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Los Angeles Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Los Angeles Times
Stunts in L.A. show Democratic states and cities that Trump's forces can invade anytime
Early this month, the U.S. military and masked federal agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement and from Customs and Border Protection invaded a park near downtown Los Angeles — ironically, a park named after Gen. Douglas MacArthur. They came ready for battle, dressed in tactical gear and camouflage, with some arriving on horseback, while others rolled in on armored vehicles or patrolled above in Black Hawk helicopters. Although the invasion force failed to capture anyone, it did succeed in liberating the park from a group of children participating in a summer camp. The MacArthur Park operation sounds like a scene from 'South Park,' but it really did happen — and its implications are terrifying. As Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol agent in charge, said to Fox News: 'Better get used to us now, 'cause this is going to be normal very soon. We will go anywhere, anytime we want in Los Angeles.' And President Trump is sending the same message to every Democratic governor and mayor in America who dares oppose him. He will send heavily armed federal forces wherever he wants, whenever he wants and for any reason. The United States stands at the threshold of an authoritarian breakthrough, and Congress and the courts have given Trump a lot of tools. He's learned from Jan. 6, 2021, that he needs tight control over the 'guys with the guns,' as retired Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley put it. And that's what he got when Congress dutifully confirmed Trump loyalists to lead all of the 'power ministries' — the military, the FBI and the Department of Justice, the rest of the intelligence community and the Department of Homeland Security. As commander in chief, the president can deploy troops and, under Title 10, he can also put National Guard troops under his command — even against the wishes of local officials. Gov. Gavin Newsom challenged the legality of Trump's exercise of this authority in Los Angeles last month, and we will see what the courts say — but based on its initial rulings, the Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit appears likely to defer to the president. Under the Posse Comitatus Act, the troops cannot currently enforce laws, but Trump could change that by invoking the Insurrection Act, and we have to assume that the current Supreme Court would defer to him on that as well, following long-standing precedents saying the president's power under the act is 'conclusive.' Trump could send the military into other cities, but the most dangerous weapon in his authoritarian arsenal might be the newly empowered Department of Homeland Security, which has been given $170 billion by Congress to triple the size of ICE and double its detention capacity. No doubt, this will put Trump's 'mass deportation' into overdrive, but this is not just about immigration. Remember Portland in 2020, when Trump sent Border Patrol agents into the city? Against the wishes of the Oregon governor and the Portland mayor, the president deployed agents to protect federal buildings and suppress unrest after the killing of George Floyd. Under the Homeland Security Act, the secretary can designate any employee of the department to assist the Federal Protective Service in safeguarding government property and carrying out 'such other activities for the promotion of homeland security as the Secretary may prescribe.' Under that law, DHS officers can also make arrests, on and off of federal property, for 'any offense against the United States.' This is why, in 2020, Border Patrol agents — dressed like soldiers and equipped with M-4 semi-automatic rifles — were able to rove around Portland in unmarked black SUVs and arrest people off the streets anywhere in the city. Trump could do this again anywhere in the country, and with the billions Congress has given to immigration and border agencies, DHS could assemble and deploy a formidable federal paramilitary force wherever and whenever Trump wishes. Of course, under the 4th Amendment, officers need to have at least reasonable suspicion based on specific, articulable facts before they can stop and question someone, and probable cause before they arrest. And on Friday, U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong issued a temporary restraining order blocking ICE and Customs and Border Protection from making such stops without reasonable suspicion, and further holding that this could not be based on apparent race or ethnicity; speaking Spanish or speaking English with an accent; presence at a particular location, such as a Home Depot parking lot; or the type of work a person does. This ruling could end up providing an important constitutional restraint on these agencies, but we shall see. The Trump administration has appealed the ruling. However, this litigation proceeds, it is important to note that the DHS agencies are not like the FBI, with its buttoned-down, by-the-book culture drilled into it historically and in response to the revelations of J. Edgar Hoover's abuses of power. DHS and its agencies have no such baggage, and they clearly have been pushing the envelope in Los Angeles — sometimes brutally — over the last month. And even if Frimpong's ruling stands up on appeal, ICE and Customs and Border Protection will no doubt adapt by training their officers to articulate other justifications for stopping people on the street or in workplaces. Ultimately, these agencies are used to operating near the border, where, in the late Chief Justice William Rehnquist's words, the federal government's power is 'at its zenith,' and where there are far fewer constitutional constraints on their actions. These are the tools at Trump's disposal — and as DHS rushes to hire thousands of agents and build the detention facilities Congress just paid for, these tools will only become more formidable. And one should anticipate that Trump will want to deploy the DHS paramilitary forces to 'protect' the 2026 or 2028 elections, alongside federal troops, in the same way they worked together to capture MacArthur Park. A fanciful, dystopian scenario? Maybe, but who or what would stop it from happening? Congress does not seem willing to stand up to the president — and while individual federal judges might, the Supreme Court seems more likely to defer to him, especially on issues concerning national security or immigration. So, in the words of Bruce Springsteen, 'the last check on power, after the checks and balances of government have failed, are the people, you and me.' Suit up. Seth Stodder served in the Obama administration as assistant secretary of Homeland Security for borders, immigration and trade and previously as assistant secretary for threat prevention and security. He teaches national security and counterterrorism law at USC Law School.
Local Sweden
2 days ago
- Politics
- Local Sweden
Why a Black Hawk helicopter landed on the roof of the Swedish parliament
If you looked up at the Swedish parliament in Stockholm on Tuesday morning, you may have seen (and presumably heard) a Black Hawk helicopter landing on top of the building. Advertisement Marie Tisäter, a spokesperson for the Swedish Armed Forces, explained that the helicopter was taking part in a joint exercise by the Armed Forces and the police. The exercise was held between 8am and noon. 'This part of the exercise focused on being able to descend via a rope from high up,' she told the TT news agency. A sign next to the Swedish parliament reading "exercise". Photo: Oscar Olsson/TT It's no coincidence that the roof of the parliament building was used. 'It's important that we train in places where we should be able to operate,' said Tisäter. She did not say whether similar exercises will be held at parliament in the future. 'We regularly practise with each other in various locations,' she said. The helicopter hovering above central Stockholm. Photo: Oscar Olsson/TT
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Record-breaking flooding destroys homes, leaves 3 dead in Ruidoso
RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) – Floodwaters reaching more than 20 feet hit the Village of Ruidoso Tuesday, and claimed the lives of three people, including two children. On Wednesday, Mayor Lynn D. Crawford said they're clearing debris while search and rescue teams continue, as more rain is expected. Last year, the Village of Ruidoso faced historic burn scar floods, but on Wednesday, they said these floods have surpassed that. The mayor said at a news conference Wednesday that after a year of rebuilding, they had just gotten back on their feet. 'We were there and now again we're not. So we're backed up and that creates quite a dichotomy because we are here today talking about the catastrophe that we just experienced, the biggest catastrophe of all is the three lives that we lost,' said Mayor Crawford. The Village of Ruidoso said a flash flood emergency was declared at 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, warning the public to get to high ground. The floods hit a record high of over 20 feet, beating last year's record-setting of 15 feet. The areas hit the hardest include the Upper Canyon, Brady Canyon, Cedar Creek, and Paradise Canyon. The Village of Ruidoso said they had approximately 65 swift water rescues with people getting stuck in homes, cars, and trees. About 18 to 20 people were displaced and are staying at the Village Community Center. The mayor confirmed that a 4-year-old girl, a 7-year-old boy, and a 40 to 50-year-old man were swept downstream and killed. Officials have not released the names of the victims. KRQE News 13 has learned that a Fort Bliss soldier and his family were in Ruidoso and caught in the record flooding. The soldier and his spouse sustained serious injuries and are receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Texas. The couple's children were declared dead. The New Mexico National Guard currently has approximately 70 members in Ruidoso and has a Black Hawk helicopter on standby to help with search and rescue missions. The Village of Ruidoso said they have an outdoor warning system that they did not activate because it's reserved for full town evacuations, saying the flooding only affected specific areas. According to officials, 30 – 50 homes have been destroyed, and the number could rise as crews work to assess the damage. All shelters are open for anyone who needs to utilize them. A missing persons hotline was set up at (575) 637 – 0398. Residents can monitor updates from the Village of Ruidoso via social posts, which can be accessed through the village website by clicking here. Officials also say the second leg of the Triple Crown quarter horse racing, which was supposed to start this weekend, will not be happening. Ruidoso Downs Race Track crews had begun restoring the track earlier this year, putting in culverts and a retention basin to help with flooding. Video from Tuesday shows flood water taking over the track, overpowering those flood mitigation efforts. The Ruidoso Downs released the following statement: We want to start this morning by saying thank you to all those that have reached out and checked in on our property, team members and animals. Due to the severity of the flood waters, we are currently assessing all damage to best determine next steps. Safety is our top priority and what we will focus on today as we work towards a plan. We will continue to post on social media and our website as details come available. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected and serve as a reminder that we are stronger together. #ruidosostrong Ruidoso Downs Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hindustan Times
7 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Newsom vs. DHS explodes over ICE raid on California cannabis farm: 'Why are kids there?'
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents raided a marijuana cultivation site in Camarillo, California, on Thursday. The farm is owned and operated by Glass House Brands Inc., one of the largest licensed cannabis producers in the state. Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-Calif., condemned violence against federal officers during ICE raid at cannabis farm.(AP) A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson confirmed to ABC News that the operation targeted a marijuana facility. "DHS law enforcement is executing a warrant at a marijuana facility. Our brave officers will continue to enforce the law," the spokesperson said. Clashes Break Out During Raid The scene quickly turned chaotic as protesters and onlookers confronted federal agents. Videos and photos from the scene show officers deploying smoke grenades and rubber bullets. In at least one video, a protester appears to fire a weapon at the agents. Unconfirmed reports also suggest Black Hawk helicopters were involved in the operation. At least one person was detained during the clashes. Governor Newsom Reacts California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned violence against federal officers. Reposting video of a protester allegedly firing at agents, Newsom wrote on X (formerly Twitter", 'Of course I condemn any assault on law enforcement, you shit poster. Now do Jan 6.' In another post, he added, 'Kids running from tear gas, crying on the phone because their mother was just taken from the fields. Trump calls me 'Newscum' — but he's the real scum.' Federal Officials Fire Back Federal agencies wasted no time responding to Newsom's criticism. The Department of Homeland Security wrote on X, 'Why are there children working at a marijuana facility, Gavin?' Rodney S. Scott, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection added, 'Here's some breaking news: 10 juveniles were found at this marijuana facility - all illegal aliens, 8 of them unaccompanied. It's now under investigation for child labor violations. This is Newsom's California.' Governor's Office Labels Raids 'Inhumane' Newsom's office released a formal statement, denouncing the operation. 'There's a real cost to these inhumane immigration actions on hardworking families and communities, including farmworker communities, across America,' the statement said. It added that Trump administration's tactics "evoke chaos, fear and terror within our communities at every turn."
Globe and Mail
10-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet Offers Free Premium Carpet Pad with Every Carpet Installation – Only Until July 31st
For a limited time, Santa Cruz homeowners can enjoy the comfort and performance of a luxury carpet installation—without paying a premium. Through July 31st, Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet is including its top-tier Black Hawk carpet pad free with any carpet purchase and professional installation. While most retailers charge $200 or more for high-quality padding, Warehouse Direct is making it standard — at no extra cost. Why Padding Matters More Than You Think Industry studies consistently show that it's not just the carpet that determines the feel and durability of a flooring installation — it's the padding underneath. The Black Hawk pad delivers noticeable comfort, support, and longevity, even when paired with entry-level carpet styles. What's Included with the Free Black Hawk Pad Offer: 7/16-inch thickness and 8-lb. density – the same specs found in luxury homes and $10K+ installs Firm, supportive feel – enhances comfort without bottoming out Double the lifespan – helps reduce carpet wear over time Improved insulation – boosts thermal and sound performance 'This pad typically adds $200 to $300 to the cost of an install, but we're including it for free this month,' says Albert Sosa, manager of Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet. 'It's the kind of comfort and durability people expect from high-end carpet — but now available to everyone.' Offer Ends July 31st – No Extensions Planned This free padding offer is only valid through July 31st, 2025, and installations are filling up fast due to high demand. No extensions are scheduled, so early booking is strongly recommended. To claim this offer, visit the Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet showroom or schedule a free in-home consultation at About Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet serves Santa Cruz County with comprehensive flooring solutions including carpet, hardwood, LVP, and eco-friendly options, maintaining industry recognition for professional installations and premium material quality. Media Contact Company Name: Warehouse Direct Flooring Outlet Contact Person: Laura Miller Email: Send Email Phone: (831) 429-8221 Address: 320 Coral St A City: Santa Cruz State: CA 95060 Country: United States Website:
