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Mayor Adams, NYPD Report Crime Down, Address Bronx Shootings and Safety Measures

Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch appeared live on PIX11’s Morning News at 7 AM September 3, 2025, to review the latest NYPD crime stats. Overall crime in New York City fell nearly 7% year-over-year, with transit crime down more than 22%. Officials noted shootings are still at record lows citywide, though recent Bronx incidents have fueled concern. Adams pointed to gangs and repeat offenders as key challenges, while Tisch highlighted historic gang takedowns, more guns seized, and thousands of new recruits, including school safety officers. Both stressed that New York remains the safest big city in America, with expanded police presence and safety plans in place as schools reopen.

Transcript: Mayor Adams Appears Live on PIX11’s “PIX11 Morning News at 7 AM”

September 3, 2025

Hazel Sanchez: The numbers are in, and they show crime is down across New York City. The NYPD releasing its August data, which shows that major crimes are down nearly 7 percent from this time last year.

Dan Mannarino: Transit crime also dropped more than 22 percent year to year. Same for robberies, same for assaults and grand larceny. And while the numbers really tell one story, we’re seeing another, especially in the Bronx, where shootings are actually on the rise. Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, they are joining us now from City Hall this morning with a more detailed look at these numbers. So good to see both of you. Good morning.

Mayor Eric Adams: Good to speak with you, Dan, as well.

Mannarino: Let me begin with this, Mr. Mayor. Help us make sense of the numbers, right? How the data can show that shootings are at historic lows across the city, but it also shows there’s a 4 percent increase in the number of shooting incidents compared to last year. So how do you kind of explain that one?

Mayor Adams: And you’re talking about in the month of August, as you stated, overall crime is down, as well as shootings [being] down for the year. Look, we have some high profile cases. And when you peel them back, you will see that we’re dealing with two elements that we have communicated throughout the entire year, particularly throughout the time I’ve been in office, recidivism and gangs.

So when you start dismantling gang databases, when you start allowing a revolving door criminal justice system, this is the result. So we’ve been doing our job in the criminal justice system, but clearly those two components are hurting our public safety movement.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch: And I would just add that shooting incidents and shooting victims for the first eight months of the year, citywide, are at record lows right now. We’ve continued that each month. In the month of August, shooting incidents citywide were up ever so slightly.

But importantly, in the borough of the Bronx, where we’ve had a number of high profile shootings, shooting incidents for the month of August are actually down 20 percent. So this August was actually safer than last August, even in the borough of the Bronx.

Sanchez: But what happened in the Bronx just the last couple of days and then after Monday’s parade, how does the data actually account for that too?

Police Commissioner Tisch: Well, the numbers are what they are. Yes, we have had a number of high profile incidents in the Bronx, particularly over the past several weeks. But one thing that you should know is that we have deployed over a thousand additional officers to walk foot posts in the Bronx, on the streets and at the times where we know that the shootings occur. And my expectation is that those officers are going to quell some of the violence that we’ve seen over the past two weeks.

Mannarino: What are you attributing the rise or the numbers that we’re seeing in the Bronx? Are you attributing it to gang violence? What are you attributing it to?

Police Commissioner Tisch: A lot of it, Dan, is gang violence. And the mayor has been very clear with us. He wants us to go after gangs and guns. And we have done that in a big and frankly historic way this summer and this year. We have more gang takedowns this year than we have ever had in NYPD history.

More guns off the street over the past three and a half years under the mayor than ever in history. So those two ingredients, going after gangs, going after guns, in addition to having lots of cops out in foot posts, [and] precision policing in the right places, has led to the historic crime declines that we are discussing today.

Sanchez: Yeah, I mean, Mayor Adams, we’ve been here before where perception, reality, they’re two different things. But how successful do you really feel, though, that the summer violence reduction plan was?

Mayor Adams: Well, as the commissioner stated, the numbers don’t lie and you use the numbers to indicate are you moving in the right direction. Look over this weekend, the number of shootings we had. And then look at cities across America, Chicago, over 50 people shot, over 50 people shot. And so when you look at what we’re doing here, we remain the safest big city in America.

And we know these high profile shootings, Franklin Avenue, you saw fourteen people shot. You saw four people shot in the Bronx. We know this plays on the psyche of New Yorkers, but when you look at what this Police Department is doing under this commissioner, you are seeing record lows in crime.

Now we need the other parts of the criminal justice system to do their job, and that includes looking at what we did with Raise the Age, looking at what we did with bail reform and these other aspects that’s causing this revolving door. The shooters have records of shootings and records of carrying guns. This is terrible.

Mannarino: You mentioned Chicago and the president has now set his sights on Chicago and sending in the National Guard. Commissioner Tisch, I know you met recently with the Attorney General Pam Bondi and expressed to her that you don’t need the National Guard. Was she on board? Have you been assured that New York City will not get things like we’ve seen in LA and now soon to be Chicago?

Police Commissioner Tisch: So we had a very polite discussion. And as usual for me, I was very direct in saying to the attorney general that in New York City, we got this and we don’t want or need extra help. Because in fact, in my opinion, the extra bodies here are not helpful. Those people are not trained to be on the streets in New York City to deal with street crime.

So I explained that in my opinion, it would be more of a hindrance than a help. And New York City police officers are the best trained in the world and they’re the best cops in the world. Let them do their thing.

Mannarino: And the response?

Police Commissioner Tisch: We had a nice discussion. Obviously, she wasn’t in a place to make any guarantees, but I think my message was delivered loud and clear.

Sanchez: Commissioner, as we head back to school, the NYPD has hired nearly 3,000 new recruits this year. Does that number also include school safety officers?

Police Commissioner Tisch: Yes, we’ve done a huge push around hiring school safety officers and we will continue to do that. For as long as I’ve been in the Police Department, there’s always been drama around the number of school safety officers we have. And so we’ve put in place a hiring plan, hopefully to end that drama.

But importantly, starting tomorrow, the NYPD school safety plan goes into effect. And we have lots of officers, over 500 officers that are going to work corridors that kids travel to and from school at the times they’re traveling to and from school just to make sure that their pre-school and post-school commutes are nice and safe. We’ve got to keep our kids safe.

Mannarino: Absolutely. That is a priority. While we have you, I want to shift gears here and talk about you for a moment. There was a lot of news about you being in Florida yesterday, your trip to Florida. Can you talk about why you went to Florida and if you met with anybody from the Trump administration while you were there?

Mayor Adams: The goal of the trip was to get away for a day to deal with some personal issues in Florida. And at the same time, you know, I had a birthday celebrating [my] 65th–

Mannarino: Happy Birthday.

Mayor Adams: And I had some former colleagues that I was able to see. What I did on my time and how I paid for it was my dime and you know my rule. My time, my dime, my time.

Mannarino: So did you meet with anybody from the Trump administration?

Mayor Adams: I met with several political figures in Florida while I was there from various parts, including the mayor from Miami administration.

Sanchez: Okay. Well, mayor, I know how much you love polls. We’ve talked about this before, but the latest ones have you in third place. Do you think that’s going to change now that independent candidate Jim Walden dropped out?

Mayor Adams: Well, we’re going to continue to move forward and just stay focused. I keep bringing it back and sharing with everyone where the Democratic primary winner was at this distance in the race. The goal is not to be distracted. Dan, you heard me say this over and over again, stay focused, no distractions and grind.

Mannarino: Never heard that. Mr. Mayor, let me ask you, because you know what the rumors are going to say. You went to Florida. You’re now talking about meeting with political figures that you are looking for some, for an out of the race and that you’re looking for a potential future job. So are you planning to stay in this till November? Can you quell that rumor that you were absolutely saying in this or are you looking for another job?

Mayor Adams: Well, I said it over and over again, it didn’t quell it. So what is the purpose of continuing saying the same thing that is not going to quell? Listen, I’m a retired captain in the Police Department, former state senator, former borough president. I’ve never had a problem finding jobs as I transition. And that’s not what I’m looking for right now. I’m looking to continue to serve the people of the City of New York.

Mannarino: Just to be very clear, just to be very clear, because I know you’re staying in the race till November–

Mayor Adams: Dan, I said that over and over again. It didn’t satisfy you last month. It didn’t satisfy you the previous month. It’s not going to satisfy you this month–

Mannarino: Well Mr. Mayor, you know, just to be fair, I did ask you a number of times if you were running as a Democrat and you always said, “Yes, I am.” And then you went independent.

Mayor Adams: No, Dan. I’m still a Democrat, Dan. You know, let’s be clear. I’m still a Democrat. I am still a Democrat. And so, again, no matter how many times I answer the questions, you’re going to have to do your job of asking. And I’m going to do my job of answering.

Mannarino: It’s my birthday gift to you to keep asking the questions.

Sanchez: And you see a path to victory, Mr. Mayor?

Mayor Adams: I answered that three months ago. I answered it again last month and I’ll answer it again this month. Yes.

Mannarino: All right. Mayor Adams, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Commissioner, by the way, I heard you say earlier that you were direct. You never. Good to see both of you. Thank you so much.

Mayor Adams: All right. Take care.

September 3, 2025 Manhattan, New York

Sources: NYC.gov , Midtown Tribune news
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September 3, 2025
President Trump’s Cabinet Meeting August 26, 2025: Key Decisions on Economy, Energy, and Security (Video)

Narrative Account of President Trump’s Cabinet Meeting, August 26, 2025

On August 26, 2025, President Donald Trump convened his cabinet in Washington to outline his administration’s priorities. The meeting unfolded as a broad survey of the nation’s economic condition, its industrial capacity, and the administration’s stance on health care, energy, and public safety.

The President began by describing an America in the midst of industrial revival. He pointed to new factories opening at a rapid pace, particularly in the defense sector, where production of missile systems and other armaments was increasing. In the automobile industry, he said, tariffs had compelled manufacturers to shift production back from Mexico, Canada, and Europe to American soil. As a result, he reported that car output was steadily climbing. Steel mills, too, were producing at levels not seen in years, while domestic oil production had risen sharply. Trump portrayed these trends as evidence that his tariff and trade policies were reshaping global supply chains in America’s favor.

From there, the discussion moved to energy. The President spoke critically of wind and solar power, dismissing them as inefficient and environmentally harmful. He argued instead for a renewed embrace of coal, alongside an expanded role for nuclear power. In his view, energy security depended on ensuring that the United States could not only meet its own needs but also supply key allies abroad. He noted recent agreements with Europe and Japan that committed them to American energy imports.

The cabinet then turned to health care. Trump announced what he called a “favored nations” policy, under which the United States would no longer pay more for prescription drugs than other developed countries. He promised that such a shift would dramatically reduce the price of medicine for American families. He also described negotiations with insurers to speed up approvals for treatments and pointed to progress in digitizing health records, making them accessible to patients on their phones. He argued for new emphasis in medical schools on nutrition, saying doctors should be equipped to advise on diet as a cornerstone of public health. At the same time, he raised alarm about the rise in autism diagnoses, citing figures that troubled him and promising that new measures would be announced in September to address what he described as artificial causes.

Law and order emerged as another major theme. Trump recounted stories of violent crime in Washington, D.C., and pledged to intervene forcefully. He suggested deploying the National Guard if necessary and advocated for the death penalty for murder committed in the nation’s capital. He warned that similar interventions could be extended to other cities such as Chicago, Baltimore, and Los Angeles if conditions demanded it.

The conversation shifted to education, where the President emphasized decentralization. He argued that schools should be returned to the control of states and local communities and suggested that federal departments could be downsized or eliminated. He called for greater investment in vocational training, envisioning high schools and colleges that prepared students for skilled trades such as electrical work, mechanics, and heating and cooling systems.

Artificial intelligence also featured prominently. Trump asserted that the United States was ahead of China in this field, pointing to the construction of massive data centers. He praised a program launched by the First Lady—the “AI Challenge”—designed to engage young Americans in the development of artificial intelligence.

Attention then turned to fishing and food safety. Trump criticized offshore wind projects, claiming they endangered marine life, and promised stronger oversight of imported seafood, citing past instances of contamination. He said his administration’s policy was to protect domestic fishermen and farmers against unfair foreign competition.

The meeting closed with a broader reflection on the administration’s economic policy. Trump reminded his audience that he had signed what he called the largest tax cuts in history for working Americans, including measures to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime, and certain benefits. He suggested that his economic program was bringing millions of new supporters into the Republican Party and predicted that the coming years would be a period of renewed national pride. Looking ahead, he pointed to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the World Cup, and the Olympic Games as events that would showcase the country’s resurgence.

The cabinet meeting thus served as both a review of policy and a projection of future ambitions. Trump portrayed his administration as steering the United States toward industrial strength, energy dominance, and social order, while preparing the nation for global leadership in technology and a celebration of its national identity.

Sources: White House Official Video , Midtown Tribune News

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August 27, 2025
Trump Administration Highlights Intelligence and Deregulation Successes

On August 26, 2025, during the seventh Cabinet meeting of his second term, President Donald J. Trump and key administration officials, including Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, celebrated significant achievements for American workers. Gabbard emphasized exposing the weaponization of intelligence, vowing to continue this mission. Vought highlighted 245 deregulatory initiatives, achieving a 30-for-1 ratio, marking substantial progress in reducing federal regulations. Witkoff reported positive reception in Gaza for Trump’s new aid initiative, while Ratcliffe noted the CIA’s renewed focus on preventing wars and enhancing national security. These efforts underscore the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American interests and streamlining government operations.

Trump Cabinet Touts Deregulation, Intelligence Reforms

WASHINGTON—At the seventh cabinet meeting of his second term on August 26, 2025, President Donald J. Trump convened top officials to highlight policy wins, with a focus on deregulation and intelligence reforms. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard vowed to continue exposing the weaponization of intelligence agencies, signaling a push for greater transparency. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought reported 245 deregulatory initiatives, achieving a 30-to-1 ratio of regulations cut to new rules added, a cornerstone of the administration’s effort to streamline federal operations. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff described delivering aid in Gaza, noting local support for Trump’s new initiative, while CIA Director John Ratcliffe emphasized the agency’s shift toward preventing wars and bolstering national security. The meeting underscored the administration’s agenda of prioritizing American interests and reducing bureaucratic overreach.

Trump Administration Celebrates Successes for America’s Workers

Today, President Donald J. Trump held the seventh Cabinet meeting of his second term — gathering members of the Trump Administration together ahead of Labor Day to celebrate the victories American workers have experienced over the past eight months.

President Trump opened the meeting by lauding the rising blue-collar wages, unprecedented private sector job growth, increased domestic steel production, historic trade deals, landmark tax cuts, and many other wins achieved on behalf of the American people.

Here’s what else you missed:

Vice President JD Vance: “Public safety is not just something that should belong to the wealthy. It should belong to every working man and woman in the United States of America — and because of the work of this Administration, that is happening.”

Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer: “Unemployment is holding steady and more than two million net jobs for native-born Americans has been key under your leadership. 84% of the workforce and jobs has been produced by the private sector… [The One Big Beautiful Bill] is protecting our American workforce by expanding Pell Grants and childcare and a reduction in taxes.”

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “You’ve led an opportunity for us to have lower taxes, way lower deregulation, record amounts of investments that’s coming into this country, we’re going to be seeing lower interest rates. All of those things coming together is a gift to the working people. The policies are lifting everybody up.”

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon: “What I’m finding with great joy around the country is that states really are being innovative in working more with middle schools and with high schools to make sure that we are having hands-on learning, pathways to jobs that are happening now… They’re learning on the job so that when they graduate from high school, they’re ready to go into the workforce.”

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “We have, at HUD, been very intentional about changing the conversation about the dignity of work and the dignity and the honor of family formation through work — and how the younger generation, when they see their parents work, how they’re incentivized to work.”

Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler: “[The One Big Beautiful Bill is delivering] the largest tax cut in American history for working families. The average family of four is going to save about $10,000 take home pay more a year. We’re seeing an increase in the Child Tax Credit, an increase in the standard deduction — hardworking families are going to benefit from this bill.”

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins: “We’ve opened new facilities. We’ve put new facilities in places where workers can get to. We’ve expanded out hours — over a million extra hours so younger veterans, in particular, can get off work and bring themselves to get their appointments after hours or on Saturdays… That’s what it means for Labor Day because we can’t forget the ones that fought for us.”

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer: “In the last quarter of 2024, median weekly earnings fell 2.1%. In the first quarter of your term, they went up 3.3% — and that’s why we’re doing the trade policy we’re doing. It’s to help the workers of the United States.”

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.: “We’re raising an infusion of cash to rural hospitals and rural communities by 50%. It’s going to be the biggest infusion in history and it’s going to restore and revitalize these communities. We can’t survive as a nation if we don’t honor our rural communities.”

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “Today, the average family and individual that lives in this country is safer than they’ve been in years… We’ve got three months in a row now with zero illegal aliens coming into our country… 1.6 million people voluntarily go home to their home countries — that were here in this country illegally.”

Secretary of Energy Chris Wright: “You led off today talking about gasoline prices. I’ll throw in diesel. If you correct for inflation, they’re at multi-decade lows.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “You made it very clear from the outset, even in foreign policy, everything we did has to be pro-American — it has to make America stronger or safer or more prosperous… For the first time in the modern era, we are truly on offense against organized cartels that are pumping poison — killer poison — into our cities.”

Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent: “Economic security is national security and our country has never been so secure… Your Administration has made a meaningful dent in the budget deficit. The average budget deficit during this term is 26% less than the last twelve months under Biden.”

Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins: “The Big Beautiful Bill… is the greatest investment in rural America in history… A game-changer, a country saver.”

Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy: “We want to take the money that Congress gives us and actually deploy it and put these men and women to work building the great projects of this country… and that’s why we got rid of the DEI, we’ve got rid of the ‘green’… We’re going to move these projects faster, putting the great American worker back to work.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi: “[Illegal alien gangs] and others throughout this country, throughout this world, have brought into our country drugs, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamines. It’s killing our kids and we have to stop that — and that’s what you’ve been doing, not only in D.C., but around the country at your leadership.”

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth: “[The Department of Defense is] the largest employer in America. We like to think we have a different form of employees who need to be the toughest and the strongest and the most well trained and the most lethal. Under the previous administration and for decades, frankly, it was social justice, it was political correctness, it was divisive ideologies seeping into the ranks and changing how well we do our job. No more. Now, it is only merit-based, gender-neutral, colorblind, the best of the best from the top to the bottom. That is our expectation.”

Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick: “Four days before you took office, the Commerce Department, which had the CHIPS money, they set up… a make-believe not-for-profit. They signed contracts to wire them $7.4 billion… We stopped the payment. We’ve got the money.”

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin: “In one agency, in one year, we’ll do more deregulation than entire federal governments have done across all agencies across entire presidencies.”

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard: “We’ve exposed some of the worst examples of the weaponization of Intelligence in the last several weeks. I will continue down that mission and that path — wherever it leads.”

Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought: “We are at 245 deregulatory initiatives planned by these agencies. That comes out to 30-for-1, so we are making incredible strides.”

Special Envoy Steve Witkoff: “I was in Gaza — the first American diplomat on your behalf — and as we delivered food and aid, pursuant to your new aid initiative… the people were applauding you.”

CIA Director John Ratcliffe: “The CIA workforce at the Trump CIA is grateful to be focused on what it’s supposed to be, which is helping you prevent and end wars and to make America safer.”

The White House

August 26, 2025

Sources: White House , Midtown Tribune News

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

August 26, 2025
White House. Donald Trump Honors Women’s Equality Day: Celebrating 105 Years of the 19th Amendment

USA news White house Womens Equality Day Domald Trump

On Women’s Equality Day, August 26, 2025, President Donald Trump commemorates the 105th anniversary of the 19th Amendment’s certification, a landmark achievement granting women the right to vote. This historic milestone reflects America’s commitment to equality and liberty, affirming that every citizen, created in the image of God, is endowed with unalienable rights. Trump honors the courageous suffragists who fought for this victory and reaffirms the nation’s dedication to upholding justice, freedom, and the dignity of all for future generations.

Presidential Message on Women’s Equality Day

On this day 105 years ago, the 19th Amendment of the United States Constitution was officially certified—forever changing the course of history and immortalizing these mighty words: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.”

This Women’s Equality Day, our Nation proudly celebrates the timeless truth that every American citizen is created in the holy image of God and endowed with certain unalienable rights. We recognize the ratification and certification of the 19th Amendment as a defining moment in fulfilling America’s founding principle that all humans are created equal. Above all, we recommit to upholding our country’s long-cherished principles of liberty, equal justice under the law, and the God-given dignity of the human person.

Today, we honor the strong, patriotic American trailblazers who paved the path for women’s suffrage. We remember that August 26, 1920, stands as an enduring reminder of America’s promise of freedom and equality. Above all, we remain committed to protecting the blessings of liberty for generations to come.

The White House – Briefings & Statements

August 26, 2025 Washington, D.C.

Sources: White House , Midtown Tribune news

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August 26, 2025
New York Sees Major Drop in Retail Theft After Governor Hochul’s Crackdown
New York City retailers are breathing easier as shoplifting plummets by over 12% in 2025, with a 5% drop statewide, thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul’s aggressive anti-theft measures. Fueled by a $40 million investment in specialized Retail Theft Teams, tougher penalties for serial thieves, and new laws cracking down on the sale of stolen goods, the state is reclaiming its streets for shoppers and businesses alike. The 2025 budget also ups the ante with felony charges for attacking retail workers and a $5 million tax credit to help small stores beef up security, signaling a brighter, safer future for New York’s economy.

Following Crack Down on Organized Retail Theft, Governor Hochul Announces Reduction in Retail Theft in New York City

Following Post-Pandemic Spike, Retail Theft Has Declined More Than 12% Year Over Year in New York City, Down 5% Outside New York City. Governor Committed Over $40 Million for Dedicated Retail Theft Teams; Deployed Additional 100 State Police Personnel to Combat Retail Theft. Bolstered Criminal Penalties, Amended Larceny Charges To Hold Serial Perpetrators Accountable, and Made it Illegal to Foster the Sale of Stolen Goods.

Governor’s Record Investments in Public Safety Have Resulted in Reductions in Shootings, Murders, Robberies in New York City and Across the State

Governor Kathy Hochul today was in Harlem to speak with local business leaders to highlight the state’s progress in combatting organized retail theft in New York City and across the state.

Following a spike in organized retail theft in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Hochul announced new measures to crack down on these crimes that included over $40 million to support targeted law enforcement initiatives, stronger laws to hold perpetrators accountable, and new protections for frontline retail workers. Today, New Yorkers are seeing results from this comprehensive approach with retail theft declining more than 12 percent year over year — a decrease of nearly 5,000 instances — in New York City and 5 percent across the rest of the state.

“Retail theft and quality-of-life crimes impact more than just the businesses who experience them — they impact entire neighborhoods. That is why I dedicated tremendous resources last year to fight the scourge of organized retail crime,” Governor Hochul said. “While today’s numbers represent significant progress in the fight against retail theft, we will not back down. I remain committed to supporting our businesses and their workers to restore a sense of security and peace of mind for shoppers and store owners alike.”

https://youtube.com/watch?v=fB0agF2UNDQ%3Fautoplay%3D0

Audio

Crime data shows a significant spike in retail theft crimes immediately following the pandemic in 2022 as business operations began returning to normal. To combat this spike, as part of the FY2025 State Budget, Governor Hochul signed into law initiatives to deter crime and protect businesses. These included:
- Bolstering criminal penalties for anyone who assaults a retail worker by elevating it from a misdemeanor to felony. Any person who causes physical injury to a retail worker performing their job will be subject to this new felony.
- Allowing prosecutors to combine the value of stolen goods when they file larceny charges and allowing retail goods from different stores to be aggregated for the purposes of reaching a higher larceny threshold when stolen under the same criminal scheme.
- Making it illegal to foster the sale of stolen goods to go after third-party sellers. A person will be found guilty if they use any website or physical location to sell stolen goods.
- $40.2 million for dedicated Retail Theft Teams within State Police, District Attorneys’ offices and local law enforcement, including 100 New York State Police personnel dedicated to fighting organized retail theft.
- $5 million allocated to help alleviate the burden on small businesses for additional security measures. Funding provides a $3,000 tax credit for any small businesses who spend the threshold amount of money on retail theft prevention measures.
Following Governor Hochul’s recent investments, New York State is now on track to see retail theft crimes drop to pre-peak levels. Additionally, New York City has seen a more than four percent reduction in index crime and an 11 percent drop in felony robberies. Shootings in New York City are down nearly 20 percent while murders are down 21 percent.

“While today’s numbers represent significant progress in the fight against retail theft, we will not back down. I remain committed to supporting our businesses and their workers to restore a sense of security and peace of mind for shoppers and store owners alike.”

Governor Kathy Hochul

Manhattan Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jessica Walker said, “In recent months, many storefront businesses have told us they feel the difference and that New York has turned a corner on bringing down crime and addressing retail theft. There is more work to do but we are thankful that Governor Hochul’s legislative policies on retail theft and discovery reform appear to be working as we had hoped.”

Retail Council of New York State President and CEO Melissa O’Connor said, “Today’s announcement regarding the decline in retail theft throughout New York is a result of strong and consistent collaboration among retailers, law enforcement, prosecutors, community groups and Governor Hochul. Organized retail crime and habitual retail theft is more than just a financial loss for retailers investing in the state, it is a community safety issue that needs to be managed accordingly. I want to thank the governor for listening to the industry’s concerns several months ago, and importantly, for taking effective action. We will continue to partner with all stakeholders to ensure a safe and enjoyable shopping experience in New York State.”

State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda said, “I congratulate Governor Hochul on her successful measures to combat organized retail theft. The $40 million investment to combat organized retail theft is yielding real results — with a more than 12 percent drop in retail theft in New York City and 5 percent statewide. By strengthening protections for retail workers, holding perpetrators accountable, and providing $5 million in tax credits to help small businesses improve security, the Governor is protecting both workers and consumers while restoring confidence in our local economy. These efforts show that strategic investments in safety can make our communities stronger while also protecting consumers.”

Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “Whether an individual is a business owner, retail worker or customer, everyone deserves to have safe retail experiences in New York. Businesses are the backbone of New York and need the proper resources and attention to continue thriving. Investments in additional law enforcement, tax credits for small businesses and changes in criminal penalties, have shown to be an effective way of reducing retail theft throughout the State while increasing protections for retail workers. By cracking down on this issue, Governor Hochul is putting the safety of New Yorkers as a top priority, ensuring success for us all.”

A positive trend in retail crime reduction follows a successful operation to uncover a sprawling, multi-year, international operation that saw upwards of $2 million in retail goods stolen by organized crews. The case, announced in late 2024 by Governor Hochul and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, and investigated by the Retail Theft Teams within the State Police, included the first-ever charges under New York’s strengthened retail theft laws.

In addition to cracking down on organized retail theft, Governor Hochul continues to invest in broader public safety initiatives to keep New Yorkers safe, committing nearly $3 billion to public safety efforts to date.

August 26, 2025

Albany, NY

Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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August 26, 2025
First Lady Melania Trump Launches Presidential AI Challenge for K-12 Students

First Lady Melania Trump has introduced the Presidential AI Challenge, a nationwide initiative to engage K-12 students and educators in exploring artificial intelligence (AI). Announced on August 26, 2025, at the White House, the challenge aims to build a foundational understanding of AI, a technology poised to drive every sector of the economy. In a video on AI.gov, Mrs. Trump shared her insights on AI’s transformative potential and risks, drawing from her experience creating an audiobook. The initiative encourages young innovators to lead America’s future in AI development. Visit AI.gov/initiatives/presidential-challenge to learn more and participate.

Office of the First Lady

First Lady Melania Trump Launches Nationwide Presidential AI Challenge

First Lady Melania Trump announced the Presidential Artificial Intelligence (AI) Challenge, inviting K-12 students and educators across America to participate.

“The Presidential AI Challenge will be the first step in preparing our next generation with a base understanding of this important new technology,” said First Lady Melania Trump.

In a recent video on AI.gov, she reflected on her own experience with AI while creating her audiobook, emphasizing the transformative potential and inherent risks of this technology. Mrs. Trump stated, “In just a few short years, artificial intelligence will be the engine driving every business sector across our economy. It is important America leads the rest of the world.”

Through initiatives like the Presidential AI Challenge, Mrs. Trump aims to empower the next generation to explore and innovate within this rapidly evolving field. To watch the video, learn more, and sign up for the Presidential AI Challenge, please visit AI.gov/initiatives/presidential-challenge.

The White House

August 26, 2025

Sources: WhiteHouse.gov , Midtown Tribune

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

August 26, 2025
White House. Donald Trump adds new actions to address D.C. crime emergency

President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order adding new steps to his earlier crime-emergency declaration in Washington, D.C. The order calls for hiring more U.S. Park Police and federal prosecutors; creating a recruitment portal and specialized public-safety units across federal agencies; forming a Title 32 D.C. National Guard unit and a nationwide quick-reaction force; HUD investigations into D.C. Housing Authority and landlords’ safety compliance; extra DOT inspections to protect transit workers; and a Justice Department review of the Metropolitan Police Department’s General Orders with requests for updates to the D.C. Mayor. All actions must follow existing law and available funding, include severability and standard implementation terms, and assign publication costs to the Department of Justice.

ADDITIONAL MEASURES TO ADDRESS THE
CRIME EMERGENCY IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Executive Orders

August 25, 2025

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. Crime Emergency. Two weeks ago, I declared a crime emergency in the District of Columbia to address the rampant violence and disorder that have undermined the proper and safe functioning of the Federal Government, and therefore, the Nation, and that have led to disgraceful conditions in our Nation’s capital. In furtherance of Executive Order 14333 of August 11, 2025 (Declaring a Crime Emergency in the District of Columbia), I am now ordering further actions to address the conditions described in that Executive Order.

Sec. 2.  Operational Actions. (a) The Director of the National Park Service shall, subject to the availability of appropriations and applicable law, hire additional members of the United States Park Police in the District of Columbia to support the policy goals described in Executive Order 14333. The United States Park Police shall ensure enforcement of all applicable laws within their jurisdiction, including the Code of the District of Columbia, to help maintain public safety and proper order.

(b) The United States Attorney for the District of Columbia shall, subject to the availability of appropriations and applicable law, hire additional prosecutors to focus on prosecuting violent and property crimes.

(c) The D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force established in Executive Order 14252 of March 27, 2025 (Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful), shall establish an online portal for Americans with law enforcement or other relevant backgrounds and experience to apply to join Federal law enforcement entities to support the policy goals described in Executive Order 14333. Each law enforcement agency that is a member of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force, as well as other relevant components of the Department of Justice as the Attorney General determines, shall further, subject to the availability of appropriations and applicable law, immediately create and begin training, manning, hiring, and equipping a specialized unit that is dedicated to ensuring public safety and order in the Nation’s capital that can be deployed whenever the circumstances necessitate, and that could be deployed, subject to applicable law, in other cities where public safety and order has been lost.

(d)(i) The Secretary of Defense shall, subject to the availability of appropriations and applicable law, immediately create and begin training, manning, hiring, and equipping a specialized unit within the District of Columbia National Guard, subject to activation under Title 32 of the United States Code, that is dedicated to ensuring public safety and order in the Nation’s capital. As appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the Attorney General, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall each deputize the members of this unit to enforce Federal law.

(ii) The Secretary of Defense shall immediately begin ensuring that each State’s Army National Guard and Air National Guard are resourced, trained, organized, and available to assist Federal, State, and local law enforcement in quelling civil disturbances and ensuring the public safety and order whenever the circumstances necessitate, as appropriate under law. In coordination with the respective adjutants general, the Secretary of Defense shall designate an appropriate number of each State’s trained National Guard members to be reasonably available for rapid mobilization for such purposes. In addition, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure the availability of a standing National Guard quick reaction force that shall be resourced, trained, and available for rapid nationwide deployment.

(e) The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shall investigate any non-compliance with the crime-prevention and safety requirements of HUD agreements by the District of Columbia Housing Authority or any landlord in the District of Columbia. These investigations shall include consideration of the provisions of such agreements that require housing providers to maintain safe, decent, and sanitary conditions or to restrict tenants who engage in criminal activity that threatens health, safety, and the right to peaceful enjoyment for other tenants, including engaging in drug distribution, violent criminal activity, and domestic violence. The Secretary of HUD shall refer any findings of non-compliance to the Attorney General, Federal law enforcement authorities, the District of Columbia Housing Authority Police Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department, as appropriate.

(f) The Secretary of Transportation shall conduct additional inspections, audits, and examinations to determine whether conditions exist in federally-funded transit services in the District of Columbia that endanger transit workers, and take appropriate remedial action that is within the Department of Transportation’s authority.

Sec. 3. Potential Amendments to Metropolitan Police Department General Orders. (a) The Attorney General shall review the Metropolitan Police Department General Orders and shall request that the Mayor of the District of Columbia make such updates and modifications to such orders as the Attorney General determines are necessary to address the crime emergency and ensure public order and safety.

Sec. 4.  Severability. If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any individual or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its other provisions to any other individuals or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

Sec. 5.  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 Justice.

                             DONALD J. TRUMP

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    August 25, 2025.

Sources: White House, Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

August 25, 2025
Trump signs executive order to crack down on American flag desecration
The White House says President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order directing the Justice Department to aggressively pursue cases tied to flag desecration and, where the law allows, to refer violations to state and local prosecutors and seek immigration penalties for non-citizens. The order aims to “restore respect” for the flag after protests that included flag burning, and instructs DOJ to litigate questions about First Amendment limits (such as incitement or “fighting words”). Officials point to related steps to boost national pride, including limiting non-U.S. flags at State Department sites, protecting monuments, planning America 250 celebrations and a National Garden of American Heroes, and guiding Smithsonian museums to highlight American achievements. The administration frames the move as supporting public safety and honoring veterans, while reiterating Trump’s longstanding view that burning the flag is “disgraceful.”

Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Protects the American Flag from Desecration

COMBATING FLAG DESECRATION: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to restore respect, pride, and sanctity to the American flag and prosecute those who desecrate this symbol of our freedom, identity, and strength to the fullest extent permissible.
- The Order directs the Attorney General to vigorously prosecute those who violate our laws in ways that involve desecrating the flag, and to pursue litigation to clarify the scope of First Amendment in this area.
- It also instructs the Attorney General to refer flag desecration cases that violate state or local laws to appropriate state or local authorities.
- Finally, the order directs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security and the Attorney General to deny, prohibit, terminate, or revoke visas, residence permits, or naturalization proceedings, and other immigration benefits, or seek removal from the United States, wherever there has been an appropriate determination that flag desecration by foreign nationals permits the exercise of those remedies under applicable law.
RESTORING RESPECT FOR THE FLAG: The American flag is the most sacred and cherished symbol of the United States of America, and desecrating it is uniquely and inherently offensive and provocative. It is a statement of contempt and hostility toward our Nation, and an act used by groups of foreign nationals calculated to intimidate and threaten violence against Americans.
- Recent protests, including those in Los Angeles in June 2025, have featured flag burning alongside violent acts and other conduct threatening public safety.
- Such conduct disrespects the sacrifices of Americans who bled for our country, and undermines the flag as a symbol that unites and represents all Americans of every background and walk of life.
- The Supreme Court has never held that flag desecration conducted in a manner that is likely to incite imminent lawless action or serve as a form of “fighting words” is constitutionally protected.
UPHOLDING AMERICAN PRIDE: President Trump has championed policies to restore pride in the American flag and the Nation’s history, reinforcing the values that unite the country.
- President Trump banned flying any other flags beside the Stars and Stripes at State Department facilities around the world.
- He signed an Executive Order to protect America’s monuments from vandalism and revive the National Garden of American Heroes.
- He launched initiatives like the Great American State Fair and America 250 Commission to instill pride in America’s history and accomplishments, fostering a renewed sense of patriotism.
- He issued an Executive Order to ensure that Smithsonian Institution museums accurately celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our institutions for the millions of Americans who visit each year and recently directed an audit to ensure that its exhibits align with this pro-America vision.
- President Trump has long condemned the act of burning the American flag, calling it “disgraceful.”
The White House

August 25, 2025

Sources: WhiteHouse.gov , Midtown Tribune news

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York
August 25, 2025
Marco Rubio: U.S. Congratulates Ukraine on Its 34th Independence Day

Summary: On Ukraine’s National Day, August 24, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated the people of Ukraine and reaffirmed America’s commitment to Ukraine’s future as a free, independent nation. The statement supports a negotiated settlement that upholds Ukrainian sovereignty and guarantees long-term security, aiming for durable peace. Rubio also emphasized strengthening the U.S.–Ukraine economic and security partnership to advance a peaceful, prosperous future for both countries.

Ukraine National Day

Press Statement

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Ukraine as you commemorate your 34th Independence Day.

The United States is committed to Ukraine’s future as an independent nation. We believe in a negotiated settlement that upholds Ukrainian sovereignty and guarantees its long-term security, leading to durable peace. On this Independence Day, as you pay tribute to your nation’s history, the United States looks forward to continuing to build on our economic and security partnership for a peaceful, prosperous future for both our nations.

August 24, 2025 Washington DC

Sources: State.gov , Midtown Tribune

Midtown Tribune Independent USA news from New York

August 24, 2025