Le Journal

Minnesota Church Protest Sparks Federal Arrests In a controversial move, federal agents have arrested three individuals in Minnesota who participated in a demonstration against a pastor with alleged ties to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protesters, including noted civil rights activists Nekima Levy Armstrong and Chauntyll Louisa Allen, as well as army veteran William Kelly, were detained for interrupting a church service.The protestors allege the pastor's leadership role with ICE contradicts Christian values, sparking a legal battle involving federal laws against obstructing houses of worship. The U.S. attorney general defended the arrests, citing potential violations of religious freedoms, while critics argue it's an overreach of power.This incident has also brought into question the role of journalists like former CNN anchor Don Lemon, who livestreamed the event. As legal proceedings unfold, the debate over free speech, public demonstration, and religious rights continues to escalate.

Defiance and Futurum Launch Retail Kings ETF Targeting Self-Directed Investors Defiance ETFs and Futurum Equities have introduced the Deification Retail Kings ETF, a fund tailored for self-directed retail investors eager to explore high-growth and high-momentum stocks. The ETF will manage a portfolio of 30 to 50 stocks, steering clear of volatile meme stocks, and focusing on dependable companies.Among the initial holdings are technology firms like Micron and Palantir Technologies, alongside emerging players such as Oklo, noted for its innovative nuclear reactors. This strategic choice aims to captivate a new generation of investors attuned to long-term growth and technological advancement.The emergence and influence of retail investors are evident, as highlighted by recent market behaviors. According to JPMorgan Chase analysts, retail investors significantly boosted their stock market participation, injecting $12.9 billion into U.S. stocks in just one week, underlining their growing role and interest in the market dynamics.

House Passes Controversial DHS Funding in a Bid to Avert Shutdown The U.S. House of Representatives took a significant step on Thursday by passing fiscal 2026 funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), despite strong opposition from Democrats. At the heart of the controversy is President Donald Trump's deployment of masked federal agents to cities as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration.Faced with a looming January 30 deadline to pass 12 comprehensive spending bills, Congress is working to prevent a second government shutdown in four months. The House's approval of the $64.4 billion DHS bill also includes funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Coast Guard, highlighting bipartisan cooperation despite significant pushback.Debate continues over the roles and responsibilities of ICE under the new funding. Some Democrats argue that the bill lacks necessary safeguards against excesses by ICE agents, while Republicans emphasize the importance of enforcing immigration laws. As the legislation moves to the Senate, it remains a pivotal moment in federal budget negotiations.

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