Podcasts about human services hhs

This Day in Legal History: JuneteenthOn this day in legal history, June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, announcing that all enslaved people in Texas were free. This day, now known as Juneteenth, marked the effective end of slavery in the United States—coming more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. The delay was due in large part to the limited presence of Union troops in Texas to enforce the proclamation.Granger's announcement informed Texas residents that “all slaves are free,” a declaration that redefined the legal and social landscape of the state and solidified the federal government's authority over the Confederacy's last holdout. While the Emancipation Proclamation had declared freedom for slaves in Confederate states, it did not immediately end slavery everywhere, nor did it provide enforcement mechanisms beyond Union military power. Juneteenth represents the day when emancipation finally reached the furthest corners of the Confederacy through legal and military authority.In the years following, Juneteenth became a symbol of African American freedom and resilience, celebrated with community gatherings, education, and reflection. Texas made Juneteenth a state holiday in 1980, the first state to do so. On June 17, 2021, it became a federal holiday when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. The legal significance of Juneteenth lies in its embodiment of both the promise and the delay of justice, highlighting the gap between the law's proclamation and its realization.A conservative legal group, Faculty, Alumni, and Students Opposed to Racial Preferences (FASORP), has sued the Michigan Law Review and its affiliated leadership, claiming that its member selection process illegally favors women, racial minorities, and LGBTQ+ applicants. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, the complaint alleges that personal statements and holistic review metrics are evaluated using race and sex preferences, violating both federal and state anti-discrimination laws. The group contends that conservative students, especially those associated with the Federalist Society, are excluded from review committees due to their presumed opposition to the practice.FASORP is backed by attorney Jonathan Mitchell and America First Legal, led by former Trump official Stephen Miller. The organization has brought similar legal challenges against NYU and Northwestern, and its suit aligns with broader attacks on diversity policies at elite institutions. It seeks an injunction, damages, and court oversight of a revised selection process for the journal, along with a halt to federal funding until changes are made.The group claims violations of Title VI and Title IX, as well as 42 U.S.C. §§ 1981 and 1985, the First and Fourteenth Amendments, and the Equal Protection Clause. The review's five-part selection process—including essays and grades—has no fixed evaluation formula, which FASORP argues opens the door to discriminatory discretion. Judge Judith E. Levy is assigned to the case.Conservative Group Accuses Michigan Law Review of Selection BiasA federal judge in Texas has struck down a Biden administration rule aimed at protecting the privacy of patients seeking abortions and gender-affirming care. Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk ruled that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) overstepped its authority when it adopted the rule, which barred healthcare providers and insurers from disclosing information about legal abortions to state law enforcement. The decision halts enforcement of the rule nationwide.Kacsmaryk, a Trump appointee, argued that HHS lacked explicit congressional approval to implement heightened protections for procedures viewed as politically sensitive. The rule was introduced in 2024 following the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade, as part of the Biden administration's efforts to defend reproductive healthcare access.The lawsuit was brought by Texas physician Carmen Purl, represented by the conservative Alliance Defending Freedom, which claimed the rule misused privacy laws unrelated to abortion or gender identity. Previously, Kacsmaryk had temporarily blocked enforcement of the rule against Purl, but this week's decision broadens that to all states.HHS has not responded publicly to the ruling, and a separate legal challenge to the same rule remains active in another Texas federal court. The case underscores ongoing tensions between federal privacy regulations and state-level abortion restrictions in the post-Roe legal environment.US judge invalidates Biden rule protecting privacy for abortions | ReutersXlear, a hygiene product company, has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), challenging the agency's authority to require “substantiation” for product claims under its false advertising rules. The suit, filed in federal court in Utah, follows the FTC's recent decision to drop a case it had pursued since 2021, which alleged that Xlear falsely advertised its saline nasal spray as a COVID-19 prevention and treatment product.Xlear argues that the FTC is exceeding its legal mandate by demanding scientific backing for advertising claims, stating that the FTC Act does not explicitly authorize such a requirement. The company's legal team is leaning on the 2024 Supreme Court ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which limited the deference courts must give to federal agencies when interpreting statutes—a significant departure from the longstanding Chevron doctrine.The company seeks a court ruling that merely making claims without substantiation does not violate FTC rules. Xlear has also criticized the agency for engaging in what it calls “vexatious litigation,” claiming it spent over $3 million defending itself before the FTC abandoned its lawsuit without explanation.The FTC has not yet commented or made a court appearance in this new case. The challenge could set important precedent on the scope of agency power over advertising standards in the wake of the Supreme Court's shift on judicial deference.Lawsuit challenges FTC authority over 'unsubstantiated' advertising claims | ReutersA federal judge in Rhode Island signaled skepticism toward the Trump administration's attempt to tie federal transportation funding to state cooperation with immigration enforcement. During a hearing, Chief U.S. District Judge John McConnell questioned whether U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy had legal authority to impose immigration-related conditions on grants meant for infrastructure projects. McConnell, an Obama appointee, challenged the relevance of immigration enforcement to the Transportation Department's mission, drawing a parallel to whether the department could also withhold funds based on abortion laws.The case involves 20 Democratic-led states opposing the April 24 directive, which conditions billions in infrastructure grants on compliance with federal immigration law, including cooperation with ICE. The states argue the requirement is unconstitutional, vague, and attempts to coerce state governments into enforcing federal immigration policy without clear legislative authorization.Justice Department lawyers defended the policy as aligned with national safety concerns, but struggled under McConnell's probing. He noted that the administration's broad language and public stance on sanctuary jurisdictions could not be ignored and appeared to support the states' argument that the directive lacks clarity and statutory grounding.The judge is expected to issue a ruling by Friday, before the states' grant application deadline. This lawsuit is part of a broader legal and political battle as Trump pushes sanctuary cities and states to aid in mass deportations.US judge skeptical of Trump plan tying states' transportation funds to immigration | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Join us for part one of a two part series on “Unraveling the Mystery of NoviSurvey” with host Yessi Cubillo, Quality Insights ESRD Network 3 Patient Engagement Specialist, and guest Kimberly Hansen, MSN, RN, Acute Care Program Manager within the Health Facility Survey & Field Operations at the New Jersey Department of Health.For “Part Two” of this series, we need your feedback: Submit your questions.This material was prepared by Quality Insights Renal Network 3, an End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. Publication No. ESRD3-061125-GK-A

1. Cancellation of Moderna's Bird Flu Vaccine Contract The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., canceled a $766 million contract with Moderna. The contract was intended to fund the development of an mRNA-based vaccine for pandemic influenza, including H5N1 (bird flu). Despite positive early trial results from Moderna, the administration cited scientific, ethical, and safety concerns as reasons for the cancellation. The move reflects RFK Jr.'s skepticism toward mRNA vaccines and aligns with his broader rollback of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. 2. FBI Reopening High-Profile Investigations FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced the reopening or renewed focus on several public corruption cases, including: The January 6 pipe bomb incident. The White House cocaine discovery (July 2023). The leak of the 2022 Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade. Bongino emphasized a push for transparency and public engagement, encouraging tips from the public. 3. Federal Crackdown on Harvard University The Trump administration is canceling or redirecting $100 million in federal contracts with Harvard, following a freeze of $2.6 billion in research grants. The administration cites concerns over campus climate, anti-American sentiment, and violence against Jewish and American students. Additional measures include: Pausing student visa interviews. Implementing new social media screening for foreign students. The administration frames this as a move to redirect funds to trade schools, promote accountability, and encourage institutional self-reliance. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. Thanks for Listening #seanhannity #hannity #marklevin #levin #charliekirk #megynkelly #tucker #tuckercarlson #glennbeck #benshapiro #shapiro #trump #sexton #bucksexton#rushlimbaugh #limbaugh #whitehouse #senate #congress #thehouse #democrats#republicans #conservative #senator #congressman #congressmen #congresswoman #capitol #president #vicepresident #POTUS #presidentoftheunitedstatesofamerica#SCOTUS #Supremecourt #DonaldTrump #PresidentDonaldTrump #DT #TedCruz #Benferguson #Verdict #maga #presidenttrump #47 #the47morningupdate #donaldtrump #trump #news #trumpnews #Benferguson #breaking #breakingnews #morningupdateYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Day in Legal History: 19th Amendment Passed in SenateOn June 4, 1919, the U.S. Congress passed the 19th Amendment, marking a turning point in American constitutional and civil rights history. The amendment stated simply that the right to vote "shall not be denied or abridged... on account of sex," legally enfranchising millions of women. The road to this moment was long and contentious, spanning more than seven decades of organized activism. Early suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony laid the groundwork in the 19th century, while a new generation, including Alice Paul and the National Woman's Party, employed more confrontational tactics in the 1910s.Although the House of Representatives had passed the amendment earlier in the year, the Senate had repeatedly failed to approve it. The June 4 vote in the Senate—passing by just over the required two-thirds majority—was the final congressional hurdle. The legislative victory came amid shifting national sentiment, in part due to women's contributions during World War I and growing pressure from suffrage organizations.The amendment was then sent to the states, needing ratification by three-fourths to become law. That process concluded over a year later with Tennessee's pivotal ratification on August 18, 1920. The 19th Amendment was certified on August 26, finally making women's suffrage the law of the land. This day marks not just a legal transformation but the culmination of one of the most significant civil rights struggles in U.S. history.Disbarred attorney Tom Girardi was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for stealing $15 million in settlement funds from his clients. U.S. District Judge Josephine Staton also imposed a $35,000 fine and ordered Girardi to pay over $2.3 million in restitution. The sentence followed his August 2024 conviction on four counts of wire fraud. Girardi, who turned 86 on the day of his sentencing, had sought leniency due to age, liver issues, and dementia claims, but the court found him competent and sided with prosecutors who sought a significant term.Girardi's legacy was once tied to his successful pollution suit against Pacific Gas and Electric—dramatized in the film Erin Brockovich. However, his downfall involved stealing settlement funds in various personal injury cases, including millions owed to families of victims of the 2018 Boeing 737 MAX crash. A federal judge in Chicago recently dismissed related charges, citing the active California case, though the prosecution of Girardi's son-in-law, David Lira, is still set to proceed there. Lira denies wrongdoing.At trial, Girardi blamed the fraud on Christopher Kamon, his firm's former CFO, who has already been sentenced to over ten years after pleading guilty. Girardi's attorneys continue to claim cognitive decline, but the court maintained that he was mentally fit to face justice.Lawyer Tom Girardi sentenced to 87 months in prison for wire fraud | ReutersA federal appeals court is set to hear its first case reviewing the constitutionality of Donald Trump's executive order limiting birthright citizenship. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments in Seattle as the Trump administration appeals a nationwide injunction issued by U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, who called the order “blatantly unconstitutional.” The directive, signed by Trump on January 20, his first day back in office, seeks to deny citizenship to U.S.-born children whose parents are neither U.S. citizens nor lawful permanent residents.Critics—including 22 Democratic attorneys general and immigrant advocacy groups—argue the order violates the 14th Amendment, which has long been interpreted to grant citizenship to nearly anyone born on U.S. soil. Federal judges in Massachusetts and Maryland have also issued rulings blocking the order. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, which heard related arguments on May 15, is considering whether to limit lower courts' power to issue nationwide injunctions rather than deciding on the constitutionality of the policy itself.If implemented, the order could deny citizenship to over 150,000 newborns annually, according to the plaintiffs. The lawsuit before the 9th Circuit was filed by several states and individual pregnant women. The three-judge panel includes two Clinton-era appointees and one Trump appointee, potentially shaping the outcome. The administration maintains that birthright citizenship doesn't apply to children of undocumented or temporary-status immigrants, a stance at odds with long-standing interpretations of the 14th Amendment.To be clear, this case revolves around the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. This clause states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States... are citizens of the United States,” forming the basis of birthright citizenship. The case centers on how this clause should be interpreted, making it the key constitutional question in this challenge. On the side of birthright citizenship is, frankly, the plain language of the amendment. On the side of the executive order are racists and racist people without basic reading comprehension – full stop. There is no “other side” here, and there is no real debate. Ultimately the courts may decide to pretend there is some nuance, but that changes nothing about the clear language of the amendment. Trump's birthright citizenship order to face first US appeals court reviewA group of former U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) employees has filed a class action lawsuit against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Elon Musk, alleging that their departments used flawed data to justify the firing of 10,000 federal workers. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, claims that HHS and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which Musk leads, violated the 1974 Privacy Act by using inaccurate personnel records during a mass reduction in force (RIF).The plaintiffs argue that the agencies relied on data riddled with errors, including incorrect performance reviews, job descriptions, and office locations. One named plaintiff, Catherine Jackson, reportedly received an RIF notice based on false performance ratings. Another, Melissa Adams, was allegedly terminated by officials who didn't even know her work location.The lawsuit seeks at least $1,000 in damages per affected employee and a court declaration that the government's actions were unlawful. The complaint also suggests that the terminations were ideologically driven, referencing a troubling incident where an FDA employee was warned by a man invoking DOGE shortly before receiving her RIF notice.The mass firings, which began April 1, impacted key HHS agencies like the CDC, FDA, and NIH. Kennedy defended the cuts as part of a broader reorganization to address chronic disease. The plaintiffs, however, see the action as a politically motivated purge that disregarded legal safeguards.By way of brief background, the Privacy Act of 1974 mandates that federal agencies maintain accurate records when making decisions that adversely affect individuals. It is central to the lawsuit because the plaintiffs claim their terminations were based on data that was factually wrong, violating this statutory requirement.RFK Jr., Musk Accused of Using Faulty Data in Firing HHS WorkersA new conflict over federal spending power is emerging between the Trump White House and the Government Accountability Office (GAO), centered on a $5 billion electric vehicle infrastructure program. The GAO recently concluded that the Trump administration's pause of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) grants—originally authorized under President Biden's 2021 infrastructure law—violated the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which prohibits presidents from withholding funds for policy reasons. In response, the White House issued a sharply worded memo instructing the Department of Transportation to disregard the GAO's opinion entirely.The memo, written by OMB general counsel Mark Paoletta, accuses the GAO of partisan bias and undermining President Trump's “historic and lawful spending reforms.” It signals a broader strategy to challenge the authority of congressional watchdogs and reframe presidential control over budget implementation. This dispute could serve as the first legal test of Trump's intent to challenge the constitutionality of the Impoundment Act itself.The delay in EV funding is part of a broader rollback of Biden-era policy priorities, including guidance on equity and charger placement. Meanwhile, the administration has proposed over $9 billion in spending rescissions, aimed at areas like public broadcasting and foreign aid, under Trump's Department of Government Efficiency initiative. Advisors have floated a tactic called “pocket rescission,” a timing strategy that critics argue violates legal requirements for obligating federal funds.This isn't the first time a president has clashed with GAO over spending powers—Trump and Biden both previously faced scrutiny for pauses in Ukraine aid and border wall funds, respectively. However, the White House's open defiance of GAO marks a significant escalation in an ongoing constitutional debate over who ultimately controls the federal purse.More specifically, the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 restricts the executive branch from withholding or delaying funds Congress has appropriated unless explicitly authorized. It plays a central role in this dispute, as the GAO argues Trump's delay of NEVI grants constitutes an illegal impoundment, while the administration disputes the law's constitutionality and GAO's oversight role.White House Memo on EV Grants Sets Up Fight Over Spending Power - Bloomberg This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 3: 5:05pm- Gerald Posner—Award-Winning Investigative Journalist & Author of the book “Pharma: Greed, Lies, and the Poisoning of America”—joins The Rich Zeoli Show and reacts to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) releasing its Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) commission report investigating the cause of chronic illness. The report determines that the health of children nationwide has been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, chemical exposures, the over prescription of pharmaceutical drugs, and a lack of emphasis on exercise. 5:30pm- Friday marked Elon Musk's last day leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). President Donald Trump praised Musk's work, highlighting several instances of federal waste that were discovered under his leadership: $101 million for DEI contracts at the Department of Education, $59 million for illegal alien hotel rooms in New York City, $45 million for DEI scholarships in Burma, $42 million for social and behavioral change in Uganda, $20 million for Arab Sesame Street, and $8 million for making mice transgender. As a thank you, Trump presented Musk with a golden key to the White House.

The Rich Zeoli Show- Full Show (05/30/2025): 3:05pm- On Friday, President Donald Trump is planning to hold a rally in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania celebrating his administration's negotiated merger between Japan's Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel which will keep steel manufacturing in Pittsburgh, PA. In response to the agreement, Governor Josh Shapiro (D-PA) conceded: “it is a big f***ing deal.” 3:20pm- In a series of articles published over the weekend, The New York Times examined the Democrat Party's continued struggles appealing to the American electorate. Shane Goldmacher writes that Democrats “are still searching for the path forward”—noting that the party spent $20 million studying their “erosion” of support with “young men” specifically. In another article, Goldmacher—alongside June Kim and Christine Zhang—evaluate “how Donald Trump has remade America's political landscape.” They document that 435 counties across the country became more “Democratic” from 2012 and 2024—however, 2,678 counties became more “Republican.” Further complicating matters is the 2030 census which is expected to cause comfortably blue states to lose electoral votes as citizens move to red states. You can read the articles here: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/25/us/politics/democratic-party-voters.html. And here: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/05/25/us/politics/trump-politics-democrats.html. 3:40pm- Tom Burgoyne (Best Friend of the Phillie Phanatic) and John Brazer (Director of Fun and Games for the Philadelphia Phillies) join The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss the Phillies season, the Phanatic being named one of MLB's “sexiest” mascots, and their podcast: “Phillies Backstage with Brazer and Burgoyne.” Plus, does the Phillie Phanatic still have a hotdog cannon? 4:05pm- Dr. Wilfred Reilly—Professor of Political Science at Kentucky State University & Author of “Lies My Liberal Teacher Told Me”—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss movie star Sydney Sweeney partnering with Dr. Squatch to sell 5,000 bars of soap made from her actual bathwater. Plus, one of the highest paid professors at Harvard Business School is busted for falsifying research data. 4:40pm- On Friday, former President Joe Biden spoke at a Memorial Day event in New Castle, Delaware. It was his first public appearance since announcing he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. 4:45pm- Friday marked Elon Musk's last day leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). President Donald Trump praised Musk's work, highlighting several instances of federal waste that were discovered under his leadership: $101 million for DEI contracts at the Department of Education, $59 million for illegal alien hotel rooms in New York City, $45 million for DEI scholarships in Burma, $42 million for social and behavioral change in Uganda, $20 million for Arab Sesame Street, and $8 million for making mice transgender. As a thank you, Trump presented Musk with a golden key to the White House. 5:05pm- Gerald Posner—Award-Winning Investigative Journalist & Author of the book “Pharma: Greed, Lies, and the Poisoning of America”—joins The Rich Zeoli Show and reacts to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) releasing its Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) commission report investigating the cause of chronic illness. The report determines that the health of children nationwide has been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, chemical exposures, the over prescription of pharmaceutical drugs, and a lack of emphasis on exercise. 5:30pm- Friday marked Elon Musk's last day leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). President Donald Trump praised Musk's work, highlighting several instances of federal waste that were discovered under his leadership: $101 million for DEI contracts at the Department of Education, $59 million for illegal alien hotel rooms in New York City, $45 million for DEI scholarships in Burma, $42 million for social and behavioral change in Uganda, $20 mi ...

The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 2: 4:05pm- On Thursday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) commission report investigating chronic illness—determining that the health of children nationwide has been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, chemical exposures, the over prescription of pharmaceutical drugs, and a lack of emphasis on exercise. From the White House, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and President Donald Trump announced the results of the report and spoke to the press. Kennedy explained: “never in American history has the federal government taken a position on public health like this”—noting that it had been an ambition of his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, before he was killed. 4:45pm- During Thursday's White House briefing, reporter Peter Doocy asked Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt if unelected Biden Administration staffers concealed the former president's decline so that they could use the levers of power for their own personal gain.

The Rich Zeoli Show- Full Episode (05/22/2025): 3:05pm- Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson's new book, “Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again,” which is critical of the Biden Administration for covering up the president's physical and cognitive decline, was released earlier this week. While Tapper is now reporting on internal stories about Biden's health decline, why did he—and the rest of the mainstream media—largely ignore the story prior to Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election? While speaking with journalist Tara Palmeri, DC insider Sally Quinn accused former First Lady Jill Biden of “elderly abuse” for allowing her husband to initially run for re-election in 2024. 3:30pm- While appearing on Fox News, Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed his recent request for the Department of Justice to investigate Joe Biden's cognitive and physical decline while serving as president. 3:40pm- While on NewsNation, Axios reporter and Original Sin co-author Alex Thompson said that Biden Administration officials were shocked that the mainstream media was unwilling to investigate Joe Biden's cognitive and physical decline—instead, constantly taking the White House's word without any critical examination. 3:50pm- To absolutely no one's surprise, Matt has never seen the classic film Spaceballs. Plus, the debate over brioche buns rages on! 4:05pm- On Thursday, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) commission report investigating chronic illness—determining that the health of children nationwide has been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, chemical exposures, the over prescription of pharmaceutical drugs, and a lack of emphasis on exercise. From the White House, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and President Donald Trump announced the results of the report and spoke to the press. Kennedy explained: “never in American history has the federal government taken a position on public health like this”—noting that it had been an ambition of his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, before he was killed. 4:45pm- During Thursday's White House briefing, reporter Peter Doocy asked Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt if unelected Biden Administration staffers concealed the former president's decline so that they could use the levers of power for their own personal gain. 5:05pm- Jennifer Galardi—Senior Policy Analyst for Restoring American Wellness in The Heritage Foundation's DeVos Center—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to assess the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) newly released Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission report investigating chronic illness. The report determines that the health of children nationwide has been negatively impacted by ultra-processed foods, chemical exposures, the over prescription of pharmaceutical drugs, and a lack of emphasis on exercise. 5:35pm- On Wednesday night two Israeli Embassy staffers were tragically shot and killed outside of the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington D.C. In a post to X, FBI Director Kash Patel revealed that the shooting will be investigated as an “act of terror.” 5:45pm- Steve Hilton—GOP Candidate for Governor of California, former Senior Advisor to the U.K. Prime Minister, and a former Fox News Host—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss his campaign and his potential gubernatorial opponent Kamala Harris's role in covering up Joe Biden's physical and mental decline. Hilton argues that as Vice President, Harris was as responsible as anyone for lying to the American people—demonstrating her failure as a leader and disqualifying her from any future office. To learn more about his campaign, visit: https://stevehiltonforgovernor.com. 6:00pm- Tom Azelby in for Rich!

On Monday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at lowering prescription drug prices for U.S. citizens by establishing “most-favored-nation pricing.” The order directs the secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to facilitate price targets for pharmaceutical companies, tying their prices to what consumers pay in other countries. “We've been subsidizing other countries throughout the world,” Trump said at a White House signing ceremony on Monday, adding that “some prescription drug and pharmaceutical prices will be reduced almost immediately by 50 to 80 to 90%.”Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.Take the survey: What do you think of Isaac's take today? Let us know!Disagree? That's okay. My opinion is just one of many. Write in and let us know why, and we'll consider publishing your feedback.You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Hunter Casperson, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textDr. Michael Osterholm, PhD, MPH ( https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/michael-t-osterholm-phd-mph ) is Regents Professor, McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health, the Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, a professor in the Technological Leadership Institute, College of Science and Engineering, and an adjunct professor in the Medical School, all at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Osterholm is also a member of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) and the Council of Foreign Relations. In June 2005 Dr. Osterholm was appointed by Michael Leavitt, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), to the newly established National Science Advisory Board on Biosecurity. In July 2008, he was named to the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center's Academy of Excellence in Health Research. In October 2008, he was appointed to the World Economic Forum Working Group on Pandemics.Dr. Osterholm is an internationally recognized expert in infectious disease epidemiology and is the author of more than 300 papers and abstracts, including 20 book chapters, and New York Times best-selling 2017 book, Deadliest Enemy: Our War Against Killer Germs ( https://www.amazon.com/Deadliest-Enemy-Against-Killer-Germs/dp/0316343692 ).Dr. Osterholm's new book will be coming out in September, 2025, entitled The Big One: How We Must Prepare for Future Deadly Pandemics ( https://www.amazon.com/Big-One-Prepare-World-Altering-Pandemics-ebook/dp/B0C1G5BHG3 ).Dr. Osterholm has received numerous honors for his work, including an honorary doctorate from Luther College; the Pump Handle Award, CSTE; the Charles C. Shepard Science Award, CDC; the Harvey W. Wiley Medal, FDA; the Squibb Award, IDSA; Distinguished University Teaching Professor, Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, UMN; and the Wade Hampton Frost Leadership Award, American Public Health Association. He also has been the recipient of six major research awards from the NIH and the CDC.Dr. Osterholm received his PhD and MS in Environmental Health, and MPH in Epidemiology, from the University of Minnesota. #MichaelOsterholm #InfectiousDisease #CenterForInfectiousDiseaseResearchAndPolicy #CIDRAP #PublicHealth #AntimicrobialStewardship #VaccineIntegrityProject #AntimicrobialResistance #MinnesotaDepartmentOfHealth #Epidemiologist #ToxicShockSyndrome #FoodborneIllness #Hepatitis #Biodefense #Countermeasures #ChronicWastingDisease #Preparedness #Policy #Surveillance #ProgressPotentialAndPossibilities #IraPastor #Podcast #Podcaster #Podcasting #ViralPodcast #STEM #Innovation #Science #Technology #ResearchSupport the show

In this case, the court considered this issue: Does the phrase “entitled… to benefits” include all who meet basic program eligibility criteria, whether or not benefits are actually received?The case was decided on April 29, 2025.In this case, a group of over 200 hospitals claimed that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) miscalculated their Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) adjustments, which provide additional funding to hospitals treating a high percentage of low-income patients. The dispute centered on the interpretation of the phrase "entitled to supplementary security income (SSI) benefits" under subchapter XVI. The hospitals argued that this phrase should include all patients enrolled in the SSI system at the time of hospitalization, even if they were not entitled to an SSI payment during that month. HHS, however, interpreted it to mean patients who were eligible to receive an SSI payment during the month of hospitalization.The Provider Reimbursement Review Board denied the hospitals' request for additional reimbursement on procedural grounds, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services denied relief on the merits. The District Court rejected the hospitals' claims and granted summary judgment to HHS. The D-C Circuit affirmed, concluding that SSI benefits are about cash payments for needy individuals and that it makes little sense to say individuals are entitled to the benefit in months when they are not eligible for a payment.The Supreme Court of the United States held that an individual is "entitled to SSI benefits" for purposes of the Medicare fraction when she is eligible to receive an SSI cash payment during the month of her hospitalization. The Court reasoned that SSI benefits are cash benefits determined on a monthly basis, and eligibility for such benefits is also determined monthly. The Court affirmed the judgment of the D-C Circuit, respecting the specific formula that Congress prescribed for calculating the Medicare fraction.The opinion is presented here in its entirety, but with citations omitted. If you appreciate this episode, please subscribe. Thank you. 

In March, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) withdrew the Richardson Waiver, a policy under which HHS voluntarily undertook notice-and-comment rulemaking in circumstances where it wouldn't otherwise need to. HHS also issued a new Statement of Organization for the Office of the General Counsel (HHS-OGC), which, among other things, may signal an effort to consolidate and expand HHS-OGC's authority. Jaime Jones, Partner, Sidley Austin LLP, and Brenna Jenny, Partner, Sidley Austin LLP, discuss HHS' potential rationale for these changes and the implications for the health care industry. During the first Trump Administration, Brenna Jenny served as the Principal Deputy General Counsel at HHS and the Chief Legal Officer at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.AHLA's Health Law Daily Podcast Is Here! AHLA's popular Health Law Daily email newsletter is now a daily podcast, exclusively for AHLA Premium members. Get all your health law news from the major media outlets on this new podcast! To subscribe and add this private podcast feed to your podcast app, go to americanhealthlaw.org/dailypodcast.

Washington, DC, April 25, 2025 — On this month's podcast episode, the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) speakers discuss the recent reorganization of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including significant layoffs of staff working on public health programs, as well as the recently leaked funding “passback” document and what this means for public health. They also share an update on a lawsuit filed by some states against HHS on the clawback of billions of dollars of COVID-era supplemental funding. For more frequent updates, subscribe to NACCHO's News from Washington weekly newsletter: www.naccho.org/advocacy/news.   Later in the program (7:15), Philip “Phil” Huang, MD, MPH, Director and Health Authority at Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS), and Miranda Grant, a DCHHS Program Manager for the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative, join NACCHO to discuss DCHHS' efforts to prevent, detect, treat, and respond to HIV in Dallas County and the critical role local public health plays in improving health outcomes.    During the episode, they share the current state of the epidemic in Dallas County, the disproportionate impact on Black and Hispanic communities, the importance of community partnerships in reaching more diverse populations, the promising outlook for a reduction in new cases by 2030, and how fostering community engagement and data-driven planning will help address the epidemic. They highlight their trauma-informed learning collaborative, a county-wide initiative to help reduce workforce burnout and address stigma surrounding HIV. Dallas County has also seen a significant increase in PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) usage with up to 8,000 residents on PrEP in 2023 versus 300 people in 2014. However, without sustainable investments in HIV prevention, Dallas County faces a growing crisis in its communities and an economic strain – each HIV case prevented saves an estimated $420,000 in lifetime costs. Sign up for NACCHO's HIV, STI, Viral Hepatitis, and Harm Reduction Digest.

Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on April 11th, 2025, and reflects the information available at the time of recording. As we know, America is in motion here, and so subsequent updates may not be reflected in this discussion as things continue to evolve and change. Tune in as PwC specialists from across the health industry share their insights on how recent policy shifts under the Trump administration could shape healthcare in the years to come. In this episode, Glenn Hunzinger, Jenny Colapietro, and guests Kelly Griffin, Phil Sclafani, and Ruchita Kewalramani break down the potential implications of proposed government healthcare cuts, tariff policy and agency workforce reductions, along with the growing role of AI in the industry. They also discuss how pharma, medtech, payers and providers can stay ahead amidst the uncertainty. Discussion highlights:Proposed funding cuts to major government healthcare programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and NIH could significantly disrupt access, affordability, and service delivery across the healthcare landscape.Workforce reductions at federal agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Health and Human Services (HHS) may slow drug approvals, diminish oversight, and impact public health standards.New and evolving tariff policies are creating cost pressures across pharmaceutical and medtech supply chains, with potential downstream impacts on pricing, R&D, and patient access.The rapid adoption of AI in healthcare is creating new opportunities across diagnostics, R&D, and operations, while also raising concerns around governance and data privacy.To stay ahead, industry leaders must assess risks, strengthen agility, and uncover opportunities to innovate in today's dynamic environment.Speakers:Kelly Griffin, Director, Health Policy Intelligence Institute, PwCRuchita Kewalramani, Partner, Health Services PwCPhil Sclafani, Partner, Pharma & Life Sciences, PwCGlenn Hunzinger, Partner, Health Industries Leader, PwCJenny Colapietro, Principal, Consulting Commercial Leader, PwCLinked materials:Health Policy and Intelligence InstituteFor more information, please visit us at: https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/health-industries/health-research-institute/next-in-health-podcast.html.

This Day in Legal History: Maryland Toleration Act PassedOn April 21, 1649, the Maryland Assembly passed the Maryland Toleration Act, a landmark piece of colonial legislation that granted freedom of worship to all Christians in the colony. Also known as the Act Concerning Religion, it was one of the first legal efforts in the American colonies to protect religious liberty through statutory law. The act was enacted under the leadership of Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore, who sought to maintain peace in Maryland's religiously diverse population, which included both Catholics and Protestants.The law's preamble acknowledged the dangers of religious coercion, stating that "the inforceing of the conscience in matters of Religion hath frequently fallen out to be of dangerous Consequence." To preserve harmony, it declared that no Christian should be "troubled, Molested or discountenanced" for practicing their faith, provided they did not threaten the colony's civil government or the authority of the Lord Proprietor.While progressive for its time, the Act's protections were limited to those who professed belief in Jesus Christ, excluding Jews, atheists, and other non-Christians. Violators of the law's religious tolerance provisions faced harsh penalties, including fines, public whipping, or even death for blasphemy.The Act was repealed just five years later during a period of Protestant ascendancy, reflecting the fragile nature of religious tolerance in colonial America. Nonetheless, it remains significant as an early attempt to codify the principle that faith should not be a basis for persecution.A federal judge has ruled that the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) can no longer direct the termination of probationary federal workers based on performance-related justifications that were, according to the court, misleading. U.S. District Judge William Alsup called OPM's use of standardized termination letters citing performance as the reason for firing thousands of employees a “total sham.” He emphasized that falsely attributing the dismissals to performance could harm the affected workers' reputations and career prospects for years to come.The ruling affects employees at six federal agencies and prohibits further terminations under these pretenses. Judge Alsup's decision underscores that these workers were dismissed under false narratives while still in their probationary period—either newly hired or recently promoted—and should not have been labeled as underperformers without proper evaluation or process.Though Alsup's ruling offers protection against future actions, he declined to issue a preliminary injunction requested by the state of Washington, stating the state lacked standing because it could not show concrete harm from the federal firings, such as a clear loss of federal services.This legal challenge comes amid a broader judicial tug-of-war. In March, Alsup had initially ordered the reinstatement of 16,000 workers pending resolution of a lawsuit. However, the U.S. Supreme Court blocked that injunction on April 8, suggesting that nonprofit organizations representing federal workers may lack the legal standing to sue on their behalf. Following that, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals also halted a separate injunction from a Maryland judge that would have reinstated probationary employees in 19 states and Washington, D.C.Despite the limits imposed by the higher courts, Alsup's decision focuses on the reputational harm caused by labeling the dismissals as performance-based, rather than procedural or administrative. He signaled that the government must correct the record for those terminated workers.Performance-Based Federal Worker Layoffs a ‘Sham' Judge RulesThe U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a major challenge to a provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as Obamacare, that mandates insurers cover certain preventive medical services—like cancer screenings and diabetes testing—without cost-sharing by patients. The case centers on the constitutional validity of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a panel of medical experts that identifies which services should be covered. The panel's 16 members are appointed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) but are not confirmed by the Senate.A group of Texas-based Christian individuals and businesses filed the lawsuit in 2020, arguing that the USPSTF wields too much authority and must therefore comply with the U.S. Constitution's Appointments Clause. This clause requires that significant federal officers—known as "principal officers"—be nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The plaintiffs claim the task force has evolved from a purely advisory body to one that effectively imposes binding legal obligations on insurers, all without proper accountability.In 2024, the conservative-leaning 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the plaintiffs, ruling the task force's structure unconstitutional. The federal government appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court. The Biden administration originally filed the appeal, and it was later continued by the Trump administration. Government lawyers argue that the task force should be classified as comprising "inferior officers," since their recommendations are only made binding when approved by the HHS Secretary, who can remove task force members at will.The plaintiffs, however, maintain that the Secretary lacks actual power to stop recommendations from taking effect, making the task force's authority effectively unchecked. They also argue that this lack of oversight elevates the members to principal officer status, necessitating Senate confirmation.Before narrowing the lawsuit to the appointments issue, the plaintiffs also challenged the ACA's requirement to cover HIV prevention medication on religious grounds, asserting it promoted behaviors they opposed. The appeals court declined to sever portions of the law that might otherwise save the provision, another aspect now before the Supreme Court.If the Supreme Court upholds the lower court's decision, key preventive healthcare services could become subject to out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and co-pays, potentially deterring millions from accessing early detection and prevention tools. The Court's decision, expected by the end of June, could reshape how health policy is implemented under the ACA and may further weaken one of its core patient protections.US Supreme Court to hear clash over Obamacare preventive care | ReutersIn a rapidly unfolding legal confrontation, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an emergency order halting the deportation of a group of Venezuelan migrants from Texas, sparking a strong dissent from Justice Samuel Alito. The court intervened early Saturday morning, acting on urgent filings by detainees' lawyers who said the migrants were already being loaded onto buses for imminent deportation to El Salvador. The migrants were accused of gang affiliation, but their legal team argued they hadn't been given fair notice or time to challenge their removal. The administration attempted to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a wartime law, to justify these expulsions.Justice Alito, joined by Justice Clarence Thomas, sharply criticized the majority's decision, calling it "unprecedented and legally questionable." He argued that the Court acted without giving lower courts adequate time to review the claims and issued its order with limited evidence and no explanation. The justices' ruling paused deportations “until further order of this Court,” leaving room for future legal developments.The Trump administration quickly responded, filing a motion urging the Court to reverse its stay. U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued the detainees' lawyers bypassed proper procedure by going directly to the Supreme Court and that lower courts had not yet had a chance to establish key facts. He maintained that the migrants received legally sufficient notice, though reports suggested the notices were in English only and lacked clear instructions.The administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged gang members is highly controversial. Originally passed in 1798 during hostilities with France, the law has been used sparingly and almost exclusively during wartime. The Supreme Court has not yet ruled on whether its application in this immigration context is constitutional. Migrants' advocates, including the ACLU, maintain that many of the men deported or at risk of deportation are not gang members and were denied due process.The legal conflict reflects a broader tension between Trump's immigration enforcement efforts and judicial oversight. Last month, Trump ordered the deportation of more than 200 men to a Salvadoran maximum-security prison, reportedly ignoring a judge's oral order to halt at least two flights. The White House has not signaled any intent to defy the current Supreme Court stay but remains committed to its immigration crackdown.The case, A.A.R.P. v. Trump, now becomes a focal point in ongoing disputes about executive authority, due process rights for detainees, and the scope of immigration enforcement under rarely invoked legal provisions. As the Court weighs further action, the lives of dozens of migrants hang in the balance, caught between legal technicalities and broader political pressures.Supreme Court's Alito Calls Block of Deportations ‘Questionable' - BloombergAlito criticizes US Supreme Court's decision to 'hastily' block deportations | ReutersTrump Administration Asks Supreme Court to Lift Deportation Halt - BloombergA federal judge in Boston ruled that the Trump administration's passport policy targeting transgender and nonbinary individuals is likely unconstitutional. The policy, which followed an executive order signed by President Trump immediately after returning to office, required passport applicants to list their biological sex at birth and allowed only "male" or "female" markers. This reversed prior policies that permitted self-identification and, under the Biden administration, had allowed the use of a gender-neutral "X" option.U.S. District Judge Julia Kobick issued a preliminary injunction that bars enforcement of the policy against six of the seven plaintiffs who filed the lawsuit. She held that the policy discriminates based on sex and reflects a bias against transgender individuals, violating the Fifth Amendment's guarantee of equal protection. Kobick described the administration's approach as rooted in "irrational prejudice" and said it runs counter to the Constitution's promise of equality.Despite finding the policy likely unconstitutional, Kobick declined to issue a nationwide injunction, stating that the plaintiffs did not justify the need for broad relief. Still, the ruling marks a significant legal setback for the administration's broader effort to redefine federal gender recognition policies.The executive order at the center of the case mandated all federal agencies, including the State Department, to recognize only two sexes—male and female—based on biology at birth. The State Department then revised its passport application process to align with this directive.The case is part of a wave of legal challenges to Trump's rollback of gender recognition policies. Lawyers for the plaintiffs, represented by the ACLU, vowed to continue fighting to expand the ruling's protections to all affected individuals.Trump passport policy targeting transgender people likely unconstitutional, judge rules | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

On Monday, the Trump administration announced that it will freeze $2.2 billion in grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard University after the school refused to comply with a list of requirements it said were unlawful. In a joint letter dated April 11, the General Services Administration, Department of Education (ED) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) demanded that Harvard adopt its suggested reforms in order to maintain its funding. Among the required changes, the administration ordered Harvard to discontinue DEI programs, regulate specific academic departments, screen international students, and submit to government audits. Harvard rejected the government's terms, calling its demands an invasion of “university freedoms.” Hours later, the Trump administration announced its decision to freeze Harvard's federal funding.Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.Take the survey: What do you think of Harvard's decision? Let us know!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Jon Lall. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Hunter Casperson, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a startling development, records from Dr. Tom Shimabukuro, head of the CDC’s Immunization Safety Office, have gone missing. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) informed Senator Ron Johnson that they are unable to locate these critical documents, which are essential for ongoing investigations into COVID-19 vaccine safety. Senator Johnson has raised concerns about potential violations of federal law and obstruction of congressional oversight. This incident is part of a broader pattern of data suppression within federal health agencies. Recent reports indicate that the CDC has withheld crucial information on influenza and bird flu outbreaks, leaving healthcare professionals without necessary data to respond effectively. Join us as we delve into these pressing issues, examining the implications for public health transparency and trust in our institutions. The Wellness Company prides itself on pushing back against censorship and tyranny. It's why it has developed a series of prescription drug medical emergency kits that prescribed directly to you and delivered to your door to use incase of an emergency. You will have on hand much needed antibiotics, antivirals and antiparasitics, including Ivermectin. Please visit TWC.Health/Grant and use the promo code "Grant" for 10% off. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As I delve into the intricacies of Project 2025, a sweeping initiative spearheaded by the conservative Heritage Foundation, it becomes clear that this is more than just a policy manual – it's a blueprint for a fundamental transformation of American governance.Project 2025 is the culmination of efforts from over 100 respected organizations within the conservative movement, aiming to "take down the Deep State" and return the government to the people. This ambitious plan, outlined in a 900-page manual, involves hundreds of individual policy changes that touch nearly every aspect of American life. From immigration and abortion rights to education and energy production, the scope of Project 2025 is vast and its implications profound.One of the most contentious areas addressed by Project 2025 is immigration. The plan calls for securing the border, finishing the construction of the wall, and deporting illegal aliens. It also proposes transferring the custody of immigrant children from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a move that critics argue would prioritize enforcement over welfare and potentially worsen the safety and psychological well-being of vulnerable children[5].In the realm of reproductive rights, Project 2025 advocates for drastic measures. It suggests reviving the 19th-century Comstock Act to ban abortion medications and materials from being sent through the U.S. Postal Service and reversing the FDA's approval of mifepristone, a key medication used in abortions. These proposals are part of a broader effort to gut abortion access, with supporters like Pam Bondi, who defended President Trump during his first impeachment trial and upheld Florida's restrictive abortion ban, actively working to implement these changes[3].Education is another sector that would undergo significant changes under Project 2025. The plan aims to dismantle the federal role in education, proposing the abolition of the Department of Education and the privatization of student loans. It also recommends eliminating the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and increasing taxes on university endowments. Sara Partridge, associate director of higher education policy at the Center for American Progress, notes that "the way I see it, Project 2025 really set out to destroy the federal role in education as we know it, and this administration has already taken major steps to weaken it"[4].The energy sector is not immune to the project's ambitious reforms. Project 2025 advocates for unleashing American energy production to reduce energy prices, including expanding energy exploration and extraction in Alaska and opening the National Petroleum Reserve to leasing and development. This aligns with broader conservative goals of reducing regulatory barriers and increasing domestic energy production[2].A key aspect of Project 2025 is its focus on restructuring the federal government to make it more accountable to the democratically elected President and Congress. This includes proposals to de-weaponize the Federal Government by increasing accountability and oversight of the FBI and DOJ, and to implement Trump's Schedule F executive order, which would allow for the dismissal of ‘non-performing' federal employees. This measure could significantly erode the system of checks and balances by centralizing power in the executive branch[5].The project also delves into social issues, such as banning biological males from competing in women's sports, a policy that reflects the conservative movement's stance on gender and sports[1].Despite President Trump's denials of direct involvement, the connections between Project 2025 and his administration are evident. The Heritage Foundation, which published the project, has direct ties to Trump's first administration, with at least 140 people who worked on Project 2025 having previously worked in Trump's administration. Kevin Roberts, the Heritage Foundation President, has described his organization's role as “institutionalizing Trumpism”[3].Experts and analysts are keenly watching the implementation of these policies, noting that while not all of Trump's actions fully adhere to Project 2025's recommendations, the core concepts are often aligned. Brendan Cantwell, a higher education professor at Michigan State University, observes that "the record established in Project 2025 and by people like Max Eden … [is] being enacted quite clearly"[4].The potential implications of Project 2025 are far-reaching and multifaceted. By centralizing power in the executive branch, undermining civil rights, and eroding essential social programs, this agenda prioritizes control over fairness, enforcement over welfare, and exclusion over inclusion. As noted by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the incremental steps already being taken in states like Texas and Washington are paving the way for the broader implementation of Project 2025's vision, which could significantly compromise the rights of marginalized groups[5].As we look ahead, it is clear that Project 2025 represents a critical juncture in American governance. The next few weeks and months will be pivotal, with expected executive orders and legislative actions that could reshape the landscape of federal policies. Experts predict significant changes in accreditation standards for colleges, further constraints on colleges, and potential overhauls in the student loan system[4].In conclusion, Project 2025 is not just a policy document; it is a vision for a fundamentally different America. As the country navigates these proposed changes, it is imperative to understand the scope, ambition, and potential impacts of this initiative. Whether one supports or opposes these policies, the importance of informed engagement and vigilant oversight cannot be overstated. The future of American governance hangs in the balance, and the decisions made now will shape the nation for generations to come.

A flurry of national news reports continues to document the large-scale restructuring taking place at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where 10,000 jobs were reportedly slashed earlier this month, a move also impacting the workforce at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). An estimated 300 CMS workers are expected to be affected by this action, while NPR reported that the HHS teams focusing on sexual violence prevention were also eliminated – on the first day of April's Sexual Assault Awareness Month.Also recently, RACmonitor and Monitor Mondays have come into possession of a CMS memo, dated March 5, in which the agency warns that it may take action to prevent hospitals and other providers suspected of using “dangerous chemicals and surgical mutilation of children” relative to gender dysphoria, which the agency claims have “proliferated.” In fact, other executive actions taken by the Trump Administration also appear to have anticipated deleterious impacts on the health of America's LGBTQ+ population.It seems part of an overarching theme in which the Administration is waging social wars using gutted federal agencies more as a weaponized tactic than as a mechanism to serve the public.Reporting this story during the next live edition of Monitor Mondays will be physician Drew Updike, a recognized leader in hospital utilization management, denials, clinical documentation integrity (CDI), coding, and hospital operations.The long-running broadcast will also include these instantly recognizable features:• Risky Business: Healthcare attorney David Glaser, shareholder in the law offices of Fredrikson & Byron, will join the broadcast with his trademark segment.• The RAC Report: Healthcare attorney Knicole Emanuel, partner at the law firm of Nelson Mullins, will report the latest news about auditors.• Legislative Update: Adam Brenman, senior government affairs liaison for Zelis, will report on congressional action taking place in Washington, D.C.• Monday Rounds: Dr. Shaemarke Magan, medical director for CaroMont Health in Gastonia, North Carolina, will make his Monday rounds, substituting for Dr. Ronald Hirsch.

David Mansdoerfer served as deputy assistant secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) during the first Trump administration. Now, he's chief strategist at the Independent Medical Alliance and describes himself as the MAGA-MAHA Connector.“We have seen a complete reset of a federal agency within 60 days of Secretary Kennedy getting there. To me, that is unprecedented, and it is going to be one of the most impactful approaches to public health and the health economy in the United States,” he says. “We have not won this fight. We've begun the fight. And we have industry forces, which I would say [have] unlimited money, that are going to try to do everything to protect their bottom line, but also limit good policy ideas of a Secretary Kennedy and a President Trump.”What reforms are already underway since Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took over HHS? What pushback has he faced? And will the administration be able to reconcile and even merge the disparate agendas of the MAGA and MAHA movements?“You basically get to put an entirely new, fresh face of career leaders that are aligned to the president's agenda and the secretary's agenda in positions of authority that could be and will be longer lasting than just this administration,” says Mansdoerfer. “Even in terms of the unknown, it is better to have leadership that's willing to take these bold actions than it is to continually lead Americans down a poor health outcome path.”Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

On Tuesday, April 1, the Trump administration began large-scale layoffs at agencies across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he expected to cut 10,000 jobs in addition to the thousands of workers who have already resigned or been placed on leave. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been among the most impacted by the layoffs, with entire offices and divisions eliminated. Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.Take the survey: What do you think of the HHS cuts? Let us know!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Hunter Casperson, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Our logo was created by Magdalena Bokowa, Head of Partnerships and Socials. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a significant move, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a comprehensive restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations. This initiative will see the agency's workforce reduced by 10,000 full-time employees, alongside the consolidation of 28 divisions into 15. The workforce reduction is part of a larger administration-wide effort, cutting HHS's total employee count from 82,000 to 62,000. The restructuring is expected to have far-reaching implications, particularly for cardiothoracic surgeons and their patients. The process of evaluating and approving new treatments, medical devices, and surgical innovations may face changes, impacting the delivery of healthcare services and advancements in medical technology.

It’s been a whirlwind week in public health. In this episode, host Steven Newmark breaks down a string of major developments coming out of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). From mass layoffs across HHS, including at the FDA, to the resignation of the country’s top vaccine regulator, these changes raise serious concerns—especially amid a rising measles outbreak. Tune in to hear what this means for patients, public health efforts, and the fight against vaccine hesitancy. Among the highlights in this episode: 00:50: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, discusses HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s announcement of 10,000 staff layoffs, with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) being the most impacted 01:31: Steven reflects on RFK Jr.'s earlier warning to FDA workers to "pack their bags" and discusses concerns about maintaining service levels with a 25% workforce cut 02:08: Quoting Robert Califf, Steven shares the demoralization felt by former and current HHS staff, calling out the treatment of hardworking public health employees 02:38: Steven shares concerns from Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, former Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) head, particularly around the likely impact of layoffs on already underfunded nursing home inspections 03:20: Steven reports the forced resignation of Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA’s top vaccine regulator, and the alarming response from the public health community 04:06: Steven details Dr. Marks’ warnings about leadership skepticism toward vaccines, especially in light of the growing measles outbreak 04:34: Steven gives an update on the measles outbreak in Texas and other states, citing more than 500 cases nationwide and highlighting RFK Jr.'s unscientific treatment suggestions like vitamin A and cod liver oil 05:16: Steven discusses how HHS cuts are hampering efforts to track infectious diseases and fund vaccine research, even as the outbreak fuels a shift toward pro-vaccine sentiment in affected areas 05:49: Steven urges listeners to get vaccinated and ensure those around them—especially children—are protected with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine Contact Our Host Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 2nd of April and here are the headlines.Lok Sabha Session Sparks Controversy Over Waqf BillThe Lok Sabha opened to heated debate as Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi fiercely opposed the bill, calling it an attack on the Constitution and an attempt to marginalize minority communities. He accused the NDA government of curbing religious freedoms. Meanwhile, Rijiju clarified that the bill does not interfere with religious practices or mosque management. The bill's introduction has deepened political divisions, setting the stage for intense discussions in Parliament.Indian Army Reports Pakistan's Ceasefire Violation in PoonchThe Indian Army accused Pakistan of violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control in Poonch's Krishna Ghati sector. According to Army PRO Lt Colonel Suneel Bartwal, Pakistani forces intruded across the LoC and triggered a mine blast on April 1, followed by unprovoked firing. Indian forces responded in a "controlled and calibrated manner," keeping the situation under close watch. Tensions have risen despite the ceasefire agreement, with the Army asserting that India's borders remain secure and that further developments are being monitored.India, US Move Forward on Bilateral Trade AgreementA day before US reciprocal tariffs took effect, India agreed to the Terms of Reference (ToR) for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US, following intervention from the Prime Minister's Office. The ToR lays the foundation for negotiations, which will see India lowering tariffs on American goods in exchange for US trade concessions. Talks had stalled until US negotiators left India after four days of discussions. With both sides now aligned, formal negotiations are set to begin, signaling a major shift in trade relations.Seven-Year-Old Strangled Over TV Remote in DelhiA seven-year-old girl in Outer North Delhi was allegedly strangled to death by her father's friend over a dispute involving a TV remote. The accused, 35-year-old laborer Ranjeet Singh, had been drinking with the child's father before being left alone with her. Police say Singh admitted to slapping the girl after she tried to take the remote, causing her to fall and bleed. Fearing the consequences, he allegedly strangled her. The crime was discovered when a constable noticed a crowd outside the victim's home, leading to Singh's arrest.Trump Administration Lays Off 10,000 Health WorkersThe Trump administration has begun restructuring the US health sector, laying off 10,000 workers across multiple federal health agencies. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed job cuts affecting the FDA, CDC, and NIH. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated the move aligns with President Trump and Elon Musk's broader plan to shrink the federal government under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Hundreds of employees were denied office entry on Tuesday, marking a significant shift in the administration's cost-cutting policies in public health.That's all for the today. This was the CatchuUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

In a bold move, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has unveiled plans for a comprehensive restructuring of health agencies. This initiative is in response to President Trump's Executive Order on implementing the "Department of Government Efficiency" Workforce Optimization Initiative. The restructuring plan includes two major actions, with the most significant being the elimination of 10,000 employee positions across various departments. This initiative aims to streamline operations and enhance the efficiency of health agencies under Kennedy's leadership.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will eliminate about 10,000 full-time jobs in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and close regional offices. The latest job cuts and about 10,000 recent voluntary redundancies will reduce the number of full-time employees at the department from 82,000 to 62,000, the HHS said.Canada and Europe are considering retaliatory measures after the White House announced 25 percent U.S. tariffs on imported cars and car parts, starting next month. The European Union said today the block is preparing robust and calibrated response to the new U-S tariffs.The Senate Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation held a hearing on Thursday to examine preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on the deadly crash involving American Airlines 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in January. Officials from the NTSB, Federal Aviation Administration, and U.S. Army testified.

According to The New York Times, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly canceled over $12 billion in pandemic-era grants meant to support infectious disease tracking, mental health services, and addiction treatment. The cuts hit state health departments hard, forcing layoffs and halting critical public health programs. Officials in states like Texas and Colorado say the decision could leave thousands without care or crisis support. Some CDC grants were meant to last through 2027, but states received sudden notice of termination. Legal challenges may follow, as the grants had been authorized by Congress. Critics warn the decision undermines already fragile public health systems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're looking at a few actions the Trump Administration just took on gun policy. To wade through those moves and navigate where the signs point, we've got Cam Edwards of Bearing Arms back on the show. We look at different stories from Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). As Cam noted, some were bigger deals than others. First, HHS deleted a Biden-era report calling for new gun restrictions--like an "assault weapons" ban--from its website. Cam said that move was one well within the President's authority. He said that while the action arrived at a comparatively slow pace to some of the other things the Trump Administration is doing, it mirrored what it did in shutting down the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and could signal more is coming in the short term. Then there is the first rule related to guns from the new administration. The DOJ published a plan to restart the gun rights restoration process. Cam said it was more of a plan to make a plan, but he argued it was another strong sign the administration plans to follow through on promised gun rulemaking. The final development points in the same direction and may be the strongest indicator of what's to come, according to Cam. That's the appointment of Robert Leider as the new ATF Chief Counsel. Cam argued that Leider, a Second Amendment scholar and gun-rights advocate, will likely put his expertise to use to help enact numerous pro-gun reforms. Get a 30-day free trial for a subscription to The Dispatch here: https://thedispatch.com/join-offer-reload/?utmsource=thereload&utmmedium=partnerships-podcast&utm_campaign=0125 Special Guest: Cam Edwards.

On this episode of the podcast, host Amanda Head dives into “Operation Stork Speed,” a new initiative launched by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) aimed at improving children's health.Head is joined on this episode by Jack Kalavritinos, a former Director for Intergovernmental and External Affairs at HHS and FDA advisor, who brings insight from his time in the Trump and Bush Administrations and his current work in health advocacy. The pair discusses the hidden dangers of sugar and heavy metals in baby formula, the urgent need for industry reform, and how the FDA and HHS can drive much needed change. Kalavritinos highlights the critical role of transparency, voluntary action from manufacturers, and how the next few years could be pivotal for children's health.You can learn more about Kalavritinos on his website: jkstrat.com or by following him on X (formerly Twitter): @JKal1985See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

2025 Advocacy Updates: Navigating a New Congress, New Presidency, and New InitiativesThe start of 2025 has had a lot in store for us as we navigate a new congress, a new presidential administration, and all that is being proposed as a result of these individuals settling into their new positions. This week on The Amplify OT Podcast, I am helping you stay informed and navigate the whirlwind of changes and updates from the federal government. Join the Amplify OT MembershipAs an exclusive bonus for podcast listeners, you can join the Amplify OT Membership at any time! Join today to take control of your career! It's time to become your own best resource on Medicare and advocacy.In this episode, I cover:The effects of President Trump's “anti-DEI” executive orders on occupational therapy and the broader healthcare system. RFK Jr. was officially appointed the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), leaving people speculating on what this means for vaccinations. The broader implications that are surfacing as a result of Elon Musk being appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).Additional policies in the works in Congress and what it means if they are to be passed. In the midst of the overwhelming amount of updates that came out of the first couple of months of 2025, my message to you is this: Pay attention, be involved, and become a member of AOTA. This is a fantastic way to advocate, even if you don't have the bandwidth to do something specifically on your own. Amplify OT ResourcesWant to keep learning about how insurance and reimbursement impact you? Then head to AmplifyOT.com/Services to see what resources we have available!CLICK HERE to save 40% off Medbridge Today! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:AOTA Inspire Philadelphia, PA (Be sure to come visit me at booth #208!)AmplifyOT.com/shop 2nd Annual Amplify Therapy Summit July 30- August 2, 2025NPR Politics PodcastThe Daily Podcast by The New York Times What the Health PodcastAOTA Webinar on the Recent Executive Orders and How They Shape OT Education, Practice, Research, and Policy | (members will need to log in to access the recording and slides)AOTA Legislative Action CenterCONNECT WITH AMPLIFY OT:Website

Famed virologist Dr. Paul Offit describes his encounters with RFK, Jr., vaccine misinformation, trust in medicine, and what he fears most. REFERENCES: Dr. Paul Offit's Books: Deadly Choices: How the Anti-Vaccine Movement Threatens Us All The Cutter Incident(about a polio vaccine gone wrong) Historical Vaccine References: The Cutter Incident (1950s polio vaccine failure) The history of polio, iron lungs, and the development of the Salk and Sabin vaccines. The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. The impact of vaccines on childhood diseases like diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella, and rotavirus. Andrew Wakefield and Vaccine-Autism Misinformation: Wakefield's 1998 Lancet paper (later retracted) linking MMR vaccines to autism. The role of The Lancet and editor Richard Horton. The legal and financial conflicts of interest that led to Wakefield's discrediting. Anti-Vaccine Movement History: The Anti-Vaccination League (1800s opposition to smallpox vaccine). NBC's DPT Vaccine Roulette (1980s), which fueled fears about the whooping cough vaccine. RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine activism and misinformation campaigns. The impact of anti-vaccine movements in places like Samoa, leading to deadly measles outbreaks. Current Vaccine Issues and Policy Changes: RFK Jr.'s role in the U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) and vaccine policy. The cancellation of the FDA Vaccine Advisory Committee meeting.

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast, Dr. Amy Valent welcomes back Dr. Ebony Carter, Division Director of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at UNC Chapel Hill, for a deeper discussion on community engagement in MFM practice. Building on the insights from Community Engagement 101, Dr. Carter shares her experiences in developing meaningful community partnerships that drive health equity and improve patient care. From navigating the complexities of building trust to ensuring patient voices shape interventions, Dr. Carter provides practical advice on engaging with communities in a way that is collaborative, sustainable, and impactful. She reflects on lessons learned in St. Louis, the challenges of starting over in a new community, and the importance of listening before leading. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how MFMs can integrate community engagement into their research, practice, and advocacy efforts. Subscribe to the SMFM Podcast for more discussions on high-risk pregnancy care, and explore additional resources at education.smfm.org. Full transcript.  Additional Resources: SMFM Podcast Community Engagement 101   The Public Health System Components: Clinicians who are related to Maternal-Fetal Medicine program is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award to the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) totaling $200,000 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of nor endorsement, by CDC/HHS or the U.S. Government.

In this episode of 'Clearing the Haze,' host Chuck Marting welcomes guest Joe Reilly from National Drug Screening for an in-depth discussion on the current status and future of oral fluid drug testing. They cover essential updates from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Health and Human Services (HHS), including the hurdles in certifying labs and adding fentanyl to testing panels. They also discuss the specific advantages of oral fluid testing over urine testing, such as direct observation and shorter detection windows, and address the industry's reluctance to change. Additionally, Joe shares detailed information on comprehensive training programs for collectors and trainers, emphasizing the importance of being prepared ahead of regulatory changes. For those interested, upcoming training events and resources are provided to help professionals stay ahead in the evolving landscape of drug testing.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:53 Current Challenges in Oral Fluid Testing02:49 Advantages of Oral Fluid Testing04:06 Employer Hesitation and Cost Considerations07:52 Collection Sites and Logistics14:10 Training and Certification for Collectors23:39 Upcoming Training Sessions and Events31:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode Bill discusses the concerns around the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) with Dr. Rob Davidson, ER doc and the Executive Director of the Committee to Protect Healthcare. Davidson expresses concerns about Kennedy's history of anti-vaccine advocacy and his potential impact on public health policies. Key issues discussed include the measles outbreak in Texas, the threat of a bird flu pandemic, the cancellation of a key flu vaccine committee meeting, and the potential cuts to funding for the CDC and NIH that could undermine critical public health research. Dr. Davidson also raises concerns about Kennedy's lack of understanding of key healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare, and the risk of these programs being undermined under his leadership. Overall, the episode highlights the significant public health risks posed by having an HHS Secretary with a history of spreading misinformation about vaccines and a disregard for scientific evidence.Today Bill highlights the work of the nations' nurses and their Union, National Nurses United with 225,000 members. More information at NationalNursesUnited.org.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new movement is underway to fix some of the causes of childhood chronic disease. This is being led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In addition to his role with HHS, he's also the head of the President's Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, which has influence over other departments and agencies. In other news, Kash Patel has now been sworn in as director of the FBI. And we're seeing some of his first moves for the agency.

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast Series, Dr. Rupesh Patel speaks with Dr. Ashley Battarbee and Dr. Judette Louis about the CDC's Hypertension in Pregnancy Change Package (HPCP)—a comprehensive resource designed to improve the identification, management, and prevention of complications related to hypertension in pregnancy. Dr. Battarbee and Dr. Louis discuss the collaborative effort behind developing the HPCP, its key components, and how it can be implemented in outpatient settings to enhance patient care. They highlight practical strategies for clinicians, address common challenges, and explore the role of the change package in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, they delve into the postpartum aspects of hypertension management and the importance of continuity of care. Tune in to learn how the HPCP serves as a structured, evidence-informed tool to optimize hypertension care in pregnancy and postpartum. Additional Resources: Hypertension - Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Hypertension in Pregnancy Change Package Education.smfm.org The Public Health System Components: Clinicians who are related to Maternal-Fetal Medicine program is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award to the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) totaling $320,000 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of nor endorsement, by CDC/HHS or the U.S. Government.      

It's Monday, February 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus 18-year-old Catholic woman escapes Pakistani Muslim man An 18-year-old Pakistani woman has been reunited with her Catholic family after six months of captivity, forced conversion to Islam, and coerced marriage to the Muslim who abducted her, reports Morning Star News. Huma Allah Ditta's ordeal began when she failed to return home from her job at a call center in Lahore  on June 28. Her distraught parents began a desperate search after police failed to lift a finger. On August 4th, her parents discovered that she had been abducted by a Muslim man named Abdul Basit Butt.  2 Corinthians 4:4 says, “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.” The Catholic mother said, “My husband and I decided to put this matter in God's hands and started praying vigorously for our daughter's return.” The couple's prayers were answered on January 16th, when Huma managed to escape from Butt's custody and was reunited with her family. JD Vance slams Europe for violating free speech of pro-life Christians Last Friday, Vice President J.D. Vance used a speech addressing European leaders at the Munich Security Conference in Germany to slam Europe for violating the free speech and religious rights of pro-life Christians, reports LifeNews.com. VANCE: “When I look at Europe today, it's sometimes not so clear what happened to some of the Cold War's winners. … Perhaps most concerningly, I look to our very dear friends, the United Kingdom, where the backslide away from conscience rights has placed the basic liberties of religious Britons, in particular, in the crosshairs. “A little over two years ago, the British government charged Adam Smith-Connor, a 51-year-old physiotherapist and an Army veteran, with the heinous crime of standing 50 meters from an abortion clinic and silently praying for three minutes. Not obstructing anyone, not interacting with anyone, just silently praying on his own. “After British law enforcement spotted him and demanded to know what he was praying for, Adam replied simply it was on behalf of the unborn son he and his former girlfriend had aborted years before. Now, the officers were not moved. “Adam was found guilty of breaking the government's new buffer zones law, which criminalizes silent prayer and other actions that could influence a person's decision within 200 meters of an abortion facility. He was sentenced to pay thousands of pounds in legal costs to the prosecution.” Vice President Vance expressed disappointment that the United Kingdom had penalized so-called thought crimes. He warned European leaders against censoring pro-lifers. VANCE: “Now, I wish I could say that this was a fluke, a one-off, crazy example of a badly written law being enacted against a single person. But no, this last October, just a few months ago, the Scottish Government began distributing letters to citizens whose houses lay within so called ‘safe access' zones, warning them that even private prayer within their own homes may amount to breaking the law. Naturally, the government urged readers to report any fellow citizens suspected guilty of thought crime. “In Britain and across Europe, free speech, I fear, is in retreat.” RFK, Jr. vows to implement Trump's pro-life policies Last Thursday, February 13th, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. was confirmed in a 52-48 vote and sworn in as President Donald Trump's Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), reported The Epoch Times. Prior to that, during the Senate Health Committee hearing, Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri asked Kennedy about whether he would implement President Trump's pro-life policies. Listen to their exchange. HAWLEY: “Under the first Trump presidency, HHS stopped new [National Institutes of Health] research that involved human fetal tissue from elective abortion. You said, ‘Stem cell research today can be done on umbilical cords. You don't need any fetal tissue.'  -- which is correct. My question to you is, ‘Will you reinstate President Trump's policy that ensures that no federal research and no federal tax dollars is conducted on fetal tissue taken from elective abortions?'” KENNEDY: “Yes.” HAWLEY: “Fantastic! Let me ask you just about Title X which prohibits the funding of the use of federal taxpayer funding for abortions or to flow to entities like Planned Parenthood that perform abortions or refer people to abortions. You were asked yesterday if you would support President Trump's rule that says, ‘No Title X funding for those who perform abortions or refer people to abortions.' I think your answer was, ‘Yes. You would reinstate that rule.' I just want to be sure I'm right about that. KENNEDY: “Yes.” HAWLEY: “Fantastic! Last point that I have for you. On mifepristone, the chemical abortion drug, you said yesterday that you would study its safety. I think that's good. I want to make an additional point here just about how the Biden administration changed the rules on mifepristone that I hope that you'll take into consideration because you pointed out that we need to honor the wishes of voters in states and their right to set life policy. “The Biden administration's rule on mifepristone, which they did after the Dobbs decision, means that in any state, including ones like mine [Missouri], where voters or state legislators say, ‘We don't want abortion performed after a certain point,' if the Biden administration rule on chemical abortion stands and you can mail in these abortion drugs without a doctor visit or referral, that means no state ban, no state decision, no voter decision is going to matter. We're going to have a one-size-fits-all policy set here in Washington. I hope you'll take that into consideration.” KENNEDY: “I will implement President Trump's policies.” Valentine's Day birthed through Christian martyr's death And finally, have you ever wondered why we just celebrated Valentine's Day on February 14th, this past Friday? Well, Pastor Valentine or Valentinus was a clergyman in the Roman Empire who lived during the reign of Claudius Gothicus or Claudius II. Because the Emperor was having difficulty getting young men to volunteer to serve in the army to fight his wars, he prohibited marriage which would further hurt the conscription rate. Pastor Valentine, who celebrated God's love and Biblical love between husband and wife, secretly married Christian couples in the forest which ultimately led to his arrest and imprisonment.  While Claudius took a liking to Pastor Valentinus, the bold preacher tried to convert the Emperor which resulted in a sentence of death. In Romans 10:14, the Apostle Paul asks, "How, then, can they call on the One they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Valentine was beaten with clubs and stones.  And when that failed to kill him, Valentine was beheaded on February 14th, A.D. 269. And now you know the rest of the story. Get the children's book entitled Valentine: God's Courageous Evangelist. Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, February 17th in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Anne Telnaes Edward "Big Balls" Coristine, State Department Senior Adviser “Big Balls” is 19-year-old high school graduate Edward Coristine, who now works as a “senior adviser” in the State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Technology. That pretty much sums up President Elon Musk's reign of terror running through the federal government, even as Trump's Clown Cabinet gets virtually unanimous support from a spineless U.S. Senate. This week we talk with a veteran of federal departments that are being gutted by the Musk administration. In Michigan, we have our first polling on how the race for Governor might be impacted by third-party candidate Mike Duggan. We get the detailed findings from veteran pollster Bernie Porn, CEO of EPIC-MRA. Also on our radar:  Governor Whitmer and the Legislature are in last-minute 3-way negotiations over Michigan's minimum wage and paid medical leave;  The CEO of Ford warns that Trump's economic agenda could cripple the auto industry which means crippling Michigan's economy; And the Governor is looking at weed and big corporations to fund more fixing of the damn roads. Also joining us on the podcast: University of Michigan law professor Sam Bagenstos, who was a senior staffer at what it now Robert Kennedy Jr.'s Department of Health and Human Services, the Project 2025-driven office of Management and Budget, and the probably-soon-to-be shuttered Department of Justice Office of Civil Rights. Sam Bagenstos — Frank G. Millard Professor of Law, University of Michigan Bagenstos took an extended leave from U. of M. to serve in multiple roles in the Biden administration, with senior positions in HHS, the Federal Budget Office and Department of Justice. From June 2022 to December 2024, he was general counsel to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where he played a key role in advancing and implementing policies across the department, including: pursuing several initiatives on abortion and reproductive rights; crafting and defending the first-ever Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program; drafting and issuing major rules on civil rights, health privacy, Medicare and Medicaid, drug advertising, the regulation of “lab-developed” medical tests and food safety, the treatment of unaccompanied migrant children in HHS care, the treatment of LGBTQ+ kids in the foster care system, and many other issues; advancing marijuana rescheduling, and advising and defending the Food and Drug Administration's tobacco enforcement program; and working with the Department of Justice on litigation involving HHS, including significant abortion rights, free speech, and tobacco regulation cases in the US Supreme Court. From Inauguration Day 2021 to June 2022, he served as general counsel to the Office of Management and Budget. There, he worked on President Biden's Day One executive orders; helped respond to COVID-19, including implementing several crucial aid programs; responded to regulations adopted by the prior administration just before the inauguration and helped advance the new administration's regulations on labor, health, the environment, and much else; helped craft and implement the American Rescue Plan, the bipartisan infrastructure law, and what became the Inflation Reduction Act; and assisted in developing two annual budgets, along with advising the entire Executive Branch on issues of appropriations law and administrative law. In an earlier stint on leave from the Law School, from 2009 to 2011, Bagenstos was an appointee in the US Department of Justice, where he served as the principal deputy assistant attorney general for civil rights, the No. 2 official in the Civil Rights Division. There, he helped promulgate the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations—the first comprehensive update of those regulations since they were first issued in 1991—and led the reinvigoration of the Civil Rights Division's enforcement of the US Supreme Court's deci...

The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services (HHS). The Senate voted 52-48 to confirm Kennedy. Sen. Mitch McConnell(R-KY) was the only Republican to vote against the nomination. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Broeske & Musson' on all platforms: --- The ‘Broeske & Musson Podcast’ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever else you listen to podcasts. --- ‘Broeske & Musson' Weekdays 9-11 AM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Facebook | Podcast| X | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since its inception, the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program has been contentiously debated. For example, several pharmaceutical manufacturers filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) challenging the program’s constitutionality. This webinar will discuss whether the Biden Administration’s implementation and interpretation of the IRA go beyond Congress’s intent or constitutional boundaries. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently issued a statement that the Trump Administration is committed to “incorporating lessons learned to date from the program and considering opportunities to bring greater transparency in the Negotiation Program. CMS intends to provide opportunities for stakeholders to provide specific ideas to improve the Negotiation Program, consistent with the goals of achieving greater value for beneficiaries and taxpayers while continuing to foster innovation.” Accordingly, this webinar discusses whether the Trump Administration may pause the program and whether Congress should repeal the program. Featuring: (Moderator) John Shu, Attorney and Legal Commentator Jeff Stier, Senior Fellow, Conumer Choice Center and Taxpayers Protection Alliance Dan Troy, Managing Director, Berkeley Research Group

Alan's Soaps https://www.alansartisansoaps.comUse coupon code ‘TODD' to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bioptimizers https://Bioptimizers.com/ToddEnter promo code TODD to get 10% off any order.Bonefrog https://bonefrogcoffee.com/toddCelebrate the coffee lover in your life this Valentine's day with a special box from Bonefrog.  Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.Bulwark Capital Bulwark Capital Management (bulwarkcapitalmgmt.com)Get a second opinion on the health of your retirement portfolio today.  Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review go to KnowYourRiskRadio.com today.Native Path Krill https://GetKrill.com/ToddVisit GetKrill.com/Todd to get your special offer of NativePath Antarctic Krill Oil for as low as $19 a bottle.Renue Healthcare https://renue.healthcare/toddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit renue.healthcare/toddEverything I said about the Mockingbird Media was correct…  So how did I know? I'm looking at a definitive government contract awarded to Thomson Reuters Special Services, for “active social engineering defense” and “large scale social engineering”… Episode Links:The Media Are Now Desperately Trying to Save Government WorkersDOGE: When Clinton paid 114,000 federal workers $25,000 to resign and NOT return to federal employment for 5 years no one sued him. Now that Trump is giving 40,000 federal workers an 8 month paid vacation he's sued by the unions and, ironically, a Clinton-appointed judge blocked the vacation plans. Trump could offer $25,000 to each worker under current federal law, but to increase that amount Congress would need to act - something they never seem prepared to do.A865018C7886 Definitive Contract:Thomson Reuters Special Services ACTIVE SOCIAL ENGINEERING DEFENSE (ASED) LARGE SCALE SOCIAL DECEPTION (LSD)Federal records show the U.S. government has sent The New York Times over $50 million since 2021—despite much lower payments in previous years. The biggest spender?  The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) at $26.9M, followed by the National Science Foundation (NSF) at $19.15M.Karoline Leavitt just hung the media out to DRY for denying the COVID lab-leak truth right to their faces. "Several years ago, when I worked in this press shop, and [Trump briefed the media] on COVID-19, he suggested that COVID may have come from a lab in Wuhan, China - and many members in this VERY ROOM mocked him for that... said he was spewing 'conspiracy theories.' He was not. We now know that to be the truth. The president was right again."The Massive Progressive Dark-Money Group You've Never Heard OfOver the past half decade, Democrats have quietly pulled ahead of Republicans in untraceable political spending. One group helped make it happen. By Emma GreenRedeeming Babel, founded by Russell Moore, @DavidAFrench, and @curtischangRB, took $308K from the USAID-funded Rockefeller Foundation and $200K from @BillKristol's Defending Democracy to push The After Party curriculum in churches. The leftist infiltration is fully exposed.Christianity Today's 2023 IRS 990 also confirms what others are finding from @DataRepublican. $1.8 million in government grants in 2023. Yet they received nothing from the government in 2022. Why the huge shift

Trump is back…but should stakeholders operating within the intersecting CPG categories of functional foods, functional beverages, and nutritional supplements be cheerful about his return to the oval office? This will certainly not sound like a “hot take” or anything, but the second Trump presidential term will undoubtedly offer a mixture of risk and reward…ushering in a new era of market volatility. As press secretary Karoline Leavitt recently pointed out, "there has never been a president who communicates with the American people as openly and authentically as Donald Trump.” But while I personally enjoy that operating model…it does create an economic environment that I recently described to an industry colleague as “best suited for master sailors.” And that's because the art of both the sailor (and businessperson) is to leave nothing to chance…but sailors are artists whose medium is the wind and today's businesspeople must be artists whose medium is correctly spotting Donald Trump's subtle hints that reveal upcoming events. Furthermore, I believe a key to potentially benefitting from the Trump 2.0 “driver of demand” requires understanding how to position against a few of his known (but converging) “the art of the deal” tendencies. And these would be (1) a little hyperbole never hurts, (2) confirm an impression they were already predisposed to believe, (3) never get too attached to one deal or one approach, and (4) sometimes your best decisions are the ones you don't make. Finally, it's extremely important to consider rate of speed and level of efficiency surrounding Trump 2.0 changes. Since this is a “been here, done that” kind of thing, Trump won't fumble through the initial phase of his term he will have a better understanding around bottlenecks and getting around chokepoints…including how to flex unilateral powers. Also, given that the House and Senate are Republican majorities (at least for the next two years), that political trifecta usually creates efficiency and makes for stickier policy changes. But the inspiration behind my latest first principles thinking content piece (or I guess content miniseries) was a Trump 2.0 section titled “rhetoric foreshadowing action is greater than embellished negotiation tactics” that I included into many of functional CPG brand and supply side client presentations during the last quarter of 2024. And while each of those client presentations were packed with diverse personalized insights…I'm confident this “Trump 2.0” content miniseries, filled with a refined (and expanded) version of my generalized “base case” strategies, will be extremely valuable to my regular audience. So, just to set the stage…you can expect this “Trump 2.0” content miniseries to initially include four loosely titled parts; regulatory, global trade, financial, and commerce. And I figured part one of this Trump 2.0 content miniseries should be “regulatory,” mostly because there's arguably no more impactful leadership change to functional CPG stakeholders than with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) cabinet position. And while I'll tackle several other regulatory agencies in this part, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the primary focus will be on potential effects from changes within the HHS health agencies (i.e. FDA) made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) and his Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) principles.

On Thursday, Senate committees held hearings to consider the nominations of Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Kash Patel as director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). While most of President Donald Trump's nominees have been confirmed by the Senate with bipartisan support — including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem — Gabbard, Kennedy, and Patel's outlook is the most uncertain of Trump's remaining nominees. In today's special Friday edition, we'll cover their Senate hearings in a truncated version of our standard Tangle format with an overview of each hearing, perspectives from writers on the left and right, and our take. This is a preview of today's special edition that is available in full and ad-free for our premium podcast subscribers. If you'd like to complete this episode and receive Sunday editions, exclusive interviews, bonus content, and more, head over to tanglemedia.supercast.com and sign up for a membership. If you are currently a newsletter subscriber, inquiry with us about how to receive a 33% discount on a podcast subscription! Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to tanglemedia.supercast.com to sign up! You can also give the gift of a Tangle podcast subscription by clicking here.You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our podcast is written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Jon Lall. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75. Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Will Kaback, Bailey Saul, Sean Brady, and produced in conjunction with Tangle's social media manager Magdalena Bokowa, who also created our logo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RFK Jr Faces Big Pharma-Backed Opposition on Capitol Hill

The loneliness of those who stood against the media narrative of the Coronavirus Pandemic. Senator Bernie Sanders' (I-VT) comments on babies' 'onesies' in Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s Senate confirmation hearing today as President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Listener call-in on the stripping of General Milley's security detail by the Department of Defense and Governor Hobbs' pick of Judge Maria Elena Cruz, to fill the vacancy on the Arizona Supreme Court. Seth is NOT tired of winning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"More Cowbell" with The Groovy Cats Brandie Barclay and Tina Hillstrom, joining Seth in studio for the full hour to discuss "Making America Healthy Again" with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), and his Senate confirmation hearing this morning. Happy 80th Birthday to Magnum, P.I. himself, Tom Selleck. Top Movies and Immigration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the podcast, host Amanda Head speaks with Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, discussing the confirmation hearings for President Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Representative Miller-Meeks opines on all the change RFK Jr. can create as the next Secretary of HHS should he be confirmed by the United States Senate. The duo also dive into the importance of the very first piece of legislation that Trump signed into law today as the 47th President—The Laken Riley Act—named in honor of a young nursing student tragically murdered by an illegal alien while jogging at the University of Georgia. This law officially mandates the federal detention for all illegal immigrants accused of crimes such as theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, or any offense resulting in death or serious bodily injury.Also joining this podcast episode is J.J. Carrell, retired Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge with the U.S. Border Patrol, who provides expert insight on border security and his new book, as well as Caroline Carralero, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Daily Nouri, a company dedicated to improving gut health through science-backed products.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal data on student achievement has once again shown that students lost ground in reading in the post-COVID-19 Pandemic years. A clip from President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Robert F. Kennedy, (RFK) Jr.'s Senate confirmation hearing this morning. Caroline Kennedy's open letter to her cousin RFK, JR. accusing him of being a "predator."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is an unprecedented child trafficking crisis in America today. Large numbers of unaccompanied migrant children are being released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to sponsors that are not thoroughly vetted, including individuals associated with dangerous criminal organizations like MS-13 and the 18th Street gang, whistleblowers say.Many migrant children now work backbreaking shifts in slaughterhouses, restaurants, or factories. Others are being sold for sex.From 2019 to 2023, immigration authorities transferred more than 448,000 unaccompanied minors from the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to the HHS. A recent watchdog report found that ICE is unable to account for more than 32,000 unaccompanied children who failed to appear for court hearings. Another 291,000 unaccompanied children simply did not receive notices at all.So how many children in America have fallen victim to trafficking? To what extent are international actors facilitating this? What can the incoming administration do to stem child trafficking? What will be the greatest challenges they must tackle?Join me for this special live crossover episode with NTD's International Roundtable program, hosted by Cindy Drukier. The two of us will be sitting down with three key individuals who have been at the forefront of exposing child trafficking and demanding policy change.Guests:Tara Rodas, HHS whistleblower and 20-year public servant, primarily working in the federal inspector general communityAaron Stevenson, DHS whistleblower and former intelligence research specialist for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ServicesMary Flynn O'Neill, executive director of the America's Future nonprofit