Rep. Andy Harris, Maryland’s sole Republican congressman, is calling for the end to an offshore windmill project that would industrialize the state’s scenic Eastern Shore, a conservative region that depends on tourism and fisheries. Harris has long railed against the project, having represented the 1st Congressional District since 2011. He told The Daily Signal that he thinks the windmills could damage the Eastern Shore’s appeal as both a beach seascape and a commercial fishing hotbed. “The leading opponent is Ocean City, Maryland,” Harris said. “Because they feel they will lose attraction to tourists with these huge windmills easily visible from the beach.” He added, “But it goes beyond that. The commercial fisheries are very worried about it for two reasons. One is, it obviously disturbs a lot of the bottom and affects the ability to commercially fish. And the other one is, they probably have an impact on search-and-rescue radar by the Coast Guard. So, it actually makes it a little more hazardous.” Harris has seen the project slowly advance with each Democrat administration, but especially under former President Joe Biden, whose 2022 Inflation Reduction Act introduced sweeping subsidies for green energy. “The [Barack] Obama administration started it with leasing large offshore areas for wind development,” he said.  In 2014, during Obama’s presidency, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management leased 80,000 acres of ocean for U.S. Wind to construct wind turbines off the coast of Ocean City, Maryland, a major tourism hub. “It settled down a little bit during the first Trump administration, but then in the … Biden administration, with the Inflation Reduction Act, these projects took off because now they were very lucrative for the developers, and you had an administration that was willing to fast-track permit approvals without doing their due diligence.” Ocean City, Maryland (Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images) As for the energy benefits of the project, Harris thinks it’s all bunk. “It makes no sense to produce energy with offshore wind because it’s the most expensive source of energy of all the conventional sources,” he said. “It’s politically correct to do it. You know, it makes the climate alarmists feel better, but it is actually terrible national policy.” But now, Harris welcomes developments that could put an end to the windmills project.  On Monday, shortly after passage of the “big, beautiful” budget reconciliation bill, which undid much of the Inflation Reduction Act, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to cancel Biden-era green energy incentives. The fiscal hawk House Freedom Caucus, the conservative Republican faction that Harris chairs, pushed for those changes throughout the budget reconciliation process. “The bottom line is if you remove federal taxpayer-subsidized credits, these projects make no financial sense whatsoever,” Harris told The Daily Signal.  “I think the president’s executive order is the first step toward putting a stake in the heart of these projects. And I should add—a well-deserved stake in the heart,” he added. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images) Trump’s executive order followed last-minute talks with Freedom Caucus members who were concerned about the implementation of the big, beautiful bill’s subsidy cancellations. “We certainly expressed our concerns with the bill as it came back from the Senate,” Harris said. “The discussion included whether or not mitigation could occur through executive action. And it does appear that, in fact, mitigation will occur through executive action.” Another blow was dealt to the windmills project on July 3, when a U.S. district judge allowed for a lawsuit against the federal government’s approval of the project to proceed. The lawsuit was filed by the town of Ocean City, as well as groups representing fishing and business interests along the Delmarva Peninsula. “The whole basis of that lawsuit is that the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management really didn’t do their due diligence in approving these projects because there are so many interactions with commercial fisheries, with navigation, with potential defense conflict, marine mammal effects. I mean, the list goes on and on,” Harris said. In a statement, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan applauded the judge’s decision. “As we have stated for over eight years, this project threatens to devastate our tourism industry, commercial and recreational fishing sectors, and poses risks to national defense,” he said. “It could lead to the deaths of hundreds of marine mammals, including the endangered North Atlantic right whale—all so that an Italian company can receive subsidies from the State of Maryland to produce unreliable and expensive electricity.” The post Maryland GOP Congressman Fighting Offshore Windmills Sees Victory on Horizon appeared first on The Daily Signal.

DAILY CALLER NEWS FOUNDATION—The U.S. Agency for International Development shipped thousands of viral samples to a lab in Wuhan, China, over the course of a 10-year program, even though it had no formal agreement with the lab in place, according to previously unreported documents. The documents show that USAID funded the exportation of 11,000 samples from Yunnan Province, where some of the closest relatives of the COVID-19 virus circulate, to Wuhan, the epicenter of the pandemic, with no apparent plan for ensuring the samples were not misdirected to bioweapons and remained accessible to the U.S. government. A $210 million USAID public health program called PREDICT, steered by the University of California, Davis, collected viral samples in countries throughout the globe but lacked long-term storage when funding dried up, according to rudimentary plans in 2019. USAID’s sample dispensation plan for China is sparse: “No need [sic] information from Yunnan. They were never an official lab partner for PREDICT. All samples they helped collected [sic] are sent to, tested, and stored in Wuhan.” The “lab” refers to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The institute was a close partner of USAID contractor EcoHealth Alliance and a slated partner for a PREDICT-like program supported by the State Department. The lab has poor biosafety practices and ties to the People’s Liberation Army.  One of the closest known relatives of the COVID-19 virus is among the viruses sampled with USAID funding. “Investigations involving USAID’s former funding of global health awards remain active and ongoing,” a senior State Department official said in a statement to the Daily Caller News Foundation. “The American people can rest assured knowing that under the Trump administration, we will not be funding these controversial programs.” The internal documents were obtained through a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit brought by U.S. Right to Know, a nonprofit newsroom and public health research group. The shuttering of USAID—which was officially completed Tuesday—has ignited a debate about its net impact on global health. A study in The Lancet projected an association between a drop-off in USAID funding and 14 million deaths, based on an epidemiological model. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement Tuesday that USAID spending has often undermined rather than strengthened American interests. “Beyond creating a globe-spanning NGO [nongovernmental organization]-industrial complex at taxpayer expense, USAID has little to show since the end of the Cold War,” Rubio said. “Development objectives have rarely been met, instability has often worsened, and anti-American sentiment has only grown.” The now-defunct agency’s connection to the Wuhan lab complicates its global health legacy. “The USAID $210 million contract for PREDICT should have included contractual terms that required all samples, or at least copies of all samples, be transferred to and stored by a U.S. government facility,” Rutgers University molecular biologist Richard Ebright told the Daily Caller News Foundation. “The PREDICT grift did none of this.” UC Davis did not respond to a request for comment. The State Department did not respond to a request for comment. Today marks the first day of the State Department's America First foreign assistance rebranding initiative, led by @SecRubio.Consistent branding will ensure contributions made by the the United States will be immediately recognized as American."The redesign is very simple,… pic.twitter.com/HZnbOxU0Sq— Department of State (@StateDept) July 2, 2025 Did USAID Fund COVID-19’s Ancestor? Many of the viruses stored at the lab in Wuhan may have been sampled with U.S. funding yet remain out of reach for U.S. government entities investigating the origins of COVID-19. The samples were set to be preserved for testing—with human samples preserved for 10 years—the documents show. But the documents suggest that requirement was never incorporated into a formal contract with USAID. The two scientists supervising the samples were Ben Hu, a virologist at the Wuhan Institute of Virology who reportedly became sick with COVID-like symptoms in 2019; and Peter Daszak, a scientist who was debarred from federal funding after the U.S. government deemed him a threat to public safety for inadequate oversight of the research in Wuhan. Hu and Daszak did not reply to requests for comment. The documents show PREDICT contractors discussing viral samples taken from wildlife and stored in India, Liberia, Malaysia, the Republic of Congo, and China. Some of the samples were stored in virus-transport media, which allows researchers to store live viruses for later use in the lab. “It’s not rocket science to require a contract and supporting paperwork which establishes a relationship, testing protocol, and chain of custody when one is sending out lab samples,” said Reuben Guttman, a partner at Guttman, Buschner, & Brooks PLLC who specializes in ensuring the integrity of government programs, in an interview with the Daily Caller News Foundation. “In any scientific endeavor, you need confidence in your results. That requires paperwork to prove your methodology is sound.” This article originally appeared at the Daily Caller News Foundation. The post USAID Quietly Sent Thousands of Viruses to Chinese Military-Linked Biolab appeared first on The Daily Signal.

At DogingtonPost, we often receive questions about where to adopt dogs that failed police training. These canine candidates, despite not making the cut for law enforcement, still possess incredible potential as family pets. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you understand these special dogs and navigate the adoption process. From the reasons behind their career change to the organizations that rehome them, we’ll cover everything you need to know about welcoming a former police dog trainee into your home. Why Some Dogs Don’t Make the Cut in Police Training The High Bar for Police Dogs Police dogs represent the elite of canine service animals. These dogs must meet exceptionally high standards to qualify for law enforcement work. Research has found that male dogs performed better throughout every aspect of the testing process and had higher success rates than female dogs in police training programs. This low success rate doesn’t indicate that the dogs are “bad” – they simply don’t meet the specific criteria needed for police work. Common Disqualifying Factors Several factors can lead to a dog’s disqualification from police training: Health Issues Physical health problems often prevent dogs from completing training. Hip dysplasia or allergies can make it impossible for dogs to handle the physical demands of police work. Eye problems may also disqualify a dog from service. Behavioral Challenges Some dogs lack the necessary drive or focus for police work. Others might be too friendly or easily distracted, traits that could compromise their effectiveness in high-stress situations. The National Police Canine Association notes that excessive barking or aggression towards handlers are also common reasons for failure. Popular Breeds in Law Enforcement German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Dutch Shepherds are the most common breeds used in police work due to their intelligence, strength, and trainability. However, Labrador Retrievers and Bloodhounds often find roles in drug detection and search and rescue operations, thanks to their exceptional scenting abilities. Interestingly, some police departments now turn to rescue Pit Bulls for police work. However, it’s important to note that there have been controversies surrounding this practice. In 2018, a trainer who promoted pit bulls for police work was indicted for fraud. Characteristics of Failed Police Dog Trainees Failed police dog trainees often possess many positive traits that make them excellent pets: Well-socialized Responsive to commands Strong work ethic High intelligence Energetic nature These dogs typically require owners who can provide ample mental and physical stimulation. However, potential adopters should prepare for some challenges. These dogs may have high prey drives or require additional training to adapt to home life. The transition from a working environment to a family setting can take time and patience. As we explore the next steps for these remarkable animals, let’s look at the organizations that specialize in rehoming failed police dogs and how you can potentially adopt one of these special canines. Where to Find Failed Police Dog Trainees for Adoption Law Enforcement Agencies with Adoption Programs Many police departments across the United States offer adoption programs for dogs that don’t complete training. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Canine Adoption Program stands out as one of the most well-known. They offer dogs that didn’t meet the criteria for government work. These dogs typically have high energy levels and may need additional training. To adopt from the TSA program, you must have a fenced-in yard and commit to staying in your current residence for at least six months after adoption. The process involves contacting the TSA adoption coordinator and filling out an application. Specialized Working Dog Rescue Organizations Several non-profit organizations focus on rehoming retired and failed working dogs. Mission K9 Rescue exemplifies this, placing Contract Working Dogs (CWDs) and occasionally retired police and military dogs. These organizations often have strict requirements. For example, they typically prefer adopters with experience handling working breeds. They also require a fenced yard or safe exercise area. General Animal Shelters and Rescues While less common, some failed police dog trainees end up in general animal shelters or breed-specific rescues. These dogs might not immediately stand out as former police trainees, so ask shelter staff about the backgrounds of dogs that interest you. Adopting from a shelter often involves lower fees and a quicker process compared to specialized programs. However, you might receive less information about the dog’s training history and specific needs. Considerations for Potential Adopters When you consider adoption, keep in mind that these dogs (regardless of their source) will likely need an active lifestyle and ongoing training. They’re intelligent, energetic animals that thrive with mental and physical stimulation. Prepare to invest time and effort into helping your new companion adjust to family life. As you explore these adoption options, it’s important to understand the adoption process and requirements. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when you decide to bring a failed police dog trainee into your home. How to Adopt a Failed Police Dog Trainee Application and Initial Screening The adoption process for a failed police dog trainee starts with an application. Organizations ask detailed questions about your living situation, dog experience, and lifestyle. You must provide information about your home, yard, and family members. Some programs (like the TSA Canine Adoption Program) require a fenced yard and a commitment to stay in your current residence for at least six months after adoption. After you submit your application, the organization conducts an initial screening. This often includes a phone interview to discuss your expectations and the dog’s needs. They want to ensure you understand the unique challenges and rewards of adopting a dog with specialized training. Home Visits and Background Checks If you pass the initial screening, many organizations conduct a home visit. They assess your living environment to ensure it suits the dog. They check for potential hazards and verify that you have adequate space for an active, intelligent dog. Background checks are common. The organization may contact your veterinarian if you have other pets, and they might ask for personal references. Some agencies even require a criminal background check, given the dogs’ law enforcement background. Adoption Fees and Associated Costs Laws at the Federal level and most states now allow Military / Police K9’s to be placed with their Handlers upon retirement for free. However, adoption fees for failed police dog trainees may vary depending on the organization. The adoption fee is just the beginning. Failed police dog trainees often have high energy levels and may require additional training. You should budget for ongoing costs such as high-quality food, regular veterinary care, and potentially professional training sessions. Some dog owners report spending around $1500 a year for grooming, $1200 a year for food, and $800 a year for basic vet visits. Post-Adoption Support and Training Many organizations offer post-adoption support to help your new dog adjust to family life. This can include training resources, behavior consultations, and sometimes even a trial period to ensure the match succeeds. These dogs often benefit from continued training and mental stimulation due to their specialized background. You should consider obedience classes or activities like agility or scent work to keep your new companion mentally and physically stimulated. Adopting a failed police dog trainee requires a significant commitment. These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and often have strong working drives. They require owners who can provide structure, exercise, and ongoing training. Final Thoughts Adopting a dog that failed police training provides a unique chance to welcome an exceptional canine companion into your home. These dogs possess remarkable qualities, including intelligence, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. They often excel as family pets with the right care and attention, despite not meeting the rigorous standards for law enforcement work. Dogs that didn’t make the cut for police work typically require more mental and physical stimulation than the average pet. Providing ample exercise, ongoing training, and engaging activities will help your new companion thrive in a family setting. The commitment to meeting their needs ensures a smooth transition from working life to pet life. We at DogingtonPost have covered various options for where to adopt dogs that failed police training in this guide. For more information on responsible dog ownership, expert advice, and the latest in canine care, visit The Dogington Post. We dedicate ourselves to enhancing the lives of dogs and their owners through comprehensive resources and engaging content.

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The Buffalo News published a political cartoon appearing to mock right-wing victims in the lethal flooding disaster in Texas, and many on social media were outraged at the news outlet. The cartoon showed a man with a MAGA hat being swept away in the flood holding a "HELP" sign, while behind him, a word bubble has the famous conservative phrase, "Gov't is the problem not the solution." 'Why would you publish such an offensive and vile cartoon. Your artist needs to be fired.' The cartoon by Adam Zyglis, a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, appeared to accuse conservatives of hypocrisy for asking for help from the federal government during a natural disaster while criticizing the government during brighter times. Among those who criticized the cartoon was Michael Kracker, the chairman of the Erie County Republican Committee. "[The Buffalo News] ran a cartoon mocking Texas families who lost loved ones in a tragedy, just because they might’ve voted Republican," Kracker wrote. "Twisted, vile, and shameful. They owe those families an apology and should pull this filth immediately."Others were just as upset at the news outlet. "Our nation has always had political parties, but historically we put partisan politics aside during times of major tragedy or crisis. Unfortunately, the Buffalo News did the opposite with this depraved partisan cartoon," replied former New York state Rep. Chris Jacobs. "Whoever approved this is mentally ill. Deranged," read another popular tweet. "Disgusting. And to think it wasn't just the cartoonist who made this, but this was okayed by the editor and where no one there apparently tried to stop it from being published," another detractor said. "Why would you publish such an offensive and vile cartoon. Your artist needs to be fired. Lives were lost — children for heaven’s sake. Despicable," another account said. RELATED: Scott Adams says his 'Dilbert' cartoon has been canceled from society after his comments about black people Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images The death toll from the flooding in Texas has risen to over 100, and search and rescue efforts continue. Those who want to donate or volunteer to help victims of the flooding can find information here. Blaze News reached out to the cartoonist as well as the editor of the Buffalo News for comment, but neither responded by time of publishing. Zyglis won the Pulitzer Prize for editorial cartooning in 2015. He is known for left-wing cartoons, including a recent one where he drew MAGA officers arresting a newly born baby. Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

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