Author: Lisa Winer

A Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is at the center of a national controversy after resigning over racist social media posts. The Trump administration, along with Musk, is advocating for Marko Elez’s reinstatement, sparking a fierce debate on ethics, accountability, and second chances in public office. Elez, who previously worked for Musk’s companies SpaceX and X, stepped down on Thursday following a Wall Street Journal report that exposed racist posts he had made online. Among the posts cited were statements such as “Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool,”…

Arizona is home to various types of termites that can cause extensive damage to homes and properties. These pests thrive in the state’s dry, desert climate, and early identification is crucial to prevent severe infestations. Understanding what termites look like in Arizona can help homeowners recognize the warning signs before significant structural damage occurs. Termites in the region vary in size, color, and behavior depending on the species, making proper identification essential for effective pest control. This guide provides detailed information on termite appearance, common species, and prevention strategies. What Do Termites Look Like in Arizona? Termites in Arizona are…

In the small village of Hopkins Park, located 75 miles south of Chicago, Mayor Mark Hodge is leading a remarkable transformation, bringing new hope to the community where he was born and raised. His leadership has become a beacon of progress as the village works to overcome longstanding challenges. Hodge’s connection to Hopkins Park runs deep. He spent his early years in the village, attending Lorenzo Smith Elementary School, named after the first superintendent, Lorenzo R. Smith. Today, the school’s halls are filled with children who know their mayor personally. For many of these young residents, Hodge is the only…

President Donald Trump has initiated efforts to remove Ellen Weintraub, the chairwoman of the Federal Election Commission (FEC), in a move that has stirred controversy and sparked a legal standoff. Weintraub, a Democrat, has rejected the president’s order and remains adamant that her dismissal is both unlawful and procedurally invalid. On January 31, Trump sent a letter to Weintraub, notifying her of her immediate removal from the FEC. The letter, which Weintraub publicly shared, stated that she was “removed effective immediately.” Weintraub, who has been with the commission since her appointment by President George W. Bush in 2002, has since…

Tensions are escalating in Congress as Republicans struggle to find common ground to push forward President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda. With both chambers under GOP control, lawmakers are racing to fulfill campaign promises on immigration, tax cuts, defense spending, and energy policy before time runs out. The pressure to deliver is palpable. Trump has summoned Republican senators to a private dinner at Mar-a-Lago on Friday, a day after House Republicans huddled at the White House for a marathon meeting. On Sunday, House Speaker Mike Johnson will accompany the president to the Super Bowl, signaling an effort to maintain unity within…

Ronald Wilson Reagan, born on February 6, 1911, in Tampico, Illinois, continues to be a towering figure in American political life, with his legacy shaping modern conservatism and influencing political discourse nearly 40 years after his presidency. Historians and political analysts reflect on Reagan’s contributions as the nation marks the 114th anniversary of his birth. Reagan’s two-term presidency, from 1981 to 1989, is often credited with revitalizing American confidence and redefining the Republican Party. He remains a revered figure for many, particularly for his role in stimulating economic growth, confronting the Soviet Union, and promoting limited government. Chester Pach, a…

A proposed law in Maryland could soon offer residents the option to disclose “nonapparent disabilities” on their driver’s licenses and identification cards. Known as “Eric’s ID Law” (House Bill 707), the bill would require the state’s Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to provide a special symbol on state-issued IDs to signal such conditions discreetly. The goal is to improve communication during interactions with law enforcement and prevent misunderstandings that could escalate into dangerous situations. The idea came from the Carpenter-Grantham family, who publicly advocated for the initiative on an episode of ABC’s “The View” in 2020. The proposal followed nationwide protests…

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has authorized Texas National Guard soldiers at the state’s southern border to arrest individuals who enter the U.S. without authorization, under a new agreement with the Trump administration. The move is part of Abbott’s broader strategy to strengthen border security and aligns with the administration’s hardline immigration policies. The memorandum of understanding was signed by Abbott and Pete Flores, acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It grants Guard troops the authority to perform certain federal immigration enforcement duties under CBP supervision. The financial burden for this new policy will be borne by Texas.…

Arizona has some of the strictest drug laws in the United States, and getting caught with a wax pen can lead to serious legal repercussions. While recreational marijuana has been legalized in the state, there are still rules and limitations regarding the possession of marijuana concentrates, including those found in wax pens. Understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid legal trouble. This article will explore what happens if you get caught with a wax pen in Arizona, including potential charges, penalties, and how the law distinguishes between different types of marijuana-related offenses. For those unfamiliar with legal terms, wax pens…

Citrus trees thrive in Arizona’s warm, sunny climate, producing delicious fruit year-round. However, successful cultivation requires proper fertilization to maintain healthy growth and high fruit yields. One of the most common questions among citrus growers is When to fertilize citrus trees in Arizona? Understanding Arizona’s climate and soil conditions is essential to optimize fertilization schedules. The state’s desert climate, with its long, hot summers and mild winters, presents unique challenges for maintaining soil nutrients. Without regular fertilization, citrus trees may suffer from nutrient deficiencies, leading to reduced growth and poor fruit quality. In this article, we will explore when and…