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USDA Seeks to Rehire Officials Accidentally Fired Amid Bird Flu Response

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USDA Seeks to Rehire Officials Accidentally Fired Amid Bird Flu Response

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working to rehire several agency employees mistakenly terminated over the weekend while assisting in the federal response to the H5N1 avian flu outbreak, an agency spokesperson confirmed Tuesday.

The USDA stated that several positions supporting bird flu containment efforts were inadvertently included in recent layoffs. The department is now reversing those terminations to maintain critical food safety operations and ensure an adequate food supply, the spokesperson said.

The layoffs were part of broader workforce reductions under the Trump administration, which has implemented sweeping cuts to federal agencies. Despite these reductions, USDA leadership assured that public safety positions, including those in the Food Safety and Inspection Service, remain a priority.

“Although several employees working on bird flu response efforts were notified of their terminations, we are actively working to rectify the situation and rescind those letters,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

The Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce the federal workforce have led to widespread terminations. These cuts, spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and tech billionaire Elon Musk, aim to streamline government operations. However, critics argue that abrupt layoffs could disrupt essential public health initiatives.

On Friday, the administration also sought to reinstate nuclear safety employees terminated the previous week but faced challenges contacting them due to missing updated information.

The layoffs coincide with a worsening avian flu outbreak, which has significantly impacted poultry farms nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 68 human cases in the U.S., while USDA data indicates 151 affected flocks, totaling 23 million birds.

Egg prices have surged amid the outbreak, prompting concerns from lawmakers and industry experts. Keith Poulsen, director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, warned that the termination of key USDA staff from the National Animal Health Laboratory Network could undermine efforts to control the virus.

The House Agriculture Committee, led by Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.), has raised concerns about the layoffs’ impact on bird flu containment efforts. Some Republican lawmakers privately urged the Trump administration to reconsider, fearing the cuts could slow the federal response.

“They need to be more cautious,” said Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), a committee member. “There’s an old saying: ‘Measure twice, cut once.’ Well, they are measuring once and having to cut twice. Some of these decisions will have to be reversed.”

Industry experts and lawmakers have also voiced concerns about reductions in programs that assist poultry farmers in minimizing bird populations near airports, which enhance aviation safety.

With Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins now confirmed, lawmakers and federal agencies await further clarification on the administration’s approach to USDA staffing and funding. The extent of additional reductions across the government, including cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants, remains unclear.

The Trump administration has defended the layoffs, citing performance-related reasons in termination letters. However, some of the affected employees had received positive performance reviews, raising questions about the criteria used for job cuts.

Trump Orders Firing of All ‘Biden-Era’ U.S. Attorneys to ‘Restore Confidence’ in DOJ

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Trump Orders Firing of All ‘Biden-Era’ U.S. Attorneys to ‘Restore Confidence’ in DOJ

President Donald Trump has ordered the immediate dismissal of all U.S. attorneys appointed during President Joe Biden’s administration, a sweeping move he says is necessary to “restore confidence” in the Department of Justice. 

Trump announced the decision Tuesday night on Truth Social, calling for an overhaul of the DOJ to eliminate what he described as political bias. 

“Over the past four years, the Department of Justice has been politicized like never before,” Trump wrote. “Therefore, I have instructed the termination of ALL remaining ‘Biden Era’ U.S. Attorneys.” 

The president emphasized the urgency of the move, stating, “We must clean house IMMEDIATELY and restore confidence. America’s Golden Age must have a fair justice system—THAT BEGINS TODAY!” 

Trump’s announcement follows a broader restructuring of the DOJ under newly appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been tasked with restoring public trust in the justice system. The administration argues that the changes are necessary to end what Trump describes as the DOJ’s “weaponization” against American citizens and political opponents. 

Legal experts note that it is customary for U.S. attorneys to step down or be replaced when a new administration takes office, particularly when there is a shift in political control. However, Trump’s directive signals a swift and aggressive approach to reshaping the department. 

Several Biden-appointed U.S. attorneys had already vacated their positions following Trump’s return to the White House last month. 

Tara K. McGrath, who served as the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of California since October 2023, was informed by the White House last week that she had been dismissed. The administration acknowledged her service but provided no further details on her departure. 

Other prosecutors resigned before Trump’s order took effect. The U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, another Biden appointee, stepped down on January 16—just days before Trump was sworn in for his second term. Jill Steinberg, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, left her post on January 17. 

The shake-up at the Justice Department is part of Trump’s broader effort to reshape the federal government. Bondi’s confirmation as attorney general marked the first step in this restructuring. 

This week, the Senate is set to vote on Trump’s nominee for FBI director, Kash Patel, who has pledged sweeping reforms within the nation’s top law enforcement agency. 

Trump’s latest moves underscore his commitment to reorganizing key government institutions, a central theme of his second-term agenda. 

Rihanna Breaks Down in Tears as Jury Acquits A$AP Rocky in Shooting Case

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Rihanna Breaks Down in Tears as Jury Acquits A$AP Rocky in Shooting Case

Rihanna’s longtime partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, was found not guilty on all charges Tuesday as a Los Angeles jury acquitted him in his felony assault trial. 

The 36-year-old Grammy-nominated artist had faced two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm stemming from a 2021 shooting incident. If convicted, he could have faced up to 24 years in prison. 

As the verdict was read in the downtown Los Angeles courtroom, Rihanna was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears before Rocky rushed to embrace her. 

“Thanks y’all for saving my life,” Rocky, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, told the jury of seven women and five men as he left the courtroom, according to the Associated Press. The rapper was also seen emotionally embracing his attorneys following the verdict. 

The jury reached its unanimous decision after about three hours of deliberation, wrapping up the high-profile trial that had captured national attention. 

Before the trial, Rocky had turned down a plea deal from prosecutors that would have required him to plead guilty to one count in exchange for a six-month jail sentence and probation. Confident in his innocence, he opted to take his chances with a jury. 

With two young sons at home with Rihanna—2-year-old RZA Athelston Mayers and 1-year-old Riot Rose Mayers—Rocky’s gamble paid off, as jurors determined there was at least reasonable doubt regarding his guilt. 

Rihanna attended the trial sporadically and was present for some closing arguments, bringing their children along for support. 

With the verdict behind him, Rocky now looks ahead to a pivotal year in his career. 

He is slated to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in March, co-chair fashion’s biggest night at the Met Gala in May, and star alongside Denzel Washington in director Spike Lee’s upcoming film *Highest 2 Lowest*, set for release in early summer. 

Prosecutors alleged that Rocky was involved in a dispute with A$AP Relli, a former high school friend and member of the A$AP Mob. Authorities claimed that during a confrontation on November 6, 2021, in Hollywood, Rocky fired twice, grazing Relli’s knuckle. 

Rocky’s defense attorney, Joe Tacopina, countered the allegations, calling Relli “an angry pathological liar” who had “committed perjury again and again.” 

Defense witnesses claimed Rocky was carrying a prop gun that only fired blanks, which he had taken from a music video set months earlier. They argued that he discharged it as a warning after Relli allegedly attacked another member of their group. 

Jurors were instructed that if they believed Rocky had reason to fear imminent harm and used reasonable force, they could find him not guilty. 

It remains unclear whether the jury believed Rocky was carrying a prop gun or that he acted in self-defense. They were not required to agree on the reasoning, only to reach the same verdict. 

Rocky declined to testify in his own defense. 

During closing arguments, Deputy District Attorney John Lewin urged jurors not to let Rocky’s celebrity status or Rihanna’s presence sway their decision. 

“You are not allowed to consider how this might affect Rihanna and his kids,” Lewin stated, suggesting Rihanna’s presence with their children was an attempt to elicit sympathy. 

Despite the prosecution’s efforts, the jury ruled in Rocky’s favor, clearing him of all charges and allowing him to move forward without the looming threat of prison.

Putin Signals Willingness to Speak with Zelensky Amid Divided Europe and US Peace Talks 

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Putin Signals Willingness to Speak with Zelensky Amid Divided Europe and US Peace Talks 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “if necessary” as diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing war continue. 

The statement comes as US and Russian officials convene in Saudi Arabia for key peace talks, intensifying divisions within Europe. The discussions follow direct negotiations between the United States and Russia, with President Donald Trump engaging both Putin and Zelensky in separate phone calls. 

Trump has urged both Kyiv and Moscow to expedite a peace agreement, raising concerns about the implications for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. 

Putin and Zelensky have not spoken directly since Russia launched its full-scale invasion three years ago. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin is prepared to negotiate if required. 

“Putin himself stated he would be open to discussions with Zelensky if necessary, but the legal framework of such agreements requires review, given the questions surrounding Zelensky’s legitimacy,” Peskov said. 

Moscow has repeatedly challenged Zelensky’s authority, citing his continued leadership beyond his official term, which was set to end in 2024. Ukraine remains under martial law, delaying any potential elections. 

The Kremlin has emphasized that any negotiations must address broader security concerns in Europe. 

“A long-term resolution is not possible without addressing security issues on the continent,” Peskov stated. “While a nation has the right to seek EU membership, military alliances are a separate matter requiring careful consideration.” 

Putin is expected to present a series of demands during potential peace talks with Trump, including territorial concessions and restrictions on Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. Moscow has insisted that regions currently under Russian control remain part of its territory, a stance reinforced by Russian UN representative Vasily Nebenzya, who declared that new borders would be permanent. 

Ukraine’s NATO aspirations have been a major sticking point, with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth indicating that Kyiv’s membership is unlikely. Meanwhile, Zelensky has maintained that joining the alliance is crucial for Ukraine’s security. 

The Kremlin is also seeking relief from economic sanctions imposed by Western nations since the invasion. 

As the US and Russia advance negotiations, European leaders are struggling to find a unified approach. 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for Europe to take an active role, proposing the deployment of peacekeeping forces to Ukraine. 

“The UK will do its part to uphold stability,” Starmer said, urging European allies to back the initiative. 

France and Sweden have voiced support for the concept but have stopped short of committing troops. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed the proposal as “premature and highly inappropriate,” arguing that peace agreements should be determined by Ukraine, not external powers. 

The debate has further exposed divisions within Europe, with Poland, Spain, and Italy joining Germany in expressing skepticism about the deployment of European peacekeepers. 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni acknowledged the importance of discussions but questioned the feasibility of sending troops. “Deploying European soldiers in Ukraine remains the most complex and least effective option,” she stated. 

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to supporting Ukraine through economic and military aid but ruled out sending Polish forces. 

As diplomatic efforts unfold, Ukraine and European nations remain in uncertainty, awaiting further developments from the ongoing negotiations. 

ASAP Rocky Found Not Guilty in Los Angeles Gun Assault Trial 

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ASAP Rocky Found Not Guilty in Los Angeles Gun Assault Trial 

A jury found rapper ASAP Rocky not guilty on two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm in a Los Angeles courtroom on Friday. The verdict follows a three-week trial stemming from a 2021 shooting incident involving his former friend and bandmate, Terell Ephron, known as ASAP Relli. 

Prosecutors alleged that Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, fired a gun at Ephron during a confrontation in Hollywood, an accusation the defense strongly denied. If convicted, Mayers could have faced up to 24 years in prison, though prosecutors had sought an eight-year sentence. 

“This is not a difficult case,” Deputy District Attorney Paul Przelomiec said in his closing argument Thursday. “The question for you to answer in this case boils down to really just one question: Did Mr. Mayers use a real gun or did he use a fake gun? Nothing else is in dispute.” 

The defense argued that Ephron was the aggressor and had physically assaulted Mayers twice on the night of the incident. Attorney Joe Tacopina maintained that Mayers had carried a prop gun for personal safety in the absence of security and fired to deter an attack on a mutual friend. 

Rihanna, Mayers’ longtime partner, was seen arriving at the courthouse with their two children ahead of closing arguments, according to footage obtained by TMZ. 

Mayers pleaded not guilty and opted not to testify in his own defense. He also rejected a pre-trial plea deal that would have resulted in a 180-day jail sentence. 

“I want my right not to testify,” he told Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold last week. 

The trial drew widespread attention due to Mayers’ high-profile status in the music industry and his relationship with Rihanna. With the jury’s decision, the rapper avoids prison time and clears his name in a case that has captivated both the hip-hop community and the public. 

Judge Denies Request to Halt DOGE Firings and Data Access Amid Legal Battle

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Judge Denies Request to Halt DOGE Firings and Data Access Amid Legal Battle

A federal judge on Tuesday rejected an urgent request to temporarily halt mass firings and data access by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, as part of President Donald Trump’s sweeping efforts to reshape the federal workforce. 

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan ruled that the 14 state attorneys general who filed the motion failed to demonstrate immediate and irreparable harm. She noted that while reports of DOGE’s actions were concerning, the court could not base its decision solely on media accounts. 

“Plaintiffs ask the court to take judicial notice of widespread media reports that DOGE has taken or will soon take certain actions, such as mass terminations,” Chutkan wrote. “But these reports cannot substitute for specific facts in an affidavit or a verified complaint that clearly show that immediate and irreparable injury, loss, or damage will result.” 

The attorneys general sought to prevent DOGE from terminating employees or accessing sensitive records from agencies including the Departments of Education, Labor, Health and Human Services, Energy, Transportation, Commerce, and the Office of Personnel Management. Their lawsuit challenges Musk’s authority, arguing that his expansive role violates the Appointments Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which requires principal officers of the government to be confirmed by the Senate. 

During Monday’s hearing, Chutkan expressed skepticism about issuing a broad restraining order without clear evidence of harm. “The things that I’m hearing are concerning indeed and troubling indeed, but I have to have a record, and I have to make a finding on the facts before I issue something,” she said. 

She also questioned government attorneys about the scope of DOGE’s actions, asking whether thousands of employees had already been dismissed. “The firing of thousands of federal employees is not a small or common thing. You haven’t been able to confirm that?” she pressed. 

Chutkan acknowledged the difficulty in proving immediate harm due to DOGE’s “unpredictable and scattershot” approach but criticized the lack of congressional oversight. “This is essentially a private citizen directing an organization that’s not a federal agency to have access to the entire workings of the federal government—fire, hire, slash, contract, terminate programs—all without apparently any congressional oversight.” 

The lawsuit is one of at least 73 legal challenges filed against Trump’s executive actions in his first month back in office. Courts have already issued temporary restraining orders blocking DOGE from accessing Treasury Department data, dismantling public health databases, implementing a 90-day foreign aid freeze, and cutting funding for gender-affirming medical care. 

Despite setbacks, Trump and his allies, including Musk and Vice President JD Vance, have begun pushing back against the courts. Over the weekend, Trump wrote on social media, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law.” 

The administration has appealed to the Supreme Court, arguing that judicial rulings are obstructing Trump’s ability to manage the executive branch. “The district court’s order exemplifies a broader, weeks-long trend in which plaintiffs challenging President Trump’s initiatives have persuaded district courts to issue TROs that intrude upon a host of the President’s Article II powers,” Solicitor General Sarah Harris wrote. 

With at least eight court hearings scheduled this week, the legal battles over Trump’s executive actions and DOGE’s authority are far from over. 

Family of DC Plane Crash Victim Files $250 Million Claim Against U.S. Government

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Family of DC Plane Crash Victim Files $250 Million Claim Against U.S. Government

The family of Casey Crafton, one of the 67 victims of last month’s deadly plane crash near Washington, D.C., has filed a $250 million claim against the U.S. government, alleging negligence by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Army. 

Crafton, 40, of Salem, Connecticut, was aboard an American Airlines flight from Wichita, Kansas, when it collided midair with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29. The crash killed all 64 passengers and crew members on the commercial jet, as well as three military personnel aboard the helicopter. 

Filed by Chicago-based Clifford Law Offices, the claim is the first step under the Federal Tort Claims Act, which allows lawsuits against the government for wrongful death, personal injury, or property loss. The family seeks $50 million for personal injury and $200 million for wrongful death. 

“Casey was an incredible human being, a devoted husband, and a loving father,” said attorney Robert Clifford. “His children will grieve him for the rest of their lives.” 

The collision occurred as the American Airlines jet was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The Black Hawk, on a routine training mission, was reportedly flying above its maximum altitude when the two aircraft plummeted into the icy waters of the Potomac River. The crash marked the first fatal U.S. commercial airline disaster since 2009. 

The government has six months to respond to the claim. If denied or unanswered, the family can proceed with a federal lawsuit. 

Clifford also sent legal notices to American Airlines and other aviation-related entities demanding they preserve all evidence for a potential lawsuit. He pointed to longstanding concerns about air traffic congestion near Reagan National, where military and commercial aircraft frequently share airspace. 

“There have been known issues with congestion at that airport,” Clifford said. “It’s our intention to seek full transparency from all involved parties regarding the cause of this crash.” 

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues to investigate the incident, with preliminary findings expected within 30 days of the crash. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has cited potential missed radio communications and unauthorized altitude as possible contributing factors. The final report could take up to two years. 

“I don’t know what caused this crash yet,” Clifford added. “But I do know this: the 67 souls lost didn’t cause it, and their families didn’t deserve it.” 

The D.C. tragedy was the first in a series of recent aviation disasters, including a Medevac jet crash in Philadelphia that killed seven, an Alaska commuter plane accident that left 10 dead, and a Delta regional jet incident in Toronto that injured 18. 

Hamas Claims Death of Youngest Israeli Hostages and Their Mother, Leaving Bibas Family in Mourning

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Hamas Claims Death of Youngest Israeli Hostages and Their Mother, Leaving Bibas Family in Mourning

The family of an Israeli mother and her two young sons taken hostage by Hamas on October 7 is in turmoil after the terror group announced their deaths and said their bodies would be returned to Israel. 

Shiri Bibas, 33, and her sons, Ariel, 5, and Kfir, 2, were abducted from their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during Hamas’ attack on southern Israel. Their father, Yarden Bibas, 35, was also taken after being brutally assaulted. 

Hamas had previously claimed that the mother and children were killed in an Israeli airstrike, but without evidence, their family held onto hope. That hope was shattered when the group announced the deaths ahead of a planned hostage exchange. 

The Bibas family issued a statement following the claim, saying they remain in turmoil and will not give up until they receive definitive confirmation. 

Yarden Bibas was freed on February 1 after spending 484 days in captivity in Gaza’s tunnel system, having been separated from his family shortly after their abduction. 

In the months following their disappearance, no proof of life was provided for Shiri or her children. The family continued to campaign for their release, desperate for any sign of survival. 

The last known messages from the family were sent on October 7 as they sheltered in their home, updating relatives by text as Hamas gunmen stormed neighboring houses. At 9:43 a.m., Yarden sent his sister, Ofri Bibas Levy, a final message: “They’re coming in.” 

Shortly afterward, video footage surfaced showing Shiri clutching her terrified sons as armed militants led them away. Another clip showed Yarden, blood streaming down his face after being struck with a hammer, as he was dragged into Gaza. 

For months, the Bibas family endured unimaginable anguish, questioning whether Shiri and the boys were alive, being tortured, or had access to food and water. 

“We live every day with a constant feeling of fear – and uncertainty. It’s the not knowing that’s the worst,” Ofri told The Sun on the anniversary of the attack. 

Despite Hamas’ claims, the family vowed to keep fighting for their loved ones, refusing to accept their deaths without verification. However, it was later confirmed that Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir were among the dead. 

Russia Denies Three-Point Ukraine Peace Plan, Warns Against Western Peacekeeping Troops

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Russia Denies Three-Point Ukraine Peace Plan, Warns Against Western Peacekeeping Troops

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov denied the existence of a three-point peace plan for Ukraine and warned against the deployment of Western troops, calling it a direct threat to Russia’s sovereignty. 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaks at a news conference at the United Nations headquarters
on April 25, 2023, in New York City, U.S. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Speaking on Feb. 18 following U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, Lavrov said Moscow had not seen any formal proposal for a peace deal. The reported plan, which allegedly includes a ceasefire, Ukrainian elections, and a final peace agreement, was first disclosed by Fox News Senior White House Correspondent Jacqui Heinrich. 

“I have not seen this information, I have not seen these reports,” Lavrov stated at a press conference. 

Lavrov also issued a warning regarding any potential deployment of NATO military personnel in Ukraine under a future agreement, emphasizing that even if Western forces operated under EU or national flags, Moscow would consider it a provocation. 

“The absorption of Ukraine by the North Atlantic Alliance is a direct threat to the interests of the Russian Federation, a direct threat to our sovereignty,” Lavrov said. 

Kyiv has emphasized that strong security guarantees must be included in any peace agreement. The possibility of an international peacekeeping force in Ukraine remains under discussion. 

Lavrov also escalated rhetoric against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling for him and his administration to be “calmed down” after a reported Ukrainian drone strike on a pumping station in Russia’s Kuban region. 

“This should only strengthen everyone in the opinion that this can’t go on, that this man and his entire team should be calmed down, given a slap on the wrist,” Lavrov stated. 

The Saudi Arabia talks marked the first direct negotiations between the U.S. and Russia since the full-scale invasion began. Lavrov led the Russian delegation, which met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other American officials. 

Following the talks, Zelensky announced on Feb. 18 that he postponed his planned visit to Saudi Arabia. He reiterated that Ukraine must be involved in any decisions regarding its future. 

Man Arrested for Kidnapping Daughter, Killing Three in South Florida

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Man Arrested for Kidnapping Daughter, Killing Three in South Florida

A 4-year-old girl was found safe after her father allegedly shot and killed her mother, grandfather, and another man at two neighboring homes in South Florida. 

Nathan Gingles, 43, was arrested Sunday and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, along with additional charges related to the incident, according to Broward County arrest records. 

Police identified the victims as Mary Gingles, 34, the mother of the child; David Ponzer, 64, Mary Gingles’ father; and Andrew Ferrin, 36, whose relationship to the victims was not specified. 

Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at two homes in Tamarac, Florida, about 40 miles northwest of Miami. Ponzer was found dead at the first location, where emergency medical services initially responded to gunshot reports. Mary Gingles and Ferrin were later discovered dead inside the home next door. 

An Amber Alert was issued after the shootings, as police believed Gingles had taken his daughter. Law enforcement located the suspect’s vehicle at a shopping center four miles from the crime scene and took him into custody. The child was found unharmed. 

Gingles faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, violation of a domestic violence injunction, interference with custody, kidnapping, child abuse, armed burglary, and child neglect. He is being held at the Broward County Main Jail on a $2,500 bond. 

Investigators recovered a firearm from a nearby canal, which they believe was used in the shootings. 

Court records indicate that on December 30, 2024, Mary Gingles filed a petition to extend a restraining order against Nathan Gingles. A court hearing on the matter was scheduled for March 19. 

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