Cybersecurity experts are cautioning the public about a recent breach of a US state’s National Guard network by the Salt Typhoon cyber espionage group. The DoD revealed the group maintained access for almost a year, potentially accessing sensitive military and law enforcement data, including administrator credentials and network diagrams. This data theft included configuration files for critical national infrastructure organizations and state government agencies, raising concerns about potential follow-on attacks. The incident, part of a larger campaign linked to Chinese-backed hackers, highlights the group’s proficiency and the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures, including Zero Trust adoption and breach containment strategies across all US government networks.
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US military to remove 2,000 National Guard troops from Los Angeles, a move that sparks a mix of reactions, from relief to cynicism. The initial deployment, a matter of contention from the start, is now winding down, leaving many to question the purpose and effectiveness of the whole operation. Was it a genuine attempt to quell unrest, or was there another agenda at play?
The fact that these troops, primarily engaged in what appeared to be passive observation, are returning home is not surprising to many. Some commentators highlight the lack of clear objectives and the perception that the troops were essentially “standing around” while seemingly doing nothing productive.… Continue reading
Following Vice President Vance’s visit to Los Angeles, where he accused Governor Newsom of inciting violence during immigration raids, Newsom challenged Vance to a debate. Vance’s accusations stemmed from ICE raids and subsequent protests, prompting the deployment of National Guard troops, a move Newsom opposed. The debate challenge follows a contentious political climate surrounding immigration enforcement and the legal battles over federal control of the National Guard. Vance’s visit also included an incident where he misidentified Senator Padilla, further escalating tensions.
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A federal appeals court temporarily blocked a lower court’s order requiring President Trump to relinquish control of approximately 4,000 California National Guard members he federalized. The appeals court found it likely that the President lawfully exercised his authority under 10 U.S.C. § 12406, rejecting Governor Newsom’s claims of legal violations. While the court acknowledged some procedural irregularities, it deemed them inconsequential given the deferential standard of review afforded to the President’s actions regarding national security. The ruling, however, did not fully accept the Justice Department’s arguments regarding judicial oversight.
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Seven hundred troops have been deployed to support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, providing logistical and administrative aid but not participating in law enforcement. This deployment follows a recent surge in ICE raids across these states, resulting in numerous arrests and deportations. The move comes amidst rising immigration enforcement spending, despite budget concerns and opposition from some, including Elon Musk. These actions are part of the Trump administration’s broader anti-immigration agenda.
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Senator Alex Padilla’s forceful removal from a DHS news conference highlights the administration’s potential for unchecked actions beyond public view. His ejection, despite his clear identification as a U.S. Senator, raises concerns about how individuals without such status are treated. Padilla sought answers regarding the federalization of the National Guard and the targeting of undocumented immigrants for deportation, questions met with inadequate responses. This incident underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability from the administration.
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Judge Charles Breyer ruled President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles illegal, citing violations of the Tenth Amendment and exceeding presidential authority. The order returns control of the California National Guard to the state, effective immediately. Breyer’s decision also highlighted threats to protesters’ First Amendment rights and the state’s inability to utilize the Guard for essential services. The Trump administration has appealed the ruling, while Governor Newsom warned of a broader threat to state sovereignty and democracy nationwide.
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A federal judge ruled President Trump’s federalization of the California National Guard illegal, ordering the immediate return of control to Governor Newsom. This action, unprecedented in U.S. history, involved approximately 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines deployed to quell anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. The judge found Trump’s actions exceeded his statutory authority and violated the Tenth Amendment, citing the absence of conditions justifying federal intervention. While a temporary stay allows the administration to appeal, a hearing is scheduled for June 20th to consider a more permanent injunction.
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LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell refuted President Trump’s claim that the Los Angeles Police Department requested National Guard intervention for immigration protests. McDonnell stated that the LAPD followed established protocols, utilizing internal resources and mutual aid from other agencies before considering such a request, a stage they haven’t reached. He emphasized the department’s ability to handle the situation without federal assistance, directly contradicting Trump’s assertion of necessity. The White House has yet to respond to requests for comment.
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Following ICE raids in Los Angeles, protests erupted, prompting President Trump to illegally federalize the National Guard and deploy 2,000 Marines, despite Governor Newsom’s objection and the absence of any rebellion. This action, deemed unlawful by legal experts and military leaders, risks escalating the situation due to the Marines’ lack of crowd-control training. Newsom subsequently filed a lawsuit challenging the deployment, while the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act further heightens concerns about the use of the military against civilians. This unprecedented mobilization presents a significant legal and ethical dilemma for service members.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood