The US State Department has revoked over 6,000 international student visas due to violations of US law and overstays, with “assault, driving under the influence (DUI), burglary and “support for terrorism” cited as the most common violations. This action aligns with the Trump administration’s ongoing crackdown on immigration and international students. Specifically, the State Department revoked approximately 4,000 visas for breaking the law and another 200-300 related to terrorism. These revocations follow a pause in visa appointments and the implementation of enhanced social media screening, which aims to identify any expression of hostility or support for terrorism.
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Following changes to the Save plan under the Trump administration, many borrowers are feeling the financial strain of resumed loan interest and increased monthly payments. Faith, a 33-year-old, and Jennifer, a 34-year-old, are among those now facing difficult choices, with some, like Jennifer, needing to seek financial help. Others, such as Sedona, a 30-year-old lawyer, are staying in the plan, even with the added interest, struggling to balance debt with basic living expenses. Chris, 46, is also staying in the Save plan, managing his debt and other expenses. Many of those impacted feel the changes are hindering their financial progress and long-term goals.
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A lawsuit has been filed against the U.S. Department of State by a coalition of LGBTQ+ and human rights organizations for failing to release congressionally mandated reports on international human rights abuses. The reports, required annually, are a crucial source of information on human rights conditions globally, informing policy decisions. The lawsuit alleges that the administration is attempting to conceal information by withholding the reports and instructing employees to omit common human rights violations. Leaked reports reveal significant omissions and alterations, particularly concerning countries favored by the administration, leading to accusations of a deliberate cover-up to protect specific nations and their actions.
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Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has approved the deployment of approximately 200 Mississippi National Guard soldiers to Washington, D.C. The purpose of the deployment is to support President Trump’s initiative to restore law and order in the nation’s capital. This action follows President Trump’s executive order to federalize local police forces and activate about 800 District of Columbia National Guard members. The governor believes the Mississippi National Guard will effectively enhance public safety and support law enforcement in the city.
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A federal judge denied the Justice Department’s motion to unseal Ghislaine Maxwell grand jury transcripts, viewing the DOJ’s transparency claims as insincere. This rejection highlights a new lawsuit filed by Democracy Forward, aiming to uncover the Trump administration’s handling of the Epstein matter. The lawsuit, filed in Washington, D.C., seeks to compel the government to comply with the Freedom of Information Act regarding communications and records. Democracy Forward alleges the government violated FOIA by not expediting their requests due to the widespread public interest and potential integrity concerns surrounding the Epstein case.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request concerning the Trump administration’s deployment of federal agents near a recent event in Los Angeles. Newsom’s office believes the administration is attempting to intimidate those defending the electoral process, particularly after the presence of ICE officers was noted. The FOIA also seeks information on communications with Fox News regarding the embedding of a reporter with the ICE agents. Newsom has described Trump’s actions as a dangerous step toward authoritarianism, citing the tactics of despots in Russia and North Korea.
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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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In a significant escalation of federal intervention, West Virginia, South Carolina, and Ohio are deploying hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington D.C. The Republican governors of these states are sending personnel at the request of the Trump administration to assist with law enforcement and bolster the federal crackdown on crime and homelessness. These actions follow President Trump’s executive order federalizing local police forces and activating D.C. National Guard members, sparking protests in the city. The added troops are intended to provide support in patrolling landmarks and assisting with tasks such as crowd control.
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Following an immigration raid at a Home Depot in Monrovia, a man fleeing from federal agents was struck and killed by a vehicle on a Los Angeles freeway, prompting outrage and calls for accountability. Democrats, including Senator Sasha Renée Pérez and Congresswoman Judy Chu, condemned the Trump administration’s immigration policies, citing the incident as a consequence of the administration’s actions. Protests erupted at the Home Depot, as approximately 50 people gathered to express their dissent. While the Department of Homeland Security stated the man was not being pursued by law enforcement, the incident has sparked debate over the impact of immigration raids on vulnerable communities.
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The West Virginia National Guard (WVNG) will deploy 300-400 personnel to Washington, D.C., at the request of the Trump administration, supporting the President’s initiative to “restore cleanliness and safety” in the nation’s capital. The mission, led by Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, will be funded federally and include mission-essential equipment and specialized training. This deployment follows President Trump’s move to expand federal authority within the District, raising concerns about the loss of local autonomy. Governor Morrisey expressed West Virginia’s support for the mission, emphasizing a commitment to a strong and secure America.
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John Q. Hosedrinker