Author name: RVM News

Swalwell Ally Ruben Gallego Faces Scrutiny Over Lavish Trips and Donor Cash Spending
News

Swalwell Ally Ruben Gallego Faces Scrutiny Over Lavish Trips and Donor Cash Spending

/

Sen. Ruben Gallego is facing renewed scrutiny over how his campaign-related political committees have spent donor funds after reports highlighted expenditures on family travel, childcare expenses, and fundraising events, including a Super Bowl trip organized with former Rep. Eric Swalwell, as reported by Fox News.

According to campaign finance records reviewed by Politico, Gallego’s leadership PAC and campaign committees paid for travel to destinations including Saint Barthélemy, Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Miami, and Chicago.

A source familiar with the senator’s finances told the outlet that Gallego frequently traveled with family members and used donor funds to help cover childcare expenses.

“He just spends his campaign account like it’s his personal slush fund,” the source told Politico.

“He’s using campaign cash to live a luxury lifestyle.”

Campaign finance filings show that Gallego’s campaign and leadership PAC collectively spent more than $18,000 on childcare-related costs. Among the expenditures was a $400 payment to his wife’s mother.

Gallego defended the spending, telling Politico that such expenses are permitted under federal campaign finance rules.

“This is not breaking news,” Gallego said.

“With the rising costs of childcare and the burden it has on the budgets of American families, Democrats and Republicans in Congress and the White House alike regularly travel with their wives and children, as is permitted by the FEC.”

One of the more notable expenditures involved a joint fundraising committee established by Gallego and Swalwell. Records show the committee purchased tickets to Super Bowl LVII in 2023 as part of a donor fundraising event.

According to reports, the event cost more than $37,000 and offered contributors the opportunity to attend the game and participate in a brunch with the lawmakers in exchange for qualifying donations.

The fundraising effort reportedly generated just under $8,000 in profit for each lawmaker before the committee ceased operations.

A spokesperson for Gallego told Politico that the “tickets were purchased at fair market value” and added that “hosting donors and supporters at sporting events in their areas is a common, bipartisan practice.”

The report also examined travel expenditures tied to Gallego’s leadership PAC. A source familiar with the spending told Politico that a trip to Saint Barthélemy was connected to a birthday celebration for the employer of Gallego’s wife.

The same source alleged that a trip to Miami, which included approximately $9,000 in charges at a beachfront hotel, coincided with his wife’s birthday.

Gallego’s office disputed suggestions that the trips were personal in nature. A spokesperson told Politico that the Saint Barthélemy travel was part of “a multi-stop political and fundraising swing — as senators regularly do.”

Regarding the Miami trip, the spokesperson said Gallego and his wife “attended several widely attended political events and fundraisers.”

Federal campaign finance law prohibits lawmakers from using funds from their principal campaign committees for personal expenses unrelated to campaign activities. Leadership PACs, however, operate under broader spending rules that permit expenditures connected to fundraising efforts.

Reports noted there is no indication that any of Gallego’s leadership PAC expenditures violated federal law.

The controversy comes as Gallego is reportedly weighing a possible presidential campaign in 2028 following his 2024 Senate victory in Arizona.

According to Politico, some individuals within his political circle have privately expressed concerns about how he would fare under the intense scrutiny of a national campaign.

His longtime friendship with Swalwell has also drawn attention. Swalwell suspended his campaign for California governor and resigned from Congress following allegations of sexual misconduct.

Separately, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has urged the Senate to investigate Gallego over allegations involving sexual misconduct and campaign finance issues. Gallego has denied the accusations.

IRS records reviewed by Politico show that Gallego established a legal defense fund last month.

“Any person close to Gallego would know that he is one of the most vetted candidates after his tough 2024 campaign, where millions of dollars were spent against him,” said Jacques Petit, Gallego’s communications director.

“Despite that, he overperformed the top of the ticket. Now he is focused on delivering for Arizonans and electing Democrats in 2026.”

Fox News Digital reported that Gallego did not respond to its request for comment.

Joy Reid Declares She Will Boycott Any Democrat Who Keeps Ties With Israel [WATCH]
News

Joy Reid Declares She Will Boycott Any Democrat Who Keeps Ties With Israel [WATCH]

/

Former MSNBC host Joy Reid said she will no longer vote for Democratic candidates who refuse to support ending the United States’ relationship with Israel, marking a significant shift in her political stance during a recent podcast discussion, as reported by Fox News.

Reid made the comments during a conversation with author Ta-Nehisi Coates, where the two discussed the Democratic Party, the 2024 election, and U.S. policy toward Israel.

During the discussion, Reid argued that Democratic leaders have remained firmly supportive of Israel and suggested that the party has been unwilling to distance itself from that position.

“The Democratic Party is as married to this Israel over everything. Israel, no matter what, Israel, no matter what they do, no matter how many people they kill, the Democrats were as married to that as the Republicans. And so it would take a really strong Democrat. It would take a Mamdani-style event to get a Democrat to say that they weren’t getting down with that,” Reid said.

The conversation also touched on voting patterns during the 2024 election. Coates argued that many Arab-American and Muslim-American voters supported President Donald Trump as a reaction to the policies of the Biden-Harris administration.

Reid then stated that support for ending the U.S.-Israel relationship would now be a requirement for earning her vote.

“But to me, I, going forward, cannot vote for a Democrat who does not pledge to end this relationship. This relationship needs to end. This is a nuclear-armed expansionist power. They don’t need our money, and they definitely won’t get my vote,” she said.

youtube.com/watch?v=ho_PpNDSyCg&time_continue=1781&source_ve_path=OTY3MTQ&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mediaite.com%2F

The remarks represent one of Reid’s strongest public statements on foreign policy since departing MSNBC. Her show was canceled during a programming overhaul in February 2025.

Later that year, Comcast completed a corporate restructuring that separated MSNBC from NBC as part of the creation of a new company known as Versant. MSNBC subsequently became MS NOW following the separation.

Reid has remained active in political commentary through public appearances and podcast interviews since leaving the network.

Earlier this month, she appeared at the “Rise Up, Sing Out: A Concert for the First Amendment” event in New York City, where she criticized President Donald Trump and expressed concerns about the future of American media.

During her remarks, Reid said, “The threat is not coming, friends – it is here.”

She also referenced several media figures and organizations while criticizing developments within the news industry.

“Don Lemon arrested, Georgia Fort arrested, Terry Moran fired from ABC, Scott Pelley fired from CBS by the clack [sic] of far-right ideologues who bought it and handed it over to a zealot named Bari Weiss, who may soon — she earned those boos — she may soon also control CNN,” Reid said.

After listing additional examples, she added, “This is corporate media on its knees. A handful of billionaires consolidating local stations, newspapers, national networks, turning American journalism into what they hope will become a U.S. version of North Korea.”

Reid has also recently commented on sports and politics. Earlier this month, she said she could no longer support the New York Giants after quarterback Jaxson Dart introduced President Trump during a public event.

“I was, you know, really kind of repulsed as a Giants fan — former now — because the reality is Donald Trump is not a normal president,” Reid said during an interview with podcast host Jack Cocchiarella.

“Donald Trump is not an American president. Donald Trump is a wannabe king. And we’re in the 250th anniversary of our divorce from the king of England. And Donald Trump is trying to be a king.”

Reid’s latest comments regarding Israel add another issue to a growing list of disagreements between progressive activists and more traditional Democratic Party leaders.

Her remarks also highlight ongoing debates within the party over foreign policy, particularly U.S. support for Israel and America’s role in the Middle East.

Priest Tells Trump to ‘Shut Up’ After Chicago Bloodbath as City Avoids Real Accountability [WATCH]
News

Priest Tells Trump to ‘Shut Up’ After Chicago Bloodbath as City Avoids Real Accountability [WATCH]

/

A Chicago priest publicly criticized President Donald Trump after the president commented on a violent weekend in the city that left six people dead and dozens more injured, reigniting a debate over crime policy, federal intervention, and funding for violence prevention programs, as reported by Fox News.

The dispute followed a weekend in which Chicago recorded 24 separate shootings between 6 p.m. Friday and 11:59 p.m. Sunday, according to the Chicago Police Department. Authorities reported 39 shooting victims, including six fatalities.

Trump addressed the violence in a post on Truth Social Sunday, arguing that federal assistance could quickly reduce crime in the city.

“Lots of Killing going on in Chicago. 22 people shot, at least 4 Dead,” Trump wrote.

“Why isn’t Governor Pritzker calling me for help. I could make Chicago a safe City in ONE MONTH, in ONE YEAR, it would be one of the safest!!! D.C. went from one of the worst to one of the safest cities in the U.S., President DJT.”

Trump’s comments came amid continuing criticism of crime levels in Chicago and his previous calls for stronger federal involvement in public safety efforts.

On Monday, Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Catholic Church on Chicago’s South Side responded to the president’s remarks during a gathering of community leaders and local officials.

“I hear this morning on the news that Donald Trump said he wants to send people,” Pfleger said.

“He’ll solve the gun violence in a month. First of all, the man lies every day.”

Pfleger also criticized Trump over other issues before turning to violence prevention funding.

“The reflecting pool was good for 50 years,” Pfleger added.

“And Iran was going to be solved in a month. Shut up, Donald. Just send money and restore the money you took away from gun violence prevention for the city of Chicago and across this country. Give the money back now.”

The comments came as community organizations, faith leaders, and city officials gathered at Chicago City Hall to support the creation of a Department of Gun Violence Prevention.

According to local reports, the proposed agency would focus exclusively on coordinating anti-violence initiatives and developing strategies aimed at reducing shootings throughout the city.

Supporters of the proposal argued that a dedicated department would improve coordination among existing violence prevention programs and community organizations.

The debate also highlighted broader disagreements between Chicago officials and the Trump administration over how best to address crime.

State and local leaders have generally favored increased investment in community-based programs, while Trump and his allies have advocated for more aggressive law enforcement measures and, at times, federal involvement.

White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the administration’s approach in a statement to Fox News Digital.

“President Trump’s bold actions in cities like D.C. and Memphis have dramatically reduced violent crime – local Democrat leaders in Chicago should see the President’s incredible results and be begging him to do the same in Chicago,” Jackson said.

“Chicago residents and visitors would benefit tremendously from the President’s successful efforts to drive down crime and make American cities safe again.”

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also weighed in Monday, criticizing the administration’s policies and calling for additional investment in urban communities.

Johnson said he wished Trump would “follow Chicago’s lead and invest in Black America.”

The mayor argued that federal cuts to various programs have undermined efforts to improve public safety.

“It’s unfortunate that this president has worked overtime to literally defund the efforts that create safer communities,” Johnson said.

“If you look at Donald Trump’s Black agenda, he promises to do all the things that I’m doing, but he’s failed to do it,” the mayor added, referring to hiring more young people, expanding mental health services, and increasing affordable housing initiatives.

The exchange underscores continuing tensions between Chicago leaders and the Trump administration as officials debate the causes of violent crime and the most effective strategies for reducing it.

With city leaders pushing for additional prevention programs and the White House pointing to law-enforcement-based approaches, the discussion is likely to continue as Chicago confronts ongoing public safety challenges.

Teen Gunman Opens Fire in California Library Killing Two and Wounding Child in Chilling Attack [WATCH]
News

Teen Gunman Opens Fire in California Library Killing Two and Wounding Child in Chilling Attack [WATCH]

/

An 18-year-old suspect is in custody after a shooting at a public library in Northern California left two people dead and a child injured on Monday evening, according to law enforcement officials, as reported by The New York Post.

Authorities said the shooting occurred shortly after 5 p.m. at a library in Butte County.

Police were dispatched after receiving reports of an active shooter, including a 911 call in which dispatchers could hear screams and gunfire from inside the building.

Officers responded to the scene within minutes and located the suspected gunman as he attempted to leave through a rear exit of the facility. Authorities identified the suspect as Bradley Scott Sayer, an 18-year-old resident of Chico.

Sayer was taken into custody without further incident and later booked into the Butte County Jail on two counts of murder. Investigators said additional charges could be considered as the case moves forward.

The shooting remains under investigation by the Chico Police Department, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

During a news conference Monday night, Chico Police Chief Billy Aldridge addressed the incident and its impact on the community.

“The incident tonight was obviously very sad and very traumatic for a lot of people — very traumatic for our community,” Aldridge said.

Investigators said preliminary evidence indicates the suspect acted alone and did not appear to have personally known any of the victims.

According to police, investigators believe Sayer was motivated by a desire to carry out what officials described as a “Columbine High School massacre-type of shooting.”

Authorities have not publicly released additional details regarding the suspect’s background or how investigators reached that conclusion.

Officials said the investigation remains active and that detectives are continuing to gather evidence and conduct interviews.

The shooting took place at a library that regularly hosts programs and events for children and teenagers.

Following the incident, officials announced that all Butte County library branches would remain closed on Tuesday as authorities continued their investigation and staff members assessed the aftermath of the shooting.

The identities of the deceased victims have not yet been released publicly pending notification of family members.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statement following the attack.

“Our hearts are with the Chico community tonight,” Newsom said.

“We are grateful to law enforcement for their swift actions to secure the scene and take the suspect into custody. No family should have to endure a tragedy like this.”

State Rep. James Gallagher, whose district includes Chico, also responded to the shooting.

“I am heartbroken by the senseless act of violence in Chico tonight and am praying for the victims, their loved ones, and everyone impacted by this tragedy.”

“Thank you to the brave law enforcement officers and other first responders who responded quickly to protect our community. Chico is strong, and we will stand together in the days ahead,” Gallagher said.

Investigators have not announced a possible motive beyond their initial assessment regarding the suspect’s alleged interest in a mass-casualty attack.

Authorities said detectives are reviewing evidence recovered from the scene and examining any digital records or communications that could help establish a clearer timeline of events.

Police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that officials are “conducting interviews, collecting evidence, and reviewing facts of the case.”

Chico is located approximately 90 miles north of Sacramento. Authorities have asked anyone with information related to the shooting to contact investigators as the case proceeds.

President Trump Vows To End Chicago Violence Fast, Calls Out Pritzker After Bloody Weekend [WATCH]
News

President Trump Vows To End Chicago Violence Fast, Calls Out Pritzker After Bloody Weekend [WATCH]

/

President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of Chicago’s crime problems Monday, arguing that he could address the city’s public safety challenges “fast and permanently” after a weekend in which dozens of people were shot across the city, as reported by The New York Post.

Trump made the comments in a post on Truth Social following reports of widespread violence in Chicago over the weekend.

“At least 39 people injured, 4 dead, in Chicago weekend shootings,” Trump wrote.

“Governor Pritzker, I, as President, can fix this. FAST and Permanently.”

“D.C., Memphis, New Orleans, all down to record lows, and quickly. CALL ME! President DJT.”

Trump’s statement came two days after he similarly suggested that Chicago could become one of the safest cities in the country if federal authorities were given a greater role in addressing crime.

While Trump cited four fatalities in his post, Chicago police reported that six people were killed during the weekend violence, according to local reports.

The violence included a mass shooting in Chicago’s Princeton Park neighborhood during a Juneteenth celebration late Saturday night.

Police said two individuals inside a red SUV opened fire on a crowd shortly after 11 p.m. before fleeing the area.

Authorities initially reported 12 victims before later adding a 26-year-old man who suffered injuries but declined medical treatment. In total, 13 people were injured in the shooting.

Among those injured were a 32-year-old woman who was shot twice in the back and a 44-year-old man whose back was grazed by bullets.

Both were transported to area hospitals and were listed in stable condition.

Police also reported that a 17-year-old boy and a 22-year-old woman suffered gunshot wounds to the thigh, while a 32-year-old man sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

Chicago Alderman Anthony Beale responded to the incident by expressing concern for the community impacted by the shooting.

“I am heartbroken by the senseless shooting,” Beale said.

“In a matter of seconds, an ordinary summer night was shattered by gunfire.”

“Lives were upended, families were thrown into fear, and an entire community was reminded how quickly violence can change everything. No one should have to wonder if they or someone they love will make it home safely. This is the cruel reality of the mindless menace of gun violence in our city.”

Violence was also reported elsewhere across the city. Police said 18-year-old Aniyhas Jackson died after being shot on the West Side Saturday.

Authorities later arrested a 17-year-old boy in connection with that investigation.

In a separate incident, a 21-year-old man was fatally shot on Chicago’s South Side early Sunday morning, according to police.

Chicago has continued to grapple with gun violence despite ongoing crime-reduction efforts.

Police statistics cited by local media earlier this year indicated that more than 500 people had been shot in the city during the opening months of 2026, an increase of approximately 9 percent compared with the same period in 2025.

Trump’s comments quickly drew a response from Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who dismissed the president’s claims and questioned his ability to solve the city’s crime problems.

“This is the president that thought that he could hire an unqualified company to paint the reflecting pool, and then thought that it would just be free of algae. And yet days later, it turned into an algae sea,” Pritzker said.

“And this is the same president that did not know that the Strait of Hormuz could be closed, shuttered essentially, by Iran if he went to war with Iran.”

“I don’t think that we should be listening to this president about promises that he makes or that he has any idea how to protect us in the state of Illinois.”

The exchange reflects an ongoing dispute between Trump and Illinois officials over crime policy and federal involvement in public safety matters.

Trump has repeatedly criticized Chicago’s crime rates in recent years and has suggested federal intervention, including the use of the National Guard, to help restore order.

Last December, the Supreme Court blocked an effort by the Trump administration to deploy the National Guard to Chicago as part of an operation intended to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

The administration had argued that federal law permitted the president to assume control of National Guard forces when regular federal personnel were insufficient to execute federal responsibilities.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court stated: “Thus, at least in this posture, the Government has not carried its burden to show that [the statute in question] permits the President to federalize the Guard in the exercise of inherent authority to protect federal personnel and property in Illinois.”

Pritzker has previously maintained that federal military assistance is not necessary to combat crime in the state.

“We’ve been fighting crime. We’ve been trying to prevent crime, and it’s been working,” the governor said in August 2025.

Deep State Shakeup Erupts as Bill Pulte Fires Intel Officials at DNI Office [WATCH]
News

Deep State Shakeup Erupts as Bill Pulte Fires Intel Officials at DNI Office [WATCH]

/

Personnel changes are underway at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence after Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte began reviewing staffing levels just days after assuming the role, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

According to a source cited by CNN, job cuts at the ODNI began Monday as the Trump administration moves forward with plans to reduce the size of portions of the federal intelligence apparatus.

The source told the network, “The deep state firings have begun,” but declined to provide details regarding the number of employees affected.

CNN correspondent Kristen Holmes reported on X that firings had started at the intelligence office and cited a source familiar with the matter.

The personnel reductions come after President Donald Trump signaled his desire to streamline federal intelligence agencies and reduce bureaucracy within the intelligence community.

While the total number of positions affected remains unclear, the reported cuts represent one of the first major actions taken by Pulte since assuming leadership of the agency.

Pulte, who previously served as a federal housing regulator, reportedly arrived at the ODNI headquarters a day before officially taking over the position.

According to CNN, he requested a list of all employees as part of a review process aimed at determining potential staffing changes.

The report also indicated that Pulte met with attorneys on Thursday evening ahead of formally beginning his duties as Acting Director of National Intelligence on Friday.

The personnel moves come during a transition period within the intelligence community.

Earlier this month, President Trump announced the nomination of Jay Clayton, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, to become the next Director of National Intelligence.

However, Clayton’s confirmation process has been delayed. Trump opted to postpone the nomination vote until the Senate confirms a replacement for Clayton’s current position as U.S. attorney.

As a result, Pulte is expected to continue serving as acting director while the confirmation process unfolds.

The delay gives Pulte additional time to oversee operations at the ODNI and implement administrative changes before a permanent director is confirmed by the Senate.

Pulte’s appointment as acting director also became the subject of a legislative battle on Capitol Hill earlier this month.

Sen. Mark Warner introduced an amendment that would have prevented a Senate-confirmed leader of another federal department from simultaneously serving as Acting Director of National Intelligence.

The proposal received support from all Senate Democrats and three Republican senators. Sens. Bill Cassidy, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski voted in favor of the amendment.

Despite that support, the measure failed on a 49-49 vote, allowing Pulte to remain eligible to serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence.

The ODNI was created following the September 11 terrorist attacks to coordinate the activities of America’s intelligence agencies and provide intelligence assessments to policymakers.

The office oversees coordination among numerous intelligence organizations and plays a central role in national security decision-making.

As staffing changes continue, attention is expected to remain focused on the scope of the personnel reductions and how they may affect operations across the intelligence community while the Senate considers Clayton’s nomination.

Fauci Ducks Senate Testimony as Rand Paul Forces Him to Face the Music With New Subpoena [WATCH]
News

Fauci Ducks Senate Testimony as Rand Paul Forces Him to Face the Music With New Subpoena [WATCH]

/

Sen. Rand Paul announced that he has issued a subpoena compelling Dr. Anthony Fauci to testify before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee next month after Fauci reportedly backed out of a previously agreed-upon voluntary appearance, as reported by Red State.

The move marks the latest chapter in Paul’s long-running effort to question Fauci about decisions made during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing disputes over the origins of the virus, gain-of-function research, and the federal government’s response to the public health crisis.

According to Paul, the subpoena became necessary after Fauci withdrew from an arrangement to testify voluntarily before the committee.

The Kentucky senator has been one of the most persistent congressional critics of Fauci and has repeatedly sought answers regarding federal funding connected to coronavirus research conducted in China.

The upcoming hearing follows recent actions by outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who released documents related to COVID-19 origins and federal research activities.

In a statement announcing the release, Gabbard said:

“Today, on my final day as Director of National Intelligence, I’m releasing never-before-seen communications and documents exposing how Dr. Fauci provided millions in US taxpayer dollars to fund dangerous gain-of-function research at the Wuhan lab, worked with politicized elements within the Intelligence Community to suppress the truth about his actions and hide the virus’ lab-leak origins, and lied to Congress while under oath in 2024. It’s time you know the truth.”

The newly released materials have intensified calls from some lawmakers for additional public testimony from Fauci regarding research conducted at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and the government’s assessment of the virus’s origins.

Paul has previously argued that Fauci provided misleading testimony to Congress regarding gain-of-function research.

In 2021, Fauci testified that, “The NIH has not ever and does not now fund gain-of-function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology.”

Subsequent emails made public later showed Fauci discussing research activities in Wuhan before the COVID-19 emergency declaration.

One email cited in the debate stated that “scientists in Wuhan University are known to have been working on gain-of-function experiments to determine that molecular mechanisms associated with bat viruses adapting to human infection, and the outbreak originated in Wuhan.”

Paul previously referred Fauci to the Department of Justice for possible investigation regarding statements made under oath about gain-of-function research funding.

Questions surrounding Fauci’s pandemic guidance have also remained a point of contention.

During the COVID-19 outbreak, Fauci publicly supported social distancing measures and mask recommendations.

However, testimony before the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic in 2024 generated renewed debate over the origins and scientific basis of some pandemic-era policies.

The renewed scrutiny comes as additional reports have surfaced regarding communications between Fauci and officials during the presidential transition period.

Reports referenced emails showing Fauci contacting the White House on Inauguration Day regarding a presidential pardon issued before President Donald Trump returned to office.

Trump has repeatedly criticized Fauci’s handling of the pandemic and has publicly suggested that further investigations into Fauci’s actions are warranted.

The Senate hearing is expected to focus on federal funding of coronavirus research, the origins of COVID-19, communications between public health officials and intelligence agencies, and Fauci’s prior congressional testimony.

If Fauci complies with the subpoena, the appearance would mark one of his most significant public testimonies since leaving government service and could provide lawmakers with an opportunity to revisit questions that have remained at the center of political and public debate years after the pandemic began.

Judge Appointed by Biden Strikes Down Citizenship Checks in Voting Safeguard Blow [WATCH]
News

Judge Appointed by Biden Strikes Down Citizenship Checks in Voting Safeguard Blow [WATCH]

/

A federal judge appointed by former President Joe Biden has ruled against a Trump administration effort to strengthen voter eligibility verification using federal citizenship records, as reported by Townhall.

U.S. District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan issued a decision blocking an election integrity initiative that would have allowed citizenship verification through data maintained by the Social Security Administration.

The policy was being pursued by the Department of Homeland Security as part of a broader effort to update election security procedures.

The initiative centered on expanding the use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements, commonly known as the SAVE system.

Under the proposal, election officials would have access to a searchable citizenship verification database linked to Social Security records, allowing them to confirm citizenship status when evaluating voter eligibility.

Supporters of the measure argued that the system would provide election administrators with an additional tool to verify that only eligible citizens are registered to vote.

The proposal was part of a wider election integrity agenda pursued by the Trump administration.

Sooknanan, however, concluded that the policy violated privacy protections for American citizens.

In her ruling, the judge wrote, “All in all, the federal government has knowingly trampled on the privacy rights of American citizens in a manner that threatens the sacred right to vote. This Court cannot stand idly by while that happens.”

The decision immediately drew criticism from administration officials and supporters of the election integrity proposal.

White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller responded to the ruling on social media, writing, “Judge Sparkle decrees that America belongs to any random alien on planet earth, just like our founders intended.”

The ruling marks the latest high-profile case involving Sooknanan and the Trump administration’s immigration and election policies.

Sooknanan was born in Trinidad and Tobago and later became a federal judge after being nominated by then-President Joe Biden.

Biden announced her nomination in February 2024, and the Senate confirmed her later that year by a 50-48 vote.

The judge previously ruled against a Trump administration immigration policy in September 2025 involving the removal of Guatemalan illegal immigrants.

That decision, along with the latest ruling on voter verification procedures, has drawn attention from critics who argue that federal courts have increasingly become involved in disputes over immigration enforcement and election administration.

The SAVE system has long been used by government agencies to verify immigration and citizenship status for various public benefits and programs.

The Trump administration’s proposal would have expanded its application to election-related verification efforts through coordination with Social Security records.

The court’s decision leaves the future of the initiative uncertain and could lead to further legal challenges as administration officials evaluate potential next steps.

The ruling also adds another chapter to the ongoing debate over election security, voter eligibility verification, and privacy protections.

While supporters of the administration’s proposal contend that citizenship verification is a necessary safeguard for election integrity, opponents have argued that expanded access to federal databases raises privacy concerns.

For now, the federal court’s ruling prevents implementation of the citizenship verification plan, setting up another legal and political battle over election administration as the debate over voter eligibility requirements continues nationwide.

Letitia James Praises Trump DNI Nominee Jay Clayton, Raising Eyebrows [WATCH]
News

Letitia James Praises Trump DNI Nominee Jay Clayton, Raising Eyebrows [WATCH]

/

New York Attorney General Letitia James has publicly expressed support for Jay Clayton, President Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, during a recent MSNBC interview.

During the interview, James criticized Acting Director of National Intelligence Bill Pulte and argued that the Senate should back Clayton’s nomination.

She described Clayton as a professional who understands the law and said he had earned her respect, as reported by the Gateway Pundit.

The remarks quickly drew attention because of James’ long-standing legal and political battles with Trump.

The New York attorney general campaigned on investigating Trump and later pursued civil fraud cases against him, making her one of the president’s most prominent political opponents.

Because of that history, her support for a Trump administration nominee has generated discussion among many of the president’s supporters.

The endorsement comes amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding James herself.

Investigative reports published by Joel Gilbert in The Gateway Pundit alleged that James engaged in a pattern of mortgage and real estate fraud spanning decades.

Gilbert reported that James listed her father as her husband on a loan document in connection with a property purchase.

Gilbert also alleged that James made false representations regarding the number of units in a Brooklyn apartment building she owned.

According to the reports, the property was variously represented as containing one, four, or five units in mortgage and property records over a period of roughly two decades.

Gilbert argued that those representations were used to secure refinancing terms, lines of credit, and government benefits.

According to the article, the reporting contributed to referrals involving James to the Department of Justice and ultimately resulted in mortgage-fraud-related charges in the Eastern District of Virginia concerning a property in Virginia.

The focus of the article then shifted to Clayton and the significance of his nomination.

Many Trump supporters have argued that federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies require substantial reform, increased transparency, and greater accountability.

The article highlighted the tenure of former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, crediting her with a series of initiatives that included declassification efforts, investigations into government activities, reductions within the intelligence bureaucracy, and the revocation of security clearances for dozens of officials.

Because of those efforts, supporters of the administration are closely examining potential successors to determine whether they would continue similar reforms or pursue a different approach.

Clayton brings a lengthy background in law, finance, and government service. He spent nearly two decades as a partner at Sullivan & Cromwell, where he represented major financial institutions, investment firms, and public corporations.

He later served as chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from 2017 to 2020 before returning to private practice. Clayton also served as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York.

The article argued that Clayton’s background places him firmly within established legal and regulatory institutions, prompting questions among some Trump supporters about how he would approach the role of Director of National Intelligence.

Among the questions raised were why James chose to publicly support Clayton, what qualities prompted her endorsement, and whether she views him as someone who would preserve existing institutional structures rather than pursue significant reforms.

As Director of National Intelligence, Clayton would oversee agencies responsible for intelligence collection, classification decisions, national security assessments, and the distribution of intelligence information to policymakers.

The article concluded that Clayton’s confirmation process may require him to explain both his plans for the intelligence community and the reasons one of Trump’s most outspoken political opponents publicly endorsed his nomination.

According to the article, supporters of the president are expected to closely examine whether Clayton intends to continue reforms associated with the Trump administration and Gabbard’s tenure or take a different approach.

Report: Tragic Twist in Nancy Guthrie Case as Ransom Note Claims Her Death Was ‘Accidental’ [WATCH]
News

Report: Tragic Twist in Nancy Guthrie Case as Ransom Note Claims Her Death Was ‘Accidental’ [WATCH]

/

A newly reported ransom message connected to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie allegedly included an apology for her death and marked a significant turning point in the investigation into the missing Arizona woman, as reported by the New York Post.

According to a report from Air Mail, one of several messages sent to Guthrie’s family and media outlets after her disappearance claimed that the 84-year-old had died accidentally after being abducted from her Tucson home.

Guthrie, the mother of NBC “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since Feb. 1.

Kidnapping Alert Near Missing Mom Nancy Guthrie’s Arizona Home as Career Criminal Wanted

Investigators believe she was kidnapped from her residence, and authorities have spent months pursuing leads while reviewing numerous communications claiming knowledge of her whereabouts.

The report states that a Feb. 6 email sent to TMZ originated from the same IP address as previous ransom and blackmail messages that investigators considered potentially credible.

Sources familiar with the case told Air Mail that earlier communications contained detailed information about the night Guthrie disappeared, including descriptions of what she was wearing when she was allegedly taken from her home.

One message sent on Feb. 2 reportedly demanded $4 million in bitcoin and described Guthrie as “safe but scared.”

The note also outlined terms for a potential exchange, leading investigators to believe the communication may have come from individuals with direct knowledge of the case rather than internet hoaxers.

However, according to the report, a second message sent four days later took a dramatically different tone.

Sources told the outlet that the Feb. 6 communication opened with a lengthy apology that claimed Guthrie had died accidentally.

The message allegedly went on to suggest that her body could be returned to the family in exchange for payment, though it did not specify a dollar amount.

The communication reportedly caused investigators to shift their focus from a kidnapping investigation toward a potential homicide case.

The report also indicates the message prompted a public response from Guthrie’s family.

The day after the note was received, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings posted a brief video message on Instagram.

In the video, they stated they had “received your message, and we understand.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Savannah Guthrie (@savannahguthrie)

Savannah Guthrie later issued a direct plea to the person responsible for her mother’s disappearance.

She asked that the individual “return our mother to us,” adding that her return is “very valuable to us” and that “we will pay.”

Since Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, investigators have reportedly received a large number of messages claiming to contain information about the case.

According to sources cited by Air Mail, authorities categorized the communications into three groups described as “the good, the bad, and the ugly.”

Messages containing information not publicly known about Guthrie were reportedly classified as “good,” while the communication discussing her alleged death was labeled “bad.”

Savannah Guthrie previously acknowledged during a “Today” interview that many of the messages received by her family were likely fraudulent.

Despite that assessment, she indicated that two specific communications appeared more credible than the others.

“I believe the two notes that we received that we responded to, I tend to believe those are real,” she said.

More than four months after Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance, investigators continue to pursue leads and examine evidence connected to the case.

Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no significant new breakthroughs have been publicly disclosed as the search and investigation remain ongoing.


Scroll to Top