Author: Lisa Winer

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s plan to place 2,200 employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on administrative leave. Judge Carl Nichols of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, appointed by President Donald Trump in 2019, issued the ruling late Friday night. The administrative leave was set to take effect at midnight, but Nichols’ order reinstated 500 employees already placed on leave and paused further orders, including the expedited evacuation of USAID personnel stationed abroad. Nichols’ ruling will remain in effect until February 14, with a hearing scheduled for February 12.…

Phoenix, Arizona, is one of the most popular cities in the United States, known for its desert landscapes, warm weather, and cultural heritage. But one question that often arises is, “What is the altitude of Phoenix, Arizona?” The city’s elevation plays a crucial role in its climate, lifestyle, and travel experiences. Understanding Phoenix’s altitude gives insight into how it compares to other regions and how factors like weather patterns and outdoor activities are influenced. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide, covering everything from Phoenix’s elevation statistics to its implications on daily life and travel. What is the Altitude…

President Donald Trump has launched a campaign against the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), describing it as a “tremendous fraud,” even as members of his own family have praised the agency for its work in global development. This stark shift has drawn criticism from advocates, former officials, and the international community, with many questioning the political motives behind Trump’s actions. Melania Trump, during her tenure as First Lady, publicly lauded USAID during her 2018 solo tour of Africa. At each stop, she emphasized the importance of the agency’s initiatives aimed at improving education, health, and economic opportunities. In Malawi,…

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…