A startling discovery at a New Mexico judge's residence leads to an unexpected resignation and federal investigation.
Just The News reports that Doña Ana County Magistrate Judge Joel Cano has resigned following the arrest of an alleged Tren de Aragua gang member who was found residing in a guest house on his property.
The arrest occurred on February 28 when Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at the judge's residence, where they found Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a 23-year-old illegal immigrant with alleged ties to the Venezuelan criminal organization. The connection between the judge's household and Ortega-Lopez began when the suspect met Nancy Cano, the judge's wife, while performing construction work in El Paso, Texas.
Court documents reveal that Ortega-Lopez had been living in El Paso before accepting Nancy Cano's offer to stay in the guest house located behind the family's main residence. The arrangement raised significant concerns among federal law enforcement officials who have been monitoring the activities of the Tren de Aragua gang in the United States.
Federal authorities have taken Ortega-Lopez into custody, and he is currently being held without bond at the Doña Ana County Detention Center. The suspect faces federal firearm charges, though specific details about these charges have not been disclosed in the initial reports.
The case has drawn attention to the presence of international criminal organizations operating within U.S. borders and their potential connections to local communities.
Judge Cano, who had served as a magistrate judge since 2011, submitted his resignation letter on March 3, just days after the arrest at his property. The timing of his resignation has raised questions about the extent of his knowledge regarding his guest's alleged criminal connections.
From the judge's resignation letter:
Working with each of you has been a very rewarding experience for which I will remain eternally grateful.
The brevity and timing of the resignation have sparked discussions about judicial oversight and security protocols for court officials. Neither Judge Cano nor his wife have made any public statements addressing the situation or their relationship with Ortega-Lopez.
The case has revealed the intricate nature of cross-border criminal investigations and the challenges faced by law enforcement in identifying and apprehending gang members. Federal authorities continue to investigate the full scope of Ortega-Lopez's activities and any potential broader connections to the Tren de Aragua organization.
Local law enforcement agencies are cooperating with federal investigators to determine if there are any additional security concerns related to the case. The incident has prompted discussions about screening procedures for household staff and temporary residents in judicial officials' homes.
The investigation has also highlighted the growing presence of international criminal organizations in the southwestern United States and their ability to establish local connections.
Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, an alleged member of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang, was arrested on February 28 at Judge Joel Cano's family residence in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. The suspect had been living in a guest house on the property after meeting the judge's wife through construction work in El Paso. Following the arrest and subsequent resignation of Judge Cano on March 3, Ortega-Lopez remains in custody at the Doña Ana County Detention Center, facing federal firearm charges while investigators continue to probe potential connections to the Venezuelan criminal organization.
A relaxing Easter dinner turned into a security concern for Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her family in Washington, D.C.
According to The Daily Caller, Secretary Noem had her purse stolen while dining at Capitol Burger in downtown Washington, D.C., on Sunday night, containing approximately $3,000 in cash, her driver's license, and DHS access badge among other items.
The incident occurred while Noem was enjoying a holiday meal with her family, including her children and grandchildren.
Her purse was placed beneath her chair when an unidentified white male wearing a medical mask managed to steal it and exit the restaurant, as captured by surveillance footage reviewed by the Secret Service.
The Secret Service, responsible for Noem's security detail, has initiated an investigation into the theft. They are particularly concerned about the stolen DHS access badge and are actively monitoring whether any of Noem's financial items have been compromised or used since the incident.
The Department of Homeland Security released a statement explaining that the Secretary had brought the substantial amount of cash to cover family activities during the Easter holiday. The funds were intended for dinner, various activities, and Easter gifts for her visiting family members.
The theft was discovered during what should have been a festive family gathering at Capitol Burger, a popular dining establishment in the nation's capital. The restaurant's busy atmosphere may have provided cover for the perpetrator to carry out the theft unnoticed.
The loss of Noem's DHS access badge presents potential security implications for the department. Such credentials typically provide access to secure government facilities and sensitive areas, making their recovery a priority for law enforcement.
The Secret Service is working closely with local law enforcement to identify and apprehend the suspect captured on the restaurant's surveillance system. The footage showing a masked individual could prove crucial in the ongoing investigation.
The incident was publicly acknowledged by Noem herself during Monday's White House Easter Egg Roll, where she confirmed the theft remained unresolved.
The theft has raised questions about security protocols for high-ranking government officials during personal outings. While the Secret Service maintains protective details for cabinet members, personal items can still be vulnerable to opportunistic theft.
Local law enforcement and federal authorities are coordinating their efforts to locate both the stolen items and identify the perpetrator. The case has gained particular urgency due to the sensitive nature of the stolen credentials.
Capitol Burger's management is cooperating fully with investigators, providing all available surveillance footage and witness statements from staff members who were present during the incident.
The Easter Sunday theft of Secretary Noem's personal belongings has evolved into a multi-agency investigation focusing on recovering sensitive government credentials and identifying the perpetrator.
The incident occurred while the DHS Secretary was spending time with her extended family, including children and grandchildren, during what was meant to be a festive holiday celebration at Capitol Burger in downtown Washington, D.C.
Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads based on surveillance footage showing a white male suspect wearing a medical mask. The recovery of Noem's DHS access badge remains a top priority due to its potential security implications, while investigators also monitor for any unauthorized use of her stolen financial items.
A heated exchange between Representative Jamie Raskin and foreign leaders who align with President Donald Trump's deportation policies sets the stage for potential diplomatic tensions.
According to New York Post, Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin issued a stark warning to international leaders supporting Trump's policies, declaring that Democrats "will not look kindly" upon those who facilitate what he describes as authoritarian measures when they return to power.
The Democratic lawmaker specifically targeted El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, suggesting that foreign aid to the Central American nation should be cut off due to its cooperation with Trump's administration on deportations. This confrontation stems from El Salvador's acceptance of alleged gang members being deported through extraordinary measures under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
Trump's administration has implemented an unprecedented deportation strategy, utilizing wartime powers to expedite the removal of suspected gang members to El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Center megaprison. The agreement has raised concerns among Democrats and human rights advocates about due process and civil liberties.
Bukele's recent White House visit marked him as the first Latin American leader to meet with Trump during his term. During this meeting, he dismissed demands to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 29-year-old Salvadoran citizen who was deported despite a 2019 court decision protecting him from removal.
The Trump administration initially described Abrego Garcia's deportation as an "error" but later defended the action, citing alleged MS-13 connections which his family and legal representatives strongly deny.
Raskin, speaking on "Pod Save America," emphasized the need for "transnational Democrat solidarity" to counter what he perceives as growing authoritarianism. The representative, who serves as the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, made the following statement:
Implicit in it should be the idea that if and when we come back to power — and we will — we are not going to look kindly upon people who … facilitated authoritarianism in our country. The whole idea that Bukele doesn't have any power to return an American prisoner who was sent to him under an agreement where he's getting paid $6 million by America is ridiculous. He's our legal agent in this dubious arrangement they created. Of course, he's got the power to return them.
The administration's use of foreign prison systems has particularly alarmed Democrats, with Raskin arguing:
We're living in something like a gangster state right now. We have to stop that, obviously, to prevent a slide into complete dictatorship.
Trump's exploration of potentially deporting U.S. citizens accused of extreme violence to foreign countries has intensified the debate over executive authority. This consideration represents an unprecedented expansion of deportation powers that has drawn criticism from constitutional scholars.
The controversy has sparked nationwide protests led by progressive activists opposing Trump's immigration policies. These demonstrations reflect growing public concern over the administration's use of wartime laws for domestic policy implementation.
Experts question the legality of using the 18th-century Alien Enemies Act for modern immigration enforcement, particularly regarding its application to U.S. citizens.
Representative Jamie Raskin's warnings to foreign leaders supporting Trump's deportation policies highlight the increasing polarization in American politics and its impact on international relations. The Maryland Democrat's threats of future consequences for nations cooperating with Trump's administration signal potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy depending on which party holds power.
The ongoing dispute over deportation practices, particularly regarding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia and El Salvador's role, demonstrates the complex intersection of domestic policy, international cooperation, and constitutional rights. As both parties prepare for future political battles, the relationship between the United States and its international partners remains uncertain.
In the corridors of power and public discourse, the association between Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, and Corey Lewandowski, former campaign adviser and now a government appointee, is once again under scrutiny.
Noem and Lewandowski are thought to maintain a cordial yet controversial partnership amid scrutiny from political circles and the media, as the Daily Mail reports.
The echoes of speculation began to resonate when Lewandowski, once a pivotal figure in Trump's campaign team, transitioned into the realm of government service alongside Noem at DHS. A strategic appointment positioned him as a "special government employee," affording him proximity to Noem without the official title of chief of staff.
The political trajectory of Lewandowski and Noem has frequently converged, especially since the alleged start of their clandestine relationship in 2019, a claim each has denied. Reports suggest that Lewandowski originally aimed to helm Noem's team as chief of staff but faced resistance from the highest office. These reservations ushered in a compromise: his current role is one of influence, albeit unofficially documented.
It was during the relentless bustle of the 2024 Trump campaign that talk of their close bond emerged. Known for being predictive, author Alex Isenstadt alluded in his book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power, that such intimate ties might have thwarted Noem’s vice-presidential aspirations. This potential pairing imploded following a personal revelation from Noem, disclosing an incident involving her pet, which seemingly cast a shadow over her political ascent.
Post-campaign developments found Lewandowski wielding enough influence to support Noem's transition to DHS, a move he reportedly assisted. Her appointment to this critical security-post has sparked interest relative to Trump’s broader political framework and her speculated ambitions for 2028.
Within DHS, Lewandowski's pervasive presence has not gone unnoticed. His frequent attendance at meetings, and his role in accompanying Noem on international assignments, further blurs interpersonal and professional lines. Insiders suggest he functions as a guiding force, occasionally overshadowing a vacant chief of staff position.
Initial adjustments in leadership style have not been without tumult. An incident during a visit to Palantir involving an immigration official sparked conversation, though official denials of said event remain staunch.
Throughout these developments, DHS spokespeople have addressed the circulating narratives with stern rebuttals. Claims of Lewandowski curtailing any official duties unilaterally, or wielding influence in Noem's selection, were countered with clarifications attributing these decisions to Trump. The spokesperson emphasized Noem's appointment as part of the President’s agenda for national security.
Questioned on the nature of Lewandowski’s participation, responses reiterated his volunteer status, serving with dedication rooted in personal motives -- the tragic loss experienced on Sept. 11, 2001, as the spouse of a widow.
The narrative that personal dynamics have overshadowed professional reach was labeled as "salacious, baseless gossip." Dismissing prying speculations as fabricated noise, officials guided focus back to the pressing matters of service and security.
With the ebb and flow of media scrutiny, the political domain watches keenly as Noem and Lewandowski navigate their roles. Each development is analyzed, especially considering the strategic implications for Noem's potential future endeavors in a still speculative 2028 race. Reports of their camaraderie, underscored by persistent proximity, are ever in the spotlight. As history has shown, the interlacing of personal and professional lives amidst the political sphere impacts both public perception and political strategy.
However, questions linger about how these strategic alliances might shift or solidify in coming years, particularly with regard to their influence and positions within Trump's strategic framework and potential future candidacies.
Recent survey data highlights increased public backing for stricter immigration policies, boosting President Donald Trump's approval ratings on the issue.
A growing segment of voters now approves of Trump's push to deport illegal immigrants, with heightened attention being placed on crimes involving undocumented individuals, as Breitbart reports.
The All-America Economic Survey has revealed that a significant portion of the public supports former President Trump’s approach to managing illegal immigration. Survey findings indicate a +12 approval rating for Trump's measures at the southern border and a +7 net approval on deporting undocumented immigrants. This supports a narrative of robust public backing for more stringent immigration enforcement.
Recent data also indicates a substantial shift in voter sentiment regarding the deportation of undocumented individuals. A CNN poll suggests that 56% of voters currently favor deporting all illegal immigrants, marking a considerable increase from 38% in 2016. This rising support underscores a notable transformation in public opinion over recent years.
Attention has increasingly focused on crimes linked to individuals who are in the U.S. without legal authorization. This surge in concern is attributed to the policies of the Biden administration, characterized by some as more lenient on immigration control. The recent murder of Rachel Morin by an illegal immigrant underscores the urgency for many advocating tighter enforcement.
Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, an MS-13 gang member, was convicted of Morin's murder, placing a spotlight on the intersection of immigration policy and public safety. The incident has fueled the argument for more aggressive deportation strategies, which are gaining traction among both voters and policymakers.
The approval increase for stringent immigration policies is also fueled by other high-profile cases involving violent crimes allegedly committed by undocumented individuals. The murders of Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray, both involving illegal immigrants, have captured national media attention and continue to stoke public debate.
Despite these concerns, there remains division among political leaders on how to address the presence of illegal immigrants in the country. While some advocate for enhanced deportation measures, there are others who hold a more nuanced view. The Democratic response often emphasizes empathy and due process, with additional calls for comprehensive immigration reform rather than strict enforcement alone.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen’s comments regarding Mr. Abrego Garcia's deportation highlight the ongoing tension. While Garcia was denied asylum by a federal judge, concerns over his deportation reflect broader debates on immigration policies regarding those fearing persecution in their home countries.
Abrego Garcia, detained in the U.S. and arrested by ICE earlier this year, was subsequently deported to El Salvador. His case has reached international attention following his detention in the mega-prison CECOT. This situation underscores the complexities faced by individuals at the intersection of deportation orders and claimed gang persecutions.
The plight of individuals like Garcia presents difficult ethical and legal questions about deportation practices, particularly for those seeking asylum from gang violence. Although a federal judge denied his asylum request, Garcia was originally granted temporary protection from deportation due to his claims of gang-related threats. Furthermore, Van Hollen's intent to discuss Garcia's case with U.S. officials in San Salvador further illustrates the delicate nature of such deportations.
The strong approval ratings for Trump's immigration management reflect a clear voter demand for changes in the U.S. immigration policy landscape. This is particularly evident in the rising support for deportation policies that emphasize national security concerns.
While the debates continue, there remains significant divergence between the aspirations of political leaders and the perspectives of constituents. Some argue for wholesale policy revisions, focusing on both security measures and humanitarian considerations. The dialogue surrounding immigration policy underscores the complexities of balancing public safety, legal processes, and human rights. As public sentiment evolves, it's clear that immigration will remain a focal issue in the broader discourse on national policy and governance.
President Donald Trump intensifies his criticism of Jerome Powell's leadership at the Federal Reserve, indicating potential plans for removal despite legal protections.
According to Breitbart, Trump expressed his frustration with Powell's reluctance to implement aggressive interest rate cuts, declaring that the Federal Reserve chair's "termination cannot come fast enough."
The president's comments followed Powell's speech at the Economic Club of Chicago, where he addressed the impact of Trump's broad-based tariffs on monetary policy decisions. Powell emphasized the Fed's need for clarity regarding policy changes in various areas, including immigration, taxation, regulation, and tariffs, before making decisions about interest rates.
Powell maintained his position on the Federal Reserve's independence, asserting that political pressures would not influence their decision-making process. He emphasized the legal protections surrounding his position and the Fed's commitment to serving the American people's interests.
The Federal Reserve chair highlighted the institutional safeguards protecting the central bank's autonomy. These protections include fixed terms for Fed officials and specific conditions for their removal, which Powell noted are established by law.
Trump's criticism centered on Powell's approach to interest rate management, particularly in comparison to the European Central Bank's policies. The president pointed to declining oil and grocery prices as indicators supporting his position on rate cuts.
The tension between Trump and Powell has a complicated history, beginning with Trump's nomination of Powell in 2017. Despite initial support, their relationship has deteriorated over monetary policy disagreements.
President Biden reappointed Powell to another four-year term in 2022, demonstrating bipartisan support for his leadership. This appointment came despite ongoing criticism from Trump during his presidency.
Powell's November press conference addressed potential scenarios of presidential interference, where he firmly stated he would not resign if asked to do so by Trump.
In his Chicago speech, Powell delivered a strong message about the Federal Reserve's commitment to independence. He stated:
Our independence is a matter of law. We're not removable except for cause. We serve very long terms, seemingly endless terms. So we're protected into law. Congress could change that law, but I don't think there's any danger of that. Fed independence has pretty broad support across both political parties and in both sides of the Hill.
The Federal Reserve's position on political neutrality was further reinforced when Powell declared:
That's the only thing we're ever going to do. We're never going to be influenced by any political pressure. People can say whatever they want. That's fine, that's not a problem. But we will do what we do strictly without consideration of political or any other extraneous factors.
Trump's latest attack on Powell's leadership at the Federal Reserve represents an escalation in the ongoing tension between the White House and the central bank. The president's criticism stems from disagreements over monetary policy decisions, particularly regarding interest rate management and the Fed's response to economic indicators. The Federal Reserve maintains its stance on independence, supported by legal protections and bipartisan congressional backing. Powell continues to lead the central bank, focusing on data-driven decision-making while navigating complex economic challenges and political pressures.
Governor Jared Polis signs a controversial measure that will transform firearm ownership requirements in Colorado.
According to Breitbart News, the Democratic governor's approval of the semiautomatic firearm ban will require state residents to secure an "eligibility card" from their local sheriff before purchasing AR-15s and similar weapons, with the law taking effect in August 2026.
The legislation extends beyond AR-15s, encompassing AK-style rifles, certain shotguns, and specific pistol models. The comprehensive ban represents a significant shift in Colorado's approach to firearm regulation, placing it alongside states with stricter gun control measures.
The eligibility card system introduces a multi-step process for potential buyers. Residents must first undergo a thorough background check conducted by their county sheriff's office. The vetting process serves as the initial hurdle in obtaining the required documentation.
Following the background check, applicants face additional requirements. They must complete up to 12 hours of mandatory training spread across two days. However, individuals who have previously completed hunter education courses may qualify for reduced training hours.
The system mirrors Illinois' existing Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card program. Yet, Colorado's version differs by targeting only specific categories of firearms rather than all gun purchases.
Law enforcement officials prepare for the implementation of the new system. The responsibility of processing applications and conducting background checks will fall primarily on county sheriffs' offices across the state.
Critics argue that the law creates unnecessary barriers for law-abiding citizens while doing little to prevent criminals from acquiring weapons through illegal channels. The legislation has sparked debate about the effectiveness of such restrictions in reducing gun violence.
Gun rights advocates express concern about the precedent set by the new requirements. They worry about the potential expansion of the eligibility card system to cover additional firearm categories in the future.
The Colorado state government has established a clear timeline for the law's implementation. The 16-month gap between signing and enforcement allows time for administrative infrastructure development and public education.
Local law enforcement agencies will use this period to establish processing systems and train personnel. The extended timeline also gives residents time to understand and prepare for the new requirements.
The state plans to launch public awareness campaigns to inform residents about the changes. These efforts aim to ensure smooth transition when the law takes effect.
Governor Polis and Democratic lawmakers have taken a decisive step in reshaping Colorado's firearm regulations. The eligibility card requirement marks a significant departure from previous state gun laws, placing additional oversight on semiautomatic weapon purchases. The law positions Colorado among states implementing stricter firearm regulations. When the measure takes effect in August 2026, residents seeking to purchase AR-15s and similar weapons must navigate a new regulatory framework requiring sheriff approval, background checks, and mandatory training.