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Representative Jim Jordan Discusses The Jack Smith Hearing

Is this really the storm of the century?

Mike asks Is this Winter storm really going to be that bad?

Trump expands foreign aid ban to abortion, DEI and gender identity programs

The Trump administration is expanding its restrictions on U.S. foreign aid to bar funding not only for groups that support abortion services but also for organizations that promote gender identity initiatives and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. The changes significantly broaden the scope of the longstanding Mexico City Policy, a rule first established under President Ronald Reagan that conditions U.S. foreign assistance on recipients agreeing not to provide or advocate for abortion-related care. Under the new rules, set to be finalized Friday in the Federal Register, organizations receiving U.S. aid — including international and U.S.-based non-governmental groups — would have to certify that they do not provide or promote abortion as a method of family planning, engage in what the administration describes as “gender ideology,” or participate in diversity, equity and inclusion-related activities. The expanded policy is expected to affect more than $30 billion in foreign assistance. Administration officials say the policy ensures U.S. taxpayer dollars do not support programs that conflict with broader policy goals. Anti-abortion advocates have praised the move as a major victory. However, abortion rights and LGBTQ+ advocates warn that the expanded ban could force humanitarian and health groups to choose between U.S. funding and providing essential services around the world. Critics also argue that the policy could jeopardize critical healthcare, research and support programs. The expansion coincides with the anniversary of the now-overturned Roe v. Wade decision and the annual March for Life demonstration in Washington, D.C.

Winter Storm Threatens Power Outages Across Eastern U.S.

Utility companies and state officials across the eastern United States are preparing for a major winter storm this weekend that meteorologists say could bring down power lines and trigger widespread outages. The system — expected to bring heavy snow, freezing rain, ice and dangerously cold temperatures from the South into the Northeast — has officials warning that infrastructure could be stressed and electricity supplies disrupted. Freezing rain and ice are particularly hazardous because they can accumulate on trees and power lines, causing branches and lines to snap and knock out service. Millions of households are at risk of losing power, a serious concern especially in southern states where many homes rely on electricity for heating. Officials and utility companies are mobilizing crews and staging equipment ahead of the storm, but even quick response times may be hampered by icy roads and continued tree damage long after the storm itself passes. Experts point to lessons from Winter Storm Uri in Texas in 2021 — when a lack of weatherization contributed to prolonged outages and hundreds of deaths — as a reminder of the dangers extreme cold and grid strain can pose. In addition to the immediate threat of losing power, analysts warn that families could face higher energy bills in the weeks after the storm as households use more heating during and after the extreme cold. Utilities in the Southeast, including Duke Energy and the Tennessee Valley Authority, have urged customers to prepare for possible multi-day outages and have bolstered staffing and readiness efforts. As the storm advances, residents are advised to monitor local forecasts, prepare emergency supplies, and plan for the possibility of extended outages.

Trump sues JPMorgan for $5 billion, accusing bank of political bias

President Donald Trump filed a $5 billion lawsuit against JPMorgan Chase and its CEO Jamie Dimon on Thursday, alleging the bank closed several of his accounts to further a political agenda. Trump also claims Dimon created a “blacklist” to warn other banks against doing business with the Trump Organization, his family members, and Trump himself. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said, “He debanked me, so we'll see if that means anything. But I think it should. You shouldn't be de-banked if you have money and a good company.” JPMorgan denied targeting Trump for political or religious reasons, saying accounts are closed only if they pose legal or regulatory risks. The bank said it respects Trump’s right to sue but believes the case has no merit. Shares in JPMorgan rose 0.5% Thursday. Trump has previously criticized other lenders, including Bank of America, over similar allegations and recently called for a 10% cap on credit card interest rates.

Chris Cuomo goes full tough guy

Chris Cuomo Goes Full Tough Guy against CNN's Scott Jennings

Video Claims Judges Can Be Bribed In Ohio Immigration Courts

Video Claims Judges Can Be Bribed In Ohio Immigration Courts With Amy Curtis, Web Editor at Townhall.com

Seahawks Asst. Head Coach Talks Playoffs And Possible Super Bowl Run

Seahawks Asst. Head Coach Talks Playoffs And Possible Super Bowl Run With Leslie Frazier, Assistant Head Coach for the Seattle Seahawks.

Jack Smith Testifies Before Congress

Backpack Search Under Scrutiny In Mangione Death Penalty Case

Luigi Mangione is returning to federal court today as a judge reviews whether key evidence can be used in his death penalty case for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The hearing will focus on whether police in Altoona, Pennsylvania, legally searched Mangione’s backpack after his arrest on Dec. 9, 2024, five days after Thompson was killed in Manhattan. Authorities say the search uncovered a gun and a notebook in which Mangione allegedly detailed plans to target a health insurance executive. U.S. District Judge Margaret Garnett has limited the hearing to testimony from a single Altoona police officer, who will discuss department procedures for securing and inventorying personal property during arrests. The officer does not need to have personally participated in Mangione’s arrest. Mangione, 27, has pleaded not guilty to federal and state murder charges, which carry the possibility of life in prison. His trial could begin as early as September. Prosecutors argue that the backpack search was lawful under Altoona police protocol, which allows officers to quickly check for dangerous items and later inventory seized property. Defense attorneys contend the search occurred before a warrant was obtained, and that any evidence from it should be excluded. Among the items found were a loaded gun magazine, a firearm, a silencer, and a notebook with notes including alleged plans and to-do lists. Prosecutors say the search was part of a standard inventory procedure and later validated by a warrant. Judge Garnett has requested the federal search warrant affidavit to better understand the sequence of events. Defense attorneys argue the pre-warrant search may have influenced the affidavit, while prosecutors say no specific details from the backpack, like notebook contents, were included.

Minnesota prepares for largest anti-ICE protest despite dangerous winter storm

Minnesota is gearing up for what organizers say will be the largest coordinated anti-immigration enforcement protest yet, as labor unions, faith leaders and progressive groups urge residents to skip work, school and shopping Friday in opposition to a surge of federal immigration enforcement activity. The action, organized across more than 100 groups, follows weeks of daily demonstrations in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul triggered by the Jan. 7 fatal shooting of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer during a federal enforcement operation. Organizers are calling for a general strike and plan a march through downtown Minneapolis despite dangerously cold temperatures forecast by the National Weather Service, with some areas expected to see temperatures well below zero. Federal law enforcement has maintained a heavy presence in the region, and authorities have arrested activists during earlier protests, including during a church disruption and other actions tied to the broader push against immigration enforcement. Vice President JD Vance visited Minneapolis this week to meet with ICE officials and urged protesters to remain peaceful, as tensions remain high between federal agents and local communities. The strike and demonstrations reflect mounting outrage among many Minnesotans who say the federal enforcement operations have created fear and disrupted daily life, especially in immigrant communities.

They Target ICE and Law Enforcement — WHY?

Actor and honorary ICE agent Dean Cain joins Erin Molan to respond to the growing targeting of ICE officers and law enforcement across the United States. In this clip from The Erin Molan Show, Erin examines why ICE agents enforcing laws passed by Congress are facing increasing hostility, political pressure, and media scrutiny — and what that means for public safety and accountability. The discussion includes examples of law enforcement operations being disrupted, calls from prominent politicians to abolish ICE, and Dean Cain’s firsthand perspective after working closely with ICE officers. This conversation explores: • The role of ICE and law enforcement • Media narratives versus on-the-ground reality • Public safety and community responsibility • Why enforcement has become so controversial Watch the full discussion, consider the facts, and decide for yourself. ?? Don’t miss a single moment. Subscribe now and join the fight for truth and clarity! ?? Watch full episodes: / @erin_molan ?? Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Z7zQbC ?? Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3ZZqrbN

AMERICA FIRST MEANS CHINA LAST

In this episode of the Carl Jackson Show, Carl engages with Stephen Moser to explore President Trump's foreign policy strategies and their global impact. The discussion highlights Trump's approach to China, Venezuela, and Iran, emphasizing the strategic use of energy as a geopolitical tool. Moser, an expert in Asian affairs, provides insights into the shifting power dynamics and the challenges faced by the Biden administration. Tune in to understand the implications of these policies on American leadership and global stability. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Parler: https://parler.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.com

BLM Hasn't Fixed Anything...And It Won't.

Is It Right to Protest at a Church?

Anti-ICE Church Lead Protester Arrested!

Jury Acquits Chicago Man In Murder-For-Hire Plot Targeting Border Patrol Leader

A man accused of offering a $10,000 bounty over Snapchat for the life of a top Border Patrol leader was found not guilty on Thursday in the first criminal trial stemming from the Chicago-area immigration crackdown that started last year. Jurors deliberated less than 4 hours before returning the favorable verdict for 37-year-old Juan Espinoza Martinez. He faced one count of murder-for-hire and up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Testimony lasted mere hours in the federal trial that was the latest test of the Trump administration’s credibility on federal surges that have played out from Minnesota to Maine. Espinoza Martinez, who wore a suit and tie, listened intently with his arms crossed near his stomach. He hugged his attorneys and shook their hands after court adjourned. Attorneys for the defense and prosecution did not address reporters waiting in the lobby of the federal court in downtown Chicago. Neither did jurors. At the heart of the government’s case were Snapchat messages sent from Espinoza Martinez to his younger brother and a friend who turned out to be a government informant. One read in part “10k if u take him down,” along with a picture of Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol official who has led aggressive crackdowns nationwide, including in the Chicago area. “Those words do not indicate that this was a joke,” First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Yonan told jurors during Thursday's closing arguments. “Those words have meaning. They are not innocent and harmless words.” But defense attorneys said the government didn’t show any evidence against Espinoza Martinez who sent the messages as “neighborhood gossip” after coming home from work and unwinding with beers. He didn’t follow up on the exchanges and had only a few dollars in his bank account. “Sending a message about gossip that you heard in the neighborhood, it’s not murder for hire,” his defense attorney Dena Singer told jurors. “It’s not a federal crime.” Her office did not return a message seeking comment after the verdict. Neither did the U.S. attorney's office in Chicago or the Department of Homeland Security. In court, prosecutors accused Espinoza Martinez of being “fixated and obsessed” with Bovino and cited other messages where he criticized the crackdown. Espinoza Martinez was arrested in October as the city of 2.7 million and surrounding suburbs were seeing a surge of federal immigration officers. Protests and standoffs with agents were common, particularly in the city’s heavily Mexican Little Village neighborhood where Espinoza Martinez lived. He did not testify at his trial. But attorneys played clips of his interview with law enforcement where he said he was confused about the charges and that he sent the messages without much thought while scrolling social media after work. “I didn’t threaten anyone,” he told investigators, interchanging English and Spanish at times in the interview. “I’m not saying that I was telling them to do it.” Born in Mexico, he’s lived in Chicago for years but doesn’t have citizenship. DHS touted Espinoza Martinez’s arrest on social media with unredacted photos of his face, referring to him as a “depraved” gang member. Bovino has held the case up as an example of the increasing dangers faced by federal agents. Prosecutors included Yonan, the second-highest ranking federal prosecutor in the Chicago region. But several federal lawsuits in Chicago have fueled skepticism about DHS’s narratives. Of the roughly 30 criminal cases stemming from Operation Midway Blitz, charges have been dismissed or dropped in about half. In a notable lawsuit that forced Bovino to sit for depositions, a federal judge found he lied under oath including about alleged gang threats. Bovino did not testify at Espinoza Martinez’s trial. Nationwide, dozens of criminal cases tied to immigration operations have also crumbled. Federal prosecutors initially referred to Espinoza Martinez as a “ranking member” of the Latin Kings, but their lack of evidence led U.S. District Judge Joan Lefkow to bar testimony on the Chicago street gang at trial. According to the criminal complaint, Espinoza Martinez allegedly sent messages on behalf of the gang to other gang members. At trial, there were minor mentions of the gang, including Espinoza Martinez saying in his interview that he had nothing to do with the Latin Kings. His brother, Oscar, testified that he took the Snapchat messages as a joke and were something he’d already seen on Facebook. Singer poked holes in the government’s case, including in the testimony of their first witness Adrian Jimenez. The 44-year-old owns a construction company and had been in touch with Espinoza Martinez over Snapchat about work. Unknown to Espinoza Martinez, he had also worked as a paid government informant over the years after serving a prison sentence for a felony. He shared the Snapchats with a federal investigator. Jimenez, who suffers from back problems, walked slowly with a limp to the witness chair and needed help getting up. “Would you solicit for hire an individual that was in that much pain and could barely walk?” Singer said to jurors. “That doesn’t make any sense.”

US talks on Ukraine settlement start in Moscow

Talks began Thursday between Russia and the US at the Kremlin in Moscow on a possible settlement to the war in Ukraine. The Russian side includes President Vladimir Putin, his aide on international affairs Yury Ushakov, and presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriyev. The US delegation, apart from Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, includes Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Josh Gruenbaum for the first time. The US delegation will discuss options with Putin aimed at ending the war, according to the Kremlin. Speaking earlier on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Witkoff said he and Kushner would travel to Abu Dhabi following the talks in Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the first trilateral talks between Russia, the US and Ukraine are scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates on Friday and Saturday.

Former Iowa Superintendent Pleads Guilty To Falsely Claiming U.S. Citizenship

The former Des Moines superintendent has plead guilty in federal court to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegally possessing firearms. Ian Roberts is originally from Guyana and initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. He plead guilty Thursday to both counts after entering into an agreement with prosecutors that was released Wednesday. The charges could lead to 20 years in prison. He also could be deported. Roberts was targeted by federal immigration agents and arrested in September. Authorities found a loaded handgun and cash in his vehicle. Roberts was an educator and administrator for two decades in districts across the U.S.

US completes withdrawal from World Health Organization

The U.S. has finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, one year after President Donald Trump announced America was ending its 78-year-old commitment, federal officials said Thursday. The U.S. owes more than $130 million to the global health agency, according to WHO. And Trump administration officials acknowledge that they haven't finished working out some issues, such as lost access to data from other countries that could give America an early warning of a new pandemic. The withdrawal will hurt the global response to new outbreaks and will hobble the ability of U.S. scientists and pharmaceutical companies to develop vaccines and medicines against new threats, said Lawrence Gostin, a public health law expert at Georgetown University. “In my opinion, it’s the most ruinous presidential decision in my lifetime,” he said. The WHO is the United Nations’ specialized health agency and is mandated to coordinate the response to global health threats, such as outbreaks of mpox, Ebola and polio. It also provides technical assistance to poorer countries; helps distribute scarce vaccines, supplies and treatments; and sets guidelines for hundreds of health conditions, including mental health and cancer.

Vance Says Insurrection Act Not Needed ‘Right Now’ In Minneapolis

Vice President JD Vance says the Insurrection Act won’t be needed “right now” in Minneapolis after meeting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the city, which has emerged as a national focal point in the clash over the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. The comment on Thursday seemed to echo a similar retreat by President Donald Trump, who had threatened to invoke the rarely used federal law to quell persistent protests against federal agents in Minneapolis before telling reporters a week ago that there wasn’t a reason to use the act “right now.”