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  • Trump touts political firings and retribution as he begins a government overhaul in his image




    CNN
     — 

    President Donald Trump’s political retribution tour began this week with firings of his perceived enemies inside the federal government, the targeting of former intelligence and national security officials and a directive to investigate actions by the Biden administration.

    Trump and his team wasted little time reassigning nearly two dozen senior Justice Department officials and dismissing career DOJ officials who oversee the nation’s immigration courts, State Department diplomats and the commandant of the Coast Guard.

    Trump also pulled the Secret Service detail for his former national security adviser, John Bolton, and the security clearances for 51 people who spoke out during the 2020 Hunter Biden investigation.

    The actions are all part of an initial wave of Trump’s efforts to remove the so-called “deep state” from the federal government, as he and his team have pledged to ensure those working inside the government are loyal to the president. Trump has long complained that he was undermined by anti-Trump officials across the federal workforce in his first administration, particularly from the Justice Department and the intelligence community.

    Some of the turnover between administrations, especially with a different political party taking charge, is perfectly normal. Presidents typically replace US attorneys across the country, for instance.

    But Trump has also made a show of the firings he’s carried out, taking to his social media to boast about removing more than 1,000 Biden administration political appointees – and to announce the removal of four individuals from presidential advisory boards, including prominent critics such as former Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley and José Andrés, the celebrity chef and restaurateur.

    “Our first day in the White House is not over yet! My Presidential Personnel Office is actively in the process of identifying and removing over a thousand Presidential Appointees from the previous Administration, who are not aligned with our vision to Make America Great Again,” Trump wrote in a 12:28 a.m. Truth Social post Tuesday.

    Trump’s first wave of executive actions targeted the federal workforce broadly by making it easier to fire government employees – though his executive order is already being challenged in court.

    Along with the firings of federal workers, Trump took other actions to go after his perceived enemies from outside the government.

    Two of Trump’s executive orders directed the Justice Department and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to open broad investigations into Biden administration “censorship of free speech” or “weaponization” of law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

    Former President Joe Biden issued a wave of pardons in the final hours of his presidency to former House January 6 Committee members and members of his family, which he said were intended to prevent Trump from launching politically motivated investigations.

    Another of Trump’s executive orders revoked the security clearances of 51 former intelligence officials who signed a 2020 letter arguing that emails from a laptop belonging to Hunter Biden carried “all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.”

    That executive order also revoked the security clearance of Bolton, who left the White House in November 2019 after serving as Trump’s national security adviser and has since become a Trump critic. In addition, Trump terminated the Secret Service detail that was assigned to Bolton within hours of taking office, Bolton confirmed to CNN Tuesday.

    Bolton has required ongoing Secret Service protection after he left government because of threats against him from Iran. Trump initially terminated his protection after he left his administration in the first term, but Biden had restored it.

    In his inaugural address, Trump claimed he would end the weaponization of the justice system: “Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponized to persecute political opponents – something I know something about.”

    “We will not allow that to happen. It will not happen again,” Trump said.

    But in a more free-wheeling address to supporters inside the US Capitol Visitor Center that followed Monday, the president complained about Biden’s pardons while claiming again that his critics, including former January 6 Committee member Liz Cheney, had broken the law.

    More dismissals could be coming, too. A memo from Trump’s Office of Personnel Management to the acting heads of the federal agencies directed them to assess their employees who have been hired in the last year – while reminding them that those workers can be fired more easily.

    “Generally, employees in the competitive service with less than one year of service, and in the excepted service with less than two years of service, can be terminated without triggering MSPB appeal rights,” said the memo, obtained by CNN, referring to the Merit Systems Protection Board.

    Early moves at DOJ and FBI

    Many of the high-profile dismissals on Day 1 of the second Trump presidency came from inside law enforcement.

    New acting leaders at the Justice Department moved quickly to shuffle at least 20 career officials, according to sources. Those include senior lawyers in the national security division, which in the past has been insulated from shifting political winds, and international affairs, which works on extraditions and immigration matters, the sources said.

    Paul Abbate, the deputy FBI director, announced Monday morning he was retiring effective immediately. Abbate was already at the FBI’s mandatory retirement age, but former Director Chris Wray – who himself had resigned this month after Trump had vowed to fire him years before his term ended – gave Abbate an extension to continue working through April to ensure a smooth transition.

    There’s now a leadership vacuum atop the FBI. Senior FBI special agent Brian Driscoll, the special agent in charge of the Newark Field Office, was named acting director on Monday. The Trump administration has promised to overhaul the FBI, starting with appointing ally Kash Patel as director. Trump’s team has also weighed plans to install a political appointee into the deputy director position, which traditionally has been a career FBI agent, CNN has previously reported.

    The director of the Bureau of Prisons, Colette Peters, “separated” from the bureau Monday, the BOP said in a statement. She had served in the position for two and a half years and faced extreme difficulty with staffing shortages and institutions in disrepair. Deputy Director William Lathrop is now acting director.

    bolton0.jpg

    Kaitlan Collins shares response Bolton gave to Trump stripping him of his security detail

    02:20

    Both the chief judge and the general counsel of the Executive Office for Immigration Review, the nation’s immigration court system, were also asked to leave Monday. Their positions are now listed as vacant on the Justice Department website.

    And the acting US attorney in Washington DC, Bridget Fitzpatrick, was also relieved of her position atop the office Monday. Fitzpatrick will stay at the US attorney’s office, but is being replaced as the top official by Ed Martin, a hardline, socially conservative activist and commentator.

    Martin was an organizer with the “Stop the Steal” movement and was involved in the financing of the January 6 rally on the Ellipse that occurred directly before the attack on the Capitol. He has also publicly advocated for a national abortion ban without exceptions for rape or incest and has raised imposing criminal penalties on women and doctors involved in abortions.

    Some prosecutors involved in January 6 cases said that Martin’s temporary appointment was demoralizing, with one calling it a “thumb in the eye.”

    Inside the Justice Department, some career officials worried that their jobs may also be at risk. One official told CNN that they were working from home Tuesday because they were “keeping their head down” and “trying to stay employed.”

    “I guess I am the only one who didn’t get pardoned,” another joked.

    Other officials expressed concerns that they didn’t know who was coming in to run the criminal, civil, national security, and civil rights offices at the Justice Department on an acting basis, describing to CNN that they felt “in the dark” about temporary leadership.

    Still, several DOJ employees said they were optimistic about Trump’s pick for attorney general Pam Bondi officially starting the job once confirmed by the Senate. Bondi’s history as Florida attorney general gave them hope for a steady leader, officials said.

    Dismissals in Coast Guard and State Department

    One of the most high-profile departures this week came from inside the military, where the commandant of the US Coast Guard, Adm. Linda Fagan, was removed from her position over “failure to address border security threats” and “excessive focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies,” a Department of Homeland Security official confirmed to CNN on Tuesday.

    At the State Department, where newly confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio was sworn in Tuesday, more than a dozen career officials serving in senior roles were asked to step down from their roles, multiple sources familiar with the matter told CNN.

    Many received the request prior to Monday’s inauguration. They had been serving in top posts for both management and policy as well as assistant secretaries of state, the sources said, and some were among the senior-most diplomats at the State Department.

    Although it is typical for an incoming administration to appoint its own officials to senior roles, current career officials often stay while the appointees await Senate confirmation. Moreover, the scope and speed has raised alarm bells.

    This is “almost certainly the first step toward a major purge and takeover of the career foreign service,” a former senior diplomat said.

    Speaking to State Department staff on Tuesday, Rubio there would be “changes” at the State Department, but that they are not meant to be “punitive” or “destructive.”

    “The changes will be because we need to be a 21st century agency that can move by – a cliche that’s used by many – at the speed of relevance,” Rubio said.

    CNN’s Priscilla Alvarez, Natasha Bertrand, Kaitlan Collins, Jennifer Hansler, Katie Bo Lillis, Tami Luhby, Rene Marsh and Michael Williams contributed to this report.



    President Trump has begun a government overhaul in his image, touting political firings and retribution as he seeks to shape his administration to his liking. In a series of recent tweets and public statements, Trump has made it clear that he is not afraid to remove those who do not align with his agenda and replace them with individuals who will.

    This move comes as no surprise to those who have followed Trump’s presidency, as he has often prioritized loyalty and personal loyalty over experience and expertise. From the firing of FBI Director James Comey to the removal of various high-ranking officials in his administration, Trump has shown a willingness to make bold and controversial decisions in order to surround himself with individuals who share his worldview.

    Critics have raised concerns about the potential consequences of Trump’s actions, warning that such a purge of government officials could have a detrimental impact on the functioning of the government and its ability to effectively serve the American people. However, Trump remains undeterred, insisting that he is simply taking the necessary steps to ensure that his administration reflects his vision for the country.

    As Trump continues to reshape the government in his image, it remains to be seen what the long-term implications of his actions will be. But one thing is clear: Trump is determined to put his stamp on the government, no matter the cost.

    Tags:

    Trump, political firings, government overhaul, retribution, Trump administration, political changes, government restructuring, White House shakeup, political appointments, Trump policies

    #Trump #touts #political #firings #retribution #begins #government #overhaul #image

  • Trump orders government not to infringe on Americans’ speech, calls for censorship investigation


    NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump on Monday ordered that no federal officer, employee or agent may unconstitutionally abridge the free speech of any American citizen, an early step toward his campaign promise to dismantle what he called government “censorship” of U.S. citizens.

    The president’s executive order, issued just hours after he was sworn in to a second term, comes after Trump and his supporters have accused the federal government of pressuring social media companies to take down lawful posts over concerns around misinformation.

    The order also instructs the attorney general, in consultation with other executive agency heads, to investigate how federal government actions over the four years of the Biden administration could have infringed on free speech and propose “remedial actions” based on the findings.

    Trump’s order, which he signed onstage at Capital One Arena along with a slate of other executive actions, shows how motivated he is to crack down on what he calls the “censorship cartel” on his first day in office.

    It’s a winning stance among his supporters, many of whom feel that the federal government has unfairly targeted lawful speech from right-wing voices.

    Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has recently echoed that accusation, saying senior Biden administration officials pressured his employees to inappropriately “censor” content during the COVID-19 pandemic. Elon Musk, the owner of the social platform X, has accused the FBI of illegally coercing Twitter before his tenure to suppress a story about Hunter Biden.

    While former Twitter executives conceded they made a mistake by blocking that story just before the 2020 presidential election, they have adamantly denied that they acted in response to government pressure.

    The Supreme Court last year sided with former President Joe Biden’s administration in a dispute with Republican-led states over how far the federal government can go to combat controversial social media posts on topics including COVID-19 and election security.

    Trump’s executive order does not acknowledge the gravity of harmful online falsehoods, which have increasingly snowballed into real-world threats, harassment and targeted violence. Four years ago, Trump’s own torrent of lies about the 2020 election prompted threats against election officials and culminated in the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

    It’s not yet clear how the order could affect the work that several U.S. agencies do to track false claims that pose threats to election security, including the FBI, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, known as CISA.

    CISA, which falls under the Department of Homeland Security, has faced criticism from Republicans for its efforts to counter misinformation. Trump’s pick to head DHS, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a Republican, said during a Senate confirmation hearing last week that she was willing to rein in the agency’s work if that’s what federal lawmakers want.

    Outgoing CISA Director Jen Easterly has defended the agency’s work, saying it “does not censor, has never censored.”

    Nina Jankowicz, the CEO of the American Sunlight Project, said that with the order Trump “seeks vengeance for a slight that never happened.”

    Jankowicz, who ran a federal government Disinformation Governance Board under Biden’s Department of Homeland Security that was disbanded after it was attacked by conservatives, said the order emboldens foreign actors and others “who use disinformation as a tool to destabilize our country and profit from lies.”

    Trump’s order focuses on Americans’ speech. It’s too soon to tell how that will influence the way federal agencies communicate with social media companies about false claims that originate abroad. Many disinformation campaigns from U.S. adversaries, which have targeted voters, are promoted online by American citizens.

    Trump has styled himself as a champion of free expression since his first presidency, when he lashed out at the social platform then known as Twitter for posting fact-check labels on his tweets about mail-in ballots.

    At the same time, he frequently targets the press, calling journalists the “enemy of the people,” and has threatened to seek retribution against the news media in his second administration, including suggesting that the broadcast licenses of certain television news networks should be pulled.

    After having a rocky relationship with social media companies in the past, Trump has recently cozied up to the tech billionaires who run the platforms where Americans communicate with each other.

    He gave prime seats at his inauguration to Elon Musk, the owner of X, Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, and Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, which owns YouTube. He also has taken credit for the return of TikTok in the U.S., and welcomed TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at the Capitol for his swearing-in ceremony.

    ___

    The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about AP’s democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.





    President Trump has issued a bold directive to the government, ordering agencies to refrain from infringing on Americans’ freedom of speech. In a recent statement, Trump expressed concern over the growing trend of censorship on social media platforms and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

    The president’s stance on free speech comes at a time when many Americans feel their voices are being stifled by tech companies and other entities that control the flow of information online. Trump’s order signifies his commitment to upholding the First Amendment rights of all citizens, regardless of their political beliefs.

    In his announcement, Trump emphasized the importance of a free and open exchange of ideas, stating that censorship goes against the fundamental values of democracy. He called on government agencies to protect Americans’ right to express themselves without fear of retribution or suppression.

    The president’s call for a censorship investigation has sparked controversy among critics who argue that social media companies have the right to moderate content on their platforms. However, Trump’s supporters have praised his efforts to combat what they see as a growing threat to free speech in the digital age.

    As the debate over censorship and free speech continues to unfold, Trump’s directive serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving Americans’ fundamental rights. Only time will tell how this investigation will impact the future of online discourse and the protection of free speech in the United States.

    Tags:

    1. Trump administration free speech
    2. Government censorship investigation
    3. Americans’ right to free speech
    4. Trump executive order on speech
    5. Government censorship and free speech
    6. Trump orders investigation into censorship
    7. Protecting Americans’ speech rights
    8. Trump government censorship inquiry
    9. Free speech rights under Trump administration
    10. Trump censorship investigation outcome

    #Trump #orders #government #infringe #Americans #speech #calls #censorship #investigation

  • Reforming The Federal Hiring Process And Restoring Merit To Government Service – The White House


    REFORMING THE FEDERAL HIRING PROCESS AND RESTORING MERIT TO GOVERNMENT SERVICE

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including sections 3301, 3302, and 7511 of title 5, United States Code, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Policy.  American citizens deserve an excellent and efficient Federal workforce that attracts the highest caliber of civil servants committed to achieving the freedom, prosperity, and democratic rule that our Constitution promotes.  But current Federal hiring practices are broken, insular, and outdated.  They no longer focus on merit, practical skill, and dedication to our Constitution.  Federal hiring should not be based on impermissible factors, such as one’s commitment to illegal racial discrimination under the guise of “equity,” or one’s commitment to the invented concept of “gender identity” over sex.  Inserting such factors into the hiring process subverts the will of the People, puts critical government functions at risk, and risks losing the best-qualified candidates.

    By making our recruitment and hiring processes more efficient and focused on serving the Nation, we will ensure that the Federal workforce is prepared to help achieve American greatness, and attracts the talent necessary to serve our citizens effectively.  By significantly improving hiring principles and practices, Americans will receive the Federal resources and services they deserve from the highest-skilled Federal workforce in the world.

    Sec. 2.  Federal Hiring Plan.  (a)  Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, and the Administrator of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), shall develop and send to agency heads a Federal Hiring Plan that brings to the Federal workforce only highly skilled Americans dedicated to the furtherance of American ideals, values, and interests.

    (b)  This Federal Hiring Plan shall:

    (i)    prioritize recruitment of individuals committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution;

    (ii)   prevent the hiring of individuals based on their race, sex, or religion, and prevent the hiring of individuals who are unwilling to defend the Constitution or to faithfully serve the Executive Branch;

    (iii)  implement, to the greatest extent possible, technical and alternative assessments as required by the Chance to Compete Act of 2024;

    (iv)   decrease government-wide time-to-hire to under 80 days;

    (v)    improve communication with candidates to provide greater clarity regarding application status, timelines, and feedback, including regular updates on the progress of applications and explanations of hiring decisions where appropriate;

    (vi)   integrate modern technology to support the recruitment and selection process, including the use of data analytics to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities in hiring, as well as leveraging digital platforms to improve candidate engagement; and

    (vii)  ensure Department and Agency leadership, or their designees, are active participants in implementing the new processes and throughout the full hiring process.

    (c)  This Federal Hiring Plan shall include specific agency plans to improve the allocation of Senior Executive Service positions in the Cabinet agencies, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Management and Budget, the Small Business Administration, the Social Security Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Office of Personnel Management, and the General Services Administration, to best facilitate democratic leadership, as required by law, within each agency.

    (d)  The Federal Hiring Plan shall provide specific best practices for the human resources function in each agency, which each agency head shall implement, with advice and recommendations as appropriate from DOGE.

    Sec. 3.  Accountability and Reporting.  (a)  The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall establish clear performance metrics to evaluate the success of these reforms, and request agency analysis on a regular basis.

    (b)  The Office of Personnel Management shall consult with Federal agencies, labor organizations, and other stakeholders to monitor progress and ensure that the reforms are meeting the needs of both candidates and agencies.

    Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)    the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof;

    (ii)   the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals; or

    (iii)  the functions of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or the Federal Open Market Committee relating to its conduct of monetary policy.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. 

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        January 20, 2025.



    In an effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal government, the White House is taking steps to reform the federal hiring process and restore merit to government service.

    The current federal hiring process is often criticized for being slow, cumbersome, and outdated. Many qualified candidates are deterred from applying for federal jobs due to the lengthy application and selection process, which can take several months or even years to complete.

    To address these issues, the White House is working to streamline the federal hiring process, making it more efficient and user-friendly for both applicants and hiring managers. This includes implementing new technologies and tools to automate and expedite the recruitment and selection process.

    Additionally, the White House is committed to restoring merit to government service by ensuring that candidates are selected based on their qualifications, skills, and experience, rather than political connections or other non-merit factors. This will help to build a more professional and talented federal workforce that is better equipped to serve the American people.

    By reforming the federal hiring process and restoring merit to government service, the White House aims to create a more effective and responsive federal government that is better able to meet the needs of the American people.

    Tags:

    • Federal hiring process
    • Government service
    • White House
    • Merit-based hiring
    • Civil service reform
    • Government recruitment
    • Federal employment
    • Public service reform
    • White House administration
    • Government workforce

    #Reforming #Federal #Hiring #Process #Restoring #Merit #Government #Service #White #House

  • Brazos County, College Station close government offices for bad weather


    BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas (KBTX) – Brazos County and the City of College Station have announced closures at county and city offices ahead of Tuesday’s expected inclement weather.

    The City of College Station announced its closure on Monday afternoon, affecting city offices and facilities. Garbage collection won’t be determined until Tuesday morning.

    It was originally stated that the Northgate Small Area Plan kickoff meeting would continue as scheduled, but the city has since decided to postpone that meeting to sometime next week.

    College Station hosts public meeting introducing ‘Northgate Small Area Plan’

    That meeting aims to allow attendees to connect with city planners and learn about what’s to come for the Northgate Entertainment District.

    Meanwhile, Brazos County Judge Duane Peters announced the closure of county offices for Tuesday for all non-essential personnel. Commissioners Court will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday.

    Copyright 2025 KBTX. All rights reserved.



    Due to inclement weather conditions, Brazos County and the city of College Station have made the decision to close all government offices for the safety of employees and residents. This closure includes City Hall, county offices, and other government facilities.

    Please stay tuned for updates on when offices will reopen and any further advisories from local officials. In the meantime, please stay safe and warm during this severe weather event. Thank you for your understanding. #BrazosCounty #CollegeStation #WeatherAlert

    Tags:

    Brazos County, College Station, government offices, weather closure, bad weather, emergency closure, Texas, local news, severe weather, office closure, safety precaution, government services, emergency management.

    #Brazos #County #College #Station #close #government #offices #bad #weather

  • US rejects Venezuelan President Maduro’s reelection, but keeps financial lifeline for his government | Nation World


    CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Things seemed to be looking up for Venezuela in 2022. Following years of authoritarian rule and withering economic sanctions, President Nicolás Maduro had agreed to work toward a democratic presidential election. The White House, in return, granted him a financial lifeline: a permit for U.S. energy giant Chevron to pump and export Venezuelan oil.

    Oil wells roared back to life and massive tanker ships returned to Venezuela’s coast to be filled with heavy, hard-to-refine crude destined for the U.S.


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    Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.



    The United States has officially rejected the reelection of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, declaring his recent victory in the presidential election as illegitimate. Despite this, the US has decided to keep the financial lifeline open for his government, a move that has sparked controversy and debate.

    Many critics argue that by maintaining financial support for Maduro’s government, the US is indirectly legitimizing his presidency and perpetuating the oppressive regime in Venezuela. However, supporters of the decision argue that cutting off financial aid could worsen the humanitarian crisis in the country and harm the Venezuelan people.

    The US government has stated that it will continue to closely monitor the situation in Venezuela and will take further action if necessary. In the meantime, the debate over the US stance on Maduro’s reelection and its financial support for his government continues to rage on.

    Tags:

    1. US rejects Venezuelan President Maduro’s reelection
    2. Venezuelan President Maduro’s reelection
    3. US-Venezuela relations
    4. Maduro government financial lifeline
    5. US foreign policy towards Venezuela
    6. Venezuelan election controversy
    7. Maduro administration sanctions
    8. US aid to Venezuela
    9. Political unrest in Venezuela
    10. US government stance on Maduro

    #rejects #Venezuelan #President #Maduros #reelection #financial #lifeline #government #Nation #World

  • US rejects Venezuelan President Maduro’s reelection, but keeps financial lifeline for his government


    CARACAS, Venezuela — Things seemed to be looking up for Venezuela in 2022. Following years of authoritarian rule and withering economic sanctions, President Nicolás Maduro had agreed to work toward a democratic presidential election. The White House, in return, granted him a financial lifeline: a permit for U.S. energy giant Chevron to pump and export Venezuelan oil.

    Oil wells roared back to life and massive tanker ships returned to Venezuela’s coast to be filled with heavy, hard-to-refine crude destined for the U.S.

    Maduro’s promised election was neither fair nor free, and the longtime president was sworn in this month for a third six-year term despite credible evidence that his opponent got more votes. Yet, the sanctions reprieve the U.S. offered “to support the restoration of democracy” is still helping fill state coffers.

    Venezuela’s opposition says Maduro’s government has earned billions of dollars from exports allowed by the permit.

    The White House has ignored calls from the main opposition coalition, as well as Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Congress, to cancel a permit that now accounts for around a quarter of the South American country’s oil production.

    Senior administration officials have struggled to explain why the permit has been left in place under questioning by reporters, saying only that sanctions policy toward Venezuela is frequently reviewed. President Joe Biden told reporters last week he “didn’t have enough data” to adjust oil-related sanctions before he leaves office Monday.

    Venezuela sits atop the world’s largest proven oil reserves and once used them to power Latin America’s strongest economy. But corruption, mismanagement and eventual U.S. economic sanctions saw production steadily decline from the 3.5 million barrels per day pumped in 1999, when the fiery Hugo Chávez took power and began his self-described socialist revolution, to less than 400,000 barrels per day in 2020.

    California-based Chevron Corp., which first invested in Venezuela in the 1920s, does business in the country through joint ventures with the state-owned company Petroleos de Venezuela S.A., commonly known as PDVSA.

    The joint ventures produced about 200,000 barrels a day in 2019, but the following year, U.S. sanctions imposed by then-President Donald Trump forced Chevron to wind down production.

    In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a 30% decline in the country’s economic activity, Venezuela’s Central Bank reported year-over-year inflation of over 1,800%. For many, rummaging through garbage in search of food scraps or valuable items became a common activity.

    Locked out of world oil markets by U.S. sanctions, Venezuela sold its remaining oil output at a discount — about 40% below market prices — to buyers like China and other Asian markets. It even started accepting payments in Russian rubles, bartered goods or cryptocurrency.

    Once Chevron got a license to export oil to the U.S., its joint ventures quickly began producing 80,000 barrels a day, and by 2024, they topped their daily output from 2019. That oil is sold at world market prices.

    The terms of the license bar Chevron from directly paying taxes or royalties to Venezuela’s government. But the company sends money to the joint ventures, which are majority-owned by PDVSA.

    “What Chevron is doing is buying oil from joint ventures,” Venezuelan economist Francisco Rodriguez said. “This purchase of oil is what generates the revenue of the joint ventures,” and that revenue pays taxes and royalties to Venezuela’s government.

    It is not clear exactly how Venezuela’s government, which stopped publishing almost all financial data several years ago, uses this revenue. Neither the government nor Chevron have made public the terms of the agreement allowing the company’s return to Venezuela.

    Chevron did not answer questions from The Associated Press regarding the joint ventures, including payments made to Venezuela’s treasury.

    “Chevron conducts its business in Venezuela in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations,” Chevron spokesman Bill Turenne said in a statement.

    Economist José Guerra, a former economic research manager at Venezuela’s Central Bank, said the license’s impact is partly reflected in the nation’s foreign cash reserves, which increased by roughly $1 billion between February 2022 and November 2024, according to the institution’s data. The government uses its dollar reserves in part to maintain an artificially low exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Venezuelan bolivar.

    “The only explanation is that Chevron exports without discounts, it exports everything — the 200,000 barrels go abroad — and that is what is feeding the reserves,” Guerra said. “I call it Saint Chevron.”

    The outcome of Venezuela’s presidential election, and a subsequent campaign of repression, have prompted new calls to rescind the licenses.

    “In the end, one wonders, and quite rightly so, why the Biden administration continues to maintain a license whose objective was not achieved,” said Rafael de la Cruz, who is an adviser to the opposition campaign of Edmundo González and María Corina Machado. He said the opposition has estimated that Maduro’s government has received about $4 billion through the operation of the joint ventures.

    Venezuela’s National Electoral Council, stacked with government loyalists, declared Maduro the winner of the July 28 election hours after polls closed. But unlike in previous contests, electoral authorities did not provide detailed vote counts, while the opposition collected tally sheets from 85% of electronic voting machines showing its candidate, González, won by a more than a two-to-one margin. U.N. experts and the U.S.-based Carter Center, both invited by Maduro’s government to observe the election, said the tally sheets published by the opposition are legitimate.

    “The election was stolen. Therefore, the basis for any lifting of sanctions doesn’t exist,” said Elliot Abrams, who was special representative for Venezuela during Trump’s first term. “So, why isn’t the administration then reimposing the full sanctions?”

    Maduro continues to boast of his resistance to U.S. influence. “Venezuela will not be colonized or dominated, neither by carrot diplomacy nor by stick diplomacy,” he said after taking the oath of office on Jan. 10. “Venezuela must be respected.”

    The disputed results have deepened Venezuela’s protracted social, economic and political crisis, which has has pushed millions into poverty, stunted hungry children’s growth and driven entire families to migrate. More than 7.7 million Venezuelans have already left their homeland since Maduro became president in 2013.

    Rodriguez said in a December analysis that a U.S. government decision to revoke Chevron’s license or further tighten sanctions “would have discernible effects on migration.” He estimated that more than 800,000 Venezuelans could emigrate between 2025 and 2029 if Chevron’s license is canceled.

    After Maduro’s inauguration, Biden defended his decision not to toughen sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector, explaining that the idea is “still being investigated in terms of what impact it would have and whether or not it would just be replaced by Iran or any other” country’s oil market.

    “It matters what would happen afterwards,” he told reporters.



    The United States has officially rejected the reelection of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the election process. However, despite this rejection, the US has decided to maintain its financial lifeline to his government.

    This decision comes as a surprise to many, as the US has been a vocal critic of Maduro’s administration and has imposed numerous sanctions against Venezuela in an effort to pressure him to step down. The decision to continue providing financial support to his government has raised questions about the US’s commitment to promoting democracy and human rights in the region.

    Critics argue that by maintaining financial ties with Maduro’s government, the US is effectively propping up a regime that has been accused of numerous human rights abuses and has plunged the country into a deep economic crisis. However, supporters of the decision argue that cutting off financial support could further destabilize the country and harm the Venezuelan people.

    The future of US-Venezuela relations remains uncertain, as the US continues to grapple with how to best address the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in the country. It remains to be seen how Maduro will respond to this rejection and whether it will lead to further tensions between the two countries.

    Tags:

    1. US rejects Venezuelan President Maduro
    2. Venezuelan President Maduro’s reelection
    3. US financial lifeline for Maduro’s government
    4. Venezuela political turmoil
    5. International relations with Venezuela
    6. US foreign policy towards Maduro
    7. Maduro’s disputed reelection
    8. US sanctions on Venezuela
    9. Maduro’s government financial support
    10. US-Venezuela diplomatic relations

    #rejects #Venezuelan #President #Maduros #reelection #financial #lifeline #government

  • State and Local Government: The Essentials by Bowman, Ann O’M.



    State and Local Government: The Essentials by Bowman, Ann O’M.

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    State and Local Government: The Essentials by Bowman, Ann O’M.

    Are you looking to gain a better understanding of how state and local governments operate? Look no further than Ann O’M. Bowman’s comprehensive guide, “State and Local Government: The Essentials.” This book covers the key concepts and principles of state and local government, providing readers with a solid foundation in the subject.

    From the structure and functions of state and local governments to the role of public officials and the impact of policies on communities, Bowman covers it all in an easy-to-understand format. Whether you’re a student studying political science or a citizen looking to become more informed about how your government works, this book is a must-read.

    Don’t miss out on this essential guide to state and local government by Ann O’M. Bowman. Get your copy today and start expanding your knowledge of the political landscape in your own backyard.
    #State #Local #Government #Essentials #Bowman #Ann,ann

  • Sterling K. Brown reads between the lies when a government secret spirals out of control in Hulu’s Paradise trailer


    Sterling K. Brown is about to discover that some secrets are better left unsaid, and tinfoil hats aren’t just for crackpots. The number of things the government doesn’t share with the public would fill the Grand Canyon to overflow, and the trailer for Hulu‘s upcoming series, Paradise, pulls the curtain back on a startling truth that could change the course of American history.

    From the mind of Dan Fogelman, the upcoming drama series stars Sterling K. Brown, James Marsden, and Julianne Nicholson, among others. Paradise “is set in a serene community inhabited by some of the world’s most prominent individuals. But this tranquility explodes when a shocking murder occurs and a high-stakes investigation unfolds.”

    In Hulu’s Paradise trailer, Agent Collins (Sterling K. Brown) is the only person the president (James Marsden) can trust on the White House staff. After the president arranges for Agent Collins…



    Attention all fans of suspenseful thrillers: Hulu has just released the trailer for their upcoming series “Paradise,” starring the incredibly talented Sterling K. Brown. In this edge-of-your-seat drama, Brown plays a government agent who finds himself caught in a dangerous web of deceit and deception when a top-secret operation goes awry.

    As the trailer unfolds, we see Brown’s character navigating a treacherous world where nothing is as it seems. With his keen instincts and sharp intellect, he must unravel the truth before it’s too late. But in a world where everyone has something to hide, who can he trust?

    “Paradise” promises to be a gripping and suspenseful ride, with Brown’s stellar performance at the forefront. His ability to convey emotion and depth in every scene is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each twist and turn in the story.

    So mark your calendars and get ready to join Sterling K. Brown as he reads between the lies in Hulu’s “Paradise.” This is one thriller you won’t want to miss.

    Tags:

    1. Sterling K. Brown
    2. Hulu
    3. Paradise trailer
    4. Government secret
    5. Thriller
    6. Suspense
    7. Conspiracy
    8. Drama
    9. Political thriller
    10. Sterling K. Brown new movie

    #Sterling #Brown #reads #lies #government #secret #spirals #control #Hulus #Paradise #trailer

  • Government reverses ETA rule for Heathrow transit passengers


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    London Heathrow airport has welcomed a Home Office U-turn on transit passengers needing online ETA permits simply to change planes.

    Since earlier this month, all non-Europeans intending to travel to Britain without a visa have needed to apply in advance online and pay £10 for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).

    Unlike almost all hub airports worldwide, the permit was deemed necessary even for passengers who were changing planes at Heathrow with no intention of going through passport control.

    Airport and airline bosses predicted the demand would send thousands of passengers each day to rivals in continental Europe, where no such rules exist for connecting travellers. Heathrow warned it could lose 4 million passengers each year.

    Labour had continued with the policy of Rishi Sunak’s government, with ministers claiming airside transit without an ETA would increase the risk of illegal migration.

    But the Home Office has now caved to pressure from Heathrow and airlines.

    In a statement, it said: “Following feedback from the aviation industry, the government has agreed a temporary exemption for passengers who transit airside, and therefore do not pass through UK border control.”

    While the Home Office insists “the exemption will be kept under review,” few in the aviation industry believe that the demand for an online permit for connecting travellers will ever be brought back.

    Heathrow’s chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, said: “The removal of airside transit passengers from the ETA scheme is the right decision and we welcome it.

    “This is a critical move to ensure Heathrow and the aviation industry as a whole can continue to deliver for everyone who depends on our world-leading connectivity.

    “It shows that the government is listening to industry concerns and is willing to make the necessary changes to strengthen the UK’s competitiveness and drive economic growth.”

    Heathrow handles the vast majority of passengers changing planes in the UK. Manchester airport also has a transit facility, but with far fewer users.

    The Home Office also announced a potential increase in the price of an ETA from £10 to £16. It is not known when a rise might take effect.

    Starting on 2 April 2025, all arrivals in the UK apart from British and Irish citizens, holders of UK visas and those remaining in “airside” transit will need an ETA.



    It has been confirmed that the government has made the decision to reverse the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) rule for transit passengers at Heathrow Airport. This rule, which was initially set to come into effect on January 1st, required all passengers transiting through the airport to obtain an ETA before their arrival.

    The decision to reverse this rule comes after widespread backlash and concerns raised by both airlines and passengers about the potential impact on travel plans and the overall passenger experience. Many feared that the additional step of obtaining an ETA would cause delays and confusion for those in transit.

    With this reversal, transit passengers at Heathrow Airport will not be required to obtain an ETA before their arrival. This news has been welcomed by many travelers and industry stakeholders, who are relieved that the process will now remain as seamless as before.

    Overall, this decision demonstrates the government’s willingness to listen to feedback and make adjustments to policies that may have unintended consequences. It is a positive development for those traveling through Heathrow Airport and will hopefully lead to a smoother and more efficient transit experience for all passengers.

    Tags:

    1. Heathrow transit passengers
    2. Government ETA rule reversal
    3. UK travel regulations
    4. Heathrow airport updates
    5. Transit passenger news
    6. UK border control changes
    7. Heathrow travel updates
    8. Government travel policy changes
    9. Transit rules at Heathrow
    10. ETA requirements for UK travelers

    #Government #reverses #ETA #rule #Heathrow #transit #passengers

  • Morrisey says initial appointments care about “repurposing and rightsizing” state government


    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey announced the first 15 members of his administration Thursday and said one of the group’s main thrusts would be rightsizing state government.

    Patrick Morrisey

    “Everyone here reflects an important goal of the administration,” Morrisey said. “We want to make sure that the people coming on board are going to care about repurposing government and rightsizing government and I think every person in the cabinet and the governor’s office care deeply about this.”

    Morrisey has chosen state Senator Eric Nelson, R-Kanawha, as revenue secretary and outgoing House of Delegates Majority Leader Eric Householder, R-Berkeley, as secretary of administration. Both are former finance committee chairs in the House of Delegates.

    Morrisey is also bringing in former state budget chief in several gubernatorial administrations, Mike McKown, back to run his budget office.

    Eric Nelson

    Morrisey used strong language during his 50-minute news conference at the state capitol Thursday signaling a state government shake-up. He said the state has “fiscal challenges.”

    “We are not going to have the same number of departments that we have now and we’re also going to be looking closely at the massive number of commissions we have in place, we’re going to make changes,” Morrisey promised. “We need to have more accountability, more freedom and we need to save money that can then be invested back into the people.”

    New state Senate Finance Committee Chairman Jason Barrett, R-Berkeley, sent a similar signal earlier this week when he was appointed to the post by incoming Senate President Randy Smith.

    “I’m excited to be a part of the leadership team that Senate President Smith is building, and I think West Virginians are really going to see the kind of meaningful financial stewardship that this state expects,” Barrett said. “We look forward to working with Governor-elect Morrisey to make sure that our state’s budget is fiscally responsible and financially sound.”

    Jason Barrett

    The Morrisey transition team is already going over the budget. Revenue collections through the first six months show collections running nearly even with estimates. ,

    Morrisey declined Thursday to be more specific about cuts he’s thinking about. He promised more information the week after his Jan. 13 inauguration.

    “I’m not willing to put a dollar figure on it right now,” Morrisey said. “For example, we have to have money to pay for the tax cuts. You have to pay for them and that really hasn’t been done yet.”

    The state’s personal income tax went down another six percent on Wednesday.

    Morrisey predicted prosperity is in the state’s financial future but there’s likely going to be some pain first.

    “We’re going to have a great time in West Virginia growing our economy but we have to level with people where we are right now,” Morrisey said.

    Morrisey added he wants to invest in the latest technology for state government to help save money.

    The first 15

    Three of Morrisey’s first 15 appointments are coming to West Virginia from jobs outside the state.

    Chief of Staff Tom McCaffery worked in the Trump administration, Deputy Chief of Staff Todd Johnston was vice president and managing director of ConservAmerica and new Secretary of Human Services Alex Mayer oversaw child support, child protection, and economic assistance for the state of South Dakota.

    Morrisey said he’s looking for the best people available.

    “I’m going to take talent from wherever it comes. I want to send a message across the country, if you’re the best at your position you have a place in West Virginia,” Morrisey said. “We need to be the best. We need to move up from 49 and 50 and the way we put the best championship team on the field, we look across the country.”

    The transition team is working with a head-hunting group to come up with more candidates, Morrisey said.

    He promised more appointments before his inauguration with the remaining announcements after he is sworn-in to office.

    Some other notable appointments announced Thursday include the retention of Harold Ward as state DEP secretary, the appointment of former delegate Dianna Graves to head-up senior services and the appointment of Crescent Gallagher as press secretary.

    Bios of those appointed

    Tom McCaffery – Chief of Staff

    Tom was Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs/Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Defense under President Donald J. Trump, and most recently was principal at Health Management Associates. Tom has run multi-billion dollar business units and has more than 30 years of executive experience in state and federal government, corporate, and policy space. Tom graduated with a Master of Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a B.A. from the University of Notre Dame. He is also a Rotary International Scholar at Trinity College Dublin.

    Douglas P. Buffington II – Senior Advisor

    Doug served as Chief Deputy Attorney General under Attorney General Morrisey, where he assisted with the oversight and management of attorneys and the office. Prior to the Attorney General’s office, he was the Acting and Assistant Director of the West Virginia Lottery, and was Chief of Staff for the WV Department of Revenue. Doug graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Law and Baylor University. Doug lives in Raleigh county with his wife.

    A. Todd Johnston – Deputy Chief of Staff and Chair of Energy, Infrastructure, and Competitiveness Council

    Todd was most recently vice president and managing director of ConservAmerica, and has served in government, nonprofit, congressional, and corporate roles leading on energy and regulatory issues. He also served as Staff Director for the House of Representatives Subcommittees on Energy & Environment. Todd graduated from Hampden-Sydney College with a degree in political science.

    Sean M. Whelan – General Counsel

    Sean most recently served as a Deputy Attorney General and the Division Director for the WV Attorney General’s Tax & Revenue Division. Sean has represented State officials and agencies at various levels of the state and federal court system on tax, insurance, and education matters. Sean graduated from the University of Kentucky’s J. David Rosenberg College of Law and Franciscan University. Sean was raised in Nicholas County and today lives in Charleston with his wife and three children.

    Curtis R. A. Capehart – Director of Policy

    Curtis most recently served as Deputy Attorney General in the Attorney General’s Main Office Division, responsible for complex litigation, including the state’s defense of the Save Women’s Sports Act and Unborn Child Protection Act. He graduated from the University of Michigan Law School and Marshall University. Curtis is a native of Winfield, where he now lives with his wife and two children.

    Marissa Findlay – Director of Operations

    Marissa has been a lifelong Republican operative and has worked with numerous Presidential and statewide officeholders nationwide for nearly two decades. She currently serves as the President of the West Virginia Federation of Republican Women and the National Committeewoman of the West Virginia Federation of Young Republicans. Marissa lives in Charleston with her husband and their four children.

    John L. Findlay – Director of Intergovernmental and Political Affairs

    John most recently served as the Convention Delegate Selection Director for President Donald Trump’s successful 2024 Presidential Campaign. John oversaw the victory program’s direct mail operations and implemented the campaign’s paid voter contact programs across the battleground states in the Fall. John has over a decade of experience managing Republican political campaigns and state parties including serving as the Executive Director of both the Republican Party of Virginia and the West Virginia Republican Party. He lives in Charleston with his wife and their four children.

    Mike McKown – Director of Budget

    Mike was West Virginia’s Director of State Budget office from 2006-2018, and has served the last three governors developing budgets. He has worked in six different state agencies in West Virginia state government, including most recently as Deputy State Auditor. Mike lives in Charleston with his wife and their four children.

    Crescent Gallagher – Press Secretary

    Crescent was the Deputy State Director for Americans for Prosperity-West Virginia (AFP-WV). Before joining AFP-WV, Gallagher served as the Director of Business Development and Communications, as well as the Legislative Liaison for the West Virginia Department of Agriculture under current Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt. He is a graduate of Ohio University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts and a master’s degree in public administration. Gallagher has over a decade of communications, policy development and legislative experience.

    Katie Franklin – Deputy General Counsel

    Katie has been an Assistant Attorney General since 2021. Previously, she was assistant prosecuting attorney for six years and served four years as the elected prosecutor of Jackson County. A lifelong West Virginia resident, Katie Franklin graduated from WVU College of Law in 2008.

    Senator Eric Nelson – Secretary of Revenue

    Eric was elected to the West Virginia Senate in 2020 after serving five terms in the House of Delegates. Most recently, Eric was Chairman of the majority caucus and the Pension Committee. Eric is also a successful small businessman and is the President of Nelson Enterprise, Inc. He graduated from Washington and Lee University with a degree in Business Administration and Accounting. Eric and his wife reside in Kanawha County, where all three of his children graduated from Kanawha County public schools.

    The Honorable Eric Householder – Secretary of Administration

    Eric was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2010, and served as Chairman of the House Finance Committee from 2019-2022. Most recently, Eric served as the House Majority Leader. In the legislature, Eric led on tax cuts, labor reform, and the state budget. Eric graduated from Shepherd College and holds an MBA from Frostburg State University.

    Alex Mayer – Secretary of Human Services

    Alex has over a decade of experience in Health and Human Services, holding leadership roles across multiple state agencies. Most recently, he served as the Chief of Children and Family Services at the South Dakota Department of Social Services, where he oversaw the Divisions of Child Support, Child Protection, and Economic Assistance. His portfolio included vital programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, LIEAP, and Childcare services. Alex is a dedicated military veteran with service in the 75th Ranger Regiment, and has devoted his career to supporting those most in need.

    Harold Ward – Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection

    Harold served as Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) under Governor Jim Justice and will be retained in that position. Previously, he served as WVDEP’s Deputy Secretary of Operations and Director of the Division of Mining and Reclamation (DMR). Harold holds a biology degree from West Virginia University.

    The Honorable Dianna Graves – Commissioner of the Bureau of Senior Services

    Dianna most recently served as the Executive Director of the Bob Burdette Center, where she led an education non-profit in Charleston that provided free afterschool education programs. Prior to that, Dianna was Delegate in the West Virginia legislature from 2017-2022, an accountant, and television and movie producer. Dianna graduated from Stanford University and West Virginia State University.

     





    Morrisey, the Attorney General of West Virginia, recently made headlines with his comments on the importance of initial appointments in state government. According to Morrisey, these appointments are crucial for “repurposing and rightsizing” the government to better serve the people.

    In a statement, Morrisey emphasized the need for state officials to carefully consider who they appoint to key positions in government. He believes that these initial appointments can have a significant impact on the direction and efficiency of state government.

    Morrisey’s comments come at a time when many states are facing budget challenges and pressure to streamline government operations. He believes that by appointing individuals who are dedicated to repurposing and rightsizing government, states can better meet the needs of their citizens while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

    As the debate over the role and size of government continues, Morrisey’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful and strategic appointments in state government. By selecting individuals who are committed to improving government efficiency and effectiveness, states can work towards a more responsive and accountable government that truly serves the people.

    Tags:

    Morrisey, initial appointments, repurposing, rightsizing, state government, government reform, political appointments, state administration, government efficiency, Morrisey administration

    #Morrisey #initial #appointments #care #repurposing #rightsizing #state #government

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