Tag: DonaldTrump

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. cleared a major obstacle on Tuesday as a Senate committee voted to advance his nomination for the role of health and human services (HHS) secretary to the full Senate.

The Senate Finance Committee approved Kennedy’s nomination in a 14-13 vote along party lines after he managed to address concerns raised by Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., who was seen as the potential swing vote.

Cassidy, a physician, had previously expressed serious reservations about Kennedy’s qualifications to lead the large federal agency. After questioning Kennedy in two confirmation hearings, he admitted last week that he was still “struggling” with his decision. In addition to serving on the Finance Committee, Cassidy is also the chair of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

Just before Tuesday’s vote, Cassidy posted a statement on X, revealing that he had engaged in “very intense conversations” with both Kennedy and the White House over the weekend. He specifically thanked Vice President JD Vance for his “honest counsel.”

Following the vote, Cassidy told the full Senate that Kennedy had provided him with several commitments, including a pledge to keep the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) advisory committee on immunization practices and to retain statements on the CDC’s website affirming that vaccines do not cause autism.

“Mr. Kennedy and the administration committed that he and I would have an unprecedentedly close collaborative working relationship if he is confirmed,” Cassidy stated. “We will meet or speak multiple times a month. This collaboration will allow us to work well together and therefore to be more effective.”

Cassidy further assured that he would use his role on the panel overseeing HHS to prevent any effort to limit public access to vaccines unless “ironclad causational scientific evidence” was provided and accepted by both the mainstream scientific community and Congress.

Despite Cassidy’s assertion that Kennedy had reassured him about supporting vaccine efficacy, Kennedy’s deep ties to the anti-vaccine movement were evident. Del Bigtree, a well-known anti-vaccine activist and Kennedy ally, was present in the committee room to witness Cassidy’s vote in favor of advancing the nomination.

Kennedy, a member of the famous Democratic political family, previously ran for president in 2024—initially as a Democrat before switching to an independent bid. He later dropped out and endorsed Donald Trump. While campaigning for Trump, Kennedy promoted a “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, criticizing food manufacturers and unhealthy ingredients in the U.S. food supply.

Although lawmakers from both parties supported the idea of improving food safety, Kennedy’s confirmation hearings last week highlighted other major concerns.

Kennedy struggled to answer fundamental questions about Medicaid, a crucial component of the HHS secretary’s responsibilities. Democratic senators raised alarms about potential conflicts of interest if Kennedy were confirmed, particularly noting that he could indirectly benefit financially from lawsuits against a vaccine manufacturer he would be tasked with regulating.

However, the most forceful objections to Kennedy centered on his long-standing rejection of vaccine efficacy. During a committee hearing last week, Cassidy repeatedly challenged Kennedy over his refusal to accept the scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism.

“I can say that I’ve approached it using the preponderance of evidence to reassure, and you’ve approached using selected evidence to cast doubt,” Cassidy stated during the hearing.

Cassidy, who is up for re-election in 2026, has already drawn a GOP primary challenger over his vote to convict Trump in the former president’s 2021 impeachment trial.

Just before the committee’s vote, Trump took to Truth Social to express support for Kennedy.

“20 years ago, Autism in children was 1 in 10,000. NOW IT’S 1 in 34. WOW! Something’s really wrong. We need BOBBY!!! Thank You! DJT,” Trump wrote.

The rate of autism diagnoses has indeed increased, rising from approximately 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 36 today. However, researchers attribute much of this rise to improved screening and evolving diagnostic criteria. Advocates have called for additional research to determine whether other factors may also be contributing to the trend.

Despite overwhelming scientific evidence debunking the alleged link between vaccines and autism, Kennedy has repeatedly promoted the false claim. Autism advocates voiced concerns over his potential confirmation, fearing that his misleading assertions could undermine decades of progress in understanding the condition. They argue that the continued focus on vaccine-related falsehoods has diverted essential research efforts from identifying the true causes of autism.

Kennedy’s position on vaccines played a significant role in Cassidy’s initial hesitation.

For weeks, Kennedy’s supporters, particularly those from the anti-vaccine movement he leads, had mounted a pressure campaign targeting Cassidy. However, another effort emerged simultaneously, urging Cassidy to oppose Kennedy’s nomination.

A source familiar with the situation revealed that over the weekend, a group called Protect Our Care escalated its efforts to block Kennedy’s appointment. The organization arranged calls to Cassidy’s office and launched digital advertisements opposing his confirmation. Additionally, doctors and other advocacy groups reached out to Cassidy to persuade him to vote no.

Meanwhile, groups associated with the anti-vaccine movement—including Children’s Health Defense, a nonprofit founded by Kennedy, and the National Vaccine Information Center—encouraged their supporters to flood Cassidy’s office with calls and emails demanding that he back Kennedy’s nomination.

During one of Kennedy’s confirmation hearings last week, Cassidy acknowledged the overwhelming response from Kennedy’s supporters.

“My phone is being blown up,” Cassidy said at the hearing. He noted that Kennedy’s followers exhibited “tremendous trust” in him—sometimes even more than they trusted their own doctors.

“The question I need to have answered is what will you do with that trust?” Cassidy asked Kennedy.

After the hearing, anti-vaccine groups mobilized further. Through newsletters, social media posts, and online broadcasts, they identified Cassidy as the biggest potential obstacle to Kennedy’s confirmation.

On Thursday’s episode of the online show hosted by the Informed Consent Action Network—an anti-vaccine organization—Bigtree dedicated 25 minutes to discussing Cassidy, urging him to support Kennedy’s nomination.

Now that Kennedy’s nomination has passed the committee stage, it will head to the full Senate for a final vote. The outcome remains uncertain, but the intense debate surrounding his confirmation underscores the deep divisions over his views on vaccines and public health policy.

President Donald Trump has temporarily halted tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico following last-minute agreements with the leaders of both countries. The decision has put a month-long pause on a potential trade war within North America.

The economies of the three nations are deeply interconnected, with an estimated $2 billion (£1.6 billion) worth of manufactured goods crossing their borders daily. Trump has argued that the tariffs are meant to protect American industries. However, many economists caution that such measures could lead to higher consumer prices in the U.S.

The reason behind this concern is that domestic companies importing goods are responsible for paying the tariffs. These businesses may either pass the additional costs onto customers directly or cut back on imports, which would result in a reduced supply of goods.

If the tariffs are eventually implemented, several essential products could see price increases.

Cars

The price of cars would likely rise by approximately $3,000, according to TD Economics. This is due to the complex nature of the North American auto industry, where car parts cross U.S., Canadian, and Mexican borders multiple times before final assembly.

Higher import taxes on these parts would inevitably raise manufacturing costs, leading automakers to transfer these expenses to consumers.

“Suffice it to say that disrupting these trends through tariffs… would come with significant costs,” said Andrew Foran, an economist at TD Economics. He also pointed out that “uninterrupted free trade” in the car-making sector had existed for decades, resulting in lower prices for consumers.

Beer, Tennessee Whiskey, and Tequila

Popular Mexican beer brands like Modelo and Corona could become more expensive in the U.S. if the companies importing them decide to pass on the increased import taxes. However, another possibility is that firms may simply import less beer rather than increase prices.

Modelo became the best-selling beer brand in the U.S. in 2023 and remains in that position for now.

When it comes to spirits, the situation is more complicated. The industry has largely operated without tariffs since the 1990s. In anticipation of the potential tariffs, trade bodies from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico issued a joint statement expressing their “deep concern.”

They pointed out that specific spirits, such as Bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, tequila, and Canadian whisky, are “recognized as distinctive products and can only be produced in their designated countries.”

Since the production of these beverages cannot simply be relocated, supplies could be affected, leading to higher prices. The trade groups also noted that many companies own various spirit brands across all three nations.

Houses

The U.S. housing market could also feel the impact, as tariffs on Canadian lumber imports would drive up construction costs. Trump has claimed that “the U.S. has more lumber than we ever use.”

However, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has urged the president to exempt building materials from the proposed tariffs, citing concerns about housing affordability.

The industry body warned that lumber tariffs could raise the cost of building homes—most of which are primarily constructed from wood in the U.S.—and discourage developers from starting new projects.

“Consumers end up paying for the tariffs in the form of higher home prices,” the NAHB stated.

Maple Syrup

One of the most direct consequences of a U.S.-Canada trade war would be an increase in the price of Canadian maple syrup, according to Thomas Sampson, an associate professor of economics at the London School of Economics.

Canada’s maple syrup industry, worth billions of dollars, accounts for 75% of the world’s production. Around 90% of this comes from Quebec, home to the world’s only strategic maple syrup reserve, established 24 years ago.

“That maple syrup is going to become more expensive. And that’s a direct price increase that households will face,” Sampson explained.

He also noted that even U.S.-made products that rely on Canadian ingredients would see price hikes: “If I buy goods that are domestically produced in the U.S., but that are produced using inputs from Canada, the price of those goods is also going to go up.”

Fuel Prices

Canada is the largest foreign supplier of crude oil to the U.S. Between January and November of last year, 61% of America’s imported oil came from Canada, according to official trade figures.

Although Canadian goods imported into the U.S. are subject to a 25% tariff, crude oil has been given a lower 10% tariff.

While the U.S. has an ample supply of oil, its refineries are designed to process heavier crude oil, which mostly comes from Canada and, to a lesser extent, Mexico.

“Many refineries need heavier crude oil to maximize flexibility of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel production,” stated the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers.

If Canada were to retaliate by reducing crude oil exports, fuel prices at the pump could rise for American consumers.

Avocados

One food item that could see a steep price increase is avocados. Nearly 90% of avocados consumed in the U.S. each year are grown in Mexico, where the climate is ideal for their production.

Should tariffs be enforced, the U.S. Agriculture Department has warned that avocado prices—along with those of avocado-based foods like guacamole—could spike, especially by Super Bowl Sunday on February 9.

Impact on Canadian Goods

Before Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reached their agreement to pause tariffs, Canada had been preparing to impose retaliatory import taxes.

An initial round of C$30 billion in tariffs was set to take effect on Tuesday, which would have resulted in higher prices for Canadian consumers as well.

The Canadian government had published a list of U.S. imports that would have faced immediate 25% tariffs. This included essential grocery items like oranges, a fruit that Canada struggles to produce due to its colder climate.

Alcohol imports from the U.S. would also have been affected. Several Canadian provinces—including Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia—had planned to remove all American-made alcoholic beverages from store shelves starting Tuesday.

Any remaining U.S. alcohol available in Canada would likely have been subject to price increases, as it was included in the list of retaliatory tariffs.

Additionally, Canadian shoppers who purchase goods online from U.S. retailers could have felt the economic pinch due to a weaker Canadian dollar.

While the temporary halt on tariffs has provided short-term relief, the uncertainty surrounding North American trade continues, leaving businesses and consumers on both sides of the border bracing for potential economic shifts.

Former President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have agreed to postpone the implementation of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports for at least a month. This decision was reached just hours after Trump similarly delayed tariffs on Mexico.

The pause on tariffs, which were originally set to take effect on Tuesday, followed a second conversation between Trump and Trudeau on Monday. Trump stated that Canada had committed to securing the northern border and intensifying efforts to curb the flow of fentanyl into the United States. As part of this agreement, Canada will implement its $1.3 billion border security plan and take additional measures to strengthen border control.

“As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that. I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final Economic deal with Canada can be structured. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Trudeau, in his announcement on the social media platform X, provided details on Canada’s new measures. The government plans to appoint a “Fentanyl Czar,” designate cartels as terrorist organizations, implement continuous surveillance on the U.S.-Canada border, and establish a joint strike force with the United States to combat crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering.

As part of their agreement, Trump and Trudeau signed a new intelligence directive focused on organized crime and fentanyl. This initiative will receive $200 million in funding.

“Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are and will be working on protecting the border,” Trudeau stated.

The agreement with Canada is similar to the arrangement Trump reached earlier in the day with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Ahead of the tariff deadline, Mexico committed to deploying 10,000 soldiers to its northern border to curb fentanyl trafficking and unauthorized immigration into the U.S.

On Saturday, Trump had signed orders imposing 25 percent tariffs on imports from both Canada and Mexico, along with a 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods. While the decisions on Canada and Mexico have been temporarily halted, there has been no update regarding tariffs on China. In response, China’s Ministry of Commerce stated it would file a legal challenge against the United States at the World Trade Organization.

Following Trump’s tariff announcement, Trudeau had previously stated that Canada would impose retaliatory tariffs of 25 percent on over $100 billion worth of U.S. goods. Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre, a leading candidate to succeed Trudeau as prime minister, strongly criticized Trump’s tariffs, calling them “unjust and unjustified” and advocating for a “dollar-for-dollar” response.

Earlier on Monday, Trump also reiterated his long-standing idea of integrating Canada into the United States, downplaying the economic ties between the two nations. Despite this assertion, Canada remains one of America’s most significant trade partners.

A recent poll conducted by The New York Times and Ipsos indicates that many Americans do not view the Democratic Party as prioritizing economic issues. When asked about the issues they believe are most important to the Democratic Party, only 17 percent of respondents identified “the economy/inflation” as a key focus. By contrast, 31 percent cited “abortion” and “gay/lesbian/transgender policy” as central concerns for the party.

The findings come in the wake of President Donald Trump’s reelection and the Republican Party securing a majority in the Senate while maintaining control of the House. These developments have left Democrats grappling with their party’s direction following the 2024 elections.

Ken Martin, the new chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), expressed concern about how the party is currently perceived by the American public. Speaking to The New York Times in November, Martin said, “I found it deeply alarming … that for the first time in modern history, the majority of Americans believe that the Republican Party best represents the interests of the working class and the poor.”

He further noted, “And that the Democratic Party represents the interests of the wealthy and the elite. That would suggest we have a huge branding problem, because that is not who our party is.” Martin emphasized the need for Democrats to improve their messaging, stating, “And we’ve got to do a better job of making sure people know that wherever they live, wherever they are from, no matter who they are, we’re fighting for them and we’re their champion in this country.”

The poll also reflected positive public sentiment regarding Trump’s economic policies. When asked whether they believe Trump’s policies would benefit the national economy, 45 percent of respondents said they would, while 39 percent disagreed.

The New York Times and Ipsos poll was conducted from January 2 to January 10, surveying 2,128 individuals. The margin of error for the poll was 2.6 percentage points.

A California woman, Phoebe Dong, was sentenced on Monday to 41 months in prison for her role in a business that facilitated “birth tourism,” helping pregnant Chinese women travel to the United States to deliver babies who automatically became U.S. citizens. Dong and her husband, Michael Liu, operated the company USA Happy Baby and were convicted in September of conspiracy and money laundering. U.S. District Judge R. Gary Klausner handed down the sentence in a federal court in Los Angeles and ordered Dong into custody immediately after the hearing.

This sentencing comes amid renewed debate over birthright citizenship in the United States, which has become a focal point following Donald Trump’s return to the political stage. As president, Trump issued an executive order aimed at restricting birthright citizenship, a move blocked by a federal judge who deemed it “blatantly unconstitutional.”

Dong and Liu were among over a dozen individuals charged in a crackdown on birth tourism schemes initiated during the Obama administration. These businesses, which cater primarily to women from China, Russia, Nigeria, and other countries, have been accused of helping pregnant women disguise their pregnancies and travel to the United States to give birth. Under the 14th Amendment, all children born in the U.S. are automatically granted citizenship. For many, this pathway provides their children with access to a U.S. education and the opportunity to eventually sponsor their parents for permanent residency when they reach the age of 21.

In her emotional testimony during the sentencing, Dong reflected on her upbringing in China, which was shaped by the country’s one-child policy. She tearfully recounted how the government forced her mother to have an abortion, and she described the struggles she faced after immigrating to the U.S. Despite these hardships, Dong said she was inspired by having children of her own and hoped to help other Chinese women seeking similar opportunities in California.

“I don’t want to lose my kids,” Dong told the court. “I hope you can give me fair judgment. I will take all my responsibility.”

Federal prosecutors, however, sought a more severe penalty, recommending a sentence exceeding five years. They accused Dong and Liu of orchestrating a scheme that enabled more than 100 pregnant Chinese women to enter the United States. According to prosecutors, the couple coached these women on how to deceive immigration officials by arriving at airports with less stringent screening procedures and wearing loose clothing to conceal their pregnancies.

“For tens of thousands of dollars each, defendant helped her numerous customers deceive U.S. authorities and buy U.S. citizenship for their children,” prosecutors stated in court documents. After the sentencing, they declined to provide further comment.

Michael Liu had already been sentenced in December to 41 months in prison for his involvement in the scheme. Dong’s lawyer, John McNicholas, requested that her prison term be postponed until Liu completed his sentence so that their three children, the youngest of whom is 13, would not be left without parental care. While federal prosecutor Kevin Fu agreed to the proposal, Judge Klausner denied the request, ordering Dong to begin her sentence immediately. As she was led away, Dong handed a necklace to a family member.

The USA Happy Baby case is part of a larger investigation into businesses that facilitate birth tourism in California. Prosecutors have pursued multiple cases, including one involving the operator of a company called “You Win USA.” That operator was sentenced in 2019 to 10 months in prison after pleading guilty to charges of conspiracy and visa fraud. Another individual linked to these schemes is believed to have fled to China, according to court filings.

McNicholas argued that Dong received a disproportionately harsh sentence due to the perception that she and Liu were responsible for enabling the birth of U.S. citizen children through their business practices. He contended that this perception unfairly influenced the sentencing, as the issue of citizenship was not directly related to the charges of conspiracy and money laundering.

“Our position was these children are born in America. They’re citizens,” McNicholas said, adding that Dong plans to appeal the verdict. “Implicitly, he’s saying being born here is not enough.”

The broader issue of birthright citizenship remains contentious, particularly as political debates intensify around immigration and citizenship policies. For individuals like Dong, the intersection of legal and ethical considerations continues to spark discussions on the implications of birth tourism and the responsibilities of those involved.

President Donald Trump dismissed inspectors general (IGs) from over a dozen federal agencies in a late-night shake-up on Friday, a move paving the way for him to appoint his own candidates to these key oversight roles. According to a Trump administration official, the firings targeted independent watchdogs at agencies including the Departments of State, Energy, Defense, Transportation, and the Interior.

Inspectors general were informed of their termination via an email from Sergio Gor, head of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, citing “changing priorities” as the reason for their removal. These dismissals immediately sparked bipartisan concerns over the independence and effectiveness of government oversight mechanisms.

Inspectors general play a critical role in maintaining government transparency. They are tasked with investigating allegations of fraud, abuse, and misconduct within federal agencies and providing independent recommendations to ensure accountability. These positions are designed to operate autonomously to avoid political interference.

This is not the first time Trump has clashed with government watchdogs. During his first term, he removed several IGs he deemed disloyal to his administration. The recent firings have raised questions about the motivations behind these actions and whether they comply with federal law.

Legal Concerns Over Firings

In 2022, Congress enacted a law requiring the White House to provide a clear and substantive rationale for the removal of inspectors general. Moreover, federal law mandates a 30-day notice to Congress before such dismissals take effect. Some senators, including prominent Republicans, criticized the administration for failing to adhere to these legal requirements.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, known for his advocacy of government watchdogs, expressed his concerns, stating, “There may be good reason the IGs were fired. We need to know that if so. I’d like further explanation from President Trump. Regardless, the 30-day detailed notice of removal that the law demands was not provided to Congress.”

Trump’s Justification

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Saturday, Trump defended his decision, claiming, “I did it because it’s a very common thing to do.” While asserting that not all IGs were dismissed, he added, “I don’t know them, but some people thought that some were unfair or were not doing the job. It’s a very standard thing to do.” However, his explanation lacked evidence or specific examples of misconduct.

Historically, such sweeping removals of IGs during a presidential transition have been rare. A Congressional Research Service report noted that the last comparable instance occurred in 1981 when President Ronald Reagan controversially dismissed all inspectors general following his inauguration. Since then, it has been customary for IGs to remain in their roles during transitions to ensure continuity and independence.

Reactions From Lawmakers

The firings drew swift criticism from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska described the action as “relatively unprecedented” due to the lack of prior notice. She remarked, “I can understand why a new president coming in would want to look critically at the IGs and the role that they have played within the various agencies, but … the summary dismissal of everybody, I think, has raised concerns.”

Senator Susan Collins of Maine echoed these sentiments, questioning how the dismissals aligned with Trump’s stated commitment to combating corruption. “I don’t understand why one would fire individuals whose mission is to root out waste, fraud, and abuse. So this leaves a gap in what I know is a priority for President Trump,” Collins said.

Other Republican senators, including Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, voiced frustration over the lack of communication from the White House. Thune commented, “I haven’t [received notice], so I better reserve comment. I’m sure I will.”

Democratic lawmakers were far more critical, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer denouncing the firings as “a chilling purge” that could signal “a golden age for abuse in government, and even corruption.”

Defense of IGs’ Independence

Hannibal “Mike” Ware, the former inspector general of the Small Business Administration and one of those dismissed, emphasized the importance of maintaining the nonpartisan nature of IG roles. “IGs across the Federal government work every day on behalf of American taxpayers to combat waste, fraud, and abuse in the programs and operations of their agencies,” Ware said. He acknowledged that IGs are not immune to removal but stressed that dismissals must follow established legal protocols to preserve the integrity of government oversight.

The chair of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency also issued a statement underscoring the importance of adhering to the law in such decisions. “IGs are not immune from removal. However, the law must be followed to protect independent government oversight for America,” the statement read.

Broader Implications

The abrupt firings have left a cloud of uncertainty over the affected agencies. Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota suggested that more information was needed to assess the rationale behind the dismissals. “I honestly would just be guessing at this point as to what it actually entails,” Rounds said. “Are there deputies that step in? Was it specific to individuals? I just simply don’t have that information.”

Lawmakers are now calling for the administration to provide detailed explanations for the removals. The lack of clarity has led to speculation about whether the firings were politically motivated or intended to dismantle oversight mechanisms perceived as obstacles to Trump’s agenda.

Conclusion

The sweeping dismissal of inspectors general by President Trump has reignited debates over the role of independent oversight in government. While the administration argues that such actions are standard, the lack of transparency and adherence to legal requirements has drawn bipartisan criticism. As lawmakers push for answers, the controversy underscores the ongoing tension between political authority and institutional accountability in Washington.

Pamela Hemphill, a person who served time in prison for her involvement in the U.S. Capitol riot four years ago, has rejected a pardon from former President Donald Trump. Hemphill, who had been sentenced to 60 days behind bars after pleading guilty, expressed to the BBC that there should be no pardons for those involved in the January 6, 2021 riot.

“We were wrong that day,” Hemphill said, acknowledging her illegal actions during the riot. She added, “Accepting a pardon would only insult the Capitol police officers, rule of law, and, of course, our nation.” Hemphill explained that by pleading guilty, she took full responsibility for her actions, and accepting a pardon would contribute to a false narrative, one that she believes is being pushed by the Trump administration.

The 60-year-old woman, who gained the nickname “Maga granny” from social media users due to her association with Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, also criticized the Trump government for what she described as an attempt to “rewrite history.” She firmly rejected any notion of forgiveness, emphasizing, “We were wrong that day, we broke the law – there should be no pardons.” Hemphill made these statements on the BBC World Service’s Newsday programme.

Her stance comes amid a broader context of pardons granted by Trump, who, within hours of taking office, made the controversial decision to pardon or commute the sentences of nearly 1,600 individuals involved in attempts to violently overturn the 2020 presidential election. Speaking during a White House news conference, Trump defended his actions, stating, “These people have already served years in prison, and they’ve served them viciously. It’s a disgusting prison. It’s been horrible. It’s inhumane. It’s been a terrible, terrible thing.”

Trump’s actions, while celebrated by some, have drawn criticism from various quarters, including within his own party. Republican Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina voiced his disapproval of the decision, saying, “I just can’t agree” with the pardons. He added that such a move “raises legitimate safety issues on Capitol Hill.” Another Republican, Senator James Lankford from Oklahoma, also spoke against the pardons, emphasizing the importance of law and order. “I think if you attack a police officer, that’s a very serious issue and they should pay a price for that,” Lankford said in an interview with CNN.

The refusal of a pardon is not a new occurrence. Under the U.S. Constitution, it is within an individual’s rights to reject a pardon, a position upheld by the Supreme Court. Legal experts, including those at Cornell Law School, have confirmed that individuals who choose not to accept a pardon cannot be forced into doing so. This highlights the autonomy individuals have regarding their own legal matters.

Among the individuals who did accept pardons was Jacob Chansley, one of the most recognizable faces from the Capitol riot. Known as the self-styled “QAnon Shaman,” Chansley had been sentenced to 41 months in prison but was released in 2023 after serving 27 months of his sentence. Upon hearing about his pardon, Chansley was reportedly working out at a gym and learned of the news from his lawyer. His reaction was one of elation. “I walked outside and I screamed ‘freedom’ at the top of my lungs and then gave a good Native American war cry,” Chansley recalled, describing his emotional response to the pardon.

Hemphill’s rejection of the pardon and her call for accountability underscores the growing divide over the Capitol riot and its aftermath. For her, the message is clear: those who participated in the riot must face the consequences of their actions. “I pleaded guilty because I was guilty,” she emphasized, reinforcing her stance that accepting a pardon would undermine both her personal accountability and the wider rule of law.

The ongoing debate over pardons and the Capitol riot reflects larger issues concerning justice, accountability, and the interpretation of events that continue to resonate in the political landscape. As public figures, including Hemphill, take stands on the issue, the conversation about the proper response to the January 6 riot remains deeply polarized, with both supporters and detractors of the pardons offering strong views.

As the political ramifications of the Capitol riot continue to unfold, figures like Hemphill provide a stark contrast to those seeking leniency or a rewriting of history. For Hemphill, the rejection of a pardon is not merely a personal decision but a statement about the need for a just society, where individuals are held accountable for their actions, no matter their political affiliation. She rejected any attempts to downplay the events of January 6, 2021, saying, “We were wrong that day, we broke the law – there should be no pardons.”

Major donors seeking access to Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance during the upcoming inauguration are facing a significantly higher price tag. The committee’s latest fundraising materials reveal that the minimum contribution for top-tier perks has doubled, rising from $500,000 during Trump’s first inauguration to $1 million this time around.

The $1 Million Package

This premium package offers two tickets to a private dinner with Vance and six tickets to the prestigious “candlelight dinner,” where Trump is expected to attend. For lobbyists and high-profile donors eager to curry favor with the incoming administration, such opportunities are seen as vital, particularly as Trump resumes power.

Rising Costs Reflect Increased Demand

The steep increase in donation requirements reflects heightened enthusiasm following a polarizing election. The committee has already raised over $170 million, with projections exceeding $200 million. These funds far surpass the estimated costs of the events, which include multiple receptions, lunches, and celebratory balls. For many donors, particularly those with business interests requiring governmental cooperation, the $1 million contribution is viewed as a strategic investment.

Fewer Benefits for Smaller Contributions

Smaller donations, ranging from $100,000 to $250,000, now offer far fewer privileges. A transition official acknowledged the diminishing returns for donors at these levels, suggesting that such contributors might gain more by supporting Trump-aligned political action committees instead. “At $100,000, you’re not even noticed,” the official remarked, emphasizing the exclusivity of the inaugural fundraising strategy.

Donation Tiers and Their Perks

The committee has outlined a five-tier donation structure, ranging from $50,000 to $1 million, with varying degrees of access:

• $1 Million: Grants admission to both the candlelight dinner and the private vice-president’s dinner.
• $500,000: Includes access to the candlelight dinner but excludes the vice-president’s dinner, a notable reduction from 2017 when this tier provided access to both.
• $50,000: Offers limited access to events, such as those featuring Cabinet officials, though the price for this level has been halved compared to 2017.

Promotional materials highlight the candlelight dinner, held at the National Building Museum, as a glamorous black-tie event attended by Trump and Melania Trump. Meanwhile, the vice-president’s dinner at the National Gallery of Art is promoted as an exclusive gathering for high-level donors.

Reduced Perks Even at Premium Levels

Despite its hefty price tag, the $1 million package offers fewer benefits compared to 2017. Notably, the “leadership luncheon,” which previously included appearances by Cabinet appointees and congressional leaders, has been removed from the itinerary. Some insiders suggest that private events hosted by prominent Trump allies, including Donald Trump Jr., Turning Point USA’s Charlie Kirk, and Steve Bannon, may provide more meaningful opportunities for influential interactions.

Limited Returns for Smaller Donors

Contributors at the lower end of the spectrum, such as those donating $50,000 or $100,000, should not expect personal access to Trump. However, they may still attend events featuring Cabinet members and other figures from Trump’s political circle. Nevertheless, with perks scaled back across all donation levels, the value for smaller donors has diminished compared to previous inaugural celebrations.

Strategic Investments by Donors

The dramatic price increases underline the fundraising committee’s emphasis on exclusivity, catering primarily to high-net-worth individuals and organizations seeking to secure influence. The $1 million contribution is positioned as not just a donation but a calculated move to align with Trump’s administration during its return to power.

In summary, Trump’s inauguration committee has raised the bar for donor contributions, reflecting both increased demand for access and a strategic shift toward exclusivity. While the enhanced price tags may deter smaller donors, they highlight the administration’s focus on courting top-tier supporters willing to invest in influence and proximity.

President-elect Donald Trump announced Friday that his inauguration will be moved indoors due to dangerously cold temperatures forecasted for the nation’s capital. “I have ordered the Inauguration Address, in addition to prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda, as was used by Ronald Reagan in 1985, also because of very cold weather,” Trump stated on Truth Social.

He further revealed that Capital One Arena would open on Monday to facilitate live viewing of the event and host the Presidential Parade. “I will join the crowd at Capital One, after my Swearing In,” Trump added.

Indoor Venue Confirmed

Reports earlier in the day from CNN indicated plans for Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance to take their oaths inside the Capitol Rotunda. Discussions were also underway regarding the use of Capital One Arena, where Trump is scheduled to hold a rally on Sunday, for some of the inaugural festivities.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies issued a statement confirming the move: “The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies will honor the request of the President-elect and his Presidential Inaugural Committee to move the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies inside the U.S. Capitol to the Rotunda.”

Such contingency plans are always considered to accommodate weather or other unforeseen obstacles, but the shift raises logistical concerns. The Rotunda’s limited capacity leaves the committee grappling with how to accommodate the thousands of ticketed guests who were to attend the outdoor ceremony.

In a notice to ticket holders, the committee explained, “The vast majority of ticketed guests will not be able to attend the ceremonies in person.” Spectators were encouraged to view the event at designated indoor venues, with further details promised. Members of Congress and those with tickets for the Presidential Platform, however, will retain in-person access.

Adjusting Security Measures

The Secret Service, alongside the DC and U.S. Capitol Police, is working to revise security plans for the event, according to two law enforcement sources familiar with the matter. This shift presents a logistical challenge, as agencies must condense months of preparation into a three-day window.

Trump’s inauguration, initially planned as an outdoor ceremony and parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, had been declared a National Special Security Event by the Department of Homeland Security, triggering extensive federal coordination. More than 30 miles of fencing had already been erected to manage the anticipated crowds, which law enforcement estimated would include hundreds of thousands of attendees.

By moving the ceremony indoors, security requirements may become more manageable in certain aspects, sources told CNN. The Rotunda, with a capacity of about 700 people, will only admit members of Congress, their spouses, and VIPs. Public access will be restricted, and attendees have been redirected to Capital One Arena, which has a seating capacity of just over 20,000.

However, this adjustment leaves a significant gap, as over 200,000 tickets were distributed for the outdoor inauguration. In a communication to congressional offices, the Sergeant at Arms clarified, “The weather plan precludes the vast majority of ticketed guests from attending the ceremonies in person.” Tickets are being offered as commemorative keepsakes for those unable to attend.

Security measures for the arena and its surroundings remain under discussion between the Secret Service, DC police, and other agencies.

Health and Weather Concerns

Trump emphasized his concerns for the health and safety of attendees, citing the extreme cold as a risk. “I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way. It is dangerous conditions for the tens of thousands of Law Enforcement, First Responders, Police K9s and even horses, and hundreds of thousands of supporters that will be outside for many hours on the 20th (In any event, if you decide to come, dress warmly!),” he posted on Truth Social.

The last time a U.S. president was inaugurated indoors was in 1985, during Ronald Reagan’s second term. Temperatures that year reached a daytime high of just 7 degrees, with wind chills plunging to -25. Reagan took his oath inside the Capitol Rotunda, and the inaugural parade was canceled.

The dangers of frigid weather during such events are well documented. President William Henry Harrison, in 1841, is believed to have contracted pneumonia after delivering a two-hour inaugural address outdoors without wearing a coat or hat. He died one month later.

Forecast for Inauguration Day

This year’s inauguration day weather is shaping up to be the coldest since Reagan’s second inauguration. Temperatures at noon, when Trump is scheduled to take the oath, are expected to be in the low 20s—approximately 20 degrees below average for this time of year.

Wind gusts of 10 to 20 mph, with peaks of up to 30 mph, will create even harsher conditions, making it feel like 10 degrees during the day and potentially dropping wind chills to single digits after sunset.

A mix of rain and snow is predicted for Sunday, the day before the inauguration, but Monday is forecasted to be dry, albeit cold and windy.

Conclusion

While the decision to move the inauguration indoors prioritizes safety, it has necessitated significant adjustments for attendees and security personnel alike. Capital One Arena and designated viewing venues will play a crucial role in accommodating the public as the nation witnesses this historic event.

A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday morning in Las Vegas when a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, resulting in one death and injuries to seven others. Authorities, including the Las Vegas Police Department, are investigating the explosion as a potential act of terrorism.

The blast occurred near S. Sammy Davis Jr. Drive and Fashion Drive, with the fire reported at the hotel entrance. The Clark County Fire Department Deputy Chief, Thomas Touchstone, stated that emergency crews arrived at the scene within four minutes of receiving reports of a vehicle fire. Responders from Las Vegas police, fire departments, and rescue teams were quickly on-site, extinguishing the fire and attending to the injured.

Touchstone confirmed that seven individuals sustained minor injuries, two of whom were transported to a hospital for further treatment. Tragically, one person was found deceased inside the Cybertruck. Details about the deceased individual have not yet been disclosed.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Chief Kevin McMahill assured the public that the situation at the scene is now under control. He detailed that officers were dispatched to the area at 8:40 a.m. following reports of an explosion and fire. McMahill also highlighted a concerning connection to another incident in New Orleans earlier that day.

In New Orleans, a man driving a pickup truck, adorned with an ISIS flag on its trailer hitch, rammed into a crowd on Bourbon Street. The attack resulted in the deaths of 10 people and injuries to dozens more. McMahill acknowledged the timing and nature of these incidents, noting that police are taking extra precautions, such as searching for potential secondary devices.

Jeremy Schwartz, the FBI’s acting special agent in charge, confirmed the death resulting from the Las Vegas explosion but admitted that many questions remain unanswered.

Eric Trump, son of President-elect Donald Trump, addressed the incident on social media platform X. He wrote, “Earlier today, a reported electric vehicle fire occurred in the porte cochère of Trump Las Vegas. The safety and well-being of our guests and staff remain our top priority. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Las Vegas Fire Department and local law enforcement for their swift response and professionalism.”

Tesla CEO Elon Musk also took to X to comment on the event. Initially, Musk stated, “The whole Tesla senior team is investigating this matter right now. Will post more information as soon as we learn anything. We’ve never seen anything like this.” Later, Musk clarified the cause of the explosion, saying, “We have now confirmed that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself. All vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion.”

Both the Cybertruck involved in the Las Vegas explosion and the truck used in the New Orleans attack were rented vehicles obtained through the peer-to-peer car rental platform, Turo. Fox News Digital has reached out to Turo for a statement but has not yet received a response.

Paul Mauro, a former New York City Police Department official and Fox News contributor, provided his perspective on the two events. “I cannot recall two terrorist events occurring on the same day that were not coordinated,” Mauro remarked. “While chances are that these two events are not related, it is something investigators have to consider.”

As authorities continue their investigations into the two tragic incidents, the connection, if any, between them remains a critical focus. The safety and security measures on Las Vegas Boulevard and other high-profile locations are being heightened to prevent further occurrences.