During a Sunday interview, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem struggled to address the fact that the suspected National Guard shooter’s asylum request was approved during the Trump administration. Noem instead shifted blame to the Biden administration, stating that vetting procedures were lacking under Biden, despite the asylum being granted in April after Trump had assumed office. The shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, arrived in the U.S. in 2021 and is accused of firing on National Guard members, resulting in one fatality. Critics on social media have also pointed to the appointment of Thomas Fugate, a former landscaper, to head up U.S. terror prevention as a potential security concern.
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Responding to a reporter’s question about pardoning a drug trafficker, the subject feigned ignorance and struggled to offer a clear justification. The subject then stated that the request came from Honduras, suggesting it was a political maneuver orchestrated by individuals associated with the current administration. The subject’s response continued with a rambling explanation, implying that the subject had been influenced by external pressures.
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The upcoming special election in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, a Republican stronghold, has become surprisingly competitive. Democrats are pouring significant resources into the race, aiming to capitalize on a shift in political dynamics. Despite the Republican candidate, Matt Van Epps, leading in polls, the race is tightening, evidenced by a recent poll showing a narrow lead. The shift is also reflected in the fact that the Republican candidate is distancing himself from Trump. A close result could signal trouble for Republicans in other districts, highlighting the potential consequences of Trump’s declining favorability in the area.
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Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national and former member of a CIA-backed unit, is accused of shooting two National Guard members near Washington, D.C. The alleged attack occurred after Lakanwal struggled with mental health issues, financial hardship, and a perceived lack of support from the U.S. government. Having served with the CIA in Afghanistan and resettled in the United States, Lakanwal faced difficulties finding employment and accessing immigration services. Despite undergoing extensive vetting, he was reportedly experiencing isolation and sought help from a CIA program for veterans, though his requests appear to have been ignored.
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During a press conference aboard Air Force One, former President Donald Trump responded defensively to questions about a recent MRI scan. When asked about which part of his body was scanned, Trump claimed ignorance, stating it “wasn’t the brain” and highlighted his perfect score on a cognitive test. The former president’s response came after questions regarding the release of the MRI results, prompted by Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and included criticism of the reporters present. While the White House has not yet provided specifics regarding the MRI, Trump’s response has drawn criticism from medical professionals.
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President Trump is scheduled to hold a White House meeting to discuss the next steps regarding Venezuela, as the administration faces increased scrutiny over its actions. The meeting will include key members of Trump’s cabinet and national security team amidst growing questions about the legality of US strikes on alleged drug vessels in the region. Reports suggest a second strike on a suspected drug vessel, following an initial attack that did not kill everyone on board, is being investigated by lawmakers who are questioning the chain of command and the Secretary of Defense’s authorization. The administration has defended the strikes as self-defense conducted in international waters, while also designating Maduro and allies as members of a foreign terrorist organization.
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The White House confirmed Admiral Frank M. Bradley ordered the second strike on the alleged drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean, which resulted in the death of two survivors. This confirmation follows reports and allegations that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth commanded military personnel to “kill everybody” on board. While Leavitt stated Bradley was within his authority, the Pentagon’s Law of War Manual prohibits attacking the wounded, sick, or shipwrecked. This incident has led to increased scrutiny, with members of Congress and experts calling for investigations into potential war crimes amidst growing questions about the Trump administration’s lethal campaign.
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A recent Yahoo/YouGov poll indicates that a significant number of Americans believe President Trump’s actions have raised prices rather than lowered them, with a nearly two-to-one ratio reflecting this sentiment. The survey also reveals more Americans blame Trump for inflation compared to his predecessor. The poll, conducted with 1,684 U.S. adults, also shows disapproval of his handling of the cost of living and the economy, along with a drop in consumer sentiment. Additionally, his implementation of import tariffs received low scores, with most respondents believing they have done more harm than good in the short and long term.
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A recently released report, compiled by current and former FBI agents and analysts, paints a negative picture of FBI Director Kash Patel’s first six months, citing his leadership as “dismal” and the agency as “rudderless.” The 115-page dossier, based on information from 24 anonymous sources, criticizes Patel’s perceived insecurity, lack of experience, and focus on personal image, including ordering polygraph tests and demanding a raid jacket. The report, prepared for House and Senate judiciary committees, also calls out Deputy Director Dan Bongino, with sources stating that both spend too much time on social media and PR. The report also highlights discontent within the FBI regarding Trump’s pardons of January 6th defendants and agents being forced to participate in immigration raids.
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John Q. Hosedrinker