A leaked memo from US Attorney General Pam Bondi instructs the Department of Justice to create a list of potential “domestic terrorism” organizations holding “extreme viewpoints” on various social and political issues. This memo expands on National Security Presidential Memorandum-7, a directive calling for a national strategy to investigate and disrupt political violence. The memo directs law enforcement agencies to refer suspected domestic terrorism cases to Joint Terrorism Task Forces for comprehensive investigations into all culpable participants. The memo defines the “domestic terrorism threat” as organizations using violence or threats to advance specific political goals, including opposition to immigration enforcement and adherence to “radical gender ideology” and “anti-Americanism.”
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Once a staunch supporter, Marjorie Taylor Greene, who embraced the QAnon ideology, has publicly distanced herself from Trump. This separation highlights growing divisions within the MAGA movement, fueled by Trump’s policy decisions and perceived betrayals. Disagreements stem from issues such as foreign policy and perceived alliances with Silicon Valley, causing prominent figures like Steve Bannon and Laura Loomer to voice their discontent. The upcoming release of the Jeffrey Epstein files presents a major test, forcing Trump to navigate a potential revolt within his base depending on the decision.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom, considered a potential Democratic presidential candidate, expressed his desire for a “big tent” party but opposes a wealth tax, despite its popularity among Democrats. This opposition comes in response to a proposed “emergency billionaires tax” in California, aimed at restoring Medicaid funding, and is championed by unions and healthcare groups. Newsom’s stance puts him at odds with the majority of Americans and Democrats who support such measures, as evidenced by various national polls. Critics are puzzled by his approach, arguing that his opposition to the wealth tax doesn’t align with the values of the party.
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In a move signaling strained relations, Russia has cancelled military cooperation agreements with Portugal, France, and Canada, citing their lack of strategic relevance. These agreements, signed between 1989 and 2000, aimed to foster collaboration in the post-Soviet era, reflecting a period of improved relations with the West. The terminations follow a trend of increasing hostility toward NATO and the West, particularly in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Western support for Ukraine. This decision also comes amid discussions in Europe regarding the use of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, highlighting the current tensions.
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President Donald Trump’s right hand has been visibly bandaged for five consecutive days, sparking renewed concern about his health. The bandages were spotted at multiple events throughout the week, including a Cabinet meeting and the Kennedy Center Honors. The White House has previously attributed bruising on his hand to aspirin use and frequent handshakes. The president’s health has been the subject of speculation due to the lack of transparency surrounding his physical exams.
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The Interior Department has mandated that national parks review and remove gift shop items related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to maintain “neutral spaces” for all visitors. This directive aligns with broader efforts following executive actions by President Donald Trump targeting DEI programs across the federal government. Parks have until December 19 to review all retail items, a process confirmed by the Interior Department to ensure items inconsistent with the order are removed. The initiative has drawn criticism from groups like the National Parks Conservation Association, who view it as an attempt to “sanitize, soften or erase history.”
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In Bali, Indonesia, British sex worker Bonnie Blue, along with 14 men, has been arrested following a police raid. The arrests, stemming from alleged creation of X-rated material, occurred due to Indonesia’s strict morality laws. While most of the arrested men have been released, one Australian and two British men remain in custody. This incident follows Blue’s previous ban from Australia, and an OnlyFans ban, due to provocative content and plans to film explicit material.
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The government of Benin successfully thwarted a coup attempt by a group of soldiers, as announced by the Interior Minister. The soldiers had broadcast their intention to suspend the constitution and oust President Patrice Talon, but loyalist forces quickly regained control. The attempted coup follows a series of similar events in West Africa, raising regional security concerns. President Talon, who is due to leave office next year, has faced accusations of suppressing dissent, and the coup plotters cited concerns about his governance.
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New data reveals that over one-third of the approximately 220,000 individuals arrested by ICE during the first nine months of the Trump administration had no criminal history, contradicting the administration’s stated focus on criminals. This data, obtained through a lawsuit, indicates that nearly 75,000 people without criminal records were swept up in immigration operations, despite the administration’s claims of targeting violent offenders. The figures show that ICE field offices were under pressure to increase arrests, though they fell short of daily targets set by White House officials. Additionally, the data highlights that Mexican nationals accounted for the largest share of arrests, and the ongoing enforcement is having a significant impact on companies that employ migrant workers.
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Several political issues are currently drawing attention. Kash Patel is facing criticism, and Democrats are scrutinizing him further. Former President Trump is escalating attacks and taking action on immigration while also experiencing low approval ratings among young voters. Additionally, there’s division over a Caribbean boat strike video, and negotiations are ongoing regarding peace talks between the U.S. and Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
ICE Arrests: Nearly 75,000 With No Criminal Records, Data Shows
New data reveals that over one-third of the approximately 220,000 individuals arrested by ICE during the first nine months of the Trump administration had no criminal history, contradicting the administration’s stated focus on criminals. This data, obtained through a lawsuit, indicates that nearly 75,000 people without criminal records were swept up in immigration operations, despite the administration’s claims of targeting violent offenders. The figures show that ICE field offices were under pressure to increase arrests, though they fell short of daily targets set by White House officials. Additionally, the data highlights that Mexican nationals accounted for the largest share of arrests, and the ongoing enforcement is having a significant impact on companies that employ migrant workers.
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