President Donald Trump has announced a significant expansion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids targeting sanctuary cities across the United States. The move marks an escalation in his administration's promised mass deportation program.

According to the Washington Examiner, Trump made the announcement via Truth Social on Sunday night, specifically naming New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago as primary targets. These cities, which he described as the "core of the Democrat Power Center," are home to large immigrant populations.

The president's directive aims to fulfill his campaign promise of implementing what he called the "largest Mass Deportation Program in History." This expansion represents a significant shift in federal immigration enforcement priorities, focusing resources on major urban centers that have declared themselves sanctuary jurisdictions.

Sanctuary Cities Face Federal Pressure

Trump's announcement specifically targets cities where local policies limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The president accused Democratic leaders in these locations of using "Illegal Aliens to expand their Voter Base, cheat in Elections, and grow the Welfare State."

In his Truth Social post, Trump emphasized that deportation efforts would focus on "crime ridden and deadly Inner Cities, and those places where Sanctuary Cities play such a big role." This language reflects his administration's consistent messaging that connects immigration with crime and economic concerns.

The president indicated that he has directed his "entire Administration to put every resource possible behind this effort" to address what he termed "Mass Destruction Migration." This suggests a whole-of-government approach to immigration enforcement under his second administration.

Democratic Governors Challenge Administration

The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic governors of states containing sanctuary cities. Several state leaders have publicly challenged federal immigration enforcement efforts.

During a recent congressional hearing, Governors J.B. Pritzker of Illinois and Kathy Hochul of New York both directly challenged Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, reportedly saying he could "arrest" them. This reflects the growing confrontational stance some Democratic leaders are taking.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has also voiced opposition to immigration crackdowns, calling on residents to "resist in this moment." He emphasized that "whether we use the courts or whether we continue to protest or raise our voices, dissent matters in this moment."

Los Angeles Riots Intensify Federal Response

The expanded deportation efforts followed violent anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles that prompted Trump to deploy both National Guard troops and Marines to restore order. This military deployment has become another flashpoint in the immigration debate.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have condemned the federal intervention, arguing that state law enforcement could handle the situation. They've suggested the National Guard deployment has only worsened the violence rather than quelling it.

Newsom took legal action against the Trump administration over the deployment, with a judge initially ruling that Trump must return National Guard authority to California. However, an appeals court temporarily blocked that ruling early Friday, allowing federal forces to remain in place.

Federal Authority Versus State Rights

The expanding ICE operations highlight the fundamental conflict between federal immigration authority and states' rights that has characterized much of the immigration debate in recent years.

Trump's Truth Social post emphasized that the "Federal Government will continue to be focused on the REMIGRATION of Aliens to the places from where they came." This language signals his administration's determination to assert federal authority over immigration enforcement regardless of local sanctuary policies.

The deployment of military forces to Los Angeles and the expanded ICE operations in other major cities represent the most visible manifestation of this conflict between federal and state/local authorities over immigration enforcement priorities.

The Trump administration is firing back at allegations that new Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals could deny healthcare to veterans based on factors like marital status or political affiliation. The dispute centers around the implementation of a recent executive order and has sparked heated denials from White House officials.

According to The Hill, the controversy erupted after The Guardian published a report claiming VA hospitals were implementing new rules that would permit workers to refuse care to veterans based on characteristics not protected under federal law. This alleged policy change reportedly stems from President Trump's executive order signed on the first day of his second term.

The January executive order, titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government," directed the federal government to recognize only two biological sexes. The Guardian's report suggested this directive was being interpreted broadly at VA facilities.

White House Issues Strong Denial of Claims

White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly forcefully rejected The Guardian's reporting on social media platform X. Her response didn't mince words about the publication's allegations regarding veteran care.

"Aaron, this is a totally FALSE story that The Guardian should retract immediately. Fearmongering with our Veterans to try to score clicks for your failing 'news outlet' is pathetic and shameful," Kelly wrote, addressing the article's writer directly.

The Department of Veterans Affairs also quickly issued its own denial of X, stating: "This story is disinformation. All eligible Veterans will always be welcome at VA and will always receive the benefits and services they've earned under the law."

Confusion Over Hospital Bylaw Changes

The Guardian's reporting indicated it had obtained documents showing medical staff could potentially be barred from working at VA hospitals based on their marital status, political party affiliation, or union activity. The publication claimed these changes were connected to Trump's executive order.

VA press secretary Peter Kasperowicz, identified as a former politics editor at Fox News Digital, reportedly did not explicitly deny these allegations when contacted by The Guardian. This initial response may have contributed to the confusion surrounding the story.

The extent of actual bylaw changes remains unclear. Veterans' advocacy organizations are working to determine how widespread any policy modifications might be and their potential impact on care.

Veterans Groups Monitoring Situation Closely

Kyleanne Hunter, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America provided context about the situation at VA facilities. She noted the department has historically maintained "very expansive" antidiscrimination policies that extended beyond federally protected classes.

Hunter acknowledged that in response to Trump's executive order, some hospital bylaws have "shrunk" to only encompass federally protected classes like race, religion, and sex. However, she emphasized an important distinction about the current situation.

"There are over 140 different VA medical centers as hospitals that each have their own set of bylaws that exist. So we don't know how many different hospitals this has actually been changed at," Hunter told The Hill, indicating the need for more information before drawing conclusions.

Healthcare Providers Caught in Political Crossfire

The controversy has placed VA healthcare providers in a difficult position as they attempt to navigate changing policies while maintaining quality care for veterans. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over federal policy implementation.

VA employees have expressed concerns to veterans' advocates about the impact of the controversy on staff morale. Many healthcare providers remain committed to serving all veterans regardless of policy changes.

Hunter lamented that VA employees are being caught in the crosshairs of this dispute while trying to provide essential care. "The VA employees that we have talked to and connected with are personally very, very committed to continue to serve all veterans," she noted.

First Choice Women's Resource Centers has secured a significant legal victory as the highest court in the land steps into its battle with New Jersey's top prosecutor. The nonprofit pregnancy resource organization will have its day before the Supreme Court in a case that pits religious freedom advocates against state regulators.

According to Fox News, the Supreme Court on Monday granted the faith-based pregnancy nonprofit's petition to review its ongoing dispute with New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin. The case centers on allegations that Platkin violated the organization's First Amendment rights through an investigative subpoena targeting the Christian-based centers.

First Choice Women's Resource Centers operates five facilities across New Jersey that provide services to women facing unplanned pregnancies. The nonprofit challenged Platkin's demands for internal records, including donor information, arguing the subpoena represented an unconstitutional infringement on its free speech rights and could potentially chill its advocacy.

Attorney General's Investigation Raises Constitutional Questions

The dispute began when Platkin launched an investigation into First Choice, claiming the pregnancy centers might be misleading women about abortion services. His office issued what the nonprofit described as an "invasive" subpoena demanding thousands of donor records and internal documents.

In court filings, First Choice attorneys claimed Platkin "has made no secret of his hostility towards pregnancy centers" and accused him of collaborating with Planned Parenthood to target organizations opposed to abortion. The nonprofit's legal team argued this collaboration represented an inappropriate partnership between a state official and a competitor in the reproductive health space.

Platkin countered that his investigation was more limited in scope than the nonprofit claimed. He stated that he only sought donor identities from two specific websites, focusing on concerns that First Choice may have misled those donors about the actual services provided at their facilities.

Lower Courts Rejected First Choice's Arguments

The legal battle has already wound through multiple federal courts with First Choice experiencing setbacks at each level. When the nonprofit first challenged the subpoena in federal court on constitutional grounds, their case was rejected.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit subsequently upheld that lower court decision, effectively ruling against First Choice's free speech claims. This pattern of defeats prompted the organization to petition the Supreme Court for review, arguing the case raised important constitutional questions deserving the high court's attention.

The central legal question now before the Supreme Court involves jurisdiction – specifically whether Platkin's investigatory demand must first be adjudicated in state court or if federal courts have proper jurisdiction over the First Amendment claims. The justices will examine whether constitutional challenges to state investigations can proceed directly in federal court.

Case Highlights Ongoing Abortion Debate Tensions

The case represents the latest flashpoint in the contentious national debate over abortion and the role of crisis pregnancy centers. Pro-choice advocates have frequently criticized such centers for potentially misleading women about reproductive options, while pro-life supporters defend them as providing crucial alternatives to abortion.

First Choice describes itself as a Christian-based organization providing services to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Like many similar facilities across the country, it offers resources and support while promoting alternatives to abortion, reflecting its faith-based mission and values.

The legal battle has drawn attention from religious liberty advocates who view the case as potentially establishing an important precedent regarding government investigations of faith-based organizations. They argue that demanding internal records, including donor information, could have a chilling effect on religious expression and charitable giving.

High Court Decision Expected Next Year

The Supreme Court's decision to take up the case ensures that constitutional questions surrounding state investigations of pro-life pregnancy centers will receive national attention. Oral arguments are scheduled for October 2025, with a decision likely to follow several months later.

At stake is not just First Choice's specific dispute with New Jersey authorities but potentially broader principles regarding free speech protections for advocacy organizations. The court will need to balance legitimate state investigative powers against First Amendment protections for nonprofit organizations.

The case comes amid continued national tensions over reproductive rights following major Supreme Court decisions in recent years. First Choice Women's Resource Centers will now have the opportunity to present its First Amendment arguments directly to the nation's highest court.

The infamous "Gold Bar Bob" has officially traded his Senate office for a prison cell. Bob Menendez, once among Washington's most powerful lawmakers, surrendered himself to federal authorities Tuesday morning to begin serving his sentence for corruption.

According to the New York Post, the 71-year-old former New Jersey Democrat arrived at FCI Schuykill in Pennsylvania around 9 a.m., approximately two and a half hours from his Englewood Cliffs residence. His arrival marks the culmination of a dramatic fall from grace for the once-influential Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman.

The disgraced former lawmaker was convicted last year of participating in a sprawling bribery scheme that involved selling his political influence to enrich himself with gold bars, cash payments, and other valuable items. His sentencing in January brought an end to his decades-long political career while cementing his new reputation as one of the most corrupt senators in recent memory.

Gold Bars and Hidden Cash Found During Investigation

Federal agents discovered a trove of incriminating evidence when they searched the Menendez residence during their investigation. The findings painted a damning picture of a public servant who had betrayed his office for personal gain.

Investigators located $486,471 in cash stashed throughout the senator's home, including some hidden inside his official government jacket. Even more shocking was the discovery of 13 gold bars worth approximately $150,000 concealed in a bedroom safe, which ultimately earned him the unflattering nickname "Gold Bar Bob."

Judge Sidney Stein didn't mince words during the sentencing hearing, telling the fallen politician, "Somewhere along the way, you became, I'm sorry to say, a corrupt politician." The judge's statement underscored the severity of Menendez's betrayal of public trust and the damage done to democratic institutions.

Prison Life Awaits Former Power Broker

Menendez will likely seek placement in the prison's minimum-security camp, which houses 225 male inmates and offers greater freedom of movement compared to the medium-security facility. The former senator's daily reality has dramatically shifted from steering foreign policy to navigating prison routines.

Inside FCI Schuykill, Menendez will have access to the commissary where he can purchase items like $8.55 Head & Shoulders shampoo, $13 Sensodyne toothpaste, and $4.20 Jolly Ranchers candies. His communication with the outside world will be limited to four visits per month and correspondence through letters and postcards.

The prison already houses notable inmates, including Gurmeet Singh Dhinsa, a former gas station tycoon nicknamed the "Gas Station Gotti" who was convicted of ordering murders to conceal a scheme to defraud customers. Now, Menendez takes his place as the facility's most high-profile resident.

Foreign Influence and Family Involvement

Menendez's crimes extended beyond simple bribery into the realm of international intrigue. The jury found him guilty not only of accepting bribes but also of serving as an illegal foreign agent for Egypt and Qatar.

Prosecutors proved that Menendez provided political favors to foreign governments while intermediaries lavished him and his wife with luxurious gifts. These included not just the infamous gold bars and cash but also a Mercedes-Benz automobile and payments funneled through a fraudulent consulting firm and a no-show job.

His wife, Nadine Menendez, 58, was also convicted for her participation in the corrupt scheme. She faces sentencing in September and was spotted Monday running errands with her husband as he prepared for his incarceration.

Fallen Senator's Last Freedom Days

The former senator's journey to prison was delayed after he successfully argued for postponement to support his wife during her trial on similar corruption charges. His legal maneuvering bought him additional months of freedom before Tuesday's inevitable surrender.

In a last-ditch effort to avoid imprisonment, Menendez reportedly sought a pardon or sentence commutation from President Trump. Unless such clemency materializes immediately, the former Democratic powerbroker will call the Pennsylvania correctional facility home for the foreseeable future.

The spectacular downfall of Bob Menendez serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of corruption at the highest levels of government. From chairing the influential Senate Foreign Relations Committee to becoming inmate number at FCI Schuykill, his journey represents one of the most dramatic falls from power in recent American political history.

An official in Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass' administration has concerning family ties to Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence operations, according to a bombshell investigation. The connection raises serious questions about potential foreign intelligence infiltration at the highest levels of city government.

According to Daily Caller, Adam Ma, who serves as both the city's liaison for Asian-Americans and director of commission appointments, is the son of Ma Shurong (Derek Ma), a Chinatown powerbroker with documented ties to Chinese intelligence operations who raised tens of thousands of dollars for Bass' mayoral campaign.

Ma Shurong has openly praised the CCP and holds positions in multiple arms of China's United Front Work Department (UFWD), a known influence and intelligence service that targets foreign governments.

Father's Deep Ties to Chinese Intelligence

Ma Shurong's connections to Beijing extend throughout multiple Chinese government agencies identified by U.S. authorities as intelligence operations. His influence reaches deep into organizations flagged by American security experts.

Records show Ma Shurong serves as an "overseas committee member" of the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese (ACFROC), which the Department of Justice identifies as a UFWD agency. He has also held director positions in the China Overseas Friendship Association (COFA) and previously with the China Overseas Exchange Association (COEA).

During a July 2021 event commemorating the CCP's 100th anniversary, Ma Shurong reportedly declared: "If China didn't have the CCP, there'd be no strong China today, overseas Chinese compatriots send the highest praise and admiration to the CCP."

Campaign Fundraising and Political Access

The Ma family played significant roles in Bass' 2022 mayoral campaign, leveraging their influence within the Chinese American community to provide critical financial and political support.

Ma Shurong held a fundraising event at the Golden Dragon Restaurant in October 2022 that reportedly raised over $40,000 for Bass' campaign. Both Adam Ma and his mother donated $1,000 during this period, according to California Secretary of State records.

Following Bass' victory, Ma Shurong attended her inauguration and expressed happiness that his son would be joining her team. Adam Ma subsequently secured a position in Bass' transition office in December 2022.

Son's Expanding Role in Administration

Adam Ma quickly moved into increasingly influential positions within the Bass administration, gaining visibility at key cultural and community events where Chinese government officials were present.

Starting as director of both Bass' transition office and commission appointments in December 2022, Adam Ma later became the mayor's liaison for Asian Americans and the LGBTQIA+ community in May 2023. The City of Los Angeles paid him $129,534.10 in 2024, according to the California State Controller's Office.

In February 2023, Adam Ma represented Bass at a Chinese Lunar New Year banquet hosted by the Chinese American Unity Alliance, a nonprofit run by his parents. Two officials from the Los Angeles Chinese Consulate attended, including An Mingshuan, whom the UFWD identifies as its consul.

National Security Implications Emerge

Bass has recently gained national prominence for opposing President Trump's immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles, positioning herself as a central figure in Democratic resistance to the administration's deportation policies.

Gordon Chang, author of "Plan Red: China's Project To Destroy America," offered a stark assessment of the situation: "The Communist Party's UFWD has, in fact, penetrated Karen Bass's office. There is a high probability that, wittingly or unwittingly, she is implementing Chinese Communist plans to take down our country."

Peter Schweizer, author of "Red-Handed: How American Elites Get Rich Helping China Win," emphasized that "CCP influence campaigns target local elected officials just like our national leaders. In many ways, they can be even more effective there. Mayor Bass needs to come clean about her ties to these funders."

Alleged Minnesota assassin Vance Boelter sent chilling text messages to family members hours after his deadly shooting spree that killed a state representative and her husband, according to federal court documents. In the disturbing message, he informed relatives of his violent actions while apparently trying to minimize their legal exposure.

According to the New York Post, Boelter texted his wife and other family members around 6:15 a.m. Saturday, in a group thread, writing: "Dad went to war last night … I don't wanna say more because I don't wanna implicate anybody." The message came shortly after his targeted attacks on Democratic lawmakers left two dead and two injured.

Federal prosecutors have charged Boelter in connection with the murder of former state House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the non-fatal shooting of state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. The horrific attacks have shocked Minnesota and drawn national attention to political violence.

Meticulously Planned Political Assassinations

Investigators discovered detailed notebooks in Boelter's possession that revealed extensive planning for the attacks. His handwritten notes contained information about multiple politicians he had apparently targeted, showing he had conducted significant research on his victims.

The notebooks included specific details about Hortman, noting she was "married Mark 2 children 11th term" and describing her residence as a "Big house off golf course 2 ways in to watch from one spot." Prosecutors say Boelter had also compiled information from Internet-based people search engines that aggregate personal data.

After attacking Hoffman and his wife, Boelter reportedly attempted to target two other lawmakers. One unidentified legislator wasn't home, while state Sen. Ann Rest was protected by police presence outside her residence. He then proceeded to the Hortman home, where he fatally shot the former House Speaker and her husband.

Flight Attempt With Family Preparations

After committing the shootings, Boelter appeared to have prepared for a potential escape with his family. When authorities stopped his wife's vehicle during their manhunt, they discovered concerning items suggesting flight preparations.

Law enforcement found $10,000 in cash and passports for Boelter's wife and some of their children inside the vehicle. According to court documents, the family includes five children, who were reportedly in the car with their mother at the time of the traffic stop.

In a separate apologetic message to his wife sent around the same time as his "went to war" text, Boelter warned: "Words are not gonna explain how sorry I am for this situation … there's gonna be some people coming to the house armed and trigger-happy and I don't want you guys around."

Suspect's Post-Attack Actions Revealed

Hours after the shootings, Boelter took steps to evade capture while leaving puzzling evidence behind. His movements showed both calculated planning and bizarre behavior as authorities closed in.

Wearing a cowboy hat as a disguise, Boelter visited a local bank and emptied an account in his name. He used some of the withdrawn funds to purchase an old Buick and an e-bike from an unidentified individual, apparently seeking alternative transportation methods to avoid detection.

The abandoned Buick was later discovered on Highway 25 early Sunday, containing a note addressed to the FBI. The letter, signed "Dr. Vance Luther Boelter," included a confession stating he was "the shooter at large in Minnesota involved in the 2 shootings the morning of Saturday June 15th." Court documents noted that while Boelter claimed a doctorate on his LinkedIn profile, the university he cited closed in 2023.

Suspect Faces Severe Legal Consequences

Boelter now faces both federal and state charges for the politically motivated attacks that have devastated Minnesota's legislative community. The severity of the charges could potentially result in capital punishment if convicted.

The 57-year-old suspect made his first federal court appearance Monday afternoon, where a judge ordered him held without bail. The case has drawn significant attention not only for the high-profile nature of the victims but also for the apparent political motivation behind the attacks.

Authorities finally captured Boelter about a mile from his family home after an extensive manhunt. His targeting of Democratic lawmakers, detailed planning, and cryptic messages to the family have raised serious concerns about political violence as federal prosecutors build their case against the alleged assassin.

President Donald Trump issued a stark warning Monday, calling for the immediate evacuation of Tehran as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate. The declaration came days after Israel launched military strikes against key Iranian targets, raising concerns about potential further escalation in the volatile region.

According to Breitbart, Trump took to Truth Social to make his dramatic announcement, emphasizing his long-standing position that "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon" while urging residents to leave the Iranian capital.

The president's statement followed Israel's recent bombing of key military sites in Iran. In his social media post, Trump expressed regret over Iran's failure to sign a deal he had proposed, describing the situation as "a shame, and waste of human life."

Nuclear Negotiations Reach Critical Impasse

The Trump administration has consistently demanded that Iran completely halt its uranium enrichment activities rather than simply agreeing to monitoring measures. This hardline stance has created significant friction in international diplomatic efforts.

At the recent G7 summit, President Trump rejected a proposed statement on Iran because it only called for monitoring of Iran's nuclear activities instead of demanding a complete stop to enrichment. The administration maintains that enrichment beyond certain levels serves no purpose except developing materials for nuclear weapons.

This rejection highlights the administration's unwavering position on Iranian nuclear capabilities. Trump has repeatedly insisted on a complete halt to Iran's uranium enrichment program, viewing it as the only acceptable outcome of negotiations.

Israeli Military Actions Gain Momentum

Israel's military campaign against Iran has intensified in recent days, with Israeli fighters reportedly achieving "total dominance" of Iranian airspace. The operations have expanded to include strikes on regime institutions in Tehran.

Among the targets hit by Israeli forces was Iran's state broadcaster, indicating a shift from purely military objectives to wider governmental infrastructure. These developments mark a significant escalation in the conflict that began with Israel's initial attacks on military targets.

The Israeli Defense Forces claim to have destroyed approximately one-third of Iran's missile launchers, substantially degrading Iran's offensive capabilities. This military success appears to have strengthened Israel's position in the ongoing conflict.

Iran Signals Willingness For Diplomatic Solution

In a dramatic turn of events, Iran has reportedly sent messages to both Israel and the United States expressing a desire to end the conflict. These communications suggest Iran might be willing to abandon its nuclear enrichment program to preserve the regime.

Reports indicate Iran's eagerness to negotiate directly with President Trump, potentially marking a significant shift in the Islamic Republic's position. This apparent willingness to compromise comes as Israeli forces continue to demonstrate military superiority in the region.

The timing of Iran's outreach coincides with increasing pressure from Israeli military operations and the firm stance taken by the Trump administration regarding nuclear enrichment. This combination appears to have pushed Iranian leadership toward seeking diplomatic solutions.

Future Of Middle East Stability Hangs In Balance

President Trump's evacuation warning represents one of the most direct American interventions in the escalating conflict. His statement that "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON" underscores the administration's primary concern in the ongoing crisis.

The situation remains highly volatile, with Israeli forces continuing operations while Iran signals a potential willingness to negotiate. The Trump administration's rejection of monitoring-only proposals at the G7 summit reinforces its position that nothing short of a complete cessation of nuclear enrichment will be acceptable.

As tensions continue to rise in the region, the international community watches closely to see whether diplomatic channels will prevail or if further military escalation will occur. The outcome could significantly reshape power dynamics throughout the Middle East for years to come.

FBI Director Kash Patel has unveiled potentially explosive intelligence suggesting a Chinese government plot to interfere in the 2020 presidential election. The newly declassified report claims China manufactured counterfeit U.S. driver's licenses as part of a scheme to create fraudulent mail-in ballots supporting Joe Biden.

According to Just the News, Patel turned over the intelligence documents to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley on Monday evening. The materials detail allegations that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) planned to ship fake driver's licenses into the United States to facilitate fraudulent mail-in voting.

The intelligence report from August 2020 was never fully investigated before being recalled, despite preliminary evidence suggesting parts of the plot may have been underway. This development raises serious questions about the handling of foreign interference allegations during the contentious 2020 election cycle.

Controversial Intelligence Abruptly Shelved

The confidential source who provided the intelligence in summer 2020 specifically claimed the Chinese government manufactured fake U.S. driver's licenses to create voter identities for Chinese residents living in America. These identities would allegedly enable the casting of fraudulent mail-in ballots intended to benefit Biden in his race against Trump.

Patel's statement to Just the News emphasized the concerning nature of these allegations. "These include allegations of plans from the CCP to manufacture fake driver's licenses and ship them into the United States for the purpose of facilitating fraudulent mail-in ballots – allegations which, while substantiated, were abruptly recalled and never disclosed to the public," Patel said.

Officials familiar with the documents told Just the News that the intelligence report was withdrawn within weeks of its creation, supposedly because the source needed to be re-interviewed. However, the investigation appears to have stalled at that point, leaving the allegations unexplored.

Corroborating Evidence Never Pursued

Perhaps most troubling about the newly declassified report is that U.S. Customs and Border Protection had apparently intercepted nearly 20,000 fake licenses around the same timeframe. This potential corroboration of the intelligence was seemingly overlooked when the original report was recalled.

The documents came to light as part of Senator Grassley's oversight efforts, which had previously raised concerns that potentially significant intelligence hadn't been fully vetted before being dismissed. The Iowa Republican has been pushing for transparency regarding potential foreign interference in American elections.

"Thanks to the oversight work and partnership of Chairman Grassley, the FBI continues to provide unprecedented transparency at the people's Bureau," Patel noted in his statement. His immediate declassification of the material highlights the current FBI leadership's approach to congressional oversight requests.

Election Integrity Questions Resurface

The timing of the report's recall has raised eyebrows among officials reviewing the documents. The intelligence was pulled back around the same time then-FBI Director Chris Wray testified there were no known plots of foreign interference ahead of the 2020 election.

This revelation comes amid ongoing debates about election security and foreign interference in American democracy. The report's allegations specifically targeted mail-in voting, which saw unprecedented expansion during the 2020 election due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The source reportedly claimed the fake ID scheme was specifically designed to benefit Biden, though these allegations were never fully investigated. Without complete vetting, it remains unclear how credible or extensive the alleged plot may have been.

National Security Implications Remain

Patel's decision to declassify and release these documents to Congress represents a significant shift in how the FBI handles sensitive intelligence related to election security. The current FBI director framed the release as part of his commitment to transparency.

The intelligence report adds to ongoing concerns about Chinese government efforts to influence American politics and institutions. Whether through traditional espionage, economic pressure, or alleged election interference, U.S. officials have increasingly warned about Beijing's activities.

Senator Grassley, who has long championed government accountability, now has possession of the declassified materials for further review. His committee may determine whether additional investigation into the alleged 2020 plot is warranted, even years after the election.

Two prominent union presidents have resigned from the Democratic National Committee (DNC), intensifying an internal party struggle that began with former vice chair David Hogg's controversial plans to challenge incumbent Democrats.

According to Fox News, Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, and Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, declined offers to remain as at-large DNC members.

In a letter to DNC Chair Ken Martin that has been circulating on social media, Weingarten wrote, "I appear to be out of step with the leadership you are forging, and I do not want to be the one who keeps questioning why we are not enlarging our tent and actively trying to engage more and more of our communities."

Leadership Vacuum Leaves Democrats Divided

The departures represent another significant challenge for Martin, who just last week resolved issues with Hogg after the progressive activist announced he would not seek re-election as vice chair.

An anonymous former DNC official offered a scathing assessment of Martin's leadership, telling Fox News Digital, "There is a huge vacuum of leadership in the Democratic Party and Ken is proving to be a weak, ineffective leader who isn't ready for any of this."

Both Weingarten and Saunders had supported Martin's opponent, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler, in the race for DNC chair. After winning, Martin removed Weingarten from the DNC's Rules and Bylaws Committee, which oversees the party's presidential nominating process.

Hogg Controversy Amplifies Party Tensions

The union leaders' exit follows weeks of internal strife triggered by Hogg's $20 million plan to primary older incumbent Democrats he described as "asleep at the wheel" through his political action group, Leaders We Deserve.

Weingarten had supported Hogg's controversial primary strategy, placing her at odds with Martin's leadership vision for the party. This disagreement likely contributed to her decision to step down from the committee.

A leaked audio recording obtained by Politico captured Martin's frustration with Hogg, saying the controversy had "destroyed any chance I have to show the leadership that I need to. So, it's really frustrating."

Democratic Officials Downplay Internal Conflict

Despite the apparent turmoil, some Democratic officials attempted to minimize the significance of the union leaders' departure from the committee.

An anonymous DNC committee member told Fox News Digital it was "not surprising" that Weingarten and Saunders stepped down since "they both supported another candidate" for chair. The same source expressed confidence that party members would "come together and focus and continue beating Republicans."

Another source close to the DNC noted, "Ever since the horse she bet on in the Chairs race lost, she has always been on the other side of the fence as Ken — this is no surprise."

Party Struggles Continue After 2024 Losses

The resignations of Weingarten and Saunders mark the latest episode in ongoing Democratic Party infighting following their losses in the 2024 elections, when they lost both the White House and Congress. DNC Labor Council Chair Stuart Applebaum defended Martin in a statement to Fox News Digital, saying the chair "understands that workers are the backbone of the Democratic Party, and his vision for winning back working families is exactly how our party needs to move forward."

Martin previously issued an ultimatum to Hogg to either resign his vice chair position or abandon his political influence through his PAC. Though Hogg chose to step down, he still defied advice by endorsing Virginia state Del. Irene Shin in the special election to replace the late Rep. Gerry Connolly.

Following Hogg's announcement that he wouldn't seek re-election, Martin publicly thanked him for "his years of activism, organizing, and fighting for his generation" in what appeared to be an attempt to move past the controversy.

Donald Trump and prominent MAGA allies are locked in an increasingly public feud over America's stance toward Iran, with the president targeting popular conservative commentator Tucker Carlson with a new nickname. The conflict has exposed growing divisions within the MAGA movement about foreign policy.

According to the Daily Mail, Trump called Carlson "kooky" on social media Monday night after the former Fox News host criticized the president's approach to Iran and suggested Trump had abandoned his "America First" principles.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, typically one of Trump's closest allies in Congress, immediately defended Carlson following the president's comments. She praised the commentator as "one of my favorite people" who "fiercely loves his wife, children, and our country" while arguing against American involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts.

Growing Tension Between MAGA Factions Erupts

Trump's frustration with Carlson became evident during a G7 press conference where he snapped at reporters asking about the commentator's criticism. "I don't know what Tucker Carlson is saying. Let him go get a television network and say it so that people listen," Trump said, dismissing Carlson's current independent media venture.

The president doubled down on Truth Social later, writing in all caps: "Somebody please explain to kooky Tucker Carlson that IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" He further emphasized his position with another post stating "AMERICA FIRST means many GREAT things, including the fact that, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON."

Carlson has maintained that he "loves" President Trump and wants him to succeed but warned that full-scale war with Iran would "effectively end" Trump's presidency. The media personality has urged the president to prioritize peace rather than allowing Israel to pull America into a broader Middle Eastern conflict.

Greene Breaks With Trump Over Foreign Policy

Greene's defense of Carlson signals a growing rift within Trump's base over foreign policy priorities. The Georgia congresswoman made clear where her loyalties lie in this particular disagreement through her strong social media response.

"Tucker Carlson is one of my favorite people. He fiercely loves his wife, children, and our country," Greene wrote. She pointedly added that her beliefs are "unapologetically" aligned with Carlson's when it comes to avoiding foreign entanglements.

The firebrand representative concluded her defense with a direct reference to Trump's new nickname for Carlson: "That's not kooky. That's what millions of Americans voted for. It's what we believe is America First." DailyMail.com reported that they reached out to the White House for comment on Greene's statement but did not include any response.

Clash Over America First Definition

The conflict centers around competing interpretations of Trump's signature "America First" foreign policy. During a conversation with The Atlantic, Trump pushed back on Carlson's framing of the Iran issue.

"Well, considering that I'm the one that developed America First, and considering that the term wasn't used until I came along, I think I'm the one that decides that," Trump stated definitively. He characterized Carlson's distinction between "warmongers and peacemakers" as naive.

Trump emphasized that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is central to his vision of American security. "For those people who say they want peace - you can't have peace if Iran has a nuclear weapon," he explained, adding that this principle applies "regardless - Israel or not Israel."

Deepening Divisions Within MAGA Movement

The public disagreement highlights growing tensions between isolationist and interventionist factions within Trump's base. Carlson has become increasingly vocal in his criticism of what he views as a shift in Trump's foreign policy priorities.

In a newsletter released Friday, Carlson went so far as to accuse Trump of being "complicit in an act of war" regarding Israel's actions against Iran. The commentator has urged Trump to deliver a "tough" message to Israel, suggesting the president should prioritize American interests over unconditional support for the Middle Eastern ally.

The dispute comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with Trump cutting short his G7 attendance in Calgary on Monday evening to handle the crisis. This public disagreement between high-profile MAGA figures underscores the challenges Trump faces in maintaining unity within his political coalition while navigating complex international situations.