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Trump Delivers Major Win in War on Drugs with HALT Act

Keely Compson
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Trump Delivers Major Win in War on Drugs with HALT Act

Highlights:

  • Fentanyl Analogues Permanently Banned: The HALT Fentanyl Act classifies all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, carrying the harshest penalties under federal law.
  • Tougher Penalties for Traffickers: Trafficking 100 grams or more triggers a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence, closing loopholes exploited by cartels and dealers.
  • Streamlined Research Access: New provisions simplify Schedule I research regulations while reaffirming strong legal precedent to prevent abuse.

In a move that could save millions of American lives, President Donald Trump announced he will sign the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act—better known as the HALT Fentanyl Act. This legislation takes an aggressive stance against the drug crisis that has ravaged communities nationwide, permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act.

Schedule I drugs are defined as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, carrying the strictest regulatory and criminal penalties. The Act ensures that fentanyl analogues—synthetic variations responsible for countless overdose deaths—face the same quantity thresholds and mandatory sentencing guidelines as fentanyl itself. For example, possession or trafficking of 100 grams or more triggers a 10-year mandatory minimum prison sentence.

Beyond enforcement, the bill also streamlines the research process for Schedule I substances, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for legitimate scientific study. Provisions include single-site registrations for related research facilities, inspection waivers in certain cases, and limited manufacturing allowances for small-scale research without separate licensing.

The legislation reaffirms the court’s interpretation in United States v. McCray (2018), which classified butyryl fentanyl as an analogue, reinforcing Congress’s commitment to closing loopholes exploited by traffickers.

President Trump’s move underscores his “America First” commitment to dismantle the fentanyl pipeline—much of it originating from China and Mexico—and protect American families from one of the deadliest scourges of our time. This is law and order at work, delivering real action against a synthetic killer destroying lives across this nation.

Retail Giant Launches Multi-Year Plan with New Stores and Digital Upgrades

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Retail Giant Launches Multi-Year Plan with New Stores and Digital Upgrades
  • Target plans to open 20 new stores in 2025 as part of a strategy to add $15 billion in profitable growth by 2030.
  • The company aims to open 300 stores over the next decade while investing in supply chains, technology, and remodeling existing locations.
  • Despite expansion plans, Target projects a sales decline for 2025, revising its earnings forecast lower.

Target is doubling down on growth despite a challenging retail environment, announcing plans to open 20 new stores this year as part of a strategy to drive $15 billion in profitable sales growth by 2030.

The Minneapolis-based retailer said it will launch at least eight locations in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania by August, with nine more stores slated to open later in the fall. Four stores have already opened in 2025. These openings support Target’s broader plan to open 300 new stores over the next decade while remodeling existing locations.

“These will be mostly full-size stores, helping the company generate billions of dollars in incremental growth,” CEO Brian Cornell said during a March 2024 earnings call. He also outlined additional investments in supply chain and technology, with at least 10 new distribution centers planned over the next ten years.

Target is also making moves to strengthen its digital marketplace, expand product offerings, and improve its omnichannel experience. The company recently launched its Enterprise Acceleration Office, a multi-year growth initiative led by COO Michael Fiddelke, aimed at increasing speed, adaptability, and innovation.

However, the retail giant faces headwinds. Target projects a low-single-digit decline in sales for fiscal 2025, revising its previous forecast of modest growth. Adjusted earnings per share are expected to range between $7 and $9, down from earlier projections of $8.80 to $9.80.

Despite softer sales expectations, Target is betting big on expansion to secure long-term dominance in a highly competitive retail market.

Trump Admin Nabs Business Owner for Hiring, Smuggling Illegals

Keely Compson
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Trump Admin Nabs Business Owner for Hiring, Smuggling Illegals
  • Taco shop owner Blademir Angulo arrested in Phoenix for allegedly hiring and housing undocumented immigrants for years.
  • Federal complaint accuses Angulo of harboring illegal aliens, smuggling, and paying workers in cash while housing them on his properties.
  • If convicted, Angulo faces up to 10 years in prison as part of Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal hiring practices.

The owner of a well-known taco shop in west Phoenix is facing serious federal charges after authorities say he spent years hiring and housing illegal immigrants at his businesses.

Blademir Angulo, 42, was arrested last week after a four-month investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Agents allege Angulo knowingly employed at least a dozen undocumented workers at his restaurant, El Taco Loko, which includes a brick-and-mortar location, a food truck, and a bus in the West Valley.

Court documents claim Angulo not only hired the workers but paid them in cash and allowed them to live in RVs and trailers on his property in Laveen, near 63rd Avenue and Baseline Road. Investigators also surveilled a second property near 16th Avenue and Southern Avenue during the probe.

An 18-page federal complaint filed July 11 charges Angulo with Alien in Possession of a Firearm, Harboring Illegal Aliens, Improper Entry by an Alien, and Knowingly Employing Unauthorized Aliens. In an interview, Angulo admitted he knew it was illegal but denied paying anyone to bring workers across the border. One worker, however, told investigators he owed Angulo $12,000 for smuggling him into the U.S.

“If you’re here in the country without a work visa or citizenship, you can be deported and found guilty in a court of law,” said Phoenix defense attorney Ben Taylor.

If convicted, Angulo could face 10 years in federal prison and deportation. His case highlights the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal hiring practices nationwide.

Trump Scores Major Win: Europe Signs 20-Year LNG Deals with U.S.

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Trump Scores Major Win: Europe Signs 20-Year LNG Deals with U.S.
  • Two European energy giants, Italy’s Eni and Germany’s SEFE Energy, sign 20-year deals to buy U.S. LNG from Venture Global.
  • Agreements strengthen Trump’s “America First” energy strategy and reduce Europe’s reliance on other gas suppliers.
  • Deals come as Trump announces 30% tariffs on EU goods and billions in AI and energy investments in Pennsylvania.

Two major European energy giants have locked in long-term agreements to buy American liquefied natural gas (LNG), a major win for President Trump’s push to strengthen U.S. energy dominance and trade relations.

Venture Global, an Arlington, Virginia-based energy company, will supply Italy’s Eni with 2 million metric tons of LNG annually for 20 years. “The agreement is Eni’s first long-term LNG supply from the United States and represents a significant milestone in Eni’s strategy to expand and diversify its global LNG footprint, enhancing portfolio flexibility,” the company said, adding that some volumes will help diversify Europe’s gas supplies.

In April, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assured Trump her country would boost imports of American LNG to improve trade ties, according to Reuters.

Germany is also deepening energy cooperation. Venture Global announced a separate 20-year deal to deliver 750,000 metric tons of LNG annually to Germany-based SEFE Energy. “Venture Global is thrilled to expand our strategic partnership with Germany and SEFE and play a leading role in ensuring security of energy supply and affordability for not only Germany but the rest of the European gas market,” CEO Mike Sabel said.

The announcements follow German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s June visit to Washington, where he and Trump pledged to strengthen trade ties.

Earlier this week, Trump announced a 30% tariff on EU goods starting August 1, citing trade deficits and national security. He also visited Pennsylvania Tuesday to unveil billions in new state investments in AI and energy.

Trump Admin Pulls 2K National Guard from LA After Riots Ease

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Trump Admin Pulls 2K National Guard from LA After Riots Ease
  • Trump administration releases 2,000 California National Guard troops as Los Angeles unrest begins to subside.
  • Mayor Karen Bass calls the move a “retreat” after legal battles and weeks of protests over immigration raids.
  • 9th Circuit sides with Trump after district court tried to return Guard control to Gov. Newsom.

The Center Square reports:

The Trump administration released half of the California National Guard members recently called to Los Angeles, citing “subsiding” lawlessness.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the release a “retreat,” citing the impact of protests in the city and the city’s lawsuits against the Trump administration.

After days of unmitigated rioting in Los Angeles against increased federal immigration raids, President Donald Trump federalized and deployed 4,000 National Guard members and 700 U.S. Marines to primarily guard federal property in the city.

While a federal district court initially ruled against the Trump administration’s deployment and ordered the National Guard members transferred back to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s command, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ultimately sided with the Trump administration.

“Thanks to our troops who stepped up to answer the call, the lawlessness in Los Angeles is subsiding,” U.S. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Tuesday. “As such, the Secretary has ordered the release of 2,000 California National Guardsmen from the federal protection mission.”

Bass pointed to the release as the product of the city’s more peaceful protests in recent weeks and its legal challenges against the Trump administration.

“This happened because the people of Los Angeles stood united and stood strong,” said Bass. “We organized peaceful protests, we came together at rallies, we took the Trump administration to court — all of this led to today’s retreat.”

“My message today to Angelenos is clear — I will never stop fighting for this city,” continued Bass. “We will not stop making our voices heard until this ends, not just here in LA, but throughout our country.”

In one case, U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong issued a ruling last Friday placing some limits on federal immigration operations, including requiring “reasonable suspicion that the person to be stopped is within the United States in violation of U.S. immigration law.” The Trump administration filed an appeal with the 9th Circuit court.

Trump Admin Starts Search for Powell Replacement at Federal Reserve

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Trump Admin Starts Search for Powell Replacement at Federal Reserve
  • Secretary Bessent confirms formal process to replace Fed Chair Jerome Powell has begun.
  • “It’s President Trump’s decision and it will move at his speed,” Bessent says.
  • New Fed leadership could reshape interest rates, inflation strategy, and U.S. economic policy.

The Trump administration has officially begun the process of finding a replacement for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, signaling a major shift in economic leadership.

Secretary Bessent confirmed Monday that the search is underway, saying, “There’s a formal process that’s already started. There are a lot of great candidates and we’ll see how rapidly it progresses.”

WATCH:

Powell, whose term has been marked by sharp interest rate hikes and controversial monetary policies, has faced criticism from conservatives for failing to move quickly enough to stabilize markets and protect American consumers. Trump has long signaled his dissatisfaction, and this latest development makes it clear a change is coming.

Bessent made it clear that the ultimate decision rests with President Trump, noting, “It’s President Trump’s decision and it will move at his speed.” This means the timeline remains flexible, but the message is clear: Trump wants a Federal Reserve that aligns with his economic vision, focused on growth, strong employment, and an America First strategy for monetary policy.

Speculation is already building over who might take the reins at the Fed, with names of prominent economists and financial leaders circulating. Supporters argue that new leadership is essential for restoring confidence in the economy and ensuring stability for American families and businesses.

As the process moves forward, markets and policymakers alike are watching closely. A new Fed chair could mark a significant turning point for interest rates, inflation strategy, and the future of U.S. economic policy under Trump.

Pence Demands Transparency: ‘Release Epstein Files’

Keely Compson
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Pence Demands Transparency: ‘Release Epstein Files’
  • Mike Pence calls for full release of Epstein files, demanding transparency from the administration.
  • “Anyone who participated or was associated with this despicable man ought to be held up to public scrutiny,” Pence says.
  • Pressure mounts on the DOJ as skepticism grows over secrecy and lack of accountability in the Epstein case.

Former Vice President Mike Pence is joining the growing chorus calling for full transparency on the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Pence didn’t mince words when he addressed the issue, making it clear that the time for secrecy is over.

“The time has come for the administration to release all of the [Epstein] files,” Pence stated, adding that accountability should be non-negotiable. “Anyone who participated or was associated with this despicable man ought to be held up to public scrutiny.”

Pence’s comments come amid mounting frustration from Americans demanding answers about Epstein’s powerful network and the circumstances surrounding his death in 2019. The Department of Justice recently reiterated its position that Epstein committed suicide and that no so-called “client list” exists. But with public skepticism at an all-time high and new questions emerging about the investigation, those assurances aren’t calming concerns.

Calls for disclosure have intensified after Attorney General Pam Bondi’s previous statement that a client list was “on [her] desk,” a claim now contradicted by the DOJ’s latest memo. Pence’s strong words add pressure on the Trump administration to deliver the transparency voters are demanding.

For many Americans, this is about more than one man. It’s about restoring trust in government, holding the powerful accountable, and proving that no one — no matter their wealth or influence — is above the law. Whether these files see the light of day could define how serious Washington really is about justice.

Massive Win: $90B Investments Coming to Pennsylvania, Jobs to Follow

Keely Compson
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Massive Win: $90B Investments Coming to Pennsylvania, Jobs to Follow
  • Senator Dave McCormick and President Trump announced $90 billion in new investments for Pennsylvania.
  • The plan is expected to create tens of thousands of jobs in manufacturing, energy, and technology.
  • Supporters hail it as a major economic victory and a model for “America First” growth.

Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) dropped major news this week, revealing that Pennsylvania is set to see one of the largest economic investments in its history. McCormick announced that he and President Trump are preparing to roll out $90 billion in new investments for the Keystone State, a move expected to create tens of thousands of jobs.

“What a victory this is,” McCormick declared during the announcement, signaling a strong push for economic revitalization and job growth. Details are expected to include a combination of infrastructure projects, energy development, manufacturing expansion, and technology investments — all aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy and boosting American-made production.

This announcement comes at a time when many states are struggling to attract large-scale private sector projects, but Trump and McCormick are positioning Pennsylvania as a hub for growth. Supporters say this plan will restore good-paying jobs, revive communities, and deliver long-term benefits for working families.

Critics, however, will likely question how funds are allocated and whether all promised jobs materialize. Still, the figure alone — $90 billion — is enough to make headlines across the country and reinforce Trump’s message of economic strength and “America First” policies.

For Pennsylvania workers, the stakes are high, and the opportunity is massive. If delivered as promised, this plan could reshape the state’s economy and serve as a model for revitalizing American industry nationwide.

Bondi Faces Heat as Lara Trump Promises More Details on Epstein Scandal

Keely Compson
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Bondi Faces Heat as Lara Trump Promises More Details on Epstein Scandal

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President Donald J. Trump and former RNC co-chair, assured Americans this week that more information on Jeffrey Epstein is coming and that the President is closely monitoring the situation.

Speaking with podcaster Benny Johnson on Monday, Lara Trump addressed mounting frustration over the lack of transparency from the Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi. “He knows people are upset. And I do believe we’ll be seeing more soon,” she said, adding that President Trump shares those concerns.

“There needs to be more transparency. I think that will happen. I know this is important to the President. He is frustrated,” Lara continued. “He is going to want to set things right. I believe there will be more coming, and anything they are able to release, they will try to get out. They hear it and understand it.”

Lara dismissed claims of an intentional cover-up, saying, “To anyone worked up out there, there is no plot to keep this information away. I’m sure we will know down the line.”

Her comments come as public outrage intensifies after the DOJ released what many call questionable jail footage and a memo concluding that Epstein committed suicide and kept no “client list.” This contradicts Bondi’s earlier claim that a list was “on [her] desk” just months ago.

The pressure is on for full disclosure, and Lara Trump made one thing clear: the President wants the truth out and is listening to the American people.

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