U.S. News
Kilmar Abrego Garcia and the Deep Immigration Divide
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, age 30, has become the center of immigration controversy. His case highlights deep divisions over asylum, deportation, and U.S. immigration enforcement. The left has embraced him as a victim. But his record tells a very different story. Refusing Deportation Deals Abrego Garcia had options. Immigration officials offered him a deal: remain in jail, accept deportation to Costa Rica, and plead guilty to human smuggling. He refused. BREAKING NEWS: Immigration officials said they intend to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Uganda, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for remaining in jail and pleading guilty to human smuggling charges. pic.twitter.com/CctJFocRib — NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) August 23, 2025 Why Costa Rica? Because a federal immigration judge had already ruled he could not be deported to his home country of El Salvador. The judge determined it was unsafe for him there due to gang violence. That decision forced the U.S. government to find third countries willing to accept him. Costa Rica was one option. Uganda became another. (RELATED POST: New Census Will Omit Illegal Immigrants) But instead of taking the deal, Abrego Garcia gambled. He rejected Costa Rica, pushed asylum claims in U.S. courts, and now finds himself trapped in legal limbo. Seeking Asylum in the U.S. This week, his attorneys requested asylum in the United States to stop his deportation to Uganda. The East African country recently agreed to accept illegal immigrants from the U.S. That move gave the Trump administration another option for relocation. But here’s the problem: Abrego Garcia already lost an asylum case in 2019. Back then, he filed too late. Immigration law requires that applications be submitted within one year of arrival. He came to the U.S. in 2012 at age 16 and waited years to apply. A judge denied it. Despite that denial, his lawyers are back in court. They filed a lawsuit before U.S. District Court Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland. She admitted she has no jurisdiction over immigration. But she did order that Abrego Garcia cannot be removed before an October hearing. He remains in detention in Virginia, within 200 miles of her court, so he can meet with his attorneys. Criminal Allegations and MS-13 Ties In 2019, the Prince George County Police Gang Unit identified Abrego Garcia as a member of MS-13. He was arrested outside a Home Depot with two other MS-13 gang members. He denies membership, but his record raises questions. A tip suggested he was affiliated with the dangerous gang. He was arrested with rolls of cash and drugs. The evidence against him has piled up. In 2022, Tennessee police stopped him for speeding. Body cam footage showed nine passengers in the car. They all listed the same address. He carried $1,400 in cash and no one had luggage. Authorities suspected human smuggling. According to Attorney General Pam Bondi a federal grand jury indicted him in 2025 for conspiracy to transport illegal immigrants through Mexico into Texas. The indictment claimed this was his full-time work. They said he used altered vehicles with hidden compartments. Guns, narcotics, women, and children were involved. 🚨 #BREAKING: Pam Bondi officially announces Kilmar Abrego Garcia will be returned to the US after the DOJ uncovered he made OVER 100 SMUGGLING TRIPS of illegals A grand jury found human trafficking was Garcia’s FULL TIME JOB, and he frequently ABUSED women. THIS IS THE… pic.twitter.com/MHbmJ4PpnX — Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 6, 2025 Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem also did not mince words this week. She called him an “MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, wife beater, child predator, criminal illegal alien.” A Pattern of Abuse The personal side of Abrego Garcia’s story is no cleaner. Court documents reveal that his wife, Jennifer Vasquez, filed for a protection order in 2021. She accused him of punching her, scratching her, and tearing off her shirt. Federal filings also allege he solicited explicit photos and videos of a minor beginning in 2020. NEW: @FoxNews has obtained the written domestic violence allegations from Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wife in 2021, in which she alleges he is a repeat wife beater & writes “At this point, I am afraid to be close to him. I have multiple photos/videos of how violent he can be and all… pic.twitter.com/s7yCji9jjq — Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) April 16, 2025 Playing the Legal System Despite this record, his attorneys frame him as a victim of Trump’s “mass deportations.” They argue he fears death at the hands of gangs in El Salvador. Yet that claim only arose after he allegedly participated in the murder of a rival gang member’s mother. The courts have repeatedly bent to keep him in the U.S. In March, he was deported to El Salvador. His wife sued. The Trump administration brought him back in June, only to charge him with federal smuggling. Now he is attempting asylum yet again. (MORE NEWS: Kimmel’s Italian Citizenship: Turning Away From America) Why the Left Defends Him Why does this man matter so much to the left? The answer is politics. He represents their narrative against President Trump. They see him as a living example of what they call “cruel” deportation policies. They even traveled to El Salvador to meet with him and push for his release. Final Word Abrego Garcia has lived in the United States for 13 years. In all that time, he never pursued legal citizenship. He never showed commitment to the laws of this nation. Instead, he chose shortcuts and excuses. Being American is not about having kids in this country, working a job that may or may not “contribute to society,” or appearing at court dates. It is about personal responsibility. It is about respect for the laws that create order and safety. You cannot claim love for America while ignoring its laws. You cannot demand rights while refusing to fulfill your duty to handle your business. And you cannot expect sympathy while engaging in crime. Kilmar Abrego Garcia is not a victim, although he likes to…
Trump Scores Legal Victory, $500M Fraud Penalty Overturned
President Donald Trump just secured another major legal win. On Thursday, a New York appeals court struck down a massive $500 million fraud penalty in a stunning 5-0 ruling. The unanimous decision was a direct blow to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who campaigned on “getting Trump.” When New York Attorney General Letitia James ran in 2018, she called Trump an “illegitimate president,” promised to be a “pain in his ass,” said Trump was “fueling her soul,” said “I look forward every day to suing Trump.” Today, she filed a civil suit against Trump and his kids pic.twitter.com/mDB8w9jfNQ — Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 21, 2022 The ruling did not erase liability in the case. But it eliminated the crushing fine that had ballooned to more than $550 million with interest. For Trump and his two sons, this decision is a massive victory in a long, politically charged battle. (MORE NEWS: Texas House Passes “One Big Beautiful Map” in GOP Victory) A 5-0 Decision Against Excessive Punishment The New York Appellate Division spent nearly a year before releasing its decision. After 11 months of deliberation, the five-judge panel ruled the penalty was unconstitutional. In its 323-page decision, the court said that Engoron’s ruling went too far. Judges Dianne T. Renwick and Peter H. Moulton wrote the main opinion: “While the injunctive relief ordered by the court is well crafted to curb defendants’ business culture, the court’s disgorgement order, which directs that defendants pay nearly half a billion dollars to the State of New York, is an excessive fine that violates the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution.” The opinion was anything but narrow. All five judges agreed the fine was “excessive.” That unanimous vote shows the extreme overreach of Justice Engoron’s court. Restrictions Remain, but James Suffers a Blow The appeals court did keep some restrictions in place. Trump’s sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, remain barred from running a company in New York for a few years. The court also upheld the appointment of an outside monitor to oversee the Trump Organization’s business dealings for three years. Even so, Thursday’s ruling gutted the core of Engoron’s punishment. James’ legal team and Engoron had hoped to crush Trump financially. Instead, their campaign of lawfare suffered a devastating setback. A Political Prosecution from the Start Trump has always maintained his innocence. He called the case a sham and accused James of carrying out political persecution. The facts back him up. This trial dragged on for 11 weeks, right in the middle of the presidential campaign. Prosecutors worked to keep Trump off the trail. They wanted to smear his reputation. Yet the case had no victims. Deutsche Bank, the bank that issued the loans, testified it was satisfied with Trump’s payments. The loans were repaid on time and in full. No harm, no foul. But James twisted the law to claim that Trump “hurt the marketplace.” BLATANT INJUSTICE: “[Letitia James] said she was going to get Trump as part of her political campaign, and tried to throw whatever would stick.” @rogerseverino_ pic.twitter.com/FK93ygtGmF — Heritage Foundation (@Heritage) October 3, 2023 As Judge Peter Moulton noted during hearings last fall, the penalty was “troubling.” He questioned whether James’ use of the statute had “morphed into something it was not meant to do.” His skepticism has now been confirmed by a unanimous court. Letitia James Under Fire Letitia James has her own problems. Ed Martin, director of the Justice Department’s Weaponization Working Group, has called for her resignation. James is under investigation for mortgage fraud involving a Brooklyn townhouse and a Virginia home. (MORE NEWS: Trump and His ‘Art of the Deal’ for Ukraine Peace) According to the U.S. Federal Housing FHFA, she falsely claimed both homes as her primary residence to secure lower interest rates. On one application, she even listed her father as her husband. If found guilty, she could face 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. While James rails against Trump for “fraud,” she faces criminal scrutiny herself. That hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed. Trump Responds: “TOTAL VICTORY” President Trump celebrated the ruling on Truth Social. He declared: “TOTAL VICTORY in the FAKE New York State Attorney General Letitia James Case! … Importantly, the Vote was 5 to 0. I am so honored by Justice David Friedman’s great words of wisdom, which should be read by everyone. I would also like to thank the Court for having the Courage to make this Decision, which is already going down as one of the worst business persecutions in the History of our Country.” Trump’s words highlight the significance of the ruling. For months, the media portrayed him as a convicted fraudster. Now, a unanimous appellate court has dismantled the heart of the court’s decision. James Refuses to Back Down Despite the loss, James claimed victory. In a statement, she vowed to appeal: “The First Department today affirmed the well-supported finding of the trial court: Donald Trump, his company, and two of his children are liable for fraud. The court upheld the injunctive relief we won, limiting Donald Trump and the Trump Organization officers’ ability to do business in New York. It should not be lost to history: yet another court has ruled that the president violated the law, and that our case has merit. We will seek appeal to the Court of Appeals and continue to protect the rights and interests of New Yorkers.” Her statement shows she is not giving up. Her crusade of persecution continues. Even after a 5-0 ruling, James refuses to accept defeat. Why This Matters This ruling is about more than Donald Trump. It is about the abuse of power. The left has weaponized the courts to target political opponents. James promised voters she would take down Trump. She delivered a partisan prosecution, not justice. But the Constitution still matters. The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive fines. This unanimous ruling sends a strong message: political vendettas cannot override constitutional rights. The Bigger Picture The left wanted to…
BREAKING ALERT: Crime in D.C.: Trump’s Historic Action to Restore Order
President Donald Trump made bold moves to address the escalating crime in Washington, D.C. His recent actions come in response to the rising violence, car thefts, and carjackings plaguing the city. Trump signed an Executive Order and outlined a comprehensive plan to restore law and order, signaling a new era of federal intervention in local crime control. (RELATED: Trump Takes On Crime in D.C.) The D.C. Crime Crisis The crime rate in Washington, D.C., has reached alarming levels. Trump pointed out that “The murder rate in Washington today is higher than that of Bogota, Columbia, Mexico City…” He continued, “The number of car thefts has doubled over the past five years, and the number of carjackings has more than tripled.” These shocking statistics underscore the urgent need for action. FACT: D.C. Crime Is Out of Control. ⬇️ Our nation’s capital should be a symbol of patriotism for the American people—NOT a city of lawlessness. It ends today. pic.twitter.com/TdLERGXVVP — The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 11, 2025 The situation became even more dire last week. Edward “Big Balls” Coristine, a former DOGE staffer, was injured while defending a woman from a carjacking. A group of about a dozen young men attacked the woman. Coristine intervened, resulting in a concussion. Police arrested two 15-year-olds involved in the attack, but others remain at large. This event and others prompted President Trump to take immediate action. Federalizing D.C. Law Enforcement In a historic move, President Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. This action places the D.C. Metropolitan Police under direct federal control. It gives the federal government the authority to oversee local law enforcement and take strong action to combat crime. Trump announced, “I am announcing a historic action to rescue our nation’s capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, squalor, and worse. This is Liberation Day in D.C. and we’re going to take our capital back.” His declaration marked the start of a major federal effort to restore safety in the city. It’s “Liberation Day” in Washington, D.C. “Today, President Donald J. Trump took bold executive action to liberate Washington, D.C., from the cesspool of crime and homelessness that it has become after decades of unilateral Democrat leadership.”https://t.co/mL6oRxBW4Y — Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) August 11, 2025 National Guard Deployed to D.C. Trump also ordered the deployment of the National Guard. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed, “This morning, we have mobilized the D.C. National Guard… You will see them flowing through the streets of D.C.” A total of 1,000 National Guard troops have been sent to assist in law enforcement efforts. The deployment also leaves open the possibility of deploying active-duty military personnel if necessary. . @SecDef “Mr. President, it is an honor to be here and at your direction, this morning we’ve mobilized the D.C. National Guard… They will be STRONG and TOUGH, and they will STAND with their law enforcement partners.” pic.twitter.com/L6Bk5spgY2 — DOD Rapid Response (@DODResponse) August 11, 2025 Attorney General Pam Bondi, now in charge of the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, was clear: “Crime in D.C. is ending and ending today. We are going to use every power we have to fight criminals here.” Immediate Law Enforcement Operations Trump’s plan includes aggressive law enforcement operations. These operations will target gangs, drug dealers, and criminal networks in D.C. U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro emphasized, “We need to recognize that the people who matter are the law-abiding citizens! President Trump is going to make sure these emboldened criminals understand: We see you, we’re watching you, and we’re going to change the law to catch you!” FBI Director Kash Patel echoed this sentiment, pointing to a similar operation in Northern Virginia. “We stood up a task force in Northern Virginia, [and] we said ‘Let’s let good cops be cops.’ In one month, we arrested 545 violent felons,” Patel said. “That simplicity in law enforcement is what’s coming to Washington, D.C.” Addressing Homelessness and Public Safety Trump’s plan goes beyond crime. He is also addressing the issue of homelessness in the city. “We are going to be removing homeless encampments from all over our parks… We’re getting rid of the people from underpasses and public spaces,” Trump said. The president emphasized that while law enforcement will be the priority, helping the homeless will still be part of the solution. “We’ll help them as much as you can help,” he added. A Nationwide Push Against Cashless Bail In addition to federalizing D.C. law enforcement, Trump is targeting the issue of cashless bail. He has called on Republicans in Congress to outlaw cashless bail systems nationwide. “That is what started the problem,” Trump said, blaming the practice for the rise in crime. He pointed to the Democratic Party’s weak stance on crime, accusing them of enabling criminals to avoid consequences. Trump’s legislative push would ensure that violent offenders are held accountable before they are allowed to return to the streets. (RELATED: Newsome Attacks Republicans On Violent Crime — Data Tell Different Story) Expanding Federal Control to Other Cities While Trump’s immediate focus is on D.C., he hinted at expanding this strategy to other cities facing similar crime issues. Trump mentioned that after federalizing D.C., he is considering the same approach for New York City and Chicago. Both cities have also seen rising crime rates, and Trump’s federalization strategy could be a model for other urban centers. The Path Forward: A Vision for Safer Cities Trump’s actions represent a significant shift in how the federal government deals with crime in American cities. By federalizing D.C. law enforcement, deploying the National Guard, and focusing on aggressive law enforcement tactics, Trump is taking unprecedented steps to restore order in Washington. His push to outlaw cashless bail and sanctuary cities, and his plans for further federal involvement in other cities, show his commitment to cracking down on crime nationwide. As the operation in Washington unfolds, Trump’s efforts may serve as a blueprint for other cities struggling with rising crime. His federal approach to crime…
Trump Takes on Crime in D.C.
A Bold Move to Address Crime and Renovation President Trump has made it clear he is determined to address the ongoing issues with crime in Washington, D.C. In a series of Truth Social posts, he announced plans for a press conference on “Crime and ‘Beautification’” at 10 a.m. EST on August 11th. His dual goals are to combat crime and restore the physical beauty to the nation’s capital. He said the press conference, “will not only involve ending the Crime, Murder, and Death in our Nation’s Capital, but will also be about Cleanliness and the General Physical Renovation and Condition of our once beautiful and well-maintained Capital.” (MORE NEWS: Trump: New Census Will Omit Illegal Immigrants) He emphasized his commitment to restoring the city to its former glory, pledging to “take care of our cherished Capital.” Key Points from Series of Posts Regarding D.C. Crime • Urgent action to remove the homeless people, clear tents • Criminals will be jailed • Fast action expected, similar to the border • Trump pledges to federalize D.C. • Calls for changes to laws to prosecute teenagers, ages 14-16, involved in violent crimes Rising Crime in D.C.: A Personal Concern for President Trump Last week, Edward “Big Balls” Coristine, a former DOGE staffer, was injured while defending a woman from an attempted carjacking. A group of about a dozen young men attacked the woman, and Coristine intervened, resulting in a concussion. Police arrested two 15-year-olds involved in the attack and are searching for more perpetrators. This incident has prompted President Trump to direct federal law enforcement to increase their presence in D.C. (MORE NEWS: Trump’s EPA Pushes Green New Deal Into Political Obscurity) Trump also praised D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, calling her a “good person” but suggesting that crime was beyond her control. The Legal Path to Federalizing D.C. To federalize Washington, D.C., Congress would need to repeal The Home Rule Act of 1973, a law that grants local officials governance authority over the city. However, Congress retains the power to overrule local legislation. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17 of the U.S. Constitution gives Congress authority to “exercise exclusive legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such district… as may… become the Seat of the Government of the United States.” Trump’s legal team is exploring options to make a federal takeover a reality. Senator Mike Lee has called D.C. Home Rule a “disaster,” arguing it contradicts the Constitution’s intent. He has pushed for a legislative change to restore Congressional oversight in D.C., as originally intended. Lee has also suggested that Washington, D.C. could return to its original status by returning residential areas to Maryland, similar to how Arlington and Alexandria were returned to Virginia in 1846. Lee’s proposal is part of a broader push to correct what he sees as the failure of local governance in D.C. Federal Law Enforcement to Tackle Crime in D.C. Under Trump’s direction, federal law enforcement agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and the DEA, are tasked with increasing their presence in D.C. The operation will focus on high-profile areas like the National Mall, Union Station, Rock Creek Park, and other monuments and memorials. The operation, initially planned to last seven days, could be extended if necessary. Congressional Efforts to Reinstate Oversight Senator Mike Lee has introduced the Bowser Act (S.440)—the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident Act. This bill seeks to repeal the D.C. Home Rule Act and return oversight of D.C. to Congress. Lee’s proposal is in line with efforts to ensure that Washington D.C. is properly governed and safe for its residents. 11/12 Congress needs to reclaim the power it delegated away with DC Home Rule That’s why I’ve introduced the BOWSER Act—the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident Act—to repeal DC Home Rule and restore congressional oversight as the Constitution intended — Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) August 6, 2025 The land that became Washington D.C. was donated by Maryland and Virginia in 1790. The district was designed as a neutral ground to serve as the nation’s capital, ensuring no single state could exert undue influence over the federal government. The area was initially 100 square miles but was later reduced when portions were returned to Virginia. Today, Washington D.C. covers 61.1 square miles, but Senator Lee’s proposal could return the residential areas to Maryland, further limiting D.C.’s autonomy. What’s Next for President Trump and D.C.? While the path to federalizing D.C. may require congressional approval, Trump has made it clear that he is ready to take swift and decisive action. He warned, “There will be no ‘Mr. Nice Guy.’” Although a full federal takeover may require changes to the 1973 law, Trump could temporarily take control of the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department if an emergency is declared. This marks the beginning of what could be a significant shift in the governance of Washington, D.C. President Trump’s next steps remain uncertain, but his focus on restoring safety and order to the capital is clear. Expose the Spin. Shatter the Narrative. Speak the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t cover politics to play referee — we swing a machete through the spin, the double-speak, and the partisan theater. While the media protects the powerful and buries the backlash, we dig it up and drag it into the light. If you’re tired of rigged narratives, selective outrage, and leaders who serve themselves, not you — then share this. Expose the corruption. Challenge the agenda. Because if we don’t fight for the truth, no one will. And that fight starts with you.
Court Nixes California AI Deepfake Law, Free Speech Wins
Welcome to The Modern Memo — where our readers don’t come for fluff, filters, or focus-grouped headlines. They come for the truth. We don’t spin. We don’t censor. And we don’t dance around the narrative — we swing a machete straight through it. If it matters to America, we cover it — raw, real, and relentlessly honest. AI Deepfake Ruling a Major Win for Elon Musk’s X Platform A federal court has struck down an unconstitutional California law that limited free speech by controlling the use of AI-generated “deepfake” videos during elections. The law is one of the strictest in the United States. Elon Musk and his platform, X, joined the lawsuit to challenge the law and scored a major victory with this decision. However, the judge avoided ruling directly on free speech claims. Instead, he based his decision on Section 230 of the federal Communications Decency Act. This act protects online platforms from being held responsible for what their users post. What Was the Law About? In direct conflict with the First Amendment, the law signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024 aimed to block social media platforms from hosting AI-generated videos featuring politicians or public figures. Newsom pushed for the legislation after Elon Musk shared a viral AI video of then-Vice President Kamala Harris. She was portrayed as saying she was the “ultimate diversity hire.” Newsom said the video “should be illegal” and said he would sign a bill “in a matter of weeks to make sure it is.” (RELATED: Trump Dismisses Rumors of Targeting Elon Musk’s Companies, Calls for American Business to “Thrive Like Never Before”) Manipulating a voice in an “ad” like this one should be illegal. I’ll be signing a bill in a matter of weeks to make sure it is. pic.twitter.com/NuqOETkwTI — Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) July 29, 2024 Why Was the Law Challenged in Court? The law gave the government too much control over what people could post online. It was designed to punish parody, comedy, and political satire—all forms of speech protected under the First Amendment. Those who challenged the law included: Christopher Kohls, the video creator who posted the Kamala Harris deepfake Elon Musk’s X platform, in a 65-page lawsuit, said the law targeted free expression The Babylon Bee, a conservative comedy and satire site Rumble, a video-sharing platform that competes with YouTube The plaintiffs argued that the law would: Discourage parody or humor about politicians Pressure platforms to over-censor content Violate the First Amendment by favoring some views over others Musk described the law as an attempt to “make parody illegal,” and said it would lead to unnecessary censorship. You’re not gonna believe this, but @GavinNewsom just announced that he signed a LAW to make parody illegal, based on this video 🤣🤣 https://t.co/bdykNuxe6G — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 18, 2024 What Did the Judge Say? On Tuesday, Federal Judge John Mendez struck down the law. According to Politico, Mendez said that platforms hosting deepfakes, “don’t have anything to do with these videos that the state is objecting to,” and that Section 230 releases them from liability. This ruling means the state cannot force platforms to remove deepfakes simply because they are politically misleading. Free Speech Question Left Unanswered—Or Is It? Even though the case was largely about First Amendment rights, Mendez did not rule on that issue. He said it was not necessary because the law already failed under Section 230. “I’m simply not reaching that issue,” he told the lawyers during the hearing. (RELATED: So-Called ‘Equality Act’ Could Undo Free Speech, Mandate Murder Of Unborn Children, Make Pedophiles A ‘Protected Class’) BUT this ruling is still a major victory for free speech advocates everywhere. In a free society, government officials don’t police political speech—especially during election season, when open debate matters most. The Constitution protects the First Amendment. It’s not a privilege granted by politicians. Final Thoughts This case isn’t just about deepfakes. It’s about who controls the narrative. The California government—from the governor down—tried to silence speech they didn’t like. They hid behind AI fears and “disinformation panic.” Judge Mendez saw through it. And free speech won. Let’s be clear: the law was never about protecting voters from disinformation. It was about protecting politicians. This bill was designed from the beginning to shut down criticism and uncomfortable truths in the name of “election integrity.” That is NOT what freedom is about. That is tyranny in disguise. If free speech is so easily discarded every time a politician doesn’t like a joke, a meme, or an article—like this one—then we don’t have a republic. We have a regime. Make no mistake. This ruling draws a line in the sand. It tells every governor, state legislature, every activist dreaming of being the thought police: you don’t get to dictate what Americans say, share, or criticize online. The PEOPLE hold the government accountable—even when it’s inconvenient. Especially when it’s inconvenient. The battle over AI is just beginning. While AI technology poses new risks, lawmakers will need to find ways to address those risks without infringing on constitutional rights. This ruling shows that broad, sweeping restrictions won’t survive in court. Other states that have or are considering similar laws will do well to remember this ruling. The Constitution isn’t optional. Protecting elections is important, but you can’t legislate your way around the First Amendment. Cut through the noise. Drown out the spin. Deliver the truth. At The Modern Memo, we’re not here to soften the blow — we’re here to land it. The media plays defense for the powerful. We don’t. If you’re done with censorship, half-truths, and gaslighting headlines, pass this on. Expose the stories they bury. This isn’t just news — it’s a fight for reality. And it doesn’t work without you.
Trump’s EPA Pushes Green New Deal Into Political Obscurity
Democrats Go Silent on the Green New Deal The Green New Deal was once the main climate push for Democrats. Now it’s barely mentioned in Washington. According to a Quorum chart posted by Axios, in the past three months, Democrats in Congress used the term only a handful of times on social media or in speeches. That is the lowest count since 2018, when it was first introduced. Meanwhile, Republicans are still talking about it — a lot. They brought it up more than 300 times in the same period, using it as proof that Democrats back costly and extreme policies. Axios: “Democrats aren’t explicitly disavowing the Green New Deal, but they’ve abruptly stopped talking about it” pic.twitter.com/mVM4F19SJD — Steve Everley (@saeverley) August 1, 2025 Big Names Drop the Plan Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey, the lawmakers who first pushed the Green New Deal, have not reintroduced it since April 2023. Many Democrats are moving away from strict climate mandates. Instead, they are talking about jobs, cost savings, and energy security. (MORE NEWS: Energy Department Admits Millions Of Americans Are At Risk Thanks To Grid Vulnerabilities) Some governors are supporting natural gas projects. Even a few lawmakers have traded in their electric cars for gas‑powered SUVs. The tone is different now, and the Green New Deal is no longer the centerpiece it once was. The 2009 EPA Climate Ruling That Started It All In 2009, the Obama‑era EPA issued the Endangerment Finding — a ruling that labeled carbon dioxide and several other greenhouse gases as a danger to public health and welfare. That single decision became the legal basis for almost every major climate regulation in the years that followed. It opened the door to: Federal electric vehicle production mandates Restrictions on gas‑powered appliances Strict tailpipe emission rules Airline emission standards Power plant shutdown orders By declaring CO₂ a threat, the EPA gave itself broad power to regulate entire industries. That authority survived multiple court challenges and was used heavily by both the Obama and Biden administrations. Zeldin Moves to Kill the Endangerment Finding On July 29, 2025, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a plan to repeal the Endangerment Finding entirely. He called it “the largest deregulatory action in the history of the United States.” Zeldin said: “Many stakeholders have told me that the Obama and Biden EPAs twisted the law, ignored precedent, and warped science to achieve their preferred ends and stick American families with hundreds of billions of dollars in hidden taxes every single year.” The EPA also stated: “We heard loud and clear the concern that EPA’s GHG emissions standards themselves, not carbon dioxide … was the real threat to Americans’ livelihoods. If finalized, rescinding the Endangerment Finding and resulting regulations would end $1 trillion or more in hidden taxes on American businesses and families.” An August 3rd X post further solidified Zeldin’s stance on the Endangerment Finding. The Trump EPA won’t play along with the MANY mental leaps the Obama & Biden Admins used with the 2009 Endangerment Finding to creatively hoard themselves max power to jam through trillions of dollars of regulation, EV Mandates, and economic strangulation.pic.twitter.com/Mk5cTCzAX0 — Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) August 3, 2025 A Blow to Costly Climate Rules Zeldin’s proposal would wipe out more than $1 trillion in regulations tied to the Endangerment Finding. These rules have hit vehicle manufacturers, power plants, heavy industry, and working Americans with higher costs and fewer choices. If the repeal is finalized: Federal climate mandates would be removed Electric vehicle quotas would be ended Regulatory control would shift back to states and local communities ESG‑driven industry restrictions would take a major hit The EPA under Zeldin is moving aggressively, framing this as a return to energy freedom and economic growth. It will lift the crushing burden from businesses and households. Critics warn it would remove key protections against climate change. (MORE NEWS: Texas Dems Flee to Stop Redistricting Map) Green Groups Lose Power While the EPA moves to dismantle its own authority, public enthusiasm for sweeping climate plans is also fading. Wind and solar still have majority support, but not as much as before. Republicans now strongly favor fossil fuel expansion. Environmental groups are struggling. The Sunrise Movement — once one of the most aggressive Green New Deal backers — raised less than $30,000 in the first half of 2025. That’s a fraction of what they raised during Trump’s first term. The Bottom Line Trump’s second term is changing climate politics at every level. Democrats are talking less about the Green New Deal. The EPA’s main legal authority to regulate greenhouse gases is under direct challenge. If Lee Zeldin’s repeal succeeds, the Endangerment Finding — and the regulations built on it — will be gone. That would mark the end of an era for federal climate policy and a dramatic shift in how the U.S. approaches energy, industry, and the environment. The once‑loud Green New Deal is now just a faint echo in Washington. Cut Through the Noise. Slice Through the Lies. Share the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t tiptoe around the narrative—we swing a machete through it. The mainstream won’t say it, so we will. If you’re tired of spin, censorship, and sugar-coated headlines, help us rip the cover off stories that matter. Share this article. Wake people up. Give a voice to the truth the powerful want buried. This fight isn’t just ours—it’s yours. Join us in exposing what they won’t tell you. America needs bold truth-tellers, and that means you.
Texas Dems Flee to Stop Redistricting Map
In a high-stakes political standoff, dozens of Texas House Democrats fled the state on Sunday to block a scheduled vote on a redistricting proposal that could significantly favor Republicans. Their departure leaves the House without the quorum required to conduct official business and has ignited fierce legal and political backlash from state leaders. The group of Democrats flew to Chicago, where they held a press conference with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Over 50 members have left Texas, effectively paralyzing House operations. The redistricting plan, introduced last week by Texas House Republicans, could deliver up to five additional Republican U.S. House seats in the 2026 midterm elections by reshaping districts in key Democratic areas such as Dallas and Houston. Republicans currently hold 25 of Texas’ 38 congressional seats. The new map has already drawn national attention, including threats of legal action from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who vowed to pursue “all options” to stop the GOP redistricting plan. (MORE NEWS: ICE Cooperation Gets CO Deputy Sued By AG) Texas GOP Response Texas Governor Greg Abbott responded with a scathing letter, blasting the fleeing lawmakers for what he called a premeditated attempt to shut down the legislative process. “Real Texans do not run from a fight. But that’s exactly what most of the Texas House Democrats just did,” Abbott wrote. He emphasized that this wasn’t an unavoidable absence due to emergencies or illness, but rather a deliberate effort to obstruct the legislative process. “That amounts to an abandonment or forfeiture of an elected state office… The absconded Democrat House members were elected to meet and vote on legislation—not to prevent votes that may not go their way.” Abbott cited Texas Attorney General Opinion No. KP-0382, suggesting that Democratic members who broke quorum could be removed from office through legal action. He stated his intent to invoke his authority under the Texas Constitution to fill vacancies if courts determine the seats were abandoned. Threats of Arrest and Legal Fallout Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton doubled down, threatening to arrest the absent Democrats over what he called civil violations of legislative duty. “They should be found and arrested no matter where they go,” Paxton said. Democrats in the Texas House who try and run away like cowards should be found, arrested, and brought back to the Capitol immediately. We should use every tool at our disposal to hunt down those who think they are above the law. — Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) August 3, 2025 The Governor also warned that Democrats fundraising to cover potential fines might be in violation of state bribery laws. According to the letter, any legislator or outside party offering or accepting money to facilitate absenteeism could face criminal charges. “Any Democrat who solicits or accepts funds to skip a vote may have violated bribery laws,” Abbott wrote. “I will use my full extradition authority to demand the return to Texas of any potential out-of-state felons.” Illinois Governor Defends Democrats At the Chicago press conference, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker pledged support for the Texas Democrats. “They’re here in Illinois. We’re going to do everything we can to protect every single one of them and make sure that — ’cause we know they’re doing the right thing, we know that they’re following the law,” Pritzker said. He also criticized Texas officials for their threats and actions. “It’s Ken Paxton who doesn’t follow the law. It’s the leaders of Texas who are attempting not to follow the law. They’re the ones that need to be held accountable.” High Stakes and Political Theater Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin expressed full support for the fleeing lawmakers, accusing Republicans of attempting to rig the system. “For too long, Donald Trump and Republicans have tried to get away with rigging the system, breaking the rules, and scheming to hold onto power,” Martin said. “We will fight alongside these legislators to stop this anti-democratic assault.” We’ve been warning Texas Republicans for weeks that if they want a showdown, we’d give them a showdown. That’s exactly what Texas Democrats did today. The DNC will proudly fight alongside them to stop this anti-democratic assault. pic.twitter.com/a66aIXaFAE — Ken Martin (@kenmartin73) August 3, 2025 Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows issued a stern warning of his own: The Texas House will be convening at 3:00pm tomorrow. If a quorum is not present then, to borrow the recent talking points from some of my Democrat colleagues, all options will be on the table. . . — Dustin Burrows (@Burrows4TX) August 3, 2025 What’s Next for Texas While the Democrats’ absence has stalled the vote temporarily, it may carry significant personal and legal consequences for those involved. If Abbott follows through with his legal threats, the walkout could escalate into a prolonged constitutional battle over quorum-breaking, legislative duty, and state power. (MORE NEWS: The Final Bell: Remembering Hulk Hogan, Legend of the Ring) Meanwhile, the redistricting proposal remains a flashpoint in a larger national battle over election control and congressional power. This is a developing story. The Modern Memo will provide updates as more details emerge. Cut Through the Noise. Slice Through the Lies. Share the Truth. At The Modern Memo, we don’t tiptoe around the narrative—we swing a machete through it. The mainstream won’t say it, so we will. If you’re tired of spin, censorship, and sugar-coated headlines, help us rip the cover off stories that matter. Share this article. Wake people up. Give a voice to the truth the powerful want buried. This fight isn’t just ours—it’s yours. Join us in exposing what they won’t tell you. America needs bold truth-tellers, and that means you.
ICE Cooperation Gets CO Deputy Sued By AG
Mesa County, Colorado, is at the center of a heated battle over immigration enforcement, law enforcement accountability, and controversial state sanctuary laws. The issue erupted after federal immigration agents detained a Utah college student who was in the U.S. illegally following a traffic stop. Instead of focusing on the individual violating federal law, Colorado’s Attorney General chose to sue a sheriff’s deputy for cooperating with ICE. This has sparked outrage across the state. The Traffic Stop That Sparked Outrage On June 5, 2025, Deputy Alexander Zwinck pulled over 19-year-old Caroline Dias-Goncalves near Fruita, Colorado. She was allegedly tailgating a semi-truck. Zwinck issued a warning and let her go. Roughly 20 minutes later, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents stopped her vehicle and arrested her for overstaying her visa. Clearly, Colorado leadership should be holding non-citizens accountable for breaking U.S. law—not punishing officers for helping enforce it. This case raises a serious question that deserves repeating. How can someone trusted to handle patient medications as a future nurse fail to manage something as basic as a legal visa? Instead of holding her accountable, state leaders cast her as the victim, and punish those who did their jobs. How Information Was Shared with ICE Deputy Zwinck worked on a multi-agency drug task force. It included local, state, and federal officers such as Homeland Security and ICE agents. After the traffic stop, Zwinck shared Dias-Goncalves’ location and vehicle description in a Signal chat group used by the task force. As a result, ICE acted on that information and made the arrest. Nevertheless, Colorado’s new sanctuary law, Senate Bill 25-276, banned this kind of cooperation. It was signed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis only 13 days before the traffic stop. Many officers, including Deputy Zwinck, say they were unaware or confused about the sudden change imposed by the state. Long-standing practices conflicted with the new rules, leaving deputies exposed to legal action. Attorney General Sues Deputy for Doing His Job Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser filed a lawsuit against Deputy Zwinck for sharing information with Immigration Customs Enforcement. This move shocked many in law enforcement. They believe the unfair lawsuit is politically motivated. (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Cash Flowing Into Anti-ICE Group’s Coffers Came From Chinese Gov’t-Linked Sources) To address the fallout, Sheriff Todd Rowell said in a statement, the lawsuit “sends a demoralizing message to law enforcement officers across Colorado—that the law may be wielded selectively and publicly for maximum political effect rather than applied fairly and consistently.” He asked the Attorney General to “apply the law equally to all law enforcement and government officials instead of making Deputy Zwinck an example.” Rowell revealed that other agencies in the same task force had also shared information with ICE. None of them faced lawsuits. Even the state’s governor reportedly violated a previous sanctuary law four times without consequences. Without a doubt, the actions by this attorney general show clear political bias in how immigration laws are enforced by the state. Deputies Disciplined Amid ICE – Sanctuary Law Confusion Rowell said an internal review resulted in the department disciplining all deputies involved: “Zwinck received three weeks of unpaid leave and was reassigned to patrol. Olson received two weeks of unpaid leave and the department also reassigned him. Joe LeMoine received two days suspension. Two other commanding officers received written reprimands or counseling.” Sheriff Rowell accepted responsibility for his office’s role. He admitted deputies needed more training to clarify state law changes. Sanctuary Laws Shield Lawbreakers and Negatively Impact Law Enforcement This case highlights a larger problem. Colorado’s sanctuary laws protect those breaking immigration laws while punishing those who enforce them. The laws safeguard immigrant communities, compromise public safety, and demoralize law enforcement. The facts are clear: Dias-Goncalves overstayed her visa, a federal violation. ICE agents enforced federal law. A deputy helped by sharing information. The state punished the deputy instead of the violator. The State of Colorado openly ignores federal immigration law while punishing those who assist in enforcing it. Ultimately, officers who cooperate with federal agents do so at their own peril, facing lawsuits, career damage, and public backlash. This is unfair and undermines law and order. Conflicting state and federal directives create chaos for law enforcement. Federal law is clear: overstaying a visa is illegal, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement is tasked with handling such violations. Yet Colorado’s sanctuary policies block local officers from even sharing information with federal authorities. State policies force deputies to choose between upholding federal law or protecting themselves from political retaliation by the state. This climate of fear has shaken deputies across Colorado. Many now hesitate to work with federal agents. Multi-agency task forces risk falling apart if officers fear legal action for sharing basic information. These task forces are critical for combating drug trafficking and other serious crimes. Sheriff Rowell has urged Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to release the full Signal chat from the task force. Access to this information would show that Zwinck’s actions were not unique and that multiple officers followed long-standing protocols. Yet, state officials only singled one deputy out for legal action. In the end, this legal tug-of-war leaves law enforcement trapped. As long as political agendas override federal law, cooperation between agencies will erode and public safety will continue to suffer. What Comes Next: ICE, Accountability, and Colorado’s Crossroads
WATCH: James O’Keefe EXPOSES Why He Was Fired From Project Veritas – And How He’s Fighting Back
Joe Pags’ interviewed founder of Project Veritas James O’Keefe in July about why he was really fired from the group he founded, as well as the incredible work he’s continued since leaving the organization. This exclusive interview from Pags is what we have come to expect from his podcast “Unshaken and Unafraid.” Like Pags, O’Keefe is also unshaken and totally unafraid to speak truth to power in this superb episode. (RELATED: WATCH: Kay Hill ERUPTS Over FEMA, NWS, And Why We Need New Systems Of Safety NOW) You might think you know the full story, but this interview will prove otherwise. And clearly O’Keefe isn’t stopping. We’ve already covered some of his work here at The Modern Memo, including the jaw-dropping evidence that Johnson & Johnson allegedly knew there would be issues with their COVID-19 vaccine. (READ HERE: Revealed: Johnson & Johnson Lead Scientist Admits COVID-19 Vaccine Was Not Well Tested Or Effective) From Pags: In this explosive interview, James O’Keefe — the founder of Project Veritas — opens up like never before. He reveals the real story behind his shocking ousting from the organization he built, the internal power struggle that led to his departure, and what he’s doing now to reclaim the mission. (RELATED: WATCH: What You Don’t Know About The People Of Iran Will SHOCK You!) We also dive into the growing war on independent journalism, censorship, and why truth-tellers must fight harder than ever in today’s media landscape. If you care about free speech, investigative journalism, and holding the powerful accountable, don’t miss this conversation. Where To Find More From Pags You can subscribe to Joe Pags on YouTube by clicking here. The Modern Memo will be bringing you as many of Pags’ episodes as humanly possible, but please follow and subscribe to him across all of the following platforms. Check out Joe Pags on X: always the hottest takes and the news you need Joe Pags Official Website Rumble — Joe Pags Join the Mailing List! – http://www.joepags.com/subscribe
Another Major Hospital Drops Trans Treatments For Kids
By Daily Caller News Foundation reporter Melissa O’Rourke TAKE THE POLL: CLICK HERE The Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., announced on Friday that it would no longer prescribe transgender-related medication to its patients under growing pressure from the Trump administration. Effective Aug. 30, Children’s National will no longer prescribe its patients so-called “gender-affirming” medications — such as puberty blockers and hormone therapy — citing “escalating legal and regulatory risks.” Children’s National is the latest major hospital system to discontinue its transgender-related services offered to minors after the Trump administration vowed to fight what it describes as the “barbaric practice of surgically and chemically maiming and sterilizing children.” (RELATED: USAID Quietly Sent Thousands Of Viruses To Chinese Military-Linked Biolab (DCNF Exclusive)) “We know this change will have a significant impact on affected patients, families and staff. Our care teams are working directly with families of current patients to support them,” the hospital said in its Friday announcement. Children Don’t Have ‘Gender Needs’ In January, the hospital announced that it would pause all puberty blockers and hormone therapy prescriptions to youth following Trump’s executive order eliminating all federal funding for the chemical and surgical mutilation of children and threatened legal consequences for institutions that support the practices. Attorney General Pam Bondi in April directed federal attorneys to investigate and prosecute doctors who perform or attempt to perform sex change surgeries on minors. Children’s National, through its Gender Development Program, has been “supporting the gender needs of youth and their families for the past 20 years,” according to its website. While Children’s National stated in January that it “does not perform gender affirming surgery for minors,” at least two children have undergone transgender-related surgeries at the hospital, according to Do No Harm, an advocacy group fighting back against gender ideology in the medical field. While the hospital system will cease prescribing gender transition-related medications, it will continue to provide “mental health and other support services for LGBT patients.” (RELATED: COVID-19 mRNA Shots Linked To Higher Death Toll Amongst Cancer Patients) Children’s National did not respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment. Other major hospitals, such as the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, have also announced in recent weeks that they will stop providing transgender services to minors, while the Center for Transyouth Health and Development at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles announced that it will be shutting down altogether on July 22. Between 2019 and 2023, U.S. hospitals billed nearly $120 million for transgender procedures carried out on nearly 14,000 minors, according to Do No Harm. TMM Analysis Let us hope that all hospitals follow suit, eh?