Drag performer and actor Jiggly Caliente, known for captivating audiences with fierce performances and advocacy work, faced health complications in the final weeks of life.
According to Breitbart, Jiggly Caliente, whose legal name was Bianca Castro-Arabejo, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at age 44, surrounded by loved ones, just days after undergoing a major surgical procedure that involved the amputation of the right leg.
The drag star's family shared details about the severe infection that led to hospitalization and the subsequent amputation. The health crisis emerged suddenly, forcing Castro-Arabejo to withdraw from upcoming commitments, including an anticipated appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race Philippines. The performer's condition deteriorated rapidly despite medical intervention.
The family issued two statements within days of each other, first announcing the leg amputation on Thursday and then confirming the death on Sunday. Medical professionals had attempted to save Castro-Arabejo's leg but ultimately determined amputation was necessary due to the aggressive nature of the infection.
The drag performer's family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans worldwide during this difficult time. They emphasized how Castro-Arabejo maintained strength and dignity throughout the ordeal.
The family shared this moving tribute to the performer's impact:
A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy, Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity. Though her physical presence is gone, the joy she shared and the space she helped create for so many will remain forever.
Castro-Arabejo first gained widespread recognition as a contestant on season four of RuPaul's Drag Race, where the performer's charisma and talent caught viewers' attention. This led to a return appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season six, further cementing Caliente's place in drag entertainment history.
Beyond the drag competition scene, Castro-Arabejo built an impressive acting portfolio. The performer secured a recurring role as Veronica Ferocity on the groundbreaking FX series Pose, which explored New York's ballroom culture.
Additional acting credits demonstrated Castro-Arabejo's range as a performer. These included appearances in the 2020 independent film Milkwater and the 2021 television series Wigs in A Blanket, showcasing versatility across different entertainment formats.
Throughout a career spanning television, film, and live performance, Castro-Arabejo remained committed to advocacy work. The performer used growing visibility to champion causes important to the LGBTQ+ community.
Fellow performers and fans praised Castro-Arabejo's willingness to be vulnerable and authentic in the public eye. This openness helped create safer spaces for others to express themselves freely. The impact of Castro-Arabejo's work extended far beyond entertainment, inspiring countless individuals through a combination of artistic excellence and dedicated activism.
Bianca Castro-Arabejo, widely celebrated as drag performer Jiggly Caliente, passed away on Sunday morning at age 44 after experiencing severe health complications that necessitated the amputation of the right leg. The performer's family confirmed the peaceful passing was witnessed by close friends and relatives at the bedside.
The drag star's legacy encompasses memorable appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race, a recurring role on the series Pose, and various film and television projects. Beyond entertainment achievements, Castro-Arabejo's dedication to advocacy work and creating inclusive spaces leaves an enduring impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the entertainment industry.
A dramatic turn of events unfolded in Miami as authorities apprehended a second suspect connected to the Easter Sunday theft of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's personal belongings.
According to Fox News, law enforcement officials arrested an accomplice in Miami on Sunday, marking the second detention related to the theft of Noem's purse containing $3,000 in cash and her DHS access card from a Washington D.C. restaurant.
The Secret Service collaborated with the Miami Beach Police Department to locate and arrest the suspect, who is currently being held on an immigration detainer while charges are finalized. Officials have not disclosed the identity of the second suspect but confirmed their belief that the individual acted as a co-conspirator in multiple theft incidents alongside the primary defendant.
The first suspect, identified as Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national illegally present in the United States, was arrested on Saturday. Authorities linked him to a series of similar thefts throughout April, where he allegedly targeted restaurant patrons by stealing purses from the backs of their chairs.
Law enforcement officials recovered video evidence showing the suspects' modus operandi, leading to Leiva's identification and subsequent arrest. He now faces two counts of robbery and additional charges related to the Secret Service investigation.
Retired NYPD inspector and Fox News contributor Paul Mauro provided insight into the nature of the crime, suggesting that the perpetrators were motivated by the opportunity to steal luxury items rather than targeting Noem specifically. The Secret Service has officially confirmed that the theft was not related to Noem's position as DHS Secretary.
Noem shared her account of the incident with podcaster Vince Coglianese on the "VINCE Show," describing how the theft occurred while she dined with her family at The Capital Burger in Washington, D.C.
The DHS Secretary said:
It was kind of shocking, actually, because it was sitting right by my feet. I actually felt my purse, he hooked it with his foot and drug it a few steps away and dropped a coat over it and took it. I felt it, but I thought it was my grandkids kicking me in the legs. But it was very professionally done, and it tells that this happens all the time to people and that they live in communities where this is a danger and it reaffirms why I am here.
The stolen items included Noem's driver's license, passport, medication, makeup bag, blank checks, DHS badge, apartment keys, and a Louis Vuitton Clemence wallet. Security footage captured a white male wearing an N95 surgical mask, dark pants, and a baseball cap executing the theft.
Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros praised the cooperation between agencies that led to the second arrest. The Miami Beach Police Department's quick response to information from Washington resulted in targeted patrols that successfully located the suspect without incident.
Noem expressed gratitude through her spokesperson, acknowledging the efforts of the Secret Service, ICE, and other law enforcement partners in apprehending the suspects. She emphasized that the first arrested suspect had an extensive criminal history and had been in the country illegally for years.
The theft of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's purse during Easter Sunday lunch with her family has resulted in two arrests within a week. The incident, which occurred at The Capital Burger in Washington D.C., involved the theft of personal items, including $3,000 in cash and official DHS credentials.
While the first suspect, Mario Bustamante Leiva, faces multiple robbery charges, authorities are finalizing charges against the second suspect, who was apprehended in Miami. The Secret Service has confirmed that despite the high-profile nature of the victim, the theft was not targeted at Noem's position but rather part of a series of professional theft operations targeting restaurant patrons.
A tragic mid-air collision near Reagan National Airport involved a military training exercise gone wrong.
According to The Daily Caller, Army Captain Rebecca A. Lobach failed to execute crucial course changes and altitude instructions before a fatal January collision between her UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and a commercial airliner, resulting in 67 deaths.
The devastating crash occurred on January 29 when the Army helicopter, conducting an evaluation flight simulating the extraction of senior government officials from Washington DC, collided with a commuter flight from Wichita, Kansas. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, who was instructing Lobach during the flight, had directed her to make specific course adjustments that were not followed.
The investigation revealed multiple communication issues that contributed to the accident. The helicopter crew's simultaneous radio transmissions likely prevented them from hearing important instructions from Reagan National Airport's control tower. These missed communications included crucial directions for the Black Hawk to pass behind the commuter flight.
The situation was further complicated when air traffic controllers redirected the commercial aircraft to a rarely-used runway at Reagan National. This change in the flight path, combined with the helicopter's unauthorized altitude of 400 feet, created the perfect conditions for the catastrophic collision.
Tower controllers had attempted to coordinate the movements of both aircraft, but their efforts were hampered by communication failures. The military helicopter's deviation from prescribed protocols proved fatal for all occupants of both aircraft.
The tragic incident has brought renewed attention to Reagan National Airport's history of safety concerns. A thorough review of public documents conducted by The Daily Caller in February exposed a pattern of near-miss incidents at the facility spanning several decades.
Many of these close calls were reported by pilots themselves, highlighting ongoing safety issues that the Federal Aviation Administration has allegedly failed to address adequately. The airport's proximity to sensitive government facilities and complex airspace restrictions adds additional layers of complexity to air traffic management.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has taken an unconventional approach to addressing these systemic issues. In a February interview, he revealed his decision to consult with White House Senior Advisor Elon Musk regarding the potential modernization of the air traffic control system.
Secretary Duffy defended his decision to seek Musk's input, stating:
Why wouldn't I ask Elon Musk? Why wouldn't I ask some of the best minds in the world to come in and offer us advice on how they think we can improve the system?
The January collision represents one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent DC history. Captain Lobach's failure to follow her instructor's guidance and maintain proper altitude directly contributed to the tragic outcome that claimed 67 lives.
The crash has sparked intense scrutiny of military training procedures near civilian airports. Aviation experts are particularly concerned about the practice of conducting simulated extraction missions in such heavily trafficked airspace.
The mid-air collision between an Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and a commercial airliner near Reagan National Airport resulted in 67 fatalities after Army Captain Rebecca A. Lobach failed to follow critical flight instructions. The incident occurred during a simulated extraction mission when the military aircraft deviated from its assigned course and altitude, leading to a catastrophic collision with a commuter flight from Wichita. The tragedy has exposed long-standing safety concerns at Reagan National Airport and prompted transportation officials to seek innovative solutions for modernizing air traffic control systems.
President Donald Trump's latest comments about seeking a third term in office have sparked renewed discussions about presidential term limits and constitutional boundaries.
According to Fox News, Trump expressed his preference against using "loopholes" to pursue a third presidential term during a recent TIME interview, though he stopped short of completely ruling out the possibility.
The president's remarks come amid ongoing speculation about his political future and potential strategies to extend his time in office beyond the constitutional two-term limit. His statement marks a shift from his March interview with NBC News, where he notably refused to dismiss the idea of seeking a third term.
Steve Bannon, Trump's former administration official, recently made headlines during an HBO appearance with Bill Maher by boldly predicting Trump's success in securing a third term. The controversial statement has intensified discussions about presidential succession and constitutional constraints.
A recent Reuters/Ipsos national survey revealed significant public opposition to the concept of a third Trump term. The poll, conducted between April 16-21, showed that three-quarters of respondents rejected the idea of Trump running for a third term.
The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution explicitly prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms in office, making any attempt to secure a third term legally impossible without constitutional changes.
When questioned about potentially running as J.D. Vance's vice president, Trump redirected the conversation to highlight his cognitive capabilities. He emphasized his perfect score on a recent cognitive assessment.
Trump stated his position on the cognitive test during the TIME interview:
I don't know anything about, what, look, all I can say is this, I am being inundated with requests. I'm doing a good job. Great physical exam, and unlike every other president, I took the cognitive test and I aced it 100% and I bet you guys couldn't get 100% on that exam. It's a tough exam. You know, when you get into the mid questions, it gets to be pretty tricky and pretty tough, and the last questions are very tough, and I aced it.
The president's focus on his cognitive abilities comes at a time when age and mental fitness have become increasingly important factors in political discourse.
The discussion about a potential third term has raised concerns among both Democratic and Republican lawmakers. Many view such suggestions as challenging fundamental constitutional principles.
Trump's age has also become a significant talking point in these discussions. At 82 years old by the end of his current term in 2029, he already holds the record as the oldest elected president in U.S. history.
President Donald Trump's recent statements about third-term possibilities have generated significant debate about constitutional limits and presidential succession. While expressing skepticism about using loopholes to extend his presidency, his comments during the Time Magazine interview have nonetheless intensified discussions about term limits and presidential power.
The matter continues to evolve as Trump serves his second non-consecutive term, with constitutional experts, political allies, and opponents closely monitoring developments regarding any potential challenges to the two-term limit established by the 22nd Amendment. The overwhelming public opposition to a third term, as demonstrated by the Reuters/Ipsos poll, suggests significant challenges to any efforts to extend presidential tenure beyond constitutional boundaries.
President Donald Trump has made a bold demand for American ships to navigate the Suez and Panama Canals without financial burden, and the request underscores historical ties and strategic links with the United States, stirring discussions about canal access influenced by concerns over Chinese involvement in the area.
Trump advocates fee-free transit for American military and commercial vessels through major international canals, citing their strategic importance and historic connection to U.S. interests, as Breitbart reports.
In a significant announcement, Trump emphasized the absence of these iconic waterways without U.S. intervention. His push comes at a time when Secretary of State Marco Rubio is actively addressing access restrictions, especially given recent Chinese investments in Panama Canal projects.
The storied Panama Canal, constructed by the United States in the early 20th century, was transferred to Panama in the 1990s. This transition, although amicable, has led to shifts in the canal's geopolitical significance. Recently, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed plans for an upcoming United States-Panama declaration. This deal would permit U.S. military vessels to navigate the canal with priority and without financial intermediary, highlighting the canal's enduring relevance for U.S. maritime activities.
Trump has not shied away from addressing the strategic significance of the Panama Canal. In December 2024, he made headlines by threatening the canal’s reclamation amid increasing financial impositions on U.S. vessels. His firm stance highlights the canal’s economic and defense roles, painting it as a "vital national asset."
The U.S. is keenly aware of China's expanding footprint in the Panama Canal zone. Chinese investments have sparked apprehensions around the canal's future control and influence. Trump's recent appeal further underscores the canal's criticality for swift naval deployment and efficient trade. U.S. commerce and security depend heavily on these maritime shortcuts for timely transitions from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
Rubio has been instrumental in strengthening ties in the region. In February, he successfully convinced Panama to opt out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a move perceived as strategic safeguarding of U.S. interests. This diplomatic achievement underlines the administration's proactive stance in curtailing potential competitors’ influence.
Negotiations aiming for free canal access are anticipated to shape future U.S.-Panama relations. Trump's directive for Rubio to swiftly address the situation emphasizes the administration’s intention to institutionalize such arrangements. His remarks, framing access as an urgent matter, underline the potential economic benefits derived from reduced transit costs for major U.S. trade routes.
As the U.S. seeks exemption from canal charges, the proposal could usher in significant savings for American enterprises and strengthen military logistics. Maritime trade costs could see a reduction, benefiting shipping companies and the broader U.S. economy.
Although initiated by economic drivers, Trump's canal proposition carries broader implications. It reflects the ongoing recalibration of international relationships as the U.S. deals with emerging global powers. The demand ties historical precedence to current geopolitical strategies, reinforcing American stakes in these strategic corridors.
The response from Panama remains to be seen. Any agreement would mark a pivotal moment not only for commerce but also for international military logistics. It would establish new precedents in how countries negotiate access to key maritime infrastructures in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Trump’s rhetoric on canal significance is a declaration of enduring American influence. As he put it, the nation’s economic and national security pivot partly on free and unfettered access to these pathways, underscoring their strategic essence.
In the coming months, Biden’s diplomatic engagements in the region may further refine these proposals. The administration’s decisions will likely set the course for future discourse on canal usage, with potential ripple effects on international trade routes.
Former President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, honored Pope Francis by attending his funeral at Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City, emphasizing the late religious leader's influence on global issues and personal connections.
This tribute took place on a somber Saturday morning, with Biden reflecting on the Pope's enduring legacy and ability to foster inclusivity, as the New York Post reports, though critics noted the former president's wobbly demeanor and selfie-taking.
Joe Biden, at the age of 82, approached the seating area with the careful guidance of his wife and a priest. He was assigned to the foreign dignitaries section, a customary arrangement reflecting his current status as a former leader, notably seated separately from President Donald Trump.
Biden, only the second Roman Catholic to steer the United States, met Pope Francis multiple times over the years. Their interactions began during Biden's tenure as vice president, with notable participation in leading the U.S. delegation for the Pope's inauguration in March 2013.
Aside from this official gathering, Biden again encountered Pope Francis during the latter’s visit to Washington, D.C., showcasing an ongoing rapport built on mutual respect and shared values.
Arriving at the Vatican square before the commencement of the funeral service at 10 a.m., Biden was spotted interacting with other mourners. Notably observed was a lighthearted moment where he took a selfie with a fellow attendee, highlighting his approachable nature amidst solemnity. Pope Francis passed on the preceding Monday, prompting an outpouring of tributes, including from Biden, who has often expressed deep admiration for the pontiff's life work. The solemn gathering underscored an era of spiritual leadership that emphasized open arms to every community.
In his tribute, Biden described Pope Francis as distinct from his predecessors. "He was unlike any who came before him," Biden remarked, emphasizing the Pope's unique integration of faith and global consciousness.
Sharing his thoughts on the Pope's influence, Biden noted, "Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him." Such sentiments highlighted a rich tapestry of personal history, accented by profound respect and acknowledgment.
One of Pope Francis’ most recognized contributions was fostering a sense of inclusion within the Church. Biden remarked on the Pope's role in making the Church a welcoming environment for all, breaking barriers and uniting divergent communities in faith. "He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church," Biden recalled, reflecting on the compassionate and comprehensive outreach that characterized the Pope’s ministry. This effort toward inclusivity deeply resonated with Biden’s perspectives on global faith leadership.
A key aspect of Pope Francis' legacy, as Biden remarked, was his relentless advocacy for global justice and upliftment of marginalized communities. The former president noted, "He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe." It was this commitment to justice and empathy that solidified Pope Francis's status as a leader who worked tirelessly for the well-being of all. Biden reiterated these values, underscoring their shared passion for eliminating social and economic disparity.
The outpouring of international tributes during the funeral put a spotlight on Pope Francis’ broader impact. Biden’s reflections highlighted how the Pope served as "a light of faith, hope, and love" throughout his tenure. Describing him fondly as "the People’s Pope," Biden presented a portrayal of a man whose belief in love transcended borders and doctrines. The late Pope's message of compassion and unity, embodied in his actions and teachings, left an indelible mark on world history.
Biden had his most recent visit with Pope Francis during the G7 summit in Italy in June 2024. The encounter was a reflective capstone to a long-standing, heartfelt association marked by mutual respect and aligned humanitarian efforts.
As the funeral progressed, Biden's small gestures and candid moments with fellow mourners painted the picture of a leader honoring a well-regarded spiritual figure. The occasion allowed for shared mourning and celebration of a life dedicated to altruism and understanding.
The Kennedy Center has abruptly canceled a series of LGBTQ+ events planned during Washington, D.C.’s World Pride festival, prompting a wave of frustration and concern over inclusivity and transparency.
The week-long celebration, known as Tapestry of Pride, which included various performances and displays, was canceled following a Donald Trump-directed leadership shift at the Kennedy Center, leaving the LGBTQ+ community grappling with sudden venue changes and communication breakdowns, as Breitbart reports.
The organization originally planned to host events from June 5 to 8 as part of the wider activities set for the World Pride festival. However, these plans were scuttled without public explanation, spurring protests and prompting many events to relocate to other venues around the city.
The dramatic decision followed significant leadership changes at the Kennedy Center. Earlier this year, Trump dismissed both the president and chairman of the center, appointing loyalists and assuming the role of chairman himself. This shift in leadership issued in a period of uncertainty, with LGBTQ+ advocates closely monitoring potential impacts on the center's prior stated commitments to inclusivity.
The cancellation forced several events, including the International Pride Orchestra, to seek alternative venues. Michael Roest, leading the orchestra, expressed disappointment after his Kennedy Center performance was canceled and subsequently moved to the Strathmore theater in Bethesda, Maryland. Roest remarked that the eagerness once displayed by the center had vanished but noted the determination of the community to keep celebrating.
Organizers from the Capital Pride Alliance and others in the community voiced their concerns and disappointment. The alliance officially separated from the Kennedy Center, reflecting a broader concern about the center's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, many events, including a drag story time and AIDS Memorial Quilt display, were hastily relocated to the World Pride welcome center in Chinatown.
Monica Alford, who had a long history of organizing events at the Kennedy Center, expressed her deep dismay over the loss of a previously reliable partnership. Alford described the center as a "home base" for many, lamenting the disservice these changes caused to not just the queer community but to all residents of the capital.
The sudden halt of events underlined broader concerns regarding the reception of World Pride attendees and how the Trump administration's policies might affect the festival more broadly. With past controversies over transgender rights and previous public statements about drag performances by the Kennedy Center's new board coming to light, community leaders called for a more open dialogue.
Roest remarked that a "very public statement of inclusivity" would be necessary for the International Pride Orchestra to consider future performances at the Kennedy Center. He emphasized the contrast between the welcoming nature of the local community and the policies of the government.
Despite the setbacks, leaders within the LGBTQ+ community remain resolute. June Crenshaw, a key spokesperson, voiced confidence in their ability to find alternative avenues for celebration. Crenshaw acknowledged the disappointment but highlighted the community's resilience in overcoming these obstacles.
Crenshaw elaborated further, noting that the community's adaptation efforts, although challenging, would not deter World Pride festivities. She stressed the community's commitment to ensuring that the festival's spirit and purpose remain intact, even if it meant taking alternative routes.
The future of the Kennedy Center's relationship with the LGBTQ+ community remains uncertain. With the recent fallout, ongoing conversations around inclusivity have been thrust into the spotlight. Many are looking at upcoming events and statements from the center's leadership as indicators of future directions.
For now, the swift organizational shifts have left space for reflection and action. Community leaders continue to push for open communication and a return to the inclusivity they say the Kennedy Center once celebrated and which some hope will be restored, whereas others celebrate the recalibration spearheaded by Trump.
Eyebrows were raised across the Internet following Melania Trump's recent appearance at a historic event in Rome, and speculation has emerged about her possibly employing a body double during her appearance at Pope Francis’ funeral alongside her husband, President Donald Trump.
Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome became the backdrop for social media buzz as users questioned the authenticity of Melania Trump's presence in Italy, as Mediaite reports.
The duo, clad in somber attire, attended the solemn event, as she wore a black blazer dress and veil. Despite the occasion's gravity, attention quickly turned to Melania and whether all was as it seemed.
The theory that Melania Trump has used stand-ins has surfaced before, but the idea was revitalized during this high-profile event. Speculation erupted, with various social media users commenting on perceived inconsistencies in her appearance. Concerns mainly targeted noticeable differences in facial features, particularly her eyes and cheekbones, prompting discussion on broader platforms.
This longstanding conspiracy theory claims a body double occasionally assumes her role during official events. Some users on social media suggested the woman's eyes appeared heavily made up, casting further doubts.
One user pointed out that "no one's fooled" by the woman seen alongside Trump at the funeral. These suspicions were amplified by a video circulating online, claiming to capture the “Fake Melania."
Speculation extended beyond just physical differences, involving the dynamics of the Trump marriage. There were claims suggesting strained relations between Melania and Donald, and some users drew links between this and the body double theory. The implication is that such arrangements might perpetuate the appearance of harmony within their relationship, especially during significant public engagements.
The day's events cast a spotlight not only on the couple but also on Pope Francis' breaking of tradition with his funeral arrangements. Unlike his predecessors buried beneath St. Peter's Basilica, Francis chose a simpler funeral and to be laid to rest in St. Mary Major.
The occasion wasn't just a global religious gathering but drew several influential personalities, further amplifying its profile. Britain's Prince William attended on behalf of King Charles, highlighting the cross-cultural significance attached to such events. Mourners arrived from all corners of the world, celebrating the Pope's life and contributions. Francis, a transformative figure, passed away following complications from a stroke, mere hours after blessing the masses in St. Peter’s Square.
In the wake of his passing, an essential step for the Catholic Church will follow. As is customary, cardinals will convene for a conclave to select a new Pope. This meeting, expected 15 to 20 days after the ceremonial goodbye to Pope Francis, signifies continuity within the Church's leadership amidst this sudden loss.
Yet, despite the somber nature of the occasion and its religious implications, the specter of a potential body double overshadowed conversations surrounding the funeral for some. Comments continued to emerge on social media, questioning the necessity and truthfulness of any such arrangement. Critiques regarding the alleged "fake" gave fodder for discussions concerning identity and political imaging.
To date, no solid evidence confirms whether Melania Trump uses a stand-in for public appearances. While online speculation perpetuates, official statements or clarifications seem unlikely given its incendiary nature and potential personal implications. Meanwhile, Pope Francis' understated funeral echoes his legacy, distinct in its comparative simplicity yet powerful in the message and unity it fostered.
This event, marred by social media conjecture, also serves as a stark representation of modernity's impact on privacy and public perception. The week following the funeral may hold fewer spotlights on the theories as the focus shifts towards selecting a new Pope, yet these discussions underline the intertwining narratives of the prominent figures involved and global events they attend.