President Donald Trump has openly endorsed Brad Schimel, a conservative candidate, in the forthcoming election for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and this development takes center stage as the campaign becomes the most financially intensive judicial race in U.S. history, heavily influenced by prominent political figures and significant financial contributions.
As the high court election looms, implications for key issues such as redistricting and abortion become pivotal in this deeply divided state, as the New York Post reports, likely explaining Trump's interest in the outcome.
The electoral contest is more than just a choice between candidates; it symbolizes a broader clash of ideologies within Wisconsin's political sphere. Scheduled for April 1, this contest is pivotal in determining the direction of a state Supreme Court that currently holds a liberal majority.
The financial scale of this contest has reached unprecedented heights, with total expenditures surpassing $76 million. A staggering $14.6 million of this comes from political organizations linked to billionaire Elon Musk, marking a significant backing for Schimel. In contrast, George Soros has contributed more than $1 million to the Wisconsin state Democratic Party. These contributions highlight the national and international interest in the outcome of this state-specific election.
The judicial contest has deep implications for the state's judiciary stance on key legislative issues, notably voter redistricting. Wisconsin's Supreme Court, currently leaning left, has a significant role in reviewing state legislative boundaries, a subject of contentious debate across party lines.
The verbal battle between the candidates and their supporters has intensified. President Trump ramped up his criticism of Schimel's opponent, Susan Crawford, labeling her as a "soft" enforcer of justice and influencing voters on Truth Social. "Brad Schimel is running against Radical Left Liberal Susan Crawford," Trump stated, criticizing her approach to criminal sentences. He also accused her of being aligned with leftist ideology, suggesting her victory could have detrimental effects on his political agenda.
Crawford, however, did not hold back. She turned to X to criticize Schimel's alliance with conservative interests. "Schimel has spent his entire career on bent knee to right-wing special interests," she wrote, as she questioned his alignment with Trump.
Wisconsin's political landscape remains sharply divided, with Democrats controlling the governorship and attorney general's office, while Republicans dominate the state legislature. The court's current composition reflects a shift following Justice Janet Protasiewicz's 2023 victory, which tipped the ideological balance to the left after 15 years of conservative dominance.
As voters prepare to make their decision, recent surveys indicate an extremely tight race. Polling from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce has revealed a tie, with both Schimel and Crawford receiving 47% support. Wisconsin's recent political history and the controversial nature of the issues at stake make this Supreme Court election arguably one of the most consequential in the state's recent history.
The state Supreme Court's role extends beyond redistricting, with decisions about abortion also weighing heavily on voters' minds. The reversal of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court has escalated the significance of such state-level judicial elections, as they could shape abortion rights for years to come. Wisconsin's upcoming Supreme Court race has drawn attention not only for its high stakes locally but for its potential repercussions on a national scale. Key figures in American politics are watching closely, aware that the result could resonate far beyond state lines.
As early voting commenced last Tuesday, all eyes are firmly on April 1. Voters must navigate this complex political terrain while weighing the profound implications for Wisconsin's judicial and legislative landscape.
This election showcases how a state-level decision can evoke widespread interest and carry national significance. The involvement of high-profile figures like Elon Musk and George Soros highlights the stakes and influence vested in the outcome. The intersection of global financial power and local political dynamics creates a fertile ground for debate. As billionaire-backed candidates vie for attention and votes, Wisconsin's electors find themselves at the confluence of local, national, and international interests.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race exemplifies the intertwined nature of state and national politics in an era where judicial influence often extends far beyond the courtroom. As voters engage with the widely-discussed issues at stake, the balance of power within the state's highest court hangs in the balance.
Kat Timpf, known for her role as a Fox News contributor, has faced an extraordinary set of circumstances recently, in that just hours before delivering her son, she was informed of a Stage 0 breast cancer diagnosis, leading her to undergo a double mastectomy shortly thereafter.
Receiving this diagnosis so soon before childbirth presented Timpf with both a challenge and an opportunity for gratitude, having discovered her cancer and managing its surgical treatment at such an early stage, as People reports.
The timeline of events began on Feb. 25, when Timpf gave birth to her first child. It was only around fifteen hours prior to this wonderful occasion that doctors identified the early stages of cancer. Stage 0 cancer is considered highly treatable, largely due to its early detection.
In response to her diagnosis, medical professionals recommended, and Timpf quickly agreed, to a double mastectomy. This surgery was scheduled and subsequently performed on March 20 at the renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Josie Robertson Surgery Center located in New York City.
Timpf kept her followers updated throughout this challenging period. She shared images and sentiments on social media, maintaining a sense of humor amidst the severity of her circumstances. On March 14, she posted a casual picture outside the surgery center, marking the lead-up to her surgery.
Following the operation, Timpf continued to engage with her audience. She posted a photograph from her hospital bed, which humorously noted how her post-surgery appearance hadn’t drastically changed in size from before her pregnancy. Her Fox News colleague, Jessica Tarlov, showed support by gifting a cake. Emblazoned with the words "Titty free and fabulous!" the gesture was a light-hearted acknowledgment of the journey Timpf was navigating.
Timpf, married to Cameron Friscia since 2021, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the chain of events that led to her early diagnosis. In sharing her story, she highlighted both her admiration for her newborn son and her thankfulness for discovering the cancer when she did.
In her reflections, Timpf emphasized the mix of emotions she felt during this trying time, particularly with regard to her newborn son. "I mean, I know I’m biased, but the little dude absolutely rules," she remarked, acknowledging the role her son played in what could be deemed as saving her life by bringing attention to her health.
Amid her personal trials, Timpf remained optimistic. As she prepared to take a maternity leave, which would also function as a recuperation period from her surgery, she stated her determination to tackle the next phases with vigor and resilience.
Support from her colleagues added an additional layer of comfort and camaraderie. Greg Gutfeld and Dagen McDowell were among those who communicated their warm wishes and anticipation for her return to work. Their messages were both supportive and caring in nature, underscoring the collective empathy felt for her situation.
Timpf humorously outlined her path to recovery, which involved healing from childbirth and the surgery, undergoing breast reconstruction, and ultimately returning to the gym. Her light-hearted outlook even amidst adversity resonated with many followers and supporters.
"As I navigate new motherhood," she shared, "I’m learning to celebrate everything I can." This sentiment captures the dual challenge and joy she is experiencing during this significant life chapter. Throughout her public communications, Timpf highlighted the importance of humor, hope, and resilience. “Here’s to resilience, to miracles in the midst of chaos," she declared, imparting a message of strength beyond her personal circumstances.
As Timpf continues on this journey, the public remains tuned into her progress. Her ability to maintain wit and positivity has been an inspiration for many following her story. Faced with the dual complexities of motherhood and cancer recovery, she demonstrates an admirable spirit, open to sharing her experiences with an authenticity that is both grounding and uplifting.
President Donald Trump prepares for a significant restructuring of federal education oversight as he readies to fulfill one of his key campaign promises.
According to Breitbart News, Trump will sign an executive order on Thursday to shut down the Department of Education, marking the first closure of a cabinet-level agency during his presidency.
The move comes after weeks of preparation and substantial workforce reductions at the department. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has already begun implementing major changes, including cutting the department's staff by half and reducing funding for several key offices, such as the Office for Civil Rights and the Institute of Education Sciences.
The executive order instructs Secretary McMahon to initiate the complete dissolution of the education department. The directive emphasizes returning educational authority to individual states while maintaining essential services and programs during the transition period.
The administration's decision follows Trump's consistent criticism of the department. During his 2024 campaign, the president expressed strong views about the agency's effectiveness and its impact on taxpayers.
According to Trump, as referenced in his campaign platform:
The department is a big con job that needs to be closed and sent back to the states, where it belongs.
The restructuring plan involves redistributing the department's responsibilities among state governments, which already determine their own curricula. Various federal agencies will absorb the remaining necessary functions.
Democratic opponents have voiced strong opposition to the closure. Protests have erupted, with some demonstrators attempting to prevent the department's shutdown through direct action.
The timing of the announcement aligns with Secretary McMahon's recent Senate confirmation, allowing the administration to proceed with its planned reforms.
The White House has been systematically reducing the department's operations since early February. These changes affect various educational programs and data collection initiatives.
The Institute of Education Sciences, responsible for tracking national academic progress, faces significant cuts. This development has raised concerns among education policy experts about maintaining consistent standards across states.
Reuters reports indicate the transition will prioritize maintaining crucial services while transferring authority to state-level education departments.
The closure of the U.S. Department of Education represents a major shift in federal education policy under Trump's leadership. The president's executive order will eliminate a cabinet-level agency that has overseen national education initiatives since its establishment. Secretary McMahon leads the complex process of dismantling the department while ensuring educational services continue uninterrupted. The transition involves coordinating with state governments to assume greater control over education policy and implementation.
Pete Marocco's tenure at the United States Agency for International Development comes to an abrupt end following a controversial restructuring effort.
According to ABC News, Marocco, who spearheaded the widespread dismantling of USAID, announced his departure on Tuesday night through an email to State Department staff, declaring his return to his previous position as Director of Foreign Assistance.
The move follows a court ruling that deemed the administration's efforts to dismantle USAID unconstitutional, dealing a significant blow to the Trump administration's plans to drastically reduce the agency's operations and influence.
Under Secretary of State Marco Rubio's direction, Marocco assumed the role of USAID deputy administrator in early February. Working alongside Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, he initiated sweeping changes that included massive employee layoffs and the termination of funding for more than 80% of the agency's programs.
The transformation also involved abandoning the agency's Washington, D.C. headquarters, signaling a dramatic shift in USAID's operational capacity. These actions prompted immediate legal challenges from various stakeholders concerned about the impact on global humanitarian efforts.
Critics argue that the dismantling efforts would severely diminish American influence abroad and negatively affect vulnerable populations who depend on U.S. aid for basic necessities like healthcare and food security.
Following Marocco's departure, the State Department confirmed that two political appointees would take over the deputy administrator responsibilities. Jeremy Lewin, 28, will serve as USAID COO and Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programs, while Ken Jackson will assume the role of USAID CFO and Deputy Administrator for Management and Resources.
Lewin's appointment has raised eyebrows due to his limited government experience. Despite graduating from Harvard Law School in 2022 and co-authoring opinion pieces with constitutional law expert Laurence Tribe, his primary professional experience comes from a brief stint at a Los Angeles law firm.
His law firm biography claimed extensive experience advising high-level global policymakers, including the U.S. President, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and senior members of the G7 and UN. However, these claims remain unverified.
In his farewell message to staff, Marocco defended his actions at USAID, stating:
It's been my honor to assist Secretary Rubio in his leadership of USAID through some difficult stages to pivot this enterprise away from its abuses of the past. Now that USAID is under control, accountable and stable, I am going to return to my post as the Director of Foreign Assistance to bring value back to the American people.
Later, in an official statement released through the State Department, he added:
The crisis-level issues that had plagued USAID were far worse than we anticipated. It has been an honor and a privilege to help restore accountability and transparency at USAID.
Pete Marocco's exit from USAID marks a significant moment in the agency's ongoing transformation under the Trump administration. His departure as deputy administrator comes amid legal challenges to the agency's dismantling, with a judge recently declaring the restructuring efforts unconstitutional.
The leadership transition to Jeremy Lewin and Ken Jackson, along with Marocco's return to his previous role as Director of Foreign Assistance, raises questions about the future direction of American foreign aid and its impact on global humanitarian assistance.
A Starlink employee caused unexpected chaos at a high-security White House complex in Washington, D.C.
According to The Daily Beast, Secret Service agents rushed to the roof of the Eisenhower Executive Building after an unscheduled visit by an employee associated with Elon Musk's business ventures triggered security protocols.
The incident occurred during ongoing tensions between the Biden administration and Musk's companies, particularly regarding Starlink operations. The employee's unexpected appearance at the prestigious government building raised immediate concerns among security personnel, prompting a rapid response from Secret Service agents stationed at the complex.
The security breach happened when the Starlink representative arrived without proper clearance or prior notification. Secret Service agents, following standard protocols, immediately secured the area and conducted a thorough sweep of the premises. The sudden security response disrupted normal operations within the building.
The employee's presence near sensitive government facilities highlighted the delicate balance between private sector access and national security measures. White House security protocols require strict adherence to visitor registration and screening procedures, which were apparently not followed in this case.
Multiple agencies coordinated their response to ensure the safety of government personnel and assess any potential threats. The incident added another layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between the Biden administration and Musk's business empire.
The unauthorized visit came amid increasing federal oversight of Starlink's satellite operations. Recent regulatory changes have placed additional restrictions on private space companies operating within U.S. territories.
Government officials have expressed concerns about the rapid expansion of satellite networks and their potential impact on national security. The incident at the Eisenhower Executive Building has intensified discussions about the need for stricter protocols governing private-sector interactions with government facilities.
Several congressional committees have launched investigations into the security implications of commercial satellite operations. The focus has particularly been on foreign access to sensitive technological infrastructure.
The Secret Service conducted an immediate review of security procedures following the incident. Agency officials implemented enhanced screening measures for all visitors to prevent similar unauthorized access attempts.
White House security teams reinforced existing protocols for managing unexpected visitors at government facilities. The incident prompted a broader evaluation of access controls and visitor management systems across federal buildings.
Senior administration officials scheduled meetings with private sector representatives to clarify security requirements and communication protocols. The goal is to prevent future misunderstandings while maintaining necessary security standards.
The unscheduled visit by a Starlink employee to the Eisenhower Executive Building triggered an immediate Secret Service response and highlighted vulnerabilities in existing security protocols. The incident occurred against the backdrop of ongoing discussions between the Biden administration and Musk's companies regarding satellite operations and national security concerns. Moving forward, federal authorities have implemented stricter visitor screening procedures and enhanced communication requirements for private sector representatives seeking access to government facilities.
A U.S.-led airstrike in Iraq has effectively eliminated Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, a top ISIS leader, in coordination with local forces.
The operation marks a continued effort by the Trump administration to dismantle the terrorist organization's leadership and weaken its operations in the region, as the Daily Caller reports.
The precision airstrike occurred Thursday in the Al Anbar Province, a region with historical significance due to its strategic location and past conflict. Notably, the operation involved the coordination of U.S. forces with Iraqi Intelligence and Security Forces, alongside Kurdish counterparts. It resulted in the elimination of two prominent ISIS operatives: al-Rifai, known as "Abu Khadijah," and another unnamed ISIS member.
Al-Rifai was a high-profile target, recognized within ISIS ranks for his pivotal role as Chief of Global Operations and Delegated Committee Emir. His responsibilities included overseeing logistics, planning, and some financial activities crucial to the terrorist organization's global agenda. The successful operation underscores the strategic alliance between the U.S., Iraq, and Kurdish governments in actively pursuing terrorist dismantlement.
Reports revealed that both operatives were found with unexploded suicide vests, an indicator of their readiness for extremism and violence. Their identities were confirmed through DNA samples, a method ensuring precise recognition that was cross-referenced with data from a preceding raid.
The airstrike also fits into a broader agenda of targeted actions against high-profile figures in extremist networks. The death of al-Rifai draws parallels with previous operations such as the one in 2019 that resulted in the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the former head of ISIS.
President Trump highlighted the cooperative effort, making a statement on the strength and diligence of U.S. forces in hunting down key terrorist figures. "Today the fugitive leader of ISIS in Iraq was killed," Trump proclaimed, extolling the operation's execution and its coordination with regional allies. The President reiterated his administration's stance for international security, emphasizing “Peace Through Strength.”
The successful strike elicited responses from various officials. U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, in a reflection of triumph and resolve, declared that the message was clear: “President Trump will find you.” Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed this sentiment with emphasis on the same theme of strength.
In Iraq, the response was equally potent. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani celebrated the operation as a significant security achievement, asserting that the Iraqi people continued to triumph against the forces of extremism. Al-Sudani stated that al-Rifai “was considered one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world,” underlining the strike's importance to regional and global stability.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM, remarked on the importance of eliminating al-Rifai, labeling him as one of ISIS's most pivotal figures. Affirming the commitment to global security, Kurilla stated, “We will continue to kill terrorists and dismantle their organizations that threaten our homeland and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region and beyond.”
This operation comes within a critical political timeline. It was carried out just two days prior to President Trump's announcement for military action against Iran-backed Houthi extremists in Yemen, showcasing a widened strategic focus on dismantling terrorist operations across different fronts.
Through this cooperative military engagement, the international coalition displays a united front against terrorism. The targeting and elimination of ISIS network leaders such as al-Rifai send a vocal message regarding the ongoing commitment to undermine extremist influences globally.
Inherent in this narrative is not only the tactical success but also a reinforcement of international partnerships. The operation conveys that collaboration and coordinated intelligence are vital components in the fight against global terror. With the region and world closely watching, efforts like these are vital to pursuing and dismantling extremist elements and safeguarding international peace.
The Senate's decision to move forward with a government spending measure marks a significant development in the ongoing battle over federal budget priorities.
By a margin of 62-38, the upper chamber passed a measure to continue funding the government, forestalling a shutdown and granting President Donald Trump a political victory, as Breitbart reports.
The Senate took a step toward preventing a government shutdown by voting 62-38 to end debate and allow a final vote on a continuing resolution (CR). The move required 60 votes to succeed, displaying cross-party support. Notably, nine Democrats and one Independent chose to side with their Republican counterparts in favor of the measure.
The voting outcome highlighted President Trump's influence, as he had invested significant political capital to ensure the CR’s passage. The measure now advances with the promise of preventing a lapse in government funding, albeit without securing any concessions for the Democrats from the legislation.
On the other side of Capitol Hill, House Democrats predominantly opposed the CR. Only Rep. Jared Golden of Maine dissented to join the majority of Republicans supporting the resolution, casting a vote that underscored the stark division within the Democratic ranks.
Among Senate Democrats, the passage of the CR caused notable discord. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer initially pointed out the lack of Republican votes to pass their plan. Despite this assertion, he eventually shifted his stance, rallying alongside several Democratic colleagues to endorse the CR.
Schumer's decision came with no additional concessions obtained from Republicans, a situation he labeled a "Hobson's choice." Using this expression, Schumer highlighted the dilemma Democrats faced between accepting a suboptimal bill or risking further empowerment of President Trump through a government shutdown. The absence of significant wins for Democrats through amendment votes, which were mostly expected to fail, further exacerbated tensions within the party. The sense of frustration was palpable amongst House Democratic leaders, who criticized the CR and questioned Schumer’s leadership thereafter.
The Democrats who joined Schumer in supporting the CR included several prominent names: Sens. John Fetterman, Catherine Cortez Masto, Brian Schatz, Dick Durbin, Maggie Hassan, Kirsten Gillibrand, Gary Peters, Jeanne Shaheen, and Independent Angus King. Their votes demonstrated a pragmatic choice to avert a shutdown despite party divisions. In contrast, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who are also key figures in Schumer's leadership team, chose to oppose the resolution. Their votes reflected a minority stance that suggests ongoing debates within Democratic Party ranks about how best to handle Trump's administration.
These actions offer insights into the current political dynamics as Democrats attempt to navigate the complexities of a second Trump presidency. The implications of these votes could resonate through upcoming legislative efforts and party strategies.
The path to the CR's final vote was further shaped by its scheduled timing on a Friday evening, requiring just a simple majority to pass. This impending decision could cement the bipartisan effort to sustain government funding temporarily, despite initial partisan clashes.
Schumer addressed the party’s dilemma candidly, voicing his concerns over the CR's limitations. “The bill is not ideal,” he remarked, emphasizing the trade-offs involved in accepting the measure. Nonetheless, Schumer recognized the greater risk of allowing the executive branch to consolidate more influence through a shutdown. For many Democrats siding with the CR, it was not an endorsement of its content but a tactical choice to maintain government operations.
The vote results underscore the intricacies of coalition-building required to avert looming crises in government, showcasing a willingness to compromise on specific challenges. This incident highlights ongoing strategic deliberations within the Democratic Party as it navigates a politically charged environment.
Ultimately, the Senate's decision to advance the CR, backed by a diverse cohort from both parties, sets a forthcoming final vote that will determine the immediate future of government funding. The expected approval offers a temporary respite from shutdown anxieties and poses questions for the Democratic Party's path forward.
Military veterans patrolling the southern border in California have witnessed a dramatic shift in illegal crossings since Donald Trump's return to the White House.
According to Fox News, the Border Vets organization reports a stark contrast between border activity during the Biden administration and the current Trump presidency, with February recording the lowest monthly crossings in nearly 25 years.
The transformation became evident in areas like Jacumba Hot Springs, California, where the infamous "San Judas Break" previously saw over 3,000 migrants crossing weekly. Today, the same location stands eerily quiet, marking a significant change in border dynamics under the new administration's policies.
Border Vets, founded by Marine Corps veteran Kate Monroe, has taken an active role in reinforcing vulnerable sections of the border barrier. The volunteer group, comprised of former military personnel, dedicates their time and resources to addressing security gaps along the California-Mexico border.
Monroe, who previously ran as a Republican candidate for California's 49th Congressional District, initiated the group's efforts by installing razor wire at the San Judas Break. Their work quickly gained attention and inspired similar initiatives along the border.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents have expressed appreciation for the volunteer group's assistance, with one anonymous agent confirming the positive impact of their efforts.
CBP data reveals approximately 8,300 attempted illegal border crossings in February, marking the lowest recorded monthly total since fiscal year 2000. The dramatic decline becomes more apparent when compared to previous years' statistics.
February's total of around 30,000 border encounters represents a significant drop from the 130,000 encounters recorded during the same period in 2023 and 2024. This substantial decrease aligns with Trump's campaign promises to strengthen border security.
Kate Monroe of Border Vets shared her observations:
There has been such an amazing difference between what was going on during the Biden administration versus what's going on under the Trump administration. There used to be hundreds of people crossing every time I came, [now] not a one. The difference has been absolutely amazing. I feel like our national security is getting less and less at risk by the day.
The effects of reduced border crossings are visible throughout the region. A previously active NGO-operated migrant shelter in Jacumba Hot Springs now stands empty, reflecting the changing dynamics of border activity.
Despite the significant reduction in crossings, Border Vets maintains regular patrols of known vulnerable areas. Their commitment to border security remains unwavering, as expressed by a Navy veteran member of the group:
Secure the border, plain and simple. This is the United States of America, and an open border policy that we've dealt with for the last four years has been nothing but a detriment to the country.
The organization continues to monitor and reinforce weak points along the border, working alongside CBP agents to maintain the current low levels of illegal crossings.
The Border Vets organization has emerged as a crucial player in the ongoing efforts to secure the southern border, with their volunteer work complementing official border enforcement measures. Their presence in San Diego County has contributed to the sharp decline in illegal border crossings since Trump's return to office in January. The dramatic transformation of once-busy crossing points into quiet sectors reflects the effectiveness of combined efforts between volunteer groups and federal authorities.