Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez, a 28-year-old active-duty Army soldier, has been arrested on federal charges connected to cocaine distribution in a recent drug raid.
The raid in which the Army soldier was entangled involved an illegal nightclub in Colorado Springs, and it resulted in 114 arrests and the confiscation of narcotics and firearms, as Breitbart reports.
On April 21, the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a surprise operation at an underground nightclub called Warike in Colorado Springs. The raid was part of a larger crackdown initiative headed by the Department of Justice known as "Operation Take Back America," which aims to address illegal immigration and violent crime. During this operation, officers arrested Orona-Rodriguez, who is now facing charges of drug distribution and conspiracy.
Orona-Rodriguez is alleged to have sold cocaine to an undercover DEA agent during the course of a week, leading to his arrest. Federal investigators found text messages on his phone, suggesting that he had been involved in cocaine transactions dating back to Sept. 16, 2024. These communications indicate a pattern of regular drug activity.
Warike, the nightclub where Orona-Rodriguez allegedly conducted these sales, has been under suspicion for criminal activities. It has frequently been the source of emergency calls involving violence and narcotics. These activities prompted law enforcement to increase their monitoring and ultimately led to the recent raid.
Interestingly, among those arrested during the raid were 17 active-duty members of the U.S. Army, revealing a concerning connection between the military and illegal activities at the venue. Orona-Rodriguez’s involvement extends beyond drug distribution, as he is linked with Immortal Security LLC, a company that provides armed security services to nightclubs.
The connection between Immortal Security LLC and criminal networks in establishments like Warike raises questions about the extent of illegal operations protected under the guise of legitimate security. Law enforcement officials are delving deeper into these ties as the investigation continues.
The Denver FBI Field Office, along with the DEA's Colorado Springs Resident Office, is conducting an extensive investigation into this matter. They are working closely with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Colorado to ensure all angles are covered. The raid and subsequent arrests highlight the ongoing efforts to curtail illegal activities as part of broader national operations.
As officials stated, "This case is part of President Trump’s 'Operation Take Back America,' a multi-faceted strategy leveraging the Department of Justice’s extensive resources to combat illegal immigration and eliminate transnational criminal organizations." The emphasis of the operation is also on safeguarding communities from violence.
The large number of arrests -- 114 individuals -- during the nightclub raid underscores the significance of this operation and the scale of the problem being addressed. Many of those arrested were identified as illegal aliens, further highlighting the complexities of the issues at the heart of Operation Take Back America.
Public reaction to the arrests and the broader implications of military involvement in such illegal activities have sparked a mix of concern and support. The ongoing judicial process will undoubtedly shed light on the specifics of the charges and the nature of the military personnel’s participation.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case against Orona-Rodriguez will be closely watched. His military affiliation raises questions about the impact and reach of criminal networks, as well as the responsibility of military personnel in civilian spaces. The complexity of the charges requires careful examination to ensure a fair trial process.
The ramifications of this case extend beyond the immediate legal consequences. It touches on larger themes of military conduct, the integrity of armed forces members, and the broader societal issues of drug distribution and illegal immigration.
Authorities involved in the case are committed to thoroughly investigating all aspects and hold those responsible accountable. President Donald Trump’s operation will likely lead to tighter control and further actions against those involved in criminal networks nationwide.
The Trump administration is seeking the intervention of the U.S. Supreme Court after an injunction by a Maryland judge blocked the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing personal data held by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
The administration's emergency request follows an unsuccessful appeal to the 4th Circuit Court, which upheld the district judge’s decision in a close 9-6 ruling, as The Hill reports.
The initial injunction came from U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander, who determined that the methods proposed by the DOGE to access SSA's personal data were problematic, though their objectives were laudable. Judge Hollander’s decision allowed access only to redacted or anonymized data, provided that DOGE personnel received adequate training. She maintained that the measures put in place were necessary to protect sensitive personal information.
Solicitor General D. John Sauer, representing the Trump administration, argued that the restrictive ruling significantly hindered federal efforts to eliminate waste and fraud. In the emergency application to the Supreme Court, Sauer criticized the sweeping nature of the injunction, suggesting it severely impeded not just federal priorities but the proper functioning of the Executive Branch as well.
The contested access stems from the Department of Government Efficiency's mission to modernize government systems and cut down on inefficiencies. However, the coalition of government unions, backed by Democracy Forward, contested this access, citing concerns over privacy law violations. They argue that personal identifiable information, managed by the SSA, warrants strong legal protections.
The coalition's resistance to DOGE's data access reflects broader privacy debates that have become increasingly poignant in the digital era. Managing citizens’ personal data responsibly has posed challenges for federal agencies, and this issue underscores the tensions between efficiency and privacy safeguards.
The 4th Circuit's decision to maintain the lower court's injunction represents a significant legal roadblock for the Trump administration. This close 9-6 ruling highlights the contentious nature of the case, with both legal and ethical considerations at play. The coalition against DOGE's request remains steadfast, drawing attention to the risks involved in potentially exposing sensitive data without sufficient oversight.
Against this backdrop, Sauer asserted that preventing agency experts, specifically trained to manage waste and fraud, from performing their duties ultimately weakens federal initiatives. The emergency appeal aims to overturn previous findings and empower the DOGE to proceed with its intended data acquisition.
With the coalition's response to the Supreme Court challenge imminent, the administration is keenly awaiting the high court's take on this pivotal issue. The request to the Supreme Court marks a crucial phase in this fast-evolving narrative. The outcomes not only bear immediate implications for DOGE's operational scope but also for privacy policies across federal entities.
Legal experts suggest that the Supreme Court's response could establish a precedent for how federal agencies handle similar privacy issues in the future. It may well chart new territories in balancing government operational efficiencies with individual data rights.
The decision to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court underscores its urgency from the Trump administration's perspective, viewing the injunction as a significant impediment to its objectives. While the administration’s focus on fraud and waste reduction is uncontested, the methodology has met with substantial legal opposition rooted in privacy concerns.
The saga illustrates broader challenges faced by federal institutions as they navigate an increasingly digital landscape. The need for a robust intersection between technology and privacy law is more crucial than ever. Such legal disputes highlight the ongoing dialogue about governmental access to data versus citizens' rights to privacy -- a conversation likely to continue beyond this specific case.
While the Trump administration awaits the coalition's rebuttal due on Monday, all eyes are on the Supreme Court to determine the balance of power and responsibility. The road ahead promises to be complex, with the high court's decision potentially reshaping the contours of government efficiency and privacy protection.
Four House Democrats have withdrawn their support from a resolution seeking to impeach President Donald Trump.
According to the Washington Examiner, Representatives Robin Kelly, Kweisi Mfume, Jan Schakowsky, and Jerry Nadler removed their names as co-sponsors of the impeachment resolution after discovering it had not received proper approval through Democratic leadership channels.
The resolution, introduced by Representative Shri Thanedar on Monday, contained seven articles of impeachment against Trump, citing allegations of abuse of power, constitutional violations, and tyranny. By Thursday, all four co-sponsors had withdrawn their support, with some claiming they were either mistakenly added or unaware that the measure lacked leadership approval.
A spokesperson for Representative Mfume explained the decision to withdraw support, emphasizing the importance of proper vetting and leadership approval. Kelly's office similarly cited the lack of consultation with the House Judiciary Committee as the primary reason for removing her name from the resolution.
The confusion surrounding the co-sponsorship led to an internal communication from Nadler's legislative director, Andrew Heineman. He urged Democratic staffers to improve communication regarding bill sponsorships to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.
Democratic leadership has expressed reluctance to pursue impeachment proceedings against Trump during his second term despite previous successful impeachment efforts during his first administration.
House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar addressed the situation, acknowledging impeachment as a potential tool while expressing skepticism about Republican support. He said:
Impeachment is, at times, a tool that can be used. This president is no stranger to that; he's been impeached twice. But we don't have any confidence that House and Senate Republicans would do their jobs. And so this is not an exercise that we're willing to undertake.
Representative Becca Balint highlighted the challenges of pursuing impeachment without Republican support, pointing to the limited number of GOP members willing to oppose Trump's administration. She noted:
Republicans didn't do anything when there was an insurrection, when people were fearing for their lives, and they wouldn't vote to convict. The folks in those seats haven't changed.
Several Democratic representatives have privately acknowledged their belief that Trump has committed impeachable offenses. However, they consider the timing inappropriate due to insufficient votes and a perceived lack of Republican courage to support such measures.
The situation has highlighted the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party regarding Trump-related initiatives. Leadership appears focused on more strategic approaches rather than pursuing impeachment without adequate support.
The incident has also sparked discussions about improving internal communication processes among Democratic offices to prevent similar confusion in the future.
The recent impeachment resolution withdrawal marks a significant moment in Democratic Party strategy regarding Trump's presidency. Representative Thanedar became the first Democrat to introduce impeachment articles against Trump in his second term, following two previous impeachment attempts during his first administration.
While Democrats maintain their concerns about Trump's actions, they have chosen to prioritize practical considerations over symbolic gestures, acknowledging the current political landscape's constraints on successful impeachment proceedings.
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.