An alleged senior leader of the notorious MS-13 gang who appeared on the FBI's "Ten Most Wanted Fugitives" list has been captured and brought to American soil.
According to Fox News, Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales was arrested Monday in Mexico's Veracruz state mountains by Mexican authorities and is now being transported to the United States to face criminal charges.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced the extradition Tuesday, describing it as a "major victory both for our law enforcement partners and for a safer America." The FBI had previously offered a $250,000 reward for information leading to Bardales' capture.
Roman-Bardales faces multiple charges in the Eastern District of New York related to ordering violence against civilians and rival gang members, as well as involvement in drug distribution and extortion operations in both the United States and El Salvador.
Patel thanked Mexico's SSPC and FGE teams for their support in the investigation and arrest. The successful capture represents the latest development in strengthened security cooperation between the United States and Mexico under President Trump's administration.
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, was one of eight Latin American criminal organizations recently designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration.
The designation, announced last month, gives authorities expanded powers to combat these groups and their activities.
Patel said in his statement:
I can now confirm that last night, working with the Justice Department and other interagency partners, the FBI has extradited one of our 'Ten Most Wanted' from Mexico — one we believe to be a key senior leader of MS-13, Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales.
Roman-Bardales' extradition comes amid heightened cooperation between U.S. and Mexican authorities on security matters.
In late February, Mexican authorities extradited another drug cartel member, Jesus Ricardo Patron Sanchez, to face charges in New York City related to drug trafficking for the H-2 cartel. Just weeks ago, Mexico handed over 29 drug cartel figures, including Rafael Caro Quintero, who was allegedly responsible for killing a DEA agent in 1985.
President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has worked to demonstrate to President Trump that Mexico is a reliable partner on security and immigration issues, which has thus far prevented most of Trump's threatened tariffs. The Trump administration also recently deported two other top MS-13 members to El Salvador, along with hundreds of Venezuelan nationals, as part of broader immigration enforcement efforts.
Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, now in U.S. custody, represents a significant capture in the ongoing fight against transnational criminal organizations.
The arrest occurred as U.S. officials describe the country as facing "the most dangerous and deadly drug crisis" in its history, with fentanyl and methamphetamine flowing across the southern border, primarily trafficked by cartels. The extradition marks another step in the Trump administration's aggressive approach to combating gang violence, particularly from MS-13, which has been linked to numerous violent crimes throughout the United States.
Governor Gavin Newsom faces mounting criticism over his handling of recent communications regarding the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
According to Breitbart News, the governor's office has declined to release text messages and emails exchanged with Los Angeles city and county officials about the fires, claiming exemption from disclosure requirements.
The controversy deepens as Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass admitted during a news conference with local Fox affiliate KTTV-11 that her text messages related to the Palisades fire were automatically deleted after thirty days. The situation raises concerns about transparency and accountability in California's leadership during natural disasters.
The governor's office maintains that Newsom's communications are exempt from public records requests, despite growing pressure for transparency. This stance appears to conflict with the spirit of public records legislation, even as officials argue their actions comply with legal requirements.
While affected communities struggle with debris removal and rebuilding efforts, Newsom has shifted his focus to producing a podcast. The timing of this endeavor has drawn criticism from residents still grappling with the aftermath of the deadly wildfires.
Local media attempts to access communication records have been met with resistance. When KTTV-11 requested the governor's text messages with the mayor and Los Angeles county officials, they received a firm rejection.
Fox affiliate KTTV-11 reporter stated:
We were told they would not be providing those, and that the governor's communications are exempt.
The parallel actions of both Mayor Bass and Governor Newsom in withholding or failing to preserve communications have raised eyebrows among transparency advocates. Their approach to public records management appears coordinated, though both maintain they are operating within legal boundaries.
The situation highlights a growing disconnect between state leadership and affected communities. While residents navigate the challenging process of rebuilding their lives, their elected officials seem more focused on maintaining information barriers than facilitating recovery efforts.
The timing of Newsom's podcast launch has particularly irked many Californians. With numerous communities still dealing with wildfire aftermath, the governor's choice to prioritize media projects over disaster response coordination has drawn sharp criticism.
The refusal to release communications about the fires occurs against a backdrop of ongoing recovery challenges. Many affected residents argue that understanding the official response to the fires could help improve future disaster management protocols.
These developments reflect a broader pattern of communication management by California officials during crisis situations. The practice of withholding or deleting potentially crucial communications raises questions about the state's commitment to transparent governance.
Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass face increasing scrutiny over their handling of wildfire-related communications in Los Angeles. Their refusal to release text messages and emails about the Palisades fire, coupled with Bass's admission of automatic message deletion, has sparked public outrage and demands for greater transparency. As California residents continue rebuilding efforts in the wake of devastating wildfires, their leaders' focus on maintaining information barriers and pursuing media projects like Newsom's podcast raises serious questions about administrative priorities.
Former Wyoming Sen. Alan Simpson, a prominent Republican figure known for his candid style and sharp wit, passed away on a Friday at the age of 93 in Cody, Wyoming. Surrounded by family and friends, Simpson's death followed complications from a broken hip sustained in December.
Simpson served in the U.S. Senate from 1979 to 1997 and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by then-President Joe Biden in 2022 for his significant contributions to American politics and society, as the Daily Caller reports, and tributes are pouring in amid news of his death.
The late lawmaker was a Wyoming native whose career in the Senate was marked by advocacy for pivotal issues such as campaign finance reform, immigration policy improvement, promoting civic discourse, and addressing the national debt. A figure of considerable influence, he was widely lauded for his straightforward manner and for standing firm on his principles.
His health struggles began years earlier, when frostbite to his left foot resulted in the amputation of his leg below the knee. Despite these challenges, Simpson remained actively involved in various community and national initiatives till the end of his life. In addition to his political career, Simpson dedicated considerable effort to cultural preservation. He was involved with the Buffalo Bill Center of the West for 56 years, emphasizing his deep commitment to Wyoming and its heritage.
Simpson wed his longtime partner, Ann, in 1954. The couple shared their lives and dreams together, raising three children named William, Colin, and Susan. Through their decades-long marriage, Simpson's family life was rich with support and love.
In 2022, then-President Biden honored Simpson with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing his outstanding service and dedication to the nation. This accolade acknowledged Simpson's influential voice and his long-standing impact on American politics.
Responding to the news of his passing, Rebecca West highlighted Simpson’s invaluable contributions to the community and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. She noted his standing alongside iconic figures like William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody in preserving the spirit of the American West.
Simpson’s generous nature stood out to many, including his older brother Pete Simpson, who described him as generous with both time and energy. He emphasized that this trait was present not only in Simpson's career in politics but also in his interactions with family.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune shared his sorrow over the loss of the former senator, recognizing his more than 30 years of service. Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis also expressed her condolences, underscoring that no other advocate was as strong for Wyoming's interests as Simpson was.
Known for his sometimes blunt and irreverent approach, Simpson was characterized by The New York Times as both folksy and cantankerous. His outspoken nature often brought humor and a refreshing perspective to discourse in Washington. His legacy includes bold pushes for change in financial and immigration systems. His advocacy for better civic discourse in a polarized climate remains particularly resonant.
A memorial service is planned at Christ Episcopal Church in Cody, allowing those who knew him to say their final farewells. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, honoring his steadfast affiliation.
Simpson's life story contains lessons of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering belief in serving others. His departure leaves a space in both local and national arenas, where his voice was a guiding presence.
As the nation reflects on Simpson's storied career and personal strength, his legacy continues to inspire new generations to engage in public service and community improvement. The impact of his life’s work will be felt for years to come.
Rep. Raul Grijalva, a revered member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Arizona, has died at the age of 77.
The Arizona lawmaker, who died of complications from cancer treatment, was celebrated for his crucial work on environmental issues and his unyielding commitment to progressive policy aims, as Fox News reports.
Grijalva had served in Congress since 2003, representing a district in southern Arizona. Over his remarkable career, the congressman became a significant force on the House Natural Resources Committee, where he championed causes that ranged from environmental protection to enhancing health care access for marginalized communities. Grijalva was deeply committed to initiatives that sought to safeguard national parks like the Grand Canyon.
The congressman's passing provoked reactions from colleagues and peers who offered their deepest sympathies. From legislation to preserve the Grand Canyon for posterity to reinforcing health care laws, Grijalva’s accomplishments extended across a wide range of issues, fueled by what he once described as a guiding principle: engagement with the communities he served.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said, "AZ lost a giant today. Congressman Raul Grijalva dedicated his life to fighting for the people of Arizona." The attorney general commended his numerous contributions to both local and national causes, emphasizing his advocacy for workers, Indigenous groups, and access to clean resources.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, lamenting his death, described him as "one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress." She underscored his leadership ability and additionally highlighted his practice of mentoring others while maintaining true friendships.
Grijalva's environmental achievements remained central to his political identity. His work ensured permanent financial backing for land and water preservation projects. Known for driving transformative climate policy through Congress, he directed efforts toward modernizing ports of entry and supporting initiatives critical to public and environmental health.
Reflecting on some of these accomplishments, his office noted, "Some of these victories seemed out of reach when he first came to Congress, but with support from community, colleagues, allies, and staff, he helped make them real." Long before his congressional tenure, Grijalva committed himself to causes that often seemed insurmountable. Yet, he pursued them with staunch dedication and determination, addressing subjects such as student loan forgiveness and fortifying legal infrastructure for immigrant families.
Grijalva missed numerous congressional votes during his lung cancer treatments, a period that also involved local scrutiny over his absences. Nevertheless, he remained steadfast in his legislative commitments and continued to engage proactively with his district’s issues.
Fellow Arizonian legislator Ruben Gallego, remarked, "Sydney and I are saddened to hear about the passing of our friend Rep. Raúl Grijalva. He was a champion for those in need." Gallego praised Grijalva’s advocacy for Arizona’s diverse communities, stressing the deep loss felt statewide. Rep. David Schweikert, another colleague, noted Grijalva's wide influence, acknowledging "The Congressman was always very kind to me -- he had a great sense of humor." Despite their differences in policy, Grijalva consistently exemplified civility, a trait that Schweikert appreciated deeply.
Moving forward, Grijalva’s Democrat-heavy district anticipates a highly contested primary to appoint his successor. The vacant congressional seat, given its historical lean toward the Democratic Party, presents an opportunity for emerging voices to build upon Grijalva's enduring advocacy.
As the state of Arizona contemplates this critical transition, officials and residents reflect on Grijalva’s broad legacy. His team, left to carry the work forward, remains resolute in honoring his guiding philosophy to empower and partner with the community to effect lasting change. Arizona state Rep. Alma Hernandez expressed feeling Grijalva’s loss keenly, extending condolences, "As someone who lost their father recently, I want to express my sincerest condolences to the Grijalva family."
While Grijalva's career has ended, the ideals he upheld live on -- rooted in a lifetime of service aimed at fairness, equity, and opportunity. As his constituents, colleagues, and family mourn, his memory continues to inspire those who work in favor of people-first policies.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama reconnects with her brother Craig Robinson in their newly launched podcast "IMO," sharing intimate stories about family life.
According to Fox News, Michelle Obama revealed that former President Barack Obama needed to make significant adjustments to his time management skills and punctuality during their marriage.
The siblings' candid conversation shed light on the former president's tendency to start preparing at the scheduled departure time, a habit that required adaptation over their three decades of marriage. Michelle emphasized her strict adherence to punctuality, a trait she shares with her brother and inherited from their upbringing.
Michelle Obama detailed her husband's pre-departure routine with a mix of frustration and humor. She described instances where Barack would begin his preparation process exactly at the scheduled departure time, creating delays in their schedule. The former first lady expressed her practical approach to time management. She recounted having to address Barack's habit directly, noting how last-minute preparations would derail their schedule.
Robinson contributed to the conversation by characterizing Barack's relaxed approach to time as being on "island time," highlighting the contrast between the former president's natural inclinations and the Robinson family's stringent timekeeping.
The podcast conversation revealed deep-rooted family values regarding timeliness. Michelle and Craig shared memories of their father, Fraser C. Robinson III, who set high standards for punctuality in their household.
Their father's influence on their time management habits emerged clearly during the discussion. They recalled how he would often be ready well before scheduled departure times for family outings. According to Michelle, their father would frequently begin checking on family members' readiness an hour before the actual departure time. This early preparation became a defining characteristic of the Robinson household.
During the podcast's first episode, Craig Robinson revealed his pivotal role in convincing his sister to support Barack's presidential ambitions. The conversation offered insight into the family's decision-making process regarding Barack's political career.
Michelle initially expressed reservations about Barack's presidential run, considering their previous political ventures sufficient. She prioritized maintaining a stable family environment similar to her own upbringing.
Robinson shared how Barack approached him for help in gaining Michelle's support, leading to a strategic family discussion that included their mother, Marian Robinson, who passed away in May 2024 at 86 years old.
Craig Robinson provided crucial perspective to Michelle about supporting Barack's presidential aspirations, as she disclosed in their conversation:
But I think the thing that pushed it over the top was I convinced you to not penalize him for being really good at what he does. And that would be like a guy who is fighting to get to the NBA, and he makes it and, because the travel is messed up, his wife says 'no, I don't want you to do it.' And it just wouldn't be fair, and I talked to you and mom at the same time, and both of you sat there reasonably mad and said I was right.
Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson launched their podcast "IMO" on Wednesday, creating a platform to share personal anecdotes and advice with listeners. The former first lady's revelations about Barack Obama's punctuality challenges provided insight into their marriage dynamic, while the discussion about his presidential run highlighted the crucial role family support played in this historic decision.
The siblings' conversation demonstrated how their strong family values, inherited from their parents Fraser and Marian Robinson, influenced major life decisions and daily habits in both their personal and public lives.
During a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister on Wednesday, President Donald Trump made a series of inflammatory statements directed at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, bewildering many due to their controversial nature.
According to Fox News, former President Donald Trump made controversial remarks about Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister, declaring that the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in American history "has become a Palestinian" and is "not Jewish anymore."
The inflammatory comments emerged during Trump's response to a question about tax reduction plans in the Oval Office on Wednesday. While addressing the reporter's inquiry, Trump shifted focus to criticize Democratic lawmakers' behavior during his recent joint address to Congress, particularly targeting Schumer's reactions.
Trump's criticism extended beyond Schumer to include broader condemnation of Democratic responses to his congressional address. He expressed particular displeasure with their conduct during emotional moments of his speech, including when he recognized mothers of victims killed by illegal immigrants and celebrated a young cancer patient's honorary Secret Service agent status.
Trump doubled down on his criticism of Schumer with direct statements questioning the senator's religious identity. The former president's comments about Schumer's Jewish identity drew immediate attention, especially given Schumer's historic position as the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in American history.
The confrontational exchange highlighted ongoing tensions between Trump and Democratic leadership, particularly regarding their responses to his recent congressional address. Trump's comments about Schumer marked a significant escalation in his criticism of the Democratic opposition.
During the same meeting, Trump addressed developments in Ukraine-Russia peace negotiations. He highlighted recent diplomatic progress, noting Ukraine's acceptance of potential ceasefire terms in Saudi Arabia. Trump said:
We had a great success yesterday. We have a full cease-fire when it, if it kicks in, we have to see, it's up to Russia now. But we've had a good relationship with both parties.
The former president emphasized the human cost of the ongoing conflict, stating that between 2,000 and 3,000 young people are killed weekly. He maintained his position that the war would not have occurred under his leadership.
Trump expanded his critique to include the Biden administration's handling of various international situations. He connected current global challenges to what he characterized as leadership failures under President Biden.
The former president specifically targeted the administration's management of multiple crises, including the Ukraine conflict and the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel. He linked these events to what he described as broader patterns of incompetence.
Trump emphasized his belief that multiple international crises could have been prevented under different leadership. He particularly focused on the withdrawal from Afghanistan, inflation, and Middle East tensions as examples of preventable situations.
Donald Trump created waves during his Oval Office meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin by making controversial statements about Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's religious identity. The former president questioned Schumer's Jewish identity while criticizing Democratic responses to his congressional address, leading to heightened tensions in political discourse.
The meeting's significance extended beyond domestic politics as Trump addressed crucial international matters, including Ukraine-Russia peace negotiations and potential ceasefire agreements. His comments highlighted ongoing diplomatic challenges while maintaining his stance that current global conflicts resulted from Biden administration policies.
The brutal death of an InfoWars reporter has shocked the alternative media landscape and raised concerns about violence in the Austin area.
According to the New York Post, InfoWars reporter Jamie White was found dead with "obvious signs of trauma" near his residence in South Austin around midnight on Sunday.
InfoWars founder Alex Jones announced White's death on Monday, describing him as the outlet's best writer and a close friend. The incident occurred as White was returning home from work, with police discovering his body in an apartment complex parking lot.
Jones attributed the tragedy partly to policies implemented by Austin District Attorney Jose Garza, whom he associated with George Soros. The InfoWars founder expressed his determination to ensure that those responsible would face consequences for their actions.
The Austin Police Department has launched an investigation into the incident, though no suspects have been identified. Law enforcement officials were observed collecting evidence from a second-floor apartment at the complex where White's body was found.
Jones shared his observations from the crime scene in a Monday broadcast, describing a significant blood presence in the parking lot area. The police have maintained discretion regarding specific details as the investigation continues.
White's death marks the eighth homicide recorded in Austin this year, adding to growing unease about violent crime in the Texas capital. The incident has sparked discussions about safety in residential areas, particularly during late-night hours.
Local news outlet Fox 7 confirmed that emergency responders transported White to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The exact nature of the trauma has not been publicly disclosed by authorities.
KXAN's coverage of the scene revealed an extensive police presence and detailed investigation procedures, including the examination of both the parking lot and nearby residential units.
InfoWars founder Alex Jones issued this statement regarding White's death:
We are deeply saddened to inform you that InfoWars Reporter Jamie White was brutally murdered around midnight Sunday night due, in part, to the policies of the Soros Austin, TX D.A. Jose Garza. We pledge that Jamie's tragic death will not be in vain, and those responsible for this senseless violence will be brought to justice.
The incident has attracted significant attention from both alternative and mainstream media outlets. The investigation's progress remains closely watched by colleagues and supporters of the deceased reporter.
The circumstances surrounding White's death and potential motives remain under active investigation by local authorities. Jones and the InfoWars team have committed to following the case closely while mourning the loss of their colleague.
Jamie White, a longtime InfoWars reporter, met his tragic end in a South Austin parking lot while returning from his workplace on Sunday night. The Austin Police Department discovered White with severe trauma around midnight, leading to his death at a local hospital. As investigators work to identify suspects and establish a motive, the incident has become the eighth homicide in Austin this year, prompting renewed scrutiny of local law enforcement policies and public safety measures.
The U.S. Supreme Court has dismissed an attempt by Republican attorneys general from 19 states to prevent Democrat-led states from pursuing lawsuits regarding climate change against major oil and gas companies.
This ruling from the high court spotlights the ongoing tension between state-led efforts to combat climate change and national energy interests, as states attempt to bring fossil fuel companies to court over Republican objections, as the Associated Press reports.
On Monday, the highest court in the nation dismissed an unusual request that was directly filed with them. This request aimed to intervene in ongoing legal battles where Democratic-controlled states sued leading companies in the fossil fuel sector. These state-led lawsuits argue that the companies were not truthful about the danger posed by climate change.
The legal move was spearheaded by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall representing a group of Republican officials. The goal was to halt several lawsuits filed in Democrat-led states that seek damage compensation for issues allegedly caused by climate change. The claims being pursued in state courts request financial restitution for the purported impact of climate-related disasters such as substantial storms and wildfires.
Several states, including California, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, have been particularly targeted by the Republicans' complaint. The constitutional power of the Supreme Court allows it to hear genuine lawsuits initiated by one state against another, though these cases are rare as the Court primarily hears appeals. Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito were noted for their disagreement with the majority's decision to reject the complaint. Thomas articulated his concern, stating the justices lack the authority to dismiss the case at this point in the proceedings.
The Democrat-led legal actions began with claims that oil and gas industry leaders intentionally provided false information about climate change dangers, which allegedly resulted in severe damage statewide. This case has sparked debate over whether tackling interstate emission issues is something that falls solely under federal regulation.
Despite the Republican officials' arguments, the lawsuits are moving within state judicial systems and maintaining focus on their claims. The Supreme Court's refusal to hear the Republican-led complaint keeps the doorr open for states to proceed with their individual lawsuits against energy companies. These lawsuits demand compensation for billions in damages attributed to climate factors like storms, sea levels, and wildfires exacerbated by climate change. This reflects an ongoing strategy among states to hold industries accountable for environmental impact.
Historically, the Supreme Court seldom takes on first-instance legal suits between states, which makes the rejection of this Republican initiative less surprising. Their docket typically involves appeals on previously adjudicated cases.
For the Republican attorneys general, this decision represents a setback in their efforts to consolidate litigation and potentially shield the fossil fuel industry from state-level lawsuits. The Republicans had hoped that the Supreme Court would curtail the states' legal moves.
While federal oversight of cross-state emissions remains a key point in the ongoing legal conversation, the Democrat-led states argue that local courts are valid venues for such litigation. This situation demonstrates the evolving interrelation between environmental policy and legal accountability.
The attempt to halt Democrat-led legal proceedings further accentuates the fractious political landscape surrounding climate policy and environmental regulation in the U.S. Though the Supreme Court declined to grant the Republican request, their actions reflect the broader efforts by numerous states to bring attention and responsibility to environmental issues that affect their residents and economies alike.
As the legal battles continue in state courts, the outcome of these cases could reverberate throughout the country, influencing not only corporate conduct but also future government policy initiatives on climate change.
Such legal disputes may set significant precedents in holding corporations accountable for their roles in environmental degradation and the societal impacts that follow. These precedents would encourage greater scrutiny under which corporate practices are evaluated in the face of mounting climate concerns.