Trump Hails "New Beginning" After Hostage Release

President Trump addressed the Knesset earlier today, celebrating the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. In a landmark exchange, 20 hostages held in Gaza for over two years were freed and reunited with their families. In return, nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, some convicted terrorists, were released. Trump declared it a "new beginning" and a "historic dawn" for the Middle East.

Montgomery Shooting: Juvenile Charged

In the wake of the horrific mass shooting in Montgomery, a male juvenile faces serious charges. He's been slapped with capital murder, nine counts of first-degree assault, and three counts of second-degree assault. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities anticipate more arrests are on the horizon.

Alabama Cops as "Mini-Immigration Officers"?

Looks like some Alabama law enforcement agencies are stepping up their involvement with ICE. They're now participating in the 287(g) program, effectively acting as "mini-immigration officers," according to reports. This collaboration is resulting in more undocumented immigrants being detained across the state.

Military Paychecks in Jeopardy?

With the government shutdown dragging on, President Trump has reportedly tasked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with ensuring military service members get paid. Hegseth says they'll redirect research and development funds to make it happen this Wednesday. But with failed Senate votes, federal worker layoffs, and disrupted services already plaguing the country, it's a situation worth keeping an eye on.

Britt Blasts Dems Amid Shutdown & Protests

U.S. Senator Katie Britt is laying blame at the feet of Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, for the ongoing government shutdown. She suggests they might be deliberately prolonging it to coincide with the nationwide "No Kings" protests. These protests are slated to take place in several Alabama cities, including Florence, Fairhope, Guntersville, Huntsville, and Auburn, among others.

Alabama's Population Boom!

Alabama's got some new residents! The state's population jumped by 49,231 in 2024, bringing the total to 5.16 million. Madison and Baldwin counties saw the biggest growth, fueled by folks moving in from other states and international migrants. Interestingly, the growth happened despite more deaths than births!

Trump: Trade War? No Biggie!

President Trump is playing it cool when it comes to potential trade war drama with China. Despite his own talk of slapping 100% tariffs on Chinese goods after China's rare earth mineral restrictions, he's assuring everyone that "it will all be fine." Time will tell!