As North America prepares to marvel at a total solar eclipse this coming Monday‚ the only thing that viewers need to worry about is how to protect their eyes while observing the event. Yet things werent quite so chilled in ancient times‚ when eclipses often provoked panic and bloodshed among those watching from the ground.Some of the earliest records of these celestial spectacles come from China and date back more than 4‚000 years. Regarded as omens that foretold the fate of emperors‚ eclipses were serious business within royal circles and often prompted some ruthless executive decisions. For instance‚ the two court astronomers serving under Emperor Chung Kang were reportedly beheaded for failing to predict an eclipse way back in the 22nd century BCE.Among regular folk in ancient China‚ eclipses were thought to be caused by a dragon eating the sun - hence the use of the word shi";‚ also meaning to eat‚ to refer to eclipses. People therefore responded to these events by banging drums and making loud noises in the hope of scaring the dragon away and rescuing the light of day.Like the Chinese‚ the ancient Greeks were also remarkably adept at predicting eclipses‚ yet still lost their minds whenever these solar occultations occurred. According to some sources‚ rulers and monarchs would hide during eclipses‚ fearing the wrath of the gods‚ with some even placing commoners on the throne in an attempt to fool the heavens into smiting the wrong person.Its said that Alexander the Great employed this very strategy when a series of partial eclipses were forecast in 323 BCE‚ though the gods clearly werent deceived as Alexander died that very year.Over in the Americas‚ the ancient Maya had a remarkably advanced understanding of the heavenly cycles and were able to predict eclipses using a series of almanacs and charts recorded in the famous Dresden Codex. Despite this astronomical proficiency‚ however‚ the Maya still interpreted solar eclipses as the sun being broken‚ prompting rulers to engage in bloodletting rituals in an attempt to restore the sun to full health and fix the situation.The Aztecs‚ meanwhile‚ thought the sun was being eaten and descended into pandemonium when eclipses occurred. Describing the general reaction to a total eclipse in 1596 CE‚ Spanish missionary Fray Bernardino de Sahagn wrote that people became hysterical‚ sacrificing anyone they could find with light skin or fair hair in the hope that this would prevent demons from descending from the sky and devouring everyone.Across the pond at around the same time‚ William Shakespeare would have had the opportunity to observe a total solar eclipse in the English sky (On March 7‚ 1598‚ to be precise). A few years later‚ he wrote the famous play King Lear‚ which includes the line: these late eclipses in the sun and moon portend no good to us‚ suggesting that even the Bard got the willies from seeing the sun briefly obliterated.

Chomping into a big ol hunk of watermelon is a rite of passage into the summer months for some of us‚ but for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD)‚ too much can actually end up being dangerous.That was the case for three patients with CKD featured in a new case study‚ who ended up falling severely ill after eating excess amounts of watermelon but why did they end up needing medical attention?The answer lies in that theres more to watermelon than just‚ well‚ water. This juicy fruit is packed full of full of vitamins and minerals‚ the most dominant of which is potassium. A single wedge of watermelon (roughly 286 grams or 10 ounces) contains 320 milligrams (0.01 ounces) of potassium‚ which is about 12 percent the recommended daily intake for women and around 9 percent for men.For the average healthy person‚ watermelon therefore makes a plentiful (and delicious) source of potassium‚ which is handy considering its many roles within the body. Its used by our nerves to help transmit signals‚ including those that cause muscle contraction‚ in maintaining normal fluid levels outside our cells‚ and in keeping blood pressure in check.Under normal circumstances‚ excess potassium not used in these processes is removed by the kidneys and comes out in the urine. However‚ for people with CKD‚ the kidneys arent quite so efficient at filtering potassium out.This meant that for the three patients in the case study‚ eating too much potassium-rich watermelon resulted in them developing severe hyperkalemia‚ a condition in which theres too much potassium in the blood.The patients had between 6.6 to 7.4 millimoles per liter of potassium in their blood the normal range is between 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L. All three had been consuming large amounts of watermelon either as is or in juice form every day for three weeks up to two months.Though the patients were seen by healthcare professionals‚ hyperkalemia doesnt always result in obvious symptoms‚ as was the case for one of the three patients. However‚ it can also have some pretty serious ones.The two other patients‚ for example‚ presented with heart problems that were attributed to excess potassium; one had a slower than normal heart rate and the second had received a shock from a defibrillator implant designed to restore regular heart rhythm.Other symptoms can include muscle weakness‚ tingling sensations‚ nausea‚ and in sudden or severe cases‚ shortness of breath and chest pain.Thankfully‚ even though it can be serious‚ hyperkalemia can be treated. In the case of the study patients‚ their immediate treatment involved medication‚ but it was also recommended that they all reduce their watermelon intake. Follow up a few months later revealed that all had done so and consequently‚ their potassium levels had returned back to normal.The authors of the case study hope that itll bring awareness to the little-known dangers of eating too much watermelon for people with CKD.Watermelon is a popular summer fruit and although bananas‚ potatoes‚ and tomatoes are notorious for causing hyperkalemia‚ the risk for hyperkalemia after excessive watermelon consumption often is overlooked‚ they write.Recognizing the cause(s) of hyperkalemia are pivotal in treatment and for prevention of future episodes.The study is published in Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases.

Earlier this morning‚ residents of New York City and the surrounding areas experienced an earthquake that officials are so far measuring as 4.8 on the Richter scale. Though this is thankfully on the milder side of things‚ as earthquakes go‚ its a rarity in this part of the world.The US Geological Survey (USGS) puts the epicenter of the quake close to the borough of Lebanon‚ New Jersey‚ about 64 kilometers (40 miles) east of the city of Allentown‚ Pennsylvania‚ and 72 kilometers (45 miles) west of New York City. It occurred at a depth of 4.7 kilometers (2.9 miles) and hit at approximately 10.23 am local time (2.23 pm UTC).According to AP‚ shaking was felt as far away as Baltimore and Philadelphia‚ and a number of residents of Brooklyn and Manhattan were alarmed by loud booming sounds and shuddering. USGS explains that a magnitude 4.0 earthquake in the eastern US can typically be felt as far away as 100 kilometers (60 miles)‚ so its unsurprising that reports are coming in from further afield.While seismic activity is not a daily concern for most New Yorkers‚ AP reports that a native of California where earthquakes are far more commonplace was fortunately on hand to help calm neighbors in one Manhattan apartment building.At this time‚ no major damage or injuries have been reported‚ and no tsunami warnings are in place. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul posted on X that her team had already begun assessing the situation and would provide updates throughout the day. Local residents including a few famous faces have also been sharing their experiences online.IFLScience is not responsible for content shared from external sites.If youre in the region and felt the earthquake‚ you can make a report to the USGS.

A heron‚ all grace and elegance‚ ended up in a real pickle. Her beak was tangled in fishing line‚ and she was dangling from a tree‚ far from anywhere youd call convenient. This is where our tale kicks off‚ with a bunch of boaters meandering through the waterways‚ only to find this poor creature in...The post Heron stuck to tree in middle of nowhere sees boaters approaching and calls out for help appeared first on Animal Channel.

ABC';s Grey';s Anatomy is one of the most rabidly pro-abortion shows on television‚ but last night';s episode spotlighted life-saving surgery on an unborn baby.On Thursday';s episode‚ ";Baby Can I Hold You‚"; Dr. Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw) announces to a room full of interns that the hospital will be performing a unique brain surgery on a growing baby in the womb.The plotline is based on a real‚ first-of-its-kind surgery performed in the United States last year.Robbins: Correct‚ and in uterothe baby is typically sheltered by mom and the placenta‚but then after delivery and the cord is clamped‚what happens?Yes?Adams: The baby';s heart and lungsbecome overwhelmed with the massive overflow of blood.Robbins: Which can lead to heart failure‚ seizures‚ and possibly death.Shepherd: Standard procedure has been embolization after delivery‚but many babies do not survive.And if they do‚ the child often has major brain injury.Bailey: So that';s when I called Dr. Robbins.Robbins: So‚ a few months ago I started a clinical trialwith a team of interventional neuroradiologistsin which we operate on the baby';s brain before delivery.Yasuda: In-utero brain surgery? Sick.Millin: Ugh. I hate babies.Kwan: Technically a fetus.Millin: What did I say about talking to me?Millin hates babies‚ and Kwan is nitpicking about the Latin word for offspring‚ but the lead doctors are genuinely excited about saving the unborn child.Bailey feels the hospital';s interns should not be allowed in the operating room to observe because they are too immature. Robbins disagrees‚ insisting the surgery is too important a moment for the budding doctors to miss.";Bailey.We might fix a baby';s brain inside a womb.That is magic‚"; she says.As Robbins begins the surgery‚ she tells her colleagues‚ ";Every second puts mother and babyin more danger‚ so let';s make them count. "; She also talks to the unborn child while working on her. ";Alright‚ calm down‚ baby girl‚ calm down‚"; she whispers when the baby moves.The surgery is successful. Doctors let the pregnant mother know that her unborn baby now has a good prognosis but will have to spend some time in the NICU after she is born.Grey';s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes is one of the most radically pro-abortion writers on network television. Her abortion-pushing shows include a famous episode of Scandal in which a woman has an abortion to the tune of ";Silent Night."; Grey';s Anatomy itself has been a relentless fount of extreme abortion propaganda.How does one explain the cognitive dissonance between an episode about live-saving in-utero surgery and episodes promoting killing children in the womb?Many abortion proponents no longer bother to deny that an unborn child is a baby. Activists on Twitter/X have even gone so far as to post cakes mocking their unborn babies'; deaths.The unborn girl in ";Baby Can I Hold You"; only matters to the writers because the mother wants her‚ not because of her innate value as a human being.This one episode may have highlighted an unborn life‚ but Grey';s Anatomy remains an abortion-loving show.

Some in Nebraska have tried‚ and ultimately failed‚ to change the way the state awards its electoral votes and bring it in line with 48 other states. Among those in favor of moving away from a proportional allocation to a winner-take-all system is Donald Trump‚ which led Comedy Centrals Desi Lydic to label him a pathetic worm on Thursdays edition of The Daily Show.Lydic is also not a fan of the electoral college itself‚ as she claimed‚ The president is decided by the electoral college‚ the incredibly overcomplicated system that our founders came up with as a prank on future generations.It really is not all that complicated‚ Lydic just doesnt like it because she views it as disadvantageous to liberals.Still‚ Lydic elaborated‚ Most states award all theirelectoral votes to whoever winsthe state‚ but Nebraska splitstheirs up by district.And in 2020‚ that meantJoe Biden received an electoralvote from liberal Omaha.Because as it turns out‚ everystate has a Brooklyn.But now Donald Trump hasrealized that he wants thatvote‚ and that could make allthe difference.Lydic then played a montage of clips about the news‚ the last of which was of state Sen. Megan Hunt‚ who claims to be an independent‚ declaring that Pathetic worm Donald Trumpthinks that he knows what';s bestfor Nebraska and whatNebraskans want [jump cut] but this man [jump cut] obviously wants this electoralvote because he';s so scared hecan';t win the presidency withoutit.Hunt is the kind of independent whose Twitter bio reads‚ in part‚ Bi queen. She/her. Free Palestine. Shes also a member of the Democratic Socialists of America.As for Lydic‚ she feigned outrage‚ Excuse me‚ ma';am‚whatever happened to decorum?That';s formerPresident Pathetic Worm.After further lamentations about how a change could cost Biden the election‚ Lydic urged that the electoral college be done away with‚ Nebraska should really‚ truly keep thissystem‚ though‚ because it';scertainly a more fair way todivide up electoral votes thanwinner take all.In fact‚ what if every statesplit up their votes likeNebraska by district‚ or maybeeven by person‚ you know. Then‚ whoever wins the mostpersons would be the president!Meanwhile‚ over at CBS and The Late Show‚ host Stephen Colbert was also lamenting possible changes to Nebraskas system‚ Trump himself is taking everyangle he can to try to weaselhis way back into the WhiteHouse.He';s even pressuring the stateof Nebraska to change how itawards electoral votes.Always a bad sign when yourcampaign strategy is to bullyindividual states.He further declared that Nebraska';s electoral systemmatters because many believe theelection will be so close it could be decidedby the single electoral vote from Nebraska';s second district. Okay‚ in other words‚ this isa complete and total Colbert was then interrupted by writer Brian Stack. Colbert and Stack have a recurring gag where the latter pretends to be unaware that Colbert is taping. This time the bit was that the two dont know enough about Nebraska to offer up a good punch line‚ but Stack showed a little self-awareness about the shows audience‚ We';ll put our noodlestogether‚ get ya somethinggreat.Big laughs‚ major joke‚ write-up in HuffPo for sure.I';ll be back in one hour!Here are transcripts for the April 4 shows:CBS The Late Show with Stephen Colbert4/4/202411:40 PM ETSTEPHEN COLBERT: Trump himself is taking everyangle he can to try to weaselhis way back into the WhiteHouse.He';s even pressuring the stateof Nebraska to change how itawards electoral votes.Always a bad sign when yourcampaign strategy is to bullyindividual states.";Hey‚ more like old Hampshire‚you dusty bitch.Now‚ gimme all your electoralvotes‚ and go back to 69-ingVermont.Oh!I bet Ben and Jerrylike to watch.";Nebraska';s electoral systemmatters because many believe theelection will be so close it could be decidedby the single electoral vote from Nebraska';s second district. Okay‚ in other words‚ this isa complete and total BRIAN STACK: Hey‚ Steve?COLBERT: Oh‚ hi‚ Brian.It';s my writer Brian Stack‚ everybody.Brian‚ what';s up?STACK: Well‚ I couldn';t helpbut notice you were talkingabout Nebraska.You know what they sayabout Nebraska?COLBERT: What';s that‚ Brian?STACK: No.I';m asking.Do you know what they sayabout Nebraska?';Cause the writers and I aretrying to cook up a realcrackerjack joke and if you know anything aboutNebraska‚ we could probablywrite the joke to play off ofthat.You know‚ for your monologue.COLBERT: Brian‚ I';m doingthe monologue right now.STACK: Perfect-o.We';ll put our noodlestogether‚ get ya somethinggreat.Big laughs‚ major joke‚ write-up in HuffPo for sure.I';ll be back in one hour!***Comedy Central The Daily Show4/4/202411:03 PM ETDESI LYDIC: As you know‚ the president isdecided by the electoralcollege‚ the incrediblyovercomplicated system that ourfounders came up with as a prankon future generations.Most states award all theirelectoral votes to whoever winsthe state‚ but Nebraska splitstheirs up by district.And in 2020‚ that meantJoe Biden received an electoralvote from liberal Omaha.Because as it turns out‚ everystate has a Brooklyn.But now Donald Trump hasrealized that he wants thatvote‚ and that could make allthe difference.ERIN BURNETT: Could the election all comedown to Nebraska?Donald Trump thinks so.He and his allies convincingNebraska';s Republican governorto support a major change in theway the state has been dolingout its electoral college votesfor the past 32 years.REPORTER: Governor Jim Pillen says‚it';s time for Nebraska to speakwith one unified voice by makingthe popular vote be the one thatcounts for all five delegates.Former President Trump applaudsthat effort‚ but Democratspushed back.MEGAN HUNT: Pathetic worm Donald Trumpthinks that he knows what';s bestfor Nebraska and whatNebraskans want [jump cut] but this man [jump cut] obviously wants this electoralvote because he';s so scared hecan';t win the presidency withoutit.LYDIC: Excuse me‚ ma';am‚whatever happened to decorum?That';s formerPresident Pathetic Worm.Yeah‚ but the implications here arehuge.Biden';s easiest path to thewhite house is to winPennsylvania‚ Wisconsin‚ andMichigan‚ plus that one Nebraskavote.If he gets that‚ he can loseevery other swing state andstill win the election.But if Nebraska makes thischange‚ the election could endup in a tie and you might be wondering whathappens in that case?Well‚ it';s simple‚ really:Have you seen The Purgemovies?It';s like that.Nebraska should really‚ truly keep thissystem‚ though‚ because it';scertainly a more fair way todivide up electoral votes thanwinner take all.In fact‚ what if every statesplit up their votes likeNebraska by district‚ or maybeeven by person‚ you know. Then‚ whoever wins the mostpersons would be the president!

Former President Donald Trumps November sit down with Televisa anchor Enrique Acevedo‚ which aired on Univision in the United States‚ triggered a Chernobyl-style meltdown among the left. Part of the underlying rationale for the meltdown was a feeling that Acevedo didnt come off the top rope on Trump‚ preferring instead to conduct a normal interview without performatively interrupting and pestering the 45th President of the United States. Many on the left derided the interview as a softball. However‚ everything is fine now that President Joe Biden has scored his own Univision softball.As Adrian Carrasquillo reports for Vanity Fair:Enrique Acevedo‚ Vanity Fair has learned‚ was in Phoenix to prepare for an interview this week with Biden‚ a major get for the Spanish-language giant as it works to reestablish its footing as a fair arbiter during the 2024 cycle. The interview‚ set to be pretaped on Thursday at the White House‚ according to two Bidenworld sources familiar with the details‚ will be part of a coverage package from Acevedo that will also feature an interview with campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez‚ as well as two questions he already asked Biden in Phoenix‚ where he was given a total of four minutes with the president.It is always interesting to get Carrasquilos perspective given his standing as unofficial scribe of the Professional Latinx. As weve documented extensively‚ the idea that Univision was ever a fair arbiter to begin with is laughable on its face. It is even more ridiculous that Univision would lose this pretend fair arbiter standing by virtue of a single one-off interview orchestrated by corporate headquarters in Mexico City‚ wherein the entirety of Univisions news division was cut out of the booking and editorial process. But such is the lefts sense of entitlement to the Hispanic community‚ specifically the flow of information to those who speak mostly or only Spanish‚ that the Trump interview was completely out of bounds.But those criticisms of Univision were unfair and unwarranted‚ given that the network never stopped being a Democrat talking point regurgitator. Shortly after the Trump interview‚ Univision performed an interview of Vice President Kamala Harris that was so soft and servile‚ that to characterize it as a softball would be an egregious insult to softballs. As I said at the time:This interview shouldve elicited the same outrage for the same reasons‚ but didnt‚ because Kamala Harris got to air unchallenged talking points in front of a nice anchor who seemed happy to be there and didnt ask any tough questions. And so the left‚ the Professional Latinx‚ the Immigration Industrial Complex‚ and the Acela Media all bit their tongues at this embarrassment of an interview‚ which might as well be an in-kind contribution to Biden-Harris 2024.A double standard isnt really a standard at all.Back to the Biden interview: it will be significantly different from the Trump interview‚ where Acevedo and crew simply set up shop at Mar-a-Lago and let it rip. Both from Carrasquillos reporting and from Acevedo himself‚ we can glean that this interview will have significant choreography (as one would expect given that Biden comms consigliere Anita Dunn set the whole thing up). The interview‚ then‚ is really an assemblage of mini-interviews at multiple locations‚ interspersed with an interview of Biden campaign manager Julie Chvez Rodriguez (a reminder that Biden has very little to offer in terms of Hispanic engagement other than a noun‚ a verb‚ and Cesar Chavez).The interview will be heavily edited‚ especially in light of Sage Steeles allegations and firsthand experience with Bidens cognitive decline. Between the editing and the voice dubbing provided by the GOAT interpreter Vicente de la Vega (who does all presidential dubbing for Univision)‚ Biden is going to sound like a million bucks‚ thirty years younger‚ and most of the cognitive decline will be hidden from view. Well see whether they run the interview in English with subtitles on sister network UniMs‚ as they did with Trump.Then theres Acevedo. How does he play the interview? Does he play it straight up like he did with Trump and just let Biden talk? Or does he cave to the activist lefts pressure to compensate? Mark my words‚ the left and the Professional Latinx will go nuts if Acevedo dares ask Biden a follow-up question or challenge him on anything. The most dangerous scenario for the left here is that Biden actually gets the same interview that Trump got.Contrary to conventional wisdom‚ I dont think that this interview will be a needle-mover for Biden in the same way that it may have been for Trump because no one watching Univision had ever seen a normal interview with Trump before. Univision interviewing a Democrat is just more of the same‚ and I expect that no one will resign in protest over this interview.In the end‚ no matter how deferential the interview‚ the Acela Media and Professional Latinx are highly likely to come away unsatisfied. Univision‚ having raised crows‚ must now endure getting its eyes plucked out.

Joe Scarborough is notorious for his incessant Trump = Hitler analogies. Now‚ for purposes of smearing Benjamin Netanyahu‚ Scarborough has devised an analogy to another mass-murdering dictator.On today';sMorning Joe‚ Scarborough began by claiming thatNetanyahu ";had a plan to force famine on the Palestinian people‚ on the Gazan people.";Scarborough then upped the ante‚ claiming thatNetanyahu';s plan is ";calculated‚ and let me say‚ it';s calculated just like Stalin';s starvation of Ukrainians was calculated.This is calculated by Benjamin Netanyahu.";Scarborough';s mention of Stalin';s starvation of Ukraine was a reference to theHolomodor‚ a famine imposed on Ukraine in 1932-33 by Stalin in which an estimated 3.9 million Ukrainians perished.As the maxim goes‚ in war‚ truth is the first casualty. Various anti-Israel organizations have accused Israel of intentionally starving Gazans‚ but hard facts are hard to find. Often‚ headlines are cleverly couched: starvation ";looms‚"; starvation is ";stalking.";Consider that here at home‚ left-wing groups regularly push nonsenical notions like ";More than 44 million people in the US face hunger‚ including 1 in 5 children."; In fact‚ in the Unites States‚ as worldwide‚ by far the bigger health threat is not hunger‚ butobesity.Note that Scarborough offered no evidence in support of his scurrilous accusation that Netanyahu is intentionally starving Gazans. By implication though‚ he could be buying into the insinuation that MSNBC';s Jonathan Lemire made on Morning Joe earlier this week‚ that Israel';s strike on the World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza was intentional.AndScarborough also repeated today his cynical twist on a phrase fashioned by those seeking the total destruction of Israel‚ which wenotedyesterday‚ thatNetanyahu';s plan is for an Israel‚ ";from the river to the sea.";Here';s the transcript.MSNBCMorning Joe4/5/246:17 am EDTJOE SCARBOROUGH: It is increasingly looking like Benjamin Netanyahu had a plan to force famine on the Palestinian people‚ on the Gazan people‚ to amp up the pressure on Hamas. Of course‚ it seems to me that the hostages aren';t even secondary in his mind because‚ of course‚ and people say‚ well‚ Hamas could release hostages. Yeah‚ they could! They';re terrorists! They';re terrorists! And they';re not going to release the hostages unless the conditions are right. Which the conditions most likely are a cease fire and the allowing of the worst terrorists to escape out of Gaza with their lives. But‚ but this whole idea that if we starve the Gazan people‚ that';s going to somehow help Israel in the long run‚ that';s going to help the hostages? No! It';s hurting the hostages‚ it';s hurting Israel.And of course you';re‚ you';re starving women and children in Gaza‚ and as Katty said yesterday‚ they';re now having to grind up dog food and cat food and‚ and eat that‚ and‚ and drink salt water. I mean‚ it';s savage conditions‚ and it';s calculated.And let me say‚ it';s calculated just like Stalin';s starvation of‚ of‚ of Ukrainians was calculated. This is calculated by Benjamin Netanyahu‚ and somebody needs to ask me‚ why the hell the United States shouldn';t intervene with a guy that has a 20% approval rating and knows that when the war is over‚ he could be going to jail.

There are many dog breeds in the world with various temperaments‚ traits‚ characteristics‚ and histories. Sometimes‚ it can be hard to narrow down which dog breed may work best for you‚ and even then‚ it still may be a chore. One way to help narrow it down is by choosing a letter of the alphabet to help move things along.In this post‚ were choosing the letter B. Well list every dog breed registered under the American Kennel Club (AKC) in hopes of finding the perfect match. Keep reading to learn the facts and other info about each breed.Dog Breeds That Start With B Barbado da Terceira Barbet Basenji Basset Fauve de Bretagne Basset Hound Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound Beagle Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Laekenois Belgian Malinois Belgian Sheepdog Belgian Tervuren Bergamasco Sheepdog Berger Picard Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Biewer Terrier Black and Tan Coonhound Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Boerboel Bohemian Shepherd Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier des Flandres Boxer Boykin Spaniel Bracco Italiano Braque du Bourbonnais Braque Francais Pyrenean Braque Saint Germain Brazilian Terrier Briard Brittany Broholmer Brussels Griffon Bull Terrier Bulldog BullmastiffThe 45 Dog Breeds That Start With B1. Barbado da Terceira View this post on InstagramA post shared by Marcos Ortiz (@marcoschopper)Origin:Portuguese Island of TerceiraLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:19 to 22 inchesThe Barbado da Terceira is a joyful‚ fun-loving dog with plenty of loyalty and intelligence. These dogs are medium-sized herders that make excellent companions and will make a fun and loving addition to your family. They are known for being a bully around other dogs‚ making this breed better as the sole dog. They do well with children and form strong bonds with their owners.2. BarbetImage Credit: PxhereOrigin:FranceLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:19 to 23.5 inchesThe Barbet is bright‚ sweet-natured‚ and friendly with a calm demeanor. They are a rustic breed of medium size and have appeared in artwork as early as the 16th century. They are quick to learn and are loyal to their owners. These dogs are athletic and exceptional game retrievers of birds. They have a distinctive beard and a long‚ dense‚ curly coat.3. BasenjiImage Credit; Aleksandr Tarlkov‚ PixabayOrigin:AfricaLifespan:13 to 14 yearsHeight:16 to 17 inchesThe Basenji is a medium-sized dog averaging 22 to 24 pounds. Hailing from Africa‚ these hunting dogs hold the unique title of the barkless dog‚ meaning they do not bark like dogs normally do. Instead‚ they make an interesting yodel sound to convey their emotions. These hunting dogs are intelligent and require tons of exercise. They are poised with a cat-like disposition and a glistening‚ short coat with a tight‚ curly tail.4. Basset Fauve de BretagneImage Credit: chrisukphoto‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Brittany‚ FranceLifespan:13 to 16 yearsHeight:12.5 to 15.5 inchesThe Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a serious and determined hunter with intelligence and a cheerful temperament. They are small and stocky with a rough coat and tons of energy at fast speeds. They do well with children and other pets‚ but early socialization is key for these dogs to become well-behaved. Nonetheless‚ they make excellent companion dogs.5. Basset HoundImage Credit: Billion Photos‚ ShutterstockOrigin:6th century FranceLifespan:12 to 13 yearsHeight:Up to 15 inchesThe Basset Hound is easily recognizable by its long ears and long‚ short body. The charming Basset Hound may be small‚ but they have big dog strength and stamina with powerful legs. These dogs have sad‚ droopy eyes‚ which is thought of as a trademark of the breed. They have a stubborn streak but make up for it with their charm. The Basset Hound is an exceptional scent hound and was bred for hunting.6. Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound View this post on InstagramA post shared by bgs-mauser TRACKING ROOTS (@bgsmauser)Origin:GermanyLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:17 to 20.5 inchesThe Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a calm breed devoted to its owners. They tend to be reserved with strangers but are neither shy nor aggressive. They have a cold-nose tracking ability and excel at tracking game‚ such as boar‚ deer‚ and other large animals. These dogs are eager to please‚ intelligent‚ loyal‚ and affectionate.7. BeagleImage Credit: Masarik‚ ShutterstockOrigin:EnglandLifespan:10 to 15 yearsHeight:13 to 15 inchesThe Beagle originated in 16th century England and makes an excellent hunting dog. They are fun‚ happy-go-lucky dogs and are extremely loyal and easygoing. Their adorable‚ undeniable face is a trademark of the breed‚ and they are considered one of the most popular dog breeds to own in the United States.8. Bearded CollieImage Credit: Melounix‚ ShutterstockOrigin:ScotlandLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:20 to 22 inchesThe Bearded Collie has a shaggy double coat‚ and they have a charismatic temperament. These dogs are friendly and independent and can also be goofy and comical. They get along well with children and other pets with early socialization‚ but they get bored easily. These dogs do well with families who love outdoor activities‚ and they make an amusing colleague to any activity or function.9. BeauceronImage Credit: decibell‚ PixabayOrigin:Central FranceLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:24 to 27.5 inchesThe Beauceron is a large French herding breed with extreme intelligence and a strong work ethic. Despite their strong work ethic‚ they are playful and outgoing but can be aloof when performing a job. They are muscular with dark black coats‚ but some may have black‚ tan‚ and gray coats. These dogs require experienced owners for training; otherwise‚ they will be the dominant ones in the household. After being well-trained‚ they make fierce protectors of their humans.10. Bedlington TerrierImage Credit: Grigorita Ko‚ ShutterstockOrigin:EnglandLifespan:11 to 16 yearsHeight:15 to 17.5 inchesThe Bedlington Terrier resembles a lamb‚ with its narrow head and soft curly coat. Named for the mining town from which they were bred‚ these dogs are charming and loyal. They are friendly‚ affectionate‚ and gentle dogs that do well with children and make an ideal family companion for active families.11. Belgian LaekenoisImage Credit: Marry Kolesnik‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:12 to 12 yearsHeight:22 to 26 inchesThe Belgian Laekenois hails from‚ you guessed it‚ Belgium. These dogs are one of four native herding breeds of Belgium: the Belgian Sheepdog‚ Malinois‚ and Tervurenout of these four‚ the Laekenois is the rarest. They have rough‚ windblown-looking coats‚ and they are strong and sturdy dogs. These dogs are extremely protective of their owner and property‚ making them superb watchdogs. They are also friendly and affectionate with people they know.12. Belgian MalinoisImage Credit: msgrafixx‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:14 to 16 yearsHeight:22 to 26 inchesThe Belgian Malinois has an incredibly strong work ethic and wants nothing more than to please his owner. They are confident and intelligent dogs who require tons of exercise‚ and if you cannot provide them with enough exercise‚ they will be devastated and unhappy. They have a high prey drive and may chase vehicles‚ other animals‚ and children. However‚ they are excellent companions with proper training and socialization.13. Belgian SheepdogImage Credit: icemanphotos‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:22 to 26 inchesThe Belgian Sheepdog is bright and watchful with versatile herding skills. They were bred for hard work‚ and they lived up to the task. Even though they are strong herders and hard-working‚ they have a sensitive side and crave human companionship. These dogs are elegant and muscular with dark eyes and black‚ double-layered coats.14. Belgian TervurenImage Credit: S.M_ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:22 to 26 inchesThe Belgian Tervuren is a medium-sized herding dog with a strong work ethic. They appreciate a challenge and seem to have a humorous streak when they outsmart their owner. They are muscular with a straight‚ double-layered coat‚ and their intelligence is impeccable. Owners of this breed must understand their desire to work or else the Belgian Tervuren will be unhappy.15. Bergamasco SheepdogImage Credit: volofin‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Persia (now Iran)Lifespan:13 to 15 yearsHeight:22 to 23.5 inchesIts believed that the Bergamasco Sheepdogs origin began in Persia‚ which is now considered Iran. This breeds hairdo stands out‚ and its made up of three types of hair: dog‚ goat‚ and wool. They almost look like a walking mop‚ if you will. These dogs are independent yet sociable with high intelligence. They are loyal‚ loving‚ and trainable‚ with a strong devotion to their owner.16. Berger PicardImage Credit: Peyot‚ WikimediaOrigin:Northern FranceLifespan:12 to 13 yearsHeight:21.5 to 25.5 inchesThe Berger Picard is a very old breed hailing from northern France. Also known as the Picardy Shepherd‚ these dogs were used as drovers and are intelligent‚ friendly‚ independent‚ good-natured‚ and highly protective of their human families. They are medium-sized with rectangular heads‚ distinctive ears‚ and sandy-colored eyebrows. They also have wiry coats and shaggy beards with adorable mustaches.17. Bernese Mountain DogImage Credit: JumpstoryOrigin:SwitzerlandLifespan:7 to 10 yearsHeight:23 to 27.5 inchesThe Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed‚ weighing 70 to 110 pounds. Despite their intimidating size‚ they are sweet and affectionate and do well with children. They are generally calm but are always up for an adventure. They have a long‚ silky‚ tri-colored double coat that comes in rust‚ black‚ and white. The thick coat allows them to withstand cold climates‚ and they bond with one owner passionately.18. Bichon FriseImage Credit: Ieva Tvaronavicute‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Canary IslandsLifespan:14 to 15 yearsHeight:9.5 to 11.5 inchesIf youre looking for a comedic dog breed‚ look no further than the Bichon Frise. Royals and nobles have owned these little white dogs since the 13th century‚ and they remain a popular dog breed to own to this day. They make nice watch dogs due to their alert and curious nature‚ yet they never meet a stranger. These little dogs are extremely trainable and get along with children and other pets.19. Biewer TerrierImage Credit: Eve Photography‚ ShutterstockOrigin:GermanyLifespan:16 yearsHeight:7 to 11 inchesThe Biewer Terrier originated in Hunsruck‚ Germany‚ in 1984. These longhaired‚ tri-colored toy terriers have a strong desire to love and be loved. They make dedicated‚ loyal family members with happy-go-lucky attitudesthey even smile when asked if they are happy. Despite their small size‚ they are excellent vermin hunters and are athletic with their tiny bodies.20. Black and Tan CoonhoundImage Credit: WilleeCole Photography‚ ShutterstockOrigin:United StatesLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:23 to 27 inchesThe Black and Tan Coonhound is a true American breed. Its believed that frontiersmen crossed European hound dogs with fox hounds and bloodhounds to create a unique American breed. They eventually became known as coonhounds with a friendly‚ easygoing nature and strong prey drive. They have black coats with tan accents and are known for their sweet temperaments. These dogs are happy to participate in activities but will also hog the sofa for hours.21. Black Russian TerrierImage Credit: Brezhneva.od‚ ShutterstockOrigin:RussiaLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:26 to 30 inchesThe Black Russian Terrier is a large breed that stands 26 to 30 inches tall from the shoulder to the ground. They are powerful workers with incredible confidence and intelligence with coarse‚ black double coats. These dogs were bred to guard and protect; naturally‚ they are aloof with strangers. They are massive‚ majestic‚ and move around well for their size‚ which can tip the scales up to 140 pounds.22. BloodhoundImage Credit: Glikiri‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:23 to 27 inchesThe Bloodhound breed is affectionate and intelligent. Their distinctive look boasts warm‚ soulful eyes‚ wrinkled faces‚ and loose skin. They vary in black and tan‚ liver and tan‚ or red‚ and they have short‚ dense coats. These large dogs make wonderful companions and are good with children. They are patient and kind; however‚ they do have a stubborn streak.23. Bluetick CoonhoundImage Credit: Taylor Walter‚ ShutterstockOrigin:LouisianaLifespan:11 to 12 yearsHeight:21 to 27 inchesThe Bluetick Coonhound originated in Louisiana in the 1940s. This breed has unique‚ tri-colored markings with a sleek‚ muscular build. The coat is dark blue with black spots on the ears‚ back‚ and sides. They have a ticked black and blue pattern‚ and the coat is glossy and short. They are sweet‚ affectionate charmers with high prey drives who require a high amount of exercise. Their strong sense of smell may deter them while training‚ and they are athletic and fit.24. BoerboelImage Credit: Asonia‚ ShutterstockOrigin:South AfricaLifespan:9 to 11 yearsHeight:22 to 27 inchesThe Boerboel hails from South Africa and was bred to be athletic. These dogs are calm and confident but can look intimidating given their sizethey weigh 150 to 200 pounds! Mastiff-type dogs‚ Bulldogs‚ and Bull Terries may have contributed to the development of these dogs. They have short‚ dense coats that come in red‚ brown‚ brindle‚ cream‚ tawny‚ and reddish brown‚ and they are fierce protectors.25. Bohemian ShepherdImage Credit: Zuzule‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Czech RepublicLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:19 to 21 inchesThe Bohemian Shepherd is considered a versatile breed thats intelligent‚ quick‚ lively‚ and athletic. These dogs excel in agility‚ search and rescue‚ tracking‚ nose work‚ therapy/service dogs‚ obediencedid we mention their versatility? The Bohemian Shepherd can do it all and make wonderful family companions to adults and children.26. BologneseImage Credit: islavicek‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Bologna‚ Italy‚ 11th centuryLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:10 to 12 inchesThe Bolognese is a member of the Bichon family. These small companions are sturdy and compact with an easy-going temperament. They are witty and make devoted family members. Their long and puffy-white coats are soft in texture and resemble cotton. They are a low-shedding breed‚ which may be beneficial to allergy sufferers.27. Border CollieImage Credit: xkunclova‚ ShutterstockOrigin:England and ScotlandLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:18 to 22 inchesThe Border Collie is considered the smartest dog breed on the planet. These dogs excel at herding‚ and they are extremely energetic and athletic. These workaholics are happiest with a job to do and will let you know if they are bored. They also excel at agility and obedience training. They are loyal family members and love to hang out with their humans when the workday is done.28. Border TerrierImage Credit: Colin Seddon‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Northumberland and ScotlandLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:12 to 15 inchesThe Border Terrier hails from the rugged lands of Northumberland and Scotland. These dogs are happy‚ upbeat‚ and affectionate. They are no-frills working terriers that were bred to be country dogs. These little dogs have a wiry coat and an otter head‚ which are distinguishable traits in the breed. They love exploring the outdoors and do well with children. They need plenty of exercise due to their hunting instincts and will chase squirrels and cats‚ so beware if youre a cat owner.29. BorzoiImage Credit: artbycharlotte‚ PixabayOrigin:Russia‚ 16th centuryLifespan:9 to 14 yearsHeight:26 to 28 inchesThe Borzoi is a beautiful dog that prances with grace and elegance. They have a calm temperament and are loyal‚ dignified‚ and affectionate. These dogs can reach up to 35 to 40 miles per hour in full stride‚ and thats impressive given their big size‚ averaging 75 to 105 pounds. Once known as the Russian Wolfhound‚ these dogs resemble the Greyhound except with long‚ silky coats.30. Boston TerrierImage Credit: Ruben PH‚ ShutterstocksOrigin:Boston‚ MassachusettsLifespan:11 to 13 yearsHeight:10 to 12 inchesKnown as the American Gentleman for their manners‚ the Boston Terrier is a fun and loving breed. These little dogs are lively with intelligence‚ and their friendly temperament makes them a popular breed among dog owners. They were initially bred for pit fighting and to compete in ratting contests‚ and they are strong and stout. The short coat can be black and white‚ brindle‚ or seal.31. Bouvier des FlandresImage Credit: Tatyana Kuznetsova‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:23.5 to 27.5 inchesThe Bouvier des Flandres is part of the herding group and originated in Belgium‚ crossing the Berger Picard and the massive Matin dogs. These dogs are courageous‚ affectionate‚ and strong-willed. They are all-purpose workers with burly builds and powerful muscles. They make excellent farm dogs and have a strong work ethic.32. BoxerImage Credit: PeakpxOrigin:GermanyLifespan:10 to 12 yearsHeight:21 to 25 inchesThe Boxer was developed in Germany in the 19th century. They are loyal‚ affectionate‚ intelligent‚ and have strong work ethics. They can be silly and then turn around and be courageous. Boxers have a muscular build and a short coat that comes in brindle or fawn. Their wrinkled foreheads and alert‚ stoic looks do not diminish their patience and love for children. They are protective and make excellent companions.33. Boykin SpanielImage Credit: Cynthia Davison‚ ShutterstockOrigin:South CarolinaLifespan:10 to 15 yearsHeight:14 to 18 inchesThe Boykin Spaniel was bred to work the swamps and lakes of South Carolina. Thanks to their webbed feet‚ they are excellent swimmers and are outstanding flushing and retrieving dogs. They make adorable companions and are lovable and friendly. The wavy coat is low-maintenance and comes in a rich brown-colored coat‚ or liver‚ as its called.34. Bracco ItalianoImage Credit: olgagorovenko‚ ShutterstockOrigin:Unclear/Italy speculatedLifespan:10 to 14 yearsHeight:21 to 27 inchesThe Bracco Italianos origins are unclear‚ but it is considered one of the oldest pointing breeds. They were introduced in the 1990s to the United States‚ and they adapt easily. Part of the sporting group‚ these intelligent dogs are affectionate and thrive on human companionship. Inquisitive and loyal in nature‚ the hunting dogs love children and make exceptional family members. The short coat comes in white‚ white and orange‚ and white and chestnut.35. Braque du BourbonnaisImage Credit: Traveler11‚ ShutterstockOrigin:France‚ 15th centuryLifespan:11 to 12 yearsHeight:19 to 22.5 inchesThe Braque du Bourbonnais has a calm and gentle temperament and is ideally suited for hunting. An ancient breed‚ these dogs developed in 15th century France and are named for their place of origin‚ the historic province of Bourbonnais. They are now a popular breed to own in the United States‚ given their affectionate nature and intelligence. The coat is short and dense and comes in fawn with liver ticking.36. Braque Francais Pyrenean View this post on InstagramA post shared by American Kennel Club (@americankennelclub)Origin:France‚ 15th centuryLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:18.5 to 23 inchesThe Braque Francais Pyrenean is another ancient breed from 15th-century France. These medium-sized dogs were bred to hunt the rugged terrain of the Pyrenees Mountain‚ which sits on the border of France and Spain. The soft‚ short-haired coat comes in chestnut or white and chestnut with tan and ticked points. These dogs are friendly‚ intelligent‚ and have a willingness to please their owners.37. Braque Saint GermainImage Credit: JumpstoryOrigin:FranceLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:21 to 24 inchesThe Braque Saint Germain is believed to have originated in France and was developed in the 1800s by crossing the Braque Francais with English and French Pointers. These beautiful hunting dogs have a mostly-white short coat with fawn patches. They have a deep chest and muscular bodies‚ with friendly and affectionate temperaments toward their owners.38. Brazilian TerrierImage Credit: Pawel Rajtar‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BrazilLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:13 to 16 inchesThe Brazilian Terrier is used for companionship‚ small game hunting‚ and vermin eradication. These dogs are native to Brazil; however‚ their exact ancestry is unknown. Some experts believed they developed from the European Jack Russell Terrier and the Fox Terrier. They are active dogs that tend to get restless without abundant exercise. These little dogs excel in agility‚ rally‚ and obedience competitions and are loving and affectionate.39. BriardCredit: Anastasia Badmaeva‚ ShutterstockOrigin:FranceLifespan:12 yearsHeight:22 to 27 inchesThe Briard has been around for centuries but with an unclear origin. Its believed they are an ancient French breed dating back to the 8th century and were bred for guarding and herding sheep and other various livestock. These dogs have an elite status‚ having been owned by Napoleon‚ Lafayette‚ and Charlemagne. Thomas Jefferson even fell in love with the breed when introduced to them‚ and he admired their ability to guard livestock. They are smart‚ confident‚ and faithful to their owners.40. BrittanyImage Credit: Kerrie T‚ ShutterstockOrigin:FranceLifespan:12 to 14 yearsHeight:17.5 to 20.5 inchesThe Brittany is an upbeat dog breed with a bright temperament. These adorable-looking dogs have a fairly short coat that is typically liver-colored with white and orange mixed in with patches and spotted cuteness. They are talented hunters who excel in agility‚ obedience‚ flyball‚ and dock diving. The Brittany is a fun-loving breed and loves their humans‚ making them excellent family pets.41. BroholmerImage Credit: Jne Valokuvaus‚ ShutterstockOrigin:DenmarkLifespan:8 to 10 yearsHeight:27.5 to 29.5 inchesThe Broholmer is a mastiff-type dog that hails from Denmark. These dogs are excellent herders and guardians of cattle. They have a heart of gold and are exceptional with children and other dogs. The Broholmer is athletic and excels in catching a Frisbee‚ agility‚ and fetching balls. They love to be with their humans and will happily go camping‚ hiking‚ or anything else involving the outdoors.42. Brussels GriffonImage Credit: otsphoto‚ ShutterstockOrigin:BelgiumLifespan:12 to 15 yearsHeight:7 to 10 inchesTalk about cuteness! Part of the toy group‚ these adorable little dogs have big personalities and are devoted and loyal to their owners. They are sociable‚ easy to train‚ and always alert. Their playful and energetic personalities make them popular pets‚ but they do not like being left alone for long periods. The coat can either be smooth or rough or comes in red‚ black and reddish-brown‚ black and tan‚ or black.43. Bull TerrierImage Credit: Wasitt Hemwarapornchai‚ ShutterstockOrigin:England‚ 19th centuryLifespan:12 to 13 yearsHeight:21 to 22 inchesThe Bull Terriers appearance is unique in that the head is long and egg-shaped‚ which has earned the breed the nickname egg heads. These dogs are stout‚ muscular‚ and big-boned. They love affection and exercise; however‚ they can be destructive if not exercised enough. They can be a tad aggressive if not properly socialized and obediently trained‚ making them unsuitable for all families.44. BulldogImage Credit: ChickenStock Images‚ ShutterstockOrigin:EnglandLifespan:8 to 10 yearsHeight:14 to 15 inchesThe Bulldog is an English icon‚ and theres no mistaking the breed for another. Their trademark wrinkly faces‚ short‚ stout bodies‚ under-bite jaws‚ and pushed-in noses give them their distinct look‚ complete with snorts and snores. They are friendly‚ courageous‚ and calm and can weigh up to 50 pounds. These dogs love exercise‚ so dont let them fool you into thinking they are lazy.45. BullmastiffImage Credit: photosounds‚ ShutterstockOrigin:England‚ Mid-1800sLifespan:7 to 9 yearsHeight:24 to 27 inchesThe Bullmastiff is large‚ fearless‚ and brave. They were developed in the Mid-1800s in England and guarded poachers (thieves and robbers) who tried to steal game. These dogs are quite large and weigh 100 to 130 pounds. A cross between the Bulldog and Mastiff‚ they have a large‚ broad head‚ and dark eyes. They are intelligent‚ alert‚ and affectionate with their human families. These dogs are strong-willed‚ and proper training is essential. However‚ they make excellent companions and enjoy brisk walks.SourcesAKCFeatured Image Credit: Sue Thatcher‚ ShutterstockThe post 45 Dog Breeds That Start With B: Pictures‚ Facts &;amp; History appeared first on Pet Keen.

The Biden administration took a major step this week to ensure that federal bureaucrats can be just as unaccountable and resistive under a potential Trump presidency next year as they were during his first term.Trump tries to Schedule F the ';resistance';One month prior to the 2020 election‚ former President Donald Trump issued an executive order establishing a new Schedule F employment category for federal employees‚ making it easier to remove insubordinate and poorly performing bureaucrats from an estimated pool of 50‚000 eligible candidates. After all‚ civil servants‚ some self-described and others dubbed by the media as the ";resistance‚"; had worked for years to prevent the democratically elected president from executing the will of the American people.Prior to its bankruptcy and shuttering‚ Vice excitedly reported that federal civil servants were ";waging bureaucratic war against Trump‚"; threatening to scrub documents‚ hide information‚ and refer ";items for legal review as a way to chew up time.";";While such intentional foot-dragging may sound borderline treasonous to some‚ ... this sort of bureaucratic firewall is employed only by those civil servants who legitimately feel they';re protecting the long-term interests of their country‚"; reported the defunct publication.";You';re going to see the bureaucrats using time to their advantage‚"; one Department of Justice employee told the Washington Post in 2017. ";People here will resist and push back against orders they find unconscionable.";Vanity Fair reported that some bureaucrats even remained in contact with Biden appointees ";to learn more about how they can undermine Trump';s agenda and attending workshops on how to effectively engage in civil disobedience.";Federal employees evidently would have much preferred to have done the bidding of failed presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. The Hill reported that 95% of all campaign donations from 14 government agencies went to Clinton ahead of the 2016 election. More than 99% of contributions from the State Department‚ 94% from IRS employees‚ and the supermajority from DOJ employees went to Clinton.Biden shields the deep statePresident Joe Biden‚ who had little to fear from the administrative state that helped get him elected‚ reversed course in January 2021. He revoked Schedule F via executive order‚ claiming it ";undermined the foundations of the civil service and its merit system principles.";Now that there';s a strong chance Trump will return to the White House‚ the Biden administration is taking steps to ensure the ";resistance"; can go back to hamstringing the commander in chief.The Biden administration announced a new rule Thursday aimed at further protecting federal employees from being ousted under a framework resembling Schedule F.According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management‚ the rule clarifies ";that the status and civil service protections an employee has accrued cannot be taken away by an involuntary move from the competitive service to the excepted service‚ or from one excepted service schedule to another. Once a career civil servant earns protections‚ that employee retains them unless waived voluntarily.";Additionally‚ the rule clarifies that the exception previously applied by the Trump administration to a host of career civil servants only applies to noncareer‚ political appointments.To further shield bureaucrats from accountability‚ the Biden administration has also established an appeals process for federal employees‚ whereby they can fight ousters or the loss of civil service protections.";This final rule honors our 2.2 million career civil servants‚ helping ensure that people are hired and fired based on merit and that they can carry out their duties based on their expertise and not political loyalty‚"; OPM director Kiran Ahuja said in a statement. ";The Biden-Harris Administration is deeply committed to the federal workforce‚ as these professionals are vital to our national security‚ our health‚ our economic prosperity‚ and much more.";A Thursday statement attributed to Biden framed the new rule as a means of protecting 2.2 million bureaucrats ";from political interference‚ to guarantee that they can carry out their responsibilities in the best interest of the American people.";";This rule is a step toward combatting corruption and partisan interference to ensure civil servants are able to focus on the most important task at hand: delivering for the American people‚"; continued the statement.A reckoning with a handicapWhen Trump first created Schedule F‚ he noted‚ ";Faithful execution of the law requires that the President have appropriate management oversight regarding this select cadre of professionals.";";Given the importance of the functions they discharge‚ employees in such positions must display appropriate temperament‚ acumen‚ impartiality‚ and sound judgment‚"; continued the Republican president. ";Due to these requirements‚ agencies should have a greater degree of appointment flexibility with respect to these employees than is afforded by the existing competitive service process.";";Separating employees who cannot or will not meet required performance standards is important‚ and it is particularly important with regard to employees in confidential‚ policy-determining‚ policy-making‚ or policy-advocating positions. High performance by such employees can meaningfully enhance agency operations‚ while poor performance can significantly hinder them‚"; added Trump.While in years past‚ Trump has routinely vowed to ";drain the swamp‚"; Government Executive indicated he got more specific during a 2022 speech in South Carolina.";We will pass critical reforms making every executive branch employee fireable by the president of the United States‚"; said Trump. ";The deep state must and will be brought to hell.";That same year‚ sources close to Trump told Axios that the Republican front-runner was especially keen to shake up the national security apparatus; to ";clean house"; in the intelligence community and State Department; to oust the ";woke generals"; in the Department of Defense; and effectively decapitate the Justice Department and FBI.Concerns have been mounting in recent months in Washington‚ D.C.‚ over the prospect of Trump making good on his promises.Kevin Munoz‚ a spokesman for Biden';s campaign‚ warned the Associated Press in February that Trump ";is already telegraphing plays straight out of the authoritarian playbook gutting the civil service of people he deems disloyal and plotting revenge on his political enemies.";Axios reported that should Trump return to the White House and seek to reverse this new rule‚ doing so might take months and involve legal challenges. For starters‚ he would have to direct the matter to the OPM to draft new rules.James Sherk‚ the director of the Center for American Freedom at the American First Policy Institute‚ suggested several weeks ahead of the OPM';s announcement‚ ";The federal workforce has ideologically polarized‚ and this rulemaking would impede the ability of presidents whose views differ from the bureaucracys to implement their agendas.";Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!