A Rasmussen Reports/Heartland Institute poll reveals that 54% of likely voters would support imprisoning Elon Musk for his role in the Department of Government Efficiency, with 71% of Democrats and 80% of liberals in favor. Conversely, 54% of Republicans and 57% of conservatives oppose such a law. A majority also support banning Musk from government service, highlighting significant partisan divisions in public opinion regarding Musk’s efforts to improve government efficiency. The poll also shows a decline in Musk’s favorability rating since March.
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In response to stricter US border controls, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) has issued three updated travel advisories for the USA in a month. These warnings highlight increased border detentions, mandatory identification requirements, and the inspection of electronic devices. The advisories also note a new domestic flight ID requirement and a stricter enforcement of existing registration laws for long-term visitors. Consequently, Australian travel to the US has significantly decreased, impacting both leisure and business sectors, with concerns amplified by reports of harsh treatment and deportations.
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Despite initial suggestions of President Trump’s and President Putin’s attendance, neither leader will participate in Thursday’s Istanbul peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The Kremlin will instead send a delegation of experienced officials, including Vladimir Medinsky and Alexander Fomin. The absence of both presidents lowers expectations for significant progress, particularly given President Zelenskyy’s conditional participation dependent on Putin’s presence. Potential discussion topics include a 30-day ceasefire and a prisoner exchange.
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On May 14th, a Gabon-flagged tanker, JAGUAR, part of Russia’s shadow fleet, entered Estonian airspace in the Gulf of Finland en route to Primorsk. Estonia responded by deploying naval and air assets to intercept the vessel, which ultimately anchored near Gogland Island after refusing to alter course. A Russian Su-35 fighter jet provided cover for the JAGUAR, lacking communication with Estonian air traffic control. This incident follows a previous Estonian seizure of a similar vessel, and comes amidst EU sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet.
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A decapitated bottlenose dolphin, found on Lea-Hutaff Island in Pender County between April 16th and 18th, is the subject of a $20,000 reward offered by federal authorities. The dolphin’s head was intentionally removed, a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. A necropsy revealed the presence of Brucella bacteria, posing a potential risk to humans. Information leading to those responsible can be submitted to NOAA’s Enforcement Hotline at 800-853-1964.
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Following negotiations between the Trump administration and Ovidio Guzmán López, a top Sinaloa Cartel member and son of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, nearly 20 of El Chapo’s family members were granted entry into the United States. This occurred after the family crossed the border with the apparent knowledge of U.S. agents. The Mexican government, unaware of the arrangement, has requested information from the Trump administration regarding this deal. The move comes amidst increased U.S. legal action against cartel leaders, including the first-ever use of “narcoterrorism” charges.
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Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, a 19-year-old former Michigan Army National Guard member, was arrested on May 13th for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at a U.S. military base on behalf of ISIS. Said, who provided materials and training to undercover officers posing as ISIS operatives, planned the attack for April 2025. His actions included surveilling the base with a drone and instructing the officers on how to breach security and target a specific building. Said is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and faces up to 20 years in prison.
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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem refused to confirm the well-being of Andry Hernández Romero, a gay makeup artist deported to a notorious Salvadoran prison, claiming it falls outside her jurisdiction. Despite a multi-million dollar U.S. agreement with El Salvador to house such detainees, Noem’s assertion contradicts the administration’s acknowledged ability to check on individuals in the facility. Hernández Romero, who passed a credible fear interview for asylum, was deported based on unsubstantiated gang allegations, highlighting a legal battle over “constructive custody.” His case underscores concerns over the Trump administration’s deportation practices and the lack of accountability for those sent to CECOT.
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Denmark, a leader in renewable energy, is exploring a potential shift in its energy policy. After a 40-year ban, the government will assess the viability of advanced, small modular nuclear reactors. This reconsideration is driven by rising interest in new reactor designs across Europe and a need for reliable, low-carbon baseload power. The move follows similar discussions in other nations grappling with energy security and decarbonization goals. This potential policy change comes amidst challenges for renewable energy projects, including rising costs and supply chain issues.
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Valeria Marquez, a Mexican beauty influencer, was fatally shot during a live TikTok stream at her salon. Authorities are investigating her death as a suspected femicide, a crime prevalent in Mexico. This incident follows the recent livestream killing of a mayoral candidate in Veracruz, highlighting the ongoing crisis of violence against women in the country. The high rate of femicide in Mexico, coupled with insufficient investigations and prosecutions, underscores a critical need for improved law enforcement response.
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John Q. Hosedrinker