Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addresses ongoing controversies while highlighting significant improvements in military recruitment under the Trump administration.
According to Breitbart, during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, Hegseth reported unprecedented recruitment numbers across all military branches, marking a dramatic shift from the challenges faced during the Biden administration.
The Defense Secretary emphasized how the military's transformation since Trump's return to office has attracted more recruits. He pointed to several policy changes, including the restoration of traditional fitness standards and the reversal of base name changes implemented during the previous administration. The department has also welcomed back service members who were discharged due to COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Recent data supports Hegseth's claims about recruitment success. As of mid-May, the Army had enlisted 51,837 recruits, achieving 85% of its fiscal 2025 target of 61,000 personnel. This surge in military recruitment coincides with similar trends in law enforcement and firefighting sectors nationwide.
President Trump acknowledged the widespread improvement in public service recruitment, noting that many departments now maintain waiting lists. This marks a significant turnaround from the recruitment challenges faced just six months ago.
The Department of Defense's cultural overhaul under Hegseth's leadership has played a crucial role in attracting new recruits. The secretary shared his perspective on the department's controversial decisions:
Well, Mr. President, I think we're controversial because we're over the target. And like so many things, Mr. President, you inherited a demoralized military that couldn't recruit, that was perceived as weak after what happened in Afghanistan and elsewhere because of Joe Biden. What we have seen since your election and the inauguration has been nothing short of a recruiting renaissance.
The positive recruitment news comes amid renewed media scrutiny of Hegseth regarding "Signal-gate." The New York Times recently published allegations about Hegseth sharing attack plans in a separate Signal chat, similar to those revealed in March when a left-wing journalist was accidentally added to a different chat group.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell strongly refuted these claims. He dismissed the allegations as politically motivated attacks from recently terminated employees. Parnell emphasized that no classified information was shared in any Signal chat conversations.
The spokesman defended the administration's progress:
Another day, another old story—back from the dead. The Trump-hating media continues to be obsessed with destroying anyone committed to President Trump's agenda. This time, the New York Times — and all other Fake News that repeat their garbage — are enthusiastically taking the grievances of disgruntled former employees as the sole sources for their article. They relied only on the words of people who were fired this week and appear to have a motive to sabotage the Secretary and the President's agenda.
In recent months, the Defense Department has focused on reversing policies implemented during the previous administration. These changes include reinstating traditional military base names like Fort Benning and Fort Bragg, strengthening physical fitness requirements, and eliminating what Hegseth describes as "wokeness" from military operations.
The recruitment renaissance has extended beyond the military to other public service sectors. Police departments and fire stations across the country report similar improvements in recruitment numbers, suggesting a broader shift in public service appeal.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's report at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting highlighted the military's successful recruitment efforts under the Trump administration. The unprecedented surge in enlistment numbers across all service branches reflects the impact of recent policy changes and cultural shifts within the Department of Defense.
The positive recruitment trends, despite ongoing controversies like Signal-gate, demonstrate the effectiveness of the administration's military reforms. As the Department of Defense continues implementing changes, officials maintain their focus on strengthening military readiness and personnel quality while addressing media scrutiny of their methods and decisions.
President Donald Trump's latest executive action targets language requirements in the commercial trucking industry amid growing safety concerns.
According to Newsweek, Trump signed an executive order on Monday that mandates commercial truck drivers demonstrate English proficiency, effectively reversing a 2016 Obama-era memorandum that had relaxed enforcement of language requirements.
The order directs the Department of Transportation to strengthen inspection procedures for verifying drivers' English language skills and reviewing commercial driver's license authentication. Under the new policy, drivers who fail to meet English proficiency standards will be immediately placed out of service, marking a significant shift from the previous administration's more lenient approach.
Republican Representative Harriet Hageman of Wyoming played a crucial role in pushing for this policy reversal. In an April 10 letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, she cited data showing a consistent increase in fatal truck crashes since the 2016 memorandum's implementation.
The Trump administration emphasizes that English proficiency is essential for road safety, particularly for drivers navigating through challenging weather conditions and terrain. Officials argue that the ability to read road signs and communicate effectively with law enforcement and checkpoint personnel is non-negotiable.
State legislatures have also begun addressing this issue independently. Oklahoma's House of Representatives is currently considering legislation that would require all commercial motor vehicle operators within state borders to demonstrate adequate English language skills.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), representing 150,000 truckers, has expressed strong support for Trump's decision. Todd Peters of OOIDA offered this statement:
OOIDA and the 150,000 truckers we proudly represent strongly support President Trump's decision to resume enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers. Basic English skills are essential for reading critical road signs, understanding emergency instructions, and interacting with law enforcement. Road signs save lives—but only when they're understood. That's why OOIDA petitioned the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance earlier this year to reinstate English proficiency as an out-of-service violation.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced plans to make a joint appearance with Trump to outline additional measures aimed at enhancing road safety and supporting American truckers. The administration's executive order, as shared by Breitbart News and reposted by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, states:
President Trump believes that English is a non-negotiable safety requirement for professional drivers, as they should be able to read and understand traffic signs, communicate with traffic safety officers, border patrol, agricultural checkpoints, and cargo weight-limit station personnel, and provide and receive feedback and directions in English.
The implementation of stricter language requirements comes as part of Trump's broader initiative to establish English as the official language of the United States. The Department of Transportation will oversee the enforcement of these new standards through enhanced inspection procedures.
The policy change particularly impacts areas with high commercial truck traffic and challenging driving conditions. Wyoming and other Intermountain West states have been vocal supporters of stricter language requirements due to their unique geographic and weather-related challenges.
The move has garnered support from industry associations and safety advocates who argue that clear communication is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring efficient operations at checkpoints and weigh stations.
President Trump signed the executive order in the Oval Office at 5 p.m. on Monday, setting in motion a significant shift in commercial trucking regulations. The order represents a complete reversal of the 2016 Obama administration memo that had removed out-of-service penalties for English Language Proficiency violations.
The Department of Transportation will now begin implementing stronger inspection procedures and authentication processes for commercial driver's licenses, with immediate consequences for drivers who fail to meet the English proficiency requirements. This development aligns with broader efforts to enhance road safety and standardize communication requirements across the commercial transportation sector.
A poignant moment unfolds as world leaders gather to pay their final respects to Pope Francis at the Vatican, with President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron's firm handshake capturing attention.
According to the New York Post, a forensic lip reader has decoded the interactions between world leaders during the sign of peace portion of the funeral mass, revealing that while Trump and Macron's handshake was notably firm, no words were exchanged between the two leaders.
First Lady Melania Trump played a crucial role in guiding the President's interactions during the ceremony. Forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman observed Melania whispering, "Donald, look left" to the President, prompting him to engage with other world leaders present at the service.
President Trump actively engaged with several world leaders during the sign of peace. He greeted Estonian President Alar Karis and Spain's King Felipe VI with warm acknowledgments, saying "Great to see you" to both leaders.
The President's interaction with Finnish President Alexander Stubb was particularly cordial. Freeman noted Trump saying, "Great to see you, Alex, good to see you. How are you doing?" to the Finnish leader, even while still completing his handshake with Macron.
Prior to the funeral service, Trump held a significant 15-minute conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky inside St. Peter's Basilica. This marked their first meeting since a heated exchange in the Oval Office two months ago.
The Trump family secured front-row positions during the funeral service despite earlier speculation about seating arrangements according to Vatican protocol. The President wore a navy suit and tie, while Melania chose a black lace ensemble appropriate for the occasion.
Throughout the service, Trump showed concern for his wife's comfort. Freeman decoded a tender moment when Trump asked Melania "You okay?" to which she responded with a subtle nod.
The couple also shared a brief exchange about the proceedings, with Trump telling his wife, "It was a good discussion," though the specific conversation referenced remains unclear.
The funeral service drew more than 250,000 mourners to Vatican City, including delegations from 164 countries. This massive gathering highlighted Pope Francis's global influence and the international community's desire to honor his legacy.
Jeremy Freeman, the London-based lip reader who provided these insights, brings considerable expertise to his analysis. Born deaf, he has served as a University College London-certified expert witness for various entities, including police, journalists, and legal proceedings, for 16 years.
Pope Francis's funeral marked the end of an era for the Catholic Church following his passing at age 88 on Easter Monday at his Vatican residence. The three-hour Catholic mass brought together an unprecedented gathering of world leaders and faithful followers.
The interaction between Trump and Macron, though wordless, exemplified the complex dynamics of international relations even during moments of shared mourning. Their firm handshake, observed by millions worldwide, occurred during a solemn ceremony that united global leaders in paying respects to the deceased pontiff at St. Peter's Basilica.
Former President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, honored Pope Francis by attending his funeral at Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City, emphasizing the late religious leader's influence on global issues and personal connections.
This tribute took place on a somber Saturday morning, with Biden reflecting on the Pope's enduring legacy and ability to foster inclusivity, as the New York Post reports, though critics noted the former president's wobbly demeanor and selfie-taking.
Joe Biden, at the age of 82, approached the seating area with the careful guidance of his wife and a priest. He was assigned to the foreign dignitaries section, a customary arrangement reflecting his current status as a former leader, notably seated separately from President Donald Trump.
Biden, only the second Roman Catholic to steer the United States, met Pope Francis multiple times over the years. Their interactions began during Biden's tenure as vice president, with notable participation in leading the U.S. delegation for the Pope's inauguration in March 2013.
Aside from this official gathering, Biden again encountered Pope Francis during the latter’s visit to Washington, D.C., showcasing an ongoing rapport built on mutual respect and shared values.
Arriving at the Vatican square before the commencement of the funeral service at 10 a.m., Biden was spotted interacting with other mourners. Notably observed was a lighthearted moment where he took a selfie with a fellow attendee, highlighting his approachable nature amidst solemnity. Pope Francis passed on the preceding Monday, prompting an outpouring of tributes, including from Biden, who has often expressed deep admiration for the pontiff's life work. The solemn gathering underscored an era of spiritual leadership that emphasized open arms to every community.
In his tribute, Biden described Pope Francis as distinct from his predecessors. "He was unlike any who came before him," Biden remarked, emphasizing the Pope's unique integration of faith and global consciousness.
Sharing his thoughts on the Pope's influence, Biden noted, "Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him." Such sentiments highlighted a rich tapestry of personal history, accented by profound respect and acknowledgment.
One of Pope Francis’ most recognized contributions was fostering a sense of inclusion within the Church. Biden remarked on the Pope's role in making the Church a welcoming environment for all, breaking barriers and uniting divergent communities in faith. "He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church," Biden recalled, reflecting on the compassionate and comprehensive outreach that characterized the Pope’s ministry. This effort toward inclusivity deeply resonated with Biden’s perspectives on global faith leadership.
A key aspect of Pope Francis' legacy, as Biden remarked, was his relentless advocacy for global justice and upliftment of marginalized communities. The former president noted, "He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe." It was this commitment to justice and empathy that solidified Pope Francis's status as a leader who worked tirelessly for the well-being of all. Biden reiterated these values, underscoring their shared passion for eliminating social and economic disparity.
The outpouring of international tributes during the funeral put a spotlight on Pope Francis’ broader impact. Biden’s reflections highlighted how the Pope served as "a light of faith, hope, and love" throughout his tenure. Describing him fondly as "the People’s Pope," Biden presented a portrayal of a man whose belief in love transcended borders and doctrines. The late Pope's message of compassion and unity, embodied in his actions and teachings, left an indelible mark on world history.
Biden had his most recent visit with Pope Francis during the G7 summit in Italy in June 2024. The encounter was a reflective capstone to a long-standing, heartfelt association marked by mutual respect and aligned humanitarian efforts.
As the funeral progressed, Biden's small gestures and candid moments with fellow mourners painted the picture of a leader honoring a well-regarded spiritual figure. The occasion allowed for shared mourning and celebration of a life dedicated to altruism and understanding.
Former New Mexico Judge Jose “Joel” Cano and his wife, Nancy Cano, were apprehended on charges stemming from an extensive federal investigation on Thursday afternoon.
The recently resigned judge and his spouse face charges related to evidence tampering in a case spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations alongside federal law enforcement agencies, as the Daily Caller reports.
The arrest of the Canos was conducted outside their Las Cruces residence and was caught on camera by a local news outlet, providing a glimpse into the dramatic events as they unfolded. Footage revealed the couple in handcuffs, surrounded by federal agents donning vests marked with the insignias of both HSI and the FBI. The specifics of their charges involve allegations of tampering with evidence for Jose Cano, while Nancy Cano is implicated in a conspiracy to engage in similar acts.
Homeland Security Investigations has confirmed these charges, indicating that they form part of an ongoing criminal inquiry led by the agency in conjunction with other federal partners.
Federal personnel executed both a search warrant and arrest warrants based on probable cause for the Canos’ involvement in the alleged illegal activities, which reports suggest relate to harboring an illegal immigrant. As is customary in such proceedings, the warrants were issued following a thorough collection of evidence that suggests complicity in the offenses charged.
In March, Jose Cano stepped down from his judicial role in New Mexico, amid circumstances shrouded in controversy. His resignation followed a significant incident where a Venezuelan national, identified as Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, was detained on Cano’s property a month earlier. This prior situation is believed to have catalyzed subsequent actions by federal authorities which culminated in the recent arrests.
The video footage depicting the Canos’ arrest has drawn considerable public and media attention, as the matter involves a former public servant once trusted with upholding the law. The visual evidence, showcasing the couple led away by agents, underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating this investigation.
HSI, an agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security known for its pursuit of complex and high-stakes cases, is at the helm of this investigation, highlighting the regional and possibly broader importance of the case.
This incident has raised questions and piqued interest, as details surrounding the involvement of a former judge in such legal transgressions continue to emerge. The community and interested parties await further revelations as the investigation progresses.
The allegations leveled against the Canos signal a significant fall from grace for Jose Cano, who, until last month, held a respected position within the New Mexico judicial system. His career as a judge is now overshadowed by these severe accusations, which, if proven, could carry extensive legal consequences.
Nancy Cano, too, central to the case, finds herself entangled in legal challenges that could potentially impact her personal and professional life. The notion of conspiracy charges compounds the gravity of her alleged actions, suggesting a degree of premeditation and coordination in the offenses charged. Observers and legal analysts are closely monitoring the case, as it may set a precedent or serve as a cautionary tale regarding the vulnerabilities and responsibilities associated with roles in the public service sector.
The Canos’ arrest has stirred significant discussion within the local community as well as among legal professionals. With scant details yet available regarding the broader scope of the investigation, speculations about possible further legal developments or related arrests persist.
For citizens of Las Cruces and the wider New Mexico region, reactions range from shock to disappointment, considering Cano’s former status as a figure of authority. Trust in legal institutions may be tested as the public grapples with the developing narrative of the case.
The Department of Homeland Security's terrorism database faces an uncertain future after President Donald Trump's administration halted its funding.
According to Daily Caller, the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) lost $3.5 million in federal funding after its database portrayed what appears to be a biased view of political extremism.
The database, known as Terrorism and Targeted Violence (T2V), sparked controversy by categorizing pride flag burnings as premeditated hate crimes and linking Trump's near-assassination to anti-immigration sentiments despite conflicting evidence about the shooter's motives.
START's methodology and data collection practices have come under scrutiny for their apparent focus on right-wing extremism while downplaying or omitting other forms of political violence. The database included nine instances of pride flag damage with no injuries while excluding significant cases of anti-Israel violence on college campuses.
The think tank defended its work, stating that researchers aimed to create a comprehensive dataset using open-source information. Michael Jensen, a leading researcher, claimed that documenting campus incidents proved challenging due to limited detailed information.
The organization previously received criticism for classifying pro-life groups as terrorist entities, including Students for Life, whose members were arrested for writing on sidewalks.
Despite earlier controversies, START continued receiving taxpayer funds under former President Joe Biden's administration. The organization was established by DHS in 2005 as one of its Centers of Excellence but was downgraded to Emeritus Center status in 2018.
Ryan Mauro, a national security expert at Capital Research Center, explained that START's approach reflects broader issues within counter-terrorism studies. He noted the existence of political echo chambers that influence how different groups analyze and present extremism data.
Students for Life President Kristan Hawkins shared her perspective on the funding cut:
Pretending that you're a 'terrorist tracker' or some kind of champion for democracy while putting a target on fellow citizens represents a whole new level of hypocrisy and social violence. We've reached a point in which it takes real courage for young people to stand up for the preborn and their mothers in the public square, which should make those at START feel shame.
Mauro suggested that researchers should view America's terror threats as part of a broader "Seditionist Movement" that spans various political ideologies. He emphasized the importance of analyzing extremism proportionally and fairly across different groups.
The database was intended to train over 15,000 state, local, and territorial law enforcement officers before its shutdown. START responded to criticism by adding disclaimers that its website does not represent official government positions.
Experts argue that tracking terrorist trends requires continuous updates as new information emerges about incidents, making comprehensive and unbiased documentation challenging.
The Trump administration's decision to cut START's funding marks a significant shift in how the federal government approaches extremism research and documentation. The controversy surrounding START's database highlights ongoing debates about bias in terrorism studies and the challenges of objectively documenting politically motivated violence. The organization's future remains uncertain as it appeals the funding cut, while law enforcement agencies must seek alternative resources for tracking and understanding patterns of targeted violence in the United States.
An illegal immigrant convicted in the deaths of two California teenagers faces new federal charges following public outcry over his planned early release.
According to Fox News, Oscar Eduardo Ortega-Anguiano, who was set to be released after serving only 3.5 years of his 10-year sentence for a deadly drunk driving crash, now faces up to 20 years in federal prison on immigration charges.
The Trump administration's swift action comes after revelations that the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation planned to release Ortega-Anguiano on July 19, despite his conviction for killing 19-year-olds Anya Varfolomeev and Nicholay Osokin in a high-speed crash while driving under the influence.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California announced felony immigration charges against Ortega-Anguiano under 8 USC 1326. The charges represent a direct challenge to California's decision to grant early release. Attorney General Pam Bondi has pledged to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure maximum punishment.
Border czar Tom Homan made clear that federal authorities would not allow Ortega-Anguiano to evade custody, even if California refuses to honor ICE's detainer. ICE officials plan to apprehend him immediately upon release if necessary. The case highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and California's sanctuary policies.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation defended its early release decision, citing credits earned through rehabilitation programs. However, they declined to provide specific details about Ortega-Anguiano's release date or location, citing security protocols.
Anatoly Varfolomeev, father of victim Anya, expressed outrage at the state's decision. He emphasized the devastating loss of two promising young lives.
Pavel Osokin, father of Nicholay, shared his frustration with the justice system and what he views as an inadequate sentence:
Three years for killing two kids! It's confusing to me. Why you give them 10 if they're gonna spend five, and then three? Give them three in the beginning, at least we know what to expect. It's sort of spitting in my face.
Both families are actively petitioning state authorities to prevent Ortega-Anguiano's release. They argue that the shortened sentence fails to deliver justice for their children's deaths.
The tragic incident occurred in November 2021 on Orange County's 405 freeway. Ortega-Anguiano was driving at nearly 100 mph while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. His reckless actions resulted in a devastating crash that killed both teenagers, who were trapped in their burning vehicle.
The severity of the crash and Ortega-Anguiano's prior deportation record factored into his original 10-year sentence. He was convicted in spring 2022 on two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The case gained renewed attention when families received notice of his planned release on Easter Sunday.
Without federal intervention, Ortega-Anguiano would have been released to Garden Grove, an Orange County suburb near Los Angeles. The shortened sentence sparked debate about California's criminal justice reforms and their impact on public safety.
Oscar Eduardo Ortega-Anguiano, originally sentenced to 10 years for killing teenagers Anya Varfolomeev and Nicholay Osokin while driving drunk and high in 2021, now faces additional federal charges that could keep him imprisoned for up to 20 years. The Trump administration filed these charges after learning of California's plans to release him in July 2024, just 3.5 years into his sentence. The case has become a flashpoint in ongoing debates over immigration enforcement, with federal authorities promising to take him into custody regardless of California's sanctuary policies.
Immigration agents in Sacramento have apprehended Harpreet Singh, one of India's most wanted fugitives.
According to Fox News, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested Singh on April 16 in Sacramento, California, where he had been living after illegally entering the United States through Arizona in January 2022.
Singh's arrest has drawn attention to significant security concerns as he is allegedly connected to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), a designated foreign terrorist organization. The Indian government has been seeking his capture due to his alleged involvement in planning multiple grenade attacks on police officials and stations in India. His reported ties to senior BKI operative Harwinder Singh Rinda have raised alarm among international security agencies.
The arrest has sparked criticism of the current administration's border policies. After Singh's initial detention by Border Patrol in Arizona, he was released into the U.S. interior despite his alleged terrorist connections.
Tricia McLaughlin, Homeland Security assistant secretary for public affairs, expressed strong concerns about the incident:
The Biden Administration not only let a wanted terrorist into our country, but after he was arrested by Border Patrol agents, they released him into the interior of our country. While shocking, it's not surprising given the Biden administration routinely released unvetted terrorists and criminals into American communities.
The case highlights ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and national security protocols at U.S. borders.
Indian intelligence officials have identified Singh as a key figure in transnational terror operations. His alleged activities include providing terrorist funding and recruitment for BKI, an organization formed in the 1970s.
The charges against Singh in India encompass multiple violent crimes. He allegedly orchestrated extortion operations and made threatening demands across various regions in India.
Law enforcement sources indicate that Singh's connection to BKI leader Harwinder Singh Rinda demonstrates the organization's continued ability to operate across international borders.
Singh remains in ICE custody as his immigration case moves forward. The arrest marks a significant victory for both U.S. and Indian law enforcement agencies.
Immigration officials have confirmed that Singh entered the U.S. illegally on January 27, 2022, through Arizona. After his initial arrest by Border Patrol, he was placed in removal proceedings before being released.
Current proceedings will determine whether Singh faces deportation to India, where he would likely face prosecution for his alleged terrorist activities.
Harpreet Singh's arrest in Sacramento represents a major development in international counterterrorism efforts. The operation successfully removed a high-priority fugitive wanted by Indian authorities for planning grenade attacks on police officials and maintaining connections with the terrorist organization Babbar Khalsa International. As Singh remains in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings, his case highlights the critical importance of border security and proper vetting of individuals entering the United States.