Netanyahu UN Speech: Free Hostages or Face Israel’s Wrath

September 29, 2025

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a historic warning in his United Nations address Friday, using his platform to send a direct message to Hamas. The Netanyahu UN speech reached Gaza through “massive loudspeakers” and hacked cellphone livestreams, ensuring that both Hamas leaders and Israeli hostages heard him.

“Free the hostages now or lose your lives,” Netanyahu declared. “Lay down your arms … Free the hostages. All of them, the whole 48 … If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”

The prime minister read aloud the names of every remaining hostage in Hebrew and English, vowing, “We have not forgotten you, not even for a second. The people of Israel are with you. We will not falter and we will not rest until we bring all of you home.”

Netanyahu also blasted Western governments that rewarded Hamas with recognition of a Palestinian state. “This is not an indictment of Israel,” he said. “It’s an indictment of weak-kneed leaders who appease evil rather than support a nation whose brave soldiers guard you from the barbarians at the gate.”

The Israeli leader warned that legitimizing terrorism invites more bloodshed. “Giving the Palestinians a state one mile from Jerusalem after October 7 is like giving al Qaeda a state one mile from New York City after September 11. This is sheer madness. It’s insane. And we won’t do it.”

His conclusion was blunt: “Your disgraceful decision will encourage terrorism against Jews and against innocent people everywhere. It will be a mark of shame on all of you.”

Trump Administration Opens Systemwide Antisemitism Probe at California State Universities

September 29, 2025

California-state-flag-ViktorvetkovicGetty-Images-Signature-via-Canva-Pro — California state flag Viktorvetkovic/Getty Images Signature via Canva Pro

The Trump administration reportedly launched a sweeping federal investigation into alleged antisemitism across all 22 campuses of the California State University (CSU) system. The probe is being carried out via the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and may involve coordination with the Department of Justice.

In a statement sent to CBS 8, CSU said it “confirms that a systemwide antisemitism complaint has been filed against the CSU by the U. S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The CSU will fully cooperate with the EEOC during its investigative review. The CSU unequivocally condemns antisemitism and continues to comply with longstanding federal and state anti-discrimination laws as well as CSU policies. The CSU is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning and working environment for all members of our community.”

Faculty groups have expressed alarm over due process and privacy concerns. The California Faculty Association (CFA) urged members to consult legal counsel before engaging with investigators.

The administration’s move is in line with broader federal scrutiny of antisemitism in higher education. Earlier in 2025, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights sent letters to 60 universities warning of potential enforcement actions under Title VI for failing to curb antisemitic harassment. Additionally, the DOJ in March opened a pattern-or-practice investigation into the University of California system under Title VII.

Critics argue the probe could chill free speech, especially around Palestine–Israel debates. Some warn of potential overreach, likening forced disclosure of private data to McCarthy-era tactics. Supporters contend the federal response is necessary to protect Jewish students and faculty from a hostile campus environment.

Update September 30:

California State University released the following statement on the matter:

“The California State University system has not received a records subpoena from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), as has been falsely reported by some media outlets.

“One of our 22 campuses, Cal State LA received a discrimination complaint (antisemitism) in 2024 and is working with the EEOC to resolve that matter. As part of that campus-specific process, Cal State LA received a subpoena from the EEOC for contact information for its employees. This review is still ongoing. This is the only subpoena that the CSU has received.

“The CSU system received a new discrimination complaint (antisemitism) that is different from the Cal State LA inquiry. No subpoena has been issued in that matter.”

DOT Orders Emergency Overhaul After Deadly Crash Tied to Illegally Licensed Truck Driver

September 29, 2025

A fatal crash in August involving a semi-truck that made an illegal U‑turn on a Florida toll road killed three people, setting off a nationwide regulatory response. The driver, Harjinder Singh, turned out to be in the U.S. illegally but held a commercial driver’s license (CDL) issued by California—a state among 19 that issue CDLs regardless of immigration status.

In response, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy directed the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to audit all states’ issuance of non‑domiciled CDLs. The audit uncovered systemic noncompliance in California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, and Washington. Officials cited programming flaws, weak quality checks, and staff failures that allowed ineligible drivers to receive CDLs or hold licenses that extended beyond their legal stay in the U.S.

Under the emergency action plan, states must immediately pause issuing non‑domiciled CDLs, identify unexpired CDLs that don’t conform, and revoke and reissue those that meet newly tightened requirements. California, the state with the most glaring violations, has 30 days to comply or risk losing about $160 million in federal highway funding—doubling the penalty in year two.

Duffy publicly blamed lax border enforcement policies under the Biden administration for facilitating the exploitation of the trucking licensing system. He warned that states failing to comply will face severe consequences, including possible suspension of their entire CDL licensing program.

New rules now require that CDL applicants provide an unexpired foreign passport and valid work visa, and licenses must expire no later than the driver’s legal status in the U.S. Those in the country illegally are no longer eligible.

This crackdown marks one of the most aggressive federal interventions in state licensing practices in recent years. Observers say it signals a shift toward stricter accountability for states that prioritize expansive licensing over national security and road safety.

Schumer Vows Bipartisan Deal, Blasts Trump as Talks Open

September 29, 2025

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says a bipartisan funding deal remains possible but warned President Donald Trump against disrupting negotiations before talks even begin.

Appearing on Meet the Press, Schumer claimed he’d already reached out to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, urging serious negotiations with Congress and the president. He insisted the upcoming White House meeting must not devolve into a rant by Trump, warning that personal grievances could sabotage progress.

Schumer also reaffirmed Democratic demands: extending Affordable Care Act subsidies and reversing GOP Medicaid reforms. He pledged to reject any deal that fails to address those priorities, even as a government shutdown looms.

Trump previously canceled a meeting with Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, calling the Democrats’ demands “unserious and ridiculous.” But with the October 1 deadline approaching, the president has agreed to a rescheduled summit among the top four congressional leaders.

Republicans reject attaching policy riders to the funding deal, maintaining that healthcare revisions should be handled separately. The standoff hinges on whether the parties can compromise before the shutdown deadline—and whether Trump resists turning the meeting into a spectacle.

Sara Jane Moore, Would‑Be Assassin of President Ford, Dies at 95

September 29, 2025

Sara Jane Moore — who fired at President Gerald Ford outside the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco in 1975 — died Sept. 24, 2025, in a nursing facility in Franklin, Tennessee.

At age 45, Moore purchased a .38-caliber revolver just hours before the attempt and squeezed off two shots toward Ford as he exited the hotel. The shots missed: the first passed wide, while the second was deflected by bystander and former Marine Oliver Sipple, causing the bullet to ricochet and strike a taxi driver instead. Moore was swiftly subdued by law enforcement and Secret Service agents, and Ford was escorted safely away.

In December 1975 she pleaded guilty to attempted assassination and was sentenced to life in prison. She escaped briefly in 1979 but was recaptured within hours. After serving 32 years, she was paroled on December 31, 2007.

Moore’s attempt came just 17 days after another failed assassination attempt on Ford by Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme. Throughout her life, Moore’s motives were tied to radical political ideologies and internal conflict; she also had, at times, cooperated with law enforcement as an informant.

Her death arrives nearly 50 years after the assassination attempt, marking the end of a long, controversial chapter in U.S. presidential security history.

Obama Center’s Weak ‘Taxpayer Protection’ Fuels Criticism

September 29, 2025

Obama Speech — Former President Barack Obama (Screenshot from X/@CollinRugg)

The Obama Foundation pledged to create a $470 million reserve fund to shield Illinois taxpayers from financial risks tied to the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. However, tax filings reveal the Foundation has deposited only $1 million into that fund since its establishment—just 0.21 % of the promised amount. Law professor Richard Epstein warns that the notion of a “reserve fund” is meaningless if the money isn’t actually set aside. He argues that without a properly funded endowment, the project’s ongoing costs must rely on volatile annual revenue streams.

Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi condemned the shortfall, accusing state Democrats of exposing taxpayers to undue risk. Beyond that, the Foundation has reportedly sent $2 million to the Tides Foundation—a group known for political activism. Critics see the redirection of funds as evidence that donor money is already being diverted from the protective fund.

The center’s overall cost has escalated dramatically: original estimates suggested $330 million, but recent reports place the total budget near $850 million. Even as construction proceeds, the $1 million deposit remains the only contribution to the reserve fund, with no further additions reported.

Michigan Church Attack Kills Worshippers, Shocks Faith Community

September 29, 2025

A gunman rammed a vehicle into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints chapel in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, then set the building ablaze and opened fire during Sunday worship. Two worshippers died and multiple others were wounded before police engaged and killed the assailant.

The suspect was identified by authorities as 40‑year‑old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton. Police say Sanford drove into the church, ignited a fire inside the chapel, and opened fire on congregants during a service attended by hundreds. Law enforcement responded within minutes and fatally shot the attacker after an exchange of gunfire.

First responders treated multiple wounded and transported victims to nearby hospitals. Officials reported at least two dead and eight wounded, with one victim in critical condition as of the latest updates. The FBI has joined the investigation as local authorities secure the scene and search the suspect’s residence for possible motivation and devices.

The attack occurred a day after the death of Russell M. Nelson, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, a detail officials are investigating but have not publicly tied to motive. Federal and state agencies are coordinating evidence collection, including examination of the vehicle, incendiary devices, and any digital or paper records found at the suspect’s home.

Community response was immediate. Neighbors, church members, and local medical personnel aided victims before emergency crews arrived. State leaders and law enforcement condemned the violence and called for unity and prayer while promising a full probe into motive and any potential wider threats.

The incident adds to national concern over attacks on places of worship and public gatherings. Investigators continue to interview witnesses, review surveillance footage, and examine ballistic and forensic evidence to establish a full timeline and any motive. Further official updates are expected as agencies complete initial forensic work and notifications to victims’ families proceed.

Adams Quits NYC Race as Mamdani Surges

September 29, 2025

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced he is dropping out of his 2025 re‑election campaign, conceding he cannot sustain a viable path forward. He made the announcement in a video statement, citing fundraising challenges, waning support, and mounting pressure.

Adams’ exit reshapes the New York mayoral contest into a head‑to‑head battle between Zohran Mamdani—the progressive Democrat now surging in polls—and Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent. Adams registered to run as an independent earlier this year after withdrawing from the Democratic primary.

In his announcement, Adams defended his record on crime, housing, and economic recovery, but conceded that ongoing scrutiny—from legal troubles to internal scandals—chipped away at his campaign’s viability. He also delivered a veiled warning about radicalism taking hold in local government, implicitly criticizing Mamdani’s progressive agenda.

Mamdani, the Queens assemblyman and self‑identified democratic socialist, offered a reaction that framed Adams’ departure as proof that the city is ready for bold, new leadership. “New York deserves better than trading one corrupt politician for another,” he said, promising to break from “the politics of big money and small ideas.”

With Adams out of active contention—though his name will remain on the ballot—the spotlight shifts to Mamdani and Cuomo.

Sherrill Silent as NJ Leaders Condemn Cop Killer’s Death

September 29, 2025

Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat running for governor of New Jersey, has remained silent following the death of convicted cop killer Joanne Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur. Chesimard was convicted of the 1973 murder of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster before escaping prison and living in exile in communist Cuba.

Sherrill’s refusal to comment has drawn attention as elected officials across the political spectrum issued strong statements condemning Chesimard’s legacy. Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli called Chesimard “a cop killer” who evaded justice and stated that her death should not overshadow the crime she committed. Democrat Governor Phil Murphy also acknowledged that justice was never fully served and promised to seek the return of her remains to New Jersey.

Multiple members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation responded with similar clarity. Rep. Josh Gottheimer called her a fugitive who “escaped accountability” and emphasized the ongoing grief for Foerster’s family and fellow officers. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. praised Foerster’s service and sacrifice, stating that his memory must be honored by standing firmly against those who murder law enforcement.

Chesimard was convicted in 1977 of first-degree murder, assault, and escape-related charges for her role in the fatal shooting on the New Jersey Turnpike. She escaped from prison in 1979 and resurfaced in Cuba by 1984, where she was shielded from extradition. She remained one of the FBI’s most wanted fugitives until her recent death.

Sherrill’s campaign did not respond to multiple media inquiries for comment. Her silence has sparked criticism from law enforcement supporters and political observers who see the issue as a defining test of leadership in the state’s gubernatorial race.

Raising Cane’s Fires Staff After ‘Execute’ Chants at Charlie Kirk Supporters

September 29, 2025

burger fast food — Burger (Nathan Dumlao/Unsplash)

A Raising Cane’s in Fort Collins, Colorado, dismissed multiple employees after they allegedly shouted “execute” and profanities at Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk’s supporters.

The confrontation occurred Sept. 18, when a group wearing MAGA attire visited the restaurant following a vigil for Kirk. Employees reportedly shouted “f*** Charlie Kirk,” “execute,” and “Free Palestine.” The restaurant confirmed to The Federalist that the staff members were terminated following an internal investigation.

Raising Cane’s issued a statement: “We received complaints about an incident … we thoroughly investigated … took appropriate action … and resolved the matter to the satisfaction of the customers who made the complaints.”

The firings follow a wave of backlash against public employees and media figures who made antagonistic comments after Kirk’s assassination. The article also highlights prior dismissals of a Washington Post columnist, university staff, and media analysts connected to comments about Kirk.