The Department of Homeland Security, under Secretary Kristi Noem, purchased two luxury Gulfstream G700 jets for $172 million, citing safety concerns and the aging of existing aircraft. Despite the Coast Guard’s request for a single, less expensive jet, this purchase is raising questions about the source of funding and the necessity of two jets, particularly amidst a government shutdown. Democrats are criticizing the expenditure as lavish, with concerns voiced by Representatives DeLauro and Underwood, who have requested clarification on the funding source. This spending follows scrutiny of Noem’s previous use of taxpayer funds, including renovations to the governor’s mansion and personal travel costs while she was governor of South Dakota.
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The Supreme Court is projected to exhaust its funding on October 18, leading to a public closure of the building, though essential operations will continue. Federal courts are anticipated to run out of funds by October 20, prompting the continuation of essential activities, though staff may not be paid. Jury programs and the Public Access to Court Electronic Records will remain operational, and courts can use existing funds for limited additional work. Individual courts will decide case schedules, and the duration of the shutdown remains uncertain due to ongoing political disagreements.
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Exclusive: ICE, Border Patrol agents to receive pay during government shutdown. That’s right, while a government shutdown is underway, and many federal employees are left in the lurch, there’s news that ICE and Border Patrol agents are slated to receive their paychecks. It raises a lot of questions, especially considering the circumstances and the broader implications. It’s almost unbelievable that this is happening, particularly when the details begin to unfold.
Exclusive: ICE, Border Patrol agents to receive pay during government shutdown brings up a crucial point: the funding source. Reports indicate that the government isn’t forthcoming about exactly where the money is coming from to cover these salaries.… Continue reading
The Trump administration has issued letters to nine universities, requesting that they commit to a “compact” that aligns with the administration’s political objectives to retain federal funding. The compact demands tuition freezes, restrictions on international student enrollment, and adherence to the administration’s gender definitions. Schools must also avoid policies that could be perceived as hostile to conservative viewpoints. In exchange for compliance, the administration promises “multiple positive benefits,” offering a competitive advantage in securing grants, while threatening consequences for non-compliance.
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The Trump administration is withholding approximately $18 billion in federal funds earmarked for major infrastructure projects in New York City, citing concerns over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) confirmed the pause on the Second Avenue Subway extension and the Hudson Tunnel project while it reviews whether the projects have implemented “race- and sex-based contracting requirements”. The department stated that funding would be held back pending these administrative reviews, which they say are unconstitutional. The federal government attributes these delays to the federal government shutdown, placing blame on Democratic officials and thus causing these delays.
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The Trump administration has paused approximately $18 billion in funding for a new rail tunnel under the Hudson River and the Second Avenue subway project, citing concerns over unconstitutional diversity, equity, and inclusion principles. The U.S. Transportation Department confirmed the review was halted due to the government shutdown, a situation the administration attributed to “radical Democrats.” This move appears to target Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who had previously expressed enthusiasm for the rail tunnel project. New York officials have criticized the decision, with Governor Kathy Hochul stating it prioritizes cultural interpretations over national needs.
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An escalating Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s southwestern province has resulted in at least 57 cases and 35 deaths, with a 61 percent fatality rate. The first case was identified in late August, and the outbreak was officially declared in early September. The province’s poor infrastructure and overwhelmed health facilities, including a treatment center exceeding capacity, are hindering response efforts. Health responders are struggling to contain the disease due to a critical lack of funding and resources, emphasizing the urgent need for increased support from partners and donors.
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The use of National Guard troops for expanded immigration roundups and policing actions, driven by President Trump, is incurring significant costs. These deployments are drawing from funds intended for crucial training and operational readiness. State National Guard units are seeking additional funding to cover expenses, facing potential financial liabilities that could hinder their ability to respond to emergencies. Concerns are also raised about the timely compensation of National Guard members, with potential financial hardships for those deployed.
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Vermont Governor Phil Scott has denied a second request from the Trump administration to utilize the Vermont National Guard. The Department of Defense sought to deploy “a few dozen” troops to Washington, D.C., as part of a crackdown on crime, but Governor Scott declined, citing concerns about the appropriate use of resources. This follows a previous rejection of a request to have troops perform clerical work for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Trump administration’s actions in the capital have drawn legal challenges.
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President Trump signed an executive order granting political appointees control over federal grant awards, potentially impacting billions of dollars. The order mandates agency officials review grants for alignment with priorities and allows for grant termination at any time. Critics argue this undermines the scientific process by injecting politics into funding decisions and delaying crucial research. The administration claims the changes will improve oversight, but experts predict legal challenges and significant disruptions to essential programs like emergency relief and public health initiatives.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Exclusive: ICE, Border Patrol to Receive Pay During Shutdown Amid Funding Concerns
Exclusive: ICE, Border Patrol agents to receive pay during government shutdown. That’s right, while a government shutdown is underway, and many federal employees are left in the lurch, there’s news that ICE and Border Patrol agents are slated to receive their paychecks. It raises a lot of questions, especially considering the circumstances and the broader implications. It’s almost unbelievable that this is happening, particularly when the details begin to unfold.
Exclusive: ICE, Border Patrol agents to receive pay during government shutdown brings up a crucial point: the funding source. Reports indicate that the government isn’t forthcoming about exactly where the money is coming from to cover these salaries.… Continue reading