In a development that has sparked widespread discussion and controversy, former U.S. President Donald Trump has drawn significant criticism for his behavior and choice of attire during Pope Francis’ funeral. The event, which took place in Vatican City, was a solemn occasion attended by global leaders, dignitaries, and millions of mourners. However, Trump managed to stand out, albeit for reasons that some believe were less than respectful.

The funeral, held on April 26, 2025, was a significant moment in history, marking the final farewell to one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the modern age. Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, left behind a legacy of peace, compassion, and advocacy for the marginalized. In accordance with his wishes, the funeral was marked by simplicity and humility, with a focus on honoring his life’s work and vision.

However, as world leaders gathered to pay their respects, Trump’s appearance and actions raised eyebrows. The former president, known for his unorthodox approach to public events, did not exactly blend into the crowd. His attire and behavior have become the focal point of criticism from various quarters, with many arguing that he failed to show the proper respect for the occasion.

The Blue Suit Controversy

One of the most talked-about aspects of Trump’s presence at the funeral was his choice of clothing. While most attendees, including heads of state and dignitaries, adhered to the traditional black attire that signifies mourning and respect in Catholic culture, Trump opted for a blue suit. This decision quickly became a topic of discussion on social media and news outlets, with many questioning why he chose not to follow the traditional dress code.

Some critics took to social media to express their discontent. One Twitter user wrote, “Why is Trump wearing a blue suit to the Pope’s funeral? No class.” Another commented, “Trump stands out in a blue suit while everyone else is in black. No respect.” This sentiment was echoed by a number of other individuals, who felt that the former president’s choice of color was inappropriate for such a somber event.

While it is common for individuals to wear suits to formal occasions, the choice of black for funerals is rooted in tradition, especially in Catholic culture, where it symbolizes mourning and respect for the deceased. By choosing to wear a blue suit, Trump’s actions were perceived by some as a departure from this longstanding tradition, leading to further criticism of his behavior.

The President has been slammed for his choice of clothing (TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)

A History of Tension with Pope Francis

The tension between Donald Trump and Pope Francis is not new. In 2016, during Trump’s presidential campaign, Pope Francis made headlines by questioning Trump’s stance on building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. The Pope famously stated, “A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian.”

Trump, never one to shy away from confrontation, quickly responded, calling the Pope’s remarks “disgraceful.” He later added, “If and when the Vatican is attacked by ISIS, which as everyone knows is ISIS’s ultimate trophy, I can promise you that the Pope would have only wished and prayed that Donald Trump would have been President because this would not have happened.”

The comments from both parties stirred significant public debate at the time, with some siding with the Pope’s call for compassion and others defending Trump’s position. Their clash was seen by many as an indication of the contrasting ideologies between the two figures, with Pope Francis advocating for unity and compassion, while Trump promoted a more isolationist and nationalist approach.

Seating Arrangements and Vatican Protocol

Another point of contention regarding Trump’s attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral was the seating arrangement. According to Vatican protocol, seats at the funeral were assigned based on a hierarchy, with Catholic royals seated in the front row, followed by non-Catholic royals and foreign dignitaries.

However, Trump, who had previously made headlines for his comments about seating arrangements at high-profile events, was reportedly placed in a “third-tier” seat. This was a notable departure from the front-row placement that some of the other world leaders, such as Prince William and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, were granted. Some analysts speculated that the seating decision was a direct reflection of the strained relationship between Trump and the Vatican, particularly after his disagreements with Pope Francis over immigration and his policies.

Trump’s comments about former President Joe Biden’s seating at Queen Elizabeth’s funeral in 2022 also resurfaced after his own seating was announced. At the time, Trump had mocked Biden for being seated in the 14th row, saying, “If I were president, they wouldn’t have sat me back there – and our country would be much different than it is right now.”

It seems that the tables had turned, and now Trump was facing similar treatment, leading some to speculate about the political undertones of the seating arrangement. While the Vatican has a strict protocol for seating, the decision to place Trump in the third tier has not gone unnoticed, particularly given his high profile and previous comments about such events.

The Aftermath: Reactions from the Public

After the funeral, Trump’s actions and attire continued to be a topic of debate. Many commentators on social media criticized him for seeking attention and standing out at a solemn event. Some suggested that Trump was intentionally trying to make himself the center of attention, a behavior that has often been noted during his time in office and beyond. Others felt that his attire and seating placement were indicative of his desire to stand out and assert his dominance in any situation.

At the same time, there were those who defended Trump, arguing that his choice of attire was simply a matter of personal preference and that he should not be judged for not adhering to tradition. Supporters of Trump often highlight his confidence and individualism, claiming that he is unapologetically himself, regardless of public opinion.

A Legacy of Controversy

Donald Trump’s presence at Pope Francis’ funeral has further highlighted the divisive nature of his public persona. Whether it’s his stance on immigration, his conflicts with religious leaders, or his unconventional approach to high-profile events, Trump has managed to keep himself at the center of the political and cultural conversation.

For many, his actions at the funeral were just another example of how he continues to make waves and attract attention, regardless of the circumstances. Others, however, view his behavior as disrespectful and a sign of his inability to respect traditions and cultural norms.

The controversy surrounding his presence at Pope Francis’ funeral is unlikely to be the last time Trump’s actions spark debate. His legacy, already marked by controversy, is bound to continue to divide opinions long after his time in office.

Conclusion

In the end, Donald Trump’s appearance at Pope Francis’ funeral has raised questions about his respect for tradition, his relationship with the Vatican, and his ability to navigate international events with decorum. Whether or not his actions were intentional, they have certainly made an impact, drawing attention away from the solemnity of the occasion and back to the individual at the center of it all. For better or for worse, Trump continues to be a figure who commands attention, and his role in global events, even in moments of mourning, remains a topic of debate and reflection.

As the world continues to grapple with the complex legacy of Donald Trump, his presence at significant events like the Pope’s funeral only serves to remind us of the power of personality in shaping public perception. Whether praised or criticized, Trump’s actions will undoubtedly continue to spark conversations for years to come.

In a striking and polarizing move, former President Donald Trump signed several executive orders on Thursday, including one granting clemency to pro-life activists imprisoned during President Biden’s administration.

The decision underscores Trump’s continued dedication to addressing what he and his supporters have labeled as “politically motivated” prosecutions.

This action has reignited fierce debates on both sides of the political aisle, with supporters lauding it as a fulfillment of campaign promises and critics viewing it as a controversial use of presidential power.

Trump’s clemency grants align with his broader agenda to address cases where he believes individuals were unjustly prosecuted due to their ideological or political stances.

This latest step comes as part of a larger effort to champion free speech and religious liberties, causes he often emphasized during his presidency and subsequent campaigns.

The move has already drawn sharp criticism from Democratic leaders and civil rights groups, who argue that it sets a dangerous precedent by intertwining the justice system with political allegiances.

Migration Declines at U.S.-Mexico Border Amid Stricter Policies

Migration at the U.S.-Mexico border has dropped in 2025 following stricter enforcement and updated security measures. A major change was the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are processed in the U.S. This, along with faster processing and more returns to home countries, has led many migrants to reconsider their journey.

Authorities continue to use health-based policies like Title 42, and increased border enforcement discourages unauthorized crossings. Some migrants cite safety concerns and long asylum delays as reasons for turning back.

U.S.-Mexico cooperation has also played a key role. In 2025, Mexico deployed troops to its southern border, helping reduce migrant flows before reaching the U.S. Analysts say this coordination sends a strong message about increased border control and uncertainty for migrants.

While effective in reducing crossings, the new policies have sparked debate over their human impact. Many in transit now face disruption and difficult choices, as migration becomes more tightly managed through joint efforts.

In March 2025, country star Blake Shelton paused his Friends & Heroes tour to grant the final wish of 12-year-old Emily Harper, a leukemia patient at the Jimmy Everest Center in Oklahoma. Her dream was to hear Shelton sing her favorite song, “God Gave Me You.”

On March 10, Shelton arrived at her hospital room with his guitar. He performed an emotional acoustic set, including “Austin” and “Honey Bee,” bringing smiles and tears to everyone present. Emily, clutching a bear named after him, lit up with joy.

Shelton has a history of heartfelt gestures and supports causes like cancer research, disaster relief, and music education.

Emily passed away ten days later. During a show in Greensboro, Shelton dedicated “God Gave Me You” to her, saying, “She’s not with us anymore, but I know she’s up there listening.”

His visit gave Emily and her family a moment of light, love, and lasting comfort.

Do you suffer from constipation and are looking for a quick and effective solution? There’s a natural remedy that, with just one tablespoon, can help stimulate bowel movements and eliminate accumulated waste. This homemade method, easy to prepare and without side effects, can be the key to relieving stomach heaviness and feeling lighter. Below, we explain how to prepare and use it correctly.

Required Ingredients

Extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon) – known for its lubricating properties and ability to stimulate bowel movements.
Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – helps cleanse the body and improve digestion.
Warm water (optional, to enhance the effect).

Step 1: Prepare the Remedy

In a small glass, mix one tablespoon of olive oil with one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. If desired, you can add a little warm water to make it easier to swallow. This combination acts as a powerful intestinal lubricant, facilitating the expulsion of hardened stool.

Step 2: Ideal Time to Take It

For best results, consume this mixture on an empty stomach, immediately upon waking. An empty stomach allows the ingredients to act more quickly in the digestive system. You can also take it before bed if you prefer it to take effect overnight.

Check This Out:

Step 3: Effects on the Body

Olive oil coats the intestinal walls, softening stool and stimulating peristaltic movements (the natural contractions of the intestine). Lemon, meanwhile, provides acidity, which activates bile production and improves fat breakdown, facilitating bowel movements.

Step 4: Expected Results

Depending on your metabolism, you may feel the urge to go anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours after taking it. It’s normal to experience a more fluid and complete bowel movement, releasing waste products your body doesn’t need.

Additional Tips

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day prevents constipation and complements the remedy’s effects.
Diet rich in fiber: Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet to maintain regular bowel movements.
Physical exercise: Active movement promotes digestion and prevents waste accumulation.

Precautions

Do not overuse this method; use it occasionally when you notice your bowel needs help.
If constipation persists or is accompanied by pain, consult a doctor to rule out more serious problems.
This natural remedy is a safe and effective alternative for those seeking immediate relief without resorting to chemical laxatives. Try it and regain digestive comfort in no time!

In a moment that broke through the solemnity of Vatican tradition, one quiet act of love captured hearts around the globe.

On April 23, as thousands streamed through St. Peter’s Basilica to bid farewell to Pope Francis, a single figure stepped out of line.

She wasn’t a dignitary or a politician. She was a nun—81-year-old Sister Geneviève Jeanningros — and she wasn’t just there to pay her respects.

The image of Sister Jeanningros standing silently beside the Pope’s casket, tears in her eyes and a green backpack slung over one shoulder, quickly went viral. As clergy and mourners followed strict Vatican protocol, she lingered — breaking formation, but not breaking faith.

A friendship forged in compassion

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88 following a stroke, the Vatican confirmed.

Within 24 hours, more than 48,000 people had visited his coffin. But none made quite the impact that Sister Jeanningros did.

Her name may not be widely known, but her connection to the late pontiff runs deep. The two met more than four decades ago when Francis was Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

Both were devoted to serving society’s forgotten — homeless people, transgender individuals, circus performers, and the terminally ill. Their friendship, built on shared values and mutual respect, endured even after Bergoglio became the leader of the Catholic Church.

In a moment that broke through the solemnity of Vatican tradition, one quiet act of love captured hearts around the globe.

On April 23, as thousands streamed through St. Peter’s Basilica to bid farewell to Pope Francis, a single figure stepped out of line.

She wasn’t a dignitary or a politician. She was a nun—81-year-old Sister Geneviève Jeanningros — and she wasn’t just there to pay her respects.

The image of Sister Jeanningros standing silently beside the Pope’s casket, tears in her eyes and a green backpack slung over one shoulder, quickly went viral. As clergy and mourners followed strict Vatican protocol, she lingered — breaking formation, but not breaking faith.

A friendship forged in compassion

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88 following a stroke, the Vatican confirmed.

Within 24 hours, more than 48,000 people had visited his coffin. But none made quite the impact that Sister Jeanningros did.

Her name may not be widely known, but her connection to the late pontiff runs deep. The two met more than four decades ago when Francis was Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

Both were devoted to serving society’s forgotten — homeless people, transgender individuals, circus performers, and the terminally ill. Their friendship, built on shared values and mutual respect, endured even after Bergoglio became the leader of the Catholic Church.

“That’s genuine pain,” one user wrote after seeing the video of Sister Jeanningros weeping quietly beside the casket. “This is a historic moment.”

Lives in a modest caravan

Born in France but raised in Argentina, Sister Jeanningros belongs to the Little Sisters of Jesus, an order known for living among and serving marginalized communities. For years, she and fellow nun Sister Anna Amelia Giachetto have lived in a modest caravan on the outskirts of Rome, ministering to society’s outcasts.

Every Wednesday, she would visit Pope Francis — sometimes bringing guests from the streets to meet him. The Pope, never one to stand on ceremony, always welcomed them. Often, he’d invite them to stay for lunch.

She was also no stranger to loss. Her aunt, Léonie Duquet, a French nun, was abducted and killed by Argentina’s military dictatorship during the Dirty War.

Pope Francis, himself the son of Italian immigrants in Argentina, understood her grief — and stood by her in it.

Love over protocol

Many initially assumed Sister Jeanningros had defied Vatican protocol by stepping out of line to approach the coffin. In truth, she had been quietly granted special permission — a rare honor not extended to cardinals or heads of state, but to someone whose bond with the Pope transcended rank.

Photos show her among the crowds — unassuming, wearing a simple outfit and a backpack. But in that moment beside the coffin, she represented something profound: a life spent in quiet devotion, a friendship built not on politics, but on purpose.

One poignant photo shows the Pope and Sister Jeanningros smiling together at an outdoor event, radiating joy. In another, they bless a statue at a circus-themed festival — both lovers of the circus, they believed in its power to uplift.

Her final visit to the Vatican this week wasn’t routine. It was a goodbye.

Proved to be different

“She approached her friend just like she did every other Wednesday,” one user reflected. “This encounter, however, proved to be different. She arrived to say goodbye, hoping to see him again in eternal life.”

In a Church often criticized for rigidity, Sister Jeanningros and Pope Francis stood for something softer: inclusion, mercy, and real-world ministry. Her goodbye wasn’t flashy, and it didn’t need to be. It was quiet, raw, and deeply human, much like the man she came to mourn.

And as her image continues to spread across the internet, one thing becomes clear: Sometimes, the most powerful eulogies aren’t delivered with words — they’re delivered with presence.

Another day, another example of Donald Trump vigorously stoking the fires of controversy by threatening to violate the very constitution he swore to protect.

Readers may be aware of the somewhat worrying murmurings suggesting that the POTUS is eyeing another run for presidency in 2028. This, of course, is impossible according to the US constitution, which expressly forbids an individual from seeking a third time in the White House.

But since when has Trump ever done things by the book? The answer you’re looking for is hardly ever, if at all.

While finding a way to defy the hallowed constitution by putting himself at the helm of the country for a third time would be shocking even by Trump’s standards, the 78-year-old has already started dropping hints that that’s exactly what he will attempt to achieve.

For those perhaps not in-the-know, America’s 22nd Amendment blocks any individual from running for more than two terms in office. A maximum of eight years, then you’re out… regardless of how bad or good your tenure has been.

US Representative Andy Ogles, though, made headlines earlier this year when he championed the idea of finding a loophole to let Trump run again.

Ogles said: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than three times, nor be elected to any additional term after being elected to two consecutive terms, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.”

Basically, Ogles states that since there was a gap between Trump’s first and second terms as president, he should qualify to run again in 2028.

Trump himself has hardly lampooned the idea, instead appearing to test the waters by floating the idea that he might find a way to feature in the next election.

The very notion of such a concept has been enough to send ripples of uncertainty across the US, but it would appear that Trump is not simply trying to rile his critics in an attempt to evoke their ire. Rather, he’s serious.

The evidence lies in the fact that president’s online store is now selling “Trump 2028” hats and T-shirts, which would be an utterly bizarre thing to do if Trump was planning on riding off into the sunset following the culmination of his current term.

They’re priced at $50, with a description reading: “The future looks bright! Rewrite the rules with the Trump 2028 high crown hat. Fully embroidered with a snap closure in the back, this will become your new go-to hat.”

Cue backlash from those who are horrified by the idea, with one person on social media dubbing the new merch “disgusting”.

Another individual on X wrote: “He really thinks he can violate the constitution and the two term limit.. what a joke.”

A third wrote: “Trump wants to be Putin so bad.”

A fourth opined: “Trump 2028 hats are now being sold. It’s a f****** cult.”

What do you make of the idea of Trump running for president in 2028? Let us know in the comments!

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has referred two intelligence community officials to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution over alleged leaks of classified information, according to a Wednesday report.

According to an ODNI official, the individuals are accused of leaking sensitive information to the Washington Post and The New York Times. A third criminal referral is reportedly “on its way” to the Justice Department, Fox News Digital reported exclusively.

The official said that other intelligence community officials and members should take the criminal referral over leaking “as a warning.”

“Politicization of our intelligence and leaking classified information puts our nation’s security at risk and must end,” Gabbard told Fox News Digital. “Those who leak classified information will be found and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Today, I referred two intelligence community leakers to the Department of Justice for criminal referral, with a third criminal referral on its way, which includes the recent illegal leak to the Washington Post,” Gabbard said. “These deep-state criminals leaked classified information for partisan political purposes to undermine President Trump’s agenda.”

She added: “I look forward to working with the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate, terminate and prosecute these criminals.”

Fox noted that the ODNI official said the criminal referrals were the first steps to “holding these individuals accountable.”

The official explained the decision-making process to Fox News Digital, stating that an internal review was conducted before the criminal referral was submitted to the Justice Department. From there, the DOJ would forward the referral to the FBI to initiate a formal criminal investigation.

“We are aggressively investigating other leaks and will pursue further criminal referrals as warranted,” the official told the outlet. “Any intelligence community bureaucrat who is considering leaking to the media should take this as a warning.”

The official added that the Trump administration “will identify leakers and leakers will face legal consequences.”

Earlier this month, Gabbard launched a new task force aimed at restoring transparency and accountability within the intelligence community. Fox News Digital was first to report on the Director’s Initiative Group (DIG), which initially focused on investigating alleged weaponization within the intelligence agencies.

Officials said the task force will also target politicization and unauthorized leaks of classified information. Additionally, the group plans to declassify intelligence “that serves a public interest.”

Gabbard has also taken disciplinary action against employees involved in sexually explicit chatrooms within the NSA and is actively pursuing consequences for individuals responsible for unauthorized leaks of classified information within the intelligence community.

In March, the Defense Department under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also launched a probe into unauthorized leaks as well as disinformation sent to various media outlets.

The New York Times—citing unnamed sources—reported that Elon Musk was set to receive a classified briefing on U.S. military plans for a potential conflict with China, raising alarm over the unprecedented idea of granting such access to a civilian with business ties to Beijing.

The report quickly gained traction, with CNN eagerly amplifying the story—until Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shut it down, clarifying that while Musk was indeed scheduled to visit the Pentagon, no war plan briefing was on the agenda.

Taking to Truth Social, President Donald Trump called the report an “absolutely ridiculous and false story, which is probably libelous.”

Within the past several days, at least three now-former Pentagon officials have been dismissed from the DoD for allegedly leaking sensitive information. One of them was a former senior adviser to Hegseth.

Reuters first reported that Dan Caldwell was suspended over an “unauthorized disclosure” of information, amid an ongoing investigation into leaks. A DOD official confirmed the report to Fox News Digital but declined to comment further due to the active investigation.

If you’re one of the people who absolutely loves teasing and challenging their brain with optical illusions, then I salute you.

I myself am hopeless at them. When I was six, my grandma gave me a ‘train your brain’ book for my birthday. Needless to say, it didn’t leave the bookshelf until I was almost 16. Even then, I couldn’t get my head around half of the puzzles hidden within its pages.

And yet, I know brain teasers and illusions are immensely popular on the internet. People the world over like to test their skills when it comes to deciphering pictures and finding hidden things that are quite literally right in front of their eyes.

It’s with that in mind that I thought it would be a good idea to share one I stumbled upon recently. Low and behold, it has me stumped when it comes to getting a high score, but I can readily accept that I hardly have the keenest eyes of the human population. In the brainteaser below, readers are tasked with counting the faces in the “National Leaders Tree” … Share

It’s unclear where the image in question first surfaced, but it’s proving popular online as people try to one-up each other regarding how many faces there are to be found.

Of course, everyone can see the two faces at the bottom of the tree, but the fun comes in when you try and locate the others.

Apparently, the number of faces you see says something about your memory.

We know … there are more ‘academic’ ways to prove your aptitude in such things, but if you’re willing to have a go then write down how many faces you see. When you’re done, scroll down to see what your number means.

2 to 4 faces

As previously mentioned, the two faces at the bottom of the tree are there for all to see. If, however, you can only spot one or two additional faces, it may indicate that you have a memory disorder.

5 to 6 faces

Found more than four faces in the picture? Good. Keep looking, but if you only find five or six then it could mean you’re at risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

7 to 8 faces

Your memory is at a perfectly acceptable level, but it’s not great. You can continue training your brain by studying puzzles like these!

More than 9 faces

Congratulations, if you found 9 or more faces then you have excellent memory and facial recognition skills.

Did this picture get your blood boiling? Alright, have a look below to see where most of the faces are hidden.

How many famous faces were you able to get from the picture? Let us know in the comments box below!

If you want to challenge your friends and family to the same game, share this article on Facebook.

People are shocked that the wholesome egg roll turned gory after President Donald Trump showed a horrifying card to some innocent children who were hunting for Easter eggs through the gardens of the White House.

Each year, the White House Easter Egg Roll is a cheerful springtime tradition where thousands of children gather on the South Lawn for egg hunts, games, and a chance to meet the President.

The event is more than just a festive spring celebration – it’s a piece of American history that stretches back nearly 150 years.  

“Informal festivities began with egg-rolling parties under President Abraham Lincoln,” writes the White House, but the tradition officially started in 1878 under President Rutherford B. Hayes. Hayes, the 19th President, invited children to roll their Easter eggs on the White House South Lawn after Congress passed a law prohibiting the activity on Capitol Hill due to damage to the grounds.

This launched one of the nation’s most cherished presidential traditions.

Egg hunt takes a strange turn

Today, the White House Easter Egg Roll remains a joyful, family-friendly tradition that blends history, politics, and springtime fun – all on the iconic lawn of the President’s residence.

This year, CBS News reports that nearly 30,000 real eggs were placed across the lawn for the April 21 celebration.

Despite the bizarre nature of using real eggs when egg prices are at a record high, something even stranger happened.

As former President Donald Trump greeted children during the event, a photograph captured a chilling detail that shocked the internet – and reignited debate about the Republican icon’s judgment.

Gory image

While many expected egg-filled baskets and bunny ears, the 78-year-old President – a grandfather to 10 – pulled out a custom trading card, beaming as he showed the little ones the gory image.

But unlike baseball stats or inspirational quotes, this card depicted a snapshot from one of the most terrifying days in recent political history.

Assassination attempt

On July 13, 2023, during a campaign rally, a gunman named Thomas Matthew Crooks fired at Trump from a rooftop in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump narrowly escaped death, with bullets striking mere inches from vital organs.

Though Trump survived and went on to reclaim the presidency, the event was not without tragedy. Corey Comperatore, a devoted father of two and volunteer fire chief, was fatally struck while shielding others in the crowd. The attempted assassin, 20, was also killed.  

The moment was harrowing, etched into the nation’s memory – and, apparently, into a collector’s card that Trump was proud to share.

‘His brain needs to be studied’

Eagle-eyed Reddit users identified the graphic memento, immediately expressing their shock over the president showing the alarming image to impressionable young children.

“Forget about chocolate and bunnies, let’s talk about that time somebody tried to shoot me dead. For a father of five and grandfather of [I don’t know] how many, you’d think he’d have some idea of what is child friendly,” writes one Redditor in the fiery discussion that includes a photo of Trump holding the card so kids could see.

A second shares, “’Hey kids, check out this photo of me with blood coming out of my ear! Two people died in this attempt to kill me, including the assassin. Anyhow Happy Easter!’

Totally normal interaction with Elementary School aged children. ‘Here’s a pretend baseball card of my bloody face. Cool, huh?’”

“His brain needs to be studied. A scientific case of what happens when everything goes wrong,” offers a third.

“Personally, i like Cadbury Cream Eggs, but assassination attempt trading cards are a close 37th on the list of Easter things I enjoy,” shares a fourth online user. Another adds, “Anyone who allows their children near that man should have their kids taken away. He’s 1000x worse than your weird uncle.”

‘They got Jesus’

Another netizen suggests that Trump was using the card to illustrate that he, unlike Jesus, could not be crucified.

“I can already hear him,” the Redditor starts. “‘They got Jesus. They got him because he was a weak illegal immigrant sent to the Nazareth region of Earth by crooked Joe Biden and the radical left. They tried to get me but they couldn’t.’”

Responding to the post, another writes, “I believe it’s about gullible people believing someone survived an assassination attempt. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the three days of peace and quiet this time.”

The image of Donald Trump showing kids a card depicting one of the most traumatic moments in recent political memory has sparked a fierce debate. We’d love to hear your thoughts on what happened on the lawn of the White House!

Please let us know what you think and make sure you share this story so we can also hear from others!

For generations, a curious and persistent myth has circulated: that a woman’s br.east size reveals something about her intimate health or overall well-being. It’s a belief that’s taken root in many minds—but is it rooted in truth or just another societal misconception? Let’s take a closer look.

What Actually Determines Br.east Size

Biologically speaking, br.east size is influenced by several key factors—not a single hormone or isolated cause, but rather a complex combination:

Genetics: Just like your eye color or the shape of your hands, your br.east size and shape are primarily inherited.

Hormones: Female hormones, particularly those active during puberty and pregnancy, play a big role in br.east development.

Fat Content: Since br.easts are largely made up of fatty tissue, weight changes can significantly affect their size.

Lifestyle Factors: Diet, physical activity, and even stress can have indirect effects, but none of these are direct indicators of intimate health.

Bigger Br.easts = Better Health? Not Quite

Many people still associate larger br.easts with vitality, hormonal balance, or better reproductive health. But this idea is more fantasy than fact. Scientifically, there’s no proven connection between br.east size and fertility, hormone levels, or internal wellness.

What truly supports a woman’s health includes:

• A consistent menstrual cycle
• Balanced hormone levels
• Nutritious eating habits
• Regular physical activity
• Routine medical care

So while popular culture often glorifies br.east size as a marker of femininity or health, the science simply doesn’t support that link.

Can Body Shape Reveal Intimate Health? Another Misconception

There’s also a common assumption that visible physical features can somehow reflect a woman’s intimate well-being. This view is deeply flawed. The human body is far too complex to be reduced to external appearances.

What actually impacts intimate health and comfort includes:

• Proper hygiene
• Staying hydrated
• Emotional well-being
• Physical fitness and core muscle strength

These factors play a far more meaningful role in overall well-being than br.east size ever could.

Why Do These Myths Still Exist?

It’s surprising how long these outdated ideas have stuck around, but a few key reasons explain their persistence:

Cultural Traditions: In some cultures, physical traits are still seen as symbols of fertility or character.

Media Influence: Movies, advertising, and social media often promote unrealistic ideals of the female body.

Lack of Education: Without clear, accessible knowledge about the human body, misinformation can easily fill the gaps.

The Truth About Women’s Health

Rather than being guided by myths, it’s better to focus on habits that truly support your well-being:

• Eat a balanced, varied diet
• Stay active regularly
• Care for your mental and emotional health
• Seek professional guidance when needed

Every woman’s body is different, and that uniqueness is something to be celebrated. Br.east size is just one aspect of physical appearance—it doesn’t define your vitality, health, or womanhood.

In Summary: Your Body, Your Truth

Science makes it clear: br.east size is not a measure of a woman’s internal health or quality of life. What matters is how you care for your body and mind, how you stay informed, and how you embrace your path.

Every woman carries her beauty, strength, and rhythm. The key is to move forward with confidence, care, and self-respect.

Love is one of life’s most powerful forces—especially when it comes from the people who know us best. In this collection of 12 heartfelt stories, you’ll discover just how profoundly family ties can inspire resilience, offer comfort, and restore hope. These moments, rooted in connection and loyalty, reveal how love can guide us through even the darkest days.

Story 1

For my wedding, my grandma gifted me her old, torn sofa. My husband didn’t want it in our “modern home.” 11 years later, we divorced.

I moved out and sent the sofa to be fixed. The repairman looked stunned when he saw it—he said it was ancient and would take a lot of work. I told him there was no rush. The next day, he called me in a panic: “Come fast!”.

Inside the sofa were stacks of money, some gold coins, and a letter from my grandmother: “These are for your hardest days. I trust you’ll find them when you’re meant to.”

She never approved of my marriage and must have known I’d need help one day. Even after her passing, she found a way to protect me when I needed it most

Story 2

At age 12, I completely lost my hearing after years of battling ear infections. My family didn’t know any sign language, so communication was slow and frustrating.

Then one night, I found my dad watching ASL videos on YouTube. Every evening after work, he studied late into the night. Within months, he could chat with me fluently and even got my school to start offering ASL classes.

Today, he runs a weekend sign language group for other parents. Because of him, I never feel left out at home.

Story 3

My parents weren’t perfect, but they always supported what my brother and I loved—even if they didn’t understand it. They weren’t into skateboarding, yet they spent hundreds helping my brother enjoy it. They didn’t care for my drumming, but they bought me a drum set, let us rehearse in the basement, and drove us to every show.

They once dreamed I’d be a lawyer, but they never looked down on me becoming a line cook. Their support taught me that I’m free to follow my own path—and they’ll be cheering me on, no matter what. © mgraunk / Reddit

Story 4

At 22, living in a new city, I found myself in a fight with my landlord over a bogus security deposit claim. I vented to my brother over the phone, not asking for help, just needing to talk.

The next day, he messaged: “I’m downstairs.” He’d flown in overnight with documents, photos, and a folder labeled “Receipts.” We marched into the landlord’s office, and my brother argued like a seasoned attorney. The landlord gave in immediately.

We celebrated with gas station tacos and a night full of laughter. He flew home the next day and never mentioned it again.

Story 5

My mom was my rock. We were always short on money, sometimes without water or electricity, and I had two stepdads who didn’t measure up.

But my mom never let hardship dim her spirit. She shielded me from worry and made everything feel okay. Despite lacking many material things, I remember my childhood as full of warmth and happiness, all because she chose to see life positively. © Unknown author / Reddit

Story 6

I was stood up at prom, left standing outside the venue in full makeup and dress. Phones were off. I was cold, embarrassed, and alone.

Suddenly, my aunt pulled up in her beat-up Jeep. She had snacks in the back and crutches up front. “We’re going to a drive-in. They don’t cancel,” she said.

She’d driven seven hours, against her doctor’s advice, just to find me. We watched The Princess Bride through tears and French fries. She saved the night—and my heart.

Story 7

At rock bottom and jobless, I was desperate. My cousin told his boss I was a “data wizard”—I didn’t even own a laptop. The job was remote, so he spent two weeks coaching me nightly over video calls, creating fake projects and mock interviews.

I landed the job, thanks to all his efforts. When the boss eventually found out, he just laughed, calling me their “best fake hire ever.” I’ve been promoted twice since, but to my cousin, I’m still the Data Wizard.

Story 8

When I was 9, I accidentally broke my older brother’s prized soccer trophy right before his tryouts. I was too scared to admit it and sat crying in the hall.

My dad saw what happened, glued the trophy back (poorly), and told my brother he’d dropped it while dusting. My brother didn’t get mad. He hugged Dad and said, “It’s okay.”

Years later, at his wedding, I confessed. He just smiled and said, “I knew. But watching Dad take the blame meant more than that trophy ever did.”

From the start, I knew this wedding would be the perfect backdrop to reveal a secret. Greg thought he had it all figured out, yet he didn’t know, I was the one holding the detonator.

My wedding with Greg looked like something straight out of a fairytale. Greg stood at the altar, beaming. To him, it marked the beginning of our perfect life. But to me, it was the end of a beautiful lie.

The reception played out like a dream—champagne toasts, laughter floating across the lawn, his parents acting like the perfect in-laws.

And me? I played my part to perfection.

Smiling, even dancing with Greg as if everything were fine. But inside, I was just waiting for the right moment to drop the bomb.

When the night wore on, Greg grew more eager for our wedding night. His hands lingered too long, his eyes shined with anticipation. But I was focused on my own plan.

After the guests left and his parents retreated to the guest rooms downstairs, Greg led me to the master suite—gifted to us by his parents for our first night as husband and wife. He closed the door, and the air in the room instantly shifted.

He approached me slowly, hands on my wedding dress. “I’ve been waiting for this all night,” he whispered against my neck.

“So have I,” I replied with a smile.

He carefully unzipped my dress.

When the fabric hit the floor and I turned around, I watched as his entire world collapsed in front of me.

Stretching across my torso was a temporary but incredibly realistic tattoo—the face of Sarah, his ex-girlfriend, with the words he had told her the night before our wedding:

“One last taste of freedom before being stuck with the same body forever.”

Greg dropped to his knees. “No… this isn’t happening…”

“How did you know?” he stammered.

“Sarah couldn’t wait to shove your betrayal in my face,” I replied coldly. “So I made sure you’d never forget it.”

Footsteps echoed outside. Marianne and James, his parents, burst into the room.

“What’s going on?” Marianne asked, scanning the scene.

Her face went pale. Her eyes landed on the tattoo. James, always the silent type, didn’t need to say a word. His clenched jaw and fists said it all.

“It’s simple,” I said calmly. “Greg cheated on me. With his ex. The night before our wedding.”

Marianne sat down on the edge of the bed, stunned. James stood frozen. Greg remained on the floor, crying.

“Gregory,” James growled. “Is it true?”

He didn’t answer.

“He slept with her,” I confirmed. “And he told her he needed ‘one last taste of freedom.’”

Marianne let out a choked sob. James’s eyes burned with anger.

Greg tried to defend himself. “It was a mistake… I didn’t mean to…”

“It wasn’t a mistake,” I snapped. “It was a choice. You betrayed me. And now you face the consequences.”

He begged for forgiveness. “Please, Lilith… I love you…”

I laughed.

“You love me? Greg, you don’t even know what love is. If you did, you wouldn’t have done what you did.”

He crawled toward me, “Please… I’m begging you.”

I stepped back. “It’s over. You destroyed us the moment you crawled back to Sarah.”

James stepped forward, voice like thunder.

“Get up,” he ordered. “Stand up and face what you’ve done.”

Greg slowly stood. He looked pitiful in his wrinkled tuxedo, his tear-streaked face—a man who had lost everything.

I turned to his parents.

“I’m leaving,” I announced, my voice steady. “He’s your problem now.”

“Lilith, please,” Greg cried one last time. “Don’t go…”

But I was already done. I wrapped a robe around me, covered the tattoo, and walked to the door.

“Lilith!” he screamed after me. “I can change! I’ll fix this!”

I didn’t even turn around. There was nothing left to say.

As I walked down the stairs, I heard James’s voice—low, furious—cut through the silence:

“This is what you did, Greg. You ruined everything.”

And then Greg’s broken sobs filled the house.

But they didn’t touch me.

I walked away from that house with my head held high.

Free of lies.

Free of betrayal.

Free of Greg.

Sometimes, truth is more horrifying than anything you’d read in a cliffhanger. Real life can take unpredicted turns that leave us surprised, baffled, or even fearful. In this article, you’ll experience short but thrilling tales from everyday people who sufferd from moments that felt like scenes from a twisted drama.

Story 1: 

We hired a nanny — a quiet, 24 y.o. girl. My son, 7, grew so attached so fast and threw tantrums when she was away.

Yesterday, I found a laminated photo of my son in her bag. At first, I thought it was sweet. But then, I turned it and froze in horror. She had written 2 words: “MY son.” I was confused and decided to wait until her next visit to ask what it meant.

But that same night, I got a frantic call from a mom. She said, “This girl is planning to take over your family. I hired her a year ago — she became obsessed with my son and eventually seduced my husband. Be careful. Fire her before it’s too late.”

My entire world fell apart. I did what the woman said. The nanny cried, insisting it was all lies, but I couldn’t have her in my house for one more minute.

Story 2: 

My boss scheduled a mandatory video call for 7am. Everyone logged in, cameras on. He didn’t show. We waited 20 minutes before HR ended it.

Later that day, we got an email saying he’d died in his sleep. I figured the call was a calendar error. But when I checked the invite again…

It was sent at 9:12am that same morning. From his work account. With the subject line: “Please be on time.”

I asked the IT department, and they told me that it must be a glitch or that his email was hacked. But I still get chills thinking about it.

Story 3: 

Story 4: 

My office elevator always stopped on floor 4 at 8:00 a.m. No one ever got in or out. Just opened, waited, closed. Every day.

I started taking the stairs and watched it happen from the hallway window. Eventually I asked security why it always did that. They said no one’s had an office on 4 since the layout change last year.

I checked our system logs. The door was being opened manually. And someone was badging in. Using an employee ID that was deactivated 11 months ago.

Story 5:

Up until I was 9, I thought my stepdad was my real dad. They got a divorce, and I was pretty torn up. I wanted to live with my stepdad, but I couldn’t, and my mom wouldn’t tell me why.

One day, I was going through my mom’s stuff and found a newspaper article for my father’s obituary. He di:ed in a car cra:sh when he was 24, and I was barely 18 months old when it happened. I still, to this day, don’t know why she lied to me about it, and I don’t even know if I should ask. © G0-Kart / Reddit

Story 6: 

Story 7: 

One time I was coming in from seeing a movie, and my dad called me over to our computer. He said, “When did you go to Costa Rica with your school? They just posted a group picture with you in it.”

I hadn’t gone on the trip with the community college I was attending and had no idea what he was talking about. But no joke, the guy he was referring to looked just like me, down to the white Polo that I was wearing a lot at the time. It was the most surreal experience I’ve ever had… What a coincidence! © Capt_GingerBeard93 / Reddit

Story 8: 

My mother supposedly has a fraternal twin. My grandmother couldn’t handle the thought of two kids, so she gave the male child away to someone she knew who was moving away.

One night, in a rage, my grandmother screamed at my mom that she had kept the wrong child. It was never mentioned before or after that moment. My mom was roughly 12 at the time. She asked my great-grandmother about it, and she knew the boy’s name but not where they had moved to or who he was living with.

My mom had actually met him once but didn’t know who he actually was. When she was pregnant with me, my mom asked my great-grandmother what my middle name should be—my middle name is actually his middle name. © ps***ot***man / Reddit

Story 9: 

Story 10: 

My mom was looking at an old photo album and talking about a party she organized for her coworkers more than 25 years ago. She said it was nice of me to have helped her there, setting up the tables, etc. I have zero recollection of that party—nothing—so I thought she was joking.

Then she showed me the pictures, and I’m there! It’s not like I was a kid; I was maybe 19 or 20. I wonder what else my brain erased. © sonia72quebec / Reddit

Story 11: 

I was at a gas station and had just finished buying something inside. I came out, and a burly man wearing a T-shirt with some sort of meat business logo on it came up to me, asking if I was interested in purchasing bulk frozen meats. I was absolutely broke except for about $500 available on my credit card.

I didn’t want to buy anything, but my mouth blurted out “yes” as if my life depended on it. A few minutes later, I went home with a month’s worth of vacuum-sealed fish and chicken. I don’t know who said “yes,” but it wasn’t me. © NeuralBreakDancing/ Reddit

Top officials in President Donald Trump’s administration revealed this week what they believe to be the top threat facing the homeland.

Top Trump administration officials told members of the Senate Intelligence Committee in a report that one of the biggest threats to U.S. national security is fentanyl and the international drug gangs that bring the deadly street drug into the country.

“Cartels were largely responsible for the deaths of more than 54,000 U.S. citizens from synthetic opioids” during the 12-month period that ended in October 2024, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said during opening remarks.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has once again become the center of attention—this time for a fashion statement that some found contradictory. Over the weekend, Leavitt posted a photo on Instagram, which quickly stirred both praise and criticism from followers.

Leavitt Takes a Jab at France

The backlash stemmed from Leavitt’s recent strong remarks about France. After a French politician suggested that the Statue of Liberty, which was a gift from France, should be returned, Leavitt did not hold back in her response.

“My advice to that unnamed low-level French politician would be to remind them that it’s only because of the United States of America that the French are not speaking German right now, so they should be very grateful to our great country.”

Her direct response resonated with many but also sparked heated discussions online. However, it wasn’t just her words that had people talking—it was what she was carrying.

Luxury Handbag Draws Attention

Despite her critical stance on France, Leavitt was seen holding a Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM tote, a designer handbag from one of the country’s most famous luxury brands. The $2,030 accessory didn’t go unnoticed.

One commenter was quick to point out the irony, writing:

“Why have a Louis Vuitton bag if everything from France is so bad????”

While some called out the apparent contradiction, many of her supporters rallied to her defense.

“Absolutely stunning representation of our country! Thank you for what you do and for standing with President Trump!” one follower wrote.

Another chimed in with praise:

“Wow, Karoline, you look fantastic. It’s good to see such professionalism in action.”

A third supporter added:

“Young, intelligent, and absolutely stunning. It’s so refreshing to see!”

Focusing on Family Amid the Debate

At just 27 years old, Leavitt holds the distinction of being the youngest White House Press Secretary in history. While critics often target her age and experience, she appears unfazed by the noise.

Instead of engaging in the social media debate, Leavitt spent her weekend enjoying time with her young son.

She shared a heartwarming snapshot of the toddler helping her bake, captioning it:

“Sunday morning muffins with my sous chef.”

Later, she posted another sweet moment—a photo of her son being pushed in a stroller by an elderly family member, writing:

“Niko being pushed by his great grandma!”

While critics debate handbags and politics, Leavitt remains focused on her role in the administration and her life at home.

Given all the fall-out regarding the death of Pope Francis – and there has been a lot written – perhaps it’s understandable that a supposed prophecy, claimed to be almost 1,000 years old, has flown under the radar.

We know, right… predictions and premonitions… cue the yawning. And yet this particular prophecy has garnered enough interest on the internet to warrant discussion by online users. This in spite of it apparently first being recorded nigh-on a millennium ago.

Stick with us if you’ve half an interest in the occult, strange, or spooky, or indeed if you simply like exciting doomsday prophecies that have little-to-no chance of ever actually coming to fruition.

Unless you’ve been void of access to any form of technology over the past few days, you’ll be aware that Pope Francis passed away earlier this week on Monday, April 21.

The Vatican announced word of the 88-year-old’s demise, while his cause of death was later revealed to be a cerebral stroke leading to a coma and heart failure.

A nine-day period of mourning has now come into effect, while plans for Pope Francis’ burial are well underway. Yet those tasks pale in comparison to the job of choosing his next successor.

And while this is often a lengthy process, not to mention weighted with unimaginable importance and meaning, the decision regarding who will be the next pope could be even more significant… if you’re inclined to believe the aforementioned 1,000-year-old prophecy.

According to reports, there exists a book known as the Prophecy of the Popes, supposedly written in the 1100s by an Archbishop of Armagh, Ireland, named Malach, later canonized to become Saint Malachy.

His prophecy is said to list 112 popes, essentially predicting that there would only be one more pope after Benedict (the Pope who abdicated and was replaced by Pope Francis).

Perhaps more alarmingly, Saint Malachy is said to have predicted that reign could result in the end of the world, meaning Pope Francis would be the last ever person to hold that role.

The final entry says the last pope will be: “Peter the Roman, who will pasture his sheep in many tribulations, and when these things are finished, the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the dreadful judge will judge his people. The End.”

Pope Francis chose his name in honor of St Francis of Assisi, who’s father was named Pietro, or Peter in English. A tenuous link, maybe, yet one that people use to attempt to confirm the prophecy.

What’s more, some interpretations of the Prophecy of the Popes believe it tips the world to end in 2027… which means there’s not that much time left before things really start to go south.

Given the current state of turmoil on the world stage, perhaps the prophecy cuts a little too close to the bone. Despite this, we feel it’s only right to outline that there are plenty of critics who rubbish Saint Malachy’s gloomy predictions.

Josh Canning, director of Toronto’s Chaplaincy at the Newman Centre, said in 2013 (via Global News): “I don’t know how you can connect Peter the Roman with Pope Francis.”

What do you make of the prophecy? Let us know in the comments.

Donald Trump has never been one to mince words.

And as the world prepares to bid farewell to Pope Francis this Saturday, the former U.S. president managed to stir controversy once again.

In a statement that quickly ignited backlash across social media, Trump announced his plans to attend the Pope’s funeral — but it wasn’t the announcement that made headlines. It was the way he said it. 👇🏻

Like many world leaders, Donald Trump was quick to offer his condolences following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The U.S. president shared a brief statement on his social media platform, Truth Social, writing: “Rest in peace Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who loved him!”

Trump also took to Truth Social to announce that U.S. flags should be flown at half-staff, calling it a gesture of respect in honor of “the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis.”

Inside their relationship

Donald Trump and Pope Francis didn’t always see eye to eye — and while their relationship eventually turned frosty, it actually started off on a surprisingly positive note.

Back in 2013, long before Trump entered the White House, he had nothing but praise for the newly elected pontiff. “The new Pope is a humble man, very much like me, which probably explains why I like him so much!” Trump tweeted in December of that year. It was classic Trump — equal parts compliment and self-promotion.

But the honeymoon didn’t last.

As their public profiles grew, so did their differences. What began with flattery soon unraveled into one of the more unusual and tense dynamics between a U.S. president and the head of the Catholic Church.

Trump and Pope Francis time on the world stage was marked by deep ideological rifts, especially around immigration and social justice.

Back in 2016, the Pope famously rebuked Trump’s border wall plans, saying: “A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian.” Trump, in typical fashion, fired back, calling it “disgraceful” for a religious leader to question someone’s faith.

Face-to-face meeting

In 2017, the pair met face-to-face during Trump’s visit to the Vatican. Reflecting on the encounter, Trump said, “He is something. We had a fantastic meeting.”

But the tensions didn’t fade. During Trump’s presidency and again after his return to office in 2025, the two remained divided. Pope Francis condemned the renewed push for mass deportations, calling them a “disgrace” and warning that any policy “built on force rather than human dignity begins badly and will end badly.”

While Trump kept his farewell short, others were more reflective. Vice President JD Vance, a devout Catholic who met with the Pope shortly before his death, shared a heartfelt tribute on X: “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”

Vance recalled their final meeting, noting the Pontiff was clearly unwell, but said he’d always remember the Pope for a specific message: “I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul.”

A wine tasting in Vatican City?

Despite their ideological differences, Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, will attend the Pope’s funeral — a visit that also marks the president’s first foreign trip of his second term in office.

But it wasn’t just that Trump announced he’d attend the funeral—it was how he said it that really turned heads. Here’s what he wrote: “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!”

The internet wasted no time reacting, especially on X (formerly Twitter), where users slammed the U.S. president for being tone deaf and out of touch. Reactions ranged from sarcastic jokes to harsh criticism. One user quipped, “He thinks he’s going to Coachella,” while another asked bluntly, “Who looks forward to a funeral?”

”We look forward to being there” Bold choice of words for a funeral. Most people mourn the Pope, not pencil it in like it’s a wine tasting in Vatican City,” another user on X wrote.

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26 at 10 AM local time in St. Peter’s Square.

After the public ceremony, his body will be transported to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood — the same place where Francis once said he wanted to be laid to rest.

What do you think of the president’s choice of words? Was it inappropriate, or is it more important that he actually attends and shows his respect? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Seconds before he slipped into a coma, Pope Francis raised his frail hand from the bed he lay dying and made a loving “gesture of farewell” to his trusted nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti. Only one hour later, the pontiff died, shattering millions of hearts around the world.

Less than one month ago, when Pope Francis was battling double pneumonia, his nurse Massimiliano Strappetti “watched over him tirelessly throughout his illness,” never leaving his side “during all 38 days of his hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital,” according to the Vatican News, the Holy See’s media outlet.

Strappetti kept “watch round-the-clock during his recovery at the Casa Santa Marta,” and he was also with the Argentine Pontiff, who made a surprise Popemobile tour through the Piazza, waving at the 50,000 worshippers who gathered at St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

The Vatican explains that the “Pope wanted to offer one last, meaningful surprise,” but given his weakness, there was some hesitation.

Do you think I can manage it?” he asked looking for reassurance from Strappetti, who was appointed in 2022 as his personal healthcare assistant.

Greets crowds

And though he was weak and appeared exhausted, the pontiff spent about 15 minutes embracing the loving, cheering crowds from his open-air popemobile – the first ride since he left hospital.

Wrapped in a simple white coat and smiling warmly, the pontiff greeted onlookers, children waved flags, and some even shed tears at the sight of their spiritual leader, back in action.

While he did not lead the mass himself, Pope Francis’ decision to delegate the responsibility to Cardinal Angelo Comastri highlighted an often-overlooked strength in leadership: knowing when to rest and let others rise. It was not a retreat but a conscious act of preservation – one that showcased the depth of his humility and strategic wisdom.

‘Thank you’

Afterwards, the Pope – “tired but content,” Vatican News reports – thanked Strappetti for encouraging his visit at St. Peter’s Square.

“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” he told Strappetti.

After blessing thousands at the square, the pontiff spent the afternoon resting, enjoying a calm and private dinner, surrounded by the stillness he often cherished.

But as dawn crept over the Vatican, a shift occurred.

Final farewell

At approximately 5:30 AM, the first signs of illness became evident. The response from those watching over him was swift and filled with concern. In those early, sacred hours, something had changed.

Just an hour later, before falling into a coma, Pope Francis, from his bed on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta, raised his hand in a gentle gesture of farewell to his trusted aide and friend, Strappetti.

After an hour Pope Francis died at 7:35 a.m.

“According to those who were with him in his final moments, he did not suffer. It all happened quickly,” writes the Vatican News. “His was a discreet death, almost sudden, without long suffering or public alarm, for a Pope who was always very reserved about his health.”

As the world mourns, we also remember that Pope Francis showed us how to live with kindness – and now, how to say goodbye with grace.

Please share your condolences with us on the pope in the comments section below and then share this story so we can hear from others.

We’ve all been there — finishing a late-night shower, too tired to blow-dry, and thinking, “It’s just water, what harm could it do?” But over the years, several myths about sleeping with wet hair have made many of us second-guess our bedtime habits. So, let’s clear the air!

❌ Myth 1: Wet hair causes lice

Fact:

Head lice are not caused by wet hair. They are parasites that spread through close contact with someone who already has them, or by sharing personal items like combs or hats.
Sleeping with wet hair won’t magically attract lice — but sharing a pillow with someone who has lice might.

❌ Myth 2: It’s totally harmless

Fact:

• Sleeping with wet hair may seem harmless, but it can lead to real issues:
• A damp scalp creates a perfect environment for fungus and bacteria.
• It can worsen conditions like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Wet hair is weaker, so it’s more prone to breakage, tangling, and split ends.

❌ Myth 3: Air-drying overnight is better than using a blow dryer

Fact:

• While too much heat can damage hair, leaving hair wet overnight isn’t necessarily better. Air-drying while you sleep means your hair stays damp for hours — and that prolonged moisture weakens hair strands and your scalp’s natural balance.
• The best option? Gently towel-dry, then use a blow dryer on a cool or low heat setting before bed.

❌ Myth 4: Only long hair is affected

Fact:

Nope — this applies to all hair lengths and types. Whether you have short curls or long, straight strands, the risks are similar. Scalp health is the main concern here, and it doesn’t discriminate based on your haircut.

❌ Myth 5: Tying up wet hair keeps it under control

Fact:

• It might look like a neat solution, but tying up wet hair can actually make things worse. Wet hair swells and is more elastic, so when it’s pulled tight, it’s more likely to snap and cause breakage.
• Plus, tight hairstyles while sleeping can cause tension on the roots, leading to long-term hair thinning.

✅ So what should you do?

If you must wash your hair at night:

• Use a microfiber towel to absorb excess water.
• Dry it at least 80% before going to bed.
• Consider using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
• Sleep with hair down or in a loose braid — never tight.

💬 Final Thoughts:

Sleeping with wet hair won’t give you lice, but it can damage your hair and scalp over time. Understanding the facts helps you build healthier habits — and your hair will thank you for it.

Breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day, as it provides us with the energy and nutrients we need to kick-start our day. A popular breakfast choice is a banana, but what does science say about this choice?

Bananas are a versatile and delicious fruit that contain a wide variety of essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. They are also naturally sweet and easy to eat, making them a convenient breakfast choice.

Scientific research has demonstrated several benefits of eating a banana for breakfast.

One of the most notable benefits is its impact on energy levels. Bananas contain complex carbohydrates that digest slowly, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable and providing a steady release of energy throughout the morning.

Furthermore, bananas contain potassium, an essential mineral for heart health and muscle function. Potassium also helps regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Another benefit of eating a banana for breakfast is its effect on digestion. The dietary fiber present in bananas promotes bowel regularity and helps prevent problems like constipation.

In addition to these benefits, bananas are also a natural source of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which help fight the damage caused by free radicals in the body. This can have a positive effect on overall health and, therefore, will help strengthen the immune system.

In short, according to science, eating a banana for breakfast can have several health benefits. From providing sustained energy to improving digestion and strengthening the immune system, bananas are a nutritious and delicious option to start the day.

So the next time you’re wondering what to eat for breakfast, consider adding a banana to your daily diet. Your body will thank you!

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared poised on Tuesday to rule in favor of parents in Maryland who had raised religious objections to books that were made available in elementary schools within a school district and included stories about gay and transgender characters.

In his lifelong home of Montgomery County, Maryland, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh reported being “surprised” during oral arguments on Tuesday in a case involving a school district and LGBTQ+ books.

The U.S. District Court of Maryland heard the case of Mahmoud v. Taylor on May 24, 2023, after parents of various religious backgrounds accused the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) district in Rockville, Maryland, of requiring their pre-K and elementary-aged children to read contentious LGBTQ+ books.

Christian, Jewish, and Muslim parents are among the plaintiffs who claim that the school district’s removal of a “opt-out” option for parents who were uncomfortable with the reading choices in their children’s classes violated their right to religious expression and, consequently, their First Amendment rights.

The Montgomery County Board of Education unveiled more than 20 new “inclusivity” books for students in pre-K through eighth grade as part of their “Pride Storybooks” in the fall of 2022. The disclaimer was that parents would be notified when their children were reading these kinds of books, giving them the choice to choose not to have their children read them.

However, worried parents contend that the schools’ brief parent education was insufficient. The school board declared in 2023 that it would no longer notify parents or comply with requests to opt out. There are over 70,000 kids in the district.

The parents lost the lawsuit in May 2023. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals heard an appeal of that decision and, almost a year later, upheld the school board’s policy.

In September 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court heard an appeal of the decision from Becket, a nonprofit organization that defends religious expression in court. In January, the High Court consented to hear the case.

Below is a transcript of the notable exchange with Kavanaugh:

Kavanaugh: “The country has opt-outs for all sorts of things. The county has opt-outs for all sorts of things. The other Maryland counties have opt-outs for all sorts of things. And yet, for this one thing, they change in mid-year and say no more opt-outs. I’m just not understanding feasibility.”

SCHOENFELD: “So, again, I think what’s in the record is that, with respect to these books as they were deployed in the classroom, there was high absenteeism in some schools. For example, dozens of students being opted out in, I think Mr. Baxter said the average size of an elementary school in Montgomery County is 700 students, so each grade is 125. If you have dozens of students walking out, making arrangements for their students to have adequate space and supervision and alternative instruction, I think is infeasible. And that’s —“

Kavanaugh: “But they do it for all sorts of other opt-outs.”

SCHOENFELD: “They don’t do it for all sorts of other opt-outs. There’s a limited universe of things that students can opt out from. The family life and healthy sexuality curriculum stands alone. It is mandated by the state. It is something where you are able to predict precisely when the curriculum is going to be deployed. There’s a four —“

Kavanaugh: “It’s the most similar, substantively, to what we have here and there’s an opt out allowed there. I guess I’m not understanding why Montgomery County School Board stands alone, I think in the country. You can tell me if there’s another school board that’s done something like this.”

SCHOENFELD: “I don’t — I apologize.”

Kavanaugh: “The kind of books that are being used and prohibiting opt-outs, and I guess I’m just not understanding. The whole goal, I think, of some of our religion precedents is to look for the win-win, to look for the situation where you can respect the religious beliefs and accommodate the religious beliefs while the state or city, or whatever it may be, can pursue its goals. And here they’re not asking you to change what’s taught in the classroom. They’re not asking you to change that at all. A lot of the rhetoric suggests that they might have — that they were trying to do that, but that’s not what they’re trying to do. They’re only seeking to be able to walk out so that they don’t have — so the parents don’t have their children exposed to these things that are contrary to their own beliefs.”

One of the Senate’s ‘moderate’ Republicans is getting fresh pushback from supporters of President Donald Trump after remarks she made during a townhall meeting with constituents recently.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski revealed this week that she feels anxious about speaking out against President Donald Trump’s tariffs, executive orders, and cuts to federal agencies, claiming they would pose a real threat of political retaliation, Reuters reported.

“We are all afraid,” Murkowski claimed to a summit of nonprofit and tribal leaders.

“It’s quite a statement. But we are in a time and a place where I certainly have not been here before,” she added. “And I’ll tell you, I am oftentimes very anxious myself about using my voice, because retaliation is real. And that’s not right.”

The White House responded to Murkowski’s claims. “President Trump’s only retribution is success and historic achievements for the American people,” spokesperson Taylor Rogers told Reuters.

“I’m going to use my voice to the best of my ability,” Murkowski said. “I’ve got to figure out how I can do my best to help the many who are so anxious and are so afraid.”

Murkowski’s comments, captured in a video posted by the Anchorage Daily News, were made Monday in response to a question about what she would say to those concerned about policy changes being implemented by President Trump and his advisers.

As one of the few Senate Republicans openly critical of Trump, Murkowski has opposed several of his policies, voted against some Cabinet nominees, and supported repealing tariffs on Canada. She narrowly defeated a Trump-endorsed challenger three years ago, following her vote, alongside six other Republicans, to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial over the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

Her remarks drew instant pushback from Trump supporters on social media, with several questioning her allegiance to the Republican Party.

“Lisa Murkowski says ‘we are all afraid’ [n]ow because of Trump… But where was she over the past 4 years when Biden was using lawfare to go after his political opponents?? Oh thats right, she’s really a Democrat,” comedian and entrepreneur Tim Young wrote on X in a post that contained the video clip featuring Murkowski.

“She is shameful and disgusting,” another user wrote. “Does she have a primary opponent yet?” one asked.

“Sounds like she’s worried about something? Wonder what skeletons she has in her closet?” said another, while still another X user wrote: “The disconnect, the lies, the exaggeration- so sick of her. She needs to be voted out.”

Meanwhile, the administration continues to work on fulfilling Trump’s major pledges on the campaign trail.

On Tuesday, Vice President JD Vance lauded progress toward a US-India trade accord, saying cooperation between Trump’s administration and that of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ensure a “prosperous and peaceful” 21st century.

Speaking in the northern Indian city of Jaipur, Vance also warned of “dire” ramifications in the Indo-Pacific and a “dark time” for the globe if the US-India cooperation fails.

“Critics have attacked my president, President Trump, for starting a trade war in an effort to bring back the jobs of the past, but nothing could be further from the truth. He seeks to rebalance global trade so that America, with friends like India, can build a future worth having for all of our people together,” Vance said, referring to Trump’s aggressive tariff policies and commitment to revitalize U.S. manufacturing.

“Both of our governments are hard at work on a trade agreement built on shared priorities, like creating new jobs, building durable supply chains, and achieving prosperity for our workers. In our meeting yesterday, Prime Minister Modi and I made very good progress on all of those points, and we’re especially excited to formally announce that America and India have officially finalized the terms of reference for the trade negotiations,” Vance continued.

“I think this is a vital step toward realizing President Trump and Prime Minister Modi’s vision because it sets a roadmap toward a final deal between our nations. I believe there is much America and India can accomplish together,” Vance added.

Jack Schlossberg may be a Kennedy by blood — but the internet says he’s no John F. Kennedy.

The 31-year-old grandson of America’s 35th president is under fire after suggesting, without evidence or context, that Vice President JD Vance was somehow responsible for Pope Francis’ death.

His exact words? “Okay JD killed the pope.”

On Monday morning, as the world was still reeling from the news of Pope Francis’ death at age 88, Schlossberg logged on to X (formerly Twitter) and unleashed a comment that quickly caught fire online:

“Okay JD killed the pope.”

But the post, which appeared to be meant as a joke (we think?), didn’t land the way Schlossberg may have hoped. Within hours, it had racked up over 470,000 views, drawing swift backlash and a flood of furious replies.

“Shameful,” “insensitive,” and “just not funny”

Critics didn’t hold back:

One user snapped: “Your words are shameful.”

Another replied: “Are you kidding with this? Just not funny – total disrespect.”

A third was blunter: “No, Johnny. Maybe it’s time to back off.”

Some even reminded Schlossberg that, given his family’s legacy and connection to Catholicism, he should know better.

Jack Schlossberg, also known as John “Jack” Bouvier Kennedy Schlossberg, is the youngest child of Caroline Kennedy, and the only grandson of former President John F. Kennedy (JFK) and Jacqueline Kennedy.

Known for sharing his grandfather’s charm and good looks, Schlossberg is a social media influencer who uses Instagram to share his views on politics, silly selfies, and hilarious clips of him speaking with impressive accents.

He had also been a Senate intern in 2011, studied at Yale University, where he completed his undergraduate degree, and attended Harvard Law and Business School, where he earned both his M.B.A. and J.D. (Juris Doctor).

Vance met the Pope the day before his death

Schlossberg’s tweet didn’t come out of nowhere — as many already know, Vice President JD Vance had just met with the Pope one day before his passing.

Vance was in Rome for Easter and had a brief, private meeting with Pope Francis after Sunday Mass. Though not on his official schedule, the encounter was reportedly a meaningful moment for the Catholic-convert politician.

In a short clip, Vance was seen expressing concern for the Pope’s health and thanking him for the meeting. “I pray for you every day,” he told the Pontiff.

The Pope, visibly frail, gifted Easter eggs for Vance’s children before the meeting ended. The entire visit lasted just 17 minutes.

Vance’s tribute after the Pope’s death

When news of the Pope’s passing broke early Monday morning, Vance issued a heartfelt statement on X:

“I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”

He also reflected on their recent meeting, saying, “He was obviously very ill,” and shared one of Pope Francis’ most moving prayers from the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pope cause of death

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, speaking for the Vatican, confirmed the Pope died of a massive stroke, not the respiratory issues that had plagued him in recent months.

Doctors said the Pope woke up around 6 a.m., but by 7 a.m., he had become unwell. Within 30 minutes, he had slipped into a coma. He never woke up again.

He died peacefully, officials said — passing away not in the hospital but at home, surrounded by the silence of Vatican grounds.

“He returned to the house of the Father at 7:35 a.m.,” Farrell said in a solemn statement, calling Francis “a true disciple” who dedicated his life to “the poorest and most marginalized.”

Pope Francis ditched the limo and took the bus to work, refusing to live in the luxurious papal palace because he felt it was too grand. He also boldly confronted the Italian mafia, warning them of hell and officially excommunicating them from the Catholic Church. Rest in peace, Papa Francis!

The photos of Pope Francis lying lifeless in his coffin reveal far more than meets the eye — and every detail tells a story.

From the untraditional casket to the personal items placed alongside his body, the late pontiff’s final resting display breaks centuries of Vatican tradition — by his own request.

As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, his coming burial will reflect the very values he championed throughout his life. Known for his simplicity, humility, and unwavering care for the marginalized, Pope Francis’s final resting place is a powerful testament to the legacy he leaves behind.

And the personal items he chose to accompany him will serve as a final reminder of a life dedicated to service, love, and change.

The beloved 88-year-old pontiff passed away Monday following a devastating stroke that caused irreversible heart failure. After weeks of battling pneumonia, the Argentine-born spiritual leader died peacefully at the Vatican.

What’s inside the Pope’s casket?

On Tuesday, the Vatican shared the first powerful images of Pope Francis lying in repose. The photos revealed the meaningful items placed with him for his final journey.

His coffin, watched over by ceremonial guards, stood quietly as Vatican officials and members of his household gathered for a private and respectful goodbye.

In the photos released, Francis lies in an open casket dressed in red vestments — a color symbolizing martyrdom and the blood of Christ. A rosary is gently folded into his hands.

Also placed inside the coffin are his mitre (traditional papal hat), his crozier (the pastoral staff) and a collection of coins minted during his papacy — a centuries-old tradition symbolizing his time as the Vicar of Christ.

In the coffin there is also a rogito, a sealed legal document summarizing his life and pontificate. On his right hand, the Pope is wearing the broken Fisherman’s Ring, which is ceremonially destroyed before burial to signify the end of a pope’s reign.

The destruction also serves to ensure that the ring cannot be misused after the pope’s death, as it was originally designed as a seal for the pope’s personal letters.

A look at the coffin

Pope Francis’s death marks a sharp departure from the long-standing traditions of papal funerals, and a glance at his coffin is all it takes to see how.

Unlike previous popes, such as the late Pope Benedict, who were buried in elaborate triple coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak, Francis chose simplicity.

His coffin is a modest wooden structure lined with zinc, reflecting his commitment to humility. The traditional papal farewell, where the Pope’s body would be placed on a catafalque inside St. Peter’s Basilica for public mourning, has also been abandoned.

Instead, Francis’s body will rest inside the coffin with its lid removed, inviting mourners to pay their respects in a more intimate and personal way.

And for the first time in over a century, a pope will be buried outside the Vatican.

Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood, rather than in the grottoes beneath St. Peter’s, where the tombs of around 90 popes are located.

When and where is the funeral?

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26 at 10 AM local time in St. Peter’s Square.

After the public ceremony, his body will be transported to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood — the same place where Francis once said he wanted to be laid to rest.

Starting Wednesday, his body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica. As the body is brought into the basilica, the solemn chant of the Litany of Saints will fill the air, led by the camerlengo at the front of the procession. Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, who was appointed by Pope Francis back in 2019, currently serves as the camerlengo.

In a shift from long-held tradition, Pope Francis’ body is not going to placed on an elevated bier. Instead, his simple wooden coffin rests at floor level, facing the pews, with the Paschal candle standing close by — a quiet symbol of faith and light.

As the world continues to mourn the loss of Pope Francis, it’s the quiet, personal details — from his humble wooden coffin to the stripped-back ceremony — that speak the loudest.

In death, just as in life, he chose simplicity, compassion, and a break from tradition. And it’s those choices that may define his legacy more than any grand procession ever could.

In the final hours of his life, Pope Francis — known across the globe for his humility and compassion — uttered a simple but deeply moving farewell.

His last words, recently revealed, capture the heart of a man who never strayed far from the people he served.

The Pope’s final message wasn’t addressed to a cardinal, a politician, or even a world leader.

Instead, it was for his longtime nurse and personal healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti — the man who had stood by him during some of his most fragile moments and when he suffered from double pneumonia.

“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” Pope Francis said softly, just hours after riding through St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile one final time, according to Vatican News. since surviving a five-week bout of double pneumonia.

Pope Francis’s last words to his carer

That final ride wasn’t even planned. After delivering his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing on Easter Sunday, the Pope hesitated. He turned to Mr. Strappetti and asked, “Do you think I can manage it?” The ride, it turns out, was not just symbolic — it was a farewell.

Among thousands of faithful, the Pope smiled, waved, and embraced children — his last gesture of connection to the people he had promised to walk with since his election in 2013.

Later that day, he rested, had a quiet dinner, and went to sleep. At dawn, he became suddenly ill. He made a final gesture of farewell to Mr. Strappetti before slipping into a coma. By sunrise, he was gone.

Those present say his passing was peaceful. It came quickly — without pain, without drama. It was a quiet end, in line with the Pope’s lifelong desire for privacy, especially when it came to his health.

Who is Massimiliano Strappetti?

At 54 years old, Massimiliano Strappetti has quietly built a reputation as one of the most trusted medical figures in the Vatican. According to Italian media, his journey began in the intensive care unit at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, but his career soon took a unique turn — one that placed him at the heart of the Catholic Church.

Over the years, Strappetti has worked closely with not one, but three popes: John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and most recently, Pope Francis.

His decades of experience and calm presence earned him a place in the Vatican’s inner medical circle, eventually leading Francis to appoint him as his personal healthcare assistant in 2022 — a role of deep responsibility and trust.

Despite his crucial role, very little is known about Strappetti’s private life. His Facebook page is remarkably low-key, mostly showing family photos and a few nods to Lazio, his favorite soccer team.

There’s no public mention of his work with the Pope, no flashy titles — just a man deeply committed to care, service, and staying out of the spotlight.

Last moments of Pope Francis

Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke followed by cardiac arrest. Earlier this year, he had battled a serious case of pneumonia that kept him hospitalized for 38 days.

Though he returned to the Vatican nearly a month ago and appeared to be on the mend, the Pope continued to push himself hard. Known for his tireless dedication, Francis ignored doctors’ recommendations to rest for two months and instead spent his final day working.

In his last moments, he didn’t ask for recognition. He gave thanks to those who had helped him survive. And in that simple “thank you,” the world got one final glimpse of the man who led with heart.

Pope Francis was admired for his humble lifestyle and simple way of living — but with his death, a series of ancient and almost mysterious rituals was suddenly set in motion.

One of the first? His apartment was sealed almost immediately — and the reason behind it is more intriguing than you might think.

Following Pope Francis’ passing on Monday, Catholics around the world are mourning the loss of their spiritual leader.

The Pope died of a stroke at the age of 88.

When a pope passes, a very precise and tradition-bound process is set in motion within the Vatican. For example, on Tuesday, the Vatican released the first powerful images of Pope Francis lying in repose, offering a solemn glimpse into the sacred rituals honoring his life.

In the photos, his open casket is surrounded by ceremonial guards as Vatican officials and members of his household gather to say their private goodbyes. Francis is dressed in red vestments — a color symbolizing martyrdom and the blood of Christ — with a rosary gently placed in his folded hands.

A silk cord tied across the door

Another event that followed the Pope’s death was the sealing and locking of Pope Francis’s personal residence by senior Vatican officials on Monday.

The sealing takes place immediately after the Pope has either passed away or resigned. It’s carried out in the presence of the Vice-Camerlengo — currently Archbishop Ilson de Jesus Montanari. A silk cord is tied across the door and secured with a wax seal, ensuring the room remains untouched. The unbroken seal serves as proof that no one has entered.

The room will only be opened again and the seal broken after the conclave is completed and a new Pope is elected.

According to CBS News, Pope Francis chose not to live in the traditional papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace. Instead, he made his home in a modest room at Casa Santa Marta — the Vatican’s guesthouse, which has more of a dorm-style setup.

“He lives in a small room,” said Lucas Schaerer, a Vatican insider who became friends with Pope Francis back in 2008, in a 2015 interview with People.

Why Pope’s apartment was sealed

So why was the Pope’s residence sealed off at all? While the ritual may seem largely symbolic—especially since Pope Francis chose to live in the simple quarters of the church guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta, rather than the traditional Apostolic Palace — it actually has a practical purpose as well.

According to Sky News, the practice originated as a way to “prevent looting” following a pope’s death.

But more importantly today, it helps safeguard against any tampering with papal documents or unauthorized release of items that can only be handled by the next pope. To ensure this, the sealing is carried out by a designated official of the Roman Curia — the Camerlengo, or Chamberlain — who is currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, also head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life.

Another ritual

As the Catholic Church moves forward with funeral arrangements and commemorative rites, attention has turned to the iconic Fisherman’s Ring that Pope Francis wore during his papacy.

Estimated to be worth approximately $520,000, the true significance of the ring lies far beyond its material value. As a symbol of the papacy, the signet ring represents the pope’s authority within the Catholic Church.

Traditionally, the ring is gifted to a newly elected pope and destroyed following their death. This ritual is carried out by the camerlengo (Cardinal), who, in this case, is Cardinal Kevin Farrell. The destruction serves to ensure that the ring cannot be misused after the pope’s death, as it was originally designed as a seal for the pope’s personal letters, though it now holds ceremonial importance.

The destruction of the ring and its accompanying bulla (papal seal) takes place in the presence of the College of Cardinals following official confirmation of the pope’s death, just before the papal conclave begins to elect a new pope.

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26 at 10 AM local time in St. Peter’s Square.

After the public ceremony, his body will be transported to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome’s Esquilino neighborhood — the same place where Francis once said he wanted to be laid to rest.

It seems like those little silica gel packets come with just about everything you buy these days: medications, electronics, clothing, and more. They always have two instructions: DO NOT EAT and THROW AWAY. While you definitely should not eat them, you don’t need to throw them out! There are actually a lot of uses for them around the house.

A quick note about that safety warning you see all the time: Clear silica gel pellets are nontoxic and fairly safe to handle. Some pellets are treated with color-changing chemicals to indicate when they’ve absorbed moisture, and these chemicals are often carcinogenic. Don’t use colored silica gel pellets for these projects. Otherwise, they’re good to use. We’ve discovered 10 different ways you can use them around the house and garden.

1. Save your phone
Separate your phone and battery. Place both into a sealable baggie with as many silica gel packets as you can find. Seal the bag and let it set until morning. (It sure beats wasting an entire bag of rice!)

2. Protect your leather shoes
Toss a few silica gel packets into your leather shoes (or even sports shoes) to suck out the moisture and keep them from getting moldy.

3. Dry your swimsuit
Try tossing a few of these packets into a zip lock bag with your damp swimsuit to suck out the moisture on the fly.

4. Protect your books
Keep your older books from getting musty by placing a silica gel pack in the cover. You can also place the book into a baggy with the packets to remove any musty smell that’s already there.

5. Keep your window clear
Your windshield fogs up with moisture when the air and temperature combine just the right way. Prevent the foggy windshield by keeping these packets on the dashboard.

6. Protect your pics
Slip a silica gel packet in each photo frame (behind the photo) to keep your images safe from moisture. They’ll last longer.

7. Dry flowers
You’ll need a lot of those gel packets for this one (or you can supplement with silica from the craft store). After carefully trimming your flowers and covering them with the silica gel, they’ll come out dry, but look fresh and pretty. See the full tutorial from Mohans Rule.

8. Keep your pumpkin fresh
If your Halloween pal molds and rots too quickly, try tossing a few silica gel packs inside the carved pumpkin. It will keep moisture at bay and keep your jack-‘o-lantern mold-free a little longer. (Bonus: the gel packs aren’t flammable so you should be okay to light your jack–o-lantern as usual.

9. Keep your seeds safe
If you’re storing seeds to plant next season, you’ll want to keep moisture as far away possible. Store your seeds in a shoe box with one packet to keep them safe.

Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett faced swift backlash after claiming that President Donald Trump is more dangerous than Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a reputed MS-13 gang member who was deported to El Salvador last month.

The Texas congresswoman was accused of “living in an alternate reality” after stating that Abrego Garcia is “a lot less criminal” than Trump during an MSNBC interview, where she was questioned about the efforts of Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen to assist the deported illegal immigrant during a highly controversial trip to El Salvador last week.

“If Senator Van Hollen can get down there, if the president can get up here and get to the White House, then I don’t understand why we can’t get Abrego up out of there,” Crockett said during an interview on “The Katie Phang Show.”

“I mean, we know that they admitted that they were wrong. Now they’re trying to double back and say, well, he’s this terrible person and all this kind of stuff,” she added. “But here’s the reality. As far as I’m concerned, he’s a lot less criminal than the person that’s sitting in the White House, because last time I checked, he doesn’t have any criminal convictions.”

WATCH:

Social media users promptly criticized the congresswoman for her excessive misrepresentation of Trump.

“Jasmine Crockett is living in an alternate reality if she thinks that President Trump is worse than an MS-13 gang member,” one detractor seethed on X, as another user ripped her for being “anti-American.” Another accused her of suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”

“Let’s be real — her Trump Derangement Syndrome is off the charts, and it’s no surprise she’s melting down over his first 100 days,” the commentator said.

“The sheer clownery on display here is the funniest thing I’ve seen all week,” another user chimed in.

During a Friday appearance on CNN’s The Arena with Kasie Hunt, veteran Democratic strategist Mo Elleithee warned his party against aligning too closely with Abrego Garcia

The strategist cautioned Democrats that they “don’t know all of the details about this guy,” and warned against treating him like a “martyr.” Instead, he recommended party members to focus on how President Donald Trump is purportedly “chipping away at our rights.”

“Let us not make him a martyr. Let’s make this about how Donald Trump and his administration are eroding our rights on a daily basis,” Elleithee remarked during a panel discussion.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) held a press conference on Friday to discuss his recent meeting with Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. He pledged to continue advocating for his release from the country’s largest jail.

Elleithee pushed back, doubting that Van Hollen’s message would “resonate with the rest of the country.”

“Look, I think everyone in the White House are giving each other high-fives, and everyone who supports the guy in El Salvador are giving each other high-fives, right? Both sides have kind of gone to their corners and are saying this is the fight we want to have. Whereas I don’t necessarily know it’s the conversation that would actually resonate with the rest of the country,” Elleithee said.

The strategist urged Democrats to shift the focus away from Abrego Garcia himself and toward the broader national implications of his case, Fox News reported.

“It’s less about him, as it is about all of us,” Elleithee said. “And if he [Van Hollen] were to have focused on that — he did it a little bit, he did it a little bit there about a third of the way through, right? — Where he said, ‘Taking away his constitutional rights takes away all of our constitutional rights.’ That’s the place to take this.”

The Trump government claims that Abrego Garcia was a member of the MS-13 gang headquartered in El Salvador, as confirmed by two separate immigration judges and officials from his home country. In addition, Trump has labeled the MS-13 gang as a foreign terrorist organization, with its members automatically deportable under the Alien Enemies Act.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth lashed out at the media and “disgruntled former employees” on Monday as the media doubled down on the Signal controversy.

Hegseth stood firm in statements to reporters at the White House for the traditional Easter Egg Roll. He refuted recent reports of a second Signal app discussion in which he disclosed intelligence about Yemen attacks. He assured reporters that he and President Donald Trump are in complete agreement.

“What a big surprise that a few leakers get fired and suddenly a bunch of hit pieces come out from the same media that peddled the Russia hoax,” Hegseth said, responding to new reporting from The New York Times.

“This is what the media does. They take anonymous sources from disgruntled former employees, and then they try to slash and burn people and ruin their reputations,” Hegseth continued. “Not going to work with me, because we’re changing the Defense Department, putting the Pentagon back in the hands of war-fighters. And anonymous smears from disgruntled former employees on old news doesn’t matter. So I’m happy to be here at the Easter Egg Roll with my dad and my kids.”

Asked if he had spoken to the president, Hegseth said he had.

“And we are going to continue fighting. On the same page all the way,” Hegseth said.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied a report from NPR that Trump is looking to replace Hegseth as Secretary of Defense.

The White House has been embroiled in a dispute about information security when The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, seemed to be inadvertently added to a group chat with multiple key Trump officials planning a strike on the Houthis on Signal.

In April, a similar scandal occurred when Hegseth, according to the New York Times, allegedly discussed specifics of a March military operation against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen in another Signal messaging conversation with his wife and brother.

On Monday, NPR reported that despite these concerns, “The White House has begun the process of looking for a new secretary of defense, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.”

The NPR story was revised to reflect that Leavitt had called it “fake news.”

“This @NPR story is total FAKE NEWS based on one anonymous source who clearly has no idea what they are talking about,” the White House spokeswoman wrote. “As the President said this morning, he stands strongly behind @SecDef.”

The White House’s official “Rapid Response” account on X shared a post slamming the report as well, claiming, “Lies from NPR — which, as we all know, is a Fake News propaganda machine.”

This is the second time recently that Trump has clarified that he’s standing by Hegseth, as some Democrats have called for him to resign because of a leaked Signal chat that contained information about a military strike in Yemen.

Last month, the president discussed the controversy following Hegseth’s accidental transmission of details about the strike to members of the administration in a Signal chat, which also included Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic. Goldberg published the full messages.

After several Democrats in Congress called for Hegseth to step down because of the scandal, reporters asked Trump if he thought Hegseth might want to resign.

“Hegseth is doing a great job, he had nothing to do with this. Hegseth. How do you bring Hegseth into this?” Trump replied.

Trump also acknowledged that his White House national security advisor, Mike Waltz, took responsibility for mistakenly adding Goldberg to the Signal chat.

“Mike Waltz … he claimed responsibility, I would imagine. It had nothing to do with anyone else. It was Mike, I guess, I don’t know, I was told it was Mike,” Trump said when asked about the investigation.

Trump again played down the controversy over whether or not Hegseth shared secret information that could have put the operation at risk by focusing on the mission’s success.

“There was no harm done because the attack was unbelievably successful that night,” Trump said.

Four House Democrats traveled to El Salvador on Monday to pressure President Nayib Bukele and the Trump administration to release Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland resident who was deported last month despite a federal court order barring his removal.

After being denied access to Ábrego García during their visit, the lawmakers escalated their demands, calling on the Trump administration to provide “daily proof of life,” ensure access to legal counsel, and facilitate his immediate release, Time reported.

“Since we were not able to get the answers we need today from the embassy, we have written a letter just as of 30 minutes ago to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding daily proof of life for Mr. Ábrego García,” said Rep. Yassamin Ansari of Arizona, one of the House Democrats who went to El Salvador. “And of course, finally, demanding his safe return home.”

The delegation, comprised of Reps. Robert Garcia of California, Maxwell Frost of Florida, Maxine Dexter of Oregon, and Ansari, marks the latest Democratic effort to spotlight Kilmar Ábrego García’s case, which some legal scholars warn has pushed the U.S. toward a constitutional crisis.

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court ordered the federal government to “facilitate” Ábrego García’s return to the United States, but stopped short of demanding that the Trump administration actually return the MS-13 suspect. The White House has repeatedly argued that federal courts have no jurisdiction or authority to interfere with a president’s conduct of foreign policy or use of the Alien Enemies Act to quickly deport members of gangs that President Trump has designated as terrorist groups.

The visit comes on the heels of a trip last week by Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who was allowed a brief meeting with Ábrego García after two days of negotiations. Van Hollen described him as “traumatized” from being held at the infamous CECOT maximum-security prison, where the Bukele government detains alleged gang members and terrorists. He added that Ábrego García has since been moved to a lower-security detention facility.

However, the photo of that meeting, depicting Van Hollen and Ábrego García seated across from each other at a table, has drawn scrutiny from Democrats and the legal team representing Ábrego García’s family. They now question whether the image was a staged photo-op orchestrated by the Bukele government.

“We know nothing of Mr. Ábrego García’s whereabouts since the staged photo op on Thursday,” Chris Newman, the attorney representing his family, at Monday’s press conference, told Time. “Unfortunately, we are no longer able to trust the representations about this case made either by the United States government or by the Salvadorian government.”

Meanwhile, the constituents of many of the Democratic lawmakers are upset that they traveled to El Salvador.

One in Arizona wrote on X that she’s “so glad Ansari went and is ignoring her large homeless & veteran population back in CD01,” adding that “The people in El Salvador aren’t her constituents.”

Another noted, “How about you do your job in Oregon. Nobody cares what an El Salvador man is doing in an El Salvador prison. This is why you guys lost in November. You learned nothing.”

Justice Department attorneys say they are complying with court orders to facilitate Abrego García’s return by removing any barriers within the United States that would prevent it. However, they argue they have no authority to compel the Salvadoran government to send him back.

The Trump administration has accused Abrego García of human trafficking, citing a December 1, 2022, traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. He was pulled over for speeding and found to be traveling with eight other individuals in the vehicle.

The officer suspected human trafficking because neither Abrego García nor his passengers had luggage, despite reportedly being on the road for three days during a trip from Texas to Maryland, the New York Post reported.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered purges within the Pentagon as a result of an inquiry into leaks divulging top-secret military plans to the media.

However, one of the men who resigned from the Pentagon refuted that narrative in an op-ed.

Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of President Donald Trump, responded to the Politico story by calling the man a “traitor.”

John Ullyot, who has worked in different positions for President Donald Trump since joining his 2016 campaign, claimed in Politico that Hegseth’s firings were a ruse to conceal severe “disarray” within the Department of Defense. The former spokesperson of the Pentagon quit last week.

“Hegseth’s team has developed a habit of spreading flat-out, easily debunked falsehoods anonymously about their colleagues on their way out the door,” he wrote in Politico.

The op-ed was shared on X by Alex Burns, a senior editor with the outlet, and was quoted by Trump Jr.

“This guy is not America First. I’ve been hearing for years that he works his ass off to subvert my father’s agenda. That ends today. He’s officially exiled from our movement,” wrote the first son early Monday morning.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied a report from NPR that Trump is looking to replace Hegseth as Secretary of Defense.

The White House has been embroiled in a dispute about information security when The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, seemed to be inadvertently added to a group chat with multiple key Trump officials planning a strike on the Houthis on Signal.

In April, a similar scandal occurred when Hegseth, according to the New York Times, allegedly discussed specifics of a March military operation against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen in another Signal messaging conversation with his wife and brother.

On Monday, NPR reported that despite these concerns, “The White House has begun the process of looking for a new secretary of defense, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.”

The NPR story was revised to reflect that Leavitt had called it “fake news.”

“This @NPR story is total FAKE NEWS based on one anonymous source who clearly has no idea what they are talking about,” the White House spokeswoman wrote. “As the President said this morning, he stands strongly behind @SecDef.”

The White House’s official “Rapid Response” account on X shared a post slamming the report as well, claiming “Lies from NPR — which, as we all know, is a Fake News propaganda machine.”

This is the second time recently that Trump has clarified that he’s standing by Hegseth, as some Democrats have called for him to resign because of a leaked Signal chat that contained information about a military strike in Yemen.

Last month, the president discussed the controversy following Hegseth’s accidental transmission of details about the strike to members of the administration in a Signal chat, which also included Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic. Goldberg published the full messages.

After several Democrats in Congress called for Hegseth to step down because of the scandal, reporters asked Trump if he thought Hegseth might want to resign.

“Hegseth is doing a great job, he had nothing to do with this. Hegseth. How do you bring Hegseth into this?” Trump replied.

Trump also acknowledged that his White House national security advisor, Mike Waltz, took responsibility for mistakenly adding Goldberg to the Signal chat.

“Mike Waltz … he claimed responsibility, I would imagine. It had nothing to do with anyone else. It was Mike, I guess, I don’t know, I was told it was Mike,” Trump said when asked about the investigation.

Trump again played down the controversy over whether or not Hegseth shared secret information that could have put the operation at risk by focusing on the mission’s success.

“There was no harm done because the attack was unbelievably successful that night,” Trump said.

Attorney General Pam Bondi ended federal lawsuits that the Biden administration had filed against local police and fire departments over their merit-based hiring policies.

Under the Biden administration, the DOJ’s Office of Civil Rights sued local first responders for prioritizing merit in hiring rather than making race-based decisions.

“Despite no evidence of intentional discrimination—only statistical disparities—the prior administration branded the aptitude tests at issue in these cases as discriminatory to advance a DEI agenda,” the DOJ said in a news release.

“And it sought to coerce cities into conducting DEI-based hiring in response and spending millions of dollars in taxpayer funds for payouts to previous applicants who had scored lower on the tests, regardless of qualifications,” the news release added.

President Donald Trump signed executive orders ending Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies within the federal government. Bondi’s decision this week marks the latest development in the ongoing effort to roll back DEI initiatives under the new administration.

Bondi’s office stated that DEI policies pose a threat to public safety and indicated that dismissing the cases represents an “early step toward eradicating illegal DEI preferences across the government and in the private sector.”

“American communities deserve firefighters and police officers to be chosen for their skill and dedication to public safety – not to meet DEI quotas,” Bondi said.

The proposed consent decrees typically acknowledged that the departments used neutral selection criteria, such as credit checks, written exams, and physical fitness tests, to evaluate candidates for open positions. However, White men tended to achieve higher scores or perform better on these assessments.

For instance, a lawsuit filed in October against the City of Durham, North Carolina, alleged “unintentional” discrimination against Black applicants, citing that they failed to meet the required 70% passing score on the written exam at a lower rate than White candidates, resulting in fewer Black hires.

As a remedy, the complaint proposed eliminating the neutral written test and providing “back pay and/or preferential hiring” for Black candidates who were not selected due to their exam performance. The estimated cost of these measures was approximately $980,000 in monetary relief.

In a separate case filed against the Maryland State Police in October 2024, it was proposed that the agency discontinue its current selection methods, which included a written test requiring a score of 70% or higher and a physical assessment consisting of push-ups, sit-ups, a flexibility reach, a trigger pull, and a 1.5-mile run, Fox added.

The proposed changes called for eliminating the previous selection criteria and allocating $2.75 million in monetary relief to Black candidates who were not hired due to written test results and women who were not hired due to physical test performance. The DOJ stated that similar lawsuits had also been filed against the cities of South Bend, Indiana, and Cobb County, Georgia, Fox noted further.

Bondi has been busy this month.

The Justice Department charged a man in connection with the vandalism of a Tesla dealership and the arson of the New Mexico Republican Party headquarters, according to court records unsealed Monday.

Jamison R. Wagner, 40, faces federal arson-related charges tied to last month’s fire at GOP headquarters and a February incident at a Tesla dealership in Bernalillo. Authorities say two Tesla Model Y vehicles were set on fire, with swastikas painted on their windshields and graffiti messages including “Die Elon” and “Die Tesla Nazi.”

Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who is spearheading the Trump administration’s contentious attempts to reduce federal agencies through the Department of Government Efficiency and the federal government’s workforce, has been the target of protests at Tesla showrooms.

The arrest is part of a broader federal crackdown on what Attorney General Pam Bondi has correctly described as a surge in domestic terrorism targeting property associated with Musk’s electric vehicle company. Bondi previewed the arrest during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, highlighting recent efforts by federal law enforcement to pursue vandals who have been attacking Tesla-related sites in recent weeks.

Wagner is also facing charges related to a fire last month at the headquarters of the New Mexico Republican Party in Albuquerque. Authorities said the blaze severely damaged the building’s entrance and caused extensive smoke damage throughout the office.

In addition, Republican officials discovered graffiti sprayed on the side of the building roughly 50 feet from the entrance, reading “ICE = KKK,” according to state GOP Chair Amy Barela.

The Justice Department has filed charges in four additional cases involving individuals accused of using Molotov cocktails to target Tesla vehicles and fire stations. In response to the growing number of incidents, the FBI established a task force last month to coordinate investigative efforts with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF).

Bondi indicated there will be no plea deals for those charged in the Tesla-related attacks, telling President Trump during a White House meeting Thursday, “There will be no negotiations, at your directive.”

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, swapped her signature high heels for the assistance of a walker during her return to Congress this week.

This public appearance comes less than a month after Pelosi sustained a serious injury during an official trip to Luxembourg, where she fell on a marble staircase at the Grand Ducal Palace. The fall resulted in a fractured hip, requiring emergency surgery.

While the injury temporarily sidelined her, Pelosi has made a quick return to Capitol Hill, signaling her determination to remain active despite her physical challenges.

Pelosi’s spokesperson, Ian Krager, previously stated that she received “excellent treatment” from medical professionals, though the recovery process has clearly taken its toll.

Her usual stilettos, long associated with her tireless political drive, have been replaced by more practical footwear. In recent months, Pelosi has also repeatedly commented that she believes Trump is “unwell” to serve as president of the United States.

Despite the setback, Pelosi has shown no intention of stepping back from her role as a key Democratic figure. Her return to the House coincided with the historic certification of the 2024 presidential election results, where Vice President Kamala Harris formally recognized Donald J. Trump’s victory for a second term.

Pelosi’s injury adds to the mounting concerns about the health and fitness of Washington’s aging political elite. The timing of her fall came just days after Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), 82, experienced his own incident, spraining his wrist during a private Senate lunch.

Meanwhile, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) pushed for the swift confirmation of President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees on Sunday, telling Fox News that the country was “at war” while criticizing immigration policies.

Graham emphasized that all of Trump’s picks should be confirmed by the end of the month, or at the latest, by February, during an interview on Sunday Morning Futures.

After discussing national security with anchor Maria Bartiromo, Senator Lindsey Graham emphasized that any delay in securing the border “equals danger.”

Bartiromo pointed out that over the weekend, Trump met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Mar-a-Lago, suggesting that they likely discussed the “threats” posed by mass migration, highlighting the shared concerns over border security.

She asked Graham: “What are what are your thoughts here in terms of the terrorism element and getting President Trump’s national security team in place? Do you have confidence that all of his Cabinet nominees will be confirmed?”

“Yeah, I do. And I want to do them sooner rather than later,” Graham began in response.

“When President Trump left office, we had the most secure border in American history. The caliphate was destroyed. ISIS was destroyed, and Iran was in a box, we killed Suleimani, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard leader,” he added.

“The last four years have been a friggin’ disaster. They roll back every policy that worked on the border. They went back into the Iran nuclear agreement, giving the ayatollah hundreds of millions of dollars to use for terrorism,” he said.

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At that point, Bartiromo cut in to ask about the pace of confirming Trump’s Cabinet picks.

“Do them quick. Get them all done in January – February. We need our team on the field. We need an FBI director. We need an attorney general. We need them all. Get it done. We’ve got to get it done. We’re under attack here. We’re at war,” Graham responded, adding that he planned to vote for all of Trump’s candidates.

“Let’s get it done! We’re under siege here,” he added.

Colors are more than just visual stimuli; they hold a mirror to your soul, revealing layers of your personality you might not know exists. Color psychology dives deep into these connections, and color tests offer a fun and fascinating way to uncover the hidden traits that make you the person you are!

When you look at the image below, the first three colors that catch your eye can offer a surprising glimpse into how others perceive you – especially when it comes to how intimidating you might seem. Intriguing, right?

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of color psychology and uncover what your choices might say about you!

First color you notice

Take a moment and think about the first color in this quiz that grabbed your attention. Was it yellow, purple, or gray? Each hue carries its own unique connotation when it comes to intimidation.

Gray: Seeing gray first suggests you exude poise and common sense, traits that some may find intimidating. Your calm, cool-headed demeanor can feel overwhelming to those who struggle with emotional regulation.

Purple: If purple stood out to you, your creativity and originality might leave others feeling unsettled. Your ability to think outside the box and challenge norms can be daunting for those who prefer to stick to the status quo.

Yellow: Noticing yellow first indicates that your boundless enthusiasm and optimism might intimidate others. Your infectious energy can be a lot to handle for people who struggle to maintain a positive outlook.

Second color

Now, consider the second hue that drew your eye. It provides more clues about your intimidation factor.

Blue, brown, or green: If any of these colors caught your attention second, it suggests that others see you as grounded and dependable. But people who are insecure or unreliable may be threatened by your stability and find you to be a formidable force.

Third color

Finally, the third color you noticed sheds even more light on your personality and how others view you

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Blue, Brown, or Green: Again, these hues signal a strong sense of expertise and wisdom. Your intellectual abilities and depth of knowledge might leave others feeling a bit overwhelmed, especially if they feel less experienced or informed.

While this exploration is meant for fun, it offers an interesting lens through which to view your personality and how you come across to others. Your color preferences can provide valuable insights into your strengths and perhaps even why some people might find you intimidating.

By understanding the meanings behind the colors that catch your eye, you can gain deeper self-awareness and potentially adjust how you connect with others – if you want to, of course!

So, what do your choices say about you? Please let us know about the colorful side of your personality and then share this story so we can hear from others!

California Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff expressed frustration over the Democratic Party’s lack of a “coordinated response” to President Donald Trump during an interview with ABC’s Jonathan Karl.

“I think the lack of a coordinated response in the State of the Union was a mistake, and frankly, it took the focus off of where it should have been, which is on the fact that the president spoke for an hour and 40 minutes and had nothing to say about what he would do to bring down costs for American families that were watching that lengthy address, sitting at the kitchen table hoping he would offer something to help them afford a new home or pay their rent, afford health care, or afford child care,” Schiff said.

The lawmaker addressed the critiques by Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, where he called the Democrats’ situation “a sad cavalcade of self-owns and unhinged petulance.”

“They’re destroying the economy, and they’re making it harder and harder for Americans to afford things. That’s where we need to keep the focus, that’s why we lost the last election, because we weren’t laser-focused on the high cost of living and what they’re doing now is just making it so much worse,” Schiff claimed — falsely, according to the most recent economic data.

Karl also asked Schiff how the Democratic Party should respond to the president. The ABC News host specifically referenced Democratic strategist James Carville, who has suggested that the party should “play dead” and consider a strategic political retreat.

Schiff said he disagreed with that approach and added that his party needed their “own broad, bold agenda to improve the economic well-being of Americans,” though he didn’t explain why Democrats under Biden didn’t adopt better economic policies to achieve just that.

“We need to be advancing policies and making the arguments about what we have to offer, not simply standing back and letting them collapse under their own corrupt weight. To me, that’s not enough. We need to effectively use litigation as we are. We need to effectively use communication to talk to new people in new ways, as we are,” he added.

Other left-wing members of Congress have also rejected Carville’s suggestion, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-VT., and said, “In fact, the problem is the Democrats have been playing dead for too many years.”

Fetterman took to social media to criticize the responses to Trump’s speech to a joint session of Congress last week.

“A sad cavalcade of self owns and unhinged petulance. It only makes Trump look more presidential and restrained. We’re becoming the metaphorical car alarms that nobody pays attention to—and it may not be the winning message,” the senator wrote in a post on X.

This comes as President Trump’s approval rating has risen to near-record levels, despite several days of outrage from Democrats, establishment Republicans, and mainstream media outlets over the president’s ambitious trade changes.

According to a new poll conducted by J.L. Partners in collaboration with the Daily Mail, which surveyed 1,000 registered voters from March 31 to April 3, Trump’s support rating increased even after sweeping tariffs were imposed on dozens of trading partners on April 2.

The study indicated that Trump’s approval rating increased to 53 percent, a four-point improvement from last week’s poll, when it was 49 percent. The Daily Mail termed the outcome as “surprising” considering the intense pressure and stock market crash that occurred on Thursday and Friday.

Breaking down the numbers further, Trump’s favorability rating among voters aged 18 to 29 has improved by an amazing 13 points since March 7.

The study implies Trump is building on the tremendous support he earned from the group in the November presidential election, when voters aged 18 to 29 switched 10 points in Trump’s favor after heavily supporting Joe Biden in 2020.

The president’s support rating increased by six percentage points among registered Democrats and independents, according to the study.

The president’s favorability among black voters has increased by 17 points since last week’s survey.

President Donald Trump shredded Kilmar Abrego Garcia and his defenders on Sunday, claiming Democrats and the press “are falsely” portraying the deported MS-13 gang suspect as “a very sweet and innocent person.”

Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump described such characterization as a “total, blatant, and dangerous LIE,” adding that those who have been lying to the public about Garcia’s past “have to be held responsible.”

“Radical Lunatic Democrats and their Comrades in the Fake News Media are falsely making Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia out to be a very sweet and innocent person, which is a total, blatant, and dangerous LIE,” Trump wrote. “Garcia has been found by two separate Courts to be a member of the violent, killer gang MS-13, was in our Country illegally, and is under a Deportation Order.”

He added: “It is despicable and unAmerican for Liberals and the Mainstream Media to hate our Country so much, and be obsessed with protecting criminals, instead of working to keep our Border, streets, and families safe. Those lying to the American People on behalf of violent criminals have to be held responsible by the Agencies and the Courts. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Most of the legacy media has focused on the fact that a federal judge “paused” Garcia’s deportation order in 2019 after two immigration courts found him to be a member of the MS-13 gang. But the court only said that he couldn’t be deported to his home country of El Salvador — ironically — over fear of rival gangs.

However, as White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller explained to Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer last week, the situation between then and now has changed with Garcia.

After Hemmer claimed that Garcia was “mistakenly” deported, Miller jumped in. “I want to correct that. I hate to do it, Bill. I have to correct you on everything you said. It was all wrong,” Miller began.

“First, we won the Supreme Court case, clearly, 9-0,” he added, noting a recent Supreme Court ruling that only said the administration had to attempt to “facilitate” Garcia’s return.

“A District Court judge said unconscionably the president and his administration have to go into El Salvador and extradite one of their citizens. That would be kidnapping. We have to kidnap an El Salvador citizen against the will of his government and fly him back to America. An unimaginable invasion of El Salvador,” Miller continued.

“They said the most a court can ever compel you to do is facilitate return, which means if El Salvador voluntarily sends him back we wouldn’t block him in the airport, we would put him back in ICE detention and then he would be deported back to El Salvador or somewhere else,” Miller said. “The Supreme Court said that’s the most the government can be expected to do. So, we won the case. The misreporting on this has been atrocious.”

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Miller insisted that the claim Abrego Garcia was wrongly deported originated from a now-terminated Justice Department employee who, he noted, was a Democrat, in correcting the record.

“He was not mistakenly sent to El Salvador. He was an illegal alien from El Salvador. In 2019 he was ordered deported. He has a final removal order from the United States. These are things that no one disputes. Where is he from? El Salvador. A resident and citizen of? El Salvador. Is he here illegally? Yes. Does he have a deportation order? Yes,” Miller continued.

“A DOJ Lawyer who has been relieved of duty, a saboteur, a Democrat put into a filing, incorrectly, that this was a mistaken removal. It was not. It was the right person sent to the right place,” he added.

Hemmer eventually managed to cut in, asking: “I want to ask you a question. Are you convinced he is still a member of MS-13? Your original charge.”

“Yes. But here is the thing, Bill. Yes, not only am I convinced of it, not only is El Salvador convinced of it,” Miller replied before adding: “He is an illegal alien from El Salvador with a deportation order! So, his only options in life, Bill, his only options in life, are to be deported to El Salvador or to be deported to some other country. That’s it. He has a deportation order.”

BREAKING: State Rep. Christopher Flanagan Hit with Federal Fraud Charges, House Ethics Probe Opens

In a stunning turn of events, Massachusetts State Representative Christopher Flanagan (D-Barnstable) is now the subject of a House Ethics Committee investigation after being charged in federal court for wire fraud and identity theft.

Flanagan, who previously served as executive director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, allegedly used his position to submit fake invoices and reroute payments totaling over $75,000 to his personal bank account, federal prosecutors said.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office unsealed a criminal complaint last Friday, citing “serious breaches of public trust”. The charges include:

• Two counts of wire fraud
• One count of aggravated identity theft

According to the complaint, Flanagan created phony vendor records and used the identities of unsuspecting third parties to validate fake transactions.

A high-ranking state official is currently at the center of a legal controversy that could have significant consequences for her career and prompt wider discussions about accountability in public office. The official has been referred for potential federal prosecution over allegations related to mortgage fraud.

The unfolding situation has sparked considerable public debate, with commentators divided over the implications. Supporters of the investigation cite the importance of holding all public servants to the same legal standards, while critics warn against the potential for politically motivated legal actions.

This controversy adds a new chapter to a growing list of legal challenges faced by prominent officials in recent years. Observers are closely watching how this case develops, as it could set important precedents for future cases involving allegations against individuals in positions of power.

As the legal process moves forward, the broader implications for public trust, transparency, and governance remain a central focus in the ongoing discourse.

Introduction: Trump’s Historic Refusal to Attend
On April 26, President Donald Trump will once again refuse to attend the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner (WHCD), continuing a tradition he began during his first term in office. Trump has long made clear his disdain for the event, and this year’s decision is in line with his previous stance on the gathering. His decision to skip the dinner, which typically draws the country’s top journalists and political figures, is a symbolic gesture reflecting the ongoing conflict between the Trump administration and the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA).

For Trump, the WHCD has come to represent a symbol of the entrenched political establishment, often seen as biased and hostile to his administration. This year’s decision to boycott follows the same pattern of resistance, but Trump is also taking steps to counter-program the event, a strategy he employed in previous years. Instead of attending the dinner, Trump is set to host his own event, providing a direct alternative to the WHCD—a move that is sure to resonate with his supporters and further underscore the divide between his administration and the mainstream media.

While Trump’s decision to avoid the WHCD is unsurprising to his critics, the event’s ongoing association with anti-Trump figures and political commentary has been a point of contention throughout his presidency. In years past, the event has served as a platform for satirical jabs and critical commentary about the Trump administration, often delivered by comedians or political figures with outspoken opposition to his policies.

Trump’s continued refusal to attend the White House Correspondents’ Dinner highlights the broader tension between the media and the Trump administration, one that has grown more contentious over time. This decision is not just a personal one but a clear statement about the ongoing battle for control over political narratives in America.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner and its Association with Left-Wing Activism
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been an annual tradition in Washington, D.C. since 1921, providing a platform for journalists and politicians to interact in a more casual setting. Traditionally, the president would attend, and the evening would feature a humorous speech that often poked fun at both the president and the press. Over time, however, the dinner has become more politicized, especially during the Trump era.

Critics of the dinner, particularly those aligned with the Trump administration, argue that it has become a hub for left-wing activism rather than a genuine celebration of the press. Trump’s decision to bypass the event underscores his belief that the dinner, in recent years, has been used not for humor but as an opportunity to attack him and his policies. The event’s association with anti-Trump rhetoric—especially from comedians—has only exacerbated the rift between the president and the press.

During his first term, Trump’s absence from the dinner allowed him to avoid the satire and political commentary often directed at him. Instead of attending, he chose to counter-program the event with his own “Fake News Awards”, a platform where he publicly called out media outlets he deemed to have spread false information about his administration. This annual event, while smaller in scale than the WHCD, gave Trump the opportunity to directly address his grievances with the media, underscoring his administration’s ongoing battle with news outlets.

In many ways, Trump’s absence from the dinner has become part of the larger narrative of his presidency—a narrative centered on distrust of the mainstream media and his rejection of the political establishment. For Trump, the dinner represents an institution that has long been critical of him, and by not attending, he is making a statement about his refusal to engage with the media on their terms.

The Removal of Amber Ruffin from the Dinner
This year’s dinner has already been mired in controversy, even before Trump’s official announcement to skip the event. Amber Ruffin, a comedian and political commentator, was originally slated to headline the WHCD but was removed after she pledged to mimic the performance of Michelle Wolf, the comedian who made headlines at the 2018 event for her sharp and often controversial humor targeting the Trump administration.

Ruffin has long been known for her far-left political activism, and her removal from the WHCD headliner slot only deepened the divide between Trump supporters and the media. In 2020, after the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, Ruffin delivered a monologue in which she condemned the acquittal of Rittenhouse and accused the jury and the judge of being “racist.” She is also known for her outspoken criticism of conservative politicians and policies, making her an ideal fit for those who view the WHCD as a place for left-wing figures to vent their frustrations against the Trump administration.

However, her decision to publicly call the U.S. government “a bunch of murderers” raised concerns among Trump supporters and led to her removal from the event. Critics argued that her statements were not only politically biased but also dangerously inflammatory. The idea that a comedian could use the platform of the WHCD to call the government “murderers” was met with strong opposition from those who viewed it as a violation of the spirit of the dinner—meant to foster humor, not incite violence.

Trump’s supporters seized on this controversy, accusing the WHCA of allowing hate speech to take center stage. A Trump Administration official made a pointed remark in a social media post, questioning, “What kind of responsible, sensible journalist would attend something like this?” The comments reflected the growing tension between Trump’s camp and the media, with Trump and his allies increasingly accusing journalists of fueling division and inciting violence through their political commentary.

Karoline Leavitt’s Role in Shaping White House Press Strategy
As President Trump continues to battle with the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) and the media, the White House itself is also playing a more active role in shaping the media landscape. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has made waves by announcing in February that the Trump administration would take control of the pool reporter rotation. This move gives the administration the authority to select which reporters will have access to Trump’s trips and cover White House events that are subject to pooling.

The pool reporter rotation is a longstanding practice that allows journalists from various news outlets to take turns reporting on White House events and activities. Traditionally, the WHCA oversees the pool rotation, but under Leavitt’s direction, the White House has taken matters into its own hands. The decision has raised eyebrows among reporters and members of the press, especially considering the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and the press corps. By taking over this process, the White House is asserting greater control over the flow of information and access to the president, further escalating the already high-stakes battle between Trump’s administration and the media.

Leavitt’s decision also reflects the administration’s belief that it should have more direct control over the narrative surrounding its activities. This move has sparked concern among journalists who fear that limiting access to the White House or selectively choosing reporters could hinder transparency and prevent a diversity of voices from being heard. However, Trump and his team argue that the media has been inherently biased against the administration, prompting the need for such measures to ensure fair and balanced coverage.

The pool reporter issue also ties into a larger theme of media control and narrative shaping, with Trump’s administration seeking to bypass traditional media channels and engage with the public directly. By asserting control over the pool rotation, the White House is reinforcing the notion that it will no longer allow the press to dictate the flow of information or set the tone for political discourse.

The Barred Associated Press and Media Relations
Another significant development in the ongoing struggle between the Trump administration and the press involves the Associated Press (AP), which was barred from the White House pool after it refused to support Trump’s controversial plan to rename the Gulf of America. The administration’s push to rename the Gulf was seen as an attempt to assert political influence over geographical and cultural naming conventions. When the AP refused to endorse this plan, the White House retaliated by revoking the AP’s access to the pool.

The move to bar the Associated Press—a leading news organization that has long been a staple of the U.S. media landscape—sent shockwaves through the media world. The AP, along with other outlets, has often been critical of Trump and his policies. This move to revoke their pool access was seen as a direct attempt to punish a news outlet that refused to fall in line with the president’s political agenda. For many, this action symbolizes a deeper issue of media control and a growing rift between the Trump administration and major media organizations.

While the White House justified the decision by claiming that it was a necessary measure due to the AP’s lack of support for the Gulf renaming plan, the incident is emblematic of Trump’s ongoing feud with the media. Critics argue that this is a dangerous precedent, as it suggests that the administration is willing to undermine journalistic independence to protect its own interests. In a democracy, free press and media accountability are essential to ensuring transparency and holding those in power accountable.

The situation with the Associated Press raises concerns about press freedom, particularly as it relates to the White House’s increasing ability to control the flow of information. By barring access to key news organizations, the Trump administration has made it clear that it intends to fight back against what it perceives as unfair coverage, even at the cost of limiting access to important information.

The WHCA’s Role in Political Rhetoric and Satirical Humor
Another central issue surrounding the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is its role as a platform for political rhetoric and humor. In recent years, the dinner has evolved into more than just a celebration of the press—it has become a venue for political commentary, often featuring satirical humor directed at the sitting president.

The 2011 White House Correspondents’ Dinner is often cited as a turning point in Trump’s relationship with the media. That year, President Barack Obama delivered a biting monologue in which he mocked Trump, who was in the audience at the time. Obama’s jokes about Trump’s potential candidacy and his birther conspiracy theories were pointed and uncomfortable, and they are believed to have been a significant factor in motivating Trump to run for president in 2016. The 2011 dinner remains a watershed moment in Trump’s political career, marking the point at which he began to embrace the idea of challenging the political establishment.

For many, the dinner’s focus on political satire and mocking humor has contributed to the deepening divide between Trump’s administration and the media. The dinner, which was once an event characterized by friendly ribbing and lighthearted humor, has increasingly been seen as a political battleground where partisan jokes are aimed at undermining the president.

Trump’s boycott of the dinner each year is a direct reflection of this changing dynamic. Instead of attending, he opts to counter-program the event with his own initiative—the “Fake News Awards.” These awards are a means for Trump to call out media outlets and journalists that he believes have been particularly egregious in their coverage of his administration. By highlighting what he considers to be the most significant media hoaxes, Trump creates an alternative platform for engaging with the media while also providing a voice for his supporters who feel alienated by what they perceive to be biased reporting.

The Rise of Republicans as the “Party of the People”
As President Trump continues to refuse the traditional political norms, such as attending the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, his influence over American politics only grows. While many Democrats have criticized Trump for undermining democratic norms, polling data reveals a remarkable shift in American political dynamics, particularly with regards to the Republican Party and its relationship with the American people. According to CNN’s data analyst Harry Enten, recent polling data clearly shows a significant shift: Republicans are increasingly seen as the party that cares most about the needs of average Americans.

During a Friday segment on CNN, Enten pointed out that new poll data shows a tie between Democrats and Republicans when asked which party cares more about people like them. This is a stark departure from previous years when the Democratic Party was seen as the party of the working class, especially in the wake of the 1994 Republican Revolution and the 2010 midterm elections.

“For years, Democrats have consistently led on this question,” Enten explained, “but now, all of a sudden, Republicans have overtaken them.” This shift is a significant moment in the ongoing political realignment of the U.S. electorate, with Republicans increasingly positioning themselves as the party of everyday Americans—a message that Trump has been reinforcing throughout his presidency.

Enten pointed to the trade war and other policies pursued by Trump, which have led many working-class voters—especially those without college degrees—to shift their allegiance from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. This shift has been exacerbated by economic factors, particularly those tied to global supply chain issues, rising inflation, and the cost of living. For many Americans, particularly those in industrial and working-class communities, Republicans have positioned themselves as the party that understands their struggles.

As the Republican Party makes inroads with these voters, it further solidifies its place as the “party of the people” in the eyes of many voters. For Trump, this marks a key moment in his broader political strategy: by shifting the Republican Party’s focus to the working class, he has made it a formidable force that can potentially reshape American politics for years to come.

The Decline of the Democratic Party’s Working-Class Base
What’s even more shocking, as Enten notes, is that Democrats—once the undisputed party of the working class—now find themselves in a vulnerable position. The party has become increasingly aligned with wealthier, more educated voters, especially those with college degrees. The shift in party allegiance is especially evident in urban centers, where educated, liberal voters have become the backbone of the Democratic coalition.

Enten’s data reveals a stark contrast to previous years when Democrats held a commanding lead on issues of economic justice and care for the working class. “In 2017, before the 2018 midterms, Democrats had a 13-point advantage,” he said, “and in 2005, that lead was 23 points. But now? We see a tie. A tie in a question that has historically been overwhelmingly in favor of the Democrats.”

This decline of the Democratic Party’s working-class base comes at a time when the party is still trying to address key issues like healthcare reform, climate change, and immigration. However, the party’s focus on issues that disproportionately affect college-educated professionals—such as climate policy and social justice—has alienated many working-class voters who feel that their economic struggles are being ignored.

The consequences of this shift have been profound. The 2016 election was a watershed moment for the Democratic Party, as Trump’s populist appeal resonated with working-class voters in key battleground states. Since then, the Republican Party has made significant strides in reclaiming the working-class vote, effectively repositioning itself as the party that represents the needs of the American middle and working classes.

For the Democratic Party, the growing disconnect with blue-collar voters poses a serious challenge heading into the 2024 election. As Trump and Republicans continue to appeal to this demographic, Democrats will need to reconsider their strategies in order to regain the trust of the voters they once championed.

Trump’s Unyielding Influence on Republican Politics
Trump’s influence on the Republican Party has not just been about winning elections; it’s also been about reshaping the party’s very identity. Under his leadership, the Republican Party has become more populist, more anti-establishment, and more aligned with working-class issues. In many ways, Trump’s rhetoric has been crucial in this transformation. By championing the needs of everyday Americans and challenging the political elite, Trump has helped redefine what it means to be a Republican.

One of Trump’s most enduring political legacies is his ability to effectively tap into the frustrations of Americans who feel ignored by the political establishment. His message, which has always been focused on “draining the swamp” and confronting the Washington elite, resonated with voters who felt left behind by globalization, economic stagnation, and social change. By framing himself as the outsider who would take on the system, Trump attracted millions of working-class voters who were previously loyal to the Democratic Party.

This populist shift within the Republican Party is not just about economic policy. It’s also about cultural issues, where Trump has become a fierce advocate for traditional American values, a stance that resonates strongly with middle-class voters in rural and suburban areas. Issues such as immigration, national security, and economic nationalism have been key drivers of Trump’s political platform, and they have resonated deeply with the base of the Republican Party.

A Changing Political Landscape
Trump’s rise has altered the political landscape in ways that are still being felt today. Republicans, who once prided themselves on being the party of fiscal responsibility and free-market capitalism, have increasingly embraced populist policies that challenge the traditional conservative order. On issues like trade, labor, and immigration, Trump’s leadership has reshaped the Republican Party into a movement that is both populist and conservative, but with a distinct emphasis on economic nationalism.

The ongoing divide between Republicans and Democrats is also reflected in how the two parties approach issues of class and economics. The growing shift in favor of Republicans among working-class voters, particularly in traditionally blue-collar regions, marks a major shift in American politics. Democrats, on the other hand, continue to struggle with retaining their grip on this crucial demographic.

As we approach the 2024 presidential election, the question remains whether Democrats will be able to reclaim their status as the party of the working class, or if Republicans, under the leadership of figures like Trump, will solidify their dominance over this key voter bloc.

Conclusion: Trump’s Legacy and the Future of American Politics
President Trump’s decision to continue his boycott of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is just one small part of his larger political strategy. By rejecting the traditional political norms, engaging in public battles with the media, and championing the issues that matter most to working-class Americans, Trump has reshaped the Republican Party and positioned it as the party of the people.

As polling data shows, the shift in political allegiance from Democrats to Republicans, particularly among working-class voters, is no longer a fringe development—it’s a mainstream trend. With his influence over the Republican Party stronger than ever, Trump continues to drive political discourse, setting the stage for what will surely be a highly contentious 2024 election cycle.

For Democrats, the path forward is clear: they must find a way to reconnect with the working class or risk losing their place as the dominant force in American politics. The question is whether they will be able to recapture their lost base or if Republicans will continue to dominate this crucial voting bloc, thanks to Trump’s populist agenda.

As the political landscape continues to shift, the implications of Trump’s influence on both the Republican Party and the broader American electorate will be felt for years to come.

After uncovering $382 million in fraudulent unemployment payments since 2020, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) identified California, New York, and Massachusetts — all of them run by Democrat supermajorities — as the main sources of improper disbursements.

DOGE officials said that the three deep blue states were responsible for $305 million of the misdirected funds, Fox News reported.

Additionally, DOGE noted that California alone accounted for 68% of the benefits distributed under former President Joe Biden to parolees flagged by federal authorities as being on the government’s terrorist watchlist or as having criminal records.

California, New York, and Massachusetts all feature a Democratic trifecta—Democrats control the state House, Senate, and governorship. Additionally, these states enjoy a Democratic triplex, with party control of the Attorney General, Secretary of State, and governorship, Fox added.

“There’s a reason for the mass exodus from Democrat-run states that have mismanaged their economies and driven residents to the nearest Republican-led state,” White House spokesperson Harrison Fields told Fox News Digital. “High taxes, poor stewardship of taxpayer dollars and progressive policies continue to yield negative results, which is why Americans overwhelmingly support the work of DOGE.”

Earlier this week, DOGE revealed that since 2020, hundreds of millions of dollars in fraudulent unemployment benefits were issued to tens of thousands of individuals with clearly invalid birth records—some listed as over 115 years old, others between the ages of 1 and 5, and even some with birthdates set in the future.

“This is another incredible discovery by the DOGE team, finding nearly $400 million in fraudulent unemployment payments. The Labor Department is committed to recovering Americans’ stolen tax dollars. We will catch these thieves and keep working to root out egregious fraud,” Labor Department Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said, per Fox.

Additionally, DOGE reported this week that under the Biden administration, it became “routine” to admit immigrants with minimal screening. As a result, more than 6,000 individuals with either criminal records or flags on the FBI’s terror watchlist were allowed to enter the country.

Furthermore, DOGE found that hundreds of these individuals were able to access public benefits, including roughly $42,000 through the federal unemployment insurance program. They also received funds from federal student loan programs, food assistance programs, and IRS tax refunds, the outlet’s report noted further.

The Trump administration ended parole for individuals with criminal records or those on the FBI’s terror watchlist.

Meanwhile, Musk announced during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday the projected savings that the DOGE team is expected to deliver next year for U.S. taxpayers by reducing government waste.

Speaking in the West Wing’s Cabinet Room before the president’s top officials, Musk stated that DOGE is on track to save $150 billion in fiscal year 2026.

“Thanks to your fantastic leadership, this amazing Cabinet and the very talented DOGE team, I’m excited to announce that we anticipate savings in FY 26 from reduction of waste and fraud by $150 billion,” Musk said, as DailyMail.com reported.

He went on to note that several government programs his DOGE team has discovered are “absurd” and “crazy.”

“Like people getting unemployment insurance who haven’t been born yet,” he said.

Despite the staggering amount projected to be saved next fiscal year, the estimate falls well short of the group’s original target for cutting federal payroll expenses.

Musk initially aimed to eliminate $2 trillion in waste, fraud, and abuse. He later revised that figure, describing it as a “best-case outcome” and said his realistic goal is closer to $1 trillion—still significantly higher than current projections.

Still, saving the U.S. $150 billion in just a few months is a remarkable achievement—one that every American stands to benefit from through the individual savings it generates.

According to the DOGE website, the initiative has already saved each taxpayer $931.