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US Congress

Opinion: Why isn’t the House Judiciary Committee looking into red flags about Clarence Thomas?

by Emma Walker – News Editor November 13, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Jordan‘s Focus⁣ on Trump Raises Questions as Thomas Ethics Concerns Go⁤ Unaddressed

WASHINGTON – ⁢While ‍the Senate Judiciary Committee moves to‌ address ethical questions surrounding Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, the house Judiciary Committee,⁣ now led ⁣by Representative Jim Jordan,⁤ has conspicuously shifted its ‍focus to investigations benefiting former President Donald ⁤Trump, prompting criticism that‌ the committee is prioritizing partisan loyalty over its stated role‍ as “the lawyer for the House of Representatives.”

The ⁤contrast⁣ in ⁢approaches‌ comes ⁢as reporting continues to surface regarding financial dealings between Justice Thomas and Harlan Crow, raising concerns‌ about potential conflicts‍ of interest. In response,‍ the Senate ‍Judiciary⁢ Committee announced plans for a hearing “on the need to restore confidence in the Supreme ⁣Court’s ethical standards,” and Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Representative Hank Johnson have formally requested a referral of Thomas to the Attorney General for potential⁣ violations of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978.

However, the House ⁤January 6 committee’s report identified Jordan‍ as “a⁤ meaningful player in ⁣President Trump’s efforts” to overturn the 2020⁢ election. The report detailed Jordan’s involvement,‍ including ⁣leading a conference call on January 2, 2021, with Trump and other ⁢members of Congress to discuss strategies for‌ delaying the January⁤ 6th joint session. Despite a subpoena, Jordan refused to cooperate with the January 6‍ committee’s investigation.

This history has led to accusations that under Jordan, the⁢ House Judiciary Committee is now‍ functioning as “the lawyer for Donald ⁤J. Trump,” with taxpayers footing the bill for investigations aligned ⁢with the former president’s interests while⁣ legitimate ethical concerns regarding a Supreme court⁢ Justice appear to be⁢ sidelined.

November 13, 2025 0 comments

World

Trump Administration War Powers Resolution Caribbean Strikes

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 2, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Trump Administration‍ Argues Strikes Against ⁢Suspected Drug ⁢Smugglers bypass War⁣ Powers Resolution

WASHINGTON D.C. ⁢- The U.S. Justice Department‍ has informed Congress⁣ that President Donald Trump’s authorization of lethal strikes against ⁣vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean sea dose not fall ‌under the purview of the War Powers Resolution, according to sources familiar with the⁤ matter. The ‍administration contends‍ the operation does not constitute “hostilities” as defined by the 1973 law, wich requires Congressional approval for military actions‌ exceeding 60 days involving U.S. troops in “zones ⁢of hostilities.”

The justice department’s ‍Office of⁢ Legal counsel chief, Elliot Gaiser, reportedly conveyed this position to lawmakers this week. A ⁢senior administration official,‍ speaking on background, stated that ⁣U.S. service⁣ members are not at risk,as the strikes‍ are being carried out by drones launched from naval ships operating at a distance that prevents those targeted from endangering American personnel.

“The operation comprises precise strikes ⁢conducted largely ‍by ‌unmanned aerial‌ vehicles launched⁢ from ⁤naval vessels in international waters at distances too far away for the crews of the ‍targeted vessels to endanger american‌ personnel,” ‍the official said.

To date, the U.S. military has confirmed killing⁤ at ⁣least 62 people ⁣in 14 airstrikes on boats in the Caribbean Sea and⁤ eastern Pacific, with⁣ U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sharing details on ⁢social media.

The Trump‍ administration has reportedly classified⁣ the situation ⁣as a “formal armed conflict,” ⁤but not “hostilities,”‍ echoing a ‍legal argument previously employed⁣ by former President Barack Obama during⁣ NATO’s 2011 intervention in Libya. While the Obama administration later acknowledged ⁤the⁣ legal‍ basis presented, it was met with Congressional ⁤disagreement at the time.

The War Powers⁢ Resolution mandates a president ‍to terminate military operations after 60‍ days if Congress hasn’t authorized them. though, the definition of “hostilities” within the law has proven ambiguous, allowing‌ presidents to circumvent Congressional oversight.

The 60-day window for⁤ Congressional authorization in Trump’s case began on September 4th and will conclude on Monday. The administration’s justification mirrors Obama’s argument⁤ that‌ the lack of ground ⁢troops and limited‌ risk to U.S.personnel ‍exempted‌ the libya operation from ‍the Resolution’s requirements. Though, unlike Obama’s‍ actions,⁣ Trump’s operation ⁣lacks a ⁤basis‍ in a United Nations Security Council resolution or a multi-country mission ⁣like NATO.

November 2, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Navy Admiral Defends Non-Binary Sailor Amid GOP Criticism

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 20, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

WASHINGTON – Top⁢ Navy Admiral Michael Gilday publicly defended a non-binary sailor’s right to serve, rebuffing criticism ⁤from some Republican lawmakers ⁢who have questioned the military’s focus on diversity initiatives amid ongoing recruitment ⁤challenges. The defense came during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on Tuesday, where Gilday was pressed on the Navy’s⁣ policies regarding gender identity.

The exchange underscores a growing tension between the Biden administration’s push for greater inclusivity within ⁤the armed⁣ forces and resistance ⁤from some Republicans who argue such efforts distract from ⁣military readiness and contribute to declining enlistment numbers. While the ⁣Navy and other branches have maintained ‍that diversity training and inclusive policies do not ‌detract from combat effectiveness, critics point to recruitment‌ shortfalls as evidence to the ‍contrary.During the hearing, Representative Jim Banks questioned Gilday about the Navy’s decision to allow a non-binary sailor, Petty Officer 3rd Class Jessica O’Brien, to serve openly and use the pronouns they/them in official communications. Banks suggested the Navy was prioritizing “wokeness” over readiness.

Gilday ⁤responded firmly, stating, “Petty Officer O’Brien is a ‌highly qualified sailor, and they are serving honorably. I stand by my decision to allow them to serve openly.” He added ⁣that the Navy’s focus remains on maintaining a combat-ready force, and that diversity is a strength.

The admiral’s comments echo similar defenses offered by other military leaders in recent months. In March, Sergeant major of the Army Michael Grinston testified ‍before Congress that despite additional training on diversity and inclusion, the military’s primary focus remains on “combat lethality.” Grinston highlighted that recruits receive substantially more training in rifle marksmanship – 92 hours in basic training,and 165 hours in One Station Unit Training – than in⁣ equal opportunity training,which comprises ‌just one hour.Recent data suggests concerns about “wokeness” are not a primary driver of recruitment difficulties. An‍ Army survey revealed that only 5% of potential recruits expressed concern about such‍ issues. However, Republican lawmakers, including Representative Cory Mills, have continued to voice opposition to diversity, equity, and⁣ inclusion ‍training, with Mills quipping, “We‍ absolutely 150% can out-pronoun every single one of our adversaries.”

Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Gil ⁣Cisneros has countered these claims, noting that diversity and equal opportunity training have⁢ been integral to the military for decades. The debate ⁢is highly likely to continue as the Pentagon‌ grapples with⁣ ongoing recruitment challenges and seeks to balance inclusivity with maintaining a highly effective fighting force.

September 20, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Democrats bash Justice Clarence Thomas but their plan to investigate ethics allegations is unclear

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 18, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Democrats Criticize Justice Thomas as Ethics Concerns Mount, But Path to Examination Remains Unclear

WASHINGTON ⁢- Democrats are intensifying criticism of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas following reports of undisclosed gifts and travel, but ⁢a clear plan for investigating the allegations remains elusive, highlighting the challenges of holding the high court accountable. The scrutiny comes as ethical questions surrounding the justices continue to grow, prompting calls for stricter oversight.

The latest ⁤wave of criticism centers on‌ reports detailing lavish trips and gifts Justice Thomas ⁣accepted from Republican megadonor Harlan Crow, raising concerns about potential conflicts‌ of interest. While Justice Thomas has defended his actions, stating he was ⁤not required to disclose the gifts⁤ under existing ethics rules, Democrats⁢ argue the situation underscores a need for⁣ a binding ⁤ethics‍ code for the Supreme Court.Justice Thomas, appointed by President George H.W.‌ Bush in 1991, has previously stated it wasn’t Congress’ place to push an ethics code ‌on the high court.

the debate unfolds against ‌a⁣ backdrop of existing ethical concerns surrounding Justice Thomas. Last year, CNN reported on communications between his ⁤wife, Ginni Thomas, a conservative activist, and Trump White House chief ⁢of staff Mark Meadows regarding‍ efforts to ⁢overturn the ‌2020 election, raising questions ⁢about potential conflicts requiring recusal.

Despite the mounting pressure, Republicans have largely resisted calls‌ for legislative action.Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican member of the Judiciary Committee,‍ suggested the accusations were part of a “multi-decade⁤ effort now to target Clarence Thomas by these liberal activist groups.” Other Republicans, like South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the GOP’s Senate Whip, maintain the court has historically “policed itself,” adding that Thomas has been a⁤ “solid justice on the court through the years and has acquitted himself well there.”

senator Lindsey Graham, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, ‌echoed ‍this sentiment, telling CNN, “Let’s see what the court does. I⁣ prefer them to do it⁤ internally.” This stance reflects a broader reluctance among⁢ Republicans to support legislation imposing an ethics code ⁣on the justices, leaving Democrats to grapple with limited options for addressing their concerns.

September 18, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

The US economy could depend on McCarthy corralling his extremist Republican troops

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 17, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Debt ceiling Standoff Intensifies as McCarthy Faces Internal Pressure

WASHINGTON – A potential economic ‍crisis looms as Speaker Kevin mccarthy struggles⁤ to unite his Republican caucus around a ⁢plan to raise the debt ceiling, escalating a standoff with‍ the Biden‍ administration and raising concerns ‍of a possible US⁤ default. The‌ situation reached⁢ a new level of tension⁣ Monday as‍ McCarthy ⁣delivered a⁤ speech outlining Republican demands ⁢for spending cuts in exchange for raising the debt limit, but offered few specifics, fueling criticism from Democrats and even some within his own party.

The escalating dispute⁢ centers on the nation’s borrowing authority,‌ which must be raised‌ to avoid‍ a default‍ on existing financial obligations. Failure to do so could trigger a global economic downturn,impacting everything from Social Security payments to military salaries. The White House insists‌ on a “clean” debt ceiling increase – raising the limit without conditions – arguing that it’s a obligation to pay bills already incurred. However, House Republicans are⁢ seeking notable spending cuts, ⁣setting the stage ‌for a ⁤protracted negotiation with perhaps dire consequences.

“There is‍ one responsible solution to the debt limit: addressing it promptly, without brinksmanship or hostage taking – as Republicans did three times in the⁣ last administration and as Presidents Trump and Reagan argued for in office,” White ⁢House spokesman Andrew Bates said.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell,recently returned ‍to⁢ the Capitol after recovering from a fall,offered some‍ moral support to McCarthy,criticizing President Biden for not engaging in negotiations. “President Biden does not get to stick his fingers⁢ in his ears and refuse to listen, talk or negotiate. And the American people know that. The White House needs to stop wasting time and ⁤start negotiating with the Speaker of the House,” McConnell stated, while notably declining to⁣ directly participate in the talks.

The lack of concrete proposals from McCarthy has ‌drawn sharp criticism. Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer‍ warned ‍of ⁤a potential default, stating, “He went all the way to Wall Street and ‍gave us no more details, no more facts, no new facts, and I’ll be blunt: If Speaker McCarthy continues in ⁤this direction we are headed⁢ to default.” ‍

The situation is rapidly moving toward a crisis point, with both sides digging in their heels. McCarthy’s challenge lies in corralling a‌ diverse Republican caucus, including a significant number⁣ of hardline conservatives who may demand concessions‍ that are unacceptable to the⁣ White House and moderate Republicans. The coming⁤ days will be critical in determining whether a compromise can be reached, or if the US economy faces a potentially catastrophic default.

September 17, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

McCarthy Slams Biden Over US Debt Ceiling Crisis

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 12, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

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‘What Changed, Mr. president?’: McCarthy Escalates Debt Ceiling Standoff with Biden

Table of Contents

‘What Changed, Mr. president?’: McCarthy Escalates Debt Ceiling Standoff with Biden

april⁤ 17, 2023

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy directly challenged President Biden’s ⁢approach to the looming debt ceiling crisis, signaling a firm resolve from the House GOP to demand significant spending cuts in exchange for⁤ raising the nation’s borrowing limit. The escalating rhetoric raises the specter of a potential default with far-reaching economic consequences.

Debt Ceiling Clash Intensifies

Speaker McCarthy, speaking from Wall Street⁢ on Monday, April ‌17, 2023, accused President Biden⁢ of shifting his position on negotiations regarding the debt ceiling. He framed the Republican position as a necessary step to address what he characterized as unsustainable federal spending.the core of the dispute centers on the House‍ GOP’s insistence on spending cuts‍ that would substantially curtail Biden’s domestic ‌policy initiatives.

The‌ United states is rapidly approaching its debt ‍ceiling – the legal limit⁤ on‍ the total amount of money the government can borrow. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could lead‍ to a default on U.S.obligations, triggering ⁢a financial crisis with⁤ global repercussions. The standoff impacts not only the U.S. economy but also international ⁣markets and investor confidence. The treasury Department has warned of⁤ potential catastrophic consequences if the debt ceiling is not addressed promptly.

McCarthy’s visit to Wall Street was⁣ intended to underscore the potential economic fallout of a default, appealing directly to ‍the ⁤financial community. He argued that responsible fiscal policy requires spending restraint and that the current trajectory of federal debt ⁢is unsustainable. The speaker emphasized that the House majority is prepared to⁢ stand firm in its demands, even if it means a prolonged negotiation with the White House.

The Biden governance maintains that raising the debt ceiling is a basic obligation and should not be used as leverage for political concessions. Officials have repeatedly called on republicans to lift ⁢the debt ceiling without preconditions,‌ arguing that a clean increase is necessary to avoid economic disaster. Though, McCarthy’s recent statements suggest a willingness to engage in ⁢a protracted battle over spending cuts.

Understanding the Debt Ceiling

The debt ceiling has been a recurring‍ point of contention in American ‌politics for decades.It’s not about ⁢authorizing new spending; it’s about allowing the government to pay for spending already approved by Congress. Historically,raising the debt ceiling has been a relatively routine process,but in recent years,it has become increasingly politicized.The Congressional ⁣Budget Office (CBO)⁢ provides detailed analysis of the debt ceiling and its potential impact on the economy. CBO Debt Ceiling Resources

The current debate reflects⁣ broader ideological differences⁢ over the role of government and the appropriate level of⁣ federal⁤ spending. Republicans generally favor spending cuts and fiscal conservatism, while Democrats tend to prioritize investments in social programs and economic stimulus. The outcome of this standoff ⁢will likely shape the economic and political landscape for years to come.

frequently Asked Questions About the Debt Ceiling

What is the debt ceiling?: The debt ceiling is the legal limit on the total amount of ⁤money the ⁤U.S. government can borrow to meet its existing legal obligations.
What happens if ⁣the debt ceiling isn’t raised?: If the⁢ debt ceiling isn’t raised, the U.S. government could default on its obligations, leading to a financial crisis and perhaps a recession.
Why is McCarthy demanding ⁣spending cuts?: speaker McCarthy argues that spending cuts⁣ are necessary to address the national debt and ensure responsible fiscal policy.
What is Biden’s position on

September 12, 2025 0 comments

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