On Monday night, President Donald Trump signed the Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness executive order, effectively banning transgender people from serving in the military. Trump has done this before during his first administration, an order which was reversed by the Biden administration. Now once again, the militarys estimated 15,000 trans troops are once again facing losing careers, benefits and communities.The executive order comes at the end of a week filled with sweeping actions by Trump, including pardoning some 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants, ending the federal death penalty moratorium and declaring there are only two sexes, male and female. This is in addition to immigration raids taking part across the country.The Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness states the Armed Forces have been afflicted with radical gender ideology to appease activists unconcerned with the requirements of military service like physical and mental health, selflessness, and unit cohesion.The order states that in addition to those undergoing gender affirming care, the mere act of being trans conflicts with a soldiers commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle, even in ones personal life. A mans assertion that he is a woman, and his requirement that others honor this falsehood, is not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member.In response to the order, the Human Rights Campaign and Lambda Legal announced in a joint press release their intentions to sue the Trump administration.Our military service members, including thousands of transgender troops, wear the same uniform, take the same oath, and meet the same rigorous standards. They are heroes who put their lives on the line to protect our countryand we owe them all a debt of gratitude, said Sarah Warbelow, Human Rights Campaign Vice President of Legal.PFLAG National issued the following statement in regards to the ban.Every person who has the courage, the fortitude, and the skill to choose to wear the uniform in service of our country demands our respect and our gratitude, said PFLAG National CEO Brian K. Bond. Last nights action to put transgender service members in the closet revisits the failed military policy of Dont Ask, Dont Tell and demonstrates the extent of the presidents disdain for those who serve. Our nation owes transgender members of the military, Coast Guard, and their families the same solemn duty as every service member: to ensure their ability to patriotically serve is not hampered by politics or personal agenda. PFLAG continues to fight for the right for every transgender service member to serve openly, as we have for decades.SPARTA Pride, Community of Transgender Americans Serving In The Military, also issued a statement.Transgender service members currently fill critical roles in combat arms, aviation, nuclear engineering, law enforcement, and military intelligence, many requiring years of specialized training and expertise. Transgender troops have deployed to combat zones, served in high- stakes missions, and demonstrated their ability to strengthen unit cohesion and morale.While some transgender troops do have surgery, the recovery time and cost is minimal, and is scheduled so as not to impact deployments or mission readiness (all of which is similar to a non-emergent minor knee surgery). The readiness and physical capabilities of transgender service members is not different from that of other service members.Former service member and LGBTQ+ advocate Charlotte Clymer took to Bluesky to share her thoughts on the trans military ban, which is expected to begin implementation in the next 30-60 days.Removing trans people from our military will only weaken our national security, erasing billions in personnel development and expertise, significantly harming our militarys recruitment and retention efforts, and ultimately making our country less prepared against threats, said Clymer. It will make us less safe.The post Trump signs executive order effectively banning trans people from serving appeared first on News Is Out.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Miami to Joint Base Andrews, Md., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, as White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt listens. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T17:39:25Z ATLANTA (AP) A White House order to freeze federal grants reflects a theory of presidential power that Donald Trump clearly endorsed during his 2024 campaign. The approach was further outlined in the Project 2025 governing treatise that candidate Trump furiously denied was a blueprint for his second administration.At face value, the Monday evening memo from Matthew Vaeth, acting director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, is meant to bring federal spending in line with Trumps executive actions, notably on LGBTQ+ issues, civil rights, energy and environmental policy.Vaeths memo invoked nakedly ideological terms: The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve. The memo could affect operations that go well beyond policy areas Vaeth singled out. It is a potential blueprint for how Trump could try to wield executive power throughout his presidency.Here is an explanation: OMB is a critical power centerThe president and his conservative allies made clear long before Vaeths memo that they see the Office of Management and Budget as a linchpin of power across the federal government.Part of the Executive Office of the President, the OMB staff prepares the presidents budget recommendations to Congress and oversees implementation of the presidents priorities across all Executive Branch agencies. Lawmakers pass appropriations but executive agencies carry out federal programs and services. The overall process puts OMB on the front and back end of federal government strategy. Project 2025 authors, including Trumps pick for OMB chief, Russell Vought, emphasized this function. Writing the Project 2025 chapter on presidential authority, Vought, who awaits Senate confirmation, made clear that he wants the post to wield more direct power. The Director must view his job as the best, most comprehensive approximation of the Presidents mind, Vought wrote. The OMB, he declared, is a Presidents air-traffic control system and should be involved in all aspects of the White House policy process, becoming powerful enough to override implementing agencies bureaucracies.Elsewhere, Project 2025 authors call for all presidential appointees to control unaccountable federal spending and set a course from the West Wing to subdue what Trump often calls the Deep State of government civil servants.The Administrative State is not going anywhere until Congress acts to retrieve its own power from bureaucrats and the White House, they wrote. In the meantime, there are many executive tools a courageous conservative president can use to handcuff the bureaucracy (and) bring the Administrative State to heel. Trump has declared himself the final arbiter of government spendingIn some ways, the president and his campaign went farther than Project 2025 in asserting presidential power over federal purse strings. In his Agenda 47, Trump endorsed impoundment. That legal theory holds that when lawmakers pass appropriations to fulfill their duties laid out in Article I of the Constitution, they simply set a spending ceiling, but not a floor. The president, the logic goes, can simply decide not to spend money on anything he deems unnecessary, because Article II of the Constitution gives the president the role of executing the laws that Congress passes. Congress acted during Richard Nixons presidency to reject impoundment theory. But Trumps circle wants to challenge that potentially setting up a constitutional fight that would require the Supreme Court to weigh in.Vought did not venture into impoundment in his Project 2025 chapter. But, he wrote that the president should use every possible tool to propose and impose fiscal discipline on the federal government. Anything short of that would constitute abject failure. The grants memo is a key clue to how DOGE could workThe presidents path to impose spending cuts quickly now has become clearer. Elon Musk, leading Trumps new Department of Government Efficiency, has suggested he could find federal spending cuts measuring in the trillions, even as Trump has promised to protect Social Security and Medicare. (That pledge was reflected in the memo pausing federal grants.) The OMB memo, Trumps theory of impoundment, and his efforts to strip thousands of federal employees of their civil service protections all add up to a concentration of power in the West Wing that could define his second administration and Musks part in it.For example, Trump cannot on his own repeal legislation like the Clean Air Act or the Clean Water Act. But OMB could effectively cut off money for the programs, jobs and contractors necessary to enforce those laws. (Trump already has issued a wide-ranging federal hiring freeze.)Similarly, Trump does not have to persuade Congress to change Medicaid laws and appropriations if the White House steps in to adjust or stop Medicaid payments to state governments that administer the programs at ground level. BILL BARROW Bill Barrow covers U.S. politics. He is based in Atlanta. twitter mailto

Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen as President Donald Trump speaks at the 2025 House Republican Members Conference dinner at Trump National Doral Miami in Doral, Fla., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T17:31:06Z MESA, Ariz. (AP) Enrique Lopez votes sporadically but bought into Donald Trumps vows to fight for everyday workers, helping the Republican flip Arizona last year. Then the home construction contractor watched how the billionaire president opened his second administration.So, the rich control the poor, I guess. They do whatever they want. They get away with it, Lopez said after seeing Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, and other tech moguls, notably Metas Mark Zuckerberg and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, at Trumps limited-seating, indoor inauguration.The 56-year-old Lopez, a resident of the Phoenix exurb of Apache Junction, said he was also struck by the presidents lack of emphasis on housing costs or consumer interests: I didnt hear anything about helping people out.Trump insists his overall agenda will help working- and middle-class Americans notably his executive orders intended to goose domestic energy production and, he reasons, lower consumer costs. Days into his return to power, however, reactions from some voters highlight how difficult it could be for Trump to maintain his populist appeal alongside his embrace of fellow billionaires as well as tariffs and other policies that could stoke the very inflation he criticized as a candidate. According to AP VoteCast, voters whose total household income in 2023 was under $50,000 were split between Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, while Trump won more than half of voters whose total household income was between $50,000 and $99,999 and Harris won among voters whose household income was $100,000 or more. The median annual household income in the U.S. is about $81,000. More than half of voters without a college degree supported Trump in the 2024 election, while a similar share of voters with a college degree supported Harris. The Associated Press spoke to a dozen voters in Arizona about Trumps inauguration and his first days in office. Some middle-class Trump voters say that much of what he has done reflects his campaign especially his immigration crackdown and the targeting of LGBTQ-friendly policies. Im happy about that, said Lorrinda Parker, a 65-year-old retired local government worker in Arizona, who said she distrusts both major political parties and voted for Trump because she is concerned about medical treatments for trans children, the economy and what she described as a definitely dangerous U.S.-Mexico border. Yet Parker expressed concerns about the company Trump keeps. The political class, she said, is a little insular world where power brokers are not paying attention to the people.Billionaires, she said, could provide valuable input as presidential advisers. But she likened the inauguration trio to a technocracy, saying they represent elitist thinking, We know more because were so smart, and adding her wish that Trump keep a tight leash on them.The White House did not immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment. U.S. adults broadly think it is a bad thing if the president relies on billionaires for advice about government policy, according to a January AP-NORC poll. About 6 in 10 U.S. adults say this would be a very or somewhat bad thing, while only about 1 in 10 call it a very or somewhat good thing, and about 3 in 10 are neutral. The poll found warning flags specifically for Musk, whom Trump has empowered as chairman of the advisory Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. According to the poll, about one-third of Americans have a favorable view of Musk. That is down slightly from December. Support for the special commission hes helming is similarly low: Only about 3 in 10 U.S. adults strongly or somewhat approve of Trumps creation of DOGE. About 4 in 10 disapprove, while the rest were neutral or didnt know enough to say. (The poll was conducted before Vivek Ramaswamy announced he would no longer be involved in the group.)Democrats and labor-friendly activists, meanwhile, are pointing to Trumps embrace of fellow billionaires at his inauguration as they look for a message to galvanize opposition to the president. You can bring those Gilded Age analogies straight to the fore, said Maurice Mitchell, who leads the progressive Working Families Party. That image tells the story better than a thousand breathless op-eds. ... Once he got the votes and won the election, hes pivoted in a naked and clear way.Mitchell compared the scene with Musk, Zuckerberg and Bezos with Trump backing off since Election Day on pledges to slash consumer prices immediately and refusing to promise that his tariffs wont feed inflation. The president over the weekend reiterated he would push to end income taxes on tips, a key campaign pledge that some Democrats embraced last year. Still, Trump also is determined to extend 2017 tax cuts tilted to corporations and the wealthiest U.S. households, Mitchell noted. There cant be any doubt that Trump 2.0 is a government by, for and with billionaires, he said.Mary Small, who leads the strategy and organizing efforts for the progressive group Indivisible, suggested Musk seemed like he was calling the shots even before the inauguration by pushing House Republicans to spike a December budget deal with then-President Joe Biden. And she noted that Trump seems already to have sided with Musk over rank-in-file MAGA supporters with his support for H-1B visas for highly skilled immigrants. Musk says the quiet part out loud, Mitchell said.But, he added, working-class voters and advocates who are frustrated cannot simply rely on Trumps or other billionaires missteps. In some ways, Trumps and MAGAs hubris is an advantage, he said. We still need to fill in the other gaps and explain the positive direction we want to take the country. JONATHAN J. COOPER Cooper writes about national politics from Arizona and beyond for The Associated Press. Now based in Phoenix, he previously covered politics in Oregon and California. twitter mailto BILL BARROW Bill Barrow covers U.S. politics. He is based in Atlanta. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

President Donald Trump speaks at the 2025 House Republican Members Conference Dinner at Trump National Doral Miami in Doral, Fla., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T19:41:27Z CHAPIN, S.C. (AP) Changeover among federal government agencies is normal when a new administration comes to Washington. But President Donald Trump has implemented sweeping changes in the first days of his second administration, from firing career agency employees to freezing trillions in federal grant funds and halting diversity, equity and inclusion programs that could result in wide-ranging layoffs.At least 240 employees are known to have been fired, reassigned, or designated to be laid off. Thousands of employees could be affected by other moves or the grant funds pause.Heres a comprehensive look at Trumps actions so far: Inspectors generalEach of the federal governments largest agencies has its own inspector general who is supposed to conduct objective audits, prevent fraud and promote efficiency.Trump has fired at least 17 of them across the federal government, including inspectors he appointed in his first term. At least one Democratic appointee Michael Horowitz, appointed to the post at the Justice Department by President Barack Obama was spared.Trump confirmed the move in a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One on Saturday, claiming, its a very common thing to do, and saying that he would put good people in there that will be very good.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called the firings a chilling purge, while GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, a top Trump ally, acknowledged that the firings may have violated the law but said: Just tell them you need to follow the law next time. Federal prosecutorsIts normal for politically appointed U.S. attorneys to be replaced, but not as standard for career prosecutors to be ousted. The Justice Department said Monday that it had fired more than a dozen employees who worked on criminal prosecutions of Trump, abrupt terminations targeting career prosecutors who worked on special counsel Jack Smiths team investigating Trump. The firings were effective immediately.By tradition, career employees remain with the department across presidential administrations regardless of their involvement in sensitive investigations. Multiple senior career officials were also reassigned.It was not immediately clear which prosecutors were affected by the order, or how many who worked on the investigations into Trump remained with the department as Trump took office last week. It was also not immediately known how many of the fired prosecutors intended to challenge the terminations by arguing that the department had cast aside civil service protections afforded to federal employees. National Security CouncilThe National Security Council provides national security and foreign policy advice to the president. Last week, 160 of its career government, nonpolitical employees were sent home while the administration reviews staffing in an attempt to align with Trumps priorities.The employees, commonly referred to as detailees, were summoned for an all-staff call and told they would be expected to be available to the councils senior directors but would not need to report to the White House. Incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz had signaled before Inauguration Day that he would look to return holdover civil servants who worked in the council during President Joe Bidens administration to their home agencies. That was meant to ensure the council is staffed by those who support Trumps goals.State DepartmentA large number of senior career diplomats who served in politically appointed leadership positions as well as in lower-level posts at the State Department left their jobs at the demand of the new administration.It was not immediately clear how many non-political appointees were being asked to leave. Foreign aid and developmentIn his first week in office, Trump issued an executive order directing a 90-day pause on most U.S. foreign assistance disbursed through the State Department. That mean thousands of U.S.-funded humanitarian, development and security programs worldwide stopped work or were preparing to do so; without funds to pay staff, aid organizations were laying off hundreds of employees.A week into the new administration, at least 56 senior officials in the top U.S. aid and development agency were placed on leave amid an investigation into an alleged effort to thwart Trumps move. Speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, a current official and a former official at the U.S. Agency for International Development confirmed to The Associated Press the reason given for the move and also said that several hundred contractors based in Washington and elsewhere were laid off.An internal USAID notice sent late Monday and obtained by AP said new acting administrator Jason Gray had identified several actions within USAID that appear to be designed to circumvent the Presidents Executive Orders and the mandate from the American people.Secretary of State Marco Rubio has specifically exempted only emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt from the freeze on foreign assistance. Diversity, equity and inclusionOn his second day back at the White House, Trump moved to end affirmative action in federal contracting and directed that all federal diversity, equity and inclusion staff be put on paid leave and eventually be laid off.That move followed an executive order Trump signed on his first day ordering a dismantling of the federal governments diversity and inclusion programs that could touch on everything from anti-bias training to funding for minority farmers and homeowners, programs Trump has called discrimination.That action revokes an order issued by President Lyndon Johnson, and curtails DEI programs by federal contractors and grant recipients. Its using one of the key tools utilized by the Biden administration to promote DEI programs across the private sector pushing their use by federal contractors to now eradicate them.While many changes may take months or even years to implement, prominent companies from Walmart to Facebook have already scaled back or ended some of their diversity practices in response to Trumps election and conservative-backed lawsuits against them.By Friday, federal agencies are expected to develop a plan to execute a reduction-in-force action against federal DEI workers in their employ as of Election Day.Federal grants and loansThe White House said Tuesday it was pausing federal grants and loans as Trumps administration begins an across-the-board ideological review.The funding freeze by the Republican administration could affect trillions of dollars and cause widespread disruption in health care research, education programs and other initiatives. Even grants that have been awarded but not spent are supposed to be halted.The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve, said a memo from Matthew Vaeth, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget.Democrats and independent organizations swiftly criticized the administration, describing its actions as capricious and illegal because Congress had already authorized the funding.National Labor Relations BoardA federal agency, the National Labor Relations Board is tasked with preventing unfair labor practices by employers and unions, and protecting the rights of private sector employees. On Tuesday, Trump fired its acting chair, Gwynne Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve as an NLRB member, according to Josh Boxerman, of the National Employment Law Project.Wilcoxs term as a board member was set to run through August 2028. According to national labor law, board members can only be fired for neglect of duty or malfeasance. In a statement to Bloomberg, which first reported her firing, Wilcox said she believed her removal violates long-standing Supreme Court precedent and that she would be pursuing all legal avenues to challenge it.___Ellen Knickmeyer, Matthew Lee, Aamer Madhani and Zeke Miller contributed to this report.___Kinnard can be reached at http://x.com/MegKinnardAP MEG KINNARD Kinnard covers national politics for The Associated Press. She lives in South Carolina. twitter instagram mailto

Former District Attorney Jackie Johnson sits in the courtroom Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, in Brunswick, Georgia, as jury selection begins in her misconduct trial. Johnson is charged with interfering with police investigating the 2020 killing of Ahmaud Arbery. (Michael Hall/The Brunswick News via AP, Pool)2025-01-28T06:01:45Z BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP) A jury of 12 plus three alternates were sworn in Tuesday in the criminal misconduct trial of a former Georgia prosecutor charged with interfering in the police investigation of the 2020 killing of Ahmaud Arbery.White men with guns and pickup trucks chased and fatally shot the running Black man on a neighborhood street after they wrongly suspected he was a thief. The man who started the deadly pursuit had worked for the local district attorney.Now former District Attorney Jackie Johnson has returned to court as a criminal defendant, charged with violating her oath of office, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of hindering police as they investigated Arberys killing. Johnson has denied wrongdoing, saying she immediately handed the case to an outside prosecutor.Senior Judge John R. Turner seated the jury at the Glynn County courthouse a week after jury selection began in the in the port city of Brunswick. It was delayed by a rare winter storm that left the coastal community coated in snow and ice. The jury was to hear opening statements from prosecutors and defense attorneys Tuesday afternoon. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carrs office is prosecuting the case. The judge said he expects Johnsons trial to last two weeks or more. Its being held at the same courthouse where Arberys assailants were convicted of murder in 2021. Father and son Greg and Travis McMichael armed themselves and chased the 25-year-old Arbery in a pickup truck after seeing him run past their house on Feb. 23, 2020. A neighbor, William Roddie Bryan, joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery with a shotgun at point-blank range. Greg McMichael was a retired investigator who had worked for Johnson. He called her roughly an hour after the killing.My son and I have been involved in a shooting, and I need some advice right away, he said in a voicemail left on Johnsons cellphone and later included in court records. More than two months passed with no arrests until Bryans graphic video of the shooting leaked online. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation took over the case from local police and arrested the McMichaels and Bryan on murder charges.Prosecutors say Johnson abused her office by trying to shield the McMichaels. The indictment says Johnson showed favor and affection toward Greg McMichael and interfered with police by directing that Travis McMichael should not be placed under arrest.All three men were sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of murder in 2021. They were also found guilty of federal hate crimes in a separate trial the following year. Johnson was voted out of office in November 2020 after 10 years as district attorney for the five-county Brunswick Judicial Circuit. She largely blamed her defeat on controversy over Arberys killing months earlier.

I wear my Dear Black Gay Men (DBGM) merch everywhere I go. It's something I created and was excited to share with the world. But here's the thingit wasn't always easy for me. When we developed it, I was resistant to wearing something that said "gay" so boldly anywhere that wasn't a homogenous gay space, especially being based in the South. But how could I be the brand ambassador if I wasn't willing to wear the brand? I had been out for decades now, speaking loudly and proudly about being a gay man on my platforms. But something felt incredibly vulnerable, having my identity seen outside the environments I had control of. Learning to step into that discomfort was a process. For weeks, maybe months, I had to force myself to wear the DBGM words in everyday scenarios. Going to the gym, the store, and running errands. I could feel the looks as people tried to process what this merch was trying to say. I felt the weight of people's stares as they tried to make sense of the words, especially because "Dear Black Gay Men" is an intentionally unfinished statement. I began to realize there was safety in blending into the background. For most, it is possible to obscure our sexuality to feel safe or even welcomed. Still, I pushed myself to invite stares and whatever emotions came with it. Most looks were slight disgust, which I absolutely felt. Other less invasive looks were trying to figure out what exactly I was trying to say with these pieces. Both reactions lingered in ways I could feel down to my bones, but I continued to bury these fears and chose to ignore the stares. Then, on January 20, 2025, discomfort became much sharper. The newly sworn-in president of the (dis)United States of America, during his inauguration address, effectively erased a whole population of people with five words, "there are only two genders."Upon hearing this, my first thought went immediately to my friend Hope Giselle. Hope, a Black trans activist and author, is a force. I watched her work tirelessly to improve the lives of trans, gender non-conforming, and women across the country. I've heard her stories of protest and struggle. She's put herself on the line countless times, sharing her struggles and triumphs on social media while never backing down. And with a single sentence, the president essentially erased her, her work, and her identity. It hurt me, but I could only imagine how much more it hurt her and all the men, women, and gender non-conforming folks who were left scared for their futures and the consequences to come from this declaration of invalidation.Two days later, I got ready to head to Las Vegas for this year's Creating Change Conference, a gathering meant to bring together the nation's foremost political leaders, changemakers, and citizens in the LGBTQ+ movement. It was cold, so I wore my favorite DBGM hat and hoodie. I'd done the work to think of this merch as any other shirt and hat in my closet. Only this time, walking through the airport, I felt the invasive sting of onlookers just like I did months ago. It wasn't curiosity and disbelief. It felt like hostility.My hoodie, hat, and I were an affront to a few. The woman in 31D glanced up from Fox News to glare at me; the lady at the terminal turned her face up at me eating my blueberry muffin, and the gate agent looked in shock as if I had a target on my chest. It was as if my hat and hoodie were suddenly an agitator meant to stoke anger. 47 made a statement about gendera topic that so many cisgender queer and gay men feel separate from. He overtly declared war on gender, yet it was a dog whistle with impacts on our entire LGBTQ+ community. I am feeling its cultural sting in real-time. tk captiontk Courtesy AuthorReflecting on the Uber to the hotel, I recalled a conversation I had on a podcast with fellow creators where I listened, exasperated, as cisgender men confidently and disrespectfully misgendered trans women. They created offensive standards of womanhood by claiming trans women must be "passable" or "pretty." They could not understand how offensive and harmful their language was and how it exacerbated the division within queer culture between Black cis and trans, gender non-conforming folks. I sat there hearing my friend Hope Giselle saying in my head, "trans erasure from another Black butch queen."I hear that voice again now.When cis queer men choose apathy toward trans and gender-expansive folks, we align with the oppressor. By failing to stand in solidarity, we create division within our communities. A division those in power ruthlessly exploit. 47's words don't just erase trans identities. They erase all of us. His message of exclusion becomes culture. Culture trickles down to me, to you, to us. It's in the looks, the microaggressions, the broad strokes of prejudice we feel in daily interactions. His war on gender attacks me as a gay Black man just as much as it attacks my trans siblings.Our liberation is entwined.The work I did to make myself comfortable in discomfort is even more crucial, and I know it is something I have to keep pushing forward with. The looks I received remind me how we must all be present and vocal. My team member on DBGM, John, reminds us at every meeting and every show that being Black and gay (or queer, or trans, or all the identities that gay touches) is an innately political act of resistance. Until now, I have given him lip service and acknowledgment. But now I see the importance of his words. Every single day we exist and thrive is a statement in the face of forces that want us erased. I'm blessed to have Hopes and Johns in my life to open my eyes and push me toward these realizations. And the truth I have discovered is this: Any day I fail to fight alongside our trans kin is a day I choose my oppressor's side. And that battle plays out in the mundanethe way we hold space for each other, the discomfort we're willing to endure, and the stares we're brave enough to meet wearing a hoodie and hat that says "Dear Black Gay Men." Our mere existence is resistance. There's no neutral ground. How will you show up to fight today?Jai the Gentleman is the host and founder of the Dear Black Gay Men podcast. Each episode offers a candid, humorous, and always insightful look at life through the lens of Black queer identity. Dear Black Gay Men emerged as Jai's love letter to every hopeful single who yearns for genuine connection and understanding. Jai amplifies the voices and experiences of Black gay men through raw, authentic content and conversations free from taboo, and his national platform has become a trusted space where no topic is off-limits.

Fans of Agatha All Along are in for a disappointing update, according to Patti LuPone.Ever since the witchy Kathryn Hahn-led Marvel series grabbed gays by the throat last fall, weve all been waiting with bated breath to find out if theres any chance for a season two.But LuPone, who played Lilia, recently dished on why thats unlikely to happen.Speaking with Andy Cohen during an episode of his Sirius XM podcast, she explained that she once had high hopes for a season two herself. Creator Jac Schaeffer dashed those hopes when she gave LuPone a heads up that her character, Lilia, wasnt going to make it off the Witches Road alive. But even if she had, a continuation of Agatha All Along didnt seem to be on the table."[Schaffer] said, 'I dont do second seasons,"" LuPone recalled. She said, 'They wanted me to do a second season of WandaVision and I didnt.' She said, 'Theres too much to write,' so she does one-offs."Now, obviously this isnt a definitive answer. Schaeffer may have changed her mind after the fan response to the beloved series, or Marvel and Disney could decide to carry on without her. But it certainly isnt giving way to optimism, especially considering Schaeffers own public remarks about continuing the show have been notably vague."With this show, we wanted to tell a complete story, and I hope that we did," she told Decider back in October. "But a fan and as an admirer, I believe that there is so much more story to tell about all of these characters."At the time, fans hoped that meant she saw a future for season two. But knowing that Marvel loves tossing characters between various parts of its cinematic and TV universe and that weve already heard Agatha herself will be returning to the MCU in general, Schaeffers statement feels less meaningful.Its undoubtedly a disappointing update to fans of the series, many of whom seemed to come to Agatha All Along for this specific combination of characters and story rather than an interest in the broader MCU. And considering one of the praises for Agatha was that it felt like a return to episodic storytelling within the confines of streaming, which often tops out at 8-10 episodes per season, hearing that Schaeffer may not be interested in that feels like an added blow to TV fans. (@) But without any official announcement, theres always going to be some kernel of hope to cling to all the same.

A Palestinian woman hangs the laundry inside her home, which was destroyed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)2025-01-28T18:12:33Z WADI GAZA, Gaza Strip (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says President Donald Trump has invited him to visit the White House on Feb. 4, which would make him the first foreign leader to visit Washington in Trumps second term.The visit comes as the United States is pressuring Israel and Hamas to continue a ceasefire that has paused a devastating 15-month war in Gaza.Under the ceasefire, more than 375,000 Palestinians have crossed into northern Gaza since Israel allowed their return on Monday morning, the United Nations said Tuesday. That represents over a third of the million people who fled in the wars opening days.Many of the Palestinians trudging along a seaside road or crossing in vehicles after security inspections were getting the first view of shattered northern Gaza under the fragile ceasefire that is now in its second week. They were determined, if their homes were damaged or destroyed, to pitch makeshift shelters or sleep outdoors amid the vast piles of broken concrete or perilously leaning buildings. After months of crowding in squalid tent camps or former schools in Gazas south, they would finally be home. Its still better for us to be on our land than to live on a land thats not yours, said Fayza al-Nahal as she prepared to leave the southern city of Khan Younis for the north.Hani Al-Shanti, displaced from Gaza City, looked forward to feeling at peace in whatever he found, even if it is a roof and walls without furniture, even if it is without a roof. Under the ceasefire, the next release of hostages held in Gaza, and Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody, is set to occur on Thursday, followed by another exchange on Saturday.In the ceasefires six-week first phase, a total of 33 hostages taken in the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, 2023, that ignited the war should be released, along over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Israel this week said a list provided by Hamas confirmed the fears that eight of the 33 hostages to be freed are dead, bringing fresh grief to Israeli families who have long pressed the government to reach a deal to bring everyone home before time runs out.On Tuesday, one of the first hostages to be released under the current ceasefire just the second in the war shared a glimpse of life in captivity.Naama Levy, 20, wrote on social media that she spent most of the first 50 days alone before being reunited with other soldiers kidnapped from her military base on Oct. 7, well as other civilian captives.They gave me strength and hope, she wrote. We strengthened each other until the day of our release, and also afterwards.A surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza continued under the ceasefire.In this past week alone, approximately 4,200 trucks carrying aid have entered the Gaza Strip following inspections, Israels deputy foreign minister, Sharren Haskel, said.Under the deal, 600 trucks of aid are meant to enter per day.___Lidman reported from Nahariya, Israel.___Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war MELANIE LIDMAN Lidman is an Associated Press reporter based in Tel Aviv, Israel.

French President Emmanuel Macron gives a speech to announce a multi-year overhaul, long-term investments to modernize the Louvre museum, next to Leonardo da Vinci's painting of the Mona Lisa, at the Louvre Museum, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025 in Paris. ( Bertrand Guay, Pool via AP)2025-01-28T11:50:42Z PARIS (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday that the Mona Lisa will get its own dedicated room inside the Louvre museum under a major renovation and expansion of the Paris landmark that will take up to 10 years. The renovation project, branded Louvre New Renaissance, will include a new entrance near the River Seine, to be opened by 2031, and the creation of underground rooms, Macron said in a speech from the Louvre room where Leonardo da Vincis masterpiece is displayed. Macron did not disclose an exact amount budgeted for the project to modernize the most visited museum in the world, plagued with overcrowding and outdated facilities. But it is estimated to reach up to 800 million euros ($834 million).The Louvres latest overhaul dates back to the 1980s, when the iconic glass pyramid was unveiled. Now, the museum is not up to international standards anymore. A look at whats at stake: Mona Lisa to get its own room?Macron said the expansion of the museum will allow the Mona Lisa to be moved to a new, dedicated room accessible to visitors through a special ticket. That will make the visit simpler for those who want to see the painting and ease the life of other visitors in the rest of the museum, he said.The Mona Lisa is now being shown behind protective glass in the museums largest room, overcrowded with long, noisy queues of visitors eager to take a selfie with Leonardo da Vincis masterpiece. That makes some other paintings in the room by the greatest Venetian painters like Titian and Veronese go unnoticed by many. The museums latest big renovation in the 1980s was designed to receive 4 million annual visitors.Last year, the Louvre received 8.7 million visitors, over three-quarters being foreigners mostly from the United States, China and neighboring countries Italy, the UK, Germany and Spain. A costly and complex overhaulMacron said a new entrance for the Louvre will be created near the River Seine by 2031, to be financed by ticket sales, patronage and licensing money from the museums Abu Dhabi branch.A design competition is to be staged in the coming months, he said. In addition, some new underground rooms will be created to expand the museum.A French top official said the cost of the renovation is estimated at 700 to 800 million euros ($730 to 834 million) over the next ten years, including half for the creation of the new entrance. The official could not be named in line with the French presidencys customary practices.Macron said ticket prices will be raised for foreign visitors from outside the European Union, up from 22 euros ($23) now. He promised the museum will be safer and more comfortable for both the public and the staff. Half the Louvres budget is currently being financed by the French state, including the wages of the 2,200 employees. The other half is provided by private funds including ticket sales, earnings from restaurants, shops and bookings for special events, as well as patrons and other partners. Water leaks and other damageThe renovation announcement comes after Louvre Director Laurence des Cars expressed her concerns in a note to Culture Minister Rachida Dati earlier this month saying the museum is threatened by obsolescence.According to the document first released by French newspaper Le Parisien, she warned about the gradual degradation of the building due to water leaks, temperature variations and other issues endangering the preservation of artworks.The pyramid that serves at the museums entrance, unveiled in 1989 as part of late President Franois Mitterrands project, now appears outdated. The place is not properly insulated from the cold and the heat and tends to amplify noise, making the space uncomfortable for both the public and the staff, des Cars stressed.In addition, the museum suffers from a lack of food offerings and restroom facilities, she said. SYLVIE CORBET Corbet is an Associated Press reporter based in Paris. She covers French politics, diplomacy and defense as well as gender issues and breaking news. twitter

This week For the Love of DILFs airs its penultimate episode for season three, and this week's challenge (featuring a visit from PRIDE) will decide which two couples make it all the way to the finale!While the end is now in sight it was quite a journey to get there. We had love triangles, love trapezoids, balcony confessions of love, and one very harrowing moment with an ambulance. There have also been lots of special intimate moments, kisses, cuddling, and steamy confessions. But honestly we would expect nothing less from our favorite gay dating reality series.So, with the finale of season 3 just on the horizon and PRIDE in the house at Dr. DILFs mansion this week it's time for a refresh on all the steamy cross-generational romance (and drama) weve witnessed this season! Meet For the Love of DILFs season 3s HUNKY cast NOW!We deserve something nice and something naughty and wouldn't you know, OUTtv is ready to serve us up plenty of both, by exclusively revealing the season three cast of our very favorite gay dating show, For the Love of DILFs!Going deep with the Daddies, Himbos, and our queen StormyCheck out PRIDE's exclusive interviews with the cast and host of For the Love of DILFs!Meet King Adonis the handsome go-go dancer rocking tiny Speedos on For the Love of DILFsKing Adonis is the latest himbo to enter the mansion looking to fall in love with a daddy. It also doesn't hurt that he's very easy on the eyes.For the Love of DILFs David exposes Victor for sleeping with another daddyDavid is the latest daddy to potentially be eliminated from the competition by Victor, but the controversial contestant isn't going down without a fight.Meet Timmy Hilton the adorable himbo ready to fall in love with a daddy on For the Love of DILFsShortly after meeting everyone at DILF mansion, Timmy Hilton is serving main character energy as he has two daddies already looking to pursue a relationship with him.Meet Tony Randel the handsome For the Love of DILFs daddy who reveals his spiciest bedroom secretGuess who's back in the house?! Tony Randel competed on season one of For the Love of DILFs, but he sadly didn't find the love of his life the first time around.Meet Justin the lovable himbo looking to date a dad on For the Love of DILFsThere's another himbo back on the market! The third season of For the Love of DILFs is in full swing, but one shocking elimination is already sending shockwaves throughout the mansion.Stormy Daniels calls out 'the orange elephant' in the room & gives MAGA voters a piece of her mindThe iconoclast and For the Love of DILFs host remains defiant, even through this 'scary time.'Need to catch up on the DILFs? Heres what youve missedEach week PRIDE teased the first 10 mins of For the Love of DILFs season 3. It's a great way to catch up on all the steamy and dramatic action before next week's finale! Watch For the Love of DILFs sexy and shocking season 3 trailer, nowStormy Daniels dunks on conservatives, Himbo-hopping is afoot, and an ambulance is called to DILF Mansion this season is fire!Watch the first 10 minutes of For the Love of DILFs episode 2 now (exclusive)Things are getting hot and heavy between the Daddies and Himbos!Watch a love trapezoid explode in this For the Love of DILFs episode 3 exclusive sneak peekDaddy David is shaking things up in DILF mansion and, honestly, we are living for it!Daddies lick their wounds & Himbos make moves in this For the Love of DILF's exclusive sneak peek of episode 4Watch the first 10 minutes of episode 4 of this spicy gay dating show now!Victor wants revenge after a shock elimination in this For the Love of DILF's exclusive sneak peek of episode 5Watch the first 10 minutes of episode 5 of our favorite spicy gay dating show now!Watch the dramatic first 10 minutes of For the Love of DILF's episode 6 now (exclusive)Plot twists, plastic surgery, and tears! This show never stops giving us the sexy drama we love.Watch the first 10 minutes of For the Love of DILFs episode 10 now (exclusive)The final three couples celebrate making it this far but dont get too comfy, because PRIDE is on the scene and about to mix things up.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Miami to Joint Base Andrews, Md., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T16:30:26Z WASHINGTON (AP) Advocacy groups are set to file the first lawsuit Tuesday challenging President Donald Trumps executive order for the Pentagon to revise its policy on transgender troops, likely setting up ban on their service in the armed forces.Its the same legal team that spent years during Trumps first administration fighting the Republicans ban on transgender troops, which the Supreme Court allowed to take effect even as the legal fight against it continued in the courts, before then-President Joe Biden, a Democrat, scrapped it when he took office.Trumps new order, signed Monday, claims the sexual identity of transgender service members conflicts with a soldiers commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle and is harmful to military readiness. It requires Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to issue a revised policy. The law is very clear that the government cant base policies on disapproval of particular groups of people, said Shannon Minter, legal director for the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Thats animus. And animus-based laws are presumed to be invalid and unconstitutional. In response, the NCLR and GLAD Law are filing a challenge to the executive order Tuesday in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia, Minter said.The groups also are challenging the executive order on the basis of equal protection. In a statement, the Pentagon said that it does not comment on pending or ongoing litigation but that it will fully execute and implement all directives outlined in the Executive Orders issued by the President, ensuring that they are carried out with utmost professionalism, efficiency, and in alignment with national security objectives.There is no official data on the number of transgender personnel in the military, but the number is likely in the thousands, Minter said. Unlike Trumps initial ban in 2017, the new executive order not only bans all future transgender personnel from serving but also would target all current transgender troops, Minter said. TARA COPP Copp covers the Pentagon and national security for the Associated Press. She has reported from Afghanistan, Iraq, throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia. twitter mailto

Residents look out at the Madeira River, a tributary of the Amazon River amid a drought in Humaita, Amazonas state, Brazil, Sept. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Edmar Barros, File)2025-01-28T16:46:31Z BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) Alexis Damancio Silva cant forget the hardship in his town of Puerto Narino in far southern Colombia last year when extreme drought nearly dried up the Amazon River. Pink dolphins and fish died. Crops dried up. The town lost its easy access to markets.Silva is hopeful the U.S. would help fund projects that could make Indigenous communities like his more resilient solar panels for energy to refrigerate fish, for example, or cisterns to catch precious rain water.We ask the government of President Trump ... to send us resources, to help the regions Indigenous people, he said in a Zoom interview with The Associated Press. Little comes from the state, he said.Environmental groups say thats unlikely to happen, and that was even before Trump froze new funding for almost all U.S. foreign assistance.They fear Donald Trumps second administration will bring nothing good for the Amazon rainforest. Besides Trumps Day 1 move to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement, they fear hell cut U.S. funding for policing that has targeted illegal logging, mining and other things that have damaged the rainforest. They also worry he will back right-wing politicians who favor aggressive development in the Amazon, which is critical for storing carbon dioxide that would otherwise warm the planet. President Donald Trump speaks at the 2025 House Republican Members Conference Dinner at Trump National Doral Miami in Doral, Fla., Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) President Donald Trump speaks at the 2025 House Republican Members Conference Dinner at Trump National Doral Miami in Doral, Fla., Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More The implications of the Trump administration for the Amazon rainforest range from very concerning to horrifying, said Andrew Miller, advocacy director of nonprofit Amazon Watch. Trumps first week back in office was loaded with executive orders that prioritized fossil fuels, including declaring an energy emergency in the U.S. and his intent to sweep aside barriers to developing oil and gas. Theyve also been wrapped in an America First message that doesnt fit with expansive foreign aid. On Sunday, he swiftly faced down Colombia President Gustavo Petro on Sunday by threatening steep tariffs after Petro refused to allow military planes carrying deported migrants to land in Colombia. Trumps plans to play hardball in the region were evident weeks ago when he suggested he could use military force to take control of the Panama Canal. Miller said his organization had advised its partners to assume the Trump administration priorities will not include climate, environmental or Indigenous rights programs. People from the Tikuna Indigenous community carry aid from a nonprofit amid a drought on Amazon River in Loma Linda, near Leticia, Colombia, Oct. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Ivan Valencia, File) People from the Tikuna Indigenous community carry aid from a nonprofit amid a drought on Amazon River in Loma Linda, near Leticia, Colombia, Oct. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Ivan Valencia, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More In Trumps first term, U.S. Agency for International Developments budget ranged from about $17 billion to $27 billion annually, with significant proposed cuts that were often moderated by Congress. Under President Joe Biden, USAIDs budget rose to $30.5 billion in 2024, with a focus on global health, climate action, humanitarian aid, and promoting democracy. The new administration said the aid freeze would be in place for 90 days as it considers which programs to keep.In Brazil, home to around 60% of the Amazon, organized crime like logging and drug trafficking thrived under the far-right presidency of Jair Bolsonaro, with severe environmental consequences. President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva made the protection of the Amazon a central priority when he took office in 2023. Brazils environment minister, Marina Silva, told the AP that Trumps return poses a significant test for U.S. democracy and international institutions, and that as the worlds second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, it is crucial the U.S. fulfills its responsibilities. Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva holds a pact for ecological transformation alongside Minister of the Environment Marina Silva, second from right, and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara, to his left, during the agreements signing at the Planalto presidential palace, in Brasilia, Brazil, Aug. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File) Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva holds a pact for ecological transformation alongside Minister of the Environment Marina Silva, second from right, and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara, to his left, during the agreements signing at the Planalto presidential palace, in Brasilia, Brazil, Aug. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More She sees some hope, saying the world has much stronger climate governance nowadays in the face of the climate crisis.This doesnt mean well have an easy time with Trump in office, quite the opposite, Marina Silva said. We just have to acknowledge that were already seeing some companies and leaders ... abandoning or loosening commitments made previously.Since Trumps election, several major U.S. banks have withdrawn from a network aimed at lending practices that square with a global commitment to reduced emissions. Silva said its important for countries to keep reaffirming the size of the climate challenges and showing how to overcome them. Reality needs to take precedence over President Trumps well-known denialist rhetoric, she said. The Trump administration did not respond to messages seeking comment. Support for pro-development politicians? Development in the Amazon is a polarizing issue in Brazil. Lawmakers who support it focus on economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure. More liberal lawmakers, environmentalists and Indigenous rights groups oppose it over damage to the environment and impacts on people who live in the forest. Lula has had some success in clamping down on illegal logging, mining, drug trafficking, and conversion of land for agriculture. That came with support from Biden, who in November became the first U.S. president to visit the Amazon and pledged $50 million to the Amazon Fund, which raises money to protect the Amazon rainforest. Much of that money went toward increased policing in the region. Carlos Nobre, a Brazilian climate scientist and leading researcher studying the Amazon rainforest, said he didnt see Trump continuing that commitment. He also said he is concerned about Trumps past support for Bolsonaro, and expected him to again boost right-wing politicians. Cut logs and wooden boards lie in an area opened by illegal loggers within the Renascer Reserve in the Amazon rainforest in Prainha, Para state, Brazil, on Nov. 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Leo Correa, File) Cut logs and wooden boards lie in an area opened by illegal loggers within the Renascer Reserve in the Amazon rainforest in Prainha, Para state, Brazil, on Nov. 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Leo Correa, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Though Bolsonaro is prohibited from running for office until 2030, his son Eduardo is a potential presidential candidate next year and Brazils National Congress has plenty of members who favor Amazonian development. Jair Bolsonaro, who has supported Trumps false claims of a stolen 2020 election, tried to attend his inauguration but wasnt allowed to leave Brazil to attend. Eduardo Bolsonaro did attend.Miller expected Trump to tilt toward extreme right-wing candidates who offer him praise, boosting them in elections.Their policies, should they be elected, will spell disaster for the Amazon rainforest in the foreseeable future, Miller said. Trump 2.0 will offer Amazonian governments a permission structure to ignore or walk back climate commitments, precisely at the moment when protection of the rainforest demands greater ambition and regional coordination.Miller is most concerned about U.S. support for multilateral human rights mechanisms like the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.Both are important for the protection of threatened Amazon community leaders and environmental defenders, he said. Boats and houses sit next to the dry Aleixo Lake amid a drought in Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil, Sept. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Edmar Barros, File) Boats and houses sit next to the dry Aleixo Lake amid a drought in Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil, Sept. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Edmar Barros, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Funding cuts and multinational cooperation John Walsh, director for drug policy and the Andes at the Washington Office on Latin America, said funding cuts are his major concern after policy.We can expect steep cuts if not entire elimination of U.S. foreign aid that was directed towards climate mitigation and adaptation globally, Walsh said. Thats matched by the incoming administrations focus on how to cut the federal budget in ways that will fall almost entirely on discretionary programs that dont have solid constituencies domestically. . Trump was generally skeptical of multinational cooperation in his first term, preferring a more unilateral approach to foreign policy with his administration often prioritizing U.S. interests over international agreements or collaborations.For an issue like climate change, that is a collective action problem ... and for the worlds largest economy and historically the largest emitter of carbon dioxide to absent itself from that ... is significant, Walsh said. ___Follow Steven Grattan on X: @sjgrattan___The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. STEVEN GRATTAN Grattan reports on the Amazon rainforest and deforestation around Latin America for The Associated Press. He is based in Bogota, Colombia. twitter instagram mailto

The first murder on The Traitors wasn't so... nice.Dorinda Medley is an undeniable icon from The Real Housewives of New York City and Bravo fans are feeling very robbed from seeing the reality star's antics on this season of The Traitors.In fact, Medley's most passionate fans even went after Bob the Drag Queen on social media after he convinced his fellow Traitors to murder the lovable housewife."I'm not going to lie to you. I'm really enjoying all of this outrage about it. Can you imagine all of the content they missed? I was there for two things. Content and fashion," Medley tells PRIDE. See on Instagram The backlash online has caused such waves that many people are even calling on Peacock to cast Medley on a future season so she has a fair shot at the roundtable."In a second, I would go back. It was a great experience. You never know! It was almost worth getting murdered. I'm telling you. For something I mourned for six months, that was a good move. I've gotten a lot of love!"Medley understandably was very worried about how audiences would react to her early boot, but thankfully, the gays have rallied behind her and made her feel more special than ever before."I made the mistake of wandering into Rise Bar [in New York City] and it's as if Jesus Christ had been resurrected. It was like when Lazarus moved the stone! I didn't really die. I've just been up at Bluestone Manor hanging out!"Although she's watching the rest of season from home, the Bravo star is hoping another Real Housewife will go all the way and win the grand prize."You know I'd love to see another Real Housewife win. I love my Dolores and I love Bob Harper. What else is there [besides my Housewives and gays?] We are running the world at this point!"The Traitors airs Thursday nights on Peacock. To see the full interview with Dorinda Medley, check out the video at the top of the page.

Argentine President Javier Milei has ignited a firestorm of controversy following his remarks at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, last week. During a fiery speech, Milei referred to LGBTQ+ gender ideology as child abuse and claimed that those promoting it were pedophiles, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights groups and LGBTQ+ advocates.In a speech that blended far-right rhetoric with inflammatory language, Milei described the mental virus of woke ideology as the great epidemic of our time and compared it to cancer that needs to be eradicated. He urged for the ideological chains surrounding gender identity issues to be broken, suggesting that the global fight against woke culture was essential to ushering in what he called a new golden age.The cancer we need to get rid of is woke ideology, Milei said, aligning himself with global far-right leaders and echoing language used by former U.S. President Donald Trump in his own rhetoric against progressive policies.Argentinian President Javier Milei: Gender ideology constitutes plain and simple child abuse. They are pedophiles.pic.twitter.com/Mjev7r5ace Defiant Ls (@DefiantLs) January 23, 2025Mileis commentswidely seen as an attack on LGBTQ+ rightsalso extended beyond gender identity. The Argentine president reiterated his long-standing opposition to feminism, immigration, and climate change efforts. His remarks, many of which were steeped in misinformation, have left LGBTQ+ advocates, human rights organizations, and even lawmakers in Argentina deeply concerned.Claims of Misinformation and FearmongeringIn his speech, Milei used an example he claimed linked LGBTQ+ rights to child abuse, referencing a recent case in Georgia where a gay couple was arrested for allegedly abusing and prostituting their adopted children. The case, however, involved criminal actions by individuals and was not related to broader LGBTQ+ rights or ideologies, as Milei suggested.Furthermore, the Argentine president made the baseless claim that 5-year-old children are regularly undergoing sex-transition surgeries. This assertion, widely debunked by medical professionals, is part of a larger narrative in far-right circles that seeks to demonize the LGBTQ+ community by exaggerating the issues surrounding gender-affirming care for minors.I want to be clear when I say abuse, Milei said. This is no euphemism. His choice of words drew immediate backlash, as LGBTQ+ activists and allies denounced his speech as inflammatory and dangerous.Criminal Complaint Filed Against MileiIn response to Mileis remarks, Argentine Congressman Esteban Pauln, a long-time LGBTQ+ rights advocate, filed a criminal complaint against the president. Pauln, who has been outspoken on issues of discrimination and human rights, argued that Mileis comments constitute hate speech, which he claimed could lead to violence against the LGBTQ+ community.Milei radicalizes hate speech based on lies and fabricated truths, Pauln told The Washington Blade. His statements promote harmful stereotypes and encourage violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. Weve filed a criminal complaint, understanding that his words are not just dangeroustheyre criminal.Pauln added that LGBTQ+ families in Argentina are living in fear due to Mileis rhetoric, which he believes has stoked tensions in a nation that, despite Mileis claims, has a significant LGBTQ+ rights movement.There are fathers and mothers afraid of being denounced for allowing their children to express their gender identity, Pauln said. LGBTQ+ couples fear that their children will be taken away from them.Pauln also pointed out that Mileis support largely comes from ultra-conservative groups, while the majority of Argentinians do not share his extremist views. He emphasized that many citizens are concerned about the divisive and harmful effects of the presidents rhetoric on the countrys social fabric.Argentine Activists Plan a March Against HateIn response to Mileis speech, LGBTQ+ activists and human rights organizations in Argentina have announced plans to hold a march in Buenos Aires on February 1. The event, titled For a Country Without Hate, aims to send a strong message against the presidents divisive remarks and to promote unity and acceptance within the country. The march is expected to draw thousands of participants, including families, activists, and allies of the LGBTQ+ community.The march will also serve as a platform for condemning the growing climate of fear and hatred in Argentina, where LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies have faced increasing challenges in the wake of Mileis election.Global Reaction and Continued TensionsMileis comments have resonated beyond Argentinas borders, with global LGBTQ+ rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, condemning his rhetoric as dangerous and irresponsible. Human rights experts have warned that such language can fuel discrimination, violence, and political instability in societies already grappling with issues related to LGBTQ+ rights and equality.For many, the speech represents a troubling trend of rising far-right populism around the world, where political leaders are increasingly using divisive language to mobilize their bases by attacking marginalized communities. Mileis comments come at a time when LGBTQ+ rights activists are pushing for greater legal protections and visibility, not just in Argentina, but across Latin America and globally.As Milei continues to push his far-right agenda in both domestic and international arenas, the future of LGBTQ+ rights in Argentina remains uncertain. With the presidents approval rating continuing to rise among conservative voters, many activists fear that his rhetoric could lead to further setbacks for LGBTQ+ protections and equality in the country.Javier Mileis remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos have ignited a fierce debate about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in Argentina and beyond. With criminal complaints filed against him and a march for equality planned in Buenos Aires, it is clear that his attacks on the LGBTQ+ community are far from being overlooked. As Mileis far-right rhetoric continues to gain traction, advocates are preparing for a long and difficult struggle to protect the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals in Argentina.The post Argentina President Javier Milei Faces Lawsuit After Calling LGBTQ+ People Pedophiles appeared first on Gayety.

President Donald Trump arrives to speak about the economy during an event at the Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T22:14:58Z WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed an executive order aimed at curtailing gender transitions for people under age 19.It is the policy of the United States that it will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called transition of a child from one sex to another, and it will rigorously enforce all laws that prohibit or limit these destructive and life-altering procedures, Trump said in a statement.Its the latest push by Trump to reverse policies set by the Biden administration to protect transgender people and their care. On Monday, Trump directed the Pentagon to conduct a review that is likely to lead to them being barred from military service.The order directs that federally-run insurance programs, including TRICARE for military families and Medicaid, exclude coverage for such care, and calls on the Department of Justice to vigorously pursue litigation and legislation to oppose the practice. ZEKE MILLER Zeke is APs chief White House correspondent twitter mailto

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt speaks at the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)2025-01-28T22:15:50Z WASHINGTON (AP) As the White House paused federal grants and loans in a far-reaching executive order, early childhood education centers and states discovered Tuesday they could no longer access money they rely on to provide care for some of the nations neediest families and children. Staff encountered problems with Medicaid and Head Start payment websites around the country. The administration of President Donald Trump said those programs were not affected by the funding freeze and called the Medicaid problem an outage.The freeze was halted by a federal judge but the chaos showed how dependent programs serving low-income kids are on the federal government. But some Head Start providers said they might have difficulty opening as soon as Wednesday if the issue is not resolved. Chanda Hillman, who runs a network of Head Start centers in southwestern Michigan, said she would be unable to make payroll without access to the payment website. Her centers serve 600 kids across three counties and the vast majority of the parents work, relying on Head Start for child care. Payment websites for Medicaid and Head Start displayed error messages when staff attempted to log on to access money already allocated to them. In Mississippi, Early Head Start program director Katina Spaulding sent an emergency text message asking parents to come and pick their children up for the day. Her center had to stop operating because they could not access money to stay open, she said. Our families are being punched in the gut three times from different angles, Spaulding said. This is so heartless.The center later told families it would reopen Wednesday, after receiving confirmation that its funding would not be halted.On X, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the administration is aware of the Medicaid website portal outage.We have confirmed no payments have been affected they are still being processed and sent, Leavitt wrote. We expect the portal will be back online shortly. In Oregon, Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, said the states Medicaid portal was shut down and that the state health agency couldnt log on to seek or receive reimbursements for health services provided to the programs low-income recipients. The problem also affected Head Start providers and the states Department of Early Learning and Care, which provides services for low-income children, Kotek said.I can tell you that when federal funds that are meant to serve the most vulnerable Oregonians are suspended or unavailable, that has an impact on Oregonians, and its a dereliction of the federal governments duty to protect Americans, she saidHead Start, the nations signature early education program, serves some of the neediest kids, including those who are homeless, in foster care and coming from low-income households. The free program is a lifeline for low-income families who need to work but cannot afford private child care.Dozens of Head Start operators had gathered in Washington for a conference when the news of the funding freeze broke, leaving them feeling anxious (and) afraid, said Tommy Sheridan, deputy director of the of the National Head Start Association.We dont have enough information. Is it a short-term thing? Is this a glitch? Is it a long-term thing? All of those things we just really dont know at this point, Sheridan said. Thats really adding to the fear and the concern. ___Associated Press writer Claire Savage in Chicago and Claire Rush in Portland, Oregon, contributed to this report.___The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. MORIAH BALINGIT Balingit is an Associated Press national reporter focused on child care, preschool and the early grades. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Tuesday to restrict federal funding and support for gender-affirming care for transgender minors and some adults, which he described as harmful and irreversible. The order, titled Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation, targets the use of puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and surgeries for anyone under 19, referring to them as chemical and surgical mutilation. It directs federal agencies to rescind policies supporting such treatments, withdraw funding from institutions that provide them, and enforce existing laws limiting access to these procedures.Across the country today, medical professionals are maiming and sterilizing a growing number of impressionable children under the radical and false claim that adults can change a childs sex through a series of irreversible medical interventions, the order states. This dangerous trend will be a stain on our NationsNations history, and it must end.The order also requires the Department of Health and Human Services to review and revise medical guidelines related to gender-affirming care, calling current standards promoted by organizations like the World Professional Association for Transgender Health lacking in scientific integrity. Federal agencies are instructed to create new protections for whistleblowers opposing these treatments and to enforce laws against what it calls deceptive practices by providers of gender-affirming care.Every major medical association, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association, has said that gender-affirming care for minors is proven, evidence-based, and necessary health care.This story is developing...

Love Languages are yesterdays news, now its all about erotic personas!Where Love Languages categorize the different ways people give and receive love, Erotic Personas are all about sexual compatibility, like a love language, but for eroticism and doesnt that sound more fun?!Erotic Personas describe how well you and your partner match sexually and include things like your sex drives and desired frequency of sex, turn-ons, and sexual preferences, according to Arya, the intimacy coaching website that created a quiz to find out what your Erotic Persona is.Arya conducted a large-scale study on couples sexual and emotional wellness that looked at the insights from over 100,000 respondents and found that 57% of respondents dont feel confident discussing sex with their partner, and 24% experience trust issues or major resentments within their relationships. Talking about your sexual interests and compatibility can be helpful for keeping the spark alive in your relationship, and discovering your Erotic Persona and discussing it with your partner can make that easier. Considering multiple studies show Americans are having less sex than at previous times in history and as many as 20.4 million people are in sexless marriages, finding out your Erotic Persona may just be the key to discovering what makes your partner tick in the bedroom or landing someone youre sexually compatible with if youre currently dating.But what are the different personas and which ones are compatible?RomanticRomantics crave intimacy and communication, and the emotional connection they have with a partner plays a big role in their sexual desire. Sex is an expression of love and intimacy where the journey is just as important as the destination, Arya says.AdventurerThe Adventurer seeks out novelty and has a strong kinky side. They want their sex life to be all about new experiences, even taboo ones. Variety is the spice of life after all! The Adventurer is also the most likely to be turned on by different aspects of the other three Erotic Personas.ConnectorConnectors want love and stimulation the most. Physical, mental, and environmental stimulation will make or break their ability to feel arousal because they are the sensor of the four Erotic Personas, the Arya website explains. DirectorThe Director wants a life full of spontaneity and physicality. For someone who fits into this category, eroticism is pretty straightforward, and they tend to prioritize orgasms in their sex lives. Sex is also likely to be their favorite way to express their love for a partner.Most common pairings of Erotic PersonasThe Adventurer and Romantic are the most likely Erotic Personas to seek out a relationship with one another, with 31% of respondents falling into this pairing. Other pairings with higher likelihood of being in a relationship together are the Director and Romantic combo and the Romantic with the Adventurer. The study also found that 14% of respondents were in a relationship where both partners were Adventurers. If you and your partner are having trouble finding your sexual mojo or youre constantly swiping right on a new hottie only to find there is no sizzle in the bedroom, then take the quiz to find your own Erotic Persona.Take the Erotic Personas quiz at Arya's website!

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Miami to Joint Base Andrews, Md., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-28T23:10:30Z A White House directive to pause federal grants and loans raised uncertainty and fears among many who depend on federal aid before a judge intervened Tuesday to temporarily block it from taking effect. President Donald Trumps administration said the freeze would not affect federal assistance to individuals, such as Social Security, Medicare, food stamps, student loans and scholarships. But it said a pause is necessary to ensure funding for other programs complies with Trumps executive orders, which aim to reverse progressive policies on transgender rights, environmental justice and diversity, equity and inclusion.A federal judge blocked the directive just minutes before it was to kick in Tuesday. The order placed it on hold until next Monday while legal wrangling continues. States on the edgeStates on average receive about 30% of their revenues from the federal government, according to Federal Funds Information for States, a nonprofit that analyzes the affect of federal actions on states. Although the federal government has rescinded unspent funds in the past, it hasnt normally halted grants on the front-end, said Marcia Howard, executive director of Federal Funds Information for States. The grant pause is perhaps most similar to a federal government shutdown, when a congressional impasse on spending legislation delays federal payments for some state and local services. In most of those circumstances, a couple weeks delay isnt hugely disruptive, Howard said.But some state officials are nonetheless anxious.If the federal government coughs, Maryland catches pneumonia, state Senate President Bill Ferguson said Tuesday, while discussing how the grant freeze could affect the state. Higher education faces uncertaintyUniversities around the country are scrambling to determine how a funding freeze could affect their research programs, students and faculty.University of North Carolina administrators sent a campus email urging patience until decisions can be confirmed directly from federal agencies.The messaging is, Try not to panic, and sit tight, said psychology professor Keely Muscatell. But I also think its a lot easier said than done.A University of Florida memo obtained by the Associated Press indicates that the university is advising faculty to continue grant-related activities unless they have been specially told that the research has been suspended. But at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., researchers said they were told to stop work on grant-funded projects. If the funding freeze goes forward, scientists may miss deadlines to present and share their work, said researcher Lorna Quandt, who has a grant application pending to fund interpreters to accompany deaf students to an upcoming conference.The Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities said a freeze would sideline world-leading American scientists who are working toward cures for cancer, developing breakthroughs in AI and quantum computing, driving progress in advanced manufacturing, and supporting American farmers. Road funding may keep rollingFor many highway projects that are partially funded by federal grants, states pay the contractors directly then seek reimbursement from the federal government. There initially was widespread concern among state transportation leaders that states would be left holding the bag, but further clarification from the White House calmed some nerves, said Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.Although some grants, particularly those awarded at the discretion of the federal government, could still be at risk, Tymon said he is now confident the Trump administration isnt targeting the formula-based grants that states use to set their own transportation priorities and pay for roads.Were not as panicked as maybe we had been, he said.Early childhood providers raise fearsSome operators of federally funded Head Start centers, which work with 800,000 kids and low-income families nationwide, initially were concerned that the freeze could mean closing their doors as soon Wednesday. Operators logged on to a website where they typically draw down their federal grants and discovered they no longer had access to the money, which they need to pay their employees and vendors.Is it a short-term thing? Is this a glitch? Is it a long-term thing? All of those things, we just really dont know at this point, said Tommy Sheridan, deputy director of the National Head Start Association. Thats really adding to the fear and the concern. Nonprofit groups launch a challengeA coalition of nonprofit groups filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the funding freeze. The nonprofit Democracy Forward, a public interest litigation group, wrote that the White Houses memo fails to explain its legal authority to gut every grant program in the federal government.The National Science Foundation postponed this weeks grant review panels and is pausing the distribution of new or existing awards.The National Crime Victim Law Institute described the Trump administration action as a devastating blow to nonprofits such as the institute.These grants are the backbone of critical programs for those in need across this country, executive director Meg Garvin said. Without this funding, nonprofits face the heartbreaking reality of scaling back services, cutting essential programs, and, in some cases, closing their doors entirely.Tribal groups could be affectedTribal nations, more so than almost any other community, will be negatively impacted by a freeze on federal funding, said John Echohawk, executive director of the Native American Rights Fund. He said tribal nations rely on federal funding for public safety, healthcare, education, infrastructure and the basic needs of our most vulnerable citizens. The United States must fulfill its trust obligation to protect Tribal treaty rights, lands, assets, and resources, he said.Other services could see delaysNorth Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said on X he is concerned that freezing federal funding will hurt North Carolinians, especially those recovering from Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. Stein, a Democrat, said he is seeking clarity from federal officials and working to ensure people in the storm-affected areas get the support they need.The federal government also supports state programs that fund billions of dollars in drinking water and sewage infrastructure. Money the federal government already sent out could probably be used, but the pause calls into question new spending, said Alan Roberson, executive director of the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators.The Biden administration had stipulated that some of those funds go to disadvantaged communities, a term tied to its environmental justice efforts that the Trump administration has targeted for elimination. The fate of that effort is to be determined, and we recognize that, Roberson said.___Associated Press writers Moriah Balingit in Washington, D.C.; Thalia Beaty in New York; Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska; Fernando Figueroa in Austin, Texas; Stephanie Matat in West Palm Beach, Florida; Jeff McMurray in Chicago; Cheyanne Mumphrey in Phoenix; Michael Phillis in St. Louis; Adithi Ramakrishnan in New York; Gary D. Robertson and Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, North Carolina; Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee; and Brian Witte in Annapolis, Maryland.

FILE_ Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid is doused after their win against the Philadelphia Eagles at the NFL Super Bowl 57 football game, Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)2025-01-28T23:04:59Z Fire Andy chants echoed throughout the stands in Philadelphia during Andy Reids final season coaching the Eagles in 2012.Nick Sirianni heard many of those same fans yelling Fire Nick in Week 6.Now, the two head coaches are facing off in the Super Bowl for the second time in three years.Reid found his greatest success after Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie fired him following a 4-12 season. It was one of the most amicable separations ever seen in professional sports.Reid won more games (140) than any coach in franchise history, and led the Eagles to nine playoff appearances, six division titles and five NFC championship games in 14 seasons. But he couldnt win the big one Philadelphia lost to New England in the teams lone Super Bowl appearance under Reid and fans starving for a championship had run out of patience.Lurie gave Reid a game ball and the coach affectionately known as Big Red received a standing ovation from employees on his way out of the team facility on Dec. 31, 2012. I have a hard time standing before people without a few boos involved. But Im taking it, Im taking it all in, Reid told them. These have been the greatest 14 years of my life. He added: Sometimes change is good. I know the next guy that comes in will be phenomenal. The ultimate goal is a Super Bowl. Everybody in this room, I wish you a big ring on the finger in the near future. Hail to the Eagles, baby.Reid quickly landed in Kansas City after Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and several team executives went to Philadelphia and spoke with him for nine hours at the airport. Reid was supposed to board a plane for Arizona to interview with the Cardinals. That never happened.Instead, he built a dynasty in Kansas City anchored by Patrick Mahomes. Theyre on the verge of history, one win away from becoming the first team to three-peat in the Super Bowl era. Theyve already won three rings together in four Super Bowl appearances over the previous five years. You think back to 2013, when Andy joined the organization, made us an immediate winner and really changed the culture here, and then a few years later, he got the quarterback that he had been waiting his whole career for, Hunt said. I think there was a comment earlier about why its so hard, why nobody has ever gone back to have a chance at a three-peat, I think its because those teams didnt have the combination of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.The Eagles hired Chip Kelly to replace Reid. He lasted three seasons. Then they turned to Doug Pederson, who brought the city its first Super Bowl title in just his second season. Pederson was gone three years later.Sirianni came in as an unpopular hire just like Reid and Pederson were in Philly.But heres Sirianni again seeking his first championship, just a few months after he was vilified nationally for reacting emotionally and yelling and gesturing at the fans who screamed Fire Nick during a victory against the Cleveland Browns.ESPN analyst Damien Woody, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, called Sirianni a clown on national television. Other former players-turned-talking heads ridiculed Sirianni and questioned his ability to lead the team. But all Sirianni does is win.His .706 winning percentage (48-20) is the fifth highest in NFL history. Hes guided to the Eagles to the playoffs in each of his four seasons and nearly beat the Chiefs in the Super Bowl two years ago when Mahomes rallied Kansas City to a 38-35 victory.Players rallied around Sirianni after the fan controversy in October and that win against Cleveland was the first of 10 in a row. The Eagles tied a franchise record with 14 wins and got three more in the playoffs, scoring a record 55 points against Washington in the NFC title game. This game is about overcoming adversity, Sirianni said. There are going to be good plays in the game and there are going to be bad plays in the game. There will be good moments in a season and bad moments in a season.Its about overcoming and embracing the adversity because really what weve talked about as a team is like adversity, weve all had to have adversity to be in this moment where we are right now, so adversity is what makes you who you are. Its been the story of the 2023 to the 2024 Eagles. As bad of a feeling we had about how last year ended, I think it makes you who you are. These guys are hungry, and weve got one more to go.Win or lose, Reids legacy is set. He has a Hall of Fame resume.For Sirianni, a victory could silence critics once and for all.___On Football analyzes the biggest topics in the NFL from week to week. For more On Football analysis, head here. ____AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl ROB MAADDI Maaddi is senior NFL writer for The Associated Press. Hes covered the league for 24 years, including the first two decades as the Eagles beat writer. mailto

Hindu devotees gather for a holy dip by the banks of the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers, on Mauni Amavasya' or new moon day during the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, Wednesay, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Deepak Sharma)2025-01-29T00:31:56Z NEW DELHI (AP) Tens of thousands of people at a massive religious gathering in India rushed to take a holy bath in the countrys northern Prayagraj city, setting off a stampede early Wednesday that injured dozens, local media reported.It was not immediately clear what triggered the panic at the Maha Kumbh festival where devotees had congregated from across India to bathe at the confluence of the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers. News agency Press Trust of India cited authorities who said injured were sent to a hospital.The Maha Kumbh festival, held every 12 years, started on Jan. 13 and has been touted by Indian authorities as the worlds largest religious gathering. Authorities expect more than 400 million people to throng the pilgrimage site in total over the next six weeks.Stampedes are relatively common around Indian religious festivals, where large crowds gather in small areas with shoddy infrastructure and few safety measures.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks to employees at the Department of Homeland Security, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)2025-01-28T21:39:30Z Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined federal agents in New York City on Tuesday to announce the arrests of immigrants wanted on criminal charges, including a man accused of kidnapping who was seen on a viral video entering a Colorado apartment with reputed gang members.Noem was the latest high-ranking official from President Donald Trumps administration to tout the presidents ramped-up immigration enforcement in a city where arrests were being made. Border czar Tom Homan and acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove were in Chicago on Sunday as federal agents made arrests there.Arresting some criminal aliens this morning in NYC thank you to the brave officers involved, Noem posted on X. Criminal alien with kidnapping, assault & burglary charges is now in custody thanks to @ICE. Dirtbags like this will continue to be removed from our streets. An operation in the Bronx early Tuesday snared Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco, 26, who authorities said was one of several men, including members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, who entered an apartment in Aurora, Colorado, last summer and were recorded on a widely viewed video. Several of the suspects were previously arrested in Colorado and New York. The incident caught President Donald Trumps attention during the presidential campaign, and he announced a plan called Operation Aurora to target migrant gangs. The video led Trump to claim that the Denver suburb had been taken over by the gang, which city officials denied. In an arrest warrant, Aurora police said Zambrano-Pacheco was also wanted in a kidnapping in which at least 20 armed men abducted and threatened two people in late June. In addition, police said Zambrano-Pacheco was with a group of armed men before a shooting occurred shortly after the apartment incident that was caught on video.Two arrest warrants accused Zambrano-Pacheco of kidnapping, burglary and felony menacing. It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer or if he was a member of Tren de Aragua. Local and federal authorities, including Aurora police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, investigated the apartment incident for months beginning when Joe Biden was still president.New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said Tuesdays arrests did not appear to be part of a wholesale raid, but rather an operation targeting specific people accused of crimes.I want to be clear, theres always been ICE raids in the state of New York, even in the past. This is not a new dynamic, she said.Zambrano-Pacheco is the fifth person to be arrested in connection with the Aurora apartment incident. The video shows six armed men, including at least some members of Tren de Aragua, entering the apartment shortly before a fatal shooting outside the complex.In Chicago, city leaders criticized the highly publicized enforcement operations that started over the weekend in the nations third-largest city. That included the surprising decision to allow daytime television psychologist Dr. Phil McGraw to livestream immigrant arrests alongside Homan. This desire to popularize fear is unconscionable and abhorrent, Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday at a City Hall news conference alongside Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, city lawyers and others. Were talking about peoples lives.Were Chicago. Were built different, he said. Were not going to be afraid of anybody that is threatening the livelihood and our economic structure in this city.Johnson defended the citys strong sanctuary protections that bar Chicago police from cooperating with federal immigration agents. Chicago has been a so-called sanctuary city for decades and has strengthened those protections several times, including during Trumps first term.ICE has offered few details about the operation in Chicago, including the number of arrests. The agency did not return a message seeking comment Tuesday.Snelling said Chicago police have communicated with federal agents but did not participate in the operation or cooperate. He estimated roughly 100 people were taken into custody. Back in the Bronx, no one answered the door at apartment 1A by the entrance to the building where Zambrano-Pacheco was detained. But Richard Egu, 50, who lives in a third-floor unit, said he was roused from sleep by the commotion around 5 a.m.Egu, a correctional officer who is originally from Nigeria and has been a naturalized citizen for more than 15 years, said he didnt venture out to investigate and did not know the man who was arrested.He said he understood the need to arrest and deport those in the country illegally who commit crimes, but he also worries about the effect such enforcement will have in the community.You need to give immigrants a chance. These people are already here, he said. Figure out the ones who are committing the crimes. Dont just judge all immigrants as criminals.___Associated Press writers Colleen Slevin in Denver, Sophia Tareen and Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago, and Philip Marcelo and Anthony Izaguirre in New York contributed to this report.

In an attempt to bash transgender people, Republican Rep. Nancy Mace accidentally announced that she was a DEI admission after bragging that she was the first woman to graduate from a formerly all-male military school, and now she's being mercilessly trolled by the internet and even her fellow MAGA diehards."I didn't fight like hell to become the first woman to graduate from The Citadel just for some man in a miniskirt to take away that achievement," Mace wrote on X on January 27. Mace was only able to attend The Citadel because Shannon Faulkner sued the military academy in 1994 after being denied admission. Not only has Mace been vocally anti-trans including introducing a bill to ban transgender people from using the bathroom that matches their gender identity in federal buildings but she has also been outspoken in her support of Trump's efforts to get rid of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hires, the Independent reports.Far-right political commentator and fellow MAGA supporter Matt Walsh was quick to call out the congresswoman for using the same arguments he claims trans women use to invade "male-only spaces" and for being a "DEI beneficiary.""The girlboss feminism routine isn't just cringy," Walsh wrote on X. "It also directly undermines our argument. The Citadel was a male-only space forced by law to admit females in the name of diversity and inclusion. That is the exact argument trans-identifying males use to invade female spaces." (@) MAGA supporters wasted no time cannibalizing their own party when conservatives on X started to call her out her brand of feminism as being part of a "slippery slope" that allowed women to take over men's spaces, while other Republicans started to question whether she might actually be a man just pretending to be a woman something Mace has accused transgender women of doing. (@) "Nancy Mace absolutely helped make this mess were in by forcing herself into a traditionally men's only school. She was a part of the slippery slope that has led us to where we are today. Why does she not seem to get that? Why keep bragging about it???" (@) As Mace's post went viral garnering more than 7 million views at the time of publication the rest of the internet started roasting her for being so obtuse and unaware that she didn't seem to realize how hypocritical her stance on DEI is considering she benefited from these same policies. "Breaking: Nancy Mace thanks DEI without knowing she was helped by DEI," vocal Trump critic Alex Cole wrote on X, while other people quipped that "White women are the affirmative action queens" and that they love it "when MAGA turns on itself."Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions! (@) "Breaking: Nancy Mace thanks DEI without knowing she was helped by DEI." (@) "The woman who invaded male spaces is now outraged that men have invaded female spaces." (@) "White women are the affirmative action queens." (@) "I love when MAGA turns on itself. Here's Matt Walsh telling Nancy Mace to get in the kitchen and make him a sandwich" (@) "Since Nancy Mace DEI'd her way into The Citadel. Did she force them to give her a special bathroom or did she use the men's room?" (@) "Nancy Mace outing herself as a DEI hire is CRAZY:" (@) "Nancy Mace DEId her whole career. Yikes." (@) "Nancy Mace was a DEI Hire and is proudly flaunting it. Shes too stupid to understand this though." (@) "So.. Rep. Nancy Mace is a whole Affirmative Action and DEI herself, yet obsesses over trans women being in places or in community with women. You would think... Nevermind"

Update 1/28/25: Austin Wolf's trial deadline has been extended again.The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York has extended the timeline in the case of United States v. Justin Heath Smith, also known as Austin Wolf. Smith was arrested on June 28, 2024, on charges related to child exploitation materials and has been in custody since. The court has granted multiple extensions to allow time for discussions between Smiths attorneys and federal prosecutors about a possible resolution. On Monday, the court approved another 30-day extension, giving both sides until February 26, to continue working on the case.Update 12/26/24: Austin Wolf trial was delayed again.A federal judge in New York once again granted an additional 30-day continuance in his federal child pornography case, the new deadline for his preliminary hearing or indictment is January 27. On Tuesday, Southern District of New York Magistrate Judge Barbara Moses ruled that the extension best serves the ends of justice and outweighs the best interest of the public and the defendant in a speedy trial. This decision marks yet another delay as prosecutors and the defense reportedly continue plea negotiations. Wolf, whose legal name is Justin Heath Smith, has been in custody since his June arrest.Update 11/27/24: Austin Wolf will continue to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas in jail. A federal judge in New York granted another 30-day continuance in his federal child pornography case, pushing the deadline for a preliminary hearing or indictment to December 27. On Tuesday, Southern District of New York Magistrate Judge Barbara Moses ruled that the extension best serves the ends of justice and outweighs the best interest of the public and the defendant in a speedy trial. This marks yet another delay as prosecutors and the defense reportedly continue plea negotiations. Wolf, whose legal name is Justin Heath Smith, has been in custody since his June arrest.Update 10/25/24: Austin Wolfs first hearing in his federal criminal case has been delayed once again.Austin Wolf will remain in jail as his case grinds on. A federal judge has granted yet another continuancemarking the fourth time this has happened since his initial arrest on June 28moving the preliminary hearing deadline to November 27, according to court documents. This latest extension follows a request from Assistant U.S. Attorney Getzel Berger, who sought additional time for plea negotiations with the defense counsels consent. Wolf's attorney, Thomas Andrykovitz, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Update 9/25/24:A federal court in the Southern District of New York has granted another 30-day continuance, moving the deadline for a preliminary hearing or indictment to October 28. Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker approved the extension at the request of both parties, as discussions for a potential plea deal continue. Wolf, whose legal name is Justin Heath Smith, was arrested in June on federal child pornography charges and remains in custody.In the latest filing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Getzel Berger noted that both the defense and prosecution are continuing negotiations but do not expect to reach a resolution before the previous Friday deadline. Defense attorneys Michael Baldassare and Thomas Andrykovitz consented to the extension. Berger emphasized that the continuance serves the interests of justice and outweighs the publics and defendants right to a speedy trial.Update 8/27/24:Wolfs court date for his preliminary hearing has been moved once more and will now take place on September 27, 2024. Both sides continue to negotiate a disposition of the case. The delay indicates that both parties are still working on a plea deal.Update 7/20/24:A preliminary hearing for Austin Wolf, previously set for late July, has been rescheduled. The Southern District of New York filed a 30-day continuance which was agreed to by both the defense and prosecution and presented to Magistrate Judge Tarnofsky who approved it. The new date has been set for August 28, 2024, though this is likely a sign that the defense and prosecution are working on a plea deal. It is worth noting that the vast majority of federal cases never go to trial and are pled out.Original article:Justin Heath Smith, the 42-year-old adult content creator known as Austin Wolf, is being held in detention in Brooklyn after a judge ruled he was a danger to the public and a flight risk. Smith faces federal child pornography charges and has been accused of sending and receiving hundreds of videos of child pornography, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Southern District of New York.Court documents from the Southern District of New York allege that Wolf used the messaging app Telegram to share videos with another individual, who prosecutors say was an undercover FBI agent. A search conducted in April at Wolfs Manhattan apartment uncovered an SD card containing hundreds of illegal videos, according to prosecutors. The videos reportedly depict minors, including prepubescent children and infants, in sexually explicit situations.The latest on Austin Wolfs arrest.The Advocate contacted the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Southern District of New York, however a spokesperson declined to comment.On Monday, attorney Thomas H. Andrykovitz, who represents Justin Smith / Austin Wolf, told The Advocate that his client is being held in terrible conditions. The governments press release contains nothing but unproven and untested allegations against a man that is presumed innocent. Justin is thankful for the incredible support he is receiving from his friends and supporters, Andrykovitz said. He is presently detained at [Metropolitan Detention Center]. It is well documented in judicial decision after judicial decision that the conditions of confinement at MDC are inhumane. Mr. Smiths conditions are no different. The staff at MDC have already failed to provide him with his basic medications.Benjamin OCone, a spokesperson from the Office of Public Affairs at the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP), confirmed to The Advocate that Smith is in federal custody at MDC but would not comment on Andrykovitz' specific allegations "for privacy, safety, and security reasons." O'Cone added that the federal prison system provides essential medical, dental, and mental health services to all inmates and has an administrative remedy program for addressing inmate concerns.What's next for Austin Wolf's criminal case.If convicted, Wolf faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years. Wolf made his initial appearance before a judge on Friday, June 28, who determined that detention was necessary due to the risk of flight and the potential danger he poses. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 29.How the porn industry is responding to the news.Wolf's arrest and the serious charges against him have sent shockwaves through the adult entertainment industry, where Wolf is well-known and has a substantial fan base. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains divided, with some expressing continued support and others grappling with the disturbing nature of the allegations.Here is how the members of his industry have responded to the news. (@) Men.com is an adult film studio that exclusively signed Wolf as a model, but the site parted ways with the porn star immediately following his arrest. (@) Joey Mills is a Men.com exclusive model, which is a similar studio contact that Wolf has. Although they've never collaborated or done a scene together, their status in the industry is quite similar."Let['s] get one thing clear[...] I've never worked with this man for a studio or a personal collab. The only times I'v ever been around him was during award shows and other industry events," Mills says. "I'm not tied to nor associated with anything this man did or does." (@) Felix Fox was one of the models who recently attended Austin Wolf's Collab Week and has filmed a few scenes with the porn star."I am late to reply to the disgusting actions of Austin Wolf. I absolutely cannot express how repulsed I am at this behavior. To put anyone through that, let alone a child. My heart is filled with sadness. It is f***ing repugnant. The law is merciless against those that partake in this abhorrent behavior. From what Ive heard, more people/content creators are about to be exposed, also. It sickens me to think that this exists. I f***ing hate it. My heart goes out to every single victim that this pedophile got his hands on." (@) Jason Luna is also a frequent collaborator of Wolf's and attended Collab Week as well. He didn't necessarily defend Wolf, but didn't condemn his alleged actions either."Most of us are silent because we are having a really difficult time processing what just happened," Luna shares. (@) Adam Cyrus has filmed with Wolf and created content in Puerta Vallarta by filming with other porn stars at Collab Week. Wolf's alleged crimes hurt Cyrus on a personal level."As a survivor of CSA I never knowingly work with a predator, and the moment I find out about it is the moment I cease associating with them. I have deleted all my content with him and I hope he rests in pieces. Ill be washing him out of me forever." (@) Alex Grant was considered to be a friend of Wolf's and also filmed videos with him in the past, but quickly shared his disgust once the news dropped. His statement was short, but very effective."And nobody was surprised..." (@) Tony Genius is a popular content creator who showed his intolerance for Wolf's alleged crimes right away. His concerns also stem from increase attacks from the far right."One concern from today's catastrophic news is that we had the poster child for gay porn, the most recognized talent in our industry be exposed for some of the worst acts you could possibly imagine, and with that conservatives will further litigate and demonize honest sex work. And with the possibility of PROJECT 2025 we have to do everything on our power to separate us from people like this!" (@) Terry Strokes is another well-known content creator who showed disgust with Wolf's alleged criminal activity. The star even poked fun at Wolf's sudden career ending while acknowledging that many people enjoyed his specific type of content."The type of content dude made, the aesthetic of it was entertaining. Youd of course see the haters in the comments making accusations but wow cant defend that one. Youve literally been found as the worst label [yo]u can get in society. Smh. What a way to end a career."This is a developing story. Updates will follow as we learn more.If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 with free and confidential services. More resources are available here.

Ne'man Abu Jarad, center, and his wife Majida, center right, walk with their children as thousands of displaced Palestinians return to their homes in the northern Gaza Strip, following Israel's decision to allow them to go back for the first time since the early weeks of the 15-month war with Hamas, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)2025-01-28T22:14:44Z BEIT LAHIYA, Gaza Strip (AP) The grove of orange, olive and palm trees that once stood in front of Neman Abu Jarads house was bulldozed away. The roses and jasmine flowers on the roof and in the garden, which he lovingly watered so his family could enjoy their fragrance, were also gone.The house itself was a damaged, hollowed-out shell. But after 15 months of brutal war, it stood.At the sight of it Monday, Neman; his wife, Majida; and three of their six daughters dropped the bags they had been lugging since dawn, fell to their knees and prayed, whispering, Praise be to God, praise be to God. The sunset blazed orange in the sky above.After 477 days of hell fleeing the length of the Gaza Strip, hiding from bombardment, sweltering in tents, scrounging for food and water, losing their possessions they had finally returned home. Our joy is unmatched by any other, not the joy of success, of a marriage or of a birth, Majida said. This is a joy that cant be described in words, in writing or in any expression.In October, at the one-year anniversary of the Gaza war, The Associated Press traced the Abu Jarad familys flight around the territory seeking safety. They were eight of the roughly 1.8 million Palestinians driven from their homes by Israels massive campaign of retaliation against Hamas following the militants Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel. Like many families, they were displaced multiple times. Neman, Majida and their daughters the youngest in first grade, the oldest in her early 20s fled their home at the northernmost part of Gaza hours after Israeli bombardment began. They would move seven times in total, fleeing all the way to Gazas southernmost city Rafah. Each time, their conditions worsened. By October 2024, they were languishing in a sprawling tent camp near the southern city of Khan Younis, exhausted and depressed, with little hope of seeing home again. Hope suddenly revived when Israel and Hamas reached a long-awaited ceasefire earlier this month. On Jan. 19, the first day of the truce, Majida began packing up their clothes, food and other belongings. On Sunday, the announcement came: The next day, Israeli troops would pull back from two main roads, allowing Palestinians to return to the north.Since Monday, more than 375,000 Palestinians have made their way back to northern Gaza, many of them on foot.The Abu Jarads set off Monday from their tent at 5 a.m., loading bags stuffed with their belongings into a car. The driver took them to the edge of the Netzarim Corridor, the swath of land across Gaza that Israeli forces had turned into a military zone that until this week had barred any returns north.There, they got out and walked, joining the massive crowds making their way down the coastal road. For around 8 kilometers (5 miles), the 49-year-old Neeman carried one sack on his back, held another in his arms, and two bags dangled from the crooks of his elbows. They stopped frequently, to rest, rearrange bags, and drop items along the way. The road is really hard, Majida told an AP journalist who accompanied them on the journey. But our joy for the return makes us forget were tired. Every meter we walk, our joy gives us strength to continue.Reaching the southern outskirts of Gaza City, they hired a van. But it quickly ran out of fuel, and they waited more than an hour before they found another one. Driving through the city, they got their first look at the wars devastating impact in the north. Over 15 months, Israel launched repeated offensives in Gaza City and surrounding areas, trying to crush Hamas fighters who often operated in densely populated neighborhoods. After each assault, militants would regroup, and a new assault would follow.The van made its way down city streets strewn with rubble, lined with buildings that were damaged husks or had been reduced to piles of concrete.They destroyed even more in this area, Neman said, staring out the window as they left Gaza City and entered the towns of Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun scene of one of Israels most ferocious offensives in the last three months before the ceasefire. As the sun began to set, the van dropped them off at the edge of their neighborhood. Nemans daughters stood in shock. One gaped, her hands on her cheeks. Her sister pointed out at the field of flattened houses. They walked the last few hundred meters, over a landscape of rutted, bulldozed dirt.Trudging as fast as he could under the bags draping from his body, Neman a taxi driver before the war repeated over and over in excitement, God is great, God is great. To God is all thanks.Their home still stood, sort of a hollow shell in a row of damaged buildings. After they prayed in front of it, Neeman leaned on the bare concrete wall of his house and kissed it. To his joy he discovered that one flowering vine in front of the house had miraculously survived. He immediately set about examining and arranging its tendrils. One of the girls dashed in through the now doorless front entrance. Oh Lord, oh Lord, her gasps came from the darkness inside. Then she began to cry, as if all the shock, sorrow, happiness and relief were gushing out of her.Like others streaming back into northern Gaza, the Abu Jarads will face the question of how to survive in the ruins of cities decimated by war. Water and food remain scarce, leaving the population still reliant on humanitarian aid, which is being ramped up under the ceasefire. There is no electricity. Tens of thousands are homeless.Adjoining the Abu Jarads home, Nemans brothers three-story house is now a pile of concrete wreckage after it was destroyed by an airstrike. It damaged Nemans home as it collapsed, but, thank God, there is an undamaged room which we will live in, he said. He vows to repair what is damaged.Grief from the war lays heavily on him, Neman said. His uncle lost his home, and several of his uncles children were killed. Several of his neighbors homes were destroyed. Neman said he will have to walk several kilometers (miles) to find water, just like he did in the displacement camps.Once again, we will live through suffering and fatigue.___Magdy reported from Cairo. AP writer Lee Keath in Cairo contributed to this report. RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Fire crews monitor the Palisades Fire in Mandeville Canyon, Jan. 11, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)2025-01-28T22:01:28Z WASHINGTON (AP) Human-caused climate change increased the likelihood and intensity of the hot, dry and windy conditions that fanned the flames of the recent devastating Southern California wildfires, a scientific study found.But the myriad of causes that go into the still smoldering fires are complex, so the level of global warmings fingerprints on weeks of burning appears relatively small compared to previous studies of killer heat waves, floods and droughts by the international team at World Weather Attribution. Tuesdays report, too rapid for peer-review yet, found global warming boosted the likelihood of high fire weather conditions in this months fires by 35% and its intensity by 6%.Once-in-a-decade super strong Santa Ana winds, a dry autumn that followed two very wet years that caused rapid growth in flammable chapparal and grass, hot weather, dry air and vulnerable houses in fire-prone areas all were factors in the fast-moving fires that destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 29 people, study authors said. But the climate attribution team was only able to quantify issues that dealt with the fire weather index, which are the meteorological conditions that add up to fire danger. Trees sway in high winds as the Eaton Fire burns structures Jan. 8, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File) Trees sway in high winds as the Eaton Fire burns structures Jan. 8, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More The fire weather index which includes measurements of past rainfall, humidity and wind speed is where the team looked and found markers of climate change that they could quantify. The team used observations of past weather and computer simulations that compared what happened this month to a what-if world without the 1.3 degrees Celsius (2.3 degrees Celsius) of human-caused climate change that Earth has had since industrial times. That allowed them to come up with a calculation for warmings contribution to the disaster. Its a method that the National Academy of Sciences says is valid. Even though these rapid studies arent yet peer-reviewed, nearly all of them are published later in peer-reviewed journals without significant changes, said World Weather Attribution co-lead scientist Friederike Otto. The number (35%) doesnt sound like much because unlike dozens of its past studies, the team looked at a small area and a complex meteorological measurement in the fire weather index that would generally mean there would be large uncertainties, said Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London. But in this case the climate change fingerprint is big enough that it stands out, she said. A firefighter monitors flames caused by the Hughes Fire along Castaic Lake in Castaic, Calif., Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) A firefighter monitors flames caused by the Hughes Fire along Castaic Lake in Castaic, Calif., Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Those conditions are part of what makes California attractive to 25 million residents, said study co-author John Abatzoglou, a climate and fire scientist at the University of California Merced.Southern California has some of the best climate, best weather on the planet except when you get a combination of conditions that occurred here, Abatzoglou said. You get the trifecta of dry windy and warm conditions. Those three things, in combination with dry fuels and ignitions, are the perfect recipe for fire disasters.Abatzoglou said its like a bunch of switches dryness, fuels, high temperatures, wind and ignition that all need to be turned on for conditions to really take off. Think of it as switches for a light bulb to illuminate and so you can think about the artificial warming due to human-caused climate change making the light brighter, added co-author Park Williams, a UCLA fire and climate scientist. The study also found Californias dry season has increased by 23 days and the lack of rain in October, November and December was more than twice as likely now than in pre-industrial times, but because of limitations on the data, researchers couldnt statistically pinpoint these to both climate change and the specific fires this month, Otto said. But she said the rains are decreasing that is because of human-induced climate change.Then add in strong winds to whip and spread flames. The Eaton Fire destroys a structure, Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File) The Eaton Fire destroys a structure, Jan. 7, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Mike Flannigan, a Canadian fire scientist who wasnt part of the research, said one key to him is the fire season extending longer and increasing the chance a fire will start during peak Santa Ana winds. The research couldnt specifically quantify how much, if any, climate change affected the Santa Ana winds.Craig Clements, a climate scientist and director of wildfire study at San Jose State University, said the rapid study makes sense and fits with past research about other fires.Its hard to attribute climate change to every fire event as many do, said Clements, who wasnt part of the research. If we can state with confidence that the drought is caused by climate change then that is the fingerprint. Smoke from a wildfire is seen from the Venice Beach section of Los Angeles, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) Smoke from a wildfire is seen from the Venice Beach section of Los Angeles, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More If the world warms another 1.3 degrees Celsius from now, the study said people should expect the type of weather conditions that led to these fires to happen another 35% more often.Otto said this is not an issue of politics, but science.Its not something where you can say that this was because California did something very wrong. They did a lot of things right. They did some things that they could do better, Otto said. But what makes these ever more dangerous, these fires, and what is something that the government of California alone can definitely not do anything about is human-induced climate change. And drill, baby drill will make this much, much worse.___Read more of APs climate coverage at http://www.apnews.com/climate-and-environment___Follow Seth Borenstein on X at @borenbears SETH BORENSTEIN Borenstein is an Associated Press science writer, covering climate change, disasters, physics and other science topics. He is based in Washington, D.C. twitter mailto

In an interview that aired before President Donald Trump signed an executive order threatening all transgender military service members participation in military service on Monday evening, CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins exposed a stark flip-flop from Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw of Texas, who struggled to reconcile his past statements supporting transgender Americans participation in military service with his current support for the anti-trans policy.Crenshaw, who was a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy, reached the rank of lieutenant commander. During his third deployment, he was wounded by an improvised explosive device, resulting in the loss of his right eye. Drawing on his military experience, he framed his opposition to transgender service as an issue of readiness, saying, It makes it very difficult to deploy you into the places that we need to deploy you.Collins confronted Crenshaw with a 2021 segment on Fox News in which he said, I think people should be able to serve openly and tell people what their identity is, and anybody who can meet those standards should be able to serve. When pressed on his support for Trumps expected sweeping ban, which affects all transgender service members regardless of medical history or readiness, Crenshaw doubled down on the claim that transitioning disqualifies somebody from meeting military standards. By definition, if you have transitioned into a different gender, you are not meeting our medical standards, he said. (@) Crenshaw said that if somebody wanted to identify as trans, that would be okay, but getting medical treatment to transition was not.Collins pointed out that Trumps order does not distinguish between transgender people who have undergone medical procedures and those who have not. Crenshaw, who said he hadnt seen the text of the policy, declared he supported the policy regardless, insisting his position had always been very clear.Advocacy group SPARTA, which represents transgender military personnel, noted the contributions of trans military members. Transgender Americans have served openly and honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces for nearly a decade, the group said. It emphasized that transgender service members fill critical roles in combat arms, aviation, nuclear engineering, law enforcement, and military intelligence, many requiring years of specialized training and expertise.SPARTA also addressed misconceptions about the impact of medical transitions on readiness. While some transgender troops do have surgery, the recovery time and cost is minimal, and is scheduled so as not to impact deployments or mission readiness (all of which is similar to a non-emergent minor knee surgery). The readiness and physical capabilities of transgender service members is not different from that of other service members, the statement read.The group underscored the contributions of transgender troops, noting their service in combat zones and high-stakes missions, as well as their role in strengthening unit cohesion and morale.Trump signed the executive order aboard Air Force One on Monday evening, and it was published on the White House website shortly before midnight. The order outlines sweeping changes to military policies related to gender identity but stops short of an immediate all-out ban on transgender service members. Instead, it directs the Department of Defense to revise medical and personnel standards over 60 days to ensure compliance with the new policy.For the estimated 15,000 transgender service members currently serving, SPARTA pledged continued support, saying they are standing by to support all transgender service members impacted by this policy.

Dylan Mulvaney, the award-winning actress and trans activist, has reflected on how Broadway legend Kristin Chenoweth played a pivotal role in helping her realize her musical theatre dreams. The actress, who will make her West End debut later this year, shared a heartfelt story about how the Wicked stars encouragement as a young teen gave her the confidence to pursue a career on the stage.In an appearance on MTV UKs Queerpiphany, Mulvaney opened up about her formative years and how she found solace and identity in the musical theatre world, particularly through the Wicked soundtrack. Mulvaney, who came out as trans in her teens, recalled how listening to the Wicked cast album became a way for her to navigate her identity while growing up.Music as a Safe Haven for a Young Trans PersonI would listen to the Wicked cast album on repeat, and Kristin was the Glinda on that album, Mulvaney recalled. She explained that Chenoweth had already left the role of Glinda by the time she was listening to the recording, but the Broadway star still held a special place in her heart. At the time, Chenoweth was performing in the musical Promises, Promises on Broadway, which became another source of inspiration for Mulvaney.The 12-year-old Mulvaney, deeply captivated by Chenoweths performance and personality, decided to write her a fan letter. In the letter, she even asked the iconic star for a coffee date. At this point, Im probably 12, as a 12-year-old does, Mulvaney joked. To her surprise, she received a response that would change the course of her life.I get an email that was like, Kristin has never received a better letter in her life. No, she cant go to coffee with you, but shed like to bring you backstage at Promises, Promises,' Mulvaney shared.A Life-Changing Moment with Kristin ChenowethMulvaney continued her story, recounting the magical experience of meeting Chenoweth backstage at the Broadway show. The star welcomed her and her family with warmth and enthusiasm. We go see the show, she brings us backstage, and shes like, Youre going to sing with me one day and youre going to do this with your life, I already know it.Chenoweths words left a lasting impact on Mulvaney, not only fueling her passion for musical theatre but also influencing her personal journey with faith and identity. The stars message of encouragement extended beyond her career, touching on Mulvaneys struggle with coming out as a trans woman and finding peace with her faith.She basically was like, Go with God and do musical theatre, and I will see you on the stage, Mulvaney said. The words of validation gave Mulvaney the strength to continue pursuing her dreams despite the challenges she would later face in her adolescence, including grappling with her gender identity.The Power of Faith and TheatreMulvaney reflected on how important Chenoweths influence was during her journey of self-discovery. Even when I was struggling with my identity and coming out and navigating my puberty and my adolescence, I always came back to theatre, Mulvaney said. For her, the stage provided not only an outlet for self-expression but a sense of belonging that transcended the challenges of growing up trans.The Wicked soundtrack, in particular, became a constant source of comfort for Mulvaney. The original cast album, which featured Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, offered a refuge during difficult times, as it resonated with her emotional and spiritual journey.Kristin helped make that idea possible, Mulvaney said, adding that the stars unique connection to faith and the LGBTQ+ community had a profound influence on her own understanding of spirituality. What really inspired me was that she has such a unique, special relationship with a higher power and faith, and she loves queer people, but she also loves church.Embracing Both Identity and FaithMulvaney, who grew up in a religious environment, revealed that Chenoweths example of loving both her faith and the LGBTQ+ community helped her reconcile these two important parts of her own life. I grew up very religious, and so for me, she kind of was the thing that felt like I was allowed to be both and that maybe a God could love me.Chenoweths combination of faith and love for queer individuals provided Mulvaney with a sense of acceptance that was not always present in other aspects of her life. The idea that she could embrace both her spiritual side and her identity as a trans woman was transformative, giving her the strength to continue living authentically and pursue her dreams without fear.Looking Ahead to West End DebutNow, as she prepares for her West End debut later this year, Mulvaney continues to be inspired by the lessons she learned from the Broadway stars who helped shape her journey. Her upcoming performance is a testament to the power of following ones dreams and finding support in unexpected places.Mulvaneys story serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and the impact that encouragement from mentors can have, especially for young people navigating their identities. From a 12-year-old fan writing letters to Broadway stars, to a trans activist making her mark in the theatre world, Mulvaneys journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and human connection.As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, its clear that Mulvaney will continue to use her platform to inspire others, just as Kristin Chenoweth inspired her. The dream of musical theatre that seemed impossible for a young Mulvaney has now become a reality, and her story is one of perseverance, hope, and the importance of finding community.The post Dylan Mulvaney Credits Kristin Chenoweth for Inspiring Her Musical Theatre Dreams appeared first on Gayety.

Targets decision to scale back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs is sparking significant backlash from the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the retailers home city of Minneapolis. The move has led to the cancellation of Targets involvement in the Twin Cities Pride Festival, a long-time event where the retailer had been a key sponsor.On Friday, Target, headquartered in Minneapolis, announced changes to its Belonging at the Bullseye strategy, which includes ending its three-year DEI goals and discontinuing its Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH) initiatives by 2025. The announcement comes as part of broader corporate adjustments in response to increased scrutiny of DEI programs nationwide, following pressure from political leaders and conservative groups.Twin Cities Pride Cuts Ties with TargetThe decision to roll back DEI efforts has not been well received by local LGBTQ+ advocates, especially in Targets hometown. Over the weekend, organizers of the Twin Cities Pride Festival, one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the region, announced that Target would no longer be involved in this years festivities. The move marks a significant rupture between the company and a key event that had been closely aligned with Targets support for the LGBTQ+ community.Andi Otto, executive director of Twin Cities Pride, explained in an interview with MPR News that the decision to sever ties with Target was made after the companys recent changes to its DEI initiatives. Otto emphasized that, given the current climate for the LGBTQ+ community, it would not be appropriate for Target to participate in the parade or other Pride activities.In the current climate that we are having to live in as a community, I made the decision that it would not be in the best interest of our community to have Targets presence at Pride or the parade this year, Otto told MPR News.Loss of Funding for Twin Cities PrideTwin Cities Pride also revealed on social media that its decision to part ways with Target meant losing a significant sponsor, which contributes $50,000 annually to the festival. Despite the financial hit, organizers stated that they felt the choice was necessary to stand firm on their commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and support for marginalized communities.To offset the loss, Twin Cities Pride launched a fundraising campaign, which as of this writing had raised nearly $28,000 toward its $50,000 goal. The organizers have received widespread support from local businesses and community members who also oppose Targets DEI rollback.Targets DEI Rollback and National TrendTargets decision to scale back its DEI programs follows a broader trend seen across corporate America, where companies have faced growing pressure to reassess or eliminate such initiatives. The backlash to DEI efforts has been fueled by political and ideological shifts, particularly following actions by the Trump administration to review such programs.In recent months, several high-profile companies, including Amazon, Lowes, Meta, McDonalds, American Airlines, and Boeing, have announced similar cuts to their DEI programs amid increasing political and public scrutiny. The companies have cited a variety of reasons for scaling back or reassessing their DEI efforts, including cost concerns and pressure from conservative activists.Targets decision to scale back its DEI initiatives also comes in the wake of President Donald Trumps executive orders aimed at reviewing and, in some cases, limiting DEI programs. These orders were part of a broader effort by Trump to push back against what he called woke corporate practices, including DEI and environmental sustainability programs, that he viewed as overly politicized.Whats at Stake for Target?For Target, the backlash is particularly significant because the retailer has long been seen as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, both in terms of its public-facing initiatives and its internal workplace policies. Targets Pride Month campaigns and its extensive Pride collections, featuring rainbow-themed merchandise, have made the retailer a go-to for LGBTQ+ shoppers and allies. The company has also been praised in the past for its inclusive workplace practices, including support for transgender employees and benefits for same-sex partners.However, as the national debate over DEI policies intensifies, companies like Target are finding themselves caught in the middle. While some consumers and advocacy groups are pushing for more inclusive policies, others are calling for businesses to dial back their efforts, citing concerns about divisiveness and the politicization of corporate practices.The retailers decision to scale back its DEI programs may signal a shift in how it balances social responsibility with business interests. Target did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the Twin Cities Pride decision or on how the company plans to address the criticism.Growing Scrutiny of Corporate DEI EffortsThe controversy surrounding Targets DEI rollback is part of a larger national conversation about corporate social responsibility, particularly when it comes to race, gender, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. As DEI programs face increasing scrutiny, companies are navigating a delicate balance between upholding their values and responding to external pressures.For many critics, the reduction of DEI initiatives is seen as a retreat from progress, especially in a time when issues of racial and gender equity remain at the forefront of national discussions. On the other hand, some see these moves as a necessary adjustment in the face of political polarization and shifting corporate priorities.As Target faces growing backlash from the LGBTQ+ community, it remains to be seen how the company will address its future role in supporting diversity and inclusion, particularly in its hometown, where it has been a key sponsor of Pride events for years.Targets decision to roll back its DEI programs and its fallout with Twin Cities Pride highlight the complex intersection of corporate interests, social responsibility, and political pressures. As more companies face similar challenges, the debate over the future of DEI initiatives in corporate America is likely to intensify. For now, Targets actions have raised important questions about the role of businesses in advancingor retreating fromsocial justice causes.The post Twin Cities Pride Drops Target as Sponsor After Retail Chain Faces Backlash Over DEI Cutbacks appeared first on Gayety.

A coalition of Quaker organizations has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging immigration policies that they argue violate religious freedom principles. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, claims that the administrations recent immigration actions directly conflict with the Quaker faith, which upholds values of hospitality, justice, and compassion toward immigrants and refugees.The plaintiffs, which include the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) and other Quaker organizations, contend that policies such as family separations, the so-called Muslim Ban, and the reduction in refugee admissions violate both U.S. constitutional protections and international human rights standards. These policies, the Quakers argue, have led to increased suffering among vulnerable populations and contradict the central tenets of their religious beliefs.Religious Freedom and the Quaker FaithQuakerism, or the Religious Society of Friends, is a Christian denomination with a long history of advocating for peace, social justice, and humanitarian aid. Central to Quaker beliefs is the idea of hospitality and the recognition of the Inner Light in every person, which calls for unconditional compassion and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, nationality, or faith.The lawsuit asserts that the Trump administrations stance on immigrationespecially the practice of separating families at the U.S.-Mexico border and the restrictive refugee policieshas forced Quaker groups to choose between their religious convictions and their efforts to assist those in need.We believe that these actions are an affront to the values we hold dear as people of faith, said the AFSC in a statement. Our work to provide care and advocacy for immigrants and refugees is not just a political stance, it is an act of faith. These policies are forcing us into a position where we cannot fulfill our religious obligations.The Impact of Immigration PoliciesThe Trump administrations hardline approach to immigration has been one of the most controversial aspects of its tenure. Key policies, such as the zero tolerance policy that led to family separations, the travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries, and the steep reduction of the refugee cap, have drawn sharp criticism from religious groups, human rights organizations, and international bodies.One of the most significant changes under the Trump administration has been the dramatic reduction in the number of refugees the U.S. is willing to accept. Since taking office, President Trump has slashed the refugee admissions cap, bringing it to historically low levels. At its peak, the U.S. accepted over 100,000 refugees annually, but under Trump, that number has dropped to less than 30,000, with the 2020 cap set at just 18,000.The Quaker groups involved in the lawsuit argue that these actions contradict the values of care and compassion they practice in their faith communities. For Quakers, welcoming immigrants and refugees is not only a social responsibility but a religious duty grounded in the teachings of peace and justice.These policies are deeply harmful to individuals and families seeking safety and a better life, said a spokesperson for the plaintiffs. They conflict with our most fundamental moral obligations as religious people to care for those who are vulnerable.Legal Grounds for the LawsuitThe lawsuit raises several legal issues, including constitutional violations related to freedom of religion and equal protection under the law. The plaintiffs argue that the administrations immigration policies are imposing undue burdens on religious organizations that are actively involved in providing assistance to immigrants and refugees. This includes legal services, housing, food, and other critical support.The suit also challenges the violation of international human rights treaties that the United States is bound to uphold. The plaintiffs claim that the U.S. governments immigration policies undermine the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees the right to seek asylum and protection from persecution.Quaker groups have long been involved in advocacy work on behalf of immigrants and refugees, and this lawsuit is part of their ongoing effort to challenge policies they view as unjust. In recent years, the AFSC has been particularly vocal in opposing family separations, the expansion of detention centers, and other policies that they say harm vulnerable communities.Broader Support and ReactionsThe Quaker lawsuit is part of a broader pushback against the Trump administrations immigration agenda, with numerous religious, civil rights, and humanitarian organizations taking legal and public action against the administrations policies. Catholic, Jewish, and Evangelical groups have also expressed opposition to the treatment of immigrants under the current administration, and several of these organizations have filed lawsuits as well.Religious leaders have frequently criticized the administrations policies, with many arguing that the U.S. should be a place of refuge and sanctuary for those fleeing violence, poverty, and persecution. The lawsuit filed by the Quaker organizations underscores the ongoing clash between religious values and government policies that some religious groups view as inconsistent with their faiths teachings.We are deeply concerned about the message this administration is sending, said an AFSC representative. Immigrants are not the problemthey are our neighbors, and we are called to love and care for them.The Quaker lawsuit against the Trump administration highlights a growing divide over immigration policy in the United States and underscores the tension between government actions and religious values that emphasize compassion and justice for vulnerable populations. As the legal battle unfolds, the Quaker groups involved in the case are committed to continuing their advocacy work on behalf of immigrants and refugees, regardless of the outcome.With the future of U.S. immigration policies uncertain, the Quaker groups lawsuit is a reminder of the broader ethical and religious debates surrounding the treatment of immigrants and the role of faith-based organizations in shaping public policy. The case could have significant implications for the intersection of religious freedom and government immigration practices in the years to come.The post Quaker Groups File Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over Immigration Policies and Religious Freedom Concerns appeared first on Gayety.

President Donald Trump greets a Marine Corps honor guard as he disembarks Marine One upon arrival on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)2025-01-28T22:59:33Z WASHINGTON (AP) The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it is offering buyouts to all federal employees who opt to leave their jobs by next week an unprecedented move to shrink the U.S. government at breakneck speed. A memo from the Office of Personnel Management, the governments human resources agency, also said it would begin subjecting all federal employees to enhanced standards of suitability and conduct and ominously warned of future downsizing. The email sent to millions of employees said those who leave their posts voluntarily will receive about eight months of salary, but they have to choose to do so by Feb. 6. President Donald Trump has built a political career around promising to disrupt Washington, and vowed that his second administration would go far further in shaking up traditional political norms than his first did. Still, the repercussions of so many government workers being invited to leave their jobs were difficult to calculate. Katie Miller, who serves on an advisory board to the Department of Government Efficiency, a special Trump administration department headed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk and tasked with shrinking the size of government, posted on X, This email is being sent to more than TWO MILLION federal employees. The federal government employed more than 3 million people as of November last year, which accounted for nearly 1.9% of the nations entire civilian workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. The average tenure for a federal employee is nearly 12 years, according to a Pew analysis of data from OPM. Even a fraction of the workforce accepting buyouts could send shockwaves through the economy and trigger widespread disruptions throughout society as a whole, triggering wide-ranging and as yet unknowable implications for the delivery, timeliness and effectiveness of federal services across the nation. Untold numbers of front-line health workers in the Veterans Affairs Department, officials who process loans for homebuyers or small businesses, and contractors who help procure the next generation of military weaponry could all head for the exits at once. It could also mean losing experienced food inspectors and scientists who test the water supply while disrupting everything from air travel and consumer product protections.In response, American Federation of Government Employees union President Everett Kelley said it should not be viewed as voluntary buyouts, but pressuring workers not considered loyal to the new administration to vacate their jobs.Purging the federal government of dedicated career federal employees will have vast, unintended consequences that will cause chaos for the Americans who depend on a functioning federal government, Kelley said in a statement. Between the flurry of anti-worker executive orders and policies, it is clear that the Trump administrations goal is to turn the federal government into a toxic environment where workers cannot stay even if they want to.In its emailed memo detailing its plan, OPM lists four directives that it says Trump is mandating for the federal workforce going forward including that most workers return to their offices full-time. The substantial majority of federal employees who have been working remotely since Covid will be required to return to their physical offices five days a week, it reads. That echoes Trump, who said of federal employees over the weekend: You have to go to your office and work. Otherwise youre not going to have a job.The memo also says Trump will insist on excellence at every level, and while some parts of the governments workforce may increase under his administration, The majority of federal agencies are likely to be downsized. Finally, it says, the federal workforce should be comprised of employees who are reliable, loyal, trustworthy, and who strive for excellence in their daily work. Employees will be subject to enhanced standards of suitability and conduct as we move forward, the memo reads. The emailed message includes a deferred resignation letter for federal employees to begin leaving their posts.If you resign under this program, you will retain all pay and benefits regardless of your daily workload and will be exempted from all applicable in-person work requirements until September 30, it says. The email even includes instructions on how to accept, stating: If you wish to resign: Select Reply to this email. You must reply from your government account. It adds: Type the word Resign into the body of this email and hit send.Meanwhile, OPM has released guidance for an executive order Trump signed on the first day of his second term known as Schedule Career/Policy. It replaces Schedule F, an order Trump signed late in his first term that sought to reclassify thousands of federal employees and make them political appointees without the same job security protections. President Joe Biden rescinded Trumps Schedule F order almost immediately upon taking office in 2021, and under his administration, OPM issued a new rule last year designed to make it more difficult to fire many federal employees. That move was seen as a safeguard against using a new Schedule F order to help carry out the key goals of Project 2025, a sweeping plan by a conservative Washington think tank to dismiss large swaths of the federal workforce in favor of more conservative alternatives while also cutting back on the overall size of government.But that hasnt stopped the Trump administration from swiftly moving to gut the federal workforce and leave employees with little recourse to protest firings or reassignments. Trumps OPM on Monday set deadlines for agencies to begin to recommend workers for reclassification. Agency heads are being instructed to establish a contact person no later than Wednesday and begin to submit interim personnel recommendations within 90 days.Agencies are encouraged to submit recommendations on a rolling basis before this date, Charles Ezell, the acting director of OPM, said in a memo.Perhaps more stunning, the Trump personnel office simply did away with the Biden administrations 2024 regulation to better protect federal workers. Mondays memo said Trumps new executive order used the presidents authority to directly nullify these regulations.___Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Lisa Mascaro in Washington and Brian Witte in Annapolis, Maryland, contributed to this report. __This story has been corrected to change the buyout proposal to eight months of salary, not seven. WILL WEISSERT Weissert covers national politics and the White House for The Associated Press. He is based in Washington. twitter mailto

Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, before she christened the nuclear aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy at Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., on Dec. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File)2025-01-28T20:00:13Z Follow live updates on President Donald Trumps return to Washington WASHINGTON (AP) Calling Robert F. Kennedy Jr. a predator who is addicted to power, Caroline Kennedy urged the U.S. Senate in a Tuesday letter to reject the nomination of her cousin to be President Donald Trumps health secretary.In a letter to Senators, Ms. Kennedy, who previously served as a U.S. ambassador to Australia and Japan and is the daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, etched a damning sketch of her cousin, the latest condemnation Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has received from members of his own, prominent Democratic family.Several denounced her cousins bid for the presidency last year. The letter, obtained by The Associated Press, was first reported by The Washington Post.Ms. Kennedy said in the letter that her cousins views on vaccines are disqualifying. She offered senators personal details from their lives growing up together that she said pose an even greater concern. She described her cousins basement, garage and dorm as being an epicenter for drug use, where he would also put baby chickens and mice in blenders to feed to his hawks.It was often a perverse scene of despair and violence, she wrote. She also read the letter in a video recording, sharing it on social media. Attempts to reach Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for comment were not immediately successful. He has openly talked about his heroin use and he pleaded guilty for bringing it on an airplane in 1984. Some Senate Republicans who would confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s as the nations top health official are uncomfortable with his views on abortion access and banning corn syrup and pesticides from Americas food supply. (AP Video: Nathan Ellgren) Kennedy now preys on the desperation of parents of sick children, she told senators, noting that he has vaccinated his own children while discouraging others from vaccinating theirs.She also pointed out that Kennedy plans to still profit off a lawsuit against pharmaceutical company Merck over Gardasil, its human papillomavirus vaccine that prevents cervical cancer. Last year, he made over $850,000 from the arrangement.In other words, he is willing to enrich himself by denying access to a vaccine that can prevent almost all forms of cervical cancer and which has been safely administered to millions of boys and girls, she wrote. She had previously not spoken about his candidacy or nomination for health secretary. Her father was assassinated in 1963 when she was a young girl. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s father, Robert F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1968 during his presidential campaign event.Unlike Bobby, I try not to speak for my father but I am certain that he and my uncle Bobby, who gave their lives in public services, and my uncle Teddy, who devoted his Senate career to improving health care, would be disgusted, Ms. Kennedy wrote.Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will appear before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday in his bid to become Trumps health secretary. Another hearing for his nomination will be held on Wednesday in front of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension committee, the panel his uncle, Ted Kennedy, once chaired. AMANDA SEITZ Seitz is an Associated Press reporter covering federal health care policy. She is based in Washington, D.C. twitter mailto RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at the Heritage Foundation 50th Anniversary Celebration leadership summit, Friday, April 21, 2023, in Oxon Hill, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)2025-01-29T03:23:18Z TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) Florida lawmakers passed a sweeping immigration bill Tuesday, setting aside half a billion dollars in public funds to help carry out President Donald Trump s crackdown on those in the country illegally.In a state where roughly one in every five residents is an immigrant, the legislation would require every level of government as well as government contractors to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement to the fullest extent possible.Following more than four hours of deliberations on Tuesday, Floridas Republican-dominated Legislature passed the measure largely along party lines. The passage sets up a showdown between Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and state legislative leaders, who have sparred over whose proposals would better carry out Trumps immigration crackdown. DeSantis has called the bill weak. The whole goal of this bill is to help President Trump do his job, said Republican Sen. Gruters, one of the bill sponsors and a Trump ally who said he spoke with the president while shepherding the measure. He wants maximum coordination with local government. Lawmakers pushed the 80-plus page bill titled the Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy, or TRUMP Act through in a special session, when its harder for the public to engage in the legislative process. Republican lawmakers filed the bill after rejecting immigration proposals by DeSantis, a rebuke to the lame duck governor who was once floated as Trumps successor. Notably, one Republican in the House and six in the Senate voted against the measure, leaving the bill short of a veto-proof majority.I appreciate the attempt, said Republican Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, an ally of the governor. I cannot vote for this because it is nowhere near strong enough for my taste.Ahead of the floor debate on Tuesday, Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez announced additional provisions, after they requested and received technical assistance from the Trump Administration, the leaders said. The amendments included enhancing penalties for all crimes committed in the state by people in the country illegally, and requires that those convicted of capital offenses receive the death penalty. But the Republican sponsors declined to include some of DeSantis provisions, like restrictions on sending money overseas by people in the country illegally and a measure that would have created a legal presumption that people in the country illegally are a flight risk.Now DeSantis must weigh whether to sign a proposal hes bashed in public as toothless and watered-down or veto it. He could also decline to sign the bill, allowing it to become law.The measure passed by lawmakers Tuesday would create a new state immigration enforcement office with more than 140 employees under the direction of a newly minted chief immigration officer, a post to be taken by the states commissioner of agriculture, and would cede emergency immigration enforcement powers from the governor to the state immigration officer. The bill allocates $100 million for grants to local law enforcement agencies for training, equipment and reimbursement for leasing detention facilities to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It allocates another $375 million to fund the states cooperation with the federal government, including efforts related to a program that deputizes local law enforcement for duties typically performed by ICE agents. It also sets aside $25 million to give $1,000 bonuses to local law enforcement officers who cooperate with the federal government.Democrats repeatedly pressed the bill sponsors on the language requiring government employees to cooperate to the fullest extent possible with federal immigration enforcement.If we really dont want our (school resource officers), our social workers and our teachers defining for themselves what the fullest extent of their cooperation needs to be, then we need to define that, said Democratic Rep. Christine Hunchofsky. Gruters said the bill is aimed at requiring more cooperation from local officials running jails and detention facilities, not street-level enforcement. But he acknowledged that could change with federal priorities.The bill would also repeal a decade-old state law allowing Florida students who are in the country without legal permission to qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, which as of the 2023-2024 fiscal year benefitted about 6,500 students. In a sign of how much the states immigration politics have changed in recent years, the tuition measure was sponsored in 2014 by the states now-lieutenant governor, a Republican from Miami.I implore you today to remember the haunting yet challenging words of our lieutenant governor when she said, Its the right thing to do, Democratic Sen. Darryl Rouson told his colleagues on the Senate floor. And what has changed since then except an attitude towards immigrants? Democratic Rep. Jose Alvarez, who was born in Cuba and was brought the U.S. by his parents, was more forceful.You all should be ashamed of yourself, he told lawmakers during a hearing on the bill, adding This is not what this country was meant for.The provision empowering the states agriculture commissioner as chief immigration officer has rankled DeSantis, who said its almost like the fox guarding the hen house because the agriculture industry hasnt been known for immigration enforcement. In his closing remarks, Speaker Perez seemed to nod at the pressure Republicans have faced from the governor and his allies.Threatening others to get your way isnt leadership, its immaturity, Perez said. Im going ask you to ignore the melodrama and instead focus on the work that we have to do.Florida is among many states led by both parties responding to Trumps immigration agenda, including Tennessee, which started its own special session Monday in part to deal with the issue.___ Associated Press writer Stephany Matat in West Palm Beach contributed to this report. Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. KATE PAYNE Payne writes about state government and education and is based in Tallahassee, FL. She is a Report for America corps member. twitter mailto

Firefighters work to extinguish a fire on an Air Busan airplane at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (Son Hyung-joo/Yonhap via AP)2025-01-28T15:12:50Z SEOUL, South Korea (AP) A passenger plane caught fire before takeoff at an airport in South Korea late Tuesday, but all 176 people on board were safely evacuated, authorities said.The Airbus plane operated by South Korean airline Air Busan was preparing to leave for Hong Kong when its rear parts caught fire at Gimhae International Airport in the southeast, the Transport Ministry said in a statement. The planes 169 passengers, six crewmembers and one engineer were evacuated using an escape slide, the ministry said. The National Fire Agency said in a release that three people suffered minor injuries during the evacuation. The fire agency said the fire was completely put out at 11:31 p.m., about one hour after it deployed firefighters and fire trucks at the scene. The cause of the fire wasnt immediately known. The Transport Ministry said the plane is an A321 model. Tuesdays incident came a month after a Jeju Air passenger plane crashed at Muan International Airport in southern South Korea, killing all but two of the 181 people on board. It was one of the deadliest disasters in South Koreas aviation history. The Boeing 737-800 skidded off the airports runaway on Dec. 29 after its landing gear failed to deploy, slamming into a concrete structure and bursting into flames. The flight was returning from Bangkok and all of the victims were South Koreans except for two Thai nationals.The first report on the crash released Monday said authorities have confirmed traces of bird strikes in the planes engines, though officials havent determined the cause of the accident. HYUNG-JIN KIM Hyung-jin is an Associated Press reporter in Seoul, South Korea. He reports on security, political and other general news on the Korean Peninsula. twitter mailto

The page for the smartphone app DeepSeek is seen on a smartphone screen in Beijing, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)2025-01-28T23:31:23Z Chinese artificial intelligence startup company DeepSeek stunned markets and AI experts with its claim that it built its immensely popular chatbot at a fraction of the cost of those made by American tech titans. That immediately called into question the billions of dollars U.S. tech companies are spending on a massive expansion of energy-hungry data centers they say are needed to unlock the next wave of artificial intelligence.Could this new AI mean the world needs significantly less electricity for the technology than everyone thinks? The answer has profound implications for the overheating climate . AI uses vast amounts of energy, much of which comes from burning fossil fuels, which causes climate change. Tech companies have said their electricity use is going up, when it was supposed to be ramping down, ruining their carefully-laid plans to address climate change. There has been a very gung ho, go ahead at all costs mentality in this space, pushing toward investment in fossil fuels, said Eric Gimon, senior fellow at Energy Innovation. This is an opportunity to tap the brakes.Making AI more efficient could be less taxing on the environment, experts say, even if its huge electricity needs are not going away. People flock to new DeepSeek assistantDeepSeeks claims of building its impressive chatbot on a budget drew curiosity that helped make its AI assistant the No. 1 downloaded free app on Apples iPhone this week, ahead of U.S.-made chatbots ChatGPT and Googles Gemini.All of a sudden we wake up Monday morning and we see a new player number one on the App Store, and all of a sudden it could be a potential gamechanger overnight, said Jay Woods, chief global strategist at Freedom Capital Markets. It caused a bit of a panic. These were the hottest stocks in the world.DeepSeeks app competes well with other leading AI models. It can compose software code, solve math problems and address other questions that take multiple steps of planning. Its attracted attention for its ability to explain its reasoning in the process of answering questions. Leading analysts have been poring through the startups public research papers about its new model, R1, and its precursors. Among the details that stood out was DeepSeeks assertion that the cost to train the flagship v3 model behind its AI assistant was only $5.6 million, a stunningly low number compared to the multiple billions of dollars spent to build ChatGPT and other well-known systems. DeepSeek hasnt responded to requests for comment.The $5.6 million number only included actually training the chatbot, not the costs of earlier-stage research and experiments, the paper said. DeepSeek was also working under some constraints: U.S. export controls on the most powerful AI chips. It said it relied on a relatively low-performing AI chip from California chipmaker Nvidia that the U.S. hasnt banned for sale in China. A look at how data centers operate, and why they require a lot of electricity and water. (AP animation/Donavon Brutus) The energy use of data centers in the United States is projected to double or triple by 2028Data centers consumed about 4.4% of all U.S. electricity in 2023 and thats expected to increase to 6.7% to 12% of total U.S. electricity by 2028, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.Its been axiomatic that U.S. tech giants must spend much more on building out data centers and other infrastructure to train and run their AI systems. Meta Platforms, the parent of Facebook and Instagram, says it plans to spend up to $65 billion this year, including on a massive data center complex coming to Louisiana.Microsoft said it plans to spend $80 billion this year. And Trump last week joined the CEOs of OpenAI, Oracle and SoftBank to announce a joint venture that hopes to invest up to $500 billion on data centers and the electricity generation needed for AI development, starting with a project already under construction in Texas. This photo shows a Meta data center, in Dublin, Ireland, Oct. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Bram Janssen, File) This photo shows a Meta data center, in Dublin, Ireland, Oct. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Bram Janssen, File) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Experts think that if AI is more efficient, it will be used more, so energy demand will still grow.When theres an innovative technology thats useful to the general population and its affordable, people will use it, said Vic Shao, founder of DC Grid, which delivers off-grid, direct current power to data centers and electric vehicle charging stations.That means data centers will still be built, though they may be able to operate more efficiently, said Travis Miller, an energy and utilities strategist at Morningstar Securities Research.We think that the growth in electricity demand will end up at the lower end of most of the ranges out there, he said.If DeepSeeks claims hold true, some routine AI queries might not need a data center and could be shifted to phones, said Rahul Sandil, vice president and general manager for global marketing and communications at MediaTek, a semiconductor company. That would ease the computing need and give more time to scale up renewable energy sources for data centers.Bloom Energy is one of the AI-related stocks that took a hit Monday. KR Sridhar, founder and CEO, said its imperative that the U.S. leads in AI because it can power data centers with clean energy, unlike other countries that still primarily rely on coal. We can continue to make it better and we will continue to make it better, he said. Rick Villars, an analyst for market research group IDC, said the DeepSeek news could influence how AI researchers advance their models, but theyll still need plenty of data centers and electricity.We think this actually could boost and accelerate the time frame for when AI becomes much more embedded into our lives, in the work sense, the living sense and in health care, Villars said. So we still think the capacity is required.___The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. JENNIFER McDERMOTT McDermott is a reporter on the Associated Press Climate and Environment team. She focuses on the transition to clean energy. twitter mailto MATT OBRIEN OBrien covers the business of technology and artificial intelligence for The Associated Press. mailto

People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa)2025-01-28T10:24:36Z GOMA, Congo (AP) Rwanda-backed rebels have claimed they captured eastern Congos strategic city of Goma, the hub of a region containing trillions of dollars in mineral wealth that remains largely untapped.Analysts said the M23 fighters aimed to control the city of about 2 million people and perhaps other areas in the region nearly 1,000 miles from the Congolese capital.It marks a sharp escalation in one of Africas longest wars, threatening to dramatically worsen a dire humanitarian crisis. People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More The offensive has sent thousands fleeing their homes, in addition to 1 million displaced who are already in Goma, and stretched hospitals to the limit, with hundreds of wounded coming in every day as civilians get caught in the crossfire.This series of photos documents the events as they unfold. Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More A UN armored personnel carrier burns during clashes with M23 rebels outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) A UN armored personnel carrier burns during clashes with M23 rebels outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels make their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Congolese government troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More UN troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) UN troops deploy outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More A UN armored personnel carrier burns during clashes with M23 rebels outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) A UN armored personnel carrier burns during clashes with M23 rebels outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Congolese children watch the deployment of government and UN troops outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Congolese children watch the deployment of government and UN troops outside Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as M23 rebels are reported to close in on the town. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More Mariam Nasibu stands by her 10-year-old daughter Deborah, who was wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces, in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Mariam Nasibu stands by her 10-year-old daughter Deborah, who was wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces, in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More A person wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrives at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) A person wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrives at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More A child wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces lies on a bed at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) A child wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces lies on a bed at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrive at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrive at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrive at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People wounded in the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces arrive at the Cbeca Ndosho hospital in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) People fleeing M-23 rebel advances arrive by boat in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) Share Share Copy Link copied Email Facebook X Reddit LinkedIn Pinterest Flipboard Print Read More

Syrian civil defense workers, known as the White Helmets, collect human remains found in two separate basements in Sbeneh, outskirts of Damascus, Syria, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. According to the White Helmets, the charred remains belong to at least 26 victims of the Bashar Assad regime. (AP Photo/Omar Albam)2025-01-28T20:20:17Z DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) The charred remains of at least 26 victims of the Bashar Assad government were located Tuesday by Syrian civil defense workers in two separate basements in rural Damascus.The discovery adds to the growing tally of mass graves unearthed since the fall of the Assad government in December. The remains, which are believed to include men, women and children, showed evidence of gunshot wounds and burning.Members of Syrias White Helmets, a volunteer civil defense group, exhumed the fragmented, weathered skeletal remains from the basement of two properties in the town of Sbeneh, southwest of the capital. Wearing hazmat suits, they carefully logged and coded each set of remains before placing them into body bags, which were then loaded onto trucks for transport.Since Nov. 28, the White Helmets have uncovered more than 780 bodies, most of unknown identity, Abed al-Rahman Mawwas, a member of the rescue service, told The Associated Press. He said many were found in shallow graves uncovered by locals or dug up by animals. The bodies are transferred to forensics doctors to determine their identities, time of death and cause of death, as well as to match them with possible family members. Of course, this takes years of work, he said. Mohammad al-Herafe, a resident of one of the buildings where remains were uncovered, said the stench of decomposing bodies was overwhelming when his family returned to Sbeneh in 2016 after fleeing because of fighting in the area during the countrys uprising-turned-civil war that began in 2011. He said they found the bodies in the basement but chose not to report it out of fear of government reprisals. We could not tell the regime about it because we know that the regime did this.The Assad government, which ruled Syria for over two decades, employed airstrikes on civilian areas, torture, executions and mass imprisonment, to maintain control over Syria and suppress opposition groups during the countrys 13-year civil war. Ammar al-Salmo, another Civil Defense member dispatched to the second basement site, said further investigation is needed to identify the victims. We need testimonies from residents and others who might know who stayed behind when the fighting intensified in 2013, he told the AP.Mohammad Shebat, who lived in the second building where bodies were found, said he left the neighborhood in 2012 and returned in 2020 when he and his neighbors discovered the bodies and demanded their removal. But no one cooperated, he said.Shebat believes the victims were civilians who fled the nearby Al-Assali neighborhood when the fighting escalated and the Assad government imposed a siege in 2013. He said forces of the former government used to trap people in basements, burn them with tires and leave their bodies. There are several basements like this, full of skeletons, he said.In a report released Monday, the United Nations Syria Commission of Inquiry said that mass graves can be used as evidence to uncover the fates of thousands of missing detainees. The report, spanning 14 years of investigations and drawing on over 2,000 witness testimonies, including more than 550 survivors of torture, detailed how detainees in Syrias notorious prisons suffering from torture injuries, malnutrition, disease and illness, were left to die slowly, in agonizing pain, or were taken away to be executed.Assads fall on Dec. 8 drove hundreds of families to scour prisons and morgues in desperate search of loved ones. While many were freed after years of imprisonment, thousands remain missing, their fates still unknown.The U.N. commission has said that forensic exhumations of mass graves, as well as safeguarding evidence, archives and crime sites, may offer grieving families a chance to learn the truth.The commission was established in 2011 by the Human Rights Council to investigate Syrias alleged violations of international human rights law.The U.N. report documented brutal methods of torture by the former government, including severe beatings, electric shocks, burning, pulling out nails, damaging teeth, rape, sexual violence including mutilation, prolonged stress positions, deliberate neglect and denial of medical care, exacerbating wounds and psychological torture.For Syrians who did not find their loved ones among the freed, this evidence, alongside testimonies of freed detainees, may be their best hope to uncover the truth about missing relatives, said Commissioner Lynn Welchman. ___Abou AlJoud reported from Beirut.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., speaks during a meeting with Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, at the Capitol in Washington, Jan. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)2025-01-29T05:09:25Z WASHINGTON (AP) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s famous name, populist stances and loyal following have earned him President Donald Trumps support, but will that get him the votes he needs from the Republican-controlled Senate to become the nations top health official? If approved, Kennedy will control a $1.7 trillion agency that oversees food and hospital inspections, hundreds of health clinics, vaccine recommendations and health insurance for roughly half the country. His confirmation hearings are set before the Senate finance committee on Wednesday and the Health, Education, Labor and Pension committee on Thursday. Heres what to watch during his confirmation hearings: How will he explain his vaccine views? Over many years, Kennedy has been clear about his beliefs on vaccines in dozens of interviews, podcasts and social media posts. Hes headed up a nonprofit that has sued the government over its authorizations of vaccines. Hes said there is no vaccine that is safe and effective, and repeatedly called for further study of routine childhood vaccinations, despite decades of research and real-world use that proves theyve safely prevented disease. But more recently, Kennedy has tried to downplay his past remarks and work, saying hes not anti-vaccine and promising not to take away the shots. The health committee chairman, Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., also has expressed concerns about Kennedys anti-vaccine work. A physician, Cassidy said earlier this month he had a frank conversation and spoke about vaccines at length with Kennedy. On Tuesday, Cassidy told reporters that he is still unsure if he is backing Trumps nominee. Im still working through it, Cassidy said during a press availability with Louisiana reporters on Tuesday. I look forward to the hearings and I will allow that to guide my decision.The intensity of the questioning on vaccines over the next two days could provide clues for how other Republicans like Sen. Mitch McConnell, a polio survivor who represents Kentucky might consider Kennedys nomination. Watch for overtures to the anti-abortion movementSome of the countrys most conservative lawmakers have been worried about how Kennedy will handle abortion as health secretary. Republican Sen. James Lankford, who sits on the finance committee, is expected to grill Kennedy, a longtime Democrat, on the issue during Wednesdays hearing. Lankford is seen as a possible no vote over Kennedys past comments supporting abortion. Last month, the Oklahoma senator said he had a good conversation with Kennedy but stopped short of endorsing. HHS can influence abortion and reproductive health access in a number of ways, including with millions of dollars in grants it sends to Planned Parenthood and regulations around abortion pills. Under the Biden administration, the agency also said hospitals were required to provide emergency abortions for pregnant women in medical distress. On Monday, acting HHS Secretary Dorothy Fink signaled the agency is prepared to adopt a tougher stance on abortion under Kennedy. She ordered the agency to investigate all of its programs to make sure no taxpayer money is going toward elective abortions. There are Democrats hes trying to woo, tooKennedy needs to earn support from nearly all Senate Republicans, but he may also try to pick up a vote or two from the Democratic Party. His closest supporters and advisers have urged followers to call the offices of Democratic Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada. Another Democratic senator may also be in play: John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who met with Kennedy and has said hes open to supporting Trumps nominees.An area where Kennedy is trying to find common ground with Democratic senators: food regulations and access to healthier foods. Kennedy has said he supports Medicare and Medicaid helping people pay for healthier foods and gym memberships, an idea Democrats have lobbied for as well. Hes also called for a ban on some of the ingredients used in foods, like dyes and additives. Will that letter come up? In a letter sent to U.S. senators on Tuesday, Caroline Kennedy shared shocking personal details about her cousin, saying he is not qualified for the health secretary job. Caroline Kennedy said RFK Jr.'s views on vaccines are a problem, but she also brought up her experiences growing up with him. A copy obtained by The Associated Press notes that while she admired him for overcoming a drug addiction, she said he has gone on to misrepresent, lie, and cheat his way through life. In an extreme anecdote, she accused him of hosting drug-fueled gatherings in his basement, dorm and garage where he enjoyed showing off how he put baby chickens and mice in the blender to feed his hawks. Meanwhile, another cousin, former Rhode Island congressman and Democrat Patrick J. Kennedy, threw his support behind the health secretary nominee in an opinion piece for The Washington Post on Tuesday. RFK Jr. helped pull him out of addiction, Patrick J. Kennedy said. Bobby was the first family member to call and offer his personal and public support, even at a time when some in my family criticized me for breaking the so-called family code of silence, he wrote. ___Associated Press writer Sara Cline in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, contributed to this report. AMANDA SEITZ Seitz is an Associated Press reporter covering federal health care policy. She is based in Washington, D.C. twitter mailto

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's choice to be Defense secretary, at the completion of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)2025-01-29T05:02:16Z WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump has launched his second bid to oust all transgender troops from the military, and once again it will be headed to the courts to sort it out.Although the new order will affect only a tiny fraction of Americas 2.1 million service members, it has taken on oversized importance to Trump and his administration, who see transgender forces as a sign the military is woke or not focused on training and winning wars. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, before he took the job, wrote in his book War on Warriors that for the recruits, for the military, and primarily for the security of the country, transgender people should never be allowed to serve. Its that simple. Trumps order to push out transgender troops, issued late Monday night, was instantly condemned by an array of activist groups as exceptionally egregious and ultimately harmful to military readiness. They say transgender people have been serving successfully for years, including openly on and off for the past decade.Heres a look at what it all means and the confusing duel over the ban for the past decade. What does the order say?Trumps order essentially says that anyone who is diagnosed with gender dysphoria the unease someone has when their assigned sex and gender identity dont match cannot serve in the military. It gives the defense secretary 60 days to update the medical standards for enlistment and re-enlistment to reflect that change. And it gives Hegseth 30 days to lay out how he plans to implement it all.According to the order, expressing a false gender identity divergent from an individuals sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service. It says the hormonal and surgical needs involved in taking on a different gender identity conflicts with a soldiers commitment to an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle. It concludes that, A mans assertion that he is a woman, and his requirement that others honor this falsehood, is not consistent with the humility and selflessness required of a service member.The order also zeroes in on the heady bathroom issue. On his first day in office Trump issued an executive order that he said would restore biological truth to the federal government by eliminating the word gender and replacing it with sex. He said the federal government will only recognize people based on their sex at the time of conception based on their reproductive cell.His latest order expands on that, saying the military will neither allow males to use or share sleeping, changing, or bathing facilities designated for females, nor allow females to use or share sleeping, changing, or bathing facilities designated for males. Now what?The Pentagon has said in recent years that it is impossible to count the total number of transgender troops. The military services say there is no way to track them and that much information is limited due to medical privacy laws.Estimates have hovered between 9,000 and 12,000. But it will be very difficult for officials to identify them, even as service members worry about the hunt to root them out.This casts an enormous shadow on people that are getting ready to go on a deployment for six months overseas or, you know, getting ready to go on a combat mission, said Sasha Buchert, counsel for Lambda Legal. This is going to be extremely disruptive. And theyre going to have to look over their shoulder in fear of when the next shoe will fall.Since transgender troops have been able to serve openly for a number of years, its possible their fellow unit members or commanders know who some of them are. That triggers worries about people identifying them in order to get them pushed out and raises parallels to the Clinton administrations Dont Ask, Dont Tell policy, which allowed gays to serve in the military as long as they didnt tell.In March 2018, then-Defense Secretary James Mattis released a memo with unprecedented details on the number of transgender forces and how many of them had sought mental health help or were planning to seek surgery. It said, at that time, there were 8,980 service members who identified themselves as transgender, and 937 had been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. The report said data collected by the military health system revealed that 424 of those service members diagnosed had gotten treatment plans approved and for at least 36 of them those plans didnt include cross sex hormone therapy or sex reassignment surgery.This isnt the first timeIn 2015, then-Defense Secretary Ash Carter broached the idea of lifting the ban on transgender troops and allowing them to serve openly, which raised concerns among military leaders. He set up a study, and then about a year later, in June 2016, announced the ban was ended. A year after that, just six months into his first presidential term, Trump suddenly announced via tweet he was not going to allow transgender people to serve in the military in any capacity. The tweets caught the Pentagon by surprise and plunged leaders into what became a roughly two-year struggle to hammer out the complex details of who would be affected by the ban and how it would work, even as legal challenges poured in. By March 2019, as courts ruled against the ban, the Pentagon laid out a policy that allowed those currently serving to continue with plans for hormone treatments and gender transition if they had been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. But it barred new enlistments of anyone with gender dysphoria who was taking hormones or had transitioned to another gender. And it said in the future those diagnosed with gender dysphoria must serve in their birth gender and were barred from taking hormones or getting transition surgery.Soon after President Joe Biden took office in 2021, he overturned Trumps ban and the Pentagon also announced it would cover transition medical expenses for troops. How has it worked out?The chiefs of all four military services told members of Congress in 2018 they were seeing few problems as transgender troops began serving openly. The Navy chief at the time, Adm. John Richardson, said the Navy was dealing with the issue the same way it handled the integration of women sailors on submarines.And the Marine commandant then, Gen. Robert Neller, said there were no unit cohesion or discipline problems. His only concern, he told a Senate committee, was that some commanders were saying they had to spend a lot of time with transgender people as they worked through medical requirements involving their transition to their preferred gender.Sarah Klimm, a transgender Marine who served for 23 years, retired just as the end to the ban was announced in 2016, so was never able to serve openly.Trans military members that are out there right now are dropping bombs, pulling triggers, fixing all the weapons systems, she said Tuesday. And now youre looking to keep them away.Klimm, who is now a policy analyst for Minority Veterans of America, said its an especially precarious time to remove thousands of service members as recruiting has been a struggle.Emily Shilling, who has been openly transgender since 2019, is currently serving as a commander in the Navy with more than 19 years of service, including as a combat pilot who flew 60 missions in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.I just want to continue serving my country, using the skills this nation invested in me as a fighter pilot and leader, she said, stressing that she was speaking in her personal capacity. For nearly two decades, Ive upheld the highest standards of excellence, leading teams in combat and peace. All I ask is the opportunity to keep using my training and experience to serve this country with honor, courage and dedication.___ Associated Press writer Tara Copp contributed to this report. LOLITA C. BALDOR Baldor has covered the Pentagon and national security issues for The Associated Press since 2005. She has reported from all over the world including warzones in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. twitter mailto

Retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, appears before the House Foreign Affairs Committee about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)2025-01-29T09:49:02Z WASHINGTON (AP) Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is pulling the security protections and clearance of retired Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Mark Milley, and has ordered the Pentagons inspector general to review Milleys actions while serving as the nations top uniformed officer to determine if a demotion is warranted, two defense officials confirmed late Tuesday. The inspector general review will include an inquiry into the facts and circumstances surrounding Gen Milleys conduct so that the Secretary may determine whether it is appropriate to reopen his military grade review determination, said Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot. The Secretary informed General Milley today that he is revoking the authorization for his security detail and suspending his security clearance as well, he said.Milley served as chairman during President Donald Trumps first term in office. While the relationship initially went well, it soured deeply and fast, as Milley tried to advise and contain the president on a host of issues. He pushed back on the presidents interest in using force domestically to quell protestors after the death of George Floyd, and was at the center of a controversy in 2021 when he made independent calls to his Chinese counterpart. Trump called the calls an act of treason, but at the time Milley said the calls were routine and part of the scope of his job. Milley in his final days as chairman after Trump had left office was equally outspoken about his former boss. He said at his official retirement ceremony we dont take an oath to a king or a queen or to a tyrant or a dictator. And we dont take an oath to a wannabe dictator. We dont take an oath to an individual. We take an oath to the Constitution, and we take an oath to the idea that is America, and were willing to die to protect it, he said at the time.Hegseths chief of staff Joe Kasper said that the decision to strip Milley of his clearance and detail was taken because undermining the chain of command is corrosive to our national security, and restoring accountability is a priority for the Defense Department under President Trumps leadership. The moves, which were first reported by Fox News, may also include taking down Milleys Army chief of staff portrait. Milleys chairman portrait was stripped from the wall just hours after Trump was sworn in. The portraits were both paid for by a donation from the Association of the United States Army, not taxpayer dollars, and were a gift to Milley honoring his service. TARA COPP Copp covers the Pentagon and national security for the Associated Press. She has reported from Afghanistan, Iraq, throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia. twitter mailto

Eitan Gonen, whose daughter Romi was abducted by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, 2023, poses for a portrait in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)2025-01-29T05:26:44Z RAMAT GAN, Israel (AP) For more than 470 days, Eitan Gonen publicly pleaded with his daughter to stay alive while in Hamas captivity. He didnt know if she would hear him, but he ended every interview he gave with the same hopeful message: Romi is coming home alive.When he finally got to speak to his daughter for the first time in 15 months after she and two other women were freed Jan. 19, he got his answer.She said, Dad, I came home alive, Eitan Gonen told The Associated Press on Tuesday in his first interview with an international news outlet since her release. I know that my interview back then gave Romi a lot of strength, a lot of hope, something to cling on, he said. Romi Gonen, 24, was among the first hostages to be freed from Gaza and one of seven women so far released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire, a long and uncertain process aimed at eventually ending the war. Some 250 people were kidnapped during Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack that triggered the war. About 90 hostages remain in Gaza, although at least a third of them are believed to be dead. During the ceasefires first phase, Hamas agreed to gradually release 33 hostages in exchange for Israel freeing nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Six more hostages are expected to be released this week in exchange for hundreds of prisoners. Israel has been preparing for the hostages to return, with the expectation that after more than a year in captivity, many would likely be dealing with life-threatening health issues or other physical and psychological problems. This week, Dr. Ami Benov, who is working with the hostages, told reporters that the women were in poor physical condition and would face a lengthy recovery process, as they suffered from mild starvation and vitamin deficiencies. Sitting in a complex in central Israel where his daughter and some of the other freed hostages are staying, Eitan Gonen wouldnt comment on Romis health but said theres a long road ahead. The rehabilitation status just started, he said. Because she spent so long in captivity, the family isnt pressuring her to speak. Instead, they are trying to give her autonomy and control, and to let her take things at her own pace, he said. Like many others, Romi was taken captive at the Nova music festival. That morning, her sister and mother, Merav Leshem Gonen, spent nearly five hours speaking to Romi as militants marauded through the festival grounds. Romi told her family that she would try to hide in the bushes, as the roads being clogged with abandoned cars made escape impossible.For nearly two months, her family had no idea if she was dead. They only learned she was alive from other hostages who were freed during a weeklong ceasefire a month after the attack, Eitan Gonen said.Praising his daughters strength, he said she survived in part by learning Arabic, as it was the only way to communicate with her captors. Human beings will do anything to survive. Anything. And since the terrorists dont speak any other language other than Arabic, she didnt have any chance in order to communicate with them to start learning their language, he said, noting that she has even spoken it at times since being freed, likely out of habit. Something else that helped her stay alive was the support from other hostages, Eitan Gonen said. For a period, Romi was held with Emily Damari, a British-Israeli hostage who was released along with her. I believe God set it up somehow that Emily and Romi ... had each other to survive. ... Its a dynamic duo, he said.Other released hostages expressed similar sentiments about their own time in captivity. Israeli soldier Naama Levy, who was released Saturday, wrote in an Instagram post that after spending 50 days mostly alone, she was given strength when she was reunited with other kidnapped soldiers. Being held hostage with someone can provide strength through a shared fight for survival in the face of unimaginable adversity, said Dr. Einat Yehene, a psychologist who specializes in trauma and loss and who is head of rehabilitation at the Hostages Families Forum. Even though he finally got his daughter back, Eitan Gonen is still urging the Israeli government to keep working to bring home all of the remaining hostages. And he urges the families of hostages to keep giving interviews in all languages and mediums, to maintain the pressure and let their relatives know they havent been forgotten. But hes mostly focusing on spending time with his daughter. I just enjoy being with her even in silence, touching, hugging, watching her, he said. I missed it so much.___Associated Press reporter Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv contributed to this report. SAM MEDNICK Mednick is the West and Central Africa reporter for the Associated Press. She focuses on conflict, humanitarian crises and human rights abuses. twitter

People who crossed from Congo disembark a truck in Gyseny, Rwanda, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, following M23 rebels' advances into eastern Congo's capital Goma. (AP Photo/Yuhi Irakiza)2025-01-29T09:35:44Z GOMA, Congo (AP) Rwanda-backed rebels captured large parts of Goma, the biggest city in eastern Congo, including its airport, the United Nations said, as Rwandas president on Wednesday joined calls for a ceasefire in the decadeslong conflict amid mounting international pressure.Much of Goma was calm after a day during which thousands of fleeing people hunkered down by roadsides as missiles flew overhead, and injured people streamed to overwhelmed hospitals.While government forces still control pockets of Goma, residents who spoke to The Associated Press by phone on Tuesday said that the M23 rebel group was in control of much of the city.The M23 rebels, who said that they captured the city on Monday after a weekslong advance, are one of about 100 armed groups vying for a foothold in mineral-rich eastern Congo. The conflict escalated with the rebels advance into Goma, which left bodies on the streets and drove hundreds of thousands of already displaced people to flee once again. After clashing with government forces, the rebels took control of the airport, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said at a briefing on Tuesday, warning of risks of a breakdown of law and order in the city given the proliferation of weapons. Rwandan President Paul Kagame said on X that he spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the need to ensure a ceasefire and address the root causes of the conflict once and for all. His government denies supporting M23, despite reports from U.N. experts who estimate there are up to 4,000 Rwandan forces in Congo. Rwanda has accused Congo of enlisting Hutu rebels and former militiamen whom it blames for the 1994 genocide.The East African Community, whose members include both Rwanda and Congo, are scheduled to discuss the conflict at a meeting on Wednesday. Congolese President Flix Tshisekedi wont be able to participate in the virtual summit, a spokesperson said, without providing further details. Pope Francis called for the cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians.We hope that all forms of violence against people and their property will cease as soon as possible (and) I invite local authorities and the international community to make every effort to resolve the conflict by peaceful means, Francis said at his weekly general audience.M23, made up primarily of ethnic Tutsis, has told the AP that it plans to set up an administration in the city so people can continue living normal lives and displaced people can return home. Analysts have warned that securing a rebel withdrawal could be more difficult than in 2012, when M23 first captured Goma but withdrew after days. Murithi Mutiga, program director for Africa at the Crisis Group, said that the group has become more emboldened by Rwanda, which feels Congo is ignoring its interests in the region and which has accused Congo of failing to meet demands of previous peace agreements.

Palestinians walk through buildings that were destroyed by the Israeli air and ground offensive are seen at the Tel al-Hawa neighbourhood in Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Mohamamd Abu Samra)2025-01-29T08:58:43Z The Palestinian Health Ministry says two Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire in the occupied West Bank overnight and into Wednesday.A 23-year-old man was shot dead in Tulkarem and a 25-year-old man was killed in a strike on Jenin, where Israel launched a large operation earlier this month.The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its reports. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.The West Bank has seen a surge in violence since Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack out of the Gaza Strip ignited the war there. The ministry says over 800 Palestinians have been killed. Most appear to have been militants killed in battle during Israeli arrest raids, but the dead also include people killed during violent protests, as well as civilian bystanders.There has also been an uptick in settler violence against Palestinians and Palestinian attacks on Israelis since the start of the war.Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. ___Heres the latest: Kremlin says Russian visit to Syria was important for building dialogueMOSCOW Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that a Russian delegations visit to Damascus the day before, the first since the fall of former President Bashar Assad, an ally of Russia, was an important trip for building dialogue with Syrian authorities.Peskoy refused to comment on reports that the Syrian authorities demanded that Moscow pay some kind of compensation to Syria or on unnamed sources claiming another demand was to extradite Assad, who fled to Russia and was granted asylum there.I am leaving this without any comment. We will continue the dialogue with the Syrian authorities, Peskov said in a response to a reporters question.Syrian state-run news agency SANA reported Wednesday that the discussions had included Russias role in rebuilding trust with the Syrian people through concrete measures such as reparations, reconstruction and recovery. It said the talks were also on transitional justice mechanisms aimed at ensuring accountability and justice for the victims of the brutal war waged by the Assad regime. Israeli authorities say they arrested 12 Palestinians in east JerusalemJERUSALEM Israeli authorities say they have arrested 12 Palestinians in east Jerusalem who celebrated the release of prisoners under the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal.Israels internal Shin Bet security service and the police said they arrested the men late Tuesday after videos taken earlier in the week showed the men celebrating the release of the prisoners by waving Hamas flags and firing guns into the air.They say the Palestinians who celebrated the release had violated the ban on expressions of joy and identification with Hamas that Israel has imposed since the ceasefire took hold. They said a search revealed Hamas flags, posters, fireworks, a BB gun and cash.Under the first phase of the deal, Hamas is releasing 33 hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that ignited the war in exchange for the release for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks on Israelis. Palestinians generally view the prisoners as heroes imprisoned for fighting against Israels decades-long occupation of lands they want for a future state. RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson speaks in Sydney, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, about the discovery of explosives stashed on Sydney's outskirts suspected to have been intended to escalate a campaign of antisemitic arson and graffiti crimes. (Steven Saphore/AAP Image via AP)2025-01-29T11:01:00Z MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) Australian police suspect explosives stashed on Sydneys outskirts were evidence of a deadly escalation in a campaign of antisemitic arson and graffiti crimes that has been waged in major cities for months, officials said on Wednesday.Police found a list of Jewish targets together with a cache of Powergel, an explosive used in the mining industry, in a trailer in the outer suburb of Dural on Jan. 19, New South Wales state Deputy Police Commissioner David Hudson said.Hudson said there were enough explosives to make a bomb with a blast of 40 meters (130 feet).This is certainly an escalation, Hudson told reporters, referring to a recent series of antisemitic crimes in Sydney, where businesses and cars have been torched and buildings graffitied.The use of explosives ... have the potential to cause a great deal of damage, he added. Hudson declined to identify the potential Jewish targets.I dont think its appropriate to nominate the targets. I can indicate that the Jewish community will be made aware, Hudson said.He said several suspects had been arrested who were not directly related to the explosives. Since the Israel-Hamas war began in 2023, targeted arson and graffiti attacks have soared in Australias largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, which are home to 85% of the countrys Jewish population.A worshipper who suffered burn injuries in a fire that was set at a Melbourne synagogue in December last year is the only human casualty. That arson attack is being investigated by a joint counterterrorism team involving federal and state law enforcment authorities. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said counterterrorism authorities were also investigating the explosives discovery.This is the discovery of a potential mass casualty event. Theres only one way of calling it out and that is terrorism. Thats what were very worried about, Minns said.This would strike terror into the community, particularly the Jewish community, and it must be met with the full resources of the government, he added.

President Donald Trump arrives to speak at the 2025 House Republican Members Conference Dinner at Trump National Doral Miami in Doral, Fla., Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)2025-01-29T11:06:49Z Just a little over a week into his second term, President Donald Trump is taking steps to maximize his power, sparking chaos and what critics contend is a constitutional crisis as he challenges the separation of powers that have defined American government for more than 200 years.The new administrations most provocative move came this week, as it announced it would temporarily halt federal payments to ensure they complied with Trumps orders barring diversity programs. The technical-sounding directive had enormous immediate impact before it was blocked by a federal judge, potentially pulling trillions of dollars from police departments, domestic violence shelters, nutrition services and disaster relief programs that rely on federal grants. Though the Republican administration denied Medicaid was affected, it acknowledged the online portal allowing states to file for reimbursement from the program was shut down for part of Tuesday in what it insisted was an error. Legal experts noted the president is explicitly forbidden from cutting off spending for programs that Congress has approved. The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to appropriate money and requires the executive to pay it out. A 50-year-old law known as the Impoundment Control Act makes that explicit by prohibiting the president from halting payments on grants or other programs approved by Congress. The thing that prevents the president from being an absolute monarch is Congress controls the power of the purse strings, said Josh Chafetz, a law professor at Georgetown University, adding that even a temporary freeze violates the law. Its what guarantees theres a check on the presidency. Democrats and other critics said the move was blatantly unconstitutional.What happened last night is the most direct assault on the authority of Congress, I believe, in the history of the United States, Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, said Tuesday. While some Republicans were critical, most were supportive.I think he is testing the limits of his power, and I dont think any of us are surprised by it, said Sen. Kevin Cramer, a North Dakota Republican who is close with Trump.At first blush, the Trump administration appears to be following the correct procedures in identifying potential spending cuts, and the Impoundment Control Act outlines a procedure for how they could become permanent, said Rachel Snyderman, a former official at the Office of Management and Budget who is now at the Bipartisan Policy Center.Congress must eventually sign off on any cuts the administration wants to make, Snyderman said, though she noted that no president since Bill Clinton, a Democrat, has been successful in getting that done. Congress did not act on $14 billion in impoundment cuts Trump proposed during his prior term, she said.We have to see what the next steps are, Snyderman said.The proposed halt on grants comes after Trump, who during the campaign pledged to be a dictator on day one, has taken a number of provocative moves to challenge legal constraints on his power. He fired the inspectors general of his Cabinet agencies without giving Congress the warning required by law, declared that there is an immigrant invasion despite low numbers of border crossings, is requiring loyalty pledges from new hires, challenged the constitutional guarantee of birthright citizenship and is moving career staff out of key positions at the Department of Justice to ensure his loyalists control investigations and prosecutions. On Tuesday evening, the new administration made its latest move, trying to prune the federal workforce by offering pay until the end of September for those who agree to resign by the end of next week.The Trump actions have all led to a cascade of court challenges contending he has overstepped his constitutional bounds. A federal judge in Seattle has already put on hold Trumps attempt to revoke birthright citizenship, calling it a blatant violation of the nations foundational legal document. On Tuesday, nonprofit groups persuaded a federal judge in Washington to put the administrations spending freeze order on hold until a fuller hearing on Feb. 3. Democratic attorneys general also rushed to court to block the order. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez, a Democrat, said the swiftness of the court action against Trumps spending freeze demonstrates the carelessness of the order.My hope is that the president, working with Congress, can identify whatever his priorities are and can work through the normal constitutional order that is well established that limits the power of Democratic and Republican presidents, he said.The grant freeze administration officials described it as a pause fits with a long-sought goal of some Trump allies, including his nominee to run the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, to challenge the constitutionality of the Impoundment Control Act. They contend the president, as the person in charge of distributing funds, should be able to have some control over how the money goes out. Though theres little doubt the new administration wanted a court fight over its power to control spending, experts agree that this was likely not the way they hoped to present it.This is a really sloppy way of doing this, said Bill Galston, of the Brookings Institution, adding that he thought it was an administration error. This is just classic Trump. He believes its better to be fast and sloppy than slow and precise.In her first press conference, Trumps new press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, on Tuesday urged organizations that need the grants to call the administration and show how their operations are in line with the presidents agenda.Its incumbent on this administration to make sure, again, that every penny is accounted for, Leavitt said.Republican lawmakers largely took the freeze in stride.This isnt a huge surprise to me, said Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota during the House Republican retreat at one of the presidents Florida golf resorts. Clearly, Donald Trump campaigned in no small part on the idea that the Biden administration was putting out a lot of money that was not consistent with Donald Trumps values.But Democrats and others were furious at the move, which seemed designed to undercut congressional authority.If President Trump wants to change our nations laws, he has the right to ask Congress to change them, Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, said in a statement. He does not have the right to violate the United States Constitution. He is not a king.Chafetz, of Georgetown University, said the lack of pushback from Republican members of Congress was especially alarming because the legislative branch is the one whose powers are most at risk in the latest power play.Even if Trump loses the legal battle, Chafetz said, he and his followers might feel like theyve won by pushing things to this extreme.Damaging the institutions they dont like, he said, seems to be their whole theory of governance.___Riccardi reported from Denver. Associated Press writers Kevin Freking and Lisa Mascaro in Washington and Morgan Lee in Albuquerque, New Mexico, contributed to this report. RSShttps://feedx.net https://feedx.site

At the top of the world during Midnight Sun sounds like something I made up as if I were an emo poet.Yet I found myself this August on the Arctic Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard before boarding the MS Trollfjord. A life-altering trip organized by Hurtigruten Expeditions (www.hurtigruten.com) on the Svalbard Line South, this sojourn was not a queer trip, per se. But considering Norways progressive LGBTQ+ and gender politics, and that I flew 4,500 miles from Los Angeles to Longyearbyen in Svalbard where the sun never dipped below the horizon, I was struck with true awe and a delightful queerness in my out-of-time romantic surroundings. The author overlooking the fishing village of Gryllefjord.Courtesy Tracy E. GilchristAfter a night near the Oslo airport, our group of eight flew to Longyearbyen on the island of Spitsbergen in the Barents Sea, where a sign outside the airport bore the figure of a polar bear, a magnificent creature the denizens of Arctic Norway revere while knowing when to run.A bus took us through the town that is home to about 2,400 people. We passed what looked like ski lift wires carrying buckets for coal mining, the University Centre in Svalbard (the worlds northernmost institution of higher learning), a modern shopping center, and a hospital. Our destination was Hurtigrutens Funken Lodge, a boutique hotel where in the Scandinavian tradition guests are required to remove their shoes and don a pair of wool slippers upon entering. The accommodations were on a hill around the corner from a glacier. During my stay, I awoke in the wee hours to find my way to the restroom illuminated by the uncanny Midnight Sun.On little sleep but with adrenaline to explore, our group visited the outpost of Camp Barentz. We toasted with Scandinavian akvavit (a distilled spirit with herbs and botanicals) and supped on bread and reindeer soup (lentil for the vegetarians like me) simmering over a fire in the center of the structure. Our guides, one armed with a long rifle should a polar bear make a rare summer appearance, presented a talk about Svalbards history and its inhabitants with a concentration on the polar bear. A polar bear sign warning in Longyearbyen.Courtesy Tracy E. GilchristFrom Longyearbyens harbor, we boarded the MS Bard for a cruise culminating at the Nordenskildbreen glacier front, its ancient ice sending a bracing chill for hundreds of yards. Along the way, clouds settled into the treeless landscape in the distance (trees cant take root in the Arctic permafrost). A birder in our group pointed out birds of the region to me including puffins, kittiwakes, and fulmars (distant cousins to the albatross). A minke whale dove in the distance. Sailing in the most remote place Id ever visited, I was filled with an ineffable longing to wander and be present. Very queer, indeed.Hurtigrutens Svalbard Line is known for sailing Norways fjords. The trips offer adventures including hiking and the e-bike tours we took around Svalbard and on the idyllic Senja, where we sped up a mountain around the islands Gryllefjord. But Hurtigruten is also a foodies paradise. Longyearbyens fine dining restaurant, Huset, once a communal meeting place, offered nine wine-paired courses of local cuisine from fishermen, hunters, and trappers. Still, the chef creatively accommodated my vegetarian needs. In a moment of serendipity around the fifth course, three of us in our group even spoke about our queer identities a coming-out of sorts at the top of the world. A luxury suite onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. GilchristOnce settled in our lush suites on the eighth deck of the MS Trollfjord, we ate down the hall at the fine-dining Rst. There, the attentive and friendly staff served everything from Norways famed brown cheese (delicious) to Havets Bobler, or Bubbles from the Sea, a sparkling wine aged 112 feet below sea level in the Arctic.Our first stop was at the worlds northernmost settlement of Ny-lesund. I mailed a postcard bearing a polar bear stamp to my future self with the promise Ill write my memoirs. Later, on our first full day at sea, I awoke from a much-needed nap to the gleeful announcement of a polar bear sighting. Passengers scuttled to the top deck to eye, through binoculars, the creature lumbering on a rocky beach a rare sighting, I was told.Even the slight bout of seasickness I encountered on our first full day at sea was tinged with romance as I lolled in my bed under a plush duvet eating salty crackers while watching the Democratic National Convention with so much hope. Perhaps my maritime malady was a sign of things to come. Once I was up and running with my sea legs, we visited the bridge and Captain Charlotte Hijord Johansen, who spoke with us about her history at sea. The author onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. GilchristWe disembarked from the Trollfjord in Svolvr for the final time following a wet excursion on a powerful RIB (rigid inflatable boat), where we viewed sea eagles diving for fish. From there we flew to Bod on the smallest commercial plane Ive ever boarded. It was our final touchdown in the Arctic Circle before making our way to Oslo and home again. I journaled on my analog Freewrite Traveler throughout the nine-day trip, imagining myself as a lesbian adventurer and writer a-sea in another era, longing to return before Id even arrived home.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., waves to reporters as he rides the train to go to meet with Sen. John Thune, R-S.D. at the Capitol in Washington, Dec. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)2025-01-29T12:04:45Z WASHINGTON (AP) Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s anti-vaccine advocacy is outside the mainstream. His previous statements on abortion could alienate Republicans. But a new poll finds that not all of his controversial health goals are unpopular in fact, at least one has broad support among Democrats and Republicans.As Kennedys Senate confirmation hearings begin, his bid to become the nations top health official could depend on how staunchly he sticks to these personal beliefs during questioning. He has already softened some of his long-held views. Hes facing some skepticism from the public, according to a new survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Only about 3 in 10 US adults approve of President Donald Trump nominating him to be secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. About 4 in 10 disapprove, while about one-quarter are either neutral or dont know enough to say. But he has points of strength, too. Trumps choice of Kennedy is especially popular among Republicans: About 6 in 10 approve, compared to about 1 in 10 Democrats. And while many Americans disagree with some of Kennedys controversial health stances including beliefs around reevaluating childhood vaccine recommendations and changing guidelines around fluoride in drinking water and raw milk consumption some of his other stances, like reformulating processed foods, are broadly popular.Heres what AP-NORC polling shows about which of Kennedys priorities are likely to be popular among U.S. adults and which might be less well-received. More oppose than support reevaluating widely used vaccines Kennedy has long been a vaccine skeptic, and he and Trump have falsely claimed that childhood vaccines are dangerous and tied to rising autism rates. His opposition to vaccines is broad, and he has said that theres no vaccine that is safe and effective.AP-NORC polling suggests that reevaluating vaccine recommendations would be unpopular with many Americans.About 4 in 10 Americans strongly or somewhat oppose reconsidering the governments recommendations around widely used vaccines, like the flu vaccine, and about 3 in 10 are in favor. Another 3 in 10 Americans, roughly, are neutral. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to favor reconsidering government recommendations for widely used vaccines, although their support isnt overwhelming. About 4 in 10 Republicans favor reevaluating vaccine recommendations, compared with about 2 in 10 Democrats.Wide support for restrictions on ingredients in processed foodsOne of Kennedys ideas is popular across the board: getting some chemicals out of processed foods. Kennedy has vowed to ban certain food additives and crack down on ultra-processed foods that are tied to obesity and diabetes rates.About two-thirds of Americans somewhat or strongly favor restricting or reformulating processed foods to remove ingredients like added sugar or dyes. This is an area where Democrats and Republicans agree: About 7 in 10 in each group favor the restrictions. Support is particularly high among U.S. adults with a higher household income, though research from the National Institutes of Health has indicated that ultra-processed foods are consumed at higher rates in low-income groups. Roughly 8 in 10 adults with a household income of $100,000 or more per year support the restrictions, compared with about half of Americans with a household income of $30,000 or less. More oppose than support removing raw milk restrictionsKennedy indicated before the election that he would be keen to end the Food and Drug Administrations aggressive suppression of raw milk. The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called raw milk one of the riskiest foods people can consume because of the possibility for contamination. This is a proposal for which hed have to do some convincing to get the public on board. About 4 in 10 U.S. adults strongly or somewhat oppose removing restrictions on the sale of unpasteurized or raw milk. About 2 in 10 Americans favor this idea, with Republicans being more likely than Democrats to be in support. But even Republicans are split: About 3 in 10 are in favor, and about 3 in 10 are opposed. Americans generally want Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight loss drugsKennedy has criticized prescription weight loss drugs like Ozempic, saying higher-quality food could solve the obesity problem in the U.S., but in December he pivoted, saying the drugs have a place in making sure people are not obese, in addition to lifestyle changes.Americans see weight loss drugs as a good solution for adults who are obese. About half of U.S. adults say its very good or somewhat good for adults to use weight loss drugs if they are struggling with obesity or a weight-related health condition. And about half also favor Medicare and Medicaid covering the cost of these drugs if they are prescribed for weight loss for people with obesity. More oppose than support removing fluoride from drinking waterKennedy has said he wants the federal government to advise local governments against putting fluoride in their drinking water. The CDC has said small amounts of added fluoride in drinking water prevent cavities and tooth decay. More Americans are opposed than in favor of removing fluoride from drinking water, but many dont have an opinion on the issue, leaving room for shifts in either direction. About 4 in 10 Americans oppose removing fluoride from the water supply, and about one-quarter are in favor. An additional one-third are neutral, saying they dont favor or oppose it. About one-third of independents and Republicans favor it, compared with about 2 in 10 Democrats.The idea of removing fluoride from drinking water is particularly unpopular with adults 60 and older, and the data suggests that younger Americans might be more open to it. About half of adults 60 or older oppose removing fluoride from the water, compared with about 4 in 10 adults between the ages of 30 and 59. Only about 2 in 10 adults under 30 are opposed to this. Kennedys views on abortion may be at odds with RepublicansKennedy has previously expressed support for abortion rights, which contradicts the beliefs of many of the Republican lawmakers who will need to confirm him, though he has said that he will follow Trumps directives on the topic.Hes in a bit of a bind on the issue. About 6 in 10 voters in Novembers election said abortion should be legal in all or most cases, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters. About one-third said it should be illegal in all or most instances. But like the Republican senators who will be questioning him, conservative voters see the issue differently. Among Republican voters, about 6 in 10 said abortion should be illegal in at least most cases, and only about 4 in 10 said it should be mostly legal.___The AP-NORC poll of 1,147 adults was conducted Jan. 9-13, using a sample drawn from NORCs probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population. The margin of sampling error for adults overall is plus or minus 3.9 percentage points. LINLEY SANDERS Sanders is a polls and surveys reporter for The Associated Press. She develops and writes about polls conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, and works on AP VoteCast. twitter

A supporter holds a poster with a photo of Laken Riley before Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally March 9, 2024, in Rome Ga. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)2025-01-29T05:17:27Z WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump on Wednesday will sign the Laken Riley Act into law as his administrations first piece of legislation. It mandates the detention and potential deportation of people in the U.S. illegally who are accused of theft and violent crimes before theyve actually been convicted.The measure swiftly passed the Republican-controlled Congress with some Democratic support, despite immigrants rights advocates decrying it as extreme enough to possibly trigger mass roundups of people for offenses as minor as shoplifting. Trump has made a promised crackdown on illegal immigration unprecedented in the nations history a centerpiece of his political career, however, and is now suggesting the law might only be the beginning. This shows the potential for additional enforcement bills that will help us crack down on criminal aliens and totally restore the rule of law in our country, the president said at a conference of House Republicans held at his Doral golf club in Florida. The law is named for Laken Riley, a 22-year-old Georgia nursing student who went out for a run in February 2024 and was killed by Jose Antonio Ibarra, a Venezuelan national in the U.S. illegally. Ibarra was found guilty in November and sentenced to life without parole. To have a bill of such importance named after her is a great, a great tribute, Trump said. This new form of crime, criminal, illegal aliens, its its massive, the numbers are massive and you add that to the crime we already had. The speed at which the act cleared Congress and the fact that Trump is preparing to triumphantly sign it at the White House surrounded by lawmakers and other supportive, invited guests just nine days after taking office adds to its potent political symbolism for conservatives. Critics say the measure is using a tragedy to effectively unleash chaos and cruelty while doing little to fight crime or fix an antiquated federal immigration system that hasnt been overhauled in decades. Under the Laken Riley Act, federal officials are required to detain any immigrant arrested or charged with crimes like theft or assaulting a police officer, or offenses that injure or kill someone. It further gives legal standing to state attorneys general to sue the U.S. government for harm caused by federal immigration decisions potentially allowing the leaders of conservative states to help dictate immigration policy set by Washington. Ibarra had been arrested for illegal entry in September 2022 near El Paso, Texas, amid an unprecedented surge in migration, and released to pursue his case in immigration court. Federal officials say he was arrested by New York police in August 2023 for child endangerment and released. Police say he was also suspected of theft in Georgia in October 2023 all of which occurred before Rileys killing. This is the right thing to do, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said after the act cleared the House. Its always good when the right thing is also the popular thing. Some Democrats, however, have questioned the acts constitutionality. Immigrant advocates are bracing for mass detentions that they say will trigger subsequent, costly construction of immigration lockup facilities to house the people arrested. They dont just get to celebrate. They get to use this for their mass deportation agenda, Naureen Shah, deputy director of government affairs in the equality division of the American Civil Liberties Union, said of the acts supporters.The ALCU says the act can allow people to be mandatorily locked up potentially for years because at some point in their lives, perhaps decades ago, they were accused of nonviolent offenses.Hannah Flamm, interim senior director of policy at the International Refugee Assistance Project, said the law violates immigrants basic rights by allowing for detaining people who havent been charged with, much less convicted of, wrongdoing. Still, she said, The latent fear from the election cycle of looking soft on crime snowballed into aiding and abetting Trumps total conflation of immigration with crime. Flamm said the act is likely to be challenged in court on its parameters directing mandatory detentions, as well as its granting legal standing to state attorneys general in immigration cases and policy. But she also predicted that a need to pay for more immigration detention centers will give advocates a chance to challenge how federal funds are appropriated to cover those costs. I think it is pivotal to understand: This bill, framed as connected to a tragic death, is pretext to fortify a mass deportation system, Flamm said. The signing of the Laken Riley Act follows a flurry of first-week executive orders by Trump that are designed to better seal off the U.S.-Mexico border and eventually move to deport millions of immigrants without permanent U.S. legal status. The new administration has also canceled refugee resettlement and says it may attempt to prosecute local law enforcement officials who do not enforce his new immigration policies.Were tracking down the illegal alien criminals and were detaining them and were throwing them the hell out of our country, Trump said. We have no apologies, and were moving forward very fast. WILL WEISSERT Weissert covers national politics and the White House for The Associated Press. He is based in Washington. twitter mailto

We start this week with Emanuel's rundown on the DeepSeek situation, the Chinese-made AI that has rocked stock markets and the wider AI industry. After the break, Sam explains how metadata in U.S. government memos lists Project 2025 members as the memo authors. In the subscribers-only section, Jason and Sam explain how GitHub is showing the U.S. government's purging of information in real time.Listen to the weekly podcast onApple Podcasts,Spotify, orYouTube. Become a paid subscriber for access to this episode's bonus content and to power our journalism.If you become a paid subscriber, check your inbox for an email from our podcast host Transistor for a link to the subscribers-only version! You can also add that subscribers feed to your podcast app of choice and never miss an episode that way. The email should also contain the subscribers-only unlisted YouTube link for the extended video version too. It will also be in the show notes in your podcast player. DeepSeek Mania Shakes AI Industry to Its CoreMemos to Federal Employees Were Written By People With Ties to Project 2025, Metadata ShowsTrumps Administration Is Taking Down Sites About Gender Identity All Over the InternetGitHub Is Showing the Trump Administration Scrubbing Government Web Pages in Real Time