Weather

88°F10:36 PM

Politics

30 articles in this category

Rachel Quintana Begins Second Term as Vinton's Mayor After Runoff Victory

Rachel Quintana officially took the oath of office for her second term as mayor of Vinton on December 22. She secured her re-election on December 13, defeating Juvencia Rio Ontiveros in a runoff election after neither candidate achieved a majority in the November election. Quintana's continued leadership is significant for Vinton as the village navigates local governance and community needs. Residents can expect her to build on her previous initiatives during this new term.

Politics vinton mayor

Trump Urges Maduro to Step Down Amid Ongoing Oil Interception Efforts

President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. is actively pursuing the oil tanker Bella 1 off the coast of Venezuela, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to curb Venezuelan oil exports. Trump stated that the U.S. Coast Guard attempted to intercept the vessel, which he claimed was involved in transporting oil from Venezuela. This operation is part of a broader strategy to pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, with Trump suggesting that it would be wise for Maduro to resign. The U.S. has already seized two other tankers this month as part of its intensified naval presence in the Caribbean. Trump indicated that the seized oil could potentially be added to the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

Politics trump coast-guard

Trump Intensifies Pressure on Maduro Amid Pursuit of Venezuelan Oil Tanker

President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. is actively pursuing an oil tanker named Bella 1 off the coast of Venezuela, following a series of recent naval interdictions aimed at cutting off oil revenues to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Trump emphasized the U.S. military's significant presence in the region, suggesting that it would be wise for Maduro to resign. The U.S. Coast Guard has already intercepted two other tankers this month, and Trump indicated that any oil seized during these operations could be added to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, with implications for international oil markets and regional stability.

Politics military trump

Trump Addresses Epstein Files, Claims Damage to Innocent Reputations

In his first public comments since the release of Jeffrey Epstein files by the Justice Department, President Donald Trump expressed concern over the reputational harm caused to individuals appearing in the documents. He suggested that the release was a distraction from his achievements and criticized the implications that some individuals were involved with Epstein. Trump noted that many Republicans are upset about the situation, emphasizing that some people are in photographs with Epstein merely due to social events. He also mentioned the controversy surrounding images of former President Bill Clinton included in the files and called for transparency from the Justice Department, which is facing backlash for its handling of the release. The department is currently working on redactions to protect victims and address concerns raised by lawmakers and survivors of Epstein's abuse.

Politics trump epstein

Rafael Grossi Aims to Revitalize the UN Amid Global Conflicts

Rafael Grossi, the Argentine head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has announced his candidacy for the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, emphasizing the need to restore the organization's foundational role in maintaining international peace and security. Grossi, 61, believes that the UN is at a critical juncture, especially as it faces criticism from influential member states like the U.S. and Israel. The election for the new Secretary-General will take place in 2026, with the new appointee set to begin their term on January 1, 2027. Grossi's candidacy comes amidst calls for female leadership, with notable contenders like Michelle Bachelet and Rebeca Grynspan also in the race. He argues that the focus should be on selecting the most qualified individual, regardless of gender, to address the pressing global challenges.

Politics leadership international-relations

Trump Issues Stark Warning to Colombia's President Over Drug Issues

Former President Donald Trump directed a pointed warning at Colombian President Gustavo Petro, suggesting he should be cautious due to Colombia's ongoing drug production issues. During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump highlighted the presence of cocaine manufacturing in Colombia, implying that Petro's leadership is under scrutiny. This statement comes as Trump discusses new Navy ship construction, linking national security concerns with international drug trafficking. The comments reflect ongoing tensions related to drug policy and international relations, particularly in Latin America.

Politics trump drug-policy

Trump Introduces New Class of Battleships to Strengthen U.S. Naval Power

President Donald Trump announced the creation of a new class of Navy battleships, dubbed the 'Trump class', during an event at Mar-a-Lago. These vessels are intended to replace the current aging fleet and enhance American military capabilities, particularly against adversaries like China. The battleships will be the largest ever built, weighing between 30,000 and 40,000 tons, and will feature advanced weaponry including hypersonic weapons and AI control. Initially, two ships will be constructed, with plans for a total of 20-25. This initiative is part of a broader strategy, known as the 'Golden Fleet', aimed at revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry and maintaining military supremacy globally.

Politics military trump

U.S. Warns Against Electoral Interference in Honduras Amid Vote Counting Delays

The U.S. Office of Western Hemisphere Affairs issued a stern warning on Monday, stating that anyone obstructing or delaying the work of Honduras' National Electoral Council (CNE) will face consequences. This statement comes as concerns rise over delays in vote counting following the presidential elections held on November 30. Candidates Nasry 'Tito' Asfura and Salvador Nasralla are in a tight race, with Asfura currently leading by a narrow margin. The electoral process has faced multiple interruptions, including a recent 12-hour halt, raising alarms about potential electoral irregularities. The CNE is legally required to finalize results by December 30, or the matter will be handed over to Congress, which has not convened since August.

Politics elections honduras

Senate Democrats Halt Energy Talks Over Trump's Wind Power Lease Suspension

Senate Democrats have announced they will cease negotiations on energy and infrastructure permitting reforms unless the Trump administration retracts its recent decision to suspend wind power leases. This move, articulated by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Martin Heinrich, underscores the growing tension over renewable energy policies. The administration's action could significantly impact the wind energy sector and related job creation. The Democrats' stance highlights the urgency for a resolution to support renewable energy development amidst ongoing political disputes.

Politics infrastructure politics

Federal Judge Challenges Trump Administration on Kilmar Ábrego García's Deportation Status

A federal judge expressed frustration with the Trump administration during a recent hearing regarding Kilmar Ábrego García, a Salvadoran citizen detained illegally under immigration custody. Judge Paula Xinis questioned government attorneys about their intentions following her ruling that García's deportation earlier this year was unlawful. He was released on December 11 after being held for months, but a recent non-final deportation order from an immigration judge raises concerns about potential re-detention. Xinis demanded clarity from the government, emphasizing the need for legal authority before any further actions against García. The judge has requested the government to provide evidence of their plans regarding García's status in the coming days.

Politics deportation immigration

Panama's Foreign Minister Addresses Irregularities in Intercepted Tanker Cases

Panama's Foreign Minister, Javier Martinez-Acha, confirmed that a Panama-flagged oil tanker intercepted by the U.S. in the Caribbean, along with another unflagged vessel, did not comply with national and international maritime laws. During a press conference, he highlighted that the vessels had disconnected tracking instruments and altered their names, raising serious concerns about their operations. The U.S. Coast Guard seized the tanker 'Centuries' for carrying sanctioned oil from Venezuela, although it was initially misidentified as Panama-flagged. Meanwhile, another tanker, 'Bella 1', is under pursuit by U.S. forces and is linked to Iran. Panama is closely monitoring the situation amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela.

Politics sanctions maritime-law

Federal Judge Demands Clarity on Kilmar Abrego Garcia's Immigration Status

A federal judge has expressed frustration with the Trump administration regarding the immigration status of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an El Salvadoran national. During a recent court hearing, Judge Paula Xinis questioned government attorneys about their plans following her ruling that Abrego Garcia was unlawfully detained. He had been wrongfully deported in March and later held in Pennsylvania until his release on December 11. The judge is seeking assurance that Abrego Garcia will not be re-arrested without lawful authority. The government has been ordered to provide evidence of its intentions regarding his status in the coming days.

Politics immigration court

Federal Judge Protects Kilmar Abrego Garcia from ICE Detention During Holidays

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, has been granted temporary protection from re-detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through the Christmas holiday. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ruled on December 22 that ICE cannot detain him again while his legal situation is under review. Abrego Garcia was released on December 11 after being held without lawful authority, and his previous deportation to El Salvador was deemed erroneous. He is currently awaiting trial in Tennessee on human smuggling charges, scheduled for January. His attorneys are also pursuing sanctions against the Trump administration for alleged violations of a court order regarding public statements about his case.

Politics deportation immigration

DHS Increases Incentives for Migrants to Voluntarily Leave Before Year-End

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has significantly raised the financial incentive for migrants to self-deport, tripling the 'exit bonus' offered to those who leave the U.S. before the end of the year. This initiative is part of a broader strategy under the Trump administration to address illegal immigration by promoting self-deportation as a dignified option. The increased bonus aims to encourage more migrants to consider leaving the country voluntarily, which could impact local communities and immigration patterns in El Paso. Residents and local organizations may need to prepare for changes in the migrant population as a result of this policy shift.

Politics immigration policy

Venezuela Warns US Naval Blockade Could Destabilize Global Markets

The Venezuelan government has issued a warning regarding the recent naval blockade imposed by the United States on sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving the country. President Nicolás Maduro's letter, read by Foreign Minister Yván Gil, claims that the blockade threatens global energy supplies and could lead to increased market instability. Maduro condemned the interception of two vessels carrying approximately four million barrels of Venezuelan oil, labeling these actions as aggressive and detrimental not only to Venezuela but to international markets as well. He urged regional leaders and international organizations to take action against what he described as unilateral use of force and piracy, warning that such actions could escalate into a global confrontation. The blockade has already resulted in a significant drop in oil shipments from Venezuela, with many tankers now only transporting within national ports.

Politics venezuela us-blockade

Trump Administration Halts Major Offshore Wind Projects, Jeopardizing Jobs and Energy Costs

The Trump administration has suspended federal leases for all large offshore wind projects under construction, citing unspecified national security risks. This decision could jeopardize billions in investments and delay nearly six gigawatts of new electricity, impacting five major projects, including a significant wind farm off Virginia's coast. The move has drawn criticism from both clean energy advocates and fossil fuel groups, who warn it could lead to job losses and increased electricity prices. Virginia Senators have called for transparency, noting the administration has not provided new information to justify the suspension. The Virginia project alone is 60% complete and aims to power approximately 660,000 homes.

Politics national-security trump-administration

Trump to Unveil New 'Trump Class' Battleship Amid Naval Expansion Plans

President Donald Trump is scheduled to announce a new class of battleships, potentially named 'Trump class', on Monday afternoon in Florida. This initiative aims to modernize the US Naval fleet, which Trump has criticized for its aesthetics. The new battleships will be part of the 'Golden Fleet', designed to enhance naval capabilities against adversaries like China. This announcement coincides with increased US naval activity in the Caribbean, particularly targeting Venezuelan oil shipments. The Navy recently commissioned new frigates to bolster sea lane security and protect larger vessels.

Politics trump venezuela

Ukraine Intensifies Drone Strikes on Russian Military Assets Amid Ongoing Conflict

Ukrainian forces have escalated drone and sabotage operations targeting Russian military assets, particularly airfields and submarines, in response to continuous missile attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Recent operations have successfully hit Russian fighter jets at Lipetsk airfield and Belbek in Crimea, significantly damaging their combat capabilities. As Ukraine prepares for potential Russian strikes during the Christmas period, President Zelensky has urged heightened vigilance and defense measures. The ongoing conflict emphasizes the strategic importance of degrading Russian military resources to mitigate threats to Ukraine's security.

Politics military defense

Justice Department Restores Trump Photo in Epstein Document Release

The U.S. Department of Justice has reinstated a photograph featuring former President Donald Trump that was temporarily removed from its online archive related to Jeffrey Epstein. The image, which includes Trump alongside Ghislaine Maxwell and others, was taken down for review to ensure no victims were depicted. After a thorough examination, the department confirmed that the photo does not show any victims and has since republished it without alterations. This action is part of a larger effort to disclose thousands of documents linked to Epstein following a congressional mandate, with more files expected to be released in the coming weeks.

Politics trump documents

Russia Pledges Support to Venezuela Amid U.S. Blockade Tensions

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil Pinto announced that Russia has committed to providing full support against the U.S. blockade, as discussed in a recent phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. This support comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's declaration of a total blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers, which aims to combat drug trafficking but raises concerns about international maritime security. Lavrov emphasized Russia's solidarity with Venezuela, highlighting the long-term consequences of U.S. actions in the Caribbean. Additionally, Iran has offered assistance to Venezuela in countering U.S. 'piracy'.

Politics international-relations venezuela

Denmark's Foreign Minister Criticizes US Special Envoy for Greenland Appointment

Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed strong discontent over President Trump's appointment of Jeff Landry as a special envoy for Greenland, who has openly stated his desire for the island to become part of the United States. Rasmussen plans to summon the U.S. ambassador in Denmark to address this issue, emphasizing that such statements are unacceptable. Trump has long shown interest in Greenland, citing its strategic importance, but both Greenland and Denmark have firmly opposed any annexation. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stated that the announcement does not alter their sovereignty or future decisions.

Politics trump foreign-relations

Major Diplomatic Shift: Trump Administration Replaces Career Ambassadors Worldwide

The Trump administration is initiating a significant overhaul of the U.S. diplomatic corps by recalling over two dozen career ambassadors appointed during the Biden administration. These diplomats, who have served for years, are being ordered to vacate their posts by January 15 or 16, 2025, marking an unprecedented move in the history of the U.S. Foreign Service. Critics argue that this action undermines U.S. diplomatic relations and national security, as it leaves many embassies without confirmed leadership. The American Foreign Service Association has expressed concern over the implications for U.S. commitments abroad and the morale of foreign service officers, with many considering early retirement due to the current political climate.

Politics politics trump-administration

Historical Insights on Naval Blockades in Venezuela and Latin America

The U.S. has initiated a significant blockade against Venezuelan oil tankers, marking a pivotal moment in the region's history of maritime blockades. This action, described by President Trump as the largest naval force in South America's history, follows the seizure of two sanctioned vessels last week. Historically, blockades have been viewed as acts of war, with notable instances such as the 1902 blockade of Venezuela by European powers over debt disputes and the U.S. embargo on Cuba initiated in 1960. These events highlight the complex interplay of international relations and the legal ramifications of military interventions in Latin America, affecting not only the nations involved but also global diplomatic dynamics.

Politics international-relations venezuela

Israeli Government Moves to Shut Down Army Radio After 75 Years

The Israeli government has voted to close Army Radio, known as Galei Tzahal, effective March 1, marking the end of one of the nation's oldest media outlets. This decision, proposed by Defense Minister Israel Katz, has raised significant concerns regarding press freedom and government control over media. Despite opposition from legal experts and civil society groups, including the Israel Press Council, the resolution was passed unanimously. Critics argue that this move is part of a broader strategy to limit freedom of expression in Israel, particularly during an election year. Katz claims that a military-operated station is incompatible with democratic values, while opponents, including opposition leader Yair Lapid, view it as an attack on free speech.

Politics politics government

El Paso Matters•Dec 22

Betsy Keller forgoes pay raise to support El Paso County employees amid budget issues

El Paso County Chief Administrator Betsy Keller has decided to forgo a pay raise following a successful performance evaluation, highlighting her commitment to the county's budget constraints. The decision comes as the county has not approved salary increases for most employees over the past two fiscal years, except for sheriff's officers under collective bargaining agreements. Keller, who has served in her role since 2016, emphasized the importance of equity among employees, stating that she would not feel right accepting a raise while others do not. The county recently approved three bond proposals totaling $155 million for various improvements, showcasing Keller's leadership in managing these projects effectively.

Politics budget county-administration

Slow Progress in Honduras Election Vote Counting Amid Tensions

The special vote counting process in Honduras is facing significant delays, with just eight days remaining for the National Electoral Council (CNE) to finalize results. National Party candidate Nasry 'Tito' Asfura leads with 40.34% of the votes, followed closely by Salvador Nasralla at 39.49%, a margin of 29,446 votes. As of now, 1,540 ballots with inconsistencies still need to be reviewed. The counting, which began on December 18, was halted for approximately 12 hours over the weekend due to rising tensions and allegations of electoral misconduct. The CNE has until December 30 to announce official results, or the matter will be escalated to Congress, where no sessions have been held since late August.

Politics elections transparency

Gina Hinojosa Emerges as Front-Runner in Texas Democratic Governor Primary

A recent poll indicates that Gina Hinojosa is leading the Democratic primary race for governor of Texas, with the primary set for March. This election is crucial as the winner will likely challenge incumbent Governor Greg Abbott in the general election next November. While Abbott faces a primary challenge, he is anticipated to secure the Republican nomination without significant difficulty. The outcome of the Democratic primary could significantly influence the political landscape in Texas as it approaches the general election.

Politics democratic-primary governor-race

Missing DOJ Files on Jeffrey Epstein Raise Concerns Over Transparency

A troubling incident has emerged as at least 16 files related to Jeffrey Epstein vanished from the Justice Department's public webpage shortly after being uploaded. Among the missing documents is a notable photograph featuring former President Donald Trump. The disappearance occurred without any explanation or notification to the public, raising questions about government transparency and accountability. This situation is significant as it touches on high-profile individuals and the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Epstein's case, which continues to have ramifications across various sectors.

Politics trump government

Public Disapproval of Trump's Comments Revealed in Recent Poll

A recent poll indicates that a significant majority of Americans find President Trump's comments about filmmaker Rob Reiner to be inappropriate. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the implications of political discourse on employment and public perception. The poll highlights a growing unease among citizens regarding the tone and content of statements made by political leaders, particularly in the context of social media. As political rhetoric continues to evolve, this feedback may influence future communications from public figures.

Politics politics trump

Senate Funding Negotiations Fail Amid Dispute Over Climate Agency Cuts

Negotiations for a crucial federal funding deal, which would have impacted various departments including Defense and Health and Human Services, broke down on Thursday night. The collapse was primarily due to Colorado senators insisting that Congress intervene to halt President Trump's proposed cuts to a significant climate agency. This failure to reach an agreement could lead to funding lapses and affect government operations, highlighting the ongoing tensions in Congress regarding climate policy and federal budget allocations. Stakeholders are urged to stay informed on potential impacts to federal services.

Politics politics trump