This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

Some of President Donald Trump's work to "Make America Great Again" and restore its business influence around the world has been high-profile, such as his use of tariffs to encourage other countries to be fair in their trade agreements.

Some haven't been quite that profile, but still have produced results.

Such as his campaign to build American energy development, production and sales.

That's benefited the American economy by about $5 billion … per month.

It is a report at Courthousenews that explains Europe's "trade advantage" over the U.S. plunged "by another $5 billion in July."

That's based on information that shows a months-long shift as Europeans now are buying significantly more American goods.

"The European Union's trade surplus with the U.S. fell to 13 billion euros ($14.3 billion) in July from 18 billion euros ($19.8 billion) a year earlier, according to official EU data. The shift represents the largest monthly deterioration in the trade relationship since U.S. President Donald Trump took office," the report said.

The report said the 20 EU countries that use the euro currency showed similar results, as its global trade surplus fell to 12.4 billion euros from 18.5 billion euros a year earlier.

"European imports of U.S. goods surged 10.7% to 31.2 billion euros, while U.S. purchases of European products dropped 4.4% to 44.2 billion euros. The diverging trends signal a fundamental shift in one of the world's most important trade relationships," Courthousenews said.

European exports to the U.S. have fallen as the dollar strengthened and changed purchasing patterns, with Europeans buying more American energy, technology and agricultural products.

The report said European markets are weak, with a second-quarter growth report of a dismal 0.1%, far behind America's 0.8%.

The trade changes followed Trump's insistence that European allies stop buying Russian oil and gas.

Trump, in a statement, said, "I am ready to do major Sanctions on Russia when all NATO Nations have agreed, and started, to do the same thing, and when all NATO Nations STOP BUYING OIL FROM RUSSIA. As you know, NATO'S commitment to WIN has been far less than 100%, and the purchase of Russian Oil, by some, has been shocking! It greatly weakens your negotiating position, and bargaining power, over Russia. Anyway, I am ready to 'go' when you are. Just say when? I believe that this, plus NATO, as a group, placing 50% to 100% TARIFFS ON CHINA, to be fully withdrawn after the WAR with Russia and Ukraine is ended, will also be of great help in ENDING this deadly, but RIDICULOUS, WAR. China has a strong control, and even grip, over Russia, and these powerful Tariffs will break that grip. This is not TRUMP'S WAR (it would never have started if I was President!), it is Biden's and Zelenskyy's WAR. I am only here to help stop it, and save thousands of Russian and Ukrainian lives (7,118 lives lost last week, alone. CRAZY!). If NATO does as I say, the WAR will end quickly, and all of those lives will be saved! If not, you are just wasting my time, and the time, energy, and money of the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter! DONALD J. TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."

A European Commission official declined comment to Courthousenews.

The report said the U.S. now supplies more than 50% of Europe's liquefied natural gas needs.

The report said the economic slowdown also has started affect Europe's job markets, with employment growth only 0.1%.

As President Donald Trump directs U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agencies to continue the crackdown on illegal immigrants and efforts to have the deported, ICE lodged a detainer on an especially dangerous one.

According to Fox News, the federal agency reported Friday that it has filed paperwork for a federal arrest detainer and deportation of an illegal alien who allegedly used a machete to decapitate a Texas merchant.

Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, an illegal immigrant from Cuba, was arrested in Dallas last week and was charged with homocide after a gruesome alleged murder involving a Texas merchant.

The murder, which involved the decapitation of the merchant, reportedly happened in front of his family.

ICE wants him

It's understandable why ICE would want to collar him and send him packing, as he's one of the ones President Donald Trump has warned Americans about for years now. The most nasty and the most dangerous type.

Not only did he allegedly decapitate the merchant after the argument in front of the man's family, he then reportedly proceeded to kick the victim's head around "like a soccer ball."

Like other illegals that ICE is attempting to boot out of the country, Cobos-Martinez has a lengthy rap sheet and is quite clearly a danger to society. Yet, President Biden's administration kept him here.

Fox News noted:

He has a prior final order of removal to Cuba and was most recently held in ICE Dallas custody before being released on an order of supervision on January 13, 2025, during the Biden administration, as noted in the release.

At one point, even his home country of Cuba refused to have him back due to his criminal history, which is really saying something.

Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin issued a statement regarding his arrest and hopeful deportation.

The DHS statement

McLaughlin held nothing back in describing the monster that Cobos-Martinez is.

"This vile monster beheaded this man in front of his wife and child and proceeded to kick the victims’ head on the ground," the statement read.

It added, "This gruesome, savage slaying of a victim at a motel by Yordanis Cobos-Martinez was completely preventable if this criminal illegal alien was not released into our country by the Biden administration since Cuba would not take him back.

One would hope that there wouldn't be any pushback from the courts on this particular case. It's clear that this kind of trash needs to be taken out of the country and locked away.

This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

A fight to keep alive a scheme of warrantless searches in the state of Pennsylvania has hit a block, with a ruling from a judge against authorities' demand that the case be dismissed.

"If government officials want to invade your private property and start snooping around, they need to get a warrant based on probable cause that some violation is taking place," said Joshua Windham, a lawyer for the Institute for Justice.

"The fact that these warrantless intrusions were authorized by a statute makes the problem worse, not better. We look forward to proving that the statute cannot constitutionally be applied to Tim's private property."

The fight is over a Pennsylvania statute that officers of the state Waterways Conservation do not need a warrant to invade and search private property.

The government sought to dismiss the case pending in Susquehanna County by Tim Thomas.

Officers twice have relied on the statute to search his private property, but the ruling means Thomas' challenge to the state's apparent Fourth Amendment violations can continue.

"These invasions of privacy should never have happened, and my hope is that we can set some precedent that helps ensure they won't happen to anybody else," he said.

The fight, between Thomas and officer Ty Moon, began in May 2023, when Moon came onto Tim's lake cabin property and began banging on the door while Tim's late wife, Stephanie, was home alone. Scared, Stephanie did not answer the door, so Moon proceeded to walk to the back of the property where he photographed their boat, cabin and vehicle all without a warrant, the IJ reported.

"The next day, while Tim was pulled over on the side of the road picking flowers for Stephanie, Moon pulled up behind them and said he'd 'been chasing' them and that he would 'get to the bottom of things.' Four days later, Tim received a citation in the mail for evading the officer and fishing without a license, which wasn't true. When Tim appealed, the charges were dismissed."

Weeks later, Moon returned, walking directly onto the property past multiple no trespassing signs, beside a bathroom window while Stephanie was bathing, and began confiscating Tim's fishing rods.

"When Tim confronted Moon, he cited him for fishing with too many rods. When the case went to court, Tim was found not guilty," the report said.

The IJ explained, "The Fourth Amendment protects 'houses,' and also what courts call the 'curtilage' of the home (basically private yards). In the opinion, Judge Joseph Saporito Jr. had 'no difficulty' holding that, 'Based on the allegations of the complaint, it is simply beyond cavil that WCO Moon entered onto the curtilage of the Thomases' home, without a warrant or consent.'"

Former President Joe Biden's campaign to fund a presidential library is encountering significant resistance from previous donors, Breitbart reported.

The fundraising effort, crucial for honoring Biden's legacy, is struggling amid a mix of political caution and discontent among traditional Democratic supporters.

Many previous donors are now hesitant to contribute to Biden's presidential library, reflecting wider political and personal reservations.

According to a report by NBC News, numerous significant Democratic supporters from Biden's past political campaigns have expressed reservations or outright refusal to fund the library. More than half a dozen high-profile backers disclosed that they would either withhold their donations or limit them considerably.

Donor Concerns Range From Political Backlash to Personal Grievances

Some donors are apprehensive about potential political retribution, especially given the volatile climate under the Trump administration. Chris Korge, the Democratic National Committee Fundraising Chair, emphasized the difficulty in securing large donations due to fears of retaliation from Trump's quarters.

Others relay tales of personal dissatisfaction with Biden's closest associates, which has tarnished their willingness to contribute. Negative experiences with Biden's team seem to play a significant role in their decision-making process.

Additionally, strategic concerns about the future direction of the Democratic Party are prompting some donors to redirect their resources away from the library project and towards more imminent political endeavors.

The Rollercoaster Journey of Biden's Recent Political Decisions

Biden's initial decision to run for reelection stirred unease among supporters due to his health concerns. His subsequent withdrawal from the race after a presidential debate last summer only compounded donor frustrations.

This sudden change of plans directed support towards Kamala Harris, who took the Democratic nomination but ultimately lost to Donald Trump in November. This transition has left some donors like John Morgan, a seasoned fundraiser, feeling particularly disillusioned. Morgan humorously commented on the improbability of the library’s construction, suggesting it might end up being "a bookmobile from the old days."

Moreover, Biden's insistence on re-entering the political fray, followed by a withdrawal, has led to discrimination and increased frustration amongst his financial backers, causing doubts about the feasibility of a dedicated library.

Skeptics Voice Their Concerns and Withdrawal From the Project

Morgan also voiced a stark skepticism regarding the actual construction of a significant library building, mirroring a broader sentiment of doubt among former allies. "I want an $800,000 refund," he quipped to NBC News, articulating his disappointment over financial support that ultimately supported Harris’s unsuccessful campaign.

Another major donor, Susie Buell, revealed that she had not been approached for contributions yet but expressed a general lack of interest in funding presidential libraries.

Yet, amid the disapproval and skepticism, Rufus Gifford, chairman of the Biden library board and a former fundraiser, remains hopeful. He believes in the importance of preserving and promoting Biden's presidential legacy, stating, "This isn’t about the past. It’s about the future," aiming to rally support despite the challenges.

Fundraising Goals and Comparisons to Other Presidential Libraries

The Biden library aims to secure funding between $200 million and $300 million, a formidable goal considering the current donor hesitance. This target sits in sharp contrast with the fundraising achievements of other recent presidents. For instance, the Obama Presidential Library in Chicago commanded a budget of $850 million.

Throughout his presidency, Biden also faced criticism from his donors who felt they had inadequate access to him despite their financial contributions, further complicating current fundraising efforts.

The financial landscape for Democratic undertakings remains complicated by wide-ranging factors—from political dynamics under Trump to internal party concerns, all of which play into the challenging task of honoring a former president through the establishment of a library.

Redistricting battles are happening all across the country, and Missouri's is making headlines thanks to President Donald Trump's influence.

According to Fox News, the president and the White House scored another massive political victory this week after the Missouri state Senate, in a special legislative session, passed a new congressional map that stands a strong chance at giving Republicans an extra House seat before the 2026 midterms. 

The new congressional map passed the Republican-led state Senate in a 21-11 vote, sparking celebrations across the Republican side this week.

Missouri is one of the states that has taken action to pass new congressional maps that will likely hand Republicans a major advantage ahead of the next election cycle.

What's happening?

The bill's passing in the state Senate is especially critical since it had already cleared the state's House of Representatives. Now, it only needs to go to Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe for a signature.

Fox News noted:

Missouri, a one-time swing state that has dramatically shifted to the right over the past decade and a half, is the latest battleground in the congressional redistricting showdown after the passage of new maps in GOP-dominated Texas and a redistricting push by Democrats in heavily blue California.

Gov. Kehoe will presumably sign the bill with a smile on his face, given that he recently bragged about the benefits of the new map for Missourians.

"Missouri’s conservative, commonsense values should be truly represented at all levels of government, and the Missouri First Map delivers just that," the governor said recently.

President Trump had touted the new congressional map as much more "fair" than the previous version.

ABC7 noted:

On his social media site Friday, Trump touted Missouri's "much fairer, and much improved, Congressional map" that he said "will help send an additional MAGA Republican to Congress in the 2026 Midterm Elections."

Social media reacts

Republicans and conservatives across social media reacted to the news of the passing of the map.

"That’s right. We are taking America back," one X user wrote.

Another X user wrote, "Congrats Missouri! You will be saved from your oppression!"

This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

A young redheaded TikTokker, who goes by Ellie May on X, posted a video hoping it would get in front of the eyes of President Trump – and it has. The president posted it on his Truth Social account Saturday afternoon.

The woman pleads with the president to spearhead the passage of "The Charlie Kirk Act," which would hold media companies accountable for lying to the American people.

She cites 2013 action by President Obama that repealed the 1948 Smit-Mundt Act, a law that prohibited propaganda in the media.

"Make it damn near impossible for these people to continue to lie to the American public, which has brought chaos, hatred and division all across the country," she says.

"Because of their hateful lies, a man has lost his life. … Force journalists to finally start telling the truth."

WATCH:

A federal appeals court has granted President Donald Trump's administration the right to prohibit abortion giant Planned Parenthood from receiving taxpayer-funded Medicaid payments, The Washington Times reported. The decision handed down Tuesday allows the provision found in Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act to stand as it was passed in July. 

Pro-life advocate and Live Action founder Lila Rose lauded this decision as another win for the protection of the unborn. "Breaking: The First Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled to allow HHS to cut off Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood!" Rose posted to X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday.

"Overturning lower court rulings that kept the money flowing. Taxpayers should never be forced to fund abortion chains which murder babies," she added.

Legal Challenge

Trump's legislation was signed into law on July 4 this year and was almost immediately challenged by Planned Parenthood, Reuters reported. On July 28, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani of Boston, whom President Barack Obama appointed, blocked the provision on the basis that the law unfairly targeted Planned Parenthood with the intent to punish the abortion provider, which is unconstitutional.

Talwani claimed the provision amounted to a "bill of attainder," which means that the law was passed explicitly by Congress to punish a party without due process of a trial. "Plaintiffs are likely to establish that Congress singled them out with punitive intent," the judge said.

However, Trump's Department of Justice didn't see it that way but instead insisted "the bill stops federal subsidies for Big Abortion," which is something many Americans agree with. The DOJ further said it was incumbent upon Talwani not to allow Planned Parenthood to "supplant duly enacted legislation with their own policy preferences."

The judge disagreed, citing concerns about Planned Parenthood's Constitutional rights, including its First Amendment free association rights as well as its Fifth Amendment equal protection clause. This decision was described by White House spokesperson Harrison Fields as "not only absurd but illogical and incorrect" in a statement issued following the initial announcement.

"It is orders like these that underscore the audacity of the lower courts as well as the chaos within the judicial branch. We look forward to ultimate victory on the issue." Fields said, promising to appeal. The outcome on Thursday vindicates the administration on these points.

Promises Kept

In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, Trump promised to strip Planned Parenthood of its federal funding so taxpayers would no longer have to foot the bill for its evil practices. J.D. Vance, who would become his vice president just weeks later after Trump's stunning electoral victory, stated in October 2024 that Trump was committed to rectifying this wrong, as reported by NBC News at the time.

“On the question of defunding Planned Parenthood, look, I mean our view is we don’t think that taxpayers should fund late-term abortions.  That has been a consistent view of the Trump campaign the first time around," Vance said following Trump's return to Butler, Pennsylvania, to finish the rally where he was initially shot.

"It will remain a consistent view." Vance added. Although NBC News pointed out that just .9% of abortions occur after 21 weeks, the commitment meant a great deal to Trump's voters as evidenced by his Election Day victory.  Of course, Planned Parenthood Votes executive director Jenny Lawson used the usual lines that this "would rob millions of people across the country of vital, affordable care."

Lawsom claimed in the usual shell game that taxpayer dollars fund other "healthcare" but not abortions. "'Defunding’ Planned Parenthood would only deepen and expand the public health crisis we’re already in thanks to Donald Trump, causing more people to suffer and die for lack of basic reproductive care," Lawson claimed.

The narrative is always that Planned Parenthood performs a tremendous public service by providing healthcare to poor women. Even if that were true, the fact that it also slaughters babies negates the right for the organization to receive a dime from taxpayers, and thankfully, the appeals court has agreed that Trump's plan to defund them is a go.

In response to the disastrous Palisades Fire in northwest Los Angeles, Senators Ron Johnson and Rick Scott announced a Senate investigation targeting the adequacy of state and local government responses. Governor Gavin Newsom's actions during the crisis will be scrutinized, and he may be subpoenaed.

The Senate's probe will seek to understand the causes of the fire, support affected victims, and establish preventative measures for future incidents.

The fire, which occurred in January, resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals and razed nearly 7,000 structures in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu, unveiling potential shortcomings in crisis management and preparedness.

Exploration of subpoena powers and the committee's intent

The examination is led by the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee’s Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging. Senator Ron Johnson highlighted the committee's capability to compel testimony through subpoenas.

Senator Rick Scott voiced disillusionment with the reconstruction progress during his visit to the devastated locales, remarking on the stark difference in pace compared to recovery operations he led in Florida, stating, "It's like nothing's happened. I think I saw one house being rebuilt."

Spencer Pratt, a resident severely impacted by the fires, criticized the preventative measures taken locally, particularly the lack of adequate forest management in Topanga State Park, where the initial blaze broke out, suggesting that basic, inexpensive actions could have mitigated the disaster.

Extending the scope of the Senate's examination

The Senators are contemplating expanding their investigation to include the Eaton Fire, another devastating event that occurred simultaneously in the nearby areas of Altadena and Pasadena. This would allow a comprehensive review of fire management and response strategies.

Additionally, the Senate committee is examining issues related to home insurance claims and is considering legal action against insurers who failed to honor fire-related claims, leaving many victims uncompensated.

A suggestion on the table involves appointing a Special Master to oversee and ensure the appropriate allocation and use of federal funds for recovery, mimicking the model used in the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.

Fears and expectations among affected residents

Adding a personal dimension to the story, Spencer Pratt expressed widespread community fears about the risk of future fires, noting the general unease, "I know that nobody feels safe for this not to happen again.” His statement reflects a pressing need for reassurance and stronger preventive measures.

Despite the current difficulties, Pratt remains hopeful that the outcomes of this Senate investigation will lead to significant improvements in disaster management practices, potentially benefiting the entire nation. He emphasizes, "I feel like this is going to be so powerful for all of the United States."

The Senate's ongoing investigative efforts are closely watched by local citizens and officials alike, bearing potential to reshape policies that could better prepare both California and the nation for future natural disasters.

Implications for national disaster response strategies

The ramifications of this investigation are expected to extend beyond the immediate regions affected by the Palisades and Eaton Fires. As the Senate delves into the detailed aspects of each incident, the goal is to extrapolate lessons that can be applied nationwide, ensuring more robust disaster readiness.

Through this inquiry, there is an opportunity to reform how both local and state governments prepare for and respond to emergencies, potentially setting new national standards in disaster response.

As conclusions begin to form and actions are taken, both the victims of the Palisades Fire and observers across the country await meaningful change that will fortify communities against future adversities.

Barron Trump is moving back into the White House, bringing him closer to his mother and father.

The first son spent his freshman year of college in New York, where he took classes at NYU's Greenwich Village campus. He will resume his studies at the university's academic center in Washington, D.C, the New York Post reported.

Barron back in D.C.

Barron was most recently living at Trump Tower in Manhattan, where he grew up. He commuted from there to NYU's Stern School of Business, often grabbing the attention of journalists as he came and went.

The president's son had little chance of blending in, and he was said to lead a secluded life, interacting with friends mostly online - a precaution for his safety.

Barron was nowhere in sight when classes resumed last week, fueling speculation about his whereabouts.

NYU's D.C. campus has just 120 students, so it is likely that Barron will be even more noticeable than he was in New York.

The White House will look a little different than it did when Barron was living there during his father's first term. President Trump recently renovated the Rose Garden, and there are plans to complete a grand ballroom before his term is up.

Embracing family

When Barron started college in New York last fall, it was not yet clear that his father would be returning to Washington, D.C.

"It was his [Barron's] decision to come here that he wants to be in New York and study in New York and live in his home, and I respect that," Melania told Fox News last fall.

"I'm very proud of what he grew up to," Melania continued. "His strength. His intelligence. His knowledge, his kindness. It's admirable."

Barron is known to be close with his family, and his mother is very protective of him. She has taken on a greater role within the White House, pushing anti-revenge porn legislation into law and personally appealing to Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.

While her son remains an elusive figure, the 19-year-old college sophomore is said to be a fledgling businessman - who many say has a striking resemblance to his father.

Barron reportedly spent his summer setting up deals and enjoying time with his family.

“Barron has been actively working on his own financial interests and has spent time with others who he is involved with in that area,” a source told People.

This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

They're dropping like flies. Another leftist has been relieved of his job thanks to insensitive remarks about the assassination of conservative icon Charlie Kirk.

This time it's a high-school social studies teacher – Wynne Boliek of Greenville, South Carolina.

According to South Carolina U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, who made a phone call or two back to her home state upon hearing about the teacher's X post, Boliek has been put on leave.

Boliek had posted Wednesday: "Thoughts and prayers to his children but IMHO, America became greater today. There I said it."

The comment is an allusion to President Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan, which Kirk enthusiastically championed.

The post was highlighted on X by the account Mostly Peaceful Memes, which has posted several comments made by users who are happy about the death of Kirk.

Fox Carolina posted the statement from Greenville County Schools:

"We are aware of an inappropriate message on social media attributed to Wynne Boliek, a teacher at Southside High School. Mr. Boliek has been placed on administrative leave while we fully investigate and follow the required due process. As this is a personnel matter, we are prevented from providing further details. As always, we expect all staff members to conduct themselves in a professional manner that best represents our district and schools. Thank you."

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