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Navy Races to Retrieve Downed Jet and Helicopter in the South China Sea
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Navy Races to Retrieve Downed Jet and Helicopter in the South China Sea

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The U.S. Navy has dispatched a salvage vessel to scour the depths of the South China Sea for the remnants of two aircraft that crashed last month.

The incidents occurred less than an hour apart on Oct. 26, and all personnel involved were recovered safely and in stable condition.

The USNS Salvor, “a Safeguard-class salvage ship operated by Military Sealift Command, arrived on location on Nov. 12 to conduct recovery efforts,” a statement from the U.S. Seventh Fleet read.

“Recovery efforts are still ongoing.” This is not a routine operation. It is a testament to a mission that must be executed with precision, especially when dangerous waters and uncertain recovery conditions are involved. Our men and women in uniform deserve every resource necessary to retrieve what can be saved and to account for what cannot.

The cause or causes of the crashes are still under investigation. In battles like this, transparency and accountability matter, and the American people deserve to know what happened and why, so we can prevent it in the future.

At 2:45 p.m. on the day of the crash, the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter “went down in the waters of the South China Sea while conducting routine operations,” the U.S. Pacific Fleet said at the time.

This was a routine mission, and yet danger lurked beneath the surface. The carrier’s strike group deployed assets that were able to rescue the three crew members from the helicopter, which was assigned to the “Battle Cats” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 73.

The efficiency of the rescue underscores the Navy’s commitment to saving lives first, even as operations continue to be evaluated and improved.

At 3:15 p.m., an F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet from the Strike Fighter Squadron 22 “Fighting Redcocks” also crashed while conducting routine operations. The two crew members on the jet were able to successfully eject from the cockpit and were rescued.

Passenger Off The Hook for In-Flight Bomb Hoax That Prompted F-18 Response

The two successful ejections demonstrate both the readiness of air crews and the importance of survival gear, training, and quick response from rescue teams. These are the kinds of outcomes we must protect and expand upon, because every life saved is a victory in a dangerous theater.

The U.S. Navy has lost several F/A-18s within the last year, an expensive deficit with each jet costing $60 million. That reality makes every judgment and reform more consequential.

It also heightens the urgency of investment in flight safety, maintenance, and procurement discipline, so costs do not become a drag on readiness or deterrence.

The USS Gettysburg accidentally shot down an F/A-18 in December 2024, an F/A-18 attempting to land on the USS Harry S. Truman in May fell overboard, another F/A-18 fighter jet slipped off the hangar deck of the Truman in April and an F/A-18E crashed during a training flight off the coast of Virginia in August.

These incidents paint a troubling pattern that must be confronted head on with stronger oversight and a renewed culture of safety. We can and must do better, because the stakes are simply too high to ignore.

The fleet cannot afford to tolerate preventable losses, and the people deserve the assurance that every precaution has been taken to keep aircrews safe.

As this salvage operation continues, we see the Navy’s capability on full display.

The mission demonstrates not only courage under pressure but the coordinated teamwork required to recover from misfortune. In the end, the American people deserve a force that is disciplined, well funded, and relentlessly focused on mission readiness, even when the odds appear daunting.

This is how we respond. We insist on accountability, and we demand a force that can win battles while protecting lives. The data and the outcomes must guide policy, strategy, and budgeting so that our armed forces emerge stronger and more capable than ever before.

This is a moment that tests leadership at every level. It is also a moment that highlights why a strong national defense is non negotiable.

With President Trump in the White House and Pete Hegseth learning from the front lines, America would see a defense posture that emphasizes modernization, rigorous safety protocols, and a renewed emphasis on aircrew survivability.

The goal is clear: deter adversaries, protect our people, and keep faith with those who serve.

We owe that to the brave sailors and pilots who fly into danger in our name.

We owe it to their families who wait for news and prayers. And we owe it to a nation that expects nothing less than steadfast leadership in the face of uncertainty.

Witness Video Shows Guardsman Running Toward Gunfire as Terrorist Ambushed Troops
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Witness Video Shows Guardsman Running Toward Gunfire as Terrorist Ambushed Troops

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Newly obtained footage shows a National Guardsman opening fire on Rahmanullah Lakanwal as the 29-year-old Afghan national carried out an ambush on two Guard members in Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving eve.

The video, reviewed by the Wall Street Journal, shows Lakanwal brandishing a revolver during the attack.

According to witnesses, Lakanwal opened fire on National Guard members Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, on a D.C. street.

A third Guardsman, who was nearby, ran toward the scene while reloading his weapon.

The Journal reported that “five seconds later,” the Guardsman returned fire in the direction of the suspect.

Investigators have said that a review of surveillance footage showed a Guard member exchanging fire with the suspect before additional troops reached the scene.

As the New York Post reported, other Guard members “were able to run over and pin the gunman down as he was taken into custody.”

Images captured after the shooting show Beckstrom and Wolfe on the sidewalk.

President Donald Trump confirmed that Beckstrom later died from her injuries.

Wolfe remains hospitalized and in critical condition.

Authorities have identified Lakanwal as an Afghan refugee who entered the United States in 2021 on a temporary visa issued under the Biden-Harris administration.

Prosecutors have upgraded charges against him to first-degree murder following Beckstrom’s death.

Attorney General Pam Bondi has stated that the Justice Department will seek the death penalty.

Federal officials say the investigation is ongoing as they continue reviewing video, witness accounts, and ballistic evidence related to the attack.

On Friday, President Trump announced new immigration directives in response to the incident.

He said he is ordering a “permanent pause” on migration from what he described as third-world countries and will move to end all illegal entries into the United States processed under the Biden-Harris administration.

“I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions … and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country,” Trump wrote on social media.

West Virginia Communities Honor Guardsmen Targeted in Washington Shooting
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West Virginia Communities Honor Guardsmen Targeted in Washington Shooting

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West Virginia communities gathered this week to honor two National Guard members shot in Washington, underscoring the state’s enduring commitment to the men and women who serve. The fallen was Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized after Wednesday’s assault.

Wolfe’s condition was described Friday by Governor Patrick Morrisey as “very critical.” In the line of duty, these two West Virginia heroes were deployed to Washington to bolster public safety and protect the nation’s capital.

These protections are more than a routine mission; they embody the resolve of a state and a nation that will not yield to violence.

Morrisey’s office announced a proclamation calling on all West Virginians to observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer on Friday afternoon to honor Wolfe and Beckstrom. In addition, Morrisey ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstrom’s death.

“These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nation’s capital when they were maliciously attacked,” Morrisey said. “Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state.” The strongest tribute a community can offer is to reaffirm its gratitude and its readiness to stand with the families who bear the cost of service.

The story rippled through small towns as well, with a Thanksgiving night vigil at a wall honoring veterans in Webster Springs drawing a few dozen locals who stood bundled against the chill. In moments like these, the state is reminded that service comes with sacrifice, and the call to duty extends beyond the battlefield.

Beckstrom’s life reflected a blend of duty and compassion. The Webster County High School graduate, who earned honors in 2023, joined the National Guard a few weeks later and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company.

Beckstrom “exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism,” the West Virginia National Guard stated, adding that she “volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s capital.”

These words describe a young woman who wore camouflage with the same sense she wore empathy for others, a testament to her big heart.

Beckstrom’s family expressed their sorrow in a way that reminded many of the cost of service. Her father posted on social media that it was a horrible tragedy, and the loss has touched people far beyond Beckstrom’s hometown. The outpouring of support continues as communities honor her memory and the commitment she showed daily.

On the national stage, President Donald Trump spoke of Beckstrom in terms many veterans and families find meaningful. He called Beckstrom an “incredible person, outstanding in every single way.” That simple tribute from the president underscored a broader truth about national service: every sacrifice strengthens the republic and renews the public’s trust in those who answer the call.

The tale of Wolfe is equally compelling for a different reason. A friend and classmate spoke of a life that grew from curiosity to meaningful labor, noting Wolfe’s path from Musselman High School in 2019 to a role where he could serve both nation and local community.

“As long as she was with people who cared about her, she was having a good time,” Carr told the newspaper as he reflected on Beckstrom’s approach to service and friendship.

Wolfe, who serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron, has worked as a lineman with Frontier Communications since early 2023.

Frontier Communications stated that Wolfe “is a valuable member of our team, working hard to bring high-speed fiber internet to homes and businesses so everyone can stay connected to essential services and fully participate in the digital economy.”

The company’s tribute highlighted the practical value of service and the role of technology in keeping communities resilient and connected, especially in challenging times.

The community’s remembrance extended to Wolfe’s school, where Berkeley County officials noted his accomplishments.

Wolfe graduated from Musselman High School in 2019, and Principal Alicia Riggleman recalled a student who was “engaged and high-achieving,” someone who “embodied the Applemen spirit, contributing positively to our school community both academically and athletically.”

Such memories reinforce the belief that leadership and character form the core of public life.

In Summersville, officials announced plans for a candlelight vigil honoring Beckstrom, a sign of how local government and residents value sacrifice as much as achievement. Sheriff Rob Blair and others urged prayers for Wolfe’s recovery as the nation considers national defense and public safety in a wider political context.

This tragedy arrives at a moment when the country is focused on a robust national security posture, and it presents a test for the nation’s leadership.

The Trump administration, along with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s approach to defense and readiness, has consistently emphasized strengthening the guard, modernizing capabilities, and ensuring that law enforcement and military personnel can perform their duties with the backing of a resolute national strategy.

The lives of Beckstrom and Wolfe remind Americans that security at home depends on a determined, well-equipped force and the political will to support them.

In that sense, their stories are not only about sorrow but also about resolve, and about a country that chooses to honor and empower those who stand at the front lines to protect our communities.

Jill Biden, 74, Spotted Lingerie Shopping During Family Holiday in Nantucket
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Jill Biden, 74, Spotted Lingerie Shopping During Family Holiday in Nantucket

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Jill Biden made a stop at a lingerie boutique in Nantucket on Black Friday during the Biden family’s annual Thanksgiving visit to the island.

The former first lady was seen leaving Ladybird Lingerie, located in Nantucket’s historic district, while wearing sunglasses and a purple coat and scarf.

Her husband, Joe Biden, was not with her during the morning visit.

Ladybird Lingerie describes its products as garments “both pleasing to the eyes as well as the body wearing them.”

Jill Biden’s stop at the shop took place before the family gathered for lunch at the Brotherhood of Thieves restaurant.

Joe Biden, former first son Hunter Biden, and other family members met there as part of their traditional holiday itinerary.

After lunch, Jill Biden returned to the $34 million Nantucket compound owned by billionaire David Rubenstein.

The Bidens have spent the past four Thanksgiving holidays at the property.

Joe and Hunter remained in downtown Nantucket after the meal, continuing to browse local stores and later stopping for milkshakes.

The family reconvened in the evening for the annual lighting of Nantucket’s Christmas decorations.

Natalie Biden, the daughter of Joe Biden’s late son Beau, stood beside her grandfather during the event and was seen holding his arm.

Joe Biden, who completed radiation treatment last month for prostate cancer, was bundled in a bomber jacket and gloves in the cold weather.

The Bidens’ public appearances occurred on the same day President Donald Trump made comments regarding documents signed during Joe Biden’s ‘autopen’ presidency.

Trump said he was repealing all documents signed by the former president using an autopen.

He also said he would seek charges of perjury if Joe Biden claims staff members acted under his direction when utilizing the device.

The Bidens’ visit to Nantucket included their traditional stops around the island and concluded with the Christmas lights event, which drew residents and visitors to downtown Nantucket.

Debbie Wasserman Blames Trump Policies, Gun Violence for Afghan National Attack in DC
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Debbie Wasserman Blames Trump Policies, Gun Violence for Afghan National Attack in DC

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Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., said Friday that President Donald Trump bears responsibility for the death of a National Guard member killed in an ambush-style shooting in Washington, D.C.

The attack on Wednesday left National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dead and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe in critical condition.

Left-wing commentators have argued that the shooting occurred only because of Trump’s orders to deploy National Guard personnel in U.S. cities.

During an interview on CNN, host Sara Sidner asked Wasserman Schultz about the incident as officials continued to investigate the attack.

Wasserman Schultz said the shooting “begs the question, would an individual have flown across the country to target law enforcement officers in Washington, D.C.? And, I mean, the answer is likely no. So, why wasn’t the president’s first thought, ‘Wow, you know, maybe I should reconsider deploying military troops in the nation’s capital or in any city?’”

She added, “Particularly not when they haven’t coordinated closely with the leadership of these cities and when we have law enforcement that are quite capable of handling the criminal justice issues that are — that we need law enforcement to focus on, and not our military.”

President Trump has said he ordered the deployment because local law enforcement had been unable to address rising crime in cities suffering from years of public safety problems.

Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser said at a news conference earlier this year that the federal surge contributed to a reduction in crime, including an 87% decrease in carjackings.

Authorities said Wednesday’s shooting was carried out by an Afghan national.

Following the attack, Trump called for halting mass migration from what he described as the “Third World” and announced plans for “reverse migration.”

Sidner noted that “days before the shooting, the public learned through reporting that the Trump administration had planned to review and reinterview refugees that came in during the Biden administration.”

Wasserman Schultz said, “I just think that any administration needs to be careful about making sweeping generalizations. If there were gaps that admitted this person, they would have failed over multiple levels of gaps. And this individual was trusted enough to participate in assisting our military during the war in Afghanistan.”

She said Trump should examine his own decisions.

“The president looks everywhere except inward to blame his own policies. We need to make sure that we don’t have our military deployed in our cities, doing — handling law enforcement responsibilities,” she said.

“We certainly need to make sure we always have the proper and appropriate and tight, tight vetting processes, and those should be reviewed. But it’s never the president’s fault or his policies when it comes to his reaction, and it’s pretty disgusting.”

The White House issued a response Friday criticizing Wasserman Schultz’s comments.

Spokeswoman Abigail Jackson wrote, “This animal would’ve never been here if not for Joe Biden’s dangerous policies, which allowed countless unvetted criminals to invade our country and harm the American people. The Trump administration is taking every measure possible — in the face of unrelenting Democrat opposition — to get these monsters out of our country and clean up the mess made by the Biden administration. Instead of defending terrorists, the Democrats should join us in protecting the American people.”

Maduro’s Cartel Stronghold Crumbles as U.S. Military Tightens the Noose, Closes Airspace
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Maduro’s Cartel Stronghold Crumbles as U.S. Military Tightens the Noose, Closes Airspace

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The coastal city of Güiria, a longtime hub for smuggling and illicit maritime trade in northeastern Venezuela, is experiencing severe economic disruption and heightened government surveillance following U.S. military strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking.

The city, home to roughly 40,000 residents, has relied for years on the movement of drugs, contraband, food, and consumer goods between Venezuela and nearby Caribbean nations.

Reuters reported Friday that the recent U.S. operations have stopped nearly all boat departures from the area, leaving local commerce at a standstill.

“There was only movement in stores recently because of government bonus payments; otherwise, there’s no money circulating,” one merchant told Reuters.

The resident added that all boat activity has halted.

“No boats of any kind are leaving … not migrants, not people buying goods there to sell here, and certainly not those taking Venezuelan products to sell there, which was another way to make money. Everything is practically dead.”

Families of several men from Güiria who were believed to have been killed during the U.S. strikes said they were visited shortly afterward by Venezuelan police and intelligence agents.

Venezuela’s socialist government is considered illegitimate by the United States and numerous other countries.

According to Reuters, the relatives requested anonymity out of concern for their safety and said authorities searched their homes and warned them not to discuss the deaths publicly.

They also said they have received no official notification and have not been able to recover bodies.

Security forces began expanding their presence in Güiria in mid-September.

Residents have reported frequent patrols by personnel from the Directorate General of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM) and the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN).

Reuters cited accounts of a former resident who said the DGCIM established a “command center” in a state-owned hotel in a resort area near the city, which has contributed to a decline in normal public activity.

“The people in town know there are individuals who are not part of the community, not from there. People walking around like civilians, but they belong to government intelligence,” the former resident said, according to Reuters.

“There’s so much secrecy – no one talks about it because they don’t know if someone is listening.”

The DGCIM remains under investigation by the International Criminal Court and has been sanctioned by the United States.

The agency has been accused of extrajudicial executions, torture, and other abuses. SEBIN has carried out surveillance against journalists, political opponents, and additional groups, according to Reuters.

Conditions in Güiria have continued to deteriorate as the United States increases its military presence around Venezuela.

Approximately 10% of U.S. naval assets are currently positioned in the region.

Since Sept. 2, U.S. forces have conducted 21 strikes on vessels believed to be involved in narcotrafficking, resulting in more than 80 deaths.

In mid-October, President Donald Trump authorized covert CIA operations in Venezuela.

In mid-November, the U.S. government designated the Venezuelan Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, stating that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro heads the cartel.

Trump said Thursday in remarks to service members that U.S. operations targeting alleged drug traffickers in Venezuela may expand beyond maritime activity to include land-based actions.

Gun Control Dems Concealed Carrying in DC Before National Guard Showed Up: Anna Paulina Luna
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Gun Control Dems Concealed Carrying in DC Before National Guard Showed Up: Anna Paulina Luna

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Rep. Anna Paulina Luna criticized Democrats over their statements regarding gun rights, the National Guard, and the murder of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, saying Democratic lawmakers were ignoring the conditions in Washington, D.C., prior to President Donald Trump’s deployment of Guard units.

Luna said Democrats have overlooked the purpose of the National Guard and the role Guard members played in securing the capital.

“Yeah, that’s a pretty abhorrent perspective for them to have. You know, I think it would provide context so that they clearly don’t know what they’re talking about, or even maybe understand what the purpose of the National Guard is,” Luna said.

“A lot of these people are either homegrown or lent from out of state to basically help secure Washington.”

She said many Americans are unaware of how lawmakers handled their own safety concerns.

“I’ll just give you a little example here. Okay, first of all, the American people might not know this, but a majority of members of Congress to include Democrats, are concealed carrying in Washington because of how bad it was up until President Trump took over,” Luna said.

Luna noted that while Democrats have supported restrictions on gun ownership, they secured permits for themselves.

“Okay, this is the same party that’s trying to take away your gun rights. Meanwhile, they were the ones that were fast tracking their own concealed carry permits,” she said.

She also described a mugging incident involving a Democratic lawmaker to highlight the prior conditions in the city.

“Aside from that, I was in Washington when a Democrat member of Congress was mugged and basically had his even sushi stolen,” Luna said.

According to Luna, Washington ranked among the most dangerous cities until the National Guard was deployed during Trump’s tenure

. “And not just that, but it was one of the most dangerous crime ridden cities in the world, basically up until President Trump put the national guard there,” she said.

Luna condemned Democratic lawmakers who suggested Trump was responsible for Beckstrom’s death, saying their reactions were unjustified.

“So for them to say, or try to even justify the murder of these of this one beautiful woman, Sarah Beckstrom, who was an absolute patriot, is abhorrent,” Luna said.

She also criticized comments made by some lawmakers regarding the military.

“Frankly, I think that right now that this country can see exactly what they’re doing, and the fact that you even had members of Senate come out even previous to this saying that basically, members of the armed forces should commit sedition, that’s completely unacceptable,” Luna said.

Luna’s remarks addressed concerns raised following the deadly attack near the White House, which authorities say was carried out by an Afghan national.

‘CIA Operation’: Rogers Says Democrats Trying to ‘Start a Color Revolution’
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‘CIA Operation’: Rogers Says Democrats Trying to ‘Start a Color Revolution’

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Arizona State Senator and retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Wendy Rogers spoke this week about Democratic lawmakers’ recent video urging military personnel to disobey “illegal” orders and the Department of War’s investigation into former Navy captain and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.

The situation began after Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers with military or intelligence backgrounds released a video telling active-duty service members and intelligence officials they have a “duty” to disobey “illegal” orders from President Trump.

No illegal orders have been issued. Rogers characterized the video as an effort to interfere with military operations.

Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, a former CIA officer who participated in the video, acknowledged that President Trump has not given any illegal orders.

She referenced Adolf Hitler, Nuremberg trials, and films such as “A Few Good Men” while addressing service members.

President Trump later described the group’s actions as “traitorous” and said “military courts” were reviewing the matter.

On Monday, the Department of War announced that Kelly may be recalled to active duty to face court-martial proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The department said Kelly is under investigation for possible violations of federal law, including 18 U.S.C. § 2387, which prohibits actions intended to interfere with loyalty, morale, good order, or discipline within the armed forces.

Rogers explained that Kelly is “the only one of the six who can be recalled to active duty,” noting that he remains subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The other lawmakers would face potential Department of Justice action instead.

Rogers said she expects DOJ indictments to be “the next shoe to drop,” adding, “If this were to happen, it’d be fairly unprecedented, but we’re in very unprecedented times.”

Rogers also addressed Rep. Ruben Gallego’s response video in which he directed profanity at Pete Hegseth and President Trump.

She called the remarks “so off-color, so inappropriate, unprofessional, and really indicative of how unhinged and ill-prepared, and scared the Democrats are.”

Rogers described the lawmakers’ effort as a “CIA operation” and an attempt to “start a color revolution,” saying it was designed to create doubt among service members.

She argued that referencing Nuremberg or Hollywood portrayals of military tribunals was a “fanciful” attempt to appear aligned with the military despite having no executive authority.

She pointed to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for service members as an example of Democrats supporting orders that military personnel were compelled to follow.

Rogers said Democrats are now “at a loss” and referenced the Supreme Court, redistricting, and the economy while attributing their actions to political setbacks.

Rogers noted that Kelly, as a retired officer, can be recalled for a court-martial regardless of his current position in the Senate.

“He’s subject to the UCMJ, so he can be called back to active duty and court-martialed,” she said.

When asked about the consequences for Democratic lawmakers encouraging disobedience of lawful orders, Rogers said the courts should determine the outcome.

“It’s sedition, not treason, because you’re not aligning with another foreign power to overtake us. You’re doing it from within. And let the evidence decide, let the courts decide, but at least get it out into the limelight. Have it evaluated, have the rest of the country see it for what it is. It’s unprecedented, historically.”

Free Beer: Idaho Saloon Sparks Frenzy with Offer to Help Deport Illegal Aliens
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Free Beer: Idaho Saloon Sparks Frenzy with Offer to Help Deport Illegal Aliens

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A bar in Eagle, Idaho, has gained national attention after offering free beer to anyone who assists Immigration and Customs Enforcement in identifying and deporting an illegal alien.

The Old State Saloon posted the promotion on X on Saturday, telling followers that “anyone who helps ICE identify and ultimately deport an illegal from Idaho gets FREE BEER FOR ONE MONTH.”

The saloon added that it “may award multiple months to one person if multiple illegals are deported.”

The announcement instructed participants to send evidence, including photos and videos, to

de**********@ol************.com











 to claim the reward.

The Department of Homeland Security reposted the promotion with a GIF reacting to the offer.

The saloon also replied to a post by saying, “Let’s go! Deport them all!”

Online users responded with both support and criticism. One user asked the saloon whether it could create a leaderboard and name a “Deporter of the Year,” who would receive additional free beer at the end of the year.

According to a follow-up post from the saloon, at least one person has already been approved for the promotion.

The bar said that Ryan Spoon, vice chair of the Ada County Republican Central Committee, qualified for free beer from any of the bar’s 20 draft options after providing evidence that he helped ICE make an arrest.

Bo Loudon, a conservative Gen Z influencer, responded to the announcement by calling the promotion an “incredible idea” on X.

“This is why I love the United States,” he wrote.

Some users criticized the promotion and called for a boycott of the Old State Saloon.

The business posted screenshots of negative Google reviews and commented that “1 star reviews roll in from the loser LEFT.”

The bar’s social media biography states that “liberals around the world hate us,” and identifies the saloon as the “Birthplace of Heterosexual Awesomeness Month.”

In 2024, owner Mark Fitzpatrick said the establishment would promote “Heterosexual Awesomeness Month” during June, offering discounts and free beer for heterosexual men, women, and couples in response to Pride Month.

The saloon also sells merchandise through its website.

Items include shirts with slogans such as “Make America Straight Again.”

Biden’s Afghan Vetting Exposed: Counterterrorism Insider ‘Was Right About EVERYTHING’
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Biden’s Afghan Vetting Exposed: Counterterrorism Insider ‘Was Right About EVERYTHING’

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The circumstances surrounding how an Afghan national who previously assisted the CIA overseas was admitted into the United States before carrying out a deadly attack in Washington, D.C., are coming into clearer focus, according to former national security officials.

President Donald Trump and his administration have taken several steps since the attack to prevent similar incidents.

On Wednesday, National Guard members Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, were shot in an ambush in Washington, D.C. Beckstrom later died from her injuries. Wolfe remains hospitalized.

President Trump has questioned how the suspect, who arrived in the United States under Joe Biden, was able to enter the country.

On Friday, Trump stated that directives signed in Biden’s name using the auto-pen during his presidency would not be considered legitimate.

Earlier in the day, he announced on X that the United States will “permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions … and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country.”

Among those offering new information about the suspect’s entry is Joe Kent, who served as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center under President Trump.

In a series of posts on X, Kent said the Biden-Harris administration relied on a limited vetting standard that assessed Afghan individuals only for their suitability to serve alongside U.S. forces overseas.

“The barbaric terrorist attack in Washington D.C. by an Afghan terrorist has spurred righteous outrage over the Biden admin’s policy of importing people hostile to our nation,” Kent wrote.

“It is true that the terrorist who conducted the attack in D.C. was ‘vetted’ by the intelligence community, however he was only vetted to serve as a soldier to fight against the Taliban, AQ, & ISIS IN Afghanistan, he was NOT vetted for his suitability to come to America and live among us as a neighbor, integrate into our communities, or eventually become an American citizen.”

Kent said the vetting process used during the Afghanistan withdrawal did not follow prior standards applied to Special Immigrant Visas.

“During Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, his administration negligently used the vetting standard described above as the standard for being brought directly into the U.S., foregoing previous vetting standards applied to Special Immigrant Visas and any common sense vetting or concern for Americans,” he wrote.

He argued that the decision to prioritize speed led to widespread security gaps.

“Incidents like this aren’t isolated—they’re the predictable outcome of prioritizing speed and volume over security,” Kent said.

He called for “a strengthened and comprehensive vetting and removal process” to ensure that only individuals aligned with American values are admitted.

Kent also described the broader scope of admissions during Biden’s presidency.

“As a result, over 85k Afghans—including individuals with backgrounds similar to this shooter—were rapidly admitted into our country without the rigorous vetting that has protected us in the past,” he wrote.

“And that’s just Afghans; broader immigration from Muslim majority nations & regions surged, with over 2 million individuals entering during Biden’s term, often with minimal scrutiny amid record border crossings. This is a deadly combination.”

In an additional message on Friday, Kent directly linked these policies to the attack.

“This is why the DC attack happened. The solution is rounding up everyone Biden let in & deporting them immediately,” he wrote.

Former National Security Adviser Mike Flynn also posted on X in support of the actions Kent described, including large-scale removals of individuals who entered the country during Biden’s tenure.

Authorities continue investigating the attack that killed Beckstrom and left Wolfe hospitalized.


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