politics 10 - The Latremie Post

Three Anti-ICE Influencers Indicted After Stalking, Doxing Agent in Los Angeles [WATCH]

A federal grand jury has indicted three women accused of following an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent to his home and posting his address on Instagram. The Justice Department announced Friday that Cynthia Raygoza, 37, Ashleigh Brown, 38, and Sandra Carmona Samane, 25, were charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of publicly disclosing the personal information of a federal agent.

According to investigators, the incident occurred on August 28 after the women encountered the agent at the Civic Center in Downtown Los Angeles. Prosecutors said they began livestreaming on Instagram accounts including ice_out_of_la, defendmesoamericanculture, and corn_maiden_design. As the agent drove home, the women allegedly followed him in a black sedan driven by Raygoza.

When he arrived at his residence, the women began shouting to neighbors and livestream viewers, identifying him as an ICE officer. “Your neighbor is ICE,” one of them said. Others shouted, “La migra lives here,” and “ICE lives on your street and you should know.” They concluded by announcing the agent’s address and encouraging viewers to come on down. The footage was later deleted from the Instagram accounts.

Brown and Samane were arrested earlier on federal complaints. Brown is being held without bond, in part because she faces a separate charge for assault on a federal officer. Samane was released on a $5,000 bond. Raygoza remains at large.

Acting U.S. Attorney for Southern California Bill Essayli condemned the incident. “Our brave federal agents put their lives on the line every day to keep our nation safe,” he said. “The conduct of these defendants is deeply offensive to law enforcement officers and their families. If you threaten, dox, or harm in any manner one of our agents or employees, you will face prosecution and prison time.”

The indictment follows a string of recent attacks against ICE. Just days earlier, a gunman killed one and critically injured two others at an immigration facility in Dallas, Texas. Anti-ICE activists also disrupted court proceedings in Los Angeles when the charges were first announced.

The arrests come as California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new law banning law enforcement officers from wearing masks while on duty. The measure, introduced in response to ICE officers wearing face coverings during Los Angeles immigration raids, is the first of its kind in the nation.

Law enforcement groups have strongly opposed the ban, saying it exposes federal agents to retaliation. Tricia McLaughlin, Homeland Security’s assistant secretary for public affairs, called the law “despicable” and a “flagrant attempt to endanger our officers.” She added that Newsom’s rhetoric had contributed to a 1,000 percent increase in attacks on federal agents and accused him of acting as a sanctuary politician who placed officers at risk of being doxxed and targeted by known and suspected terrorist sympathizers.

Essayli also criticized the measure, stating on X that California has no authority to regulate federal law enforcement. “If Newsom wants to regulate our agents, he must go through Congress,” he wrote.

The California State Sheriffs Association, the Peace Officers Research Association of California, and the California Police Chiefs Association have all voiced opposition, calling the law reckless and dangerous. They argue that protecting the identities of agents is critical for their safety and that of their families, especially in light of increased harassment both online and in public.

President Donald Trump also weighed in, urging Democrats to stop what he described as inflammatory rhetoric against ICE. “The Brave Men and Women of ICE are just trying to do their jobs, and remove the WORST of the WORST Criminals out of our Country, but they are facing an unprecedented increase in threats, violence, and attacks by Deranged Radical Leftists,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“This violence is the result of the Radical Left Democrats constantly demonizing Law Enforcement, calling for ICE to be demolished, and comparing ICE Officers to Nazis,” he continued. “I AM CALLING ON ALL DEMOCRATS TO STOP THIS RHETORIC AGAINST ICE AND AMERICA’S LAW ENFORCEMENT, RIGHT NOW!”

Trump reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to its pledge to secure the nation’s borders and support law enforcement officers carrying out that mission.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/three-anti-ice-influencers-indicted-after-stalking-doxing-agent-in-los-angeles-watch/

Trump’s Latest ‘Epstein Distraction’?: Prez Orders Release of Amelia Earhart Files… as He Ignores Public’s Pleas to Reveal Info on Sex Offender

**President Donald Trump Orders Declassification of All Government Records Related to Amelia Earhart**

*Published: September 27, 2025, 12:45 p.m. ET*

President Donald Trump has announced that his administration will declassify and release all government records connected to Amelia Earhart, the legendary aviation pioneer who vanished during her world flight attempt in 1937, RadarOnline.com reports.

On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote,
*”I am ordering my Administration to declassify and release all Government Records related to Amelia Earhart, her final trip, and everything else about her. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”*

**Background on Amelia Earhart’s Disappearance**

Amelia Earhart disappeared along with her navigator, Fred Noonan, on July 2, 1937, while flying her Lockheed 10-E Electra across the South Pacific. It is widely believed that their aircraft ran out of fuel near Howland Island; however, the exact circumstances of her disappearance have remained a mystery and the subject of speculation for decades.

Trump added,
*”I have been asked by many people about the life and times of Amelia Earhart, such an interesting story, and would I consider declassifying and releasing everything about her, in particular, her last, fatal flight!”*

**Honoring an Aviation Pioneer**

Trump praised Earhart as *“an Aviation Pioneer, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, and achieved many other Aviation ‘firsts.’”* At the time of her disappearance, Earhart was 39 years old and was attempting to become the first woman to fly around the world.

He continued,
*”Amelia made it almost three-quarters around the World before she suddenly, and without notice, vanished, never to be seen again. Her disappearance, almost 90 years ago, has captivated millions.”*

**The Search and Theories Surrounding Her Fate**

Earhart’s disappearance triggered an unprecedented search effort by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, costing the equivalent of $88 million in today’s dollars. Despite the massive operation, no trace of Earhart or her plane was found. She was declared legally dead in 1939, 18 months after her last flight.

Over the years, many theories have emerged about her fate:
– Some suggest Earhart landed safely but was captured by Japanese forces.
– Others believe she and Noonan survived a crash but later died stranded on a remote island.
– Another theory posits that she was on a secret spy mission, with her plane equipped with cameras to monitor Japanese military buildup in the South Pacific.

**Legacy and Continued Interest**

Decades later, Amelia Earhart’s story continues to inspire and fascinate. In 2024, deep-sea explorers revealed sonar images of what appeared to be an aircraft near her last known location. However, the object was ultimately identified as a rock.

The Trump administration has a precedent for declassifying significant historical documents, having previously released large sets of files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.

With this new announcement, many hope that the mystery surrounding Amelia Earhart’s final flight may finally come closer to being solved.
https://radaronline.com/p/donald-trump-epstein-distraction-amelia-earhart-files-publics-pleas/

Sarkozy jailing reignites debate over French political justice ahead of Le Pen appeal

Former president Nicolas Sarkozy’s prison sentence has deepened divisions in France over the judiciary’s handling of political wrongdoing, just months before far-right leader Marine Le Pen attempts to overturn her own embezzlement conviction and run for the country’s top office.

A court in Paris shocked the political landscape on Thursday by handing Mr. Sarkozy a five-year prison sentence for criminal conspiracy related to efforts to raise campaign funds from Libya. Should the sentence be enforced, he will become France’s first post-war president to be imprisoned.

Ludovic Friat, president of the USM—the largest union representing French prosecutors and judges—said the ruling demonstrated that no one is above the law, even if some question the court’s motivation. “There will clearly be a before and after this decision,” he said. “In high-profile political-financial trials, some inevitably see judges stepping onto the political stage. What I regret is that too often, this becomes a smokescreen that diverts attention from the offences actually committed.”

### Judges Cracking Down on Political Wrongdoing

As Mr. Sarkozy left the court, he reiterated his innocence and warned that the ruling could undermine public trust in the judiciary. “What happened today is of extreme gravity in regard to the rule of law, and for the trust one can have in the justice system,” he said.

His prison sentence is enforceable immediately. The former president was given a short period to arrange his affairs but is not allowed to avoid imprisonment while awaiting appeal—a contrast to how some French politicians have handled similar situations in the past.

Appeals in such cases can take years, often fueling a perception of impunity among the powerful. As a result, judges are increasingly issuing “provisional execution” sentences that begin immediately, according to lawyers and politicians who spoke to Reuters.

“For several decades, there has been a growing democratic demand for integrity among elected officials,” said Judith Allenbach, president of another judicial union. She added that 89 percent of jail terms over two years are enforced before any appeals process and highlighted that judges are implementing laws passed by parliament mandating tougher penalties for political crimes.

Reflecting the mounting tensions, the Paris prosecutor’s office announced on Saturday that it had launched investigations into threats directed at the lead judge in Mr. Sarkozy’s case. The judge who presided over Ms. Le Pen’s conviction earlier this year has also received threats and has been placed under police protection.

### What Does This Mean for Marine Le Pen?

Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally (RN), was convicted of embezzling EU funds in March. She received a five-year political ban that currently bars her from running in the 2027 presidential election. Like Mr. Sarkozy, she was given a provisional execution of the sentence.

Le Pen’s appeal is scheduled for January and will determine whether she remains eligible to run in 2027. She criticized Mr. Sarkozy’s conviction, stating that the increasing use of provisional execution by certain courts “represents a great danger.”

Judicial sources have emphasized that the cases of Le Pen and Sarkozy are distinct, and it is impossible to predict how one ruling might affect the other.

Mr. Friat affirmed that the Sarkozy ruling shows judges remain steadfast in their fight against political corruption. “I can understand her concern,” he said regarding Ms. Le Pen’s stance, while noting that the outcome of her appeals process remains uncertain.

Le Pen’s supporters argue that right-wing politicians face harsher judicial treatment. They point to the case of former centrist prime minister François Bayrou, who was acquitted last year of fraud allegations related to EU fund misuse.

Le Pen’s legal struggles have also drawn international attention. Former US President Donald Trump called her a victim of “lawfare” and sent a diplomatic delegation to offer support.

### Calls for Judicial Reform and Debate

Brigitte Bareges, a right-wing former mayor who was convicted of embezzlement in 2021 and given a provisional political ban (later acquitted on appeal), criticized the justice system. “What we see today is that the justice system, or at least a part of it, has become the weapon of those in power,” she said. “Once, I had faith in justice; today, I’m afraid.”

The justice ministry has not responded to requests for comment on Bareges’ remarks.

Following Sarkozy’s conviction, conservative Senate chief Gérard Larcher acknowledged growing societal debate over the provisional execution of convictions before appeals are exhausted. “I share this concern,” he said.

However, left-wing lawmakers applauded the verdict. Manuel Bompard of the France Unbowed party stressed, “The requirement to be honest and respect the law is not reserved for the public. It also applies to those in power.”

Amid mounting calls to repeal the provisional execution measure, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu told *Le Parisien* on Friday that “if a law gives rise to debate, it is up to parliament to address it.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/update-1-sarkozy-jailing-reignites-debate-over-french-political-justice-ahead-of-le-pen-appeal-1811902.html

US companies will now hire remote workers: Economist’s take on H-1B visa fee hike triggers debate

Economist Warns US Companies May Shift to Outsourcing Instead of Using H-1B Program

Economist Peter Schiff has stirred controversy regarding the H-1B visa program by expressing his opinion that the recent hike in visa fees may not deter tech companies from hiring foreign talent. Instead, he warns that companies might opt to hire foreigners for remote roles, where employees work outside of the United States.

If this shift occurs, the intended goal of preserving American jobs may not be achieved. Several social media users joined the debate, sharing mixed opinions. Many expressed that they are comfortable with companies hiring remote workers abroad, as long as migrants are not crowding the US job market.

“One of the unintended consequences of Trump’s $100,000 fee on H-1B visas is that companies will outsource the work outside of the U.S. Remote workers won’t pay U.S. income taxes or spend their earnings in ways that benefit local landlords or other U.S. businesses and their workers,” Schiff posted on X.

The conversation continued with users weighing in on the implications:

– “I don’t think MAGA racists would have any problem with the jobs being outsourced to India. They don’t really care about the jobs they know they lack the skills to get. Their problem is they don’t want non-white immigrants,” one user commented.

– “We are fine with that. Let them stay remote in other countries. It is low-level work most of the time. We prefer that they don’t come here and they don’t bring all of their H-4 visa family members also,” another said.

– “They could have offshored the work before H-1B, but they chose the pricier alternative of having them brought in. Most likely they’ll pay to keep the best ones, jettison the rest, and replace them with domestic workers,” added a third user.

Many argue that offshoring is already a viable option for companies and nothing has prevented them from doing so previously. Still, companies have chosen to hire H-1B workers and bring them to the U.S. Now, with increased visa costs, the dynamics may change.

This raises an important question: Who will be hurt by the $100,000 visa fee? Will it harm foreign countries, or will it negatively impact the U.S. economy?

Economists have already issued warnings that a decline in immigrant workers due to the increased visa fee could hurt the U.S. economy. H-1B visa holders contribute significantly by spending and investing their salaries within the U.S., which in turn boosts consumer demand and creates new jobs.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how companies will adapt their hiring strategies and what long-term effects the visa fee hike will have on the American workforce and economy.

—

Follow Us On Social Media for more updates.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/us-companies-will-now-hire-remote-workers-economists-take-on-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-triggers-debate/articleshow/124186565.cms

Meet Lisa Monaco, Microsoft executive Trump wants to see fired

**Meet Lisa Monaco, Microsoft Executive Trump Wants Fired**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 27, 2025, 11:36 AM*

US President Donald Trump has publicly called on Microsoft to terminate Lisa Monaco, the company’s head of global affairs. Trump labeled Monaco a “menace” to national security and linked his demand for her dismissal to ongoing legal cases against him.

Lisa Monaco was appointed as Microsoft’s head of global affairs in June 2025. Prior to joining Microsoft, she served in prominent roles within the Barack Obama and Joe Biden administrations, including as Deputy Attorney General under Biden and national security advisor under Obama. Notably, Monaco played a key role in coordinating the Justice Department’s response to the January 6 Capitol attack.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Monaco as “corrupt and totally Trump deranged.” He argued that her previous government roles pose a risk to national security, particularly given Microsoft’s extensive contracts with the US government. Trump also alleged that because of her past actions, Monaco was stripped of all security clearances and lost access to classified national security intelligence.

This demand fits a pattern of Trump targeting individuals and institutions he perceives as political adversaries since his return to office in January 2025. Previously, he pressured Intel’s CEO to resign and sought to influence Disney’s ABC regarding programming content.

Meanwhile, Microsoft faces increasing scrutiny over its contracts with various US government agencies. The company has also come under fire for limiting access to certain cloud services to a unit of the Israeli military after reviews into alleged surveillance practices.

Despite the controversy, Monaco’s LinkedIn profile confirms her current role at Microsoft. It remains unclear how the company or Monaco herself will respond to Trump’s call for her firing.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently attended a White House dinner with President Trump and other tech industry leaders, highlighting ongoing engagement between the tech giant and the US administration amid the unfolding situation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-demands-microsoft-fire-global-affairs-head/story

Sonam Wangchuk detained under NSA, shifted to Jodhpur: Ladakh administration

**Sonam Wangchuk Detained Under NSA, Shifted to Jodhpur: Ladakh Administration**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 27, 2025, 10:14 AM*

The Ladakh administration has detained climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) and shifted him to Jodhpur. This decision followed his alleged provocative speeches linked to recent violence in Leh, which left four people dead and many injured. Authorities stated that Wangchuk’s actions were prejudicial to state security and public order.

### Protest Escalation Sparks Unrest

The unrest erupted on the 15th day of Wangchuk’s hunger strike, which was aimed at demanding early talks between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ladakh representatives. The administration claims that his speeches incited violent protests on September 24, including attacks on police personnel.

Despite the government’s claims of ongoing dialogues with the Apex Body Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, Wangchuk reportedly continued his fast. According to the MHA, his actions contributed to escalating tensions in the region.

### Administrative Actions Taken

Following Wangchuk’s arrest, the Ministry of Home Affairs canceled the registration of his non-profit organization, the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh, under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010. Additionally, the government suspended internet services in Leh to curb the spread of misinformation and maintain public order.

### Political Backlash and Current Situation

The detention has drawn criticism from several political leaders. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the arrest as “unfortunate” and criticized the central government’s handling of the situation.

Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir also condemned the arrest, emphasizing that Wangchuk never encouraged violence and accusing the BJP government of failing to properly address Ladakh’s issues.

Sonam Wangchuk himself stated he would be “happy to be arrested anytime for this cause,” noting that his imprisonment would highlight important concerns about governance in India.

The situation in Leh and Kargil remains tense, with a curfew imposed in Leh town and restrictions on large gatherings in Kargil to prevent further unrest.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/sonam-wangchuk-detained-under-nsa-shifted-to-jodhpur-ladakh-administration/story

‘NDA Will Win With Over Two-Thirds Majority In Bihar Polls,’ Says BJP State President Dilip Jaiswal

Patna: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Dilip Jaiswal on Friday expressed confidence that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will secure a government with more than a two-thirds majority in the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly elections.

While talking to the media, BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal said, “In the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, we will form a government with more than two-thirds majority.”

He added that a meeting was held with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding preparations for the elections, where detailed discussions took place on how to contest the polls effectively.

“A meeting was held regarding preparations for the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections. Discussions were held in great detail on how to contest the elections,” Jaiswal said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is currently on a two-day visit to Bihar from September 26-27. During the visit, he attended a high-level strategy meeting at the BJP state office in Patna. The meeting included Bihar BJP leaders, state secretaries, and organisational members from other states assigned to oversee the election campaign.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, recently appointed BJP election in-charge for Bihar, was also present, a party source told ANI.

Earlier, on the occasion of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s 109th birth anniversary, Jaiswal paid tribute to the Bharatiya Jana Sangh leader and ideological guide of the BJP.

Speaking to reporters, Dilip Jaiswal said, “Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya had said one sentence which the BJP has incorporated into its ideology to this day. He had said that it is the responsibility of responsible people in society to connect those at the bottom of society with the mainstream. The BJP is working on this very ideology.”

In Delhi, Minister Parvesh Verma also paid floral tributes to Upadhyaya. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Today is the birth anniversary of BJP’s inspiration, Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya. On that occasion, on the call of PM Narendra Modi, all party workers are participating in the Swachhata Abhiyaan throughout the country. I have come here with the party workers to CP’s Hanuman Temple and am undertaking a cleanliness drive in the temple premises.”

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (1916-1968) was a prominent political thinker, economist, and organiser who played a key role in shaping the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the BJP. Serving as its leader from 1953 to 1968, he became its president in December 1967.

He pioneered publications such as the monthly magazine *Rashtra Dharma*, the weekly *Panchajanya*, and the daily *Swadesh*. Known for his philosophy of Integral Humanism (Ekatma Manav Darshan), Upadhyaya emphasised social justice, self-reliance, and the upliftment of the most marginalised individuals in society.

His 109th birth anniversary served as an occasion for BJP leaders across the nation to honour his legacy and reaffirm their dedication to his ideals.

*(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/nda-will-win-with-over-two-thirds-majority-in-bihar-polls-says-bjp-state-president-dilip-jaiswal

Annette Gozon-Valdes Defends Shuvee Etrata Amid Backlash Over Resurfaced Video

GMA Network senior vice president for programming, talent management, worldwide, and support group Annette Gozon-Valdes has come to the defense of actress and former *Pinoy Big Brother* alum Shuvee Etrata. Etrata recently faced heavy criticism online after an old video resurfaced showing her expressing sympathy toward former president Rodrigo Duterte.

The video clip, taken from a TikTok live last March, features Etrata telling her viewers:
“Naiiyak talaga ako kay [PRRD]. Kasi sa lugar namin, ang laki ng naitulong ni PRRD, especially when it comes to drugs. Ewan ko lang sa inyo, pero nagpapasalamat talaga ako kay Duterte.”

Following the circulation of the clip, many netizens expressed disagreement and criticism toward Etrata’s statements.

In response, Gozon-Valdes took to Facebook on Friday to clarify the situation and defend Etrata. She emphasized that the actress has been unfairly attacked on social media and expressed her readiness to offer support—not only to Etrata but to any artist or friend facing unwarranted public backlash.

“Please allow me to clarify an article going around. I am ready to offer my support to Shuvee, any of our artists, or any of my friends when they are wrongfully and unfairly attacked,” Gozon-Valdes wrote.

The Kapuso executive further underscored that Etrata is not a die-hard supporter of any politician. Instead, she described Etrata’s remarks as personal observations based on her own experiences.

“Shuvee is not die-hard for any politician. She has had very, very few (and short) posts that have political color in the past. She gave her personal observation and opinions on what she believed to be good acts and bad acts done by the [government],” Gozon-Valdes explained.

She added that if Etrata personally witnessed positive changes in her community—such as the reduction of drug-related issues—then her views should be respected. Likewise, her stance against the ABS-CBN shutdown deserves acknowledgment.

Gozon-Valdes’ statement sheds light on the ongoing tensions between public figures, political discourse, and the unforgiving nature of social media—where resurfaced posts and comments frequently ignite polarizing debates.
https://starmometer.com/annette-gozon-valdes-defends-shuvee-etrata-amid-backlash-over-resurfaced-video/

How Much Did Sonam Wangchuk Win On Kaun Banega Crorepati 9 & What Did He Do With The Money?

Ladakh statehood activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has recently been arrested on charges of inciting a mob through provocative statements, once made headlines for a very different reason.

Back in 2017, the engineer-turned-education reformer appeared on the popular quiz show *Kaun Banega Crorepati* Season 9, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan. Wangchuk reportedly earned Rs 50 lakh from the show and impressed viewers with his game.

Instead of keeping the prize money for himself, Wangchuk donated the entire amount to his school in Ladakh, which is run under the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL). He announced that the winnings would be used for the upkeep and development of the institution. Additionally, Wangchuk planned to invest the prize money in establishing the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives (HIAL) — a university envisioned to provide hands-on and practical training to the youth.

During the show, Wangchuk was accompanied by his former student, Tsewang Rigzin, who is now a journalist. A documentary on his school was also screened, showcasing girl students playing ice hockey on a rink within the campus.

Wangchuk charmed the audience with his confident responses and entertained host Amitabh Bachchan by delivering the actor’s famous film dialogues in French, Punjabi, and Ladakhi. He even recited verses from Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s poetry. Notably, Wangchuk inspired the character played by Aamir Khan in Rajkumar Hirani’s hit film *3 Idiots*.

### Sonam Wangchuk’s Arrest

However, the celebrated activist now finds himself at the centre of controversy. Sonam Wangchuk has been arrested under the stringent National Security Act (NSA), which allows preventive detention without bail.

Authorities allege that Wangchuk incited violence during ongoing protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Following his arrest, he was shifted to Jodhpur. Meanwhile, internet services in Leh were suspended to curb the spread of misinformation.

Wangchuk’s NGO, SECMOL, has also come under scrutiny. The Ministry of Home Affairs cancelled its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration a day before his arrest, blocking it from receiving foreign funding.

The situation continues to develop, raising concerns among supporters and human rights advocates about freedom of expression and the future of activism in the region.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/how-much-did-sonam-wangchuk-win-on-kaun-banega-crorepati-9-what-did-he-do-with-the-money

FBI fires agents photographed kneeling during 2020 racial justice protest, sources say

WASHINGTON — The FBI has fired agents who were photographed kneeling during a racial justice protest in Washington following the 2020 death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers, three people familiar with the matter said Friday.

The bureau had reassigned the agents last spring but has since terminated their employment, according to the sources who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press due to the sensitive nature of personnel matters. While the exact number of employees fired remains unclear, two sources estimated it to be roughly 20.

The photographs in question showed a group of FBI agents taking a knee in apparent solidarity during one of the demonstrations sparked by Floyd’s May 2020 killing. The death led to a national reckoning over policing and racial injustice, igniting widespread anger after millions of people viewed the arrest on video.

An FBI spokesman declined to comment on the firings Friday.

These terminations come amid a broader personnel purge at the bureau as Director Kash Patel seeks to reshape the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. Last month, five agents and top-level executives were summarily fired in a wave of ousters that current and former officials say has contributed to declining morale within the bureau.

Among those dismissed was Steve Jensen, who helped oversee investigations into the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Another, Brian Driscoll, served as acting FBI director during the early days of the Trump administration and resisted demands from the Justice Department to provide the names of agents involved in the January 6 investigations.

Chris Meyer, also fired, was the subject of incorrect social media rumors alleging his involvement in the investigation into former President Donald Trump’s retention of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Walter Giardina, another ousted agent, participated in high-profile probes including the investigation into Trump adviser Peter Navarro.

A lawsuit filed by Jensen, Driscoll, and another fired FBI supervisor, Spencer Evans, alleged that Patel acknowledged the likely illegality of firing agents based on the cases they worked but felt powerless to intervene because the White House and Justice Department were determined to remove all agents who investigated Trump.

At a congressional hearing last week, Patel denied receiving orders from the White House regarding personnel decisions and stated that anyone who has been fired simply failed to meet the FBI’s standards.
https://abc7.com/post/fbi-fires-agents-photographed-kneeling-during-2020-racial-justice-protest-following-death-george-floyd-sources-say/17889760/