[Thursday, May 22] US News Headlines from r/Conservative

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1. Presidential & Executive Actions

1.1 Administration Initiatives

The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University’s authorization to enroll international students [1][2], citing antisemitism and campus protests as justification. The Department of Homeland Security implemented this significant policy shift, potentially affecting thousands of students. In another major policy reversal, the administration has redirected $365 million previously allocated for Puerto Rico solar power projects [3], demonstrating a shift in energy priorities. Attorney General Bondi’s Justice Department has dismissed lawsuits against police departments initiated by the previous administration [4], signaling a change in federal oversight of law enforcement. Vice President Vance has publicly defended the controversial use of the Alien Enemies Act while criticizing judicial intervention in immigration enforcement [5]. A troubling report claims U.S. officials during the previous administration deliberately delayed warning the public about heart inflammation risks associated with COVID-19 vaccines [6].

[1] Trump Admin Revokes Harvard’s Authorization To Enroll International Students, https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2025/5/23/trump-admin-revokes-sevp/
[2] DHS eliminates Harvard student visa program over antisemitism and protests, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/harvard-student-visa-trump-noem-dhs
[3] US Redirects $365M Biden Had Set for Puerto Rico Solar Power, https://www.newsmax.com/politics/solar-puerto-rico-department-of-energy/2025/05/21/id/1211846/
[4] DOJ Dismisses Biden-Era Lawsuits Against Police Departments, https://dailycaller.com/2025/05/21/doj-dismisses-biden-lawsuits-police-departments/
[5] Vance defends use of Alien Enemies Act, calls out meddlesome judges, https://www.theblaze.com/news/vance-defends-use-of-alien-enemies-act-calls-out-meddlesome-judges
[6] US officials delayed warning public about heart inflammation risk from COVID shot: report, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/us-officials-delayed-warning-public-about-heart-inflammation-risk-from-covid-shot-report

2. National Security & Terrorism

2.1 Domestic Security Incidents

A deadly terrorist attack has occurred in Washington, D.C., where two Israeli Embassy staff members, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, were murdered outside the Capital Jewish Museum [1][2]. The shooter has been identified as Elias Rodriguez, reportedly affiliated with the Party for Socialism and Liberation [4], who was heard chanting “Free Palestine” while in police custody [3]. Reports indicate Rodriguez left a manifesto explaining his motivations [5], suggesting premeditation. The attack has international implications as Palestinian factions, Iran-backed Iraqi militias, and jihadi clerics have reportedly celebrated the murders [6]. In a separate security incident, a shooting was reported at the front gate of CIA headquarters [7], though details remain limited. Attorney General Bondi has pledged to prosecute what she termed a “pro-Hamas assassin” to “the fullest extent of the law” [8], indicating this case is a top priority for the Justice Department.

[1] Israeli Embassy Staff Murdered By Unidentified Shooter Outside Capitol Jewish Museum, https://www.dailywire.com/news/israeli-embassy-staff-murdered-by-unidentified-shooter-outside-capitol-jewish-museum
[2] Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, who were murdered last night at the Capital Jewish Museum, https://i.redd.it/93t2ozd1kc2f1.jpeg
[3] Gunman accused of killing two Israelis in DC chanted ‘Free Palestine’ while in police custody, https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/3419226/gunman-accused-of-killing-two-israelis-in-dc-chanted-free-palestine-while-in-police-custody/
[4] Who is Elias Rodriguez, the far-left activist who killed two Israelis in Washington? Rodriguez is reportedly a member of Party for Socialism and Liberation, which posted an “anti genocide pledge” on its social media., https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-855018
[5] ‘Free Palestine’ Shooter Left a Manifesto, https://hotair.com/john-s-2/2025/05/22/free-palestine-shooter-left-a-manifesto-n3803037
[6] Palestinian Factions, Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias, Jihadi Clerics Celebrate Deadly Shooting At Event In Washington DC By Pro-Palestinian Activist Who Murdered and Yelled ‘Free Palestine!’, https://www.memri.org/jttm/palestinian-factions-iran-backed-iraqi-militias-jihadi-clerics-celebrate-deadly-shooting-jewish
[7] Breaking: Shooting at CIA Headquarters Front Gate, https://redstate.com/nick-arama/2025/05/22/breaking-shooting-at-cia-headquarters-front-gate-n2189432
[8] Bondi: You Better Believe We’ll Prosecute Pro-Hamas Assassin ‘To The Fullest Extent of the Law’, https://hotair.com/ed-morrissey/2025/05/22/bondi-you-better-believe-well-prosecute-pro-hamas-assassin-to-the-fullest-extent-of-the-law-n3803031

2.2 Foreign Policy

President Trump has undertaken a strategic Middle East trip that reports characterize as demonstrating a new “grand strategy” for the region [1], potentially reshaping American influence in this critical area. In a significant diplomatic development, Britain has suspended trade talks with Israel over what it termed “intolerable” military operations [2], creating potential complications for U.S.-led peace efforts. A contentious diplomatic incident has emerged as reports indicate South African President Cyril Ramaphosa may have made false statements during a televised meeting with President Trump [3], potentially straining relations between the two nations.

[1] Trump’s Middle East Trip Flexes New Grand Strategy, https://spectator.org/trumps-middle-east-trip-flexes-new-grand-strategy/
[2] Britain Suspends Trade Talks With Israel Over ‘Intolerable’ Military Ops, https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2025/05/20/britain-suspends-trade-talks-with-israel-over-intolerable-military-ops/
[3] BUSTED! South African President Cyril Ramaphosa lying straight to Trump’s face on Live Television, https://x.com/tpantheman/status/1925613315159421001?s=46

3. Congressional Activity

3.1 Key Legislation

The Senate has voted to end California’s electric vehicle (EV) mandate, with major car companies supporting the termination of California’s emissions waiver [1][2]. This represents a significant federal intervention in state-level environmental policy and a victory for the automotive industry. In a major legislative achievement for the Trump administration, the House of Representatives has passed what’s being called Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” related to tax and spending measures [3][4]. The bill reportedly passed with a “commanding victory” for GOP leaders after securing approval in a key committee, though during these proceedings, one Republican congressman reportedly fell asleep during what was characterized as “the biggest vote of Trump presidency” [5].

[1] Senate Votes to End California’s EV Mandate. The biggest car companies banded together to urge Congress to end the waiver, https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/senate-vote-end-california-ev-mandate-1ef4fb9b
[2] Senate Guts Radical California Vehicle Emissions Regulations and Leaves Democrats Furious, https://redstate.com/streiff/2025/05/22/senate-guts-radical-california-vehicle-emissions-regulations-and-leaves-democrats-furious-n2189474
[3] BREAKING: The House Passes Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’, https://townhall.com/tipsheet/leahbarkoukis/2025/05/22/the-big-beautiful-bill-n2657469?utm_source=thdaily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nl&bcid=423032bd82cdd267a80be66cf5bf343ed2f50ca9016941957148e16543575711&lctg=21821382
[4] Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ passes House in commanding victory for GOP leaders | Fox News, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mike-johnson-donald-trump-get-big-beautiful-win-budget-passes-house
[5] GOP Congressman Falls Asleep For Biggest Vote Of Trump Presidency, https://dailycaller.com/2025/05/22/gop-congressman-fell-asleep-big-beuatiful-bill-vote/

3.2 Congressional Oversight

Senator Rand Paul has forcefully called for “repercussions” in response to alleged spying activities targeting Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard [1]. This suggests potential tension between intelligence agencies and their congressional oversight committees. The specific nature of the alleged spying and potential repercussions remain unclear from the available information, but this could signal forthcoming investigations.

[1] Sen. Paul Urges ‘Repercussions’ for Spying on Gabbard, https://www.newsmax.com/newsfront/quiet-skies-tulsi-gabbard-dni/2025/05/20/id/1211736/

4. Immigration Enforcement

4.1 Federal and State Measures

The Department of Homeland Security has highlighted crimes committed by illegal immigrants deported to South Sudan, as a federal judge reportedly threatens to order their return [1], creating a direct conflict between the executive and judicial branches on deportation policy. A judge appointed during the Biden administration is reportedly objecting to the deportation of illegal immigrants convicted of serious offenses including murder, rape, and child sex crimes [2], further complicating enforcement efforts. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Seattle have arrested individuals at a courthouse whose deportation hearings had been dismissed [3], indicating an aggressive enforcement approach. At the state level, New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte has signed legislation banning “sanctuary cities,” making New Hampshire the first state in New England to enact such a prohibition [4], aligning with the administration’s immigration priorities.

[1] Department of Homeland Security exposes horrible crimes by illegal aliens deported to South Sudan as a liberal district judge threatens to order their return, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/dhs-exposes-crimes-migrants-deported-south-sudan-judge-threatens-order-return
[2] Biden Judge Objects to Trump Deporting Illegals Convicted of Murder, Rape, Child Sex Crimes, https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/05/22/biden-appointed-judge-objects-to-trump-deporting-illegal-aliens-convicted-of-murder-rape-child-sex-crimes-all-with-final-deportation-orders/
[3] KUOW - ICE agents at Seattle courthouse arrest people whose deportation hearings are dismissed, https://www.kuow.org/stories/ice-agents-at-seattle-courthouse-arrest-people-whose-deportation-hearings-are-dismissed
[4] New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte signs legislation banning “sanctuary cities” becoming first state in New England to do so., https://x.com/tpantheman/status/1925664181686079511?s=46

5. Judicial Rulings

5.1 Supreme Court Decisions

The Supreme Court has ruled that President Trump can fire heads of independent agencies [1], potentially expanding executive branch authority and restructuring the administrative state. In a separate decision, the Court ruled against a religious school in Oklahoma that was seeking public funds [2], setting boundaries on religious freedom claims. Federal judges are reportedly issuing orders with jurisdiction beyond U.S. borders [3], raising questions about judicial overreach. Another federal judge has sharply criticized the Supreme Court for what was characterized as “special treatment” of alleged illegal gangsters, stating that “this is not a Denny’s” [4], highlighting tensions within the federal judiciary.

[1] Supreme Court allows Trump to fire independent agency heads, https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/supreme-court/3420113/supreme-court-firings-independent-agency-heads-trump/
[2] Supreme Court rules against religious school seeking public funds in Oklahoma | Fox News, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/supreme-court-upholds-oklahoma-decision-blow-religious-charter-schools
[3] Federal Judges Now Issuing Orders in Other Countries, https://www.frontpagemag.com/federal-judges-now-issuing-orders-in-other-countries/
[4] ‘This Is … Not A Denny’s’ — Federal Judge Rebukes Supreme Court For ‘Special Treatment’ Of Alleged Illegal Gangsters | The Daily Caller, https://dailycaller.com/2025/05/21/dennys-federal-judge-rebukes-supreme-court-illegals-tren-de-aragua/

5.2 Legal Proceedings

Democratic Congresswoman LaMonica McIver from New Jersey faces serious charges for allegedly assaulting federal officers at an immigration detention facility, potentially facing up to 16 years in prison [1]. Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan has reportedly been shown “sneaking an illegal migrant out of court” [2], suggesting potential judicial obstruction of immigration enforcement. A controversy has emerged regarding what is being called the “Biden Autopen Fiasco,” with Ed Martin reportedly naming “the top three suspects” involved [3], though specific details remain limited.

[1] NJ (D)Congresswoman LaMonica McIver charged with assaulting federal officers at immigration detention facility facing 16 years in prison, https://x.com/tpantheman/status/1925326280544731647?s=46
[2] Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan shown ‘sneaking illegal migrant out of court’, https://nypost.com/2025/05/22/us-news/wisconsin-judge-hannah-dugan-shown-sneaking-illegal-migrant-out-of-court/?utm_campaign=nypost&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter
[3] Ed Martin Named the Top Three Suspects in the Biden Autopen Fiasco, https://townhall.com/tipsheet/mattvespa/2025/05/22/ed-martin-named-the-top-three-suspects-in-the-biden-autopen-fiasco-n2657436

6. Economic & Social Issues

6.1 Economic Developments

The Republican approach to the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction is being characterized as potentially making it easier for Democratic-led states to raise taxes [1], suggesting unintended consequences of tax policy. A troubling report examines what it calls “the dark history” of China’s influence over Apple [2], raising national security concerns about tech supply chains. There are ongoing discussions about cutting indirect costs at the National Institutes of Health [3] as part of broader government efficiency efforts. Questions have emerged about why U.S. oil prices are unusually low [4], with potential implications for energy markets. Economist Paul Krugman has reportedly predicted a recession [5], though the headline sarcastically suggests this forecasts an “Economic Golden Age.”

[1] The GOP’s SALT Deal Folly. Republicans make it easier for Democrats to raise state taxes., https://www.wsj.com/opinion/salt-cap-house-republicans-mike-johnson-mike-lawler-nick-lalota-tax-bill-7a6ef2ca
[2] The Dark History of how China Captured Apple, https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/apple-in-china-patrick-mcgee-interview?srsltid=AfmBOopG4N0p4-gTXO0bWDvui9V78lKUmedGZLHk8wZ7RxFOl_0sBwbR
[3] Cutting NIH Indirects is Sensible Medicine, /r/Conservative/comments/1ksehy4/cutting_nih_indirects_is_sensible_medicine/
[4] Why is the US oil prices so low?, https://crossdockinsights.com/p/us-oil-prices-down
[5] Krugman predicts Recession, Economic Golden Age to ensue!, /r/Conservative/comments/1kt0glv/krugman_predicts_recession_economic_golden_age_to/

6.2 Education and Environmental Policy

Reports highlight the socioeconomic backgrounds of student protesters at elite institutions, noting that some arrested Columbia and Barnard students come from affluent families living in “million-dollar homes” before engaging in what is characterized as “radical activism” [1]. School systems in Wyoming are making urgent adjustments after the state ended gun-free zones [2], representing a significant policy shift with immediate practical implications. In Massachusetts, a Democratic legislator has proposed a controversial bill aimed at reducing personal vehicle use to combat climate change, which has reportedly provoked substantial public backlash [3]. A watchdog organization has reportedly found that taxpayer-funded professional associations are promoting puberty blockers, diversity initiatives, and support for Hamas [4], raising questions about government funding priorities.

[1] From Million-Dollar Homes to Radical Activism—These Posh Private School Alumni Were Among the Arrested Columbia and Barnard Students, https://freebeacon.com/campus/from-million-dollar-homes-to-radical-activism-these-posh-private-school-alumni-were-among-the-arrested-columbia-and-barnard-students/
[2] Wyoming School Systems Scramble to Adjust to End of Gun-Free Zones in State, https://bearingarms.com/tomknighton/2025/05/21/wyoming-school-systems-scramble-to-adjust-to-end-of-gun-free-zones-in-state-n1228671
[3] Massachusetts Democrat’s bill to slash personal vehicle use to fight climate change sparks outrage – New Bedford Guide, https://www.newbedfordguide.com/massachusetts-democrats-plan-slash-personal-vehicle-use-fight-climate-change-sparks-outrage/2025/05/20
[4] Taxpayer-Funded Professional Associations Push Puberty Blockers, DEI, and Support for Hamas, Watchdog Finds, https://freebeacon.com/campus/taxpayer-funded-professional-associations-push-puberty-blockers-dei-and-support-for-hamas-watchdog-finds/

7. Media & Political Discourse

7.1 Media and Legal Challenges

Fox News is actively seeking sanctions against voting technology company Smartmatic, alleging “deleted evidence” related to their ongoing lawsuit [1], potentially escalating this high-profile legal battle. The Federal Trade Commission has reportedly demanded documents from Media Matters regarding potential coordination with other media watchdogs that Elon Musk has accused of orchestrating advertiser boycotts of his platform X [2], indicating potential regulatory scrutiny of media organizations. Reports indicate Saudi financial influence is securing meetings with U.S. senators and favorable media coverage [3], raising concerns about foreign influence in American politics and media.

[1] Fox News seeks sanctions against Smartmatic over ‘deleted evidence’, https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/3418970/fox-news-seeks-sanctions-against-smartmatic-deleted-evidence/
[2] The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has demanded documents from Media Matters about possible coordination with other media watchdogs accused by Elon Musk of helping orchestrate advertiser boycotts of X, https://i.redd.it/12fsdnmjyd2f1.jpeg
[3] Saudi cash buys meetings with senators and prime media coverage, https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/3418659/saudi-cash-buys-meetings-with-senators-prime-media-coverage/

7.2 Political Opposition

Representative Ilhan Omar has reportedly refused to condemn the fatal shooting of Israeli Embassy workers, walking away from reporters’ questions on the matter [1][2], creating political controversy. Reports suggest potential accountability measures for former Vice President Kamala Harris related to revelations about President Biden affecting the California gubernatorial race [3], though specific details remain unclear. ActBlue officials have allegedly declined to testify under oath before Congress regarding donations characterized as fraudulent and illegal, with a Congressional subpoena reportedly imminent [4], suggesting potential campaign finance investigations. A geriatric physician has publicly claimed that President Biden shows signs of what they characterize as “elder abuse” [5], raising questions about the former president’s treatment.

[1] Ilhan Omar refuses to condemn fatal shooting of Israeli Embassy workers, walks away from reporters, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/ilhan-omar-refuses-condemn-fatal-shooting-israeli-embassy-workers-walks-away-from-reporters
[2] Ilhan Omar refuses to condemn murders of 2 Israeli Embassy staffers, https://nypost.com/2025/05/22/us-news/ilhan-omar-refuses-to-condemn-murders-of-2-israeli-embassy-staffers/
[3] New: Accountability May Be Coming for Kamala After Biden Revelations Roil California Gubernatorial Race, https://redstate.com/sister-toldjah/2025/05/22/on-the-joe-biden-issue-accountability-may-at-long-last-be-coming-for-kamala-harris-n2189436
[4] ActBlue officials have declined to testify under oath before Congress to explain why hundreds of millions of their donations are fraudulent and illegal. A Congressional subpoena is imminent now., https://x.com/BehizyTweets/status/1925621168834265157
[5] I’m a geriatric MD— Biden shows telltale signs of elder abuse, https://nypost.com/2025/05/21/opinion/im-a-geriatric-md-biden-shows-telltale-signs-of-elder-abuse/