WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, thanks to the oversight of Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH), Google commits to offer all creators previously kicked off YouTube due to political speech violations on topics such as COVID-19 and elections an opportunity to return to the platform.
Google also admitted the following to the House Judiciary Committee:
The Biden Administration pressured Google to censor Americans and remove content that did not violate YouTube’s policies.
The Biden Administration censorship pressure was “unacceptable and wrong.”
Public debate should never come at the expense of relying “authorities.”
The company will never use third-party “fact-checkers.”
Europe’s censorship laws target American companies and threaten American speech, including the removal of “lawful content.”
These major admissions come after Chairman Jordan’s subpoena to Google and a years long investigation into the company.
On September 22, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order officially designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. The order highlights Antifa’s involvement in violent, anarchist activities aimed at overthrowing the U.S. government and law enforcement through intimidation, coercion, and illegal tactics. The directive mandates federal agencies to investigate and dismantle Antifa-affiliated operations and funding networks. Citing a surge in violence—including assaults on ICE officers, attacks on journalists, and organized riots—Trump emphasized the urgent need to restore law and order across the country. This move underscores his administration’s broader campaign to combat domestic terrorism and protect American communities from politically motivated violence.
Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Designates Antifa as a Domestic Terrorist Organization
DESIGNATING ANTIFA AS A DOMESTIC TERRORIST ORGANIZATION: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Order to designate Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
The Order notes that Antifa is a militarist, anarchist enterprise that calls for the overthrow of the U.S. government, law enforcement authorities, and our system of law—using illegal means, including violence and terrorism, to accomplish these goals.
The Order directs the Federal government to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle all illegal operations conducted by Antifa or any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa. It also calls for investigating, disrupting, and dismantling the funding sources behind such operations.
DISMANTLING ANTIFA’S USE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE: Antifa engages in coordinated efforts to obstruct enforcement of Federal laws, with the goal of achieving policy objectives by coercion and intimidation – this is domestic terrorism.
Antifa has engaged in armed standoffs with law enforcement, organized riots, violently assaulted ICE and other law enforcement officers, and engages in routine doxing of political figures and activists, threatening public safety.
ICE officers are now facing a 1000% increase in assaults against them.
An Antifa-affiliated group in Portland, Oregon, doxed ICE officers, publishing their names, pictures, and personal addresses online.
A journalist was violently assaulted by Antifa protestors while reporting on a protest in Portland.
Using pepper spray, baseball bats, and tasers, Antifa members violently attacked Trump supporters during a Patriot March in Pacific Beach, California.
The group recruits and radicalizes young Americans to engage in this violence and works to conceal identities of members and funding sources, frustrating law enforcement efforts.
Antifa’s efforts to advance political violence and suppress lawful political speech must be stopped.
RESTORING LAW AND ORDER: Every American deserves to be safe, and President Trump is dedicated to restoring law and order in communities across the United States.
President Trump: “I am pleased to inform our many U.S.A. Patriots that I am designating ANTIFA, A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER, AS A MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION. I will also be strongly recommending that those funding ANTIFA be thoroughly investigated in accordance with the highest legal standards and practices.”
President Trump has been relentless in his efforts to combat terrorism, from designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations to ordering military strikes on narcoterrorists.
President Trump has deployed Federal resources to stop the violence in our cities, including sending the National Guard to Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Memphis.
It’s the White House live stream of President Trump signing a presidential memorandum on Sept. 15, 2025—an order launching the “Memphis Safe Task Force,” part of a federal anti-crime push focused on Memphis (with Trump also hinting Chicago could be next).
Restoring Law and Order in Memphis
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY THE SECRETARY OF WAR THE ATTORNEY GENERAL THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION THE SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY THE DIRECTOR OF THE UNITED STATES MARSHALS SERVICE THE DIRECTOR OF THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION THE DIRECTOR OF THE BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, FIREARMS, AND EXPLOSIVES THE ADMINISTRATOR OF DRUG ENFORCEMENT THE DIRECTOR OF HOMELAND SECURITY INVESTIGATIONS THE UNITED STATES ATTORNEY FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF TENNESSEE
SUBJECT: Restoring Law and Order in Memphis
Section 1. Background. The city of Memphis, Tennessee, is suffering from tremendous levels of violent crime that have overwhelmed its local government’s ability to respond effectively. This situation has become dire in one of our Nation’s most historic cities. According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Memphis in 2024 had the highest rate of violent crime per capita, including some of the highest per capita rates of murder, robbery, and aggravated assault, and property crimes such as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, in the country. The city, a beacon of American culture that was Elvis’s home and is often called the birthplace of rock and roll and the blues, should be safe and secure for all of its citizens and Americans who visit its historic landmarks such as Graceland, Beale Street, and the Memphis Pyramid. To restore public safety and order, State and local leaders have requested Federal assistance, and I will act quickly to ensure that Federal authorities assist Memphis law enforcement to the fullest possible extent.
Sec. 2. Memphis Safe Task Force. (a) There is hereby established a Memphis Safe Task Force (Task Force), whose objective shall be to end street and violent crime in Memphis to the greatest possible extent through the promotion and facilitation of hypervigilant policing, aggressive prosecution, complex investigations, financial enforcement, and large-scale saturation of besieged neighborhoods with law enforcement personnel, and which shall coordinate closely with State officials in Tennessee and local officials in Memphis to share information, develop joint priorities, and maximize resources to make Memphis safe and restore public order. The Task Force shall be chaired by an individual selected and appointed by the Attorney General, who shall direct all Task Force functions and who shall coordinate with the Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor. The Task Force shall also include representatives from the following executive departments and agencies (agencies), as designated by the head of the relevant agency:
(i) the Department of the Treasury;
(ii) the Department of War;
(iii) the Department of Justice;
(iv) the Department of Health and Human Services;
(v) the Department of Housing and Urban Development;
(vi) the Department of Transportation;
(vii) the Department of Homeland Security;
(viii) the United States Marshals Service;
(ix) the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
(x) the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives;
(xi) the Drug Enforcement Administration;
(xii) Homeland Security Investigations; and
(xiii) the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee.
(b) The Chairman of the Task Force may also designate other agencies to participate in the Task Force as the Chairman deems necessary, as well as Inspectors General from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Social Security Administration, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Treasury, the Department of Labor, the Department of Education, the Department of Energy, the United States Postal Service, the Small Business Administration, and such other agencies as the Chairman of the Task Force determines. The head of an agency designated by the Chairman shall select a representative of the agency to serve on the Task Force.
(c) The Task Force may, to the extent permitted by law, request operational assistance from and coordinate with the Memphis Police Department, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Memphis Area Transit Authority, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the Tennessee Alcohol Beverage Commission, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the Tennessee State Probation and Parole Office, the Tennessee Department of Corrections, the Arkansas State Police, the Mississippi State Police, the Shelby County Attorney’s Office, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, the Memphis City Prosecutor’s Office, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County Pretrial Services, the Shelby County Probation Section, and other Federal, State, and local officials as appropriate.
(d) The Task Force shall utilize the strategies and principles of Federal, State, and local law enforcement coordination developed and deployed pursuant to Executive Order 14252 of March 27, 2025 (Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful), and Executive Order 14333 of August 11, 2025 (Declaring a Crime Emergency in the District of Columbia), as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to coordinate and ensure effective integrated action by Federal, State, and local law enforcement authorities to address extensive and pervasive criminal activity and reduce crime in Memphis; enforce Federal immigration law; provide the Memphis Police Department with assistance to facilitate the recruitment, retention, and enhancement of capabilities of its police officers; dramatically increase the Federal, State, and local law enforcement presence and Federal coordination with State and local law enforcement, as appropriate; and coordinate strict enforcement of applicable quality-of-life, nuisance, and public-safety laws, including those laws prohibiting assault, battery, larceny, graffiti and other vandalism, unpermitted disturbances and demonstrations, noise, trespassing, public intoxication, drug possession, sale, vagrancy and use, and traffic violations, to make Memphis safe and secure again.
(e) The Task Force shall report to me as necessary through the Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor regarding safety in Memphis and the tasks set forth in subsection (d) of this section. As part of this reporting, the Attorney General, in consultation with the Task Force, shall assess whether public-safety circumstances in Memphis require additional executive action.
Sec. 3. Mobilizing the National Guard to Protect Memphis. (a) The Secretary of War shall request that the Governor of Tennessee, under section 502 of title 32, United States Code, make available National Guard units of Tennessee to support public safety and law enforcement operations in Memphis, in such numbers and for such duration as the Governor may deem necessary and appropriate to assist with the activities of the Task Force. The Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall request such National Guard support as necessary and appropriate to accomplish this mission.
(b) The Secretary of War is further authorized to coordinate with State Governors and authorize the mobilization and training of further National Guard personnel, under section 502 of title 32, United States Code, to support the activities of the Task Force as he may deem necessary and appropriate to augment this mission.
Sec. 4. General Provisions. This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
This sentencing demonstrates the FBI and our partners will use every tool available to safeguard the homeland from internal and external threats. Anyone tempted to violate their oath to safeguard classified information should understand the severe consequences—and remember the FBI will never stop until we bring you to justice.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ROMAN ROZHAVSKY FBI COUNTERINTELLIGENCE DIVISION
John Murray Rowe Jr., 67, of Lead, South Dakota, was sentenced today to 126 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and a $25,000 fine for attempted espionage.
The defendant was charged by indictment in December 2021 and pleaded guilty in April of last year to one count of attempted delivery of national defense information to a foreign government, and three counts of willful communication of national defense information.
“The defendant spent decades working on sensitive U.S. defense programs and was entrusted with safeguarding protected and classified information about military technology. Instead of honoring that trust and his legal responsibilities as a clearance holder, he chose to violate both – repeatedly and willfully attempting to disclose classified information to someone he believed was a foreign agent,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “The Justice Department will hold accountable those who disregard country and conscience at the expense of our Nation’s security, including, as here, out of spite.”
“Despite his knowledge, training, experience, and decades of work as a military contractor, Rowe chose to betray the trust placed in him by his country,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. “His repeated, willful efforts to harm the U.S. by divulging sensitive defense information to an adversary are inexcusable. My office and our partners will continue to hold fully accountable anyone seeking to compromise the national security of the United States.”
“By attempting to disclose classified information on U.S. Air Force systems to the Russian government, John Rowe endangered American lives and compromised U.S. national security,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “This sentencing demonstrates the FBI and our partners will use every tool available to safeguard the homeland from internal and external threats. Anyone tempted to violate their oath to safeguard classified information should understand the severe consequences — and remember the FBI will never stop until we bring you to justice.”
According to court documents, Rowe was employed for nearly 40 years as a test engineer for multiple cleared defense contractors. In connection with his employment, Rowe held various national security clearances from SECRET to TOP SECRET//SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information) and worked on matters relating to U.S. Air Force electronic warfare technology, among other things. After several security violations and concerning inquiries and statements about Russia and sensitive information, Rowe was identified as a potential insider threat and terminated from employment.
In March 2020, Rowe told an undercover FBI agent, who he believed to be an agent of the Russian government, that he was not loyal to the United States and that he was interested in helping Russia. During this meeting, Rowe disclosed national defense information classified as SECRET that concerned specific operating details of the electronic countermeasure systems used by U.S. military fighter jets, among other things.
Over the course of the next eight months, Rowe exchanged over 300 emails with a person he believed to be a Russian agent, confirming his willingness to work for the Russian government and discussing his knowledge of classified information relating to U.S. national security. In one email, Rowe explained, “If I can’t get a job [in the United States] then I’ll go work for the other team.”
In another email, Rowe disclosed classified national defense information concerning the U.S. Air Force. In September 2020, Rowe had a second in-person meeting with the undercover FBI agent. During this meeting, Rowe again disclosed classified national defense information.
Rowe was arrested on a criminal complaint and warrant on Dec. 15, 2021, and was ordered detained pending trial. During his pretrial detention, Rowe again disclosed the same classified national defense information concerning the U.S. Air Force to relatives and an associate during recorded prison calls.
The FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Wolfe for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Chantelle Dial of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.
Additional assistance was provided by the Lead (SD) Police Department, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota, the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency, and the FBI’s Minneapolis Field Office and Rapid City (SD) Resident Agency.
Summary: On September 11, 2025, in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a three-bill package designed to deliver targeted, operational relief to stakeholders affected by 9/11. A.2123-A/S.1165-A (“Ignazio Giacalone Act”) strengthens the public-sector talent pipeline by awarding additional civil service exam credits to children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who died from 9/11-related conditions; A.8417/S.8181 modernizes governance by reconstituting the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force with new appointments, biannual meetings, expanded study scope, a reset reporting deadline, and an extension through June 10, 2030; and S.4554-A/A.5458-A streamlines benefits administration by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely Notice of Participation to establish World Trade Center rescue/recovery service, accelerating disability and death benefit determinations for eligible responders and families.
On September 11, 2025 in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of 9/11 laws to expand support for survivors’ families and first responders: A.2123-A/S.1165-A (the “Ignazio Giacalone Act”) grants extra civil service exam credits to children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who died from 9/11-related illnesses; A.8417/S.8181 revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force with new appointments, twice-yearly meetings, broader study areas, a reset annual report deadline, and an extension through June 10, 2030; and S.4554-A/A.5458-A streamlines World Trade Center disability and death benefit claims by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely Notice of Participation—ensuring eligible responders and their families receive benefits faster.
In Honor of 9/11, Governor Hochul Signs Legislation To Support Families of 9/11 Victims
Legislation (A.2123-A/S.1165-A) Bolsters Pathway to Public Service for Children and Siblings of Deceased NYC Sanitation Workers
Legislation (A.8417/S.8181) Revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force
Legislation (S.4554-A/A.5458-A) Expedites the World Trade Center Disability and Death Benefit Application Process
On the anniversary of September 11, 2001, Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that she has signed legislation to expand access to resources and provide more opportunities for the families and loved ones of those who have been impacted by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The package of bills will revive and strengthen the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force, bolster the pathway to public service for children and siblings of New York City sanitation workers who lost their lives due to exposure and cleanup after September 11th, and expedite the World Trade Center disability and death benefit application process to ensure survivors are eligible to obtain vital benefits.
“The 9/11 terrorist attacks are events that we will never forget. We must continue to honor the fallen heroes who put their lives on the line to protect New Yorkers, as well as their families who have been impacted by these horrific events,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation will give back to the families of 9/11 victims, ensuring they are supported by the state and their loved ones are forever remembered.”
Governor Hochul signed the following bills into law:
Legislation A.2123-A/S.1165-A provides children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who have died from 9/11-related illnesses and injuries additional civil service exam points for a position located in the municipality where their deceased parent or sibling served.
Legislation A.8417/S.8181 revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force by requiring new appointments to the taskforce, setting a biannual meeting requirement, expanding areas of study, resetting the June deadline for the annual report and extending the provisions of the act until June 10, 2030.
Legislation S.4554-A/A.5458-A expedites the World Trade Center disability and death benefit application process by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely and properly filed Notice of Participation as requisite criteria for establish participation in rescue, recovery and cleanup operations at the World Trade Center, unless an employer proves otherwise.
State Senator Robert Jackson said, “September 11th forever reshaped our city — but it also revealed the courage and sacrifice of those who stood up when it mattered most. Among this legislative package are two bills I am proud to sponsor: the Ignazio Giacalone Act, which ensures that the legacy of sanitation workers who gave their lives lives on through the children and siblings who follow in their path of public service; and the revitalization of the 9/11 Workers Protection Task Force, which guarantees that the health, benefits, and dignity of those who answered the call will never be overlooked or forgotten. Alongside the other measures in this package, these bills turn remembrance into responsibility, and grief into justice. I thank Governor Hochul for signing them into law and standing with us to uplift the memory and the rights of 9/11 victims and their families.”
State Senator Monica R. Martinez said, “For responders of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the pain of that day has never faded, nor have the physical and emotional burdens they’ve carried in the years since. Deputy Sheriff Richard Stueber served with honor at Ground Zero, but the toll of that commitment was the loss of his life and a financial hardship left to his family. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this legislation to provide Stacie Stueber with the benefits her husband earned through his service and sacrifice.”
State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, “Every year on this day, New York feels the weight of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center, but no one more so than the brave first responders who returned to Ground Zero day after day, putting their health on the line for our city. For them, 9/11 is something they grapple with every day, not just through memory, but through the countless health complications that have arisen for them since. The least we can do is make sure they receive the benefits they earned through their dedicated service, which is why I introduced this legislation to cut through all the existing red tape. Securing these benefits has been an uphill battle for too many 9/11 first responders, and I’m proud that on this 24th anniversary, Governor Hochul signed my bill into law. Now every officer who risked everything to protect our city — and their families — can access the benefits they deserve.”
Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “I applaud Governor Hochul’s leadership by signing these bills into law, including A.8417 which strengthens and extends the impactful work of the 9/11 Task Force, along with A.5458 which will allow for survivors and heroes from that horrendous day to be eligible to obtain the vital benefits they deserve. It’s clear that when New York says we’ll never forget — we mean it. May the memories of those we lost forever be a blessing, and God bless those who saved lives that day, and helped in the aftermath.”
Assemblymember Joseph DeStefano said, “Today’s bill signing is about justice, compassion, and keeping faith with those who answered the call after 9/11. Deputy Sheriff Stueber gave everything he had to his community and his country, and this law ensures that his family will finally receive the benefits he earned. This legislation is a promise kept — that New York will not forget its 9/11 heroes. It is a pledge to the Stueber family and to all first responders that their service and sacrifice will always be honored.”
Assemblymember Sam Berger said, “As the youngest member of the Assembly, I believe it is my generation’s duty to ensure the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten. This bill honors the legacy of sanitation workers like Ignazio who put their lives on the line for New York. But more, signing this bill into law is a statement from New York State that we see you, we thank you, and we will never forget your heroism and your sacrifice. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for recognizing those brave New York sanitation workers and paving the path for those children who choose to follow in their footsteps.”
Police Conference of New York President Michael O’Meara said, “On this 24th Anniversary of 9/11 we want to thank Governor Hochul, Senator Jackson, Senator Scarcella-Spanton and Assemblywoman Pheffer-Amato for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of our community of first responders and their families who were forever affected by the horrific attacks on September 11th. They continue to support us, not only in their words, but in their actions. Thank you.”
New York State Public Employee Conference Chairman Peter D. Meringolo said, “On behalf of the 95 member units comprising the New York State Public Employee Conference, collectively representing more than one million active and retired public employees, many of whom participated in the rescue, recovery, and aftermath of the 9/11 attack on our country, I thank Governor Hochul for signing these important bills into law. Enactment of this legislation once again exhibits her true commitment to the working men and women who dedicate themselves to public service.”
New York City Sanitation Officers’ Association President Joseph Mannion said, “We are very pleased with the passage of New York State Senate Bill 1165-A / Assembly Bill 2123-A, which provides additional credits to children and siblings of New York city sanitation members who died in the performance of duty as the natural and proximate result of the World Trade Center attack on September 11, 2001. On behalf of all NYC Sanitation Officers, our sincere thanks go out to Senator Robert Jackson and Assemblyman Sam Berger for sponsoring this important legislation, and to Governor Kathy Hochul for enacting it into law.”
Michael Giacalone, a sanitation worker and the son of Ignazio Giacalone for whom the bill is named after, said, “I’m beyond grateful for the signing of the ‘Ignazio Giacalone Act.’ I want to thank the Governor, the NYS Assembly and Senate, Local 831 and 444, and NYS Assemblyman Berger. A very big thank you to Retired DSNY Supervisor Edward Panzarella. This bill would not be where it is today without his efforts. It is truly an honor to have this bill carry the name of my father.”
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DONALD TRUMP. A PROCLAMATION
As a mark of respect for the memory of Charlie Kirk, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, September 14, 2025. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
Charlie Kirk, political activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was reportedly shot in the neck during a live event at Utah Valley University (UVU) on September 10, 2025, as part of his “Prove Me Wrong” / “American Comeback Tour.” Law enforcement confirmed the suspect is in custody, and Kirk was evacuated by his security team following the incident, which caused a campus lockdown and widespread reactions from political figures and media outlets.
Kirk’s visit to UVU is part of his “American Redemption / Prove Me Wrong” campus tour, which has sparked significant controversy and pushback from some faculty and students, including large petitions calling for his events to be canceled.
Turning Point USA, which Kirk founded in 2012, is a major youth-oriented conservative activist organization with close ties to the MAGA movement and right-wing political circles.
The incident unfolded amid a heated political climate, intensifying debates over campus conduct rules, security measures, and what many see as widespread hostility among students toward free speech, American history, the free market, and individual choice—attitudes they attribute to “socialist” professors. Kirk has called for open dialogue on precisely these topics, which, his supporters argue, has provoked opponents of free expression who find themselves unable to answer the straightforward questions posed by the Turning Point USA founder.
Incident Details
The shooting took place about 20 minutes into Kirk’s presentation at UVU, where he was engaging students in his signature debate format.
Multiple eyewitnesses and video footage confirmed shots were fired at the event, and Kirk appeared to be struck in the neck, prompting attendees to run for cover.
UVU police and campus officials immediately initiated a lockdown, and the suspect responsible was quickly apprehended; the shooter is reportedly not affiliated with the university.
Public and Political Reactions
Utah Senator Mike Lee posted on X (Twitter), asking for prayers for Kirk and those present at UVU.
Vice President J.D. Vance and former President Donald Trump publicly expressed concern and called for prayers on social media.
The FBI and campus security teams are actively investigating, with multiple agencies confirming their involvement and ongoing response.
Context and Background
Kirk’s visit to UVU is part of his American Comeback / Prove Me Wrong campus tour, which has attracted significant controversy and opposition from some faculty and students, with large petitions calling for the cancellation of his events.
Turning Point USA, founded by Kirk in 2012, is a major youth-oriented conservative activist organization with strong ties to the MAGA movement and right-wing political circles.
This incident occurs within a tumultuous political environment, amplifying debates about campus speech, security measures, and political polarization among student bodies.
Ongoing Updates
The full extent of Charlie Kirk’s injuries and current condition is still being determined, with news outlets indicating the situation remains fluid.
Campus officials, police, and major news agencies are providing continual updates as new details emerge.
Please join us in praying for our good friend, Charlie Kirk.
This remains a developing story, with substantial local and national attention focused on legal, security, and campus issues at UVU following the shooting.
On September 5, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the scope of reciprocal tariffs and creating a framework for implementing future trade agreements. The order updates Annex II to adjust which goods are subject to tariffs, adding certain aluminum and resin products while exempting some critical minerals and pharmaceuticals. It also introduces the “Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners” (PTAAP) Annex, offering tariff reductions on key imports for nations that sign reciprocal trade and security deals with the U.S. These actions, alongside tariffs targeting China, Mexico, Canada, Brazil, and India, aim to protect national security, strengthen supply chains, incentivize American manufacturing, and secure foreign investment while addressing long-standing trade imbalances.
Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Modifies the Scope of Reciprocal Tariffs and Establishes Procedures for Implementing Trade Deals
STRENGTHENING THE ECONOMY AND NATIONAL SECURITY THROUGH TARIFFS AND TRADE DEALS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the scope of the reciprocal tariffs that he first announced on April 2, 2025, and establishing a framework to implement agreements with our trading partners.
President Trump is strengthening the international economic position of the United States and protecting American workers by modifying the scope of reciprocal tariffs.
On April 2, the President imposed historic global reciprocal tariffs to address the national emergency posed by our large and persistent trade deficit, which is driven by the absence of reciprocity in our trade relationships and other harmful policies perpetuated by other countries, and by the consequences of that trade deficit.
These tariffs have applied to nearly all imports, except for certain classes of products, such as articles subject to 50 U.S.C. § 1702(b); articles potentially subject to other tariff regimes like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and lumber articles; and articles listed in Annex II of Executive Order 14257.
The President has now determined that it is necessary and appropriate to modify the scope of the articles listed in Annex II to deal with the national emergency and protect America’s economic and national security.
Some goods have been added to Annex II, meaning they will no longer be subject to reciprocal tariffs. These goods include bullion-related articles and certain critical minerals and pharmaceutical products subject to pending Section 232 investigations.
Some goods have been removed from Annex II, meaning they are now subject to reciprocal tariffs. These goods include certain aluminum hydroxide, resin, and silicone products.
A modified Annex II is attached to today’s Order, and the modifications will take effect on September 8, 2025.
President Trump is advancing reciprocal trade by establishing a framework to implement existing and future trade deals.
Today’s Order establishes the “Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners” (PTAAP) Annex, which contains the list of products for which the President may be willing to apply only the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff upon the conclusion of any future reciprocal trade and security deal. These products fall in four categories:
certain aircraft and aircraft parts;
certain generic pharmaceuticals and their ingredients;
unavailable natural resources and closely related derivative products; and
certain agricultural products not grown or produced in sufficient quantity in the United States to meet domestic demand.
To earn a reduction of reciprocal tariffs for some or all of the products listed in the PTAAP Annex, a trading partner must conclude a deal with the United States that helps mitigate the national emergency relating to the trade deficit. Additionally, the President will evaluate the extent of a trading partner’s commitments to address U.S. trade concerns, among other things, when determining which products on the PTAAP Annex qualify for a tariff reduction.
The President delegated to senior officials, including the Secretary of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative, the authority to implement deals with our trading partners.
TAKING DECISIVE ACTION TO ADDRESS A NATIONAL EMERGENCY: President Trump is modifying the scope of reciprocal tariffs and streamlining the implementation of trade deals to protect U.S. national security interests, reinforce domestic supply chains, and bolster America’s industrial base.
President Trump has taken several tariff actions in the interests of the American people, including:
Imposing a 20% tariff on China to address the synthetic opioid supply chain, a 25% tariff on Mexico to address the flow of illicit drugs across our southern border, and a 35% tariff on Canada to address the flow of illicit drugs across our northern border.
Imposing reciprocal tariffs, with many trading partners subject to individualized, ad valorem reciprocal tariffs, to rectify trade practices that contribute to America’s exploding annual goods trade deficit, and to remedy the consequences of the United States’ exploding trade deficit.
Imposing an additional 40% tariff on Brazil following recent actions of the Government of Brazil that threaten the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.
Imposing an additional 25% tariff on imports from India in response to its continued purchase of Russian Federation oil.
Imposing Section 232 tariffs on imports of automobiles and auto parts, copper, steel, and aluminum to protect and strengthen America’s industries, which are critical to America’s economic welfare and national security.
These actions protect national security, strengthen supply chains, and support American workers and industries.
Today’s Order revises Annex II to more effectively address the national emergency declared in Executive Order 14257 and establishes a process to streamline the implementation of trade deals with America’s trading partners.
By taking further action today, President Trump is ensuring America’s trade policies benefit the American people, strengthen national security, and promote economic fairness.
DELIVERING FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE: President Trump’s tariff policies have generated significant investment into the United States, strengthening the U.S. economy while addressing unfair trade practices that have disadvantaged American workers for decades.
By imposing tariffs on countries with nonreciprocal trade practices, President Trump is incentivizing manufacturing on American soil and defending our industries.
The Trump Administration has worked with America’s trading partners to craft tailor-made trade deals designed to eliminate their most distortive trade practices and to ensure that trading partners align with the United States on key economic and national security matters.
In a massive deal with the European Union, the EU has agreed to purchase $750 billion in U.S. energy and make new investments of $600 billion in the United States, all by 2028, while accepting a 15% tariff rate, and charging American companies zero.
Japan has agreed to invest $550 billion in the United States to rebuild and expand core American industries, as well as to further open its own market to U.S. exports, all while paying a baseline 15% tariff rate.
The United States-United Kingdom trade deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports.
Additional trade deals with Indonesia, the Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, and others will, among other things, protect our industries, open foreign markets, and encourage foreign investment in American industries.
With billions in reshoring investments already announced, President Trump is bringing manufacturing jobs back to America, revitalizing communities, and strengthening supply chains.
The Administration will continue to use all available tools to protect our national security, advance our economic interests, and uphold a system of trade based in fairness and reciprocity.
Summary: On September 5, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order restoring the historic name “Department of War” to the U.S. military’s top civilian agency, replacing the modern title “Department of Defense” in official correspondence, public communications, and ceremonial contexts. The order emphasizes that the original 1789 name better reflects America’s strength, readiness, and willingness to wage war to defend national interests, echoing the legacy of victories in the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II. While statutory references to the Department of Defense remain legally binding until changed by Congress, the order authorizes secondary use of titles such as “Secretary of War” and requires a formal recommendation within 60 days on actions needed for a permanent renaming.
RESTORING THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF WAR
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. On August 7, 1789, 236 years ago, President George Washington signed into law a bill establishing the United States Department of War to oversee the operation and maintenance of military and naval affairs. It was under this name that the Department of War, along with the later formed Department of the Navy, won the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II, inspiring awe and confidence in our Nation’s military, and ensuring freedom and prosperity for all Americans. The Founders chose this name to signal our strength and resolve to the world. The name “Department of War,” more than the current “Department of Defense,” ensures peace through strength, as it demonstrates our ability and willingness to fight and win wars on behalf of our Nation at a moment’s notice, not just to defend. This name sharpens the Department’s focus on our own national interest and our adversaries’ focus on our willingness and availability to wage war to secure what is ours. I have therefore determined that this Department should once again be known as the Department of War and the Secretary should be known as the Secretary of War.
Sec. 2. Implementation. (a) The Secretary of Defense is authorized the use of this additional secondary title — the Secretary of War — and may be recognized by that title in official correspondence, public communications, ceremonial contexts, and non-statutory documents within the executive branch.
(b) The Department of Defense and the Office of the Secretary of Defense may be referred to as the Department of War and the Office of the Secretary of War, respectively, in the contexts described in subsection (a) of this section.
(c) The provisions of this section shall also apply, as appropriate, to subordinate officials within the Department of Defense, who may use corresponding secondary titles such as Deputy Secretary of War or Under Secretary of War in the contexts described in subsection (a) of this section.
(d) All executive departments and agencies shall recognize and accommodate the use of such secondary titles in internal and external communications, provided that the use of such titles does not create confusion with respect to legal, statutory, or international obligations.
(e) Statutory references to the Department of Defense, Secretary of Defense, and subordinate officers and components shall remain controlling until changed subsequently by the law.
(f) Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of War shall submit to the President, through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, a notification for transmittal to the Congress of any office, executive department or agency, component, or command that begins using a secondary Department of War designation.
(g) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of War shall submit to the President, through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, a recommendation on the actions required to permanently change the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War. This recommendation shall include the proposed legislative and executive actions necessary to accomplish this renaming.
Sec. 3. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of War.
Why critics say Albany’s green agenda weakens the state’s economy, raises costs for families, and plays into the hands of America’s rivals.
New York’s leaders are pushing ahead with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) and a Draft State Energy Plan that promises a “green future.” The plan says the state will run on 70% renewables by 2030 and reach a 100% zero-emission grid by 2040.
Sounds great on paper. But here’s the problem: while New York sacrifices its own economy, the rest of the world isn’t following.
The Big Contradiction
Asia and Africa are building more coal plants and burning more oil and gas than ever.
China and India keep increasing fossil fuel use to power their industries.
Russia and Iran depend on selling oil and gas — and they make more money when U.S. states restrict their own energy.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration in Washington (2025) is going the opposite way: drill more, export more, and make energy cheap and abundant again.
So while the world’s biggest polluters keep burning, New York is waging a “climate war” against itself.
Who Wins from New York’s Plan?
Russia, Iran, and OPEC: higher global prices = more profit for them.
China and India: cheaper energy at home means stronger manufacturing.
Climate NGOs and bureaucrats: more money and power through subsidies and carbon credits.
Big corporations and investors: subsidies, government contracts, and green energy mandates fill their pockets.
Who Loses?
New York families: higher bills for heating, cooling, and electricity.
Local businesses: higher energy costs make them less competitive.
Workers in oil, gas, and heating industries: jobs vanish.
Taxpayers: footing the bill for subsidies and infrastructure.
The electric grid: risk of blackouts if reliable fuels disappear too fast.
The Bottom Line
New York’s Draft Energy Plan is sold as a fight against climate change. But critics say it looks more like a self-inflicted wound:
It won’t change global emissions.
It makes life more expensive for ordinary New Yorkers.
It helps America’s rivals — Russia, Iran, and China — by weakening U.S. energy.
Instead of being a “green victory,” it may end up as a war on New York’s own economy and standard of living.
Winners vs. Losers of New York’s Draft Energy Plan
Winners
Why They Win
Russia, Iran, OPEC
Less U.S. competition means higher global oil & gas prices = more profit.
China & India
Keep using cheap coal, oil, and gas → cheaper factories and stronger economies.
Climate NGOs & Bureaucrats
More subsidies, more carbon credit markets, more control.
Big Corporations & Wall Street
Win government contracts, profit from “green” mandates and subsidies.
Losers
Why They Lose
New York Families
Higher heating, cooling, and electricity bills.
Local Businesses
Pay more for energy → less competitive with other states.
Workers in Oil & Gas
Jobs in natural gas, heating oil, and related industries disappear.
Taxpayers
Billions in subsidies come out of their pockets.
The Electric Grid
More blackouts and instability as reliable fuels get phased out too quickly.
