Author name: Don Palladino

California Set to Spend 28 Times More on Health Benefits for Illegal Aliens Than State Police Funding
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California Set to Spend 28 Times More on Health Benefits for Illegal Aliens Than State Police Funding

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California is projected to spend nearly $10 billion on health benefits for illegal aliens during the 2025–2026 budget period, an amount 28 times greater than what the state plans to allocate for its own law enforcement agencies, according to a new report from the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO).

Governor Gavin Newsom’s finalized state budget sets aside $348 million for law enforcement while designating billions in Medi-Cal funding for illegal immigrants.

The LAO’s findings, released in October, show the cost of providing full health benefits to illegal aliens has surged 35% higher than the $7.4 billion figure Newsom cited in his January 2025 budget proposal.

The report estimates that 1.7 million illegal immigrants are enrolled in Medi-Cal, California’s joint state-federal Medicaid program, representing about 11% of total participants.

These enrollees receive full medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.

Illegal aliens’ health care benefits now account for roughly one-fourth of all state Medi-Cal spending.

Diana Crofts-Pelayo, a spokesperson for Governor Newsom, defended the administration’s spending priorities in a statement to the Daily Caller News Foundation, saying, “The Governor is committed to effective crime reduction, which is why California’s crime rate has been rapidly declining in recent years.”

She added that most law enforcement budgets are “funded primarily through local funding,” citing a February 2025 report that detailed city and county spending on police.

The new figures arrive amid ongoing national debates over taxpayer-funded health care for illegal immigrants and heightened legal disputes surrounding President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy National Guard units to major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities from escalating threats.

Governor Newsom, a vocal critic of President Trump, has long promoted California’s expansive Medicaid policies.

In 2022, he made California the first state to extend full-scope Medicaid coverage to all immigrants meeting income requirements, regardless of legal status.

At the time, Newsom described the move as achieving “universal access to health coverage.”

However, the LAO report indicates that the state’s expansion of Medi-Cal to illegal aliens of all ages has caused program costs to more than double from earlier projections.

While the state is legally required to fund these benefits using state dollars, California has reportedly leveraged complex federal reimbursement mechanisms to secure additional Medicaid funding.

Policy analyst Niklas Kleinworth of the Paragon Health Institute told the Daily Caller News Foundation that the state took advantage of loopholes in federal rules to draw extra Medicaid matching funds.

“What they did was technically legal, so you can’t call it defrauding the government, but it really was an abuse of the intent of the policy,” Kleinworth said.

“They got very crafty.”

Paragon Health Institute, a non-partisan policy organization founded by Brian Blase, a former economic policy adviser to President Trump, reported that even the Biden-Haris administration’s Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) had warned California that its policy was inconsistent with the “intended design” of federal rules.

President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law in July 2024, placed new limits on states’ ability to obtain federal Medicaid dollars through such accounting methods, forcing California to find new revenue sources.

The LAO report notes that Newsom and legislative Democrats spent months negotiating budget adjustments to contain rising costs.

By June 2025, Democrats finalized a plan to freeze new Medi-Cal enrollments for illegal adult residents starting in January 2026.

The plan will also eliminate dental coverage and reduce payments to certain medical clinics. Beginning in July 2027, California will impose a $30 monthly premium for illegal immigrant enrollees — a figure that analysts say remains heavily subsidized compared to the average $650 monthly cost for Californians with employer-sponsored health insurance.

To maintain funding for the expanded Medi-Cal program, the LAO suggested imposing a new tax on uninsured residents, estimated at $900 or more per person annually.

Kleinworth described the proposed premium structure as unrealistic for the broader population.

“The only way a $30 premium exists is through the heavily subsidized Obamacare plans,” he said.

In an interview with Bloomberg in October, Governor Newsom dismissed mounting criticism of the state’s budget priorities, describing it as “California derangement syndrome.”

California’s final 2025–2026 budget underscores a continued divide between the state’s healthcare ambitions and its public safety allocations, as policymakers weigh how to sustain rising costs tied to programs covering noncitizens while facing growing fiscal strain.

Nancy Pelosi Reportedly Calling it Quits After Nearly Four Decades in Congress
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Nancy Pelosi Reportedly Calling it Quits After Nearly Four Decades in Congress

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Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is reportedly preparing to retire from Congress at the end of her current term, according to multiple Democratic officials who spoke with NBC News.

The 85-year-old lawmaker has represented San Francisco’s 11th Congressional District since 1987 and is expected not to seek reelection in 2026.

NBC News reported that “multiple Democratic elected officials and top aides in CA and Washington tell @NBCNews they believe NANCY PELOSI will choose not to seek re-election in 2026, after nearly four decades representing her San Francisco-based district.”

A House Democratic leadership aide told the network, “I think she’s preparing to exit the stage.”

Another California Democrat expressed admiration for her long tenure, saying, “I wish she would stay for 10 more years. I think she’s out. She’s going to go out with Prop 50 overwhelmingly passing, and what a crowning achievement for her to do that.”

Pelosi’s potential retirement would mark the end of one of the longest and most controversial careers in modern congressional history.

First elected in a 1987 special election, Pelosi rose to become the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House, holding the gavel during two separate stints—2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023.

Pelosi played a central role in advancing her party’s legislative priorities and led both impeachment efforts against President Donald Trump during her second tenure as Speaker.

Her leadership often drew fierce criticism from Republicans who accused her of partisan tactics and procedural overreach.

In May 2020, Pelosi authorized the House of Representatives to adopt “proxy voting” for the first time in U.S. history, citing pandemic-related concerns.

The move allowed members to cast votes remotely instead of being physically present on the House floor, a decision opposed by Republicans who argued it violated constitutional requirements for in-person voting.

During the first vote under the new system, 71 Democratic lawmakers participated by proxy.

The practice quickly became a point of contention after reports surfaced that one Maryland Democrat cast seven separate votes on behalf of colleagues in districts he did not represent.

Despite legal and political objections, Pelosi continued to extend proxy voting throughout the remainder of her speakership.

Critics maintained that the system undermined legislative accountability, while Pelosi defended it as a necessary adaptation to safeguard members’ health during the pandemic.

Pelosi’s leadership tenure also included her handling of two impeachment proceedings against President Trump—one in 2019 related to Ukraine and another in early 2021 following the Capitol riot. Both efforts resulted in acquittals by the Senate.

In recent months, Pelosi’s public appearances have sparked renewed discussion about her political future.

Last month, during an interview with NBC Boston, she made headlines for using profanity twice when responding to questions about political polarization and her party’s messaging.

If Pelosi chooses not to run again, her departure would open a powerful seat in a strongly Democratic district that she has dominated for nearly four decades.

The timing of her exit would also coincide with broader generational changes within the Democratic Party, as several long-serving members of Congress approach retirement.

Kathy Hochul Nearly ‘Booed Off Stage,’ Turns It Into Her Own ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ Moment
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Kathy Hochul Nearly ‘Booed Off Stage,’ Turns It Into Her Own ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ Moment

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul faced an awkward moment during a campaign appearance with state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani when she was loudly heckled by supporters chanting “tax the rich” as she stood on stage.

The incident occurred over the weekend during a rally in Queens, where Hochul appeared to lend her support to Mamdani’s election bid.

Videos from the event show the crowd repeatedly shouting the slogan while Hochul stood beside the assemblyman.

As the chants grew louder, Mamdani approached the governor and appeared to escort her off the stage.

The moment quickly spread online, with critics describing the exchange as a public embarrassment for the governor and a sign of growing tensions within the New York Democratic Party.

When questioned about the incident Monday, Hochul attempted to clarify what she thought she had heard. Speaking to a reporter from the New York Post, Hochul said she initially believed the crowd was cheering for the Buffalo Bills football team.

“I thought they were saying ‘Let’s Go Bills,’” she said.

“I wasn’t sure… I heard some noise, I heard a lot of cheers. But later on it became clear to me, I know there is a passion for that.”

The explanation drew widespread attention across New York political circles and social media, where many observers questioned whether Hochul could have mistaken the chant.

Mamdani, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), has been a vocal advocate for higher taxes on wealthy New Yorkers and large corporations.

His “Tax the Rich” campaign slogan has been featured prominently in rallies and legislative proposals calling for increased state revenue through progressive taxation.

Hochul’s decision to campaign with Mamdani highlighted the Democratic governor’s balancing act between the party’s moderate wing and its increasingly vocal socialist faction.

The confrontation comes as Hochul faces growing political pressure ahead of the next gubernatorial race.

Recent polling has shown a tightening margin between Hochul and Republican challenger Elise Stefanik, who has served as chair of the House Republican Conference.

Stefanik’s rising profile and focus on economic issues have made her a formidable opponent in what could become one of the most closely watched state contests in the country.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has also warned that the Democratic Party risks alienating moderate voters by embracing candidates from the Democratic Socialists of America.

In recent interviews, Cuomo cited figures such as Mamdani in New York and Omar Fateh in Minneapolis as examples of a movement that could damage the party’s long-term viability.

The DSA has gained influence in several major metropolitan areas, including New York City, by supporting progressive candidates in local and state elections.

Mamdani, who represents the 36th Assembly District in Queens, has championed rent control expansions, climate initiatives, and redistribution measures that have placed him at odds with more centrist Democrats.

Hochul’s appearance alongside Mamdani was intended to demonstrate party unity but instead drew renewed attention to ideological rifts among New York Democrats.

The governor has not issued any further statements regarding the rally incident or her comments to the Post.

The event marks the latest in a series of challenges for Hochul as she navigates pressure from both the left and right while managing a divided legislature and a struggling state economy.

VA Dem Gov Candidate Admits Politics Are More Important Than Virginians’ Jobs
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VA Dem Gov Candidate Admits Politics Are More Important Than Virginians’ Jobs

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Rep. Abigail Spanberger of Virginia said she would not work with President Donald Trump on job creation efforts if she were elected governor, according to comments made during a PBS NewsHour interview this week.

Spanberger, who represents Virginia’s 7th Congressional District and is considered a leading Democratic contender in the 2025 gubernatorial race, made the remarks when asked whether she would collaborate with the White House on policies aimed at boosting employment and economic growth in the state.

When pressed by the interviewer about whether she would coordinate with President Trump to expand job opportunities in Virginia, Spanberger said she would not, comparing cooperation with the administration to “working with the arsonist who burns down the house.”

The exchange drew attention online and from political observers in Richmond, with critics noting that Spanberger’s comments come as the national economy continues to show improvement under the Trump administration.

Major stock indexes have remained strong, inflation has eased from highs earlier in the decade, and interest rates have been reduced following Federal Reserve action to stabilize the lending market.

Spanberger’s statement was interpreted by analysts as a signal that she intends to distance herself from the Trump administration entirely if she wins the governor’s office, even in areas of potential bipartisan cooperation such as workforce development, infrastructure investment, and manufacturing.

The Virginia Democrat has kept a relatively low profile during the early stages of the gubernatorial race, declining numerous press opportunities while focusing on fundraising and regional campaign appearances.

Her campaign platform has centered on public education, clean energy investment, and expanding health care access, while largely avoiding detailed policy discussions involving the White House or federal partnerships.

President Trump’s administration has credited its trade and fiscal policies with helping to sustain U.S. job growth and stabilize consumer markets.

Recent agreements between the United States and Asian trading partners have been framed by the White House as key to strengthening American manufacturing and export competitiveness.

The administration has also cited the expansion of small business incentives and infrastructure grants as evidence of continued economic progress.

Spanberger’s decision to reject cooperation with the president on job creation marks a sharp contrast with previous Virginia governors, both Republican and Democratic, who have traditionally worked with federal agencies and the White House on economic initiatives.

Her comments have also reignited discussion about the Democratic Party’s broader posture toward the Trump administration.

Spanberger, a former CIA officer first elected to Congress in 2018, has positioned herself as a centrist within her party but has often aligned with national Democratic leadership on key votes.

The interview also addressed social policy issues, including Spanberger’s past comments on gender and public accommodations.

During an press conference in September, she was asked about her stance on policies allowing biological males to access women’s locker rooms and restrooms.

Her response drew scrutiny online after she appeared to avoid directly answering whether she supports such measures.

Spanberger’s remarks come as the Virginia gubernatorial race continues to take shape ahead of the state’s 2025 election.

She is expected to formally launch her campaign later this year, joining a growing field of Democratic contenders.

Republicans are expected to highlight her unwillingness to collaborate with the Trump administration as evidence of partisanship heading into what is anticipated to be one of the most closely watched state races in the country.

Eric Adams Expands NYPD to 40,000 Officers, Largest in Decades
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Eric Adams Expands NYPD to 40,000 Officers, Largest in Decades

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New York City Mayor Eric Adams is set to announce a major investment in the New York Police Department that will add 5,000 new uniformed officers by Fiscal Year 2029 — bringing the department’s total force to 40,000, the highest level in 20 years, according to The New York Post.

The Adams administration said the expansion will be phased in over three years, beginning with 300 officers in July 2026. The number will increase to 2,500 by July 2027 and reach the full 5,000 additional officers by July 2028.

“The vast majority of New Yorkers want more police officers on their streets and in their subways, and that is what we are delivering by adding these 5,000 new officers,” Adams said in a statement to The Post.

“With our administration’s investment, we are, once again, using our strong fiscal management to put investments where our values are.”

Adams added that New York City is “on a path to reach 40,000 police officers in the next three years — the highest number of police officers in 20 years.”

According to City Hall, the initiative was secured as part of the November 2025 Financial Plan. The administration will allocate $17.8 million to the NYPD in the upcoming fiscal year to launch the expansion effort, with funding set to increase to $315.8 million by 2029 to support full implementation.

The move marks a major shift in City Hall’s public safety strategy, following years of budget strain and declining police headcount.

The NYPD has been gradually rebuilding its force since Adams took office, with the most recent recruitment drive in August bringing in 2,911 new recruits — the department’s largest class since 2006. Another academy class is scheduled to graduate later this year.

Once the plan is complete, the NYPD will have the largest number of officers since the early 2000s, when the department’s headcount peaked amid citywide security initiatives following the 9/11 attacks.

4kclips – Shutterstock.com

Officials say the new investment will help strengthen public safety, reduce response times, and increase police presence across neighborhoods, subways, and public spaces.

City budget analysts expect the new officers to be distributed across all five boroughs, with a focus on high-crime areas, transit safety, and community policing. The recruitment and training process will take place through the NYPD Police Academy in Queens.

The Adams administration’s proposal is expected to be formally introduced on Friday during a City Hall press event outlining next year’s public safety priorities.

Whoopi Goldberg Stuns ‘The View’ Audience Announcing Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Upcoming Appearance
Entertainment

Whoopi Goldberg Stuns ‘The View’ Audience Announcing Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Upcoming Appearance

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ABC’s The View surprised its studio audience on Wednesday when co-host Whoopi Goldberg announced that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) will appear on the show next week, as reported by The New York Post.

Goldberg revealed the news live on air, noting that Greene — a close ally of President Donald Trump — is scheduled to join the panel on Tuesday. The announcement drew an audible gasp from someone in the audience, followed by applause.

“People in Washington are starting to say ‘my constituents,’” Goldberg said during the segment. “You know, they’re starting to remember why they’re there. Marjorie Taylor Greene — I’m happy to say that she’s going to be here on Tuesday.”

Co-host Joy Behar chimed in, pointing out that Greene’s appearance “happens to be on Election Day.” Goldberg added that while she and Greene may not see eye to eye on many issues, they share at least one concern about the ongoing government shutdown, which entered its 31st day this week.

“I don’t know how many things we agree on,” Goldberg said, “but I know the one thing that she and I and all of us at this table agree on is this should not be affecting the American people.”

The View panel — which includes Goldberg, Behar, Sunny Hostin, Sara Haines, Alyssa Farah Griffin, and Ana Navarro — has rarely hosted prominent conservative lawmakers.

The show is known for its liberal-leaning commentary, often sparking heated political exchanges. Greene’s upcoming appearance marks a rare outreach moment between the outspoken congresswoman and one of television’s most consistently left-leaning programs.

Earlier this month, Goldberg called Greene “a very surprising voice of reason,” after the Georgia representative broke from Republican ranks by supporting the renewal of Obamacare tax credits — a key point of contention in the budget standoff.

“What the hell is going on?” Goldberg said during that broadcast.

Behar also acknowledged Greene’s personal stake in the debate. “She also has a couple of kids who need — the insurance premiums are going up, so it’s very personal to her,” Behar said. “You know, I’ll take it.”

TV Personality Joy Behar, the View co-host

In a social media post earlier this month, Greene clarified her stance on the issue, saying she remains opposed to Obamacare but wants to protect her constituents from rising costs.

“I’m not a fan of Obamacare,” she wrote. “But I’m going to go against everyone on this issue because when the tax credits expire this year my own adult children’s insurance premiums for 2026 are going to DOUBLE, along with all the wonderful families and hard-working people in my district.”

Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin also joked during an earlier segment, “It’s a dark day when Marjorie Taylor Greene is the voice of reason.” After Goldberg said she had never heard the saying, Griffin added, “A blind squirrel finds a nut every now and then.”

Greene’s scheduled appearance is expected to be one of the show’s most closely watched interviews of the season.

Florida Congressman Randy Fine Vows to Block Welfare Benefits for Noncitizens: ‘If You Want Free Stuff, Go Home’
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Florida Congressman Randy Fine Vows to Block Welfare Benefits for Noncitizens: ‘If You Want Free Stuff, Go Home’

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Florida Republican Rep. Randy Fine announced this week that he plans to introduce federal legislation to bar noncitizens from accessing welfare programs, declaring that taxpayer-funded benefits should be reserved exclusively for American citizens, as reported by Fox News.

“I am going to introduce a bill to ban all non-citizens from any form of welfare. No Food Stamps. No Section 8 housing. No Medicaid. No Cash Assistance. Not one penny. Not one. If you want free stuff, go home,” Fine wrote in a post on X.

Fine’s proposal comes as national debates continue over taxpayer-funded benefits and the strain of illegal immigration on social services.

His legislation would apply to all categories of noncitizens, including those in the country illegally, visa holders, and individuals with temporary protected status.

The congressman, who previously served in the Florida House of Representatives, won a special election earlier this year to represent Florida’s 6th Congressional District.

His election was endorsed by President Donald Trump, who at the time wrote on Truth Social, “Should he decide to enter this Race, Randy Fine has my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, RANDY, RUN!”

Trump has since reaffirmed his support, recently posting that Fine “is doing a fantastic job representing Florida’s 6th Congressional District” and giving him his “Complete and Total Endorsement.”

Fine also recently introduced a separate measure to bar individuals with dual or foreign citizenship from serving in Congress, arguing that elected officials should hold allegiance solely to the United States.

“No person, without regard to whether that person is a United States national, may be elected to the office of Representative or Senator if that person is a national of any country other than the United States,” the bill reads.

Explaining the rationale, Fine stated, “In a globalized world, dual citizenship is more common than ever, and while that’s fine for private citizens, it’s not acceptable for lawmakers entrusted with America’s national interests.”

Fine’s welfare proposal is expected to face strong opposition from Democrats, who have supported extending access to public benefits for certain noncitizen groups, particularly in sanctuary states.

Republican lawmakers, however, have increasingly pushed to limit public assistance to citizens only, citing budget pressures and national security concerns.

Fine’s latest proposal aligns with President Trump’s broader immigration and fiscal priorities, which emphasize prioritizing Americans in public policy decisions and ensuring that federal aid programs are not extended to foreign nationals.

Fine has not yet announced when the welfare legislation will be formally introduced, but said it will be a top priority in the upcoming congressional session.

Whistleblower: ‘Entire Republican Apparatus’ Targeted by Jack Smith with 197 Subpoenas
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Whistleblower: ‘Entire Republican Apparatus’ Targeted by Jack Smith with 197 Subpoenas

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Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley announced Wednesday that former Special Counsel Jack Smith and his team issued nearly 200 subpoenas as part of a wide-reaching federal investigation that he said targeted “the entire Republican apparatus.”

Speaking at a press conference on Capitol Hill, Grassley detailed new disclosures showing that the Department of Justice and the FBI used their authority to investigate Donald Trump, former Vice President Mike Pence, and multiple conservative organizations through an operation known as “Arctic Frost.”

According to internal DOJ and FBI documents first released earlier this year, the probe was launched in April 2022 and focused on Trump’s post-2020 election activities, including the alternate elector efforts in several battleground states.

As part of the investigation, agents reportedly seized government-issued cell phones belonging to both Trump and Pence and conducted numerous interviews across the country.

Grassley said the newly obtained materials indicate that the operation extended far beyond those directly connected to the Trump campaign, reaching into conservative networks, donors, and affiliated organizations.

“I’ve obtained through legally protected whistleblower disclosures,” Grassley said, “197 subpoenas were issued by Jack Smith and his team. These subpoenas were issued to 34 individuals and 163 businesses, including financial institutions.”

Grassley said the subpoenas sought information and communications relating to more than 430 individuals and organizations, all tied in some way to Republican or conservative activity.

The list reportedly includes entities such as Turning Point USA and the Republican Attorneys General Association.

Grassley identified former FBI agent Walter Giardina as one of the main points of contact named in many of the subpoenas.

“One subpoena to Apple sought records related to Trump and the ‘January 6th Prison Choir,’” Grassley said, referring to a group of inmates who were detained for their involvement in the Capitol breach.

“Some subpoenas to individuals and businesses sought statistical data and analysis relating to donors and fundraising efforts,” Grassley continued.

“Contrary to what Smith has said publicly, this was a fishing expedition.”

Grassley said the scale of the operation demonstrates that the special counsel’s team used investigative tools beyond what was justified by the stated purpose of the inquiry.

“If this had happened to Democrats, they’d be as rightly outraged as we are outraged,” Grassley said.

According to Grassley, the records show that the Department of Justice used taxpayer funding to execute the operation under the Biden-Harris administration, targeting political opponents under the pretext of an ongoing criminal investigation.

“Operation Arctic Frost” was one of several federal efforts that have drawn scrutiny from Republican lawmakers over concerns about the politicization of federal law enforcement.

In response to Grassley’s remarks, President Trump issued a statement on Wednesday calling for investigations into the officials involved in “Operation Arctic Frost” and related cases.

“Former FBI Agent Walter Giardina is a DIRTY COP! He should be, along with Deranged Jack Smith, the sinister team of Lisa Monaco and Andrew Weissmann, Liddle’ Jay Bratt, Norm Eisen and his FAKE Charity, CREW, Christopher Wray, Merrick Garland, Thomas Windom, who dreamt up the corrupt J-6 Witch Hunt, should be investigated, immediately,” Trump said.

“They are a disgrace to our Nation,” Trump added.

“Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The Justice Department has not publicly commented on Grassley’s disclosures. Congressional aides said the Senate Judiciary Committee plans to request additional documents from the DOJ and FBI to determine whether political considerations influenced the scope of “Operation Arctic Frost.”

Grassley’s findings come amid a broader congressional review of past and ongoing Justice Department investigations involving political figures and campaigns.

Lawmakers are expected to question senior DOJ and FBI officials about the program’s authorization and oversight in upcoming hearings.

Blakeman Vows to Expand Police Force, Strengthen ICE Partnership if Mamdani Wins NYC Race
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Blakeman Vows to Expand Police Force, Strengthen ICE Partnership if Mamdani Wins NYC Race

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Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced plans to increase police hiring and expand cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani wins the New York City mayoral election, as reported by The New York Post.

Blakeman, a Republican seeking re-election this month, made the pledge as part of an effort to attract residents and businesses from New York City to Nassau County, according to his spokesman, Chris Boyle.

“In the unfortunate event of a Mamdani win, [Blakeman] will hire more police officers, increase cooperation with [U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement], and actively encourage people and businesses to move to the safest county in America,” Boyle told The New York Post.

Boyle declined to elaborate on specific steps the county would take to enhance its existing collaboration with ICE. Nassau’s current agreement with the federal agency, signed in February, has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and activist groups who have filed lawsuits opposing the program.

The county’s partnership with ICE includes deputizing 10 detectives to work directly with federal immigration officers and detaining approximately 3,000 individuals in its correctional facilities as part of ongoing efforts to support the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

While the arrangement has received praise from law enforcement advocates and residents concerned about rising crime in nearby New York City, it has been met with strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers and pro-migrant groups who favor “sanctuary” policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Blakeman’s Democratic challenger, Nassau Legislator Seth Koslow, has vowed to terminate the county’s agreement with ICE if he wins the upcoming election. Koslow has argued that the program creates fear among immigrant communities and exposes the county to potential legal challenges.

Mamdani, who represents Astoria, Queens, in the New York State Assembly, has gained significant traction in his mayoral campaign as the Democratic nominee. His platform includes support for sanctuary protections, reduced policing, and expanded city-funded migrant aid programs.

Zohran Kwame Mamdani is a New York State Assemblymember and democratic socialist running for Mayor. New York, US – 04 July 2025

The New York City race has become increasingly competitive as former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican activist Curtis Sliwa both mount independent bids, drawing attention from voters dissatisfied with the city’s current direction.

Blakeman’s remarks come as suburban officials across the region voice concerns about potential spillover effects from New York City’s ongoing public safety and migrant crises.

Nassau County, which has branded itself as one of the “safest counties in America,” continues to emphasize its focus on law enforcement cooperation and local security.

Sean Duffy is ‘Over It’ as Shutdown Drags On and Air Traffic Controllers Go Unpaid
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Sean Duffy is ‘Over It’ as Shutdown Drags On and Air Traffic Controllers Go Unpaid

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Air traffic controllers across the United States missed their first full paycheck on Tuesday as the government shutdown entered its 28th day, according to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, as reported by Fox News.

During an appearance on “Fox & Friends,” Duffy said the situation is increasingly difficult for thousands of federal employees who continue working without pay. “Today is the first day that air traffic controllers don’t get any money,” he said.

Rep. Sean Duffy speaks during a President Donald J. Trump’s Make America Great Again Rally on Saturday, April 27, 2019, at the Resch Center in Green Bay, Wis.

“The first day is hard, but the second day is even harder than that. And the third day. Because they have gas, they have childcare costs.”

Duffy shared that he had personally spoken to one controller who described the financial strain his family was facing.

“I had one controller tell me, ‘my 10-year-old daughter made the traveling volleyball team, and it cost hundreds of dollars. I had to tell her I couldn’t pay the money because I don’t have a check coming in. I have to put food on the table.'”

Duffy praised the professionalism of air traffic controllers who continue to show up to work without pay. “You are safe to fly because these controllers come in, they’re the most amazing professionals. They do their job, they keep you safe,” he said.

“But again, I don’t want them driving DoorDash. I don’t want them going to the food bank. I want them focused on keeping you safe.”

Roughly 13,000 air traffic controllers are employed nationwide. They are classified as essential workers, which requires them to continue working during a government shutdown without pay until back pay is issued after the shutdown ends.

Many already work six-day weeks due to a long-standing shortage in the aviation workforce.

The Senate is expected to consider legislation this week from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, that would provide pay for air traffic controllers during the shutdown. However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has not yet brought the measure forward for a vote.

“We’ll see what the temperature is of our senators,” Thune said, noting that reopening the government would be the simplest way to restore full pay to all federal employees.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., dismissed Republican criticism of Democrats for failing to approve temporary funding measures.

“Air traffic controllers have been really admirable in coming to work and doing their job,” he told Fox News Digital, adding that Democrats oppose piecemeal bills that fund select parts of the government.

Cruz criticized Senate Democrats for blocking the proposal, calling their inaction “reckless.” “The Democrats not paying air traffic controllers is reckless,” Cruz said. “This is about keeping our skies safe and ensuring that the people doing the work are paid for it.”

The shutdown continues to impact multiple federal agencies as negotiations over broader funding legislation remain unresolved.


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