<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rest in Peace, Heroes. 🙏🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/Gb73qEQyNl">pic.twitter.com/Gb73qEQyNl</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/2001385127511994405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Biden, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine and others participate in dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base of two Iowa National Guardsmen and an American civilian interpreter killed in Syria.<br><br>(Note: Video has no audio) <a href="https://t.co/i37jEAiLAF">pic.twitter.com/i37jEAiLAF</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2001387339805835338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> witnesses the dignified transfer of the three American Patriots killed in Syria over the weekend.<br><br>May God bless their families, may God bless our military, and may God bless the United States of America. <a href="https://t.co/1DUJLF0Wna">pic.twitter.com/1DUJLF0Wna</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2001380379098509806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">May God bless the memory of these fallen American Patriots and may God be with their loved ones.<br><br>Rest in Peace, Heroes.<br><br>🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/Uks0MyVWqS">pic.twitter.com/Uks0MyVWqS</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2001381519190003756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump pays respects to National Guardsmen, interpreter killed in Syria 

State lawmaker, also facing expulsion from Legislature, waives scheduled Wednesday arraignment

LINCOLN — After initially filing a plea of no contest that wasn’t accepted when he didn’t attend his hearing, State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst has changed course and now plans to fight the allegation against him.

On Tuesday, the day before his rescheduled arraignment on a misdemeanor charge of disturbing the peace, McKeon filed a new plea of not guilty and waived his formal arraignment. The court accepted the plea and set his next court date for Jan. 26, ordering him to show up.

A legislative staffer accused the state lawmaker of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/31/nebraska-state-senator-cited-for-public-indecency-during-session-ending-party/">groping her at an end-of-session party in May</a>. The Nebraska State Patrol received a report in September that McKeon had allegedly “made inappropriate contact with her buttocks with his hand, over the top of her clothing,” Patrol spokesman Cody Thomas said.

McKeon’s second arraignment was scheduled for Wednesday morning after his arraignment was&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-state-sen-dan-mckeons-arraignment-delayed-due-to-absence/">delayed when he tried to file a no contest plea by written waiver</a>. Lancaster County Court Judge Matthew Acton said a no contest plea must be submitted in person and postponed the arraignment one week.

A no contest plea would have allowed McKeon to accept any criminal penalties without formally admitting guilt and would waive his right to a trial.

McKeon’s attorney Perry Pirsch at one point called the disturbing the peace charge “a victory,” as the charge had been&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/09/nebraska-lawmaker-charged-with-disturbing-the-peace-from-alleged-groping-incident/">downgraded from public indecency</a>, which the Patrol initially cited McKeon with.

Pirsch said disturbing the peace was more consistent with McKeon’s perspective of the incident and that he’d planned to plead no contest in hopes that he could put the matter behind him and focus on the upcoming legislative session.

Pirsch could not immediately be reached for comment about the changed plea.

McKeon has acknowledged that an exchange took place between him and a staffer after one of the Nebraska Legislature’s sine die parties this year, but argued his actions were not sexually charged. Pirsch has said McKeon “is guilty of nothing but a bad pun and pat on the back.”

The Examiner is aware of the alleged victim’s name but is not publishing it because it is the policy of States Newsroom and the Examiner not to identify people who say they have been abused unless they wish to talk publicly.

Her attorney, Kathleen Neary, declined to comment on McKeon’s new plea, but noted her client is preparing a civil lawsuit against the senator.

McKeon, a married father of four, is a registered Republican who was elected to the officially nonpartisan Legislature in 2024, replacing former State Sen. Fred Meyer of St. Paul.

Gov. Jim Pillen and other state officials have called for McKeon’s resignation, but McKeon has said he will not resign.

In the midst of his pending criminal trial, McKeon also faces possible expulsion from the Legislature.

The Legislature’s Executive Board, its group of 10 senators in charge of handling disciplinary procedures within the legislative branch,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/13/nebraska-lawmakers-recommend-sen-dan-mckeon-be-expelled-after-groping-allegations/">voted unanimously Saturday to recommend McKeon’s expulsion</a>.

Expulsion is the strongest disciplinary measure the board can recommend, but it requires a full vote of the Legislature to pass. This means the matter will likely come before lawmakers during the 60-day legislative session that begins in January. Expelling him would require the votes of 33 senators.

Executive Board Chair State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair has said the board concluded the expulsion recommendation was necessary “in light of a demonstrated pattern of behavior by Senator McKeon and not in response to a single isolated incident.”

<p><i>By Erin Bamer | Nebraska Examiner</i></p><h2>State lawmaker, also facing expulsion from Legislature, waives scheduled Wednesday arraignment</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/mckeon_ZJW_121324-01-1536x1213.jpg" alt="&nbsp;State Sen.-elect Dan McKeon of Amherst, center, talks with State Sen.-elect Dunixi Guereca at a legislative retreat in Kearney on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
                        <figcaption>&nbsp;State Sen.-elect Dan McKeon of Amherst, center, talks with State Sen.-elect Dunixi Guereca at a legislative retreat in Kearney on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>LINCOLN — After initially filing a plea of no contest that wasn’t accepted when he didn’t attend his hearing, State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst has changed course and now plans to fight the allegation against him.</p><p>On Tuesday, the day before his rescheduled arraignment on a misdemeanor charge of disturbing the peace, McKeon filed a new plea of not guilty and waived his formal arraignment. The court accepted the plea and set his next court date for Jan. 26, ordering him to show up.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mckeon-headshot-200x300.jpg" alt="State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst. (Courtesy of Nebraska Unicameral Information Office)" />
                        <figcaption>State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst. (Courtesy of Nebraska Unicameral Information Office)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>A legislative staffer accused the state lawmaker of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/31/nebraska-state-senator-cited-for-public-indecency-during-session-ending-party/">groping her at an end-of-session party in May</a>. The Nebraska State Patrol received a report in September that McKeon had allegedly “made inappropriate contact with her buttocks with his hand, over the top of her clothing,” Patrol spokesman Cody Thomas said.</p><p>McKeon’s second arraignment was scheduled for Wednesday morning after his arraignment was&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-state-sen-dan-mckeons-arraignment-delayed-due-to-absence/">delayed when he tried to file a no contest plea by written waiver</a>. Lancaster County Court Judge Matthew Acton said a no contest plea must be submitted in person and postponed the arraignment one week.</p><p>A no contest plea would have allowed McKeon to accept any criminal penalties without formally admitting guilt and would waive his right to a trial.</p><p>McKeon’s attorney Perry Pirsch at one point called the disturbing the peace charge “a victory,” as the charge had been&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/09/nebraska-lawmaker-charged-with-disturbing-the-peace-from-alleged-groping-incident/">downgraded from public indecency</a>, which the Patrol initially cited McKeon with.</p><p>Pirsch said disturbing the peace was more consistent with McKeon’s perspective of the incident and that he’d planned to plead no contest in hopes that he could put the matter behind him and focus on the upcoming legislative session.</p><p>Pirsch could not immediately be reached for comment about the changed plea.</p><p>McKeon has acknowledged that an exchange took place between him and a staffer after one of the Nebraska Legislature’s sine die parties this year, but argued his actions were not sexually charged. Pirsch has said McKeon “is guilty of nothing but a bad pun and pat on the back.”</p><p>The Examiner is aware of the alleged victim’s name but is not publishing it because it is the policy of States Newsroom and the Examiner not to identify people who say they have been abused unless they wish to talk publicly.</p><p>Her attorney, Kathleen Neary, declined to comment on McKeon’s new plea, but noted her client is preparing a civil lawsuit against the senator.</p><p>McKeon, a married father of four, is a registered Republican who was elected to the officially nonpartisan Legislature in 2024, replacing former State Sen. Fred Meyer of St. Paul.</p><p>Gov. Jim Pillen and other state officials have called for McKeon’s resignation, but McKeon has said he will not resign.</p><p>In the midst of his pending criminal trial, McKeon also faces possible expulsion from the Legislature.</p><p>The Legislature’s Executive Board, its group of 10 senators in charge of handling disciplinary procedures within the legislative branch,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/13/nebraska-lawmakers-recommend-sen-dan-mckeon-be-expelled-after-groping-allegations/">voted unanimously Saturday to recommend McKeon’s expulsion</a>.</p><p>Expulsion is the strongest disciplinary measure the board can recommend, but it requires a full vote of the Legislature to pass. This means the matter will likely come before lawmakers during the 60-day legislative session that begins in January. Expelling him would require the votes of 33 senators.</p><p>Executive Board Chair State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair has said the board concluded the expulsion recommendation was necessary “in light of a demonstrated pattern of behavior by Senator McKeon and not in response to a single isolated incident.”</p>

State Sen. Dan McKeon changes plea to not guilty on misdemeanor disturbing the peace charge

<i>By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post</i>

Visitors looking for ideas and inspiration to explore the Cornhusker State can now get their hands on the official 2026 Nebraska State Travel Guide.

The new guide highlights events and festivals, attractions organized by region and city, and scenic byway road trips across the state. Designed for both first-time visitors and returning travelers, the publication features vivid photography, descriptive storytelling and light humor to appeal to a wide range of audiences, from families and solo travelers to history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers and shoppers.

This year’s edition also places a special emphasis on history in recognition of America’s upcoming 250th birthday. Readers will find Nebraska-focused trivia and a timeline highlighting notable events, influential figures and historic sites throughout the state, including references to well-known Nebraskans such as “Buffalo Bill” Cody and author Willa Cather.

The cover of the 2026 guide features original artwork by Lincoln artist Katie Nieland. The illustration showcases several iconic Nebraska attractions, including Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, the Lincoln Highway, Nebraska wildlife, dark night skies recognizing Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area as Nebraska’s first International Dark Sky Park, Carhenge, Chimney Rock and the Cowboy Trail.

“We’re thrilled to release the new travel guide each year, and this edition is especially fun to share,” said Jenn Gjerde, marketing manager for Visit Nebraska. “It’s full of new photos and an added focus on Nebraska’s rich history and heritage. Plus, we’re especially proud that this year’s cover showcases original artwork from a Nebraska creator, a real, human touch that reflects the spirit of the places and people that make our state unforgettable.”

According to Visit Nebraska, the travel guide has been distributed to all 50 states and numerous countries in recent years, helping support a tourism industry that contributes $5.6 billion to Nebraska’s gross domestic product, supports more than 41,000 jobs and generates more than $1.1 billion in annual wages.

The 2026 Nebraska State Travel Guide is available for free and can be requested online, with a digital version also available for download. Printed guides can also be found at visitor centers and tourism destinations throughout the state.

<p><i>By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765906978528.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Visitors looking for ideas and inspiration to explore the Cornhusker State can now get their hands on the official 2026 Nebraska State Travel Guide.</p><p>The new guide highlights events and festivals, attractions organized by region and city, and scenic byway road trips across the state. Designed for both first-time visitors and returning travelers, the publication features vivid photography, descriptive storytelling and light humor to appeal to a wide range of audiences, from families and solo travelers to history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers and shoppers.</p><p>This year’s edition also places a special emphasis on history in recognition of America’s upcoming 250th birthday. Readers will find Nebraska-focused trivia and a timeline highlighting notable events, influential figures and historic sites throughout the state, including references to well-known Nebraskans such as “Buffalo Bill” Cody and author Willa Cather.</p><p>The cover of the 2026 guide features original artwork by Lincoln artist Katie Nieland. The illustration showcases several iconic Nebraska attractions, including Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, the Lincoln Highway, Nebraska wildlife, dark night skies recognizing Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area as Nebraska’s first International Dark Sky Park, Carhenge, Chimney Rock and the Cowboy Trail.</p><p>“We’re thrilled to release the new travel guide each year, and this edition is especially fun to share,” said Jenn Gjerde, marketing manager for Visit Nebraska. “It’s full of new photos and an added focus on Nebraska’s rich history and heritage. Plus, we’re especially proud that this year’s cover showcases original artwork from a Nebraska creator, a real, human touch that reflects the spirit of the places and people that make our state unforgettable.”</p><p>According to Visit Nebraska, the travel guide has been distributed to all 50 states and numerous countries in recent years, helping support a tourism industry that contributes $5.6 billion to Nebraska’s gross domestic product, supports more than 41,000 jobs and generates more than $1.1 billion in annual wages.</p><p>The 2026 Nebraska State Travel Guide is available for free and can be requested online, with a digital version also available for download. Printed guides can also be found at visitor centers and tourism destinations throughout the state.</p>

2026 Nebraska State Travel Guide now available

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — The Defense Department says it has upgraded its investigation into Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly over a video where he and other members of Congress told members of the military they didn’t need to follow illegal orders.&nbsp;

“The Office of the Secretary of War, in conjunction with the Department of War’s Office of the General Counsel, is escalating the preliminary review of Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.), to an official Command Investigation,” a spokesperson for the department wrote in an email Monday night.&nbsp;

“Retired Captain Kelly is currently under investigation for serious allegations of misconduct,” the spokesperson continued. “Further official comments will be limited to preserve the integrity of the proceedings.”

Paul J. Fishman, an attorney at the Arnold &amp; Porter law firm who is representing Kelly, wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26379142-ltr-to-secretary-phelan-dec-15-2025/#document/p1" target="_blank">a Monday letter</a>&nbsp;to the secretary of the Navy that “there is no legitimate basis for any type of proceeding against Senator Kelly, and any such effort would be unconstitutional and an extraordinary abuse of power.”

“If the Executive Branch were to move forward in any forum—criminal, disciplinary, or administrative—we will take all appropriate legal action on Senator Kelly’s behalf to halt the Administration’s unprecedented and dangerous overreach,” Fishman wrote.&nbsp;

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had set Dec. 10 as the deadline for the secretary of the Navy to recommend what to do about Kelly’s appearance in the video, but that came and went without any public announcements.

Hegseth also remained silent on the matter after rebuking Kelly weeks ago for posting the video where he and five other Democrats warned against illegal orders.

Kelly said on Dec. 9, one day before the deadline, he hadn’t received any information from the Navy or other administration officials.&nbsp;

“Forget about an update. I haven’t heard anything from the guy,” Kelly told reporters. “That’s a good question for you guys to ask the Navy.”

The secretary of the Navy’s office did not respond to multiple requests for comment from States Newsroom.&nbsp;

The Department of Defense posted in late November that officials were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pentagon-investigates-arizona-sen-mark-kelly-after-he-appears-video-blasted-trump" target="_blank">looking into</a>&nbsp;“serious allegations of misconduct” against Kelly for appearing in the video.&nbsp;

It didn’t detail how Kelly might have violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice but stated that “a thorough review of these allegations has been initiated to determine further actions, which may include recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures.”&nbsp;

Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DeptofWar/status/1993436056008507865/photo/1" target="_blank">referred</a>&nbsp;the issue to Navy Secretary John Phelan for any “review, consideration, and disposition” he deemed appropriate. Hegseth then asked for a briefing on the outcome of the review “by no later than December 10.”

Kelly said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/arizonas-kelly-vows-stay-outspoken-despite-threats-over-illegal-order-video" target="_blank">during a press conference</a>&nbsp;in early December the military’s investigation and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democrats-threatened-trump-over-video-say-theyre-now-being-probed-fbi" target="_blank">a separate one</a>&nbsp;by the FBI were designed to intimidate the six lawmakers in the video from speaking out against President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The lawmakers in the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorSlotkin/status/1990774492356902948" target="_blank">video</a>, who have backgrounds in the military or intelligence agencies, told members of those communities they “can” and “must refuse illegal orders.”

“No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution. We know this is hard and that it’s a difficult time to be a public servant,” they said. “But whether you’re serving in the CIA, in the Army, or Navy, or the Air Force, your vigilance is critical.”

The other Democrats in the video — Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin, Colorado Rep. Jason Crow, Pennsylvania Reps. Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan, and New Hampshire Rep. Maggie Goodlander — are not subject to the military justice system.&nbsp;

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-accuses-6-democratic-lawmakers-seditious-behavior-punishable-death" target="_blank">railed against the video</a>&nbsp;a couple days after it posted, saying the statements represented “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764097679232.png" alt="Image from the controversial video" />
                        <figcaption>Image from the controversial video</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a></p><p>WASHINGTON — The Defense Department says it has upgraded its investigation into Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly over a video where he and other members of Congress told members of the military they didn’t need to follow illegal orders.&nbsp;</p><p>“The Office of the Secretary of War, in conjunction with the Department of War’s Office of the General Counsel, is escalating the preliminary review of Captain Mark Kelly, USN (Ret.), to an official Command Investigation,” a spokesperson for the department wrote in an email Monday night.&nbsp;</p><p>“Retired Captain Kelly is currently under investigation for serious allegations of misconduct,” the spokesperson continued. “Further official comments will be limited to preserve the integrity of the proceedings.”</p><p>Paul J. Fishman, an attorney at the Arnold &amp; Porter law firm who is representing Kelly, wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26379142-ltr-to-secretary-phelan-dec-15-2025/#document/p1" target="_blank">a Monday letter</a>&nbsp;to the secretary of the Navy that “there is no legitimate basis for any type of proceeding against Senator Kelly, and any such effort would be unconstitutional and an extraordinary abuse of power.”</p><p>“If the Executive Branch were to move forward in any forum—criminal, disciplinary, or administrative—we will take all appropriate legal action on Senator Kelly’s behalf to halt the Administration’s unprecedented and dangerous overreach,” Fishman wrote.&nbsp;</p><p>Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had set Dec. 10 as the deadline for the secretary of the Navy to recommend what to do about Kelly’s appearance in the video, but that came and went without any public announcements.</p><p>Hegseth also remained silent on the matter after rebuking Kelly weeks ago for posting the video where he and five other Democrats warned against illegal orders.</p><p>Kelly said on Dec. 9, one day before the deadline, he hadn’t received any information from the Navy or other administration officials.&nbsp;</p><p>“Forget about an update. I haven’t heard anything from the guy,” Kelly told reporters. “That’s a good question for you guys to ask the Navy.”</p><p>The secretary of the Navy’s office did not respond to multiple requests for comment from States Newsroom.&nbsp;</p><p>The Department of Defense posted in late November that officials were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pentagon-investigates-arizona-sen-mark-kelly-after-he-appears-video-blasted-trump" target="_blank">looking into</a>&nbsp;“serious allegations of misconduct” against Kelly for appearing in the video.&nbsp;</p><p>It didn’t detail how Kelly might have violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice but stated that “a thorough review of these allegations has been initiated to determine further actions, which may include recall to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures.”&nbsp;</p><p>Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DeptofWar/status/1993436056008507865/photo/1" target="_blank">referred</a>&nbsp;the issue to Navy Secretary John Phelan for any “review, consideration, and disposition” he deemed appropriate. Hegseth then asked for a briefing on the outcome of the review “by no later than December 10.”</p><p>Kelly said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/arizonas-kelly-vows-stay-outspoken-despite-threats-over-illegal-order-video" target="_blank">during a press conference</a>&nbsp;in early December the military’s investigation and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democrats-threatened-trump-over-video-say-theyre-now-being-probed-fbi" target="_blank">a separate one</a>&nbsp;by the FBI were designed to intimidate the six lawmakers in the video from speaking out against President Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p><p>The lawmakers in the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorSlotkin/status/1990774492356902948" target="_blank">video</a>, who have backgrounds in the military or intelligence agencies, told members of those communities they “can” and “must refuse illegal orders.”</p><p>“No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution. We know this is hard and that it’s a difficult time to be a public servant,” they said. “But whether you’re serving in the CIA, in the Army, or Navy, or the Air Force, your vigilance is critical.”</p><p>The other Democrats in the video — Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin, Colorado Rep. Jason Crow, Pennsylvania Reps. Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan, and New Hampshire Rep. Maggie Goodlander — are not subject to the military justice system.&nbsp;</p><p>Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-accuses-6-democratic-lawmakers-seditious-behavior-punishable-death" target="_blank">railed against the video</a>&nbsp;a couple days after it posted, saying the statements represented “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!”</p>

Pentagon ‘escalating’ investigation into Sen. Kelly for illegal-orders video

Terence “Bud” Crawford, the undefeated boxing champion from Omaha, Nebraska, has announced his retirement from professional boxing at age 38, bringing an end to one of the most remarkable careers in the sport’s modern era.

Crawford’s decision comes amid recent controversy involving a world title and a dispute over sanctioning fees, but his retirement announcement focused less on belts and business and more on legacy, family, and walking away on his own terms.

Earlier this month, the World Boxing Council (WBC) stripped Omaha native Terence “Bud” Crawford of its super-middleweight world title, citing unpaid sanctioning fees tied to his recent fights. The organization said it made multiple attempts to contact Crawford and his representatives before taking action.

Crawford responded forcefully in a video posted to Instagram, using strong language to criticize the WBC and its leadership. In the video, Crawford rejected the fee demand outright, saying, “I ain’t paying your ass s**t.”

He questioned why the WBC’s fees differed from those of other sanctioning bodies, saying, “What makes you so [better] than any of the other sanctioning bodies? … everybody accepted what I was giving them — but you.”

Crawford also downplayed the importance of the title itself, stating, “You can take the f**king belt. It’s a trophy anyway.”

In the same video, Crawford challenged the broader financial structure of boxing’s sanctioning system, saying, “I'm paying you every time I step foot in the [ring]? I’m [putting] my life on the line — not you.”

He additionally took aim at WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, suggesting favoritism and frustration with the organization’s response following his most recent fight. “Mauricio, everybody in the world know you was going for Canelo… Say congratulations instead of having that little smirk on your face,” Crawford said.

While the comments fueled widespread debate within the boxing world, the dispute did not affect the outcome of Crawford’s fights or his undefeated professional record. The controversy marked a rare public rift between one of boxing’s most accomplished champions and a major sanctioning body — and became a notable moment in the closing chapter of Crawford’s career.

In a video announcement shared publicly, Crawford confirmed he is stepping away from the sport, saying, “Every fighter know this moment will come. We just never know when.”

Crawford reflected on his journey, emphasizing that his motivation was never about titles or money. “I spent my whole life chasing something — not belts, not money, not headlines — but that feeling… when the world doubts you but you keep showing up,” he said.

Throughout the message, Crawford repeatedly tied his career to his roots. “This sport gave me everything. I fought for my family. I fought for my city. I fought for the kid I used to be — the one who had nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves,” he said.

Crawford said he is leaving with peace, stating, “I’ve made peace with what’s next. And now it’s time.”

He made clear that his retirement was not due to decline, saying, “I’m stepping away from competition not because I’m done fighting, but because I’ve won a different kind of battle — the one where you walk away on your own terms.”

Crawford added, “This isn’t goodbye. It’s just the end of one fight and the beginning of another.”

For Omaha and the state of Nebraska, Crawford’s retirement marks the end of a career that brought international attention to the city he proudly represented throughout his rise.

From local gyms to championship bouts on the world stage, Crawford consistently credited Omaha as part of his identity. His journey from a kid with “nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves” to an undefeated, multi-division champion has made him one of the most accomplished athletes Nebraska has ever produced.

While the recent title dispute adds a complicated final chapter, Crawford’s legacy — in boxing and in Omaha — remains firmly intact.

<p><i>By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765979419694.png" alt="Terance "Bud" Crawford stands with his title belts from his career, shared in an Instagram post that turned out to tease his retirement. (Courtesy Terrance Crawford Instagram)" />
                        <figcaption>Terance "Bud" Crawford stands with his title belts from his career, shared in an Instagram post that turned out to tease his retirement. (Courtesy Terrance Crawford Instagram)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Terence “Bud” Crawford, the undefeated boxing champion from Omaha, Nebraska, has announced his retirement from professional boxing at age 38, bringing an end to one of the most remarkable careers in the sport’s modern era.</p><p>Crawford’s decision comes amid recent controversy involving a world title and a dispute over sanctioning fees, but his retirement announcement focused less on belts and business and more on legacy, family, and walking away on his own terms.</p><h2>Title Dispute Draws National Attention</h2><p>Earlier this month, the World Boxing Council (WBC) stripped Omaha native Terence “Bud” Crawford of its super-middleweight world title, citing unpaid sanctioning fees tied to his recent fights. The organization said it made multiple attempts to contact Crawford and his representatives before taking action.</p><p>Crawford responded forcefully in a video posted to Instagram, using strong language to criticize the WBC and its leadership. In the video, Crawford rejected the fee demand outright, saying, “I ain’t paying your ass s**t.”</p><p>He questioned why the WBC’s fees differed from those of other sanctioning bodies, saying, “What makes you so [better] than any of the other sanctioning bodies? … everybody accepted what I was giving them — but you.”</p><p>Crawford also downplayed the importance of the title itself, stating, “You can take the f**king belt. It’s a trophy anyway.”</p><p>In the same video, Crawford challenged the broader financial structure of boxing’s sanctioning system, saying, “I'm paying you every time I step foot in the [ring]? I’m [putting] my life on the line — not you.”</p><p>He additionally took aim at WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, suggesting favoritism and frustration with the organization’s response following his most recent fight. “Mauricio, everybody in the world know you was going for Canelo… Say congratulations instead of having that little smirk on your face,” Crawford said.</p><p>While the comments fueled widespread debate within the boxing world, the dispute did not affect the outcome of Crawford’s fights or his undefeated professional record. The controversy marked a rare public rift between one of boxing’s most accomplished champions and a major sanctioning body — and became a notable moment in the closing chapter of Crawford’s career.</p><h2>Crawford Announces Retirement at 38</h2><p>In a video announcement shared publicly, Crawford confirmed he is stepping away from the sport, saying, “Every fighter know this moment will come. We just never know when.”</p><p>Crawford reflected on his journey, emphasizing that his motivation was never about titles or money. “I spent my whole life chasing something — not belts, not money, not headlines — but that feeling… when the world doubts you but you keep showing up,” he said.</p><div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSWAzX-D3vQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSWAzX-D3vQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSWAzX-D3vQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Terence Bud Crawford (@tbudcrawford)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>Throughout the message, Crawford repeatedly tied his career to his roots. “This sport gave me everything. I fought for my family. I fought for my city. I fought for the kid I used to be — the one who had nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves,” he said.</p><p>Crawford said he is leaving with peace, stating, “I’ve made peace with what’s next. And now it’s time.”</p><p>He made clear that his retirement was not due to decline, saying, “I’m stepping away from competition not because I’m done fighting, but because I’ve won a different kind of battle — the one where you walk away on your own terms.”</p><p>Crawford added, “This isn’t goodbye. It’s just the end of one fight and the beginning of another.”</p><h2>A Nebraska Legacy</h2><p>For Omaha and the state of Nebraska, Crawford’s retirement marks the end of a career that brought international attention to the city he proudly represented throughout his rise.</p><p>From local gyms to championship bouts on the world stage, Crawford consistently credited Omaha as part of his identity. His journey from a kid with “nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves” to an undefeated, multi-division champion has made him one of the most accomplished athletes Nebraska has ever produced.</p><p>While the recent title dispute adds a complicated final chapter, Crawford’s legacy — in boxing and in Omaha — remains firmly intact.</p>

Omaha’s Terence Crawford Announces Retirement Amid WBC Sanctioning Fee Controversy

By:<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/nancy-lavin/">Nancy Lavin</a><br><a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a>

Newly released,&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/BYzr71Vlqz4" target="_blank">enhanced video footage&nbsp;</a>and photos build out the description of suspected Brown University mass shooter: his gait, his pacing, appearance.

But the identity of the man seen pacing the residential neighborhood as early as 10:30 a.m. the day of the shooting remains unknown. Local and federal investigators continue to ask for information, including photo and video evidence, as the search for the person responsible for<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/15/two-brown-university-students-who-lost-their-lives-in-campus-shooting-identified/">&nbsp;killing two students</a>&nbsp;and injuring nine people stretches into a fourth day.&nbsp;

“We’re looking for a moment that is short, shorter than a person taking a breath,” Col. Oscar Perez, Providence Police chief, said during a press conference late Tuesday afternoon. “It’s incredibly hard work to do that and so we’re asking the public to assist with that.”

More than 200 “credible” tips have poured into city and federal tip lines, along with terabytes of video and photo footage from residential properties surrounding the Ivy League campus. Yet there is no video from inside the Barus and Holley engineering building that shows the gunman.

“The only video of that presumed, anticipated, suspected however you want to define it person of interest — you have it,” Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said Tuesday.&nbsp;

Nor have investigators been able to trace the person of interest’s movements a few blocks beyond Governor Street, a few blocks east of the engineering building.

“What’s really critical first, is that we identify who the person is,” Neronha said. “Once we identify who the person is, I believe we’ll be able to locate them. It’s very hard to hide in this country.”

Neronha continued, “Once we’ve identified him, we’ll know more information about where he’s from, and who his friends are, and where he might have gone.”&nbsp;

The FBI is offering a&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/15/new-videos-show-suspect-casing-brown-campus-and-neighborhood-before-mass-shooting/">$50,000 reward</a>&nbsp;to anyone with information that leads to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person responsible.&nbsp;

Besides a rough description of a 5-foot-8, stocky man wearing various shades of dark clothing, a satchel strapped across his body in some of the video segments, officials were reluctant to comment on any more facets of his identity, including an age, motive or connection to the university.&nbsp;

Perez said he appears to be casing the area in preparation for the shooting, noting it was a common practice among criminals who take days, sometimes weeks, to ready themselves before committing a crime.

Even the behavior exhibited in the video, strolling down the sidewalk, then later standing with hands clasped behind his back, looking out the street, was not enough to draw firm conclusions from, said Ted Docks, special agent in charge for the FBI’s Boston field office.

“To get into the mind of an individual that would commit such a heinous act, that’s a place I don’t want to go right now,” Docks said.&nbsp;

Perez said the mid-morning walk Saturday suggests the suspect was casing the neighborhood, familiarizing himself with the setting in preparation for the crime.

Several reporters asked questions about student and faculty pages that have allegedly been taken down since the shooting, along with conflicting reports that the gunman shouted something before opening fire.

But Perez and Christina Paxson, Brown University president, denied any knowledge of university pages being scrubbed. The words spoken, if any, remain unknown, Perez said.

The ever-outspoken Neronha again jumped in with another word of caution.

“It’s easy to jump from words that were spoken to what those words are, to a name that reflects a motive, targeting a particular person,” he said. “That’s a really dangerous road to go down.”

Investigators already ran into one dead end after detaining a person found at a Coventry hotel&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/14/police-withhold-details-on-brown-mass-shooting-suspect-investigators-search-coventry-hotel/">early Sunday morning</a>, only to&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/14/we-have-not-yet-solved-this-case-officials-say-person-of-interest-to-be-released/">release him</a>&nbsp;less&nbsp;than 24 hours later because there was no evidence tying him to the crime. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley described the initial, incorrect suspect as a “setback” in an interview with the Boston Globe’s Rhode Island Report podcast&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/15/metro/providence-mayor-brown-university-shooting-setback-ri/" target="_blank">released Monday.</a>

Neronha, however, said Tuesday that while disappointing, it was not unusual for investigations to generate multiple leads that don’t always result in an arrest. Investigators&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/16/providence-police-prepare-to-release-more-surveillance-video-of-suspect/">continue to canvass</a>&nbsp;the East Side neighborhood around the scene of the shooting Tuesday in search of additional clues, but the search may expand beyond the neighborhood, or the city limits, in the coming days, Neronha said.

Providence police are also working with law enforcement across the state, and in Massachusetts and Connecticut, Perez said.

<p>By:<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/nancy-lavin/">Nancy Lavin</a><br><a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a></p><p>Newly released,&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/BYzr71Vlqz4" target="_blank">enhanced video footage&nbsp;</a>and photos build out the description of suspected Brown University mass shooter: his gait, his pacing, appearance.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=420&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F872134025201536%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="420" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>But the identity of the man seen pacing the residential neighborhood as early as 10:30 a.m. the day of the shooting remains unknown. Local and federal investigators continue to ask for information, including photo and video evidence, as the search for the person responsible for<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/15/two-brown-university-students-who-lost-their-lives-in-campus-shooting-identified/">&nbsp;killing two students</a>&nbsp;and injuring nine people stretches into a fourth day.&nbsp;</p><p>“We’re looking for a moment that is short, shorter than a person taking a breath,” Col. Oscar Perez, Providence Police chief, said during a press conference late Tuesday afternoon. “It’s incredibly hard work to do that and so we’re asking the public to assist with that.”</p><p>More than 200 “credible” tips have poured into city and federal tip lines, along with terabytes of video and photo footage from residential properties surrounding the Ivy League campus. Yet there is no video from inside the Barus and Holley engineering building that shows the gunman.</p><p>“The only video of that presumed, anticipated, suspected however you want to define it person of interest — you have it,” Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said Tuesday.&nbsp;</p><p>Nor have investigators been able to trace the person of interest’s movements a few blocks beyond Governor Street, a few blocks east of the engineering building.</p><p>“What’s really critical first, is that we identify who the person is,” Neronha said. “Once we identify who the person is, I believe we’ll be able to locate them. It’s very hard to hide in this country.”</p><p>Neronha continued, “Once we’ve identified him, we’ll know more information about where he’s from, and who his friends are, and where he might have gone.”&nbsp;</p><p>The FBI is offering a&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/15/new-videos-show-suspect-casing-brown-campus-and-neighborhood-before-mass-shooting/">$50,000 reward</a>&nbsp;to anyone with information that leads to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person responsible.&nbsp;</p><h2>Casing the area</h2><p>Besides a rough description of a 5-foot-8, stocky man wearing various shades of dark clothing, a satchel strapped across his body in some of the video segments, officials were reluctant to comment on any more facets of his identity, including an age, motive or connection to the university.&nbsp;</p><p>Perez said he appears to be casing the area in preparation for the shooting, noting it was a common practice among criminals who take days, sometimes weeks, to ready themselves before committing a crime.</p><p>Even the behavior exhibited in the video, strolling down the sidewalk, then later standing with hands clasped behind his back, looking out the street, was not enough to draw firm conclusions from, said Ted Docks, special agent in charge for the FBI’s Boston field office.</p><p>“To get into the mind of an individual that would commit such a heinous act, that’s a place I don’t want to go right now,” Docks said.&nbsp;</p><p>Perez said the mid-morning walk Saturday suggests the suspect was casing the neighborhood, familiarizing himself with the setting in preparation for the crime.</p><p>Several reporters asked questions about student and faculty pages that have allegedly been taken down since the shooting, along with conflicting reports that the gunman shouted something before opening fire.</p><p>But Perez and Christina Paxson, Brown University president, denied any knowledge of university pages being scrubbed. The words spoken, if any, remain unknown, Perez said.</p><p>The ever-outspoken Neronha again jumped in with another word of caution.</p><p>“It’s easy to jump from words that were spoken to what those words are, to a name that reflects a motive, targeting a particular person,” he said. “That’s a really dangerous road to go down.”</p><p>Investigators already ran into one dead end after detaining a person found at a Coventry hotel&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/14/police-withhold-details-on-brown-mass-shooting-suspect-investigators-search-coventry-hotel/">early Sunday morning</a>, only to&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/14/we-have-not-yet-solved-this-case-officials-say-person-of-interest-to-be-released/">release him</a>&nbsp;less&nbsp;than 24 hours later because there was no evidence tying him to the crime. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley described the initial, incorrect suspect as a “setback” in an interview with the Boston Globe’s Rhode Island Report podcast&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/15/metro/providence-mayor-brown-university-shooting-setback-ri/" target="_blank">released Monday.</a></p><p>Neronha, however, said Tuesday that while disappointing, it was not unusual for investigations to generate multiple leads that don’t always result in an arrest. Investigators&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/16/providence-police-prepare-to-release-more-surveillance-video-of-suspect/">continue to canvass</a>&nbsp;the East Side neighborhood around the scene of the shooting Tuesday in search of additional clues, but the search may expand beyond the neighborhood, or the city limits, in the coming days, Neronha said.</p><p>Providence police are also working with law enforcement across the state, and in Massachusetts and Connecticut, Perez said.</p>

Enhanced video released: Brown University gunman still at large

(On Dec. 10, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, executed a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. For multiple years, the oil tanker has been sanctioned by the United States due to its involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations. 

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755651756653.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/QS8Whosuml">pic.twitter.com/QS8Whosuml</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2001076955395797252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765968665337.png" alt="Image from Dept. of Justice video" />
                        <figcaption>Image from Dept. of Justice video</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>(On Dec. 10, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, executed a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. For multiple years, the oil tanker has been sanctioned by the United States due to its involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations. </p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, executed a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. For multiple… <a href="https://t.co/dNr0oAGl5x">pic.twitter.com/dNr0oAGl5x</a></p>&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/1998875795151024337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump orders 'blockade' of sanctioned oil tankers leaving, entering Venezuela

<i>By Jacob Fischler | Nebraska Examiner</i>

President Donald Trump’s administration is looking “very strongly” at reclassifying cannabis from the strictest category of controlled substances, Trump said Monday.

In a brief affirmative response to a reporter’s question in the Oval Office, the president confirmed he is considering a reclassification of marijuana to unlock research funding.

“A lot of people want to see it — the reclassification — because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can’t be done unless you reclassify,” Trump said. “So we are looking at that very strongly.”

Marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug under the Food and Drug Administration’s classification of controlled substances. The FDA defines drugs on the list, such as heroin and cocaine, as lacking any medicinal value and carrying a high likelihood of abuse.

The designation carries a host of consequences, including a virtual ban on funding research for medicinal or other uses of the drug.

While marijuana use, both medicinal and recreational, is legal in many states, it remains illegal to possess or use in any amount for any reason under federal law.

Advocates have sought for decades to legalize or decriminalize the drug, which many see as less harmful than other Schedule I substances.

The growing split in recent years among many states and federal law has ramped up pressure on federal policymakers to alter the drug’s legal status.

Marijuana businesses in states where it is legal lack access to financial institutions, which cannot lend to businesses considered illegal by federal authorities.

States, meanwhile, have had&nbsp;<a href="https://rollcall.com/2019/09/16/as-states-legalize-marijuana-pesticides-may-be-a-blind-spot/" target="_blank">difficulty regulating</a>&nbsp;the environmental and health aspects of their industries.

And lawmakers, especially Democrats, have increasingly highlighted the frequent injustice of marijuana prosecutions that disproportionately affect communities of color and poor communities, though the drug is widely used across race and economic status.

<p><i>By Jacob Fischler | Nebraska Examiner</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765906634956.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
                        <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>President Donald Trump’s administration is looking “very strongly” at reclassifying cannabis from the strictest category of controlled substances, Trump said Monday.</p><p>In a brief affirmative response to a reporter’s question in the Oval Office, the president confirmed he is considering a reclassification of marijuana to unlock research funding.</p><p>“A lot of people want to see it — the reclassification — because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can’t be done unless you reclassify,” Trump said. “So we are looking at that very strongly.”</p><p>Marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug under the Food and Drug Administration’s classification of controlled substances. The FDA defines drugs on the list, such as heroin and cocaine, as lacking any medicinal value and carrying a high likelihood of abuse.</p><p>The designation carries a host of consequences, including a virtual ban on funding research for medicinal or other uses of the drug.</p><p>While marijuana use, both medicinal and recreational, is legal in many states, it remains illegal to possess or use in any amount for any reason under federal law.</p><p>Advocates have sought for decades to legalize or decriminalize the drug, which many see as less harmful than other Schedule I substances.</p><p>The growing split in recent years among many states and federal law has ramped up pressure on federal policymakers to alter the drug’s legal status.</p><p>Marijuana businesses in states where it is legal lack access to financial institutions, which cannot lend to businesses considered illegal by federal authorities.</p><p>States, meanwhile, have had&nbsp;<a href="https://rollcall.com/2019/09/16/as-states-legalize-marijuana-pesticides-may-be-a-blind-spot/" target="_blank">difficulty regulating</a>&nbsp;the environmental and health aspects of their industries.</p><p>And lawmakers, especially Democrats, have increasingly highlighted the frequent injustice of marijuana prosecutions that disproportionately affect communities of color and poor communities, though the drug is widely used across race and economic status.</p>

Trump ‘very strongly’ considering loosening federal marijuana regulations

<i>By Cindy Gonzalez | Nebraska Examiner</i>

Five state senators took Pillen administration offer to tour state prison converted to federal migrant detention center Monday

LINCOLN — Five of Nebraska’s 49 state lawmakers Monday toured the controversial ICE migrant detention center in McCook, taking the Pillen administration up on a group invite to walk through the converted prison.&nbsp;

The lone Democrat participating, State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, estimated that between 100 and 150 migrants, all of them men, were being held at what state and federal officials call the “Cornhusker Clink.”&nbsp;

State prison officials have declined to provide a detainee population count or daily average, citing security concerns.

Except for new fencing, Juarez said much of the physical facility looked similar to what she had seen when she arrived unannounced in September, when the McCook prison still operated as the state’s Work Ethic Camp, aimed at stepping people toward lives outside of prison.&nbsp;

Several detainees of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Monday were outside exercising, she said. A TV, a small library and a medical office were visible.&nbsp;

Some detainees inside played cards, according to observations by other senators on the tour, a group that included State Sens. Myron Dorn of Adams, Tom Brandt of Plymouth, Rob Clements of Elmwood and Dan Lonowski of Hastings.

Some key differences this time,&nbsp; Juarez said, were the backgrounds, languages and cultures of those being held at the center, which previously held Nebraska inmates nearing release.&nbsp;

The lawmakers told the Examiner the current detainees represented multiple countries, including Russia, India, Somalia, Mexico and Guatemala.&nbsp;

“I still think that how this is being done is wrong, and I’m not happy the place exists,” Juarez said after the visit, which lasted more than an hour.&nbsp;

But she and the other participating senators said the facility appeared clean, orderly and that detainees had access to visitors and a list of pro bono lawyers.

Juarez said she remains frustrated with federal immigration laws and enforcement tactics and said that pressure for change should be placed on Congress and at the ballot box.

“That change is what is needed so we’re not wasting our federal tax dollars,” she said, citing studies that immigration arrests under the Trump administration continued to increase but that an&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/12/repub/a-larger-share-of-ices-arrested-immigrants-have-no-criminal-record/">ever-lager share of arrests&nbsp;</a>were solely for immigration violations and not for crimes the administration said would be its focus.

The tour of the McCook facility was offered to all 49 senators in the officially nonpartisan Legislature&nbsp; two days after State Sen. Michaela Cavanaugh of Omaha publicly criticized Gov. Jim Pillen’s administration for twice denying her entry on Nov. 12 and 13 to the McCook facility.

Cavanaugh initially arrived unannounced to the McCook facility Nov. 12, citing a state law that says members of the Legislature can enter such a state facility “at any time.” She was rejected and tried again the next morning, on Nov. 13, after alerting the Department of Correctional Services the prior evening.

Pillen on Monday said in a statement that the McCook facility has been up and running in its new role since November and said Monday was “a good opportunity for senators to come and see first-hand the operational aspects of the detention facility.”

Legislators were required to fill out a form by the end of the work day Friday to attend, which was sent to federal officials prior to the visit.

A Pillen spokesperson said reporters were not allowed on the Monday tour, which was led by Rob Jeffreys, the state’s director of Correctional Services. The Examiner spoke to the five lawmakers afterward.

Jeffreys had told Cavanaugh that her alert in November was problematic, as it came with notice that was too short. Furthermore, he and a spokesperson for the Pillen administration said they interpret state law differently as it relates to entry to the McCook facility.&nbsp;

The state contracts with and is paid by the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to house the federal detainees at the McCook center while the detainees await deportation to other countries.

Cavanaugh declined to participate in the tour, saying she had previous commitments and also that it was unclear last week whether lawmakers would be allowed to bring a pen and paper into the facility, “let alone a phone” to perhaps record observations. She said one of her main goals was to ask questions of detainees and gather information in the event they needed services.

Lawmakers on the tour said they did not bring phones on the tour, but had access to staff members to answer questions. Some questions, including the average number of detainees each day, were not answered.

Senators said they were told that the range of time behind bars at the McCook facility ranged from a day for some, while others have been there since it pivoted to federal use.&nbsp;

Pillen said earlier that detainees started to arrive in early November and that he had expected 200 by Thanksgiving and up to 300 when other facility modifications were completed. The Republican state senators on the tour agreed with Juarez’s estimate that between 100 and 150 detainees were being held at the center on Monday.

A spokesperson for the Corrections Department said the number of detainees housed at the McCook facility “fluctuates regularly,” and that federal officials asked the state not to disclose numbers.

Brandt said the group was told many of the detainees are transported to McCook from the Omaha and North Platte airports, but that senators were not told the cities or states where the ICE detainees were originally arrested.&nbsp;

The five senators said they didn’t personally talk to detainees but said they were not prohibited from doing so.&nbsp;

They said at least some detainees had access to electronic tablets.

“It was very clean, well kept, very well run,” Dorn said of the former Work Ethic Camp facility.&nbsp;

“It seemed very peaceful, the dining room where they eat was nice,” said Clements. He said phone numbers for various foreign consulates were posted on a wall, and he could see a bank of phones available for detainee use.

The senators saw technology that allows detainees to attend immigration court hearings remotely.&nbsp;

Lonowski said he was impressed with the professionalism of staff, who appeared to be from the local area.

Dorn said he would have liked to see more lawmakers, but he said some had other commitments.&nbsp;

“I definitely expected a few more,” he said, saying he thought up to 15. “I’m glad five showed.”

Prior to the state senator visits, McCook Mayor Linda Taylor and McCook Police Chief Kevin Hodgson had their own tour of the facility.&nbsp;

Pillen’s statement said construction begins this week to expand the facility’s capacity from 200 to 300 detainees.&nbsp;

He said that as a federal detention center, compensation to Correctional Services,&nbsp; based on the expected use of the facility and costs associated with providing services to ICE, will be $2.45 million per month.&nbsp;

The arrangement with ICE should clear the state about $14.25 million annually, Pillen said. The current contact expires Sept. 29, 2027.

<p><i>By Cindy Gonzalez | Nebraska Examiner</i></p><h2>Five state senators took Pillen administration offer to tour state prison converted to federal migrant detention center Monday</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WEC-immigration-walkthrough_CTSY-e1765846592973.jpg" alt="&nbsp;All 49 Nebraska lawmakers were invited to a group “walkthrough” of the McCook ICE detention center on Monday. Five attended. Some had other commitments by the time they were notified. A few Democrats said they declined in part because they believe state senators have legal right to tour state prison facilities “at any time” and they want legislative leadership to defend the oversight authority. Dec. 15, 2025. (Courtesy of Nebraska Department of Correctional Services)" />
                        <figcaption>&nbsp;All 49 Nebraska lawmakers were invited to a group “walkthrough” of the McCook ICE detention center on Monday. Five attended. Some had other commitments by the time they were notified. A few Democrats said they declined in part because they believe state senators have legal right to tour state prison facilities “at any time” and they want legislative leadership to defend the oversight authority. Dec. 15, 2025. (Courtesy of Nebraska Department of Correctional Services)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>LINCOLN — Five of Nebraska’s 49 state lawmakers Monday toured the controversial ICE migrant detention center in McCook, taking the Pillen administration up on a group invite to walk through the converted prison.&nbsp;</p><p>The lone Democrat participating, State Sen. Margo Juarez of Omaha, estimated that between 100 and 150 migrants, all of them men, were being held at what state and federal officials call the “Cornhusker Clink.”&nbsp;</p><p>State prison officials have declined to provide a detainee population count or daily average, citing security concerns.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/juarez_ZJW_121324-01-300x200.jpg" alt="State Sen.-elect Margo Juarez of Omaha. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
                        <figcaption>State Sen.-elect Margo Juarez of Omaha. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Except for new fencing, Juarez said much of the physical facility looked similar to what she had seen when she arrived unannounced in September, when the McCook prison still operated as the state’s Work Ethic Camp, aimed at stepping people toward lives outside of prison.&nbsp;</p><p>Several detainees of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Monday were outside exercising, she said. A TV, a small library and a medical office were visible.&nbsp;</p><p>Some detainees inside played cards, according to observations by other senators on the tour, a group that included State Sens. Myron Dorn of Adams, Tom Brandt of Plymouth, Rob Clements of Elmwood and Dan Lonowski of Hastings.</p><p>Some key differences this time,&nbsp; Juarez said, were the backgrounds, languages and cultures of those being held at the center, which previously held Nebraska inmates nearing release.&nbsp;</p><p>The lawmakers told the Examiner the current detainees represented multiple countries, including Russia, India, Somalia, Mexico and Guatemala.&nbsp;</p><p>“I still think that how this is being done is wrong, and I’m not happy the place exists,” Juarez said after the visit, which lasted more than an hour.&nbsp;</p><h2>Frustrated</h2><p>But she and the other participating senators said the facility appeared clean, orderly and that detainees had access to visitors and a list of pro bono lawyers.</p><p>Juarez said she remains frustrated with federal immigration laws and enforcement tactics and said that pressure for change should be placed on Congress and at the ballot box.</p><p>“That change is what is needed so we’re not wasting our federal tax dollars,” she said, citing studies that immigration arrests under the Trump administration continued to increase but that an&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/12/12/repub/a-larger-share-of-ices-arrested-immigrants-have-no-criminal-record/">ever-lager share of arrests&nbsp;</a>were solely for immigration violations and not for crimes the administration said would be its focus.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Resized_20251215_142352-300x169.jpeg" alt="Four of the five Nebraska lawmakers take a photo prior to their tour of the McCook ICE detention facility Monday. Included are State Sens. Rob Clements of Elmwood, Tom Brandt of Plymouth, Myron Dorn of Adams and Dan Lonowski of Hastings. (Courtesy of State Sen. Rob Clements)" />
                        <figcaption>Four of the five Nebraska lawmakers take a photo prior to their tour of the McCook ICE detention facility Monday. Included are State Sens. Rob Clements of Elmwood, Tom Brandt of Plymouth, Myron Dorn of Adams and Dan Lonowski of Hastings. (Courtesy of State Sen. Rob Clements)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The tour of the McCook facility was offered to all 49 senators in the officially nonpartisan Legislature&nbsp; two days after State Sen. Michaela Cavanaugh of Omaha publicly criticized Gov. Jim Pillen’s administration for twice denying her entry on Nov. 12 and 13 to the McCook facility.</p><p>Cavanaugh initially arrived unannounced to the McCook facility Nov. 12, citing a state law that says members of the Legislature can enter such a state facility “at any time.” She was rejected and tried again the next morning, on Nov. 13, after alerting the Department of Correctional Services the prior evening.</p><p>Pillen on Monday said in a statement that the McCook facility has been up and running in its new role since November and said Monday was “a good opportunity for senators to come and see first-hand the operational aspects of the detention facility.”</p><p>Legislators were required to fill out a form by the end of the work day Friday to attend, which was sent to federal officials prior to the visit.</p><p>A Pillen spokesperson said reporters were not allowed on the Monday tour, which was led by Rob Jeffreys, the state’s director of Correctional Services. The Examiner spoke to the five lawmakers afterward.</p><h2>Time in McCook varies</h2><p>Jeffreys had told Cavanaugh that her alert in November was problematic, as it came with notice that was too short. Furthermore, he and a spokesperson for the Pillen administration said they interpret state law differently as it relates to entry to the McCook facility.&nbsp;</p><p>The state contracts with and is paid by the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to house the federal detainees at the McCook center while the detainees await deportation to other countries.</p><p>Cavanaugh declined to participate in the tour, saying she had previous commitments and also that it was unclear last week whether lawmakers would be allowed to bring a pen and paper into the facility, “let alone a phone” to perhaps record observations. She said one of her main goals was to ask questions of detainees and gather information in the event they needed services.</p><p>Lawmakers on the tour said they did not bring phones on the tour, but had access to staff members to answer questions. Some questions, including the average number of detainees each day, were not answered.</p><p>Senators said they were told that the range of time behind bars at the McCook facility ranged from a day for some, while others have been there since it pivoted to federal use.&nbsp;</p><p>Pillen said earlier that detainees started to arrive in early November and that he had expected 200 by Thanksgiving and up to 300 when other facility modifications were completed. The Republican state senators on the tour agreed with Juarez’s estimate that between 100 and 150 detainees were being held at the center on Monday.</p><p>A spokesperson for the Corrections Department said the number of detainees housed at the McCook facility “fluctuates regularly,” and that federal officials asked the state not to disclose numbers.</p><p>Brandt said the group was told many of the detainees are transported to McCook from the Omaha and North Platte airports, but that senators were not told the cities or states where the ICE detainees were originally arrested.&nbsp;</p><p>The five senators said they didn’t personally talk to detainees but said they were not prohibited from doing so.&nbsp;</p><p>They said at least some detainees had access to electronic tablets.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_6016-scaled-e1756847222745-259x300.jpeg" alt="McCook Mayor Linda Taylor speaks during a previous press conference with Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen at McCook’s Ben Nelson Regional Airport on Tuesday. (Brigham Larington/McCook Gazette)" />
                        <figcaption>McCook Mayor Linda Taylor speaks during a previous press conference with Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen at McCook’s Ben Nelson Regional Airport on Tuesday. (Brigham Larington/McCook Gazette)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>“It was very clean, well kept, very well run,” Dorn said of the former Work Ethic Camp facility.&nbsp;</p><p>“It seemed very peaceful, the dining room where they eat was nice,” said Clements. He said phone numbers for various foreign consulates were posted on a wall, and he could see a bank of phones available for detainee use.</p><p>The senators saw technology that allows detainees to attend immigration court hearings remotely.&nbsp;</p><p>Lonowski said he was impressed with the professionalism of staff, who appeared to be from the local area.</p><h2>More construction this week</h2><p>Dorn said he would have liked to see more lawmakers, but he said some had other commitments.&nbsp;</p><p>“I definitely expected a few more,” he said, saying he thought up to 15. “I’m glad five showed.”</p><p>Prior to the state senator visits, McCook Mayor Linda Taylor and McCook Police Chief Kevin Hodgson had their own tour of the facility.&nbsp;</p><p>Pillen’s statement said construction begins this week to expand the facility’s capacity from 200 to 300 detainees.&nbsp;</p><p>He said that as a federal detention center, compensation to Correctional Services,&nbsp; based on the expected use of the facility and costs associated with providing services to ICE, will be $2.45 million per month.&nbsp;</p><p>The arrangement with ICE should clear the state about $14.25 million annually, Pillen said. The current contact expires Sept. 29, 2027.</p>

Nebraska lawmakers tour McCook ICE jail, call it orderly, clean and say it detains 100-150 migrants

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit Monday seeking $10 billion in damages from the BBC, accusing the British broadcaster of defamation as well as deceptive and unfair trade practices.

The 33-page lawsuit accuses the BBC of broadcasting a “false, defamatory, deceptive, disparaging, inflammatory, and malicious depiction of President Trump,” calling it “a brazen attempt to interfere in and influence” the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.flsd.703382/gov.uscourts.flsd.703382.1.0_5.pdf">Click here to read the complaint filed in Florida</a>

It accused the BBC of “splicing together two entirely separate parts of President Trump’s speech on January 6, 2021” in order to “intentionally misrepresent the meaning of what President Trump said.”

The lawsuit, filed in a Florida court, seeks $5 billion in damages for defamation and $5 billion for unfair trade practices.

“We are not going to make further comment on ongoing legal proceedings,” it said in a statement.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-bbc-misleading-edit-trump-lawsuit-73a613283de952f5af08fa8ec4d0ca67">broadcaster apologized last month</a>&nbsp;to Trump over the edit of the Jan. 6 speech. But the publicly funded BBC rejected claims it had defamed him, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-bbc-crisis-trump-panorama-a392fb275af25216ea23537c6f4347e4">Trump threatened legal action</a>.

BBC chairman Samir Shah had called it an “error of judgment,” which triggered the resignations of the BBC’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bbc-director-resigns-trump-speech-editing-3aab83138d58c92db1bb00e77e568876">top executive and its head of news.</a>

The speech took place before some of Trump’s supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol as Congress was poised to certify President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election that Trump falsely alleged was stolen from him.

The BBC had broadcast the hourlong documentary — titled “Trump: A Second Chance?” — days before the 2024 U.S. presidential election. It spliced together three quotes from two sections of the 2021 speech, delivered almost an hour apart, into what appeared to be one quote in which Trump urged supporters to march with him and “fight like hell.” Among the parts cut out was a section where Trump said he wanted supporters to demonstrate peacefully.

Trump said earlier Monday that he was suing the BBC “for putting words in my mouth.”

“They actually put terrible words in my mouth having to do with Jan. 6 that I didn’t say, and they’re beautiful words, that I said, right?” the president said unprompted during an appearance in the Oval Office. “They’re beautiful words, talking about patriotism and all of the good things that I said. They didn’t say that, but they put terrible words.”

The president’s lawsuit was filed in Florida. Deadlines to bring the case in British courts expired more than a year ago.

Legal experts have brought up potential challenges to a case in the U.S. given that the documentary was not shown in the country.

The lawsuit alleges that people in the U.S. can watch the BBC’s original content, including the “Panorama” series, which included the documentary, by using the subscription streaming platform BritBox or a virtual private network service.

The 103-year-old BBC is a national institution funded through an annual license fee of 174.50 pounds ($230) paid by every household that watches live TV or BBC content. Bound by the terms of its charter to be impartial, it typically faces especially intense scrutiny and criticism from both conservatives and liberals.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765895440189.png" alt="Trump" />
                        <figcaption>Trump</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit Monday seeking $10 billion in damages from the BBC, accusing the British broadcaster of defamation as well as deceptive and unfair trade practices.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690926987746.png" alt="FIle photo of President Trump speaking to the crowd on January 6-image courtesy CSPAN" />
                        <figcaption>FIle photo of President Trump speaking to the crowd on January 6-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The 33-page lawsuit accuses the BBC of broadcasting a “false, defamatory, deceptive, disparaging, inflammatory, and malicious depiction of President Trump,” calling it “a brazen attempt to interfere in and influence” the 2024 U.S. presidential election.</p><p><a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.flsd.703382/gov.uscourts.flsd.703382.1.0_5.pdf">Click here to read the complaint filed in Florida</a></p><p>It accused the BBC of “splicing together two entirely separate parts of President Trump’s speech on January 6, 2021” in order to “intentionally misrepresent the meaning of what President Trump said.”</p><p>The lawsuit, filed in a Florida court, seeks $5 billion in damages for defamation and $5 billion for unfair trade practices.</p><p>The BBC said it would defend the case.</p><p>“We are not going to make further comment on ongoing legal proceedings,” it said in a statement.</p><p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-bbc-misleading-edit-trump-lawsuit-73a613283de952f5af08fa8ec4d0ca67">broadcaster apologized last month</a>&nbsp;to Trump over the edit of the Jan. 6 speech. But the publicly funded BBC rejected claims it had defamed him, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-bbc-crisis-trump-panorama-a392fb275af25216ea23537c6f4347e4">Trump threatened legal action</a>.</p><p>BBC chairman Samir Shah had called it an “error of judgment,” which triggered the resignations of the BBC’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bbc-director-resigns-trump-speech-editing-3aab83138d58c92db1bb00e77e568876">top executive and its head of news.</a></p><p>The speech took place before some of Trump’s supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol as Congress was poised to certify President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election that Trump falsely alleged was stolen from him.</p><p>The BBC had broadcast the hourlong documentary — titled “Trump: A Second Chance?” — days before the 2024 U.S. presidential election. It spliced together three quotes from two sections of the 2021 speech, delivered almost an hour apart, into what appeared to be one quote in which Trump urged supporters to march with him and “fight like hell.” Among the parts cut out was a section where Trump said he wanted supporters to demonstrate peacefully.</p><p>Trump said earlier Monday that he was suing the BBC “for putting words in my mouth.”</p><p>“They actually put terrible words in my mouth having to do with Jan. 6 that I didn’t say, and they’re beautiful words, that I said, right?” the president said unprompted during an appearance in the Oval Office. “They’re beautiful words, talking about patriotism and all of the good things that I said. They didn’t say that, but they put terrible words.”</p><p>The president’s lawsuit was filed in Florida. Deadlines to bring the case in British courts expired more than a year ago.</p><p>Legal experts have brought up potential challenges to a case in the U.S. given that the documentary was not shown in the country.</p><p>The lawsuit alleges that people in the U.S. can watch the BBC’s original content, including the “Panorama” series, which included the documentary, by using the subscription streaming platform BritBox or a virtual private network service.</p><p>The 103-year-old BBC is a national institution funded through an annual license fee of 174.50 pounds ($230) paid by every household that watches live TV or BBC content. Bound by the terms of its charter to be impartial, it typically faces especially intense scrutiny and criticism from both conservatives and liberals.</p>

Read the complaint: President Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says aggressive tariff enforcement over the past year has resulted in more than $200 billion collected for the federal government, reinforcing national and economic security while holding violators accountable.

<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/thanks-president-trump-cbp-announces-record-breaking-200-billion">According to CBP</a>, between Jan. 20 and Dec. 15, 2025, the agency collected the revenue under more than 40 executive orders issued during President Donald Trump’s administration. Officials say the results highlight CBP’s role in promoting secure, fair, and compliant trade while protecting American industries.

“CBP’s enforcement delivers results,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott. “By combining intelligence-led targeting, rigorous oversight, and swift action, we are safeguarding the U.S. economy, protecting American industries, and holding accountable those who seek to break our trade laws.”

CBP uses advanced data analytics and intelligence-driven targeting to identify tariff evasion schemes. These efforts focus on uncovering practices such as undervaluation, misclassification, transshipment, antidumping and countervailing duty violations, the use of illegitimate shell companies, and instances of “double dipping,” where importers improperly claim multiple tariff exemptions to avoid paying required duties.

During the reporting period, CBP assessed approximately $2.6 billion in antidumping and countervailing duties owed to the government. These duties are designed to counter unfair trade practices, including selling goods below market value or subsidizing exports. The agency also identified new evasion schemes, including a case involving an importer of iron, steel, and aluminum who improperly claimed both Section 232 and Reciprocal Tariff exemptions, depriving the government of an estimated $100 million.

CBP officials say enforcement actions also included issuing 63 debarment actions against parties that failed to pay debts such as tariffs, taxes, and fees owed to the U.S. government. In addition, the agency investigated nearly 1,200 revenue-focused e-Allegations submitted by members of the trade community, efforts aimed at ensuring a level playing field for law-abiding U.S. businesses.

These enforcement measures are supported by CBP’s trade processing systems, including the Automated Commercial Environment, which officials say allows the agency to keep pace with global trade while enforcing U.S. laws. CBP also provides ongoing updates and trade guidance through its Cargo Systems Messaging Service.

CBP encourages the public and trade community to review its Trade Statistics webpage for additional information on enforcement efforts addressing unfair trade practices.

<p><i>By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765914369704.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>U.S. Customs and Border Protection says aggressive tariff enforcement over the past year has resulted in more than $200 billion collected for the federal government, reinforcing national and economic security while holding violators accountable.</p><p><a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/thanks-president-trump-cbp-announces-record-breaking-200-billion">According to CBP</a>, between Jan. 20 and Dec. 15, 2025, the agency collected the revenue under more than 40 executive orders issued during President Donald Trump’s administration. Officials say the results highlight CBP’s role in promoting secure, fair, and compliant trade while protecting American industries.</p><p>“CBP’s enforcement delivers results,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott. “By combining intelligence-led targeting, rigorous oversight, and swift action, we are safeguarding the U.S. economy, protecting American industries, and holding accountable those who seek to break our trade laws.”</p><p>CBP uses advanced data analytics and intelligence-driven targeting to identify tariff evasion schemes. These efforts focus on uncovering practices such as undervaluation, misclassification, transshipment, antidumping and countervailing duty violations, the use of illegitimate shell companies, and instances of “double dipping,” where importers improperly claim multiple tariff exemptions to avoid paying required duties.</p><p>During the reporting period, CBP assessed approximately $2.6 billion in antidumping and countervailing duties owed to the government. These duties are designed to counter unfair trade practices, including selling goods below market value or subsidizing exports. The agency also identified new evasion schemes, including a case involving an importer of iron, steel, and aluminum who improperly claimed both Section 232 and Reciprocal Tariff exemptions, depriving the government of an estimated $100 million.</p><p>CBP officials say enforcement actions also included issuing 63 debarment actions against parties that failed to pay debts such as tariffs, taxes, and fees owed to the U.S. government. In addition, the agency investigated nearly 1,200 revenue-focused e-Allegations submitted by members of the trade community, efforts aimed at ensuring a level playing field for law-abiding U.S. businesses.</p><p>These enforcement measures are supported by CBP’s trade processing systems, including the Automated Commercial Environment, which officials say allows the agency to keep pace with global trade while enforcing U.S. laws. CBP also provides ongoing updates and trade guidance through its Cargo Systems Messaging Service.</p><p>CBP encourages the public and trade community to review its Trade Statistics webpage for additional information on enforcement efforts addressing unfair trade practices.</p>

CBP Collects More Than $200 Billion in Tariffs, Strengthening U.S. Economic Security

WASHINGTON — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday he will not allow a floor vote this week on a bipartisan amendment supported by moderate Republicans that would extend the Affordable Care Act enhanced tax credits.&nbsp;

Johnson was confident that blocking the amendment would not lead centrist GOP lawmakers to oppose the Republican health care bill scheduled to get a vote Wednesday.&nbsp;

“There’s about a dozen members in the conference that are in these swing districts who are fighting hard to make sure they reduce costs for all of their constituents. And many of them did want to vote on this Obamacare, COVID-era subsidy the Democrats created,” Johnson said. “We looked for a way to try to allow for that pressure release valve and it just was not to be.”

The enhanced ACA tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year, sharply increasing the cost of health insurance for the roughly 22 million Americans who purchase plans through the exchange and benefit from the subsidies.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-gop-preps-health-care-bill-vote-new-year" target="_blank">House Republican health care bill</a>&nbsp;wouldn’t extend those tax credits, frustrating GOP lawmakers in that chamber who are most at risk of losing their reelection bids during the November midterm elections.&nbsp;

Johnson said he expects that GOP bill will pass, though he didn’t address its prospects in the Senate, where bipartisanship is needed for nearly all bills to advance under that chamber’s 60-vote legislative filibuster.&nbsp;

New York Republican Rep. Mike Lawler said in a speech on the House floor that GOP leaders’ decision to let the enhanced ACA tax credits expire was “idiotic and shameful,” especially after changes were added to address fraud and reduce costs.&nbsp;

“So we have been forced to sign onto two discharge petitions,” he said. “And yet my Democratic colleagues will not join us, but for those that were at the negotiation table.”

Lawler then criticized House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, of New York, for not encouraging Democrats to sign onto the bipartisan discharge petitions, noting that would likely get the 218 signatures needed to force a floor vote. He argued that’s because Jeffries “doesn’t actually want to solve the problem, he wants the issue.”

“This place is disgraceful,” Lawler said. “Everybody wants the upper hand.&nbsp; Everybody wants the political advantage. They don’t actually want to do the damn work. This problem could be solved today if everybody who says they care about extending this signs the discharge.”

When the House returns from its two-week holiday break next year, Johnson said, leaders may try to use the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/youre-hearing-lot-about-budget-reconciliation-congress-what-does-mean" target="_blank">complex reconciliation process</a>&nbsp;they used to enact the “one big, beautiful bill” to address health care.&nbsp;

“What we anticipate going into the first quarter of next year is, possibly in a reconciliation package or in regular order a stand-alone, ideas just like this,” Johnson said after being asked a question about Health Savings Accounts. “We have a long list of things that we know will reduce premiums, increase access and quality of care.”&nbsp;

President Donald Trump said Monday he wants Republicans to use the reconciliation process or to eliminate the Senate’s legislative filibuster to address health care and other policy priorities.&nbsp;

“Republicans should knock out the filibuster and we should approve a lot of things,” Trump said.&nbsp;

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has said repeatedly he doesn’t intend to change or scrap the filibuster.

Trump also reiterated during the Oval Office event he would like to see Congress send direct payments to Americans to help them buy health insurance or afford health care.&nbsp;

“I want all money going to the people and let the people buy their own health care. It’ll be unbelievable,” Trump said. “They’ll do a great job. They’ll get much better health care at a much lower cost.”

The Senate voted last week on two health care bills, one from Republicans and one from Democrats, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-hits-stalemate-solution-spiraling-health-insurance-costs" target="_blank">neither received the support needed</a>&nbsp;to move toward a final passage vote.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765911736967.png" alt="U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., talks with reporters inside the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)" />
                        <figcaption>U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., talks with reporters inside the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a></p><p>WASHINGTON — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday he will not allow a floor vote this week on a bipartisan amendment supported by moderate Republicans that would extend the Affordable Care Act enhanced tax credits.&nbsp;</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a> confirms there will not be a vote on extending ACA subsidies, saying many Republicans &quot;did want to vote on this Obamacare COVID-era subsidy the Democrats created. We looked for a way to try to allow for that pressure release valve, and it just was not to be. We… <a href="https://t.co/jaI1C0NFJu">pic.twitter.com/jaI1C0NFJu</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2000963416228352279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Johnson was confident that blocking the amendment would not lead centrist GOP lawmakers to oppose the Republican health care bill scheduled to get a vote Wednesday.&nbsp;</p><p>“There’s about a dozen members in the conference that are in these swing districts who are fighting hard to make sure they reduce costs for all of their constituents. And many of them did want to vote on this Obamacare, COVID-era subsidy the Democrats created,” Johnson said. “We looked for a way to try to allow for that pressure release valve and it just was not to be.”</p><p>The enhanced ACA tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year, sharply increasing the cost of health insurance for the roughly 22 million Americans who purchase plans through the exchange and benefit from the subsidies.&nbsp;</p><p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-gop-preps-health-care-bill-vote-new-year" target="_blank">House Republican health care bill</a>&nbsp;wouldn’t extend those tax credits, frustrating GOP lawmakers in that chamber who are most at risk of losing their reelection bids during the November midterm elections.&nbsp;</p><p>Johnson said he expects that GOP bill will pass, though he didn’t address its prospects in the Senate, where bipartisanship is needed for nearly all bills to advance under that chamber’s 60-vote legislative filibuster.&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Idiotic and shameful’</h2><p>New York Republican Rep. Mike Lawler said in a speech on the House floor that GOP leaders’ decision to let the enhanced ACA tax credits expire was “idiotic and shameful,” especially after changes were added to address fraud and reduce costs.&nbsp;</p><p>“So we have been forced to sign onto two discharge petitions,” he said. “And yet my Democratic colleagues will not join us, but for those that were at the negotiation table.”</p><p>Lawler then criticized House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, of New York, for not encouraging Democrats to sign onto the bipartisan discharge petitions, noting that would likely get the 218 signatures needed to force a floor vote. He argued that’s because Jeffries “doesn’t actually want to solve the problem, he wants the issue.”</p><p>“This place is disgraceful,” Lawler said. “Everybody wants the upper hand.&nbsp; Everybody wants the political advantage. They don’t actually want to do the damn work. This problem could be solved today if everybody who says they care about extending this signs the discharge.”</p><h2>GOP-only bill in 2026?</h2><p>When the House returns from its two-week holiday break next year, Johnson said, leaders may try to use the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/youre-hearing-lot-about-budget-reconciliation-congress-what-does-mean" target="_blank">complex reconciliation process</a>&nbsp;they used to enact the “one big, beautiful bill” to address health care.&nbsp;</p><p>“What we anticipate going into the first quarter of next year is, possibly in a reconciliation package or in regular order a stand-alone, ideas just like this,” Johnson said after being asked a question about Health Savings Accounts. “We have a long list of things that we know will reduce premiums, increase access and quality of care.”&nbsp;</p><p>President Donald Trump said Monday he wants Republicans to use the reconciliation process or to eliminate the Senate’s legislative filibuster to address health care and other policy priorities.&nbsp;</p><p>“Republicans should knock out the filibuster and we should approve a lot of things,” Trump said.&nbsp;</p><p>Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has said repeatedly he doesn’t intend to change or scrap the filibuster.</p><h2>Direct payments or tax breaks</h2><p>Trump also reiterated during the Oval Office event he would like to see Congress send direct payments to Americans to help them buy health insurance or afford health care.&nbsp;</p><p>“I want all money going to the people and let the people buy their own health care. It’ll be unbelievable,” Trump said. “They’ll do a great job. They’ll get much better health care at a much lower cost.”</p><p>The Senate voted last week on two health care bills, one from Republicans and one from Democrats, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-hits-stalemate-solution-spiraling-health-insurance-costs" target="_blank">neither received the support needed</a>&nbsp;to move toward a final passage vote.&nbsp;</p><p>Republicans’ bill would have provided direct payments to some people enrolled in either bronze or catastrophic ACA marketplace plans with up to $1,500 in payments annually for 2026 and 2027.&nbsp;</p><p>Democrats’ legislation would have extended the enhanced ACA marketplace tax credits for three years.&nbsp;</p><h2>Cost most urgent issue, poll finds</h2><p>A bipartisan group of senators is trying to find solutions that bridge the political divide, though they are unlikely to achieve consensus on the details before the end of this week.</p><p>A&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/699770/cost-leads-americans-top-mind-healthcare-concerns.aspx?utm_source=twitterbutton&amp;utm_medium=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=sharing" target="_blank">poll</a>&nbsp;released Monday by the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America shows that cost is the “most urgent” health issue facing the country, followed by access and then obesity.&nbsp;</p><p>Just 57% of those polled said they were satisfied with how much they pay for their own health care and only 16% were satisfied with the total cost of healthcare.</p><p>Nearly two-thirds of those in the survey said they believe it’s the federal government’s responsibility “to make sure all Americans have healthcare coverage,” while 33% said it’s not.&nbsp;</p>