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Category: Trump

  • MIL-OSI Global: How might the US-Iran conflict escalate? Expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    On Sunday June 22, Donald Trump announced that several of Iran’s most important nuclear facilities had been “completely obliterated” and that the country’s nuclear weapons programme had been crippled. Iran denied this and vowed to retaliate. The Iranian parliament has already given approval to closing the strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which 20% of the world’s oil transits en route to customers all over the world.

    Initially the US government insisted that the objective was simply to halt Iran’s nuclear programme. But the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has said several times that he wanted to topple Iran’s theocratic regime. And the day after the US bombing raids, Donald Trump also began to talk of regime change in Iran.

    We asked Middle East expert Scott Lucas how the situation might develop.

    How might this now escalate?

    Iran’s leadership has no good military options, just as it has had limited capabilities in the nine days since Israel launched its missile strikes and targeted assassinations across the country. In theory, it could target US forces, with up to 40,000 in the region within range of missiles and drones. Iran-backed militias in Iraq could also attack US personnel on bases in the country.

    But the Biden administration showed that it would hit these back hard. When the militias in Iraq and the Assad regime’s Syria killed troops and a contractor, Washington pummelled the groups with airstrikes. Iran’s Quds Force, responsible for operations outside the Islamic Republic, told the militias to stop.

    Iran could target the US fleet in the Persian Gulf. It has also threatened to close the vital strait of Hormuz. But given that 20% of the world’s oil goes through the waterway, those operations would incur the wrath not only of Washington but of other countries. The Gulf states, whose support Tehran desperately wants and needs, would be angered.

    Iran’s allies in Yemen, the Houthi rebels, could renew their attacks on Red Sea shipping. They could fire drones and missiles, reprising their assault on Saudi oil facilities between 2019 and 2022. But the political and military cost of that retaliation would be high.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    Iranian hybrid attacks, through cyber-warfare and assassination plots, are also a possibility. But the US and other states have clamped down on those activities in recent years with toughened surveillance, enforcement and sanctions on Iran, making their achievement of results more difficult.

    So while Iran continues to launch a dwindling stock of missiles at Israel, I think that its strategy beyond that is political. Play the victim and try to encourage other states, including the Gulf countries and the Europeans, to distance themselves from the Trump administration.

    What does this tell us about the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu?

    Benjamin Netanyahu has played Trump to ensure the success of Israel’s war. It’s as simple as that. As recently as February 4, Trump came close to humiliating the Israeli prime minister when he visited Washington to ask for the administration’s support for strikes on Iran. As Netanyahu sat uncomfortably in the White House press briefing, Trump declared that the US was going to open negotiations with Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

    Netanyahu told the Trump administration in mid-May that it was intending to go ahead with strikes on Iran, even without US approval. There was some manoeuvring over the next three weeks, as the US and Iran went through five sets of talks. But on June 8, Trump met his national security advisors at Camp David in Maryland, where the CIA director John Ratcliffe and chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, General Dan Caine, briefed him on the threat from Iran.

    The next day Netanyahu told Trump over the phone that Israel was going ahead with its attacks, which it launched four days later. The US duly cancelled the sixth set of peace talks in Oman. Now Trump, with the Orwellian cry of “NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!”, has blown up those negotiations for the foreseeable future.



    Read more:
    Why are the US and Israel not on the same page over how to deal with Iran? Expert Q&A

    Where are Russia and China in all this?

    Both countries are watching closely and calculating their response. On May 22, Beijing condemned “a reckless escalation and a flagrant violation of international law”. But its response will largely be rhetorical, avoiding any military or even political entanglement. If the US deepens its involvement in Iran’s war, including with any further strikes, China will step up the rhetoric while seeking advantage from the instability. It will play the responsible power, pursuing peace and progress, in contrast to a destructive and unreliable Trump administration. That would be a certain diplomatic win for Beijing.

    Russia is in a trickier position because of its 40-month full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has no end in sight. Iran has been an essential part of the military campaign, providing thousands of drones for Moscow’s daily attacks on military and civilian sites. As recently as April, the two countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, pledging closer cooperation in trade, defence, energy, and regional infrastructure projects. Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araqchi has flown to Moscow for “serious consultations” with Russian “friends”, including Vladimir Putin.

    But Russia’s scope for intervention could be limited. Just before the US attacks the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, said he might mediate between Israel and Iran. Trump immediately slapped him down. And the Kremlin will not want to commit military resources to what might be a prolonged conflict, since it is already stretched – maybe overstretched – in Ukraine both on the battlefield and on the economic front.

    What will the Arab world be thinking?

    Perhaps the most important reaction to the strikes is coming from the Gulf states, in particularly Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. Only a few weeks ago Trump was in the Gulf signing deals on trade and arms. But Gulf leaders are rattled by what might be an expanding, destructive conflict with the prospect of a power vacuum in Tehran.

    For months, they have manoeuvred against that instability in discussions with the Islamic Republic as well as with Washington. With its open-ended war in Gaza, Israel has already shattered the economic and political prospects of “normalisation” (establishing diplomatic relations and trade partnerships). Now the Gulf states are worried how far Israel and Iran will carry out their confrontation across the Middle East.

    There had been hints that they might come off the fence between flattering Trump and pushing back against Washington, and this now appears to have happened – to an extent anyway. Without naming the US, Saudi Arabia “condemned and denounced” the violation of Iran’s sovereignty. Qatar said the US strikes would have “catastrophic repercussions”. The UAE warned all parties to avoid those “serious” repercussions, and Oman went farther by criticising the breaking of international law.

    Trump ignored his own intelligence. So who is helping him game out this situation?

    That’s a great question with no clear answer. It is clear that it’s not the director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, reportedly out of favour because she dared to publicise the assessment of US intelligence agencies that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapon. But with other cabinet members all proclaiming that this was Donald Trump’s “brilliant” plan, it is hard to see who led in pushing him away from negotiations and into the strikes.

    The defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is little more than a hyperactive cheerleader. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is balancing between promoting the strikes and urging Iran to return to negotiations. The US vice-president, J.D. Vance, was central last week in efforts to persuade Republican legislators to back the strikes, amid the split in the Trumpist bloc over attacks.

    In the end, much of the impetus for this comes from Israel. Netanyahu has been careful to lavish praise on the US president for his “bold decision”, which he said would “change history”. With encouragement from a roll call of his Republican party admirers, Trump appears to have eagerly taken this up as his “victory”, claiming to have achieved “peace through strength”.

    Scott Lucas does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How might the US-Iran conflict escalate? Expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/how-might-the-us-iran-conflict-escalate-expert-qanda-259514

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arshin Adib-Moghaddam, Professor in Global Thought and Comparative Philosophies, Director of Centre for AI Futures, SOAS, University of London

    While there’s been much negative discussion about AI, including on the possibility that it will take over the world, the public is also being bombarded with positive messages about the technology, and what it can do.

    This “good AI” myth is a key tool used by tech companies to promote their products. Yet there’s evidence that consumers are wary of the presence of AI in some products. This means that positive promotion of AI may be putting unwanted pressure on people to accept the use of AI in their lives.

    AI is becoming so ubiquitous that people may be losing their ability to say no to using it. It’s in smartphones, smart TVs, smart speakers like Alexa and virtual assistants like Siri. We’re constantly told that our privacy will be protected. But with the personal nature of the data that AI has access to in these devices, can we afford to trust such assurances?

    Some politicians also propagate the “good AI” promise with immense conviction, mirroring the messages coming from tech companies.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    My current research is partly explained in a new book called the The Myth of Good AI. This research shows that the data feeding our AI systems is biased, as it often over-represents privileged sections of the population and mainstream attitudes.

    This means that any AI products that don’t include data from marginalised people, or minorities, might discriminate against them. This explains why AI systems continue to be riddled with racism, ageism and various forms of gender discrimination, for instance.

    The speed with which this technology is impinging on our everyday life, makes it very hard to properly assess the consequences. And an approach to AI that is more critical of how it works does not make for good marketing for the tech companies.

    Power structures

    Positive ideas about AI and its abilities are currently dominating all aspects of AI innovation. This is partly determined by state interests and by the profit margins of the tech companies.

    These are tied into the power structures held up by tech multi-billionaires, and, in some places, their influence on governments. The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, despite its recent souring, is a vivid manifestation of this.

    And so, the public is at the receiving end of a distinctly hierarchical top-down system, from the big tech companies and their governmental enablers to users. In this way, we are made to consume, with little to no influence over how the technology is used. This positive AI ideology is therefore primarily about money and power.

    As it stands, there is no global movement with a unifying manifesto that would bring together societies to leverage AI for the benefit of communities of people, or to safeguard our right to privacy. This “right to be left alone”, codified in the US constitution and international human rights law, is a central pillar of my argument. It is also something that is almost entirely absent from the assurances about AI made by the big tech companies.

    Yet, some of the risks of the technology are already evident. A database compiling cases in which lawyers around the world used AI, identified 157 cases in which false AI-generated information – so called hallucinations – skewed legal rulings.

    Some forms of AI can also be manipulated to blackmail and extort, or create blueprints for murder and terrorism.

    Tech companies need to programme the algorithms with data that represents everyone, not just the privileged, in order to reduce discrimination. In this way, the public are not forced to give into the consensus that AI will solve many of our problems, without proper supervision by society. This distinction between the ability to think creatively, ethically and intuitively may be the most fundamental faultline between human and machine.

    It’s up to ordinary people to question the good AI myth. A critical approach to AI should contribute to the creation of more socially relevant and responsible technology, a technology that is already trialled in torture scenarios, as the book discusses, too.

    The point at which AI systems would outdo us in every task is expected to be a decade or so away. In the meantime there needs to be resistance to this attack on our right to privacy, and more awareness of just how AI works.

    Arshin Adib-Moghaddam does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-the-public-needs-to-challenge-the-good-ai-myth-pushed-by-tech-companies-259200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Marshall Highlights Major Wins for Kansans in the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    WASHINGTON – On Monday, Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) released the following video to highlight the major wins in the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill.’ This legislation will touch every single Kansas family by preventing the largest tax increase in American history, expanding the Child Tax Credit, supporting small businesses, reducing the national debt, and achieving many other benefits.
    The reconciliation bill passed the House last month before coming to the Senate, where lawmakers have found additional ways to improve the bill and save the American taxpayer more money. The Senate is expected to vote on the bill this week.
    Click HERE to watch and download the video.
    Please reach out if you’d like to set up an additional interview with Senator Marshall to discuss the reconciliation bill.
    Full video transcript below:
    Hi, Kansas! I’m here to talk about the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ – a game changer for hard-working folks like you, middle-income families who keep our state strong. This bill, passed by the House and improved by the Senate, puts you first. And I want to share how it delivers for Kansans.
    What does this bill do? Let me break down the top ways it supports our families, our farms, our businesses, and our futures.
    First and foremost, the One Big, Beautiful Bill prevents the largest tax increase in American history. Let me say that again – it stops a massive $4 trillion tax hike by keeping taxes low and supercharging our economy. It puts an extra $1,000 a month back in your pocket – now that’s money for groceries, for gas, or your kids’ school supplies. Plus, it makes the 2017 Trump tax cut rates in the standard deductions permanent.
    Second, it boosts your children’s future for every child born after January 1, 2024, that is, last year – the bill gives a $1,000 federal deposit in a savings account to grow for their future. Think College, a first home, starting a business right here in Kansas, and it expands the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child, up from $1,000, so you can keep more of your hard-earned money to raise your family.
    Third, it cuts taxes on your hard work. True to President Trump’s promises, we’re eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay – whether you’re a server in Topeka or a factory worker in Wichita pulling an extra shift, that’s more cash in your paycheck, which supports family and small business dreams.
    We’re extending the paid family and medical leave tax credit so that you can care for a newborn or sick loved one without losing your paycheck. For small business owners – our Kansas backbone – we’re permanently increasing the tax deduction for your income, giving you certainty to grow higher. And for our seniors, we’re letting you write off Social Security income because you’ve earned it.
    We don’t touch Medicare. For Medicaid, we strengthen it and preserve it for those who need it the most, including seniors in nursing homes and those on disabilities. And we increase spending on Medicaid more than the rate of inflation.
    Finally, this ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ tackles our national debt, $36 trillion and counting, which worries Kansans like us. This bill slashes $2 trillion in federal spending over the next 10 years, showing fiscal responsibility. It also funds border security, removes violent illegal immigrants, and gives our military pay raises and modern equipment, keeping our communities safe and strong.
    Now, is this bill perfect? Of course, not. But as President Reagan told a senator once, “If you get 80% of what you want, take it.” In fact, this bill delivers more than 90% for Kansas, lower taxes, more money for your family, and a stronger future. It’s good policy that puts you, the hard-working men and women of Kansas, first and restores the American dream.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sherrill Statement On Trump’s Strikes on Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) released the following statement following Donald Trump’s strikes on Iran: 

    “I am grateful to learn of reports that no U.S. service members were harmed during tonight’s operation against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Iran’s pursuit of a nuclear weapon and its support for terrorism across the region poses a grave threat to the United States, our ally Israel, and our partners throughout the Middle East.

    “However, I am deeply concerned by President Trump’s decision to order these strikes tonight without first seeking legal authorization from Congress, as required by the Constitution. This constitutional requirement ensures Congress has the ability to weigh the proposed plan, the potential cost and danger to service members, and whether it is the best path forward to achieve our long-term goals. This is especially important given the poor decision making that led to twenty years of war in Iraq and Afghanistan without advancing the goals of the United States and our allies. 

    “I urge all sides to return to the negotiating table, stop this conflict, and diplomatically ensure that Iran will not be able to acquire a nuclear weapon.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lois Frankel Responds to U.S. Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Ranking Member of the House National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Subcommittee released the following statement today after the United States carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    “Here’s what’s not up for debate: For decades, the Iranian regime has threatened Israel’s very existence, armed terrorist proxies, and relentlessly pursued nuclear weapons, all while chanting “Death to Israel” and “Death to America.” It has American blood on its hands, both directly and through its network of terror proxies. Most alarmingly, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile arsenal, and genocidal rhetoric pose an existential threat to Israel and a grave danger to global security,” said Rep. Frankel.

    “As we move forward, President Trump must abide by the Constitutional authority of Congress and engage in constructive, bipartisan cooperation to advance peace and stability in the region, and to ensure that Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. The safety and security of Israel, our allies, and the United States depend on it.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement on President Trump’s Strikes on Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s order of U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities:

    “The Islamic Republic Guard (IRG) of Iran must be stopped in its quest for nuclear weapons. They are the most prolific state sponsor of terrorism – supporting and funding Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. For the 40+ years the IRG has ruled Iran, they have abused and terrorized their own people, and stated that they seek to destroy Israel and the United States.

    Peace and stability in the region must now be the priority through multinational diplomacy and thoughtful negotiations. President Trump’s action on Iran has dangerously escalated tensions and put American lives at risk.

    As we continue to learn more about the aftermath of this action in the coming days, I want to thank our U.S. troops and join all Americans as we pray for their safety and security.”

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Releases New Data from Joint Committee on Taxation Revealing That “Pass Through Deduction” is a Giveaway to Millionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 23, 2025

    JCT Report on 199A (PDF) | JCT Response on Millionaires Claiming 199A (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, released new data from the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), a nonpartisan Congressional committee dedicated to analyzing tax legislation, revealing that the majority of the benefit from the 199A tax deduction goes to millionaires. 

    The 199A tax deduction was created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, with Congressional Republicans claiming it would support small business owners by allowing them to deduct up to 20 percent of their business’s qualified income from their personal income taxes. 

    JCT’s responses provided a breakdown, by income level, of who claims the 199A deduction, in addition to other key information about who the deduction benefits. Key findings include:

    • More than 50% of the benefit of the 199A deduction goes to millionaires. 
    • The top 10% of taxpayers claimed 87% of the benefit of 199A, while the bottom 20% claimed no benefit whatsoever.
    • 84% of the businesses through which individuals claimed the 199A deduction had no employees.
    • More than two-thirds of the 199A deduction goes to individuals above the deduction’s phase-out thresholds, demonstrating that the law’s guardrails to prevent wealthy individuals from taking the benefit are ineffective.
    • The proportion of 199A benefits claimed by millionaires increased over time from 2018 to 2022.

    The House version of Trump’s “big, beautiful bill,” now under consideration by the Senate, includes an expansion of the 199A deduction from a 20 percent deduction to a 23 percent deduction.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Bombing of Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    Tonko Statement on Trump’s Unconstitutional Bombing of Iran

    Amsterdam, June 22, 2025

    Amsterdam, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko released the following statement:

    “President Trump committed an illegal and unauthorized act of war against Iran, which will lead to untold consequences.

    The American people don’t want another war of choice in the Middle East.

    Congress must reconvene immediately and vote on the Iran War Powers Act resolution to contain the fallout and prevent further dangerous escalation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Limit Presidential Authority Under Insurrection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and 21 Senate colleagues in introducing legislation to restrict the president’s authority under the 217-year-old Insurrection Act.

    The legislation would reform the centuries-old Insurrection Act that gives the president broad and vague authority to deploy troops – either with or without the request of a state – to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy.” The current law has been used sparingly by other presidents given the potential for the military to escalate tensions, rather than restore order, during a domestic crisis. 

    “It’s clear that President Trump is unworried about defying the limits on executive power clearly outlined in our Constitution. Though he has not yet invoked the Insurrection Act, his threats to do so indicate a pressing need for congressional reform. This urgent legislation would establish the checks and balances needed to ensure that our military is deployed only in accordance with our laws and not as an instrument of personal or political power,” Sen. Warner said.

    Specifically, the Insurrection Act of 2025 would:

    • Narrow and clarify the criteria for the domestic deployment of military troops for law enforcement purposes;

    • Specify that the use of the military is a last resort and is authorized only if the use of civilian law enforcement authorities would be insufficient.

    • Clarify that the law cannot be used to suspend habeas corpus, impose martial law, or deputize private militias to act as soldiers;

    • Require the president to consult with Congress prior to invoking the Insurrection Act and receive Congressional approval if the President seeks to exercise authority under the Act for longer than 7 days;

    • Require a report to Congress providing an explicit justification for the use of the Insurrection Act’s authority, as enumerated in this legislation, and a full description of the scope and duration of its use;

    • Provide for judicial review to ensure that individuals, or a state or local government, may bring a civil action if the president’s authority under the Insurrection Act is misused or abused.

    Joining Sens. Warner, Blumenthal, Padilla, and Schiff in introducing this legislation are U.S. Sens. Jack Reed (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republicans are Providing Tax Relief to Working Families and Main Street

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—In addition to making the 2017 Trump tax rates permanent, Republicans are working to deliver additional tax relief for American families, communities and small businesses. 
    Investments in workers and small businesses:
    No tax on tips for millions of tipped workers.
    No tax on overtime for millions of America’s hourly workers.
    No tax on auto loan interest for new cars made in the U.S.
    Repeals the Democrats’ onerous IRS reporting requirements on gig workers.
    Increases the 1099-MISC threshold, reducing the paperwork burden for small businesses and workers.
    Investments in families, seniors and children:
    Strengthens employer-provided childcare credit and boosts childcare assistance.
    Creates school choice tax credits to expand education freedom and opportunity for students.
    Provides a $6,000 bonus exemption to millions of low- and middle-income seniors, slashing their tax burden.
    Enhances 529 savings accounts to make education more affordable for families.
    Establishes savings accounts for newborns, building financial security for the next generation.  
    Click HERE for a bill overview.
    Click HERE to view text of the Finance reconciliation bill.
    Click HERE for a section-by-section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on JCT Analysis of Tax Title

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today released the Joint Committee on Taxation’s (JCT) revenue estimate of the Finance Committee’s tax title, which shows that under a current policy baseline, the legislation has a net revenue impact of $442 billion.

    “Washington has a spending problem, not a tax problem.  Extending the Trump tax cuts prevents a $4 trillion tax increase—this is not a change in current tax policy or tax revenue. This score more accurately reflects reality by measuring the effects of tax policy changes relative to the status quo.

    “Republicans are poised to make the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, promoting more stability in the tax code and avoiding tax cliffs.  That certainty and stability is what families and businesses need to make long-term investments that drive growth, accelerate productivity and increase prosperity across all segments of the economy. 

    “Not only does this bill make the Trump tax cuts permanent, but it provides additional tax relief to middle-class American families, communities and small businesses.  Despite Democrats’ false rhetoric, Senate Republicans’ bill provides:

    • More than $82 billion in inflation tax relief targeted at income brackets below the $200,000 threshold.
    • A $165 billion benefit for the over-90 percent of low and middle-income taxpayers claiming the standard deduction.
    • A $91 billion benefit to low and middle-income seniors.
    • An additional $124 billion investment in children of low- and middle-income families, on top of the doubled child tax credit being made permanent.
    • Additional relief for workers, including no tax on tips and no tax on overtime.

    “The bill pays for these changes by eliminating hundreds of billions of dollars in Biden Green New Deal spending.  And, the Council of Economic Advisers estimates that making the Trump tax cuts permanent—combined with other Trump Administration pro-growth policies—will increase federal revenues by more than $4 trillion, more than offsetting deficit estimates.

    “Extending good tax policy, delivering targeted relief and reining in wasteful spending is the best way to restore economic prosperity and opportunity for all Americans.”

    Click HERE for the JCT table.

    Click HERE for a bill overview.

    Click HERE to view text of the Finance reconciliation bill.

    Click HERE for a section-by-section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Statement on Trump’s Strikes Against Iran Nuclear Sites

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    June 21, 2025

    [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton today joined Chicago-area health care advocates, Medicaid recipients and their families to call out the Trump Administration and Republican’s dangerous, relentless attempts to slash Medicaid with their Big, Beautiful Betrayal. Duckworth spoke in support and defense of the millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid including pregnant women, children with disabilities as well as people in nursing homes—and demanded that Republicans put their constituents’ lives ahead of Trump’s ego by working with Democrats to protect the critical basic needs program. Photos from the press conference are available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

    “Republicans told us in Project 2025 that they’d come for Medicaid—and this is one of the rare times the GOP is actually keeping its word,” Duckworth said. “Make no mistake: there’s no way to pay for Trump’s $4 trillion tax break for billionaires without putting it on the backs of Americans who are already struggling to pay the bills. As Republicans threatened health care for 16 million Americans—including 3.4 million Illinoisans—to appease Trump and his billionaire buddies, I’ll keep working with Illinois health care advocates to protect and defend Medicaid.”

    “Since we saw the earliest versions of the Big Ugly Bill, it has been clear that Congressional Republicans have no intention of passing a budget that works for all, nor do they care about the harm that will fall on working families if they succeed. Nothing makes their priorities more obvious than the axe hovering over Medicaid.” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Grandparents thrown out of nursing homes, farmers and rural families with no hospital to call in an emergency – that’s who the Trump administration is throwing under the bus to cover a tax cut for billionaires. That’s not who we are in Illinois. Everyone – no matter their zip code or who they voted for – deserves access to healthcare.”

    “Mental health is not optional. It is essential. And Medicaid is how we fund it. We must invest in the care that gives people a real chance at recovery,” said Sara Gray, Executive Director, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Illinois.

    “The proposed Medicaid cuts would have devastating consequences for older adults and the caregivers who support them. Medicaid is not just a safety net—it is a lifeline that provides access to home and community-based services, long-term care, and essential health coverage. These cuts would threaten the independence, dignity, and well-being of millions of older Americans. We urge lawmakers to prioritize the needs of aging adults and protect the integrity of Medicaid,” said Diane Slezak, President of AgeOptions.

    “We are facing some of the most dangerous threats the disability community has seen,” said Karen Tamley, President and CEO of Access Living, a disability service and advocacy center in Chicago. “Congress is considering budget proposals that would slash billions from Medicaid—the lifeline that makes it possible for disabled people to live, work, and thrive. These aren’t just numbers on a page—these cuts would take away life sustaining healthcare, personal care assistants, medical equipment, and essential therapies our community relies on.”

    Last month, Duckworth joined Caring Across Generations’ 24-hour Capitol Hill vigil to call out Donald Trump and Elon Musk for their heartless, relentless attempts to slash Medicaid funding.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces 48 new projects to film in California thanks to the state’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 23, 2025

    What you need to know: Thanks to California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, 48 projects — including 43 independent features — will be made in California, projected to generate $664 million in economic activity and employ over 6,500 cast and crew across the Golden State.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Newsom today continued his work in protecting film production jobs in Los Angeles and across the state with a new round of 48 projects approved for the California Film Commission’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. Governor Newsom recently proposed to double down on this vital program, by expanding the tax credit from $330 million to $750 million to help boost this iconic industry and production in California.

    “California didn’t earn its role as the heart of the entertainment world by accident — it was built over generations by skilled workers and creative talent pushing boundaries. Today’s awards help ensure this legacy continues, keeping cameras rolling here at home, supporting thousands of crew members behind the scenes and boosting local economies that depend on a strong film and television industry.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    This diverse slate of feature films — ranging from major studio productions to independent film — is expected to generate $664 million in total spending throughout the state, including $485 in qualified expenditures and more than $302 million in wages for California workers.

    These projects, which include 43 independent films, are collectively expected to hire 6,515 cast and crew members, as well 32,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,346 total California filming days.

    More than half of the films will be shot in the Los Angeles area, helping to sustain the birthplace of this iconic industry and supporting the community as it recovers from recent wildfires. Enabling the industry’s reach throughout the state, 22 of the selected projects will conduct significant filming outside the Los Angeles area, contributing 329 out-of-zone filming days and substantial economic benefits in Ventura County (Make A Wish, The Teller, Things We Cannot Touch), San Francisco and the Bay Area (High Priestess of Souls, Our Kind of Cruelty), El Dorado and Placer Counties (Gold Mountain), San Bernardino and Riverside Counties (Superbloom, The Heidi Fleiss Story), Bakersfield in Kern County (Counting by 7s) and coastal communities such as Half Moon Bay and Costa Mesa (Sponsor, Doll).

    Today’s slate of awards marks the ninth allocation in this fiscal year and reinforces California’s continued leadership as a global production hub, even as other states and countries pursue projects with their own incentive offerings.

    “This industry is core to California’s creative economy and keeping production here at home is more important than ever,” said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. “This round of tax credits shows our commitment to supporting both indie and studio productions while spreading the economic benefits of filming across the state.”

    Highlights from this round of awards

    • Five major studio features, including Sony Pictures’ “One of Them Days Sequel” — the latest film produced by Issa Rae — which alone is projected to spend more than $39 million in qualified expenditures.
    • Six independently produced features with budgets over $10 million, such as “Gold Mountain,” “The Teller,” and “They Follow,” all of which plan to film primarily outside of the Los Angeles area.
    • 37 independent projects with budgets of $10 million or less, contributing to the state’s goal of expanding access to underrepresented filmmakers and promoting more inclusive storytelling.

    “Los Angeles was an essential backdrop to ‘One of Them Days’ and we are thrilled that Dreux and Alyssa will embark on another authentic escapade through the city’s streets in the sequel through the support of California’s Film and Television Tax Credit,” said Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures.

    Read more about today’s announcement, including a full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here.

    California is a creative economy powerhouse

    Last fall, Governor Newsom proposed expanding California’s Film & Television Tax Credit Program to $750 million annually, a massive increase from the current $330 million annual allocation, which would position California as one of the top states for capped film incentive programs.

    As one of the strategic sectors outlined in the recently launched California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the creative economy has deep roots in California’s history and continues to be an engine for innovation, cultural expression, and economic growth.

    • In 2023, California was home to 220,000 creative economy jobs, one in every four creative economy jobs in the U.S.
    • The average salary paid to creative workers in 2023 was $160,000, more than 50% higher than the California average.
    • And while the Los Angeles region leads the way in jobs generated by the creative economy, three other regions — Redwoods, the Bay Area, and the Southern Border — also identified film, TV, and the arts as a regional strategic sector.

    About the Film and TV Tax Credit Program

    The Film and Television Tax Credit Program provides tax credits based on qualified expenditures for eligible productions produced in California.

    Since its launch in 2009 through May 2025, the program has approved 799 projects that have generated nearly $27 billion in economic activity, resulting in less runaway production, new career pathways for below-the-line workers and increased economic opportunity in rural, suburban and urban communities alike. The program further incentivizes projects that film outside the Los Angeles area or relocate to California from out-of-state. The program also requires projects to invest in building career exposure and training opportunities for underrepresented communities.

    Looking ahead, the next television application window is slated for July 7-9, 2025. Film applications will be accepted August 25-27, 2025. Application dates and deadlines are posted on the California Film Commission website.

    Recent news

    Jun 20, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Soon-Sik Lee, of Bellevue, Washington, has been appointed Chief of Planning and Engineering at the California High Speed Rail Authority. Lee has been a Vice President – Senior Program…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Ninth Circuit rejected Trump’s sweeping claim that he can federalize the National Guard for any reason and avoid judicial scrutiny, even as it stayed an emergency district court order. This is a critical check on presidential overreach…

    Jun 19, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONJuly 4 is not the only…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler, Chairman of the Middle East And North Africa Subcommittee, Strongly Condemns Indiscriminate Iranian Attack on Civilians

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler, the Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement condemning the targeting of innocent civilians in Israel by the extremist Iranian regime. More than 20 Israeli civilians have lost their lives in recent days due to the Iranian regime’s indiscriminate missile attacks.

    “I am outraged at how Iran has been conducting itself in this conflict – indiscriminately killing Jews and Arabs alike,” said Congressman Lawler. “While Israel has sought to defend itself and eliminate the threat posed by a nuclear Iran, The Ayataollah has shown himself to be a bloodthirsty dictator and his actions back up Iran’s consistent rhetoric that they want to wipe the state of Israel off the face of the earth.”

    “With hypersonic and ballistic missiles raining down on Tel-Aviv, Haifa, and across Israel, and with civilians hiding in shelters for days on end, it’s imperative that the United States stand by our staunch ally, Israel,” concluded Lawler. “I urge President Trump to continue working with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to keep all options on the table for dealing with Iran.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler, Chairman of the Middle East And North Africa Subcommittee, Strongly Condemns Indiscriminate Iranian Attack on Civilians

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Pearl River, NY – 6/16/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler, the Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement condemning the targeting of innocent civilians in Israel by the extremist Iranian regime. More than 20 Israeli civilians have lost their lives in recent days due to the Iranian regime’s indiscriminate missile attacks.

    “I am outraged at how Iran has been conducting itself in this conflict – indiscriminately killing Jews and Arabs alike,” said Congressman Lawler. “While Israel has sought to defend itself and eliminate the threat posed by a nuclear Iran, The Ayataollah has shown himself to be a bloodthirsty dictator and his actions back up Iran’s consistent rhetoric that they want to wipe the state of Israel off the face of the earth.”

    “With hypersonic and ballistic missiles raining down on Tel-Aviv, Haifa, and across Israel, and with civilians hiding in shelters for days on end, it’s imperative that the United States stand by our staunch ally, Israel,” concluded Lawler. “I urge President Trump to continue working with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to keep all options on the table for dealing with Iran.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Joins Bipartisan Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) issued the following statement:

    “The U.S. Constitution is clear: the authority to declare war sits solely with Congress. President Trump may not declare war or engage in offensive military action without the explicit consent of both the United States House of Representatives and Senate.

    Just in case they forgot — a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including myself, has joined a resolution to reaffirm our Congressional authority. Now is the time for diplomacy.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Fights for Veterans, VA, Opposes Trump Cuts to Vital Veteran Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) joined New Mexico state lawmakers and community leaders for a veterans town hall to answer questions directly from veterans on issues that impact them in light of the Trump administration’s cuts to the VA, and attacks on our service members by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. 

    The Congresswoman joined New Mexico State Representative Debbie Sariñana (D-Albuquerque), New Mexico State Senator Harold Pope Jr. (D-Albuquerque), and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Frank Smith.

    Rep. Sariñana and Sen. Pope both served in the U.S. Air Force.

    Watch the video here. 

    “The most patriotic thing we can do is to resist,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “The most patriotic thing we can do right now is to speak out. The most patriotic thing we can do is engage in acts of resistance and supporting our communities. And the most patriotic thing we can do is continue to serve our communities, to fight for our communities, and to fight for our democracy because we will win.” 

    Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed cuts aimed at what’s being labeled “wasteful” spending:

    • Over $580 million in contracts and programs have been canceled.
    • Major cuts include $1.8 billion from consulting contracts at the Defense Health Agency, $1.4 billion from cloud IT services, and $500 million from Navy business consulting.
    • Eleven contracts related to DEI, climate change, and COVID-19 were also terminated.
    • A $500 million DARPA help desk contract was cut due to duplication.
    • The Department of Defense is working with DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency), which has identified $800 million in additional spending to eliminate.
    • There are plans to in-source IT roles, shifting those duties to civilian staff. 

    The VA started aggressive contract reviews and program cuts: 

    • Effective May 1, the VA ended the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program, which had been the only available mortgage assistance tool for many at-risk veterans. This has increased the risk of foreclosure for thousands of veteran families.
    • VA has canceled 585 contracts worth $1.8 billion, redirecting about $900 million to healthcare and benefits. Most of the canceled contracts were described as non-mission critical, but some provided administrative or support services that may now fall back on already strained internal resources. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Pat Fallon Statement on US Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    “President Trump made the tough, but absolutely correct decision in the best interest of America’s national security to order strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites,” said Rep. Fallon.

    “These highly successful strikes, carried out by B-2 stealth bombers, have shown Iran, and near-pear adversaries such as Russia and China that when the U.S. military is called to act, it will do so with precision and utter lethality to accomplish its objectives. This was not some trivial task to destroy Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities—the courage and training of the U.S. Air Force pilots who undertook these missions is exceptional and I thank them for their steadfast commitment to duty and excellence that is core to our military’s ethos.”

    Rep. Fallon continued, “President Trump has made clear for years that Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons under any circumstances. This past weekend’s strikes are a profound act of deterrence that signals not only to Iran, but to rogue states and bad actors on the world stage that the U.S. is fully committed to protecting our nation’s interests as well as restoring security for ourselves and our allies and partners.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy’s Statement on U.S. Airstrikes on Iran Nuclear Sites

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s announcement of U.S. airstrikes on Iran nuclear sites.

     

    “Today, President Trump acted with strength and clarity to eliminate a grave threat to our nation, our allies, and the world. After Iran refused every diplomatic path and persisted in its dangerous pursuit of nuclear weapons, the President was left with no choice but to defend American interests and global security. 

    “We honor and salute the brave men and women of the United States military who executed this critical mission with precision, courage, and professionalism. By destroying Iran’s nuclear sites, President Trump demonstrated bold leadership, unshakable resolve, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding our homeland and our allies. 

    “This action sends a unmistakable message: the United States will never tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran, and we will stand firm and unflinching against aggression and terror. 

    “I stand with the President and our heroic service members as they defend peace and protect the American people.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on Trump Administration’s Attempt to Limit Congressional Oversight of ICE Detention

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding recently announced guidance by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) limiting access to immigration detention facilities:

    “Today’s announcement is in direct violation of federal law and is just the latest attempt to undercut congressional oversight and dismantle all manner of oversight related to detention facilities – centers that too often have credible reports of inhumane treatment.

    “The idea that the administration is claiming that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Field Offices, where immigrants are being held for lengthy periods, are not considered a location that is ‘used to detain or otherwise house’ immigrants and therefore not subject to congressional oversight is absurd. It is our responsibility to do oversight of ICE’s enforcement, and these new policies will not stop us.

    “This is nothing but an attempt to hide the truth that President Trump lied to the American people when he promised to arrest and deport only the ‘worst of the worst.’ When I visited a detention facility just last month, the only detained people I was allowed to talk to were a woman who has been in this country for 20 years and was detained less than a week before she was to be married to a U.S. citizen; as well as a legal permanent resident, who has been here 31 years, is a proud member of the Machinists Union, and is married to a U.S. citizen with three U.S. citizen children.”

    Earlier this year, the Trump administration also terminated the DHS Office of Civil Rights and the Office of Immigration Detention Ombudsman crippling internal oversight of the Department.

    Appropriations language states: SEC. 527. (a) None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Homeland Security by this Act may be used to prevent any of the following persons from entering, for the purpose of conducting oversight, any facility operated by or for the Department of Homeland Security used to detain or otherwise house aliens, or to make any temporary modification at any such facility that in any way alters what is observed by a visiting Member of Congress or such designated employee, compared to what would be observed in the absence of such modification:

    (1) A Member of Congress.

    (2) An employee of the United States House of Representatives or the United States Senate designated by such a Member for the purposes of this section.

    (b) Nothing in this section may be construed to require a Member of Congress to provide prior notice of the intent to enter a facility described in subsection (a) for the purpose of conducting oversight. 

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rutherford Statement on U.S. Attacks on Nuclear Sites in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on U.S. Armed Forces attacks on nuclear sites in Iran: 

    “I am fully behind President Trump and our Armed Forces in the action taken in self-defense, which precludes any need for an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). The President gave Iran every opportunity to make a deal for peace to end this long conflict, but they refused. This is what peace through strength looks like. The world is safer without the threat of a nuclear bomb in the hands of an Iranian regime.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Statement on Trump’s Unauthorized Military Strikes in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    LOWELL, MA — Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced unauthorized U.S. military strikes in Iran:
    “I am deeply grateful that the American servicemembers who carried out this mission returned safely. Their professionalism, precision, and bravery are unmatched, and we owe them and their families a debt of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our country.”
    “Absolutely no one wants to see the Iranian regime acquire nuclear weapons. That shared goal has guided years of bipartisan diplomatic and strategic engagement to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear-armed state. President Trump’s decision to launch direct military strikes without congressional approval threatens to undermine those efforts and drag the United States into another costly, endless war in the Middle East.”
    “Acting without the consent of Congress, without a clear strategy, and without the backing of our allies puts American lives at risk and risks further destabilizing an already volatile region. It also flies in the face of the president’s campaign promise to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, end the war in Gaza, and bring home the hostages still held by Hamas.”
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Babin statement on U.S. strikes on Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

    Babin statement on U.S. strikes on Iran

    Washington, June 21, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) released the following statement on the U.S. strikes on Iran. 

    “President Trump made the right call. The Iranian regime has spent more than four decades threatening the United States, attacking our troops, menacing Israel, and pursuing nuclear weapons in defiance of international norms,” said Rep. Babin. “America’s precision strikes against Iranian nuclear sites send a clear message: the United States will not allow a terrorist regime to acquire the world’s most dangerous weapons. I am proud of President Trump’s bold leadership, thankful for the incredible bravery of our U.S. military, and grateful for the continued partnership of our Israeli allies. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Not now. Not ever.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Congresswoman Barragán Holds Press Conference To Sound Alarm On Possible Hospital Closures and Reduced Services Due to Trump’s “One Big, Ugly Bill”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 21, 2025

    Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov


    Congresswoman Barragán Holds Press Conference     To Sound Alarm On Possible Hospital Closures and Reduced Services Due to Trump’s “One Big, Ugly Bill”

    West Carson, CA —  Yesterday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) held a press conference at Harbor UCLA Medical Center to highlight how Trump’s Big, Ugly Bill — passed by House Republicans last month — threatens patients and puts hospitals at risk with deep cuts to Medicaid. She emphasized that hospitals like Harbor UCLA rely heavily on Medicaid to deliver critical care to millions. The Congresswoman also warned that Senate Republicans are pushing to make the largest health care cuts in history even worse by slashing key Medicaid funding, including provider tax rates in states that expanded coverage under the Affordable Care Act.

    Congresswoman Barragán was joined by representatives from the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, who described the harmful effects the Republicans’ cuts to Medicaid will have on both hospitals and patients. 

    “Our local hospitals provide critical, and in some cases life-saving, health care services to millions of Americans — they should not be at risk of closing because of Republicans’ bankrolling huge tax breaks for their billionaire buddies,” said Rep. Barragán. “House Republicans passed a budget that already contains the largest health care cuts in our country’s history and Senate Republicans have made the cuts even deeper.”

    “When people are kicked off Medicaid, we’ll see packed emergency rooms and more expensive health care costs across the board. Hospitals that rely heavily on Medicaid reimbursements may be forced to close — those that don’t close will face greater financial strain and possible reduction in services. This will impact neighboring hospitals as well — where patients will face overcrowding and longer wait times. The American people should not have to struggle to receive essential care — and House Democrats will fight like hell to save our hospitals and get our constituents the care they need.”

    “I want to be very clear,” said Dr. Griselda Gutierrez, Chief Marketing Officer at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. “Medicaid is not a program for people who do not work. Our patients are seniors, children, and people with disabilities, who need health care. Home health aides, grocery workers, child care workers, parents who are juggling multiple jobs— often without benefits, contractors and gig workers, with no employee-sponsored health care insurance options. They’re the backbone of our communities and they rely on Medicaid to stay healthy and keep showing up for their families and for their jobs. Cutting Medicaid doesn’t just threaten hospitals, real people will suffer.”

    “Medicaid cuts will have a disastrous effect on Los Angeles County — the largest county in the nation,” said Holly J. Mitchell, Los Angeles County Supervisor, Second District. “Twenty-five percent of LA County’s Medi-Cal recipients reside in my district alone. Medicaid is the foundation that allows our hospitals like Harbor UCLA and Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital to remain open and continue providing high-quality care that countless people rely on and deserve.”

    The live stream for the press conference can be found HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Parliamentary veto “essential” before any UK military action in Middle East – Plaid Cymru

    Source: Party of Wales

    Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth MS and Westminster Leader Liz Saville Roberts MP have today warned the UK Government against being dragged into a “potentially catastrophic” conflict in the Middle East, and that the UK Parliament must have a say on any proposals for military action.

    Rhun ap Iorwerth MS and Liz Saville Roberts MP welcomed Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s calls for diplomacy and de-escalation, but voiced concerns that he had fallen short of roundly condemning President Trump’s authorisation of US strikes against Iran overnight.

    The Plaid Cymru politicians added that the pursuit of peace should take priority over any UK loyalty to the US and warned against repeating history where the UK entered a regional conflict in the Middle East as “America’s puppet.”

    In a joint statement, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS and Liz Saville Roberts MP said:

    “President Trump’s decision to launch US strikes against Iran is potentially catastrophic for an already destabilised region.

    “Whilst Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s calls for diplomacy and de-escalation are to be welcomed, it is concerning that he has fallen short of roundly condemning President Trump’s actions.

    “The pursuit of peace should take priority over any UK loyalty to the US. We all remember the disastrous consequences of being dragged into a regional conflict in the Middle East as America’s puppet.

    “It is essential therefore that Parliament has the opportunity to veto any UK military involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict should Keir Starmer yield to any pressure from President Trump and propose some form of intervention.

    “In the same way the US Democrats are divided on the issue, Keir Starmer may well face pressure from Labour hawks to follow President Trump’s lead.

    “Air strikes were launched against Syria in 2018 without granting Parliament an opportunity to vote on military action. At the time Plaid Cymru accused then-Prime Minister Theresa May of showing complete disregard towards democracy.

    “We stand firmly by that view and reiterate our calls for restraint before more innocent civilian lives are lost.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Leads Letter Supporting American Aerospace Trade

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas), representative of the Air Capital of the World and co-chair of the House Aerospace Caucus, recently led a letter with 23 colleagues urging United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer and the Trump administration to build on the zero-zero tariff environment for aerospace and defense manufacturing as part of the 1979 Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft.
     
    “America’s A&D companies are global leaders in manufacturing and sustaining technologies across the commercial aviation, defense, and space sectors,” writes Rep. Estes and colleagues. “The U.S. A&D industry produces the best systems and components in the world, resulting in the largest consistent trade surplus across the U.S. manufacturing sector. In 2023, American A&D exports were $135.9 billion, and imports were $61.4 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $74.5 billion.”
     
    The letter concludes, “For these reasons, we respectfully urge the Administration to build on the success of the zero-zero tariff environment in this sector by reinforcing such treatment through all bilateral trade negotiations. This will drive additional U.S. competitiveness in the global aerospace sector. We appreciate the Administration’s continued attention on these issues and look forward to a sustained partnership to make sure America continues to drive leadership of the global aerospace industry.”
     
    Rep. Estes was joined by Reps. Sam Graves, Adrian Smith, Mike Kelly, David Schweikert, Kevin Hern, Carol D. Miller, Gregory F. Murphy, M.D., Blake D. Moore, Beth Van Duyne, Mike Carey, Brian K. Fitzpatrick, Rudy Yakym III, Jack Bergman, Pete Stauber, Tracey Mann, Barry Moore, Jay Obernolte, Brad Finstad, Rich McCormick, MD, MBA, Brian Jack, Brad Knott, Tim Moore and Derek Schmidt.
     
    Download the full letter here or read below.
     
    The Honorable Jamieson Greer
    Ambassador
    United States Trade Representative
    600 17th Street NW
    Washington, DC 20006
     
    Dear Ambassador Greer:
     
    We write to commend this Administration’s commitment to restore a robust American manufacturing sector. We are proud to work with the Administration to make historic progress to make American manufacturing great. In this context, we write to highlight the importance of the 1979 Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft (the “Agreement”) to the United States’ Aerospace and Defense (A&D) industry’s trade surplus, specifically civilian aviation, and its high-wage domestic manufacturing workforce. 
     
    America’s A&D companies are global leaders in manufacturing and sustaining technologies across the commercial aviation, defense, and space sectors. The U.S. A&D industry produces the best systems and components in the world, resulting in the largest consistent trade surplus across the U.S. manufacturing sector. In 2023, American A&D exports were $135.9 billion, and imports were $61.4 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $74.5 billion.
     
    Comprising more than 100,000 companies, large and small, across commercial and defense markets, the American A&D industry drives the U.S. economy, generating nearly $422 billion in business output in 2023. That alone contributed 1.6 percent to the 2023 U.S. gross domestic product.
     
    A&D companies invest tens of billions of dollars annually in the United States, creating highly skilled new jobs and enhancing U.S. economic and national security. These companies provide top-paying jobs in all 50 states with numerous employees, facilities, and suppliers. In 2023, the domestic A&D workforce grew 4.8 percent to over 2.2 million employed Americans.
     
    The U.S. A&D industry is a best-in-class example of an America First Trade Policy. It creates high-wage manufacturing jobs in every state and its commitment to innovation sustains U.S. world leadership in aerospace technology.
     
    A key reason for American dominance in the global aerospace industry is how the United States has leveraged the Agreement. In the 1960s and 1970s, several competing countries established tariffs and non-tariff barriers for commercial aviation production and its supply chain. Working on a bipartisan basis, Congress and the Administration collaborated on structuring and negotiating a sectoral agreement to establish wholly reciprocal duty-free trade for commercial aircraft, parts and components. There are 33 signatories and 25 observer countries that have consistently adhered to this reciprocal tariff-free regime.
     
    America’s innovative A&D industry has taken full advantage of this reciprocity to establish global dominance. Since the Agreement came into effect in 1980, the U.S. trade surplus in A&D has grown over 2,000 percent. American companies control the high end of the value chain, increasing U.S. competitiveness and our trade surplus. In addition, the innovation, profits, and growth of the U.S. commercial aviation sector is integral to the U.S. defense industry due to crossover benefits of A&D technologies and our world-class manufacturing workforce.
     
    For these reasons, we respectfully urge the Administration to build on the success of the zero-zero tariff environment in this sector by reinforcing such treatment through all bilateral trade negotiations. This will drive additional U.S. competitiveness in the global aerospace sector. We appreciate the Administration’s continued attention on these issues and look forward to a sustained partnership to make sure America continues to drive leadership of the global aerospace industry.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Appeals court ruling grants Donald Trump broad powers to deploy troops to American cities

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jack L. Rozdilsky, Associate Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management, York University, Canada

    Residents of Los Angeles will need to get used to federally controlled National Guard troops operating on their streets. Due to a ruling from an appeals court on June 19, United States President Donald Trump now has broad authority to deploy military forces in American cities.

    This is a troubling development. All presidents have held in their grasp extraordinary powers to deploy military troops domestically. But Trump stands apart with his apparent keen interest in manufacturing false emergencies to exploit extraordinary power.

    An 1878 law called the Posse Comitatus Act restricts using the military for domestic law enforcement. The broader principle being challenged by Trump’s actions in L.A. is the norm of the military not being allowed to interfere in the affairs of civilian governance.

    Injunctions and appeals

    Five months into Trump’s presidency, L.A. has been targeted for aggressive immigration enforcement. In their pluralistic city where dozens of languages and nationalities peacefully co-exist, some Angelenos believe the city is experiencing an attack on its most essential social fabric.

    On June 7, Trump acted under United States Code Title 10 provisions to take over command and control of California’s National Guard. Federalized military forces were deployed.

    The objective was to counter what Trump argued was a form of rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States. In fact, these “rebellions” were largely peaceful protests in downtown L.A.

    On June 9, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted an injunction restraining the president’s use of military force in L.A. The court order supported Gov. Gavin Newsom’s contention that Trump overstepped his authority.

    On June 19, a decision from a panel of judges at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit overturned the injunction.

    What this means at the moment is that Trump does not have to return control of the troops to Newsom. California has options to continue litigation by asking the Federal Appeals Court to rehear the matter, or perhaps directly asking the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene.

    Moving toward authoritarianism

    Trump’s June 7 memorandum facilitating his move to overrule Newsom’s authority and seize control of 2,000 National Guard troops was based on the president defining his own so-called emergency.

    He claimed incidents of violence and disorder following aggressive immigration enforcement amounted to a form of rebellion against the U.S.

    As Trump flexes his emergency power might, his second term has been called the 911 presidency. He has used extraordinary emergency powers at a pace well beyond his predecessors, pressing the limits to address his administration’s supposed sense of serious perils overtaking the nation.

    Issues arise when the level of actual danger locally is not at all representative of what the president suggests is a full-scale national emergency. For example, demonstrations over immigration raids occupied only a tiny parcel of real estate in L.A.’s huge metropolitan area. A Los Angeles-based rebellion against the U.S. was not occurring.

    As dissent over aggressive immigration enforcement actions grew, localized clashes with law enforcement did occur. Mutual aid surged into Los Angeles, where neighbouring California law enforcement agencies acted to assist one another. The law enforcement challenges never rose to the level of the governor of California requesting additional federal support.

    Shortly after the federal government took over the California National Guard, Newsom said the move was purposefully inflammatory.

    In addition to declaring dubious emergencies to amass power, stoking violence is a characteristic of authoritarian rulers. Creating fear, division and feelings of insecurity can lead to community crises. Trump did not need to wait for a crisis; it seems he simply invented one.

    No guardrails

    The expression “out of kilter” comes to mind as Trump inches closer to invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807. If so, the situation will look quite similar in practice to what is happening now in Los Angeles.

    Five years ago, Trump flirted with invoking the Insurrection Act during Black Lives Matter unrest in Washington, D.C., in and around Lafayette Park.

    As recent L.A. protests intensified, Trump stated: “We’re going to have troops everywhere.”

    Currently, there are few guardrails in place to prevent a rogue president from misusing the military in domestic civilian affairs. Trump has been coy about whether he would tap into the greater powers available to him under the Insurrection Act.

    Real emergencies presenting existential threats to America do persist. Nuclear proliferation, climate change and pandemics need serious leaders. But politically exploiting last-resort emergency laws designed to provide options to deal with genuine existential threats — not to weaponize them against protesters demonstrating against public policy — is absurd.

    Jack L. Rozdilsky receives support for research communication and public scholarship from York University. He also has received research support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

    – ref. Appeals court ruling grants Donald Trump broad powers to deploy troops to American cities – https://theconversation.com/appeals-court-ruling-grants-donald-trump-broad-powers-to-deploy-troops-to-american-cities-258894

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –