d read the release.<\/p>

Keeping up with their pattern of explaining how U.S. forces were aware the people on the vessel were known drug traffickers, Southern Command said their identities as \u201cnarco-terrorists\u201d were confirmed by U.S. intelligence reports, highlighting the boat\u2019s presence along \u201cknown narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific.\u201d<\/p>

US SAYS IT KILLED FOUR SUSPECTED DRUG TRAFFICKERS IN EASTERN PACIFIC BOAT STRIKE<\/a><\/p>

\u201cIntelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations,\u201d read the Southern Command press release. \u201cThree male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.\u201d<\/p>

The first U.S. military strike in April on suspected drug trafficking vessels occurred on Saturday and subsequent strikes happened on Monday and Tuesday. At least 53 suspected drug boats have been targeted in strikes since Operation Southern Spear began in September. As of Wednesday\u2019s operation, the total known number of fatalities from Operation Southern Spear strikes in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean is 178.<\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Screenshot-2026-04-16-at-4.03.24-AM.png?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531365-1776304815", "title":"Trump touts meeting between leaders of Israel and Lebanon that ‘will happen tomorrow’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4531365%2Ftrump-touts-meeting-between-israel-and-lebanon%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump announced late Wednesday night that leaders of Israel and Lebanon will hold another round of their historic meetings, highlighting that it’s “been a long time” since officials from the two countries have engaged in productive conversations. Trump announced the meeting in a social media post on his Truth Social account. “Trying to […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> announced late Wednesday night that leaders of Israel and Lebanon will hold another round of their historic meetings<\/a>, highlighting that it\u2019s \u201cbeen a long time\u201d since officials from the two countries have engaged in productive conversations. Trump announced the meeting in a social media post on his Truth Social account.<\/p>

\u201cTrying to get a little breathing room between Israel and Lebanon,\u201d said<\/a> Trump in his post. \u201cIt has been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, like 34 years. It will happen tomorrow.\u201d <\/p>

Early Thursday morning, Israel\u2019s Minister of Science and Technology Gila Gamliel announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will speak with each other, reported the Associated Press.<\/p>

\u201cToday the Prime Minister will speak for the first time with the president of Lebanon after so many years of a complete disconnection in the dialogue between the two countries,\u201d Gamliel reportedly<\/a> told Israel's Army Radio on Thursday.<\/p>

Representatives from Israel and Lebanon met on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz. Also in attendance were U.S. State Department Counselor Michael Needham, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, Lebanese<\/a> Ambassador to the U.S. Nada Hamadeh Moward, and Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter, according to the Associated Press. <\/p>

Before this week\u2019s negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, hosted by the United States, representatives from those countries had not had any face-to-face \u201chigh-level engagement\u201d since<\/a> 1993. Those conversations, however, were not reportedly had among national leaders.<\/p>

\u201cThe participants held productive discussions on steps toward launching direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon,\u201d noted a release issued by the State Department. \u201cThe United States congratulated the two countries on this historic milestone and expressed its support for further talks, and for the Government of Lebanon\u2019s plans to restore the monopoly of force and to end Iran\u2019s overbearing influence.\u201d<\/p>

After the meeting, the U.S. specified that any ceasefire or peace deal between Lebanon and Israel must be \u201cbrokered by the U.S.\u201d The State Department also touted that such negotiations would yield considerable economic benefits for each country, in addition to ending hostilities.<\/p>

\u201cThe United States affirmed that any agreement to cease hostilities must be reached between the two governments, brokered by the United States, and not through any separate track,\u201d read the State Department release. \u201cThe United States underscored that these negotiations have the potential to unlock significant reconstruction assistance and economic recovery for Lebanon and expand investment opportunities for both countries.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Israel-Lebanon.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531313-1776293647", "title":"California disbars John Eastman over effort to reverse Trump’s 2020 election loss", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4531313%2Fcalifornia-disbar-john-eastman-trump-2020-election%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"California disbarred conservative attorney John Eastman on Wednesday for his role in efforts to overturn President Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss, concluding a yearslong legal and disciplinary battle over his conduct. The California Supreme Court ordered Eastman disbarred and removed from the state’s roll of attorneys, a decision that bars him from practicing law in […]", "description":""

California<\/a> disbarred conservative attorney John Eastman on Wednesday for his role in efforts to overturn President Donald Trump\u2019s<\/a> 2020 election loss, concluding a yearslong legal and disciplinary battle over his conduct.<\/p>

The California Supreme Court ordered Eastman disbarred and removed from the state\u2019s roll of attorneys, a decision that bars him from practicing law in the Golden State. <\/p>

The ruling follows a 2024 recommendation from the State Bar Court of California that Eastman lose his license after it found he violated professional ethics rules tied to his work challenging election results<\/a>.  <\/p>

Eastman, a former law professor and dean at Chapman University, was a key legal adviser to Trump as he sought to overturn the election that declared former President Joe Biden<\/a> the winner. <\/p>

The now-disbarred lawyer helped craft a controversial legal strategy arguing that then-Vice President Mike Pence could reject certified electoral votes when Congress met on Jan. 6, 2021, to formalize the results \u2014 a claim Pence ultimately rejected. <\/p>

State bar officials said Eastman repeatedly advanced claims of widespread election fraud in court filings, public statements, and legal memoranda, misleading judges, public officials, and voters. <\/p>

The disbarment marks one of the most severe professional penalties imposed on a lawyer connected to attempts to overturn the 2020 election.<\/p>

Eastman had argued throughout the proceedings that he was being punished for providing legal advice and exercising his First Amendment<\/a> rights. His attorney said he plans to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

The case stems from a series of disciplinary charges filed in 2023, accusing Eastman of making false and misleading statements and pursuing legal theories unsupported by evidence or law. A state bar judge found him culpable on most counts and recommended disbarment, citing the seriousness of the misconduct and its impact on public trust in the legal system. <\/p>

DEMOCRATIC SECRETARY OF STATE WAS \u2018PREPARED\u2019 FOR FBI RAID IN ARIZONA, EMAILS SHOW<\/a><\/p>

Eastman\u2019s legal troubles extend beyond California. He was previously charged in Georgia as part of a broader election interference case, though those charges were later dropped. <\/p>

State bar officials said the ruling reinforces a central principle of the legal profession: attorneys must uphold the rule of law and cannot use their positions to advance false claims or undermine democratic processes.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP24087847236539.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531272-1776289022", "title":"Gerald R. Ford becomes longest-deployed US aircraft carrier since Vietnam War", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4531272%2Fgerald-r-ford-deploy-record-aircraft-carrier%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The USS Gerald R. Ford has become the longest deployed U.S. aircraft carrier since the Vietnam War, marking a new milestone for the world’s largest ship of its kind. The vessel has been at sea for 295 days, surpassing the modern-era record of 294 days set by the USS Abraham Lincoln during a 2020 deployment. […]", "description":""

The USS Gerald R. Ford has become the longest deployed U.S. aircraft carrier since the Vietnam War<\/a>, marking a new milestone for the world\u2019s largest ship of its kind.<\/p>

The vessel has been at sea for 295 days, surpassing the modern-era record of 294 days set by the USS Abraham Lincoln during a 2020 deployment.<\/p>

The Ford, the Navy\u2019s<\/a> newest aircraft carrier, departed from Norfolk, Virginia<\/a>, in June 2025 for what was initially planned as a routine deployment. Since then, the mission has been extended multiple times as the ship was redirected across several regions in response to conflict. <\/p>

The carrier first conducted operations in the Atlantic<\/a> and Mediterranean<\/a> before being sent to the Caribbean in support of U.S. efforts targeting Venezuela. It was later ordered to the Middle East, where it has played a central role in operations tied to the war in Iran<\/a>. <\/p>

While the Ford\u2019s deployment is the longest in recent decades, it remains short of the all-time record set during the Vietnam War, when carriers were deployed more than 300 days. <\/p>

However, record-breaking deployment has raised concerns about the impact on service members.<\/p>

Sen. Tim Kaine<\/a> (D-VA) criticized the extended deployment, warning of the toll on crew readiness and morale, and threw a jab at President Donald Trump. <\/p>

\u201cThey should be home with their loved ones, not sent around the world by a President who acts like the U.S. military is his palace guard,\u201d Kaine said in a statement posted on X<\/a>. <\/p>

The carrier has also faced operational challenges at sea, including a laundry room fire that damaged sleeping quarters, temporarily misplacing sailors. Despite the incident, Navy officials have said the ship remains fully operational.<\/p>

IRAN USED CHINESE SPY SATELLITE TO TARGET US BASES IN MIDDLE EAST<\/a><\/p>

The Ford carries more than 4,000 sailors and can deploy over 75 aircraft, making it a central component of U.S. naval power projection.\u00a0<\/p>

The carrier is expected to return to port in late May, concluding a nearly 11-month deployment, according to officials. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP26057386985470.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531105-1776284814", "title":"Federal court halts planned ICE detention center in Maryland ", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fimmigration%2F4531105%2Ffederal-court-halts-planned-ice-detention-center-imaryland%2F", "byline":"Christine Valora", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A U.S. district judge extended a court-ordered pause on a proposed Maryland immigration detention facility following environmental law violations and raw sewage concerns from the construction. The Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement have plans to open and operate a detention center at a 54-acre warehouse property it bought on Jan. 16 […]", "description":""

A U.S. district judge extended a court-ordered pause on a proposed Maryland immigration detention facility<\/a> following environmental law violations<\/a> and raw sewage concerns from the construction.<\/p>

The Department of Homeland Security<\/a> and Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> have plans to open and operate a detention center at a 54-acre warehouse property it bought on Jan. 16 near Williamsport, Maryland<\/a>, for $102.4 million.<\/p>

The proposed design includes converting the warehouse into a 1,500-bed ICE detention facility. The state cites that Washington County's sewage system is nearly at capacity, with estimates of nearly 400 gallons a day in overalloted waste.<\/p>

The state pointed to federal law requiring agencies to conduct environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act. The attorney general's office said the lawsuit alleges that DHS and ICE violated NEPA by purchasing the Washington County property and moving forward with construction plans without conducting any of the required steps, along with skipping consultations with state officials.<\/p>

The state's attorney, Steven Goldstein, warned that if the ICE facility opens, raw sewage will back up and leak into homes, businesses, and waterways, causing an immediate public health emergency<\/a> and irreversible property damage.<\/p>

State calculations estimate that this will result in an exponential increase in sewage output, as a typical warehouse facility would generate 25,000 gallons of raw sewage a day, whereas a 1,500-bed facility would generate 188,000 gallons.<\/p>

However, Department of Justice<\/a> attorneys Sean C. Duffy and Hayley Carpenter argued on behalf of the federal government that the state has no standing.<\/p>

\"The agency does have to comply with state and local law,\" Duffy said<\/a>, admitting that \"an environmental review must be done.\"<\/p>

FIVE WAYS MULLIN IS ALREADY PUSHING DHS IN A NEW DIRECTION<\/a><\/p>

Gov. Wes Moore<\/a> (D-MD) issued a statement on the ruling, citing the preliminary injection \u201cis a major and welcome step forward.\u201d<\/p>

ICE could be amending its proposal due to environmental constraints, according to recent court filings, while DHS has not responded to the lawsuit.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26015800861883.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531229-1776284293", "title":"Iran used Chinese spy satellite to target US bases in Middle East", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4531229%2Firan-china-spy-satellite-us-bases%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Iran used a Chinese-built spy satellite to help target U.S. military bases across the Middle East during the war, according to multiple outlets, raising fresh concerns about Beijing’s role in the war and ties with Tehran. The satellite, identified in reports as TEE-01B, was acquired by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force in 2024 […]", "description":""

Iran<\/a> used a Chinese<\/a>-built spy satellite to help target U.S. military bases across the Middle East<\/a> during the war, according to multiple outlets, raising fresh concerns about Beijing's<\/a> role in the war and ties with Tehran.<\/p>

The satellite, identified in reports as TEE-01B, was acquired by Iran\u2019s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force in 2024 and used to monitor<\/a> U.S. and allied installations before and after missile and drone strikes earlier this year, according to a Financial Times investigation.<\/p>

Targets reportedly included U.S. bases in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Jordan, Bahrain, and other parts of the Gulf region, reflecting the broad scope of Iran\u2019s military campaign during the war.\u00a0<\/p>

China has denied providing direct military assistance to Iran, but the reported satellite cooperation underscores growing strategic ties between the two countries. China is Iran\u2019s most valuable ally, as Iran relies on the country for chemicals used in ballistic missile programs.<\/p>

President Donald Trump<\/a> said this week that Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a> had assured him Beijing would not send weapons to Iran, even as reports suggested broader forms of support may be underway. <\/p>

Trump claimed the agreement was the result of his promise to Xi that the Strait of Hormuz would be opened. However, the United States has imposed a blockade of the vital oil shipping route.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cChina is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz,\u201d Trump said. \"I am doing it for them, also \u2014 and the world. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran.\"<\/p>

Trump recounted the exchange with Xi on Wednesday morning in an interview with Fox News\u2019s Maria Bartiromo.<\/p>

TRUMP SAYS CHINA AGREED NOT TO SEND WEAPONS TO IRAN<\/a><\/p>

\u201cHe responded to a letter I wrote because I had heard that China is giving weapons \u2026 to Iran,\u201d he said in the interview, aired on Wednesday morning. \u201cI wrote [Chinese President Xi Jinping] a letter asking him not to do that, and he wrote me a letter saying essentially he\u2019s not doing that.\u201d<\/p>

The president is scheduled to travel to China to meet with Xi in May, a trip that was initially delayed due to the war in Iran. The trip is set to mark the first state visit to Beijing by a U.S. president since Trump\u2019s visit in 2017.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP20211529594644-1.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531163-1776282510", "title":"Pirro opens tip line for alleged Swalwell sexual misconduct", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4531163%2Fpirro-tip-line-swalwell-sexual-misconduct%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro on Wednesday said she is starting a tip line for people looking to report alleged inappropriate or sexual misconduct in the district by former California Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell.  Pirro posted a video to her social media accounts explaining that due to the serious nature of […]", "description":""

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro<\/a> on Wednesday said she is starting a tip line for people looking to report alleged inappropriate or sexual misconduct<\/a> in the district by former California Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a>. <\/p>

Pirro posted a video<\/a> to her social media accounts explaining that due to the serious nature of the allegations against Swalwell and him having lived in Washington, D.C.<\/a>, she would expect there are victims in the district she oversees. <\/p>

Five women, including a former staffer, have come forward with allegations of sexual assault<\/a> against Swalwell. The congressman from California<\/a> has since resigned from Congress and dropped his bid for governor in the Golden State.<\/p>

\u201cWhat I think is really important right now is for anyone who has any relevant information or has any complaint as it relates to the kinds of complaints we\u2019re hearing about with Eric Swalwell needs to come forward to my office,\u201d Pirro said. <\/p>

Pirro added that victims coming forward will be kept confidential and that there are attorneys in her office trained in handling the trauma-inducing nature of sexual assault cases. <\/p>

The hotline number to call is 202-252-0809. <\/p>

Swalwell is also under investigation by the Manhattan district attorney over the sexual assault allegations, but has yet to be charged with a crime. <\/p>

Rep. Lauren Boebert<\/a> (R-CO) also extended an invitation to anyone who was allegedly mistreated by Swalwell or any other colleagues to come to her office.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ll be here for you, to protect you,\u201d Boebert said. \u201cCome to my office. If your boss is mistreating you, or someone else in the office, tell somebody. If you want to remain anonymous, remain anonymous. Let one of us loudmouths get it out there for you. I\u2019m happy to issue receipts on behalf of anyone.\u201d <\/p>

Boebert was among the first lawmakers to call for Swalwell\u2019s dismissal from Congress prior to his resignation. <\/p>

BOEBERT WORKING ON BILL TO STRIP SWALWELL OF $22,000 ANNUAL TAXPAYER-FUNDED PENSION<\/a><\/p>

In addition to offering help to individuals mistreated in the workplace, Boebert is working on legislation to strip Swalwell of his $22,000 annual taxpayer-funded congressional pension.<\/p>

The payout is based on time served in Congress, and Swalwell would be eligible to receive the $22,000 per year starting at age 62.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Pirro.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530479-1776282104", "title":"How red and blue state tax cuts differ in 2026 legislative session", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Ffinance-and-economy%2F4530479%2Fred-state-blue-state-tax-cuts%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Red and blue states have sharply diverged in their approaches to taxing constituents in 2026 as GOP-led state legislatures look to cut income taxes across the board and Democrat-led assemblies move to boost state revenue with increased sales and income tax rates. In 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced a flurry of measures […]", "description":""

Red and blue states have sharply diverged in their approaches to taxing<\/a> constituents in 2026 as GOP-led state legislatures<\/a> look to cut income taxes across the board and Democrat<\/a>-led assemblies move to boost state revenue with increased sales and income tax rates.<\/p>

In 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced a flurry of measures rolling back tax expenses, prompting state Republicans to look at capitalizing on and expanding federal tax breaks in the 2026 legislative session and state Democrats to seek increases in state-level taxes to help fund statewide welfare programs.<\/p>

HOW TAX FILING HAS CHANGED DUE TO TRUMP\u2019S ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT<\/a><\/p>

\"While Democrats push higher taxes and more government spending, Republicans are cutting taxes and making life more affordable for families,\" Mason Di Palma, communications director for the Republican State Leadership Committee, said in a statement. \"It's a clear difference in priorities and in results.\"<\/p>

But as GOP leaders have pushed for more tax breaks, liberal tax policy analysts have encouraged state legislatures to increases taxes on wealthy residents to make up for lower federal tax dollars coming in. State tax policy analysts Aidan Davis and Wesley Tharpe wrote for the liberal-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy that the onus for liberal tax policy initiatives fell on state legislators in the wake of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.<\/p>

\"In the wake of such federal recklessness, attention is now turning to the states, which face large added costs and significant budget risks due to the new federal law,\" Davis and Tharpe wrote<\/a>. \"They now have an enormous opportunity to start getting our country back on track by protecting and raising their own resources to improve the lives of everyday Americans.\"<\/p>

In the context of a political landscape increasingly focused on affordability<\/a> and cost of living, here's a look at how some red states are cutting taxes and how some blue states are looking to increase them.<\/p>Red state: Utah

Gov. Spencer Cox (R-UT) signed Senate Bill 60 into law this year, cutting the state's income tax for the sixth year in a row.<\/p>

\"We've cut taxes for six straight legislative sessions \u2014 totaling $1.5 billion, the largest cumulative reduction of any administration in Utah history \u2014 while maintaining strong reserves, advancing key priorities, and ensuring a structurally sound budget,\" Cox said in a March statement<\/a>.<\/p>

The bill<\/a> cut both the income tax rate for Utahns and the corporate tax rate to a flat 4.45% rate, down from 4.5%. The tax cut is set to take effect on May 6.<\/p>Blue state: California

California voters will voice their opinion on a ballot measure this year about whether to increase taxes on the state's wealthiest residents. The California Billionaire Tax Act of 2026<\/a> will be on the ballot in November 2026 for voters to decide whether to place a onetime 5% tax on Californians with a net worth of over $1 million.<\/p>

Golden State Democrats have marketed the move as a measure to counteract<\/a> funding cuts to federal programs in the state. Top labor leaders and national figures<\/a> such as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) have backed the move, but Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA) has not voiced support.<\/p>

\"Their ads will not be saying, 'We are billionaires, we want it all, please vote down this referendum,'\" Sanders said<\/a> during a February rally in California. \"What they are saying is, 'If you stand up to us, we are gonna punish you.'\"<\/p>

Rep. Kevin Kiley<\/a> (I-CA), a former Republican, called the initiative<\/a> \"fundamentally unfair\" and said it is causing \"many of our state's leading job creators [who] are leaving preemptively.\" The flight of wealthy business leaders from areas with high taxes has been a concern for blue states and cities, particularly in New York City<\/a>.<\/p>Red state: Georgia

In Georgia<\/a>, Gov. Brian Kemp<\/a> (R-GA) signed legislation to give single taxpayers a onetime $250 tax rebate, heads of household a $375 rebate, and joint filers a $500 rebate. This is Kemp's fourth round of state income tax refunds, which have totaled nearly $1.2 billion<\/a>.<\/p>

The state legislature also passed a bill<\/a> through both chambers that would bring the personal income tax down from a flat rate of 5.19% to 3.99% by 2028. In 2026, the rate would be reduced to 4.99%. The bill was sent to Kemp on Friday.<\/p>Blue state: Virginia

In Virginia<\/a>, Democratic legislators introduced a swath of tax increase<\/a> proposals, ranging from taxes on dog walking to hotel taxes. But the bills never made it<\/a> to Gov. Abigail Spanberger<\/a>'s (D-VA) desk for her signature, dying in the state legislature by the end of the legislative session.<\/p>

The governor did sign off on a new payroll tax<\/a> tied to a statewide paid family and medical leave program.<\/p>

VIRGINIA BUSINESS LEADERS URGE SPANBERGER TO STEER AWAY FROM NEW TAXES IN AFFORDABILITY PUSH<\/a><\/p>Red state: South Carolina

In South Carolina<\/a>, Gov. Henry McMaster (R-SC) signed a bill Wednesday aimed at restructuring income taxes in the state and reducing personal income tax rates over time.<\/p>

The newly signed bill<\/a> gives taxpayers with an income of up to $30,000 a 1.99% tax rate and gives those who make above $30,000 a 5.21% rate, reduced from the current 6% rate.<\/p>Blue state: Washington

Gov. Bob Ferguson (D-WA) signed a new bill into law that establishes a 9.9% tax on residents with an income of over $1 million. Before this move, Washington had no state income tax.<\/p>

\"Adoption of the historic Millionaires' Tax makes our tax system more fair, and means free meals for K-12 students, the largest tax break in state history for small businesses, eliminating the sales tax for baby diapers, and sending a check to nearly 500,000 working families to make life more affordable,\" Ferguson said in a March statement<\/a>.<\/p>What some legislators are saying

In a statement to the Washington Examiner, New York Republican Assembly Leader Ed Ra voiced frustration over his state's high income taxes in the wake of some Albany Democrats and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani<\/a> pushing for higher income taxes on the highest earners. Ra called Tax Day \"practically a holiday for Democrats.\"<\/p>

\"Their endless tax-and-spend approach has delivered one of the nation's worst tax climates \u2014 ranked dead last in competitiveness \u2014 while driving up the cost of living and accelerating an exodus of residents and businesses from the state,\" Ra said. \"It's an unsustainable pattern that produces nothing but bad results.\"<\/p>

But Democratic New York state Sen. Kristen Gonzalez backed Mamdani's plan to tax the rich in a New York City speech on April 1.<\/p>

MAMDANI ACKNOWLEDGES \u2018TROUBLING\u2019 JOB NUMBERS WHILE HE PUSHES FOR HIGHER TAXES<\/a><\/p>

\"Now is the time to stand up to the billionaire class,\" Gonzales said<\/a>. \"Now is the time for all of us to fight and win a New York that works for working people. Now is the time to tax the rich.\"<\/p>

The Washington Examiner has reached out to the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AP25037829852407.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530864-1776279994", "title":"Democratic secretary of state was ‘prepared’ for FBI raid in Arizona, emails show", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4530864%2Fadrian-fontes-fbi-raid-arizona-emails%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Arizona’s top election office was already preparing for the possibility of a federal raid in the state following an FBI search in late January that was tied to the 2020 election in Georgia, according to newly released internal emails. Email chains obtained through a public records request by American Oversight on Tuesday showed that a […]", "description":""

Arizona<\/a>\u2019s top election office was already preparing for the possibility of a federal raid in the state following an FBI<\/a> search in late January that was tied to the 2020 election in Georgia<\/a>, according to newly released internal emails.<\/p>

Email chains obtained through a public records request<\/a> by American Oversight on Tuesday showed that a senior aide to Democratic Secretary of State Adrian Fontes alerted election officials across Arizona in January that the office was taking steps to be \u201cprepared\u201d if similar law enforcement activity reached the state.<\/p>

\u201cI wanted to make sure you were aware of a situation occurring today in Fulton County, Georgia,\u201d Arizona State Election Director Lisa Marra wrote in a Jan. 28 email to county officials, linking to news of an FBI search warrant executed at an election office. \u201cThe Secretary\u2019s Office is taking steps to be prepared if something similar happens in Arizona.\u201d<\/p>

Marra added that the office would support counties navigating records requests and retention requirements and emphasized that officials were \u201cmonitoring this situation closely.\u201d<\/p>

Arizona Republicans and conservative watchdogs have cited concerns about Maricopa County's signature verification standards, chain-of-custody gaps for mail ballots and drop box collections, mismatches in voter registration data, and delays or opacity in releasing election data from Maricopa County officials. That pattern of problems was discovered only after President Donald Trump<\/a> raised questions about his loss in the state's 2020 race and inspired the state Senate's forensic audit that was conducted in 2021.<\/p>

The newly released email chains raised unanswered questions about why state officials anticipated the possibility of a similar federal action in Arizona at the time, though the records do not indicate that Arizona officials had been notified of any imminent search warrant or enforcement activity comparable to what unfolded in Georgia<\/a> on Jan. 28. Marra did not respond to a request for comment by the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

In a Feb. 12 email to staff, Maricopa County Elections Director Scott Jarrett instructed employees to \u201cstay calm and professional\u201d if federal agents arrived and to \u201ccooperate with law enforcement officials\u201d and \u201callow them access to whatever and wherever they ask to go,\" according to the record obtained by American Oversight. Staff were also told not to obstruct or record federal activity and to notify leadership immediately.<\/p>

That guidance indicated that cooperation with federal authorities was already treated as standard protocol by local officials rather than an extraordinary measure.<\/p>

Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap<\/a>, a Republican, echoed that approach in his own communications with federal officials. In a September letter to the Department of Justice<\/a>, Heap confirmed that his office was \u201ccommitted to full cooperation\u201d and would work to ensure no election records were \u201clost, compromised, or destroyed.\u201d<\/p>

At the same time, Heap had elevated internal concerns about record retention practices, warning county leadership that gaps in email archiving and document control could create legal risks, particularly in the context of litigation and public records requests.<\/p>

A representative for American Oversight claimed on Tuesday that Heap's coordination raised concerns about how closely election administration and federal enforcement efforts have become intertwined.<\/p>

Liz Hempowicz, deputy executive director of American Oversight, said Heap\u2019s engagement with federal investigators, coupled with efforts to scrutinize certain voters\u2019 eligibility, should \u201cset off alarm bells,\" according<\/a> to Votebeat.<\/p>

\u201cElection officials have a duty to administer elections fairly, based on facts and evidence \u2014 not to blur the line between election administration and politicized law enforcement,\u201d she said. \u201cThis pattern risks turning baseless suspicion into policy and sweeping eligible voters into investigations they should never be part of.\u201d<\/p>

Despite Hempowicz's claims that Heap's conduct was alarming, at the county level, internal communications show election officials were also preparing for the possibility of federal involvement \u2014 with an emphasis on complying with law enforcement.<\/p>

Last year, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon for the Civil Rights Division notified Fontes and county officials in September<\/a> that the DOJ was considering litigation and ordered the preservation of all election-related records dating back to 2020, warning that any destruction could be treated as spoliation of evidence. Arizona's Democratic secretary of state ultimately rejected<\/a> the DOJ's request for access to its voter data.<\/p>

Despite those escalating inquiries, the FBI ultimately did not carry out a raid in Maricopa County similar to the one executed in Fulton County, Georgia, in late January.<\/p>

Instead, federal investigators obtained election-related materials through subpoenas last month, a less aggressive legal mechanism that does not require a judge to find probable cause. Arizona Senate Republicans, led by Senate President Warren Petersen, turned over records tied to the 2021 audit<\/a> of the 2020 election, providing federal authorities with access to ballot images and related materials.<\/p>

\u201cThe FBI has the records,\u201d Petersen said at the time.<\/p>

FBI SUBPOENAS ARIZONA COUNTY VOTING RECORDS RELATED TO NOTORIOUS 2020 AUDIT<\/a><\/p>

That distinction marked a key difference between the two states. In Georgia, the FBI seized ballots and election equipment through a court-approved search warrant. In Arizona, officials complied with federal requests and provided the materials through legal process, eliminating the need for a physical search of election facilities.<\/p>

The DOJ has continued to pursue multiple lines of inquiry tied to Arizona\u2019s elections, including a grand jury investigation in Phoenix and a lawsuit against Fontes<\/a> over voter roll maintenance practices.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/AP24355128784648.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531041-1776278934", "title":"Philadelphia advances $35 million line of credit in bid to bring DNC back in 2028", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4531041%2Fphiladelphia-line-of-credit-2028-dnc%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Philadelphia has moved forward with a proposal backed by Democratic Mayor Cherelle Parker’s office to establish a $35 million line of credit to support bringing the Democratic National Convention back to the city. The City Council advanced the credit-line bill on Monday as the city seeks to host the 2028 DNC, looking to repeat the […]", "description":""

Philadelphia<\/a> has moved forward with a proposal backed by Democratic Mayor Cherelle Parker's office to establish a $35 million line of credit to support bringing the Democratic National Convention<\/a> back to the city.<\/p>

The City Council advanced<\/a> the credit-line bill<\/a> on Monday as the city seeks to host the 2028 DNC, looking to repeat the event it hosted in 2016 for then-Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton<\/a>. If the bid to host is successful, the swing-state blue city would take the convention from Chicago, which hosted the convention in 2024.<\/p>

The eight-figure line of credit would help the city if the fundraising committee does not reach its goals for the convention, though, per the Philadelphia Inquirer, Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley said the mayor's office has \"full confidence\" in the fundraising committee.<\/p>

In 2015, the city established a preemptive $15 million line of credit<\/a> to help the host committee fund the convention. The city's $35 million credit line marks a $20 million increase in the 12 years between the two conventions.<\/p>

Furthermore, the convention has not yet been set for Philadelphia. As of Monday, the Democratic National Committee<\/a> is still determining which city will host the 2028 convention.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS OPT OUT OF 2026 PARTY CONVENTION PROMISED BY GOP<\/a><\/p>

The DNC has narrowed<\/a> the possible host cities down to\u00a0Atlanta, Boston,\u00a0Chicago,\u00a0Denver, and Philadelphia. The convention is set for Aug. 7 through 10, 2028.<\/p>

The Republican National Committee<\/a> has already set the location for its 2028 convention, deciding in 2023<\/a> on Houston<\/a>. The exact dates of the RNC have not yet been announced.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Cherelle-Parker-city-worker-scaled-e1776292453301.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531131-1776278542", "title":"Sotomayor issues rare public apology to Kavanaugh over ‘hurtful’ comments", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsupreme-court%2F4531131%2Fsotomayor-apology-kavanaugh-hurtful-comments%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor issued a rare public apology to fellow Justice Brett Kavanaugh, saying her recent remarks about his background were “hurtful” and did not reflect the respect she has for her colleague.  The apology follows comments Sotomayor made last week during a public appearance at the University of Kansas School of Law, […]", "description":""

Supreme Court<\/a> Justice Sonia Sotomayor<\/a> issued a rare public apology to fellow Justice Brett Kavanaugh<\/a>, saying her recent remarks about his background were \u201churtful\u201d and did not reflect the respect she has for her colleague. <\/p>

The apology follows comments Sotomayor made last week during a public appearance at the University of Kansas School of Law, where she criticized Kavanaugh for his opinion in an immigration<\/a> case.<\/p>

While she did not name her colleague, she referenced a justice whose \u201cparents were professionals\u201d and suggested he may not understand the impact of immigration enforcement on hourly workers. <\/p>

The remarks were widely interpreted as referring to Kavanaugh, who wrote a concurring opinion in a 2025 Supreme Court decision allowing immigration enforcement sweeps in Los Angeles<\/a> to resume. In that opinion, Kavanaugh said such encounters are typically brief and that individuals lawfully in the country are usually released. <\/p>

Sotomayor, who was elevated by former President Barack Obama<\/a>, said she regretted how her comments were perceived and acknowledged that they crossed a line.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cAt a recent appearance at the University of Kansas School of Law, I referred to a disagreement with one of my colleagues in a prior case, but I made remarks that were inappropriate,\u201d she said. \u201cI regret my hurtful comments. I have apologized to my colleague.\u201d<\/p>

Public apologies between sitting Supreme Court justices are highly unusual, particularly as disagreements are typically confined to written opinions or private discussions.<\/p>

The underlying dispute stems from a case in which the court\u2019s conservative majority allowed federal immigration authorities to continue certain enforcement actions. <\/p>

Sotomayor, joined by the court\u2019s liberal wing, dissented, arguing the policy risked targeting individuals based on race, language, or occupation and failed to account for real-world consequences.\u00a0<\/p>

Kavanaugh\u2019s concurrence defended the legality of such enforcement practices, noting they have been used across multiple presidential administrations and are consistent with long-standing precedent.\u00a0<\/p>

FEDERAL JUDGE STRIKES DOWN INDIANA BAN ON STUDENT IDS FOR VOTING<\/a><\/p>

\u201cTo be clear, apparent ethnicity alone cannot furnish reasonable suspicion; under this court\u2019s case law regarding immigration stops, however, it can be a \u2018relevant factor\u2019 when considered along with other salient factors,\u201d Kavanaugh wrote.<\/p>

Sotomayor is known for her dissents and said Kavanaugh\u2019s concurrence \u201crelegates the interests of U.S. citizens and individuals with legal status to a single sentence, positing that the Government will free these individuals as soon as they show they are legally in the United States.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-uhp7oc7wo-1776291855498.jpg?1776277672&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4531047-1776275296", "title":"NYC terrorism suspects plead not guilty in Gracie Mansion bomb case", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4531047%2Fnyc-not-guilty-plea-gracie-mansion-bomb%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The two men accused of attempting to bomb Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York City’s mayor, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal terrorism charges as prosecutors outlined what they described as an attack plan inspired by extremist ideology.  The suspects, Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, entered their pleas in Manhattan federal court […]", "description":""

The two men accused of attempting to bomb Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York City\u2019s<\/a> mayor, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal terrorism<\/a> charges as prosecutors outlined what they described as an attack plan inspired by extremist ideology. <\/p>

The suspects, Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, entered their pleas in Manhattan<\/a> federal court following their indictment on eight counts, including attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction, transportation of explosive materials, and providing material support to the Islamic State group. <\/p>

Authorities allege the suspects brought explosive devices to a March 7 protest outside Gracie Mansion and attempted to detonate them in a crowd. The devices failed to explode, and no injuries were reported. <\/p>

Balat and Kayumi both said they were working on behalf of the Islamic State group<\/a>, with Balat saying he planned to commit an act of terrorism \u201ceven bigger\u201d than the Boston Marathon bombing that left three dead in 2013, according to authorities.<\/p>

Prosecutors say the attack was inspired by the Islamic State group and involved significant planning. Investigators recovered evidence, including bomb-making materials and writings outlining the alleged plot, according to federal officials.\u00a0<\/p>

Law enforcement officials have said the suspects intended to kill large numbers of people. Court documents cited by prosecutors indicate the pair discussed causing mass casualties, with authorities alleging they sought to target civilians gathered at the demonstration. <\/p>

The incident occurred during dueling protests outside Grace Mansion, where a small anti-Islam demonstration was met by a larger counterprotest. <\/p>

During the confrontation, the suspects allegedly ignited and threw makeshift bombs toward the crowd. The devices, which included volatile chemicals and shrapnel, had the possibility to cause serious injury or death, officials said.\u00a0<\/p>

The homemade explosives appeared to be jars wrapped in black tape containing bolts, screws, and a hobby fuse, according to the New York City Police Department<\/a> bomb squad\u2019s preliminary analysis. The contents of the IEDs are similar to those used by the terrorists at the Boston Marathon in 2013. <\/p>

GRACIE MANSION PROTEST BOMBERS WANTED TO KILL UP TO 60 PEOPLE IN NEW YORK CITY<\/a><\/p>

Police officers on the scene quickly intervened and arrested the suspects before further harm could occur. Federal and local authorities, including the FBI\u2019s<\/a> Joint Terrorism Task Force, have described the case as an example of an Islamic State group-inspired plot carried out domestically.\u00a0<\/p>

Defense attorneys entered not guilty pleas on behalf of both men and are expected to challenge the government\u2019s evidence as the case proceeds.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26068704829346.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530881-1776273654", "title":"Golden Dome will be operational by summer 2028", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4530881%2Fgolden-dome-operational-capability-summer-2028-missile-threats%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The U.S. military’s Golden Dome layered air defense system will be operational by summer 2028, the general overseeing the project said on Wednesday. The Golden Dome plan, which President Donald Trump announced last year, is to improve homeland defense from missile threats through a layered system of ground, air, and space-based sensors that are designed […]", "description":""

The U.S. military's Golden Dome<\/a> layered air defense system will be operational by summer 2028, the general overseeing the project said on Wednesday.<\/p>

The Golden Dome plan, which President Donald Trump announced last year, is to improve homeland defense from missile threats through a layered system of ground, air, and space-based sensors that are designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming projectiles.<\/p>

\"We're going to deliver an operational capability by the summer of [2028] that will be able to protect the homeland against a variety of threats,\" Golden Dome Director Gen. Michael Guetlein said during a hearing in front of the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee on Wednesday.<\/p>

\"The Golden Dome is the cornerstone of our homeland defense posture. It is a necessary and pragmatic response to the growing threat posed by ballistic, hypersonic and advanced cruise missiles, as well as next generation aerial weapons. Nuclear deterrence, complemented by the golden dome, remains the cornerstone of U.S. deterrence strategy,\" Marc Berkowitz, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, told lawmakers at the hearing.<\/p>

The estimated cost for the Golden Dome has grown from $175 billion to $185 billion<\/a>, he said last month.<\/p>

\"Today, our capability to defend the nation is limited, and its effectiveness is eroding against an increasingly advanced set of threats. Golden Dome will rectify this by creating a layered defense in depth of the United States,\" Berkowitz explained, adding that the U.S. defense system currently only consists of \"a single layer of ground-based mid-course defense interceptors.\"<\/p>

The threats from foreign countries are growing, and the U.S. military is trying to meet those concerns before it's too late.<\/p>

\"We are vulnerable to a numerous array of threats that golden dome is being designed to get after,\" Guetlein said. \"We have traditionally focused on the intercontinental ballistic missile threat, and have not really thought enough about the cruise missile, the hypersonic missile, the ballistic missiles from air or from sea, nor now what we are seeing the expanding counter [drone] threat.\"<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT'S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan have all been researching and attempting to develop \"an array of novel, advanced, or traditional missile delivery systems with nuclear and conventional payloads, that put our homeland in range,\" Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said during last month's annual threat assessment hearing in front of the Senate Intelligence Committee.<\/p>

The Golden Dome is loosely based on Israel's Iron Dome, though Israel's version only protects from short-range rockets, missiles, and artillery and Israel is dramatically smaller than the U.S., so America's version has to defend significantly more territory.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Gen.-Guetlein.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530201-1776272283", "title":"Federal judge strikes down Indiana ban on student IDs for voting", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4530201%2Fjudge-strikes-down-indiana-ban-student-id-voting%2F", "byline":"Jack Birle", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A federal judge struck down an Indiana law barring students from using their school-issued IDs to vote, dealing a blow to the law as early voting in the state is already underway. U.S. District Judge Richard Young, a nominee of former President Bill Clinton, ruled that SB 10, an Indiana law passed in 2025 that […]", "description":""

A federal judge struck down an Indiana<\/a> law barring students from using their school-issued IDs to vote<\/a>, dealing a blow to the law as early voting in the state is already underway.<\/p>

U.S. District Judge Richard Young, a nominee of former President Bill Clinton, ruled that SB 10, an Indiana law passed in 2025 that made student IDs insufficient for use as voter identification<\/a>, unconstitutionally burdens students' right to vote under the First and 14th amendments. The ruling comes weeks before the state's May 5 primary election, and roughly a week after early voting for that primary began.<\/p>

Young sided with the students suing to block the law, finding that it disproportionately affects the ability of young people and students to vote in elections in the Hoosier State.<\/p>

\"On its face, SB 10 is nondiscriminatory; under Indiana law, the term 'proof of identification' for voting purposes no longer 'include[s] a document issued by an educational institution,'\" Young said in his ruling. \"This regulation applies to voters of any age who hold a public-university-issued ID; it does not apply exclusively to young voters and students.<\/p>

\"University faculty and staff, for example, are among those who possess a university-issued ID. But its general applicability notwithstanding, the effects of SB 10 clearly 'fall more heavily' on young voters and students given they possess a sizable majority of public-university-issued IDs.\"<\/p>

The state argued that students' IDs from state universities vary too much in appearance and content to be considered reliable forms of voter ID, alongside concerns that several schools do not include an expiration date on their student IDs. Indiana officials centered most of their arguments on simplifying the voter ID process to increase confidence in elections.<\/p>

Young rejected arguments from the state that its interest in orderly election administration was a valid reason to pass the law, claiming the state provided \"no evidence that student IDs have ever caused confusion or otherwise complicated election administration.\"<\/p>

\"Defendants claim that SB 10 promotes this interest by streamlining Indiana's photo ID requirement to make the acceptable forms of identification more uniform, objective, and verifiable,\" Young wrote in his ruling. \"And yet, if anything, SB 10 does the opposite, for it creates an exception for a single form of voter ID that otherwise meets the law's neutral requirements.\"<\/p>

The judge also dismissed concerns from the state that striking down the law would violate the Purcell principle, a standard set by the Supreme Court that courts should generally avoid changing \"election rules on the eve of an election.\"<\/p>

\"The requested relief only requires Defendants to accept student IDs as a form of voter identification\u2014something Indiana has already done for nearly two decades,\" Young said in his ruling, which changes state election law less than three weeks before the election.<\/p>

The state quickly filed a notice that it intends to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit.<\/p>

SUPREME COURT WORRIED THAT COUNTING LATE MAIL BALLOTS COULD UNDERMINE CONCEPT OF \u2018ELECTION DAY\u2019<\/a><\/p>

The Supreme Court is set to rule on a key election law case in the coming weeks, when it determines the legality of state laws allowing mail ballots that arrive after Election Day to be counted, as long as they were postmarked by Election Day. The ruling in Watson v. RNC will have sweeping implications for the states that have those laws ahead of the hotly contested midterm elections in November.<\/p>

As primaries continue across the country over the coming months and the general election rapidly approaches, various lawsuits challenging election laws are poised to pop up, challenging everything from voter registration requirements to voting hours on Election Day.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25251758060957.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530644-1776271184", "title":"US increases economic pressure on Iran to get a deal done", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Feconomy%2F4530644%2Fus-iran-bessent-economic-pressure%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The United States is looking to turn up the economic pressure on Iran to make the country more amenable to a long-term agreement that meets the Trump administration’s objectives. The U.S. has requested Gulf countries to do a deeper investigation into possible Iranian funds in their banking systems, and they may be more willing to […]", "description":""

The United States is looking to turn up the economic pressure on Iran<\/a> to make the country more amenable to a long-term agreement that meets the Trump administration's objectives.<\/p>

The U.S. has requested Gulf countries to do a deeper investigation into possible Iranian funds in their banking systems, and they may be more willing to divulge that information after facing Iranian retaliatory attacks, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent<\/a> said during a White House press briefing on Wednesday.<\/p>

Iran's attacks on Gulf countries \"may prove to be fatal mistakes\" because those governments \"are now willing to be much more transparent in terms of the funds or do a deeper dive in investing the funds that are held within their banking system,\u201d Bessent said.<\/p>

On Tuesday, the Treasury Department<\/a> threatened to add new secondary sanctions to financial institutions that are helping Iran as part of the Trump administration's \"Economic Fury\" effort, an allusion to Operation Epic Fury.<\/p>

\"The Iranians should know that this is going to be the financial equivalent of what we saw in the kinetic activities,\" Bessent added, affirming that this was an expansion of economic pressure as opposed to military escalation.<\/p>

He also said the U.S. will not renew a general license that the administration granted for the sale of Russian and Iranian oil already in the process of being shipped prior to March 11.<\/p>

President Donald Trump<\/a> announced over the weekend that U.S. forces would begin blocking vessels transiting to or from Iranian ports. The administration's goal is to force Iran to suffer the same economic fate it's forced on the rest of the world \u2014\u00a0higher oil and gas prices \u2014\u00a0because it blocked ships heading to and from other Gulf countries from navigating through the waterway off Iran's coasts, including the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>.<\/p>

China is a primary purchaser of Iranian oil, and the U.S. blockade could have negative implications for Beijing. Two banks, Bessent added, have received letters from the Treasury stating that if they can prove they have Iranian funds, the U.S. will place secondary sanctions on them.<\/p>

On Wednesday, the Treasury Department\u2019s Office of Foreign Assets Control said it is sanctioning more than two dozen individuals, companies, and vessels operating under the oil magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the son of now-deceased senior Iranian security official Ali Shamkhani. Some of those people and companies involved are based in the United Arab Emirates.<\/p>

Iranian state media has claimed that it has suffered at least $270 billion in direct and indirect damage, and has demanded compensation<\/a>. Miad Maleki, an analyst with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies research group, told the Wall Street Journal<\/a> that the blockade will cost Iran approximately $435 million a day.<\/p>

U.S. and Iranian leaders met in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Saturday for negotiations, but the meeting concluded without a breakthrough agreement.<\/p>

TRUMP IS CONTENT WITH LEAVING NAVAL BLOCKADE IN PLACE UNTIL IRAN SHOWS IT'S SERIOUS ABOUT A DEAL: WHITE HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

The two sides have not formally agreed to a new round of talks yet, though they would likely take place in Islamabad as well, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. She also denied that the U.S. had requested an extension of the two-week ceasefire, which is expected to end Tuesday unless a deal is agreed upon sooner.<\/p>

Several senior Iranian leaders have been killed during the war. While the Trump administration maintains that it's a sign of regime change, Iran's unwillingness to meet U.S. demands raises questions about how serious the new leaders are when it comes to making a deal.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Sec.-Bessent.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530867-1776270473", "title":"Baltimore lowers fluoride levels in water, citing supply chain issues from Iran war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fhealthcare%2F4530867%2Fbaltimore-lower-fluoride-level-water-supply-chain-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Department of Public Works in Baltimore is lowering the level of fluoride in its drinking water systems this week, tying the reduction to supply issues caused by the Iran war.  “This is an adjustment driven solely by supply availability,” said DPW Director Matthew Garbark in a statement. “We remain committed to providing safe, high-quality […]", "description":""

The Department of Public Works in Baltimore<\/a> is lowering the level of fluoride in its drinking water systems this week, tying the reduction to supply issues caused by the Iran<\/a> war. <\/p>

\u201cThis is an adjustment driven solely by supply availability,\u201d said<\/a> DPW Director Matthew Garbark in a statement. \u201cWe remain committed to providing safe, high-quality drinking water.\u201d<\/p>

Baltimore city officials emphasized that the drinking water will still be safe to drink despite the lowered fluoride levels. <\/p>

Israel<\/a> is among the world\u2019s leading producers of hydrofluorosilicic acid, a compound widely used in water fluoridation, with the United States<\/a> ranking among its top importers, according to data<\/a> from the Environmental Protection Agency<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Last week, WSSC Water, the country\u2019s eighth-largest water and wastewater utility plant, notified its customers that it was temporarily reducing the level of fluoride added to the drinking water in Maryland's<\/a> Montgomery and Prince George\u2019s counties.<\/p>

\"The [Hydrofluorosilicic acid] market has experienced significant disruption in recent months due to reduced domestic production and reduced output from other producers,\u201d said<\/a> Chuck Brown, spokesperson for WSSC Water. He added that the company was experiencing \"significant operational impacts\u201d from a major supplier located in Israel. <\/p>

A Pennsylvania<\/a> borough also told<\/a> its water customers it had to temporarily halt fluoridation last month due to supply issues.<\/p>

Federal and state regulations do not require fluoride to be added during water treatment, but it is widely used to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth. <\/p>

Leading public health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics support fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure. <\/p>

At the same time, Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.<\/a> has repeatedly spoken against fluoride, believing that it can negatively affect child development.\u00a0<\/p>

IRAN WAR DISRUPTS GLOBAL ALUMINUM SUPPLY, PROLONGING SHORTAGES FOR MONTHS<\/a><\/p>

Last year, Utah<\/a> became the first state to ban public water fluoridation. Several other states have also taken steps to ban the compound in their drinking water. <\/p>

\u201cIt makes no sense to have it in our water supply,\u201d Kennedy said<\/a> at a news conference with Utah state lawmakers last year. \u201cI\u2019m very, very proud of this state for being the first state to ban it, and I hope many more will come.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP26089780630099.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529938-1776270095", "title":"Congress mulls compelling testimony from ActBlue leadership", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Finvestigations%2F4529938%2Fcongress-mulls-compelling-testimony-actblue-leadership%2F", "byline":"Robert Schmad", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"EXCLUSIVE — If ActBlue fails to comply with House Republicans’ latest demand for documents, Congress may compel its leadership to testify and hold the organization’s CEO in contempt, a GOP aide familiar with the matter told the Washington Examiner. In a letter sent to ActBlue on Tuesday, Reps. Bryan Steil (R-WI) and Jim Jordan (R-OH) […]", "description":""

EXCLUSIVE \u2014 If ActBlue fails to comply with House Republicans\u2019 latest demand for documents, Congress may compel its leadership to testify and hold the organization\u2019s CEO in contempt, a GOP aide familiar with the matter told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

In a letter<\/a> sent to ActBlue on Tuesday, Reps. Bryan Steil (R-WI) and Jim Jordan <\/a>(R-OH) alleged that ActBlue, a massive Democratic fundraising platform, failed to provide them with documents they had subpoenaed in 2025, when lawmakers began digging into allegations that the platform illegally accepted foreign political donations. The congressmen pointed out that a recent New York Times report referenced documents Congress had not received<\/a> but appeared to fit the description of what they had demanded from ActBlue. On April 2, the New York Times had reported<\/a> that ActBlue\u2019s lawyers told the payment processor that it may have misled Congress regarding how much it had actually done to block foreign donations up to that point.<\/p>

\u201cGiven ActBlue\u2019s demonstrated history of misleading Congress, there is considerable reason to believe that ActBlue may have deliberately withheld this responsive material to impede our investigation,\u201d the recent letter from the lawmakers reads. \u201cTherefore, it is imperative that ActBlue promptly produce all materials responsive to the Committees\u2019 subpoenas \u2014 including, but not limited to, the items above.\u201d<\/p>

\"Absent these steps,\u201d the letter continues, \u201cthe Committees are prepared to use available mechanisms to enforce our subpoenas.\u201d<\/p>

When asked what \u201cmechanisms to enforce our subpoenas\u201d were being considered by Congress, a GOP aide with knowledge of the matter told the Washington Examiner that the two strongest options on the table were holding ActBlue CEO Regina Wallace-Jones in contempt and summoning the organization\u2019s leadership to testify before Congress.<\/p>

The aide qualified his statement to the Washington Examiner by saying that these aren\u2019t the only options available to the committee but that they are the two under the most serious consideration. The person also said that the lawmakers were not committing to these options but they were merely on the table.<\/p>

Contempt is a federal crime typically prosecuted by the Department of Justice. Lying to Congress is also illegal.<\/p>

\"This latest letter from Congressional Republicans is a desperate attempt to deflect from the Right's ongoing issues,\" an ActBlue spokeswoman told the Washington Examiner. \"They know no platform does more to protect the integrity of small-dollar democracy than ActBlue. To no surprise, this also comes on the heels of a record Democratic fundraising quarter ahead of the midterms. The reality is that we have always been forthcoming with Congress, and we will not be intimidated by partisan theater. Our focus remains on providing the secure infrastructure the Democratic movement needs to win this November.\"<\/p>

The current row between congressional Republicans and ActBlue stretches back years<\/a>.<\/p>

In 2023, then-Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida and Steil raised concerns that ActBlue's security measures were insufficient to prevent fraud and illegal donations made by foreign nationals. Responding to these allegations, ActBlue wrote a letter to Congress wherein the payment processor claimed that its framework for guarding against illegal contributions was \u201cmultilayered, with checks and confirmations occurring throughout the donation process to verify donors and donor information.\u201d<\/p>

Lawyers for ActBlue, according to documents reviewed by the New York Times, later stated that the characterization it gave Congress was inaccurate, as the platform allegedly failed to collect sufficient documentation from donors using third-party platforms, such as Apple Pay or Venmo, to block nonresident foreign citizens from making political contributions. If true, this could contradict what ActBlue initially wrote to Congress.<\/p>

ActBlue\u2019s lawyers at Covington & Burling stated that the payment processor\u2019s procedures created \u201ca substantial risk that some of the funds received were impermissible contributions from foreign nationals,\u201d according to a memo obtained by the New York Times.<\/p>

ActBlue later tightened its vetting process to request more documents from users donating with third-party platforms, but did not admit to having misled Congress.<\/p>

\u201cWe didn\u2019t do it immediately, but as we understood the gap, then we remedied the situation and answered, continued to answer truthfully to the best of our knowledge at the time,\u201d ActBlue board member Kimberly Peeler-Allen said of the pivot. <\/p>

The New York Times referenced a report that was a resignation letter from former ActBlue interim general counsel and an internal message in which the organization\u2019s former legal counsel had alleged he was being retaliated against for acting as a whistleblower.\u00a0<\/p>

House Republicans had previously issued a subpoena to ActBlue compelling it to provide \u201call documents and communications referring or relating to whistleblowers, retaliation against whistleblowers, and actual or alleged misconduct by ActBlue staff\u201d and \u201call documents and communications referring or relating to the resignations of staff in ActBlue\u2019s Office of the General Counsel.\"<\/p>

According to House Republicans, the documents referenced in the New York Times report were not provided to them despite fitting that description.<\/p>

ACTBLUE\u2019S LAWYERS SAID IT MAY HAVE MISLED CONGRESS ON FOREIGN DONATIONS<\/a><\/p>

Now, Steil and Jordan are giving ActBlue until April 28 to provide them with \u201cdocuments and communications referring or relating to the potential or actual use of ActBlue by foreign nationals to make political contributions\u201d and \u201call documents and communications referring or relating to ActBlue\u2019s policies, practices, or procedures for preventing, deterring, or detecting political contributions by foreign nationals.\u201d<\/p>

Steil and Jordan chair the committees on administration and judiciary, respectively.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/bryan-steil-actblue-referrals-donations-sept-2024.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530621-1776267777", "title":"Van Hollen says Trump is ‘sowing division’ ahead of FIFA World Cup", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fsports%2F4530621%2Fvan-hollen-trump-fifa-world-cup%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) on Wednesday accused President Donald Trump of creating a toxic environment that threatens to spoil FIFA’s 2026 World Cup matches.  During a Senate appropriations subcommittee hearing on the soccer event, which the United States is hosting alongside Canada and Mexico, Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL) heralded the games as “a great […]", "description":""

Sen. Chris Van Hollen<\/a> (D-MD) on Wednesday accused President Donald Trump<\/a> of creating a toxic environment that threatens to spoil FIFA\u2019s<\/a> 2026 World Cup matches.\u00a0<\/p>

During a Senate appropriations subcommittee hearing<\/a> on the soccer event, which the United States is hosting alongside Canada and Mexico, Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL) heralded the games as \u201ca great unifier.\u201d Van Hollen agreed but said Trump and his administration are doing little to foster such an atmosphere. The Maryland Democrat warned that policies set by the Department of Homeland Security<\/a>, including those regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> and Customs and Border Protection<\/a>, could discourage some people from attending or participating in the games, impacting the event\u2019s success.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cThis should be a unifying event,\u201d Van Hollen said. \u201cUnfortunately, the president of the United States has represented just the opposite, including comments in the lead-up to the games and actions. He has made his political career by sowing division, by pitting people against one another based on race or ethnicity or religion, and he's been scaring off families who come here to cheer on their teams.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cI am very concerned that because of statements made by the president, actions taken by the Trump administration, that we're going to be discouraging soccer fans from coming to games here, and that our communities will lose the economic benefits of that gain or that they will be diminished,\u201d he continued.\u00a0<\/p>

In the U.S., the World Cup will take place in 11 cities from June 11 through July 19, and it is expected to attract more than 1 million tourists from across the world.<\/p>

Britt questioned witnesses during the hearing, which focused on how the partial DHS shutdown is affecting planning for the event. Chris Tomney, director of DHS\u2019s Office of Situational Awareness, said the shutdown had \u201csignificantly impacted\u201d the government\u2019s ability to prepare for the World Cup, which he described as \u201cthe most complex and widespread sport event in the history of the world.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIf I can implore members of Congress on both sides, it\u2019s long since time to reopen the Department of Homeland Security,\u201d he told lawmakers. \u201cWith what's going on globally, at a time when we\u2019re going to have this historic tournament, it's time to open our Department of Homeland Security.\"<\/p>

\u201cHundreds of [Transportation Security Administration officers] have been lost during the shutdown,\" Tomney continued. \u201cWe just can't replace that expertise overnight. It has hindered our coordination with states and locals. It has reduced our planning efforts.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

Tomney said there are a \u201cmultitude of threats\u201d to prepare for prior to hosting the World Cup. He said increasing counter-drone capability would be vital, after the agency warned in February<\/a> that with FIFA events being held across a multitude of U.S. cities, there are \u201cmany\u201d locations lacking such resources.\u00a0<\/p>

HOW ICE WILL DRAMATICALLY EXPAND IMMIGRANT DETENTION IN 2026<\/a><\/p>

The DHS shutdown began in February, after Democrats refused to renew funding for the agency due to concerns about ICE. It has now stretched into the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Britt pleaded for Democrats to make a deal to reopen DHS on Wednesday.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cLook, international sporting events are a great unifier,\u201d she said. \u201cNothing compares to cheering on our country, and nothing is more unifying. I am excited for us to have that moment again. I think we need it as a nation to help us refocus on what brings us together, but in doing that, we want to make sure that those spaces are safe.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26071589548798.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530655-1776266927", "title":"Russia planning to put nuclear weapons in space, US general warns", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fspace%2F4530655%2Frussia-plans-nuclear-weapons-space-us-general-warns%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The United States is increasingly worried about Russia‘s plan to operate a nuclear weapon in low Earth orbit, according to U.S. Space Command chief Stephen Whiting. The Space Force general warned the move by the Kremlin could interfere with civilian aircraft and satellites, thereby causing global chaos. “Russia remains a sophisticated space power, and they […]", "description":""

The United States is increasingly worried about Russia<\/a>'s plan to operate a nuclear weapon<\/a> in low Earth orbit, according to U.S. Space Command chief Stephen Whiting.<\/p>

The Space Force<\/a> general warned the move by the Kremlin could interfere with civilian aircraft and satellites, thereby causing global chaos.<\/p>

\"Russia remains a sophisticated space power, and they continue to invest in counter-space weapons,\" Whiting told the Times<\/a>, a British newspaper. \"They are thinking about placing in orbit a nuclear anti-satellite weapon that would hold at risk everyone\u2019s satellites in low Earth orbit, and that would be an outcome that we just couldn\u2019t tolerate.\"<\/p>

If it proceeds with the reported plan, Russia would be in violation of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The document formed the basis of international space law, preventing nations from placing nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in orbit or elsewhere in outer space. It was signed by the U.S., United Kingdom<\/a>, and Soviet Union during the space race at the time.<\/p>

NASA<\/a> is currently engaged in a new space race to the moon, which was demonstrated by the recent Artemis II<\/a> lunar-orbiting mission. China<\/a> is the main opponent in this race, but Russia still poses a major space threat, according to Whiting's comments.<\/p>

The four-star general made the case that Russia feels threatened by the U.S. and NATO<\/a>, which is why the foreign adversary allegedly wants to expand its nuclear footprint in space.<\/p>

\"From a Russian perspective, they look at the United States, they look at NATO and they see an overmatch there of conventional arms,\" he said. \"And they believe that novel ways of trying to undermine the United States and NATO, such as by neutralizing our space capabilities, helps them to level the battlefield.\"<\/p>

Whiting declined to disclose the U.S. military's \"intelligence sources and methods\" about Russia's plan, but he noted the space service branch is \"very concerned\" about the report.<\/p>

AMAZON BUYS SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY IN PUSH TO COMPETE WITH STARLINK<\/a><\/p>

Detonating a nuclear missile in low Earth orbit would have a devastating affect on thousands of civilian satellites orbiting the planet. Satellite communications would be dealt a massive blow, putting GPS-reliant aircraft in harm's way.<\/p>

Whiting called on U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer<\/a> to address the possible looming threat that Russia and China each pose by increasing Britain's space defense budget. The British military spends less than 1% of its defense funds on space, whereas the U.S. allocates about 4% of its budget on space.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26085640309781.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529936-1776266895", "title":"The Trump administration’s Tax Day strategy overshadowed by Iran war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529936%2Ftrump-tax-day-strategy-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Trump administration’s attempts to make Tax Day a key focus on Wednesday ran into hard obstacles posed by the Iran war, less than one week before a ceasefire deal expires. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler joined White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt for a news conference, during which many […]", "description":""

The Trump administration's<\/a> attempts to make Tax Day a key focus on Wednesday ran into hard obstacles posed by the Iran<\/a> war, less than one week before a ceasefire deal expires.<\/p>

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent<\/a> and Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler<\/a> joined White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt<\/a> for a news conference, during which many of the questions were focused on the war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, IRS CEO Frank Bisignano testified before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday.<\/p>

Bessent said that he expects gas prices to decrease to somewhere in the $3 dollar range by mid September. Gas prices have risen considerably since Iran took over the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation against the joint U.S.-Israeli Operation Epic Fury, which began on Feb. 28.<\/p>

\"I'm optimistic that sometime between June 20 and September 20, that we can have $3 gas again,\" Bessent said. \"And as I said this morning, too, we are going to be watching the gas stations, because they raise prices very quickly.\"<\/p>

In an interview that aired Wednesday morning, President Donald Trump<\/a> spoke to Fox Business Network\u2019s Mornings with Maria, where he claimed the Iran war is \u201cclose to over.\"<\/p>

\"I view it as very close to being over,\u201d\u00a0he said. \"If I pulled up stakes right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild that country. And we\u2019re not finished,\u201d Trump said. \u201cWe\u2019ll see what happens. I think they want to make a deal very badly.\"<\/p>

Yet the United States blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has continued with Iran threatening to halt trade through the Red Sea, as well as the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Despite the ceasefire deal, the Strait of Hormuz is still not completely open, which has also kept gas prices high.<\/p>

Bessent told reporters that the administration's message to the American public about the economic strain is, \"short-term volatility for long-term gain.\" <\/p>

Similarly, Leavitt echoed Trump's message that \"this is short-term disruption for the long-term strategic goal of the United States to ensure that the world's leading state sponsor of terror cannot obtain a nuclear weapon.\" <\/p>

\"That's a good thing for the American people. That's a good thing for people all over the world,\" Leavitt continued. <\/p>

The administration maintains that once the war has ended and the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, gas prices will decrease. But the peace talks led by Vice President JD Vance last week in Islamabad, Pakistan, failed to produce any path to ending the Iran war.<\/p>

Leavitt also noted that although a second round of talks wasn't happening soon, if talks were to happen, they would likely take place in Islamabad.<\/p>

\"Nothing is official until you hear it from us here at the White House, but we feel good about the prospects of a deal,\" she said. \"The president mentioned that in his interview yesterday, and it's obviously in the best interest of Iran to meet the president's demands. I think he's made his red lines in these negotiations very clear to the other side, and so we are continuing to see how these conversations go.\" <\/p>

Despite the dominance of the Iran war, the administration continues to message around Tax Day. <\/p>

Trump has frequently touted the no-tax-on-tips proposal baked into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. On Monday, Sharon Simmons, a grandmother who supplements her family's income through DoorDash, personally delivered McDonald's to Trump.<\/p>

The president will also head to Las Vegas on Thursday to tout the no-tax-on-tips policy.<\/p>

PRESSURE BUILDS ON TRUMP TO FIND OFF-RAMP ON IRAN WAR<\/a><\/p>

\"With Tax Day officially here, the numbers prove these tax cuts have been nothing short of extraordinary,\" Leavitt said. \"More than 53 million filers claimed at least one of President Trump's signature new tax cuts. The average refund this filing season is more than $3,400.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26105645167739.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530699-1776265990", "title":"Bessent ‘optimistic’ gas prices will fall to $3 a gallon by midsummer", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4530699%2Fbessent-optimistic-gas-prices-fall-3-gallon-mid-summer%2F", "byline":"Barnini Chakraborty", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday he was “optimistic” that gasoline prices will fall to around $3 a gallon between late June and late September. Bessent said recent discussions with Middle Eastern counterparts about the Iran oil crisis left him hopeful that relief could come relatively soon.  “I’m optimistic that sometime between June 20 and September 20, […]", "description":""

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent<\/a> said Wednesday he was \"optimistic\" that gasoline prices<\/a> will fall to around $3 a gallon between late June and late September. <\/p>

Bessent said recent discussions with Middle Eastern counterparts about the Iran oil crisis <\/a>left him hopeful that relief could come relatively soon. <\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m optimistic that sometime between June 20 and September 20, we can have $3 gas again,\u201d he said at a White House press\u00a0briefing, adding that the pace of any decline will hinge on how negotiations tied to the war in Iran unfold.<\/p>

Bessent pointed to tentative signs of de-escalation, noting that the United States has adhered to a ceasefire and halted military strikes, though key shipping routes remain only partially reopened. <\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ll see,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I think over the summer we could see gas prices starting with a three sooner rather than later.\u201d<\/p>

His remarks stand in contrast to Trump\u2019s comments over the weekend, when the president suggested prices may not ease before the November midterm elections. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said he hoped for lower costs but expected prices to remain roughly steady, or even tick slightly higher, by the fall, extending a pattern of mixed messaging on energy.<\/p>

The conflicting signals come after high-level talks between U.S. and Iranian officials in Pakistan broke down over the weekend without an agreement, prompting another rise in oil prices.<\/p>

Political strategists from both parties said the uncertainty poses a challenge for Republicans seeking to hold on to their House and Senate majorities, as higher energy costs driven by the war ripple through the broader economy.<\/p>

White House press secretary\u00a0Karoline Leavitt\u00a0<\/a>echoed the administration\u2019s position on Wednesday that the price increases are temporary. She argued the disruption is tied to a broader strategic objective: preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.<\/p>

CHRIS WRIGHT WARNS GAS PRICES MAY STAY HIGH THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER <\/a><\/p>

\"This is a short-term disruption for the long-term strategic goal of the United States to ensure that the world's leading state sponsor of terror cannot obtain a nuclear weapon,\" she said. \"That's a good thing for the American people. That's a good thing for people all over the world.\"<\/p>

According to AAA<\/a>, the national average price for a gallon of gas stood at $4.10 on Wednesday. California had the highest prices in the country at $5.87 per gallon.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26105650024288.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530768-1776265259", "title":"Daily on Energy: Iran and oil updates, Maine bans data centers, and a look at the TotalEnergies deal", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fdaily-on-energy%2F4530768%2Fdaily-on-energy-iran-oil-maine-bans-data-centers-totalenergies%2F", "byline":"Callie Patteson and Maydeen Merino", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"WHAT’S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Wednesday, readers! President Donald Trump’s plan to block the Strait of Hormuz has been fully implemented, but Iran’s threats are continuing to grow. We are closely watching the administration’s blockade of the strait and whether there will be upcoming negotiations between the two countries. 🇺🇲🇮🇷 In other news, […]", "description":""

WHAT\u2019S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Wednesday, readers! President Donald Trump\u2019s plan to block the Strait of Hormuz has been fully implemented, but Iran\u2019s threats are continuing to grow. We are closely watching the administration\u2019s blockade of the strait and whether there will be upcoming negotiations between the two countries. \ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddf7<\/p>

In other news, Energy Secretary Chris Wright will be going in front of the House Appropriations Committee today to discuss the White House\u2019s fiscal 2027 budget request for energy policies. \ud83e\udeab\ud83d\udd0c It comes as the country is facing elevated gas prices at the pump as a result of the war in Iran. <\/p>

Meanwhile, read on to learn new information about the Interior Department\u2019s efforts to prevent offshore wind development. \ud83c\udf2c\ufe0f<\/p>

Welcome to Daily on Energy, written by Washington Examiner energy and environment writers Callie Patteson (@CalliePatteson<\/a>) and Maydeen Merino (@MaydeenMerino<\/a>). Email cpatteson@washingtonexaminer dot com or mmerino@washingtonexaminer dot com for tips, suggestions, calendar items, and anything else. If a friend sent this to you and you\u2019d like to sign up, click here<\/a>. If signing up doesn\u2019t work, shoot us an email, and we\u2019ll add you to our list.<\/p>

LATEST ON IRAN: President Donald Trump\u2019s plan to set up a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has been \u201cfully implemented,\u201d but Iran is further escalating its threats. <\/p>

The U.S. military said that more than 10,000 soldiers<\/a> and dozens of planes and warships are enforcing the blockade. <\/p>

\u201cAn estimated 90% of Iran\u2019s economy is fueled by international trade by sea. In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, U.S. forces have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea,\u201d Admiral Brad Cooper said in a statement<\/a>. <\/p>

Iran, however, has threatened to prevent other exports and imports in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the blockade is not lifted. <\/p>

Meanwhile, efforts to facilitate a new meeting to discuss peace talks remain ongoing. Trump told Fox News that the war \u201cis very close to over,\u201d noting that the second round of negotiations could be in the next two days. The U.S. and Iran ceasefire is set to end on April 21.<\/p>

WHERE PRICES STAND: Oil prices remained fairly steady today on news of peace negotiations moving forward. <\/p>

\u201cMarkets still seemed to be leaning quite heavily toward a constructive outcome,\u201d Fawad Razaqzada, a market analyst with Forex.com, told<\/a> the Wall Street Journal. \u201cThat said, it still feels a touch premature to be pricing in a smooth resolution.\u201d<\/p>

As of around 2:30 p.m. EDT, both international and domestic benchmarks were up by less than a dollar. Brent crude had increased by 0.13% and was selling at $94.91 per barrel. Meanwhile, West Texas Intermediate rose 0.21% to $91.47 per barrel. <\/p>

Some analysts have even suggested that additional downward pressure on prices could be driven by the possibility that the Trump administration abandons the war, even if it fails to eliminate Iran\u2019s missile and nuclear capabilities. <\/p>

Related: There has been some speculation as to what else the administration can do in order to bring down gas prices while oil remains elevated, such as a suspension of the federal gas tax. <\/p>

Previously, the administration issued waivers allowing countries to purchase Russian and Iranian oil. But officials confirmed today they are unlikely to do that again. <\/p>

Energy Secretary Chris Wright first indicated the move this morning, calling the waiver on Russian oil a \u201cbroad-based reprieve.\u201d <\/p>

\u201cI don\u2019t think you will see that extended,\u201d he said, according<\/a> to Bloomberg. <\/p>

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the decision later at the White House this afternoon saying, \u201cWe will not be renewing the general license on Russian oil, and we will not be renewing the general license on Iranian oil.\u201d <\/p>

WHAT OIL EXECUTIVES SUGGEST: As administration officials have warned gas prices could soar throughout the summer, at least one oil and gas executive is calling on Americans to simply \u201cdrive less\u201d to save some money. <\/p>

\"People should try to drive less. They should try to conserve energy,\" Chevron executive Andy Walz told<\/a> CBS News this week. \"We should be doing that all the time. Energy's essential for people's lives, but we should conserve it.\"<\/p>

Walz explained to the outlet that there is likely no \u201csilver bullet\u201d that the administration or anyone else could use to bring down prices over the coming months while oil prices remain high. If the war in Iran extends, he warned, that price strain is probably only going to \u201cget tougher.\u201d <\/p>

As we\u2019ve previously pointed out: GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan explained earlier this month that it is difficult for Americans to reduce their consumption of gasoline, given how reliant the country is on gas-powered vehicles. As it\u2019s still spring, not many individuals are in a position to cancel summer vacations or road trips. <\/p>

\u201cPeople right now are not yet in the mode where they can really give up any demand,\u201d De Haan told Callie, adding that there might be some incremental decreases in gasoline demand but it won\u2019t be anything \u201cbig.\u201d <\/p>

MAINE LEGISLATORS VOTE TO BAN DATA CENTERS: Maine is one step closer to becoming the first state to impose a moratorium on data centers. <\/p>

Maine state legislators passed a bill yesterday that would ban new data centers from being built in the state until fall 2027. The measure now heads to Democratic Maine Gov. Janet Mills\u2019 desk for her signature. <\/p>

It is unclear whether Mills will sign the bill into law, as it did not include an exemption for a smaller data center project that has been under development. The project would reuse existing infrastructure, specifically, a former paper mill. But lawmakers rejected the exemption in the final bill. <\/p>

The measure is part of a broader trend of local jurisdictions restricting or slowing the development of data centers. For instance, a small town in Wisconsin last week approved<\/a> a measure to give voters greater control over tax incentives for large data center developments. <\/p>

Locals have raised concerns regarding data centers\u2019 energy demand, water use, noise pollution, lack of transparency, and more. <\/p>

A new poll<\/a> by the Washington Post found that voters in Virginia are more uncomfortable with a data center being built in their neighborhood than they were in 2023. <\/p>

The share of Virginia residents who say they are uncomfortable with a data center being built in their community rose from 24% in 2023 to 59% as of this year. <\/p>

Read more about the ban by Washington Examiner\u2019s David Zimmerman here<\/a>. <\/p>

NEW DETAILS ON TRUMP\u2019S DEAL WITH TOTALENERGIES: Last month, the Trump administration announced<\/a> a buyout deal with TotalEnergies worth nearly $1 billion to prevent two offshore wind farms off New York and North Carolina from being built. <\/p>

While administration officials have insisted<\/a> that the deal is a \u201cdollar-for-dollar reimbursement,\u201d new documents reveal that the Interior Department is paying the French company using public funds via the Department of Justice\u2019s Judgment Fund \u2013 a move one former agency lawyer has called illegal. <\/p>

The details: Former Interior solicitor Tony Irish wrote in a post<\/a> on LinkedIn earlier today that he discovered the agency would be using taxpayer dollars for the deal when looking at a lease decision notice sent to TotalEnergies at the start of the month. <\/p>

The document, which was regarding the Carolina Long Bay project off North Carolina, reveals that Interior reached a settlement agreement regarding the project on March 23. As part of the agreement, Interior determined canceling the project\u2019s offshore lease was in the public interest and that the agency could never have issued the lease if it had known \u201csensitive information\u201d from the Department of War regarding offshore wind development. <\/p>

The document ends by saying the agency will be paying project developers through the Justice Department's Judgment Fund Branch within the Treasury Department. <\/p>

What\u2019s the Judgment Fund? The Judgment Fund is a permanent, indefinite appropriation by Congress for the federal government to pay court judgments and settlements. There are strict rules on when agencies can access the funds, including when settlements require monetary compensation. Additionally, agencies are permitted to request funds to settle \u201cimminent litigation.\u201d <\/p>

The Interior document does say project developers said they would have \u201casserted claims in litigation against the United States related to the lease,\u201d but Irish said he does not think the administration has any basis to claim imminent litigation. <\/p>

\u201cWhat claims? Without particularized claims that could result in a monetary payment (and given the lease terms, injunctive relief is the available remedy here), once again and say it with me, there is NO basis for a pre-litigation settlement or payment from the Judgment Fund,\u201d Irish wrote, calling the settlement unlawful. <\/p>

The Department of the Interior did not respond to Daily on Energy\u2019s request for comment. <\/p>

CHRIS WRIGHT APPEARS BEFORE CONGRESS: Energy Secretary Wright is currently testifying before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies to discuss the White House\u2019s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget for the Department of Energy. <\/p>

The White House is asking<\/a> Congress to provide the Department of Energy with $53.9 billion in discretionary funding. This is a $4 billion increase compared to what was proposed last year, with most of the increase in funds going toward defense under the National Nuclear Security Administration. It also would increase funding dedicated to domestic critical minerals production, refilling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and increasing energy and water security. <\/p>

Nondefense funding within the agency would see a $2.7 billion, or 11%, cut in funding from 2026 levels. Like last year, the administration is targeting climate-related and green energy initiatives by calling for the cancellation of $15.2 billion in funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act from 2021.  <\/p>

The budget also proposed reducing funding for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Programs, as well as for the agency\u2019s office of science, Advanced Research Project Agency-Energy, and environmental management programs. <\/p>

The hearing began at 2 p.m. EDT and is ongoing. Stay tuned for more. <\/p>

SENATE MOVING TOWARD CANCELING BIDEN BAN ON BOUNDARY WATERS MINING: The Senate could be taking up a measure today that would overturn a Biden administration ban on mining in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota and bar future administrations from imposing similar restrictions.<\/p>

In the beginning of the year, Republican Rep. Pete Stauber of Minnesota introduced a Congressional Review Act resolution that would repeal the Biden administration\u2019s 20-year mining ban on 225,504 acres in Northern Minnesota\u2019s Superior National Forest. The measure passed the House<\/a> in January. <\/p>

That bill is now tentatively on the Senate\u2019s floor schedule for today. <\/p>

Stauber has argued that overturning the ban is necessary to access a trove of critical minerals in the area, namely copper, nickel, and cobalt. <\/p>

\u201cWe need these minerals for our everyday life,\u201d Stauber told Maydeen in January. \u201cWe need them for our defense weapons. We need them for our computers. We need them to win the AI war.\u201d <\/p>

Republicans argued that the Biden administration\u2019s 2023 ban was illegal because it was not properly filed in the Congressional Record. The Interior Department submitted a public land order notice, making the rule eligible for cancellation under the CRA. <\/p>

House Democrats at the time argued that Republicans\u2019 procedural maneuver was invalid. Democratic Rep. Betty McCollum of Minnesota said the purpose of a CRA is to regulate not overturn land protections using a \u201clegislative stunt.\u201d <\/p>

CHINA WEIGHS LIMITING SOLAR EXPORTS TO US: China is considering curbing exports of materials and equipment used to build solar panels to the U.S., according to a new Reuters report<\/a>. <\/p>

Five people with knowledge of the discussions confirmed to the outlet that several Chinese officials have held conversations with solar equipment manufacturers and providers about limiting exports. <\/p>

Two of the sources told the outlet that no formal rule has been finalized and officials have not yet begun asking for formal feedback on the proposal. <\/p>

RUNDOWN <\/p>

The Associated Press<\/a> As energy costs rise, some states back off ambitious climate goals<\/p>

Time<\/a> Do Americans Worry About Climate Change? New Polling Shows Concern Is at a New Record High<\/p>

Inside Climate News<\/a> California\u2019s Climate Leaders Talk Clean Energy Growing Pains and the War on Iran<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/DOE.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529694-1776265233", "title":"White House ‘looking into’ 10 US scientists who mysteriously disappeared or died", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529694%2Fwhite-house-american-scientists-disappeared-died%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Trump administration is looking into reports that at least 10 American scientists, many of whom were researching UFOs or nuclear power, have either died or mysteriously disappeared since mid-2023. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday that she hadn’t spoken to the other officials about the growing deaths, but the White […]", "description":""

The Trump<\/a> administration is looking into reports that at least 10 American scientists, many of whom were researching UFOs<\/a> or nuclear power, have either died or mysteriously disappeared since mid-2023. <\/p>

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt<\/a> told reporters on Wednesday that she hadn't spoken to the other officials about the growing deaths, but the White House would look into the troubling pattern. <\/p>

\"I haven't spoken to our relevant agencies about it. I will certainly do that, and we'll get you an answer,\" Leavitt said during a press briefing. \"If true, of course, that's definitely something I think this government and its administration would deem worth looking into. So let me do that for you.\" <\/p>

Steven Garcia, a government contractor who disappeared on August 28, 2025, is among the 10 scientists whose fates have sparked concern. Garcia worked at the Kansas City National Security Campus in Albuquerque. <\/p>

Others who have been impacted include NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory scientist Frank Maiwald, who died without a public cause, and the mysterious disappearance of Los Alamos National Laboratory staffer Anthony Chavez.<\/p>

The 2023 death of Michael David Hicks, a research scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, has also stoked more speculation that American scientists are being targeted. There was no public cause of death for Hicks, who died on July 30th, 2023, at age 59. Hicks published more than 80 scientific papers and worked on the DART Project and the Deep Space 1 Mission.<\/p>

Monica Reza, who worked as the director of materials processing for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, also vanished in June 2025. <\/p>

WHITE HOUSE ORDERS NASA AND PENTAGON TO DEVELOP NUCLEAR SPACE REACTORS<\/a><\/p>

At least one lawmaker, Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO), has called for the FBI to get involved in the cases of the missing or dead scientists.<\/p>

\u201cThe disappearance of multiple scientists and military personnel with ties to advanced research is deeply concerning. I\u2019ve already requested FBI involvement, and we will keep pressing for answers,\" Burlison wrote on X in late March<\/a>. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26105633857481.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530426-1776264710", "title":"Japan announces $10 billion in subsidies for oil-strapped Southeast Asia", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4530426%2Fjapan-announces-10-billion-subsidies-oil-southeast-asia%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Japan announced on Wednesday that it would provide $10 billion in financial aid to Southeast Asian countries hit hardest by a surge in oil prices. Southeast Asian countries have been the worst hit by disruptions to global oil supplies due to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, with Bangladesh the first to face the […]", "description":""

Japan<\/a> announced on Wednesday that it would provide $10 billion in financial aid to Southeast Asian countries hit hardest by a surge in oil prices<\/a>.<\/p>

Southeast Asian countries have been the worst hit by disruptions to global oil supplies due to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, with Bangladesh the first to face the possibility of its fuel supplies completely running out<\/a>. In an effort to forestall the possibly catastrophic economic impacts on the region, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Tokyo would give $10 billion in subsidies to countries in the region.<\/p>

\u201cJapan will not simply provide oil to countries struggling due to the situation in the Middle East, but will work together with Asian countries to build a resilient energy and critical mineral supply chain,\u201d she said, adding that the total represented one year of Southeast Asian oil imports.<\/p>

The funds are intended to help Southeast Asian economies find substitutes for their blockaded Gulf trading partners, such as U.S. oil and gas exporters.<\/p>

The move isn't simply a goodwill measure to boost Japanese prestige in the region. Japan has been increasingly affected by the downstream effects of Southeast Asian economies' decreasing production of oil-based goods. Regional producers use oil for products ranging from plastics to medical equipment.<\/p>

The fertilizer and agricultural industries<\/a> in Southeast Asia have been among the worst hit. One-third of internationally traded fertilizers and roughly 45% of sulfur exports, a key ingredient in phosphate fertilizers, pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Cheap fuel is also needed to power agricultural equipment.<\/p>

WORLD FACES SEVERE FOOD SUPPLY CRISIS IF STRAIT OF HORMUZ BLOCKADE CONTINUES<\/a><\/p>

Japan's far-sighted decision to stockpile one of the largest strategic petroleum reserves on Earth has insulated it from the direct consequences of rising energy costs. Tokyo began withdrawing from its large oil reserve, which can last 264 days. However, the stockpile is set aside to address domestic demand and will not be directed to foreign countries.<\/p>

The new major aid package is just the latest way Japan's\u00a0strategic position has improved<\/a> to the detriment of China's.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26040176462878.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530307-1776263882", "title":"What to know about the Freedom 250 UFC fight on the White House lawn", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4530307%2Ffreedom-250-ufc-fight-white-house%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the UFC will construct a 4,500-seat venue ahead of the mixed martial arts cage match in front of the White House that will take place this summer. The UFC Freedom 250 fight on the White House’s South Lawn will be one event among many that the Trump administration […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> announced on Monday that the UFC<\/a> will construct a 4,500-seat venue ahead of the mixed martial arts cage match in front of the White House that will take place this summer.<\/p>

The UFC Freedom 250 fight on the White House's South Lawn will be one event among many that the Trump administration and outside organizations are putting on to mark the U.S. semiquincentennial<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Trump is incorporating the athletic sphere into efforts to mark<\/a> the United States\u2019s 250th birthday throughout 2026. Aside from the UFC fight, Americans have the rare opportunity to attend a free IndyCar race<\/a> on the National Mall in August and participate in the \u201cunprecedented\u201d four-day \u201cPatriot Games\u201d high school competition in Washington, D.C.<\/a>, in the fall.\u00a0<\/p>When is the UFC fight?

The UFC will host its first-ever fight<\/a> at the White House on Sunday, June 14. The event will take place at 8 p.m., with Trump in attendance.\u00a0<\/p>

The cage fight also coincides with Trump\u2019s 80th birthday.\u00a0<\/p>Who is on the White House card?

There is a seven-fight lineup<\/a> for the mixed martial arts event. The seventh was an unexpected addition, joining the card due to Trump\u2019s intervention. <\/p>

On Saturday, Derrick Lewis was added at Trump\u2019s request. Lewis, who holds the UFC record for most victories by knockout, will face Josh Hokit. UFC CEO Dana White, a close friend of Trump, recounted the story behind Lewis\u2019s inclusion on Saturday.<\/p>

\u201cThe president said to me, \u2018Why is Derrick Lewis not on the White House card?\u2019 I said, \u2018I'll be back in five minutes,\u2019\u201d White said. \u201cI went and called Derrick Lewis, said the president wants to know why you\u2019re not on the White House card. And Derrick Lewis said, \u2018Politics. Politics kept me off the White House card.\u2019\u201d<\/p>

\u201cAnd I said, \u2018Do you want to fight on the card?\u2019\u201d White recounted. \u201cAnd he said, \u2018I absolutely want to fight on the card. Tell the president, \u2018Thank you.\u2019\u201d<\/p>

White said not to expect further additions to the card ahead of June 14. \u201cUnless [Trump] calls me and tells me to do something else, there will be no more fights added to the card,\u201d White said.<\/p>

UFC announced over the weekend<\/a> that Crypto.com, the event\u2019s major sponsor, is giving fighters \u201cthe biggest bonus in UFC history,\u201d with a pool of $1 million on the line.\u00a0<\/p>

UFC announced its full fight card in March. The main event will be Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria in a lightweight championship unification bout. Alex Pereira will face Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight championship. Sean O\u2019Malley, Michael Chandler, Bo Nickal, and Steve Garcia are among the other fighters on the card.\u00a0<\/p>What will the event be like?

Tens of thousands are expected to attend the fight. While the main venue will have 4,500 seats, thousands more will be able to watch the fight from large screens set up on the Ellipse, an open area near the White House often used for large gatherings.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cIn the back at the Ellipse, we\u2019re going to have 100,000, maybe 50 to 100,000 people, I guess,\u201d Trump said this week. \u201cThey\u2019re building tremendous stages, and we\u2019re going to have massive screens of the fight. It\u2019s a very popular sport.\u201d<\/p>

At the Ellipse, the Grammy-winning Zac Brown Band will bring live music to attendees watching the cage match. The band will take the stage at 9:30 p.m.<\/p>

\u201cI\u2019ve been involved in a lot of big events; I have never had an event that has had more interest than the UFC fight we have right at the front door,\u201d the president told reporters in the Oval Office.<\/p>What has Dana White said about the fight?

White said in March that organizers will hand out 85,000 free tickets to the public. The UFC CEO confirmed Tuesday that no taxpayer money is going into staging the event, after TKO Group Holdings President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Shapiro said in February that the UFC would likely spend around $60 million to hold the event at a loss. <\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019re basically going to take over D.C. that whole week with lots of different things for fight fans,\u201d White told CBS<\/a>. \u201cThen, obviously a one-of-one event to be able to have it at the White House. Fighters will actually walk from the Oval Office to the octagon.\u201d<\/p>

This week, White said the event marked an opportunity for Americans to come together and celebrate the country. <\/p>

\u201cOne of the myths that I would like to crush is I don\u2019t care if you\u2019re far right, far left, right down the middle, wherever you sit politically, because everybody sits somewhere politically these days,\u201d he said Tuesday on The Pat McAfee Show. \u201cThis isn\u2019t about politics.\u201d <\/p>

\u201cThis is about the United States, what this country is about, how it was built, where we all came from,\u201d he added. \u201cIf you love America, you\u2019re going to love this event \u2026 We just happen to be on the White House lawn, and the president of the United States will be there.\u201d<\/p>Are there any security concerns?

With the president in attendance, security will be tight. Chandler, one of the fighters, said in March that organizers are \u201cliving, breathing, trying to figure out how this event is going to be laid out.\u201d <\/p>

TRUMP PREPARES FOR US 250TH BIRTHDAY WITH NEW PROJECT TO HONOR HEROES<\/a><\/p>

\u201cObviously, when you think about throwing in one new type of event, which the UFC loves to do, a type of fight that has never happened before \u2026 now, you couple it with the extra layers of the added security of actually fighting on the White House lawn, the logistics are going to be a lot,\u201d Chandler said during<\/a> a Fox News interview. <\/p>

\u201cSecurity is going to be a massive issue because, at the end of the day, the Secret Service\u2019s job is to protect the president,\u201d White told The Herd with Colin Cowherd in September.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26102145998453.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530058-1776263524", "title":"Paramount CEO to skip Senate hearing on pending WBD merger for personal reason", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4530058%2Fparamount-ceo-skip-senate-hearing-wbd-merger%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison intends to skip a planned Senate hearing on the entertainment company’s pending merger with Warner Bros. Discovery to attend a family member’s funeral instead. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, asked the executive to attend the Wednesday afternoon hearing […]", "description":""

Paramount Skydance<\/a> CEO David Ellison intends to skip a planned Senate<\/a> hearing on the entertainment company's pending merger<\/a> with Warner Bros. Discovery to attend a family member's funeral instead.<\/p>

Sen. Cory Booker<\/a> (D-NJ), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, asked the executive to attend the Wednesday afternoon hearing as a witness and testify on the impact of the Paramount-WBD deal on Hollywood<\/a>.<\/p>

\"As the leader of the company seeking to execute one of the largest media mergers in American history, your continued unwillingness to engage with Congressional oversight is itself a matter of public concern,\" Booker wrote to Ellison<\/a> on Monday. \"I hope you will reconsider.\"<\/p>

In response, Ted Lehman, senior vice president and head of U.S. public policy and government affairs at Paramount, said Ellison will not be able to participate in the hearing because of a death in the family.<\/p>

This hearing marks the second time Ellison has rebuffed Booker's request to testify before Congress<\/a>.<\/p>

The senator's prior invitation was for a hearing held by Sen. Mike Lee<\/a> (R-UT), chairman of the Senate antitrust<\/a> subcommittee, in February. Netflix<\/a> and WBD each sent one of their top executives to testify before the panel, while Ellison was notably absent. That hearing came weeks before Paramount prevailed against Netflix in the bidding war for WBD.<\/p>

Paramount questioned why Booker wanted to hold a follow-up hearing on the merger.<\/p>

\"Our view on the proposed merger Paramount Skydance\/Warner Bros. Discovery deal is quite straightforward: We believe the transaction should be reviewed on the merits,\" Lehman wrote to Booker<\/a>. \"And on the merits, this transaction is procompetitive.\"<\/p>

Booker disagreed, saying the deal \"threatens to give consumers fewer choices and have a chilling effect on the critical journalism Americans rely on.\"<\/p>

Booker's statement made it seem that Democrats will be the ones primarily leading the hearing.<\/p>

A spokesperson for Booker told the Washington Examiner that the senator invited the entire Senate Judiciary Committee<\/a>, both Republicans and Democrats, along with four other Democratic lawmakers who are not members of the committee.<\/p>

Creatives in the Hollywood industry argued the Paramount-WBD merger is anticompetitive when they penned an open letter<\/a> against the deal this week.<\/p>

\"This transaction would further consolidate an already concentrated media landscape, reducing competition at a moment when our industries\u2014and the audiences we serve\u2014can least afford it,\" the document reads. \"The result will be fewer opportunities for creators, fewer jobs across the production ecosystem, higher costs, and less choice for audiences in the United States and around the world. Alarmingly, this merger would reduce the number of major U.S. film studios to just four.\"<\/p>

The letter's organizers commended California<\/a> Attorney General Rob Bonta for investigating the merger. The ongoing investigation may lead to an antitrust lawsuit that Bonta files in coordination with other Democratic state attorneys general.<\/p>

The open letter has gained much traction since it was released on Monday, adding more than 1,600 signatories to the roughly 1,000 people who initially signed the letter.<\/p>

Paramount responded to the open letter, insisting its transaction will ensure employees \"have more avenues for their work, not fewer.\" Many are concerned that mass layoffs will ensue at the combined Paramount-WBD entity once the deal closes.<\/p>

\"We understand the concerns raised as a result of the disruptions caused to our industry by COVID, entry of big-tech, and changes in consumer behavior, but we promise this: Paramount remains deeply committed to talent, and this merger strengthens both consumer choice and competition, creating greater opportunities for creators, audiences and the communities they live and work in,\" Paramount said in part.<\/p>

Booker's spotlight hearing is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. Wednesday.<\/p>

Witnesses include documentary filmmaker David Borenstein, known for the Oscar-winning 2025 film Mr. Nobody Against Putin; Michael Isaac, director of legal services at the Writers Guild of America East; Katie Phang, an attorney and legal analyst; and Mara Verheyden-Hilliard, co-founder and executive director of the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund. The last witness is also tied to actress Jane Fonda's Committee for the First Amendment, which backed Hollywood's open letter.<\/p>

HOLLYWOOD STARS BACK ROB BONTA\u2019S EFFORT TO BLOCK PARAMOUNT-WBD MERGER<\/a><\/p>

The hearing is similar to one held last month by Sen. Adam Schiff<\/a> (D-CA), who dedicated a portion of the panel's questions to the implications of the Paramount-WBD merger as well as broader problems facing the entertainment<\/a> industry.<\/p>

Bonta, who was sitting in the crowd at the March 20 spotlight hearing, vowed not to \"hesitate when we think that the law is being broken\" in Paramount's case.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26086808120432.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530592-1776263515", "title":"Congress must suspend federal fuel tax to provide gas price relief", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4530592%2Fcongress-must-suspend-federal-fuel-tax-gas-price-relief%2F", "byline":"Louis Bertolotti", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Mike Braun (R-IN) recently announced that he was suspending the state’s 7% sales tax on gasoline sales for 30 days. A few days earlier, Gov. Brian Kemp (R-GA) declared a similar two-month pause in the state’s 33-cent gasoline tax and 37-cent diesel tax.  What do these two leaders have in common? Braun and Kemp […]", "description":""

Gov. Mike Braun (R-IN) recently announced that he was suspending the state\u2019s 7% sales tax on gasoline<\/a> sales for 30 days. A few days earlier, Gov. Brian Kemp (R-GA) declared a similar two-month pause in the state\u2019s 33-cent gasoline tax<\/a> and 37-cent diesel tax.\u00a0<\/p>

What do these two leaders have in common? Braun and Kemp are each proud small business owners, and both are longtime members of the National Federation of Independent Business. They understand the serious impact that a rapid rise in fuel costs<\/a> has on a business.\u00a0<\/p>

NFIB represents nearly 300,000 small business owner members across the United States. Over the last few years, we have heard a rising number of concerns around the cost of energy<\/a> and how it impacts small businesses. <\/p>

MARK CARNEY ANNOUNCES SUMMERLONG PAUSE OF FEDERAL TAXES ON GAS AND JET FUEL AFTER SECURING LIBERAL MAJORITY<\/a><\/p>

Earlier this year, the results of NFIB\u2019s national energy survey showed that more than 80% of small businesses saw energy as a \u201csignificant\u201d cost factor in their operations, and 42% had seen costs grow \u201csubstantially\u201d in the last three years. High energy costs do not stop with the business owner. A majority in the survey reported that they had been forced to raise consumer prices to manage these new inputs. <\/p>

This research was conducted before the recent surge in gasoline and diesel prices. According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of gas today is approaching $4.25. That is an increase of nearly $1.00 since this time last year, with diesel prices surging even higher, up over $2.00 during that same period. <\/p>

Previous NFIB research showed that nearly all (96%) of small employers reported that higher gas and fuel prices have some degree of a negative impact on their business. Considering that 99% of all businesses in the U.S. are classified as small, affordable energy<\/a> is essential for the overall health of the American economy.\u00a0<\/p>

When energy is affordable and reliable, business owners can operate with the certainty they need to bolster their local economies, create more jobs, and give back to their communities across the country. <\/p>

State and federal gas taxes account for approximately 11% of the average retail price, according to the Congressional Research Service. The quickest way to provide relief to small business owners is to cut this out of the picture and give consumers an immediate, recognizable break.\u00a0<\/p>

RON DESANTIS SKEPTICAL OF STATE GAS TAX PAUSE: \u2018THE CONSUMER DOESN\u2019T SEE ANY DIFFERENCE\u2019<\/a><\/p>

Pro-small business governors in multiple states are recognizing this truth. Congress, now it is your turn to act. The federal excise gas tax<\/a> is 18.3 cents per gallon of gas and 24.3 cents per diesel gallon. Small businesses urgently need you to temporarily suspend these collections to help them adjust to the new prices. <\/p>

As a business owner, so many things are out of your control. As a member of Congress, they are not. Washington can, and must, act quickly to suspend the federal fuel tax and provide relief for small business owners across the nation. <\/p>

Louis Bertolotti is a principal of Federal Government Relations at the National Federation of Independent Business.\u00a0<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26097630491269_d4f0a6.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530223-1776262876", "title":"Winds of change in Latin America", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4530223%2Fwinds-of-change-latin-america%2F", "byline":"Sean Durns", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. “The quest for freedom,” President George H.W. Bush said in November […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cThe quest for freedom,\u201d President George H.W. Bush said in November 1989 after the Berlin Wall fell, \u201cis stronger than steel, more permanent than concrete.\u201d The president\u2019s ally and contemporary, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, cheered that an \u201cepoch in history is over.\u201d<\/p>

But in Latin America<\/a>, the Cold War never truly ended. For decades, America\u2019s own hemisphere continued to be populated with anti-American leftists and strongmen, enthralled with ideologies of old and in league with America\u2019s enemies abroad. Decades later, that finally seems to be changing.<\/p>

Latin America\u2019s so-called \u201cpink tide\u201d seems to be receding. That momentous change can be seen in one of its smallest countries.<\/p>

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa recently told<\/a> Bloomberg that he would \u201cwelcome\u201d U.S. troops to help confront the \u201csecurity crisis\u201d plaguing his country, provided that they operate with Ecuador\u2019s own armed forces.<\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s not an invasion,\u201d Noboa told reporters, \u201cit\u2019s not an intruder coming to our country.\u201d Rather, \u201cit\u2019s actually international collaboration against crime,\u201d Noboa said of U.S. forces deploying to help combat the country\u2019s narco-terrorists and gangs.<\/p>

Noboa\u2019s comments are a sea change.<\/p>

Just a decade prior, the country\u2019s then-president, Rafael Correa, had ruled with an iron fist and unscrupulous hands.<\/p>

Correa now lives in exile in Belgium, having been convicted<\/a> in absentia in 2022 for corruption. In 2007, in his mid-40s, he came to power as part of a wave of leftist, anti-American ideologues helming and often sinking their respective ships of state. In that same year, Argentina\u2019s Cristina Kirchner took office as president, succeeding her now deceased husband. Kirchner herself was also convicted<\/a> of corruption in 2022 and banned from holding any public office. Among other crimes, she was accused of colluding<\/a> with the Islamic Republic of Iran, the world\u2019s leading state sponsor of terrorism, whose proxies have a long presence in the region.<\/p>

Correa and the Kirchners were some of the Latin American leaders fawned over in leftist filmmaker Oliver Stone\u2019s 2009 \u201cdocumentary,\u201d South of the Border. Others included Bolivia\u2019s Evo Morales, Brazil\u2019s Lula, and Venezuela\u2019s Hugo Chavez, whom Stone called<\/a> a \u201cgreat hero.\u201d<\/p>

Now, only Lula remains. Chavez died of cancer in 2013 and was replaced by Nicolas Maduro, who now sits in an American jail cell. Morales, charged with corruption, briefly sought asylum in Mexico. He has since returned but is barred from holding public office and faces arrest warrants<\/a> for statutory rape.<\/p>

It is an appropriately grimy end for leaders who substituted anti-American tirades and populism for effective governance.<\/p>

SEAN DURNS: HOW THE US LOST LATIN AMERICA<\/a><\/p>

Latin America\u2019s so-called \u201cpink tide\u201d emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a counter, both literally and figuratively, to Washington\u2019s consensus. At the time, the United States was riding high and enjoying the so-called \u201cunipolar moment.\u201d America had won the Cold War, and freedom seemed to be on the march. Neoliberalism and unfettered free trade seemed to be the future.<\/p>

In retrospect, the election of Chavez in 1998 was a harbinger that the moment wouldn\u2019t last<\/a>. A few years before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks ushered in the War on Terror epoch, Chavez took power in one of the world\u2019s top oil-producing nations. In many respects, Chavez was a prototypical leftist caudillo, or strongman. He came from the military, had sought power in a coup, and looked to America\u2019s enemies for support.<\/p>

Chavez\u2019s success proved to be a disaster for Venezuela. Chavez turned the state into a repressive apparatus, imprisoning those who dared to question his rule. As importantly, he transformed Venezuela into a forward operating base for foes such as Russia, China, and Iran. Chavez\u2019s model<\/a>, Cuba\u2019s Fidel Castro, had done precisely that half a century prior.<\/p>

Notably, by the late 1990s, the failures of the Castro regime were undeniable. The Soviet Union, which kept the regime afloat, had collapsed, exposing the catastrophe of the Castro government\u2019s economic and political model for all to see. Castro and his apparatchiks called this period of shortages and suffering the \u201cSpecial Period,\u201d but the euphemism couldn\u2019t obscure the fact that communism was in the doldrums. The era of Cuba \u201cexporting\u201d its revolution seemed to be over.<\/p>

The rise of Chavez provided Cuba and his fervently anti-American ideology with a lifeline<\/a>. The Venezuelan dictator gave the aging Cuban kleptocrat the lifeblood that he sorely needed. Soon, other countries in the region followed suit, falling prey to the siren calls of anti-Americanism and anti-capitalism. For most of the last quarter-century, these regimes sprang up throughout the Western Hemisphere.<\/p>

The reasons for the pink tide were multifold. To be sure, portions of Latin America have long hosted a latent dislike and distrust of the U.S. Indeed, a number of American presidents, notably Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy, sought to shore up America\u2019s position in its hemisphere, believing that a century and more of military interventions had damaged America\u2019s standing.<\/p>

But appeasement and inattention were perhaps the foremost reasons for the deterioration of America\u2019s position in Latin America.<\/p>

After 9\/11, America\u2019s attention and energies were focused on the dangers posed by Islamist terrorism. The Obama administration, which took office right as the new wave of Latin American leftism was gaining force, tried to cast itself as its predecessor\u2019s polar opposite. In one of his first trips abroad, the new president shook Chavez\u2019s hand at the Summit of the Americas. This so-called \u201chandshake diplomacy\u201d signaled<\/a> that the new administration would be taking a different approach. Indeed, in 2012, Obama dismissed the idea that Chavez\u2019s Venezuela could pose a \u201cserious security threat\u201d to America and its interests.<\/p>

SEAN DURNS: WHY TRUMP TRAINED HIS SIGHTS ON VENEZUELA<\/a><\/p>

Chavez returned the favor, declaring<\/a> on live TV: \u201cIf I was from the U.S., I\u2019d vote for Obama.\u201d The American president, the dictator said, was a \u201cgood guy.\u201d<\/p>

The Obama administration\u2019s appeasement<\/a> of Latin American dictators arguably reached its apex with a trip to Cuba at the tail end of his presidency. In 2014, Obama eased the decades-old embargo on the island and lifted bans on travel and remittances. In 2015, the administration removed Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. In July of that year, the two countries restored diplomatic relations.<\/p>

In March 2016, Obama even visited Cuba. As his deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes proudly recounted in his memoir, absurdly titled The World As It Is, as Air Force One approached the island, Obama remarked, \u201cThat doesn\u2019t look like a national security threat to me.\u201d Shortly thereafter, Obama disgracefully attended a baseball game with then-Cuban leader Raul Castro, Fidel\u2019s brother and erstwhile enforcer, a dictator with the blood of innocents on his hands. Obama and Castro even did \u201cthe wave\u201d while taking in the game.<\/p>

But Cuba was, and is, a national security threat. While Obama and his aides were sharing America\u2019s pastime with their new dictator friends, Cuba was aiding America\u2019s enemies. Indeed, in 2014, nearly two years before Obama\u2019s infamous comment to Rhodes on Air Force One, Russia had reopened<\/a> its spy base in Cuba, a mere 90 miles from American shores. China also has spy bases in Cuba and has reportedly upgraded them in recent years.<\/p>

A decade later, Cuba\u2019s government is on the ropes. Cuban security forces, long feared<\/a> for their prowess, nonetheless failed<\/a> to protect Venezuelan strongman Maduro from being remanded into American custody in a daring U.S. military operation over Caracas.<\/p>

Since Chavez, Venezuela and its oil had kept Cuba\u2019s lights on. Now the island is in dire straits, enduring frequent blackouts<\/a> and extensive rationing. While nominally defiant, Cuba no longer has the leverage or strength that it once possessed.<\/p>

To be sure, a number of countries in the Western Hemisphere continue to present serious security challenges to the U.S. and its allies, including Mexico<\/a>, Nicaragua, and Guatemala, among others.<\/p>

SEAN DURNS: THE US LOOKS SOUTH: NATIONAL SECURITY CHALLENGES LOOM CLOSE TO HOME<\/a><\/p>

But the trendlines seem clear: Latin America is becoming more free, more prosperous, and, not coincidentally, more pro-American. Argentina is perhaps the best example. Instead of the corrupt Kirchners, the country is now ruled by Javier Milei, a free-market economist whose support<\/a> for the West and capitalism is a breath of fresh air in a region long polluted by the toxins of leftism and state control.<\/p>

This new birth of freedom has largely gone overlooked in the U.S., overshadowed by conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, and elsewhere. But its importance is likely to extend for years to come. Freedom, the old Cold Warrior Hubert Humphrey famously observed, is contagious.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/AP25287637671673.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530477-1776262132", "title":"Thune urges DOJ to wrap up Powell investigation ahead of Warsh confirmation", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Feconomy%2F4530477%2Fthune-doj-powell-probe-trump%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) is pushing the Trump administration to “wrap up” its investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, amid an ongoing Justice Department probe.  “I think it’s in everybody’s best interest to wrap up the investigation,” Thune said Wednesday. “I’ve said that before, it would be better if it winds down.” […]", "description":""

Senate Majority Leader John Thune<\/a> (R-SD) is pushing the Trump administration<\/a> to \"wrap up\" its investigation into Federal Reserve<\/a> Chairman Jerome Powell<\/a>, amid an ongoing Justice Department<\/a> probe.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI think it\u2019s in everybody\u2019s best interest to wrap up the investigation,\u201d Thune said Wednesday. \u201cI\u2019ve said that before, it would be better if it winds down.\u201d<\/p>

Powell, whose term as chairman expires next month, has long clashed with Trump over interest rate policy. Powell is under investigation by the Justice Department for allegedly lying to Congress about renovation costs for the Federal Reserve's Washington, D.C.<\/a>, headquarters.\u00a0<\/p>

The investigation appeared to intensify this week when Justice Department officials made a surprise visit<\/a> to the construction site Wednesday to inspect the project.\u00a0<\/p>

The uncertainty surrounding the investigation is threatening to complicate Trump\u2019s efforts to install a successor to Powell.\u00a0<\/p>

Kevin Warsh, Trump\u2019s nominee to replace Powell, faces a potential delay after Sen. Thom Tillis<\/a> (R-NC), a member of the Senate banking committee<\/a>, said he will hold Warsh\u2019s nomination in committee until the DOJ either provides evidence of criminal wrongdoing or ends the investigation.\u00a0<\/p>

Warsh\u2019s confirmation hearing is scheduled for next week. <\/p>

\u201cI think at some point they\u2019re going to have to deal with the committee and they\u2019re going to have to deal with Tillis,\u201d Thune said.<\/p>

Tillis has openly spoken against Powell\u2019s investigation, calling<\/a> it \u201cnothing more than a failed attack on Fed independence.\u201d  <\/p>

Meanwhile, Trump escalated his rhetoric, saying in a Wednesday interview with Fox Business that he would fire Powell if he did not step down.\u00a0<\/p>

WHISTLEBLOWER CONTACTED DEMOCRATS BEFORE FILING TRUMP COMPLAINT THAT LED TO FIRST IMPEACHMENT, RECORDS SHOW<\/a><\/p>

\u201cIf he\u2019s not leaving on time \u2014 I\u2019ve held back firing him. I\u2019ve wanted to fire him, but I hate to be controversial. I want to be uncontroversial,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26089649953439.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530115-1776261701", "title":"House advances legal protections for Haitian migrants over GOP objections", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4530115%2Fhouse-advances-legal-protections-haitian-migrants-gop-objections%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Legislation that would restore temporary legal status for Haitian migrants advanced in the House on Wednesday after a handful of Republicans helped Democrats in a largely party-line vote. The bill, spearheaded by Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) and other House Democrats, cleared a procedural vote with the help of several Republicans who moved to reverse the […]", "description":""

Legislation that would restore temporary legal status for Haitian<\/a> migrants advanced in the House on Wednesday after a handful of Republicans helped Democrats in a largely party-line vote.<\/p>

The bill, spearheaded by Rep. Ayanna Pressley<\/a> (D-MA) and other House Democrats, cleared a procedural vote with the help of several Republicans who moved to reverse the Trump administration's decision to end temporary protected status for Haiti.<\/p>

Ordinarily, GOP leadership would have control over what gets a vote on the House floor, but Democrats were able to skirt that decision-making using a tool known as a discharge petition<\/a>. The 219-209 vote likely clears the way for final passage later this week.<\/p>

\"In the last 40 years, only 15 discharge petitions have reached this threshold,\" Pressley said at a press conference. \"The progress is testament to the strength of our movement, the power of our collective action, and our bipartisan solidarity in this fight.\"<\/p>

\"Today, we take this fight to the House floor to move this forward, because the stakes could not be higher right now \u2014 more than 350,000 Haitian nationals living in the United States face the threat of losing temporary protected status,\" she continued.<\/p>

Four Republicans originally joined all Democrats to reach the 218-signature threshold needed for a discharge petition, and each supported the bill on the floor Wednesday. Those Republicans were Reps. Mike Lawler (R-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL). Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), and Kevin Kiley (I-CA) also voted \"yes.\"<\/p>

\"To me, this is common sense to address a very specific issue, to extend TPS and allow the process to work,\" Lawler, who represents a district with the second-largest Haitian diaspora per capita in the country, said at the press conference. \"This is currently in the court system, but I think Congress has a responsibility to act. Our immigration system has been broken for 40 years. It needs to be fixed.\"<\/p>

Malliotakis told the Washington Examiner that letting TPS expire would be \"un-compassionate and misguided.\" <\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019ve heard from nursing homes in our district that will lose skilled and dedicated nursing staff if TPS is not renewed,\" she said. \"These are Haitian immigrants who are working, paying taxes and contributing to our economy and fulfilling a healthcare need. To strip them of their status and deport them to a country in peril would be un-compassionate and misguided.\u201d<\/p>

The bill aims to extend temporary status for three years, until 2029, after Trump announced last year that he would terminate the protections for Haitians in the United States with an end date in February. The decision has since been blocked or delayed by the courts, leaving the status in place for the time being.<\/p>

TPS is a program that gives certain immigrants temporary permission to stay and work in the U.S. due to unsafe conditions in their home country. It can be granted due to natural disasters, armed conflict, or other factors.<\/p>

The Forum<\/a>, a coalition of immigration-related groups, notes that as of March 2025, more than 330,000 Haitians had been granted protected status under the program.<\/p>

BOEBERT EYEING BILL TO STRIP SWALWELL OF $22,000 ANNUAL TAXPAYER-FUNDED PENSION <\/a><\/p>

Republican opponents say the Biden administration expanded TPS to individuals who would not normally qualify.<\/p>

\"I voted against it because at the end of the day, we don't need to be extending those folks temporary protective status.\" Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC) told the Washington Examiner. \"We had wide-open southern border for the last four years under President Joe Biden, caused all sorts of chaos in our country.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/IMG_8513-e1776269522112.jpeg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530521-1776261522", "title":"Why the US-Indonesia defense pact is a big deal", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fbeltway-confidential%2F4530521%2Fwhy-us-indonesia-defense-pact-big-deal%2F", "byline":"Sean Durns", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The United States and Indonesia have announced a major defense cooperation partnership. The partnership promises to be a boon to both countries and ends America’s long history of overlooking Indonesia’s strategic potential. On Monday, War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the MDCP is “intended to serve as a guiding framework […]", "description":""

The United States and Indonesia have announced a major defense cooperation partnership. The partnership promises to be a boon to both countries and ends America\u2019s long history of overlooking Indonesia\u2019s strategic potential.<\/p>

On Monday, War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the MDCP is \u201cintended to serve as a guiding framework to advance bilateral defense cooperation.\u201d In a joint statement<\/a>, the two defense heads said the partnership has three pillars of cooperation, including military modernization, training and professional military education, and exercises and operational cooperation.<\/p>

Additionally, as a \u201csymbol of this elevated partnership,\u201d the two nations agreed to enhance joint special forces training to \u201cadvance mutual security interests\u201d and \u201cforge even stronger, more resilient bonds\u201d between American and Indonesian service members.<\/p>

The announcement is welcome news. Indonesia matters, and for the U.S. and its growing interests in the Indo-Pacific, it matters a great deal.<\/p>

Indonesia is the fourth-most populous nation in the world, the third-largest democracy, and the largest Muslim-majority state. But demographics alone don\u2019t tell the story. Geography also makes Indonesia consequential.<\/p>

Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world and sits astride major sea lanes connecting East Asia, South Asia, and Oceania.\u00a0Major maritime chokepoints<\/a> such as the Malacca Strait, upon which an estimated 20%-25% of globally traded goods and 35% of seaborne oil pass, lurk nearby. Other nations such as Singapore and Malaysia are also close to these critical transit points, but they lack Indonesia\u2019s population and military and economic heft.<\/p>

Indeed, the country could play a key role in the emerging contest between the U.S. and China.<\/p>

Like other middle powers, Indonesia could seek to hedge between the two. Indonesia has long chosen \u201cnonalignment,\u201d preferring to forego, to the extent possible, taking a side in great power rivalries. That was certainly the path that Jakarta took during the last Cold War.<\/p>

But it might not be possible this time around. After all, the preeminent battleground for this Cold War isn\u2019t Europe or Berlin. Rather, it\u2019s Indonesia\u2019s own backyard. And the stakes are even greater.<\/p>

China\u2019s expansionist ambitions are no secret. Beijing seeks mastery<\/a> of the Indo-Pacific, the part of the world that will account for the majority of the world\u2019s GDP. Chinese President Xi Jinping considers himself to be Asia\u2019s \u201cMan of Destiny<\/a>.\u201d For Indonesia, \u201cnonalignment\u201d might be an ambition out of step with geographic realities.<\/p>

SEAN DURNS: A NEW WORLD ORDER IS HERE, AND IT IS HERE TO STAY<\/a><\/p>

In this sense, it makes sense for Indonesia to seek an enhanced partnership with the U.S., just as it makes sense for American policymakers to look to the Asian nation to shore up deterrence and capabilities in a part of the world that some have warned is a \u201csimmering cauldron.\u201d<\/p>

In both foreign policy and war, options are a good thing to have. The recent MDCP offers precisely that and prioritizes what is sure to be an increasingly important relationship.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/IMG_2986.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530487-1776261377", "title":"Virginia joins the ‘national popular vote’ electoral scam", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4530487%2Fvirginia-joins-national-popular-vote-electoral-scam%2F", "byline":"Zachary Faria", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Virginia has become the latest state to sign onto the scam that is the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, the Democratic Party’s attempt to undercut our electoral system and rig the system in their favor. Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) signed into law Virginia’s commitment to this national popular vote promise, where states pledge to give […]", "description":""

Virginia<\/a> has become the latest state to sign onto the scam that is the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, the Democratic Party\u2019s<\/a> attempt to undercut our electoral system and rig the system in their favor.<\/p>

Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) signed into law Virginia\u2019s commitment to this national popular vote promise, where states pledge to give their electoral votes to whichever president wins the fictional national popular vote, regardless of how the residents of the state vote. The promise will only take effect once the compact has the support of at least 270 electoral votes. Virginia brings the total to 222.<\/p>

AMERICANS ARE MOVING IN GREAT NUMBERS, AND SCRAMBLING THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE MAP<\/a><\/p>

There is a litany of problems with this proposal. For one, the states involved pledge to commit their electoral votes based on an irrelevant metric. Presidential candidates aren\u2019t running to win the \u201cnational popular vote,\u201d and yet these states would punish them for not pursuing it. It is incoherent given our current system.<\/p>

The idea of a national popular vote system would also further undermine trust in elections. The Electoral College<\/a> disincentivizes voter fraud (and foreign interference) by making it harder to alter national election results in just one location. Converting the system to the national popular vote would make it easier for fraudsters and foreign agitators, who would know simply that they need to add more votes (or remove more votes) to alter results. And, even if such fraud did not happen, you can imagine the national mood when a candidate appears likely to win on election night only for California\u2019s monthlong vote counting to flip the result.<\/p>

Most importantly, though, is that Democrats have already shown the playbook they wish to pursue back in the 2024 election. That was when Colorado<\/a> fought to have President Donald Trump removed from the ballot over an assumed crime for which he was never charged. The Supreme Court righted that wrong, but the Democratic Party showed its hand: It wants to remove Republicans from the ballot entirely.<\/p>

THE GOP\u2019S UNFAIR ELECTION ADVANTAGE: GOOD GOVERNANCE<\/a><\/p>

There were nearly 1.4 million voters in Colorado who voted for Trump in 2024. Maine and Illinois also heavily pushed for Trump\u2019s disqualification<\/a>, which would disenfranchise another 2.8 million or so Trump voters. Trump won the \u201cnational popular vote\u201d by some 2.3 million votes. All three of those states have signed onto the popular vote compact, and all three have shown that they want to alter the national popular vote by making it impossible to vote for the Republican candidate.<\/p>

This is all a sham, and everyone knows that these Democratic states would change the rules at the last minute, the moment a Republican lost the Electoral College but won the \u201cpopular vote.\u201d This is the Democratic Party trying to undermine the electoral system so it can placate voters crammed into Democratic cities and ignore the rest of the country, because it doesn't want to do the work of winning over voters that live outside of Los Angeles or New York City.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Fea.GovUnion3.041526.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530129-1776260839", "title":"Democrats may move to expel Cory Mills if GOP targets Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick: Pete Aguilar", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4530129%2Fpete-aguilar-democrats-expel-cory-mills-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar (D-CA) said Wednesday that the party may move to expel Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL) if House Republicans go after Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL). Mills and Cherfilus-McCormick are awaiting the results of the House Ethics Committee’s respective investigations into their alleged misconduct. The Republican is facing scrutiny related to allegations […]", "description":""

House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar<\/a> (D-CA) said Wednesday that the party may move to expel Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL) if House Republicans<\/a> go after Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL).<\/p>

Mills and Cherfilus-McCormick are awaiting the results of the House Ethics Committee's respective investigations into their alleged misconduct. The Republican is facing scrutiny related to allegations of dating violence and campaign finance violations, while the Democrat is accused of the latter.<\/p>

Their investigations mark the latest ethics scandals rocking the House<\/a> after Reps. Eric Swalwell<\/a> (D-CA) and Tony Gonzales<\/a> (R-TX) resigned this week due to sexual assault allegations.<\/p>

When asked how House Democrats<\/a> will respond if Republicans propose an expulsion for Cherfilus-McCormick next week, Aguilar said that \"all options are on the table.\" His comment suggests Democrats may put forward an expulsion resolution for Mills in this case.<\/p>

\"We reserve the right to respond based on how Republicans treat this,\" the top Democratic leader said at a press conference. \"If they want to treat this overly political, then we respect that and we\u2019ll respond to that.\"<\/p>

The House Ethics Committee is set to reveal the Florida<\/a> Democrat's formal punishment on Tuesday after the panel found her guilty of 25 counts of financial misconduct, including campaign finance violations. Mills is undergoing a similar process for the slew of allegations facing him.<\/p>

Aguilar declined to comment further on disciplining the two embattled House members until the ethics investigations are over.<\/p>

\"We'll see what the committee comes back with as a recommendation for the sanctions,\" Aguilar told reporters. \"I'm not going to prejudge what they're going to put forward. We will react when they put something out, and we'll see what steps we take on the House floor after that.\"<\/p>

Swalwell and Gonzales were threatened with expulsion, but they avoided the process by voluntarily tendering their resignations on Tuesday.<\/p>

Aguilar and Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA), the vice chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, both denied any knowledge of Swalwell's sexual misconduct before the allegations came out late last week.<\/p>

Aguilar said he was \"shocked and sad\" to hear about the salacious claims, and Lieu said he had \"no idea\" about them.<\/p>

The expulsion efforts are now focused on Mills and Chefilus-McCormick, both of whom have strongly denied wrongdoing.<\/p>

HOUSE TURNS FOCUS TO CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK AND MILLS IN ETHICS CRACKDOWN: \u2018TWO DOWN, MORE TO GO\u2019<\/a><\/p>

\"I\u2019ve never sexually harassed and\/or had any complaints by any staffers or interns on the Hill. It's just not even a fair comparison,\" Mills said<\/a> of the alleged similarities between his case and those of Swalwell and Gonzales. \"This is obviously a political Democratic tit-for-tat.\"<\/p>

House Speaker Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA) supports the idea of potentially expelling Cherfilus-McCormick from Congress, saying the \"facts are indisputable.\" The congresswoman has repeatedly challenged the allegations that she stole $5 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency<\/a> disaster funds to finance her 2022 congressional campaign and enrich herself. Separately, she faces a federal indictment for the misuse of said funds.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26084813603775.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530018-1776260096", "title":"Kentucky General Assembly overrides almost all of Andy Beshear’s vetoes in last week of session", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4530018%2Fkentucky-legislature-override-andy-beshear-vetoes%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Andy Beshear‘s (D-KY) legislative policy input has been halted by the Republican supermajority in the general assembly, as the Kentucky state legislature overrode almost all of the Democratic governor’s 2026 session vetoes. The Kentucky Senate and House supermajorities voted this week to override almost all of Beshear’s legislative vetoes, totaling over two dozen, showing […]", "description":""

Gov. Andy Beshear<\/a>'s (D-KY) legislative policy input has been halted by the Republican supermajority in the general assembly, as the Kentucky<\/a> state legislature overrode almost all of the Democratic governor's 2026 session vetoes<\/a>.<\/p>

The Kentucky Senate and House supermajorities voted this week to override almost all of Beshear's legislative vetoes, totaling over two dozen, showing the limits of the Democratic governor's power in a red state where 80% of the state house and 84% of the state senate are controlled by Republicans.<\/p>

\"The General Assembly wasted no time on Day 59 of the 2026 Legislative Session, swiftly overriding all 32 of Governor Andy Beshear's vetoes of various bills,\" the Kentucky Senate majority said in a statement<\/a>. \"@GovAndyBeshear, by a wide margin, holds the record for most legislation enacted over a governor's attempt to stop them.\"<\/p>

The Bluegrass State governor, who has not been shy about his ambitions for higher public office, had his legislative input on topics such as age restrictions for concealed firearm carry and voter ID overturned in the final week of the 2026 legislative session. All of his 32 vetoes, except three line-item vetoes to the two-year state budget, were overridden, according<\/a> to Louisville Public Media.<\/p>

In Kentucky, 18-year-olds will soon be able to obtain provisional licenses to conceal carry firearms after the General Assembly overrode Beshear's veto to strike down the bill lowering the age from 21. In his veto message<\/a>, Beshear argued that \"Kentuckians under age 21 cannot rent a car, cannot buy alcohol, cannot buy tobacco products, cannot consume medical cannabis through vapor devices, and cannot be a State Representative or Senator,\" saying these laws were \"meant to protect our youth.\"<\/p>

The General Assembly also overrode Beshear's veto of House Bill 139, a multifaceted elections bill that includes multiple provisions reforming state elections. The bill<\/a> raises the limits on political donations, allows the state to work with the federal government to identify illegal immigrants voting in elections, and bars voters from relying on several forms of identification, such as electronic benefit transfer cards, Social Security cards, and food stamp identification cards.<\/p>

\"House Bill 139 would make it more difficult for Kentuckians to vote, erode the independence of the judiciary in elections, expand the authority of the State Board of Elections to share sensitive voter information with the federal government, and give part-time legislators more authority to shift campaign funds between accounts than ever before in our history,\" Beshear wrote in his veto<\/a>. <\/p>

RANKING THE 2028 DEMOCRATIC HOPEFULS AT AL SHARPTON\u2019S NATIONAL ACTION NETWORK<\/a><\/p>

Several of the other veto overrides touched legislation that aims to reduce wasteful spending in Kentucky's medicaid services, enhance protections for gun manufacturers from liability lawsuits, and raise the legal age to sports betting from 18 to 21.<\/p>

The Washington Examiner has reached out to Beshear's office for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26012669143999-e1771524853490.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530070-1776259057", "title":"Jeanine Pirro accused of trying to ‘circumvent’ Jerome Powell investigation through unprompted Fed ‘tour’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4530070%2Fjeanine-pirro-circumvent-jerome-powell-investigation-fed-tour%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Federal prosecutors working under U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro attempted to “circumvent” court limits on their investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell by making an unannounced visit to the Fed construction site and requesting a “tour,” lawyers for the central bank said Tuesday. According to an email reviewed by the Washington Examiner, outside counsel Robert […]", "description":""

Federal prosecutors working under U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro<\/a> attempted to \u201ccircumvent\u201d court limits on their investigation into Federal Reserve<\/a> Chairman Jerome Powell<\/a> by making an unannounced visit to the Fed construction site and requesting a \u201ctour,\u201d lawyers for the central bank said Tuesday.<\/p>

According to an email reviewed by the Washington Examiner, outside counsel Robert Hur rebuked the effort after officials from Pirro\u2019s office arrived without notice and asked to \u201ccheck on progress\u201d at the central bank\u2019s headquarters renovation project \u2014 an issue already at the center of a stalled criminal investigation.<\/p>

\u201cAs you know, Chief Judge James Boasberg<\/a> has concluded that your interest in the Federal Reserve\u2019s renovation project was pretextual,\u201d wrote Hur, who is representing the Fed. \u201cShould you wish to challenge that finding, the courts provide an avenue for you; it is not appropriate for you to try to circumvent it.\u201d<\/p>

Hur added that prosecutors should not attempt to contact the Federal Reserve outside the presence of counsel.<\/p>

The visit occurred Tuesday morning, according to a source familiar with the matter, and involved prosecutors Steven Vandervelden and Carlton Davis, along with investigator Matthew Fox-Moles. The officials did not call ahead and briefly interacted with contractors working on the active job site, raising safety concerns due to the active construction zone at the Fed building in Washington.<\/p>

The unusual visit came amid a feud between President Donald Trump<\/a> and the Federal Reserve, with Trump repeatedly pressuring Powell over interest rate decisions and criticizing the central bank\u2019s leadership as out of step with his economic agenda. But the episode on Tuesday marked a new escalation in the Justice Department<\/a>\u2019s struggling investigation into Powell over his congressional testimony regarding the costly, yearslong renovation of the Federal Reserve\u2019s historic buildings.<\/p>

The investigation has centered on cost overruns tied to the Federal Reserve\u2019s multiyear headquarters renovation, which has reportedly ballooned far beyond its original budget. Officials aligned with the inquiry have pointed to Powell\u2019s congressional testimony about the project as a basis for scrutiny.<\/p>

But the case has already been significantly curtailed in court. In March, Boasberg, a nominee of former President Barack Obama, blocked subpoenas issued<\/a> by Pirro\u2019s office, finding the government had produced \u201cessentially zero evidence\u201d of criminal wrongdoing. A subsequent attempt to revive those subpoenas was rejected earlier this month. Her office has yet to appeal Boasberg\u2019s decision.<\/p>

Despite those rulings, Pirro defended the attempted inspection Tuesday night, pointing to reported cost overruns tied to the Federal Reserve project.<\/p>

\u201cAny construction project that has cost overruns of almost 80% over the original construction budget deserves some serious review,\u201d she said<\/a> in response to a Wall Street Journal report that first referenced the Tuesday visit.<\/p>

Hur, who was appointed U.S. attorney for the District of Maryland by Trump in 2018, later served as special counsel investigating then-President Joe Biden<\/a>\u2019s handling of classified documents, concluding that while Biden had willfully retained sensitive materials, Hur did not feel he could secure a conviction on criminal charges because a jury would likely see him as a \u201cwell-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.\u201d<\/p>

He was hired in March to represent<\/a> the Federal Reserve's Board of Governors.<\/p>

The unannounced visit adds new pressure to an already complicated confirmation process for\u00a0Kevin Warsh<\/a>, Trump's nominee to replace Powell. Sen.\u00a0Thom Tillis<\/a> (R-NC)\u00a0has said he will block the nomination until the DOJ drops its Powell investigation, while Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman\u00a0Tim Scott<\/a> (R-SC)\u00a0signaled the inquiry could wrap up soon, a move that appears to contrast with the administration's current decision process.<\/p>

Trump indicated Wednesday that he wants the investigation to continue, describing it as both a criminal inquiry and a broader examination of \u201cincompetence.\u201d And if Powell stays on as Fed governor after his successor is confirmed, Trump told Fox Business, \"I'll have to fire him.\"<\/p>

DOJ POISED TO APPEAL AFTER JUDGE AFFIRMS BLOCK ON POWELL SUBPOENAS<\/a><\/p>

\"If he\u2019s not leaving on time \u2014 I\u2019ve held back firing him,\" Trump added. \"I\u2019ve wanted to fire him, but I hate to be controversial. I want to be uncontroversial.\"<\/p>

A spokesperson for the DOJ referred the Washington Examiner to Pirro's office, and a Pirro spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25199534511895.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530313-1776258831", "title":"Tom Homan tells Vatican to ‘stay out of politics’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fimmigration%2F4530313%2Ftom-homan-tells-vatican-stay-out-of-politics%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Border czar Tom Homan fired back at the Catholic Church amid the feud between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV. “I just wish they’d stick to fixing the church because there’s issues — I know because I’m a member — and stay out of politics,” Homan said outside the White House Tuesday. Fox News […]", "description":""

Border czar Tom Homan<\/a> fired back at the Catholic Church<\/a> amid the feud between President Donald Trump<\/a> and Pope Leo XIV<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cI just wish they\u2019d stick to fixing the church because there\u2019s issues \u2014 I know because I\u2019m a member \u2014 and stay out of politics,\u201d Homan said outside the White House<\/a> Tuesday.<\/p>

Fox News posted the clip<\/a> on X.<\/p>

Homan criticized the church\u2019s view on Trump\u2019s immigration<\/a> policies.<\/p>

\u201cSecure borders save lives,\u201d Homan said. \u201cA secure border is the most humane thing we can do.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cTrump has illegal immigration down 97%. When 97% less people come in, how many women aren't being raped making that journey by the cartel? How many women and children aren't being sex trafficked? How many people aren't dying making that journey?\u201d Homan said.<\/p>

Homan cited a \u201chistoric record\u201d number of people \u2014 4,000 \u2014 who died crossing the border<\/a> during the Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>

He also cited a \u201chistoric record\u201d of a quarter million people who died from fentanyl<\/a> during the Biden administration.<\/p>

TRUMP WANTS POPE LEO TO KNOW THAT \u2018IRAN HAS KILLED 42,000 INNOCENT\u2019 PROTESTERS<\/a><\/p>

Congressional documents cite reporting from CNN <\/a>that said, \u201cMore than 93,000 people died from drug overdoses in 2020, according to preliminary data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, making last year [2020] the deadliest on record for drug overdoses.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cI wish they\u2019d sit down with me and hear my experiences,\u201d Homan said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/homan.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529787-1776258068", "title":"Trump administration tells court its tariff refund system will launch Monday", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4529787%2Ftrump-administration-tariff-refund-system-launch-monday%2F", "byline":"Jack Birle", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Trump administration told a federal court this week that it plans to launch its system for issuing tariff refunds on Monday, two months after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs. Officials at Customs and Border Protection told Judge Richard Eaton, of the U.S. Court of International Trade, that they […]", "description":""

The Trump administration<\/a> told a federal court this week that it plans to launch its system for issuing tariff<\/a> refunds on Monday, two months after the Supreme Court struck down<\/a> President Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs.<\/p>

Officials at Customs and Border Protection told<\/a> Judge Richard Eaton, of the U.S. Court of International Trade, that they are \"on track\" to launch the first phase of the refund system on Monday. The Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries system will process refunds of duties imposed by the administration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which the Supreme Court struck down 6-3 on Feb. 20.<\/p>

The CAPE system set to be launched by CBP will give importers one consolidated payment, with interest, rather than refunds for each individual item's IEEPA duty. Eaton noted in an order discussing what happened at the closed-door conference that the CAPE system would be open to all importers affected by the IEEPA tariffs, not just those who have not filed claims to the Court of International Trade.<\/p>

In a filing<\/a> to the federal court on Tuesday, Brandon Lord, director for the Trade Programs Directorate at the CBP Office of Trade, said 56,497 importers have already completed the process to receive refunds for IEEPA duties imposed on their products, for a total of roughly $127 billion in refunds if all those importers use the CAPE tool launching next week.<\/p>

Eaton ordered the government to offer another update to the court about its refund process for the IEEPA tariffs by April 28, continuing the regular updates he has demanded from the administration on how it has worked to complete the refunds.<\/p>

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WILL ALLOW COMPANIES TO APPLY FOR TARIFF REFUNDS<\/a><\/p>

While the Trump administration works to provide refunds for the sweeping \"Liberation Day\" tariffs the Supreme Court rejected earlier this year, the administration faces continued lawsuits over tariffs it has attempted to implement under other authorities after that adverse ruling by the high court.<\/p>

Last week in the Court of International Trade, a judge heard arguments in a lawsuit brought by various Democrat-led states over the legality of a different set of sweeping tariffs Trump has implemented using Section\u00a0122\u00a0of the 1974 Trade Act. The law allows Trump to impose duties of up to 15% without congressional approval for 150 days, but the lawsuit argues the president\u00a0has a \u201cfatally flawed\u201d justification for invoking\u00a0Section\u00a0122\u00a0to impose the tariffs.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26071239129411-1.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530141-1776257827", "title":"Democrats push anti-Trump messaging bills with little hope of passing", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4530141%2Fdemocrats-anti-trump-messaging-bill%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Over the past several months, Democrats have rolled out a series of messaging bills aimed squarely at targeting President Donald Trump and his policies, underscoring their strategy heading into the 2026 midterm elections. However, the legislation included in the push, which spans issues from war powers to impeachment, has a near-zero chance of passing.   Democrats […]", "description":""

Over the past several months, Democrats<\/a> have rolled out a series of messaging bills aimed squarely at targeting President Donald Trump<\/a> and his policies, underscoring their strategy heading into the 2026 midterm elections<\/a>.<\/p>

However, the legislation included in the push, which spans issues from war powers to impeachment, has a near-zero chance of passing.  <\/p>Democrats Disapprove of weapons sales to Israel

In the most recent messaging bill, 40 Democrats voted to block a weapons sale to Israel, representing a growing divide in the party over U.S. support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Sen. Bernie Sanders<\/a> (I-VT) authored two Senate resolutions opposing the U.S. sale of specific weapons and equipment to Israel, which might be used against Iran. The bill received support from Democrats, despite Minority Leader Chuck Schumer<\/a> (D-NY) voting against both resolutions.<\/p>

\u201cBeing a stalwart friend of Israel\u2026does not mean agreeing with all decisions of the Israeli Government or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,\u201d Sens. Adam Schiff<\/a> (D-CA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) said<\/a> in a statement.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cWe oppose actions that further deepen the United States in an unauthorized conflict in Iran\u2014one with no clear strategy, no legal authority, and no defined end,\u201d they concluded.<\/p>War powers fight intensifies

Democrats have zeroed in on Trump\u2019s military actions in Iran<\/a>, arguing he failed to properly consult Congress<\/a> before initiating operations.<\/p>

Under the War Powers Resolution<\/a>, the president can deploy military force for up to 60 days after notifying Congress. Trump formally notified lawmakers on March 2, giving him until May 1 before authorization is required, though the conflict began on February 28.<\/p>

Lawmakers in both chambers have pushed for votes to rein in the administration, framing the effort as both constitutional oversight and political accountability.<\/p>

\u201cUpon our return, we will force another vote on the House floor around the War Powers Resolution that will compel the Trump administration to cease military hostilities immediately,\u201d House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries<\/a> (D-NY) said<\/a> last week.<\/p>

Sen. Adam Schiff<\/a> (D-CA) echoed that push, accusing Republicans<\/a> of avoiding debate. <\/p>

\u201cDonald Trump is now escalating his illegal war against Iran, instituting a blockade that will both put U.S. servicemembers at risk and drive up costs worldwide,\u201d Schiff said<\/a>. \u201cIf Senate Republicans will not do their basic constitutional duty \u2026 we will force the debate they are avoiding.\"<\/p>

The Senate has voted on War Powers three times since the beginning of the war with Iran. The votes failed with limited bipartisan support.<\/p>

Republicans have largely dismissed the efforts as political maneuvering.<\/p>

\u201cThe goal is to suck up floor time,\u201d said<\/a> Sen. Bernie Moreno<\/a> (R-OH).<\/p>

Moreno was backed by Sen. James Lankford <\/a>(R-OK), who said: \u201cWar powers is a delay tactic and a messaging bill.\u201d<\/p>Targeting personal financial gain 

Sen. Elizabeth Warren<\/a> (D-MA) and several Democrats introduced a bill Wednesday that would bar the president, vice president, and their families from collecting lawsuit settlements from the federal government.<\/p>

The measure follows Trump\u2019s $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service and Treasury Department after his and his sons\u2019 tax records were leaked. <\/p>

\u201cWhile American families are getting flattened by skyrocketing costs, Donald Trump is trying to snatch up billions of taxpayer dollars to line his own pockets and settle personal scores,\u201d Warren said<\/a> in a statement.<\/p>Calls for removal

Some Democrats have introduced legislation tied to Trump\u2019s fitness for office.<\/p>

Rep. Jamie Raskin<\/a> (D-MD), a top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee<\/a>, unveiled a bill to create a 17-member commission to evaluate whether the 25th Amendment could be invoked, which allows provisions for a president to be removed from office if deemed mentally unfit. <\/p>

The measure has 50 co-sponsors but faces steep procedural hurdles. Vice President JD Vance<\/a> would have to sign off on the commission\u2019s findings, and Congress would need a supermajority vote to approve Trump\u2019s removal.<\/p>

The proposal follows calls from more than 85 Democrats for impeachment or removal after Trump said that \u201cwhole civilization will die tonight\u201d in reference to the Iranian people.<\/p>

Rep. John Larson (D-CT), who introduced separate articles of impeachment, argued the president\u2019s rhetoric signals instability. \u201cHe\u2019s becoming more unstable by the day,\u201d Larson said<\/a>, warning that the comments \u201cput our security at risk.\u201d<\/p>Broader messaging push

Beyond Trump directly, Democrats are expanding their messaging efforts. <\/p>

HERE'S WHERE HOUSE AND SENATE RETIREMENTS STAND IN 2026<\/a><\/p>

House Democrats are preparing to launch a task force focused on ethics reforms and voting access, according to the Associated Press.<\/a><\/p>

They have also introduced articles of impeachment against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth<\/a> on Wednesday, accusing him of war crimes and abuse of power.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26101754825241.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529950-1776257617", "title":"‘Summer House’ reality TV star Luke Gulbranson launches run for Congress in Minnesota", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4529950%2Freality-tv-luke-gulbranson-congress-minnesota%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Reality television star Luke Gulbranson is running for office in Minnesota’s 8th District. Gulbranson is seeking to challenge incumbent Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN), who is currently serving his fourth term in Congress. His campaign launch ad showcases his love of hockey and time as a coach, his work as a businessman, and his career in […]", "description":""

Reality television star Luke Gulbranson is running for office in Minnesota\u2019s<\/a> 8th District.<\/p>

Gulbranson is seeking to challenge incumbent Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN), who is currently serving his fourth term in <\/a>Congress. His campaign launch ad<\/a> showcases his love of hockey and time as a coach, his work as a businessman, and his career in reality television<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cYeah, I\u2019ve been on reality TV, that\u2019s drama for show,\u201d Stauber said in his ad. \u201cWhat\u2019s happening in D.C. is real drama with real consequences, and the stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. I wake up every morning, and there\u2019s this dangerous rhetoric and this madness coming out of D.C., and I can\u2019t stand it.\u201d<\/p>

Gulbranson lists the deployment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> \u201cwreaking havoc to our communities\u201d as well as \u201cspending $200 billion on a war.\u201d He is running as a Democrat, according to<\/a> the\u00a0Minnesota <\/a>Star Tribune.<\/p>

Gulbranson is mostly known for his role on Summer House, a Bravo reality television show where multiple young people in their 20s and 30s share a summer house in the Hamptons, New York, as they film their weekends throughout the summer. He made his debut in season four.<\/p>

Gulbranson spent a large chunk of his show discussing his time living in Minnesota as well as his hobbies, including hockey and fishing.<\/p>

Gulbranson\u2019s bid for Congress isn\u2019t out of the ordinary, as Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy was also a reality television star<\/a> before serving in Congress in Wisconsin\u2019s 7th District. Duffy\u2019s\u00a0son-in-law is seeking office in the same district<\/a>.<\/p>

MIDTERM ELECTIONS HANG OVER SENATE ALITO SPECULATION<\/a><\/p>

The Washington Examiner contacted Stauber\u2019s office for comment.<\/p>

Gulbranson\u2019s announcement comes a day after Olivia Troye, an adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence<\/a>, announced her run for office as a Democrat in Virginia<\/a>. She is one of multiple candidates preparing to run in the 7th Congressional District that is up for a vote in a statewide proposal<\/a> next week to change the district map to favor Democrats.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/IMG_6407-e1776265664444.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529986-1776257427", "title":"Jan. 5 pipe bomb suspect hit with terrorism and weapon of mass destruction charges in new indictment", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4529986%2Fjanuary-5-pipe-bomb-suspect-terrorism-weapon-of-mass-destruction-charges%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A federal grand jury returned a new indictment Wednesday against the man accused of planting pipe bombs near the Democratic and Republican national committee headquarters on the eve of Jan. 6, 2021, adding terrorism-related charges that significantly escalate the stakes of the case. The defendant, Brian Cole Jr., now faces four federal counts, including interstate […]", "description":""

A federal grand jury returned a new indictment Wednesday against the man accused of planting pipe bombs near the Democratic and Republican national committee headquarters on the eve of Jan. 6<\/a>, 2021, adding terrorism-related charges that significantly escalate the stakes of the case.<\/p>

The defendant, Brian Cole Jr., now faces four federal counts, including interstate transportation of explosives, malicious attempt to use explosives, and a new charge alleging he attempted to use a weapon of mass destruction, according to the filing<\/a>. Prosecutors also added a terrorism-related charge under Washington, D.C.<\/a>, law, accusing Cole of acting with the intent to influence government policy and intimidate civilians.<\/p>

The updated indictment sharpens the government\u2019s theory that the devices were not only dangerous but part of a broader effort to target the nation\u2019s political infrastructure. Prosecutors allege Cole sought to damage property and coerce both government entities and the public, a key element supporting the terrorism enhancement.  <\/p>

Cole, 30, is accused of planting two improvised explosive devices outside the DNC and RNC headquarters on Jan. 5, 2021. The devices did not detonate and were later rendered safe by law enforcement, although authorities maintain they were functional.<\/p>

Separately, federal prosecutors last week pushed back on Cole\u2019s attempt to have the case dismissed under President Donald Trump\u2019s<\/a> sweeping Jan. 6-related pardons. In an April 10 filing<\/a>, the Justice Department argued Cole is \u201ccategorically excluded\u201d from the proclamation because it applied only to individuals charged with offenses tied to conduct at or near the Capitol on Jan. 6 \u2014 not the placement of explosives the night before.<\/p>

Investigators have cited surveillance footage, cellphone location data, and purchase records for bomb components as evidence tying Cole to the devices. In earlier filings, prosecutors said Cole confessed after his arrest, telling authorities he was motivated by frustrations over the 2020 election and a desire to \"speak up\" about his frustration with the political environment. However, prosecutors have not provided evidence that Cole was motivated by a particular ideology.<\/p>

Cole, who was\u00a0arrested in early December,\u00a0pleaded not guilty<\/a>\u00a0in January to the original two counts and is expected to enter an additional plea related to the two new charges added Wednesday. The prosecution is being handled by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia, which is led by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.<\/p>

FBI INVESTIGATED FORMER CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER IN JAN. 6 PIPE BOMB CASE, FILINGS SAY<\/a><\/p>

Cole\u2019s defense team has pointed to his autism diagnosis and obsessive-compulsive disorder, while some outside detractors of the government's narrative, including Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), have questioned the strength of the case<\/a> and whether the government arrested the correct suspect.<\/p>

The defense team said in defense filings earlier this month that discovery material provided by the FBI suggested a U.S. Capitol police officer at the time of the riot, who now works for the CIA, was a person of interest before the FBI began looking into Cole as a suspect. That former Capitol police officer, Shauni Kerkhoff, failed a polygraph test when asked about whether she planted the pipe bombs, the defense filing said. Kerkhoff, through a lawyer, has previously denied involvement in the attempted pipe bombing.<\/p>

A judge has ordered Cole to remain detained pending trial.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AP25339720068249.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529844-1776257079", "title":"Magyar demands Hungarian president step down or else be removed by force", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4529844%2Fmagyar-hungary-sulyok%2F", "byline":"Timothy Nerozzi", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Hungary’s incoming head of government so despises the nation’s head of state that he is ordering him to step down, or else face expulsion. Incoming Prime Minister Péter Magyar, who clinched an electoral victory over long-standing premier Viktor Orbán on Sunday, believes Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok is “unworthy of representing the unity of the Hungarian […]", "description":""

Hungary's incoming head of government<\/a> so despises the nation's head of state that he is ordering him to step down, or else face expulsion.<\/p>

Incoming Prime Minister P\u00e9ter Magyar, who clinched an electoral victory over long-standing premier Viktor Orb\u00e1n<\/a> on Sunday, believes Hungarian President Tam\u00e1s Sulyok is \"unworthy of representing the unity of the Hungarian nation\" due to his association with the outgoing leader.<\/p>

\"Following the formation of the new government, President Tam\u00e1s Sulyok must step down from office,\" Magyar said on Wednesday.<\/p>

The incoming premier is hardly bashful about his loathing, denouncing Sulyok to his face while visiting S\u00e1ndor Palace the same day.<\/p>

\"I repeated to him that, in my eyes and in the eyes of the Hungarian people, he is unworthy of embodying the unity of the Hungarian nation, incapable of ensuring respect for the law,\" Magyar told the press following the meeting.<\/p>

He said Sulyok responded to his call for resignation \"enigmatically,\" but assured supporters that his party will take action if the president does not step down voluntarily.<\/p>

The president is compelled to meet with the incoming prime minister and formally nominate him to his office. The process of forming the next government will then begin.<\/p>

Sulyok has affirmed to the public that he will \"convene the inaugural session of the National Assembly on the earliest possible date following the finalization of the results,\" though \"preparatory consultations\" will begin in the coming days.<\/p>

The president's public statements amid Magyar's demands have been largely dispassionate.<\/p>

\"[Sulyok] is unfit to serve as the guardian of legality,\" Magyar wrote on social media<\/a> alongside a picture with the president. \"He is not fit to serve as a moral authority or a role model.\"<\/p>

The Tisza party racked up a solid majority in the Hungarian parliament on Sunday, giving it broad powers to pass legislation and even amend the national constitution.<\/p>

The next parliament is expected to be convened in early May, and Magyar claims it will immediately prepare laws to remove Sulyok and other Orban-aligned officials from office.<\/p>

UKRAINE HAS NO 'UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS' FOR HUNGARY AS IT PITCHES ITSELF AS ALLY TO MAGYAR<\/a><\/a><\/p>

President Donald Trump was one of Orban's strongest international allies<\/a> and even deployed Vice President JD Vance to stump for the prime minister ahead of the ill-fated election.<\/p>

Observers wondered whether the White House would spurn the incoming prime minister due to his strong support for Hungarian cooperation within the European Union, but Trump affirmed Wednesday that he considers Magyar a \"good man.\"<\/p>

\"I think he\u2019s going to do a good job,\" the president said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-cdvhnjw0k-1776267827293-e1776271454529.jpg?1776257070&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530073-1776256769", "title":"Ro Khanna pushes Medicare for all, free college, free trade school agenda", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4530073%2Fcalifornia-rep-ro-khanna-pushes-free-free-free-agenda%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) is calling for Medicare for all, at the expense of taxing billionaires and withholding funds for Iran. Khanna spoke at a National Press Club luncheon and called for national health insurance with “Medicare for all.”  He said it’s important because having healthcare linked to a job is risky, as workers face […]", "description":""

Rep. Ro Khanna<\/a> (D-CA) is calling for Medicare<\/a> for all, at the expense of taxing billionaires and withholding funds for Iran.<\/p>

Khanna spoke at a National Press Club luncheon and called for national health insurance<\/a> with \u201cMedicare for all.\u201d <\/p>

He said it\u2019s important because having healthcare linked to a job is risky, as workers face the potential of losing their job or changing jobs. <\/p>

\u201cWe need Medicare for all. That\u2019s a better system, with better outcomes where healthcare is guaranteed to every single person from the day they are born.\u201d<\/p>

Khan\u00a0went<\/a> on to say<\/a>, \u201cFor our young people, whose assured career opportunity is not limited by your family\u2019s wealth, we need free college and free trade schools.\u201d<\/p>

The Republican National Committee Research page on X posted a video<\/a> of Khanna on Tuesday, and said, \u201cKhanna calls for socialized healthcare<\/a> and \u2018free\u2019 college<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>

REPUBLICANS PRAISE VIDEO CHALLENGING RO KHANNA ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION<\/a><\/p>

Khanna replied<\/a> to the X post with, \u201cYes I am for Medicare for all & free college and trade schools. Tax billionaires. No funding for war in Iran.\u201d<\/p>

Earlier this month, Rev. Al Sharpton pressed Khanna<\/a> about a 2028 White House bid<\/a>, which Khanna did not rule out.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/rokhanna.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530063-1776255017", "title":"Johnson forced to cancel foreign spy powers vote over privacy-hawk opposition", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4530063%2Fhouse-delays-vote-fisa-gop-leadership-deal-hardliners%2F", "byline":"Hailey Bullis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) was forced to cancel a procedural vote to extend a key government surveillance authority on Wednesday as a band of GOP privacy hawks threatens to sink the measure without a commitment to reforms. The postponement of the procedural rule vote on a “clean” extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence […]", "description":""

Speaker Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA) was forced to cancel a procedural vote to extend a key government<\/a> surveillance authority on Wednesday as a band of GOP<\/a> privacy hawks threatens to sink the measure without a commitment to reforms.<\/p>

The postponement of the procedural rule vote on a \"clean\" extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is a blow to GOP leaders, who were hoping to get a deal across the finish line ahead of an April 20 deadline to reauthorize the program.<\/p>

Johnson told reporters that GOP leadership is \"working through some final details\" with holdouts. <\/p>

Members of the House Freedom Caucus, which often causes trouble for leadership, have been vocal in their opposition to extending the program without reforms that build on the 2024 changes. <\/p>

When asked if there will be amendments tacked onto the FISA extension, Johnson said: \"Just wait and see. I can\u2019t really project all that yet.\"<\/p>

Earlier on Wednesday, Johnson, who was previously pushing for a \"clean\" extension of the spy program, said he was discussing the possibility of \u201cminor modifications to the bill\u201d with hardliners. But as an afternoon vote inched closer with no deal coming to fruition, Johnson was forced to scrap plans for the afternoon vote. <\/p>

The speaker told the Washington Examiner that \"different ideas\" have been floated on how to reform Section 702, which allows warrantless wiretapping of noncitizens overseas. Among those under discussion are additional restrictions on search queries and enhanced penalties if there's a violation.<\/p>

But GOP leadership is arguing that changes made in 2024 are sufficient to safeguard the privacy of Americans who get caught up in the foreign surveillance and is pressing for a final House vote before the authorities lapse on Monday.<\/p>

Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) told reporters that leadership hoped to find an agreement that did not force the legislation to be sent back to the House Rules Committee, which voted to advance a clean extension of FISA on Tuesday evening in a party-line vote.<\/p>

\"We're still working through some final pieces of what could hopefully be an agreement to get it done, so we don't have to go back to the Rules committee,\" Scalise said. \"We can just amend the rule that they moved out yesterday. We'll do that on the floor.\"<\/p>

The Wednesday impasse marked the second time Johnson has been forced to push back a vote<\/a> to reauthorize FISA, as he was forced to do so in March due to hardliner opposition. <\/p>

Johnson can only lose two GOP votes on the floor, given his slim control of the House. Some Democrats are expected to vote for final passage, but procedural steps are typically cast along party lines.<\/p>

Coming out of a Wednesday morning conference meeting, GOP holdouts appeared open to striking a deal on FISA, with House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris (R-MD) saying it was \u201cpossible\u201d an agreement would be made.<\/p>

Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) was noncommittal about whether he would support the rule, which is the first hurdle the legislation must pass on the House floor, telling the Washington Examiner, \"We'll see what the progress is.\"<\/p>

HERE'S WHERE HOUSE AND SENATE RETIREMENTS STAND IN 2026<\/a><\/p>

Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) told reporters he hopes leadership does not bring the legislation to the floor until \"we've had a chance to work out the issues.\"<\/p>

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) has also threatened to vote \"no\" on an extension to the program unless elements of a voter integrity measure, called the SAVE America Act, are included.<\/p>

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court reapproved the spy program in March<\/a>, allowing the surveillance powers to continue operating until March 2027, even if Congress does not strike an agreement over the authority. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26076684753747.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529951-1776254765", "title":"Trump is content with leaving naval blockade in place until Iran shows it’s serious about a deal: White House", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4529951%2Fus-iran-negotiations-blockade-strait-hormuz%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump is “content” with leaving the naval blockade of ships heading to or coming from Iranian ports “until the Iranians show they are serious about making a deal,” a White House official told the Washington Examiner on Wednesday. The president announced the U.S. and Iran had agreed to a two-week ceasefire last week […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> is \"content\" with leaving the naval blockade of ships heading to or coming from Iranian ports \"until the Iranians<\/a> show they are serious about making a deal,\" a White House official told the Washington Examiner on Wednesday.<\/p>

The president announced the U.S. and Iran had agreed to a two-week ceasefire last week pending Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway off their coast that they have shut down since the start of the conflict. The first round of U.S. and Iranian negotiations took place last Saturday in Islamabad, Pakistan, though it ended without a long-term deal.<\/p>

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz for ships that don't pay, or that come from or are going to their ports, has had wide-reaching ramifications on the global economy. It was their primary way of retaliating against the U.S., considering its military is not up to par with America's armed forces.<\/p>

IRAN WAR DISRUPTS GLOBAL ALUMINUM SUPPLY, PROLONGING SHORTAGES FOR MONTHS<\/a><\/p>

In light of Iran's closure and the subsequent economic pain, Trump announced last Sunday that the U.S. would begin its own blockade of vessels going to or coming from Iranian ports so they feel the same economic burden they have imposed on the rest of the world. <\/p>

Adm. Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Central Command, said on Tuesday night that \"an estimated 90% of Iran's economy is fueled by international trade by sea. In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, U.S. forces have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea.\"<\/p>

During the first 48 hours of the blockade, no ships made it past U.S. vessels, and nine merchant vessels complied with orders from U.S. forces to turn around and reenter an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman, CENTCOM said in a statement.<\/p>

A U.S. Central Command spokesperson told the Washington Examiner on Wednesday, \"U.S. forces continue to implement a pause on offensive strikes into Iran.\"<\/p>

CENTCOM released audio of a U.S. navy sailor giving orders to a vessel. <\/p>

\"The U.S. has announced a formal blockade of Iranian ports and coastal areas. This is a legal action. All vessels are advised to immediately return to port if leaving and discontinue transit to Iran if that is your next port of call,\" the unidentified sailor said. \"Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure transiting to or from an Iranian port. Turn around and prepare to be boarded. If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force.\u201d<\/p>

Vice President JD Vance, special presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump's son-in-law and former foreign policy adviser Jared Kushner led the U.S. delegation in the meeting in Islamabad. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi <\/a>led the Iranian side.<\/p>

There are \"discussions about a second round of talks, but nothing has been scheduled,\" the White House official added.<\/p>

Vance said in an interview on Fox News there are two subjects in which the U.S. has \"no flexibility,\" in their negotiating stance, and those are on the securing and removing Iran's enriched uranium, which is believed to be buried underground in the destroyed facilities U.S. forces targeted in the June 2025 operation, and the second is on verification mechanisms to ensure Iran does not seek a nuclear weapon.<\/p>

The ceasefire is set to expire next Tuesday, though it's unclear if the administration is interested in extending it, if a deal hasn't been reached by then. The 2-week agreement was announced shortly before a Trump-imposed deadline, in which Trump threatened to authorize the military to bomb various parts of Iranian infrastructure like power plants and bridges.<\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

It's unknown if Trump would authorize those types of strikes if the ceasefire ends without an extension or agreement.<\/p>

\"A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,\" Trump said the morning the deal was announced. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2270840884.jpg?w=594" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529818-1776254400", "title":"WATCH LIVE: Leavitt and Scott Bessent hold a White House press briefing on Tax Day", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529818%2Fwatch-live-leavitt-bessent-white-house-press-briefing-tax-day%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 1 p.m., featuring Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Kelly Loeffler, head of the Small Business Administration. HOW TAX FILING HAS CHANGED DUE TO TRUMP’S ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT Bessent, Loeffler, and Leavitt will focus their remarks on Tax Day messaging, […]", "description":""

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt<\/a> will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 1 p.m., featuring Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent<\/a> and Kelly Loeffler<\/a>, head of the Small Business Administration.<\/p>

HOW TAX FILING HAS CHANGED DUE TO TRUMP\u2019S ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT<\/a><\/p>

Bessent, Loeffler, and Leavitt will focus their remarks on Tax Day messaging, and are reportedly<\/a> expected to zero in on how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is changing tax filing season for Americans. Provisions such as \"no tax on tips\" and \"no tax on overtime\" have allowed working Americans to claim more deductions, bringing in higher tax refunds<\/a> across the country.<\/p>

The Treasury chief is also likely to face questions about the war in Iran<\/a>, the day after Bessent encouraged the Federal Reserve to continue to \"wait and see\" <\/a>how the conflict would affect the economy before cutting\u00a0interest rates<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Trump-auto-tariffs.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4530029-1776254382", "title":"How Hungary matters ", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4530029%2Fhow-hungary-matters-viktor-orban-election-defeat%2F", "byline":"Michael Barone", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"What’s the big deal about Hungary? It’s a central European country with 9.5 million people — slightly less in population and area than the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. But it’s been the subject of more care, attention, and debate in America than any other country in Europe or the Western Hemisphere.  Vice President JD Vance […]", "description":""

What\u2019s the big deal about Hungary<\/a>? It\u2019s a central European country with 9.5 million people \u2014 slightly less in population and area than the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. But it\u2019s been the subject of more care, attention, and debate in America than any other country in Europe or the Western Hemisphere.\u00a0<\/p>

Vice President JD Vance <\/a>was in Budapest the Tuesday before Hungary\u2019s election last Sunday and, with President Donald Trump<\/a> chiming in over the phone, gave 16-year incumbent Viktor Orban<\/a> an endorsement in all but name. Vance praised Orban\u2019s \u201cgenerous family subsidies\u201d<\/a> and decried European Union<\/a> \u201cbureaucrats in Brussels,\u201d who have been fining Hungary 1 million euros a day for declining to admit refugees.<\/p>

On Monday, after Orban\u2019s Fidesz party was soundly defeated by ex-Fidesz Peter Magyar\u2019s Tisza party, former President Barack Obama called the result \u201ca victory for democracy\u201d<\/a> and for \u201cfairness, equality, and the rule of law.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

Now diplomats generally favor incumbents in other countries\u2019 elections \u2014 no need to adjust to new interlocutors \u2014 and American governments have sometimes intervened in European elections. But usually clandestinely, as when the infant CIA thankfully took sides against Stalin\u2019s communists in France and Italy. What prompts the current vice president and a former president to take opposite sides in Hungary\u2019s election?<\/p>

THE SUDDEN POLITICAL STAR OF TRUMP II: MARCO RUBIO<\/a><\/p>

To understand that, it helps to go back in time \u2014 not just to 2010, when Orban won his first of four elections, but back into the 19th century, when Austria-Hungary was a major power, and perhaps even to the century and a half from 1526 to 1699, when what is now Hungary as part of the Ottoman Empire was Muslim-ruled territory.\u00a0<\/p>

Through this turbulence, it held on to its distinctive and famously hard-to-master Hungarian language and fostered artistic and scientific achievement. Josef Haydn composed his hundred-plus symphonies in a Hungarian castle, and Franz Liszt, in his sold-out concert tours, emphasized his Hungarian roots. Budapest, like Berlin, Buenos Aires, and Chicago, was one of the boom cities of the late 19th and early 20th centuries \u2014 an industrial and political powerhouse and processing point for fertile agricultural plains.\u00a0<\/p>

It was the Budapest physician Ignaz Semmelweiss who developed in the 1840s the antiseptic procedures which would likely have saved President James Garfield in 1881, and it was just a few Budapest high schools who produced in the years just before and after World War I the Nobel Prize-winning physicists Leo Szilard, Eugene Wigner, John von Neumann, Edward Teller \u2014 who made essential contributors to President Franklin Roosevelt\u2019s Manhattan Project in the 1940s.<\/p>

For more than a century, Hungarians have denounced the 1920 Treaty of Trianon, which left more ethnic Hungarians than any other European group outside national boundaries. So has Viktor Orban, who was elected in 2010 after the former Communist Party government admitted to lies about budget deficits.<\/p>

Orban riled European elites when he declared Hungary an \u201cilliberal democracy\u201d in 2014 and refused to follow the lead of German Chancellor Angela Merkel in allowing an influx of hundreds of thousands of young male Muslim \u201crefugees\u201d in 2015. For reasons that are unclear, European elites seem to consider opposition to admitting migrants who feel entitled to assault un-headscarfed women and gay men as morally equivalent to Hitler\u2019s Holocaust.\u00a0<\/p>

Orban\u2019s emphasis on Christian values, family formation, and national pride was fiercely criticized by EU elites as somehow fascist. He was also charged with winning through gerrymandering. Actually, Hungary\u2019s parliament is partly chosen, as in much of continental Europe, by proportional representation and partly by elections in single-member districts. Fidesz has been anathema in Budapest, Hungary\u2019s largest city, with almost one-fifth of the national population. But in line with the metropole-versus-countryside pattern that has become common in Europe, Britain, and America, the Fidesz party, in its four election victories against split opposition, carried almost every countryside district beyond the Budapest metropole.<\/p>

That naturally gave the party, even as it was winning between 45% and 54% of popular votes, the two-thirds parliamentary majority needed to make constitutional changes<\/a>. That system gave Fidesz more than two-thirds of the seats in 2022 when it beat a left-right coalition 54% to 34% in popular votes. But this year it delivered a similar supermajority to the newly formed Tisza party when it led Fidesz by 52% to 39% in the popular vote.<\/p>

Tisza was led by former Fidesz official Peter Magyar, who split with the party over corruption issues but supported its restrictions on immigration. EU leaders were happy to overlook that, as it became increasingly clear that Merkel, as with her closure of nuclear power plants and her open borders refugee policy, erred grievously. As Rod Dreher, an American resident at Budapest\u2019s Danube Institute blogged<\/a>, \u201cOrb\u00e1n\u2019s tragedy is that Europe is finally coming around to his point of view on the importance of strong borders.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

MICHAEL BARONE: THIRTY-NINE DAYS: TOO MUCH OR NOT ENOUGH?<\/a><\/p>

Orban stood apart from much of Europe on one other issue, Russian President Vladimir Putin\u2019s war on Ukraine<\/a>. Like some others on the American Right (Tucker Carlson? Steve Bannon?), he seems to have seen Putin as a paragon of Christian civilization and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a manipulative provocateur. Orban was holding up approval of EU aid to Ukraine. Magyar seems sure to release that veto.\u00a0<\/p>

How much the Europeans and the British will actually do to help Ukraine remains unclear. But offloading this responsibility to them seems to be one of the aims of Trump, even in the moments when he is not indulging his unaccountable confidence that Putin genuinely seeks peace. In that respect, Hungarian voters \u2014 and Orban, by his prompt and ungrudging concession \u2014 have altered European policy, even as on migration Europe seems to have moved toward the path laid out by the Hungarian leader they scorned. Hungary, once again, is something of a big deal.<\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26096659151242.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529888-1776253877", "title":"Megyn Kelly on Swalwell sending explicit photos: ‘No woman wants that’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4529888%2Fmegyn-kelly-swalwell-explicit-photos%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Podcast host and former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly is setting the record straight when it comes to sending explicit photos and messages through social media, referring to ex-congressman Eric Swalwell. “I just want to state, again, for all men out there: No woman wants that,” Kelly said Tuesday on the Megyn Kelly Show. Swalwell, […]", "description":""

Podcast host and former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly<\/a> is setting the record straight when it comes to sending explicit photos and messages through social media, referring to ex-congressman Eric Swalwell<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cI just want to state, again, for all men out there: No woman wants that,\u201d Kelly said Tuesday on the Megyn Kelly Show.<\/p>

Swalwell, who was a Democratic U.S. representative of California<\/a>, is under fire after accusers came forward with sexual assault<\/a> allegations. It has prompted an investigation<\/a> into the congressman. Since then, several staff members called for him to resign, which he ultimately did<\/a> Tuesday; he also recently dropped out of the California gubernatorial race.<\/p>

Another woman<\/a> came forward after his resignation, detailing how he allegedly drugged and raped her in a hotel room. Swalwell has denied all allegations.<\/p>

Kelly referenced a clip from CBS Mornings<\/a>, where Swalwell's accusers went on camera to speak for the first time.\u00a0<\/p>

One of the accusers, Ally Sammarco, whose accusations were first detailed in a CNN report<\/a>, said Swalwell asked her if she was on Snapchat<\/a>. She said what started as political and platonic messages soon turned more explicit.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cOne night, he was on a trip, and he was laying in his hotel room bed, and then he sent me a photo of his penis,\u201d Sammarco said.<\/p>

\u201cWomen don't work the same way men do when it comes to getting turned on,\u201d Kelly said. \u201cMaybe send a picture of your bicep, or depending on your situation, your wallet.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cBut the dick pics \u2014 it doesn't work like that. Pretty much all men would appreciate a naked photo of a woman. Women aren't dying to have a naked photo of the guy,\u201d she continued.<\/p>

NEWSOM SETS DATE FOR SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL SWALWELL\u2019S HOUSE SEAT<\/a><\/p>

Kelly said men should maybe try a picture of being nurturing with children to show the role of a caregiver and \u201cloving husband.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/0415Kelly-e1776263882437.png?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529649-1776253500", "title":"The King is coming. Don’t mention the war!", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwashington-secrets%2F4529649%2Fking-charles-iii-coming-dont-mention-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Rob Crilly", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Welcome to Wednesday’s Washington Secrets. British officials last night unveiled plans for the King’s state visit, which runs from April 27 to 30. The emphasis? Less president, more people. Plus, we take a look at the Rose Garden photo op that was sort of fake but not totally fake. And is JD Vance starting to […]", "description":""

Welcome to Wednesday's Washington Secrets. British officials last night unveiled plans for the King's state visit, which runs from April 27 to 30. The emphasis? Less president, more people. Plus, we take a look at the Rose Garden photo op that was sort of fake but not totally fake. And is JD Vance starting to make his move?<\/p>

King Charles III<\/a> will meet President Donald Trump at least five times during his state visit at the end of the month.<\/p>

He will sit down for a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office and share toasts at a state dinner.<\/p>

But you would be forgiven for thinking that the White House and its main resident were just one stop on a broader American visit, according to briefings given by British officials.<\/p>

\"Their Majesties are here to join the U.S. people in celebrating 250 years of friendship, common history and common values,\u201d said a senior British official during a briefing call with American media on Tuesday evening. \u201cThere will be a real emphasis on people-to-people links, that is, both the historic connections as well as the modern bilateral relationship.\"<\/p>

Charles's visit comes at a particularly turbulent time in trans-Atlantic relations.<\/p>

With Trump\u2019s strikes on Iran desperately unpopular in Britain and the president\u2019s repeated potshots at the country\u2019s prime minister<\/a> and its armed forces, the theme for the tour might as well be \u201cdon\u2019t mention the war,\u201d to borrow from the famous Fawlty Towers episode.<\/p>

Or the politics. Which could be hard with a president famous for putting Oval Office guests in a tight spot in front of the cameras.<\/p>

This time around, the meeting is scheduled to be very private.<\/p>

MIKE JOHNSON INVITES UK ROYALS TO GIVE JOINT ADDRESS TO CONGRESS ON 250TH YEAR OF INDEPENDENCE<\/a><\/p>

And besides the pomp of the White House, officials are stressing the \u201cpeople-to-people\u201d meetings. There will be a visit to New York, with an event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9\/11 as well as a reception to celebrate the work of the King\u2019s charity for underprivileged young people.<\/p>

Queen Camilla will mark the 100th birthday of Winnie the Pooh.<\/p>

The final day of the visit brings a swing through Virginia. Think performances by Appalachian cultural groups and what officials said would be a \u201cblock party\u201d as part of the American 250th anniversary celebrations.<\/p>

There will also be a trip to a national park, a reminder of the King\u2019s keen interest in the environment.<\/p>

\u201cAs well as all of the high pageantry and ceremony you expect in a state visit in Washington, D.C., their Majesties will meet Americans in cities, towns, and rural communities,\u201d said the official. \u201cWe want to showcase the strength and breadth of the alliance. \u201cThis is not about politics.\"<\/p>

The King, under the complicated norms and traditions of the British constitution, stays out of politics anyway.<\/p>

But Trump is famous for turning any occasion into a chance to put guests on the spot or pit competing political interests against one another. Can he refrain from a dig at Sir Keir Starmer, the King\u2019s prime minister?<\/p>

On Wednesday morning, even with details of the state visit fresh in the headlines, the president was threatening to rip up Washington's trade deal with London<\/a>.<\/p>

No wonder the itinerary minimizes any possible awkward moments with just a single full day in Washington. <\/p>

Still, British officials will be hoping that Trump, who inherited his love of the royal family from his Scottish mother, follows the same playbook he used during his own state visit to Windsor Castle, when he was on very best behavior.<\/p>Was the DoorDash delivery faked? Sort of...

When a DoorDash delivery driver arrived at the doors of the Oval Office bearing bags of McDonald's<\/a>, President Donald Trump turned to the waiting reporters. \u201cThis doesn\u2019t look staged, does it?\u201d he said.<\/p>

It was, of course. But the visit of Sharon Simmons, who styles herself \"DoorDash Grandma,\" lifted the curtain on how these photo ops are arranged and their pitfalls in an age when no one believes what they see online.<\/p>

After the delivery, designed to highlight Trump\u2019s measure removing tax from tips, Simmons told reporters that the visit had been a month in the planning.<\/p>

And she said that she had made $11,000 from the new tax break in the past year, which had helped fund her husband\u2019s cancer treatment.<\/p>

\u201cYou do everything that you can,\u201d she told reporters. <\/p>

\u201cAnd you know you go through your life savings, but this no tax on tips and the help from DoorDash is life changing.\u201d<\/p>

The answers from the Arkansas grandmother of 10 were too good to be true for some viewers.<\/p>

They found her testimony<\/a> last year to the House Ways and Means Committee in Nevada, where she made the case for \u201cno tax on tips\u201d.<\/p>

So was she from Nevada or Arkansas? And was she a paid actor, asked social media users, who wondered why kept popping up at events.<\/p>

You could hear the exasperation in the string of posts by Julian Crowley, the head of public affairs at DoorDash as he responded to reasonable questions that quickly spiraled into conspiracies.<\/p>

\u201cNope she\u2019s a Dasher and a grandma,\u201d Crowley posted in reply to someone going by the handle @cryptojourneysrs. \u201cShe gave evidence to lawmakers to support No Tax on Tips. A policy which passed the Senate unanimously. She moved to Arkansas and then came to DC to celebrate No Tax on Tips becoming law.\u201d<\/p>

Later he admitted, to no one\u2019s great surprise, that the delivery was not exactly spontaneous. After all, visitors have to be vetted.<\/p>

\u201cNo one is claiming it was a real delivery. It was clearly and obviously a planned event to mark a new policy starting,\u201d Crowley posted. \"To claim Sharon is a prop, plant or an actor is totally wrong and off base. She is a Dasher and she participated to support the policy that benefits her.\u201d<\/p>

In the end, he had to tell one user to \u201ctouch grass\u201d \u2014 in other words, get off the internet and go experience the real world for a bit.<\/p>Quote of the day

Vice President JD Vance<\/a> was onstage in Georgia last night addressing a Turning Point audience. Inevitably, Pope Leo XIV<\/a>\u2019s row with Trump came up. <\/p>

The issue is particularly thorny for Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019.<\/p>

Once again, he defended the bombing of Iran against papal criticism, this time comparing it with defeating the Nazis in World War II.<\/p>

But is there a hint of daylight between him and the president? Whereas in an earlier interview, the VP said the pope should stay out of American affairs, this time he struck a more pragmatic tone.<\/p>

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t bother me when he speaks on issues of the day, frankly, even when I disagree with how he\u2019s applying a particular principle,\u201d he said.<\/p>

At some point, Vance will have to strike out on his own if he is serious about a 2028 run. Is this the start of refining his positions?<\/p>Lunchtime reading

David Axelrod\u2019s art of political war<\/a>: So just why was President Barack Obama's campaign guru meeting with the Pope last week?<\/p>

US allies won\u2019t join Trump\u2019s war \u2014 but they can\u2019t escape the fallout<\/a>: \"Leaders who once tried to appease and flatter the world\u2019s most powerful man are now daring to criticize him and seeking distance.\"<\/p>

You are reading Washington Secrets, a guide to power and politics in D.C. and beyond. It is written by Rob Crilly, who you can reach at secrets@washingtonexaminer.com<\/a> with your comments, story tips, and suggestions. If a friend sent you this and you\u2019d like to sign up, click here<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25261340510230.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529943-1776252894", "title":"Hundreds of hospice providers suspended in Los Angeles over $600 million in suspected fraud", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4529943%2Fhundreds-hospice-providers-suspended-suspected-fraud%2F", "byline":"Mia Cathell", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Vice President JD Vance’s anti-fraud task force has suspended hundreds of hospices suspected of fraudulently billing for end-of-life services in Los Angeles, an area identified by both state and federal authorities as a hospice fraud hot spot. The newly appointed White House task force, headed by Vance, issued suspensions this week against 447 hospices and […]", "description":""

Vice President JD Vance's<\/a> anti-fraud task force has suspended hundreds of hospices suspected of fraudulently billing for end-of-life services in Los Angeles<\/a>, an area identified by both state and federal authorities as a hospice fraud<\/a> hot spot.<\/p>

The newly appointed White House task force<\/a>, headed by Vance, issued suspensions this week against 447 hospices and 23 home health agencies operating out of Los Angeles, pausing payments to providers believed to have defrauded federal healthcare programs out of more than $600 million.<\/p>

\u201cWhere there is fraud, the task force will find it,\u201d a spokesperson for Vance told<\/a> Fox News Digital. \u201cWe will not stop until every hard-earned taxpayer dollar goes toward the honest Americans who deserve them.\u201d<\/p>

The number of suspensions marks roughly a 539% increase from the 70 suspensions the government ordered at the beginning of April, Fox News Digital reported<\/a>. At the time, dozens of Los Angeles-based hospice and home health providers had their funding paused within one week after the White House task force flagged their billing activity as high risk for fraud.<\/p>

BOGUS BUSINESSES AND \u2018LAX\u2019 OVERSIGHT: HOW HOSPICE FRAUD HAS FLOURISHED IN CALIFORNIA<\/a><\/p>

Following the suspensions, the White House warned fraudsters that remedial action will only intensify in the coming weeks as the task force ramps up its investigations.<\/p>

\u201cTo all fraudsters: good luck trying to hide from the Vice President\u2019s task force,\u201d a White House official told Fox News Digital. \u201c[The anti-fraud task force is] reviewing and pursuing every possible lead. These suspension numbers, and the dollar values saved, are only going to increase.\u201d<\/p>

The task force is using an artificial intelligence-driven detection system to identify potentially fraudulent Medicaid claims nationwide. Prior to the Trump administration, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services<\/a> would have to manually unenroll compromised providers, as opposed to the streamlined A.I. approach that automatically flags irregular billing practices.<\/p>

In addition to imposing suspensions, Vance\u2019s fraud-fighting task force has the power, by presidential decree<\/a>, to audit, force repayment from, and terminate the billing privileges of healthcare providers.<\/p>

Those sanctioned can also lose their eligibility status for claiming Medicare or Medicaid reimbursements, landing themselves on the banned providers list<\/a>, and be \u201cdebarred\u201d<\/a> from entering contracts with the federal government or receiving grant money.<\/p>

In early April, the FBI arrested<\/a> eight people in California, including nurses, a chiropractor, and a psychologist, on suspicion that they stole more than $50 million from the nation\u2019s healthcare system.<\/p>

Some of the defendants were accused<\/a> of operating sham palliative care services that used patients without long-term or terminal illnesses as beneficiaries.<\/p>

The raids were conducted as part of Operation Never Say Die, a targeted takedown of suspicious hospice agencies in the Los Angeles area that claim to serve dying patients.<\/p>

Republicans have blamed<\/a> Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) and other California Democrats for allowing fraud to proliferate on their watch with lax oversight policies and little internal controls in place to prevent abuse of federal healthcare funds.<\/p>

VANCE KICKS OFF ANTI-FRAUD TASK FORCE AIMED AT STOPPING \u2018THEFT\u2019 OF TAXPAYER MONEY<\/a><\/p>

\u201cIn 10 weeks, we\u2019re getting close to what Gov. Newsom did in four years,\u201d CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz<\/a> said.<\/p>

The California crackdown is a continuation of the Trump administration\u2019s broader \u201cwar on fraud,\u201d<\/a> which Vance was tapped to lead earlier this year.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-kprv5y7ee-1776096343708-e1776098447924.jpg?1776085239&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529939-1776251724", "title":"On This Day: Despite pending British attack on New York, George Washington sends troops to Canada", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fcolumnists%2F4529939%2Fgeorge-washington-new-york-canada%2F", "byline":"Salena Zito", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. April 15, 1776 New York proves to be an early […]", "description":""

The following is an installment of \u201cOn This Day,\u201d a series celebrating America\u2019s 250th anniversary<\/a> by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.<\/p>

April 15, 1776<\/p>

New York proves to be an early challenge for Gen. George Washington<\/a>. He is unfamiliar with the terrain, having spent the past year in and around Cambridge, Massachusetts.<\/p>

Washington writes to Second Continental Congress<\/a> President John Hancock candidly admitting that he is still learning the ground around him in New York, finding defenses incomplete and the situation demanding constant adjustment.<\/p>

He spends the rest of the day sending off several correspondences from his new headquarters in the bustling city. At the top of his mind? Canada.\u00a0<\/p>

Despite the pending British attack on New York, he decides to order four regiments northward, something that seriously weakens his command strength in a city still home to a robust population of Loyalists. In one of his correspondences, he writes<\/a> to Maj. Gen. John Thomas, pledging 2,000 men to be sent toward him with all haste.<\/p>

ON THIS DAY: ON HIS FIRST DAY IN NEW YORK, WASHINGTON DOESN'T WASTE ANY TIME<\/a><\/p>

To Major General John Thomas<\/p>

New York April 15. 1776<\/p>

Dear Sir<\/p>

I am to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 7th Instt and cannot but express my Concern at the great deficiency of the Regiments destin\u2019d for Canada, but as I am sensible of the necessity of having a respectable body of Troops in that Country, I am now preparing to send you four of the strongest Regiments in the Service and you may rely upon it, no time shall be lost in getting them forward as fast as possible, they will amount to about 2000 Rank & file and will go to Albany by Water\u2014I have wrote General Schuyler by this opportunity and desir\u2019d him to make the necessary preparations for their Subsistence, and doubt not he will speedily dispatch them to you.<\/p>

I most sincerely wish you Success equal to the importance of the Cause\u2014and am very respectfully Sir Your most obedt Servt<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Quebec-e1776266085522.jpeg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529798-1776251471", "title":"Boebert working on bill to strip Swalwell of $22,000 annual taxpayer-funded pension", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fhouse%2F4529798%2Fboebert-bill-strip-swalwell-of-22k-a-year-taxpayer-funded-pension%2F", "byline":"Haris Alic and Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"EXCLUSIVE — Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) is working on legislation to strip disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell of his $22,000 annual taxpayer-funded congressional pension. Swalwell resigned from the House on Tuesday after allegations of sexual assault by multiple women, including a former congressional staffer. Despite his exit under an ethical cloud, the California Democrat is […]", "description":""

EXCLUSIVE \u2014 Rep. Lauren Boebert<\/a> (R-CO) is working on legislation to strip disgraced former Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a> of his $22,000 annual taxpayer-funded congressional pension.<\/p>

Swalwell resigned from the House on Tuesday after allegations of sexual assault by multiple women, including a former congressional staffer. Despite his exit under an ethical cloud, the California Democrat is still entitled to a taxpayer-funded congressional pension for his nearly 13 years of service in the House. <\/p>

Boebert, who was one of the first lawmakers to call on the House to expel Swalwell, told the Washington Examiner it was unacceptable that Swalwell would still benefit from American taxpayers.<\/p>

\"We should pass a law blocking it,\" said the Colorado Republican.<\/p>

In a text message, Boebert said she is \u201cworking on bipartisan legislation to state that Members who are convicted of any felony or crimes for an offense committed while in office \u2026 are prohibited from receiving their pensions.\u201d That includes sexual assault, she said, and would also strip the pension of those who violate House Rule 18, \u201cwhich states that, among other things, Members cannot engage in a sexual relationship with any employee of the House who works under the supervision of the Member.\u201d<\/p>

Revoking Swalwell's pension could wind up getting support from Democrats.<\/p>

\"I think that's a worthwhile, holistic solution that should be looked into, not just in this context, but I think in any context where the circumstances are similar,\" Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE) told the Washington Examiner when asked about supporting revocation. <\/p>

Rep. Johnny Olszewski (D-MD) told the Washington Examiner that Congress should consider the move if Swalwell admits guilt or if there is sufficient evidence to prove the allegations. <\/p>

\"I think certainly anyone who's convicted of criminal activity should have their pension taken away, if that's not already the case here,\" said Olszewski. \"I think if there's a finding or admission of behavior that's not acceptable, that's something we should strongly consider.\"<\/p>

According to a National Taxpayers Union analysis obtained exclusively by the Washington Examiner, the 45-year-old Swalwell would be eligible to receive a taxpayer-funded pension of roughly $22,000 per year starting at age 62. <\/p>

Demian Brady, the vice president of research at the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, told the Washington Examiner the payout is based on when Swalwell first entered office, how long he served, and the average salary from his top three earning years.<\/p>

\u201cHe would be eligible for a starting pension of just over $22,000, accounting for the 10% spousal set-aside, which is automatic unless the spouse signs a document of refusal,\u201d Brady said. \u201cThis also assumes that he took steps to maximize his starting pension amount while serving in office.\u201d <\/p>

Swalwell has denied any wrongdoing and has not yet been charged with a crime. District attorneys in New York and California, however, have opened up investigations into his alleged misconduct. <\/p>

SCANDALS WON\u2019T STOP ERIC SWALWELL FROM GETTING $22,000 A-YEAR TAXPAYER-FUNDED PENSION<\/a><\/p>

\u201cExpelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong,\u201d the California Democrat said in a statement announcing his resignation. \u201cBut it\u2019s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties.\" <\/p>

Since 1946, lawmakers with at least five years in office or other federal service can qualify for a taxpayer-funded pension. Brady said the congressional pension is lucrative and can be \u201ctwo or three times higher than pensions available to employees in the private sector with similar salaries.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-xdi0ir1ga-1776264248858-e1776265496949.jpg?1776251441&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529647-1776250866", "title":"China is also ‘hurting’ from the Iran ceasefire: Tiana Lowe Doescher", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4529647%2Fchina-hurting-iran-ceasefire-tiana-lowe-doescher%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Washington Examiner economics columnist Tiana Lowe Doescher said Iran and China are both “hurting” as economic and energy pressures mount from the Iran war, even amid the ongoing two-week ceasefire. “Yeah, and it means that this ceasefire could be extended while there are further negotiations,” Doescher said Wednesday on Fox Business’s Mornings with Maria Bartiromo. […]", "description":""

Washington Examiner economics columnist Tiana Lowe Doescher<\/a> said Iran<\/a> and China<\/a> are both \u201churting\u201d as economic and energy pressures mount from the Iran war, even amid the ongoing two-week ceasefire.<\/p>

\u201cYeah, and it means that this ceasefire could be extended while there are further negotiations,\" Doescher said Wednesday on Fox Business\u2019s Mornings with Maria Bartiromo. \"Because just remember: As much as this is hurting Iran\u2019s economy, where you have 15 million rial to a U.S. dollar or whatever the insane equation is, it\u2019s also hurting, most importantly, China, and Iran is a client state of China.\u201d<\/p>

Doescher warned that China would face severe economic strain under those conditions.<\/p>

\u201cThe Chinese can\u2019t afford to lose 50% of their oil imports from the Strait of Hormuz and have a 50% tariff levied by the U.S., which is what Trump has threatened,\u201d Doescher said.<\/p>

Multiple China policy experts and former Trump administration officials told the Washington Examiner that Beijing is unlikely to pursue a diplomatic resolution more aggressively<\/a> while the U.S. blockades the Strait of Hormuz. Rather, China is structurally positioned to sit this out thanks to months of petroleum reserves, diversified energy sources, and access to discounted Russian oil.<\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

Ambassador John Bolton<\/a>, who served as one of Trump\u2019s national security advisers during his first term, said China has four months' worth of petroleum supply, \u201cso they can ride out ups and downs.\u201d<\/p>

The two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is about halfway through, as it is set to expire on April 21.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26105083507471-e1776256950169.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528562-1776250800", "title":"Gen Z won’t retire on mutual funds alone", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528562%2Fgen-z-will-not-retire-on-mutual-funds-alone%2F", "byline":"Sam Raus", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Generation Z is entering the workforce with different investment options and market dynamics than previous generations. In a rapidly changing economy shaped by technology, private markets, and new financial products, traditional portfolios built on the S&P 500 and government bonds no longer reflect how wealth is created. That’s why a quiet shift in retirement policy […]", "description":""

Generation Z<\/a> is entering the workforce with different investment options and market dynamics than previous generations. In a rapidly changing economy shaped by technology<\/a>, private markets, and new financial products, traditional portfolios built on the S&P 500 and government bonds no longer reflect how wealth is created.<\/p>

That\u2019s why a quiet shift in retirement policy matters. After years of 401(k) plans limiting access to alternative asset classes such as cryptocurrency, private equity, and real estate, the Department of Labor has issued new guidance allowing these investments. Following last year\u2019s executive order aimed at expanding retirement options for the middle class, the change broadens access for ordinary investors and creates new opportunities for their long-term portfolio growth.<\/p>

Retirement accounts<\/a> are supposed to prepare Americans for the future. They ought to reflect the economy that future workers will actually retire into \u2014 not the one built decades ago.<\/p>

WALL STREET BETS ON MASS CREDIT DEFAULTS WITH NEW INVESTMENT INDEX: REPORT<\/a><\/p>

Digital assets, namely popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are unique investments as technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain increasingly shape the modern economy. Unlike traditional financial instruments, they are embedded in the infrastructure of a digital-first world where value is increasingly created, stored, and transferred online rather than through legacy financial systems.<\/p>

With this new economic model comes the potential for outsize returns. As Sam Lyman, head of research at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, explains, \u201cBitcoin has appreciated more than 17,000% in value since 2016, making it the best-performing major asset class of the last decade.\u201d All Americans should have access to participation in such growth, yet Bitcoin\u2019s performance over the past decade has been excluded from 401(k) investment options.<\/p>

Lyman also notes that \u201cthousands of Americans are now using Bitcoin to save for retirement after educating themselves on the asset\u2019s built-in scarcity and gold-like properties.\u201d Expanding cryptocurrency options within 401(k) plans, he argues, \u201cwould simply make it easier for them to save in a tax-efficient way.\u201d<\/p>

Another rapidly growing asset class in the modern U.S. economy is private equity, which refers to investment in companies not listed on public markets. As individual investors typically cannot invest in these markets, allowing 401(k) plans to include targeted allocations to private equity would open access to one of the most significant wealth-creation engines in today\u2019s financial system.<\/p>

Over time, private equity<\/a> delivers strong returns relative to public markets, often outperforming major stock indices over several decades. Beyond return potential, it also offers diversification benefits that are difficult to replicate through index funds tracking the S&P 500 or Dow Jones Industrial Average.<\/p>

For years, large institutional investors and public pension funds have had access to private markets as part of their long-term investment strategies, while everyday workers saving through 401(k) plans have largely been excluded from the same opportunities. The Labor Department is making a change for the better by expanding investors\u2019 freedom to choose.\u00a0<\/p>

But the shift should not stop here. As financial innovation continues apace, new asset classes and technologies will emerge alongside AI, blockchain, and other technological advances, reshaping global markets. While some speculative trends, from nonfungible tokens to collectible trading cards, may rise and fade, the broader trajectory is clear: The definition of \u201cinvestable assets\u201d is expanding.<\/p>

ACTIVIST INVESTORS THREATEN REVERSAL OF AMERICA\u2019S HOUSING AFFORDABILITY CRISIS<\/a><\/p>

Retirement systems should evolve alongside that reality. If 401(k) plans are meant to build long-term security, they should not anchor Americans to an outdated version of the economy. Instead, they should give workers access to the full range of tools shaping wealth creation today and in the decades ahead.<\/p>

The next generation will retire into the financial system of the future. Their portfolios should be prepared for it too.<\/p>

Sam Raus is the David Boaz Resident Writing Fellow at Young Voices<\/a>. Follow him on X: @SamRaus1<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/37e8f9631fc9a019584a0422403ab585.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529864-1776250737", "title":"Talarico campaign notches $27 million in first quarter", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4529864%2Fjames-talarico-texas-senate-campaign-27-million-dollars%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Texas state Rep. James Talarico‘s Senate campaign announced Wednesday that it raised a historically massive figure in the first quarter of 2026, signaling momentum in his bid to put the red state in play for Democrats. Talarico raked in $27 million during the first three months of 2026, one of the highest figures on record […]", "description":""

Texas<\/a> state Rep. James Talarico<\/a>'s Senate campaign announced Wednesday that it raised a historically massive figure<\/a> in the first quarter of 2026, signaling momentum in his bid to put the red state in play for Democrats.<\/p>

Talarico raked in $27 million during the first three months of 2026, one of the highest figures on record for a Senate candidate. Of that amount, he raised $10 million since winning the Democratic nomination last month, when he defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), according to his campaign.<\/p>

The record is held by former Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison, who raised $57 million during his unsuccessful 2020 South Carolina Senate race. In the latest cycle, Talarico\u2019s $27 million sum outshines Senate candidates across the country, including Sen. Jon Ossoff\u2019s (D-GA) $14 million announced in the first quarter of fundraising, Ohio Democrat Sherrod Brown\u2019s $12 million, and North Carolina Republican Michael Whatley\u2019s $5 million.<\/p>

\u201cGrassroots contributors from almost every county in Texas are sending Washington D.C. a clear message: they\u2019re tired of this broken, corrupt political system and they\u2019re ready to take back Texas for working people,\u201d Talarico said in a statement. \u201cWe\u2019re bringing Democrats, Republicans, and Independents together to end billionaire control over our politics and bring down costs for families across our state.\u201d<\/p>

The development comes as Democrats eye division among Texas Republicans as an opportunity to flip the seat blue. Several recent polls<\/a> have given Talarico a lead in the general election. Should he win the race, he would be the first Democrat to win statewide in Texas in three decades.<\/p>

DOES JAMES TALARICO HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO FLIP THE TEXAS SENATE SEAT<\/a><\/p>

On the Republican side, Sen. John Cornyn<\/a> (R-TX) and Attorney General Ken Paxton<\/a> are facing a runoff election on May 26 to determine which candidate will advance to the November election. Some of the most recent polling<\/a> indicates Cornyn holds a narrow lead, as the two rivals have been engaged in a bitter race.<\/p>

Cornyn's campaign raised nearly $9 million in the first quarter of 2026.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP26064069882426.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528129-1776249542", "title":"Vance heads to Iowa to stump for Rep. Zach Nunn", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4528129%2Fjd-vance-iowa-zach-nunn%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Vice President JD Vance is expected to visit Iowa on April 30, where he will participate in a Turning Point USA event and campaign for the endangered Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA), who is seeking reelection. A source familiar with the matter confirmed to the Washington Examiner on Wednesday that the White House is tapping Vance to host […]", "description":""

Vice President JD Vance<\/a> is expected to visit Iowa<\/a> on April 30, where he will participate in a Turning Point USA<\/a> event and campaign for the endangered Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA), who is seeking reelection.<\/p>

A source familiar with the matter confirmed to the\u00a0Washington Examiner\u00a0on Wednesday that the White House is tapping Vance to host a messaging event for Nunn in Iowa's 3rd Congressional District, where one of the fiercest battles for control of the House will be fought.<\/p>

The GOP has slim control of the House and is hoping that by deploying Vance, it can shore up support and retain the majority after the midterm elections this fall. Nunn is facing off against Democratic state Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott.<\/p>

\u201cPresident Trump has a special bond with Iowans and will always look out for their interests,\" said James Blair, White House deputy chief of staff. \"Congressman Nunn has been a critical partner in stopping inflation, delivering tax cuts for working Iowans and retirees, stopping the flow of illegal migrant criminals and drugs across the Southern Border and much more. Vice President Vance\u2019s visit underscores that Iowans\u2019 interests will always be top of mind as long as Republicans are leading the country.\u201d<\/p>

This trip is also the vice president's first time visiting Iowa as a member of the Trump administration, and it is sure to fuel speculation that Vance could seek the White House in 2028, when the term-limited President Donald Trump can no longer run.<\/p>

The source familiar also confirmed that Vance will join TPUSA, which has already endorsed him for 2028, at Iowa State University on April 30.<\/p>

Turning Point USA's founder, the late Charlie Kirk, was a close friend of Vance. After his assassination last year, Vance and second lady Usha Vance, accompanied Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, on the flight bringing Charlie Kirk's body back home.<\/p>

Vance recently attended a Turning Point USA event on Tuesday at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. The vice president was heckled<\/a> by a man who criticized U.S. military action in the Middle East and accused the Trump administration of genocide in Gaza and killing children in Iran.<\/p>

Erika Kirk was expected to attend the event with Vance on Tuesday, but skipped the event<\/a> because of \u201csome very serious threats in her direction,\u201d according to Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet, who stepped in for Kirk.<\/p>

VANCE HECKLED AT TPUSA EVENT OVER US ACTION IN MIDDLE EAST: \u2018YOU\u2019RE KILLING CHILDREN!\u2019<\/a><\/p>

Pictures of the crowd<\/a> at the university showed a nearly half-empty auditorium during Vance's event, suggesting Vance's draw may be waning.<\/p>

But as the Republican National Committee's finance chairman, Vance is in a prime position to have key relationships with donors who could fund a 2028 race. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26097454899014_b44ac8.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529711-1776249401", "title":"Hochul proposes tax on NYC second homes in bid to save Mamdani’s budget", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Ffinance-and-economy%2F4529711%2Fkathy-hochul-propose-tax-nyc-second-homes%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) proposed on Tuesday a new tax on wealthy earners who own second homes in New York City that are worth $5 million or more. The move is intended to address the city’s estimated $5.4 billion budget deficit, which Mayor Zohran Mamdani is trying to solve with tax hikes for high earners […]", "description":""

Gov. Kathy Hochul<\/a> (D-NY) proposed on Tuesday a new tax<\/a> on wealthy earners who own second homes in New York City<\/a> that are worth $5 million or more.<\/p>

The move is intended to address the city's estimated $5.4 billion budget deficit, which Mayor Zohran Mamdani<\/a> is trying to solve with tax hikes for high earners and spending cuts. Mamdani has blamed the Eric Adams administration for the inherited budget crisis.<\/p>

The governor wants to put the proposed yearly tax surcharge in the state's $260 billion budget, which is already past its April 1 due date. The cost of the surcharge has not been determined yet, but Hochul hopes to bring in $500 million to the state government annually.<\/p>

\"New York City is the greatest city in the world, and the people who call it home should not be left carrying the burden alone,\" she said Tuesday. \"If you can afford a $5 million second home that sits empty most of the year, you can afford to contribute like every other New Yorker.\"<\/p>

Mamdani thanked the governor for proposing the tax.<\/p>

\"Thanks to the support of Governor Hochul, we are one step closer to balancing our budget by taxing the ultrawealthy and global elites with a pied-\u00e0-terre tax,\" he said, referring to a tax on secondary homes that are not used as the owner's primary residence.<\/p>

Hochul has generally not favored raising taxes on wealthy individuals or large corporations this year, putting her at odds with Mamdani. However, she has made an exception for multimillion-dollar second homes owned by people who do not pay state or city income taxes because their primary residences are located elsewhere.<\/p>

Mamdani has led calls<\/a> for tax increases on households that make over $1 million per year. He is also seeking to raise the corporate tax rate for the wealthiest companies from 7.25% to 11.5%.<\/p>

After entering office, the mayor has lobbied Hochul and state lawmakers to consider increasing taxes on households and corporations. If his demands are not met, he vowed to impose a 9.5% property tax hike to close the projected budget deficit.<\/p>

MAMDANI ANNOUNCES PLAN TO OPEN NYC\u2019S FIRST CITY-RUN GROCERY STORE IN 100-DAY ADDRESS<\/a><\/p>

Hochul's Republican opponent in the 2026 gubernatorial race, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, criticized the tax proposal in a statement.<\/p>

\"Kathy Hochul\u2019s 'No Tax Hike' promise has expired faster than the families fleeing New York\u2019s affordability crisis,\" Blakeman said. \"Whether you\u2019re affluent or middle-class, Hochul and Mamdani are looking to hike your property taxes and take half your house through a new inheritance tax. It\u2019s a war on homeownership and the American Dream. Unlike Hochul, I\u2019ll actually keep my word when I\u2019m governor: I\u2019ll cut your taxes, slash your utility bills in half, and protect the American Dream.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26008460650263.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529648-1776248312", "title":"DHS employee killed by naturalized citizen in Georgia, Mullin says", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4529648%2Fdhs-employee-killed-naturalized-citizen-georgia%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"A federal employee for the Department of Homeland Security was killed in Georgia this week by a naturalized U.S. citizen from the United Kingdom, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said on Wednesday. Lauren Bullis, 40, worked for the DHS Office of Inspector General prior to her death on Monday. The alleged killer, 26-year-old Olaolukitan Adon […]", "description":""

A federal employee for the Department of Homeland Security<\/a> was killed in Georgia this week by a naturalized U.S. citizen from the United Kingdom<\/a>, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin<\/a> said on Wednesday.<\/p>

Lauren Bullis, 40, worked for the DHS Office of Inspector General prior to her death on Monday. The alleged killer, 26-year-old Olaolukitan Adon Abel, was naturalized in 2022.<\/p>

\"He possesses a prior criminal record that includes convictions for sexual battery, battery against a police officer, obstruction, and assault with a deadly weapon, vandalism and now stands accused of murdering [DHS] employee Lauren Bullis by shooting and stabbing her while she walked her dog,\" Mullin said on X<\/a>.<\/p>

Bullis was found dead in DeKalb County, Georgia<\/a>. The suspect was reportedly seen standing over her body before he fled the scene. She wasn't the only victim, however, Mullin said.<\/p>

\"He has also been arrested for the murder of an unidentified woman whom he reportedly shot outside a Checkers, before randomly shooting a homeless man multiple times outside a Kroger in Brookhaven,\" the new DHS chief added.<\/p>

The second woman was killed, but the third individual suffered critical injuries.<\/p>

After what authorities called a spree of random shootings, Adon Abel was arrested on two counts of murder and other state charges. He was taken into custody in Troup County. Investigators have not identified a motive for the shooting spree.<\/p>

STATE BY STATE: HERE\u2019S WHERE ICE HAS MADE THE MOST ARRESTS UNDER TRUMP<\/a><\/p>

Adon Abel pleaded guilty to four misdemeanor counts of sexual battery for multiple groping incidents in Savannah last April, court records indicate. He was then sentenced to jail time and put on probation. He was required to participate in a \"psychosexual social evaluation\" as part of the four-year sentence. The probation could have been terminated after one year if the defendant met the court-mandated conditions.<\/p>

DHS said it will cooperate with the investigation into the killing of its employee but declined to provide further comment on the suspect or the nature of the case.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26085553487035_2a5bf6.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529699-1776247446", "title":"WATCH LIVE: Russ Vought to testify on the budget", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529699%2Fwatch-live-russ-vought-testify-budget%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"White House Budget Director Russell Vought will testify on the 2027 budget at President Donald Trump’s request.  Vought is set to testify before the House Budget Committee on Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. and again before the Senate’s budget panel on Thursday.  SENATE GOP ‘PREPARED’ TO CONFIRM ALITO HIGH COURT REPLACEMENT BEFORE MIDTERM ELECTIONS The budget […]", "description":""

White House Budget Director Russell Vought<\/a> will testify on the 2027 budget<\/a> at President Donald Trump\u2019s <\/a>request.\u00a0<\/p>

Vought is set to testify before the House Budget Committee<\/a> on Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. and again before the Senate\u2019s<\/a> budget panel on Thursday. <\/p>

SENATE GOP \u2018PREPARED\u2019 TO CONFIRM ALITO HIGH COURT REPLACEMENT BEFORE MIDTERM ELECTIONS<\/a><\/p>

The budget director is expected to face questions about Iran <\/a>war spending, Department of Homeland Security<\/a> funding,\u00a0and cuts to healthcare<\/a> spending.\u00a0<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Russ-Vought.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528469-1776247200", "title":"Trump AI framework puts ball in Congress’s court. Time to act is running out", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528469%2Ftrump-ai-framework-congress-time-running-out%2F", "byline":"Liz O'Bagy", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Artificial intelligence is no longer a future policy debate. It is already compressing years of drug discovery into months, helping doctors detect cancer earlier through advanced diagnostic imaging, improving aviation and traffic systems that make travel safer, and giving small businesses access to capabilities that once required entire back-office teams. Across the economy, it is […]", "description":""

Artificial intelligence is no longer<\/a> a future policy debate. It is already compressing years of drug discovery<\/a> into months, helping doctors<\/a> detect cancer earlier through advanced diagnostic imaging, improving aviation and traffic systems that make travel safer, and giving small businesses access to capabilities that once required entire back-office teams. <\/p>

Across the economy, it is increasing productivity, accelerating scientific breakthroughs, and changing how Americans compete, innovate, and navigate daily life. Few technologies in modern history have moved this quickly, from research labs into the center of economic and geopolitical competition.<\/p>

That promise is matched by real public unease. Americans want the benefits of AI, but they also want confidence that children are protected<\/a>, abuse is prevented, workers are not left behind, critical infrastructure remains secure, and increasingly powerful systems are deployed responsibly. The question is no longer whether the government should act. It is whether Congress can act before the regulatory vacuum allows a tangled thicket of conflicting state regulation to take root.<\/p>

HOW CONGRESS CAN BUILD OFF TRUMP\u2019S AI FRAMEWORK THIS TAX SEASON<\/a><\/p>

That is why the White House\u2019s national AI legislative framework<\/a> arrives at such a consequential moment. Its release does not replace the need for legislative action or the debate required to align on a durable federal framework. But it does reflect a growing consensus in Washington that AI is too economically and strategically significant to leave unaddressed. The central question now is not whether rules will emerge, but who will write them and on what terms. If Congress does not act, states, federal agencies, and foreign governments will continue to move ahead on separate tracks, increasing the likelihood of a fragmented and unwieldy regulatory environment.<\/p>

As Congress considers how to respond to AI, the question is not simply whether to act, but how to act wisely. The goal should be to address real risks without constraining the many AI applications already delivering clear economic and societal benefits. Congress should resist broad, fear-driven regulation that treats every model or use case as equally risky. A better approach is a targeted federal framework, one that focuses on the areas where harm is most likely and guardrails are truly needed while preserving space for beneficial and low-risk innovation.<\/p>

That framework<\/a> should begin with a simple principle: Safeguards should scale with risk. Not every AI model deserves the same level of scrutiny. Congress needs to distinguish between systems that draft emails or optimize supply chains and systems that influence critical decisions in health care, infrastructure, defense, or national security<\/a>.<\/p>

The most advanced models, particularly those with dual-use national security implications, should face stronger expectations around evaluation, testing, and security planning. Developers of those systems should maintain clear security frameworks that explain how capabilities are assessed, how risks are monitored, and how safeguards evolve as systems become more capable.<\/p>

Congress already has the right institution to anchor that work: the National Institute of Standards and Technology.<\/p>

NIST\u2019s AI Risk Management Framework is the most credible technical foundation for trustworthy AI governance because it reflects science, measurement, and operational practice rather than political theory. Congress will not write technical requirements fast enough to keep pace with frontier systems, but it can establish durable statutory principles while directing NIST to develop the testing methods, measurement tools, and trust standards that agencies and industry can apply consistently.<\/p>

A federal framework should focus on uses rather than the underlying technology itself. AI will affect healthcare<\/a> differently than transportation, education, finance, or manufacturing. National legislation should establish baseline expectations while allowing sector-specific agencies to tailor them where appropriate. That balance matters. It protects the public while limiting regulatory overreach and preserving the flexibility needed for sector-specific expertise.<\/p>

Finally, any federal framework should include baseline standards for model transparency. Clear expectations can build trust and help identify surface risks earlier. Companies should document how advanced systems are trained, evaluated, and monitored, particularly agentic systems that can access external data or take actions with limited human intervention. Practical tools such as model cards can help communicate system capabilities, limitations, and intended uses without forcing disclosure of proprietary model weights or trade secrets.<\/p>

That kind of clarity matters because public confidence in AI will not come from slogans about innovation. It will come from demonstrating that systems are tested, risks are understood, and safeguards are real. Americans want AI to improve their lives, but they also want assurance that automated systems do not amplify fraud, and advanced models do not create new vulnerabilities in critical systems.<\/p>

The same clarity matters for economic competitiveness. Companies<\/a> cannot build nationally deployed AI systems under constantly diverging expectations and still move at the speed global competition now demands. A federal framework should provide standards that give innovators confidence to invest, consumers\u2019 confidence to adopt, and policymakers confidence that essential protections are being applied coherently.<\/p>

There is also a rare political opening here. AI remains one of the few policy areas where both parties agree federal action is necessary, even if they emphasize different concerns. <\/p>

TRUMP\u2019S AI FRAMEWORK IS A GOOD START. HERE\u2019S WHAT\u2019S MISSING TO PROTECT CHILDREN<\/a><\/p>

That opening may not last. Every month Congress delays, more states legislate independently, more businesses adapt to conflicting obligations, and more global competitors shape standards the United States may later be forced to accept rather than write.<\/p>

The White House has now placed federal AI legislation squarely on the congressional agenda. The real question is whether lawmakers will use this moment to build a durable national standard or risk ceding leadership in the most consequential general-purpose technology in decades to foreign competitors<\/a>. AI is moving too quickly, and the stakes are now too high, for Congress to keep watching from the sidelines.<\/p>

Liz O\u2019Bagy is Director of Federal Policy, AI Policy Lead for TechNet, where she helps drive TechNet\u2019s federal policy advocacy on key priorities including artificial intelligence, trade, modernizing government technology, the future of work, and more.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/AI_artificial-intelligence-congress-tech-88i1.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529701-1776246924", "title":"Tucker Carlson is now shilling for jihadis", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4529701%2Ftucker-carlson-now-shilling-for-jihadis%2F", "byline":"David Harsanyi", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Perhaps the only thing worse than Tucker Carlson’s deranged understanding of history is his deranged understanding of theology.  “The people in charge don’t want you to know this, but Muslims love Jesus,” the Iranian regime’s top fanboy recently tweeted, later noting that this was why President Donald Trump’s meme “depicting himself as the Son of […]", "description":""

Perhaps the only thing worse than Tucker Carlson\u2019s<\/a> deranged understanding of history is his deranged understanding of theology.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cThe people in charge don't want you to know this, but Muslims love Jesus,\u201d the Iranian regime\u2019s top fanboy recently tweeted, later noting that this was why President Donald Trump's<\/a> meme \u201cdepicting himself as the Son of God offended the president of Iran<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>

Indeed, Jesus is a prophet in Islam. In the Hadith, Muhammad promises that when Jesus returns, He will \u201cbreak the cross\u201d and establish Islam<\/a> as the sole faith of the world. The Iranian \u201cpresident\u201d loves a Jesus that not only doesn\u2019t exist in Christianity but promises to destroy it. This seems like useful context.<\/p>

That\u2019s a theological position. Shia extremists in Iran aren\u2019t the only people who reject a messianic Jesus, after all. But if the Iranian rulers have such high esteem for Jesus, why is conversion or proselytization of Christianity an apostasy punishable by death? Numerous fatwas issued by Iranian clerics<\/a>, including one from the recently retired \u201csupreme leader\u201d Ali Khamenei, impose the death penalty on any males and life imprisonment on women who reject Islam.\u00a0<\/p>

Preaching the Gospels is considered a \u201cdeviant educational\u201d activity<\/a> in Carlson's beloved Iran. And because Christianity is gaining popularity underground, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard regularly raids the homes and churches<\/a>, often arbitrarily arresting and sometimes torturing their prey. In 2023, the regime imprisoned 96 Christians<\/a>, 22 of them getting 43-year sentences apiece. All of them were convicted of theological crimes.<\/p>

One wonders if the Armenian and Assyrian Christians of Iran are more offended by puerile and offensive memes from American leaders than by life in an Iranian prison.\u00a0<\/p>

The Islamic Republic isn\u2019t unique in its view of apostasy. Afghanistan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Sudan, and many others maintain legal penalties for apostasy, which include proselytization and conversion. In most Islamic nations, importing Christian Bibles, for instance, is illegal or comes with severe restrictions.\u00a0<\/p>

Some Islamic nations don\u2019t carry out these laws with the regularity of Iran. Others regularly commit atrocities.\u00a0<\/p>

Though to be fair, Islamists are running out of infidels to persecute. The Islamic world expelled around 850,000 Jews from their ancestral homes in the years after 1948. At that time, probably around 15% of the Middle East remained Christian. That number is now somewhere under 2%.\u00a0<\/p>

And that population would probably be even lower if Christians were allowed to flee. Most Christians do not live in the ritzy oil sheikdoms Carlson hangs out in. But in places Christians have lived for millennia.<\/p>

There were over a million Christians in Iraq under Saddam Hussein. There are approximately<\/a> 150,000 of them left in 2024. Minority groups are often safest under secular strongmen who hinder the impulses of Islamists. Christians made up<\/a> around 78% of the Lebanese population in 1910. They are less than 33% today. In Syria, once a bastion of the faith, somewhere over a million<\/a> Christians have fled in recent decades, a decline of 85%.\u00a0In the birthplace of Jesus, where Christians were once around<\/a> 85% of the population, they have been replaced by Palestinian Muslims. Today, they are around 10%.<\/p>

Those who remain in the Islamic world are in constant peril. People like the Copts, whose presence predates Islamic colonialism, are regularly subjected to violence and discrimination in Egypt. In countries such as Nigeria and Congo, Christians are massacred by Islamists, who, Carlson assures us, love Jesus.\u00a0<\/p>

YES, MUSLIMS SHOULD ASSIMILATE<\/a><\/p>

Those who have followed Carlson\u2019s collapse conspiracism and bigotry probably see the con here. President Donald Trump, according to Carlson and his endless stream of crank podcast guests, is controlled by Israel, Zionists, and American Jews who don\u2019t believe Jesus is the Messiah or even a prophet. With the help of dispensationalists, these \u201cpeople in charge\u201d are manufacturing a wedge between Christians and peace-seeking Shia Twelvers in Iran, who would otherwise be our best buddies.\u00a0<\/p>

As with virtually everything Carlson contends these days, reality tells a starkly different story.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Carlson.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529645-1776246408", "title":"Mamdani’s city-run grocery stores product of ‘smiling socialist con-man’: Joe Concha", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4529645%2Fmamdani-grocery-stores-smiling-socialist-con-man-joe-concha%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Washington Examiner columnist Joe Concha said New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s city-run grocery stores won’t make prices more affordable for New Yorkers.  “This was a campaign of a smiling socialist con-man from the very beginning, and 51% of New York voters fell for it,” Concha said on Fox News’s Fox and Friends on Wednesday. […]", "description":""

Washington Examiner columnist Joe Concha<\/a> said New York City<\/a> Mayor Zohran Mamdani's<\/a> city-run grocery stores<\/a> won\u2019t make prices more affordable for New Yorkers. <\/p>

\u201cThis was a campaign of a smiling socialist con-man from the very beginning, and 51% of New York voters fell for it,\u201d Concha said on Fox News\u2019s Fox and Friends on Wednesday.<\/p>

The first store will be in La Marqueta, a marketplace owned by the city\u2019s government and located under elevated train tracks in a predominantly Latino neighborhood in East Harlem. It is expected to open in late 2027. All are slated to open before the end of the mayoral term.<\/p>

The East Harlem store is being built from the ground up and comes with a $30 million price tag.<\/a> The budget for the entire project is $70 million. <\/p>

\u201cShut the front door here,\u201d Concha said.<\/p>

He argued that opening five city-run grocery stores with prices similar to other grocery stores won\u2019t bring down the cost of groceries for consumers. <\/p>

Mamdani took questions from reporters on these grocery stores Tuesday, responding to a Fox News reporter by saying, \u201cWhen it comes to the products that we will be selling at these city-run grocery stores, there will be an essential basket of goods that will be guaranteed at a cheaper price.\u201d<\/p>

Concha pushed back on Mamdani\u2019s proposal.<\/p>

\u201cI just don\u2019t see how this makes a dent in a city that's becoming increasingly unaffordable,\u201d Concha said.<\/p>

Concha also criticized Mamdani\u2019s promise to deliver free child care<\/a> and to make city buses free. <\/p>

OPINION: MAMDANI\u2019S MAD SUPERMARKET GAMBIT<\/a><\/p>

The mayor acknowledged that the campaign pledge to make city buses free is facing funding roadblocks and won\u2019t be fulfilled this year, as first reported in a Politico interview.<\/a><\/p>

\u201cBetween this, and the free buses that may never come, and the free childcare that\u2019s definitely never going to come \u2014 because the billions just ain\u2019t there \u2014 Zohran Mamdani\u2019s social media prowess and making the city more unlivable, and certainly not more affordable, that may well be his legacy,\u201d Concha said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Mamdani.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529724-1776246217", "title":"WATCH LIVE: IRS chief testifies to Congress on Tax Day", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Ffinance%2F4529724%2Fwatch-live-irs-chief-testify-congress-tax-day%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"IRS head Frank Bisignano is testifying before the Senate on Wednesday, the deadline for millions of Americans to file their taxes. Bisignano is speaking to lawmakers on the Senate Finance Committee at 10 a.m. regarding the 2026 tax filing season and IRS operations.", "description":""

IRS<\/a> head Frank Bisignano\u00a0is testifying before the Senate<\/a> on Wednesday, the deadline for millions of Americans to file their taxes.<\/p>

Bisignano is speaking to lawmakers on the Senate Finance Committee at 10 a.m. regarding the 2026 tax filing season and IRS operations. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25226638780989.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529626-1776245550", "title":"Trump says China agreed not to send weapons to Iran", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4529626%2Ftrump-china-agreed-not-to-send-weapons-iran%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump said that Beijing assured him it would not supply any weapons to Iran. China is Tehran’s most valuable ally, and Iran’s ballistic missile program is reliant on Chinese chemicals. In a Wednesday morning post on Truth Social, Trump boasted that he’d won over China. “China is very happy that I am permanently […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> said that Beijing assured him it would not supply any weapons to Iran<\/a>.<\/p>

China is Tehran's most valuable ally, and Iran's ballistic missile program is reliant on Chinese chemicals. In a Wednesday morning post on Truth Social, Trump boasted that he'd won over China.<\/p>

\"China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also - And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran,\" he wrote. <\/p>

\"President Xi will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks. We are working together smartly, and very well! Doesn\u2019t that beat fighting??? BUT REMEMBER, we are very good at fighting, if we have to - far better than anyone else!!!\" Trump added.<\/p>

His claim that he was \"permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz\" comes despite Washington imposing its own blockade of the strait, closing it down entirely for the time being. The president seemed to imply that the U.S.'s closing of the strait was intended to open it permanently later on.<\/p>

Trump elaborated on Beijing's promise not to supply Iran with weapons in an interview with Fox News's Maria Bartiromo.<\/p>

\"He responded to a letter I wrote, because I had heard that China is giving weapons ... to Iran,\" he said in the interview, aired on Wednesday morning. \"I wrote [Chinese President Xi Jinping] a letter asking him not to do that, and he wrote me a letter saying essentially he's not doing that.\"<\/p>

China's hesitance to supply Iran with weapons during the war may also reflect its investments in the Gulf countries, which it has tried to sway away from U.S. influence. Any use of Chinese weapons against the Gulf countries, the primary target of Iran in the war, would tank its reputation in the region.<\/p>

IRAN THREATENS TO HALT RED SEA TRADE IF US HORMUZ BLOCKADE CONTINUES<\/a><\/p>

China has largely relegated itself to rhetorical support for Tehran in its war with the U.S. and Israel, despite having some of the most to lose. China receives a massive amount of discounted oil from Iran, and the decline of this supply has forced it to look elsewhere, a factor that has played a major role in the global energy crisis.<\/p>

If China remains true to its alleged pledge not to supply weapons to Iran, Tehran's only hope would be Russia, which is keen not to draw U.S. ire, which could change its policy toward Ukraine in its war with Russia.<\/p>

<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Russia-China-Iran.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4523276-1776243600", "title":"May Social Security direct payment worth $994 goes out in 16 days", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4523276%2Fmay-social-security-direct-payment-worth-994-16-days%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The May 2026 Supplemental Security Income payments, worth up to $994, will be issued to recipients in 16 days. SSI payments are typically issued to beneficiaries on the first day of each month. Beneficiaries are people with limited income who are either blind, aged 65 or older, or have another qualifying disability. The amount beneficiaries […]", "description":""

The May 2026 Supplemental Security Income<\/a> payments, worth up to $994, will be issued to recipients in 16 days.<\/p>

SSI payments are typically issued to beneficiaries on the first day of each month. Beneficiaries are people with limited income who are either blind, aged 65 or older, or have another qualifying disability.<\/p>

The amount beneficiaries receive varies based on several factors, including the number of people filing<\/a>. For example, individual filers can receive up to $994, couples filing jointly can receive $1,491, and those providing essential care to SSI recipients can receive up to $498.\u00a0<\/p>

In addition to the previous prerequisites for receiving SSI payments<\/a>, recipients must also be U.S. citizens or noncitizens in one of the alien classifications granted by the Department of Homeland Security.<\/p>

WES MOORE IS FOCUSED ON MARYLAND BUT DEMOCRATS WANT HIM TO RUN IN 2028<\/a><\/p>

Additionally, recipients must live in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands, and must not be absent from the United States for a full calendar month or 30 consecutive days.<\/p>

A full calendar<\/a> for the Social Security Administration payments can be viewed on the agency\u2019s website.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Social-Security-10-2-e1775764617947.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528607-1776243600", "title":"Hylton bait and switch robs America’s veterans", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528607%2Fhylton-foundation-robs-americas-veterans%2F", "byline":"Duggan Flanakin", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"According to a lawsuit filed by the National Museum of Americans in Wartime, the Cecil and Irene Hylton Foundation has reneged on a pledged donation of 67 acres in Prince William County, Virginia, that was to be the home site for the long-proposed museum project honoring U.S. veterans. Museum attorneys also claim the foundation used […]", "description":""

According to a lawsuit<\/a> filed by the National Museum of Americans in Wartime, the Cecil and Irene Hylton Foundation has reneged on a pledged donation of 67 acres in Prince William County, Virginia<\/a>, that was to be the home site for the long-proposed museum project honoring U.S. veterans.<\/p>

Museum attorneys also claim the foundation used the pledge to gain otherwise unavailable upzoning for 11 Hylton family parcels in nearby Dale City that vastly increased the value of Hylton family properties in the county.<\/p>

\u201cThe Foundation made an unconditional pledge, a contract, to support the relocation of an existing Prince William County museum.\u00a0The Foundation was compensated handsomely by the County for that unconditional pledge. They have broken trust with the museum, the County, and, worst of all, with America\u2019s veterans and their families,\u201d Sheppard Mullin attorney Benjamin Chew said to the nonprofit organization.<\/p>

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VIRGINIA, OFFICIALS WILL TESTIFY BEFORE CONGRESS ON \u2018MORTIFYING\u2019 SANCTUARY POLICIES<\/a><\/p>

The museum\u2019s board planned to recreate battle sites, such as World War I trenches and a battle-ravaged French village, to ensure that the true stories of the United States's veterans<\/a> and their homefront supporters would be told in ways accessible to all generations.<\/p>

The museum owns many operating tanks and other military vehicles, including a 1942 Ford-manufactured jeep, a Stuart M5A1 tank, and a 1917 tank from WWI.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

Men and women who served, their families back home, and those who supported them on the home front have shared wartime stories of loyalty, integrity, courage, leadership, honor, duty, and sacrifice. The museum has also collected over 900 personal oral history videos from veterans of every major U.S. conflict from World War II to the present.<\/p>

The museum had additionally secured sizable commitments from the Commonwealth of Virginia and Prince William County to build its war chest, up to $22 million in government and philanthropic support from over 20,000 individual donors.\u00a0<\/p>

Yet their contributions \u2014 and their stories \u2014 remain in limbo thanks to the actions of the Hylton Foundation.<\/p>

In 2012, then-CEO Donnie Hylton III had publicly and unconditionally pledged two Hylton Foundation parcels of land in Dale City, Virginia, along the busy Interstate 95 corridor, to the museum project. Hylton was an avid collector of automobiles and motorcycles, but he died in 2017 at 54.<\/p>

Is it possible that the land donation<\/a> was not altruistic but a \u201cstrategic arrangement driven by self-interest\u201d that significantly increased the Hyltons\u2019 wealth and reputation?<\/p>

According to a lawsuit filed by the museum, the Hylton Foundation began shifting the terms of its original \u201cunconditional\u201d pledge, introducing unexpected milestone requirements and new conditions seemingly designed to quash the entire agreement.<\/p>

The complaint states that the changing pledge structure and land-transfer terms have halted construction plans, made it harder for the museum to secure funding, and jeopardized key government and institutional partnerships in the process.<\/p>

Moreover, in a December 2020 confirmation letter to the museum and its auditors, Conrad Hylton had stated the foundation had not only made the pledge of the land and commitment to fund \u201cpad ready\u201d site preparations but also agreed that the pledges had no restrictions or conditions.\u00a0<\/p>

There is even a publicly available video that validates the museum\u2019s claims.<\/p>

The museum\u2019s lawsuit nonetheless charges the Hylton Foundation and Land LLC with breach of contract and unjust enrichment, asserting that the \u201cunconditional\u201d October 2012 Hylton Foundation pledge constituted a valid and binding contract under Virginia law. The museum has suffered damages, including the loss of the property, loss of governmental and donor support, wasted resources, and injury to its reputation.<\/p>

The second charge asserts that the initial land donation agreement was, for the Hylton empire, a \u201cstrategic arrangement driven by self-interest.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

While the museum<\/a> was publicly conducting annual open houses, fundraising, site plan work, governmental engagement, and initiatives such as the Voices of Freedom oral history project, it was around that time that the Conrad-led Hylton Foundation began disparaging the museum.<\/p>

And then, in early 2025, the Hylton Foundation terminated all negotiations with the museum and demanded the transfer of all site plan rights and engineering work to Land LLC without compensation, asserting sole ownership and control of the property. <\/p>

In short, the Hylton Foundation\u2019s actions have left the museum without a home.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

Questions linger: Is the Hylton enterprise attempting to privately develop land that it has already promised to this veterans-focused museum?<\/p>

FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOLS RETAIN COPIOUS CULTURAL OBSERVANCE DAYS OUT OF \u2018DIVERSITY\u2019 CONCERNS<\/a><\/p>

How odd is it that a museum seeking to honor the blood, sweat, toil, and tears of America\u2019s veterans is having to fight its own battle against a powerful, entrenched former ally? <\/p>

And is this battle really one between those who wish to honor America\u2019s veterans against those who (in today\u2019s polarized climate) want to bury that history?<\/p>

Duggan Flanakin is a policy analyst at the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26026842097526.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529490-1776243586", "title":"Philip Harding announces run as Republican for Abigail Spanberger’s old congressional seat", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529490%2Fphilip-harding-virginia-seventh-district-republican-abigail-spanberger-seat%2F", "byline":"Amy DeLaura", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"WOODBRIDGE, Virginia — Entrepreneur Philip Harding announced on Tuesday night that he will be running in Virginia’s 7th Congressional District as a Republican. This is the seat Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) held for three consecutive terms. The Republican congressional hopeful is pitching himself as a political outsider. He’s a Harvard-educated former associate pastor and founder […]", "description":""

WOODBRIDGE, Virginia \u2014 Entrepreneur Philip Harding announced on Tuesday night that he will be running in Virginia\u2019s<\/a> 7th Congressional District as a Republican<\/a>. This is the seat Gov. Abigail Spanberger<\/a> (D-VA) held for three consecutive terms.<\/p>

The Republican congressional hopeful is pitching himself as a political outsider. He\u2019s a Harvard-educated former associate pastor and founder of a global business network.<\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m running because I want to hand my children a country where anything is possible,\u201d Harding told supporters at his campaign launch on Tuesday. \u201cVirginia\u2019s 7th District deserves a representative who knows how to build, not just how to talk.\u201d<\/p>

Harding said his campaign has a plan \u201ceither way\u201d the latest redistricting push<\/a> in Virginia shakes out<\/a>. Voters will determine via a referendum this month whether to approve a one-time redraw of the maps that heavily favors Democrats and leaves Republicans just one of the state's 11 seats. <\/p>

Harding said he feels redrawing the maps is unnecessary and unfair.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019re obviously pushing hard for a vote no to keep the lines the way that the people voted already,\u201d Harding told the Washington Examiner in an exclusive interview. \u201cWe\u2019d love to see that stay. If you\u2019re about fairness, you respect that vote and then focus on the real issues that matter.\u201d<\/p>

Harding is focusing his campaign on three core principles: helping small businesses, immigration, and strengthening the family with a focus on faith.<\/p>

\u201cWe will make Virginia's 7th District the best place in America to start and grow a business,\u201d Harding said to cheers from supporters.<\/p>

The district leans Democratic and is currently represented by Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA), who won it in 2024 by less than three points. Voters in the district chose former Vice President Kamala Harris over President Donald Trump by roughly three points that year as well. <\/p>

Harding founded Impact Junkie, a global entrepreneurial training and investment network, where he helps people all over the world start businesses. He said that experience, not time in the political stratosphere, is what makes him best suited to take on Virginia\u2019s debt, affordability, and economic growth in Congress.<\/p>

\u201cI think people are ready for something different,\u201d Harding said. \u201cWe do not need more dependents. We need more builders.\u201d<\/p>

Harding and his wife of 21 years have lived in Virginia for 11 years. A father of three children, Harding said he wants to use his time in office to focus on family values. Harding argued the government and schools should support, not replace, parents, and that it's time to get back to \u201ccommon sense.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cStrong families build strong nations, and right now the family is under pressure, economically, culturally, institutionally,\u201d Harding said. \u201cWe will fight for parents, for children, for parental rights, for faith, for safe communities, because schools should educate, not replace parents.\u201d<\/p>

Illegal immigration and crime have been a hot topic in Virginia. When it comes to immigration, Harding said his experiences working abroad have shaped his appreciation for being an American. <\/p>

\u201cIt is humbling to know people risk their lives every day for the dream of becoming an American,\" Harding said. \"To protect that dream, we must protect America by securing our border and deporting violent and criminal illegal aliens who endanger our communities. By restoring order, enforcing the law, and modernizing our system, we can protect American citizens while remaining true to the principles that make America the country of dreams.\u201d<\/p>

Supporters in attendance said Harding\u2019s impact is already being felt in Virginia. Small business owners, who spoke to the Washington Examiner at the campaign launch event, credit Harding with helping them start and grow their own businesses.<\/p>

\u201cIn the last three years, we\u2019ve already expanded three times. We are tripling in our sales,\u201d Clarissa Buckley, the owner of The Queen's Library Tea Room in Richmond, said. \u201cIt\u2019s because we\u2019ve applied the business approach from Philip Harding. We need more entrepreneurs in positions of Congress.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cPhilip has been really helpful in encouraging me with my own consulting practice and engaging with me.\u201d Will Archer, who is a business owner in the 7th District, said. Harding's faith is another reason he has Archer's support. \u201cWe need people that have a strong set of core values, that are problem solvers. \u2026 We need leaders that don\u2019t just talk, but leaders that build and do.\u201d<\/p>

Many small business leaders showed up to the event, which saw between 50 and 100 people in attendance.<\/p>

Harding said he hears from Virginians about the new pressures they are feeling from Spanberger's policies as governor, including raising the minimum wage<\/a>. The new governor's promotion is not the sole reason he decided to run, however. He said the campaign is something he prayed over and feels is \"a deeper calling.\"<\/p>

EX-MIKE PENCE AIDE LAUNCHES DEMOCRATIC CONGRESSIONAL CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA<\/a><\/p>

\u201cI've heard a lot of concerns from business owners and families here across Virginia,\u201d Harding said. \u201cPeople are concerned about the policies that are being put in against business, against family, and it\u2019s a concern. We want to continue to fight for Virginians, and that\u2019s what we\u2019re here to do.\u201d<\/p>

Harding joins a crowded Republican field as Tara Durant<\/a>, John Gray<\/a>, Darius Mayfield<\/a>, Douglas Ollivant<\/a>, and Waverly Washington<\/a> are all running for Virginia's 7th Congressional District, according to Ballotpedia.<\/p>

The Republican primary will occur on Aug. 4, 2026.<\/p>

If the redistricting referendum in Virginia passes, the new map<\/a> would draw the 7th District in a \u201clobster\u201d shape<\/a>, displacing Vindman, who would run in the newly proposed 1st District<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Philip-Harding-feature-image.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529569-1776242603", "title":"Iran threatens to halt Red Sea trade if US Hormuz blockade continues", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4529569%2Firan-warns-halt-red-sea-trade-us-hormuz-blockade%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Iran’s military warned it would block all trade through the Red Sea if the United States continued its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The threat was made by the head of Iran’s military central command center in a statement featured on Iranian state television. In it, the commander argued that the blockade “creates […]", "description":""

Iran's<\/a> military warned it would block all trade through the Red Sea<\/a> if the United States continued its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>.<\/p>

The threat was made by the head of Iran's military central command center in a statement featured on Iranian state television. In it, the commander argued that the blockade \u201ccreates insecurity for Iran\u2019s commercial vessels and oil tankers,\u201d and constitutes \u201ca prelude\u201d to violating the ceasefire.<\/p>

\u201cThe powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic will not allow any exports or imports to continue in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea,\u201d Ali Abdollahi said, AFP reported.<\/p>

Since the war started, statements from the Iranian regime have regularly overstated their capabilities. With Iran's conventional Navy gone, it has little ability to exert control over the Red Sea as it has over the Strait of Hormuz. It would likely have to enlist the support of its allied Houthis in Yemen, a group that has so far largely declined to enter the war.<\/p>

Iran exerts far less control over the Houthis than the other members of the Axis of Resistance do, due to the Houthis' unique nature. The Houthis are the only members of the group who came to power entirely without Iranian support, only enlisting Tehran's help after the Saudi-led coalition intervened in the Yemeni Civil War in 2015.<\/p>

Despite the groups refusal to enter the war outright, the specter of the Houthis joining still serves as a daunting prospect. The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia is pushing President Donald Trump to lift his blockade of the Strait of Hormuz out of fear that it could trigger the Houthis to close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in response.<\/p>

THE UAE\u2019S HAWKISH TURN WAS 15 YEARS IN THE MAKING<\/a><\/p>

Additionally, the newest carrier strike group to advance on Iran, the USS George H.W. Bush, will circumvent Africa rather than go through Suez to avoid the Houthis.<\/p>

The closing of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait would represent a nightmare for global trade, vastly increasing the negative impact on energy markets and the world economy.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/FINAL-RED-SEA.png?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529464-1776241819", "title":"Inside Scoop: Can Democrats find religion? Ungovernable unions, Spanberger struggles", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529464%2Fjim-antle-inside-scoop-trump-pope-unions-spanberger-popularity%2F", "byline":"Amy DeLaura", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Jim Antle, the magazine’s executive editor, brings to life the pages of the Washington Examiner magazine in the show Inside Scoop. Each episode features exclusive insight from the article authors and expert analysis. Antle asked, ‘Can Democrats find religion?’ This week on Inside Scoop, Antle discusses how Democrats are taking advantage of tensions between President […]", "description":""

Jim Antle, the magazine's executive editor, brings to life the pages of the Washington Examiner magazine<\/a> in the show Inside Scoop<\/a>. Each episode features exclusive insight from the article authors and expert analysis.<\/p>

Antle asked, \u2018Can Democrats find religion?\u2019 This week on Inside Scoop, Antle discusses how Democrats are taking advantage of tensions between President Donald Trump<\/a> and the pope<\/a> over America\u2019s handling of the Iran war.<\/p>

He highlights Texas Senate candidate James Talarico<\/a>, a liberal Presbyterian seminarian, as a possible draw. However, Talarico's views on abortion and transgenderism may alienate some voters.\u00a0<\/p>

\"Do evangelical Christian voters want to hear that God is nonbinary, or that abortion rights are somehow divinely ordained? Possibly not,\" Antle said. \u201cIn the past, when Democrats have nominated people who indulge in right-coded behaviors but are still pretty liberal, like Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in 2024, it doesn't really work out so well.\u201d<\/p>

The pope's criticism of Trump and his meeting with Democratic strategist David Axelrod raise questions about the pope's political neutrality and its effect on the midterm elections.<\/p>

\"Republicans are going to need to try to keep conservative Catholics and conservative evangelicals together to have any hope of defying the odds in the midterm elections.\"<\/p>

Antle then sits down with Washington Examiner\u2019s commentary editor, Conn Carroll, to discuss the magazine\u2019s cover story on how public-sector unions are making blue states ungovernable<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cIt just makes these states unaccountable in that these same agreements often set policy on class sizes, or on police disciplinary measures,\u201d Carroll said. \u201cWhen you do have someone who might run on a campaign of, \u2018Hey, we want real change,\u2019 they come into office, and then they can't do anything, because all those policies are already locked in stone by these collective bargaining agreements.\"<\/p>

Carroll points out that states such as Wisconsin, Tennessee, and Idaho have made progress by reducing government union membership. However, states still burdened by these agreements struggle with economic growth and population retention, with New York, Illinois, and California losing residents to states such as Texas and Florida.<\/p>

\u201cNo one's leaving LA because of bad weather, right?\u201d Carroll said. \u201cIt's clearly because they're exercising voice. They're getting out of a badly managed situation.\u201d<\/p>

Virginia, and Gov. Abigail Spanberger <\/a>(D-VA) specifically, are dominating the news cycle lately. The Washington Examiner takes an in-depth look at how Spanberger tossed affordability out the window, along with her popularity<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Spanberger ran on making life more affordable in Virginia, but now she is working with Democratic lawmakers in the General Assembly to introduce more than 50 new proposed tax hikes. More than half of business owners believe<\/a> these taxes will hamper their company\u2019s ability to grow.\u00a0<\/p>

Stephen Farnsworth<\/a>, professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington, told<\/a> the Washington Examiner there are some benefits being passed as well, and the higher taxes are needed to fund these.<\/p>

\u201cWhile businesses are concerned about some of the challenges that may be part of higher taxes that they may be facing,\u201d Farnsworth said. \u201cThey're also going to be some tax benefits and tax breaks for people in other positions. It's going to be easier, for example, to build a house in Virginia.\u201d<\/p>

Democrats have defended the proposed hikes, branding them as measures to make the rich \u201cpay their fair share\u201d of taxes. Farnsworth acknowledged that any tax increase is a red flag for business owners.<\/p>

\u201cWhen you think about tax increases, that\u2019s a potential problem that may stymie or limit the potential growth,\u201d Farnsworth said. \u201cIf you create an environment that increases taxes to a significant degree, businesses reconsider what they\u2019re doing.\u201d<\/p>

Farnsworth said he is most interested in seeing Spanberger\u2019s final budget.<\/p>

\"When we're looking at Virginia politics right now, I think we have to give the legislative session and the governor an incomplete,\u201d Farnsworth said. \u201cThere isn't a budget yet, and until there's a budget, we don't really know the key questions of the priorities for Virginia going forward.\u201d<\/p>

INSIDE SCOOP: DEMOCRATIC PARTY PROBLEMS, GOP ROAD TO 2028, AND DC CRIME COVER-UP<\/a><\/p>

Virginia has until July 1 to pass the budget for the next fiscal year.Tune in each week at washingtonexaminer.com<\/a> and across all our social media platforms to go behind the headlines in the Washington Examiner\u2019s magazine show, Inside Scoop<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/0415-IS-FS-e1776226418628.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529544-1776241583", "title":"Amazon buys satellite communications company in push to compete with Starlink", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Ftechnology%2F4529544%2Famazon-satellite-communications-company-globalstar-compete-starlink%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Amazon moved to buy satellite communications company Globalstar for $10.8 billion on Tuesday in order to compete with Elon Musk’s Starlink service. The announcement demonstrates how the technology company is committed to increasing its footprint in space, a frontier that Musk has marked with Starlink and SpaceX. The deal between Amazon and Globalstar will enable […]", "description":""

Amazon<\/a> moved to buy satellite communications company Globalstar for $10.8 billion on Tuesday in order to compete with Elon Musk's<\/a> Starlink service.<\/p>

The announcement demonstrates how the technology<\/a> company is committed to increasing its footprint in space<\/a>, a frontier that Musk has marked with Starlink and SpaceX.<\/p>

The deal between Amazon and Globalstar will enable customers to connect their devices directly to satellite internet capabilities with the help of Amazon Leo, a satellite internet network designed to remain in low Earth orbit. The satellites will be used to provide voice, data and messaging services starting in 2028 to those who may be out of reach from traditional cellular networks.<\/p>

First, the nearly $11 billion cash-and-stock transaction must close by then. It is subject to approval from telecommunications regulators.<\/p>

\"By combining Globalstar\u2019s proven expertise and strong foundation with Amazon\u2019s customer-obsession and innovation, customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more places\u2014keeping them connected to the people and things that matter most,\" Panos Panay, senior vice president of Amazon Devices and Services, said in a press release<\/a>.<\/p>

\"We have long believed low Earth orbit satellite constellations offer the most effective path to truly connect users and devices anywhere and anytime,\" Globalstar CEO Paul Jacobs added. \"The combination with Amazon Leo will advance innovations in digital connectivity that will benefit our customers and advance us toward a more intelligent, continuously connected world.\"<\/p>

Additionally, Amazon announced a partnership with Apple<\/a> that will enable Amazon Leo to power satellite services for iPhones and Apple Watches. Apple customers who take advantage of this offer will be able to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, or share their location if they find themselves in a remote area.<\/p>

Globalstar currently partners with Apple to provide those satellite services, making both of their partnerships with Amazon a logical next step.<\/p>

Amazon Leo, formerly known as Project Kuiper, received approval from the Federal Communications Commission<\/a> in 2020 to deploy at least 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit by the end of July 2029. Over 200 satellites are currently operating, Amazon said in a statement<\/a> last month.<\/p>

The company is required to launch up to 1,600 satellites by this July in order to meet an FCC regulatory requirement. Amazon has requested a two-year extension to the deadline, as it is nowhere near the halfway point in its plan to launch over 3,200 satellites.<\/p>

By contrast, Starlink has over 10,000 active satellites orbiting above Earth out of the approximately 11,800 that have been launched since 2019. Musk uses his private aerospace company, SpaceX<\/a>, to launch the Starlink satellites.<\/p>

SpaceX just launched the latest 29 Starlink broadband satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida<\/a> on Tuesday. The internet service is a subsidiary of SpaceX.<\/p>

SPACEX DEPLOYS 29 STARLINK SATELLITES FROM CAPE CANAVERAL IN PREDAWN LAUNCH<\/a><\/p>

While Starlink is currently ahead in the global connectivity game, Amazon Leo may be able to catch up by following through on its partnerships with Globalstar and Apple.<\/p>

Amazon's announcement comes two weeks after SpaceX filed to go public<\/a> in what may be the largest initial public offering made in history. The move sets up Musk to become the world's first trillionaire. After merging with xAI in February, SpaceX was last valued at $1.25 trillion. The IPO is aiming for a valuation between $1.5 and $1.75 trillion.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25118851417216.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528729-1776240000", "title":"Working families tax cuts delivered historic tax refund season", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528729%2Fworking-families-tax-cuts-historic-refund-season%2F", "byline":"Jason Smith", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"April 15 of this year, Tax Day, marks the end of the most historic tax refund season in American history, thanks to the working families tax cuts passed by Republicans in Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump. The working families tax cuts delivered an unprecedented increase in tax refunds, boosting the money going back […]", "description":""

April 15 of this year, Tax Day<\/a>, marks the end of the most historic tax refund season in American history, thanks to the working families tax cuts <\/a>passed by Republicans in Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump<\/a>.<\/p>

The working families tax cuts delivered an\u00a0unprecedented increase<\/a>\u00a0in tax refunds, boosting the money going back into the pockets of workers and families by 11%, with an average tax refund of over $3,400.<\/p>

When Republicans in Congress set out to deliver tax relief, we put working families, farmers, and small businesses at the top of the agenda. The House Ways and Means Committee<\/a> traveled to 30 states and held 120 events to hear from working parents, families, farmers, and small business owners. We got out of Washington, D.C., to talk to people who do not have fancy lobbyists representing them. We traveled to a lumber mill in Petersburg, West Virginia; a horse barn in Yukon, Oklahoma; an airplane parts manufacturer in Peachtree City, Georgia; and a rebounding Rust Belt neighborhood in Erie, Pennsylvania.<\/p>

OPINION: WORKING FAMILIES TAX CUTS ARE A BEACON FOR MAIN STREET AMERICA<\/a><\/p>

The Americans we heard from told us they quickly needed relief from the 21% spike in the cost of living <\/a>under former President Joe Biden, caused by his $10 trillion spending spree in the first two years of his administration.\u00a0We heard loud and clear that working families appreciated the tax relief provided by the 2017 tax cuts, but that more was needed to keep up with the price spike they are experiencing.<\/p>

That\u2019s why Republicans not only made the tax relief from the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent but also delivered on the president's promises to give more help to the men and women who make this country work: no tax on tips, no tax on overtime<\/a>, no tax on Social Security, and no tax on auto-loan interest. Nearly half of all tax filers this tax season claimed at least one of these key provisions \u2014 including over 6 million Americans claiming no tax on tips, over 25 million claiming no tax on overtime, over 30 million taxpayers claiming the Social Security deduction, and over 1 million claiming no tax on auto-loan interest. Each of these policies helped working-class families keep more of their hard-earned money and contributed to the record refunds Americans received this tax season.\u00a0<\/p>

While I was traveling in my district, I heard the story of a waitress who received a $10,000 refund because of the combined no-tax-on-tips and the expanded child tax credit, along with other provisions in the working families tax cuts. During hearings the Ways and Means Committee held outside Washington, we heard from a Nevada retiree about how no-tax-on-Social-Security is going to help her afford necessities after having had to dip into her savings to make ends meet during the Biden inflation crisis.<\/p>

A California cattle rancher spoke about how the permanent death tax exemption gives his family certainty to plan for future generations. Countless Americans have similar stories this tax season: larger refunds and lower taxes thanks to the Republican-enacted tax relief. Tipped workers will receive an average tax cut of $1,300. Hourly workers will receive an average of $1,400 in tax cuts from no tax on overtime. Married couples on Social Security now have a $12,000 deduction on their Social Security benefits. Republicans delivered all this in combination with a permanent boost to the standard deduction by $1,500 for a family of four to $31,500 \u2014 giving an estimated $205 billion in new tax relief to the 90% of Americans who claim it.<\/p>

Parents have struggled for a long time to afford the things their children need. That\u2019s why we stopped the child tax credit from being slashed in half and permanently increased it to $2,200 per child, while guaranteeing it increases with inflation each year so it never loses its value. A larger child and dependent care<\/a> credit means low-income working parents will be able to afford child care better, and a strengthened paid family and medical leave credit offers more workers the flexibility and financial security to care for a sick loved one. Americans looking to start or grow their family through adoption have increased access to an adoption tax credit, with $5,000 of that credit now refundable. In the years to come, families will have more choices when it comes to finding the right fit for their children\u2019s education through the new education choice tax credits<\/a> and expanded 529 education savings accounts that now cover K-12 education and trade schools.<\/p>

RESTORING AMERICA: BOSTON TEA PARTY SPIRIT LIVES ON IN TAX CUTS FOR WORKING FAMILIES<\/a><\/p>

Even the youngest Americans benefit from the working families tax cuts. New Trump Accounts<\/a>, including a $1,000 government contribution for newborns, will provide for a child\u2019s future and give more Americans a stake in our country\u2019s economic prosperity. These accounts will grow through contributions from their parents, employers, and community partners, as well as stronger economic growth. It does not matter if a child grows up on a city block or a country road; they will receive a transformational investment that changes lives for an entire generation. When they reach adulthood, these funds could help cover the costs of education, starting a family, buying a home, and more.\u00a0<\/p>

Thanks to Republican-enacted tax relief, a family of four with two children earning up to $73,000 has no federal income tax liability. They owed Uncle Sam zero on Tax Day<\/a>. Those tax savings will help working-class families, including waitresses, welders, linemen, and nurses, buy the school supplies they need, put food on their tables, and put clothes on their backs. This tax season, when families got their refund, taxpayers saw the promise of Republican tax cuts come to life.<\/p>

Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) is the House Ways and Means Committee Chairman.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/AP22097425371005-1-scaled-e1776192304976.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529538-1776237742", "title":"Ever the optimist, Trump predicts Iran war ‘very close to being over,’ says new talks could happen ‘over next two days’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4529538%2Ftrump-predicts-iran-war-very-close-to-being-over%2F", "byline":"Jamie McIntyre", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"TRUMP: ‘I THINK IT’S CLOSE TO OVER’: In an interview that aired on the Fox Business Network this morning, President Donald Trump predicted the war in Iran would end very soon. “I think it’s close to over, yeah. I view it as very close to being over,” Trump told one of his favorite interviewers, Fox […]", "description":""

TRUMP: \u2018I THINK IT\u2019S CLOSE TO OVER\u2019: In an interview<\/a> that aired on the Fox Business Network this morning, President Donald Trump predicted the war in Iran would end very soon.<\/p>

\"I think it\u2019s close to over, yeah. I view it as very close to being over,\" Trump told one of his favorite interviewers, Fox Business anchor Maria Bartiromo, in a segment that was recorded yesterday. \u201cIf I pulled up stakes right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild that country. And we\u2019re not finished,\" Trump said. \"We\u2019ll see what happens. I think they want to make a deal very badly.\"<\/p>

In a phone call<\/a> yesterday with New York Post reporter Caitlin Doornbos, Trump advised her to stick around in Islamabad, saying \u201csomething could be happening over the next two days,\u201d and that any second round of talks would likely be in Pakistan, not Europe.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019re more inclined to go there,\u201d Trump said, citing the role of Pakistani Field Marshal Gen. Asim Muni, whom Trump dealt with when he claimed to have stopped a war between Pakistan and India last year.\u00a0\u201cHe\u2019s fantastic, and therefore it\u2019s more likely that we go back there,\u201d Trump told the Post. \u201cWhy should we go to some country that has nothing to do with it?\u201d<\/p>

\u200b\u200b\u201cI just think he\u2019s a great guy, that guy. The field marshal. You know he ended the war with India, saved 30 million people,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>

While seasoned negotiators have advised that in order to get a deal, even with a reprehensible foe, it is necessary to give the impression that they won something, Trump said he's in no mood to concede anything to the Iranians. \u201cI don\u2019t want them to feel like they have a win.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

CENTCOM: BLOCKADE \u2018FULLY IMPLEMENTED\u2019: In a statement released on X<\/a> late last night, U.S. Central Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports has \"completely halted economic trade going in and out of Iran by sea.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cA blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented as U.S. forces maintain maritime superiority in the Middle East,\u201d Cooper posted, adding that in less than 36 hours, all Iranian ship traffic, which accounts for 90% of Iran\u2019s economy, had been blocked.<\/p>

In a separate statement<\/a> posted yesterday morning, the U.S. Central Command said, \u201cDuring the first 24 hours, no ships made it past the U.S. blockade and six merchant vessels complied with direction from U.S. forces to turn around to re-enter an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cThe blockade is being enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman,\u201d CENTCOM said while underscoring that the Strait of Hormuz was open for all shipping that isn\u2019t coming from Iranian ports.<\/p>

\u201cU.S. forces are supporting freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports,\u201d read the statement. More than 10,000 troops, over a dozen warships, and dozens of aircraft are involved in the blockade operation, including, according to<\/a> CENTCOM, \u201cU.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers, which it says have crews that are \"highly trained in conducting offensive and defensive maritime operations.\"<\/p>

US MILITARY BEGINS BLOCKADE OF TRAFFIC ENTERING AND EXITING STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

MORE FORCES ON THE WAY: The aircraft carrier USS George H.W Bush and its escort ships are heading to the region, as \u2014 absent a peace deal \u2014 the two-week ceasefire imposed by President Trump is due to expire one week from today, April 22.<\/p>

The carrier is taking the long way around the Cape of Good Hope, to avoid the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, which could bring it within range of Houthi rebels, who remain a threat in the region despite the 52-day war the U.S. waged against them last year.<\/p>

The Washington Post reports<\/a> that in addition to the carrier strike force, which includes some 6,000 sailors, the assault ship USS Boxer, flagship of a three-ship Amphibious Ready Group, along with its embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit of roughly 4,200 sailors and Marines, is expected to arrive on station around the end of the month.<\/p>

CHINA CALLS US HORMUZ BLOCKADE \u2018DANGEROUS AND IRRESPONSIBLE\u2019<\/a><\/p>

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to Jamie McIntyre\u2019s Daily on Defense, written and compiled by Washington Examiner National Security Senior Writer Jamie McIntyre<\/a> (@jamiejmcintyre<\/a>) and edited by Christopher Tremoglie<\/a>. Email here<\/a> with tips, suggestions, calendar items, and anything else. Sign up or read current and back issues at DailyonDefense.com<\/a>.<\/p>

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP OR READ BACK ISSUES OF DAILY ON DEFENSE<\/a><\/p>

HAPPENING TODAY: In Berlin, this morning, the Ukraine Defense Contact Group of some 50 nations will consider how best to support Ukraine, as its fortunes on the battlefield have improved in recent weeks. Given that the U.S. has zeroed out its military aid to Ukraine and has limited its contribution to selling arms for Ukraine to NATO at a profit, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is skipping the meeting even though it's being conducted virtually.<\/p>

Instead, Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, the number-three official at the Pentagon, will represent the United States at the virtual session.<\/p>

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has a news conference scheduled for 10:45 a.m. EST with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, along with defense ministers from Germany, the U.K., and Ukraine \u2014 Boris Pistorius, John Healey, and Mykhailo Fedorov, respectively. The news conference will be streamed live on NATO\u2019s website<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cUkrainians are staunchly defending themselves, and they are using the latest technology,\u201d Rutte said at a recent event<\/a> at the Ronald Reagan Institute. \u201cWhen it comes to drones and anti-drones, they really have the upper hand on that part,\u201d Rutte said. He was less sanguine about the tide of battle more generally. \u201cYou still see very slowly that the movement is in the wrong direction. If you are pro-Ukraine like I am, and anti-Russian.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cThe Ukrainian defense industrial base (DIB) continues to increase its production capabilities but is unable to achieve its maximum potential without further investment,\u201d the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War said in its latest assessment<\/a>, while noting that \u201cneither Russian nor Ukrainian forces advanced on April 14.\"<\/p>

ELBRIDGE COLBY, NOT HEGSETH, TO ATTEND VIRTUAL UKRAINE DEFENSE CONTACT GROUP MEETING<\/a><\/p>

VANCE: \u2018I FEEL VERY GOOD ABOUT WHERE WE ARE\u2019: Vice President J.D. Vance, who is expected to lead the next round of negotiations, if there is one, is cautioning that the kind of all inclusive grand bargain Trump is seeking is not something that is not likely to be achieved in a single negotiating session.<\/p>

\u201cLook, honestly, after 49 years, there's a lot of, of course, mistrust between Iran and the United States of America. You're not going to solve that problem overnight. But yes, I think the people sitting across from us wanted to make a deal,\u201d Vance said at a Turning Point USA event<\/a> at the University of Georgia in Athens.<\/p>

\u201cThe President of the United States told us to go out there and negotiate in good faith. That's what we did. That's what we're going to keep on doing. So, you never know, though, right?\u201d Vance said. \u201cBut I feel very good about where we are.\u201d<\/p>

Both the New York Times and Axios reported<\/a> that Vance offered a 20-year \u201csuspension\u201d of all nuclear activity as a way to bridge the gap between Trump\u2019s demand for enrichment of uranium, even at a level that would not produce bomb-grade material.<\/p>

Iran reportedly responded with a proposal to suspend its nuclear activities for five years. But yesterday, in his New York Post interview, Trump appeared to veto the idea. \u201cI\u2019ve been saying they can\u2019t have nuclear weapons,\u201d Trump said, \u201cso I don\u2019t like the 20 years.\u201d<\/p>

VANCE HECKLED AT TPUSA EVENT OVER US ACTION IN MIDDLE EAST: \u2018YOU\u2019RE KILLING CHILDREN!\u2019<\/a><\/p>

THE RUNDOWN: <\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: US military begins blockade of traffic entering and exiting Strait of Hormuz<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: China calls US Hormuz blockade \u2018dangerous and irresponsible\u2019<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Italy suspends defense pact with Israel over \u2018the current situation\u2019<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Understanding why Trump ordered the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Rubio: \u2018Historic\u2019 Israel-Lebanon talks meant to create \u2018permanent end\u2019 to Hezbollah influence<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Elbridge Colby, not Hegseth, to attend virtual Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Ukraine has no \u2018unrealistic expectations\u2019 for Hungary as it pitches itself as ally to Magyar<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Vance heckled at TPUSA event over US action in Middle East: \u2018You\u2019re killing children!\u2019<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: US says it killed four suspected drug traffickers in eastern Pacific boat strike<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Treasury threatens foreign banks aiding Iran with \u2018Economic Fury\u2019 sanctions<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Trump looks to correct \u2018generation of government underinvestment\u2019 in defense industrial base<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: House passes aviation bill aimed at preventing repeat of Potomac midair collision<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: State by state: Here\u2019s where ICE has made the most arrests under Trump<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Hegseth-affiliated pastor Doug Wilson says Trump \u2018has to do better\u2019 after AI Jesus debacle<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Trump wants Pope Leo to know that \u2018Iran has killed 42,000 innocent\u2019 protesters<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: White House orders NASA and Pentagon to develop nuclear space reactors<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Opinion: Russia pushes the UK navy to breaking point<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Opinion: Iran peace deal requires a tight nuclear focus<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Opinion: Iran deserves Trump\u2019s reciprocal blockade<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Why the Iran talks failed<\/p>

Washington Examiner<\/a>: Trump says NATO \u2018wasn\u2019t there for us\u2019 and won\u2019t be \u2018in the future\u2019<\/p>

Wall Street Journal<\/a>: Europe Is Accelerating a NATO Fallback Plan in Case Trump Pulls Out<\/p>

Washington Post<\/a>: U.S. sends thousands more troops to Mideast as Trump tries to squeeze Iran<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: 100-Plus Aircraft Join US Military Blockade of Iran<\/p>

Breaking Defense<\/a>: 1:5 Kill Ratio: Ukraine Inflicts Heavy Russian Losses Using Drones, Says Finnish President<\/p>

Defense News<\/a>: Amid Focus on Strait of Hormuz, Experts Sound Warning on Yemen\u2019s Houthis and Red Sea<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: How \u201927 Budget Requests Compare: Air Force, Space Force vs. Army, Navy, DOD<\/p>

Breaking Defense<\/a>: Space Force to Finalize Acquisition Portfolio Structure over Next Two Months<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Space Force Urges Industry to Invest in Satellite Production Capacity<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: Air Force Seeks Increase in Operations & Maintenance, Flying Hours in 2027<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: What Are Chinese Media Outlets Saying About the F-47?<\/p>

The War Zone<\/a>: Angry Kitten Jamming Pod Testing on HC-130J Focuses on Receiving Threat Updates via Satellite<\/p>

Air & Space Forces Magazine<\/a>: BAE Unveils Highly Maneuverable, Refuelable Satellite, Eyes 2027 Delivery<\/p>

THE CALENDAR: <\/p>

WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15 <\/p>

10 a.m. 419 Dirksen \u2014 Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing: \"Reforming the UN: Assessing U.S. Efforts and Priorities,\" with testimony from U.S. Representative to the United Nations Mike Waltz; and U.S. Representative to the United Nations for U.N. Management and Reform Jeff Bartos http:\/\/foreign.senate.gov<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. 2362-B Rayburn \u2014 House Appropriations Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee hearing: \"Budget Hearing - Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation,\" with testimony from Lt. Gen. William \"Butch\" Graham, chief of engineers and commanding general, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Adam Telle, assistant secretary of the Army for civil works; and Andrea Travnicek, assistant Interior secretary for water and science, http:\/\/appropriations.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

10:15 a.m. 210 Cannon House \u2014 House Budget Committee hearing: \"The President's FY2027 Budget Request,\" with testimony from OMB Director Russell Vought https:\/\/budget.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

1 p.m. Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies virtual discussion: \"Foreign Influence Operations and National Security,\" with Margaret Harker, litigator and former attorney for the Justice Department; Park MacDougald, writer and editor for Tablet Magazine; and Vince Vitkowsky, fellow, George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School National Security Institute https:\/\/fedsoc.org\/events\/foreign-influence-operations-and-national-security<\/a><\/p>

3 p.m. 2118 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee hearing: \u201cFY27 Missile Defense and Missile Defeat Programs and Activities,\u201d with testimony from Marc Berkowitz, assistant secretary of defense for space policy; Air Force Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander, U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command; Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein, direct report program manager for Golden Dome for America; Air Force Lt. Gen. Heath Collins, director, Missile Defense Agency; and Army Lt. Gen. Sean Gainey, commanding general, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command https:\/\/armedservices.house.gov\/calendar\/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=6463<\/a><\/p>

3:30 p.m. 2212 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee hearing: \"Military Readiness for FY2027,\" with testimony from Gen. Christopher LaNeve, vice chief of staff of the Army; Adm. James Kilby, vice chief of naval operations; Gen. John Lamontagne, vice chief of staff of the Air Force; Gen. Bradford Gering, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps; and Gen. Shawn Bratton, vice chief of space operations for the Space Force, http:\/\/www.armedservices.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

THURSDAY | APRIL 16<\/p>

8:30 a.m. 37th and O Sts. NW \u2014 Georgetown University School of Foreign Service Asian Studies Program conference: \"Japan: Contending with Change at Home and Abroad,\u201d with former national security adviser Jake Sullivan https:\/\/events.georgetown.edu\/event\/39482-japan-contending-with-change<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. 608 Dirksen \u2014 Senate Budget Committee hearing: \"The President's FY2027 Budget Proposal,\" with testimony from OMB Director Russell Vought http:\/\/budget.senate.gov<\/a><\/p>

11 a.m. 390 Cannon \u2014 House (Select) Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the Chinese Communist Party Committee hearing: \"China's Campaign to Steal America's AI Edge.\" https:\/\/selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

3 p.m. 2118 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee hearing: \"Military Department Personnel Chiefs: Personnel Posture,\" with testimony from Army Lt. Gen. Brian Eifler, deputy chief of staff, G-1; Air Force Lt. Gen. Caroline Miller, deputy chief of staff for manpower and personnel; Navy Vice Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko, chief of naval personnel; Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Bowers, deputy commandant manpower and reserve affairs; and Katharine Kelley, Air Force deputy chief of space operations for personnel, http:\/\/www.armedservices.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

3:30 p.m. 2212 Rayburn \u2014 House Armed Services Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee hearing: \"Defense Intelligence Enterprise - Challenges, Priorities, and Resourcing for FY2027,\" with testimony from Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Bradley Hansell; Gen. Joshua Rudd, director and commander, National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command; Lt. Gen. Michele Bredenkamp, director, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and Lt. Gen. James Adams, director, Defense Intelligence Agency http:\/\/www.armedservices.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

FRIDAY | APRIL 17<\/p>

9:30 a.m. 2212 Rayburn \u2014 House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing: \"Budget Hearing - National Guard and Reserves Forces,\" with testimony from Lt. Gen. Leonard Anderson, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve; Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of the U.S. Army Reserve Command; Lt. Gen. John Healy, chief of Air Force Reserve; Rear Adm. Richard Lofgren, acting chief of Navy Reserve; and Gen. Steven Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau http:\/\/appropriations.house.gov<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. \u2014 Carnegie Endowment for International Peace virtual discussion: \u201cThe U.S. and Israel's War With Iran: Where Do We Go From Here?\" with Suzanna Maloney, vice president and director, Brookings Institution Foreign Policy Program; Danny Citrinowicz, senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies Iran and the Shi'ite Axis Program; and Aaron David Miller, senior fellow, CEIP American Statecraft Program https:\/\/carnegieendowment.org\/events\/2026\/04\/us-and-israels-war-with-iran<\/a><\/p>

10 a.m. \u2014 National Institute for Deterrence Studies virtual seminar: \"Readiness, Resilience, and Credibility: The ICBM Mission Today,\" with Maj. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser, commander, 20th Air Force https:\/\/thinkdeterrence.com\/events\/readiness-resilience-and-credibility<\/a><\/p>

THURSDAY | APRIL 23<\/p>

9:30 a.m. G-50 Dirksen \u2014 Senate Armed Services Committee hearing: \"The posture of the U.S. Central Command and U.S. Africa Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for FY2027 and the Future Years Defense Program,\" with testimony from Adm. Brad Cooper, commander, U.S. Central Command; and Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, commander, U.S. Africa Command http:\/\/www.armed-services.senate.gov<\/a><\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Screenshot-2025-08-18-at-7.32.03-AM.png?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4526274-1776236400", "title":"Pressure builds on Trump to find off-ramp on Iran war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4526274%2Ftrump-congress-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Mabinty Quarshie", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"As the Iran war hits a seventh week, President Donald Trump is facing increasing pressure to receive congressional approval over the war or seek a swift end to the conflict. When the war began, Trump claimed the conflict would be over in four to six weeks and repeatedly stated that his objective of obliterating Iran’s […]", "description":""

As the Iran<\/a> war hits a seventh week, President Donald Trump<\/a> is facing increasing pressure to receive congressional approval over the war or seek a swift end to the conflict.<\/p>

When the war began, Trump claimed the conflict would be over in four to six weeks and repeatedly stated that his objective of obliterating Iran's military might had already been accomplished.<\/p>

But a two-week ceasefire has extended that deadline, and Trump has escalated pressure on Iran after the United States began a blockade of maritime traffic<\/a> entering and exiting Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz<\/a> on Monday.<\/p>

Peace talks in Islamabad<\/a>, Pakistan, led by Vice President JD Vance<\/a>, fell apart over the weekend, another sign that the war could continue indefinitely after the ceasefire expires.<\/p>

\"Operation Epic Failure is a much more appropriate name for Trump's war of choice,\" said Minority Leader Chuck Schumer<\/a> (D-NY) on the Senate floor Tuesday. \"And 45 days into this war, Congress<\/a> has been sidelined because our Republican colleagues refuse to take a strong stand against this war and duck it completely because they're afraid of Trump.\"<\/p>

Trump did not seek congressional approval for the war, instead using the War Powers Resolution of 1973 to authorize a joint attack against Iran with Israel.<\/p>

The resolution allows the use of military force for 60 days after the president first reports to Congress of hostilities. Trump technically has until May 1 before the conflict with Iran must be terminated or Congress legally authorizes military force. The president notified Congress on March 2 about the strikes, even though the war began on Feb. 28, giving him a few more days.<\/p>

The deployment can be extended for an additional 30 days<\/a> if Trump proves that \"unavoidable military necessity respecting the safety of United States Armed Forces\" requires continued use of military force. <\/p>

A White House official told the Washington Examiner that \"the administration is in active conversations with the Hill on this topic.\" <\/p>

\"Members of Congress who try to score political points by usurping the Commander-in-Chief\u2019s authority would only undermine the United States Military abroad, which no elected official should want to do,\" the official said.<\/p>

But Democrats are seeking to win back the House and Senate during this year's midterm elections<\/a> by slamming the Trump administration over the war, which is unpopular among the public. Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz has led to higher oil and gas prices<\/a>, causing the GOP some consternation; voters could take out their anger on them in November.<\/p>

Schumer threatened the White House that Senate Democrats will force the issue under the War Powers Act as soon as this week if the GOP does not rein in Trump.<\/p>

\"We will bring a resolution to the floor this week, led by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, a combat veteran who understands the true costs of war far more than Donald Trump ever has,\" he said. \"And we will not stop there. If Republicans block it, we will vote again and again and again every single week until Operation Epic Fury ends or Congress does its job and authorizes it, which I know it won't, given how bad this war is because our troops deserve a mission, not a mess.\"<\/p>

The day before, Senate Democrats also held a press briefing in support of their War Powers Resolution and again threatened to keep voting on resolutions until \"this illegal war of choice\" has ended.<\/p>

\"There's nothing in the Constitution that says the president of the United States gets to start a war and wage a war for 60 days,\" Sen. Chris Van Hollen<\/a> (D-MD) said. \"You don't get to wage a war for 60 days without congressional authorization.\"<\/p>

Three past Senate votes on the War Powers Resolution have all failed, with only Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) defecting to vote with Democrats, while Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) sided with the GOP.<\/p>

House Democrats are similarly weighing bringing a war powers vote on Thursday and have criticized the GOP over the issue.<\/p>

\"We know they've been kind of dragging their feet about dealing with this \u2014 Speaker [Mike] Johnson and Republican leadership,\" said Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-MD). \"But I think it's important for us to keep trying to push the issue forward, and eventually they're going to have to allow us<\/a> to bring it to the floor and have a vote on it.\"<\/p>

Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), who is facing a tough reelection battle, slammed Democratic efforts to rein in Trump as effectively boosting Iran and said the president should get more time to negotiate a deal to end the war.<\/p>

\"This War Powers Resolution undermines the United States' position, and frankly, gives cover to the enemy,\" Lawler told Fox Business\u2019s Varney & Co. on Tuesday.<\/p>

\"It gives cover to the regime, who continues to not negotiate in good faith,\" he continued. \"The idea that we would pass a War Powers Resolution demanding the immediate withdrawal of all U.S. troops in the region is insane and frankly, strengthens the Iranian regime's hand. So no, I will not be voting for this.\"<\/p>

The White House pushed back against accusations that it has kept Congress in the dark in response to the Washington Examiner's request for comment.<\/p>

\u201cPresident Trump has been transparent with the Hill since before Operation Epic Fury began, and administration officials provided over 20 bipartisan briefings for Members of Congress to keep them apprised of military updates,\" spokeswoman Anna Kelly said. \"The President\u2019s preference is always diplomacy, and Iran is desperate to make a deal \u2013 but they first must renounce their desire for a nuclear weapon and agree to redlines articulated by the United States.\u201d <\/p>

Senate Democrats don't currently have enough Republican defectors to reach the 60-vote threshold to pass a resolution, but at least two Republicans, Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Sen. John Curtis (R-UT), have indicated their patience with Trump is waning. <\/p>

\u201cThe 60-day target is what I\u2019m looking at,\u201d said Tillis, who also claimed the Trump administration \u201chas got to start answering questions.\u201d <\/p>

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) told Punchbowl News on Monday, \u201cI think people are going to be looking for signs of progress.\u201d<\/p>

But a day later, during a GOP press conference, Thune claimed that \"most of us, I believe, feel pretty good about what the military, the American military, has achieved there in terms of its objectives.\" <\/p>

IMF WARNS OF GLOBAL RECESSION RISK IF IRAN WAR ESCALATES<\/a><\/p>

Thune dodged on whether he would support an authorization for use of military force measure on Iran.<\/p>

\"That's something obviously, it's a hypothetical down the road,\" he told reporters. \"We're going to have an opportunity to vote on some War Powers Resolutions the Democrats are going to try and trigger. But I think the administration has a clear objective, a clear plan, and if they can execute on it, hopefully that question won't be a necessary one that we'll have to answer.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/trump-iran-48-hours.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528482-1776236400", "title":"Lone Democrat, Republicans who voted against housing bill have financial ties to its opponents", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528482%2Flone-democrat-republicans-who-voted-against-housing-bill-have-financial-ties-to-its-opponents%2F", "byline":"Robert Schmad", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Senators from both parties who voted against legislation to rein in the ability of large investors to acquire rental properties have a series of financial ties to those same investors. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) was the lone Democrat to vote against the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which would prevent investors from buying up […]", "description":""

Senators from both parties who voted against legislation to rein in the ability of large investors to acquire rental properties<\/a> have a series of financial ties to those same investors.<\/p>

Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) was the lone Democrat to vote against the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which would prevent investors from buying up large quantities of single-family or duplex homes to turn into rentals. Schatz\u2019s wife runs a real estate consulting firm, Schatz Collaborative, that currently works with large property investors who could be hurt by the bill. Schatz himself, alongside some GOP opponents of the legislation, has accepted significant campaign contributions from interest groups seeking to stop the bill from becoming law. <\/p>

\u201cSenator Schatz is in favor of increasing housing supply and against constraining it, and that is why he opposed federal restrictions on build-to-rent,\u201d a spokesman for the lawmaker told the Washington Examiner. \u201cThe overwhelming majority of housing experts agree with him. Senator Schatz doesn\u2019t discuss pending legislation with family members where there could be a conflict.\u201d<\/p>

Schatz Collaborative\u2019s possible clientele could be adversely affected by the legislation.<\/p>

A 2017 profile of Schatz\u2019s wife published<\/a> in Pacific Edge Magazine reported that her company focuses on \u201cservicing real estate companies outside of Hawai\u2018i that need local expertise,\u201d the kinds of business targeted by the housing reform law, by \u201cfinding properties, concepts, investors, and project teams to execute real estate deals.\u201d<\/p>

Schatz doesn\u2019t disclose precisely how much his wife earns through her real estate consultancy, simply stating in financial discourses that she earns over $1,000 a year from her work, according<\/a> to his most recent financial disclosure.<\/p>

The Hawaiian Democrat is a strong proponent<\/a> of increasing housing supply through new construction to lower the cost of living.<\/p>

\u201cThe definition of \u2018institutional investor\u2019 says, essentially, anyone who owns and operates more than 350 units to rent,\u201d Schatz said in a floor speech<\/a> criticizing the bill\u2019s attempt to ban homeownership among institutional investors. \u201cThat's bananas. We are now targeting LLCs, limited partnerships, real estate investment trusts, individual owners, family companies, pension funds \u2014 anyone who wants to build housing and then provide it for rent is going to be forced to sell after seven years \u2026 We have decided, for no particular reason other than what I think is a drafting error, to demonize people who want to build rental housing for folks.\u201d<\/p>

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act would require investors who own more than 350 single-family or duplex homes to sell those properties after seven years.<\/p>

Schatz\u2019s wife, according<\/a> to her public LinkedIn profile, is currently involved in two projects alongside large real estate investors. One such project, an apartment complex called Kaulana Mahina, is reportedly a joint venture <\/a>between an AFL-CIO pension investment fund, Legacy Partners, Pacific Coast Capital Partners, Dowling Company, Pier Investments, and Schatz Collaborative.<\/p>

The project, according <\/a>to a local business journal, had a projected cost of over $100 million and was \u201centirely privately financed, with a large share coming from private equity,\u201d according to developers.<\/p>

Dowling Company<\/a> and Pacific Coast Capital Partners<\/a> both invest in single-family housing development projects. Schatz\u2019s wife has a financial stake in a holding company<\/a> partnered to create the Kaulana Mahina apartments valued between $50,000 and $100,000, according<\/a> to Senate disclosures.<\/p>

Kamakana Villages, Schatz\u2019s wife\u2019s other ongoing project, is in partnership with Forest City Hawaii, another large real estate investor. <\/p>

The current row over the ability of institutional investors to purchase single-family homes came after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January barring federal agencies from assisting large firms in acquiring such properties. Trump reiterated his position in February when, during his State of the Union address, he called on Congress to pass legislation to ban institutional investors from buying single-family homes.<\/p>

Trump's proposed institutional investor ban is part of an affordability message that his allies have encouraged him to focus on more frequently as the 2026 midterm elections approach, and as his approval ratings have sagged.<\/p>Institutional investors donated to Republicans

Schatz\u2019s GOP colleagues who joined him in opposing the legislation have also accepted donations from opponents of the legislation, the Center Square previously reported<\/a>. Sens. Thom Tillis (R-NC), Todd Young (R-IN), Mike Lee (R-UT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rand Paul (R-KY), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) have all accepted funds from institutional investors or their political committees.<\/p>

Each Republican lawmaker was reached for comment.<\/p>

\u201cLowering housing costs for all Americans is a priority for this Republican Congress, but this bill fell far short of that goal,\u201d Cruz told the Washington Examiner. \u201cI agree with President Trump that large banks should not be buying single-family homes. Unfortunately, this legislation goes beyond that principle and restricts those hoping to build new rental housing for Americans by requiring build-to-rent homes to be sold within seven years. Restricting the supply of newly built rental units should not be enshrined in law.\u201d<\/p>

Young, meanwhile, told the Washington Examiner that while he is \u201cglad the Senate is finally considering ways to address the housing affordability crisis, as I\u2019ve worked on housing issues for years,\u201d the bill as written \u201ccontains provisions that won\u2019t increase the supply of housing or help lower costs.\u201d<\/p>

Both Cruz and Young told the Washington Examiner that they\u2019d be open to voting for a housing reform bill provided certain issues are ironed out, especially relating to zoning regulations.  <\/p>

Schatz himself has accepted similar contributions from institutional investors, having received at least $131,500 from organizations that oppose the bill's restrictions on institutional investors owning homes, the Center Square reported. Large private equity firms such as Blackstone<\/a>, Apollo Global Management<\/a>, and KKR<\/a>, as well as their employees, have also cut checks to Schatz over the years, according to campaign finance records. <\/p>

GOP DONORS COULD WIN BILLIONS AFTER TRUMP DISMANTLED KEY PUERTO RICO OVERSIGHT BOARD<\/a><\/p>

Outside of Congress, power players in Washington with financial links to institutional investors are mounting a spirited opposition to the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.<\/p>

Five of the American Enterprise Institute's board members have ties to large investment ventures that seek to acquire single-family homes, Politico reported<\/a> on April 10. Since President Donald Trump first announced his intent to ban such large investors from owning single-family homes in January, AEI\u2019s scholars have published articles and reports arguing against the policy change.<\/p>

\u201cAEI does not take institutional positions, and our scholars maintain independence in all of their research,\u201d an AEI spokesperson told Politico. \u201cViews expressed by our scholars are drawn from their own expertise and research, and we strongly protect their ability to work independently.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/AP25021739866341.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528641-1776236400", "title":"To fight civic ignorance, don’t just teach students. Test them", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528641%2Ffight-civic-ignorance-dont-just-teach-students-test-them%2F", "byline":"Jeffrey E. Schulman", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"I recently met young professionals angry that they could not vote in presidential elections because they lived in Washington, D.C. They did not realize the city enjoys three votes in the Electoral College, the same as it would as a state. Their unjustified anger speaks to the danger of poor education in history and government. […]", "description":""

I recently met young professionals angry that they could not vote in presidential elections because they lived in Washington, D.C. They did not realize the city enjoys three votes in the Electoral College<\/a>, the same as it would as a state.<\/p>

Their unjustified anger speaks to the danger of poor education<\/a> in history and government. In response to this widespread ignorance, states are passing laws requiring students at public colleges to take a class on American history and government.<\/p>

These laws are much needed.<\/p>

While Ohio already requires this by law, universities themselves should require that students also pass a history and government exam<\/a>. Indeed, such a test would help address one of our country\u2019s greatest dangers.<\/p>

FOR TAX DAY, CONSIDER A SMARTER WAY TO INVEST IN AMERICA\u2019S STUDENTS<\/a><\/p>

That danger, as Abraham Lincoln argued in 1838, is that free governments are inherently fragile. So long as citizens sense that democracy remains vulnerable, they take care not to injure it. But as they begin to take it for granted, they clash recklessly, eventually descending into violence. The Civil War, which Lincoln seemed to forebode, was a particularly severe case. In the aftermath of that war, statesmen developed civic curricula at colleges and universities meant to instill a sense of democracy\u2019s vulnerability.<\/p>

Priorities changed when the end of the Cold War<\/a> inaugurated prophecies that liberal democracy inevitably would spread across the world. Amid competition with countries opening their economies, policymakers favored subjects like science and engineering. Data from my organization\u2019s \"What Will They Learn<\/a>?\" initiative show that 78% of colleges and universities require a science class, compared to 19% requiring one in American government or history.<\/p>

Worse, policymakers shifted what remained of civics away from fortifying America\u2019s constitutional order and toward remedying the country\u2019s shortcomings, particularly in how society treated minority groups. This not only detracted resources from teaching about democracy, but also generated hostility by emphasizing the country\u2019s faults while often neglecting its achievements.<\/p>

While the situation has sparked calls for reform, many risk missing another consequence of the post\u2013Cold War de-emphasis: falling standards. Everyone in college knows a science, engineering, or math class is harder than one in history. And while signs of decreasing rigor have begun to appear in those fields too, their demanding curricula have borne impressive results: Engineers have developed driverless cars, and coders have fit whole libraries into a coat pocket. Yet American history and government have shown much worse results.<\/p>

In 2024, 48% of college students wrongly thought the president holds the power to declare war. Unsurprisingly, the country stands at the forefront of technology in fields like space and artificial intelligence, but its body politic has begun to fracture.<\/p>

The trouble is that the current response, with Ohio as the exception, focuses on classes and resources, which cannot alone guarantee that students will be held to a high standard. That is where an exam could help.<\/p>

Such a test would force students<\/a> to take the course seriously and ensure that professors did not feel pressured to dumb down their classes for lazy freshmen. Since the exam would not be used to judge professors\u2019 performance but students', it would escape the pitfall seen in public schools, where teachers teach to the test as a way to keep their jobs. Nor would such an exam restrict academic freedom because it would not affect how faculty teach or grade their own individual classes. And while universities may place the test at the end of class, they also could consider an exam at the end of the bachelor\u2019s degree. After all, England\u2019s Oxford University already requires that students in most fields pass an end exam.<\/p>

FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUCKLES AMID SCANDALS, FURIOUS PARENTS, AND BUDGETING CRUNCH<\/a><\/p>

Responsibility for designing such a test would rest naturally with professors specializing in history and government. Many states have founded centers of civic thought at their flagship campus, whose faculty could design an exam for the whole state university<\/a> system. A sound exam would pose questions on the basics like the Electoral College and the 19th century\u2019s battles over the Bank of the United States. But it also could include other subjects that bear on the political system, like ancient political systems that influenced the Founders or foreign nationalism that drew the United States into overseas wars.<\/p>

Without such serious measures to remedy low standards in history and government, the country faces serious dangers. Ignorance begets radicalism \u2014 it is not hard to believe that the young Washingtonians, resenting a president for whom they thought they could not vote, might resort to violence. Without a knowledge of democracy\u2019s vulnerability, American youths risk squandering it like many of the ancients, or as our own forebears nearly did in Lincoln\u2019s day.<\/p>

Jeffrey E. Schulman works as program manager for academic affairs at the American Council of Trustees and Alumni.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/affirmative-action-test.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529512-1776233996", "title":"Gas prices: Five days of decreases at the pumps", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Feconomy%2F4529512%2Fgas-prices-five-days-of-decreases-at-the-pumps%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The national average price for regular gas decreased again on Wednesday to $4.11 per gallon. It was the fifth day since Friday that gas prices nationwide have dropped, according to AAA. Fuel costs on Wednesday dropped 1 cent per gallon from Tuesday. Additionally, Wednesday’s national average price was less expensive than a week ago, when […]", "description":""

The national average price for regular gas decreased again on Wednesday to $4.11 per gallon. It was the fifth day since Friday that gas prices<\/a> nationwide have dropped, according to AAA<\/a>.<\/p>

Fuel costs on Wednesday dropped 1 cent per gallon from Tuesday. Additionally, Wednesday\u2019s national average price was less expensive than a week ago, when regular gas cost $4.16 per gallon. It was the first time since February that the average gas price from a week ago was more expensive than the current price. Prices remain higher than a month ago, when a gallon of regular gas cost $3.70. Today\u2019s prices are also higher than a year ago, when gas was on average $3.17 per gallon.<\/p>

Since gas hit $2.79 per gallon<\/a> on Jan. 12, a five-year low, prices have gradually increased. Initially, winter weather nationwide was blamed for the rise in fuel costs, as snowstorms in January and February disrupted oil refinery operations and production. However, fuel prices began to soar after the Iran war began in late February. During the first week of March, a gallon of regular gas increased to $2.98<\/a>. By March 31, the national average price for regular gas rose to $4.02 per gallon<\/a>.<\/p>

\u200b\u200bRegardless of national highs and lows, fuel costs vary by region. The lowest gas prices are currently found in Midwestern states, while the highest prices are along the Pacific coast.<\/p>

Oklahoma has the nation\u2019s lowest gas prices, at $3.44 per gallon. Kansas is next at $3.51 per gallon. North Dakota has the next-lowest gas prices in the nation, with a statewide average of $3.62 per gallon. This is followed by Nebraska at $3.63 per gallon and Iowa at $3.65.<\/p>

California remains the state with the highest statewide average gas price in the country, at $5.88 per gallon. This is followed by Hawaii at $5.651 per gallon. Next is Washington state at $5.39, and then Oregon at just under $5. Nevada rounds out the top five with a cost of $4.96 per gallon.<\/p>Washington, D.C.

Gas prices in the nation\u2019s capital are higher than the national average, with a cost on Wednesday of $4.29. This was a slight drop from Tuesday's average of $4.30, and prices have held steady in the District over the past seven days. A month ago, fuel costs were much lower in D.C., at $3.70 per gallon.<\/p>Maryland

Fuel prices in Maryland dropped to $4.10 per gallon on Wednesday. This was a 1-cent decrease from Tuesday. A week ago, the statewide average in Maryland was just under $4.20 per gallon. As in every state, gas prices in Maryland were significantly lower a month ago, when the state\u2019s average price was $3.60 per gallon.<\/p>Delaware

Gas prices in Delaware were lower than the national average on Wednesday, at $3.97 per gallon. A week ago, gas in Delaware was about 7 cents higher. A month ago, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in the state was only $3.40.<\/p>Virginia

The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Virginia on Wednesday is $3.97, cheaper than the national average and lower than Washington, D.C. Gas prices in Virginia decreased from a week ago, when gas was $4.08 per gallon. Fuel costs in the state were also significantly cheaper than a month ago, when a gallon of regular gas was $3.49.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26097630491269_d4f0a6.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4523206-1776232800", "title":"Second round of April Social Security payments goes out today", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4523206%2Fsecond-round-april-social-security-payments-goes-out-today%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The second round of April Social Security payments for retirees, now capped at $5,181, will be issued today. When will payments arrive? Retirees born between the 11th and 20th of a month will receive this payment on Wednesday, April 15.  The first round went out on April 8 to those born on or before the […]", "description":""

The second round of April Social Security payments for retirees, now capped at $5,181, will be issued today.<\/p>When will payments arrive?

Retirees born between the 11th and 20th of a month will receive this payment on Wednesday, April 15<\/a>. <\/p>

The first round went out on April 8 to those born on or before the 10th of a month, and the third round will go out on April 22 to those born on or after the 21st of a month.<\/p>When am I eligible?

Citizens are eligible for Social Security benefits beginning at age 62.<\/p>How can I maximize my check?

Social Security payment amounts are determined by several factors, including age of retirement, the amount paid into Social Security, and the number of years paid into Social Security.<\/p>

Payments largely depend on a recipient\u2019s retirement age<\/a>. A beneficiary retiring at the youngest age, 62, could receive up to $2,969 per month<\/a>, while a 70-year-old retiree could receive up to $5,181 per month, according to the Social Security Administration.<\/p>

Beneficiaries can see a personalized estimate of how much they could expect each month using the SSA\u2019s calculator<\/a>.<\/p>

JB PRITZKER SAYS HE\u2019LL BE \u2018INVOLVED\u2019 IN 2028 RACE<\/a><\/p>How is it financed?

Social Security is financed by a payroll tax paid for by employers and employees.<\/p>

Social Security payment amounts are set to shrink unless Congress takes action to prevent it. Analysts estimate the SSA will no longer be able to issue full payments<\/a> as early as 2034, due to a rising number of retirees and a shrinking workforce.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Social-Security-9-1.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4527239-1776232800", "title":"Trump would be justified to pull US out of NATO. He still shouldn’t do it", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4527239%2Ftrump-justified-pull-out-nato-still-should-not%2F", "byline":"Walter E. Block", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"To say that President Donald Trump is seriously miffed with the behavior of all too many members of NATO would be an understatement of the century. He is perplexed at them, super annoyed with them, disappointed in their behavior, not to say angry, fuming, and livid. Why and how so? First, a relatively minor detail […]", "description":""

To say that President Donald Trump is seriously miffed<\/a> with the behavior of all too many members<\/a> of NATO would be an understatement of the century.<\/p>

He is perplexed at them, super annoyed with them, disappointed in their behavior, not to say angry, fuming, and livid<\/a>. Why and how so?<\/p>

First, a relatively minor detail (not really), they are reluctant to allocate a sufficient percentage of their GDP to their military budgets<\/a> so as to be able to provide for self-defense. Instead, they have long been free riding on a gigantic U.S. protective umbrella.<\/p>

THE LIBERTARIAN CASE FOR TRUMP\u2019S IRAN WAR: PERSIANS HAVE NATURAL RIGHTS, TOO<\/a><\/p>

Second, they have not been willing to provide any military assets to open up the Strait of Hormuz, upon which they depend in great part for their oil supplies.<\/p>

Third, they have adamantly refused to join the United States and Israel, and now the UAE, in ensuring that the madmen in the Iranian regime unconditionally surrender, such that never, ever, will they be able to threaten the world<\/a> with nuclear weapons.<\/p>

Fourth, they have not given permission<\/a> for the U.S. and Israel to utilize their airfields or even to fly over their territories. This is perhaps the most egregious of all. The first three on this list require them to actually get off their rear ends and engage in costly and inconvenient actions. This latter one demands only passivity \u2014 that they merely allow others the use of their territory.<\/p>

As a result, the Trump administration is seriously considering trying to withdraw from NATO. I oppose this for two reasons. First, this entirely justified step is exceedingly unlikely to be met with success. In order to do so, the Senate must approve<\/a> by a two-thirds vote, or the entire Congress must do so. The Democrats, suffering under Trump Derangement Syndrome, would see this as support for the U.S. and would bitterly oppose it. They seem to be rooting for Iran in this campaign.<\/p>

Second, merely threatening to do so, rather than actually severing ties with our long-standing allies, would be beneficial. Perhaps, then, they will come to their senses and act like adults for the first time in this confrontation with the \"middle-sized Satan.\"<\/p>

How best can this be done, without any support from Democrats? Consider the table below. It offers the best estimates now available as to how many service members are at present stationed in NATO countries. Trump cannot withdraw from this organization without congressional approval, but he can certainly, gradually or not so gradually, reduce the U.S. military presence all over Europe.<\/p>

(All of these numbers are the best estimates for 2025 now available. Note also that some of the most vociferous opponents of the U.S. and Israel in this battle \u2014 Italy, Spain, England, Germany \u2014 are the ones with the most American soldiers presently protecting them.)<\/p>

THE LIBERTARIAN CASE FOR TRUMP\u2019S IRAN WAR: ANSWERING THE CRITICS<\/a><\/p>

Will bringing these troops home create domestic unemployment? This is economic illiteracy writ large. These soldiers bring mouths with them, not only arms, legs, and heads. The experience after World War II ought to put to rest this fallacy once and for all.<\/p>

On the other hand, and there is indeed another hand, which countries would take the most joy from the U.S. resignation from NATO? We do not have to go too far afield to conclude: Russia and China<\/a>? Is this, then, something to which Americans can look forward? Not a bit of it. It is sad that we should have been brought to this imbroglio by the malign behavior of these Europeans.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/trump-june-hague.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528233-1776232800", "title":"The pope, the president, and a press that’s just making it up", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Frestoring-america%2F4528233%2Fpope-president-press-thats-just-making-it-up%2F", "byline":"Hugh Hewitt", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Ah, the pope and the president. Again. So much discussion about such fragments of information. This genre of magical thinking began to explode during the tenure of Pope Francis because he was given to speaking like the Oracle of Delphi in every setting, and his distaste for America and Americans was hardly a secret. The […]", "description":""

Ah, the pope and the president. Again. So much discussion about such fragments of information.<\/p>

This genre of magical thinking began to explode during the tenure of Pope Francis<\/a> because he was given to speaking like the Oracle of Delphi in every setting, and his distaste for America and Americans was hardly a secret.<\/p>

The practice of manufacturing collisions between the Vatican<\/a> and the U.S. has continued with Pope Leo XIV because he is new in the job, and the world doesn\u2019t have a fix on him yet. President Donald Trump,<\/a>\u00a0of course, always provides copy. Take an unknown and mix in the well-known, and a thousand columns are launched.<\/p>

The best commentary on this situation actually came from Vice President JD Vance<\/a> more than a year ago.<\/p>

Enough, by the way, with the commentary about what Vance \u201cthinks.\u201d Nobody knows except the VP and his wife, second lady Usha Vance. His friends and family, of course, have their necessarily incomplete guesses, and even a perceptive boss like Trump must know he cannot really know. But there are a handful of people who have opinions about the VP's opinions that could be illuminating. Very few, if any, actually speak about them in public.\u00a0<\/p>

Most of what is written about Vance and what he thinks about the world generally, or the battle with Iran<\/a> specifically, is a numbing combination of junk and wish-casting. There was an avalanche of this in the days leading up to, during, and after the summit with the Iranians in Islamabad. As with the earlier commentary, it\u2019s so much junk. <\/p>

The vice president gives a lot of interviews. As with all elected officials who may yet face the voters again, the answers in those interviews are guarded. They are molded with messaging and audiences in mind. He may appear more or less candid on any particular day or subject, and he is consistently funny.<\/p>

But his worldview? What he wishes had happened in Islamabad? His \u201creal\u201d view of China, Russia, Iran, or Israel?<\/p>

We don\u2019t know and can\u2019t know. We shouldn\u2019t expect to know. He\u2019s the vice president. The job is based on repressing one\u2019s own views and faithfully understanding and implementing the views of the president.<\/p>

The one interview he has given me since becoming vice president happened to have occurred soon after Leo was elevated to the Throne of St. Peter. It is an interesting read 13 months later<\/a>, as Leo and Trump are center stage this week.\u00a0As a lifelong Catholic, I dismiss most \u201canalysis\u201d of what these exchanges mean. After decades of reading interpretations of \u201cwhat Pope X thinks about this or that,\u201d I realize it\u2019s just as silly an exercise as guessing what presidents actually think.<\/p>

The vice president brought a similar attitude with him to his new job last year, long before Leo and Trump had their exchanges this week, if they can even be called \u201cexchanges.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s very hard to fit a 2,000-year-old institution into the politics of 2025 America,\" Vance told me in March of last year. \"I try not to do that.\"\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI am a Catholic convert, and so I come at this maybe with a slightly different perspective,\u201d he continued. \u201cBut I try not to play the politicization of the Pope game. I\u2019m sure he\u2019s going to say a lot of things that I love. I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll say some things that I disagree with, but I\u2019ll continue to pray for him and the Church despite it all and through it all, and that\u2019ll be the way that I handle it.\u201d<\/p>

That would be an excellent way for legacy media to handle \u201cpope and president\u201d stories as well. Just tell us what they said or posted if done specifically with the other party named. Don\u2019t overlay prior points of view onto the record. It\u2019s as silly as playing mind-reader to the vice president.<\/p>

POPE LEO CAN'T HAVE IT BOTH WAYS<\/a><\/p>

A suggestion: Whenever you hear or read a reporter asserting what a public figure \u201cthinks\u201d or \u201cfeels,\u201d change your feed or at least turn on your misinformation shield. They are combining guessing and projection, but they are not reporting.<\/p>

And if they are relaying what \u201csources\u201d told them about the views of the principals, that\u2019s a step down from guessing and projection. That\u2019s just making it up to meet a deadline and make a word count.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-gtmayfe0q-1776056592544-e1776056645617.jpg?1776097630&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528457-1776232800", "title":"Mamdani’s mad supermarket gambit", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4528457%2Fmamdani-mad-supermarket-gambit%2F", "byline":"James Rogan", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Socialism is the path to economic decay. For some strange reason, however, many Americans, especially in deep blue strongholds such as New York City, persist in believing that socialism is superior to capitalism. All the evidence points in the other direction. Last year, the voters of New York City elected an avowed socialist, Zohran Mamdani, as […]", "description":""

Socialism<\/a> is the path to economic decay. For some strange reason, however, many Americans, especially in deep blue strongholds such as New York City, persist in believing that socialism is superior to capitalism.<\/p>

All the evidence points in the other direction.<\/p>

Last year, the voters of New York City elected an avowed\u00a0<\/a>socialist, Zohran Mamdani, as their mayor. He ran on a platform of city-owned businesses and massive subsidies for housing, child care, and public transportation. One of his more provocative ideas was to open\u00a0city-owned supermarkets. <\/a>Earlier this month, Mamdani announced the opening of the first city-owned supermarket\u00a0in East Harlem, in Manhattan. The store is scheduled to open late next year. The Mamdani administration plans to open one municipal grocery store in each of the five New York City boroughs before the end of the decade.<\/p>

The city plans to invest\u00a0$30 million of taxpayer money<\/a>\u00a0to develop the first store. The idea is to sell staples such as bread and eggs at near wholesale prices by eliminating the profit motive.<\/p>

The plan is deeply flawed. First, it seeks to solve a problem that does not exist. Grocery prices across the country are up\u00a0just 1.9%<\/a>\u00a0over the past 12 months. Moreover, government cannot operate as efficiently as the private sector. City-owned supermarkets are far more likely to produce inefficiency, waste, and unintended consequences that ultimately harm the very consumers they aim to help.<\/p>

The supermarket business is inherently\u00a0low-margin<\/a>\u00a0and intensely competitive. Walmart and Amazon, with its Whole Foods stores, compete aggressively on price and delivery. One key to the success of these two giants of the American economy is their laser focus on distribution costs. At their core, Walmart and Amazon are\u00a0logistics\u00a0<\/a>companies.<\/p>

Private grocery chains succeed or fail based on their ability to manage costs, negotiate with suppliers, and respond to demand. A city-run supermarket, by contrast, would operate under political rather than economic incentives. Decisions about pricing, hiring, product selection, and location would inevitably be influenced by political considerations, union pressures, and bureaucratic constraints rather than the discipline of profit and loss.<\/p>

This disconnect matters. Without the pressure to turn a profit, a government-owned supermarket has little incentive to control costs. Over time, what begins as a pilot program could easily become a permanent fiscal burden. New York City already faces significant budget pressures, from public pensions to infrastructure needs. Its 2027 budget deficit is projected at\u00a0$10\u00a0billion. Adding a taxpayer-subsidized grocery chain is a big financial mistake <\/p>

Advocates of Mamdani\u2019s supermarkets argue that \u201cfood deserts\u201d justify government intervention. But the reality is that, throughout the city, a consumer can find a grocery store within a\u00a010-minute walk.<\/a><\/p>

If grocery access is limited in certain areas, the causes are complex, including crime, zoning restrictions, and high operating costs. A city-owned supermarket does nothing to address these underlying issues. In fact, it may exacerbate them by masking the real problems rather than solving them. If theft, regulation, or labor costs make it difficult for private stores to operate, those barriers will affect a public store as well, unless it relies on heavy subsidies and reduced standards.<\/p>

Moreover, government-run retail operations have a poor track record. From\u00a0public housing maintenance<\/a>\u00a0failures to inefficient transit systems, large-scale municipal enterprises often struggle with accountability and performance. A supermarket may seem simpler, but it still requires sophisticated logistics, inventory management, and customer service. There is little reason to believe that a city bureaucracy will excel in these areas where experienced private operators already compete intensely.<\/p>

RUBIO REASSURES SENATE REPUBLICANS ON IRAN AS US PURSUES NUCLEAR DEAL<\/a><\/p>

A better approach would focus on removing barriers to private sector success. Reducing regulatory burdens, addressing retail theft, and encouraging competition would do far more to lower prices and expand access than creating a government-owned alternative.<\/p>

If New York City were to welcome companies such as Walmart and Amazon, food prices would be lower, and customer satisfaction would improve. The private market is not the problem. Government regulation, along with the power of New York City\u2019s\u00a0unions<\/a>\u00a0that oppose private ownership, is the problem.<\/p>

James Rogan is a former U.S. foreign service officer who later worked in law and finance for over 30 years. Today, he writes a daily note on markets, economics, politics, and social issues.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26093410448014.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528686-1776232800", "title":"Congress offers lose-lose trade: false security for data vulnerability", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fop-eds%2F4528686%2Fcongress-app-store-accountability-act-false-security-data-vulnerability%2F", "byline":"Oscar Gill-Lewis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Congress is considering a new act that replaces active parenting with a broken digital wall.  The House Committee on Energy and Commerce recently advanced the App Store Accountability Act (ASAA), a bill that proposes that Google Play and the Apple App Store use commercially reasonable methods to verify users’ ages to increase children’s safety online. […]", "description":""

Congress is considering a new act<\/a> that replaces active parenting with a broken digital wall. <\/p>

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce recently advanced the App Store Accountability Act<\/a> (ASAA), a bill that proposes that Google Play and the Apple App Store use commercially reasonable methods to verify users\u2019 ages<\/a> to increase children\u2019s safety online. The bill\u2019s sponsor, Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-KY), has argued that age verification empowers parents.<\/p>

The chairman is wrong. The ASAA would enforce existing parental controls at the expense of data security and children\u2019s access to important information. By mandating data collection and parental approval, the act would deter parents from engaging in their children\u2019s digital experience. As a result, parents will have a false sense of security when their children are online and take a less active approach to digital parenting and protection.<\/p>

THE KIDS ACT TREATS EVERYONE LIKE A KID<\/a><\/p>

The act would require app stores to request and store ID verification from every user, regardless of age, and to share that information with app developers. Parents are right to balk at the idea of taking such a risk. For those who opt out of sharing their sensitive data, app stores will automatically restrict their children's access to apps and information, ultimately stunting children\u2019s ability to develop strong digital habits.<\/p>

Despite vast bureaucratic capabilities in handling data and personal information, companies can still falter, putting parents at significant risk of being targeted. The factsheet produced by the lawmakers claims that data collection can be done in a secure way.<\/p>

But Spain\u2019s data protection regulator fined Yoti, a trusted industry leader, more than $1 million for violations of biometric data handling rules. Discord admitted that more than 70,000 IDs were compromised in its efforts to comply with the United Kingdom\u2019s stringent Online Safety Act<\/a>. The huge bank of information collected by app stores will become a prime target for hackers.<\/p>

The government wants to demand that all apps be blocked until parents give their consent, whether parents agree with the policy or not. Only 34% of parents agree it will keep kids safe. Seventy percent of parents also worry that requiring parental consent for every app will only restrict access to important information. Parents are rightfully enraged. The proposed legislation enforces the use of app blocking, which is already available to parents.<\/p>

Parents willing to take the risk inherent with ID verification will then face the bureaucratic hassle of approving each app their child wants to download, even the calculator. The burdensome requirement may lead to consent fatigue. Some parents may mindlessly allow all apps, creating an environment without supervision, while others may not allow any apps. The heavy restriction may only push children to riskier alternatives.<\/p>

There is already an abundance of tools available that allow parents to take an approach that best fits their values and teaches their children to have good digital habits. Parents should be empowered to use them as they see fit. As Cato Institute scholar Jennifer Huddleston put it best: \u201cKeeping children safe online is a problem that is best solved by parents<\/a>, not policymakers.\u201d<\/p>

Even if age verification can be done successfully, it pushes consumers, in this case, young children, some likely to be vulnerable, to darker corners of the internet with even less parental controls and a higher degree of danger. It is already happening in places such as Australia and Louisiana.<\/p>

The legislation also carries a huge flaw. By proposing to force age verification through the app store only, the bill leaves a loophole for users to access the same information via a browser without any of the government-imposed hurdles. The blatant loophole shows that the act gives parents a false sense of security, pretending that children will have restricted access, while in reality, children can simply use a browser.<\/p>

When consent fatigue rapidly accumulates and access to relatively harmless places on the internet is restricted, kids will quickly exploit loopholes to access content via web browsers, where they are more likely to stumble into dangerous content.<\/p>

CONGRESS WANTS TO REGULATE VIDEO GAMES. THE INDUSTRY BEAT THEM TO IT.<\/a><\/p>

The App Store Accountability Act claims to make the internet safer for children. What it will really do is deter parents from appropriately engaging in their kids\u2019 internet use. Families would be better off using the available tools to guide and educate their children online. <\/p>

Governments should not ignore or try to replace parents in the pursuit of their child\u2019s safety. Protecting children online<\/a> is a noble cause, but this bill is not the way forward.<\/p>

Oscar Gill-Lewis is a political commentator with Young Voices and Correspondent Program Manager at Speak Freely Magazine. He writes for Speak Freely and on Substack<\/a>, and his articles have appeared in Conservative Home, The Daily Express, and Comment Central.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/iStock-1487977598-e1774376619106.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528999-1776232800", "title":"Americans shouldn’t cry for Orban", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Frestoring-america%2F4528999%2Famericans-shouldnt-cry-for-orban%2F", "byline":"Ivana Stradner and Peter Doran", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Never ignore the voters. After 16 years in power, Hungary’s corpulent Prime Minister Viktor Orban lost touch with the conservative base that supported him from the start, believing he could gerrymander his way to permanent victory. A smarter conservative, incoming Prime Minister Peter Magyar, did the opposite. He used retail politics to listen to Orban’s […]", "description":""

Never ignore the voters. After 16 years in power, Hungary\u2019s<\/a> corpulent Prime Minister Viktor Orban<\/a> lost touch with the conservative base that supported him from the start, believing he could gerrymander his way to permanent victory. A smarter conservative, incoming Prime Minister Peter Magyar, did the opposite. He used retail politics to listen to Orban\u2019s voters and responded to their constant refrain: \u201cRussia<\/a> go home!\u201d<\/p>

Magyar\u2019s victory is a win for Hungary, the United States, and smart campaigning. His victory created a political earthquake in Hungary. Conservatives in America should cheer this result in one of our most important Central European allies. Magyar\u2019s new\u00a0supermajority<\/a>\u00a0means he can amend the Hungarian constitution and roll back Orban\u2019s worst political excesses while keeping the conservative movement alive in Hungary.<\/p>

Orban\u2019s political defeat is historic. Back in 1989, he jumped into politics as an agile, free-market friend of America. He learned how to talk like an American conservative<\/a>.<\/p>

When socialist politicians cratered the Hungarian economy in 2010, Orban sailed into office by championing the everyday voter. He defended the traditional family and questioned the EU\u2019s federalist overreach. Once in power, he lost his way.<\/p>

As Orban and his ministers dined with Vladimir Putin<\/a> and picked unnecessary fights with neighboring Ukraine, Magyar broke ranks with Fidesz, Hungary\u2019s ruling conservative party, in 2024. He returned to basics, campaigning on kitchen-table issues and highlighting malign Russian influence over Hungary in Orban\u2019s stronghold: the conservative heartland.\u00a0<\/p>

Credible reports indicate that the GRU, Russia\u2019s military intelligence unit, deployed to\u00a0assist<\/a> Orban\u2019s campaign.<\/p>

Since Russia\u2019s invasion of Ukraine, most of Europe has moved to isolate Moscow. Meanwhile, Hungary has resisted that consensus, slowing or blocking EU sanctions on Russia and other financial support for Kyiv. Orban simultaneously made his country more dependent on Russian energy imports.\u00a0<\/p>

Hungary continues to rely heavily on Russian oil delivered via the Druzhba pipeline, and Orban has emphasized Russian energy as central to Hungary\u2019s national security.<\/p>

Like Putin, Orban has portrayed Hungary as a \u201cfortress of conservatism\u201d that defends traditional values. Also like Putin, he has flattered President Donald Trump as a \u201ctruly strong and powerful leader.\u201d Trump rightly praised Orban for his resistance to the unexpected wave of mass migration from the Middle East in 2015. But at the same time, Orban opened his economy to Chinese influence on a grand scale and hardened his country\u2019s dependency on Russian energy. Hungary even\u00a0offered to help Iran<\/a>\u00a0after Israel\u2019s infamous \u201cpager attack\u201d on Hezbollah terrorists.\u00a0<\/p>

During Operation Epic Fury, Orban refused to help the U.S. even as Trump complained that our closest friends were sitting on their hands. Instead, Orban picked up the phone to Moscow. He complained to Putin about the loss of energy shipments from the fighting, especially European-bound LNG deliveries from Qatar and rising prices for consumers. Putin lavished praise on Orban, thanking him for\u00a0vetoing EU aid to Ukraine<\/a>\u00a0and his \u201cprincipled\u201d foreign policy.<\/p>

All eyes are now looking to Magyar for a return to predictable, pro-Western politics in Budapest. Among voters,\u00a0Magyar built his appeal on a promise to reset Hungary\u2019s political system by rooting out corruption, restoring institutional checks and balances, and realigning Hungary with Europe. As the head of the Tisza party, he has focused on bread-and-butter concerns such as tackling inflation and unlocking frozen EU funds while deliberately sidestepping divisive culture-war politics.<\/p>

YES, MUSLIMS SHOULD ASSIMILATE TO BELONG<\/a><\/p>

His campaign suggests that he is a leader who understands his domestic politics without the geopolitical baggage of close ties to Russia or mischief-making in NATO. This will make him a more effective and sustainable ally that Washington can rely on.<\/p>

Orban\u2019s downfall was tragic and predictable. After championing the everyday voter, he transformed a genuine political mandate into a would-be monopoly on power. That is over. The U.S. should look upon\u00a0Magyar\u2019s new government as a conservative friend with whom we can work.<\/p>

Peter Doran is Senior Adjunct Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Ivana Stradner is a research fellow at FDD.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26102250498850.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529041-1776232800", "title":"Jungle primaries and the curious timing of Swalwell’s downfall", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4529041%2Fjungle-primaries-curious-timing-swalwell-downfall%2F", "byline":"Joe Concha", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. “Swalwell sat on the intel committee, and there were allegations […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

\"Swalwell<\/a> sat on the intel committee, and there were allegations he had a suspected Chinese spy, Fang Fang, who was associated with him in his office. Now, he was not found to have engaged in wrongdoing. But to me, my spidey senses from having worked at the Pentagon go off, which is, it was an open secret that he had issues with women, that he was somebody who was susceptible, potentially to heavy drinking, to impropriety with women.\"<\/p>

That was Alyssa Farah Griffin on Monday's episode of\u00a0The\u00a0View<\/a>\u00a0talking about disgraced and soon-to-be-ex-Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA). The words \"open secret\" have been bandied about on cable news and social media since a bombshell San Francisco Chronicle report regarding multiple credible allegations of sexual abuse and rape<\/a>\u00a0against Swalwell by former female staffers.<\/p>

Steve Tavares, who writes the East Bay Insiders newsletter, noted on X that he has covered Swalwell since he was a member of the Dublin City Council.<\/p>

\"Shortly after being elected to Congress in 2013, his behavior towards women was known by all levels of our local government and the Alameda County Democratic Party,\" Tavares said.<\/p>

Translation: Basically, everyone in the California Democratic political machine knew about Swalwell's behavior and did absolutely nothing.<\/p>

The New York Times, which has never said one critical word about Swalwell during all his years in Congress<\/a>, despite ample opportunities to do\u00a0so, let the cat out of the bag in its reporting of the recent Swalwell allegations.<\/p>

\"Representative Eric Swalwell entered the race to become California\u2019s next governor with a splashy debut on late-night TV in November. Jimmy Kimmel introduced him as a popular congressman who 'does battle daily with the forces of MAGA \u2014 and the president does not like him at all.'<\/p>

\"If Californians knew anything about Mr. Swalwell, that was it,\" the story reads. \"Mr. Swalwell, a Democrat, had no experience in state government and few connections with leaders in a State Capitol run by his party. What he had was a media profile as a Trump antagonist, burnished by years of appearances on news shows that made him more familiar to voters than most of his competitors.\"<\/p>

Once dubbed the Snapchat King of Congress in 2016, Swalwell figured out long ago that provocative, over-the-top performances and being antagonistically anti-Trump are what get rewarded by legacy media.<\/p>

\"I should be working right now,\" he said in one cringe video while bench pressing. \"But Republicans shut down Congress. So instead, I\u2019m pumping iron at the gym.\"<\/p>

\"I should be working right now,\" Swalwell said in another.\u00a0\"I should be in Congress. I should be voting to lower your costs. But, instead, I'm in a pool because Republicans sent everyone home because they don't want to release the Epstein files.\"<\/p>

Overall, according to the Media Research Center, Swalwell has appeared on CNN and MS Now 50 times in the first 13 weeks of 2026 alone. That's a remarkable number for one congressman. Of course, he was never booked to talk about actual policy, but simply to bash Trump with rehearsed one-liners designed to go viral. Here's one of dozens of examples:<\/p>

\"Accountability is coming,\" he declared on CNN recently, without evidence\u00a0to support his allegation. \"It's all coming out. I hope this deters people from doing more of these deals for the president. We will subpoena the DOJ, but also private actors who've done these drug deals with the administration.\"<\/p>

So why are all of these horrific allegations against him coming out, in some cases, years later?<\/p>

One theory being discussed involves California's (ridiculous) jungle primary. In this system, only the top two vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party. And as it stands now, according to the latest University of California, Berkeley, poll, Republican Steve Hilton leads with 17% of the vote, followed by Republican Chad Blanco with 16%. Tied for third are Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter<\/a>, at 13%, and billionaire Tom Steyer at 10%.<\/p>

If the June 2 primary were held today, both Republicans would advance, leaving Democrats without a candidate on the ballot despite Kamala Harris winning the state by 20 points in 2024. Democrats were simply splitting the pie too much, so somebody had to go. And that somebody was Swalwell because of the open secrets about him within the party that could be weaponized at a time of their choosing.<\/p>

With Swalwell out of the race, the assumption is that enough of his support would default to Porter or Steyer, placing one of them against Hilton or Blanco. The goal for Democrats is simply to get\u00a0anyone\u00a0from the party into the general election, because according to the California secretary of state's office, only 26% of registered voters there are Republican<\/a>, down about 10 points from the last time a member of the GOP won a gubernatorial race.<\/p>

From a media perspective, Swalwell has become the beneficiary of Trump being brought into seemingly every counterargument and story. Sure, what Swalwell\u00a0has been accused of doing is bad, but why is Trump still in office after he was found liable for sexual abuse of E. Jean Carroll in a New York courtroom in 2024?<\/p>

\"Donald Trump had two juries in civil cases adjudicate that he had committed sexual abuse (against Carroll), I think is the phrase under New York Law, defame someone by denying it,\" argued Bloomberg opinion columnist Robert Brownstein on CNN. \"And, you know, there was nothing like that on the Republican side. I mean, if you drill down into the way voters in each coalition view allegations of sexual abuse, it is quite different.\"<\/p>

But this is not an apples-to-apples situation. Carroll's\u00a0case, to put it bluntly, was patently laughable. She claimed more than 25 years later that she was sexually abused by Trump in a Bergdorf Goodman dressing room in the 1990s. Which year in the '90s? That's unclear, because Carroll herself cannot recall the year.<\/p>

\"When do you believe Donald Trump assaulted you?\u201d her attorney, Mike Ferrara, asked Carroll during her testimony Wednesday.<\/p>

\u201cThis question, the when, the when, the date, has been something I\u2019ve [been] constantly trying to pin down,\u201d Carroll said.<\/p>

\"She can\u2019t tell you the date that she claims to have been raped,\u201d Trump attorney Joe Tacopina noted at the time.\u00a0\"She can\u2019t tell you the month that she claims to have been raped. She can\u2019t tell you the season. She can\u2019t even tell you the year that she claims to have been raped by Donald Trump.\"<\/p>

This case should have been a nonstarter, but a New York jury found Trump liable and awarded Carroll $83 million.<\/p>

In a truly bizarre and telling moment, she ran to MS Now's Rachel Maddow after the verdict and shared exactly what she wanted to do with Trump's money. Per the official transcript:<\/p>

CARROLL: \"I have such great ideas for all the good I'm going to do with this money! First thing, Rachel, you and I are going to go shopping.\"(LAUGHTER)CARROLL:\u00a0\"We're going to get completely new wardrobes, new shoes, motorcycle for [her lawyer], new fishing rod for [her other lawyer]. Rachel, what do you want, a penthouse?\"(LAUGHTER)CARROLL: \"It's yours, Rachel!\"MADDOW (laughing): \"Nothing.\"CARROLL: \"Penthouse and France? You want France? You want to go fishing in France?\"(LAUGHTER).<\/p>

Meanwhile, more than 30 women have come forward with allegations against Swalwell. The allegations are detailed, and damning text messages exist. At least 55 former and current Swalwell staffers had called on him to resign before he announced his intention to do so\u00a0on Monday. And on Tuesday, another accuser, Lonna Drewes, came forward with a horrific 2018 alleged account of the congressman drugging her before taking her to his hotel room.<\/p>

\u201cWhen I arrived at his hotel room, I was already incapacitated, and I couldn\u2019t move my arms or my body,\" she recalled. \"He raped me, and he choked me. And while he was choking me, I lost consciousness, and I thought I died. I did not consent to any sexual activity.\"<\/p>

California Democrats will now be faced with a choice of Porter, who has been verbally abusive of staffers in the past, and the bland Steyer, a billionaire who is the favorite to win, according to the betting markets.<\/p>

DAVID AXELROD'S ART OF POLITICAL WAR<\/a><\/p>

Moving forward, Swalwell may go from becoming California's next governor and a possible presidential candidate for the second time to being criminally convicted and even incarcerated.<\/p>

The useful idiot groomed to be an attack dog of Trump to an adoring media quickly and finally became useless in the eyes of his own party.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26052811875860.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529503-1776229494", "title":"Trump says NATO ‘wasn’t there for us’ and won’t be ‘in the future’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529503%2Ftrump-says-nato-wasnt-there-for-us-and-wont-be-in-the-future%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump continued his criticism of NATO with a social media post late Tuesday night, seemingly criticizing the alliance for not assisting the United States in its military operations against Iran. It was a very short post with no context or details, simply stating that “NATO wasn’t there for us,” and expressing doubt about […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> continued his criticism of NATO with a social media post late Tuesday night, seemingly criticizing the alliance for not assisting the United States in its military operations against Iran. It was a very short post with no context or details, simply stating that \u201cNATO wasn\u2019t there for us,\u201d and expressing doubt about future assistance from the alliance.<\/p>

\u201cNATO wasn\u2019t there for us, and they won\u2019t be there for us in the future!\u201d Trump said<\/a> in his brief post.<\/p>

The president\u2019s comments came about a week after his meeting at the White House with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte<\/a>. He made a similar post less than a week ago, echoing almost identical sentiments and adding a comment about Greenland. <\/p>

\u201cNATO wasn\u2019t there when we needed them, and they won\u2019t be there if we need them again,\u201d Trump posted on April 8<\/a>. \u201cRemember Greenland, that big, poorly run, piece of ice!!!\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

Trump has long expressed his frustration with NATO, regularly criticizing the alliance for not doing its fair share in defense spending. Recently, his ire has turned to NATO countries' refusal to help the U.S. with Iran, denying the use of military bases and airspace. Trump has also lamented about NATO\u2019s refusal to help with Iran\u2019s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to fuel prices skyrocketing around the world. <\/p>

In response, Trump was even more critical of NATO, calling it a \u201cpaper tiger\u201d and suggesting that the U.S. might leave NATO<\/a> after the war with Iran.<\/p>

\u201cOh yes, I would say [it\u2019s] beyond reconsideration,\u201d Trump said in an interview<\/a> with The Telegraph on April 1. \u201cI was never swayed by NATO. I always knew they were a paper tiger, and Putin knows that too, by the way.\u201d<\/p>

Trump\u2019s latest social media post about NATO also came after the Wall Street Journal reported<\/a> that Europe is working on a contingency plan for the alliance if Trump follows through on his tease to withdraw the U.S. from it.<\/p>

\u201cThe officials working on the plans, which some officials are referring to as \u2018European NATO,\u2019 are seeking to get more Europeans into the alliance\u2019s command-and-control roles and supplement U.S. military assets with their own,\u201d according to the Wall Street Journal. <\/p>

Additionally, tension with NATO has even appeared to affect his relationship with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, once considered one of the president\u2019s strongest allies in Europe. Meloni has split with Trump over the war with Iran and the president\u2019s recent comments about Pope Leo XIV. <\/p>

IRAN WAR DISRUPTS GLOBAL ALUMINUM SUPPLY, PROLONGING SHORTAGES FOR MONTHS<\/a><\/p>

First, in March, she categorized the U.S. strikes<\/a> against Iran as \u201coutside\u201d of international law and that her country \u201cdid not intend to take part\u201d in the war. Regarding Trump\u2019s criticism of the pope, Meloni called the comments \u201cunacceptable\u201d<\/a> and expressed her \u201csolidarity with Pope Leo.\u201d<\/p>

Meloni\u2019s comments prompted Trump to criticize her publicly for the first time during his term. He expressed disappointment with the Italian prime minister, saying he was \u201cshocked\u201d by her comments. In his strongest criticism of Meloni, Trump questioned her political courage.<\/p>

\u201cI\u2019m shocked by her,\u201d the president said in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera on Tuesday. \u201cI thought she was brave; I was wrong.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cMeloni doesn\u2019t want to help us with NATO; she doesn\u2019t want to help us get rid of the nuclear weapons,\u201d said Trump. \u201cShe\u2019s very different from what I thought.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103630660422.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528130-1776229200", "title":"Trump’s Hormuz blockade unlikely to draw China into Iran war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4528130%2Ftrump-strait-hormuz-blockade-unlikely-draw-china-into-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Christian Datoc", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump’s latest move in the Iran war, a partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, is unlikely to force China into deeper engagement in the conflict but does risk raising tensions with Beijing if the war drags on beyond the White House’s timeline. To date, China has not taken significant public steps to […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump\u2019<\/a>s latest move in the Iran war, a partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, is unlikely to force China into deeper engagement in the conflict but does risk raising tensions with Beijing if the war drags on beyond the White House\u2019s<\/a> timeline.<\/p>

To date, China<\/a> has not taken significant public steps to aid either Iran<\/a>, its close ally, or the United States in the conflict. While some observers predicted the blockade would push Beijing to pursue a diplomatic resolution more aggressively, particularly given its reliance on Iranian oil, multiple China policy experts and former Trump administration officials told the Washington Examiner that this expectation is misplaced.<\/p>

China, they argue, is structurally positioned to sit this out. With months of petroleum reserves, diversified energy sources, and access to discounted Russian oil, Beijing can absorb short-term disruption without rushing to intervene.<\/p>

Ambassador John Bolton, who served as one of Trump\u2019s national security advisers during his first term but later became a critic, said China is likely to ride out the blockade rather than step in.<\/p>

\u201c[China has], according to most reports, four months' supply of petroleum, so they can ride out ups and downs,\" he said in an interview. \"And I think if the Gulf production on all sides was made fully free and open, just like before 1979 or before six weeks ago, for that matter, the price would drop dramatically.\u201d<\/p>

Beyond energy concerns, analysts say longer-term strategic interests drive Beijing\u2019s calculus. China has spent years building ties across the Middle East, including with Gulf States that Iran has attacked since the war began, and is unlikely to jeopardize those relationships by getting involved in the conflict.<\/p>

Lyle Goldstein, the director of Defense Priorities' Asia Program, claimed that China views the war as \u201cquite disruptive to its economy and also its diplomatic plans.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cIt's true that China is better insulated from most countries in Asia from the oil shock due to deeper reserves, better balance of energy sources, and also diverse suppliers, including especially Russia that has long wanted to send more oil to China,\u201d Goldstein wrote in a statement. \u201cBut overall, of course, China sees this vast instability throughout the Middle East as very disruptive.\"<\/p>

But even with those concerns, Goldstein and others caution that disruption alone is unlikely to prompt Chinese intervention. <\/p>

A former senior Trump administration national security official gave the Washington Examiner a similar assessment of the blockade.<\/p>

\u201c[China is] very good at playing the waiting game, and I would not see them coming to the table to try to resolve anything, because their economy can withstand six months of a lower supply from Iran, and they know that,\" the person said. \"For the president, they don't want to throw him a lifeline here. If he's doing something that is hurting them, they're not going to cry uncle, because they don't need to.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cThe Iranians are the longest negotiators on the planet,\u201d the source added. <\/p>

That dynamic underscores a broader mismatch in timelines. Trump is facing pressure to bring the conflict to a close, while both China and Iran are betting the White House will feel the squeeze before they do.<\/p>

Still, some analysts say Trump retains tools to raise the cost of China\u2019s inaction, particularly through targeted financial pressure.<\/p>

Max Meizlish, senior research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies\u2019 Center on Economic and Financial Power, said the Treasury Department could target smaller Chinese financial institutions tied to Iran.<\/p>

\u201cTreasury should identify a small or mid-sized Chinese bank with exposure to Iran\u2019s oil metals, or financial sectors, and with linkages to major Chinese state-owned entities through joint ventures or financial services,\" Meizlish, a former Treasury Department official with the Office of Foreign Assets Control, explained. \u201cSanctions are not just punitive tools.\" <\/p>

Such a move, however, risks escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing, potentially opening a second front in an already volatile conflict.<\/p>

Though China hasn\u2019t specifically assisted Iran militarily throughout the war, it did serve as an intermediary last week alongside Pakistan in brokering a two-week ceasefire<\/a>, contingent on Iran opening up the Strait of Hormuz. As for Trump\u2019s blockade, Chinese President Xi Jinping called the action \u201cdangerous and irresponsible<\/a>\u201d and cautioned leaders against allowing the world stage to \u201crevert to the law of the jungle.\u201d<\/p>

MAGA INSIDERS DIVIDED OVER TRUMP'S WAR ON CONSERVATIVE CRITICS<\/a><\/p>

Trump himself told reporters on Monday that he had not spoken to Xi about increasing China\u2019s involvement in peace talks and that the U.S. has \u201ca very good relationship with China.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cHe would like to see this end. He certainly wants it ended,\u201d the president said. \u201cI want to see it ended, too, but we can't give a nuclear weapon to a group of people that have caused nothing but havoc for 47 years.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26035576981790.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528647-1776229200", "title":"Democrats admit higher taxes aren’t worth it", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F4528647%2Fdemocrats-admit-higher-taxes-arent-worth-it%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Today is Tax Day, the deadline for filing taxes. But it’s just like every other day to Democrats, who wake up each morning wanting to raise taxes. This year, the party’s rhetoric has evolved slightly. They no longer try, as they used to, to convince voters they should be prepared to pay higher taxes to […]", "description":""

Today is Tax Day, the deadline for filing taxes<\/a>. But it\u2019s just like every other day to Democrats<\/a>, who wake up each morning wanting to raise taxes. This year, the party's rhetoric has evolved slightly. They no longer try, as they used to, to convince voters they should be prepared to pay higher taxes to get more government services. Instead, they say their trillion-dollar spending<\/a> plans can be financed by raising taxes on corporations and the wealthy. That is a whopping falsehood.<\/p>

Stung by the popularity of President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s tax cuts, especially his \"no tax on tips\" policy, Sens. Cory Booker<\/a> (D-NJ) and Chris Van Hollen<\/a> (D-MD) have introduced tax plans that would cut taxes more for households making less than $75,000 a year and less than $80,500 a year, respectively. To offset lost revenue, they promise higher taxes on high-income earners and corporations.<\/p>

Their arguments are feeble. U.S. corporate tax rates are already higher than average corporate tax rates<\/a> in European countries. Just as Democrats argue correctly that Trump\u2019s tariffs are paid by consumers with higher retail prices, so also consumers pay more when corporate taxes are raised. Corporations do not absorb higher taxes out of goodwill. Research<\/a> shows<\/a> that they pass them on to consumers through higher prices and to workers with lower wages. Higher prices and lower wages are hardly the campaign message Democrats should want to take into a presidential election, but that's what their policies mean.<\/p>

The United States also already has one of the most steeply progressive income tax systems in the world. The top 1% of earners pay 40% of all income taxes, the top 10% pay 72%, and the top 50% pay 97%. Many households pay no income taxes at all, and the bottom 20% actually receive benefits from the tax system, such as the earned income tax credit.<\/p>

Democrats cannot escape the fact that the federal government spends far more than it takes in, and voters know they are not getting their money\u2019s worth.<\/p>

The federal government spent just over $7 trillion in 2025 and collected $5.3 trillion in taxes. Half that came from income taxes, 35% from payroll taxes, 5% from corporate taxes, and about 5% from tariffs. The post-World War II average for federal taxes as a share of gross domestic product is 17.5%, just a shade above the 17% the federal government collected last year. Federal spending, by contrast, reached 22.8% of GDP in 2025, nearly 3 points above the 20% post-World War II average, and it is projected to rise further as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid consume larger shares of the budget.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS TWO-TIERED JUSTICE SYSTEM FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS<\/a><\/p>

At the same time, more of the public believes they are paying more than their fair share. As recently as 2021, 49% of the public, including 41% of Democrats, said they were paying too much. Today, 60% say they are paying too much, including 56% of Democrats. Overall, 66% of voters say the value of government services they receive does not match what they pay in taxes. It is no wonder Democratic elected officials are suddenly promising tax cuts instead of asking voters to pay more for supposedly better services.<\/p>

Democrats have learned that voters of all political stripes reject the idea that more government services are worth higher taxes. So now the party of the Left promises that only other people will have to pay to fund their ambitions. It\u2019s worth remembering on this Tax Day, the old wisdom that sooner or later, they will run out of other people\u2019s money. In truth, they have already done so. And when they run out of other people\u2018s money, they come for yours.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-collage-mqahzw4mb-1773782455852.jpg?1773819993&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529474-1776215789", "title":"Trump wants Pope Leo to know that ‘Iran has killed 42,000 innocent’ protesters", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529474%2Ftrump-wants-pope-leo-to-know-iran-killed-42000-protesters%2F", "byline":"Washington Examiner Staff", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump continued his war of words with Pope Leo XIV, requesting that the pontiff be reminded of the thousands of innocent protesters killed by the Iranian regime after nationwide protests there in January. The president used the murders as a basis for reasoning that Iran should not be allowed to have a nuclear […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> continued his war of words with Pope Leo XIV<\/a>, requesting that the pontiff be reminded of the thousands of innocent protesters killed by the Iranian regime<\/a> after nationwide protests there in January. The president used the murders as a basis for reasoning that Iran should not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, information that Trump wanted relayed to the pope. He made the comments on his Truth Social account late Tuesday night.<\/p>

\u201cWill someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable,\u201d said<\/a> Trump.<\/p>

The actual number of protesters killed by the Iranian government remains unknown. Multiple human rights organizations have speculated on the number of deaths, with estimates varying from several thousand to tens of thousands. In January, the Human Rights Activists News Agency claimed<\/a> there were 4,902 protesters killed. <\/p>

An initial estimate<\/a> provided by Iranian doctors listed the number of fatalities at 16,500, while Time reported<\/a> two senior officials of Iran\u2019s Ministry of Health cited the 30,000 fatalities figure. By late January, Iran International claimed over 36,500 people were killed<\/a> in the crackdown, according to \u201cdocuments reviewed by Iran International's Editorial Board.\u201d<\/p>

Trump\u2019s post about Leo on Tuesday follows several days of controversy for the president, who has drawn both criticism and support for his social media post criticizing the head of the Catholic Church<\/a>. Trump said the pope was \u201cweak on crime and terrible for foreign policy\u201d in a Truth Social post on Sunday night, a week after Easter.<\/p>

\u201cPope Leo is WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy,\u201d said<\/a> Trump. \u201cHe talks about \u2018fear\u2019 of the Trump Administration, but doesn\u2019t mention the FEAR that the Catholic Church, and all other Christian Organizations, had during COVID when they were arresting priests, ministers, and everybody else, for holding Church Services, even when going outside, and being ten and even twenty feet apart. I like his brother Louis much better than I like him, because Louis is all MAGA. He gets it, and Leo doesn\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>

IMF WARNS OF GLOBAL RECESSION RISK IF IRAN WAR ESCALATES<\/a><\/p>

Leo later dismissed Trump\u2019s criticism, stating that he was not interested in debating with the president and instead, focused on striving for peace and spreading the message of the Gospel.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cI am not a politician, and I do not want to enter into a debate with him,\u201d Leo said. <\/p>

\u201cI do not think the message of the Gospel should be abused as some are doing,\u201d the pontiff said<\/a> on Monday. \u201cI continue to speak strongly against war, seeking to promote peace, dialogue, and multilateralism among states to find solutions to problems. Too many people are suffering today, too many innocent lives have been lost, and I believe someone must stand up and say there is a better way.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-6unmnyt43-1776168715054-e1776168793773.jpg?1776244267&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529431-1776211200", "title":"House passes aviation bill aimed at preventing repeat of Potomac midair collision", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529431%2Fhouse-aviation-bill-potomac-midair-collision%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The House overwhelmingly passed an aviation safety bill designed to prevent a repeat plane crash such as the one that unfolded at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport last year. The ALERT Act passed in a final 396-10 vote on Tuesday, garnering the necessary two-thirds majority support under the lower chamber’s fast-track rules. It now heads […]", "description":""

The House<\/a> overwhelmingly passed an aviation<\/a> safety bill designed to prevent a repeat plane crash<\/a> such as the one that unfolded at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport last year.<\/p>

The ALERT Act passed in a final 396-10 vote on Tuesday, garnering the necessary two-thirds majority support under the lower chamber's fast-track rules. It now heads to the Senate<\/a>, where it may face some stiff opposition.<\/p>

The bipartisan legislation's main sponsors, House Transportation Chairman Sam Graves<\/a> (R-MO) and House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers<\/a> (R-AL), led the charge in striking down a similar Senate-passed bill in late February.<\/p>

The ROTOR Act, spearheaded by Senate Commerce Chairman Ted Cruz<\/a> (R-TX) and ranking member Maria Cantwell<\/a> (D-WA), fell just short of the two-thirds majority after the Pentagon<\/a> raised objections at the time. This last-minute opposition prompted House GOP leaders to let the measure fail.<\/p>

Both bills sought to prevent military-commercial aircraft collisions, but their methods were different.<\/p>

The ALERT Act tackles the aviation safety system more broadly by requiring pilots to use new collision-prevention technology by the end of 2031 to more accurately track nearby aircraft and updating air traffic control procedures and training. By contrast, the ROTOR Act mandated a location-broadcasting device, called Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast In, on all aircraft to improve safety.<\/p>

The ADS-B technology was a major factor in the January 2025 midair collision over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C.<\/a> The system on the Black Hawk helicopter was turned off when it collided with the American Airlines flight. All 67 people aboard both aircraft were killed in the accident.<\/p>

Cruz expressed opposition to the House bill hours before it passed, indicating he may be one of its detractors when it comes to a vote in the Senate.<\/p>

\"A warning to my colleagues in the House: the ALERT Act would not deliver the safety measures necessary to prevent another midair collision, as it lacks the critical improvements our aviation system needs,\" the senator posted on X<\/a>.<\/p>

\"This significant issue must be addressed,\" he said. \"Congress should not advance a bill that neither improves aviation safety nor closes the loopholes that have allowed operators, including the military, to fly blind in congested airspace.\"<\/p>

HOUSE FAILS TO PASS ROTOR ACT AFTER PENTAGON RAISES LATE OBJECTIONS<\/a><\/p>

Lawmakers in the House and Senate are expected to discuss the legislation as it heads toward a vote in the upper chamber.<\/p>

The National Transportation Safety Board<\/a> initially opposed the ALERT Act due to safety concerns, but later softened its opposition to the revised bill. The NTSB favored the ROTOR Act more before it was rejected in the House because the measure addressed the major safety recommendation that seeks to close the technology gap responsible for last year's fatal plane crash.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26104010656036.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529273-1776205074", "title":"Maine lawmakers pass first-in-nation temporary statewide ban on data centers", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fenergy-and-environment%2F4529273%2Fmaine-temporary-ban-data-centers%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Maine’s state legislature passed a temporary statewide ban on data centers, the first of its kind in the nation, as opposition to the electricity-consuming technology infrastructure designed to power artificial intelligence grows. The legislation effectively blocks new data centers from being built in the Pine Tree State until fall 2027 and paves the way for […]", "description":""

Maine's<\/a> state legislature passed a temporary statewide ban on data centers<\/a>, the first of its kind in the nation, as opposition to the electricity-consuming technology infrastructure designed to power artificial intelligence<\/a> grows.<\/p>

The legislation effectively blocks new data centers from being built in the Pine Tree State until fall 2027 and paves the way for a study on the infrastructure's impact on the electrical grid.<\/p>

The measure passed both houses of the state legislature on Tuesday. It now heads to Gov. Janet Mills<\/a> (D-ME) for her signature. Whether she will approve the legislation remains unclear.<\/p>

The bill could get a veto from the governor, who failed to convince lawmakers about adding an exemption to the text. Her request concerned a planned data center that would have replaced a former paper mill. Lawmakers rejected that exemption in the final bill.<\/p>

If Mills signs the moratorium into law, Maine will become the first state to ban data center construction. Bangor, the state's third-largest city, already passed a six-month ban on data centers this week.<\/p>

Local jurisdictions elsewhere have also taken similar steps. In Wisconsin<\/a>, voters in the small town of Port Washington approved a ballot measure<\/a> last week to give themselves greater control over local tax incentives used in the development of a large data center.<\/p>

INDIANAPOLIS CITY COUNCILMAN SAYS HOUSE WAS SHOT AT AFTER VOTING IN FAVOR OF NEW DATA CENTER<\/a><\/p>

Many have raised concerns about the impact that data centers would have on residents' electric bills and the environment.<\/p>

Meanwhile, other states are rapidly moving to build more data centers. Virginia and Texas are currently in the lead<\/a> with the most data centers, while Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Illinois are among other states that are likewise prioritizing their development.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2243425532.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529404-1776202743", "title":"US says it killed four suspected drug traffickers in eastern Pacific boat strike", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4529404%2Fus-four-killed-eastern-pacific-boat-strike%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The U.S. military killed four suspected drug traffickers on a boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean via an airstrike on Tuesday, U.S. Southern Command announced. “On April 14, at the direction of [SOUTHCOM] commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist […]", "description":""

The U.S. military<\/a> killed four suspected drug traffickers<\/a> on a boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean<\/a> via an airstrike on Tuesday, U.S. Southern Command announced.<\/p>

\"On April 14, at the direction of [SOUTHCOM] commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations,\" the military command said.<\/p>

\"Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations,\" the command said. \"Four male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.\"<\/p>

The social media post announcing the strike featured aerial footage of the boat strike, as in past statements.<\/p>

The airstrike was the latest in Operation Southern Spear, which War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> launched last fall to specifically target drug trafficking activities in the Western Hemisphere.<\/p>

SOUTHCOM announced<\/a> the prior strike killed two suspected narcoterrorists on Monday.<\/p>

The death toll from these airstrikes is now up to 175 people since September. Eleven of those deaths happened in the last few days.<\/p>

TWO KILLED IN LATEST US MILITARY STRIKE ON SUSPECTED DRUG-TRAFFICKING VESSEL<\/a><\/p>

A survivor was left in one of the two attacks on Saturday. The Coast Guard<\/a> suspended its search for the missing survivor, who was never found.<\/p>

The anti-drug trafficking operation continues even as the U.S. military has been redirected to Operation Epic Fury in Iran<\/a>. The war paused amid the fragile two-week ceasefire between both sides.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25309587742931.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529340-1776198605", "title":"Newsom sets date for special election to fill Swalwell’s House seat", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529340%2Fnewsom-date-special-election-swalwell-seat%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) has scheduled the special election to fill the House seat vacated by Rep. Eric Swalwell, who resigned from Congress following sexual assault allegations. The special election is set for Aug. 18. Newsom issued a proclamation on Tuesday to start the process for the election. Swalwell resigned at 2 p.m. Tuesday, days […]", "description":""

Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA) has scheduled the special election to fill the House<\/a> seat vacated by Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a>, who resigned from Congress following sexual assault allegations.<\/p>

The special election<\/a> is set for Aug. 18. Newsom issued a proclamation<\/a> on Tuesday to start the process for the election.<\/p>

Swalwell resigned at 2 p.m. Tuesday, days after he was first accused of sexually assaulting a former staffer. At least four other women came forward with similar allegations.<\/p>

At a press conference on Tuesday, Lonna Drewes accused<\/a> the congressman of drugging, raping, and choking her in his hotel room back in 2018.<\/p>

Swalwell has repeatedly denied the serious allegations but felt compelled to leave public office and suspend his campaign for governor of California<\/a>. He was the front-runner in the race, but the bombshell allegations quickly upended his bid, leaving the Democratic primary wide open again.<\/p>

Former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter<\/a> and Biden Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra<\/a>, who once served as California attorney general, are among the leading contenders on the Democratic side.<\/p>

Because the field is so split with about eight Democratic candidates, there is concern that the two Republicans in the gubernatorial race could manage to become the final two. Instead of separate party primaries, the state's nonpartisan primary system allows all candidates to run against each other at once.<\/p>

MEET TOM STEYER, THE NEW LEADING DEMOCRAT TO BE CALIFORNIA\u2019S NEXT GOVERNOR<\/a><\/p>

Former Fox News host Steve Hilton, whom President Dona<\/a>l<\/a>d Trump<\/a> recently endorsed, and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco are the two Republicans running to replace the term-limited governor.<\/p>

Swalwell was one of two lawmakers who resigned from Congress this week. GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales, whose resignation takes effect just before midnight, faced a similar scandal. Gonzales had an extramarital affair with a staffer who ultimately died by suicide last year.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26098137518198_4328a2-e1776211938541.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529367-1776197946", "title":"Erika Kirk skips TPUSA event with Vance over ‘very serious threats’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529367%2Ferika-kirk-tpusa-vance-threats%2F", "byline":"Christine Valora", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Erika Kirk, the widow of activist Charlie Kirk, withdrew from a Turning Point USA tour talk with Vice President JD Vance at the University of Georgia, following threats on her life Tuesday night.  Vance and Kirk were set to highlight the talk when, two hours before the event, “some very serious threats in her direction” arose, according to Turning […]", "description":""

Erika Kirk<\/a>, the widow of activist Charlie Kirk, withdrew from a Turning Point USA<\/a> tour talk with Vice President JD Vance<\/a> at the University of Georgia, following threats on her life Tuesday night. <\/p>

Vance and Kirk were set to highlight the talk when, two hours before the event, \u201csome very serious threats in her direction\" arose, according to Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet, who stepped in for Kirk.<\/p>

\"I know that she did get some threats,\" Vance told an audience<\/a> of University of Georgia students. \"I was a little \u2060worried that we were going to have to cancel the event because Erika was not going to come, and she was very worried about it.\"<\/p>

While there was talk of canceling the Athens, Georgia<\/a>, event altogether, Vance spoke with his Secret Service detail and decided to proceed.<\/p>

Vance told Kirk to \"do what she needs to do for her and her family.\" Kirk lost her husband, Turning Point USA cofounder Charlie Kirk<\/a>, last September when he was assassinated in a shooting at Utah Valley University while speaking to students.<\/p>

The vice president defended Erika Kirk\u2019s absence following backlash against the TPUSA CEO and chairwoman. <\/p>

FAITH, FREE SPEECH, AND FIRE: KIRK AND LEAVITT KICK OFF TPUSA COLLEGE TOUR<\/a>\"The people telling you that Erika wasn't grieving her husband are full of s***, and we need to be honest,\" Vance said. \"But if your instinct is to go after a young mother because she's grieving in a way that you find wrong, well, why don't you stay in your lane and mind your own business?\" The Charlie Kirk assassination case against accused gunman Tyler Robinson is set to have its next hearing<\/a> on May 18, where prosecutors intend to call Robinson\u2019s parents and his roommate and romantic partner, Lance Twiggs, to testify at the preliminary hearing.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25355730663079_ef8245.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529294-1776195898", "title":"Vance heckled at TPUSA event over US action in Middle East: ‘You’re killing children!’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529294%2Fvance-heckled-tpusa-georgia-genocide%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"While speaking at a Turning Point USA event on Tuesday, Vice President JD Vance was heckled by a man who criticized U.S. military action in the Middle East. The person disrupted the event, shouting that the United States is “committing genocide in Gaza” while the vice president responded to the pope’s condemnation of the Iran […]", "description":""

While speaking at a Turning Point USA<\/a> event on Tuesday, Vice President JD Vance<\/a> was heckled by a man who criticized U.S. military action in the Middle East<\/a>.<\/p>

The person disrupted the event, shouting that the United States is \"committing genocide in Gaza\" while the vice president responded to the pope's condemnation of the Iran<\/a> war.<\/p>

In a brief aside from his main point, Vance pointed to U.S. humanitarian aid efforts in a rebuttal to the man's claim that the Trump administration committed or supported a genocide in Gaza<\/a>.<\/p>

\"When we came in, the humanitarian situation in Gaza was an absolute catastrophe. You know who's the person who got a peace agreement in Gaza? Donald J. Trump,\" he said to applause from the crowd in Athens, Georgia.<\/p>

\"So if you want, sir, to complain about what happened in Gaza, why don't you complain about Joe Biden in the last administration? We're the administration that solved that problem,\" he said.<\/p>

The heckler then yelled, \"You're killing children! You're bombing children!\"<\/p>

The comment likely referred to the Iranian elementary school that was reportedly destroyed<\/a> in a U.S. Tomahawk missile strike on Feb. 28. The airstrike killed approximately 170 people, most of whom were children.<\/p>

\"You see more humanitarian aid coming into Gaza than it has any time in the past five years because we have taken that situation seriously, and that's one of the things I'm proud of about our administration,\" Vance responded. \"We have consistently tried as much as we can to solve these problems, not just complain about them, like the guy who just ran away.\"<\/p>

US AND IRAN FAIL TO STRIKE PEACE DEAL AFTER LENGTHY TALKS, VANCE SAYS<\/a><\/p>

The TPUSA event came days after Vance led the failed U.S.-Iran peace talks in Pakistan<\/a>. Despite no lasting resolution to the war, the two-week ceasefire remains in effect for now while Israel separately continues its barrage across Lebanon<\/a>.<\/p>

Erika Kirk<\/a>, who assumed the mantle of TPUSA CEO after her husband was assassinated last fall, was not present at the Tuesday night event after event organizers said she received \"very serious threats.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26104835660020.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529270-1776195463", "title":"Midterm elections hang over Senate Alito speculation", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4529270%2Fmidterm-elections-samuel-alito-retirement-decision%2F", "byline":"David Sivak", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The midterm elections are top of mind for Senate Republicans waiting on Justice Samuel Alito to decide whether he will step down from the Supreme Court in the coming weeks. Alito, one of the six justices who make up the high court’s conservative majority, prefers that a GOP president appoint his successor after 20 years […]", "description":""

The midterm elections<\/a> are top of mind for Senate Republicans waiting on Justice Samuel Alito<\/a> to decide whether he will step down from the Supreme Court<\/a> in the coming weeks.<\/p>

Alito, one of the six justices who make up the high court\u2019s conservative majority, prefers<\/a> that a GOP president appoint his successor after 20 years serving on the bench, and Republicans are gently noting that he could retire later this year with little risk to his legacy.<\/p>

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) said \u201cour preference\u201d is that Alito, 76, steps down while Republicans have full control of Washington, though he, like other Republicans interviewed by the Washington Examiner on Tuesday, added the decision was Alito\u2019s alone to make.<\/p>

\u201cThese guys, they make their own decisions,\u201d Thune said. \u201cBut if you were going to do something, obviously doing it when we have an opportunity \u2014 control of the Senate and the White House and everything else \u2014 is obviously, from a timing standpoint, would be certainly our preference.\u201d<\/p>

Earlier on Tuesday, Thune said that Republicans would be prepared to confirm a successor<\/a> before the midterm elections should Alito retire after the Supreme Court finishes out its current term in late June or early July.<\/p>

\u201cThat\u2019s a contingency, I think, around here you always have to be prepared for,\u201d Thune said. \"And if that were to happen, yes, we would be prepared to confirm.\"<\/p>

The electoral calendar is perennially discussed for a court whose oldest members are flirting with 80. Republicans also want to avoid the fate that befell Democrats in 2020, when the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a liberal icon, gave President Donald Trump the chance to cement conservatives\u2019 6-3 majority for the court.<\/p>

Alito has not publicly tipped his hand on whether he will retire, but he is reportedly cognizant of the political implications of his decision. He can either hope that Republicans keep the Senate in November, giving him more time to serve on the bench, or bow out and hand Trump a sure vote. Justice Clarence Thomas, 77, is a year older but has repeatedly shut down talk of retirement.<\/p>

Right now, Republicans enjoy a favorable Senate map and a three-seat majority, but they are keenly aware that political fortunes change quickly in Washington and that Democrats could be running the chamber next year if the GOP has a bad election night.<\/p>

So far, Democrats have been overperforming in special elections across the country and have a narrow path to Senate control that runs through GOP-held states such as North Carolina and Alaska.<\/p>

The chatter over Alito\u2019s retirement has been cited by Democrats as evidence that Republicans are worried about retaining control of the Senate in November.<\/p>

Trump is navigating a war with Iran that has sent gas and fertilizer prices skyrocketing. Republicans must also overcome the political headwinds that incumbents normally face in a midterm year.<\/p>

But Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), an adviser to Thune who is running for reelection in Texas, made a different midterm argument in a brief interview, suggesting an Alito retirement could be a good thing for Republicans and boost GOP enthusiasm, as it did in 2016<\/a> when Trump promised evangelicals he would nominate justices who would help overturn Roe v. Wade.<\/p>

\u201cI think he's been terrific, but if he decides to step down now and give us a chance, to give the president a chance, to nominate a fourth Supreme Court justice, that would be a great opportunity,\u201d Cornyn said of Alito. <\/p>

\u201cI think it\u2019d also be a great rallying point for Republicans and other conservatives,\u201d he said.<\/p>

When asked if he would advise Alito to step down, Cornyn responded: \u201cOh, he's not going to take my advice, and so \u2014 he'll do it when the timing\u2019s right \u2026 If he decides to stay there, then I'm happy with that.\u201d<\/p>

CHUCK GRASSLEY FLOATS MIKE LEE OR TED CRUZ AS NEXT SUPREME COURT JUSTICE<\/a><\/p>

Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, waved away questions about Alito as premature, and even Alito\u2019s closest colleagues are in the dark about what he will decide, according to<\/a> the New York Times.<\/p>

\u201cIf he retires, come see me,\u201d Kennedy said.<\/p>

But other Republicans, particularly those responsible for ushering judicial nominees through the Senate, have already begun giving thought to who might replace him. <\/p>

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said that he would recommend two of his Republican colleagues, Sens. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Ted Cruz (R-TX), to Trump if Alito retires.<\/p>

\u201cI hope he doesn\u2019t retire \u2026 but if he does retire, I\u2019m going to suggest that either Lee or Cruz be put on the Supreme Court,\u201d Grassley said.<\/p>

Those two names would be controversial in a Senate confirmation fight, owing to their conservative bent and alignment with Trump. But Cornyn, who also sits on Judiciary, said that any nomination will be difficult, alluding to the hyperpartisanship surrounding the confirmation of Thomas and Justice Brett Kavanaugh.<\/p>

\u201cThe Supreme Court nominations are always controversial and downright ugly, but I've been through a number of them, and we\u2019ll muscle our way through this one,\u201d Cornyn said.<\/p>

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on whether Alito should retire or whom Trump might favor. In February, the president joked that Cruz would get \u201c100%\u201d support from senators who want him out of the chamber.<\/p>

\"He is such a pain in the a**, but he's so good and so talented,\" Trump said at an event in Corpus Cristi, Texas. \"If we ever had a problem, I just pick Ted. That would solve that problem.\u201d<\/p>

Cruz has previously ruled out<\/a> serving on the high court, while Lee told the Washington Examiner on Tuesday that he wants Alito to stay put \u201cforever.\u201d<\/p>

SENATE GOP \u2018PREPARED\u2019 TO CONFIRM ALITO HIGH COURT REPLACEMENT BEFORE MIDTERM ELECTIONS<\/a><\/p>

\u201cHe\u2019s the best there is, the best there has been, and the best there will be,\u201d Lee said.<\/p>

On the question of whether Alito should retire this year, Lee added: \u201cI\u2019m not going to speak for him. Everybody's got to make their own decision.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-75h09e5rv-1776208050323.jpg?1776194014&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528137-1776194587", "title":"Clay Fuller sworn in to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528137%2Fclay-fuller-sworn-in-mtg-house-seat%2F", "byline":"Lauren Green", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Clay Fuller (R-GA) was sworn in to the lower chamber Tuesday to finish out the rest of former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s term. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) swore in the Georgia freshman shortly after the House returned to Washington from a two-week recess. Fuller, a former district attorney, won the special election to replace […]", "description":""

Rep. Clay Fuller (R-GA) was sworn in to the lower chamber Tuesday to finish out the rest of former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's<\/a> term.<\/p>

Speaker Mike Johnson <\/a>(R-LA) swore in the Georgia freshman shortly after the House<\/a> returned to Washington<\/a> from a two-week recess. Fuller, a former district attorney, won the special election to replace former Greene\u00a0in\u00a0Georgia\u2019s\u00a014th Congressional District on April 7.<\/p>

\"To the hard-working people of Georgia 14 who elected me, you were sent a warrior to Congress, and I can't wait to fight for you each and every day,\" Fuller said on the House floor. \"To my Democrat colleagues, I look forward to working with each and every one of you, and so thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm ready to get to work here.\"<\/p>

Endorsed by President Donald Trump, Fuller put up a comfortable 12-percentage-point win over Democrat Shawn Harris. Yet the margin was nearly a 20-point swing from 2024, when Trump\u00a0won the seat by roughly 37 percentage points.<\/p>

Fuller is already running for a full term in the next Congress and will compete again in a May 19 GOP primary.<\/p>

Fuller, a former district attorney, ran an unsuccessful primary bid against the former congresswoman in 2020. He was one of 14 White House fellows appointed by President Donald Trump for 2018-2019 and was a lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard.<\/p>

GEORGIA SPECIAL ELECTION TO REPLACE MTG GIVES BOTH PARTIES VALIDATION FOR 2026<\/a><\/p>

Fuller's swearing in came the same day that Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX)<\/a> and Eric Swalwell (D-CA)<\/a> submitted their resignations following sexual misconduct allegations.<\/p>

Once both resignations are official, Johnson's margin will be 218-213, including Rep. Kevin Kiley (I-CA), who changed his party affiliation but still caucuses with Republicans. While Fuller's seat does not change House margins, it will still give the speaker extra breathing room. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26069826822668-e1776208778536.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529225-1776194483", "title":"DOJ charges Salvadoran national in ICE shooting with assaulting officer", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4529225%2Fimmigrant-charged-california-ice-shooting%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The immigrant who was shot and wounded by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in California last week has been hit with a federal charge of assaulting an officer with a deadly weapon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California announced the charge in the unsealed criminal complaint ahead of his court appearance on […]", "description":""

The <\/a>immigrant<\/a> who was shot and wounded by Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> in California<\/a> last week has been hit with a federal charge of assaulting an officer with a deadly weapon.<\/p>

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California announced<\/a> the charge in the unsealed criminal complaint ahead of his court appearance on Tuesday. The suspect was arrested by the FBI<\/a> one day ago, according to his attorney.<\/p>

Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, a 36-year-old man from El Salvador<\/a>, is accused of hitting an ICE officer with his vehicle during an April 7 traffic stop in Patterson, California.<\/p>

The stop was initiated because ICE suspected he was an \"18th Street Gang member wanted in El Salvador for questioning in connection to a murder,\" acting ICE Director Todd Lyons said. Mendoza Hernandez's lawyer, Patrick Kolasinski, denied that his client was a gang member. Kolasinski also insisted Mendoza Hernandez didn't intend to hurt anybody while attempting to flee the scene.<\/p>

The suspect failed to comply with the ICE officers' request to step out of the vehicle and subsequently drove toward one of the officers, according to the U.S. attorney's office. That officer was struck. The driver then reversed the car and collided with a law enforcement vehicle directly behind him.<\/p>

Mendoza Hernandez then accelerated forward again toward the officers, one of whom dove out of the way before he could get hit. The officers discharged their firearms in self-defense during the incident.<\/p>

After getting shot seven times, Mendoza Hernandez was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. He underwent three major surgeries for the gunshot wounds.<\/p>

The FBI arrested him on Monday after he was medically cleared, the U.S. attorney's office confirmed. Kolasinski said his client was still in significant pain.<\/p>

The attorney does not know Mendoza Hernandez's legal status nor how he entered the United States. The Department of Homeland Security<\/a> maintains that he is an illegal immigrant wanted for questioning related to a murder in El Salvador.<\/p>

However, Mendoza Hernandez was ultimately acquitted of the murder charge in October 2019. After his name was cleared in court, he moved to the U.S. that year.<\/p>

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT SHOT BY ICE IN CALIFORNIA DENIES GANG TIES: ATTORNEY<\/a><\/p>

The criminal complaint<\/a> did not reference DHS's allegations about Mendoza Hernandez's court case in his native country or alleged gang ties.<\/p>

The defendant is expected to appear in a Sacramento court on Tuesday. If convicted on the federal charge, he faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26098643358429_211209.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529019-1776192467", "title":"Josh Hawley seeks DOJ abortion drug investigation amid FDA safety review", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4529019%2Fhawley-seeks-doj-abortion-drug-inquiry-fda-safety-review%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump’s Justice Department is facing mounting pressure from Republican and conservative advocates to investigate Danco Laboratories, the primary distributor of the abortion drug mifepristone, as scrutiny intensifies over the drug’s safety and regulatory oversight. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) is leading that effort, penning a letter Tuesday to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche asking […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump's Justice Department<\/a> is facing mounting pressure from Republican and conservative advocates to investigate Danco Laboratories, the primary distributor of the abortion<\/a> drug mifepristone, as scrutiny intensifies over the drug\u2019s safety and regulatory oversight.<\/p>

Sen. Josh Hawley<\/a> (R-MO) is leading that effort, penning a letter Tuesday to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche<\/a> asking him to open a sweeping investigation into the company\u2019s business practices, approval process, and compliance with federal law.<\/p>

The DOJ confirmed to the Washington Examiner that it has received Hawley\u2019s letter but did not say whether it would open a formal investigation.<\/p>

\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s record on protecting unborn life and defending women\u2019s health is unmatched,\" a department spokesperson said in a statement. \"The Department of Justice will continue to advance those priorities by asking courts to allow the FDA to complete its review of mifepristone safety data and by investigating any person or entity that engaged in illegal conduct putting women or unborn children at risk.\u201d<\/p>

Mifepristone, which blocks a hormone necessary to sustain pregnancy and is typically followed by misoprostol, now accounts for more than 70% of abortions in the United States, Hawley told the DOJ in a letter first reported<\/a> on by Fox News. The senator cited a recent analysis of insurance claims data covering more than 865,000 cases between 2017 and 2023, which found that about 10.9% of women experienced sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, or another serious adverse event within 45 days of taking the drug.<\/p>

\u201cWomen are being harmed by this chemical abortion drug at far higher rates than advertised on the drug label,\u201d Hawley wrote, adding that \u201clarge, secretive pharmaceutical corporations like Danco must be held accountable.\u201d<\/p>

Federal regulators have maintained that mifepristone is safe. The Food and Drug Administration<\/a> says it has received reports of serious complications, including 36 deaths associated with the drug since its approval in 2000, but continues to stand by its overall safety profile. Advocates who support abortion access have fought to expand the availability of the drug.<\/p>

Hawley also raised concerns about Danco\u2019s corporate structure, describing it as largely shielded from public view, with undisclosed investors and offshore incorporation. He argued that the company\u2019s lack of transparency, combined with the drug\u2019s widespread use, warrants closer federal scrutiny.<\/p>

The Missouri Republican said his Senate subcommittee has already opened an investigation and is seeking DOJ involvement to expand it. His request calls for examining possible deceptive marketing practices, manufacturing and distribution pipelines, and whether safety risks have been fully disclosed to patients and regulators.<\/p>

The pressure campaign extends beyond Capitol Hill. In a separate letter<\/a> sent Monday, dozens of anti-abortion organizations urged the DOJ to reverse its prior support for abortion drug policies and instead back states challenging the wide distribution of abortion pills by mail.<\/p>

There is currently no clear timeline for the completion of the FDA's safety review of mifepristone, though the DOJ has maintained a legal posture consistent with its statement on Tuesday.<\/p>

Earlier this month, a federal judge in Louisiana agreed to pause a lawsuit<\/a> challenging the FDA's approval of mifepristone pending its safety review. The lawsuit surrounds a 2023 rule change during the Biden administration that allowed mifepristone to be dispensed by mail, which critics say increased the health risks for women. <\/p>

ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL PRESSURED TO UNDO ABORTION PILL LIBERALIZATION<\/a><\/p>

While the DOJ's requests to pause litigation, such as in the case in Louisiana and other states, has frustrated some anti-abortion advocates, a more clear strategy by the Trump administration could reveal itself once the FDA is finished with its review.<\/p>

A spokesperson or the Department of Health and Human Services told<\/a> OSV News earlier this month that the agency \"will decide whether to make substantive changes to the (Mifepristone Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy)\" upon its completion, adding that it is taking steps to ensure \"we are not cutting any corners from a scientific research standpoint.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/041426_WEX_JOSH_HAWLEY-40-e1776194292934.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529243-1776192058", "title":"DOJ moves to vacate Jan. 6 seditious conspiracy convictions of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4529243%2Fdoj-to-vacate-jan-6-seditious-convictions-proud-boys-oath-keepers%2F", "byline":"Kaelan Deese", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Justice Department on Tuesday asked a federal appeals court to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of top Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders, marking a sweeping effort to erase some of the most serious criminal judgments stemming from the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol protest. In a series of unopposed motions filed with the U.S. […]", "description":""

The Justice Department<\/a> on Tuesday asked a federal appeals court to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of top Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders, marking a sweeping effort to erase some of the most serious criminal judgments stemming from the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol protest<\/a>.<\/p>

In a series of unopposed motions filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro<\/a>'s office requested that the court vacate the convictions and send the cases back to a lower court so the government can dismiss the indictments with prejudice.<\/p>

The filings cover multiple groups of defendants, including Proud Boys<\/a> leaders Ethan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Rehl, and Dominic Pezzola, as well as Oath Keepers<\/a> members such as Roberto Minuta, Edward Vallejo, Joseph Hackett, and David Moerschel. A third motion targets high-profile Oath Keepers leaders, including Stewart Rhodes, Kelly Meggs, Kenneth Harrelson, and Jessica Watkins.<\/p>

Across all three<\/a> filings<\/a>, prosecutors invoked 28 U.S.C. \u00a7 2106 and Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 48(a), asking the appellate court to vacate the convictions before briefing deadlines and remand the cases so the government can dismiss them.<\/p>

\u201cThe government respectfully requests that \u2026 the Court vacate [the] convictions \u2026 and remand so that the government may move to dismiss the indictment with prejudice,\u201d prosecutors wrote in each motion, citing precedent that allows courts to clear convictions when the executive branch determines dismissal is warranted. All filings were submitted by Pirro and signed by Daniel Lenerz, the assistant U.S. attorney in her office.<\/p>

The move would go beyond prior clemency actions taken by President Donald Trump<\/a>, who commuted the sentences of several Jan. 6 defendants but did not issue full pardons<\/a>. Vacating the convictions would effectively wipe them from the record, preventing future prosecution on the same charges.<\/p>

The cases represent some of the most consequential prosecutions tied to the Capitol breach. Juries in Washington found the defendants guilty of orchestrating coordinated efforts to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election, including leading groups of supporters toward the Capitol and engaging in confrontations with law enforcement.<\/p>

In their filings, prosecutors framed the request as an exercise of prosecutorial discretion, arguing that dismissing the cases now serves the \u201cinterests of justice.\u201d They pointed to past instances in which courts have granted similar requests when the government seeks to abandon a prosecution after conviction.<\/p>

PARDONED JAN. 6 PARTICIPANTS DEMAND 'RETRIBUTION' IN FIRST COMMEMORATIVE MARCH ON CAPITOL<\/a><\/p>

The motions were filed ahead of key appellate deadlines, including one case in which defendants were scheduled to submit their opening brief as soon as this week. By moving now, the DOJ is attempting to halt the appeals process and resolve the cases outright.<\/p>

If granted, the court\u2019s action would formally close a major chapter of Jan. 6 litigation, eliminating some of the highest-profile convictions tied to the riot.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/AP25060795968925-Tarrio.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529144-1776189471", "title":"Cherfilus-McCormick attorneys request delay of House Democrat’s federal trial", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529144%2Fsheila-cherfilus-mccormick-attorneys-delay-trial%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Attorneys involved in the case against Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) requested that the trial be delayed until February 2027. Cherfilus-McCormick, who faces over 15 charges of fraud after a House Ethics Committee hearing last month, was scheduled to stand trial in less than a week. The Florida representative allegedly stole over $15 million in Federal […]", "description":""

Attorneys involved in the case against Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) requested that the trial be delayed until February 2027.<\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick, who faces over 15 charges of fraud after a House<\/a> Ethics Committee hearing last month, was scheduled to stand trial in less than a week. The Florida<\/a> representative allegedly stole over $15 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency<\/a> funds, rerouting the money to her campaign fund.<\/p>

The letter requesting the delay said the volume of material in the case was delaying the defense counsel. The defense attorneys \u201cthus require additional time to review the materials in full with their clients,\u201d the letter reads<\/a>.<\/p>

The case contains over 1 million records going back years, including \u201cwritten reports, bank and other financial documents, and recordings and communications.\u201d<\/p>

The filing was submitted by Edwin Cherfilus, Cherfilus-McCormick's brother, who also faces federal charges for theft.<\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick allegedly failed to return FEMA funds after a Florida state agency mistakenly paid out money in 2021 to Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s family company, Trinity Health Care Services.<\/p>

The Florida Democrat and her family funneled money to friends and other relatives, who then donated it back to her campaign, through illegal straw donations, according to the indictment.<\/p>

On Tuesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA) called for Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s expulsion following the resignations of former Reps. Tony Gonzales<\/a> and Eric Swalwell<\/a> due to sexual misconduct allegations.<\/p>

Several Democrats have also said they would support Cherfilus-McCormick's expulsion from Congress<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cYou can\u2019t crime your way into legitimate power,\u201d said Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) on X<\/a>. \u201cSince she was found guilty, she should resign or be removed.\u201d<\/p>

However, expulsions from Congress<\/a> are rare because they require a two-thirds majority vote. Only six House members have ever been expelled.<\/p>

JOHNSON BACKS EXPELLING SHELIA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK FROM HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick has continued to deny the charges.<\/p>

\u201cI look forward to proving my innocence,\u201d Cherfilus-McCormick said in a statement last month. \u201cUntil then, my focus remains where it belongs: showing up for the great people of Florida\u2019s 20th District who sent me to Washington to fight for them.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2267947058.jpg?w=594" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529138-1776188687", "title":"Spanberger signs bill to award Virginia electoral votes to popular vote winner", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529138%2Fspanberger-bill-virginia-electoral-votes-popular-vote%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Virginia will award its presidential electoral votes to the winner of the national popular vote under a bill signed into law by Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) on Monday, marking a significant shift in how the state participates in presidential elections.  The measure enters Virginia into the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, an agreement among states […]", "description":""

Virginia<\/a> will award its presidential electoral votes to the winner of the national popular vote under a bill signed into law by Gov. Abigail Spanberger<\/a> (D-VA) on Monday, marking a significant shift in how the state participates in presidential elections<\/a>. <\/p>

The measure enters Virginia into the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, an agreement among states to allocate their electoral votes<\/a> to whichever candidate wins the most votes across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, rather than the winner within their own state. <\/p>

Under the current system used by most states, including Virginia, electoral votes are awarded on a winner-take-all basis to the candidate who wins the state\u2019s popular vote. The new law would change that \u2014 but only if enough states join the compact. <\/p>

The agreement takes effect once participating states collectively control at least 270 electoral votes, the number needed to win the presidency. Until that threshold is reached, Virginia will continue awarding its electors based on its own statewide results. <\/p>

With Virginia\u2019s addition, the compact now includes 18 states and Washington, D.C., totaling 222 electoral votes, still short of the 270 needed to activate the system. <\/p>

Neighboring Maryland<\/a> approved the measure in 2007, and other larger jurisdictions, including California, Illinois, and New York, have implemented it as well. <\/p>

Advocates of the change say it would ensure the presidency goes to the candidate who receives the most votes nationwide, arguing it would make every vote equal regardless of geography and eliminate scenarios where a candidate wins the Electoral College while losing the popular vote. <\/p>

Such outcomes have occurred multiple times in U.S. history, including George W. Bush<\/a> in 2000 and Donald Trump<\/a> in 2016, fueling efforts to reform the system.<\/p>

According to the Pew Research Center<\/a>, 63% of people say they would prefer the popular vote to determine the winner of presidential elections; the issue nevertheless still faces a partisan divide.<\/p>

The Pew study, conducted prior to the 2024 election in which Trump won both the popular vote and the Electoral College, found that 8-in-10 Democrats prefer a popular vote, while only 46% Republicans support it.<\/p>

Critics argue the compact effectively sidelines Virginia voters by tying the state\u2019s electoral votes to national results rather than the will of voters statewide. Opponents say the move diminishes the influence of individual states and could shift campaign attention away from smaller competitive states.\u00a0<\/p>

SPANBERGER INKS BILL BANNING ASSAULT WEAPONS AND HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINES<\/a><\/p>

The compact is expected to face legal scrutiny if it takes effect, particularly over whether congressional approval is needed for interstate agreements of this kind. <\/p>

The legislation passed the Virginia General Assembly earlier this year largely along party lines and was signed by Spanberger on Monday.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Abigail-Spanberger-Feature-image.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529122-1776187973", "title":"WATCH LIVE: JD Vance and Erika Kirk speak at Turning Point USA tour in Athens, Georgia", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4529122%2Fwatch-live-vance-erika-kirk-tpusa-georgia%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Vice President JD Vance and Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk are set to speak at an event Tuesday night as part of the organization’s tour, the latest stop of which is in Athens, Georgia. The two appeared onstage together at a TPUSA event last fall after the assassination of the late conservative activist Charlie […]", "description":""

Vice President JD Vance<\/a> and Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk<\/a> are set to speak at an event Tuesday night as part of the organization's tour, the latest stop of which is in Athens, Georgia<\/a>.<\/p>

The two appeared onstage together at a TPUSA<\/a> event last fall after the assassination of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk<\/a>.<\/p>

JD VANCE\u2019S HARD ROAD TO 2028<\/a><\/p>

Erika Kirk and TPUSA are already planning to support Vance for a possible 2028 presidential bid. The vice president is pushing his new memoir, which chronicles his journey of faith culminating in his conversion to Catholicism, ahead of its June 16 publication date.<\/p>

The event, scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, is being held at the University of Georgia.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25355730663079.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528942-1776187891", "title":"Treasury threatens foreign banks aiding Iran with ‘Economic Fury’ sanctions", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528942%2Ftreasury-banks-iran-economic-fury-sanctions%2F", "byline":"David Zimmermann", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Treasury Department has threatened to impose secondary sanctions on foreign banks that may be aiding Iran as the weekslong war persists. The secondary sanctions are part of the Trump administration’s “Economic Fury” effort, an allusion to Operation Epic Fury. “Treasury is moving aggressively with Economic Fury, maintaining maximum pressure on Iran,” the department posted […]", "description":""

The Treasury Department<\/a> has threatened to impose secondary sanctions<\/a> on foreign banks that may be aiding Iran<\/a> as the weekslong war persists.<\/p>

The secondary sanctions are part of the Trump administration's \"Economic Fury\" effort, an allusion to Operation Epic Fury.<\/p>

\"Treasury is moving aggressively with Economic Fury, maintaining maximum pressure on Iran,\" the department posted on X<\/a> on Tuesday afternoon. \"Financial institutions should be on notice that the department is leveraging the full range of available tools and authorities and is prepared to deploy secondary sanctions against foreign financial institutions that continue to support Iran's activities.\"<\/p>

Unlike primary sanctions, secondary sanctions target third-party individuals or entities that are found to be aiding sanctioned countries from abroad.<\/p>

The Treasury sent letters<\/a> to China, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman seeking their cooperation in dealing with the banks accused of permitting illicit transactions benefiting Iran, according to a copy obtained by Al-Monitor.<\/p>

\"The Treasury Department encourages you to work with banks in your jurisdiction to identify any Iran-related financial activity, including through front companies and other evasive tactics, and immediately cease such activity in light of the significant illicit finance risks this activity poses,\" the letter reads.<\/p>

Iran processed at least $9 billion through U.S.-based correspondent banking accounts in 2024 using front companies in Hong Kong and the UAE, according to an October 2025 report<\/a> issued by the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.<\/p>

Additionally, the administration is letting its waiver permitting the sale of Iranian oil expire on April 19.<\/p>

DAILY ON ENERGY: OIL PRICE RELIEF, DEMAND DESTRUCTION, AND A NEW GOP EFFORT TO SPEED UP NUCLEAR PROJECTS<\/a><\/p>

\"The short-term authorization permitting the sale of Iranian oil already stranded at sea is set to expire in a few days and will not be renewed,\" the Treasury said in its social media post.<\/p>

On March 20, the department issued a waiver to help approximately 140 million barrels of oil reach global markets, as the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, considered the world's most critical oil chokepoint, remained closed. The waiver's looming expiration comes after the United States and Iran failed to reach a long-term peace deal, though the fragile two-week ceasefire is still in effect.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26092056119844.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529067-1776187651", "title":"House turns focus to Cherfilus-McCormick and Mills in ethics crackdown: ‘Two down, more to go’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4529067%2Fhouse-focus-cherfilus-mccormick-mills-ethics-crackdown%2F", "byline":"Hailey Bullis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Furor in the House over alleged congressional ethics violations is shifting focus to two members of Florida’s delegation: Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Cory Mills (R-FL). Heading back into session on Tuesday after a two-week recess, calls for four members to resign or be expelled from the House reached a fever pitch, resulting in the […]", "description":""

Furor in the House<\/a> over alleged congressional ethics<\/a> violations is shifting focus to two members of Florida<\/a>\u2019s delegation: Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Cory Mills (R-FL).<\/p>

Heading back into session on Tuesday after a two-week recess, calls for four members to resign or be expelled from the House reached a fever pitch, resulting in the resignations of Reps. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and Tony Gonzales (R-TX).<\/p>

Both Swalwell's and Gonzales\u2019 resignations are effective Tuesday, and come after both men were accused of sexual misconduct.\u00a0<\/p>

But now, with both exiting Capitol Hill, attention is being shifted toward Cherfilus-McCormick, who is accused of financial misconduct, and Mills, who has been accused of domestic violence, among other things.\u00a0<\/p>

\"Two down, more to go,\u201d Rep. Nancy Mace said in a statement. \u201cSwalwell and Gonzales made the right call, but walking out the door does not erase the disgusting acts they are being accused of and the women they hurt.\u201d<\/p>

She continued, \u201cBut we are not finished. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Cory Mills still need to go. Congress is not above the law. It never was. They need to resign immediately or face expulsion.\"<\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick does not plan to resign from her House seat, however, and called the \u201clumping\u201d together of the allegations of financial misconduct she faces with the allegations faced by Swalwell and Gonzales \u201cinaccurate and irresponsible.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cFor those asking whether I plan to resign: the answer is no,\u201d she said in a statement to the Washington Examiner.\u00a0\"This is not the time to abandon the district, especially when they too are fighting for their future.\"<\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of stealing $5 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and funneling a portion of it to her campaign account. The House Ethics Committee found Cherfilus-McCormick committed wrongdoing on 27 charges levied against her in March, prompting several calls for her to resign from both sides of the aisle.\u00a0<\/p>

The Florida Democrat\u2019s refusal to step down from her seat comes after Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said she should be expelled from the House, saying the ethics panel found \"alarming facts\" about Cherfilus-McCormick that warranted ouster.<\/p>

Johnson did not go so far as to call for Mills\u2019 ouster, however, telling reporters he planned to look into the \u201cstatus\u201d of the House Ethics Committee\u2019s investigation on Tuesday.\u00a0<\/p>

Mills has faced the threat of being censured by his peers several times and has been accused of domestic violence, stolen valor over a Bronze Star he claims he was awarded, and financial misconduct. Mills has denied any wrongdoing.\u00a0<\/p>

Cherfilus-McCormick faces steeper odds of expulsion, with the House Ethics panel set to meet on April 21 to decide what sanctions to recommend to the lower chamber.\u00a0<\/p>

Once the House ethics panel makes its recommendation,\u00a0Rep. Greg Stuebe (R-FL) has stated he plans to file a motion to expel<\/a> Cherfilus-McCormick.\u00a0<\/p>

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) also reupped her call<\/a> for Cherfilus-McCormick to resign from her seat earlier Tuesday, writing in a post on X, \u201cRep Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick time to resign.\u201d<\/p>

JOHNSON BACKS EXPELLING SHELIA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK FROM HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-AK), meanwhile, in a statement put out Monday before Gonzales announced his intent to resign, called on the Texas Republican, Cherfilus-McCormick, and Rep. Cory Mills to resign as well. <\/p>

\u201cLooking at you,\u201d Gluesenkamp Perez wrote.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-nsyf1ohi9-1776197852054-e1776201987940.jpg?1776187582&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528842-1776187152", "title":"Spain legalizes residency of over 500,000 illegal immigrants in the country", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4528842%2Fspain-legalize-residency-500000-illegal-immigrant%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Spain finalized a highly controversial move to legalize over 500,000 illegal immigrants in the country, despite stiff opposition. The Spanish Council of Ministers approved the measure, granting legal status to over half a million illegal immigrants in a country of under 50 million. The effort was pushed for months by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s […]", "description":""

Spain<\/a> finalized a highly controversial move to legalize over 500,000 illegal immigrants<\/a> in the country, despite stiff opposition.<\/p>

The Spanish Council of Ministers approved the measure, granting legal status to over half a million illegal immigrants in a country of under 50 million. The effort was pushed for months by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's left-wing coalition government and represents the most sweeping amnesty enacted by a European Union<\/a> country. Anyone who resided in the country for more than five months prior to Jan. 1, 2026, and doesn't have a criminal record, is eligible.<\/p>

Sanchez tapped into rhetoric common in left-wing circles in the United States, saying the mass legalization was needed to preserve Spanish diversity.<\/p>

\u201cThese are the people who build the rich, open and diverse Spain that we have today,\u201d he wrote in a letter posted on X. \u201cAnd the country we aspire to have in the future.\u201d<\/p>

Sanchez claimed that because Spanish people had previously gone to other countries, they now had a moral obligation to welcome new immigrants. He also tapped into the argument that immigrants are needed to offset Spain's aging population.<\/p>

\u201cSpain, like other European countries, is growing older,\u201d he wrote<\/a>. \"If we do not take in new people to work and contribute to the social security system, our prosperity will slow, our capacity to innovate will decline, and our public services \u2014 health care, pension, education \u2014 will suffer.\"<\/p>

The Catholic Church emerged as one of the most important supporters of the measure, being one of the effort's central movers from the start. The original petition for mass legalization was backed by 84 Catholic organizations<\/a>, America Magazine reported, including Caritas Spain<\/a>, the Jesuit Refugee Service<\/a>, and the Spanish bishops\u2019 conference<\/a>. Archbishop Luis Arg\u00fcello, president of the Spanish bishops' conference, met with Spain's two main parties in the Congress of Deputies in June 2025, urging both to vote in favor of the amnesty bill.<\/p>

The Migration Department of the Spanish bishops' conference, Caritas Spain, and the Spanish Conference of Religious praised<\/a> the decision in weighty terms in January when it began to gain traction, saying it was \"demanded by broad sectors of society as a measure of political, ethical and social responsibility.\"<\/p>

\"The time has come to take a decisive step toward a more just and inclusive society, where no one is relegated to invisibility and exclusion,\" the statement read.<\/p>

Catholic organizations have helped facilitate the mass migration of illegal immigrants to Spain, setting up infrastructure across Spain to house and integrate African and Middle Eastern illegal immigrants. They've also played a critical role in leveraging their moral authority to push the government to accept more immigrants.<\/p>

\"The protection of the right to life and the protection of people on the move must prevail over any security rationale and over any border,\" Fr. Camillo Ripamonti, president of the Astalli Refugee Center, said<\/a> in a January statement. \"The Mediterranean cannot continue to be the scene of recurring tragedies.\"<\/p>

To fail to help immigrants cross the Mediterranean Sea to Spain, he proclaimed, was \"akin to a Pilate-like 'washing of one's hands.'\"<\/p>

Spanish conservatives, who typically hold the country's Catholic heritage as central to its identity, reacted with horror to the measure.<\/p>

\"The Spanish people have not given permission for this,\" Vox leader Santiago Abascal said. \"If the illegals 'already form part of our daily life' it is only because you and the PP have let them in against our laws and against our interests. The people will not forgive it. Sooner rather than later you will have to pay for it.\"<\/p>

Spain is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free travel between its members, making the mass legalization a larger problem for the rest of Europe. <\/p>

\"Tomorrow, they will be able to travel freely in France and even settle there, drawn by the generosity of our social system, which is open without conditions,\" French right-wing leader Jordan Bardella said<\/a> in a post on X. \"This unacceptable and cynical decision must lead, in a first step, to suspending Schengen, and, over the longer term, to reserving freedom of movement exclusively for European citizens.\"<\/p>

SPAIN PUSHES CHINA TO ASSUME GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ROLE<\/a><\/p>

Abascal cited Bardella's statement as a wider consequence of Sanchez's move, which he derided as treasonous.<\/p>

\"S\u00e1nchez brings Africa into Spain, and takes Spain out of Europe,\" he said<\/a>. \"The pull effect is an expulsion effect of Spaniards from the common European space.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103251397086.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529131-1776187125", "title":"Ex-Mike Pence aide launches Democratic congressional campaign in Virginia", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F4529131%2Folivia-troye-running-house-virginia-democrat%2F", "byline":"Sydney Topf", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Olivia Troye, an adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence who became a critic of President Donald Trump, announced Tuesday that she is running for a House seat in Virginia as a Democrat. Troye became a fierce critic of Trump after she resigned from her position as Pence’s homeland security and counterterrorism adviser in 2020, […]", "description":""

Olivia Troye<\/a>, an adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence<\/a> who became a critic of President Donald Trump<\/a>, announced Tuesday that she is running for a House seat in Virginia as a Democrat.<\/p>

Troye became a fierce critic of Trump after she resigned from her position as Pence\u2019s homeland security and counterterrorism adviser in 2020, criticizing the president over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/p>

\u201cThey sent MAGA after me,\u201d Troye said in a video announcing her campaign<\/a>. \"Tried to bankrupt me. Threatened to kill me. They thought they could silence me. They obviously don't know me very well.\"<\/p>

After leaving the first Trump administration<\/a>, Troye remained a Republican but joined a growing number of former Trump administration officials turning into critics.<\/p>

In 2024, she spoke at the Democratic National Convention<\/a> as one of the Republicans supporting Vice President Kamala Harris<\/a>\u2019s presidential campaign.<\/p>

But now, Troye is abandoning the Republican Party to run as a Democrat in Virginia's 7th Congressional District.<\/p>

\"In 2024, nothing could keep me from telling the truth on the stage of the Democratic National Convention,\u201d she said. \u201cBecause I believe in fighting for what's right \u2014 for those who can't fight for themselves. That's why I'm a Democrat, and that's why I'm running for Congress.\"<\/p>

Troye was a longtime Republican, beginning her career working in GOP politics through the Republican National Committee and former President George W. Bush\u2019s administration.<\/p>

However, she admitted in the campaign launch video that she voted for former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton<\/a> in the 2016 presidential election against Trump. Despite her candidate not winning, Troye said she continued to go to work.<\/p>

\u201cBut after Trump won, I kept showing up to work because serving your country isn\u2019t supposed to be partisan,\u201d she said.<\/p>

Troye said she \u201chad enough\u201d in 2020.<\/p>

\u201cThe evil I saw in that White House was staggering,\u201d she said. \u201cIn 2020, I finally said, 'Enough,' and they came for me.\u201d<\/p>

MIKE JOHNSON RAISES $500,000 TO FIGHT SPANBERGER\u2019S GERRYMANDERING PUSH IN VIRGINIA<\/a><\/p>

Troye joins a crowded field preparing to run in the 7th Congressional District that is up for a vote in a statewide proposal<\/a> next week to change the district map in favor of Democrats.<\/p>

About a half-dozen Democrats have already announced plans to run in the district if voters approve the new map on April 21, including former Virginia first lady Dorothy McAuliffe<\/a> and former federal prosecutor J.P. Cooney<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP24290689160705.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529040-1776186306", "title":"Thom Tillis slams Trump’s proposal to impose tolls on ships in Strait of Hormuz", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4529040%2Fthom-tillis-trump-toll-strait-of-hormuz%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) on Tuesday criticized President Donald Trump’s suggestion that the United States could tax vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. “I think that that is crazy,” Tillis said. “That makes no sense. It’s another tariff. You can call it a toll, but now it’s a water tariff. That doesn’t make sense […]", "description":""

Sen. Thom Tillis <\/a>(R-NC) on Tuesday criticized President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s suggestion that the United States could tax vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cI think that that is crazy,\" Tillis said. \"That makes no sense. It\u2019s another tariff. You can call it a toll, but now it\u2019s a water tariff. That doesn\u2019t make sense to me.\"<\/p>

The debate sparked earlier this month, when Trump was asked during an April 6 press conference<\/a> what he thought about Iran charging tolls on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>

\u201cWhat about us charging tolls?\u201d Trump questioned. \u201cI'd rather do that than let them have them. Why shouldn't we? We\u2019re the winner. We won. OK? They are militarily defeated. \u2026 I mean, we have a concept where we'll charge tolls.\u201d<\/p>

Around 20% of the global oil supply flows through the channel, making it one of the most valuable waterways in the world. Trump announced on Sunday that the U.S. would institute a naval blockade<\/a> on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, after Iranian restrictions severely hampered the flow of traffic through the channel, sending shockwaves through international energy markets.<\/p>

The blockade started Monday <\/a>and affects all vessels entering or departing Iranian ports, according to the Pentagon, a move that could cut off one of the regime\u2019s major sources of funding. Vessels making their way through the channel from non-Iranian ports will not be affected by the blockade, according to U.S. Central Command.<\/p>

Iran has controlled the waterway and reportedly charged a fee of up to $2 million for each ship that passes through, amid its war with the U.S. As the U.S. conducted peace talks with Iran earlier this month, Trump told ABC News<\/a> that there could be a \u201cjoint venture\u201d with Iran to charge tolls for passage.<\/p>

\u201cWe\u2019re thinking of doing it as a joint venture,\" the president said. \u201cIt\u2019s a way of securing it \u2014 also securing it from lots of other people. It\u2019s a beautiful thing.\u201d<\/p>

HOW DOES ISRAEL FIT IN THE US-IRAN TALKS?<\/a><\/p>

Tillis warned Tuesday that it would have a particularly damaging impact on allies in Asia, the region most affected<\/a> by the energy crisis.<\/p>

\u201cTo suggest that we\u2019re going to add a toll onto their energy costs for a condition that existed only because of our legitimate interest in denuclearizing Iran doesn\u2019t sound right to me,\" he said. \"Doesn\u2019t sound right for our trading partners, like Taiwan.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/AP25197697954306.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528318-1776185880", "title":"Ukraine has no ‘unrealistic expectations’ for Hungary as it pitches itself as ally to Magyar", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4528318%2Fukraine-no-unrealistic-expectations-hungary-peter-magyar%2F", "byline":"Timothy Nerozzi", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"EXCLUSIVE — The Ukrainian government breathed a sigh of relief this week when Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Russia’s greatest supporter in the European Union, lost his reelection bid. But Kyiv remains clear-eyed that the Hungarian leader has not been replaced by a rabidly pro-Ukraine alternative. Incoming Prime Minister Peter Magyar has signaled points of […]", "description":""

EXCLUSIVE \u2014 The Ukrainian<\/a> government breathed a sigh of relief this week when Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban<\/a>, Russia's greatest supporter in the European Union, lost his reelection bid<\/a>.<\/p>

But Kyiv remains clear-eyed that the Hungarian leader has not been replaced by a rabidly pro-Ukraine alternative. Incoming Prime Minister Peter Magyar has signaled points of skepticism toward Europe's all-encompassing crusade in defense of the war-torn nation.<\/p>

If they want Hungary's<\/a> new government to help them, they cannot simply rely on the goodness of their neighbors' hearts. They will need to demonstrate value.<\/p>

Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesman for the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told the Washington Examiner in an exclusive interview that officials in Kyiv \"do not have any unrealistic expectations or wishful thinking about [Magyar's] actions in his post as prime minister of Hungary.\"<\/p>

\"We really want to normalize our bilateral relations that have been, unfortunately, very deeply harmed by Prime Minister Orban and his anti-Ukrainian propaganda,\" Tykhyi said. \"We want to cure those relations, and we are confident that we can actually be very mutually beneficial for each other.\"<\/p>

Magyar, a member of the European Parliament, secured victory on Sunday<\/a> with a campaign primarily focused on championing European cooperation over Orban's euroskeptic nationalism. He portrayed himself as a pragmatic and amicable technocrat capable of making Brussels work for Hungarian interests.<\/p>

He also presented himself as a defender against encroaching Russian influence in Hungarian politics. Leaked recordings planted in the Hungarian press leading up to the election documented Orban and his allies' conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin<\/a> and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, showing that the Orban government routinely offered to fight for the Kremlin's interests in the EU and elsewhere.<\/p>

\u201cHungary made its choice,\" Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday during press comments in which he distanced Russia<\/a> from Orban following his defeat. \"We respect that choice.\"<\/p>

But opposing Russian influence in domestic politics does not inherently mean blindly supporting Ukrainian interests. Magyar said on Monday that he would not support Ukraine being fast-tracked into the European Union.<\/p>

\"For one thing, we are talking about a country at war,\" he explained. \"It is completely out of the question for the European Union<\/a> to admit a country at war.\" Magyar also said Hungary would not contribute to a\u00a0$100 billion support package\u00a0<\/a>for the war-torn nation.<\/p>

Kyiv understands the new prime minister \"will be pursuing Hungarian interests,\" and is prepared to sit down at the table to figure out where there is room for mutual benefit.<\/p>

\"We are working to translate the effects of this election into some tangible action on the EU level, including unblocking some of the EU decisions that have been blocked for a long time,\" Tykhyi told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

First on the agenda is the support package that Magyar says Hungary will not help fund. The new prime minister doesn't need to contribute to the fund to lift Orban's veto and allow the already-approved package to go through.<\/p>

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other officials have indicated that a reserve of borrowed funds is already prepared for disbursement upon the lifting of the Hungarian veto.<\/p>

\"Once we have all the relevant elements in place, we can draw on the funds that we have in our liquidity pool and make the first disbursement,\" a European Commission spokesperson explained<\/a> earlier this month. <\/p>

The next priority would be the alliance's 20th package of sanctions against Moscow, which imposes sweeping restrictions on Russian trade \u2014 including maritime oil transport, banking systems, and more tangible exports such as rubber and machinery.<\/p>

This will be a trickier sell, as the incoming prime minister has compared energy sanctions on Russia to \"shooting ourselves in the leg.\"<\/p>

Magyar has instead voiced a desire for the Russians to cease their invasion, advocating an immediate suspension of sanctions if the Kremlin were to do so. But he has downplayed his own ability to talk Putin down from the war.<\/p>

\"If Vladimir Putin calls, I'll pick up the phone,\" he said on Sunday. \"I don't think it'll happen \u2026 but if we did talk, I'd tell him to please, after four years, put an end to the killing and end this war.\"<\/p>

Finally, on Ukraine's entry into the EU, Kyiv has heard Magyar's comments loud and clear \u2014 no one is expecting him to sign off on a rapid ascension into the alliance. But making good on resolutions already passed would be a welcome start.<\/p>

The EU voted in 2023 to open negotiations on the accession of Ukraine. That process began, but repeated vetoes from Budapest have kept conversations about Ukraine meeting EU membership standards largely informal and unofficial.<\/p>

Kyiv doesn't expect Budapest to sign off on its membership at the moment, but it wants the talks to continue unimpeded.<\/p>

\"We are talking about implementing the decision on practice and opening negotiation clusters, because basically the process of accession is about proceeding with negotiation clusters, one by one, negotiating Ukraine in the EU,\" Tykhyi told the Washington Examiner. \"And then, of course, looking for solutions, looking for compromises. But we need to open the process.\"<\/p>

HUNGARY'S NEW PRIME MINISTER SUSPENDS STATE MEDIA AND RECOMMITS TO EUROPE IN FIRST ADDRESS<\/a><\/p>

Magyar will be walking a tightrope for his entire administration, balancing cultivating warm relations with Brussels while dodging accusations of putting the continental alliance ahead of his own countrymen.<\/p>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky<\/a> has commended Magyar on his \"resounding victory\" and promised that Ukraine is\u00a0\"ready for meetings and joint constructive work for the benefit of both nations, as well as peace, security, and stability in Europe.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-in69i0jci-1776189072097-e1776200235503.jpg?1776185831&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4529001-1776185517", "title":"The candy and Coke commander in chief: Trump’s sweet tooth feels all-American", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4529001%2Fcandy-coke-commander-in-chief-trump-sweet-tooth-feels-all-american%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump, like many Americans, has a hunger for success and certainly works up an appetite. Dr. Mehmet Oz revealed that the president always has candy ready to go in the Oval Office, along with his Diet Coke button. “He’ll first start off with candy bars,” Oz said on Donald Trump Jr.’s Triggered podcast […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a>, like many Americans, has a hunger for success and certainly works up an appetite.<\/p>

Dr. Mehmet Oz <\/a>revealed that the president always has candy ready to go in the Oval Office<\/a>, along with his Diet Coke button<\/a>.<\/p>

\u201cHe\u2019ll first start off with candy bars,\u201d Oz said on Donald Trump Jr.\u2019s<\/a> Triggered podcast<\/a> on Monday. \"He\u2019ll hit the red button, and then comes the diet soda pop.\u201d<\/p>

Oz then talked about the president\u2019s theory about diet sodas and their supposed cancer<\/a>-curing abilities. He detailed how Trump once argued while on Air Force One<\/a> that \u201cdiet soda is good for him because it kills grass, it\u2019s poured on grass, so therefore it must kill cancer cells inside the body.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cHe\u2019s got Fanta on the desk, and I say, \u2018Are you kidding me?\u2019 Oz said. \"So he starts to sheepishly grin because \u2018you know, this stuff\u2019s good for me, it kills cancer cells.\u2019 And then he tells me it\u2019s fresh-squeezed, so how bad could it be for you?\u201d<\/p>

Trump Jr. responded, \u201cMaybe he\u2019s onto something, because I will say this: I know a lot of guys pushing 80, not a lot that have his level of energy, recall, stamina.\u201d<\/p>

In 2016, after looking at Trump\u2019s medical lab records, Oz said it's unusual to see someone with such good results from eating \u201cnon-healthy food.\u201d<\/p>

Earlier this year, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.<\/a> said Trump had the \u201cmost unhinged eating habits\u201d<\/a> out of all the Cabinet<\/a> members.<\/p>

TRUMP GETS MCDONALDS DELIVERED BY \u2018DOORDASH GRANDMA\u2019 TO TOUT TAX REFUNDS<\/a><\/p>

Trump Jr. joked about the president trying the Atkins diet, and how he\u2019d have a steak, but add \u201chalf a pound of ketchup on it\u201d and then say he would just have \u201cone scoop of ice cream.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cFood is sort of, that\u2019s his thing. He doesn\u2019t drink, he doesn\u2019t do drugs,\u201d Trump Jr. said.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/trumpcoke.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528926-1776184236", "title":"US and UK studies emphasize ‘mental health treatment’ for youth gender dysphoria: Gabrielle Etzel", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fhealthcare%2F4528926%2Fus-uk-studies-emphasize-mental-health-treatment-youth-gender-dysphoria%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Washington Examiner healthcare reporter Gabrielle Etzel said two new studies show “there’s no evidence” to suggest puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones contributed to a declining suicide rate among children. A new study of Finland’s school-based mental health data found that adolescents suffering from gender dysphoria “showed significantly higher psychiatric morbidity” before referral than their peers. […]", "description":""

Washington Examiner healthcare reporter Gabrielle Etzel<\/a> said two new studies show \u201cthere\u2019s no evidence\u201d to suggest puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones contributed to a declining suicide<\/a> rate among children<\/a>.<\/p>

A new study of Finland\u2019s school-based mental health data found that adolescents suffering from gender dysphoria \u201cshowed significantly higher psychiatric morbidity\u201d<\/a> before referral than their peers.<\/p>

Etzel said some European<\/a> countries are starting to pull away from gender transition treatment for children, \"particularly in Scandinavian countries\u201d like Denmark. <\/p>

\u201cAnd both of those studies found that there\u2019s \u2014 it specifically focused on puberty blockers and cross sex hormones and rate of suicide \u2014 and they found that there\u2019s no evidence to suggest that puberty blockers or cross sex hormones contributed to a declining rate of suicidality among this population, and perhaps even increased it,\u201d Etzel said on the Scott Jennings Show.<\/p>

Commentator Scott Jennings said a landmark study from the United Kingdom<\/a> said giving children hormone drugs and transgender surgeries \u201cwas a terrible idea,\u201d and Etzel said the United States did \u201csomething similar\u201d under Health and Human Services<\/a> Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr<\/a>. <\/p>

\u201cSo those studies, the U.K. study and the one conducted by Secretary Kennedy found that we need to be emphasizing mental health treatment before we go in with interventional habits.\u201d<\/p>

FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS BUCKLES AMID SCANDALS, FURIOUS PARENTS, AND BUDGETING CRUNCH<\/a><\/p>

Etzel went on\u00a0to explain various findings in the study from Finland, including that 46% of students who had a level of gender dysphoria had already sought a referral to a gender clinic. Two years after their referral, this rate rose to 62%, meaning children who underwent gender treatment \u201chad higher rates of needing to seek mental health therapy after seeking so-called gender affirming care.\u201d<\/p>

Etzel added that these rates went up \u201csignificantly\u201d for those who underwent medical transition, such as puberty blockers or genital reconstruction.<\/p>

Etzel also said boys who transition from male to female have a \u201cfive times higher rate of needing psychiatric treatment\u201d after this experience. Likewise, girls who transition from female to male are three times more likely to seek mental healthcare.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26013602247006-e1776193931854.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528869-1776183606", "title":"Eric Swalwell scandal hangs over ‘best friend’ Ruben Gallego’s 2028 hopes", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4528869%2Feric-swalwell-scandal-hangs-over-friend-ruben-gallego-2028%2F", "byline":"Ramsey Touchberry", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The rapid downfall of Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) over sexual misconduct and rape allegations is threatening to claim the future political ambitions of Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) as a casualty. Gallego is a possible 2028 White House contender for Democrats. But his proximity to Swalwell in the wake of sexual assault accusations from at least […]", "description":""

The rapid downfall of Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a> (D-CA) over sexual misconduct<\/a> and rape allegations is threatening to claim the future political ambitions of Sen. Ruben Gallego<\/a> (D-AZ) as a casualty.<\/p>

Gallego is a possible 2028 White House contender for Democrats. But his proximity to Swalwell in the wake of sexual assault accusations from at least five women has forced Gallego into overdrive to distance himself from a disgraced family friend.<\/p>

\u201cLook, I messed up. I\u2019m human,\u201d Gallego told select reporters in his Washington office Tuesday. \u201cI trusted this man. I trusted him to watch my children. I would watch his children. He knew that I\u2019d just gone through the most bruising campaign, where I was accused of being a mule for the cartel, where my kids were subjected to TV commercials about what an awful human being I was, and he knew how to prey on that. And I was a loyal friend to someone who just was not loyal to me.\u201d<\/p>

Gallego denied knowing about the allegations, dismissing suggestions that their longtime friendship meant he was aware of Swalwell\u2019s behavior. But he acknowledged he had \u201cheard rumors\u201d over the years, describing Swalwell as \u201cflirty\u201d and living a \u201cdouble life.\u201d<\/p>

\u201cYou hear this, and then when you\u2019re close to somebody, and you know his wife, you see this, you see that relationship, you know that it maybe isn\u2019t true,\u201d Gallego said. \u201cI asked him about it a few weeks ago when it started coming up online.\u201d<\/p>

The two men have described one another for years as \u201cbest friends.\u201d The pair babysat each other\u2019s children, were pictured<\/a> together shirtless riding camels during a Middle East trip with their wives, and were financially involved in Swalwell's AI startup. Gallego, a member of the House prior to becoming a senator in 2024, chaired Swalwell\u2019s 2020 presidential campaign.<\/p>

That closeness of their friendship was also evident earlier this month when allegations against Swalwell gained traction on social media.<\/p>

\u201cWhen you are in first place, is when they target you,\u201d Gallego wrote on X. \u201cEric is a fighter and he will win the Governors race.\u201d<\/p>

Gallego later apologized for the defense, saying their \u201cfriendship clouded my judgment, and I was wrong.\u201d<\/p>

Swalwell did not respond to a request for comment about Gallego\u2019s remarks. <\/p>

Not everyone is buying Gallego's explanation, however. <\/p>

\"During the time that you were roommates, are we to seriously believe that you didn\u2019t know or witness anything about the 'double life,'\" Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) wrote on X. <\/p>

Earlier, Lawler had called on Gallego to release all of his text messages and other communications with Swalwell to prove he truly was unaware of his friend's misconduct. <\/p>

Gallego said he\u2019d be willing to release private conversations with Swalwell if requested through \u201clegal proceedings,\u201d such as in response to subpoenas or congressional ethics investigations. The House Ethics Committee is investigating the claims against Swalwell, some of which are from former staffers.<\/p>

\u201cI trusted him with my family, and it hurts,\" Gallego said. \"It hurts, the fact that he hurt a lot of people. And it pisses me off that now we all have to deal with all of his BS. His family, the poor victims that are still going to have to seek justice. And, of course, this is just \u2014 this is a horrible situation.\u201d<\/p>

WATCH LIVE: NEW SWALWELL ACCUSER DETAILS SEXUAL MISCONDUCT CLAIMS AT PRESS CONFERENCE<\/a><\/p>

In a resignation statement Monday, Swalwell said he was \u201cdeeply sorry to my family, staff, and constituents for mistakes in judgment I\u2019ve made in my past\u201d but added he will \u201cfight the serious, false allegation made against me.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-risfe98gn-1776196619962-e1776197933740.jpg?1776183564&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528785-1776183554", "title":"Lawmakers honor Holocaust Remembrance Day amid rising antisemitism", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolitics%2F4528785%2Fholocaust-remembrance-rising-antisemitism%2F", "byline":"Sydney Topf", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Trump administration officials and a bipartisan group of lawmakers reaffirmed the Holocaust would “never again” occur at the annual commemoration for the Days of Remembrance on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, as Republicans and Democrats face growing accusations of antisemitism. The Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Days of Remembrance ceremony has been held every year since 1979, commemorating […]", "description":""

Trump administration<\/a> officials and a bipartisan group of lawmakers reaffirmed the Holocaust<\/a> would \u201cnever again\u201d occur at the annual commemoration for the Days of Remembrance on Capitol Hill<\/a> on Tuesday, as Republicans and Democrats face growing accusations of antisemitism.<\/p>

The Holocaust Memorial Museum\u2019s Days of Remembrance ceremony has been held every year since 1979, commemorating the six million Jewish people killed in the Holocaust and honoring the U.S. troops who fought in World War II. <\/p>

\u201cWe recommit to taking action together,\u201d House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries<\/a> (D-NY) said. \u201cAnd the effort to combat antisemitism, and Holocaust denial cannot be a Democratic issue or Republican issue. It is an American issue.\u201d<\/p>

Lawmakers used their speeches to condemn growing antisemitism in the country and honor a Nuremberg trials prosecutor with the Congressional Gold Medal, avoiding partisan finger-pointing. <\/p>

But Trump-appointed administration officials didn\u2019t receive the same response when they praised President Donald Trump<\/a> as the \u201cgreatest friend\u201d to Jewish people.<\/p>

\u201cNo one thought it was possible that time and again, President Trump has shown through action, not just words, but bold action, that [he] is the greatest friend of the Jewish people,\u201d Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick<\/a> said.<\/p>Lawmakers condemn antisemitism in remarks

The remarks from Lutnick and Trump-appointed U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council Chairman Jeffrey Miller about the president were met with a small applause, while the bipartisan group of lawmakers' statements emphasizing \u201cnever again\u201d received standing ovations. <\/p>

JEWISH VOTERS FEEL \u2018POLITICALLY HOMELESS\u2019 AS ANTISEMITISM RISES ON BOTH SIDES<\/a><\/p>

With over 20 Holocaust survivors in attendance, House Speaker Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer<\/a> (D-NY), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand<\/a> (D-NY), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC), and Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL) honored the survivors during their remarks. <\/p>

\u201cThe poisons of fascism and antisemitism come from the same vine,\u201d Schumer said. \u201cThe only antidote is to call out and condemn antisemitism wherever and whenever it rears until the end. That is why we will continue. Keep our eyes open. Never again.\u201d<\/p>

Jeffries reaffirmed the commitment of Democrats and Republicans working together to end antisemitism. <\/p>

\u201cWe must all commit to the destruction of antisemitism, burying it in the ground, and making sure that it never rises again,\u201d Jeffries said. <\/p>

Meanwhile, Johnson emphasized in his remarks the antisemitism on some college campuses that came to the forefront after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.<\/p>

\u201cToday, the work is even more important than ever,\u201d Johnson said. \u201cNot only because those who personally witnessed this tragedy grow fewer in number each year, but because denying and destroying the truth of the Holocaust has become something, once again, that is tolerated and, in some cases, even defended on college campuses.\u201d <\/p>

WHY THE CYCLE OF CAMPUS ANTISEMITISM NEVER ENDS<\/a><\/p>

Rep. Nancy Pelosi<\/a> (D-CA) was also seen in attendance but didn\u2019t speak. <\/p>Nuremberg prosecutor honored

Johnson presented the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by Congress, in honor of Benjamin Ferencz, who served in the U.S. Army during World War II and prosecuted Nazi war criminals in the Nuremberg trials. <\/p>

Ferencz, who died in April 2023<\/a>, was the last surviving prosecutor from the Nuremberg trials. He served as chief prosecutor in the 1947 Einsatzgruppen case that famously convicted 22 Nazi commanders for murdering over a million people. <\/p>

Members of Ferencz's family, including his daughter, nephew, and niece, accepted the medal on his behalf. <\/p>

While taking a photo with the lawmakers after accepting the medal, Ferencz\u2019s daughter cried out her father\u2019s famous line to the silent crowd: \u201cLaw not war.\u201d<\/p>Rising antisemitism in political parties

The bipartisan event comes at a critical time for both political parties, as they navigate accusations of antisemitism amid Israel's escalating military operations in the Middle East. <\/p>

An overwhelming majority of Jewish people, 91%, say they feel less safe as a Jewish person in the U.S. due to violent attacks in the past year, according to the American Jewish Committee 2025 report<\/a>. <\/p>

In the same study, 86% of American Jews say antisemitism has increased in the U.S. since the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks.<\/p>

PAKISTANI NATIONAL PLEADS GUILTY TO PLANNING MASS SHOOTING AT NYC JEWISH CENTER TO SUPPORT ISIS<\/a><\/p>

Democrats and Republicans have faced calls to condemn famous political commentators on both sides, including progressive Hasan Piker and conservative Tucker Carlson<\/a>, for their controversial statements about Israel and Jewish people. <\/p>

Piker has referred to some Orthodox Jews in Israel<\/a> as \u201cinbred,\u201d while Carlson recently promoted a conspiracy theory blaming the Chabad-Lubavitch movement<\/a> for the Iran war.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/DSC00053-e1776192333290.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528944-1776182860", "title":"White House orders NASA and Pentagon to develop nuclear space reactors", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fspace%2F4528944%2Fnasa-pentagon-nuclear-space-reactors%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The White House is moving to fast-track nuclear power development in space, laying out a detailed road map with firm agency roles and time frames to put reactors on the moon and in orbit within the next decade. The new guidelines build on President Donald Trump’s executive order to ensure space superiority, which set a […]", "description":""

The White House<\/a> is moving to fast-track nuclear power <\/a>development in space<\/a>, laying out a detailed road map with firm agency roles and time frames to put reactors on the moon<\/a> and in orbit within the next decade.<\/p>

The new guidelines build on President Donald Trump\u2019s<\/a> executive order to ensure space superiority, which set a goal of deploying space-based nuclear reactors by 2030.<\/p>

The push builds on an announcement in August 2025 that NASA<\/a> would develop a lunar reactor as part of an effort to compete with China<\/a> and Russia<\/a> in an intensifying space race, with the new guidelines bringing this goal closer to reality.<\/p>

The directive<\/a> establishes the National Initiative for American Space Nuclear Power, a coordinated effort led by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.<\/p>

\u201cNuclear power will make sustained human presence in space possible,\u201d OSTP Director Michael Kratsios said on social media<\/a>. \u201cWe will survive the lunar might, endure Martian sandstorms, and venture into the stars.\u201d<\/p>

Unlike earlier high-level proposals, the new memorandum assigns concrete responsibilities and deadlines to federal agencies, signaling a shift from concept to execution.<\/p>

The center of the plan is a dual-track development strategy. The Trump administration<\/a> is directing both NASA and the War Department<\/a> to run parallel design competitions for low- to mid-level power reactors so the high-powered reactors will be prepared to deploy by 2030.<\/p>

\u201cThe United States will lead the world in developing and deploying space nuclear power for exploration, commerce, and defense,\u201d the memorandum reads, adding that agencies will partner with private-sector innovators to help meet the objectives.<\/p>

\u201cWe want launching from the United States on U.S. rockets, buying U.S. in-space logistics, and landing on U.S. re-entry ranges, to be easy and routine,\" Kratsios said Tuesday<\/a>.<\/p>

Near-term objectives include safely deploying nuclear reactors in orbit as early as 2028 and on the moon as early as 2030.<\/p>

Officials cast the plan as both urgent and intentional.<\/p>

\u201cAmericans are both dreamers and a people of action,\u201d Kratsios said, tying the initiative to earlier space milestones. \u201cThere is nothing natural or inevitable about the quest for space. \u2026 America chose to be a space superpower.\u201d<\/p>

JOHNSON BACKS EXPELLING SHELIA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK FROM HOUSE<\/a><\/p>

The guidance underscores that nuclear power is key to sustaining long-term missions, providing the sustained electricity, heating, and propulsion needed for a permanent presence beyond Earth.<\/p>

\u201cThis initiative \u2026 creates the road map\u201d to deploy reactors on the moon and in orbit, Kratsios said. \u201cAmerica\u2019s military superiority will not be questioned in land, sea, air, or space \u2014 the ultimate high ground.\u201d<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26097509289383.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4527610-1776182347", "title":"David Axelrod’s art of political war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4527610%2Fdavid-axelrod-art-of-political-war%2F", "byline":"Peter Laffin", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. “If your opponent is of choleric temper,” writes Sun Tzu […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

\"If your opponent is of choleric temper,\" writes Sun Tzu in The Art of War, \"seek to irritate him.\"<\/p>

My guess is David Axelrod<\/a> owns a copy, and that it's well-worn.<\/p>

Axelrod, the Chicago political boss who served as former President Barack Obama's guru, has won more political battles than he's lost. He is a master of media dynamics, of knowing exactly what needs to be done to flip a narrative in his favor. Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and Mitt Romney could all attest.<\/p>

This makes his visit to Pope Leo XIV<\/a> at the Vatican last week worth examining very carefully. Because in the days that followed, the pope's criticism of President Donald Trump<\/a> grew dramatically sharper \u2014 and Trump, true to form, couldn't resist taking the bait.<\/p>

Leo, a fellow Chicagoan, is no fan of the president or his administration \u2014 that was made clear by the social media trail left by the man known then as Robert Prevost. Last February, he shared a National Catholic Reporter article criticizing Vice President JD Vance's interpretation of Jesus' teachings on love and immigration. Weeks later, he reposted a commentary condemning Trump's coordination with El Salvador on deportations with the caption: \"Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed?\"<\/p>

The Vatican meeting between Leo and Axelrod almost necessarily touched on the obvious common ground between them. What else would a Chicago Democratic boss and a Chicago-born Trump-critic-turned-pontiff have to discuss? And the conversation would have naturally turned toward Trump's threat to erase Iranian civilization and the urgent need to rein him in.<\/p>

Now I'm not saying the pope knowingly participated in a Democratic Party political operation. Axelrod could have merely volunteered that the Holy Father's moral witness could provide a useful counterweight, and the pontiff could have concurred. Regardless, it's impossible to miss the fact that Leo's tone and rhetoric shifted sharply following his meeting with Axelrod.<\/p>

Consider the pope's remarks following Trump's \"civilization\" post<\/a> but before meeting with Axelrod: \u201cToday, as we all know, there has also been this threat against the entire people of Iran. And this is truly unacceptable! There are certainly issues of international law here, but even more, it is a moral question concerning the good of the people as a whole, in its entirety.\u201d<\/p>

Now consider his tone immediately after the meeting: <\/p>

\"It is here that we find a bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive,\" he said. \"The balance within the human family has been severely destabilized. Even the holy Name of God, the God of life, is being dragged into discourses of death.\"<\/p>

Then later in that same speech: \"Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!\"<\/p>

Now of course, it's possible that Axelrod had nothing to do with Leo's rhetoric shift. But it's not likely. Axelrod came to the Vatican ostensibly to arrange a papal audience for Obama, a move that would simultaneously elevate his old boss and diminish the current president. He doubtlessly understood that goading Trump into a public brawl with the pope would advance both aims.<\/p>

It was, in retrospect, the perfect trap. That's because Leo is perhaps the only person on earth whom Trump can't out-duel. Not because he isn't clever enough or because he isn't ultimately correct on the issues at hand \u2014 on the issue of preventing a nuclear Iran, I believe Trump is correct \u2014 but because fighting with the pope is a political loser yesterday, today, and forever.<\/p>

Trump dominates his opponents by making them look small and himself look big, historic, and indomitable. But in the Catholic imagination, and to a large extent in the public imagination generally, it's impossible to diminish the office of the papacy. Trump is a politician. The pope is not. He cannot be \"brought down to size.\" The more you try to diminish a pope, the larger he seems. The weight and substance of his office, the lineage that traces back to Saint Peter, the authority, the pageantry, dwarf anything a modern politician can summon. The juxtaposition of the pope in his papal garments with a Trump Truth Social rant is the argument itself rendered visually.<\/p>

Who started this exchange matters little in the political sense. So does who is right. It isn't fair, but life often isn't. Sometimes you need to realize no good can come from whatever is about to leap from your mouth and zip it.<\/p>

Trump's decision to belittle Leo by taking credit for his election was the single most self-defeating moment of the entire episode. He could not possibly have made himself appear smaller compared to the office of the papacy.<\/p>

\"Leo should be thankful because, as everyone knows, he was a shocking surprise,\" Trump posted on Truth Social. \"He wasn't on any list to be Pope, and was only put there by the Church because he was an American, and they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald J. Trump. If I wasn't in the White House, Leo wouldn't be in the Vatican.\"<\/p>

Axelrod probably framed this post and placed it on his mantel right beside the Bain Capital opposition research that forced Mitt Romney into defending corporations as \"people, too, my friend.\"<\/p>

Trump's attack on the pope never had a chance of serving him well, but only caused him damage. That's surely why Axelrod rope-a-doped him into it.<\/p>

Realizing his error, Trump attempted to explain away the picture he posted of himself as Jesus by saying he thought it was of a doctor. But the damage is likely to linger. A mass exodus of Catholics from Trump's coalition is unlikely, but that's not necessary. A 5% or 10% drop in Catholic support would be enough to doom his party's prospects in the 2026 midterm elections and beyond.<\/p>

Trump likes to boast about winning 2024 in a landslide, but it was Catholic voters in the swing states, particularly Hispanics, who delivered him his electoral blowout. Losing this bloc dismantles the coalition that made his victory possible.<\/p>

THE FERTILITY CRISIS ISN'T AN ECONOMIC PROBLEM. IT'S A CULTURAL ONE<\/a><\/p>

Vance, who is about to publish a book on his conversion to Catholicism, appears somberly aware of this fact in recent interviews. A president at war with the pope is a complicated partner for a man who has staked his political identity on his Catholic faith.<\/p>

Then again, Vance might have been Axelrod's real target all along.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/ap22142811639192-scaled.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528590-1776181524", "title":"Rubio: ‘Historic’ Israel-Lebanon talks meant to create ‘permanent end’ to Hezbollah influence", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4528590%2Frubio-israel-lebanon-negotiations-hezbollah-influence%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Israeli and Lebanese officials held their first direct talks since 1993 at the State Department on Tuesday. Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese Ambassador to the United States Nada Hamadeh Moawad led their respective delegations, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio, counselor Michael Needham, and United States Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa […]", "description":""

Israeli<\/a> and Lebanese<\/a> officials held their first direct talks since 1993 at the State Department on Tuesday.<\/p>

Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese Ambassador to the United States Nada Hamadeh Moawad\u00a0led their respective delegations, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio<\/a>, counselor Michael Needham, and United States Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa were also present.<\/p>

Parallel to the joint U.S. and Israeli wars against Iran, Israel has restarted its military campaign against Hezbollah, the Iranian-linked proxy group based in Lebanon, which was formed in the 1980s.<\/p>

\"This is a historic opportunity,\" Rubio said during public opening remarks. \"We understand we\u2019re working against decades of history and complexities that have led us to this unique moment.\"<\/p>

\"And the opportunity here \u2014 I know some of you were shouting questions about a ceasefire,\" he added. \"This is a lot more than just about that. This is about bringing a permanent end to 20 or 30 years of Hezbollah\u2019s influence in this part of the world and the \u2014 not just the damage that it\u2019s inflicted on Israel, the damage that it\u2019s inflicted on the Lebanese people.\"<\/p>

Hezbollah is not only a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, but it is also a political party with a parliamentary bloc in the government.<\/p>

The two sides came together in Washington on Tuesday as the United States simultaneously works to negotiate an end to the war against Iran.<\/p>

After the meeting, principal deputy spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a statement the United States \u201cunderscored that these negotiations have the potential to unlock significant reconstruction assistance and economic recovery for Lebanon and expand investment opportunities for both countries.\u201d<\/p>

Israel committed to working with the Lebanese government to \u201censure security for the people of countries,\u201d and \u201cexpressed its commitment to engage in direct negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues and achieve a durable peace that will strengthen security, stability and prosperity in the region,\u201d Pigott added.<\/p>

In the hours after the two-week U.S.-Iranian ceasefire went into effect, Israel carried out one of its largest rounds of strikes in Lebanon, which Iranian leaders said violated the agreement, though U.S. and Israeli leaders disputed Lebanon's inclusion in the deal.<\/p>

The strikes last Wednesday killed more than 250 Hezbollah militants, Israeli officials said, while Lebanon\u2019s health ministry said more than 100 women and children were among the over 350 people killed.<\/p>

Rubio also said \"our hope here\" is to \"begin to move forward to create the framework where something can happen,\" though he acknowledged that with \"all of the complexities of this matter are not going to be resolved in the next six hours.\"<\/p>

A senior Hezbollah leader said on Monday, in anticipation of the meeting, that the group would not abide by any agreement that may come from the negotiations.<\/p>

\u201cAs for the outcomes of this negotiation between Lebanon and the Israeli enemy, we are not interested in or concerned with them at all,\u201d Wafiq Safa, a high-ranking member of Hezbollah\u2019s political council, told the Associated Press<\/a>. \u201cWe are not bound by what they agree to.\"<\/p>

HIGH STAKES NEGOTIATIONS ON IRAN, ISRAEL, AND LEBANON TO PLAY OUT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW<\/a><\/p>

Israel and Hezbollah have fought multiple wars since the latter's inception. Most recently, the two sides renewed hostilities on March 2, following the start of the war in Iran. The two sides had agreed to a ceasefire in late 2024 to end the war that had begun in the aftermath of Hamas's Oct. 7, 2023, attack in southern Israel.<\/p>

The 2024 ceasefire agreement called for Israel to withdraw its troops in southern Lebanon in exchange for the Lebanese army demilitarizing the area south of the Litani River, which would create a roughly 20-mile buffer from there to the Israeli border, from Hezbollah fighters and their stockpiles.<\/p>

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said in late March that Israeli forces would \"control<\/a>\" the area south of the Litani River following the current war.<\/p>

This deal was designed to implement the 2006 United Nations resolution that ended the monthlong war then.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Israel-Lebanon-negotiations.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528727-1776180089", "title":"Former Brazilian spy chief and Bolsonaro ally arrested by ICE in US, claims persecution", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4528727%2Fformer-brazil-spy-chief-bolsonaro-ally-arrest-ice%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro’s spy chief, who is accused of having plotted a coup attempt to keep his boss in power. Alexandre Ramagem, Bolsonaro’s intelligence chief, was sentenced in absentia to 16 years in prison in September over his role in the alleged coup attempt, which included plans to […]", "description":""

Immigration and Customs Enforcement<\/a> arrested former Brazilian<\/a> President Jair Bolsonaro's<\/a> spy chief, who is accused of having plotted a coup attempt to keep his boss in power.<\/p>

Alexandre Ramagem, Bolsonaro's intelligence chief, was sentenced in absentia to 16 years in prison in September over his role in the alleged coup attempt, which included plans to assassinate incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Lula told a local outlet on Tuesday that he expects Ramagem to be deported to Brazil.<\/p>

\u201cI believe Ramagem will come back to Brazil; he has to come back to serve his sentence,\u201d he said.<\/p>

The arrest came after a detente between President Donald Trump<\/a> and Lula, who was previously the target of Republicans' ire. Bolsonaro was a major ally of Trump during his first term and drew frequent parallels with the Brazilian president, who was often referred to in Western media as \"Trump of the Tropics.\"<\/p>

Trump spent the first several months of his second term targeting Lula's government, alleging persecution of Bolsonaro and his supporters. Trump went so far as to target people in Brazil's government with sanctions.<\/p>

The two leaders have since reconciled and been on cordial terms, despite Bolsonaro's imprisonment and allegations of mistreatment. ICE's arrest of Ramagem, if it ends in his deportation to Brazil, would mark a complete reversal in Trump's approach to Brazil from last year.<\/p>

Bolsonaro's allies, meanwhile, claimed Ramagem's detention was only the result of a traffic stop and voiced hope that he would be released, Al Jazeera reported. Brazilian Sen. Jorge Seif, an ally of Bolsonaro, said he submitted an appeal to the U.S. embassy on Monday asking for his release.<\/p>

BOLSONARO ARRESTED DAYS AHEAD OF IMPRISONMENT TO \u2018ENSURE PUBLIC ORDER\u2019<\/a><\/p>

\"The political persecution against President Bolsonaro, his sons and his allies is now hitting an elected lawmaker in foreign soil,\" Seif said. \"In our document, we showed all the reasons that justify and defend the concession of political asylum to Ramagem and his family.\"<\/p>

The Washington Examiner reached out to ICE for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26103788399589.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528605-1776179880", "title":"Here’s how to claim your share of Comcast’s $117.5 million data breach settlement", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528605%2Fhow-to-claim-share-comcast-data-breach-settlement%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Comcast customers may be entitled to compensation from a data breach that occurred in 2023. Comcast was the victim of a third-party, criminal cyberattack between Oct. 16 and 19 of that year, during which attackers gained access to customers’ personal information. A legal action called Hasson v. Comcast Cable Communications alleges that Comcast failed to […]", "description":""

Comcast<\/a> customers may be entitled to compensation from a data breach that occurred in 2023.<\/p>

Comcast was the victim of a third-party, criminal cyberattack between Oct. 16 and 19 of that year, during which attackers gained access to customers\u2019 personal information. A legal action<\/a> called Hasson v. Comcast Cable Communications alleges that Comcast failed to properly protect personal information in accordance with its duties and had inadequate data security, though the company denies it engaged in any wrongdoing.<\/p>

The plaintiffs and defendants in this lawsuit agreed to a settlement to avoid the costs and risks of a trial, and \"settlement class members\" are eligible to claim a payment and other benefits.<\/p>

Those eligible for this settlement include people who received a notice of the data breach in December 2023.<\/p>

There are two ways eligible recipients can file for reimbursement.<\/p>

One way is \"out of pocket\" losses for those who spent money to deal with fraud or identity theft that is reasonably believed to be \u201cfairly traceable\u201d to the data breach. The other way is to file for \"lost time,\" which is for those who spent time dealing with fraud, identity theft, or other misuse of personal information \u201cfairly traceable\u201d to this breach.<\/p>

The reimbursement rate is $30 an hour for up to five hours.<\/p>

Eligible recipients can also request an alternative cash payment instead of making a claim, with payments estimated to be about $50. The deadline to file a claim or request this alternative form of payment is Aug. 14.<\/p>

Those who wish to opt out of this settlement have until June 1 to request an exclusion.<\/p>

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AGREES TO RESTORE PRIDE FLAG AT STONEWALL MEMORIAL<\/a><\/p>

A final approval hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. July 10, in Philadelphia.<\/p>

The Washington Examiner contacted Comcast for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25113744100971-e1776186501427.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528841-1776179657", "title":"Gallego says man in viral video with Swalwell isn’t him: ‘An example of the lies’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4528841%2Fruben-gallego-man-viral-video-eric-swalwell-not-him-lies%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) on Tuesday said he is not the man accompanying Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) in a viral video showing the former California gubernatorial candidate with a woman in a compromising situation.  Gallego has been viewed as one of Swalwell’s closest friends in Congress but has begun distancing himself since five women came […]", "description":""

Rep. Ruben Gallego<\/a> (D-AZ) on Tuesday said he is not the man accompanying Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a> (D-CA) in a viral video showing the former California gubernatorial candidate with a woman in a compromising situation. <\/p>

Gallego has been viewed as one of Swalwell\u2019s closest friends in Congress<\/a> but has begun distancing himself since five women came forward with rape<\/a> and sexual assault allegations<\/a> against Swalwell. <\/p>

\u201cThis is an example of the lies,\u201d Gallego said when asked if he was the other man in a viral post<\/a>. \u201cNo, I was not sitting next to him. I was not in the room. I don\u2019t even know where it happened.\u201d <\/p>

After the allegations about Swalwell started coming out last week, a video went viral<\/a> of him kissing a woman who is not his wife. Another man appears in the video, and rumors that it was Gallego took off. The face of the second man in the video is not clear. <\/p>

NEW ERIC SWALWELL ACCUSER LONNA DREWES COMES FORWARD WITH RAPE ALLEGATION<\/a> <\/p>

The congressman from Arizona said \"right-wing political operatives\u201d are \u201cpushing the narrative\u201d that he was in the room with Swalwell during which the woman appears to be in a compromising situation. <\/p>

When asked if he \"ever engaged in any inappropriate sexual misconduct or behavior towards your staff, other staff, other women outside of your marriage,\" Gallego responded simply<\/a>, \"No.\"<\/p>

Gallego initially jumped to defend Swalwell when the victims first stepped forward, describing the alleged abuser as his \u201cbest friend in the world.\u201d The Arizona representative chaired Swalwell\u2019s 2020 presidential bid and participated in campaign events, and the two took a vacation to Qatar together in 2021<\/a>. <\/p>

Gallego initially framed the situation as a political attack because some polls had placed Swalwell as the leading candidate in California\u2019s gubernatorial race<\/a>. <\/p>

When Swalwell succumbed to the growing political pressure to bow out of the race, and eventually resigned from Congress, Gallego did an about-face on his support for the California congressman.<\/p>

\u201cIt hurts,\u201d Gallego said<\/a>. \u201cIt hurts, the fact that he hurt a lot of people. And it pisses me off that now we all have to deal with all of his BS.\u201d <\/p>

Swalwell was a trusted friend who was welcomed in family settings, Gallego said, but that trust has diminished. <\/p>

Swalwell suspended his gubernatorial<\/a> campaign in California<\/a> after a former staffer, along with several other women, came forward alleging that he had raped them or committed sexual misconduct. He later announced that he would resign from Congress because the allegations \u201cdistracted\u201d him from his duties, though he has maintained he is not guilty of sexual misconduct, with his attorney calling the allegations a \"shameless smear.\"<\/p>

\"Congressman Eric Swalwell categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him. These accusations are false, fabricated, and deeply offensive \u2014 a calculated and transparent political hit job designed to destroy the reputation of a man who has spent twenty years in public service,\" attorney Sara Azari said.<\/p>

\"The timing, nature, and coordinated rollout of these vile and heinous allegations speak for themselves. This is neither about justice, nor the truth. This is a ruthless and shameless attempt to smear Congressman Swalwell,\" she added.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS BACK TO SQUARE ONE IN CALIFORNIA AFTER SWALWELL IMPLOSION<\/a><\/p>

Gallego previously released a statement that said he was unaware of the sexual harassment and assault claims, but when pressed by reporters, the congressman said Tuesday he was aware of rumors that Swalwell was \"flirty.\" He said he dismissed the rumors because of the closeness of their families. <\/p>

\u201cYou know his wife, you see this, you see that relationship,\u201d Gallego said. \u201cYou know that maybe this just isn\u2019t true.\u201d <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP24223004329437.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528806-1776179270", "title":"Daily on Energy: Oil price relief, demand destruction, and a new GOP effort to speed up nuclear projects", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fdaily-on-energy%2F4528806%2Fdaily-on-energy-oil-price-relief-demand-destruction-gop-effort-speed-up-nuclear-projects%2F", "byline":"Callie Patteson and Maydeen Merino", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"WHAT’S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Tuesday, readers! If you’re living in the DMV area, it’s time to break out your sunscreen, as we’re in for some scorching days later this week. Tomorrow, temperatures in Washington, D.C., are expected to be above 90 degrees, so be sure to stay hydrated. ☀️🌡️🥵 Members of President […]", "description":""

WHAT\u2019S HAPPENING TODAY: Good afternoon and happy Tuesday, readers! If you\u2019re living in the DMV area, it\u2019s time to break out your sunscreen, as we\u2019re in for some scorching days later this week. Tomorrow, temperatures in Washington, D.C., are expected to be above 90 degrees, so be sure to stay hydrated. \u2600\ufe0f\ud83c\udf21\ufe0f\ud83e\udd75<\/p>

Members of President Donald Trump\u2019s cabinet took a field trip to Brooklyn today for the groundbreaking of a controversial natural gas pipeline project that was revived last year as part of a deal to call off the administration\u2019s efforts to block New York offshore wind projects. \ud83d\uddfd\u26a1<\/p>

If you missed Energy Secretary Chris Wright\u2019s appearance at the Semafor World Economy summit yesterday, we have everything you need to know about what he said on rising gas prices, including how prices at the pump will likely stay high throughout the summer. \u26fd\ud83d\udcc8 Keep reading for more. <\/p>

Welcome to Daily on Energy, written by Washington Examiner energy and environment writers Callie Patteson (@CalliePatteson<\/a>) and Maydeen Merino (@MaydeenMerino<\/a>). Email cpatteson@washingtonexaminer dot com or mmerino@washingtonexaminer dot com for tips, suggestions, calendar items, and anything else. If a friend sent this to you and you\u2019d like to sign up, click here<\/a>. If signing up doesn\u2019t work, shoot us an email, and we\u2019ll add you to our list.<\/p>

WHERE PRICES STAND: Oil prices fell on the hopes of new peace talks between the United States and Iran, with international and domestic benchmarks falling to the low $90s this afternoon. <\/p>

A White House official confirmed<\/a> to CNBC today that the Trump administration is considering more talks with Iran, after negotiations failed over the weekend. While this has sent a signal to traders there could be de-escalation in the coming weeks, nothing has been formally scheduled between the two governments. <\/p>

Around 2:30 p.m. EDT, Brent crude had fallen by 4.79%, and was priced at $94.60 per barrel. West Texas Intermediate was also down by 7.68% and selling at $91.48 per barrel. <\/p>

Drivers have started to see some slight relief at the pump, as the national average of gasoline also ticked down today to around $4.118 per gallon, according to AAA.  <\/p>

INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY WARNS OF \u2018DEMAND DESTRUCTION\u2019: Not only is the war in Iran disrupting the global supply of crude, but the oil shocks are expected to trigger the largest drop in worldwide demand since the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Energy Agency said today.<\/p>

The IEA issued the warning in its monthly oil market report released this morning, estimating that oil demand will drop by 80,000 barrels per day this year, as well as 1.5 million barrels per day in the second quarter of 2026. This decline would be the sharpest since COVID, with the largest cuts coming from the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. <\/p>

\u201cHowever, demand destruction will spread as scarcity and higher prices persist,\u201d the IEA warned. <\/p>

Previously, the IEA estimated that global demand would increase by 640,000 barrels per day this year. You can read the full IEA report here<\/a>. <\/p>

PLUS, CHRIS WRIGHT WARNS GAS MAY STAY HIGH THROUGH SUMMER: Energy Secretary Chris Wright was pressed yesterday afternoon on how long gasoline prices could stay elevated, as he previously predicted they could fall back below $3 a gallon by summer.\u00a0<\/p>

Wright, like Trump, is now admitting that prices could continue to rise and even be higher than they are now by the November midterm elections. <\/p>

He called lowering gasoline prices by summer an \u201caggressive time frame,\u201d saying it is a \u201cvery real possibility\u201d that prices continue to rise. <\/p>

Wright defended the high prices, however, saying that the Trump administration was always aware that a disruption of energy flows brought on by the war in Iran would push up energy prices. And he projected confidence that, when the conflict ends, gas prices will fall in turn. <\/p>

\u201cBut once the conflict ends and energy starts flowing again, you\u2019ll start to see downward pressure,\u201d he said. \u201cBut it will take some time, depending upon the longer the conflict goes, the longer the rebound is.\u201d<\/p>

Read more from Callie here<\/a>. <\/p>

EU LAYS OUT PLAN TO OFFSET HIGH ENERGY COSTS CAUSED BY THE WAR: The European Union has laid out a plan to reduce electricity taxes and accelerate clean energy projects to help curb high energy costs caused by the war in Iran. <\/p>

The European Commission is set to release a draft later this week to impose several measures to reduce energy prices, Reuters reported<\/a>. The plan includes ways to quickly reduce Europe\u2019s reliance on fossil fuels. <\/p>

\"The benefits of this transition clearly outweigh its \u200bcosts. Europe cannot afford to remain exposed to increasingly frequent energy shocks,\" the draft said. \"Every delayed investment in the energy transition risks greater cost for society at a later stage.\"<\/p>

The draft said the EU executive will propose changes in May to ensure electricity is taxed less than fossil fuels, making it easier for governments to cut electricity taxes to zero for energy intensive industries.<\/p>

It also noted that next month the EU will present countries with a number of energy-saving investments and low-carbon technologies. <\/p>

NEW YORK NATURAL GAS PIPELINE PROJECT UNDERWAY: Wright, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin attended an event in Brooklyn today to announce the start of a new controversial natural gas pipeline project.\u00a0<\/p>

The cabinet members joined Williams Companies, the firm managing the construction, to announce the build-out of the Northeast Supply Enhancement Project pipeline, which will move natural gas supply from Pennsylvania through New Jersey. The project will be a 25-mile underwater extension of the 10,000 mile transcontinental system.<\/p>

The pipeline will deliver about 400,000 dekatherms of natural gas per day, roughly equivalent to the daily needs of 2.3 million homes, from Pennsylvania to New York City and Long Island. The pipeline is set to go into operation by the end of 2027.<\/p>

The project had appeared dead in 2024 after failing to receive its state permits. However, last November, it was able to obtain its permits to move forward with its project. <\/p>

The Trump administration has strongly backed this project, as part of a larger effort to boost fossil fuel industries. It had been previously reported that the president stalled a New York offshore wind project to pressure Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to approve the natural gas project. <\/p>

Read more from Maydeen on the project that came back to life and the political fight behind it here<\/a>. <\/p>

GOP SENATORS INTRODUCE BILL TO ACCELERATE NUCLEAR ENERGY DEPLOYMENT: Republican Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania have introduced legislation to establish clear pathways to quickly develop new nuclear technologies.<\/p>

The details: In order to accelerate the build-out of advanced nuclear energy, the Nuclear Energy Innovation and Deployment Act would modernize, clarify, and expand the Department of Energy\u2019s authority over nuclear facilities and activities, according to a summary of the bill obtained<\/a> by Daily on Energy. <\/p>

This would be directly related to activities conducted under contract with and for the agency, including privately sponsored and reactor demonstration projects. Specifically, the bill would direct federal regulators to revise regulations that limit the DOE\u2019s statutory authority and establish a pathway for the agency to authorize commercial reactor and fuel cycle facilities on federal land or for federal purposes. <\/p>

It would also create a Nuclear Energy Launch Pad that would designate federal and non-federal sites where companies can test advanced nuclear technologies under DOE authority. <\/p>

The lawmakers have described existing regulations between commercial and demonstration deployment as a \u201cvalley of death,\u201d hindering developers\u2019 ability to deploy their tech at the pace needed to win the AI race. <\/p>

The bill has support from numerous advanced nuclear energy companies including Oklo, Aala Atomics, Terrestrial Energy, Deep Fission, and Valar Atomics. <\/p>

\u201cRecent momentum across Congress and the Administration continues to reinforce the role of advanced nuclear in meeting growing U.S. energy demand,\u201d Jacob DeWitte, CEO and co-founder of Oklo, said in a statement. \u201cEfforts to build on recent executive actions with longer-term policy support can help create a clearer pathway to deploy new infrastructure and unlock domestic bridge fuel like surplus plutonium.\u201d<\/p>

PAXTON INVESTIGATES LULULEMON OVER PFAS: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is launching an investigation<\/a> into the activewear company Lululemon over the potential presence of PFAS, also known as \u201cforever chemicals,\u201d in its products. <\/p>

Paxton yesterday said the investigation would look into whether the activewear brand has misled consumers about safety, quality, and health impacts. PFAS are contaminants that do not break down naturally in the environment. <\/p>

These contaminants have been found in a number of consumer products, such as shampoo and clothing. The chemicals are considered harmful to humans and the environment. <\/p>

Paxton said \u201cemerging research and consumer concerns have raised questions about the potential presence of certain synthetic materials and chemical compounds in their apparel that may be associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer, and other health issues.\u201d <\/p>

ICYMI \u2013 TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ASKS APPEALS COURT TO REJECT CLIMATE CHALLENGE: The Department of Justice has called on an appeals court to reject a request from a group of climate activists to revive a lawsuit against the president and his executive orders cutting climate-related funding. <\/p>

The 22 climate activists claim that Trump\u2019s EOs violate their constitutional right to life, as they say the orders will have harmful impacts on the environment. The lawsuit was first dismissed by a lower federal court, a ruling the DOJ wishes to uphold. <\/p>

\u201cThis case is another climate change case with sprawling and speculative legal theories and claims,\u201d DOJ lawyer John Adams argued before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit yesterday. <\/p>

Adams argued that the courts have no business addressing the issues brought forth in the lawsuit, insisting they are policy issues that the executive branch has authority to act on. The activists, meanwhile, argued the executive orders issued last year subvert Congress\u2019 goal of combating climate change. <\/p>

Read more from the Examiner\u2019s Supreme Court reporter Jack Birle here<\/a>. <\/p>

RUNDOWN <\/p>

The Hill<\/a> Trump\u2019s gauge on gas prices spurs GOP anxieties ahead of midterms<\/p>

New York Times<\/a> How Lee Zeldin Shifted the Mission \u2014 and the Message \u2014 of the E.P.A.<\/p>

Inside Climate News<\/a> Norway Reopens Annual Whale Hunt Despite Pressure to End Commercial Whaling<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/DOE.webp?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528748-1776178783", "title":"Chuck Grassley floats Mike Lee or Ted Cruz as next Supreme Court justice", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fsenate%2F4528748%2Fchuck-grassley-floats-mike-lee-ted-cruz-next-supreme-court-justice%2F", "byline":"David Sivak", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) floated two of his Republican colleagues as possible nominees for the Supreme Court as speculation swirls over whether Justice Samuel Alito may soon step down. Grassley, whose committee is responsible for ushering judicial nominees to Senate confirmation, told the Washington Examiner on Tuesday that he would recommend Sens. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Ted Cruz […]", "description":""

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley<\/a> (R-IA) floated two of his Republican colleagues as possible nominees for the Supreme Court<\/a> as speculation swirls over whether Justice Samuel Alito<\/a> may soon step down.<\/p>

Grassley, whose committee is responsible for ushering judicial nominees to Senate confirmation, told the Washington Examiner on Tuesday that he would recommend Sens. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) for the high court post if Alito announces his retirement.<\/p>

Both are Judiciary members and have long been discussed in GOP circles as contenders for the job. They are also ideological conservatives and have aligned themselves politically with President Donald Trump.<\/p>

Alito, 76, has not publicly signaled whether he will step down, but he is one of the oldest justices on the court and is thought to be at least considering an announcement at the end of the current term, slated for late June or early July.<\/p>

\"I hope he doesn't retire ... but if he does retire, I'm going to suggest that either Lee or Cruz be put on the Supreme Court,\" Grassley said.<\/p>

When asked if he had a sense of which way Alito is leaning, Grassley responded: \u201cI got a sense on it that we'll be fully prepared to process it in the Judiciary Committee.\u201d<\/p>

His remarks echo those of Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), who told the Washington Examiner earlier on Tuesday that Senate Republicans would be prepared to vote on a successor before the midterm elections.<\/p>

Senate Republicans have prioritized moving high-profile nominees quickly, most recently confirming Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin in a handful of weeks. As Judiciary chairman, Grassley helped usher his 100th district court judge across the Senate floor on Tuesday.<\/p>

Lee, for his part, does not seem to be actively pursuing the appointment if it were to become available. <\/p>

\u201cI want Justice Alito to stay on the court forever,\" Lee told the Washington Examiner. \"He\u2019s the best there is, the best there has been, and the best there will be.\u201d<\/p>

SENATE GOP \u2018PREPARED\u2019 TO CONFIRM ALITO HIGH COURT REPLACEMENT BEFORE MIDTERM ELECTIONS<\/a><\/p>

Alito is part of the court\u2019s 6-3 conservative majority, meaning any vacancy would not change the judicial makeup if Republicans confirm a Trump-named successor. The GOP is favored to retain the Senate in the November elections and has a three-seat margin, but control could flip to Democrats if a blue wave materializes.<\/p>

Grassley said he has not discussed the possibility of Alito\u2019s retirement with the Trump administration. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-l6qvdlk2m-1776191362124.jpg?1776178765&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528795-1776178673", "title":"Trump says ‘clean’ FISA extension needed ‘especially’ amid Iran war", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F4528795%2Ftrump-says-clean-fisa-extension-needed-especially-amid-iran-war%2F", "byline":"Christian Datoc", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"President Donald Trump called for a clean extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act following a meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). Though Trump has long blamed FISA for the federal surveillance of his 2016 presidential campaign, the White House has in recent days rejected calls from some conservative lawmakers to reform the program […]", "description":""

President Donald Trump<\/a> called for a clean extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act following a meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA).<\/p>

Though Trump has long blamed FISA for the federal surveillance of his 2016 presidential campaign, the White House<\/a> has in recent days rejected calls from some conservative lawmakers to reform the program additionally.<\/p>

Trump hosted Johnson at the White House on Tuesday for a meeting with members of the National Republican Congressional Committee, after which the president called on Republicans to \"get a clean extension of FISA 702 through the House of Representatives this week.\"<\/p>

\"I am asking Republicans to UNIFY and vote together on the test vote to bring a clean Bill to the floor,\" he wrote on Truth Social. \"We need to stick together when this Bill comes before the House Rules Committee today to keep it CLEAN!\"<\/p>

Trump, despite claiming to be the \"victim of the worst and most illegal abuse of FISA in our Nation\u2019s History,\" said that he was willing to \"risk\" possible surveillance from \"Radical Left Lunatics\" in order to \"do what is right for our Country.\"<\/p>

MAGA INSIDERS DIVIDED OVER TRUMP'S WAR ON CONSERVATIVE CRITICS<\/a><\/p>

The president suggested that FISA was critical to both his Iranian<\/a> and Venezuelan military actions this year.<\/p>

\"It is more important than ever that we remain vigilant, PROTECT our Homeland, Troops, and Diplomats stationed abroad, and maintain our ability to quickly stop bad actors seeking to cause harm to our People and our Country,\" he continued. \"The fact is, whether you like FISA or not, it is extremely important to our Military. I have spoken to many Generals about this, and they consider it VITAL. Not one said, even tacitly, that they can do without it \u2014 especially right now with our brilliant Military Operation in Iran.\"<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26076684753747.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528708-1776177206", "title":"Freedom 250 announces Great American State fair coming to National Mall", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4528708%2Ffreedom-250-great-american-state-fair-national-mall%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Freedom 250 unveiled details on Tuesday about the Great American State Fair set to mark 250 years of U.S. independence in the capital this summer.  The landmark celebration in Washington, D.C., will highlight all 56 U.S. states and territories “in a single World’s Fair-scale event,” according to Freedom 250, the organization President Donald Trump spearheaded […]", "description":""

Freedom 250<\/a> unveiled details on Tuesday about the Great American State Fair set to mark 250 years of U.S. independence in the capital this summer.\u00a0<\/p>

The landmark celebration in Washington, D.C.<\/a>, will highlight all 56 U.S. states and territories \u201cin a single World\u2019s Fair-scale event,\u201d according to Freedom 250, the organization President Donald Trump<\/a> spearheaded to honor the semiquincentennial. The 16-day fair will take place from June 25 through July 10, spanning from the U.S. Capitol to the Washington Monument.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cAs our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of freedom and opportunity, the National Mall will once again serve as the stage for telling our nation\u2019s story,\u201d Interior Secretary Doug Burgum<\/a> said in a statement. \u201cThanks to President Donald J. Trump\u2019s leadership, the Great American State Fair will bring all 56 states and territories together in one place, showcasing the people, landscapes, and traditions that define this country.\u201d<\/p>

The event is one of many being planned by Freedom 250 and America250, a separate nonpartisan organization tasked by Congress to mark the anniversary. <\/p>

Freedom 250 is leading a nationwide plane tour<\/a> featuring nine \u201coriginal Founding-era documents,\u201d a UFC fight <\/a>at the White House in June, and a Grand Prix Indy car race in Washington, D.C., set for August, among other initiatives.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cWhen we think about America\u2019s 250 years, it\u2019s really hard to think about anything that\u2019s more American than cars. It\u2019s been long been said Americans have always had a love affair with their cars, and this has been the center of innovation in a major, major industry,\u201d Burgum said when officials unveiled the racetrack<\/a> last month. \u201cSo it\u2019s a combination of both history and horsepower that\u2019s going to be happening here.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>

America250 <\/a>is likewise leading a host of events, including nationwide block parties<\/a> on July 4 that it says will be \u201cthe largest synchronized Fourth of July celebration in U.S. history.\u201d <\/p>

The three major initiatives America250 is overseeing are Our American Story<\/a>, a yearlong effort traveling the nation to record stories of heroic Americans to be archived in the Library of Congress, America\u2019s Field Trip<\/a>, which asks students in grades 3-12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them, and America Gives<\/a>.\u00a0The organization announced last month that through America Gives, it had surpassed 2.5 million volunteer hours in its effort to pull off the largest such national initiative in U.S. history.\u00a0<\/p>

TRUMP PREPARES FOR US 250TH BIRTHDAY WITH NEW PROJECT TO HONOR HEROES<\/a><\/p>

Kellyanne Conway, an America250 commissioner with close ties to the Trump administration, heralded Freedom 250 in March.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cWe have full alignment around a shared goal of making this the biggest and most inspirational moment for at least one of them in our nation\u2019s young but inspiring and very robust history,\u201d she said. \u201cI had the opportunity to discuss what we\u2019re doing with the president, with the chief of staff, with members of the Cabinet, and with others who are so aligned. And I think that\u2019s incredibly important, because we are one movement and one nation having this one celebration.\u201d <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26098762859995.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528627-1776177058", "title":"Yes, Muslims should assimilate to belong", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fin_focus%2F4528627%2Fmuslims-should-assimilate-to-belong%2F", "byline":"David Harsanyi", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here. “I’m tired of proving I belong in America,” Washington Post […]", "description":""

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here<\/a>.<\/p>

\"I\u2019m tired of proving I belong in America,\" Washington Post columnist Shadi Hamid writes<\/a> in his now-viral piece headlined \u201cMuslims<\/a> shouldn\u2019t have to assimilate to belong.\u201d<\/p>

Telling everyone you\u2019ve assimilated might feel good, Hamid argues, but rejects the premise that \u201ca minority community\u2019s right to be in the United States depends on its willingness to converge with the cultural mainstream.\u201d<\/p>

Gratuitous attacks on peaceful citizens are detestable. It would be deeply irresponsible, however, not to mention morally and intellectually obtuse, to treat all faiths and ideologies as the same. Islam<\/a> entails a set of beliefs, not a set of immutable features. The widespread violence, misogyny, child abuse, tyranny, and bigotry that exists in swaths of Islamic society around the world is a product of that culture.<\/p>

So, if Muslims don\u2019t believe embracing foundational American norms is a condition of good citizenry, then we have a duty to limit new immigrants<\/a> from that world, because they will create divisions that other immigrant groups did not.<\/p>

Though Hamid argues that Muslims shouldn\u2019t live by those expectations, he also tries to create the impression that they already share the social conservative values of an average white Baptist in rural Oklahoma.<\/p>

\u201cOver the past decade,\u201d Hamid contends, \u201csurveys have shown that American Muslims are patriotic<\/a>, civically engaged<\/a> and more likely<\/a> than the U.S. general public to say that political violence is never justified. You\u2019d think that would be enough.\u201d<\/p>

No, that\u2019s the bare minimum. \u201cPolls,\u201d moreover, tell us little. Hamid\u2019s claims about civic life are derived from something called the \u201cIslamophobia Index,\u201d conducted by the \u201cInstitute for Social Policy and Understanding,\u201d a Muslim-focused organization funded by a slew of left-wing organizations. I\u2019m skeptical of the results and framing, and the notion that we all share the same definition of \u201cpatriotism,\u201d but you can make up your own mind.<\/p>

The hyperlink he provides<\/a> to prove that Muslims are \u201cmore likely than the U.S. general public to say that political violence is never justified,\u201d however, sends us to a nearly decade-old Pew Research Center poll that focuses on the uptick in concern from American Muslims about increasing \u201cIslamic extremism.\u201d<\/p>

Not exactly an endorsement for more immigration from the Middle East.<\/p>

In any event, the worth of \u201ccivic engagement\u201d is largely dependent on the principles you\u2019re championing. Are you attending mosques that preach violent extremism? Does your political activism include surrounding synagogues<\/a> and Holocaust museums<\/a> to harass and threaten Jews or marching<\/a> to support Islamic terrorist states that whip women in the streets? If so, Americans are free to suspect that you\u2019re bringing some highly corrosive and divisive ideas into the country.<\/p>

Hamid, incidentally, has no problem smearing<\/a> the American Jewish \u201cestablishment\u201d as \u201cauthoritarians\u201d and Fifth Columnists who not only support (imaginary) genocide but drag America into needless bloody wars.<\/p>

OK. How does Islamic political culture comport with traditional American outlooks? Of the four Muslims in Congress \u2014 anti-Western, culturally progressive, left-wing radicals \u2014 at least two of them, Reps. Ilhan Omar<\/a> (D-MN) and Rashida Tlaib<\/a> (D-MI), are outright bigots.<\/p>

The most visible political advocacy group of Muslims, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, has a long history of accepting funding and supporting<\/a> terrorist groups, and its director celebrates<\/a> the wanton mass murder of young women, including American citizens. How many prominent Muslims or Democrats are critical of the CAIR?<\/p>

Right now, perhaps the most prominent Muslim American in politics is podcaster Hasan Piker. His background wouldn\u2019t matter if he wasn\u2019t constantly championing Islamic terrorism. He believes the United States \u201cdeserved<\/a>\u201d 9\/11 and that Republicans are<\/a> the \u201cbiggest terrorists, the biggest domestic terrorists in this country, the biggest terrorists internationally.\u201d Piker\u2019s favorite flag belongs to Hezbollah. He says Shia supremacists of Hamas are<\/a> a \u201cthousand times better\u201d than our liberal democratic allies in Israel. Both of his favorite Islamist groups have killed hundreds of American citizens.<\/p>

This is the man who campaigns for the mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

Now, Hamid disseminates many of the same ugly ideas under the cloak of respectable pseudo-academic prose he picked up while collecting a paycheck from a Qatari-funded think tank. When you point this out, he hides behind the shield of Islamophobia.<\/p>

Hamid likes to compare the Muslim immigrant experience to other groups, such as Jews, who he points out have secularized and integrated, sometimes to their detriment. Islam, he says, is \u201cincreasingly integrated into American civic life, but it has done so while holding on to its religious commitments in a way that most other groups haven\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>

No one stops anyone from praying. But sharia, according to Hamid, \u201croughly translated as Islamic law, includes guidelines on how to pray, fast and otherwise observe what it means to submit to God in daily practice,\u201d which is like roughly like describing communism as a set of economic guidelines that help you submit to \u201cthe warmth of collectivism.\u201d<\/p>

Diverse cultural outlooks are seasoning that enhances our communal life. But Jews, religious or not, are not in conflict with foundational American ideals. Christians render unto Caesar. Does anyone seriously dispute that sharia law isn\u2019t merely a religious framework but a political one, as well? There\u2019s a simple way to think about the cultural difference between immigrant groups. Would a Washington Post columnist be able to satirize and critique Muhammad without fearing for their safety in the same way they could satirize and critique Jesus or the Pope or satirize and critique Jews or Vishnu or Buddha? No one who has lived through the past two decades could honestly claim so.<\/p>

We are still compelled to spend hundreds of billions of dollars on counterterrorism every year because of an extremist element in contemporary Islam that doesn\u2019t exist in other faiths. Expecting Muslim assimilation is more than reasonable.<\/p>

\u201cAmerica was not founded on the assumption that its citizens would eventually come to agree on foundational questions,\u201d Hamid ends his piece. \u201cIt was founded on the more radical proposition that they wouldn\u2019t \u2014 that people who disagree about God, religion and the good life could share a country anyway.\u201d<\/p>

This is both a platitude and a strawman. Of course, we disagree about God, religion, and the good life, but if a group demands or corrodes foundational freedoms that create a culture of stability, freedom, and prosperity, which allows Americans to enjoy those things, we have a huge problem. Worrying about aggressive strands of Islam isn\u2019t exactly a far-fetched concern after witnessing the experience of Western Europe, where large groups of Muslim immigrants entered nations that have zero expectations or demands of assimilation.<\/p>

ERIC SWALWELL IS GUILTY ACCORDING TO THE ERIC SWALWELL STANDARD<\/a><\/p>

Europeans instead adopted suicidally vacuous and relativistic ideas about their borders and culture. The European Union motto is \u201cUnited in diversity.\" At this point, it might as well adopt \u201cMuslims shouldn\u2019t have to assimilate to belong.\u201d<\/p>

We shouldn\u2019t.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/AP20137585493347.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528634-1776175816", "title":"Scandals won’t stop Eric Swalwell from getting $22,000 a-year taxpayer-funded pension", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528634%2Feric-swalwell-eligible-taxpayer-funded-pension%2F", "byline":"Haris Alic", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) may be resigning under a cloud of scandal, but he is still eligible for a taxpayer-funded congressional pension. According to a National Taxpayers Union analysis obtained exclusively by the Washington Examiner, the 45-year-old Swalwell would be eligible to receive a taxpayer-funded pension of roughly $22,000 per year starting at age 62.  […]", "description":""

Rep. Eric Swalwell <\/a>(D-CA) may be resigning<\/a> under a cloud of scandal, but he is still eligible for a taxpayer-funded congressional pension.<\/p>

According to a National Taxpayers Union analysis obtained exclusively by the Washington Examiner, the 45-year-old Swalwell would be eligible to receive a taxpayer-funded pension of roughly $22,000 per year starting at age 62. <\/p>

Demian Brady, the vice president of research at the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, told the Washington Examiner the payout is based on when Swalwell first entered office, how long he served, and the average salary from his top three earning years.<\/p>

\u201cHe would be eligible for a starting pension of just over $22,000, accounting for the 10 percent spousal set-aside which is automatic unless the spouse signs a document of refusal,\u201d said Brady. \u201cThis also assumes that he took steps to maximize his starting pension amount while serving in office.\u201d <\/p>

Swalwell, who makes $174,000 annually as a member of Congress, has been in the House since 2013. The California Democrat's office did not return requests for comment on this story.<\/p>

Brady cautioned that Swalwell\u2019s estimated $22,000 annual pension could be higher once adjusted for inflation.<\/p>

Swalwell has been accused of sexual assault by multiple women, including a former congressional staffer. He has denied the allegations. Despite the denial, Swalwell dropped his bid to become governor of California in light of the allegations. On Monday, he announced his resignation from Congress after bipartisan lawmakers signaled they would vote to expel him over the alleged wrongdoing.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cExpelling anyone in Congress without due process, within days of an allegation being made, is wrong,\u201d the California Democrat said in a statement. \u201cBut it\u2019s also wrong for my constituents to have me distracted from my duties. Therefore, I plan to resign my seat in Congress.\u201d<\/p>

Even as he prepares to depart office under a cloud, Swalwell will be allowed to keep the perks and privileges afforded to a former member of Congress. The most significant is a taxpayer-funded pension, which fiscal watchdogs like Brady say can be \u201ctwo or three times higher than pensions available to employees in the private sector with similar salaries.\u201d<\/p>

Since 1946, lawmakers with at least five years in office or other federal service can qualify for a taxpayer-funded pension. Yet, until recently, there were safeguards to prevent lawmakers accused of wrongdoing from collecting their pensions.\u00a0<\/p>

A 2007 law passed by Congress stipulated that lawmakers would lose their pension upon conviction of public corruption charges or violating national security law. In 2013, Congress expanded the list of crimes as part of a crackdown on alleged insider trading by lawmakers.\u00a0<\/p>

But those reforms included a loophole allowing ex-lawmakers to collect pensions while appealing their convictions. In one such instance, two lawmakers sitting in prison were still allowed to receive taxpayer-funded pensions because they had yet to exhaust the appeals process. <\/p>

WATCH LIVE: NEW SWALWELL ACCUSER DETAILS SEXUAL MISCONDUCT CLAIMS AT PRESS CONFERENCE<\/a><\/p>

In 2024, Congress passed a law requiring pension payments to be suspended immediately upon conviction for corruption-related offenses, even if appeals are ongoing. To date, not one former lawmaker has lost their congressional pension, according to the National Taxpayers Union. <\/p>

Swalwell, who is being investigated by the Manhattan district attorney over the sexual assault allegations, has yet to be charged with a crime.\u00a0<\/p>

*Hailey Bullis contributed to this story. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/image-collage-0agdghlhi-1776187530025-e1776189832588.jpg?1776175796&w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528608-1776175695", "title":"Mark Carney announces summerlong pause of federal taxes on gas and jet fuel after securing Liberal majority", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4528608%2Fmark-carney-pause-federal-tax-gasoline-jet-fuel%2F", "byline":"Claire Carter", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Tuesday a suspension of the federal tax on gasoline and jet fuel until Labor Day, a move that comes just one day after he secured the Liberal parliamentary majority. Carney said the temporary suspension, expected to take effect Monday and run through the peak summer travel months, would […]", "description":""

Canadian<\/a> Prime Minister Mark Carney<\/a> announced on Tuesday a suspension of the federal tax<\/a> on gasoline and jet fuel until Labor Day, a move that comes just one day after he secured the Liberal<\/a> parliamentary majority.<\/p>

Carney said the temporary suspension, expected to take effect Monday and run through the peak summer travel months, would lower fuel costs for drivers and reduce operating expenses for airline facilities facing high energy prices<\/a>.<\/p>

The prime minister attributed the rise in fuel prices to the war in Iran<\/a>, which has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a>, a vital oil<\/a> shipping lane between Iran and Oman.<\/p>

\u201cWe all know that because of the war with Iran, fuel prices have increased sharply around the world, including right here in Canada,\u201d Carney said. \u201cSo we\u2019re taking more action to help build that bridge over short-term pressure.\u201d<\/p>

Carney\u2019s policy targets federal excise taxes, cutting them by 10 cents per liter of gas, and carbon-related levies tied to fuel, though provincial taxes will remain in place. Carney estimated the measure would amount to about $1.74 billion in lost federal revenue.<\/p>

Suspending the fuel tax marks Carney\u2019s first move with a Liberal Party parliamentary majority, which he secured Monday night in special elections in two vacant Toronto districts and another in a Montreal suburb.<\/p>

Winning a Liberal majority means Carney will not have the added obstacle of securing opposition votes in order to pass legislation. He had previously said his party\u2019s majority would aid him in the trade war with the United States, which was sparked by tariffs<\/a> implemented by President Donald Trump<\/a>.<\/p>

The last time Canada had a Liberal majority was under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau<\/a> from 2015 to 2019. However, Trudeau handed Carney a broken Liberal Party with a dismal approval rating.<\/p>

Since Carney came to power in March 2025, he has been seen by Canadians as stronger against Trump than Trudeau. He delivered a speech<\/a> in January at the World Economic Forum, where he used sophisticated language to declare the death of the \"rules-based order\"<\/a> that has long governed global politics.<\/p>

\"The power of the less powerful starts with honesty,\" Carney said<\/a>. \"It seems that every day we are reminded that we live in an era of great power rivalry. That the rules-based order is fading. That the strong do what they can, and the weak must suffer what they must.\"<\/p>

As a result, Carney's popularity has bested Trudeau's, and he has built back nationwide support for the Liberal Party.<\/p>

In the past eight months, five Conservatives changed their party designation to Liberal. Liberals won all three of the special elections held on Monday.<\/p>

SPAIN PUSHES CHINA TO ASSUME GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ROLE<\/a><\/p>

The tables turning has led Canada\u2019s Conservative Party members to call Carney \u201cauthoritarian\u201d and for its party defectors to resign.<\/p>

Despite the opposition\u2019s affronts hurled at him, Carney has continued to push his agenda of weaning Canada off its reliance on the U.S. He has previously discussed using taxpayer money to build major infrastructure and has been in search of global trade partnerships, including nondemocratic partners.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/WB.Defense.020426.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528635-1776175498", "title":"Meet Tom Steyer, the new leading Democrat to be California’s next governor", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fbeltway-confidential%2F4528635%2Fmeet-tom-steyer-new-leading-democrat-california-next-governor%2F", "byline":"Zachary Faria", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"With Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) dropping out of the race, the new Democratic front-runner to be the next governor of California is Tom Steyer, an incompetent climate zealot who will fast-track California’s decline. Steyer, a hedge fund billionaire who ran for president as a Democrat in 2020, has been the top polling Democrat outside of […]", "description":""

With Rep. Eric Swalwell<\/a> (D-CA) dropping out of the race, the new Democratic front-runner to be the next governor of California is Tom Steyer<\/a>, an incompetent climate zealot who will fast-track California\u2019s<\/a> decline.<\/p>

Steyer, a hedge fund billionaire who ran for president as a Democrat in 2020, has been the top polling Democrat<\/a> outside of Swalwell in the race so far, flooding the state with ads funded by his own money. To give you an idea of what a Steyer administration would look like, here is a post he made last week: \u201cFour corporations control 90% of California's refining capacity. That's not a market \u2014 that's a monopoly. I'll attack their grip on gas pricing<\/a> and force an investigation into why Californians pay more than anyone else in the country.\u201d<\/p>

Aside from the obviously ridiculous assertion that \u201cfour corporations\u201d can be a \u201cmonopoly,\u201d this exposes the fact that Steyer is an incompetent, looming disaster. You do not need to \u201cforce an investigation\u201d into why Californians pay more for gas than any other state in the country: California has the highest gas tax in the country and, in the name of climate change<\/a>, mandates a unique gas blend that is more expensive to\u00a0produce<\/a>\u00a0and is only produced for California. At every turn, California makes gas more expensive, which Democrats (like Steyer) can\u2019t or won\u2019t acknowledge.<\/p>

It is entirely possible that Steyer is somehow unable to recognize this. After all, he\u00a0admitted\u00a0that he hasn\u2019t followed state politics<\/a> closely enough to give Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA) a grade for his job performance. Yes, the guy who wants to be governor has not followed state politics enough to comment on the job he wants to win. That\u2019s a bit of an issue.<\/p>

DEMOCRATS BACK TO SQUARE ONE IN CALIFORNIA AFTER SWALWELL IMPLOSION<\/a><\/p>

Hidden in Steyer\u2019s post, though, is the implication that he cares about gas prices at all. He doesn\u2019t, as evidenced by his 2020 presidential run<\/a>, when he\u00a0said, \u201cI am the only person on this stage who will say climate is the No. 1 priority for me.\u201d Steyer\u00a0wants<\/a>\u00a0to\u00a0end<\/a>\u00a0the use of fossil fuels altogether. He is not taking up this issue because he wants to address gas prices, and he would not be happier if there were more than four corporations controlling California\u2019s refining capacity. He is looking for an excuse to destroy those corporations and their refineries, and he is going to do so under the pretense of fighting \u201ccorporate greed.\u201d<\/p>

Steyer is an incompetent zealot, someone who only wants the power of the California governor\u2019s office so he can impose his destructive climate policies on the most populous state in the country. Steyer is a walking disaster, and he is now the odds-on favorite to take over for Newsom in running the Golden State into the ground, one suffocating climate policy at a time.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AP26059723276671-e1774291229871.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528370-1776174859", "title":"Elbridge Colby, not Hegseth, to attend virtual Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fpolicy%2Fdefense%2F4528370%2Felbridge-colby-attend-ukraine-defense-contact-group-meeting%2F", "byline":"Mike Brest", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Elbridge Colby, undersecretary of war for policy, will attend Wednesday’s virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, but War Secretary Pete Hegseth will not, a War Department official told the Washington Examiner. Hegseth has irregularly attended the monthly meetings, in which more than 50 countries are usually represented, since assuming the position of war secretary […]", "description":""

Elbridge Colby, undersecretary of war for policy, will attend Wednesday's virtual meeting of the Ukraine<\/a> Defense Contact Group, but War Secretary Pete Hegseth<\/a> will not,\u00a0a War Department official told the Washington Examiner.<\/p>

Hegseth has irregularly attended the monthly meetings, in which more than 50 countries are usually represented, since assuming the position of war secretary more than a year ago, demonstrating that he and the administration have different priorities.<\/p>

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and United Kingdom defense chief John Healey have taken the helm of the group, which had been led and founded by former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin<\/a>, though early in Hegseth's tenure, he gave away the position as leader of the group.<\/p>

Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe, is also unable to attend Wednesday's meeting, though his deputy, U.K. Air Chief Marshal Sir Johnny Stringer, and German Maj. Gen. Ulf Haussler, deputy commander of the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine, will participate instead, according to Politico<\/a>.<\/p>

The Trump administration has taken a much different stance toward Ukraine, and Europe more broadly, than its predecessor. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. would give Ukraine weapons to use in its war against Russia, which the Trump administration had stopped, and set up a system in which European countries would pay for American weapons given to Ukraine.<\/p>

Hegseth, early in his tenure, also told European allies that they would need to become less reliant on the U.S. military and take their collective defense into their own hands.<\/p>

Most recently, European leaders have angered President Donald Trump<\/a> for refusing to get involved in the U.S. war against Iran. Trump initially sought their assistance in trying to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely shut down since the war began, but the president has since been very critical of the NATO alliance due to their refusal.<\/p>

Last week, Trump wrote on Truth Social that \u201cNATO wasn\u2019t there when we needed them, and they won\u2019t be there if we need them again.\u201d<\/p>

UNDERSTANDING WHY TRUMP ORDERED THE BLOCKADE IN THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ<\/a><\/p>

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that, together with the United Kingdom, they will organize a conference to establish a multinational mission aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the strait, but said it would be a strictly defensive operation.<\/p>

The Trump administration is looking at possible punishments for NATO countries that have been critical of the war, according to the Wall Street Journal<\/a>.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26043562577701.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528565-1776174731", "title":"Trump as Jesus", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2Fcolumnists%2F4528565%2Ftrump-as-jesus%2F", "byline":"Timothy P. Carney", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Somehow we are still capable of surprise and even shock when it comes to President Donald Trump’s behavior, despite all he has done throughout his public life and throughout his time as the dominant figure in American politics. This tells us something about our psychology and about our expectations for the office of the president. […]", "description":""

Somehow we are still capable of surprise and even shock when it comes to President Donald Trump<\/a>\u2019s behavior, despite all he has done throughout his public life and throughout his time as the dominant figure in American politics. This tells us something about our psychology and about our expectations for the office of the president.<\/p>

So while some people yawned when Trump posted on social media an image of himself as Jesus<\/a>, apparently raising a man from the dead, many people were shocked, and some were appalled. Because enough of Trump\u2019s allies told him that this wasn\u2019t cute, and was in fact, blasphemous, he took down the post. He later claimed, implausibly, that he didn\u2019t think it was portraying himself as Jesus, but was instead portraying himself as a Red Cross doctor.<\/p>

In this regard, it really was a new thing. When was the last time he backtracked on something?<\/p>

But the yawners have a point: Our politics have been headed in this direction for a while.<\/p>

The tacky paintings, and more recently AI-created drawings, of Trump as some sort of religious leader have been ubiquitous since Trump took over the political scene in 2015.<\/p>

One way to understand Jan. 6, 2021,<\/a> is as a religious riot. I say that because I was there, covering it, in person.<\/p>

Multiple Trump supporters I met near the White House noted that it was the Christian feast of the Epiphany and that they were seeking an epiphany of sorts from Trump. They thought he would reveal his proof that the election was stolen and that Trump had actually won.<\/p>

Right outside the White House, I saw a Trump supporter carrying a cross, which like the True Cross, had a sign hung from it. But instead of \u201cJesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews,\u201d this sign read \u201cTrump Won.\u201d<\/p>

As I walked with the crowd from the White House to the Capitol, I spoke to a handful of Trump supporters. Every one of them said they did not attend church, and more than one spoke of Trump in spiritual terms.<\/p>

I wrote<\/a> at the time, \u201cDavid, an auto mechanic from Colorado, told me how pleased he was with Trump\u2019s first term. It wasn\u2019t about tax cuts or border walls, either. \u2018He brought some pride back into the country. \u2026 No more. I feel pride. I feel like there\u2019s something that was missing that\u2019s now been found.\u2019<\/p>

\"His talk was spiritual, so I asked David about faith and church. \u2018I don\u2019t go to church. But I am religious. I do read the Bible. I do my own studies, online and stuff. But really, since Trump came in, I really have felt a shift in the power I feel. It\u2019s definitely more positive than it was before.\u2019\"<\/p>

This didn\u2019t start with the 2020 election<\/a>, either. If you covered a Trump rally, you may have noticed it had a lot in common with a religious revival. Trump rallies in 2016 weren\u2019t dark and brooding as some of the liberal media portrayed them. They were upbeat. There was instant camaraderie. For many people, it was a rare communal event infused with meaning.<\/p>

If you\u2019ve been following Trump for the past decade, you know that he sees himself, and many of his followers see him, as a messianic figure.<\/p>

More common than Trump-as-Messiah, but maybe more harmful, is the twisting of Christianity<\/a> to fit into Trump\u2019s personal tastes.<\/p>

DOES IT MATTER THAT ERIC SWALWELL IS MARRIED?<\/a><\/p>

Erick Erickson wrote about this:<\/p>

So Trump kind of wants to be worshipped, and he at least wants religion to be twisted to his likings, which helps explain his anger at Pope Leo XIV<\/a>. Trump\u2019s unhinged online rant at the Holy Father is hard to understand unless you consider that Trump has been led, by sycophants, to believe that Christianity ought to serve him, rather than the other way around.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/img-6080-scaled-e1776188847515.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528491-1776174145", "title":"Android users may qualify for part of $135 million Google data settlement", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528491%2Fandroid-users-may-qualify-135-million-google-data-settlement%2F", "byline":"Britta Miller", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Android phone users may be eligible to claim part of a $135 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit on data collection. The suit, Taylor v. Google, claims Google “has a dirty little secret,” causing Android mobile devices to transfer a variety of information to Google without user permission, consuming user cellular data. According to the […]", "description":""

Android phone users may be eligible to claim part of a $135 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit<\/a> on data collection.<\/p>

The suit, Taylor v. Google<\/a>, claims Google \u201chas a dirty little secret,\" causing Android mobile devices to transfer a variety of information to Google without user permission, consuming user cellular data.<\/p>

According to the settlement website<\/a>, to qualify for the Android<\/a> data settlement, a claimant must:<\/p>Be a living person in the U.S.Used an Android mobile device with a cellular data plan.Accessed the internet between Nov. 12, 2017, and the date when the settlement receives final approval.Not be a class member in a similar lawsuit for California residents.

The lawsuit alleges that Google designed its Android system and apps to prevent users from turning off data transfers, and that users had no option to disable them. It argues that this was to  Google's financial benefit.<\/p>

BANK OF AMERICA SETTLES LAWSUIT BROUGHT BY JEFFREY EPSTEIN ACCUSERS<\/a><\/p>

According to the suit, much of Google\u2019s information gathering happened to users while \u201cAndroid devices are in their purses and pockets, and even while sitting seemingly idle on Plaintiffs\u2019 nightstands as they sleep, Google\u2019s Android operating system secretly appropriates cellular data paid for by Plaintiffs to perform 'passive' information transfers which are not initiated by any action of the user and are performed without their knowledge.\u201d<\/p>

The deadline to opt out or object to the settlement is May 29. The final approval hearing is set for June 23.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/googleandroid.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528105-1776173961", "title":"Secret Service warns court of ‘numerous security risks’ if White House ballroom project halted now", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fjustice%2F4528105%2Fsecret-service-warns-court-numerous-security-risks-white-house-ballroom-project-halted%2F", "byline":"Jack Birle", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Trump administration urged a federal court this week to allow construction of the White House East Wing, including the new ballroom, to continue, with a senior Secret Service official warning of “numerous security risks” if the project is halted. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, had ordered […]", "description":""

The Trump administration<\/a> urged a federal court this week to allow construction of the White House<\/a> East Wing, including the new ballroom, to continue, with a senior Secret Service official warning of \"numerous security risks\" if the project is halted.<\/p>

U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, had ordered construction on the ballroom to be paused, but he included an exception for \"construction necessary to ensure the safety and security of the White House.\" The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the group that sued the administration over the construction of the ballroom, filed a motion seeking to clarify the scope of that exception and have the judge order that it does not include the construction of the ballroom itself.<\/p>

An appeals court panel last week paused Leon's order to give the Trump administration more time to appeal it.<\/p>

The Justice Department, in a filing to the federal district court on Monday, pleaded with the judge to allow for construction of the full complex, including the ballroom and other above-ground parts of the East Wing.<\/p>

\"A dormant excavation site adjacent to the exposed Executive Mansion itself poses serious safety and security threats,\" the DOJ's filing said<\/a>. \"The Court is not positioned to second-guess these determinations about what is needed to ensure presidential security, let alone to superintend the construction process. The Court should therefore make clear that it does not intend to do either of those things.\"<\/p>

The DOJ included in its filing a declaration<\/a> from Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn in which he stated that the \"current unfinished construction site compromises the ability of Secret Service personnel\" to protect the White House. Quinn said the project's construction should continue.<\/p>

\"Given these security risks, along with the vulnerabilities of the already-constructed below-ground structures, leaving nothing on top of the below-ground construction is not an option,\" Quinn said.<\/p>

\"The project is a single, coherent whole. An above-ground slab and topping structure is needed to ensure that key underground structures with a security purpose are properly protected and strengthened,\" he added.<\/p>

Quinn stressed the construction plans for the East Wing include \"Secret Service security requirements,\" and the longer the structure is not completed, the more vulnerable the White House facility is.<\/p>

\"Stop-and-start delays as each ensuing portion of the project must get litigated would compromise the timeline of the Project and unduly prolong critically necessary security steps,\" Quinn said. \"Moreover, any delay in construction of the project may permit adversaries to view the elements of construction, identify vulnerabilities, and pose ongoing national security risks to a critical piece of the White House infrastructure that is necessary to safeguarding the President on a prospective basis.\"<\/p>

TRUMP BALLROOM CONSTRUCTION CAN CONTINUE, APPEALS COURT RULES<\/a><\/p>

The nonprofit group suing the White House issued its reply in a court filing<\/a> on Tuesday, urging the federal court to deny the DOJ's arguments on the construction and claiming \"the lack of a massive ballroom on the White House grounds is not a national-security emergency.\"<\/p>

Leon's order halting construction of the ballroom is not scheduled to go into effect until Friday, after a federal appeals court extended a pause on the district court judge's order. If Leon declines to allow ballroom construction to continue, the DOJ could return to the appeals court or go to the Supreme Court's emergency docket in its bid to continue construction on the new East Wing.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26099704252480.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528352-1776173916", "title":"Maryland redistricting push dies as Democrats refuse to touch political hot potato", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528352%2Fmaryland-redistricting-push-dies-democrats-refus-touch-political-hot-potato%2F", "byline":"Molly Parks", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Gov. Wes Moore‘s (D-MD) hopes to redistrict Maryland have fallen by the wayside as the state Senate refused to advance an effort to redraw the state’s maps in favor of Democrats. The Maryland Democratic caucus was splintered over the redistricting move, as Democratic state Senate President Bill Ferguson staunchly opposed the effort Moore had promoted. Though the […]", "description":""

Gov. Wes Moore<\/a>'s (D-MD) hopes to redistrict Maryland<\/a> have fallen by the wayside as the state Senate<\/a> refused to advance an effort to redraw the state's maps in favor of Democrats.<\/p>

The Maryland Democratic caucus was splintered over the redistricting<\/a> move, as Democratic state Senate President Bill Ferguson<\/a> staunchly opposed the effort Moore had promoted. Though the state House passed Moore's proposed map, which would have favored Democrats in all eight districts, the Senate did not advance the map out of committee before the legislative session ended on Monday.<\/p>

\"I know there's disagreement right now between the House and the Senate,\" Moore said<\/a> during his February State of the State address. \"So my ask is simple: Do not let the democratic process die in the free state. Debate it, discuss it, make adjustments if necessary. And put it to a vote.\"<\/p>

The Senate did not put the bill<\/a> to a vote, leaving it to die in the rules committee, despite the House advancing the new map. Ferguson initially came out against the measure in October, nixing the idea months before the House passed the measure.<\/p>

The Democratic state Senate leader pointed to legal risks, the short timeline before the 2026 midterm elections, and the political risks of messing with the state's existing map when he told his chamber to stand down last October.<\/p>

\"Despite deeply shared frustrations about the state of our country, mid-cycle redistricting for Maryland presents a reality where the legal risks are too high, the timeline for action is dangerous, the downside risk to Democrats is catastrophic, and the certainty of our existing map would be undermined,\" Ferguson wrote in October<\/a>.<\/p>

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) also backed the measure, and even went to Annapolis in February to urge Ferguson to pass the new maps.<\/p>

\u201cI appreciated the opportunity to share my perspective,\u201d Jeffries said at the time. \u201cHe shared his perspective, and we\u2019ll see where it goes from here.\u201d<\/p>

With Ferguson's stiff arm prevailing, the failure deals a blow to Moore, a potential 2028 presidential candidate. Moore was unable to get the measure across the finish line, unlike other governors-turned-possible-presidential-hopefuls, such as Gov. Gavin Newsom<\/a> (D-CA).<\/p>

MIKE JOHNSON RAISES $500,000 TO FIGHT SPANBERGER\u2019S GERRYMANDERING PUSH IN VIRGINIA<\/a><\/p>

Moore had portrayed the redistricting as a reactionary measure to President Donald Trump<\/a>'s efforts to gain more Republican seats in red states like Texas.<\/p>

Next week, voters in neighboring Virginia<\/a> will decide if they want to redistrict the commonwealth in favor of Democrats, as the nationwide mid-decade redistricting battle comes to a head before the 2026 midterm primaries<\/a> ramp up.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AP26049680260497.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528521-1776173489", "title":"New Eric Swalwell accuser Lonna Drewes comes forward with rape allegation", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcrime%2F4528521%2Fnew-eric-swalwell-accuser-lonna-drewes-rape-allegations%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Another woman on Tuesday accused Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) of rape, after a slew of sexual misconduct claims made against the congressman led him to suspend his California gubernatorial campaign and announce he will resign from office. Lonna Drewes said she met Swalwell socially in 2018, when she said she was a model in California […]", "description":""

Another woman on Tuesday accused Rep. Eric Swalwell <\/a>(D-CA) of rape, after a slew of sexual misconduct <\/a>claims made against the congressman led him to suspend his California gubernatorial campaign and announce he will resign from office.<\/p>

Lonna Drewes said she met Swalwell socially in 2018, when she said she was a model in California<\/a> and running a fashion software company. She encountered him at two public events as \"friends,\" Drewes said during a press conference <\/a>in Beverly Hills. At their third encounter, Drewes alleged that Swalwell drugged, raped, and choked her in his hotel room.<\/p>

ERIC SWALWELL TO RESIGN FROM CONGRESS AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ACCUSATIONS<\/a><\/p>

\"On the third occasion, I believe, he drugged my drink. I only had one glass of wine,\" she said. \"We were supposed to go to a political event, and he said he needed to get paperwork from his hotel room. When I arrived at his hotel room, I was already incapacitated, and I couldn't move my arms or my body. He raped me, and he choked me, and while he was choking me, I lost consciousness, and I thought I died. I did not consent to sexual activity.\"<\/p>

Drewes's attorneys said she is filing a police report about the alleged incident with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday. Attorney Lisa Bloom said she will be providing all of her evidence there, including text messages, journal entries, photographs, and witness information.<\/p>

At the time of the alleged assault, Drewes said she documented the event and confided in those \"closest to me,\" but did not undergo a rape kit. She said she hesitated to come forward until now due to her fear of Swalwell's \"political power, his background as an attorney, and his family law enforcement ties.\" She said that her consideration of a run for Beverly Hills City Council also pressured her to remain \"composed and silent,\" and that after the alleged rape, she continued a business relationship with Swalwell.<\/p>

\"Eric was aware I owned a software company, and he spoke repeatedly about his ability to make introductions in the Silicon Valley, referencing his political representation and influence there,\" Drewes said. \"[I] recorded these events in my handwritten calendar. The assault and its impact were later documented by my therapy sessions as a sexual assault.\"<\/p>

Swalwell has said he is not guilty of sexual misconduct, with his attorney calling the allegations a \"shameless smear.\" <\/p>

\"Congressman Eric Swalwell categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him. These accusations are false, fabricated, and deeply offensive \u2014 a calculated and transparent political hit job designed to destroy the reputation of a man who has spent twenty years in public service,\" attorney Sara Azari said.<\/p>

\"The timing, nature, and coordinated rollout of these vile and heinous allegations speak for themselves. This is neither about justice, nor the truth. This is a ruthless and shameless attempt to smear Congressman Swalwell,\" she added.<\/p>

NEWLY RELEASED TEXTS SHOW GONZALES PURSUED ANOTHER AFFAIR WITH STAFFER IN 2020<\/a><\/p>

Swalwell is under criminal and congressional investigation amid the claims.<\/p>

Drewes appears to be the fifth woman to claim publicly that the congressman raped her or committed sexual misconduct. CNN has reported that four women have publicly come forward<\/a> with sexual misconduct claims. A former unnamed staffer was the first to allege <\/a>on Friday that Swalwell raped her twice. Influencer Cheyenne Hunt, who has helped bring the allegations forward, told CBS<\/a> that more than 30 women have reached out to her with some form of misconduct accusations against Swalwell.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26104551404994.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528351-1776172635", "title":"TPUSA’s Savanah Hernandez says she’s ‘scared to report’ after assault during protest", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fentertainment%2F4528351%2Ftpusa-savanah-hernandez-scared-to-report-assault-protest%2F", "byline":"Asher Notheis", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Turning Point USA contributor Savanah Hernandez said she is “terrified to do my job” in the wake of increased confrontations she has received in recent months. Hernandez, a reporter for TPUSA’s Frontlines, was allegedly shoved to the ground by a man when she was covering a protest in Minnesota on Saturday. A federal criminal investigation […]", "description":""

Turning Point USA<\/a> contributor Savanah Hernandez said she is \u201cterrified to do my job\u201d in the wake of increased confrontations she has received in recent months.<\/p>

Hernandez, a reporter for TPUSA\u2019s Frontlines, was allegedly shoved to the ground by a man when she was covering a protest in Minnesota on Saturday. A federal criminal investigation is ongoing into<\/a> her accused assailant, Chris Ostroushko, by the FBI.<\/p>

Hernandez said Saturday\u2019s encounter marked the third time since Charlie Kirk\u2019s<\/a> assassination that protesters have confronted and threatened her after discovering she works for TPUSA.<\/p>

\u201cI wasn\u2019t interviewing anybody, I wasn\u2019t engaging with anybody, I was, and I apologize \u2026 this is the first time I\u2019m talking about this assault, and I\u2019m scared to report, Laura,\u201d Hernandez said on Fox News\u2019s The Ingraham Angle. \u201cThis is my job. It\u2019s what I have been doing for the last six years, and I\u2019m terrified to do my job. I can\u2019t even interview people properly on the street because I got brutally assaulted and pushed to the ground by a 250-pound man for simply going and reporting on anti-ICE activities.\u201d<\/p>

Hernandez also said she made a point not to interview that type of person because \u201cthe left wing is violent.\u201d She claimed that left-wingers had killed Kirk last year and that \u201cthey\u2019re coming for each and every single Turning Point USA employee\u201d because they know local jurisdictions will not charge them.<\/p>

JAMES UTHMEIER GOES AFTER BARRY UNIVERSITY OVER DENYING TPUSA CHAPTER<\/a><\/p>

Hernandez said she told the local sheriff\u2019s office that she wants her assailants to be charged, and the Departments of Justice<\/a> and Homeland Security<\/a> have opened their own investigations.<\/p>

White House order czar Tom Homan<\/a> said his \u201cheart goes out\u201d to Hernandez and blamed mayors and members of Congress who \u201cvilify Republicans\u201d for violence against journalists and law enforcement officers. He added, \u201cWe cannot give up on this,\u201d and pushed for more prosecutions against violent protesters.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP25281751017645_51af44-e1776181012299.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528462-1776172288", "title":"Ukraine’s all-robot land attack captures Russian position in historic first", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2F4528462%2Fukraine-all-robot-land-attack-capture-russian-position%2F", "byline":"Emily Hallas", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Ukraine used an all-robot force to capture a Russian enemy position, marking the first time in the war such an operation has been successfully executed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday.  Russian troops surrendered their position after Ukraine used only aerial drones and ground robots, Zelensky said during a speech to weapons manufacturers on […]", "description":""

Ukraine<\/a> used an all-robot force to capture a Russian<\/a> enemy position, marking the first time in the war such an operation has been successfully executed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky <\/a>announced on Monday.\u00a0<\/p>

Russian troops surrendered their position after Ukraine used only aerial drones and ground robots, Zelensky said during a speech<\/a> to weapons manufacturers on Ukraine's Arms Makers' Day. The development is crucial in a five-year war that some analysts believe<\/a> could cost 2 million soldiers on both sides of the conflict their lives by the spring\u2019s end.\u00a0<\/p>

\"The future is already on the front line \u2014 and Ukraine is building it. These are our ground robotic systems,\" Zelensky said<\/a>, after Kyiv carried out the mission without putting any infantry at risk.\u00a0\"For the first time in the history of this war, an enemy position was taken exclusively by unmanned platforms \u2014 ground systems and drones.\u201d<\/p>

Ukrainian ground robotic systems have carried out over 22,000 missions since the start of 2026, according to Zelensky, marking a massive increase from just 2,000 missions that Ukrainian commander Oleksandr Syrskyi last December said Kyiv had carried out in the previous six months.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cIn other words, lives were saved more than 22,000 times when a robot went into the most dangerous areas instead of a warrior,\u201d Zelensky said Monday. \"This is about high technology protecting the highest value \u2014 human life.\u201d <\/p>

Oleksandr Kamyshin, one of Zelensky's advisers, said in March that up to 30% of infantry forces could be replaced by unmanned ground vehicles \u201cnow.\u201d That number could rise to 80% \u201cover time,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>

GRAND CONSPIRACY INVESTIGATION INTO OBAMA-ERA OFFICIALS GAINS STEAM IN SOUTH FLORIDA<\/a><\/p>

\"You can argue the numbers or the timeline, but the shift is undeniable,\" Kamyshin said in a post <\/a>to X. \"UGVs are a game changer.\"<\/p>

President Donald Trump<\/a> has sought since the start of his second term in office to end the Ukraine war. Those efforts have thus far been unsuccessful, though top U.S. peace negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner could be heading <\/a>to Ukraine later this month to resume talks. <\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26104392160765.jpg?w=696" }, {"Articles":[ {"id":"4528460-1776171306", "title":"Mike Johnson pushes clean spy law extension as privacy concerns divide Congress", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528460%2Fmike-johnson-spy-law-extension-privacy-congress%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) said he will not allow amendments to a surveillance bill, arguing that any changes could derail its renewal ahead of a looming deadline.  Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows intelligence agencies to collect communications of foreign targets abroad, is set to expire on April […]", "description":""

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson<\/a> (R-LA) said he will not allow amendments to a surveillance<\/a> bill, arguing that any changes could derail its renewal ahead of a looming deadline.\u00a0<\/p>

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows intelligence agencies to collect communications of foreign targets abroad, is set to expire on April 20, resulting in a congressional scramble to pass the controversial measure. <\/p>

\u201cIt's going to be a clean extension,\u201d Johnson said on Tuesday. \u201cIf we put amendments on it, it jeopardizes its passage, and it's far too important.\"<\/p>

Johnson is aiming to move an 18-month extension through the House Rules Committee on Tuesday afternoon, with a floor vote later this week. <\/p>

The push comes with strong backing from President Donald Trump<\/a>, who has pressed lawmakers for months to renew the program. <\/p>

In a Monday letter to the committees on intelligence, armed services, defense appropriations, and the judiciary in both chambers, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine<\/a> warned that failing to extend the authority would jeopardize U.S. security.\u00a0<\/p>

\u201cThe loss or reduction of FISA section 702 authorities would increase risk to the Joint Force, degrade our worldwide combat lethality, and significantly impair U.S. security<\/a>,\u201d Cain wrote in a letter obtained by Politico.\u00a0<\/p>

Still, the proposal faces resistance from lawmakers in both parties who argue the law lacks sufficient safeguards for Americans' privacy. <\/p>

Rep. Andy Biggs <\/a>(R-AZ)  introduced an amendment Monday to shorten the extension to one year, after previously pushing an amendment<\/a> that would require warrants for searching Americans\u2019 communications. <\/p>

GOVERNMENT SPY POWERS WILL EXPIRE IF CONGRESS DOESN\u2019T ACT. WHAT TO KNOW<\/a><\/p>

Rep. Warren Davidson<\/a> (R-OH) said the law was \u201cstretched far beyond its original purpose,\u201d citing concerts over warrantless searches<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>

On the Democrats\u2019 side, Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) warned that Congress \u201cshould not reauthorize broad domestic surveillance authorities without putting meaningful safeguards in place.\u201d She called for reforms that would balance national security tools while preventing abuse.<\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26086688985924_718ebd.jpg?w=696" }, {"id":"3132228-1724374758", "title":"Delegates express disappointment at Beyonce no-show but say Harris ‘made up for it’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F3132228%2Fdnc-delegates-disappointment-beyonce-no-show%2F", "byline":"Hailey Bullis, Mabinty Quarshie and Samantha-Jo Roth", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"CHICAGO — Hopes that Beyonce would make a surprise appearance on the closing night of the Democratic National Convention were dashed after the night ended with no sign of the “Freedom” singer. The evening was packed with celebrities, with musicians such as Pink and the Chicks taking the stage on the grand finale of the […]", "description":""

CHICAGO\u2014HopesthatBeyonce<\\\/a>wouldmakeasurpriseappearanceontheclosingnightoftheDemocraticNationalConvention<\\\/a>weredashedafterthenightendedwithnosignofthe\u201cFreedom\u201dsinger<\\\/p>

Theeveningwaspackedwithcelebrities<\\\/a>,withmusicianssuchasPinkandtheChickstakingthestageonthegrandfinaleoftheDNCTheeventdrewsomanyattendeesthattheconventionfloorwascompletelyclosedoffhoursbeforeVicePresidentKamalaHarristookthestagetodelivertheDNC\u2019sclosingspeechTheA-listerdelegatesandattendeesweremostexcitedtosee,however,wasBeyonceSpeculationmountedthroughouttheweek,andhitafeverpitchThursday,thatBeyoncewouldperformonthefinalnightoftheDNCMarylanddelegateRoxanneBrown,45,saidshewasletdownthatBeyoncedidnotendupappearingHowever,BrownsaidthattheletdownwasOK,though,because\u201cKamalamadeupforit\u201d\u201cIwasdisappointedbecauseIwaslookingforwardtoseeingBeyonce,butIwasmostlookingforwardtowatchinghistory,whichisanominationofourfirstblackfemalepresident,\u201dBrownsaid<\\\/p>

AnotherMarylanddelegate,LilyQi,60,saidshewouldhavelovedtoseethepopsensation,butsheechoedBrown\u2019ssentimentthatsupportingHarriswasthemostimportantpartofthenight\u201cIwouldhavelovedtoseeherandherenergy,andshe'sanicon,aculturalicon,asIunderstand,\u201dQisaid\u201cButyouknow,thisisnotwhyI'mhere,ofcourse,right?IamheretomakesurethatKamalaHarrisiselected\u201d<\\\/p>

EricaHarrison,astay-at-homemotherfromNorthCarolina,capturedtheanticipation\\\"IwasgettingexcitedItoldmyhusband,IthoughtthatBeyoncewouldcomeoutandperformandsing'Freedom,'butIwaswrong\\\"<\\\/p>

\\\"TheentirethingwasasurrealmomentI'mstillonahigh,\\\"shesaid\\\"SoeventhoughBeyoncedidn'tcome,shewouldhavejustbeenalittlecherryontopButeverythingelsewasamazing\\\"RumorshadbeenswirlingthattheDNCwouldfeatureaspecialguestfordays,withmusicianTaylorSwiftalsobeingfloatedasapossibilityButBeyoncewasthechieffigurespeculatedtomakeanappearanceExcitementoverthepossibilityofBeyonce'sDNCappearancehitafeverpitchThursdayafterWhiteHousepoliticaldirectorEmilyRuizpostedabeeemoji,whichislinkedtoBeyonceasherfanbaseisreferredtoasthe\u201cBeyHive\u201dRuizlaterpostedanapology,saying,\u201cSorryguysmy6-year-oldtookmyphone\u201d<\\\/p>

DemocraticPartyChairmanJaimeHarrisonalsododgedconfirmingordenying<\\\/a>whetherBeyoncewouldappearduringanappearanceonCBSMorningsConflictingreportsaboutwhetherornottheiconicsingerwouldappearwerepublishedbymultipleoutletsTMZpublishedareportearlieronThursdaysayingthatmultiplesourcestoldtheoutletshewouldbethesurpriseperformerspeculatedHowever,asthefinalnight\u2019sprogrammingwasunderway,arepresentativeforBeyoncetoldtheHollywoodReporterthatshewas\u201cneverscheduledtobethere\u201dandthat\u201cthereportofaperformanceisuntrue\u201dAWashingtonExaminerreporteroverheardattendeesexitingtheUnitedCenterexpressingdisappointmentthesingerdidn\u2019tshow,withoneexclaiming,\u201cButwedidn\u2019tgetBeyonce!\u201dNevertheless,MainedelegateEricBestsaidwhilehewantedto\u201cbeabletobragtomykidsthatIwastherewhenBeyonceshowedup,\u201dhedidnotfeellikehis\u201clifewasdiminishedbythefactthatshedidn't\u201d<\\\/p>

CLICKHERETOREADMOREFROMTHEWASHINGTONEXAMINER<\\\/a><\\\/p>

NewYorkdelegateAliciaHyndman,52,saidshethoughtitwasforthebestthatBeyoncedidn\u2019tshow<\\\/p>

\u201cIfeltifBeyoncecame,itwouldhavebeentoocelebrity,\u201dHyndmansaid\u201cIthinkwouldhavebeenplayingintotheopposition'splaybooklikebigHollywood\u201d<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/beyonce_noshow_dnc.webp?w=696" } {"id":"3085609-1721196000", "title":"Sen. Whitehouse’s attacks on fossil energy producers are incoherent", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3085609%2Fsen-whitehouse-attacks-fossil-energy-producers-incoherent%2F", "byline":"Benjamin Zycher", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"It might seem difficult to take positions on a prominent issue diametrically opposed and equally preposterous. But Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a man whose Pavlovian opposition to the U.S. fossil energy producers has led him into incoherence rare even by Beltway standards, has achieved just such a magical trick. Whitehouse, the chairman of the Senate […]", "description":""

ItmightseemdifficulttotakepositionsonaprominentissuediametricallyopposedandequallypreposterousButSenSheldonWhitehouse(D-RI),amanwhosePavlovianoppositiontotheUSfossilenergyproducershasledhimintoincoherencerareevenbyBeltwaystandards,hasachievedjustsuchamagicaltrick<\\\/p>

Whitehouse,thechairmanoftheSenateBudgetCommittee,foryearshasaccused<\\\/a>themajorUSfossilenergyproducersofcreatingthepurportedclimate\u201ccrisis\u201dandhidingtheirknowledge<\\\/a>ofanddeceivingthepublic<\\\/a>abouttheimpactsofgreenhousegasemissionsTranslation:Fordecades,theUSfossilenergysectorhasproducedtoomuchenergyandthustoomanygreenhousegasemissions\u00a0<\\\/p>

Alas,thatstanceissoyesterdayWhitehouse\u2019snewargument<\\\/a>isthat\u201coilandgascompaniescouldbeengagingincollusive,anti-competitiveactivitieswithOPEC+thatwouldraisecrudeoilprices\u201dSonowtheUSfossilenergyproducersincahootswithOPEC+mightbeproducingtoolittle\u00a0<\\\/p>

WithrespecttoWhitehouse\u2019scollusionargument:PerhapsWhitehouseshouldcallPresidentJoeBidenasawitnessforaBudgetCommitteehearing,asitwasBidenwhoinOctober2022asked<\\\/a>theSaudistodelayascheduledproductioncutuntilafterthemidtermelections\u00a0<\\\/p>

Moregenerally,itistheBidenadministrationthathastakenhundredsofactions<\\\/a>makingUSfossilenergyproductionmoredifficultandcostlyItistheBidenadministrationthathastriedtohidetheattendantadversepriceeffectsbyusing<\\\/a>theStrategicPetroleumReserve<\\\/a>andothergovernmentstockpiles<\\\/a>tomanipulateshort-runsuppliesinawhollyadhocfashion\u2014thatis,forpurelypoliticalpurposes\u00a0<\\\/p>

IfUSproducersare\u201ccolluding\u201dwithOPEC+torestrictoutput,theyaredoingaratherbadjobofitSinceMarch2021,whenrealUSgrossdomesticproductgrowthwasabout5%,UScrudeoiloutput<\\\/a>hasincreasedby13%USnaturalgasproduction<\\\/a>hasincreasedbymorethan5%USrefinerycapacityutilization<\\\/a>hasincreasedfrom819%to897%,refineryuse<\\\/a>ofcrudeoilandotherinputshasincreasedby107%,andrefineryoutput<\\\/a>ofproductshasincreasedby8%OPEC+output<\\\/a>isaboutthesameasinearly2021,whilenon-USoutput<\\\/a>intherestoftheworldhasincreasedbyalmost4%<\\\/p>

WithrespecttoWhitehouse\u2019sclimate\u201cresponsibility\u201dand\u201cdeception\u201dassertions:USgreenhousegasemissionsfromallcombustionoffossilfuels<\\\/a>areabout74%oftotalUSgreenhousegasemissions<\\\/a>EliminationofallUSfossilfuelcombustionemissionswouldreduceglobaltemperaturesin2100by0077degreesCelcius,applyingtheEnvironmentalProtectionAgencyclimatemodel<\\\/a>underrealisticassumptionsThateffectwouldnotbedetectable<\\\/p>

Accordingly,someoneshouldaskWhitehousetoexplaintheprecisesenseinwhichUSfossilenergyproducersare\u201cresponsible\u201dfortheassertedclimatecrisis(forwhich,bytheway,thereisnoevidence<\\\/a>)ThatistherelevantquestioninparticulargiventhatreducedoutputbyUSproducerswouldbeoffsetlargelyorwhollywithincreasedproductionbyforeignproducers\u00a0<\\\/p>

Whitehousecontinues<\\\/a>,\u201cFordecades,thefossilfuelindustryhasknownabouttheeconomicandclimateharmsofitsproducts\u201dTheIntergovernmentalPanelonClimateChangeinits1990FirstAssessmentReportmadeitclearthatitcouldnotexplainwhytemperatureswerehigher5,000-6,000yearsagodespitenoevidenceofanincreaseingreenhousegasconcentrationsFastforwardtotheSixthAssessmentReport<\\\/a>:IPCCstillcannotnarrowdownthe\u201clikely\u201drangeofclimateeffectsofincreasedgreenhousegasconcentrationsAndtheIPCCclimatemodels<\\\/a>continuetooverstatetheatmospherictemperaturerecordbyafactorofover23<\\\/a>\u00a0<\\\/p>

Inshort,accordingtoWhitehousethefossilenergyproducersfordecadeshave\u201cknown\u201dthingsthatwerenotknownin1990andarenotknownnowTheyareproducingtoolittleenergyandtoomuchSucharetheSchr\u00f6dinger-likefruitsofastancewhollyideological,impervioustofacts,andoblivioustotherealinvestmentandeconomicharmcausedbytheBeltwayblamegame<\\\/p>

Whitehouse\u2019s\u201cinvestigations\u201dhaveproducednousefulinformationbutgobsofBeltwaypropaganda:\u201cIfitisanelectionyear,thefossilenergyproducersmustbeguiltyofsomething\u201dIsthisthebesthecando?Theevidencesaysyes<\\\/p>

CLICKHERETOREADMOREFROMRESTORINGAMERICA<\\\/a><\\\/p>

BenjaminZycherisaseniorfellowattheAmericanEnterpriseInstitute<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/AP22080625251491.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3081706-1720960622", "title":"DHS pressed for clarity on Secret Service protocols to ‘assess threats’ after Trump rally shooting", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F3081706%2Fdhs-pressed-clarity-secret-service-protocols-trump-rally-shooting%2F", "byline":"Cami Mondeaux", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green (R-TN) is pressing the Department of Homeland Security to provide clarity on how Secret Service members are trained to respond to threats after a shooting broke out at former President Donald Trump’s rally on Saturday. In a letter sent to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Sunday, Green pressed […]", "description":""

HouseHomelandSecurityCommitteeChairmanMarkGreen(R-TN)ispressingtheDepartmentofHomelandSecuritytoprovideclarityonhowSecretServicemembersaretrainedtorespondtothreatsafterashootingbrokeout<\\\/a>atformerPresidentDonaldTrump'srallyonSaturday<\\\/p>

Inaletter<\\\/a>senttoDHSSecretaryAlejandroMayorkasonSunday,GreenpressedthetopBidenadministrationofficialtoprovideinformationoranydocumentationrelatedtosecuritydetailatTrump'srally<\\\/a>inButler,PennsylvaniaGreenpraisedthe\\\"swiftresponse\\\"oftheSecretServicemembersbutarguedtheDHSmustbeinvestigatedforsomereportsthatsuggestthedepartmentrebuffed\\\"multiplerequests\\\"fromTrump'ssecurityteamto\\\"increaseprotectiveservices\\\"aheadoftheevent<\\\/p>

\u201cTheseriousnessofthissecurityfailureandchillingmomentinournation\u2019shistorycannotbeunderstated,\\\"Greenwrote\\\"AstheUSSecretService(USSS)investigates,theCommitteeonHomelandSecurity(Committee)isdedicatedtoconductingrigorousoversighttoensurethattheAmericanpeoplereceiveanswersandpresidentialcandidatesreceiveproperandadequateprotection\\\"<\\\/p>

Greenoutlinedanumberofquestionshewantstobeansweredbythedepartment,includingaccesstoalldocumentsandcommunicationswithintheDHSandSecretServicerelatedto\\\"anypotentialincreaseoradditionofprotectiveresourcestoPresidentTrump\u2019ssecuritydetail\\\"frommid-Novembertothepresentday<\\\/p>

TheletteralsorequestsinformationonSecretService<\\\/a>rulesofengagementprotocols\u201ctoassessandneutralizethreats\u201dafterconcernswereraisedabouthowtheshooter\\\"wasabletoaccessarooftopwithinrangeanddirectlineofsightofwherePresidentTrumpwasspeaking\\\"<\\\/p>

Green'srequestscomeaslawmakersfrombothpartieshaverespondedswiftlytotheshootingandhavebeguntoreconsidersecurityprotocolsinCongressHouseRepublicansarescheduledtohaveabriefingwiththesergeant-at-armsonSundayafternoon,onelawmakertoldtheWashingtonExaminer<\\\/p>

RepsRitchieTorres(D-NY)andMikeLawler(R-NY)alsoannouncedtheywouldbeintroducingabillthatwouldprovideenhancedSecretServiceprotectiontoTrumpaswellasPresidentJoeBidenandRobertFKennedyJr<\\\/a>whileonthecampaigntrail<\\\/p>

\\\"Asreportscontinuetoemerge,it\u2019sclearthatmoreprotectionisneededforallmajorcandidatesforpresident,\\\"thetwosaidinajointstatement\\\"That\u2019swhywe\u2019replanningonintroducingbipartisanlegislationprovidingPresidentJoeBiden,formerPresidentDonaldTrump,andpresidentialcandidateRobertKennedyJrwithenhancedSecretServiceprotectionAnythinglesswouldbeadisservicetoourdemocracy\u201d<\\\/p>

TheFBIidentifiedtheshooterasThomasMatthewCrooks,20,ofBethel,Pennsylvania,onSundaymorningCrooksdiedshortlyaftertheshootingafterbeing\\\"neutralized\\\"bytheSecretService,agencyspokesmanAnthonyGuglielmisaidinastatementAtleastonerallyattendeewasalsokilled<\\\/p>

Trumpwastakentoanearbyhospital<\\\/a>tobetreatedafterconfirminghewaspiercedintheupperpartofhisrightear<\\\/p>

CLICKHERETOREADMOREFROMTHEWASHINGTONEXAMINER<\\\/a><\\\/p>

\u201cIknewimmediatelythatsomethingwaswronginthatIheardawhizzingsound,shots,andimmediatelyfeltthebulletrippingthroughtheskinMuchbleedingtookplace,\u201dhewroteinaTruthSocialPost<\\\/p>

Theformerpresident<\\\/a>isinstableconditionTrumplaterflewtoNewJerseyafterbeingreleasedfromthehospitalHeisexpectedtotraveltoMilwaukeefortheRepublicanNationalConventionthatbeginsonMonday<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/secret-service-44.webp?w=696" } {"id":"3077696-1720701634", "title":"Johnson quiets initial concerns about fundraising prowess by raising $23.5 million in second quarter", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F3077696%2Fjohnson-quiets-initial-concerns-about-fundraising-prowess-by-raising-23-5-million-in-second-quarter%2F", "byline":"Cami Mondeaux", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) raised $23.5 million in the second quarter of 2024, outperforming expectations and continuing to quiet initial concerns about his fundraising prowess when he took the gavel last October. More than $17 million of that haul went toward Johnson’s committees with the remaining $6.5 million going toward individual members and GOP […]", "description":""

HouseSpeakerMikeJohnson<\\\/a>(R-LA)raised$235millioninthesecondquarterof2024,outperformingexpectationsandcontinuingtoquietinitialconcernsabouthisfundraising<\\\/a>prowesswhenhetookthegavellastOctober<\\\/p>

Morethan$17millionofthathaulwenttowardJohnson'scommitteeswiththeremaining$65milliongoingtowardindividualmembersandGOPcandidatesAdditionally,Johnsonhasnowtransferredmorethan$16milliontotheNationalRepublicanCongressionalCommittee<\\\/a>thiscycleaspartofeffortstogrowtheparty'sslimHousemajoritynextyear<\\\/p>

\u201cWithcommonsensesolutions,strongcandidates,andmomentumgrowingeveryday,anotherextraordinaryquartershowsRepublicansareexpandingourbaseandenergizedtowinupanddowntheballotinNovember,\u201dJohnsonsaidinastatement\u201cAswegatherinMilwaukeenextweektoofficiallynominatePresidentDonaldTrump,ourPartyhasneverbeenmoreunifiedandequippedwiththeresourcesneededtogrowtheHousemajority,wintheSenate,andwintheWhiteHouse\u201d<\\\/p>

CLICKHERETOREADMOREFROMTHEWASHINGTONEXAMINER<\\\/a><\\\/p>

Johnson'ssecond-quarterhaulbuildsonotherHouseGOPleaders'fundraisingforatotalof$45millionraisedduringthesecondquarter,whencombiningthespeaker'snumberswithHouseMajorityLeaderSteveScalise(R-LA),MinorityWhipTomEmmer(R-MN),andGOPChairwomanEliseStefanik(R-NY)<\\\/p>

Johnson'sfundraisingstillfallsslightlybehindhispredecessor,formerSpeakerKevinMcCarthy<\\\/a>(R-CA),butthehighnumbersofferhopetoRepublicansthatthespeakerisabletoraiselargesumsforthepartydespiteonlyholdingthegavelforninemonths<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/AP24178017398020-scaled.webp?w=696" } {"id":"3074143-1720513167", "title":"State program spends $1 million to get 37 ‘disadvantaged’ people drivers licenses", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F3074143%2Fstate-program-spends-1-million-to-get-37-disadvantaged-people-drivers-licenses%2F", "byline":"TJ Martinell | The Center Square", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"(The Center Square) – A program set up in King County through the state Department of Licensing and funded by the state Legislature has spent nearly $1 million teaching “disadvantaged” women to drive, with just 37 women actually obtaining their license in a five-month period. King County contracts with Mujer al Volante, a nonprofit organization in […]", "description":""

(TheCenterSquare)\u00a0\u2013AprogramsetupinKingCountythroughthestateDepartmentofLicensingandfundedbythestateLegislaturehasspentnearly$1millionteaching\u201cdisadvantaged\u201dwomentodrive,withjust37womenactuallyobtainingtheirlicenseinafive-monthperiod<\\\/p>

KingCountycontractswithMujeralVolante,anonprofitorganizationinSeattlethatofferssupportservicestorefugeeandimmigrantwomenIn2022,theLegislaturegaveDOL$350,000toalsocontractwiththenonprofit,withanadditional$2millionappropriatedearlierthisyearinthestatetransportationbudget<\\\/p>

TheDriversLicenseAssistanceProgram\u201cTakingtheSteeringWheelofMyLife\u201dprovidesqualifyingapplicantsassistancetowardobtainingadriver\u2019slicenseToqualify,apersonmustbeawomanor\u201cnonbinary,\u201danimmigrant,asylee,orrefugee,andbeclassifiedas\\\"low-income\\\"<\\\/p>

SincetheprogramstartedinDecember,therehavebeen522individualswhohavegonethroughtheprogramHowever,just37ofthemhavesuccessfullypassedthewrittenanddrivingexamsInJanuary,therewere101participantsandonlyoneofthemobtainedtheirlicenseInApril,therewere132participants,13ofwhichgottheirlicense<\\\/p>

WhenTheCenterSquarereachedouttoDOLforcomment,CommunicationsManagerChristineAnthonywrotethat\u201cwecontractedwithMujeralVolanteinDecemberof2023,andthisisthefirstreporttotheLegislatureThisisanewprogramweareadministering,andwewillcontinuetoworkwiththeorganizationandmonitortheirprogress\u201d<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/AP24014160536170-1-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3072819-1720443053", "title":"Sorry, progressives, but facts can’t be racist", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3072819%2Fsorry-progressives-but-facts-cant-be-racist%2F", "byline":"Brad Polumbo", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Facts cannot be racist. But that hasn’t stopped many liberal media figures and Democratic politicians from trying to insist otherwise after one conservative writer dared to point out what we all know about Vice President Kamala Harris: She wouldn’t be where she is now without the movement for DEI, also known as diversity, equity, and […]", "description":""

FactscannotberacistButthathasn\u2019tstoppedmanyliberalmedia<\\\/a>figuresandDemocraticpoliticiansfromtryingtoinsistotherwiseafteroneconservativewriterdaredtopointoutwhatweallknowaboutVicePresidentKamalaHarris<\\\/a>:Shewouldn\u2019tbewheresheisnowwithoutthemovementforDEI<\\\/a>,alsoknownasdiversity,equity,andinclusion\u00a0<\\\/p>

Inanarticle<\\\/a>thatwentviral,CharlesGasparinowrotethatifsheissuccessfullyputforwardasPresidentJoeBiden\u2019s<\\\/a>successor,Harriswillbe\u201cthecountry\u2019sfirstDEIpresident\u201dSufficeittosay,thisdidnotgooverwell\u00a0<\\\/p>

GovGavinNewsom(D-CA)tweeted<\\\/a>outtheheadlineandsaid,\u201cThisisstraight-upracist\u201d\u00a0<\\\/p>

Meanwhile,theaccount\u201cRacismWatchDog\u201dsharedthearticleandsaid<\\\/a>,\u201cBarkbarkbark,\u201dinapostthat47millionpeoplehaveseen\u00a0<\\\/p>

Anotherviraltweet<\\\/a>accusedthearticleof\u201cfindingawaytospellthenwordwithonly3characters\u201d<\\\/p>

Yougettheidea:HowdareconservativeslabelKamalaHarrisadiversitypickThat\u2019sobviouslyracistandhateful! <\\\/p>

There\u2019sjustoneproblem,howeverItisafactthatHarriswasselectedtobeBiden\u2019svicepresidentinpartduetoherraceandgenderItisafactthatifshehadbeenawhitemalebutotherwiseremainedaCaliforniasenator,Harrisneverwould\u2019vebeenselectedashisrunningmate\u00a0<\\\/p>

Youdon\u2019thavetotakemywordforitJustaskBidenDuringthe2020presidentialcampaign,Bidenopenlysaid,inexplicitterms<\\\/a>,thathewasonlyconsideringwomentobehisvicepresident,andhestronglyimplied<\\\/a>thathewouldfavorawomanofcolor\u00a0<\\\/p>

That\u2019sright:Weknowforafactthat,butforhergender,Harrisneverwould\u2019vebeenselectedasvicepresident(Andifnotforthat,shecertainlywouldn\u2019tbeattheforefrontoftheconversationforapotentialBidenreplacement)So,tocallheradiversityor\u201cDEI\u201dpickisnotanopinionthatcanbecharacterizedasracist:Itisanobservationofafact\u00a0<\\\/p>

WhenIpointedthisoutonX,manyofthesameliberalsandprogressivesgotupsetwithmeaswell <\\\/p>

ButafactthatupsetspeoplecontinuestobeafactAndnoneoftheircounterargumentschangethefactthatHarris,nomatterhowonefeelsaboutit,oweshercurrentpositioninparttotheDemocrats\u2019blatantidentitypoliticsandopenlydiscriminatorypursuitofdiversity\u00a0<\\\/p>

SomecriticspointedoutthatHarrisisn\u2019tunqualifiedforvicepresident,arguingthatasaformersenatorandstateattorneygeneral,shehassimilarqualificationstopastvicepresidentialpicks,suchasBidenwhenheservedunderPresidentBarackObamaYetthisissomethingofanonsequiturbecausetosaythatHarriswasadiversityselectionisnottosayshe\u2019stotallyunqualifiedforthejob\u00a0<\\\/p>

Forexample,SupremeCourtJusticeKetanjiBrownJacksonisobjectivelya\u201cdiversitypick\u201dbecauseBidenopenlysaidhewasonlyconsideringblackwomenforthejobYetJacksonisalsoeminentlyqualifiedfortheposition\u2014shewassimplyelevatedaboveothersduetoherimmutablecharacteristicsThesetwothingscananddocoexistwithregularity\u00a0<\\\/p>

DEIpicksrarely,ifever,resultinasituationwheresomeonetotallyunqualifiedispickedforajobButsomeoneisadiversityhireif,butforherimmutablecharacteristics,shewouldnothavebeengiventheroleunderastrictlymeritocraticselectionAndthatisalmostcertainlythecaseforHarrisAfterall,accordingtoBidenhimself,shewasselectedthroughaprocessinwhichmorethanhalfofthealternatives,males,wereruledoutduetotheirgenderandwhitefemaleswereseeminglydisfavoredThatleftonlyherandahandfulofotherminoritywomen<\\\/a>whowerehigh-rankingDemocraticofficialsfromwhichBidencouldchoose<\\\/p>

Andbeyondheridentity,Harrisdidn\u2019taddmuchtotheticketShewasn\u2019tfromaswingstateShehadneverwonacompetitiveelectionagainstaRepublicanShewasn\u2019tpopularwiththeDemocraticbase,havingfailedhorrificallyinherownpresidentialbidShewasn\u2019tevenpopularintheprimarywithblackvoters,agroupfromwhomBidenalreadyhadstrongsupportAndshewaspronetocringeworthymomentsandhadthecampaigntrailcharismaofawettowel\u00a0<\\\/p>

Harris\u2019smain\u201cvalueadd\u201dforBiden\u2019sticketwasthatshewasawomanofcolorWeallknewitthen,andweallknowitnow <\\\/p>

AnothercounterargumentisthatvicepresidentsareoftenselectedduetofactorsnotdirectlyrelatedtomeritThatmaybetrue,butitshouldn\u2019tbeAnditdoesn\u2019tmakeracialfavoritismanylessmorallydetestableItalsodoesn\u2019tmakethechargethatHarrisisaDEIpicklesstrueIfanything,itjustofferscontexttobetterunderstandthesignificanceofthistruth\u00a0<\\\/p>

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So,too,somecriticshaveyelled,\u201cButTrump!\u201d,astheyarewonttodo,andtheyhavepointedoutthatPresidentDonaldTrumpdidsomethingsimilarwhenheappointedSupremeCourtJusticeAmyConeyBarrettafterpromisingtoappointawomanYetthiswhataboutismisn\u2019tarefutationoftheactualchargeItjustmeansthatBarrettwasalsoaDEIpick,assomeacknowledgedatthetime(IftheirpointwasjustthatRepublicanscanbehypocrites,they\u2019dhavenoargumentfromme!)<\\\/p>

WesimplycannotletDemocratsandprogressivesmakenoticingfactstheyfindinconvenientoff-limitsbythrowingaroundfalsechargesofracismNomatterhowhardsomeontheLeftinsist,factscanneverberacist,andthemomentwecavetothatridiculousframing,welosetheabilitytodiscussthetruthandcedethepoliticalconversationtowhoeveriswillingtocry\u201cvictim\u201dtheloudest <\\\/p>

BradPolumbo(@Brad_Polumbo<\\\/a>)isanindependentjournalist,YouTuber<\\\/a>,andaco-founderofBASEDPolitics<\\\/a><\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AP24188824437913-scaled.webp?w=696" } {"id":"3071849-1720418400", "title":"Increasing economic growth should be top priority", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3071849%2Fincreasing-economic-growth-should-be-top-priority%2F", "byline":"Bruce Thompson", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"For the past three and a half years, the U.S. economy has struggled under the economic policies of the Biden administration and congressional Democrats.  Increased taxes, spending, deficits, and debt have produced higher prices, lower wages, soaring interest rates, and slower economic growth. For typical American families, the Biden administration’s policies have resulted in lower […]", "description":""

Forthepastthreeandahalfyears,theUSeconomy<\\\/a>hasstruggledundertheeconomic<\\\/a>policiesoftheBidenadministration<\\\/a>andcongressionalDemocrats\u00a0<\\\/p>

Increasedtaxes,spending,deficits,anddebthaveproducedhigherprices,lowerwages,soaringinterestrates,andslowereconomicgrowthFortypicalAmericanfamilies,theBidenadministration'spolicieshaveresultedinlowerstandardsoflivinganddashedhopesofabetterfuture <\\\/p>

Whiletheinflation<\\\/a>ratehaseasedfromits91%peak,thehighestlevelin40years,pricesarestillup20%sinceBidentookoffice,faroutpacingtheincreaseinwages<\\\/p>

MillionsofAmericansarefinanciallystressed,unabletobuyahome,payofftheirdebt,orsaveforthefuture<\\\/a>Householddebt<\\\/a>isatanall-timehigh,up$3trillion,or21%,sincethefirstquarterof2021\u00a0<\\\/p>

Alongwiththesehighprices,theUSeconomyisstuckinaslowgrowthrutThelatestnumbers<\\\/a>showtheeconomyisslowingunderhighinterestratesandpersistentinflation,withpersonalspendingandcapitalgoodsordersweakening\u00a0<\\\/p>

Realgrossdomesticproduct(GDP)grewatonly14%<\\\/a>\u00a0lastquarter,theslowestgrowthinnearlytwoyearsInthelastninequarters,economicgrowthhasaveragedonlyhalfourhistoricgrowthrate\u00a0<\\\/p>

TheUSneedstoadoptpro-growthpoliciestoencouragefastereconomicgrowthButifBidenandcongressionalDemocratsaregivenanotherchanceinNovember,wefaceevenhighertaxes,morespending,andslowergrowthTheyarealreadyplanningtoleveragethe2025<\\\/a>debateoverextendingthe2017taxcutstoforcethelargesttaxincreaseinourhistory\u00a0<\\\/p>

TheyaredraftingplanstoraisetaxesonindividualtaxpayersandAmericanbusinesses,actions,whichcouldtiptheeconomyintoarecessionandresultinlargerdeficitsanddebt<\\\/a><\\\/p>

TheBidenadministration\u2019smostharmfulproposalwouldraisetheUScorporatetaxratetooneofthehighestintheworldThiswouldbeamajoreconomicmistakeIncreasingthecorporaterateisthemosteconomicallydamagingtaxincrease,andraisingthistax<\\\/a>inaweakeconomywouldcauseittolosemorerevenuethanitgained,likelytriggeringaneventualeconomiccollapse<\\\/p>

Numerousstudieshaveshownthatraisingthecorporateratewouldhaveaharmfuleffectonworkingfamilies,loweringtheirwagesandincomes,increasingthepricestheypay,andreducingtheirretirement<\\\/a>\u00a0savingsAFederalReservestudy<\\\/a>foundthatahighercorporatetaxratewouldbe\u201cuniformlyharmful\u201dtoworkingpeople,leadingto\u201csignificantreductions\u201cintheirjobsandincomes<\\\/p>

IncreasingthecorporatetaxratewouldalsoputUScompaniesatasignificantcompetitivedisadvantageagainstourglobalcompetitorsUndertheBidenadministration,theUSrate<\\\/a>wouldbehigherthaneveryothercountrywecompeteagainst,reducinginvestmentinAmericaandshiftingprofitsandjobsoverseas\u00a0<\\\/p>

Americansfacedsimilarfinancialchallengesofhighprices,stagnantgrowth,andsoaringtaxesandspending44yearsagoTheRepublicanPartyplatformin1980statedthatnothingwasmoreimportantthaneconomicgrowth,andendorsedtheReaganeconomicrecoveryprogram<\\\/a>oflowertaxratesandspendingcuts\u00a0<\\\/p>

Oncepassed,theReagantaxcuts<\\\/a>andspendingreformskickedoffaneconomicboom,withrealGDPgrowthreaching\u00a07%in1983and8%in1984,andaveragingnearly5%ayearthrough1988Inflationdroppedfrom11%to4%andnearly20millionjobswerecreatedinthelargestpeacetimeexpansioninUShistory\u00a0<\\\/p>

TheReagantaxcutsweremodeledaftertheKennedytaxcutsinthe1960s,whichalsosetoffaneconomicgrowthboom,withrealgrowthaveragingmorethan5%ayearTheReagan-Kennedytaxcutsledtoextendedperiodsofunprecedentedeconomicgrowth<\\\/a>andahigherstandardoflivingforallAmericans\u00a0<\\\/p>

Underourcurrentpathofhightaxesandspending,theeconomicoutlookisdimTheCongressionalBudgetOffice(CBO)isforecasting<\\\/a>10yearsofdismalandweakgrowthaveraging18%ayear,\u00a0muchlowerthanthe35%averageannualgrowththeUSexperiencedfrom1960to2000Ifthathappens,wewillhaveadecadeoflowerincomes,fewerjobs,andcountlesslostopportunities<\\\/a>\u00a0<\\\/p>

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ButitdoesnothavetobethiswayAswehaveseen,aneconomicpolicyoflowtaxratesandfiscalrestraintcanincreaseinvestment,productivity,andoutput,leadingtohigherincomesandfastergrowthPro-growthtaxpoliciesthatincreasetheincentivetowork,save,andinvest,alongwithspendingrestraint,wouldimproveeconomicgrowth,gettingusoutofourslowgrowthrutandreturningtheeconomytoitshistoricgrowthrate<\\\/a> <\\\/p>

Highereconomicgrowthwouldgeneratetrillionsofdollarsofeconomicactivity,leadingtohigherwagesandincomes,betterjobsandopportunities,andmoreprosperityforallAmericansWecannotsettleforanother10yearsofsubpargrowthIncreasingeconomicgrowthshouldbeourtoppriority <\\\/p>

BruceThompsonwasaUSSenateaide,assistantsecretaryofTreasuryforlegislativeaffairs,andthedirectorofgovernmentrelationsforMerrillLynchfor22years<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/AP23315572079441.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3069418-1720072800", "title":"Is the American dream dead? My family’s story proves otherwise", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3069418%2Fis-the-american-dream-dead-my-familys-story-proves-otherwise%2F", "byline":"Hera Varmah", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The American dream has been woven into countless narratives throughout my life, shaped by the inspiring stories shared by my family members and friends who came to the United States in search of a better life. This Independence Day, it might be tempting to think this dream is now elusive as division and discouragement spread across […]", "description":""

TheAmericandreamhasbeenwovenintocountlessnarrativesthroughoutmylife,shapedbytheinspiringstoriessharedbymyfamilymembersandfriendswhocametotheUnitedStatesinsearchofabetterlifeThisIndependenceDay<\\\/a>,itmightbetemptingtothinkthisdreamisnowelusive asdivision<\\\/a>anddiscouragement<\\\/a>spreadacrossourcountry<\\\/p>

Butmylifeprovesitcanstillbeareality\u2014ifwestrivetomakeitone <\\\/p>

Thoseofusfromimmigrantcommunitiesarefamiliarwiththepromiseofopportunity,enshrinedbytheFoundingFathersintheDeclarationofIndependenceandencapsulatedintheidealsoflife,liberty,andthepursuitofhappinessFamilieslikeminehaveworkedurgentlytorealizethispromise<\\\/p>

Growingup,myfamilyof12childrenborntoimmigrantparentsfacedmanyobstaclesWecouldhavetakenthewrongpath,butwewerefortunatetoliveinastatethatgaveusaccesstoatop-tiereducationatCatholicprivateschools,magnetschools,andtraditionalpublicschools,inwhicheachofusfoundwhatweneededtochaseourdreams <\\\/p>

Asayounggirl,Ididn\u2019tbelieveIwasintelligentorthatIcouldexcelinschoolEventhoughmyparentshadfaithinme,IwasconvincedIwouldfailIfocusedonsports,thinkingitwastheonlyareainwhichIcouldsucceedIthoughtmysiblingswouldgoontobesuccessfulwhileIremainedstuckinpoverty<\\\/p>

Butthankstoscholarshipopportunitiesinmystate,Imetteacherswhosawmypotentialandsupportedme,helpingmegainconfidenceAndIwasabletobuildfriendshipswithothersfromdifferentbackgroundsandbeliefsystems <\\\/p>

Today,Iamacollegegraduateworkingatanationalpolicyorganization,fightingforchildrenlikemeIwentfromfeelinginadequateasayounggirltotestifyingbeforeCongressatage24\u00a0<\\\/p>

MysiblingsandIareafulfillmentofmygrandparents\u2019dreamsWeallhavedifferentopinions,careers,hopes,anddreams,butweareallachievingourgoalsFourofusarecollegegraduates,twoareengineers,oneisinmedicalschool,sixareuniversitystudents,andtwoarehighschoolstudents <\\\/p>

ThisIndependenceDay,Iwantmyfamily\u2019sstorytobethenorm,notanexception<\\\/p>

Iwantmygenerationtoreignitethespiritofstrivingforgreatnessintheircareers,nurturingtheirfamilies,orpursuingwhateverversionoftheAmericandreamtheymightholdNegativityanddoommaydrivenewscycles,butsuccessstoriesaboundwhenchildrenaregivenopportunityWemustsharethesestories\u2014andmakethempossible<\\\/p>

ConsidermyfriendandcolleagueGissell,afirst-generationAmericanborninDelawarebutraisedinMexicointheearly2000sAt14yearsold,shereturnedwithoutherparentstoMilwaukee,Wisconsin,topursuehereducationThankstoCristoReyJesuitHighSchool,whichshewasabletoattendbecauseofWisconsin\u2019sschoolchoiceprogram,Gissellovercamenumerousobstacles,includingthedifficultdecisiontoforgoafullscholarshiptoGeorgetownUniversitytobringhertwoteenagesistersfromMexicoinsteadandcareforthem <\\\/p>

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ShewentontoearnadoublefullscholarshiptoMarquetteUniversityandbecamethefirstcollegegraduateinherfamilythisMaySheisstillbuildingherAmericandreamasshepursuesacareerinpolicy<\\\/p>

OurstoriesprovetheAmericandreamisaliveandwellifonlywegivechildrenthechancetochaseitThismeansgrantingthemaccesstoqualityeducationandopportunitiesregardlessoftheirbackgroundorZIPcodeThisIndependenceDay,let\u2019srededicateourselvestothatgoal<\\\/p>

HeraVarmahisagraduateofFlorida\u2019staxcreditscholarshipprogramsandanexternalrelationsassociateattheAmericanFederationforChildren<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/iStock-1399726385.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3069580-1720021085", "title":"Three times Biden disregarded the ‘limits of presidential power’", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3069580%2Fthree-times-biden-disregarded-the-limits-of-presidential-power%2F", "byline":"Andrea Ruth", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Fresh off his humiliating performance at the presidential debate, President Joe Biden found the energy to deliver brief remarks to a nationally televised audience over the Supreme Court‘s presidential immunity case.  In a four-minute address that resembled a campaign ad more than a formal statement, Biden, who took no questions, condemned the Supreme Court’s decision. […]", "description":""

Freshoffhishumiliatingperformanceatthepresidentialdebate,PresidentJoeBiden<\\\/a>foundtheenergytodeliverbriefremarkstoanationallytelevisedaudienceovertheSupremeCourt<\\\/a>'spresidentialimmunitycase\u00a0<\\\/p>

Inafour-minuteaddressthatresembledacampaignadmorethanaformalstatement,Biden,whotooknoquestions,condemnedtheSupremeCourt'sdecisionHiscommentsechoedthoseofJusticeSoniaSotomayor<\\\/a>,employingfear-inducinglanguagesuchas\\\"fundamentallychanged\\\"andotherphrasessuggestingasignificantshiftbutalsoallowingforpossibleretreats,suchas\\\"forallpracticalpurposes,\\\"\\\"almostcertainly,\\\"and\\\"virtuallynolimits\\\"<\\\/p>

OnethingBidensaidstoodout<\\\/a>\\\"IknowIwillrespectthelimitsofthepresidentialpower,asIhaveforthreeandahalfyears,\\\"hesaid<\\\/p>

ThisstatementisinstarkcontrasttohisactionsInreality,thepresidenthasconsistentlypushedtheboundariesofhispower,particularlyduringthefirsttwoyearsofhispresidency,whenhefrequentlydisregardedtheseparationofpowers <\\\/p>

Rentmoratorium<\\\/p>

ThefirstinstanceinwhichBidenignoredthelimitsofpresidentialpowerwaswhenheallowedtheCOVID-erarentmoratoriumtoremaininplaceHewonaninitial5-4decisionStill,JusticeBrettKavanaugh<\\\/a>warnedheonlyallowedittocontinuetomaintainanorderlytransitionandthatanyfurtherreliefwouldrequire\\\"clearandspecificcongressionalauthorization(vianewlegislation)\\\"TheBidenadministrationignoredthewarningandtriedtoextendthemoratoriumagainTheSupremeCourtstruckitdown\u00a0<\\\/p>

Vaccinemandate<\\\/p>

Inanotherinstance,theBidenadministrationattemptedtoforceprivatecompaniestomandateemployeevaccinations,arguingithadtheauthoritytouseOccupationalSafetyandHealthAdministrationregulationstoenforceitTheSupremeCourtdisagreed,strikingdownthemandateandrulingtheagencyexceededitsauthorityThecourtwrote,\\\"AlthoughCongress<\\\/a>hasindisputablygivenOSHAthepowertoregulateoccupationaldangers,ithasnotgiventhatagencythepowertoregulatepublichealthmorebroadly\\\"\u00a0<\\\/p>

Studentdebtrelief<\\\/p>

Thoughacademics,scholars,andformerHouseSpeakerNancyPelosisaidBidendidnothavetheauthoritytoimplementstudentdebtreliefunilaterally,thepresidentchosetodoitanywayOnceagain,theSupremeCourttoldhim\\\"no,\\\"remindinghiminyetanotherinstancethathewasnotrespectingthelimitsofpresidentialpowerChiefJusticeJohnRoberts<\\\/a>rejectedtheadministration'sargumentithadauthorityunderthe2003HEROESActtoimplementtheplanRobertswrote,\\\"Thequestionhereisnotwhethersomethingshouldbedone;itiswhohastheauthoritytodoit\\\"\u00a0<\\\/p>

Thecourtinvokedthe\\\"majorquestion\\\"doctrine,whichstatesthatifCongresswantstogiveagenciestheauthoritytomakedecisionsofvasteconomicandpoliticalsignificance,itmustsaysoclearlyRobertssaidtheHEROESActdidn'tauthorizedebtreliefatall <\\\/p>

RatherthangotoCongressandasklawmakerstodraftlegislationfordebtrelief,BidenattemptedabackdoortoimplementstudentdebtforgivenessTheadministrationdevisedanewschemeitfeltwouldinsulateitfromjudicialreviewBidenhadtheaudacitytoboastaboutitHesaid,\\\"TheSupremeCourtblockedme,butitdidnotstopme\\\" <\\\/p>

However,twofederaljudgesinseparatestates,KansasandMissouri,blockedthenewSavingonaValuableEducationplanenactedbytheDepartmentofEducation<\\\/a>Statessued,arguingtheadministrationonceagainoversteppeditsauthorityWhilethe10thCircuitCourtofAppealstemporarilyliftedtheKansasjudge'sbanonthenewrepaymentplan,theinjunctionisstillinplaceinMissouriThejudgesinbothcasessaidtheadministrationcouldnotshowCongressauthorizedthenewplan\u00a0<\\\/p>

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Thejudgesinthetwocases,USDistrictJudgeDanielDCrabtreeinKansasandUSDistrictJudgeJohnARossinMissouri,werebothappointedbyPresidentBarackObama<\\\/a>So,anycomplaintsteamBidenmighthaveaboutthejudges'politicalmotivationsfallflat<\\\/p>

PointingouthowwrongformerPresidentDonaldTrumpiswhenitcomestorestraintsonexecutivepowerisnotavalidwayforBidentoexcusehislackofrestraint,anditisabald-facedlieforhimtosayhe'srespectedthelimitsofpresidentialpowerduringhisterm<\\\/p>

AndreaRuthisacontributortothe WashingtonExaminer magazine<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/AP24184012822003-scaled.webp?w=696" } {"id":"3065773-1719900000", "title":"Fairfax County Public Schools leadership displays disdain for parents — again", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3065773%2Ffairfax-county-public-schools-leadership-displays-disdain-for-parents-again%2F", "byline":"Stephanie Lundquist-Arora", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Last Thursday, as the first presidential debate was making national headlines, Fairfax County School Board members held a meeting during which they voted on controversial changes to family life education curriculum. The takeaway for the few of us able to attend or watch it virtually was that the district’s leadership hates parents — or, at […]", "description":""

LastThursday,asthefirstpresidentialdebate<\\\/a>wasmakingnationalheadlines,FairfaxCountySchoolBoard<\\\/a>membersheldameetingduringwhichtheyvotedoncontroversialchangestofamilylifeeducationcurriculumThetakeawayforthefewofusabletoattendorwatchitvirtuallywasthatthedistrict\u2019sleadershiphatesparents\u2014or,attheveryleast,isseverelyinconveniencedbyus<\\\/p>

DarcyHealy,oneofthespeakersduringpubliccomment,deliveredanimpassionedstatementthatrepresentshowmanyparentsinFairfaxCountyarefeelingShesaid<\\\/a>,\u201cWeareparents,andwewantyoutolistentous,butwefeelthatthat\u2019sjustnothappening\u2026ThesurveythatwasdoneinMayandJune[shows]80%areagainstthisco-edsituationLet\u2019scontinuetodebatethisDon\u2019tdoitoverthesummerAnddon\u2019tdothevoteontheeveningofthepresidentialdebateThisisanimportanttopicShowusthatyouwantittobeimportant\u201d<\\\/p>

HealyisrightInsurveysboththisyear<\\\/a>andlastyear<\\\/a>,parentsandcommunitymembersmadeitclearthattheydidnotsupportco-edsexeducationorgenderideologyinstructionintheirchildren\u2019selementaryclassroomsSeveralcommunitymembersmadethisexactpointduringthelasttwoschoolboardmeetings\u2019publiccommentperiodsonJune13andJune27<\\\/p>

Insteadofbeinginclusiveandacceptingcommunityfeedback,theFairfaxCountySchoolBoardwashostile\u2014mostnotablyamongthem,theboard\u2019svicechairwoman,MelanieMeren<\\\/a><\\\/p>

First,Merenspokeindignantlyaboutthecurriculum\u2019sopt-outoptionShesaid<\\\/a>,\u201cAnd,youknow,whatIwanttoconveyisthatweneedtomakedecisionsofcurriculumforthebenefitof,youknow,asmanychildrenaspossibleAndthisiswhyparentsandfamilieshavetheoptiontooptoutiftheydon\u2019tfeelthecontentisappropriatefortheirchildrenwhenitcomestofamilylifeeducation\u201d<\\\/p>

Butwhyincludeunwanted,politicalnonsensesuchasgenderideologyinapublicschooldistrict\u2019ssexeducationcurriculumandthenplacetheburdenofoptingoutontheparents?Here\u2019swhy:becausedistrictleadershipknowsthatmanyparentsarepreoccupiedwithourmanyotherobligationsandwillforgettocompletetheextraadministrativetaskofoptingoutourchildrenfromcurriculumlessons<\\\/p>

Districtleadersshouldnotbeexperimentingwithourchildren,butsincetheyseemtoinsistondoingso,thiscurriculumshouldrequireparentstooptinratherthanoptout<\\\/p>

Merenthendeliveredanangryrantabouttheillegitimacyofthecommunity\u2019sfeedbackmechanismsShesaid<\\\/a>,\u201cIalsodowanttounderscorethatthecommentsthathavebeenreferredtoasasurvey,um,itactuallywasnotasurveyTherewasacallforpubliccomments\u2026TherewasalsonotamethodologytoensurethatcommentswereuniquecontributorsSo,ofthe2,500comments,it\u2019sunknownhowmanywerecontributedmorethanonce\u201d<\\\/p>

Thetakeawayisthatifthedistrict\u2019sleadersdon\u2019tlikecommunityfeedback,theyblamethecommentforumLastyear,forexample,KarlFrisch<\\\/a>,theschoolboardchairman,similarlydismissed<\\\/a>thesurveyasfeedbackfrom\u201cRedditwarriors\u201d<\\\/p>

Incontrast,IlryongMoon,aschoolboardmemberwhodoesnotappeartobecompletelydisgustedandinconveniencedbythedistrict\u2019sparents,seemedtorealizetheabsurdityofhiscolleagues\u2019commentsrightawayTheat-largememberresponded<\\\/a>thatiftherewasaproblemwiththefeedbackmechanismforcommunityinput,itwastheboard\u2019sresponsibilitytofixtheprocessMoonfurthersaidhevaluedcommunityinputandthankedthe2,539surveyrespondentsfortheirtime<\\\/p>

Unfortunately,inspiteofthenegativefeedbackontheproposal,schoolboardmembers,includingMoon,votedtoincludegenderideologyinstructionintheseventhgradefamilylifeeducationcurriculumAndtheydidnotvoteagainstgenderideologyindoctrinationforelementaryschoolchildrenTheyinsteadpostponedthatdecision\u2014perhapsinthehopesthattheycanpassitwhenfewerparentsarepayingattention<\\\/p>

Orevenworse,theywillincludesuchmeasuressurreptitiouslyandwithoutavoteActingonher\u201cmajoritydoesn\u2019talwaysdictate\u201dphilosophy,FairfaxCountyPublicSchoolsSuperintendentMichelleReidhasalreadyusedaback-door,anti-democratic,administrativemethodtointroduceco-edinstructionforsexeducationinthedistrict\u2019snewpilotprogram<\\\/a>in14elementaryschoolsthatshelikelyintendstoexpand\u00a0<\\\/p>

Andso,toHealyIsay,Ifeelyourpain,andwewillcontinuetodebatethisButsadly,itseemsthatReid,Frisch,Meren,andtheirtyrannicalleftistactivistminorityhavealreadydecidedwhatisbestforourchildrenTheyseemtobelievethatwe,theparents,areroadblocksobstructingtheirpath,tobecircumventedorrunover<\\\/p>

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StephanieLundquist-AroraisacontributorfortheWashingtonExaminer,amotherinFairfaxCounty,Virginia,anauthor,andtheFairfaxchapterleaderoftheIndependentWomen\u2019sNetwork<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/iStock-473628448-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3060911-1719468000", "title":"How Ben Sasse could transform education", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3060911%2Fhow-ben-sasse-could-transform-education%2F", "byline":"Max Eden", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"In late 2022, former Republican Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse was appointed president of the University of Florida. The media mostly ran with artificially inflated stories of student protests. But Sasse’s supporters were optimistic that he could prove a transformative leader.  To date, he’s kept a relatively low public profile. But Sasse has just been handed […]", "description":""

Inlate2022,formerRepublicanNebraska<\\\/a>SenBenSassewasappointedpresidentoftheUniversityofFloridaThemediamostlyranwithartificiallyinflatedstoriesofstudentprotestsButSasse\u2019ssupporterswereoptimisticthathecouldproveatransformativeleader\u00a0<\\\/p>

Todate,he\u2019skeptarelativelylowpublicprofileButSassehasjustbeenhandedagoldenopportunitytoremodelnotonlyhighereducation,butsubstantiallyimprovepublicK-12educationalongwithitWeshouldknowsoonwhetherhe\u2019lltakeit<\\\/p>

Fordecades,conservativeshavecomplainedaboutteachers\u2019colleges,whereeducatorsandadministratorsmustreceivecertificationTheevidenceprovesthatthey\u2019reawasteoftimeandmoneythatconfersnobenefitonnewteachersWorsethanthat,they\u2019vedevolvedintolittlemorethancriticalracetheory-indoctrinationcampsIt\u2019sratherinsanethatredstatesstillrequireteacherstobesteepedinanti-white,anti-American,anti-achievementdogmabeforeenteringapublicschoolclassroom<\\\/p>

Butmostdo,forthreereasonsFirst,statelegislatorstendtobeintimidatedbypeoplewhohave\u201cPhD\u2019s,\u201deveniftheyhavePhD\u2019sinnonsenseSecond,legislatorsaretypicallyreticenttorocktheboatattheiralmamatersAndthird,eveniflegislatorshadthewill,transformationalleaderswhocouldoverhaulateachers\u2019collegearefewandfarbetween<\\\/p>

Noneoftheselimitingconditions,however,applytotheUF<\\\/p>

TheFloridalegislaturepassedHouseBill1291lastmonth,whichmandatesthatstate-approvedteacher-preparationprogramsmaynotbe\u201cbasedontheoriesthatsystemicracism,sexism,oppression,andprivilegeareinherentintheinstitutionsoftheUnitedStates\u201dInstead,theseprogramsmustteach\u201cmasteryofacademicprogramcontent\u201dand\u201cinstructionalstrategies\u201dFancythat\u2014schoolsofeducationthatteachteacherstoteach,ratherthanbesocialjusticewarriorsThislawgoesintoeffectonJuly1<\\\/p>

AstheClaremontInstituterecentlydocumented<\\\/a>,theUF\u2019sCollegeofEducationisradicallyoutofcompliancewithstatelawUF\u2019sCollegeofEducationwentaswokeasanyteachers\u2019collegecouldget\u2014rightunderDeSantis\u2019snoseIn2020,itjettisonedrequirementsforthingssuchas\u201cCoreTeachingStrategies,\u201d\u201cMusicfortheElementaryChild,\u201dand\u201cArtEducation\u201dwith,respectively,\u201cEquityPedagogyFoundations,\u201d\u201cEquityPedagogyApplications\u201dand\u201cStudyingEquityPedagogy\u201dMathandscience?Theysimplyweren\u2019t\u201cinclusive\u201denough<\\\/p>

Whichistosay\u2014everythingwasinfusedwithCRTRequiredcoursereadingsincludethingssuchas\u201cTheFirstDayofSchool:ACRTStory,\u201d\u201cWhiteGirlTeaching,\u201d\u201cRaisingRaceQuestions:WhitenessandInquiryinEducation,\u201dandrequiredvideosincludedonecalled\u201cTheUrgencyofIntersectionality\u201d<\\\/p>

So,whatwillSassedo?Atraditionalcollegepresidentwouldtrytoruninterferenceforhisinstitution,makecosmeticchanges,anddohisbesttocontinuetoviolatethespiritofthelawwhilepretendingtoadheretoitsletterSassedoesn\u2019tneedtoplayitthisway,thoughHecan,andshould,seethatbetweentheFloridalawandtheClaremontreporthehasbeendealttwoaces<\\\/p>

Bygoinghard-wokerightunderDeSantis\u2019snose,theleadershipofUF\u2019sCollegeofEducationhasclearlyindicatedthattheydon\u2019tseethemselvesasFloridastategovernmentemployeesSo,theyshouldn\u2019tbeTheyshouldallbefiredTheCollegeofEducationshouldbefundamentallyreworked,roottobranch<\\\/p>

ThepossibilitieshereareincredibleAtminimum,Sassecouldrequirehisteachers\u2019collegetoactuallyhelpteachersteachBestpracticesinclassroommanagementandstudentdiscipline,rigorousinstructioninthescienceofreading,andadditionalcontentareaknowledgeforscience,math,orhistoryteachersshouldbeatoppriority<\\\/p>

ButUFcouldgofarbeyondteachingthebasicsFloridahasaburgeoningprivateandmicro-schoolsectorthankstoitsuniversaleducationsavingsaccountUFcouldofferateacherentrepreneurshiptrackFlorida\u2019sclassicaleducationsector,inparticular,isthrivingUFcouldofferteachersrigoroustraininginclassicalmethodsAndbelieveitornot,teachersarerarelytrainedtoactuallydeliveraparticularcurriculumUFcoulddothat,too<\\\/p>

WhymustateachermovetoGainesvilletogetaUFdegree?UFcouldsetupsatellitecentersineveryFloridacounty,andreworktheirprogramtosupportteacherapprenticeshipsWhat\u2019smore\u2014whylimitthattoFlorida?Withteachercertificationreciprocityagreements,UFcouldcolonize(wecanusethatword;it\u2019sFlorida)teachereducationnationally<\\\/p>

WhenMitchDanielswaspresidentofPurdueUniversity,heprovedthatcollegescouldbeeffectivelyadministered\u2014thatendlesstuitionincreasesresultedfromexecutiveincompetence,notaninexorablelawoffinanceSasse\u2019slegacycouldbetoprovethatsomeoneotherthanDanielscandothistooOr,itcouldbetopioneerwaysinwhichstateflagshipuniversitiescandrivedramaticimprovementinpubliceducation\u2014waysthatcouldandshouldbeemulatedineveryredstateinAmericaiftheywork\u00a0<\\\/p>

Here\u2019shopinghegetsstartednextmonthonhistransformationallegacy<\\\/p>

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MaxEdenisaresearchfellowattheAmericanEnterpriseInstitute<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/AP23008729452093-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3057090-1719295200", "title":"Biden’s Gaza pier is an abject failure", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fopinion%2F3057090%2Fbiden-gaza-pier-abject-failure%2F", "byline":"John Hannah", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Choose your label to describe what’s become of President Joe Biden’s Gaza pier: Dumpster fire. Boondoggle. White elephant. Whatever you call it, the project is a bona fide failure. It seems destined to be a textbook example of what happens when the political imperative to “do something” overwhelms serious planning.  The latest news is that […]", "description":""

Chooseyourlabeltodescribewhat\u2019sbecomeofPresidentJoeBiden\u2019s<\\\/a>Gazapier<\\\/a>:DumpsterfireBoondoggleWhiteelephantWhateveryoucallit,theprojectisabonafidefailureItseemsdestinedtobeatextbookexampleofwhathappenswhenthepoliticalimperativeto\u201cdosomething\u201doverwhelmsseriousplanning\u00a0<\\\/p>

Thelatestnews<\\\/a>isthatthepiermaybeterminatedaheadofscheduleErectedinmid-MaybytheUSmilitarytodeliverseaborneassistance,thepier\u2019soperationsrepeatedlyhavebeeninterruptedbyroughwaters\u00a0<\\\/p>

Astormbroke<\\\/a>thepierapartonlydaysaftergoingintoserviceAftermillionsofdollarsofrepairs<\\\/a>,itwasthrownbackintoactionDayslater,forecastsofchoppywatersledthemilitarytotow<\\\/a>thepiertosafeharborIt\u2019sjustreturned<\\\/a>toserviceathirdtime,thoughit\u2019shardnottobelievethattheproject\u2019sdaysarenumbered\u00a0<\\\/p>

MotherNaturemayendupbeingtheproximatecauseofthepier\u2019sdemise,butithasn\u2019tbeentheonlyproblemfoilingtheeffortSecurityhasalsobeenamajorproblemInthebrieftimethefacilityactuallyfunctioned,therelativelysmallamountsofassistancemakingittoshorewerebeingwidelylootedbydesperatemobs\u00a0<\\\/p>

AllofthesechallengeswereforecastwellinadvanceThiswashardlyacaseinwhichofficialsstruggledtomakesenseofwhatformerSecretaryofDefenseDonaldRumsfeldfamouslydescribed<\\\/a>asthe\u201cknownunknowns\u201dandthe\u201cunknownunknowns\u201dOnthecontrary,theobstaclesposedbyGaza\u2019sheavyseasandlackofsecuritywereobvioustoanyonetrackingevents\u00a0<\\\/p>

Inotherwords,BidenandhisteamwereoperatingintheeasiestpartofRumsfeld\u2019smatrix:thelandof\u201cknownknowns\u201d\u2014problemsthatweknowwithcertaintywillariseandthatrequiresolutionsinadvance<\\\/p>

IwaspartofagroupthathaddiscussionslastDecemberwiththeUSteaminchargeofgettinghumanitarianaidintoGazaWeaskedaboutthefeasibilityofamaritimechannelInsomanywords,weweretolditwasadumbideaWatersnearGazaarenotoriouslytreacherousTheeffortwouldbewithinrangeofHamas\u2019sgunsTheamountofaidthatcouldbedeliveredbyseawouldbeadropinthebucketofwhatwasneededFarbettertofocusondramaticallyexpandinglandroutesintoGaza,weweretold\u00a0<\\\/p>

Thatwasn\u2019ttheonlyexpertadvicetheadministrationdisregardedReportingsuggests<\\\/a>theUSmilitaryfirstlearnedofBiden\u2019sdecisiontobuildthepieronlywhenheannounceditinhisMarch7StateoftheUnionaddressButatthetime,plannersstillhadnoanswersastohowsuchaprojectcouldbesuccessfullyexecuted<\\\/p>

Toppingtheirconcernswassecurityandmakingsurethatoncesuppliesmadeittoshore,theycouldbesafelydeliveredintothehandsofsufferingGazansItwasalreadywidelyunderstoodthatthebiggestchallengewasnotgettingadequatesuppliesoffoodintoGazabutmakingsureitreachedinnocentcivilianswithoutfirstbeingdiverted<\\\/p>

Remarkably,Bidenandhisteamdidn\u2019tdemandasolutiontothesecurityproblembeforemakingthepierthecenterpieceofamajorpresidentialinitiativeNordidtheybothertodeveloponeinthetwomonthsthatittookthemilitarytogetthepierintoplaceWiththeeyesoftheworldwatchingandUScredibilityontheline,theadministration\u2019sapproachtoawell-definedsetofchallengesthatcouldmakeorbreaktheeffortseemedtoamounttolittlemorethanhopingthingswouldworkout<\\\/p>

Alas,theyhaven\u2019tInstead,thepierhasbecomeahumiliatinginternetmeme<\\\/a>andjoke\u2014andatapricetagofmorethan$200millioninUStaxpayerfundsandmonthsofeffortby1,000troops\u00a0<\\\/p>

Onitsface,thisappearstobeaclassiccaseofabreakdowninsoundpolicymakingAtthetimeofBiden\u2019sannouncement,criticismofhissupportforIsraelwasreachingfeverpitchPicturesofGaza\u2019sdevastationdominatedheadlinesImportantparts<\\\/a>ofBiden\u2019sDemocraticcoalitionwerethreateningnottosupporthisreelection\u00a0<\\\/p>

It\u2019snothardtoimaginethatwithintheWhiteHousepressurecooker,thepanicto\u201cdosomething\u201dforsufferingPalestiniansandshowpresidentialleadershipbygoingovertheheadsofaseeminglyrecalcitrantIsraelileadershipbecameoverwhelmingSomethingbighadtobeannouncedintheStateoftheUnion\u2014regardlessofwhetherallthehardquestionshadbeenanswered<\\\/p>

Understandable?PerhapsAcceptable?NoGoodintentionsarenotenoughHopeisneverastrategy,especiallynotfortheworld\u2019sgreatestdemocracywhoseresolve,reliability,andcompetencehaveneverbeeningreaterdoubtWesimplycan\u2019taffordself-inflictedmistakessuchasBiden\u2019spier\u2014mistakesthatobserverssawcomingmilesaway <\\\/p>

Figuringouthowthingswentsobadlyawryshouldbeatarget-richenvironmentforcongressionaloversight  <\\\/p>

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JohnHannahisaseniorfellowattheJewishInstituteforNationalSecurityofAmericaandformernationalsecurityadvisertoVicePresidentDickCheney<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/AP24139591326544.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3052740-1718960078", "title":"Rubio’s rapport with Latino voters could drive Trump to victory", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F3052740%2Fmarco-rubio-latino-voters-trump-victory%2F", "byline":"Ross O'Keefe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Former President Donald Trump‘s interest in selecting Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) as his vice president is setting off alarm bells for Democrats. The Florida senator and one-time rival of Trump has turned into a reliable ally and offers the former president a direct line to a bloc Republicans have been flirting with taking from Democrats […]", "description":""

FormerPresidentDonaldTrump<\\\/a>'sinterestinselectingSenMarcoRubio<\\\/a>(R-FL)ashisvicepresidentissettingoffalarmbellsforDemocrats<\\\/p>

TheFloridasenatorandone-timerivalofTrumphasturnedintoareliableallyandofferstheformerpresidentadirectlinetoablocRepublicanshavebeenflirtingwithtakingfromDemocratsforyears\u2014 LatinoandHispanicvotersWhileLatinoandHispanicvotersaren'tamonolith,creatingin-roadswiththemwouldputseveralstatesDemocratshavetakenforgrantedinrecentcyclesinplay,MichaelLaRosa,whoisaformerpresssecretaryforfirstladyJillBidenandspecialassistanttoPresidentJoeBiden,wrote<\\\/a>inanop-edfortheNewYorkTimes<\\\/p>

\\\"ButthereissomethingLatinovotershaveincommon:theirLatinAmericanrootsandthepridethatcomesfromcastingavoteforsomeonewholooksandtalkslikethem,\\\"LaRosawrote\\\"MrRubiowouldbreakasignificantculturalbarrierasthefirstLatinoonanationalticket\\\"<\\\/p>

RubiocouldhelpTrumpconvincelargeLatinoconstituenciesinswingstatesArizonaandNevadawhileshoringupRepublican-leaningFloridaItalsocouldmakenormallyDemocraticNewMexico,whichhasthelargestproportionofHispanicsintheUnitedStates,interesting<\\\/p>

TherehasbeensomedoubtaboutwhetherRubiocouldserveasTrump'svicepresident,giventhe12thAmendmentdoesn'tallowforapresidentandvicepresidenttobefromthesamestate,inthiscase,Florida,withoutlosingitselectoralvotes<\\\/p>

LaRosasaidthisconcernis\\\"overblown,\\\"citingformerVicePresidentDickCheney'sresidentialswitchfromTexastoWyoming,andhethinksRubiocoulddosomethingsimilar<\\\/p>

LaRosasaidTrumpselectingRubiowouldbetakingapageoutofBiden's2020campaignplaybookWhenheselectedVicePresidentKamalaHarris,hemadethechoicetoappealtovotersofcolor,amovethatworkedasblackwomenturnedoutfortheBiden-Harristicket<\\\/p>

AndwinningoverHispanicandLatinovoterswillmatterinstateswheretheymakeupsmallersharesoftheelectoratebutwheretheracesarestillconsideredtightTrumpisbeatingBideninPennsylvaniabymorethan2pointsintheRealClearPoliticsaverage<\\\/a>\u2014\u00a0astateBidencan'taffordtoloseifheplanstorepeathis2020success<\\\/p>

LaRosaargued,\\\"Therearevoterswhomaketheirchoicebecausetheywanttobeapartofhistoryandbreakgroundmorethan,say,thattheyagreewiththecandidate,ortheticket,onspecificpolicies\\\"Latinoscouldbethosevoters,andthat'swhyhesaidRubioscareshimandshouldscareDemocratsthisNovember<\\\/p>

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TheFloridasenatorisonemaninathrong<\\\/a>ofTrumpvicepresidentialcandidates,someofwhomrecentlyreceivedvettingmaterialsfromthecampaign<\\\/p>

TheWashingtonExaminercontactedtheTrumpcampaignandRubio'sofficebutreceivednoresponse<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/AP22310815339264-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3047141-1718618746", "title":"Torres mocks Bowman’s fire alarm stunt in hint he’s abandoning fellow Democrat", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fcampaigns%2Fcongressional%2F3047141%2Ftorres-mocks-bowman-fire-alarm-hint-abandoning-democrat%2F", "byline":"Elaine Mallon", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) is in the middle of a brutal primary fight, and a fellow New York Democrat looks like he is on the cusp of endorsing the “Squad” member’s opponent. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), a fiercely pro-Israel member of Congress, got into a spat with Bowman over the weekend after the Israel critic […]", "description":""

RepJamaalBowman<\\\/a>(D-NY)isinthemiddleofabrutalprimaryfight,andafellowNewYork<\\\/a>Democratlookslikeheisonthecuspofendorsingthe\u201cSquad\u201dmember\u2019sopponent<\\\/p>

RepRitchieTorres(D-NY),afiercelypro-Israel<\\\/a>memberofCongress,gotintoaspatwithBowmanovertheweekendaftertheIsraelcriticquestionedthesincerityofTorres\u2019ssupportfortheJewishstateTorreswasquicktohitbackatBowman,pokingfunatthelawmaker\u2019sstuntofpullingafirealarmintheCapitolwhileonhiswaytoavotethatwouldpreventagovernmentshutdownlastSeptember<\\\/p>

\u201cAsforJamaalBowman,IcareasmuchabouthisopiniononmeasIdoabouthisopiniononhowtoproperlypullafirealarmorhisopiniononhowtoremaininCongress,\u201dTorrestold<\\\/a>theNewYorkPost\u201cHisopinionisworsethanarubberstamp\u2014itleavesnoimpression,muchlikehislegislativerecordorhisrecentattendancerecord\u201d<\\\/p>

BowmansaidontheNightSchoolpodcast<\\\/a>hostedbyMarcLamontHillthatTorresonlystandsinsupportofIsraelbecauseofthe\u201cpoweroftheIsraellobby\u201d<\\\/p>

\u201cRitchieisverycalculatinginthiswayRitchie\u2014hejustseemstobealwaysplotting,alwayscalculatingsomething,\u201dBowmansaid<\\\/p>

Bowman\u2019sattackonTorres,atwo-termrepresentativeoftheBronx,appearedunprovokedastheneighboringrepresentativehadsteeredclearofweighinginonBowman\u2019scontest<\\\/p>

Butinthemiddleoftheepisode,HillaskedBowmantocommentonwhyTorresfallsinlinewithBowmanoneverymatterexceptforwhenitcomestoIsrael<\\\/p>

\u201cHowcansomeonebesoprogressiveonsomanyissuesandnotseetheinjusticegoingoninPalestineinthesameway?\u201dHillasked<\\\/p>

HillmadethecommentthatTorres\u201ctweetstoNetanyahulikeheisNetanyahu\u2019slonglostcousin\u201d<\\\/p>

\u201cSoifIwasdoingthatwhenIfirstgotin,mybankaccountfirstofallwouldbeflushed,\u201dBowmansaid<\\\/p>

Bowman\u2019scriticismsofIsraelasitwageswarwithHamashaveputhiminavulnerablepositionwiththelargecontingentofJewishsupportersinhisdistrict<\\\/p>

TheAmericanIsraelPublicAffairsCommittee,aninfluentialpro-IsraelPAC,hasspentmillionsofdollarsattackingBowman,helpinggiveWestchesterCountyExecutiveGeorgeLatimeraboostinhischallengetounseatthetwo-termcongressmanBowmanistrailingLatimerby17points,according<\\\/a>toarecentpoll<\\\/p>

PriortoservingasUSrepresentativefortheBronx,TorreswasaNewYorkCityCouncilmemberfor10yearsHenotedhispublicsupportforIsraeldatesbackto2015,whenhetookatripthere <\\\/p>

Hesaidoneofthereasonshedidn\u2019tjointhe\u201cSquad\u201dafterbeingelectedin2020washebelievedthatsomeofthemembers\u2019supportfortheBDSmovementwasantisemitic<\\\/p>

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\u201cIhaveageneralruleofnotweighinginagainstacongressionalDemocratwhohasnotweighedinagainstme,\u201dTorressaid\u201cButBowman\u2019sgratuitousattackonmycharactermightcausemetorethinkthatrule\u201d<\\\/p>

NewYork\u2019sprimarywillbeonJune25<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/AP24165005433095.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"3004139-1715721649", "title":"Biden greenlights $1 billion weapon shipment to Israel week after withholding bombs", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2Fwhite-house%2F3004139%2Fbiden-greenlights-weapon-shipment-israel-after-withholding-bombs%2F", "byline":"Brady Knox", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"The Biden administration announced its approval of a $1 billion weapon shipment to Israel just one week after President Joe Biden announced he would withhold a weapons shipment if Israel launched an offensive into Rafah. The administration notified Congress of the move on Tuesday, the Washington Examiner independently confirmed. Officials told the Wall Street Journal […]", "description":""

TheBidenadministration<\\\/a>announceditsapprovalofa$1billionweaponshipmenttoIsrael<\\\/a>justoneweekafterPresidentJoeBidenannouncedhewouldwithholdaweaponsshipmentifIsraellaunchedanoffensiveintoRafah<\\\/p>

TheadministrationnotifiedCongressofthemoveonTuesday,theWashingtonExaminerindependentlyconfirmed<\\\/p>

Officialstold<\\\/a>theWallStreetJournalthatthepackageincludesoffensiveweapons,including$700millionintankammunition,$500millionintacticalvehicles,and$60millioninmortarroundsAdditionalstepsmustbetakenbeforetheweaponsareapprovedanddelivered<\\\/p>

ThemovewasforeshadowedbynationalsecurityadviserJohnKirby,speakingwithreporterslastweek<\\\/p>

\\\"[Biden]alsosaidyesterdaythathewillcontinuetoensurethatIsraelhasallofthemilitarymeansitneedstodefenditselfagainstallofitsenemies,includingHamas,\\\"hesaid\\\"Forhim,thisisverystraightforward:He\u2019sgoingtocontinuetoprovideIsraelwithallofthecapabilitiesitneeds,buthedoesnotwantcertaincategoriesofAmericanweaponsusedinaparticulartypeofoperationinaparticularplaceAndagain,hehasbeenclearandconsistentwiththat\\\"<\\\/p>

KirbyfurtherclarifiedthatIsraelhasnotyetlaunchedaRafahoperationthatcrossesBiden'sredlineBidensaidlastweekhewouldwithholdspecific2,000-poundbombsfromIsraelifthecountryexpandedoperationsintoRafah,wherePalestinianrefugeeshavefledduetothewar<\\\/p>

IsraelbegananoffensiveintoRafahlastweek,whichhascontinuedwithairstrikesandgroundoperationsIt'sunclearwhatBiden'sredlineregardingRafahis<\\\/p>

HouseSpeakerMikeJohnson(R-LA)signaledthatthelowerchamberwassatisfiedwithBiden'saction<\\\/p>

\u201cIthinkit\u2019simportantforustoexpressagainthewillofCongressonthematterandsoIdon\u2019tthinkwe\u2019llbechangingwhatwedoonthelegislation,\u201dhetoldreportersTuesdayevening<\\\/p>

Tuesday'smovetoapproveanothermajorweaponsshipmentislikelytoloseBidenthegoodwillhereceivedfromprogressiveDemocraticalliesafterhisannouncementthatoffensiveweaponswouldbewithheld,whichinturndrewhimirefromRepublicansandpro-IsraelDemocrats<\\\/p>

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Bidenhasattemptedtobalancethepassionsofpro-IsraelDemocratswiththevehementoppositionofpro-PalestinianDemocratsduringIsrael'scampaigninGazaTheinvasionofRafahhasemergedasanewflashpoint,withtheBidenadministrationrepeatedlywarningIsraeloftheconsequencesifitlaunchesanall-outassaultonthearea<\\\/p>

CamiMondeauxandNaomiLimcontributedtothisreport<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/AP24128020312504-1-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"2872560-1709100613", "title":"Great Stakes: Michigan union and blue-collar workers in the driver’s seat for the presidency", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F2872560%2Fmichigan-union-blue-collar-workers-drivers-seat-presidency%2F", "byline":"Naomi Lim", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Michigan voters have an outsize impact on who will win the White House and which party will carry the House and Senate in 2024. In this series, Great Stakes: The fight to be hailed as victors in Michigan, the Washington Examiner will look at the thorny politics and unique matters that will swing the critical battleground state. Part four, […]", "description":""

MichiganvotershaveanoutsizeimpactonwhowillwintheWhiteHouseandwhichpartywillcarrytheHouseandSenatein2024Inthisseries, GreatStakes:ThefighttobehailedasvictorsinMichigan, the WashingtonExaminer willlookatthethornypoliticsanduniquemattersthatwillswingthecriticalbattlegroundstatePartfour,below,examineshowtheeconomyandunionvotewilldeterminewhowinstheexpectedrematchbetweenPresidentJoeBidenandformerPresidentDonaldTrump<\\\/p>

SHELBYTOWNSHIP,Michigan\u2014PresidentJoeBiden<\\\/a>andformerPresidentDonaldTrump<\\\/a>'seconomic<\\\/a>pitchestoMichigan<\\\/a>'sblue-collarvoters,particularlythestate'shalfamillionunion<\\\/a>members,coulddecidethe2024generalelection<\\\/a>asthisweek'sprimaryunderscoresthelikelynominees'respectiveweaknessesbeforeNovember<\\\/p>

IfTrumpcancompetewithBidenforthosevotersinplacessuchasMichigan'sfamedMacombCounty<\\\/a>,asformerPresidentRonaldReagan<\\\/a>didin1980withso-calledReaganDemocrats,hecouldwinthestate's15ElectoralCollege<\\\/a>votesandreclaimtheWhiteHouse<\\\/a>thiselectioncycle<\\\/p>

TrumpnotonlyhastowinMacombCounty,ashedidin2016and2020,buthealsohasto\\\"winwithamargin\\\"tocounterthepartsofMichiganwherehecouldunderperform,accordingtoRepublicanstrategistJamieRoe,thelongtimechiefofstafftoformerRepublicanRepCandiceMiller<\\\/p>

Tuesday'sRepublicanprimaryemphasizedTrump'sloosegripon30to40%ofhisparty,withformerUSAmbassadortotheUnitedNations<\\\/a>NikkiHaley<\\\/a>holdinghimto70%ofthevoteMeanwhile,Bidennettedabout80%oftheDemocraticprimaryvoteduetoan\\\"uncommitted<\\\/a>\\\"protestvote<\\\/p>

MacombCountyvotedforGovGretchenWhitmer<\\\/a>(D-MI)in2022,\\\"buteverytimeTrump'sbeenontheballot,therearepartsoftheelectoratethatcomeout\\\"forhim\\\"thatreallydon'tcomeoutforawholelotofotherpeople,\\\"RoetoldtheWashingtonExaminer<\\\/p>

ThosepeopleincludeunionworkersdespiteMichigan-basedUnitedAutoWorkers<\\\/a>PresidentShawnFain,forexample,endorsingBidenlastmonth<\\\/p>

TerryBowman,Trump's2016campaignMichiganco-chairmanand2020WorkersforTrumpnationalchairman,hasalsoworkedfortheFordMotorCompany<\\\/a>foralmostthreedecadesBowmannowchairstheboardofthenonpoliticalInstitutefortheAmericanWorker,buthecontendedwhatisgoodforunionofficialsdoesnot\\\"necessarilymeanthatit'sgoodfortherankandfile\\\"<\\\/p>

\\\"Theylike[Trump]personallyasacandidateandjustasaperson,\\\"Bowmansaid\\\"Secondly,wedonowhaveahistoryofDonaldTrump'spolicies,andgoinginto2024,Ithinkworkershavelookedat:WhatdidDonaldTrumpdoforblue-collarautoworkers<\\\/a>,andwhathasJoeBidendoneforblue-collarworkers?\\\"<\\\/p>

OneofBiden'smorepoliticallyproblematicpolicieshasbeenhisdesiretohave50%ofallnewvehiclesalesbeingelectricmodels<\\\/a>by2030,thoughpolicyanalystsdisagreeregardingitsworkforceconsequencesSimultaneously,BowmanwastemporarilylaidoffthisweekbecauseFord'sRawsonvillePlantinYpsilanti,Michigan,whichbuildsbatteriesforthemaker'selectricF-150Lightning,isreducingproductionandshifts<\\\/p>

\\\"Wehavethousands,ortensofthousandsofworkersintheautoindustryinAmericathatworkintransmissionplantsandinengineplants,\\\"Bowmansaid\\\"There'smorejobscomingintotheassemblyofbatteries,butit'snotgoingtobeonaone-for-onebasisEvenwiththegovernmentsubsidies,thedemandforthesetrucksisjustnotthere\\\"<\\\/p>

TrumpreceivingmoresupportfromindustrialunionworkersthanRepublicanstraditionallydois\\\"partofalongertransformationalongeducationallinesbetweenthepoliticalparties,\\\"accordingtoMichiganStateUniversityInstituteofPublicPolicyandSocialResearchDirectorMatthewGrossmannButthatdoesnothelpBiden,whothisweekhadalmost52,000Democratsmarkthemselvesas\\\"uncommitted\\\"inprotestoftheIsrael<\\\/a>-Hamas<\\\/a>warinsteadofvotingforhim<\\\/p>

\\\"It'sasmallerproportionoftheMichiganeconomythanitusedtobe,butitstillhasalotofculturalresonancebecauselotsofpeoplehavefamilymemberswhoworkfortheautoindustryorsupporttheUAW,\\\"Grossmannsaid<\\\/p>

MarkGaffney,aformerpresidentofMichigan's AFL-CIO<\\\/a>,aunionfederation,concededothertypesoflaborgroupshavebecomelesspoliticallypowerfulastheirmembershiphasdeclined,inadditiontothosemembersbeing\\\"moreindependent\\\"<\\\/p>

\\\"Youngermemberstendtobeevenmoreindependent,\\\"Gaffneysaid,addingthatTrump'soppositiontotheNorthAmericanFreeTradeAgreementappealedtoindustrialunionmembersafteryearsoftheirleadershipdescribingsuchdealsasbad<\\\/p>

\\\"SoalongcomesTrump,andwhetherhefollowsthroughoneverythingthathesaysornotisdebatable,butheconvincespeoplethathe'stalkingtheirlanguage,\\\"Gaffneycontinued\\\"Sowecouldhavelost,insomeunions,asmanyas40%ofourmemberslasttimeAndthat'saprettybignumber\\\"<\\\/p>

ButJackieKelly-Smith,MacombCountyDemocraticCommittee'sblackcaucuschairwomanandaretiredUAWworker,wasmoreoptimisticconcerningBiden'sprospectsinthecommunity,citinghimtakingpartinlastfall'sstrike<\\\/p>

\\\"We'vehadthisgoingonsinceIgothiredbyGeneralMotors<\\\/a>in1975,\\\"Kelly-Smithsaid\\\"TheyfeelasthoughmyunionshouldnotendorsesomeonethatIdon'twanttovoteforOntheotherhand,youhavetheunionsayingwe'regoingtoendorsethosethatallowustocontinuetorepresent,negotiate,andbargain,andthat'snotalwaysaRepublicanpresidentTrumpdidn'tcareifwewentbankrupt\\\"<\\\/p>

Morebroadly,theeconomy,alongwithborder<\\\/a>securityandabortion<\\\/a>access,coulddeterminetheelection,withpollsdemonstratingdisapprovalofBiden'seconomicapproachForinstance,Biden'seconomicapprovalratingisroughlynetnegative16percentagepoints,with40%approvingand56%disapproving<\\\/p>

MichiganstateRepKarenTwinsett,aDemocratwhorepresentspartsofDetroitandDearborninneighboringWayneCounty,anothercriticalregion,recognizedthatBiden'seconomy,or\\\"Bidenomics,\\\"<\\\/a>hasbeendetrimentaltoherconstituents<\\\/p>

\\\"Whenyou'retalkingaboutsomebodyinthepresidency,normally,thesethingsdon'tbotheryouuntilthey'rehittingyouathome,likegasprices<\\\/a>orwhatever,\\\"Twinsettsaid\\\"Everydaypeopledon'tthinkaboutthatstuff,butwhenyougotothegrocerystore,you'refeelingit\\\"<\\\/p>

Inresponse,stateRepErinByrnes(D-MI),whorepresentsotherpartsofDearborn,imploredBidentoemphasize\\\"corporategreedthathasbeenmasqueradingasinflation\\\"<\\\/p>

\\\"Inflation<\\\/a>isreal,butalsocorporationshaveuppedtheirpricesexponentiallysincethepandemichit,\\\"Byrnessaid\\\"Iftheydon'tcallitoutanddon'tactonit,peoplewillfeellikethey'retryingtopullthewoolovertheireyes\\\"<\\\/p>

ButRepTimWalberg(R-MI),thedeanofMichigan'scongressionaldelegationinWashington,andformerstateSenTomBarrett,whoiscontestingMichigan's7thCongressionalDistrictagain,arguedBidenomics'sdamagehasalreadybeendoneForWalberg,fromthefivetownhallsheledlastweekbeforehisinterviewwiththeWashingtonExaminer,itis\\\"veryclear\\\"thatBidenomicsis\\\"notworking,\\\"especiallyrelatedtointerestrates<\\\/a>andenergycosts<\\\/a>,andthatonlya\\\"verysignificantturnaround\\\"couldimproveBiden'spopularity<\\\/p>

CLICKHERETOREADMOREFROMTHEWASHINGTONEXAMINER<\\\/a><\\\/p>

BarrettadditionallydownplayedtheimportanceofBiden'sunionendorsementsaftertheInternationalBrotherhoodofTeamsters<\\\/a>'spoliticalactioncommitteedonated$45,000totheRepublicanNationalCommittee'sconventionfundTheTeamstershaveyettoendorseacandidate<\\\/p>

\\\"ThenationalunionleadershipisalwaysgoingtoendorseDemocrats,andtheUAWwasalwaysgoingtoendorseBiden,\\\"Barrettsaid\\\"Itwasjustaquestionofwhennowtheyhadbecomefrustratedwithhimoverhiselectricvehiclemandatesandotherthingsthatreallydisadvantagedunionworkersandautoplantsbecausetheirjobsaren'tgoingtobearoundIwouldsayyouraverageorstereotypicalUAWworkerisprobablysomebodywhocaresaboutcrimeintheircommunities,caresabouttheborderawholeheckofalot\\\"<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/AP24023837150822-1-scaled.jpg?w=696" } {"id":"4528460-1776171306", "title":"Mike Johnson pushes clean spy law extension as privacy concerns divide Congress", "sharelink":"https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonexaminer.com%2Fnews%2F4528460%2Fmike-johnson-spy-law-extension-privacy-congress%2F", "byline":"Rena Rowe", "publishDate":"Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:21:00 -0500", "synopsis":"Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) said he will not allow amendments to a surveillance bill, arguing that any changes could derail its renewal ahead of a looming deadline.  Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows intelligence agencies to collect communications of foreign targets abroad, is set to expire on April […]", "description":""

SpeakeroftheHouseMikeJohnson<\\\/a>(R-LA)saidhewillnotallowamendmentstoasurveillance<\\\/a>bill,arguingthatanychangescouldderailitsrenewalaheadofaloomingdeadline\u00a0<\\\/p>

Section702oftheForeignIntelligenceSurveillanceAct,whichallowsintelligenceagenciestocollectcommunicationsofforeigntargetsabroad,issettoexpireonApril20,resultinginacongressionalscrambletopassthecontroversialmeasure <\\\/p>

\u201cIt'sgoingtobeacleanextension,\u201dJohnsonsaidonTuesday\u201cIfweputamendmentsonit,itjeopardizesitspassage,andit'sfartooimportant\\\"<\\\/p>

Johnsonisaimingtomovean18-monthextensionthroughtheHouseRulesCommitteeonTuesdayafternoon,withafloorvotelaterthisweek <\\\/p>

ThepushcomeswithstrongbackingfromPresidentDonaldTrump<\\\/a>,whohaspressedlawmakersformonthstorenewtheprogram <\\\/p>

InaMondaylettertothecommitteesonintelligence,armedservices,defenseappropriations,andthejudiciaryinbothchambers,JointChiefsChairmanGenDanCaine<\\\/a>warnedthatfailingtoextendtheauthoritywouldjeopardizeUSsecurity\u00a0<\\\/p>

\u201cThelossorreductionofFISAsection702authoritieswouldincreaserisktotheJointForce,degradeourworldwidecombatlethality,andsignificantlyimpairUSsecurity<\\\/a>,\u201dCainwroteinaletterobtainedbyPolitico\u00a0<\\\/p>

Still,theproposalfacesresistancefromlawmakersinbothpartieswhoarguethelawlackssufficientsafeguardsforAmericans'privacy <\\\/p>

RepAndyBiggs<\\\/a>(R-AZ) introducedanamendmentMondaytoshortentheextensiontooneyear,afterpreviouslypushinganamendment<\\\/a>thatwouldrequirewarrantsforsearchingAmericans\u2019communications <\\\/p>

GOVERNMENTSPYPOWERSWILLEXPIREIFCONGRESSDOESN\u2019TACTWHATTOKNOW<\\\/a><\\\/p>

RepWarrenDavidson<\\\/a>(R-OH)saidthelawwas\u201cstretchedfarbeyonditsoriginalpurpose,\u201dcitingconcertsoverwarrantlesssearches<\\\/a>\u00a0<\\\/p>

OntheDemocrats\u2019side,RepZoeLofgren(D-CA)warnedthatCongress\u201cshouldnotreauthorizebroaddomesticsurveillanceauthoritieswithoutputtingmeaningfulsafeguardsinplace\u201dShecalledforreformsthatwouldbalancenationalsecuritytoolswhilepreventingabuse<\\\/p>"", "image":"https:\/\/www.washingtonexaminer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/AP26086688985924_718ebd.jpg?w=696" } ]}