Sioux Empire Today

On January 6, a Joint Session was held to count the electoral votes of the 2024 election, confirming that President Donald Trump won. With less than two weeks until the inauguration, expectations are set for actions on border security, spending cuts, and efficiency in government.

In February 2024, Laken Riley, a nursing student from the University of Georgia, was murdered by a Venezuelan illegal immigrant while jogging. The suspect had been arrested and released multiple times before this incident. In response to this tragedy, the House passed the Laken Riley Act with bipartisan support. This bill mandates that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) take custody of illegal aliens convicted or admitting to crimes such as burglary or theft. The aim is to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Additionally, a bill has been introduced to allow President Trump to re-purchase the Panama Canal. This proposal is seen as a strategic move to counter China's growing influence in the region. China currently holds managing rights for ports on both sides of the canal and has established companies nearby. Concerns have been raised about potential security vulnerabilities due to China's presence there since any disruption could severely impact military cargo transport and increase shipping costs.

The initiative reflects an effort to project American strength abroad by potentially owning and operating the Panama Canal as part of broader national security measures.