Politics

Pentagon appoints Elias Irizarry to counterterrorism role

Elias Irizarry, a convicted rioter from the January 6 insurrection, has been appointed to a sensitive role in the Pentagon's counterterrorism office. His appointment has raised concerns among officials due to his past record.

Pentagon appoints individual with January 6 conviction to counter-terrorism role

Elias Irizarry, a convicted rioter from the January 6 insurrection, has been appointed to a sensitive counter-terrorism role at the Pentagon. His appointment has raised alarms among officials due to his past record.

House Ethics Committee Investigates Rep. Jimmy Gomez Over Misconduct Allegations

The House Ethics Committee is investigating Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-CA) over allegations of sexual misconduct involving a congressional aide. Gomez acknowledged personal mistakes but stated he did not violate any ethics laws. This investigation is part of a broader scrutiny of sexual misconduct in Congress, which has led to multiple resignations.

New Mexico holds gubernatorial primaries amid increased tax revenue from oil

New Mexico's gubernatorial primaries took place on June 2, 2026, alongside a notable increase in tax revenue due to rising global oil prices linked to the Iran war. This context presents opportunities for the candidates in the election.

DOJ Abandons Anti-Weaponization Fund; Trump Remains Protected from Tax Audits

The DOJ has abandoned plans for a $1.8 billion compensation fund linked to a lawsuit by Donald Trump against the IRS, as confirmed by acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. Trump and his family remain protected from tax audits related to past returns due to a settlement addendum, which has drawn criticism from lawmakers concerned about its implications.

Graham Platner Meets with Senate Democrats Amid Controversy

Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate from Maine, met with Senate Democrats on June 2, 2026, to address controversies related to his campaign. He is seeking to gain support for his bid to secure a Senate seat that is important to the Democratic Party.

Trump Administration Plans to Dismantle Ocean Observatories Initiative

The Trump administration is set to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative, a $368 million network that has provided critical data on ocean systems and climate change for over a decade. The National Science Foundation has begun the process of descoping the initiative, which includes over 900 instruments monitoring ocean health.

Bill Pulte appointed as acting head of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence

Pentagon hires former Jan. 6 defendant for counterterrorism position

The Pentagon has hired Elias Irizarry, a former Jan. 6 riot defendant, for a counterterrorism position. Acting press secretary Joel Valdez defended the decision, stating Irizarry is a 'qualified, patriotic young professional.' Irizarry pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges related to the Capitol attack and has expressed remorse for his actions.

Voter Eligibility for Los Angeles Mayor Primary

Los Angeles voters will cast their ballots in a primary election on June 6, 2026, to select candidates for the mayoral position. Only residents of the city are eligible to vote in this election.

Voting Eligibility for Los Angeles Mayor Primary

Los Angeles voters will cast their ballots in a primary election on Tuesday to select candidates for the mayoral race. Eligibility to vote requires residency within the city.

Impact of Trump's Deportation Policies on College Students

Research highlights the difficulties faced by college students from immigrant families, exacerbated by the deportation policies of the Trump administration. These policies have heightened fears among students, including those with legal status, regarding their educational pursuits.

Pentagon hires individual involved in January 6 Capitol incident for counterterrorism role

Elias Irizarry, a convicted rioter from the January 6 Capitol incident, has been hired by the Pentagon for a role in the office overseeing special operations and irregular warfare. He was 19 years old during the events of January 6, 2021.

California Primary Election Features Multiple Candidates to Succeed Newsom

On June 2, 2026, California conducted a primary election with a large number of candidates competing to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom. Many candidates focused their campaigns on addressing the high cost of living in California.

Chuck Schumer Affirms Support for Senate Candidate Graham Platner Amid Controversies

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reaffirmed his support for Senate candidate Graham Platner during a press conference, despite ongoing controversies surrounding Platner, including a Nazi-linked tattoo and inappropriate comments made online. Schumer did not directly address questions about the scandals but emphasized the goal of defeating Senator Susan Collins.

Chuck Schumer Confirms Support for Senate Candidate Graham Platner Amid Controversies

Chuck Schumer confirmed his support for Senate candidate Graham Platner during a press conference, despite controversies surrounding Platner, including a Nazi-linked tattoo and explicit messages. Schumer emphasized the party's goal to defeat Susan Collins in the upcoming election.

Homeland Security Secretary Mullin Discusses Court Rulings During Congressional Hearing

During a congressional hearing on June 2, 2026, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin expressed concerns about the politicization of courts, which influenced his reluctance to commit to following court rulings. The discussion included the DHS's budget request and allegations regarding ICE's compliance with court orders, highlighting the ongoing tensions between political perspectives on judicial authority.

Rubio addresses Democratic criticism regarding Ebola outbreak response and global health funding cuts

Secretary of State Marco Rubio was questioned by Democratic lawmakers during budget hearings about the effects of the Trump administration's cuts to global health programs on the Ebola outbreak in Africa. The discussions highlighted concerns over funding and its impact on health responses.

UFT Secures Teacher Pay Increases in Agreement to Delay NYC Class Size Law

The United Federation of Teachers has negotiated a deal that provides pay increases for teachers while postponing the enforcement of a class size law in New York City. The pay bumps can reach as high as $9,500.

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. to Address Medical Condition Affecting Congressional Absence

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-N.J.) stated he will clarify the reason for his absence from Congress soon. He has not voted since March 5, and his announcement comes after receiving an endorsement from former President Trump.