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the world is on fire

[politiyikes]

welcomeee 🌻

thanks for checking out my blog! i do my best to keep you guys updated on what's happening with the political shit show. right now, because of the absolute shit storm that is the U.S., that will be my primary focus, but i will still update on global issues as i can. this blog is affiliated with neither side. i only report on factual evidence. quit throwing temper tantrums in my comments.

i am a full-time student, part-time worker, and dog mom. i keep up with this blog in any spare time i can find. my goal is to post twice a day, but realistically, i'm happy if i can get out a daily update. if i miss a day, please be understanding, as i do have a lot going on in my personal life, but do still want to make you guys a priority.

see you soon!

xx lucy 🌻

[radicalgraff]

"Love and Protect your Neighbors Don't Trust the Feds"

Seen in South Minneapolis, January 2026

[politiyikes]

4 Feb 2026

Don Lemon said he had offered to turn himself in before he was arrested by federal agents. He was instead detained in what he describes as an attempt to “embarrass” and intimidate him. Lemon faces federal civil rights charges linked to his coverage of protesters who disrupted a Minnesota church service. - Jimmy Kimmel Live

The president has said the fatal Minneapolis shootings by federal immigration agents have led him to consider a “softer touch” on immigration enforcement while holding a rigid stance, as he mandated the departure of hundreds of agents from Minnesota amid backlash and conflicts with state and city leaders. When asked if he planned to apologize to Alex Pretti's family, JD Vance responded, “For what?”

Elizabeth Caisaguano, a 10-year-old Minnesota girl, and her mother were freed after a month in an ICE family detention center in Texas, amid backlash over the administration’s immigration crackdown, health crises at the facility, and disputes over why the family—seeking asylum—was detained despite a parent ready to take custody.

A federal judge assembled a show-cause hearing after determining his habeas orders were continuously disregarded in numerous cases, leaving immigrant detainees unconstitutionally detained for days; under pressure to explain the noncompliance, a DOJ attorney - Julie Le - told the court that the system and the job “suck,” said government lawyers cannot keep up with the magnitude of orders, and requested to be held in contempt to get 24 hours of sleep. She was removed from her temporary assignment to the Minnesota U.S. attorney’s office. In response, the DOJ instructed all U.S. attorney offices to construct rapid-response “jump teams” of prosecutors to shore up districts that are encountering protests and staff shortages. They aim to counter widespread resignations and progress administration priorities, including a renewed focus on antifa and other left-wing extremist groups. - Bloomberg

Court records have damaged DHS's claim that two Venezuelan immigrants shot by a CBP agent in Portland were “vicious” gang members. Prosecutors later acknowledged that there was no evidence linking the driver to the Tren de Aragua gang, with additional FBI filings revealing that the woman had been a victim, not a suspect, in a previous incident. - The Guardian

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A federal judge in Portland temporarily blocked ICE from utilizing teargas, pepper balls, or rubber bullets on protesters - unless facing imminent danger - after agents fired munitions into largely peaceful rallies (including children).

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Senator Thom Tillis said that even a presidential pardon for Fed Chair Jerome Powell would not lift his blockade of Powell's prospects at the Federal Reserve, pressing that only the DOJ's completion of its investigation into Powell’s Senate testimony will suffice. This stance is presently barring the president's nominee, Kevin Warsh, and Tillis says it is essential to safeguard the Fed’s independence.

Ed Martin has been dismissed as the lead of the DOJ's controversial “weaponization” group, a group developed under the president and Attorney General Pam Bondi to scrutinize prosecutors involved in past Trump-related cases. He will remain at the DOJ as pardon attorney.

Congressman Robert Garcia exposed federal agents bragging about shooting an American citizen over text messages.

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The president signed a $1.2 trillion spending bill to end a partial government shutdown after it passed the House. Still, Democrats warn they will bar future DHS budgets unless Congress sets limits on ICE’s enforcement tactics - including body cameras, unmasking agents, and warrant requirements - after fatal encounters in Minneapolis. This sets up a coming battle over immigration enforcement and accountability.

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced that the state will deploy qualified legal observers to monitor and document ICE enforcement activities for potential legal violations, noting unease about aggressive Trump-era immigration raids and warning that the observers’ findings could be used to challenge federal actions in court. The DHS has condemned this move as a sabotage of cooperation with ICE.

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French prosecutors raided the Paris offices of Twitter as part of a wide cybercrime investigation into alleged unlawful data extraction, algorithmic content problems, and possible complicity in child sexual abuse content and sexual deepfakes tied to its AI chatbot Grok. Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino have been summoned for hearings in April. The search has attracted international attention, as the UK regulator Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office have launched similar probes into Grok-generated deepfakes.

Trump is preparing to host Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House for talks on regional safety and counternarcotics, signaling a tentative thaw after Trump just threatened military action against Colombia and accused Petro of fueling U.S. cocaine flows. Trump claimed Petro’s tone softened after the U.S. operation targeting Nicolás Maduro. Petro has continued to publicly denounce Trump, condemning the U.S. approach to Gaza and calling Maduro’s capture a kidnapping.

U.S. forces shot down an Iranian Shahed-139 drone after it aggressively approached the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea despite U.S. de-escalation measures, with Central Command conveying that the drone had vague intent; Iran claimed the flight was a routine reconnaissance mission in international waters and said it later lost communication with the drone.

The U.S. and Iran will hold high-level nuclear discussions on Friday in Oman after moving the venue from Turkey. The U.S. administration - led by Donald Trump - consented to proceed despite suspicion about success and increasing strains over Iran’s protest crackdown, regional military incidents, and disagreements over the extent of negotiations.

The first boots on the ground have been deployed to Nigeria. The U.S. military has sent a small, undisclosed team to strengthen intelligence and counterterrorism cooperation following U.S. airstrikes mandated by the president amid increasing militant attacks and U.S. strain on Nigeria over Islamist violence. - Reuters

Ukraine and Russia commenced a second round of peace talks in Abu Dhabi. Outlooks remain unclear as Volodymyr Zelenskyy accuses Moscow of violating a U.S.-backed energy truce. Russia maintains maximalist territorial demands, and negotiations led by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are facing criticism for their inexperience.

A White House announcement made by the president celebrating the 19th-century Mexican–American War as a “legendary victory” ignited outrage in Mexico, where President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized it as insensitive to a painful history in which Mexico lost over half of its region and reiterated that her country must forever defend its sovereignty.

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The 2020 documentary Becoming, about former First Lady Michelle Obama, re-entered Netflix’s U.S. Top 10 after a joint social media push encouraged viewers to stream it as “counter-programming” the release of Melania, driving Becoming up to No. 6 with viral hashtags like #BecomingOverMelania. The revival emphasizes how online movements can impact streaming rankings, even as Melania opened strongly at the box office despite controversy over its unusually high production and marketing expenses.

Savannah Guthrie asked the public to pray for her 84-year-old mother’s safe return after Nancy Guthrie was reported missing from her home outside of Tucson, with authorities now treating the case as a potential abduction. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators believe she may have been taken overnight. They are examining home surveillance footage and have offered a reward for tips as they alert the FBI of the case. The president called Savannah Guthrie to offer support as authorities continue searching for her mother, committing federal resources while investigators follow leads around Tucson.

William Stevenson - the former husband of Jill Biden - was arrested in Delaware and charged with first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson. Police responded to a reported domestic dispute in late December and found her unresponsive. He is being held on $500,000 cash bail.

Ken Griffin, the billionaire CEO of hedge fund Citadel and a longtime Republican donor, sharply criticized the administration for pursuing policies he said have been “very, very enriching” to officials’ families. He said these policies raise concerns about bias, conflicts of interest, and government interference in corporate America - comments he made publicly at a The Wall Street Journal conference in Florida, marking his first direct criticism of the Trump family’s apparent financial gains since their return to office.

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The president said his administration is seeking $1bn in damages from Harvard University, escalating a long-running conflict in which he accuses the school of failing to address antisemitism and civil rights violations while slamming President Alan Garber for what he claimed was poor leadership. This action follows previous threats to cut federal funding and impose policy changes, which Harvard has challenged in court as an unlawful endeavor to control academic decision-making, developing another significant legal and political clash between the White House and higher education institutions.

The president bragged about his wife's new documentary, dubbing her a “movie star,” claiming it was the top documentary in 19 years, and heralding her history as a top model while praising her current celebrity status.

Ryan Routh was sentenced to life in federal prison with seven additional years on a firearms charge for attempting to assassinate the president at his Florida golf club back in 2024. The judge dubbed the scheme “evil,” and prosecutors noted his lack of remorse.

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Tulsi Gabbard said that her presence near an FBI search of a Georgia elections hub was lawful and within her power as director of national intelligence, despite complaints that she is banned from domestic law enforcement. She has affirmed that she organized a short call so the president could thank FBI agents and said she withheld briefings to Congress until intelligence assessments were concluded, a move that has fueled scrutiny of her role in a domestic election-related investigation.

​​When pressed by Kaitlan Collins on his call to “nationalize” elections, the president debated that states act as agents of the federal government in distributing elections and questioned why the federal government does not run them directly.

Steve Bannon has pushed groundless claims that recent and coming U.S. elections are “stolen.” He is now making the following threat: “We‘re gonna have ICE surround the polls…We’ll never again allow an election to be stolen.” Bannon said he wants ICE agents stationed close to polling stations during the 2026 midterms, heightening unease from election officials that the administration could scare voters and meddle with elections amid continuing false claims about undocumented voting.

The U.S. Supreme Court has permitted California to use a recently endorsed, Democrat-drawn congressional map in the 2026 midterms, declining a Republican challenge and potentially allowing Democrats to acquire up to five House seats. Gov. Gavin Newsom championed this move in response to GOP-led redistricting in Texas.

[onlytiktoks]

[politiyikes]

Epstein Update III

Epstein survivor Anouska DeGeorgiou says that the DOJ released her unredacted personal information that she was compelled to provide for the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell despite guarantees that survivors would be protected. She has publicly criticized the DOJ and House Speaker Mike Johnson, saying the disclosure put her safety and privacy at risk.

Lawyers for more than 200 alleged victims of Jeffrey Epstein have confirmed that they have asked federal judges to order the DOJ to immediately take down its Epstein files website, asserting that massive redaction failures exposed victims’ names, addresses, and financial details, including those of minors. The attorneys call the disclosure an “unfolding emergency,” stating that thousands of errors in recent releases have caused lasting, irreversible harm and harassment. - ABC News

The DOJ is now removing files that it failed to redact properly, including one with the faces of more than a dozen survivors. A second document lists 32 survivors in total, with only one name redacted. The remaining 31 are not. These are clear violations of the Epstein files law:

The release by the DOJ wrongly published dozens of unredacted nude photos depicting survivors with their faces visible, initiating outrage from survivors and lawyers after officials were alerted. The images, tied to Epstein’s personal collection and possessions, were later removed or redacted. Victims said the disclosure was profoundly harmful and retraumatizing, citing broader, inconsistent failures to protect victims’ identities while shielding powerful figures’ names.

A federal judge has taken the DOJ to court this week after the failure to redact the personal information of survivors:

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CBS News has cut ties with contributor Peter Attia after Epstein emails revealed Attia was mentioned over 1,700 times in "friendly, crude exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein," increasing reputational risks for the network despite Attia admitting to multiple meetings, denying any criminal activity, and publicly apologizing for his actions. Attia has also lost his role at David:

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Epstein attended summer programs at the Interlochen Center of the Arts as a teen and later donated nearly $400,000 to the institution between 1990 and 2003. The center states it severed ties with him after his 2008 conviction. While Interlochen says it found no complaints or abuse on campus, testimony at Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial alleged Epstein and Maxwell met a girl at the camp in the early 1990s and groomed and abused her off campus.

Epstein updated his will and trust just two days before his death in 2019, summarizing plans to allocate hundreds of millions of dollars and effects - including Little Saint James Island - to at least 44 beneficiaries. Major sums were reserved for his lawyer Darren Indyke, accountant Richard Kahn, former girlfriend Karyna Shuliak, and Ghislaine Maxwell. The documents show that Epstein modified his estate plans dozens of times over the years, presenting new insight into his inner circle. More than $120 million ultimately went to compensate victims from an estate once valued at nearly $600 million.

In the files, there is a draft indictment from the mid-2000s prepared by federal prosecutors to charge Epstein and three co-conspirators, including Maxwell. The other two have not been charged despite prosecutors believing there to be enough evidence to push forward:

Reminder: Epstein pleaded guilty to procuring for prostitution a girl below the age of 18 in 2008. Despite that, so many people had contact with him afterwards. This section from a draft Epstein indictment reveals individuals who were never indicted, despite the DOJ having sufficient evidence to move forward:

Epstein instructed an accuser to give Harvey Weinstein a massage, during which Weinstein allegedly ordered her to remove her shirt and threatened to have others force her to when she refused; the document also reports allegations implicating Donald Trump and Prince Andrew. You can find the full file here:

An Epstein file contains a line item reading “Quote for massage room walls in fur is $21,800,” reporting a costly furnishing request tied to Epstein’s properties and adding to records describing the grand and unique expenses associated with his residences:

Another file includes messages claiming Epstein did not die by suicide, asserting links to a broader international case by stating: “Just heard about Epstein… we don’t believe it was suicide… you need to listen to what we have as evidence.” It added “This case… is most certainly connected to yours… Prince Phillip is small fry compared to what we have uncovered,” implying alleged evidence of vaster, more powerful figures involved. Here is the full file for you to read:

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Epstein’s lawyers discussed potential cooperation with Manhattan federal prosecutors less than two weeks before his 2019 death in prison, though no definite proposal was made. In his last interview with Steve Bannon, Epstein referred to himself as the devil.

Texts between Bannon and someone who appears to be Epstein were revealed, discussing Trump’s then-assistant Madeleine Westerhout. They showed Bannon calling her a “grundoon,” and Epstein referring to her as “Kneepads” who was “doing God’s work.” He also added that Trump was “much more calm,” but that “the sight of him in the residence in his undies is hard to fathom,” promising, “I’ll give you details when I see you.”:

Epstein feted Tom Barrack to Peter Thiel, calling Barrack a “great” real estate expert and fundraiser to speak at a convention—Barrack later became US Ambassador to Turkey and US Special Envoy for Syria and served as a senior advisor to Trump’s 2016 campaign.

There is massive bipartisan outrage after Todd Blanche said that it was “not a crime” to party with Epstein in response to a question from Fox News host Laura Ingraham that was specifically concentrated on the crimes Epstein committed.

The release of over three million Epstein files has failed to ease outrage. Victims’ advocates and Democrats are accusing the DOJ of neglecting deadlines, over-redacting documents, and withholding up to millions more records demanded by law. Blanche insists the disclosures thoroughly comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

After months of resistance, the Clintons have finally agreed to be deposed by the HOC in the Epstein investigation. Their testimony will be heard on 26 or 27 February, concluding a months-long impasse that brought them close to being held in criminal contempt of Congress. In an email from 2015, Epstein claimed that Bill Clinton was never on the island:

Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna said he and GOP Rep. Thomas Massie may pursue impeachment or contempt proceedings against Pam Bondi if the DOJ neglects to fully comply with the law mandating the release of unredacted Epstein files, calling the recent document release “significant” but incomplete.

Richard Branson exchanged emails with Epstein, later claiming the contact was minimal, professional, and involved only adults. Despite Branson’s claims, the emails revealed Branson asking Epstein to bring his “herum” during one of their communications.

Files reveal that FBI investigators thought magician David Copperfield maintained a “very close relationship” with Epstein, spurring a 2007–2010 FBI probe that analyzed whether the two may have shared or referred victims; internal memos cite overlapping witnesses, free tickets for Epstein, missing documents, and suspicions about potential illegal activity. Copperfield was never charged:

Noam Chomsky had a far more intimate relationship with Epstein than previously realized, including friendly and sometimes lively emails, discussions of holidays, monetary guidance, and alleged advice in 2019 encouraging Epstein to dismiss media scrutiny over sexual abuse allegations. The documents also show Epstein connecting Chomsky to Steve Bannon, contradicting Chomsky’s earlier assertions that his exchanges with Epstein were mostly limited to financial affairs, and adding new scrutiny to how prominent figures engaged with Epstein - even after his criminal conviction.

Financial records indicate payments connected to Peter Mandelson, who denies ever receiving the money and has since resigned from the Labour Party.

Howard Lutnick organized a visit to Epstein’s island in 2012, despite later stating he had severed ties with Epstein years earlier and denying any wrongdoing. New emails show Epstein made a contribution on behalf of Lutnick years after he claimed to have stopped contact with Epstein:

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor appeared to invite Epstein to Buckingham Palace after Epstein’s release from house arrest. Images in the files show Andrew hovering over a young girl.

A photo displays Brett Ratner with Epstein and two women, countering Ratner’s previous claims that he did not know Epstein.

Epstein discussed procuring a yacht for Senator Joe Manchin:

Steve Tisch, co-owner of the New York Giants, exchanged emails with Epstein concerning adult women. He later said that he regrets the connection and has never visited Epstein’s island.

Elon Musk had more connections with Epstein than previously known, including friendly emails and plans to visit Epstein’s island, even though Musk says the trips never happened. Epstein assisted in organizing a 2018 interview between Musk and The New York Times, quoting a message attributed to NYT financial reporter and Epstein associate Landon Thomas that praised the booking: “The Elon get was epic. You delivered!”:

Musk dismissed the Epstein files as “a distraction” after old emails emerged showing him voicing interest in visiting Epstein’s private island and inquiring about the “wildest party,” despite later attempts to distance himself:

Emails reveal conversations between Casey Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell, which Wasserman now says he sincerely regrets. Wasserman is presently the Chief of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Larry Summers questioned Epstein on who he believed would win the election. Epstein answered, “Difficult to bet against the card cheat if you are gambling on the outcome.”:

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On the day Vladimir Putin declared Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Epstein emailed Ariane de Rothschild, implying the crisis could yield “many opportunities” and suggesting he saw geopolitical instability as an opportunity for a monetary, strategic, or influential boost, rather than commenting on humanitarian or political impacts:

In a communication with Michael Wolff, Epstein wrote, “The paradise papers show the Kremlin funneling money to Kushner by using Uri Milner. whoops.” This flippant remark implies alleged hidden monetary ties potentially involving the Kremlin, Jared Kushner, and Yuri Milner:

A 2014 correspondent suggested Epstein read up on “Alexandr Dugin, Putin’s adviser,” implying the content might be “interesting and perhaps quite useful,” referring to Epstein’s interest in figures tied to Putin and Russian geopolitical ideology:

A senior Slovak official resigned after new Epstein-related emails emerged. Prime Minister Robert Fico accepted the resignation of national security adviser Miroslav Lajčák following revelations that Epstein asked Lajčák to dinners and meetings in 2018, including one email offering a gathering with Steve Bannon and Kathy Ruemmler; Lajčák denied wrongdoing and said the communications were part of his diplomatic position, but political pressure pushed his resignation.

Peter Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party amid renewed fallout from his previous relationship with Epstein. He accepted that new revelations had heightened public outrage and left him further involved in controversy. This move could also lead to his expulsion from the House of Lords. Additionally, files claim Epstein sent $75,000 in payments tied to Lord Mandelson between 2003 and 2004, including a transfer to his partner and later payments to accounts in Mandelson’s name, to which Mandelson disputes and says he does not recall receiving:

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Mike Johnson says he has no concerns about Trump's name emerging in the Epstein files.

The FBI logged numerous tips involving Trump, but the DOJ says the claims are baseless and lack corroboration. The only problem with this is that the DOJ did not thoroughly investigate the tips sent to the FBI. There are over 5,300 mentions of Trump in the Epstein files, many of which are allegations against the president and most of which are incredibly graphic and horrendous. Despite this, DAG Todd Blanche says the DOJ cannot investigate anonymous or second-hand tips alleging connections between Trump and Epstein, stating the claims - released among millions of Epstein-related files and later pulled from a public database - are baseless and not investigable.

Trump claims the files “absolve” him entirely, despite significant allegations against him. He said the DOJ should move on from the Epstein case, arguing there’s “nothing on me” and denouncing the investigation as a waste of time despite lingering unanswered questions.

The DOJ redacted Trump’s face in the Epstein files, yet failed to redact the faces, names, and other confidential information of more than a dozen survivors. This is the file:

Trump is spiraling over the release of the files, now claiming he was never friendly with Epstein. The only problem is that he was indeed quite friendly with Epstein. An email sent internally between numerous DOJ attorneys documents that Trump spent time on Epstein’s plane multiple times in the mid-90s.

The DOJ has deleted two files revealing Trump's Mar-a-Lago parties called "calendar girls."

Epstein documented in the files that he discussed Trump with the Russians, saying, “Churkin was great. he understood trump after our conversations.” Full file here:

In an FBI 302 interview with a survivor, they claim that “Epstein introduced Melania Trump to Donald Trump.” You can find the full file here.

Communications between Epstein and Peter Thiel in August 2016 state, "donalds new york supporters concerned, . we can talk if you like. he cannot release his tax returns so what are his options?"

Epstein in 2015: "one more week till birthday.. where are you? i hope david koch got your message. donalds financail discolusre is his achilles heel"

Epstein to NYT reporter in 2017: “ok article on deutsch bank and donald. , and then another on kusher and qatar.. dont the reporters speak to each other . ?? qatar is the biggest shareholder in DB. db is donalds funder. . donald goes after qatar for terrorsim against the advice of tillerson and state. ie DB? :)”

Communications between Epstein and Michael Wolff in November 2018: “a whole lot of pain headed donalds way. house counsel. impeachment counsel. cummings counsel. . our friend need to get to high ground, pittsburg seen to be his doing. not good at all.”

Trump severely condemned the Grammy Awards telecast as “virtually unwatchable” and threatened legal action against host Trevor Noah after a joke connecting Trump to Epstein. Trump pressed that he never visited the island, rejecting any wrongdoing despite references to him in DOJ files, and called the comment wrong, slanderous, and grounds for a lawsuit:

[raresvtm]

BAD BUNNY at the 68th Grammy Awards — ALBUM OF THE YEAR

[politiyikes]

2 Feb 2026

A federal judge has ordered the release of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, after their detention in a Texas immigration facility sparked national outrage. The pair returned home to Minnesota following criticism of DHS and the administration’s immigration practices. - MPR News:

Two masked federal immigration agents were identified as the shooters who killed Alex Pretti: Border Patrol agent Jesus Ochoa and CBP officer Raymundo Gutierrez. - ProPublica

AI-altered media of the fatal Minneapolis shooting of Pretti has spread widely online, misleading millions, obscuring fact and fiction, and even driving Dick Durbin to cite an inauthentic image. This highlights how AI “enhancements” are fueling misinformation and skepticism about genuine evidence involving federal officers. - NBC News

Eight more federal prosecutors are preparing to leave the Minnesota U.S. Attorney’s Office following a previous departure tied to DOJ demands as unrest grows around immigration enforcement, civil rights decisions, and the fatal shooting of Pretti. Kristi Noem has ordered body cameras for all federal agents in Minnesota, and Pam Bondi has announced new arrests tied to anti-ICE protests. - The Star Tribune:

A public health crisis is evolving in Minneapolis as fear of ICE and federal enforcement has driven many locals - U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents alike - to avoid routine and emergency healthcare, neglect appointments, postpone care, or rely on alternate services like home visits and telehealth.

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ICE agents tear-gassed individuals in Portland, including one seven-year-old girl.

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A partial government shutdown is expected to last until at least Tuesday, after HML Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats will not help pass a GOP-backed funding bill, leaving Speaker Mike Johnson scrambling for votes on a Senate deal brokered by Chuck Schumer and the president that temporarily funds DHS. Negotiations continue over immigration enforcement and ICE leadership. Ro Khanna has said that he is a “firm no” on voting to reopen the federal government unless ICE funding is separated, arguing that Democrats cannot support ICE financing amid scrutiny over fatal shootings of U.S. citizens and broader concerns about the administration’s immigration enforcement tactics.

Johnson is racing to prevent the shutdown as Congress battles over funding and oversight of ICE. With the president's support, Republicans are advancing a short-term DHS budget extension. Democrats press for stricter limits on ICE procedures, such as ending roving patrols, mandating warrants, and forcing agents to identify themselves.

Around 10,000 FAA employees will be furloughed during the shutdown. Air traffic controllers and other essential staff continue working - without pay - until Congress restores funding amid stalled negotiations.

A whistleblower complaint concerning Tulsi Gabbard is considered so sensitive that it is “locked in a safe.” The administration has spent months trying to determine how to brief Congress. - WSJ:

A coalition of immigration advocates and U.S. citizens has sued Marco Rubio and the USDS to overturn an order suspending immigrant visa approvals for nationals of 75 countries. They argue that the policy - justified by disputed “public charge” claims - amounts to an unlawful, discriminatory, nationality-based ban that violates the Constitution and the INA.

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A measles outbreak forced ICE to suspend all activity at the South Texas Family Residential Center, quarantining detainees after verified infections and heightening concerns about health and safety for detained families - including children - amid a national swell in measles cases and rising criticism of the administration’s detention procedures following high-profile arrests tied to immigration operations in Minneapolis.

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A secret deal has been uncovered, signed just days before the president's inauguration, that gave Abu Dhabi royals - led by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan - a 49% stake in the Trump family crypto venture World Liberty Financial for $500 million. Eric Trump signed the deal, and millions poured into Trump-linked entities and to Steve Witkoff's associates months before the UAE secured access to tightly controlled U.S. AI chips. Todd Blanche was asked about this earlier today, yet he refused to answer. - WSJ

The president warned that if Iran refuses a new nuclear deal, the U.S. may resort to military action - increasing the risk of a regional war - as Washington ramps up its military presence in the Middle East and exchanges escalating threats with Iran’s leadership.

Israel has agreed to open a limited section of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. This will allow a small number of wounded and ill Palestinians to leave each day under security checks, delivering mild relief after months of isolation, as tens of thousands still await medical evacuation and ceasefire talks inch forward. At the same time, Israel plans to seize and redevelop a large historic archaeological site near Sebastia in the occupied West Bank, prompting Palestinian fury that the project - endorsed by far-right ministers - is a guise for land usurpation and territory expansion that would cut residents off from key heritage, tourism earnings, and olive groves.

Claudia Sheinbaum has sworn to continue sending humanitarian aid - and explore fuel shipments - to Cuba regardless of pressure from the president, who threatened tariffs on countries providing oil to Havana. This has sparked a diplomatic conflict as Mexico balances humanitarian support and domestic politics with U.S. economic intimidation and looming trade negotiations.

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Construction has resumed on four offshore wind projects after federal judges refused efforts by the administration to suspend them on national security grounds. When finished, they will allow nearly five gigawatts of clean energy - enough to power about 3.5 million homes - to move forward on the east coast. - The Guardian

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At the GRAMMYs, many of music’s biggest stars openly protested the administration’s immigration policies, donning “ICE OUT” pins and using their acceptance speeches to criticize ICE, share immigrant family stories, and condemn recent enforcement actions and deaths. This event marks a stronger, more collective political stand than previous awards shows and reflects rising cultural backlash against mass deportations.

Turning Point, led by Erika Kirk, has announced an alternative to the "woke" Super Bowl halftime show for viewers looking to avoid Bad Bunny's performance. The alternate show will headline Kid Rock alongside Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett:

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After the FBI seized 2020 election materials in Fulton County, the president held an unusually direct phone call with frontline FBI agents where he interrogated and commended investigators, a move widely condemned by former officials and Democrats as a harsh break from norms that endangers politicizing law enforcement. His behavior also undermines DOJ and FBI autonomy and bolsters claims of inappropriate presidential involvement in a criminal investigation tied to the president's false 2020 election fraud claims. - NYT

Fulton County intends to sue the FBI and the DOJ, arguing a search warrant executed at its election hub improperly seized hundreds of boxes of authentic 2020 election ballots, ballot images, and voter rolls, despite a separate court order allowing only copies. This raises concerns about legality, chain of custody, and voter data security amid an ongoing federal investigation tied to the 2020 election and the president's claims.

Democrat Taylor Rehmet just won a Texas state Senate special election, flipping a long-held Republican district that the president carried by 17 points in 2024. This has dealt a strong blow to the GOP and continued the Democrats’ pattern of vigorous special-election overperformance. The president has downplayed the Democrats flipping the seat, even though he endorsed the Republican candidate. He says he anticipates making an endorsement soon in Texas’ competitive U.S. Senate race:

[blackbelles-world]

[fomysquad]

How do we ensure public safety w/o police? Check out this list on alternatives to policing

Alternatives to Police (PDF) by Rose City Copwatch (2008)

Alternatives to the Police by Evan Dent, Molly Korab, and Farid Rener

The Avant-garde of White Supremacy by Steve Martinot and Jared Sexton

Broken Windows is On Hiatus: Community Interventions We Can Enact Now for Real Justice by Hannah Hodson

Can We Build an Anti-Policing Movement that Isn’t Anti-Police? by Radical Faggot

Citizens, Cops, and Power: Recognizing the Limits of Community by Steve Herbert

Feeling for the Edge of your Imagination: finding ways not to call the police

A New Year’s Resolution: Don’t Call the Police by Mike Ludwig

Not Calling the Police by Prison Culture

Origins of the Police by David Whitehouse

The Other Side of the COIN (PDF) by Kristian Williams.

Policing is a Dirty Job, But Nobody’s Gotta Do It: 6 Ideas for a Cop-Free World by Jose Martin

Policing Slaves Since the 1600s by Auandaru Nirhan

The Shanti Sena ‘peace center’ and the non-policing of an anarchist temporary autonomous zone: Rainbow Family peacekeeping strategies (PDF) by Michael Niman

Stop Kidding Yourself: The Police Were Created to Control Working Class and Poor People by Sam Mitrani

We Don’t Just Need Nicer Cops. We Need Fewer Cops by Alex S. Vitale

What Does It Mean to Be Anti-Police? by Alex S. Vitale

Where abolition meets action: women organizing against gender violence (PDF) by Vikki Law

[politiyikes]

Epstein Updates II

House Judiciary Committee Democrats have called for an urgent review of the unredacted files, questioning why millions of pages remain withheld and warning that redactions must not be used to protect officials from embarrassment or political harm. Members of Congress is making clear that this drop is incomplete, as more Epstein Files have yet to be released:

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A video of Epstein chasing young girls around a kitchen emerged in the release.

A draft memo from 2007 shows that federal prosecutors had detailed evidence and sought a 60-count indictment against Epstein as a high flight risk and danger to minors. The case was halted after a controversial plea deal limited him to minor state charges. You can find the full memo supporting the prosecution here:

Newly released files show that less than two weeks before Epstein’s death, his lawyers met with Manhattan federal prosecutors to discuss a possible case resolution and potential cooperation. No definite proposal was made.

Epstein after being told he has “permission to kill” an unidentified man:

Another email talking about killing someone:

Epstein named young girls “little” when describing them:

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The DOJ is blatantly violating the law. This is a screenshot from the FBI-302 interview with Epstein survivor Danielle Hannah Bensky. Her name is not redacted. That is a clear violation of the law. She has permitted the information below to be shared for the sake of accountability:

This document appears to be a screenshot of an affidavit signed under penalty of perjury by "Tiffany Doe," noting that she "personally witnessed Defendant Trump telling the Plaintiff that she shouldn't ever say anything if she didn't want to disappear like the 12-year-old female . . ." The document has been removed from the DOJ website:

Epstein after being told that Mary Kennedy was found dead in her backyard:

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An FBI tip declares that Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein sexually exploited a young girl. It is unclear if this was ever investigated:

Three weeks after Trump was elected for his first term, Epstein emailed Larry Summers, "do you have any suggestions for treasury?":

This famous boxer previously supported Trump, but has recently spoken out against him with the release of more files:

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In a 2013 email, Richard Branson joked to Epstein about “bringing his harem.” He offered public-relations advice years after Epstein’s conviction for soliciting a minor, which Branson downplays as limited contact, and says would not have occurred had he known the full extent of Epstein’s crimes:

This appears to be an image of Brett Ratner, Epstein, and two girls. Ratner has been in the headlines recently as he produced Melania Trump’s new movie:

Emails showing Epstein in communications with Elon Musk:

In a 2012 email revealed in the newest release of the files, Epstein said he considered the possibility that convicted child abuser Jerry Sandusky was innocent, criticizing what he viewed as a rush to judgment by the media and public:

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Emails show that Epstein organized two business meetings in 2011 with Todd Boehly - the current owner of Chelsea and part-owner of the Dodgers and Lakers - nearly three years after Epstein’s first jail term. There is no indication that the exchanges involved anything beyond business, and Boehly has made no allegations of misconduct.

Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Josh Harris had years of business-related contact with Epstein after his 2008 conviction, including plans for meetings at Epstein’s house in Manhattan. There is no evidence of sexual misconduct by Harris, just new details about the extent and continuance of their professional relations.

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Emails show federal prosecutors were actively investigating sexual assault allegations against former Apollo Capital chairman Leon Black and had at least one cooperating witness. This indicates that the inquiry went further than previously known:

An email indicating that Epstein was apprehensive about journalist Julie K. Brown:

Peter Attia, a recently hired CBS News contributor, exchanged dozens of crude and friendly emails with Epstein over several years - continuing long after Epstein’s first conviction. This has raised scrutiny of Attia and other figures connected to Bari Weiss amid the newest release of the files:

Journalist Nellie Bowles said that her name appearing in newly released emails reflects a disclosed, on-the-record meeting she later reported on for the NYT, not secret or improper contact:

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Epstein asked former UK ambassador Peter Mandelson if he knew any non-US "products" that might want the endorsement of Leonardo DiCaprio because DiCaprio wants to make money:

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pressed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to testify before the U.S. Congress over his connections to Epstein after newly released files detailed continuous contact - including a Buckingham Palace invitation - years after Epstein’s conviction, reigniting scrutiny of notable figures connected to the case.

Slovakia’s prime minister called for the resignation of national security adviser Miroslav Lajčák after the newly released documents uncovered past communications. Lajčák said these were legitimate diplomatic communications made before any U.S. investigation.

[perfeqt]

“We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”

— Ronald Reagan

[politiyikes]

31 Jan 2026 II

just a small post for the night as I'm working on a pretty long update for you guys tomorrow. thanks for your patience <3 xx lucy

🌻🌻🌻

A federal judge has ordered immigration authorities to release 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father after they were captured in Minnesota and taken to a detention center in Texas while returning from preschool, criticizing Liam's confinement as cruel and unlawful amid widespread public outrage. - Fox 5

🌻🌻🌻

After federal immigration agents aggressively detained a St. Peter resident - who is a U.S. citizen and was lawfully observing and recording enforcement actions - the woman was freed and driven home by the local police chief. The city later denied that the chief interfered in the events. - MPR News

🌻🌻🌻

The president said that Iran is “talking to” the U.S. and implied that negotiations could deter military strikes, even as Washington deploys a naval battle group near Iran amid intensified tensions over protests, nuclear tensions, and threats of regional retaliation.

[livbensonfinalgirl]

ICE is coming to a city near you: things you should know from a tumblrina on the ground in the twin cities

i know i am usually pretty hehe haha on this app and here to generally mess around and have fun about television however, the circumstances of the last few weeks in my city and state have been truly so dire that it feels impossible to even pretend like that is an option right now. and i like to help so here is what i know:

yesterday, january 12th, border patrol commander greg bovino gave a very weird interview to the minnesota CBS affiliate WCCO, in which he lied repeatedly but importantly noted that once they "[get] bad things off the streets, we're off to the next city." we have seen increased immigration enforcement since day 1 of the new trump administration with many cities pushing back against operations already but, as what has been highly reported, nothing as large as the scale of the current operation in MN. plus with the pushback they have received here, these freak individuals will certainly have new motivation to incite violence wherever they go. use this as a little cheat sheet to prepare yourself for when it is your turn or, to jump in to the action rn and help out our immigrant communities in MN.

WHAT MN IS DOING TO PROTECT OUR NEIGHBORS

following ICE vehicles, observing their arrests and interactions with the public <- this is obviously not without risk. many people are being harassed, physically injured, tear gassed & pepper sprayed, arrested, and as we know, killed when doing this. however, it is still the most useful tactic in intervening with these operations.

donating, collecting, and distributing food & household necessities for vulnerable families so they don't have to leave their home. there are some incredible operations going on in the twin cities and the surrounding suburbs in order to get this done. if you want to help minnesotans i'd recommend looking into the work of places like smitten kitten, wrecktangle pizza, the immigrant defense network, MIRAC, and MN ice watch. if i were in a vulnerable city (aka blue state) i'd start thinking about groups, organizations, churches etc in your area that could run similar networks and prepare stockpiling donations.

businesses are operating with reduced (or even fully closed) hours to protect patrons and staff. many have signs in their storefront windows indicating that ICE can not enter. the one i linked is from etsy however organizations in your area will likely have them for free.

finding out which hotels (usually near a major airport) agents are staying at and protesting all night long being loud as fuck. + boycotting these hotels in the future

3D printing whistles! using these whistles in order to alert when ICE is near.

building online networks and systems to notify of ICE's whereabouts. NOTE! ICE is using cell phone location data to track & identify people!!!! use your best judgment, be smart, & turn your location OFF!

notes for VULNERABLE/UNDOCUMENTED PEOPLE and their families

get an action plan in place. i know it sucks to talk and think about. i know it is unfair but figure out worst case scenarios and what to do in them. even if you've been here for decades and have felt relatively safe in that time, i do suggest communicating with family and making a plan regardless.

for PROTECTING MINORS: in minnesota we have something called a delegation of parental authority (DOPA). this is a notarized legal document that delegates the authority and care of minor for one year if their parent or legal guardian can not. i would highly suggest looking into the steps of declaring parental authority in your own state and starting the process asap. (it is relatively easy here in mn! you just need to have one parent present to sign the document and get it notarized)

prepare as best you can for time off work, a lot of time spent in the house. get little stuff done like tabs for your car renewed, any insurance issues taken care of, doctor's appointments done etc. start talking with your church or immigrant organizations in your area about getting supplies delivered to your home when needed.

PEOPLE WANT TO HELP! they really do. i know it is so fucking terrifying but there are so many people who do want the best for everyone in their community. if you need help please ask for it.

other general notes: they're arresting literally anyone in MN, citizen or not. they're harassing kids at school (minneapolis schools have allowed for children to learn from home until february 12th). they're arresting people at work. it does not matter. a lot of people here are carrying their passports and other documentation to avoid this. you don't have to give anyone your identification even when asked but unfortunately many who refuse have been met with violence. they're going into hospitals, homes, schools, businesses and they don't have warrants. of course know your rights but be aware they really don't give a fuck. they're arresting first and asking questions later.

most importantly people working for ICE and border patrol have something deeply wrong with them. they're disgusting, immoral people whose "work" will be a stain on their lives and this country until the end of time. and i can not stress this enough, they are so fucking stupid. they are not stronger than us. they are not smarter than us. they are not more righteous or justified in any of their actions and eventually the day will come that their most prized leader turns on them, dies, or both. they will never be forgiven.

with that i leave you with two videos of agents eating shit on the ice that i can't stop watching. fucking pussies.

love ya. be safe

[politiyikes]

31 Jan 2026 I

Senior CBP commander Gregory Bovino allegedly mocked the Orthodox Jewish faith of Minnesota U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen during a recent call with prosecutors; his comments unsettled DOJ lawyers and raised possible disclosure responsibilities under Supreme Court precedent. - NYT

A federal judge ordered the release of 5-year-old Liam Ramos and his father from a Texas detention center while their case is ongoing. The judge sharply criticized the administration for policies he said risk “traumatizing children."

Hospital staff and medical experts strongly refuted ICE’s claim that detained immigrant Alberto Castañeda Mondragn shattered his skull by running into a wall, saying his numerous skull fractures and brain hemorrhages were discordant with that narrative. As the case heightened, so did the strain between Minneapolis health care workers and ICE agents, with the workers accusing ICE of aggressive, intimidating conduct during Minnesota’s crackdown. A federal judge later ordered Mondragón's release from ICE custody. - AP

A federal judge authorized ICE’s Operation Metro Surge to continue in Minnesota, denying the state’s request to temporarily bar the crackdown despite acknowledging severe and “heartbreaking” disruptions to daily life - including evidence of racial profiling, excessive force, and economic harm - while a broader constitutional challenge continues.

Thanks for reading

xx Lucy

[thixcy]

[politiyikes]

Epstein Updates

Epstein survivors have been left “devastated” after the Justice Department finally released files publicly identifying some of the victims - some of them visibly in photos, despite redactions - prompting severe criticism from women’s rights lawyer Gloria Allred. Allred called the DOJ's handling of the files an “absolute mess” and a new low.

Newly released DOJ emails show Jeffrey Epstein privately drafted notes claiming that Bill Gates partook in extramarital sex and other activities - claims that Gates’ representatives state are lies and slander. They say the messages echo Epstein’s resentment over his failed financial transactions rather than any transgression by Gates.

This is from an FBI email with the subject "Re: Epstein - Cellmate Interview." These are the overviews provided by the FBI agent:

A federal indictment draft that was never filed alleged that from 2001 - 2005, Epstein and three unidentified co-conspirators trafficked at least 19 girls - some as young as 14 - for paid sexual abuse. The draft contained a threat to silence a victim, but prosecutors instead struck a non-prosecution deal in 2007; a 2020 DOJ review criticized poor judgment, yet found no wrongdoing. You can find the full indictment here:

Some of the recently released emails show that Elon Musk expressed interest in visiting Epstein’s Caribbean island on numerous occasions between 2012 and 2013 - despite later public assertions that he declined invitations. The records do not show that he ever went to the island or acknowledged any misbehavior by Musk. Also included are emails concerning Musk and Woody Allen:

The emails also show Epstein and Larry Summers discreetly gossiping about Donald Trump during his first term - challenging his intellect, cognitive stability, and alleged ties to Russia - emphasizing that Summers continued communicating with Epstein for years after his conviction; a connection he later said he was “deeply ashamed” of. You can read more here:

The files include a 2009 email in which Sarah Ferguson thanked Epstein for “being the brother I have always wished for,” rekindling scrutiny of their relationship and prompting requests for comment after charities had cut ties over her past statements about Epstein.

Emails from August of 2010 show Epstein engineering the introduction of a 26-year-old Russian woman to an account signed “HRH Duke of York KG,” understood to be Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, shortly after Epstein completed his sentence:

The files include photographs appearing to show Andrew in a compromising position with an unidentified woman, and emails indicating that Epstein had invited him to dine with the Russian woman back in 2010:

[segamascott]

so she's like fully undocumented and just trying to save her own ass right

[segamascott]

[intactics]

oh my god....