President Joe Biden's use of an autopen for granting mass pardons has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Republican opponents, prompting the former president to break his silence on the controversial practice. According to Daily Mail, Biden insists he personally made all clemency decisions despite delegating the physical signing to an automated device.
The 82-year-old former president, who is currently battling prostate cancer, explained that the sheer volume of pardons - over 1,500 individuals during his final weeks in office - made it impractical to sign each document by hand. He emphasized that while he may not have personally reviewed every name, he established and approved the criteria used to determine eligibility for clemency.
This rare media interview comes as Republicans have spent months questioning the legitimacy of the autopen pardons, with some launching formal investigations into whether Biden was fully aware of the decisions being made. Trump has been particularly vocal, describing the practice as "disgraceful" and claiming Biden "knew nothing about them."
The controversy has sparked three separate investigations by the Justice Department, Congress and the administration into Biden's clemency directives. Tens of thousands of emails from November 2024 to January 2025 have been turned over to investigators, containing keywords related to pardons and commutations.
Biden maintains he personally reviewed high-profile cases, including the pardon of General Mark Milley. He expressed concern that Trump would target Milley "for no good reason" and wanted to ensure his protection through a pardon.
The only pardon physically signed by Biden was for his son Hunter, protecting him from federal prosecution for crimes committed between January 2014 and December 2024. This decision has drawn particular scrutiny from critics.
The National Archives has provided investigators with extensive email correspondence showing how pardons were processed. These communications indicate that White House staffers routinely sought Biden's final approval before making announcements public.
Draft announcements often required revisions based on Biden's feedback, and could not be released until an aide confirmed his approval of the final wording. This documentation aims to counter Republican claims that Biden was disconnected from the process.
In total, the autopen was used to sign 25 batches of clemency and pardon warrants during December and January. Some warrants contained groups of names falling under specific criteria, such as when Biden commuted 37 death row sentences to life without parole.
The controversy has prompted aggressive oversight from Republican lawmakers, who have interviewed former Biden aides about the pardon process. Some staffers have reportedly been warned by legal counsel about potential perjury charges if their statements conflict.
Biden dismissed Republican criticism as politically motivated, calling Trump and his allies "liars" for suggesting he was unaware of the pardons being issued. He argued the attacks are meant to distract from internal Republican conflicts.
The former president said he anticipated Trump would pursue vindictive investigations, which influenced his decision to grant pre-emptive pardons to administration officials and family members. He characterized this as a conscious choice to protect people from unnecessary legal battles.
The use of an autopen for presidential pardons raises important constitutional questions that may ultimately require Supreme Court review. This marks Biden's second public response to Trump's criticism since leaving office.
After his cancer diagnosis became public in June, Biden issued a statement defending his decision-making capacity during his presidency. He emphasized that all decisions about pardons, executive orders, legislation and proclamations were his own.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between Biden and Trump as both continue to shape American politics after their terms in office. The investigations' outcomes could impact future presidents' use of autopens for official acts requiring presidential signature.
A groundbreaking financial development is unfolding in Texas as state legislators push forward with a revolutionary approach to currency alternatives. The Lone Star state is setting the stage for a significant shift in how residents conduct their daily financial transactions.
According to Just The News, House Bill 1056, introduced by Republican State Representative Mark Dorazio of San Antonio, has successfully passed both legislative chambers and received Governor Greg Abbott's signature in June. The legislation empowers the state comptroller to establish and manage a currency system backed by precious metals, marking a historic move toward financial autonomy.
The new law builds upon Texas's pioneering establishment of the Texas Bullion Depository in 2015, which made it the first state in the nation to create a state-administered precious metals facility. This innovative approach aims to provide Texans with a practical hedge against inflation while enabling commerce through a secure, gold-backed currency system.
The implementation of gold and silver as legal tender in Texas finds its foundation in the U.S. Constitution's Article 1, Section 10. This constitutional provision explicitly permits states to utilize gold and silver as currency for debt payments and transactions.
Republican state Representative Andy Hopper, a co-author of the bill, emphasizes that the legislation represents a crucial step toward securing Texas's financial sovereignty. The new system will allow residents to make deposits in U.S. dollars, which the state will then convert into gold holdings.
The initiative has garnered strong support from Texas Republican primary voters, who overwhelmingly endorsed a ballot proposition supporting the establishment of gold and silver as legal tender. This demonstrates a clear mandate from constituents for alternative currency options.
The timing of this legislation coincides with growing concerns about inflation and economic stability. Under the Biden administration, Americans experienced the sharpest decline in purchasing power since 1980, with inflation reaching 40-year highs.
The new system will enable Texans to conduct transactions using debit cards or electronic transfers, with values measured in ounces of gold rather than dollars. This mechanism is designed to protect users from inflation and eliminate capital gains taxes on precious metals transactions.
Representative Dorazio points out that while many Texans have invested in precious metals, the current system offers limited opportunities for practical use in everyday transactions. The new law aims to address this limitation by making the Texas Bullion Depository more accessible and functional.
The legislation includes a carefully planned implementation schedule to ensure smooth transition and proper system setup. The state comptroller's office will have until May 1, 2027, to fully implement the necessary policies and procedures.
Users will be able to deposit funds electronically, with the state required to acquire corresponding amounts of gold to back these deposits. The system will support both traditional currency conversion and direct gold-based payments where vendors accept them.
State officials emphasize that this new financial framework will protect Texans against potential future instability in the U.S. dollar's status as the world reserve currency. The system provides a practical alternative that remains stable regardless of potential hyperinflation scenarios.
Texas's bold step toward implementing precious metals as legal tender represents a significant shift in state-level financial policy. The legislation passed both chambers of the Texas legislature and received Governor Abbott's approval, marking a historic moment in American monetary policy.
The new law aligns with the Republican Party of Texas platform, which explicitly recognizes citizens' right to choose their preferred currency. This includes provisions to prohibit Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC) while promoting traditional precious metals as legitimate payment options.
The success of this initiative could potentially influence other states to consider similar measures, potentially reshaping the landscape of American financial sovereignty at the state level. As the implementation date approaches, Texas continues to position itself as a leader in financial innovation and independence.
Several Department of Justice (DOJ) employees with connections to former special counsel Jack Smith's investigations into President Trump have found themselves at the center of a major shakeup this week.
According to The Hill, Attorney General Pam Bondi has orchestrated the termination of multiple DOJ employees, including prosecutors, U.S. marshals, and support staff who were involved in Smith's probes into Trump's handling of classified documents and alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The purge affected between 9 and 20 employees, according to various media reports.
The dismissals come in the wake of Smith's resignation following the conclusion of his investigations late last year, citing the DOJ's policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. This marks a significant shift in the department's personnel and has sparked debates about the politicization of justice system operations.
The sweeping terminations have targeted individuals identified through the DOJ's "Weaponization Working Group," which was established to review the department's activities over the past four years. This group specifically focused on examining Smith's work and those connected to his investigations.
The firings represent a continuation of a pattern that began in late January when the DOJ dismissed approximately twelve prosecutors who had worked on Trump's criminal cases. The stated reasoning behind these earlier terminations was a lack of trust in these individuals' ability to serve under the current administration.
These actions have prompted discussions about the traditional separation between the White House and the Department of Justice, with critics arguing that long-established boundaries are being eroded. The moves signal a significant departure from historical norms in federal law enforcement.
Among those terminated was Patty Hartman, a prominent public affairs specialist from the District of Columbia U.S. Attorney's Office media team. Her dismissal on Monday has become emblematic of the broader changes taking place within the department.
Two prosecutors who worked directly under Jack Smith during his special counsel investigation were also among those let go, according to multiple news outlets citing anonymous sources. The specific identities of these prosecutors have not been publicly disclosed, maintaining confidentiality protocols.
The scope of the terminations extends beyond just legal personnel, affecting various support staff and U.S. marshals who had connections to Smith's investigations. This comprehensive approach suggests a systematic effort to reshape the department's composition.
The mass dismissals have created significant operational challenges within the DOJ, as numerous positions now require immediate filling. The department has not yet announced plans for replacing the terminated employees or addressing potential gaps in ongoing cases.
Hartman's public statement to CBS News highlights the growing concern about the erosion of traditional boundaries between the executive branch and the Justice Department. Her observation about the disappearance of the "very distinct separation" between these entities has resonated with legal experts.
The DOJ has maintained silence regarding these developments, despite multiple media outlets seeking comment. This lack of communication has only intensified speculation about the motivations behind and implications of these personnel changes.
The termination of DOJ employees with ties to the Trump investigations represents a significant shift in federal law enforcement operations. These dismissals have affected multiple levels of the department's hierarchy and various operational areas.
The actions taken by Attorney General Bondi have drawn attention to the changing nature of Justice Department independence. Critics argue these moves could impact the department's ability to conduct impartial investigations in the future.
Questions remain about how these changes will affect ongoing investigations and the department's overall functionality. The broader implications for federal law enforcement and the justice system continue to unfold as Washington grapples with this unprecedented situation.
A towering figure in American politics who shaped presidential communications across four administrations has fallen silent. David Gergen, whose counsel was sought by both Republican and Democratic presidents, passed away at 83 in Lexington, Massachusetts.
According to The Daily Caller, Gergen died on Thursday at a retirement community following his battle with Lewy body dementia, as confirmed by his son Christopher. His death marks the end of an era in American political history, where his influence stretched from the Nixon administration to the Clinton years.
Born in Durham, North Carolina, in 1942, Gergen's journey to political prominence began at Yale University, where he served as managing editor of The Yale Daily News. His early career included summer internships with Democratic North Carolina Governor Terry Sanford, working on civil rights issues, before graduating with a bachelor's degree in American studies in 1963.
Gergen's political career took off when he joined President Richard Nixon's administration as a speechwriter, eventually rising to become chief speechwriter. His understanding of political messaging was profound, often noting that a message needed multiple repetitions before reaching the American public effectively.
After serving in Nixon's administration, Gergen played a crucial role in Ronald Reagan's 1980 presidential campaign victory over Jimmy Carter. His strategic brilliance was demonstrated when he suggested Reagan's famous debate question, "Are you better off than you were four years ago?" which proved to be a decisive moment in the campaign.
During Reagan's presidency, Gergen became known for his ability to moderate conservative rhetoric, making it more palatable to a broader audience. His approach to political communication emphasized finding common ground while maintaining core messages.
Gergen's unique position as an advisor to both Republican and Democratic presidents set him apart in Washington's political landscape. His service spanned the administrations of Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton, though his tenure with Clinton was notably brief due to internal tensions.
Despite the challenges of working across party lines, Gergen maintained his reputation for integrity and effectiveness. His departure from politics in the mid-1990s was marked by praise from all the presidents he had served, highlighting his ability to transcend partisan boundaries.
His style of communication and easy rapport with reporters earned him both friends and critics in Washington. While some dubbed him "the Sieve" for his strategic information sharing, his approach helped build crucial bridges between administrations and the media.
After leaving direct political service, Gergen established himself as a respected voice in journalism and academia. He served as managing editor of Public Opinion and later as an editor at U.S. News & World Report, while also becoming a familiar face on PBS and CNN.
His legacy includes two influential books on leadership: "Eyewitness to Power: The Essence of Leadership, Nixon to Clinton" (2000) and "Hearts Touched With Fire: How Great Leaders Are Made" (2022). These works distilled decades of experience observing and shaping presidential leadership.
Throughout his career, Gergen maintained a steadfast commitment to truth in public service, famously stating in a 1981 Christian Science Monitor interview that lying to the press would render an advisor worthless to both the president and the public.
David Gergen's passing represents the loss of a unique political figure who helped shape modern presidential communications and leadership. His ability to work effectively across party lines while maintaining his principles set a standard for public service that remains relevant today.
His family, including his wife Anne, son Christopher, daughter Dr. Katherine Gergen Barnett, two brothers, and five grandchildren, survives him. Their loss is shared by countless politicians, journalists, and citizens who benefited from his wisdom and commitment to principled leadership.
The legacy of this remarkable political advisor, who served presidents from Nixon to Clinton, will continue to influence American political discourse and presidential communications for generations to come.
Donald Trump Jr. and his girlfriend Bettina Anderson created quite a spectacle with their public display of affection at a high-profile sporting event this weekend.
According to Page Six, the couple was spotted being particularly affectionate while waiting for President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump's arrival at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey. The pair was headed to the FIFA Club World Cup final soccer match.
The couple, who matched in white button-up shirts, appeared completely engrossed in each other, sharing multiple intimate moments despite being surrounded by onlookers. Their public display of affection continued throughout the day, from the airport to the soccer stadium, showing no signs of toning down their romantic gestures.
The relationship between Donald Trump Jr., 47, and socialite Bettina Anderson, 38, first came to light in December 2024. Their summer romance quickly evolved into something more serious.
By January 2025, sources close to the couple revealed they had essentially moved in together, marking a significant milestone in their relationship. Their swift progression from dating to cohabitation highlighted the intensity of their connection.
The couple has been increasingly open about their relationship, regularly appearing together at public events and sharing intimate moments without reservation. Their behavior suggests a comfortable and confident partnership, unaffected by public opinion or media attention.
Anderson has proven to be a staunch defender of Trump Jr., particularly when faced with media criticism. When New York Magazine published a profile labeling him a "spoiled heir" and an "a-hole," she didn't hesitate to respond.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Anderson dismissed the criticism with a pointed message: "Rumors are started by haters, spread by fools, and accepted by idiots." Her defense of Trump Jr. went beyond mere rebuttal, as she described him as the "finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful and brilliant person" she had ever known.
Their mutual support and public declarations of affection have become a defining characteristic of their relationship, setting it apart from Trump Jr.'s previous high-profile partnerships.
The relationship follows Trump Jr.'s six-year involvement with former Fox News anchor Kimberly Guilfoyle, which ended after their 2022 engagement. Despite their separation, the split appears amicable, with Guilfoyle accepting President Trump's appointment as US Ambassador to Greece.
Trump Jr. publicly expressed continued support for Guilfoyle, stating they would "never stop caring for each other" and maintaining a "special bond." This mature handling of their separation has allowed both parties to move forward positively.
Meanwhile, Trump Jr.'s ex-wife, Vanessa Trump, has also found new love with golf legend Tiger Woods, with sources suggesting their relationship has become quite serious. The new dynamics demonstrate how all parties have successfully transitioned into new chapters of their lives.
The very public nature of Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson's relationship has added a new dimension to the ongoing Trump family narrative. Their demonstrative affection at the FIFA World Cup final, alongside President Trump and the First Lady, showcased their comfort with their relationship status.
The couple's behavior suggests they're entering a new phase in their relationship, marked by increased public appearances and unrestrained displays of affection. Their matching outfits and coordinated appearances indicate a unified front in both their personal and public lives.
The relationship appears to have the blessing of the Trump family, as evidenced by the couple's inclusion in high-profile family events and official functions. This acceptance signals a potential long-term future for the pair, who continue to demonstrate their commitment through both words and actions.
In a dramatic turn of events, two massive wildfires are wreaking havoc near the Grand Canyon's North Rim, threatening both natural resources and human settlements in their path.
According to Breitbart, the combined fires have already consumed more than 45,000 acres of vegetation, forcing hundreds of visitors and residents to evacuate from the Kaibab National Forest all the way to the Utah border. The Bureau of Land Management is working closely with Coconino County fire officials to coordinate the emergency response.
The situation has reached a critical point as both fires remain completely uncontained, with nearly 600 crew members deployed to battle the blazes. Officials have confirmed that at least 500 visitors were evacuated from public park areas in the North Rim, where the fires continue to spread rapidly through the drought-stricken landscape.
The larger of the two fires, dubbed the White Sage Fire, has already devastated over 40,000 acres near the canyon's North Rim. Lightning strikes from isolated thunderstorms ignited the initial blaze, which found perfect conditions to spread among the pinyon pine and juniper trees.
The combination of gusty winds and low humidity has created ideal conditions for the fire's rapid expansion. Grand Canyon Park officials have implemented a full suppression strategy, focusing their efforts on protecting structures in the North Rim developed area.
Fire crews face significant challenges in accessing the blazes due to the region's steep and rugged terrain. The persistent dry weather continues to complicate firefighting efforts and increases the risk of further spread.
The smaller but equally concerning Dragon Bravo Fire has consumed more than 5,000 acres of wilderness. The dual threats have stretched emergency resources thin as crews work tirelessly to contain both blazes.
Park authorities have made the difficult decision to implement closures expected to last until August 9, or until the fires are successfully contained. This timeline reflects the magnitude of the challenge facing firefighting teams and the complexity of the operation.
The extensive closure area demonstrates the significant impact these fires are having on both recreational activities and local communities. Officials are taking no chances with public safety, implementing a comprehensive evacuation plan.
The fires' rapid spread through the drought-affected landscape highlights the increasing vulnerability of the region to wildfire events. The destruction of thousands of acres of native vegetation could have long-lasting effects on the local ecosystem.
The timing of these fires coincides with the peak tourist season, potentially causing significant economic impact to the region. The North Rim area typically attracts thousands of visitors during the summer months, making the evacuations and closures particularly disruptive.
Tourism operators and local businesses face uncertain weeks ahead as firefighting efforts continue. The extended closure period suggests officials are preparing for a prolonged battle against these devastating blazes.
The unprecedented scale of these wildfires has mobilized one of the largest firefighting responses in recent Grand Canyon history. With both fires at zero percent containment, crews face a demanding challenge in their efforts to protect both natural resources and human infrastructure.
Officials maintain a careful balance between aggressive firefighting tactics and ensuring crew safety in the treacherous terrain. The focus remains on protecting structures while preventing further spread of the flames.
Weather conditions and firefighting progress in the coming days will be crucial in determining when evacuated residents and visitors can safely return to the affected areas. Until then, hundreds of firefighters continue their relentless battle against these devastating wildfires that threaten one of America's most iconic landscapes.
President Donald Trump has announced a significant weapons package for Ukraine, citing Vladimir Putin's deceptive tactics in the ongoing conflict. The announcement comes as Ukraine faces intensifying drone and missile attacks from Russian forces.
According to the New York Post, the United States will provide Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine, with Trump emphasizing that the European Union will fully reimburse the associated costs. The decision follows Putin's pattern of engaging in diplomatic talks while simultaneously launching attacks on Ukrainian territory.
The move represents a crucial development in U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's forces struggle to defend against increasingly aggressive Russian assaults. Recent attacks have resulted in at least 13 civilian casualties, with Russia deploying hundreds of drones and missiles, including Iranian-made Shahed drones, targeting previously secure western Ukrainian cities.
The president's decision stems from mounting frustration with Putin's duplicitous approach to peace negotiations. Trump's recent attempts to broker a ceasefire have been consistently undermined by Russian military actions.
During a recent Cabinet meeting, Trump expressed his disappointment with Putin's behavior, noting that despite maintaining a cordial diplomatic facade, the Russian leader's actions prove contradictory. The president's candid remarks highlight the growing tension between the two leaders.
The timing of this announcement coincides with the arrival of Trump's special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, in Kyiv. This diplomatic mission underscores the administration's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defensive capabilities.
Recent Russian attacks have demonstrated an alarming escalation in military aggression, with a devastating assault involving 623 drones and 26 missiles. The attack targeted areas previously considered safe from Russian reach, marking a significant expansion of the conflict zone.
The massive offensive included 319 Iranian-made Shahed drones, representing a concerning development in Russia's military capabilities and international alliances. This escalation has prompted urgent calls for enhanced air defense systems from Ukrainian leadership.
Ukraine's air force has reported that these attacks have penetrated deeper into western territories, challenging the existing defensive infrastructure and highlighting the critical need for advanced air defense systems like the Patriot missiles.
Trump's announcement precedes a scheduled meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where Ukraine's defense needs will be a primary topic of discussion. The administration emphasizes that sophisticated military equipment will be provided with full cost recovery from European allies.
Andrii Yermak, head of Ukraine's presidential office, confirmed that talks during Kellogg's visit will encompass various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including defense, security, weapons, and sanctions. The discussions aim to enhance the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine.
The Ukrainian leadership has expressed strong support for Trump's "peace through strength" approach, acknowledging that Russia's current stance shows no inclination toward a ceasefire.
President Trump's decision to supply Patriot missiles represents a significant escalation in Western support for Ukraine's defensive capabilities. The sophisticated air defense system will provide crucial protection against Russia's increasingly aggressive aerial attacks.
The European Union's agreement to reimburse the United States for the military equipment demonstrates a unified Western approach to supporting Ukraine. This financial arrangement ensures continued American support while maintaining European commitment to Ukraine's defense.
The deployment of Patriot missiles, combined with diplomatic efforts through Special Envoy Kellogg's mission, signals a comprehensive strategy to counter Russian aggression while pursuing diplomatic solutions to the conflict.