As a long-time government employee, the news of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle the federal agency that tracks hurricanes strikes a nerve with me. The reasoning behind this decision seems absurd at best and utterly dangerous at worst. Why would anyone think it’s a good idea to abolish a crucial agency responsible for monitoring and predicting one of the most destructive natural disasters on the planet?
The fact that this move is driven by the desire to privatize the functions of the NOAA raises major red flags. Privatizing such essential services opens the door for exploitation by billionaire contractors who are more concerned with profits than public safety.… Continue reading
The New Biden administration rule aims to end the so-called ‘gun show loophole’. As someone who has frequented gun shows and understands the process of purchasing firearms, I can attest to the fact that dealers at these shows are required to conduct background checks, just like they would at their brick-and-mortar stores. The misconception surrounding the ‘gun show loophole’ seems to stem from private sellers, who may not be subject to the same regulations. However, the majority of transactions at gun shows involve licensed dealers who follow stringent guidelines to ensure compliance with the law.
The idea that background checks infringe upon Second Amendment rights is a common argument against stricter gun obtaining laws.… Continue reading
I can’t help but shake my head at the sheer stupidity and recklessness that led to a man getting critically wounded with his own gun in a fight aboard a New York City subway. The chain of events that unfolded is like something out of a movie, but unfortunately, it was all too real. The man, who police say was 36, started the confrontation by being aggressive and provocative towards another man, escalating the situation to violence. This kind of behavior is a prime example of toxic masculinity and the dangerous consequences that can result from it.
What strikes me the most is the fact that the man resorted to pulling out a gun in an attempt to ‘win’ the confrontation.… Continue reading
As a resident of a bustling city like New York, the safety and security of its public spaces, especially the subway system, are paramount. Recently, Governor Hochul announced plans to deploy the National Guard in the New York City subway in a crackdown on crime. This decision has sparked various reactions and opinions from the public.
Given the magnitude of the NYPD budget and the number of police officers in the city, some may question the necessity of involving the National Guard in law enforcement activities. With over 36,000 cops in New York City, one might wonder what exactly these resources are being utilized for if additional measures are still deemed necessary to address rising crime rates, particularly assaults in the subway.… Continue reading
As I read the heartbreaking news about a child predator allegedly attacking again after the city of Kelowna was left unwarned of his release, my heart breaks for the victims and their families. Looking at the comments and reactions from the public, it is clear that the overwhelming sentiment is that individuals like this should never be released back into society.
The idea of rehabilitation for criminals is a noble concept, and I am a firm believer in giving people a second chance. However, when it comes to individuals who prey on innocent children, it becomes a different story entirely. The comments about how child predators cannot be rehabilitated resonated with me, as it is a sentiment that seems to be echoed by many.… Continue reading
Living in Louisiana, I have heard about the recent declaration of a state of emergency due to the shortage of police officers in the state. It’s a perplexing situation for many, considering the ubiquitous presence of law enforcement officers seemingly around every corner. The question that arises in my mind is about priorities – do we want robust public services or do we want to save on taxes? It’s a tough choice to make, especially in a state facing critical shortages not just in law enforcement but also in other essential sectors like the judiciary system.
Looking at the statistics, it’s disheartening to see that police officer salaries in Louisiana are among the lowest in the country, with an annual median salary that falls short of providing a decent standard of living.… Continue reading
I wake up to the devastating news. Another senseless act of violence has taken place, this time at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl celebration. It is a tragedy that hits close to home, as the victim was not just an ordinary person but a popular radio DJ. As I read through the articles and browse through the comments, a mix of disbelief, anger, and sadness washes over me.
She went out to have fun and ended up dead. This is cruelty at the highest level. I can’t wrap my head around the fact that someone would bring a gun to a celebration meant to honor the achievements of a sports team.… Continue reading
I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sadness and frustration when I read about the story of Rongxin Liao, the 87-year-old crime victim who has decided to move back to China after enduring multiple vicious attacks in San Francisco. It’s disheartening to see that someone who has lived a long and full life is forced to leave behind the place they once called home due to the rising public safety concerns.
As I try to comprehend the motives behind these assaults, I find myself grappling with the concept of humanity. How can someone find it within themselves to randomly assault an elderly person, let alone someone as frail and vulnerable as Rongxin Liao?… Continue reading
The recent incident of five asylum-seekers being arrested for assaulting police officers in Times Square has left me feeling frustrated and concerned. As a law-abiding citizen, I find it difficult to comprehend how individuals who have already displayed violent behavior in the past are not facing more severe consequences for their actions.
One of the assailants, Reveron, has a criminal history that includes assaulting employees in two separate incidents. Yet, instead of being immediately arrested and deported after his first assault, he was allowed to continue his violent behavior. This raises questions about the effectiveness of our asylum system and whether individuals who engage in such acts should be denied asylum altogether.… Continue reading
As news of the arrest of a 17-year-old alleged ‘serial swatter’ broke, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of shock and frustration. The young individual, identified as Alan Filion, is accused of making threatening calls and false reports, targeting various institutions including mosques, colleges, and government agencies throughout the country. The severity and extent of his alleged actions are deeply unsettling and raise larger concerns about the safety of our society.
One key aspect that struck me is the potential classification of swatting as attempted murder. Filion has been charged with multiple felonies, including false reporting and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, while facilitating or furthering an act of terrorism.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker