Judge Denies Motion to Reopen Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Immigration Case
So, let’s unpack this whole Kilmar Abrego Garcia situation, shall we? The bottom line is the judge – and it’s crucial to remember that this is an *immigration* judge, not a judge in the traditional sense – denied the motion to reopen his immigration case. It’s a decision that’s rippling with controversy and, frankly, a lot of outrage.
The central issue seems to be the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) intention to deport Abrego Garcia. The DHS sent a notice to his attorneys saying they *may* deport him to Uganda. Notice the language there: “may.”… Continue reading
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has drawn criticism for a social media campaign that used Pokémon imagery to promote ICE deportation raids. The campaign, which included a video set to the Pokémon theme song and mocked-up “cards” featuring arrested individuals, was met with backlash, with users questioning whether DHS obtained permission from Nintendo. This move follows a reported media offensive to bolster the image of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, and also mirrors previous instances of the DHS and the Trump administration using unlicensed intellectual property without permission. The use of unauthorized IP has previously resulted in complaints and legal action.
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Following reports of policy-induced chaos within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Secretary Kristi Noem reportedly berated officials and used profanity. These issues stemmed from Noem’s decision to personally approve all payments over $100,000, leading to significant delays in crucial aid, as well as lapses in essential contracts. Reportedly, Noem and her de facto chief of staff, Corey Lewandowski, displayed disrespectful behavior toward DHS staff, with Lewandowski taking a heavy hand in contract management and personnel decisions. Multiple sources confirm the culture at DHS is in turmoil, with the White House expressing concerns about their management style.
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On Thursday, a group of New York elected officials, including Comptroller Brad Lander and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, were detained by Department of Homeland Security agents during a protest at federal immigration courts in Lower Manhattan. The officials were arrested after attempting to inspect holding cells for immigrants and demanding access to the facilities. According to Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas, the group’s actions were in response to the “terrorizing” of New York communities by federal agents. DHS officials stated the actions were a publicity stunt, while others claimed the actions were necessary to protect immigrants’ rights.
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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has controversially declared that filming and posting videos of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents constitutes “violence” and has threatened potential charges against those who record immigration raids, despite First Amendment protections. While the First Amendment generally protects the right to record law enforcement activities in public, the DHS’s stance has drawn criticism. This is further highlighted by incidents, such as the June arrest and detention of a PhD student who was documenting an ICE raid, who claims he was attacked by agents. The ACLU of Illinois has since clarified that recording ICE activity in public is a protected right and encourages people to do so safely.
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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Trump administration is claiming that the act of filming ICE agents and posting these videos online constitutes “violence.” DHS officials argue that such actions are “doxing” and will be prosecuted. This stance follows DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s expanded definition of violence to include any action that threatens DHS agents, including videotaping. Civil rights experts, however, contend that this interpretation contradicts First Amendment rights, and may lack factual basis. Despite these concerns, DHS has a large budget and has seen an increase in reported rights violations in immigration detention facilities.
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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering deploying federal troops to Republican-led cities to curb violent crime, according to Secretary Kristi Noem. This announcement comes amidst President Trump’s initiative to combat crime, particularly in major cities, and follows deployments to cities like Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles. Data reveals that several Republican-led cities have high crime rates, prompting criticism of the administration’s focus on Democrat-led areas. Noem stated that deployment decisions are based on safety assessments, not political affiliation, as the DHS prepares to announce further troop deployments.
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Following the latest *South Park* episode which mercilessly satirized Secretary Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has refrained from public comment, marking a stark contrast to its prior engagement with the show. Previously, DHS had utilized *South Park* teasers to promote ICE recruitment efforts, highlighting the need for agents. The episode depicted Noem as a glamorous ICE agent who shot puppies and made xenophobic comments, drawing a clear connection to real-world events. Despite the controversial portrayal, DHS has remained silent, only referencing a pre-episode statement related to recruitment, and has not responded to requests for further comment.
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The Department of Homeland Security is eliminating the age limit for new Immigration and Customs Enforcement recruits, as announced in a recent press release. This decision allows individuals as young as 18 to join ICE. To attract candidates, ICE is offering incentives such as signing bonuses and loan forgiveness. Following the recruitment efforts, DHS reported a significant influx of applications.
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Thomas Fugate, a 22-year-old with no counterterrorism experience and a background as a Trump campaign volunteer, now heads the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) terrorism prevention office, the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3). His appointment has raised concerns, especially given his prior investigation for allegedly sending threatening messages. The CP3, once led by experienced professionals, has been significantly altered under the current administration, leading to internal unease and criticism of Fugate’s leadership style. Although the DHS has labeled the appointment as temporary, insiders suggest limited support for Fugate’s long-term role.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker