House Republicans say there is “a misunderstanding” about the failed vote on Tuesday that Democrats linked to demanding the Department of Justice compile and release files regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats pledged to revive an Epstein disclosure amendment from Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) that was shot down Monday in the House Rules Committee after he sought to merge his measure with an unrelated crypto bill — if a procedural floor vote went their way. But it did not succeed. While the result has been widely cast as the House Republicans uniting to prevent the release of the Epstein files, some GOP members pushed back on that narrative. “I gotta correct something real quick,” Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) said in a “Benny Show” interview. “It’s being reported that House Republicans unanimously voted to block the release of the Epstein files, and I want to straighten out the record right now. That is not true. If I could vote … to release the Epstein files, guys, you would have my vote. I would vote ‘yes.'” Greene spoke about the mechanics of what happened. “It was a procedural vote. And we have these all the time. It’s called a ‘PQ.’ It’s voting on the previous question,” Greene said. “If the Democrats had won the previous question, which I know sounds insane — it’s one of these crazy rules in the House that are hard to understand — that means they would control the House floor.” The congresswoman then contended that if Democrats had gotten their way, it could have paved the way to all sorts of votes beyond the Epstein issue. “And that means they could bring up anything,” Greene said. “They could bring up impeachment articles against President Trump. They could bring up a whole package of insane Democrat agenda items and force votes on the House floor on these things. That’s what we voted against. We never allow Democrats to have control of the House floor because we control the House floor. So, it’s a misunderstanding that I just wanted to straighten that out.” Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) issued a similar explanation in a post on X. “The House GOP conference as a whole did not vote to block the release of the Epstein files,” Luna said. “There was a procedural vote that, if failed, would have given Democrats control of the House. If you pull up the ‘previous question’ language you will not find anything re: Epstein. Liars never cease to disgust me.” Khanna’s amendment did get the support of a single Republican — Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) — in the House Rules Committee, but the rest of the Republicans voted “nay” and it was defeated. The Democrat later clarified that his measure pertaining to Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender who was found dead at the age of 66 in his New York City jail cell in 2019 after being arrested on sex trafficking charges involving young girls, would “of course protect” the identity of any victims. President Donald Trump has expressed support for Attorney General Pam Bondi and seemed to dismiss the uproar within the “Make America Great Again” movement after the Department of Justice claimed it had no evidence that Epstein had a client list, blackmailed powerful people, or was murdered. “One year ago our Country was DEAD, now it’s the ‘HOTTEST’ Country anywhere in the World. Let’s keep it that way, and not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about,” Trump said on Truth Social. Still, there are many people who remain skeptical that the Department of Justice is being completely forthcoming. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said in a separate “Benny Show” interview on Tuesday that he supports “transparency” with regard to the Epstein issue and called on Bondi to be more forthcoming to inform the American public what happened after she hinted earlier this year that major bombshells were about to be revealed that never materialized.

In 2020, as state authorities across the country were closing down churches and dictating worship practices — No singing! No more than fifty people! — my editor at a Christian magazine offered me an assignment. Would I interview renowned preacher John MacArthur, who at that time was making national headlines for opposing California Governor Gavin Newsom’s shutdown orders? I could not have said “yes” faster. My editor was unaware, but from the time I became a Christian some 20 years earlier, no public figure’s work had meant more to my life. No ministry had shaped me in greater ways than his international radio and podcast ministry, Grace to You. Like millions of other Christians around the world, his daily teachings had been the backdrop of mundane domestic tasks, long car rides, and sleepless nights. His books were the first resources I turned to when dealing with a crisis or trial. When I received a Stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis, his messages on suffering and prayer played through the wee hours, comforting me until I could catch a few hours of rest. When he sent me a message of personal encouragement, I told him that someday, it would be like showing my grandchildren a note I’d received from Charles Spurgeon. I laughed as I said it, but I wasn’t really joking. They say you should never meet your heroes, the idea being that it will lead to inevitable disillusionment. I had the opposite experience with John MacArthur. As we continued to correspond, my estimation of him grew deeper and richer. The man I spoke to privately was the same man whose public ministry I had followed so closely for so many years. His concern was always for faithful application of Scripture to any situation. And for souls. After I took a job with a conservative media company, every call I had with him included his urging me on to love and good works, especially to act as a Christian witness to any unbelieving coworkers and friends around me. BEN SHAPIRO: A Tribute To John MacArthur, A Lion Who Was My Friend Whether in debates on The Larry King Show or preaching from his pulpit, he never watered down the truth of Scripture to appeal to a general audience. His adherence to sound doctrine never wavered, and he never showed an ounce of reticence to preach the Word, clearly and plainly. Even in the bright glare of the secular media, he never equivocated on issues that are biblically true, but culturally unpopular. So his staunch opposition to a government that thought it could claim jurisdiction over the practices of the church was no surprise. Nor was the open letter he wrote to Newsom, calling him to repentance. Now, at his death at age 86, I cannot help but feel we have seen the last of the great lions pass out of the world. But I know, as Pastor John would’ve taught me, that the Lord does not leave himself without a witness. And He will raise up more teachers like Johnny Mac, as his dear friend, the great theologian R.C. Sproul, another of the great lions, used to call him. On that note, I smile now to imagine the two of them reunited, their races now complete. I thank the Lord for MacArthur’s legacy and that he now has the full joy of his salvation. And I live in the reassurance that, due in large part to his ministry, I will one day hear the words he is surely hearing now: well done, good and faithful servant.

The White House is conducting a review of potentially more than one million documents approved through the autopen process under former President Joe Biden. The White House Counsel’s Office is leading an investigation into the former president and his staff’s use of the autopen. The White House has already assembled tens of thousands of documents from Biden’s term turned over by the National Archives for review, according to Fox News. “Joe Biden was the worst, most incompetent, and senile president in our country’s history,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News. “It has been widely reported that Joe Biden handed the power of the presidency to an autopen controlled by unelected leftist staffers, who were allowed to make terrible decisions that destroyed our country.” “The Trump White House is committed to finding the answers to the many outstanding questions the American people still have about how business in the Biden White House was conducted,” she said. White House officials expect to review potentially more than one million documents from the Biden administration that were approved via autopen. One official said that the review is aimed at providing transparency to the American people about Biden’s health and his understanding of the substantial number of documents that bear the former president’s signature. “What did the former president direct, versus what he did not,” an official said, according to Fox News. “The only time a legitimate use of the autopen should happen is if the president said he wanted something done, or if he was asked for his approval.” Biden was recently revealed to have not specifically approved thousands of prisoners and convicts that he granted pardons and clemency to in his final days in office. The former president told The New York Times in an interview published on Sunday that he directed his staff to prepare a list of convicts that fell under certain criteria, such as those who were convicted of low-level drug offenses. After compiling the list, White House staff used the autopen to grant relief to thousands of convicts in the president’s name. Staff did not run the final list past Biden before granting presidential relief. Biden asserted to the Times that he “made every decision” despite the loosely supervised autopen process. The former president defended the use of the autopen in his final days in office because “we’re talking about a whole lot of people” who were given amnesty. The White House review is running parallel to two other investigations into Biden’s autopen run by the House Oversight Committee and the Department of Justice. The White House Counsel’s Office is coordinating with the Justice Department in the review.

All we have to hear is, “Schlemiel! Schlimazel! Hasenpfeffer Incorporated!” and we’re instantly transported to Shotz Brewery in Milwaukee. Anyone who grew up on Laverne & Shirley can probably sing the entire theme song while envisioning the show’s opening credits. Even if you haven’t thought about it in decades, that’s one of those TV theme songs that just sticks with you. In 2018, Milwaukee natives The Violent Femmes teamed up with The Killers to perform a rock cover of the theme song live. Michael McKean, who played Leonard Kosnowski, one half of Lenny and Squiggy, on the show, found a clip of the performance on X and shared it on July 8. No surprise, it was a viral success. @thekillers and @violentfemmes perform the theme song from #LaverneAndShirley. In Milwaukee. @MJMcKean pic.twitter.com/43VJRWVP4V— Who Done It: The Clue Documentary (@WhoDoneItdoc) July 8, 2025 Fans Loved Watching The “Laverne & Shirley” Theme Song Get A Rock Cover The Violent Femmes and The Killers ensured their performance of the Laverne & Shirley theme song was a hit. Fans of the band and the show united and were thoroughly thrilled to have a bit of wholesome rock nostalgia. Fans immediately shared their joy with Michael McKean. “I’m glad Squiggy isn’t around to see this,” one wrote. “You’re so funny on this show! I grew up in the late 90s and early 00s and your show was one of my favorite sitcoms,” a fan shared. “Kids today don’t realize the show needed a 4 person billing, as Lenny & Squiggy helped make the show what it was. Was a huge success. Even more so considering it was a spin off. to the whole cast and crew. Thanks for getting me through those years,” another fan wrote. This person had to point out a fact about Laverne & Shirley that we don’t even want to think about. “Amazing. Yet sadly, only 4% of the Killers audience knew what it was,” they wrote. This fan is just like us. “Amazing we still know all the words after 50 years!” You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post The “Laverne & Shirley” Theme Song Got The Rock ‘n Roll Treatment At Iconic Milwaukee Band’s Show appeared first on InspireMore.

'Watching their parents get shipped off to gulags'

'An avenue for extremely valuable access'

'Doesn't mean there was anything sexual'

Congress’ Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission heard testimony Tuesday condemning the government of Pakistan over its treatment of Christians and other religious minorities.  In his opening remarks, Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., a co-chairman of the bipartisan commission, noted what the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has said about the state of religious freedom in the South Asian nation. “Authorities’ failure to address mob violence associated with blasphemy accusations, as well as forced conversions of religious minorities—including Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs—to Islam, reinforces a climate of intolerance and fear,” the religious freedom commission concluded. “Pakistan is a country of over 250 million people—the fifth-largest country in the world—so the human cost of this repression is immense in its scope as well [as] its severity,” Smith explained.  “Non-Muslims, including Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs—along with Shiites, Sufis and other sects of Islam—have never been truly safe or protected [from the Sunni Muslim majority]. They face relentless discrimination, systematic prosecution, and violence, which tragically goes unpunished,” Sadiq Amini, founder of the Afghanistan Impact Network, told the commission. Afghanistan shares a 1,600-plus-mile border with Pakistan. “The legal system, far from being a shield, often becomes a tool of their oppression, failing to provide the protection and justice they desperately need. Blasphemy laws are weaponized against them, mob violence is frequently condoned, and their places of worship are routinely attacked. This systemic failure to protect its most vulnerable citizens exposes the deep-seated intolerance fostered by the state, particularly the military,” Amini explained. “In 2024 alone, 344 new cases were opened following blasphemy allegations. This caused widespread harassment and intimidation against religious minorities, though most cases were against the recognized Muslim community. Ten of those accused of blasphemy last year were extrajudicially killed,” Ben Linden, an advocacy director at Amnesty International, testified.  The commission also heard testimony about the imprisonment of Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, who was ousted from power in 2022.  “The conclusions drawn by U.S. Congress and U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention all point to the same reality: Imran Khan is a political prisoner, targeted for his popularity and open criticism of the military’s meddling in politics,” Jared Genser, a human rights lawyer and international counsel to Khan, said in his testimony to the commission. Khan is currently being held in solitary confinement, and his wife is also in prison serving a seven-year term for charges that Genser characterized as politicized.  The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission is named after a California Democrat who served in the House from 1981 until his death in 2008. The post ‘Mob Violence’ and ‘Repression’: House Panel Hears About Persecution of Religion in Pakistan appeared first on The Daily Signal.

Left-leaning nonprofits receive taxpayer dollars in three key ways—through government contracts and grants, indirectly through government unions, and through taxpayer-funded union time—Daily Signal Senior Editor Tyler O’Neil told a House panel Tuesday.  “Federal employees in a union give part of their taxpayer-funded paychecks to the union, ostensibly for representation in bargaining for perks like working from home. Yet instead of using all the money to help employees, unions take a portion of those dues and send it to activist NGOs [nongovernmental organizations],” O’Neil said at a House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight hearing titled “How Leftist Nonprofit Networks Exploit Federal Tax Dollars to Advance a Radical Agenda.”  ? NOW: The Daily Signal's @Tyler2ONeil is testifying before @JudiciaryGOP for today's hearing, "How Leftist Nonprofit Networks Exploit Federal Tax Dollars to Advance a Radical Agenda."Watch O'Neil's opening statement: pic.twitter.com/hkn5WuWRjH— The Daily Signal (@DailySignal) July 15, 2025 O’Neil, the author of “The Woketopus: The Dark Money Cabal Manipulating the Federal Government,” talked about some of the unions aligned with government employees, such as the Service Employees International Union and the American Federation of Government Employees, which is part of the AFL-CIO.  He noted the SEIU contributed $1.6 million to the liberal New Venture Fund and $1.8 million to the liberal grantmaker Tides Foundation. Meanwhile, he noted the AFL-CIO gave $410,000 to New Venture and $100,000 to Tides. “Not only did the SEIU and AFL-CIO send part of members’ dues to support leftist causes, but they also benefit from a process known as ‘official time,’” O’Neil said. “Federal employees can bill the taxpayer for time they spend not doing their jobs but doing work for the union. This creates yet another stream of taxpayer funds supporting unions that then back leftist causes.” The U.S. Agency for International Development has contributed significantly to George Soros-aligned organizations that are part of the Open Society Foundations, the panelists asserted.  “I want to underline that I believe it is Soros’ right to spend his money supporting his convictions. I may not agree with these ideas, but I would not call for interference with any American’s right to act politically,” Mike Gonzalez, senior fellow with the Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at The Heritage Foundation, told the subcommittee. “Likewise, of course, some of the USAID programs did do good. I am glad that Secretary [of State Marco] Rubio says he will keep some programs, if they advance U.S. interests.” Gonzalez is the author of “NextGen Marxism: What It Is and How to Combat It.” “What I do take issue with is the U.S. government working with leftist NGOs to promote causes with which large majorities of Americans disagree, and which are inimical to U.S. interests,” Gonzalez said. “The Left has cleverly built a machine to finance itself with money that the taxman extorts from hardworking Americans.” During the hearing, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said, “They are taking your tax dollars and using them against you.” House Judiciary ranking member Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., was angry that the House was looking into the matter and said, “This hearing is just weird.” Instead, he and other Democrats tried to shift the conversation to deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Last week, Attorney General Pam Bondi said Epstein did not have “client list” of wealthy and influential people from around the world to whom he sex-trafficked underaged girls. For years, officials discussed the existence of such a list, but the government never released it. “Why don’t we have a hearing on what the whole country is talking about right now? Why don’t we have a hearing about the continuing suppression and cover-up of the information in the Epstein files?” Raskin asked. The SEIU, AFL-CIO, and Open Society Foundations did not respond to inquiries for comment as of publication time. Also, the recipients of funding mentioned in the hearing, New Venture Fund and the Tides Foundation, did not respond to requests for comment by publication time. The post House Panel Probes Taxpayer Dollars Sent to Left-Wing Groups appeared first on The Daily Signal.

Ex-military dogs are unsung heroes, having served alongside our troops in various capacities. At DogingtonPost, we believe these brave canines deserve loving homes after their service. If you’re wondering how to adopt ex-military dogs, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding these special animals to preparing your home for their arrival. Understanding Ex-Military Dogs What Are Ex-Military Dogs? Ex-military dogs are highly trained canines that serve alongside our armed forces in various capacities. These dogs play important roles in military operations, including detection work, patrol, and search and rescue missions. After their service, many of these dogs become available for adoption, which offers civilians a chance to provide a loving home to these heroic animals. Breeds That Serve The U.S. Military Working Dog Program primarily uses Belgian Malinois for their intelligence, loyalty, and physical capabilities. These breeds excel in tasks such as explosive detection, tracking, and guarding. Dutch Shepherds are also becoming increasingly popular in military service due to their versatility and work ethic. Traits and Behaviors Ex-military dogs often display exceptional obedience and discipline due to their rigorous training. They’re typically alert, confident, and have a strong work drive. However, potential adopters should know that these dogs may face challenges when they adjust to civilian life. Some may experience separation anxiety or show signs of post-traumatic stress. Many reports on the positive effect of PTSD Service Dogs (PSDs) on veterans exist, though most are indirect, anecdotal, or based on self-perceived welfare. This condition can manifest as increased aggression, hypervigilance, or avoidance behaviors. It’s important for adopters to understand these potential issues and prepare to provide the necessary support and patience. Special Considerations Adopting an ex-military dog requires a commitment to ongoing training and socialization. These dogs are accustomed to structure and may struggle with sudden changes in routine. Providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys and regular exercise is vital for their well-being. Not all ex-military dogs are suitable for every home environment. Families with young children or other pets should carefully consider their ability to manage a dog with specialized training and potential behavioral challenges. The adoption process typically involves thorough screening to ensure a good match between the dog and its new family. The Adoption Journey As we move forward in this guide, we’ll explore the specific steps involved in adopting an ex-military dog. From finding reputable organizations to preparing your home, the next section will provide you with practical advice to make the adoption process smoother (and more rewarding). How to Navigate the Ex-Military Dog Adoption Process Finding Adoption Organizations The first step in adopting an ex-military dog is to locate reputable organizations. The U.S. War Dogs Association and Mission K9 Rescue specialize in rehoming retired military working dogs. These groups have extensive experience in matching ex-military dogs with suitable families. Local animal shelters and rescue groups sometimes receive ex-military dogs, so check with them as well. The Department of Defense also has an adoption program for military working dogs (though the waiting list can be long). Application and Screening Once you’ve found an organization, prepare for a thorough application process. You’ll need to provide detailed information about your living situation, experience with dogs, and reasons for wanting to adopt an ex-military dog. Many organizations require adopters to be at least 21 years old and have a fenced yard. The screening process is rigorous because these organizations want to ensure the best possible match between dog and adopter. Be prepared for multiple interviews and reference checks. Some organizations may ask for a video tour of your home or require you to meet the dog multiple times before finalizing the adoption. Home Visits and Compatibility If you pass the initial screening, a representative from the organization will likely conduct a home visit. They’ll assess your living space to ensure it’s suitable for an ex-military dog. This includes checking for potential hazards and verifying that you have adequate space for the dog to exercise and rest. During this visit, the representative will also evaluate your family dynamics and lifestyle to determine if you’re a good match for a specific dog. They may bring the dog to your home to observe how it interacts with your family and any existing pets. Adoption Costs Adoption fees for ex-military dogs vary widely depending on the organization and the dog’s specific needs. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $700. This fee typically covers initial veterinary care, microchipping, and sometimes transportation costs. The adoption fee is just the beginning. Ex-military dogs often require specialized care for musculoskeletal diseases, including degenerative joint disease, sprain/strain, and cranial cruciate ligament disease, which are among the most commonly diagnosed conditions in these dogs. Factor these long-term costs into your decision to adopt. Training and Support Many organizations offer post-adoption support, including training resources and veterinary care advice. Take advantage of these services to help your new dog adjust to civilian life. Some groups even provide a network of experienced adopters who can offer guidance and support. The adoption process for ex-military dogs is more involved than a typical pet adoption, but the rewards are immeasurable. These dogs have served our country, and now they need loving homes where they can enjoy their retirement. With patience and dedication, you can provide that home and gain a loyal, highly trained companion in return. Now that you understand the adoption process, let’s move on to preparing your home for your new ex-military dog. The next section will cover essential steps to create a safe and welcoming environment for your heroic new family member. How to Prepare Your Home for an Ex-Military Dog Create a Safe Haven Ex-military dogs need structure and routine. Set up a quiet, comfortable space where your new companion can retreat when overwhelmed. Choose a spot away from high-traffic zones in your home. Use a crate or designate a specific room, and equip it with a cozy bed and water bowl. Remove potential hazards from your home. Ex-military dogs often investigate unfamiliar objects. Secure loose wires, store chemicals out of reach, and remove small items that could be swallowed. Install baby gates if needed to restrict access to certain areas initially. Invest in Essential Gear Purchase high-quality, durable equipment designed for large, active dogs. A sturdy collar and leash are necessities. Consider a harness for added control during walks. Choose stainless steel food and water bowls that won’t tip easily. Ex-military dogs often respond well to puzzle toys that challenge their minds. Kong toys filled with treats can provide hours of mental stimulation. Avoid toys that resemble items used in their military training (as these may trigger unwanted behaviors). Address Health Considerations Schedule a comprehensive veterinary check-up soon after adoption. Ex-military dogs may have specific health needs due to their service. Common issues include skin conditions, dental disease or injury, and musculoskeletal problems. Find a veterinarian experienced in treating working dogs. They will understand and address the unique health challenges these dogs may face. Consider pet insurance to help manage potential medical expenses. Implement Training and Socialization Strategies Ex-military dogs are well-trained but may need help adjusting to civilian life. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors. Avoid harsh corrections, which can damage the trust you’re building. Gradually expose your new dog to various environments, people, and other animals. Start with calm, controlled situations and slowly increase complexity. This helps prevent overstimulation and builds confidence. Enroll in obedience classes specifically designed for working dogs. These classes can reinforce commands and provide socialization opportunities. The American Kennel Club offers resources for finding suitable training programs in your area. If you’ve ever wondered about adopting retired military dogs, the answer is yes! With proper preparation and care, you can welcome one of these heroic pups into your home. Final Thoughts Adopting an ex-military dog offers a second chance to brave and loyal companions who have served our country. These highly trained and disciplined pets deserve loving homes for their retirement. The process of adopting and integrating an ex-military dog into your home requires patience, commitment, and understanding. DogingtonPost supports responsible dog ownership and promotes the well-being of all dogs, including ex-military canines. Our guide on how to adopt ex-military dogs provides valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate the adoption journey successfully. Organizations specializing in military dog adoptions often offer ongoing support, including training advice and veterinary care recommendations. You will change a life and honor a legacy of service when you adopt an ex-military dog. With patience, love, and the right resources (such as experienced local veterinarians), you can provide a fulfilling retirement for these canine heroes. Your life will be enriched in the process of caring for these exceptional animals.