INSIDER
Mexico's National Guard kills 2 Colombians and wounds 4 on a migrant smuggling route near the US
Read full article: Mexico's National Guard kills 2 Colombians and wounds 4 on a migrant smuggling route near the USMexico’s Defense Department claims the National Guard has killed two Colombians and wounded four others in a confrontation near the U.S. border.
Trump tested the limits on using the military at home. If elected again, he plans to go further
Read full article: Trump tested the limits on using the military at home. If elected again, he plans to go furtherDuring his first term as president, Donald Trump tested the limits of how he could use the military to achieve policy goals.
Texas National Guard is shooting pepper balls to deter migrants at the border
Read full article: Texas National Guard is shooting pepper balls to deter migrants at the borderMigrants in Mexico said they’ve been shot by the rounds, which leave bruises and disperse a chemical irritant. The state says Guard members are trained not to aim directly at people.
The US lifts a ban on sending weapons to a controversial Ukrainian military unit
Read full article: The US lifts a ban on sending weapons to a controversial Ukrainian military unitThe United States has lifted a ban on providing American weapons and training to a controversial Ukrainian military unit that was key to the defense of the major port city of Mariupol.
Troops fired on Kent State students in 1970. Survivors see echoes in today's campus protests
Read full article: Troops fired on Kent State students in 1970. Survivors see echoes in today's campus protestsKent State University is marking another solemn anniversary of the National Guard shootings that killed four unarmed students and wounded nine others on May 4, 1970.
Trump says he'll use National Guard to deport migrants, doubling down on anti-immigration rhetoric
Read full article: Trump says he'll use National Guard to deport migrants, doubling down on anti-immigration rhetoricDonald Trump says he’d use the National Guard as part of efforts to deport millions of migrants across the country if he’s reelected.
Why has the National Guard been deployed to Texas for the upcoming Solar Eclipse? TikTok user explains
Read full article: Why has the National Guard been deployed to Texas for the upcoming Solar Eclipse? TikTok user explainsThe upcoming solar eclipse has captured the attention of many across the United States, with thousands expected to come to Texas for a good view.
2 National Guard soldiers, 1 Border Patrol agent killed in Texas helicopter crash are identified
Read full article: 2 National Guard soldiers, 1 Border Patrol agent killed in Texas helicopter crash are identifiedA National Guard soldier from New York who was seriously injured in the crash of a helicopter flying over the U.S.-Mexico border remained hospitalized while authorities released the names of the two National Guard soldiers from New York and a Border Patrol agent who were killed.
Helicopter carrying National Guardsmen and Border Patrol agent crashes in Texas, killing 3
Read full article: Helicopter carrying National Guardsmen and Border Patrol agent crashes in Texas, killing 3The military says a helicopter flying over the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas has crashed, killing two National Guard soldiers and a Border Patrol agent.
New York will send National Guard to subways after a string of violent crimes
Read full article: New York will send National Guard to subways after a string of violent crimesNew York Gov. Kathy Hochul is sending the National Guard to the New York City subway system to help police search passengers’ bags for weapons.
Texas will build camp for National Guard members in border city of Eagle Pass
Read full article: Texas will build camp for National Guard members in border city of Eagle PassTexas is expanding its grasp of a border city that has become the focus of a political struggle between the state and federal government.
US has enough funds for now to continue training Ukrainian pilots on F-16, National Guard chief says
Read full article: US has enough funds for now to continue training Ukrainian pilots on F-16, National Guard chief saysThe chief of the National Guard says the U.S. is still able to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets despite the U.S. running out of funds to send additional weapons and assistance to Kyiv.
Guinea-Bissau’s president issues a decree dissolving the opposition-controlled parliament
Read full article: Guinea-Bissau’s president issues a decree dissolving the opposition-controlled parliamentGuinea-Bissau’s president has issued a decree dissolving the West African nation’s opposition-controlled parliament.
Gunfire erupts in Guinea-Bissau's capital during reported clashes between security forces
Read full article: Gunfire erupts in Guinea-Bissau's capital during reported clashes between security forcesGunfire in Guinea-Bissau’s capital erupted late Thursday night and continued through Friday morning in what local media reported as clashes between security forces.
Ukraine claims responsibility for killing a Russia-backed official in Luhansk by a car bomb
Read full article: Ukraine claims responsibility for killing a Russia-backed official in Luhansk by a car bombUkraine’s intelligence agency has claimed responsibility for a car bombing that killed a member of the Russia-backed authority in the illegally annexed Luhansk region.
The Pentagon plans to shake up DC’s National Guard, criticized for its response to protests, Jan. 6
Read full article: The Pentagon plans to shake up DC’s National Guard, criticized for its response to protests, Jan. 6U.S. officials say the Pentagon is developing plans to restructure the National Guard in Washington, D.
Facing sex discrimination claims, Texas begins jailing migrant women under border crackdown
Read full article: Facing sex discrimination claims, Texas begins jailing migrant women under border crackdownOperation Lone Star originally targeted single men suspected of crossing the border illegally in mass trespassing arrests, but some claimed that not arresting women violated equal protection laws.
Title 42 ends with migrants lined up and border cities braced for the unknown
Read full article: Title 42 ends with migrants lined up and border cities braced for the unknownLong lines formed again next to the border wall in El Paso — a scene repeated in other parts of the southern border — as migrants anticipated the end of a policy that has allowed immigration agents to quickly expel them.
Weather Updates | Travel chaos, bitter cold, flooding
Read full article: Weather Updates | Travel chaos, bitter cold, floodingEmergency weather shelters in Portland, Oregon, are calling for volunteers amid high demand and staffing issues as a winter storm brings snow, freezing rain, ice and frigid temperatures.
What is the Texas National Guard and why does it matter in this year’s gubernatorial election?
Read full article: What is the Texas National Guard and why does it matter in this year’s gubernatorial election?A governor’s military powers are often not discussed as part of the election process, in favor of other prominent issues like education and taxes. But with Operation Lone Star in plain view, voters may have more questions this election.
Pentagon rejects DC request for National Guard migrant help
Read full article: Pentagon rejects DC request for National Guard migrant helpThe Pentagon has once again denied a request from the District of Columbia seeking National Guard assistance in dealing with thousands of migrants being bused to the city from Texas and Arizona.
DC requests National Guard help with busloads of migrants
Read full article: DC requests National Guard help with busloads of migrantsThe District of Columbia has requested National Guard assistance to help stem a “growing humanitarian crisis” prompted by thousands of migrants that have been sent to Washington by a pair of southern states.
Report: Mexico's immigration enforcement relies on military
Read full article: Report: Mexico's immigration enforcement relies on militaryMexico’s immigration enforcement is increasingly militarized with the armed forces and National Guard now accounting for more migrant detentions than immigration agents.
Mexican woman dies entangled crossing Arizona border wall
Read full article: Mexican woman dies entangled crossing Arizona border wallAuthorities are investigating the cause of death this week of a Mexican woman whose leg was entangled while using a climbing harness and ended up hanging upside down off the border wall in eastern Arizona.
What is Operation Lone Star? Gov. Greg Abbott’s controversial border mission, explained.
Read full article: What is Operation Lone Star? Gov. Greg Abbott’s controversial border mission, explained.The governor has ordered thousands of state troopers and National Guard members to the border since last year. Here’s what you need to know about the initiative.
TribCast: Operation Lone Star and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad week
Read full article: TribCast: Operation Lone Star and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad weekGov. Greg Abbott’s controversial border mission was subject to a slew of bad news this week, including a major shakeup at the Texas Military Department, whose top leader Abbott replaced.
TribCast: The Texas power grid fares better in 2022’s winter storm
Read full article: TribCast: The Texas power grid fares better in 2022’s winter stormIn this week’s episode, Matthew speaks with Mitchell and James about how Texas held up during the wintry weather, plus the struggles of the National Guard during their border deployment.
Deplorable conditions, unclear mission: Texas National Guard troops call Abbott’s rushed border operation a disaster
Read full article: Deplorable conditions, unclear mission: Texas National Guard troops call Abbott’s rushed border operation a disasterThe governor has sent waves of troops to the border as Guard officials scramble to execute a massive mobilization that would normally take months to plan. Some Guard members say the operation has set back their income, education and well-being.
New Mexico asks Guard to sub for sick teachers amid omicron
Read full article: New Mexico asks Guard to sub for sick teachers amid omicronNew Mexico is asking National Guard troops and state bureaucrats to volunteer to serve as substitute teachers as preschools and K-12 public schools struggle to keep classrooms open amid surging COVID-19 infections.
Pentagon chief says Guard who refuse vaccine cannot train
Read full article: Pentagon chief says Guard who refuse vaccine cannot trainDefense Secretary Lloyd Austin says no member of the National Guard will be allowed to participate in drills or other training required to maintain their status in the Guard unless they are vaccinated against COVID-19 or are given an exemption.
Oklahoma bid for Guard exception to vaccine mandate denied
Read full article: Oklahoma bid for Guard exception to vaccine mandate deniedDefense Secretary Lloyd Austin has rejected a request by Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt that his state’s National Guard be exempt from a Pentagon requirement that all military members be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Oklahoma challenging Pentagon's vaccine mandate for Guard
Read full article: Oklahoma challenging Pentagon's vaccine mandate for GuardA dispute between the Oklahoma governor and the Pentagon over the COVID-19 vaccine mandate is setting up the first critical test of the military’s authority to require National Guard troops to get the shot.
Biden signs bill to fund Capitol security, Afghan visas
Read full article: Biden signs bill to fund Capitol security, Afghan visasPresident Joe Biden has signed emergency legislation that will bolster security at the Capitol, repay outstanding debts from the violent Jan. 6 insurrection and increase the number of visas for allies who worked alongside Americans in the Afghanistan war.
Congress passes bill to fund Capitol security, Afghan visas
Read full article: Congress passes bill to fund Capitol security, Afghan visasCongress has overwhelmingly passed emergency legislation that will bolster security at the Capitol, repay outstanding debts from the violent Jan. 6 insurrection and increase the number of visas for allies who worked alongside Americans in the Afghanistan war.
Gov. Abbott issues executive order to restrict ground transportation of migrants citing rise of COVID-19 cases
Read full article: Gov. Abbott issues executive order to restrict ground transportation of migrants citing rise of COVID-19 casesTexas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued an executive order Wednesday that will restrict ground transportation of migrants who he claims pose a risk of carrying the coronavirus into Texas communities.
Gov. Greg Abbott orders Texas National Guard to help with migrant arrests at the border
Read full article: Gov. Greg Abbott orders Texas National Guard to help with migrant arrests at the borderIn a letter to the major general of the Texas National Guard, Abbott said “more manpower is needed” at the border.
Gov. Greg Abbott sends state troopers, National Guard to border after increase in fentanyl seizures
Read full article: Gov. Greg Abbott sends state troopers, National Guard to border after increase in fentanyl seizuresTexas Gov. Greg Abbott will hold a press conference on Thursday in Fort Worth to provide an update on the state's efforts to secure the border.
In Minneapolis, city fortified after Chauvin guilty verdict
Read full article: In Minneapolis, city fortified after Chauvin guilty verdictMore than 3,000 National Guard soldiers, along with police officers, sheriffs deputies and other law enforcement personnel have flooded Minneapolis in the wake of a verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer charged with murder in the death last year of George Floyd.
Feds charge Arizona man in National Guard holdup in Texas
Read full article: Feds charge Arizona man in National Guard holdup in TexasThis undated photo provided by Lubbock County (Texas) Sheriff's Office shows Larry Lee Harris. Idalou, Texas police said Harris, an Arizona man who held 11 National Guard Soldiers transporting COVID-19 vaccines at gunpoint, was arrested Tuesday, March 23, 2021. (Lubbock County Sheriff's Office via AP)LUBBOCK, Texas – Federal prosecutors have charged an Arizona man accused of forcing off the road a National Guard convoy transporting COVID-19 vaccines in West Texas, then holding 11 guard members at gunpoint. Larry Lee Harris, 66, of Willcox, Arizona, has been charged with assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon, federal prosecutors announced in a statement Friday. He remained in the Lubbock County Detention Center on Friday pending an initial appearance in federal court.
Man accused of holding National Guard members at gunpoint
Read full article: Man accused of holding National Guard members at gunpointIdalou, Texas police said Harris, an Arizona man who held 11 National Guard Soldiers transporting COVID-19 vaccines at gunpoint, was arrested Tuesday, March 23, 2021. (Lubbock County Sheriff's Office via AP)LUBBOCK, Texas – An Arizona man is accused of forcing off the road a National Guard convoy transporting COVID-19 vaccines in West Texas and then holding 11 guard members at gunpoint. None of the National Guard members were injured, and Harris was arrested Tuesday morning when police responded to the scene. He then ordered the guard members out of their vehicles at gunpoint, police said. AdIdalou police and deputies from the Lubbock County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene.
Security officials to scale back fencing around US Capitol
Read full article: Security officials to scale back fencing around US CapitolLawmakers from both parties have decried the fencing as unsightly, expensive and beyond what is necessary, even though security fears remain high. The security perimeter extends far beyond the Capitol itself through neighboring parks and office buildings. AdBlodgett said.the outer perimeter fencing will be removed in the latter part of March and Independence and Constitution avenues, the two major thoroughfares that flank the Capitol, will be opened for traffic. An inner perimeter will be moved closer to the Capitol building this week, providing reopened access to nearby streets and some sidewalks. The political pressure to remove the security fencing has been building.
Stay or go? Fence, Guard pose Capitol security questions
Read full article: Stay or go? Fence, Guard pose Capitol security questionsNational Guard open a gate in the razor wire topped perimeter fence around the Capitol allow another member in at sunrise in Washington, Monday, March 8, 2021. The U.S. Capitol Police has asked for the fencing and the National Guard to remain, for now. As of Friday there were about 4,300 Guard troops in the city. "Our National Guard troops, who serve with great honor and distinction, are not law enforcement officers, and we will not abide the continued militarization of Capitol complex security,” wrote Sens. Coupled with the hiring of 350 additional officers, the report also recommends establishing a permanent “quick response force” within the Capitol Police but also at the National Guard in D.C. for emergencies.
More than 1,000 Guard troops now leaving DC; others stay on
Read full article: More than 1,000 Guard troops now leaving DC; others stay onAccording to the National Guard, troops from some states will stay in Washington for the entire two months. Military leaders were also concerned because governors initially expressed reluctance to have their troops stay in the city. Troops from the District of Columbia Guard will continue in the security mission. As of Friday there were about 4,300 Guard troops in the city. The National Guard Association of the United States also questioned the extension, noting that it was difficult for Guard leaders to find enough volunteers for the mission.
Stay or go? Fence, Guard pose Capitol security questions
Read full article: Stay or go? Fence, Guard pose Capitol security questionsNational Guard open a gate in the razor wire topped perimeter fence around the Capitol allow another member in at sunrise in Washington, Monday, March 8, 2021. The U.S. Capitol Police has asked for the fencing and the National Guard to remain, for now. As of Friday there were about 4,300 Guard troops in the city. "Our National Guard troops, who serve with great honor and distinction, are not law enforcement officers, and we will not abide the continued militarization of Capitol complex security,” wrote Sens. Coupled with the hiring of 350 additional officers, the report also recommends establishing a permanent “quick response force” within the Capitol Police but also at the National Guard in D.C. for emergencies.
Pentagon approves extending Guard deployment at Capitol
Read full article: Pentagon approves extending Guard deployment at CapitolThere are currently about 5,100 Guard troops in Washington, and they were scheduled to leave this weekend. Early on, Guard members were briefly forced to take rest breaks and meals in a nearby cold garage, sparking outrage within the Biden administration. In addition, Guard members complained of bad food, and some said they became sick. On Monday, Kirby said about 50 Guard troops had been treated for gastrointestinal issues, out of the 26,000 that deployed to Washington. AdActing Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman made the request to have the Guard members stay on, setting off a series of discussions with the Pentagon and National Guard leaders.
Police request 60-day extension of Guard at US Capitol
Read full article: Police request 60-day extension of Guard at US CapitolNational Guard keep watch on the Capitol, Thursday, March 4, 2021, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)WASHINGTON – The Capitol Police have requested that members of the National Guard continue to provide security at the U.S. Capitol for another two months, The Associated Press has learned. There were no signs of disturbance Thursday, but the Capitol Police's request for extended Guard assistance appeared mired in confusion within various congressional oversight authorities, according to letters obtained by The AP. The more than 5,000 Guard members currently in Washington, D.C., are all slated to go home March 12, ending the mission. AdCapitol Police officials have also told congressional leaders the razor-wire-topped fencing around the Capitol should remain in place for several more months.
The Latest: Board reportedly wants Capitol fencing removed
Read full article: The Latest: Board reportedly wants Capitol fencing removedNational Guard stand guard at a perimeter fence at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, March 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)WASHINGTON – The Latest on a possible threat against the Capitol (all times local):5:50 p.m. Pittman says the board suggested some temporary fencing would be removed starting Friday, and the fencing around the outer perimeter of the Capitol complex would be removed starting March 12. Some fencing is likely to remain as law enforcement officials continue to track an increased number of threats against lawmakers and the Capitol. This comes two months after Trump supporters smashed through windows and doors to try to stop Congress from certifying now-President Joe Biden’s victory.
Capitol Police chief appeals for National Guard to stay
Read full article: Capitol Police chief appeals for National Guard to stayScott Applewhite)WASHINGTON – Worried about continuing threats, the acting chief of the U.S. Capitol Police appealed to congressional leaders Thursday to use their influence to keep National Guard troops at the Capitol, two months after the law enforcement breakdowns of the deadly Jan. 6 insurrection. Pittman said she needed the leaders' assistance with the three-member Capitol Police Board, which reports to them. Paul Irving, who served on the Capitol Police Board as House sergeant-at-arms, denied that Sund asked him to call the Guard. He ultimately called the commanding general of the D.C. National Guard just before 2 p.m., who in turn testified that the request for help was delayed by the Defense Department. “We have the razor wire, we have the National Guard.
Takeaways: What hearings have revealed about Jan. 6 failures
Read full article: Takeaways: What hearings have revealed about Jan. 6 failuresScott Applewhite)WASHINGTON – Many questions remain unanswered about the failure to prevent the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. The Capitol Police also did its own intelligence assessment warning that Congress could be targeted on Jan. 6. Four House committees are probing what went wrong with that data collection, including the House intelligence committee. “I don’t want our committee’s examination to be about Trump or about Jan. 6,” Warner, D-Va., said in an interview. Thousands of National Guard troops still guard the Capitol, which is now surrounded by fencing and barbed wire and closed off to the public.
The Latest: Senate names new sergeant at arms after riot
Read full article: The Latest: Senate names new sergeant at arms after riotThe Senate has named a veteran intelligence official as the new sergeant at arms, a crucial position after the Jan. 6 siege of the Capitol and the ouster of the previous official. She'll head the first all-female leadership team at the Office of the Sergeant at Arms in its 223-year history. Gibson comes to the Senate from a 33-year military career, including as a senior intelligence officer in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, supporting troops in the Middle East, Schumer said. Longtime Schumer aide Kelly Fado will become deputy sergeant at arms, and Hemingway will serve as the office’s chief of staff. Walker says D.C. officials pleaded with the Army officials to quickly send the National Guard to help police guard the Capitol.
General: Pentagon hesitated on sending Guard to Capitol riot
Read full article: General: Pentagon hesitated on sending Guard to Capitol riotGuard troops who had been waiting on buses were then rushed to the Capitol, arriving in 18 minutes, Walker said. Much of the focus at Wednesday's hearing was on communications between the National Guard and the Defense Department. Contee said Sund pleaded with Army officials to deploy National Guard troops as the rioting escalated. AdAccording to the Defense Department, Walker was called at 3 p.m. by Army officials, and was told to prepare Guard troops to deploy. Thousands of National Guard troops are still patrolling the fenced-in Capitol, and multiple committees across Congress are investigating Jan. 6.
The Latest: Lawmaker says Capitol police didn't grasp threat
Read full article: The Latest: Lawmaker says Capitol police didn't grasp threatIn this Feb. 2, 2021 file photo, acting U.S. Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman pays respects to U.S. Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick in the Capitol Rotunda in Washington. (Erin Schaff/The New York Times via AP, Pool)WASHINGTON – The Latest on congressional testimony about the Capitol insurrection (all times local):12:30 p.m. The lawmaker who's chair of a hearing on the Jan. 6 riot says the U.S. Capitol Police’s acting chief failed to understand the threat facing lawmakers that day. The acting chief of the U.S. Capitol Police says the agency’s incident command protocols “were not adhered to” on the day of the Capitol insurrection. AdActing Chief Yogananda Pittman says commanders in charge of supervising the officers were supposed to be giving directions as the violent mob stormed the Capitol.
The Latest: After hearing on Jan. 6, chair calls for action
Read full article: The Latest: After hearing on Jan. 6, chair calls for actionThree of the four security officials, including the Capitol police chief, resigned immediately after the attack. He testified Tuesday that he met with then-Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund on Jan. 4 and that he believed they agreed not to ask for the Guard. Sund says he requested Guard help again at 1:09 p.m. on Jan. 6, as rioters were massing outside the building. Sund says he did see an intelligence report created within the Capitol Police force warning that Congress could be targeted on Jan. 6. That report warned extremists were likely to attend and there were calls for people to travel to Washington armed.
Capitol defenders cite missed intelligence for deadly breach
Read full article: Capitol defenders cite missed intelligence for deadly breachFormer U.S. Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund testifies before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs & Senate Rules and Administration joint hearing on Capitol Hill, Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021, to examine the January 6th attack on the Capitol. Sund said he hadn’t seen an FBI field office report that warned of potential violence citing online posts about a “war." Sund said he did see an intelligence report created within his own department warning that Congress could be targeted on Jan. 6. ”Sund and Irving disagreed on when the National Guard was called and on requests for the guard beforehand. A House subcommittee will examine damage to the Capitol on Wednesday and will hear testimony from currrent security officials, including Acting Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman, on Thursday.
Democrats consider piecemeal approach to immigration reform
Read full article: Democrats consider piecemeal approach to immigration reform(AP Photo/Christian Chavez)WASHINGTON – After decades of failed attempts to pass comprehensive immigration legislation, congressional Democrats and President Joe Biden are signaling openness to a piece-by-piece approach. They unveiled a broad bill Thursday that would provide an eight-year pathway to citizenship for 11 million people living in the country without legal status. “Even though I support full, comprehensive immigration reform, I’m ready to move on piecemeal, because I don’t want to end up with good intentions on my hands and not have anything,” said Texas Rep. Henry Cuellar. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin has said that any final Senate bill likely “will not reach the same levels” as Biden’s proposal. AdIndeed, comprehensive bills negotiated by bipartisan teams of lawmakers failed multiple times during Republican George W. Bush’s administration and again in 2013 during Democrat Barack Obama's.
Crippling storm hampers vaccinations as FEMA opens new sites
Read full article: Crippling storm hampers vaccinations as FEMA opens new sitesMembers of the National Guard help motorists check in at a federally-run COVID-19 vaccination site set up on the campus of California State University of Los Angeles in Los Angeles, Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021. FEMA opened its first COVID-19 inoculation sites in Los Angeles and Oakland, part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to get shots into arms more quickly and reach minority communities hit hard by the outbreak. In snowy Chicago, Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said more than a hundred city vaccine sites didn’t get shipments Tuesday because of the extreme weather, leading to many cancellations. The Los Angeles site is “proximate to a community that has been disproportionately impacted by this pandemic,” Gov. “The effort here is to address that issue forthrightly.”The Biden administration plans to establish 100 federally assisted vaccination sites nationwide in cooperation with state authorities.
Feds: Man charged in riot suggested bringing weapons by boat
Read full article: Feds: Man charged in riot suggested bringing weapons by boatAdCaldwell's lawyer is urging the judge to release him, saying he denies being a member of the Oath Keepers or ever going into the Capitol building. The Virginia man is among more than 200 people charged with federal crimes so far in the deadly siege. He was charged with conspiracy last month alongside two other accused members of the Oath Keepers, who are accused of planning in advance to carry out violence. Authorities say Caldwell began plotting to undo President Joe Biden's victory as early as the days after the election. Prosecutors said the Oath Keepers communicated during the attack about the location of lawmakers.
Guard deployment to secure DC will cost nearly $500 million
Read full article: Guard deployment to secure DC will cost nearly $500 millionNational Guard troops reinforce the security zone on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, before President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th president on Wednesday. Scott Applewhite)WASHINGTON – The cost of deploying about 26,000 National Guard troops to secure the U.S. Capitol in the wake of the deadly Jan. 6 riot is nearly $500 million, U.S. military officials said Thursday. Thousands of Guard members poured into the nation's capital and were stationed across the city to block traffic and protect lawmakers and landmarks. Officials said the nearly $500 million includes the costs of transporting Guard troops from their states to Washington, their salaries and benefits, as well as housing and other essentials. AdOfficials say the money is expected to cover the costs of the Guard through mid-March, when the troops are expected to leave.
Austin orders military leaders to address extremism in ranks
Read full article: Austin orders military leaders to address extremism in ranks(AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, Pool)WASHINGTON – Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is ordering military leaders to spend time talking to their troops about extremism in the ranks, after a number of former and current military members took part in the riot at the U.S. Capitol last month. Kirby said while extremism has been a problem in the military in the past, the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, which left five people dead, was a “wake-up call” for military leaders. AdRooting out extremism within the ranks — much like efforts to do away with racism and violence against women — is difficult. Service members may hold whatever political or other beliefs they want, but they are held to much stricter standards on actions they are allowed to take. Under the Code of Military Justice, service members can't actively advocate for extremist, supremacist or criminal gang doctrine, ideology or causes, or participate in any way.
Pentagon chief purges defense boards; Trump loyalists out
Read full article: Pentagon chief purges defense boards; Trump loyalists outDuring the last two months of his tenure, former acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller removed a number of longtime members from several defense policy, health, science and business boards and replaced many with loyalists of former President Donald Trump. And he ordered all committee members who were appointed by the defense secretary to resign no later than Feb. 16. In November, however, Trump appointed him to that same post, just days after firing then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper and putting Miller in the job. Miller appointed Tata to the Defense Policy Board on Jan. 19, his last full day on the job. AdOne new congressionally mandated commission is also being purged of the four members that Miller appointed in early January.
Police tighten Congress security in era of rising threats
Read full article: Police tighten Congress security in era of rising threatsIn this Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021 photo, riot fencing and razor wire reinforce the security zone on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Eileen Putman)WASHINGTON – The House’s chief law enforcement officer is tightening security for traveling lawmakers as Congress reassesses safety in an era when threats against members were surging even before Donald Trump’s supporters attacked the Capitol. Congress' 535 members travel frequently between their homes and the capital, and many have said they feel vulnerable in their districts and when they travel. The House members asked for tightened security procedures. President Joe Biden is in “close touch” with Pelosi about congressional security, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said.
Texas National Guard teams will vaccinate residents for COVID-19 in five rural counties, Gov. Greg Abbott announces
Read full article: Texas National Guard teams will vaccinate residents for COVID-19 in five rural counties, Gov. Greg Abbott announcesSoldiers with the Texas National Guard work at a drive-through COVID-19 testing center in Smithville on May 5, 2020. Greg Abbott announced Wednesday that National Guard troops will vaccinate residents in five rural counties as part of a new pilot program. Credit: Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via USA TODAY NETWORKStarting Thursday, state mobile vaccination teams staffed by Texas National Guard members will be deployed to five rural Texas counties to administer coronavirus vaccines to qualified residents. National Guard teams will visit DeWitt, Marion, Real, Sherman and Starr counties as part of a newly-created State Mobile Vaccine Pilot Program announced by Gov. On Wednesday, President Biden ordered full reimbursement to states that use the National Guard to increase the pace of vaccinations nationally.
Guard in DC forced to sleep in garages, sparking outcry
Read full article: Guard in DC forced to sleep in garages, sparking outcryAbout 25,000 Guard members from across the country deployed to help secure President Joe Biden's inauguration, which went off with only a handful of minor arrests. First lady Jill Biden visited Guard troops outside the Capitol on Friday, bringing them cookies and thanking them for protecting her family. She noted that the Bidens’ late son, Beau, served in the Delaware Army National Guard. All 25,000 Guard members were vetted by the FBI over concerns of an insider attack, and a dozen were removed from their posts including two who made extremist statements about the inauguration. Thousands of Guard troops from all across the country poured into D.C. by the planeload and busload late last week, in response to escalating security threats and fears of more rioting.
3 dead in military helicopter crash were experienced pilots
Read full article: 3 dead in military helicopter crash were experienced pilotsThey are, from left: Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steven Skoda, age 54, from Rochester, NY; Chief Warrant Officer 4 Christian Koch, age 39, from Honeoye Falls, NY; and Chief Warrant Officer Two Daniel Prial, age 30, from Rochester, NY. (New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs via AP)MENDON, N.Y. – The three National Guard members killed when a helicopter crashed in an upstate New York field this week were experienced pilots with past deployments to Afghanistan, officials said Friday. Killed in the crash were Chief Warrant Officer 5 Steven Skoda, 54, of Rochester, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Christian Koch, 39, of Honeoye Falls, and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Daniel Prial, 30 of Rochester, according to the National Guard. The crew had been conducting night vision goggle proficiency training in the local training area, the National Guard said. Skoda served in the Army from 1985 to 1987 and joined the National Guard 1987.
Guard troops head home after helping secure Biden inaugural
Read full article: Guard troops head home after helping secure Biden inauguralNational Guard troops continue to be deployed around the Capitol one day after the inauguration of President Joe Biden, Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)WASHINGTON – After President Joe Biden’s inauguration went off with only a handful of minor arrests and incidents, more than 15,000 National Guard members are preparing to leave Washington, D.C., and head home. The National Guard Bureau said Thursday that of the nearly 26,000 Guard troops deployed to D.C. for the inaugural, just 10,600 remain on duty. The bureau said the Guard is helping states with coordination and the logistics so that troops can get home. Guard members will have to turn in equipment, make travel plans and go through COVID-19 screening.
Coronavirus deaths rising in 30 US states amid winter surge
Read full article: Coronavirus deaths rising in 30 US states amid winter surgeFILE - In this Jan. 12, 2021 photo provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner, National Guard members assisting with processing COVID-19 deaths, placing them into temporary storage at the medical examiner-coroner's office in Los Angeles. (Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner via AP, File)NEW YORK – Coronavirus deaths are rising in nearly two-thirds of American states as a winter surge pushes the overall toll toward 400,000 amid warnings that a new, highly contagious variant is taking hold. While the variant does not cause more severe illness, it can cause more hospitalizations and deaths simply because it spreads more easily. Although the state last week said anyone age 65 and older can start receiving the vaccine, Los Angeles County and some others have said they don’t have enough to immunize so many people. The death rate from COVID-19 in Los Angeles County — an epicenter of the U.S. pandemic — works out to about one person every six minutes.
5 things for Houstonians to know for Monday, Jan. 18
Read full article: 5 things for Houstonians to know for Monday, Jan. 18Here are things to know for Monday, Jan. 18:1. The massive undertaking reflects the extraordinary security concerns that have gripped Washington following the deadly Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol by pro-Trump rioters. HISD temporarily closes Condit Elementary over coronavirus concernsCondit Elementary School has been temporarily closed because of concerns over the coronavirus, officials at the Houston Independent School District announced Sunday. Officials said the school will be closed from Jan. 19 to Jan. 25 to be deep cleaned and disinfected. Watson refusing to play without a trade would leave the Texans having to sign or trade for a replacement-level quarterback.
FBI vetting Guard troops in DC amid fears of insider attack
Read full article: FBI vetting Guard troops in DC amid fears of insider attackHe said Guard members are also getting training on how to identify potential insider threats. Multiple officials said the process began as the first Guard troops began deploying to D.C. more than a week ago. That could include involvement in prior investigations or terrorism-related concerns, said David Gomez, a former FBI national security supervisor in Seattle. Insider threats have been a persistent law enforcement priority in the years after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, has been meeting with Guard troops as they arrive in D.C. and as they gather downtown.
FBI vetting National Guard troops in DC amid fears of insider attack
Read full article: FBI vetting National Guard troops in DC amid fears of insider attackHe said Guard members are also getting training on how to identify potential insider threats. Multiple officials said the process began as the first Guard troops began deploying to D.C. more than a week ago. That could include involvement in prior investigations or terrorism-related concerns, said David Gomez, a former FBI national security supervisor in Seattle. Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, has been meeting with Guard troops as they arrive in D.C. and as they gather downtown. Behind them were dozens more National Guard officers and staff, with their eyes trained on additional maps and charts displayed on the wall.
Guard troops pour into Washington as states answer the call
Read full article: Guard troops pour into Washington as states answer the callMilitary leaders spent chunks of Thursday evening and Friday calling states in an unprecedented appeal for more National Guard troops to help lock down much of the city in the days before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration. Kate Brown said she turned down the federal request to send at least 100 more National Guard troops to D.C. “I didn’t think that we could safely fill that commitment,” Brown said. Oregon has already agreed to send 30 to Washington, but state leaders are worried about violence at the state capitol in Salem. At that point, the new round of calls to the state governors and military leaders began. Roy Cooper initially agreed to send 200 Guard, and on Friday spokesman Ford Porter said the state will send 100 more.
California now reporting 525 virus deaths every day
Read full article: California now reporting 525 virus deaths every dayState officials said Friday they have helped distribute 98 refrigerated trailers to help county coroners store dead bodies. There are now 98 of the trailers to help county coroners store bodies “with respect and dignity,” Office of Emergency Services Director Mark Ghilarducci said. California has received more than 3.5 million doses of the vaccine and has administered just over 1 million doses. Newsom said the state was on pace to exceed his goal of giving out roughly 1.5 million doses by Friday. While California has the second-highest number of deaths in the country, the state ranks 39th in the number of deaths per capita at 81.8.
Pence calls VP-elect Kamala Harris to offer congratulations
Read full article: Pence calls VP-elect Kamala Harris to offer congratulationsVice President Mike Pence listens during a briefing about the upcoming presidential inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, at FEMA headquarters, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)WASHINGTON – Vice President Mike Pence has called his soon-to-be successor Kamala Harris to offer his congratulations, according to two people familiar with the conversation. Pence and Harris spoke Thursday afternoon and had a “good call," according to one of the people familiar with the conversation, with Pence congratulating Harris and offering his assistance. And in November 2016, Biden, Pence and their spouses met for lunch at the Naval Observatory after an earlier meeting at the White House. “I told Mike, the vice president-elect, that I'm available to him 24/7,” Biden said after the get-together.
The Latest: Azar condemns Capitol riot in resignation letter
Read full article: The Latest: Azar condemns Capitol riot in resignation letterSecurity surrounds the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Azar says he will resign at noon on Jan. 20, when President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in. TSA is also providing officers to help the Secret Service screen people along the parade route and attending Biden’s inauguration Wednesday. Pence’s call comes less than a week before President-elect Joe Biden and Harris are set to take office. President Donald Trump hasn’t reached out to Biden and has repeatedly questioned the legitimacy of Biden’s win.
Federal watchdogs open probe of response to Capitol riot
Read full article: Federal watchdogs open probe of response to Capitol riotMembers of the National Guard walk past the Dome of the Capitol Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. Now, the Defense Department inspector general will review the Pentagon's “roles, responsibilities, and actions” in preparing for and responding to the riot. He said the information was quickly shared with other law enforcement agencies through the Joint Terrorism Task Force in Washington. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security's inspector general office said it would look into the response of its component agencies, focusing in part on the Office of Intelligence and Analysis. That unit issues alerts to law enforcement agencies around the country.
Trump’s trial could start on Inauguration Day
Read full article: Trump’s trial could start on Inauguration DayAs of Thursday, there are roughly 7,000 Guard members in Washington, with thousands more on the way. Officials say Guard members from all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, are deploying to the city. As of Thursday, there are roughly 7,000 Guard members in Washington, with thousands more on the way. Pentagon officials approved requests to have some Guard members armed with either long guns or handguns, particularly those Guard members assigned near the U.S. Capitol. ___9:55 a.m.President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial could begin at 1 p.m. on Inauguration Day next Wednesday as President-elect Joe Biden is being sworn into office.
National Guard troops flooding in as Washington locks down
Read full article: National Guard troops flooding in as Washington locks downMembers of the National Guard walk past the Dome of the Capitol Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)WASHINGTON – All through downtown Washington, the primary sound for several blocks was the beeping of forklifts unloading more fencing. The number of National Guard troops coming to Washington to assist with security has so far grown to about 21,000, Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, told Vice President Mike Pence at a briefing Thursday. National Guard members operate under strict rules of engagement on the use of force. D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee estimated Wednesday that more than 20,000 National Guard members would be active in the city on Inauguration Day.
The Latest: Pelosi wants fines for bypassing House security
Read full article: The Latest: Pelosi wants fines for bypassing House securityThe House is trying to push the vice president and Cabinet to act even more quickly to remove President Donald Trump from office. Ten Republican House members voted to impeach President Donald Trump over the deadly insurrection at the Capitol. ___12:45 p.m.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says President Donald Trump represents a “clear and present danger” to the nation and must be impeached. The debate is heated almost from the start as the House sets up a vote to impeach President Donald Trump. ___8:15 a.m.Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger is predicting more Republicans will join him in voting to impeach President Donald Trump.
The Latest: No public access to Capitol grounds Jan. 20
Read full article: The Latest: No public access to Capitol grounds Jan. 20With the Washington Monument in the background, people attend a rally in support of President Donald Trump on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. The announcement comes after thousands of supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week as legislators were meeting to vote to certify Biden’s electoral win. The State Department is investigating what appears to be a “prank” after its website suggested President Donald Trump’s term would end Monday evening. It comes days after thousands of supporters of President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol to try to stop the congressional certification of Biden’s victory. The National Park Service is shutting down public access to the Washington Monument until Jan. 24, citing threats surrounding Joe Biden’s inauguration.
US Capitol Police Chief Sund is resigning, NBC News reports
Read full article: US Capitol Police Chief Sund is resigning, NBC News reportsWith the U.S. Capitol in the background, members of the National Guard stand behind newly placed fencing around the Capitol grounds the day after violent protesters loyal to President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Congress in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)WASHINGTON – The head of the U.S. Capitol Police will resign effective Jan. 16 following the breach of the Capitol by a pro-Trump mob. Chief Steven Sund said Thursday that police had planned for a free speech demonstration and did not expect the violent attack. His resignation was confirmed to The Associated Press by a person familiar with the matter who was not authorized to speak publicly. Protesters stormed the building and occupied for hours.
EXPLAINER: Breaking down the uncertainty after Capitol siege
Read full article: EXPLAINER: Breaking down the uncertainty after Capitol siegeBut given what we saw at the Capitol, people are very concerned that this could go in a much different direction. We’re at one of these moments where you’re going to see a transfer of power from not just one man to the next but one party to another. You’re going to see a significant shift in priorities from one administration to another. You’re going to see a changeover on Capitol Hill. But there are already some real concerns about what the Trump administration will leave the Biden administration, and whether that will hamper them at the start.