US NATIONAL NEWS

Congressman Maxwell Frost and Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal introduces Office of Gun Violence Prevention legislation

Published

2 years ago

March 22, 2023

WASHINGTON D.C.– Representative Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-Fla.-10) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), along with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Wednesday introduced bicameral legislation to establish an Office of Gun Violence Prevention in the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act would bring together those most impacted by gun violence with leaders across federal agencies to advance policy, collect and report data, expand state and local outreach, and maximize existing programs and services related to preventing gun violence.

“As someone who grew up in a generation defined by mass shootings, an organizer to end this violent cycle since I was 15, and a survivor of gun violence myself, I came to Congress to continue the fight for a nation without fear, that’s why I ensured this was the first legislation I introduced,” said Frost. “In Orlando, just a few weeks ago, 3 people were shot and killed, including a 9 year-old girl. Gun violence is a daily event in this country, so, at the federal level, we must work on this issue every single day until we end this epidemic and establish this as a national priority– an Office of Gun Violence Prevention is the right first step.”

“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is the most significant gun safety legislation in thirty years, and we need to make sure the federal government is totally focused on using it to save as many lives as humanly possible. A dedicated office at the Department of Justice will help make sure state, local, and federal agencies are working together to enforce gun safety laws, educate the public, and fund gun violence prevention programs that work. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Frost on this legislation to ensure ending gun violence remains a top priority for every Administration – Republican or Democratic,” said Murphy.

“A central point of leadership is vital to federal efforts against the epidemic of gun violence,” said Blumenthal. “This new office can help marshal and focus the diverse resources and partners necessary to make progress. It can bring together survivors, students, veterans, families and others tragically impacted with policymakers and law enforcement officials in hands-on programs to stop this scourge. The Office of Gun Violence Prevention would be more than just a symbol; it would mobilize professionals across federal agencies, enable outreach to state and local leaders, collect and report more data, and innovate with other expanded action. This proposal should be noncontroversial and bipartisan.”

Specifically, the newly created Office of Gun Violence Prevention would:

Convene an Advisory Council of senior DOJ officials, survivors, community violence intervention providers, public health officials, medical professionals who provide trauma care, mental health clinicians, state and local public health department officials, teachers, members of student groups, and veterans.
Coordinate gun violence prevention efforts across federal agencies.
Identify gaps in data needed for gun violence prevention research, policy development, and strategy implementation, and develop a plan to collect and analyze the data.
Make policy recommendations.
Educate the general public about federal laws, regulations, and available grant programs, including awareness campaigns directed at firearm owners, parents and legal guardians of minors, and gun violence prevention professionals, that include education related to safe storage of firearms and suicide prevention.
Optimize the administration of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
Annually report information to Congress on gun violence in the United States, recommendations for policy initiatives to reduce gun violence, and a description of the Director’s activities.

“Gun deaths are a crisis in America, and it demands a crisis response. For some time now, March For Our Lives has called on the President to establish an Office of Gun Violence prevention to help coordinate the government’s response to the epidemic of gun death,” said David Hogg, Co-Founder of March For Our Lives. “This bill would do just that, and ensure that the government takes a holistic approach to ending gun violence at its roots. I’m grateful to Senator Murphy, a dear friend of the movement, for proposing this bill, and overjoyed to see another dear friend proposing it in the House–Rep. Maxwell Frost. We knew that when we elected our first ever Gen-Z member of congress, we would have a clear, courageous, and consistent voice for our generation. We have that now in Representative Frost, his first bill clarifies what young people have long been calling for–action on gun safety now.”

“Since my neighbor killed 20 children and six educators in Sandy Hook Elementary School over 10 years ago, over one million Americans have been shot, there have been over 4,400 mass shooting incidents, and the number of gun deaths is steadily rising. It’s long past time for the federal government to get serious about ending the gun violence public health crisis in our nation. A federal Office of Gun Violence Prevention is needed to ensure ending gun violence is a permanent national priority and we thank Representative Frost and Senator Murphy for introducing this crucial legislation and we urge Congress to urgently pass the bill and deliver it to President Biden’s desk,” said Po Murray, the chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance.

“Ten years ago, I survived the Sandy Hook shooting at my elementary school. Since then, guns have become the number one cause of death for American children and teens. For the last decade, we grew up being traumatized and retraumatized by more school shootings, mass shootings, lockdowns, and escalating gun violence in our streets and homes in all corners of America. Enough is enough. We need the federal government to act with a sense of urgency to protect kids from gun violence and passing a bill establishing an Office of Gun Violence Prevention will signal to all young people that our lives matter,” said Nicole Melchionno, co-chair of Jr. Newtown Action Alliance.

“The establishment of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, as proposed by the Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act, epitomizes the innovative and bold effort to create an all of governmental to tackle the pervasive issue of gun violence,” stated Greg Jackson, Executive Director of Community Justice Action Fund. “Considering gun violence is a leading cause of premature death for children, Black men and women, and Latino men in the United States, our communities are in dire need of a comprehensive, multi-faceted public health response. Community Justice Action Fund is eager to collaborate with dedicated leaders like Congressman Maxwell Frost and Senator Chris Murphy, who are unwavering in their commitment to address the underlying causes of violence, support survivors, transform communities, and most importantly, save lives.”

“The multifaceted nature of gun violence requires comprehensive solutions, and this bill will provide a much-needed framework for coordinated federal action, research, and resources when our country needs it most. By bringing together the efforts of multiple federal agencies to study, investigate, and develop policies that reduce gun violence in all of its forms, this legislation will help ensure that the U.S. is better equipped to protect communities across the country. Brady is proud to endorse this legislation and applauds Senator Murphy and Congressman Frost for their leadership,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady.

“Hope is not a strategy. America needs coordinated action to tackle the devastating impact gun violence has in Americans’ daily lives. Bravo to Senator Murphy, Senator Blumenthal and Representative Frost for innovating a new, effective way to fight this uniquely American epidemic. Public policy can save lives,” said Kitty Brandtner, founder of March Fourth.

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US NATIONAL NEWS

Trump Hints at Possible Third Term, Suggests “Methods” to Stay in Office

Published

1 month ago

March 30, 2025

Willie David

WASHINGTON, D.C. (FNN) – President Donald Trump refused to rule out the idea of a third term, despite the constitutional limits set by the 22nd Amendment, stating there are “methods” that could allow him to return to the Oval Office.

In a Sunday morning phone interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker, Trump touted his high approval ratings, claiming, “You have to start by saying, I have the highest poll numbers of any Republican for the last 100 years. We’re in the high 70s in many polls, in the real polls, and you see that. We’re very popular.”

When asked directly whether he would seek another term in 2028, Trump did not deny the possibility, saying:

“Well, there are plans. There are—not plans. There are, there are methods which you could do it, as you know.”

22nd Amendment & Legal Hurdles

Trump’s comments come in direct conflict with the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states:

“No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.”

This amendment, ratified in 1951, was introduced largely due to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four-term presidency. It makes no exception for presidents who serve non-consecutive terms, which means Trump would legally be barred from running again in 2028 after a second presidency.

Trump’s Strategy: JD Vance as a Placeholder?

During the NBC News interview, Trump hinted at potential workarounds to bypass the 22nd Amendment, including having Vice President JD Vance run in 2028 and later stepping aside to allow Trump to return to office.

“Well, that’s one,” Trump said. “But there are others too. There are others.”

This raises legal and ethical concerns, as it would be seen as a direct attempt to circumvent the Constitutional limit on presidential terms.

Steve Bannon & MAGA Allies Push for 2028

Trump’s close ally Steve Bannon, host of the War Room podcast, has been a vocal proponent of the idea, stating in December that Trump could “credibly seek another term” in 2028. The idea has gained traction among MAGA hardliners, with some advocating for legislative changes or legal loopholes that could allow Trump to reclaim the presidency.

White House Response: “Too Early” to Decide

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung downplayed the speculation, stating:

“Americans overwhelmingly approve and support President Trump and his America First policies. As the President said, it’s far too early to think about it, and he is focused on undoing all the hurt Biden has caused and Making America Great Again.”

What’s Next?

While Trump’s comments have sparked debate over the Constitution’s 22nd Amendment, legal scholars and political analysts emphasize that any attempt to bypass the presidential term limit would likely face significant legal challenges and Congressional pushback.

As Trump continues to tease 2028, Democrats and legal experts are expected to push back against any potential constitutional maneuvering.

___________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

US NATIONAL NEWS

Global Tesla Takedown Protests Target Elon Musk and DOGE

Published

1 month ago

March 30, 2025

FNN NEWS

MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) – The global anti-Tesla protest movement intensified on March 29, as demonstrators targeted hundreds of Tesla dealerships and showrooms worldwide. Protesters voiced outrage over Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s influence on U.S. government policies, layoffs in federal agencies, and budget cuts affecting critical programs.

Protesters Condemn Musk’s Influence in Government

The demonstrations, dubbed the “Tesla Takedown”, were fueled by frustration over what activists call Musk’s unchecked power over federal decision-making. Protesters argue that Musk, the world’s richest man, has used his political and financial leverage to lay off thousands of workers, slash government agency budgets, and consolidate power.

“Nobody voted for Elon,” one protester stated. “He’s hijacking our government, cutting funding for essential programs, and treating workers as disposable.”

Anti-Tesla Movement Gains Momentum

The anti-Tesla sentiment is spreading across multiple countries, with protestors uniting under a common goal: hurting Musk’s bottom line. Demonstrators held boldly worded signs with statements such as:

“Fire Musk”
“We Don’t Need This Fascist”
“Honk If You Hate Nazis”
“No Swastikas – No Fascists”

Some placards even depicted Musk as an oligarch gaslighting the public, drawing comparisons between his leadership style and authoritarian regimes.

DOGE Backlash and Government Cuts

The protests also criticized Musk’s role in cryptocurrency manipulation, particularly regarding DOGE (Dogecoin). Many believe Musk’s influence over financial markets has led to instability, impacting small investors.

Moreover, demonstrators highlighted concerns over Musk’s reported backroom deals with the Trump administration, which they claim have resulted in:

Massive layoffs across federal agencies
Defunding critical public programs
Deregulation that benefits corporations while hurting workers

Protesters Demand Change

As the Tesla Takedown movement grows, activists vow to escalate demonstrations, urging consumers to boycott Tesla products and Musk-owned companies.

“We refuse to support a billionaire who disregards democracy, fires workers, and cuts essential programs,” said one organizer. “This is just the beginning.”

US NATIONAL NEWS

Former Trump Impeachment Manager Val Demings Calls Trump Officials’ Response to War Plans Leak “A Shameless Mountain of Lies”

Published

1 month ago

March 26, 2025

FNN NEWS

WASHINGTON (FNN) – A major national security scandal has erupted after top officials from President Donald Trump’s administration reportedly shared classified U.S. military strike plans in a private Signal chat, raising alarms about national security breaches and possible legal violations.

Former Trump Impeachment Manager Val Demings Speaks Out

Former U.S. Congresswoman Val Demings, who served as a Trump impeachment manager, strongly condemned the breach, describing it as “a shameless mountain of lies” and a reckless compromise of military strategy.

“As a former member of the Intelligence and Homeland Security committees, the thought of these people sharing strategic military operations on Signal is shocking. Those who testified before the Senate were under oath. Power built on endless lies is not power at all—it’s a house of cards. America, this will end badly unless you demand better,” Demings wrote in a statement on her personal Facebook page.

Val Demings is a former U.S. Congresswoman, former Trump Impeachment Manager, former member of the Intelligence and Homeland Security Committees, and retired Orlando Chief of Police.

Details of the Leaked War Plans

The National Security Council has confirmed the authenticity of the leaked messages, which included classified operational details of upcoming U.S. military strikes on Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The leaked documents allegedly contained:

Target locations for military strikes
Weapon deployment strategies
Attack sequencing and operational details

The sensitive war plans were reportedly shared with The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a private Signal group chat involving:

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Vice President JD Vance
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz

Possible Violations of Federal Laws & National Security Rules

The unauthorized disclosure of sensitive military operations may violate multiple federal laws, including:

Espionage Act (18 U.S. Code § 793) – Unlawful disclosure of classified national defense information
Presidential Records Act – Mishandling of government records and sensitive communications
Federal Records Act – Unauthorized sharing of government communications
Insider Threat Program Violations – Breach of classified intelligence security measures
UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) Violations – If military personnel were involved in the leak

Congress Calls for Full Investigation

Bipartisan leaders in both the Senate and House are calling for an investigation into the war plans leak. Lawmakers are demanding:

Public hearings to address the security breach
Testimony from top Trump officials named in the leak
Legal consequences for those responsible

During the Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-VA) described the actions of the nation’s top intelligence officials as “sloppy, careless, incompetent behavior.”

“If this was the case of a military officer or an intelligence officer and they had this kind of behavior, they would be fired,” he said.