A seasoned FBI intelligence official steps into the political arena after resigning from his 17-year career at the bureau.
According to The Daily Caller, John Sullivan, a former FBI Section Chief who worked on January 6 cases, is challenging Republican Rep. Michael Lawler for New York's 17th Congressional District after resigning from the bureau in protest of the Trump administration.
Sullivan's departure from the FBI came during Trump's presidency, specifically after Kash Patel became FBI director. He has been vocal about his concerns regarding the current administration, particularly expressing alarm about what he perceives as threats to national security. His campaign platform heavily emphasizes his experience in counterterrorism and his role in investigating the January 6 events.
Sullivan's FBI career began in 2008, just before Barack Obama took office. He climbed the ranks from Surveillance Specialist to Section Chief of the FBI's Directorate of Intelligence, serving in both Washington, D.C. and New York field offices. His tenure included over three years of counterterrorism work in Israel until May 2020.
The congressional candidate holds the distinction of being one of the most senior gay officials in the bureau's history. His extensive experience includes work on various high-profile cases, including those related to Russia, foreign terrorists, and drug cartels.
In a recent campaign announcement, Sullivan stated:
For 17 years, I served in secret, protecting us from threats like Russia, foreign terrorists and drug cartels, and eventually the insurrectionists who stormed our Capitol. Now, I'm stepping out of the shadows to run for Congress.
Sullivan's campaign has sparked debate about the FBI's approach to domestic terrorism. In an interview, he criticized the current administration's handling of domestic threats, particularly taking issue with personnel reductions in related investigative teams.
The candidate has highlighted former FBI Director Christopher Wray's congressional testimony identifying domestic terrorism as the primary threat to American security. This stance aligns with the Biden administration's 2021 initiative establishing the first National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism.
Recent revelations about the FBI's involvement in the January 6 investigations have added complexity to the narrative. A Department of Justice watchdog reported that 26 FBI confidential human informants were present at events connected to January 6 in Washington D.C.
Critics have called for scrutiny of Sullivan's past cases, suggesting potential political bias. His resignation coincided with significant changes in FBI leadership, including Wray's departure in 2024 before Trump could terminate his position.
Under Sullivan's watch, the bureau faced accusations of political weaponization from conservatives. Several FBI whistleblowers have come forward with allegations of bureau misconduct, including claims of surveillance of parents at school board meetings and bias against pro-life individuals.
The controversy extends to the bureau's classification of domestic threats. While Wray testified that white supremacist organizations posed a greater domestic terror threat than Antifa, he characterized the latter as "a movement or an ideology" rather than a structured group.
John Sullivan's bid for Congress represents a significant shift from intelligence work to public service. His campaign focuses on national security concerns and criticism of the Trump administration, which he claims poses the greatest threat to American safety. The race for New York's 17th Congressional District has gained national attention as Sullivan challenges incumbent Republican Rep. Michael Lawler. The outcome could influence broader discussions about the role of intelligence community veterans in elected office and the ongoing debate about domestic security priorities.
A tranquil beekeeping operation in Bridgehampton, New York, masked a dark past as federal authorities unveiled charges against its 65-year-old operator.
According to Daily Caller, Faustin Nsabumukunzi faces a federal indictment for allegedly participating in the 1994 Rwandan genocide and subsequently lying on immigration documents to establish a new life in the United States.
The Department of Justice's Eastern District of New York claims Nsabumukunzi held a position of authority as "Sector Counselor" during the genocide that claimed an estimated 800,000 lives.
During his tenure between April and July 1994, members of the Hutu majority allegedly committed widespread atrocities against the Tutsi minority population. After these events, Nsabumukunzi reportedly entered the United States under false pretenses and established himself as a beekeeper.
U.S. Attorney John J. Durham emphasized the gravity of Nsabumukunzi's alleged deception. For over 20 years, the suspect maintained a peaceful existence in the United States while concealing his past. Durham's office spearheaded the investigation that finally brought these allegations to light.
Federal prosecutors assert that Nsabumukunzi repeatedly provided false information on immigration documents. These misrepresentations allegedly enabled him to obtain permanent residency status and pursue U.S. citizenship. The investigation revealed a stark contrast between his quiet life as a beekeeper and his alleged involvement in one of history's most brutal genocides.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Darren B. McCormack of ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York shared his perspective:
This defendant has been living in the United States for decades, hiding his alleged horrific conduct, human rights violations, and his role in these senseless atrocities against innocent Tutsis. The depraved conduct of which the defendant is accused represent the worst of humanity.
The case highlights the Department of Justice's ongoing efforts to identify and prosecute alleged war criminals who seek refuge in the United States.
Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division, expressed his department's dedication to this mission:
As alleged, the defendant participated in the commission of heinous acts of violence abroad and then lied his way into a green card and tried to obtain U.S. citizenship. No matter how much time has passed, the Department of Justice will find and prosecute individuals who committed atrocities in their home countries and covered them up to gain entry and seek citizenship in the United States.
The investigation demonstrates the persistent pursuit of justice even decades after the original crimes. Authorities emphasize that the passage of time does not diminish their commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions during the genocide.
The case raises complex questions about the statute of limitations and the challenges of prosecuting decades-old war crimes. International law experts suggest this case could set important precedents for future prosecutions of suspected war criminals living under assumed identities in the United States.
Faustin Nsabumukunzi, a 65-year-old beekeeper from Bridgehampton, New York, stands accused of participating in the 1994 Rwandan genocide while serving as a Sector Counselor. After allegedly concealing his past to obtain U.S. residency, he established a peaceful life that continued for over two decades.
Federal prosecutors have now charged him with immigration fraud and lying about his involvement in the systematic violence that claimed approximately 800,000 lives, primarily ethnic Tutsis.
In an unprecedented move, the White House lawn has become the stage for a controversial display featuring photographs of undocumented immigrants accused of serious crimes.
According to Breitbart, the Trump administration has placed approximately 100 mugshots of undocumented immigrants arrested for various crimes along "Pebble Beach," a prominent area where television news crews conduct their live broadcasts.
The display strategically positions the images to appear in the background of live news reports, showcasing photographs of individuals arrested for serious offenses, including murder, sexual assault of minors, and drug distribution. The White House accompanied the display with a stern message on social media, warning that those entering the country illegally would face justice and deportation.
The administration's social media post alongside the display carried an unambiguous tone. The White House emphasized their commitment to tracking down and prosecuting individuals who enter the country illegally.
From the White House social media account came this direct message:
We will hunt you down. You will face justice. You will be deported — and you will never set foot on American soil again. Oh, and your mugshot may just end up on a yard sign at the White House.
The visual display features three prominent mugshots near the entrance, highlighting individuals arrested for murder, child rape, and fentanyl distribution. Additional signs spread across the lawn showcase more than two dozen other cases involving various violent crimes.
Recent polling data demonstrates substantial support for the administration's approach to immigration enforcement. A CBS News survey of 2,365 adults revealed that 56 percent of Americans approve of Trump's deportation program.
The poll, conducted between April 23-25, showed strong backing among Republicans, with 90 percent supporting the policy. Independent voters also showed majority support at 54 percent, while Democratic approval remained at 22 percent.
Gender differences emerged in the polling data, with men showing stronger support at 63 percent compared to an even split among women. The ideological divide appeared stark, as 89 percent of conservatives approved while 80 percent of liberals opposed the policy.
The administration's choice of location for the display demonstrates a calculated approach to maximize media exposure. By placing the mugshots along the area where television crews regularly broadcast, the White House ensures widespread visibility of their message.
The placement guarantees that news reports filmed from the location will capture the controversial display in their background shots. This strategic positioning amplifies the administration's tough stance on immigration enforcement.
This display represents the latest in a series of social media campaigns and public demonstrations by the Trump White House targeting illegal immigration. Previous efforts included various memes and videos promoting the administration's deportation policies.
The White House lawn display emerges as a powerful visual statement in the ongoing immigration debate. The administration has positioned approximately 100 mugshots at a key media location, ensuring maximum visibility for their message about immigration enforcement. The controversial exhibit reflects the administration's continued emphasis on immigration enforcement and public safety concerns while sparking intense debate about the tactics used to communicate this message.
Virginia Democrat Gerry Connolly's battle with cancer takes an unexpected turn as he prepares to step away from his leadership roles in Congress.
According to Fox News, the nine-term congressman revealed on Monday that his cancer has returned, leading to his decision not to seek re-election and to relinquish his position as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee.
The 75-year-old representative's announcement comes approximately six months after his initial esophageal cancer diagnosis. Despite initially showing signs of improvement following intensive treatment, Connolly disclosed that the disease has resurfaced, prompting his difficult decision to conclude his three-decade-long career in public service.
The veteran lawmaker has been representing Virginia's 11th Congressional District, which encompasses the affluent suburbs surrounding the nation's capital, with a particular focus on Fairfax County. His political journey began in 1995 when he was first elected as a Fairfax County supervisor, establishing himself as a prominent figure in northern Virginia politics.
Throughout his tenure in Congress, Connolly has maintained a significant presence in oversight investigations, contributing to various legislative initiatives. His most recent electoral victory came against Republican challenger Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent.
In his statement to constituents, Connolly expressed:
After grueling treatments, we've learned that my cancer, while initially beaten back, has now returned. I'll do everything possible to continue to represent you and thank you for your grace. The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress. I will be stepping back as Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee soon. With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we've accomplished together over 30 years.
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from fellow lawmakers and colleagues. Senator Mark Warner, D-Va., offered a heartfelt tribute to his longtime colleague's dedication to public service and his resilient character.
Warner's statement emphasized Connolly's exceptional qualities as a public servant, highlighting his intelligence, principles, and unwavering commitment to his constituents. The senator specifically praised Connolly's advocacy for federal workers and his dedication to good governance.
Sen. Warner shared these words about his colleague:
Throughout his career, Gerry Connolly has exemplified the very best of public service — fiercely intelligent, deeply principled, and relentlessly committed to the people of Northern Virginia and our nation. Whether it's standing up for federal workers, advocating for good governance, or now confronting cancer with the same resilience and grit that have defined his life of public service, Gerry is one of the toughest fighters I know.
The timing of Connolly's announcement creates significant implications for the Democratic Party's representation in northern Virginia. His departure will mark the end of an era in Virginia's 11th District, where he has maintained a strong presence for nearly a decade.
The transition will involve changes in leadership within the House Oversight Committee, where Connolly has played a crucial role. His stepping back from this position will require careful consideration for his replacement to maintain the committee's effectiveness.
Rep. Gerry Connolly's cancer diagnosis has led to his decision to conclude his extensive political career, which spans three decades of service to northern Virginia. The congressman will complete his current term while stepping back from his leadership position on the House Oversight Committee, marking the end of his nine-term tenure in Congress.
His forthcoming departure from Congress will create a vacancy in Virginia's 11th District, where he has served as a dedicated representative since his first election to the House. As Connolly focuses on his health and prepares for this transition, his legacy of public service and commitment to his constituents remains a testament to his impactful career in American politics.
A tragic collision between a recreational boat and a passenger ferry near Clearwater, Florida turned a routine Sunday evening commute into chaos.
According to Fox News, a hit-and-run boat crash involving the Clearwater Ferry resulted in one death and multiple injuries when a recreational vessel struck the passenger ferry carrying approximately 45 people near the Memorial Causeway bridge around 8:40 p.m. on Sunday.
The impact of the collision forced the ferry onto a sandbar south of the bridge, prompting first responders to declare a "mass casualty incident."
Six passengers were classified as "trauma alerts," with two sustaining serious injuries requiring helicopter transport to nearby hospitals. The deceased victim was among the ferry passengers, though their identity has not been released.
Local emergency services swiftly mobilized to manage the crisis, working methodically to ensure all passengers received necessary medical attention. The rescue operation continued late into the night, with first responders successfully removing all injured and uninjured passengers from the stranded ferry by 10:30 p.m.
The City of Clearwater provided regular updates throughout the incident, confirming that no passengers were reported missing from the ferry. The vessel, which typically serves as a vital transportation link between downtown Clearwater and Clearwater Beach, remained grounded on the sandbar as authorities assessed the situation.
Law enforcement agencies launched an immediate search for the fleeing vessel, which had departed the scene without rendering aid. Their efforts proved successful when another law enforcement agency later identified the boat, though specific details about the vessel and its occupants have not been disclosed.
The U.S. Coast Guard has taken charge of the investigation, working in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to piece together the circumstances leading to the fatal collision.
Investigators are gathering evidence from the crash site and interviewing witnesses to establish a comprehensive timeline of events.
The incident has raised concerns about maritime safety in the busy waterway, particularly during evening hours when visibility can be challenging. The Memorial Causeway area, a popular route for both commercial and recreational vessels, has become the focus of increased scrutiny following the crash.
Local authorities are reviewing marine traffic patterns and safety protocols in the wake of the incident. The investigation is expected to examine factors such as lighting conditions, weather circumstances, and navigational compliance of both vessels involved in the collision.
The fatal ferry collision has left the Clearwater community reeling as authorities work to bring those responsible to justice. The incident occurred on the Clearwater Ferry, a vital transportation service connecting downtown Clearwater to Clearwater Beach when it was struck by a recreational boat that fled the scene.
The crash resulted in one death and six injuries, including two passengers who required urgent helicopter evacuation to local hospitals. The U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continue their investigation into the incident, with the suspect vessel now identified by law enforcement, though details about its occupants remain undisclosed pending further investigation.
President Donald Trump and former president Joe Biden's political rivalry takes center stage during their journey to attend Pope Francis' funeral in Rome.
According to The Daily Beast, Trump broke presidential tradition by declining to share Air Force One with Biden for their trip to the Vatican, despite a precedent set during Pope John Paul II's funeral in 2005 when President George W. Bush traveled with former presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.
When questioned about Biden's attendance at the papal funeral, Trump displayed apparent indifference. He tersely acknowledged Biden's presence, stating he was unaware of his predecessor's plans to attend. The sitting president further emphasized that meeting with Biden during the Italy trip was not a priority for him.
The stark contrast between past and present presidential relationships becomes evident through this diplomatic incident. The 2005 papal funeral demonstrated a moment of unity among American leaders, regardless of their political differences. Today's scenario paints a different picture of American leadership.
The physical distance between the two leaders extended into the ceremony itself. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump maintained their distance from Joe and Jill Biden during the funeral Mass, despite their close proximity. This behavior aligned with Trump's consistent stance toward his predecessor.
Trump's administration has kept Biden in its crosshairs since taking office. The president has repeatedly referenced Biden in his speeches and social media posts, maintaining an adversarial stance toward his political rival.
While avoiding interaction with Biden, Trump found time to engage with other world leaders. His meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the funeral drew particular attention from international observers.
Trump spoke optimistically about ongoing negotiations, taking to Truth Social to share updates about potential diplomatic progress. He suggested that high-level meetings between relevant parties could lead to a conclusion of current negotiations.
The president's selective diplomatic engagement highlighted his priorities during this significant international gathering. His willingness to meet with certain world leaders while avoiding others revealed the complex nature of current American diplomatic relations.
The funeral of Pope Francis brought together world leaders in a moment of shared mourning and respect. However, the event also highlighted the deep divisions within American political leadership.
This incident adds to a growing list of broken presidential traditions under Trump's leadership. The decision to separate travel arrangements marked another departure from established protocols that historically promoted unity among current and former presidents.
The papal funeral brought America's political divide to the international stage, with President Trump's refusal to share Air Force One with former president Biden breaking long-standing traditions. This departure from diplomatic norms occurred during one of Catholicism's most significant moments.
The event highlighted how modern political rivalries can overshadow traditional displays of American unity during major international gatherings. While Trump engaged with other world leaders like President Zelenskyy, his deliberate distance from Biden demonstrated the persistent nature of their political antagonism, even during a moment of global religious significance.
Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin's ambitious strategy to counter President Donald Trump faces significant hurdles in the Democrats' quest to regain control of the Senate.
According to The Daily Caller, the freshman Democrat senator has acknowledged that her "war plan" may fall short of securing a Senate majority in 2026, suggesting Democrats should instead focus their efforts on reclaiming the House of Representatives.
Slotkin's assessment marks a stark departure from the optimistic outlook presented by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who recently expressed confidence in becoming majority leader by 2027. The Michigan senator's more pragmatic approach defines success as maintaining the party's current 47 seats, with a best-case scenario of gaining only one or two additional seats.
The disconnect between Slotkin's and Schumer's perspectives highlights growing tensions within the Democratic Party. While Schumer maintains an aggressive stance on reclaiming Senate control, Slotkin advocates for a more measured approach focused on defending existing seats.
Slotkin argues that Democratic candidates must fundamentally alter their communication strategy to appeal to voters who rejected them in previous elections. She specifically calls for projecting strength and moving away from identity politics.
The senator drew inspiration from an unexpected source, suggesting that Democratic politicians should emulate Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell's "alpha energy" and abandon what she characterizes as "weak and woke" messaging.
Democratic hopes for Senate expansion suffered another setback with Maine Governor Janet Mills' decision not to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The 77-year-old governor's choice represents a significant recruitment failure for the party.
The Senate Leadership Fund seized on this development, with Communications Director Chris Gustafson pointing to it as evidence of the Democratic Party's broader challenges. He connected Mills' decision to other recent Democratic retirements, including Senator Durbin's announcement.
These recruitment difficulties compound the party's existing challenges in expanding their Senate presence beyond their current minority position.
Slotkin said:
We are on offense. The best-case scenario for Senate Democrats would be adding one to two seats, but that would still put the conference several seats short of forming a majority. Democratic candidates must change the way they communicate with voters to project strength and reject identity politics.
Despite advocating for messaging changes, Slotkin's voting record demonstrates continued alignment with core Democratic positions. She supported her party in opposing Republican-led initiatives on transgender athletes in women's sports and sanctions against ICC officials regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The senator's approach represents a tactical rather than ideological shift, focusing on presentation while maintaining consistent policy stances on controversial issues.
The Democratic Party faces mounting pressure to redefine its electoral strategy while maintaining its policy positions. Slotkin's candid assessment suggests a growing recognition within the party of the challenges ahead. Recent developments, including high-profile retirements and recruitment difficulties, have complicated Democrats' path to Senate control. The party must balance its ambitious goals with practical limitations in the current political environment.
President Donald Trump's unexpected stance on a controversial deportation case has created waves in Washington's political circles.
According to The Daily Caller, Trump expressed willingness to consider bringing back Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national deported in March, despite his administration's previous hard stance on the matter.
The case has sparked intense debate after federal prosecutors acknowledged that Abrego Garcia's deportation resulted from a clerical error, as he had received a withholding of removal order in 2019. Democrats have rallied behind the cause, with several lawmakers making high-profile visits to El Salvador to advocate for his return.
Department of Justice documents reveal that local law enforcement arrested Abrego Garcia in March 2019 while associating with MS-13 members. A reliable source identified him as a gang member, providing details about his nickname and rank within the organization.
Court records show an immigration judge determined Abrego Garcia's MS-13 membership in 2019, denying his bond release request. The Board of Immigration Appeals later upheld this decision when Abrego Garcia failed to disprove his gang affiliation.
The Department of Homeland Security recently released documents showing a domestic violence restraining order filed by Abrego Garcia's wife in 2021. The allegations detailed multiple instances of physical abuse, including a violent incident that left her bleeding.
Trump shared his perspective with TIME magazine, stating:
That's not my determination. It's something that, frankly, bringing him back and retrying him wouldn't bother me, but I leave that up to my lawyer. You could bring him back and retry him.
The president further challenged media portrayals of Abrego Garcia, expressing frustration with how the case has been presented to the public:
I believe that they made him look like a saint, and then we found out about him. He wasn't a saint. He was MS-13. He was a wife beater and he had a lot of things that were very bad, you know, very, very bad.
While the Supreme Court has ordered the Trump administration to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return, the situation faces diplomatic hurdles. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele maintains firm control over Abrego Garcia's custody at the country's Terrorism Confinement Center.
The prison, specifically built to house gang members and dangerous criminals, currently holds Abrego Garcia along with over 200 other deportees from March's operation. This has created a complex international situation where U.S. court orders hold limited influence.
Democratic opposition to the administration's handling of the case continues to grow. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen and four House Democrats have visited El Salvador to advocate for Abrego Garcia's return, while Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has announced plans for state officials to boycott the Salvadoran government.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia's deportation case has evolved into a significant political dispute, highlighting the complexities of immigration enforcement and international cooperation. His March deportation to El Salvador, despite a previous withholding of removal order, has sparked intense debate between the Trump administration and Democratic lawmakers.
The case's resolution remains uncertain as President Trump's openness to Abrego Garcia's return conflicts with El Salvador's firm stance against releasing him. This standoff between U.S. court orders and Salvadoran sovereignty continues to complicate efforts to address what the administration admits was a clerical error in the deportation process.