SUMMARY: President Donald Trump signed an executive order granting political appointees oversight of federal agency grants, including those from FEMA, NSF, and NIH. The order mandates appointing officials to review funding opportunities to ensure alignment with agency priorities and allows termination of grants anytime, even mid-period. Agencies must implement new protocols before announcing new funding opportunities. The administration claims the move strengthens oversight and streamlines grantmaking. Scientists and medical groups warn it politicizes grant decisions, delaying research advances and damaging U.S. scientific leadership. Thousands of grants, including those on public health and social topics, have been cut. Legal challenges are expected.

Read the full article

The post Trump executive order gives politicians control over all federal grants, alarming researchers appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, announced it is removing age limits for new ICE hires to expand recruitment following a congressional funding boost to hire 10,000 staff. Applicants can now join from age 18 with no upper age cap, subject to medical, drug, and physical fitness tests. ICE’s recruitment campaign uses patriotic and bold messaging, including social media posts targeting younger and older recruits alike. The agency offers incentives such as up to $50,000 bonuses, student loan forgiveness, and overtime pay to attract deportation officers, investigators, and lawyers to support immigration enforcement efforts.

Read the full article

The post U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem gives update on ICE recruitment efforts appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: The U.S. Census Bureau’s latest data reveals rapid population growth in several U.S. cities between July 2023 and July 2024. Princeton, Texas, saw the highest growth rate at 30.6%, followed by Fulshear, Texas (26.9%), and Leesburg, Florida (18.5%). Florida’s Haines City also grew by 12.1%. Southern mid-sized cities experienced the fastest growth overall. Meanwhile, Jacksonville, Florida, achieved a population milestone of over 1 million, ranking 10th in national population increase with 16,365 new residents. Other notable growth cities include New York City and Houston, reflecting nationwide urban expansion trends. Full details are available on the Census Bureau site.

Read the full article

The post This Florida city has seen a massive growth spurt, new data shows appeared first on www.clickorlando.com