Recent reports detail the detention of U.S. citizens by federal law enforcement agencies who lack proof of citizenship, a practice decried by civil rights advocates as a violation of constitutional rights. One such incident involved a Somali-born Minnesota man who was tackled and arrested despite presenting his REAL ID. This action is allegedly sanctioned by the Trump administration, with a top official falsely suggesting citizens must carry immigration documents. Critics point out that U.S. law does not require citizens to carry such documents.
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The article discusses a hypothetical scenario where the U.S. is attacked by foreign adversaries using masked attacks. It highlights concerns about the FBI’s ability to combat foreign espionage, particularly from China, due to budget cuts and shifts in priorities, potentially weakening counterintelligence efforts. Former FBI officials express worry about the bureau’s vulnerability, citing a decline in focus on traditional spy-hunting methods and a potential for decreased transparency. Concerns include proposed changes in counterintelligence leadership, while the FBI insists it is adapting to new threats, with some lawmakers seeking to overhaul counterintelligence.
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In response to Florida’s ban on Pride-themed crosswalks, St. Petersburg has installed eleven new Pride-themed bike racks. The city’s mayor and community members celebrated the move as a vibrant way to honor the previously removed murals. This action follows a state order, led by Governor Ron DeSantis, citing concerns about driver distractions and mandating the removal of pavement art. Despite these state directives, the city of St. Petersburg has demonstrated their continued support for the LGBTQ+ community and progressive values.
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Crockett: People who ‘regret’ voting for Trump are ‘absolutely welcome’ in her campaign is a pragmatic, if potentially controversial, strategy. The reality is that in a state like Texas, winning elections often requires more than just appealing to the base. It means reaching out, even to those who may have previously supported the opposition, or those who have expressed regret after voting for Trump. It’s a calculation, a necessary one to have a shot in Texas.
The argument supporting this approach is rooted in simple math. To gain a significant win, a candidate needs to bring in votes from a wider range of people.… Continue reading
A levee breach south of Seattle, following a week of heavy rains, prompted an evacuation order for portions of Kent, Renton, and Tukwila. The failure on the Desimone levee along the Green River led to the evacuation of approximately 1,100 homes and businesses. While the initial flash flood warning covered a large area, it was later reduced as authorities assessed the impact, with the flooding primarily affecting industrial areas. Crews were present and utilizing sandbags to manage the breach, which damaged a bike path, while long-term repairs to the damaged levee are not expected until 2031.
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Taiwan says its military can respond rapidly to any sudden Chinese attack. This statement isn’t just about boasting; it’s a calculated move in a complex game of international relations. The island nation, situated a mere eighty miles from the Chinese mainland, understands the stakes. Should China decide to make a move, Taiwan knows it must be prepared to defend itself.
The foundation for this preparedness is a deep-seated understanding of the geopolitical landscape. From China’s perspective, Taiwan represents a historical claim, a century of perceived humiliation needing rectification. It’s about national identity, the fight against separatism, and regional power dynamics. Control over Taiwan would solidify access to the Pacific Ocean, a strategic advantage.… Continue reading
The US labor market experienced unexpected growth in November, adding 64,000 jobs, exceeding economists’ expectations, though the unemployment rate climbed to 4.6%. Prior jobs growth figures were revised downward, and the government shutdown caused delays and concerns about data accuracy. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell expressed skepticism about the data due to the shutdown’s impact, as well as the effects of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Furthermore, the report came amidst significant changes to the Bureau of Labor Statistics including a recent firing of the BLS commissioner and a drop in staff members.
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During a speech to the Dutch Parliament, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia is losing approximately 30,000 soldiers per month on the front lines. He highlighted that these figures fluctuate, with losses ranging from 25,000 to 31,000 in certain months. Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia prioritizes power and money over the lives of its soldiers, citing the high casualty rates and the Kremlin’s focus on financial gains. The president is currently in the Netherlands for meetings with European leaders.
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President Donald Trump signed an executive order classifying fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, broadening the U.S. government’s authority to combat the opioid crisis. This designation allows the Pentagon and intelligence agencies to deploy tools typically used against weapons proliferation to combat drug traffickers. The move follows Trump’s earlier designation of drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, leading to military strikes against suspected drug vessels. While the administration claims these actions are necessary, critics, including legal experts, question their legality and call for congressional oversight.
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Scoop: Elon Musk diving into 2026 midterms for the GOP? It’s hardly a surprise, is it? We’re talking about the richest person on the planet, a real-life “super villain” in some people’s eyes, and someone who seems to be treating our country like his personal playground, similar to how he treated Twitter. The idea of him pouring resources into the 2026 midterms for the Republican party isn’t shocking; it’s almost expected.
This feels like it’s flirting with the line of what’s acceptable. We already have to deal with his network of satellites, his public persona and now his deep pockets. It’s difficult to avoid the sinking feeling that we’re watching a wealthy individual actively trying to buy influence in our political system.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood