A new poll suggests Kamala Harris is leading the pack of Democratic Party candidates for the 2028 presidential election.
In a recent survey, Harris was identified as the most favored choice for the Democratic Party's nomination, obtaining 36% support from voters and independents aligned with the party, as the New York Post reports.
Despite her 2024 defeat at the hands of Donald Trump, Harris continues to hold considerable influence within her party and is evaluating her political future, which may include a campaign for California governor in 2026.
The Morning Consult survey placed Harris prominently as her party's top candidate, showcasing a significant advantage over other potential Democrat hopefuls. Harris gained the preference of a significant portion of the Democratic Party electorate, securing a lead that far surpassed that of her competitors. While former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg ranked second, he only attained 10% support, marking a striking gap between him and Harris.
Harris has not officially declared any intentions to campaign in 2028, but her current standing in the poll points to widespread approval from within the party base. Her ongoing popularity can be attributed to her recent political endeavors and national profile. After an election loss in 2024 to then-incumbent President Trump, Harris still commands a noteworthy following among Democratic constituents, which could bolster her potential future campaigns.
Harris's 2024 presidential bid was marked by a robust fundraising effort, where she managed to accumulate over a billion dollars from Democrat donors. This financial backing underscores the confidence her supporters and significant party donors have in her leadership and vision, which might have contributed to her strong position in the latest poll.
Although Harris lost the 2024 election in swing states as well as the popular and Electoral College votes, she has not ruled out returning to the political spotlight. Allies report that she is keeping her options open, one of which is running for California governor. The current governor, Gavin Newsom, will be stepping down in 2026 due to term limits, potentially paving the way for Harris to pursue leadership at the state level.
In the survey, other recognizable names within the Democratic Party camp appeared but garnered considerably less support. Gavin Newsom himself, along with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, each attracted 5% of the vote. This level of support pales in comparison to the decisive lead held by Harris, which demonstrates her overwhelming influence and recognition among voters.
The poll also identified businessman Mark Cuban and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as having 4% support each, reflecting their potential as dark horse candidacies within the party. Other familiar faces in the Democratic Party landscape, such as Sen. Cory Booker, who received 3%, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Gov. JB Pritzker, Gov. Andy Beshear, and Sen. .Amy Klobuchar, each pulling in 2%, depict a crowded field with varying degrees of support across the board.
The diverse and competitive playing field may indicate a vibrant primary process, should these preliminary figures hold steady towards the actual nomination race. The early poll results provide insight into the evolving preferences of the Democratic Party voters and the potential strategies candidates might adopt in responding to these findings.
Considering these initial insights, Harris’s dominance in the poll hints at her sustained ability to engage with and energize Democratic Party supporters. Her positioning as a front-runner lends considerable weight to her future endeavors, be it another presidential run or an influential role within Democratic state politics.
The Democratic Party, with Harris at the forefront, might see a realignment in strategies as stakeholders analyze these results and coordinate efforts to capitalize on her established voter base. The path to 2028 will undoubtedly involve scrutinizing voter sentiment, evaluating policy platforms, and deciding on potential candidates who can carry forward the party's values and objectives effectively.
As the landscape continues to develop, observing how Harris navigates her next moves will be pivotal. Whether in consideration for the presidency, the governorship of California, or another significant political avenue, Harris’s decisions will likely have a profound impact on her political career and the Democratic Party as a whole.
Renowned actor Wings Hauser, beloved for his illustrious roles in television and film, passed away at the age of 78 on March 15.
The film and Young and the Restless veteran's passing was confirmed by his wife, bringing to a close a remarkable 58-year career in the entertainment industry, as the Daily Caller reports.
Hauser was best known for his portrayal of Greg Foster on the aforementioned popular daytime soap opera. His involvement with the show began in 1977 and spanned several decades, with a noted return in 2010. This character became one of the defining roles in his acting career, earning him recognition and admiration from fans and peers alike.
Born into a family with strong ties to Hollywood, Hauser was the son of Academy Award-winning filmmaker Dwight A. Hauser and Geraldine T. Hauser. This connection laid the foundation for an expansive and impressive career in movies, television, and even music. Throughout his life, Hauser worked alongside many talented artists, gaining esteem for his dedication to the craft.
He amassed a wealth of television credits beyond The Young and the Restless, captivating audiences with his performances in popular series such as Magnum, P.I., The Fall Guy, Murder, She Wrote, and Perry Mason. Hauser's versatility enabled him to adapt to a range of genres, further enhancing his reputation within the industry.
On the big screen, Hauser's talent was equally impressive. He captured audiences in films such as Vice Squad, a 1982 gritty portrayal that showcased his dynamic acting ability. His later contributions to film included roles in Tough Guys Don’t Dance, a 1987 noir thriller, and the critically acclaimed The Insider released in 1999. These roles underscored his adaptability and commitment to exploring diverse characters.
While mostly celebrated for his on-screen performances, Hauser's musical ventures also played a role in his artistic life. His multi-faceted career is testament to his passion for storytelling in various forms. He left a lasting impact on the entertainment domain through his persistent excellence and hard work.
In the wake of his passing, Hauser's wife, Cali Lili Hauser, reflected on the life and legacy of her husband. She described Hauser as a "movie icon" who embodied his heritage with pride. He was deeply connected to his birthplace Hollywood and took pride in his father's accomplished career in film.
Cali emphasized Hauser's significant relationships in the industry, noting his work with many esteemed artists who held him in high regard. These professional collaborations further augmented his esteemed career, helping him garner respect and recognition from colleagues and audiences.
Looking toward the future, Cali shared one of Hauser's wishes for his legacy. Hauser wanted Cali, who was both his partner in life and creativity, to continue their shared artistic endeavors. He wished for fans to support their self-built sustainable indie film and music studio, a sanctuary for sea life and butterflies, under the brand #CaliLiliIndies. His desire for continuation reflects his commitment to both environmental causes and his artistic journey.
In a tribute that Cali composed, she honored his wish for others to support ongoing and future projects emanating from their creative enterprise. The studio stands as a testament to both Hauser's enduring passion and their shared creative vision.
In commemoration of his multifaceted career, a feature-length documentary titled Wings Hauser: Working Class Actor is currently in production by La-La Land Entertainment. This film aims to capture and celebrate the breadth of Hauser's contributions to both the small screen and the cinema. It promises to provide insights into his life, providing fans and audiences an opportunity to reflect on the powerful legacy he leaves behind.
Hauser's daughter, Bright Hauser, also survives him and remains a part of his enduring legacy. As friends, family, and fans come together to remember him, his influence across decades of film and television will continue to be celebrated.
A heated exchange between current Vice President JD Vance and his predecessor Kamala Harris highlights the stark differences in their approaches to the second-highest office in the nation.
According to Breitbart, Vice President Vance took a controversial jab at Harris during a radio interview, suggesting she needed alcohol to deliver her characteristic "word salads" while in office.
During his appearance on a radio show, Vance emphasized the contrasting dynamics between the current and previous administrations, particularly focusing on the relationship between president and vice president. He highlighted the strong trust he shares with President Trump, suggesting this was notably absent in the Biden-Harris partnership.
The conversation with radio host Vince Coglianese revealed deeper insights into the current working relationship at the White House. Vance elaborated on his role, expressing satisfaction with the level of trust President Trump places in him.
Vice President Vance shared his perspective on the unique nature of the vice presidential position. He noted that despite the role lacking formal power, his involvement in various aspects of governance has made the job particularly engaging.
Vance emphasized his commitment to implementing the president's vision effectively. He explained how Trump's trust has enabled him to participate in a wide range of administrative matters, creating a more comprehensive work experience.
The former vice president's recent public appearances have drawn attention for different reasons. Her first video message following the election loss displayed a marked change in demeanor, prompting widespread discussion.
Vance referenced Harris's post-election conduct during the interview. He specifically targeted her communication style, suggesting it reflected broader issues within the previous administration.
Harris addressed her supporters in what became a controversial video message. She stated:
I just have to remind you, don't you ever let anybody take your power from you. You have the same power that you did before November 5, and you have the same purpose that you did. And you have the same ability to engage and inspire. So don't ever let anybody or any circumstance take your power from you.
The discussion highlighted significant changes in vice presidential duties under different administrations. Vance described his approach as more generalist, participating in various aspects of governance rather than focusing on specific issues.
President Trump has notably expanded Vance's involvement in administrative matters. This broader engagement represents a departure from traditional vice presidential roles, reflecting Trump's management style. Vance noted that this comprehensive involvement has enhanced his job satisfaction and effectiveness in supporting the president's agenda.
Vice President JD Vance's critical comparison with former Vice President Kamala Harris has illuminated the evolving nature of the vice presidency and its current direction under the Trump administration. The exchange occurred during a radio interview where Vance highlighted the differences in working relationships, communication styles, and approaches to governance between the current and previous administrations.
This development comes as Harris maintains her position as a leading figure for the Democratic party's 2028 presidential prospects, while Vance continues to work closely with President Trump on implementing their administration's agenda.
Former venture capitalist and tech industry insider JD Vance shares a disturbing encounter from his Silicon Valley days that shaped his current stance on labor and innovation.
According to Fox News, Vice President JD Vance disclosed during the American Dynamism Summit how a tech CEO's response to job displacement concerns prompted his wife Usha to secretly text him that they needed to leave the dinner event, describing the attendees as "f---ing crazy."
The revealing anecdote emerged during Vance's Tuesday speech where he addressed the intersection of technological advancement and American labor. The conversation, which occurred around 2016 or 2017, highlighted the stark disconnect between Silicon Valley leadership and middle-class American values. Vance expressed his worries about the nation's trajectory and its impact on working families.
Vance recounted expressing his concerns about America's ability to sustain middle-class families on middle-class wages during the dinner. He emphasized that even if economic provisions could replace monetary compensation, the fundamental aspects of work - purpose, and dignity - would be irreparably damaged.
The tech CEO's response to these concerns demonstrated a striking departure from traditional views on employment and purpose. When questioned about how people would find meaning without jobs, the executive suggested "digital, fully-immersive gaming" as the solution.
This exchange prompted Vance's wife, Usha, to discretely communicate her alarm through a text message sent beneath the dinner table. The incident appears to have reinforced Vance's commitment to protecting American workers while fostering innovation.
During his summit address, Vance took a strong stance against the exploitation of cheap labor in American industries. He characterized it as both a deterrent to innovation and an addictive practice that has infiltrated many U.S. companies.
The vice president emphasized that success in future markets would not come from dismantling worker protections or engaging in a race to the bottom with overseas labor costs. He specifically referenced wages in China and Vietnam as benchmarks that America should not aspire to match.
Vance stated:
We will not win the future by ditching child labor laws or paying our workers less than Chinese or Vietnamese laborers. We don't want that, and it's not on the table.
The vice president outlined his vision for balancing worker protection with technological advancement. His approach advocates for simultaneous support of both the workforce and innovation sectors.
Vance's stance represents a departure from traditional Silicon Valley perspectives on automation and job displacement. His position reflects a growing awareness of the need to consider the human impact of technological progress.
The speech highlighted the administration's commitment to maintaining strong labor standards while pursuing technological advancement. This balanced approach aims to preserve American jobs while fostering innovation in key industries.
Vice President JD Vance's candid revelation about his Silicon Valley dinner experience has become a touchstone for his current policy positions on labor and innovation. The encounter, which occurred during his pre-political career around 2016 or 2017, exposed the disconnect between tech industry leaders and middle-class American values. The vice president now leverages this experience to advocate for policies that protect American workers while promoting technological advancement, directly challenging the notion that progress must come at the expense of worker dignity and purpose.
A Santa Fe doctor has stirred controversy surrounding the deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa at their New Mexico residence.
According to the New York Post, Dr. Josiah Child of Cloudberry Health claims Arakawa contacted his clinic on February 12, a day after police reports indicate she had died.
The revelation directly challenges the medical examiner's official timeline of events leading to the couple's deaths. Dr. Child states that Arakawa had initially scheduled an appointment for February 12, which she later canceled due to her husband's declining health. She reportedly made another call that same morning to reschedule but never appeared for the appointment.
Dr. Child provided specific details about his interactions with Arakawa before her death. He revealed that she had contacted his clinic weeks earlier regarding an echocardiogram for Hackman. The doctor emphasized that her appointment was unrelated to any respiratory issues.
Child stated to the Daily Mail:
Mrs. Hackman didn't die on February 11 because she called my clinic on February 12. She'd called me a couple of weeks before her death to ask about getting an echocardiogram [heart scan] for her husband.
The Santa Fe medical examiner's report presents a different sequence of events. Chief Medical Investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell documented Arakawa's last known activities on February 11, including email correspondence and visits to local establishments.
Medical examiners concluded that Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare respiratory disease transmitted by rats. Hackman's death was attributed to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's disease listed as a significant contributing factor.
The investigation revealed that Hackman's pacemaker recorded its final activity on February 18, showing an abnormal heart rhythm. Post-mortem examination found no food in his stomach, suggesting he had not eaten for some time before his death.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths took an even more tragic turn when investigators discovered one of their three dogs had died in its crate. The animal, which was recovering from surgery, perished from starvation and dehydration.
The conflicting accounts have created significant uncertainty about the timeline of events. Garage data shows Arakawa returning to their gated community at 5:15 p.m. on February 11 after running errands at a grocery store, pharmacy, and pet store.
Chief Medical Investigator Jarrell maintains that the evidence supports their conclusion about Arakawa's death occurring first. However, Dr. Child's claims about the February 12 phone call have introduced new elements requiring further investigation.
Local authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the couple, who had been residing in their New Mexico home. The case has drawn considerable attention due to Hackman's status as a two-time Oscar winner and respected Hollywood figure.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's deaths have become a complex investigation centered around contradicting timeline claims. Dr. Josiah Child's assertion about Arakawa's February 12 phone call challenges the medical examiner's official determination that she died on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The investigation has revealed a series of tragic events at their Santa Fe home, including the death of their dog and Hackman's final pacemaker reading on February 18, leaving authorities to reconcile these conflicting accounts as they piece together the couple's final days.
A new poll reveals a significant divide within Reform UK party leadership regarding immigration policies while highlighting overwhelming public support for deportation measures.
According to Breitbart News, a recent survey by Find Out Now shows 84 percent of British voters support deporting migrants who commit violent crimes, with even higher numbers among Reform UK party supporters.
The poll demonstrates strong public backing for stricter immigration enforcement, with 85 percent favoring the deportation of sex offenders and 66 percent supporting the removal of illegal immigrants. These figures align closely with Reform UK's manifesto, which advocates for the immediate deportation of foreign criminals after serving prison sentences.
The issue has sparked tension between party leader Nigel Farage and suspended MP Rupert Lowe, revealing deeper disagreements about the party's approach to immigration enforcement. Farage has expressed concern about using certain terminology, specifically requesting the removal of phrases like "repatriation" and "mass deportations" from public speeches.
Lowe, who was recently suspended from the party, has taken a more aggressive stance on deportation policies. According to his recent statements, he advocates for the removal of all illegal migrants regardless of the total number affected.
The suspended MP shared his position with the media, stating:
If you are here illegally, you must be deported. If that results in one million or more eventual removals then that is what must happen. That must be the aim. It is that, or an effective amnesty. I choose deportations.
Farage has defended his position by explaining that certain language choices could mistakenly suggest the deportation of law-abiding citizens with foreign backgrounds, a message he wants to avoid.
The Find Out Now survey results indicate nearly unanimous support among Reform UK voters for deportation measures, with 99 percent backing the removal of both violent criminals and illegal immigrants.
These findings emerge as Reform UK grapples with internal leadership challenges. The suspension of Rupert Lowe followed his public criticism of Farage and allegations of threats made against party chairman Zia Yusuf.
The controversy has drawn attention from prominent figures outside the party, including X (formerly Twitter) CEO Elon Musk, who has suggested Lowe as a potential replacement for Farage in the party leadership role.
The strong public support for deportation measures appears to transcend party lines, with majorities across the political spectrum backing stronger enforcement actions against criminal migrants and illegal entrants.
The survey results suggest that while Reform UK leadership debates terminology and presentation, the British public maintains clear preferences for strict immigration enforcement measures. These findings could influence future policy discussions and political positioning among UK parties.
The ongoing dispute between Farage and Lowe has exposed nuanced differences in approach rather than fundamental disagreements about deportation policies. Both leaders support the deportation of criminals and illegal migrants, though they differ in their communication strategies. Farage claims Lowe's actions are aimed at destroying Reform UK and gaining favor with Elon Musk. The controversy has highlighted the delicate balance political leaders must maintain between strong policy positions and careful messaging on sensitive issues.
Hunter Biden's recent trip to South Africa coincided with a significant legal development -- a lawsuit he initiated was dismissed after claims of financial incapacity, raising questions and sparking debates.
According to eyewitnesses on the ground, Hunter Biden is spending time at a luxury villa in Cape Town at the same time a critical deposition was scheduled in a California court, as the New York Post reports.
Amid allegations of evading legal responsibilities, Biden, son of former President Joe Biden, drew attention for enjoying a high-cost vacation complete with Secret Service protection.
Biden traveled to South Africa last week, looking to evade a deposition tied to his ongoing lawsuit. The case, originally scheduled for a deposition earlier this year, was a legal confrontation with Garrett Ziegler and the nonprofit Marco Polo. As the court date neared, however, Biden was notably absent from the United States.
Hunter claimed that he was financially unable to maintain his lawsuit, leading a California District Court to dismiss the case at his request. His opponents, including Ziegler, alleged that his absence demonstrated an intentional effort to avoid the legal proceedings. On the same day the court ruled in his favor, Biden was reportedly in Cape Town, residing in a luxurious beachfront villa costing $500 per night.
Ziegler's legal team argued that the unexpected withdrawal was a calculated move to avoid scrutiny. They expressed frustration over Biden's financial claims, which they viewed skeptically. Ziegler expressed intentions to seek $200,000 in legal fees as recompense for what he termed as avoidable legal maneuvers by Hunter.
Hunter's presence in South Africa, along with his wife Melissa Cohen and their Secret Service detail, added another layer to the ongoing saga. Although he does not ordinarily qualify for such protection, an executive memorandum signed by his father, then-President Joe Biden, ensured this safeguard was extended. This decision has been met with criticism, with some arguing that the protection should not extend to someone accused of misleading the court.
The Secret Service confirmed Hunter's protection status, though specific details such as the number of deploying agents remained undisclosed. An unverified claim suggests he might be accompanied by as many as 18 secret service agents, which could potentially bear a significant cost to taxpayers -- allegedly up to half a million dollars.
This provision of security has drawn comparisons to the previous administration, where former President Donald Trump authorized extended protection for his children after leaving office, costing approximately $1.7 million. Such precedents are often contentious, stirring public debate over the appropriate level of taxpayer-funded security for non-official members of a political family.
Critics such as Ziegler have called for the retraction of Hunter's Secret Service detail, arguing that his alleged avoidance of a legal commitment reflects poorly on his entitlement to such protection. Meanwhile, Hunter's legal representatives have taken a defensive stance, chastising Ziegler's attorney for challenging their client's financial assertions.
Biden's financial claims are central to his argument for not proceeding with the lawsuit. He cited lack of income from unsold artwork and damage to his home from recent wildfires as key factors exacerbating his financial troubles. These justifications have been scrutinized, particularly given his choice of accommodation while in Cape Town. Biden maintains that his circumstances are genuine, despite accusations of tactical delays and misrepresentation. His legal team has disputed attempts to question his reasons, labeling such actions by Ziegler's counsel as unbecoming.
The trajectory of Hunter Biden's legal engagements remains uncertain, with potential repercussions on financial and public fronts. The ongoing debate about statutory protection, financial incapacity, and legal fairness demonstrate the complex nature of his situation.
As this story continues to unfold, Hunter Biden's personal and legal decisions will likely remain under intense scrutiny. With ongoing challenges from his opponents and media attention, Biden's choices while in South Africa could have lasting impacts on both his legal entanglements and public perception.
President Donald Trump last week expressed strong criticism of what he says was a long-running misuse of intelligence and law enforcement by certain U.S. government officials against him.
During a visit to the Department of Justice, Trump accused a faction within the government, particularly under President Joe Biden, of using intelligence agencies to their advantage, stating that this misuse extends beyond just his own legal difficulties, as Breitbart reports.
According to Trump, cases brought against him by the Department of Justice (DOJ) under Biden’s administration represent a significant overreach of government power. These cases, however, were eventually dropped after he won the 2024 presidential election.
During Friday remarks, Trump accused what he described as a "corrupt group" within the U.S. government of manipulating the powers of intelligence and law enforcement agencies. He claimed these efforts aimed to undermine the will of the American electorate by targeting him and his political aspirations. Trump highlighted past instances in which he felt scrutiny was unjustly directed toward him, such as the allegation of campaign surveillance during his previous presidential campaign.
One example Trump discussed was the dismissal of the Hunter Biden laptop story before the 2020 election. A letter from over 50 intelligence officials categorized the story as Russian disinformation, which Trump argued was done without proper evidence. Trump emphasized that such instances reflect a pattern where law enforcement agencies are used to prop up unsubstantiated claims against political rivals.
Trump recalled past incidents in which both his family and supporters were allegedly unfairly targeted by the government, including a high-profile raid on his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago. He described these actions as part of a broader strategy by his opponents to curtail his influence and prevent his election success.
Trump specifically criticized then-President Biden and then-Attorney General Merrick Garland for their roles in the actions taken against him. He asserted that their actions stray from American principles, accusing them of turning the Department of Justice from a bastion of fairness into an instrument of persecution.
The appointment of special counsel Jack Smith by Garland played a central role in Trump’s narrative. Subsequent to the appointment, Trump faced two federal indictments: one concerning classified documents and another related to his conduct following the 2020 election. These legal troubles coincided with Trump’s announcement to run for the presidency for a third time, which he views as particularly suspicious timing.
In addition to these federal challenges, Trump has been embroiled in legal battles at the state level. In New York, he faced charges related to business records and, separately, a case in Georgia regarding his actions following the 2020 election loss there. Despite these legal challenges, Trump has remained defiant, promising that changes to the DOJ will take place to prevent such misuse of power in the future.
During his speech, Trump tackled what he termed a betrayal of American values. He accused the government's legal actions against him of representing unprecedented betrayal. Trump promised that once rectified, measures would ensure the DOJ would no longer suffer from misuse, signaling a commitment to reform once in office.
Trump’s commentary focused on the notion that the DOJ had lost its way in recent times. Declaring that he would remedy this during his presidency, he assured supporters that the past misuse would not be repeated. With the 2024 presidential victory now secured, Trump expressed confidence that these accusations will no longer proceed.
Concluding his address, Trump reiterated his determination to correct what he perceived as injustices committed against him and his supporters. His resurgent political career, marked by another presidential win, acts as a platform for implementing reforms that he believes are necessary.
As Trump charts this path forward, the controversies they involve will continue to attract public interest as well as significant political debate. Moving ahead, Trump’s actions and reforms will likely shape discussions around the role and function of the DOJ for years to come.
A newly announced decision by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. affects thousands of unaccompanied migrant children across multiple states.
According to Breitbart, the Department of Health and Human Services will cease placing unaccompanied alien children in facilities operated by Southwest Key Programs Incorporated following allegations of sexual abuse and harassment.
The Trump administration's move impacts 27 residential shelters across Texas, Arizona, and California, which have been providing temporary housing for unaccompanied minors entering the United States without legal guardians. Southwest Key Programs, the largest provider of such shelters in the country, received over $2 billion in federal funding between 2021 and 2024 during the Biden administration.
HHS Secretary Kennedy announced the decision to immediately relocate current residents to alternative shelters. The announcement follows a civil lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice in July 2024, which alleged that Southwest Key employees subjected children to unlawful sexual harassment and abuse.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi strongly supported the decision. She emphasized the administration's commitment to border security and child protection.
The Department of Justice has dismissed its lawsuit against Southwest Key following the HHS decision to terminate its relationship with the organization. A comprehensive review of federal grants awarded to the organization will commence.
The decision has resulted in Southwest Key Programs announcing the furlough of 5,000 employees across their nationwide facilities. This development marks a significant shift in the organization's operations, which have been largely dependent on federal funding.
The Office of Refugee Resettlement, operating under HHS, has been responsible for caring for nearly 470,000 unaccompanied alien children who were found at the U.S.-Mexico border between 2021 and 2024. This number represents a dramatic increase from the 15,381 referrals received in 2020.
HHS Secretary Kennedy stated:
This administration is working fearlessly to end the tragedy of human trafficking and other abuses of unaccompanied alien children who enter the country illegally. For too long, pernicious actors have exploited such children both before and after they enter the United States. Today's action is a significant step toward ending this appalling abuse of innocents.
The Trump administration has emphasized its commitment to preventing the exploitation of unaccompanied minors. Attorney General Bondi reinforced this stance with her statement:
Securing our border and protecting children from abuse are among the most critical missions of the Department of Justice and the Trump administration, under the border policies of the previous administration, bad actors were incentivized to exploit children and break our laws: this ends now.
The administration's approach represents a significant departure from previous policies regarding the handling of unaccompanied minors at the border. Officials have indicated that additional measures may be implemented to strengthen oversight of facilities housing migrant children.
The Department of Health and Human Services, under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s leadership, has halted the placement of unaccompanied migrant children in Southwest Key Programs facilities following sexual abuse allegations.
The decision impacts 27 residential shelters across three states and has resulted in the furlough of 5,000 employees. The move comes after a Department of Justice civil lawsuit revealed allegations of sexual harassment and abuse, prompting the immediate relocation of current residents and a comprehensive review of federal grants awarded to the organization.