For this Review we chose CustomAquariums.com

9.8 out of 10 Editor’s Choice

We chose to see what all the internet hype was all about….. well we dove in head first with CustomAquariums.com to see how they could make our fish/aquarium vision a reality

If you want the most credible, persuasive way to describe this builder, call it an engineering-first custom glass aquarium company rather than a generic “luxury tank” brand. The official record supports that positioning: the site offers built-to-order sizing, multiple glass thicknesses and clarity levels, tempered or non-tempered panels, custom hole drilling, framed and rimless tanks, paludariums, multiple stand systems, and modular sump-based filtration. It also has public configurators for rectangle, square, pentagon, hexagon, rimless, and amphibious builds, plus dedicated 10-foot and 12-foot custom pages for oversized projects.

The strongest promotional angle is that these aquariums are designed to feel permanent: thick glass, polished and beveled edges, high-strength silicone, marine-grade anodized aluminum framing on the tanks, and a choice between furniture-style hardwood cabinetry or welded steel stands. That message is not only internally consistent across the site, it is also visually credible because the published package examples and manufacturing pages keep returning to the same ideas of rigidity, serviceability, and long-term durability.

The honest limitation is that ownership looks more like commissioning specialty millwork than buying a standard aquarium. Current policies show long lead times, freight and handling caveats on very large tanks, non-returnability of custom tanks/stands/canopies once production starts, and strict damage-reporting and warranty conditions. A good promotional review should say that plainly, because the product becomes more—not less—compelling when framed as a serious custom purchase.

The Customization breadth is substantial. They offer buyers many options for their glass ranging  from 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ glass, with low-iron “ultra-clear” available in every listed thickness, with tempering options, and with panel-by-panel specification

They can drill holes anywhere!

Holes can be drilled for overflow and return systems, and the configurators publicly support multiple shapes and styles instead of restricting the buyer to a few preset rectangles.

They are here for the small custom build all the was to top tier big-budget builds for elite homes and business a like.  Professional is where they start and end from day 1!

The stand and cabinet story is equally important.

The hardwood line is “solid wood throughout” frames are made in the USA from hardwoods such as ash, oak, maple, cherry, hickory, and black walnut, while the tops, backs, door panels, and side panels use matching veneer plywood rather than particleboard.

The steel line is described as high-strength square tube steel, welded into one solid piece and finished with a durable oven-cured powder coating, with a painted 3/4″ plywood top. For smaller, stackable, more institutional displays, there is also an anodized aluminum rack-style stand system.

The company’s customization depth also extends farther into filtration than many competitors’ sites do. The official “dream tank” page describes modular sump packages in 1200, 3600, and 4800 GPH, plus overflows, returns, protein-skimmer options, and plumbing. Lighting is available through its store too, but the site’s real differentiator is structural engineering and flow management rather than bespoke in-house lighting fabrication.

A compelling descriptive line, grounded in the actual specs, would be this: these builds do not look delicate; they look composed. The steel versions feel architectural, the hardwood versions feel like cabinetry, and the framed glass tanks feel intentionally reinforced rather than cosmetically rimmed. That is exactly the sort of distinction that makes a promotional review sound authentic instead of overhyped.

Pricing, Lead Times, Shipping, and Warranty

Published pricing ranges show that the builder spans serious hobbyist budgets up through premium custom budgets. Current package examples on the site run roughly from $770.85–$2,189.04 for a 75-gallon wide, $954.80–$2,578.01 for a 100-gallon, $1,927.70–$4,067.78 for a 150-gallon wide, $2,983.60–$5,172.34 for a 240-gallon, and $4,443.80–$7,150.64 for a 300-gallon package. The site also lists a ready-to-ship 180-gallon complete package at $7,605.30, which suggests that fully optioned, turnkey systems can move meaningfully above the entry package ranges. Truly oversized 10-foot and 12-foot projects are quote-driven instead of openly shelf-priced.

Lead times are not impulse-buy lead times. The current shipping page lists standard aquarium lead times at 40–50 business days, with fast-track options around 20–35 business days depending on the order type, and it says tanks ship fully cured rather than arriving with instructions to wait before use. Tempering adds additional time. That kind of language supports a premium review because it frames the delay as part of the build integrity, not as careless backlog.

Shipping policies are the biggest practical constraint on giant builds. Orders above $4,000 can qualify for free shipping per crate, but residential free curbside delivery has dimensional limits, and very large tanks may only ship free to a commercial loading dock or freight terminal. Extra fees can apply for liftgate service, remote delivery, unloading, and case-by-case in-home or office setup. The FAQ says refundable moving kits help with many popular sizes, but the company still expects buyers to inspect deliveries before signing and to document any damage immediately.

Warranty language is strong but caveated. The posted PDF says aquariums 75 gallons and larger are warrantied for life against leaks or cracks caused by defects in materials or workmanship, while tanks under 75 gallons are covered for 90 days; stands and canopies carry a 1-year limited warranty; custom aquariums, stands, and canopies are not returnable once in production; and accessory returns are limited to 30 days with shipping deductions and a 25% restocking fee. There is also a notable wording mismatch: current product pages and the steel-stand page say tanks sold with a custom stand qualify for lifetime coverage, while the formal PDF specifically references a Majestic-brand stand. A prudent buyer should get that point clarified in writing before purchase.

Third-Party Authenticity Check

The most persuasive outside-case source I found is a 550-gallon school build by Reef Conservation Society, documented on its own site via this . The group says it compared manufacturers, chose this builder after seeing sample tanks and the overflow system at a trade show, received clear drawings, and got the tank built as requested. Just as important, the write-up makes the process feel real: a heavy shipping crate, a purpose-built cart, a loading dock, volunteers, hallway maneuvering, and eventual plumbing into place. That combination of praise and effort gives the brand’s “serious custom build” message real-world credibility.

On the reputation-platform side, the shows a 4.7-star aggregate from 273 reviews pulled from Birdeye, Google, and Facebook. Visible sample reviews repeatedly point to strong customer service, good communication during special-build design, attractive finished runs, secure packaging, and good experiences with 150-, 180-, and 375-gallon systems. The same profile also includes a visible negative review describing a failed delivery/refund experience, which matters because it suggests the public review picture is positive but not artificially spotless.

Best Use Cases and Final Verdict

High-end residential showpiece. The clearest fit is the buyer who wants a long, wide display to function like architectural furniture: ultra-clear front and side panels, a dark rear panel, a hardwood stand that matches the room, and overflow/filtration choices planned at the same time as the tank. The official package examples and cabinetry pages support exactly that scenario.

Waiting room, lobby, or office focal point. The site actively markets to dental offices and hospitals, and the stain/color-matching flexibility makes that credible. This is one of the best authentic promotional scenarios because a custom aquarium can be sold not only as décor but as atmosphere: calmer, quieter, more memorable than standard reception-area furniture.

Corner, peninsula, or odd-footprint room. Pentagon, hexagon, rimless, and other configurable shapes make the builder especially attractive where a standard rectangle would waste the room or kill sight lines. This is the type of buyer most likely to appreciate the configurators and panel-by-panel glass choices.

Fish room, gallery, or multi-tank operation. The anodized aluminum rack system is not the sexy star of the site, but it may be one of the platform’s most functional offerings for breeders, stores, research rooms, and hobbyists building out multiple smaller displays.

Paludarium and hybrid habitat buyers. The amphibious line gives the company a useful edge for turtle, reptile, or land-water projects where standard aquarium makers often stop at “just put a basking area inside.” The official pages show sliding-door and custom-environment possibilities that go beyond basic fishkeeping.

4/25/2026

• President Donald Trump said a suspect “armed with multiple weapons” charged a security checkpoint before shots were fired at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, DC. Trump was rushed off stage, and he and his Cabinet members are all safe.

• The suspect — who is in custody — will be charged with using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon, US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said. Authorities have identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old from California, three sources familiar with the matter told CNN.

• A US Secret Service officer was shot in their protective gear and hospitalized. The officer has since been released from the hospital, according to USSS Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi.

• CNN’s Wolf Blitzer was outside the ballroom at the Washington Hilton when he saw a gunman opening fire just a few feet away. He was among the dozens of attendees who took cover as law enforcement swarmed.

What we know so far about gunman’s attack on the White House Correspondents’ Dinner

Armed commandos stand by as special guests are evacuated from the back of the Washington Hilton after shots were fired during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner Saturday.

Roberto Schmidt/AFP/Getty Images

A suspected gunman is in custody after storming a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner –– forcing President Donald Trump, cabinet members and a ballroom full of guests to scramble to safety.

Authorities have identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, a California native, three sources familiar with the matter told CNN. The suspect was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives and “exchanged fire” with law enforcement officers when he was intercepted and taken into custody, interim Washington, DC, Police Chief Jeffery Carroll told reporters.

A motive has not been determined, and the suspect is expected to be arraigned in court on Monday. He faces two charges: using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon, US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said.

Here’s what we know so far about the attack:

• Carroll said the attacker appeared to be “a lone actor” and is believed to have stayed at the Washington Hilton, where the dinner took place. Police have secured the hotel room and are examining what’s inside.
• A Secret Service officer who was shot during the attack has been released from the hospital. The officer’s ballistic vest “helped us avoid a potential tragedy,” a Secret Service spokesperson said.
• Authorities said the suspect was not struck by gunfire but was taken to a hospital for evaluation.
• According to public records, the suspect worked as a teacher and video game developer in Southern California. He studied engineering and is a graduate of the California Institute of Technology, according to materials shared with CNN.
• Trump noted his security team was not aware of any threats prior to Saturday’s dinner.
• CNN’s Wolf Blitzer was outside the ballroom at the Washington Hilton when he saw the gunman “clearly on the ground shooting” steps away from him. A police officer threw Blitzer to the ground after the assailant opened fire.
• The attack has been condemned by lawmakers in the US and leaders across the world –– many expressing relief over Trump’s safety and praising the swift law enforcement response.

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President Trump rushed from White House Correspondents’ Dinner after shots fired, suspect held

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, first lady Melania Trump and other top officials were evacuated from the head table in the ballroom of the Washington Hilton hotel at the annual event after apparent gunshots were heard at the venue Saturday night.

FBI secures alleged home of suspect in WHCD shooting, search warrant pending

FBI Agents assemble outside of a residence in Torrance, California connected to Cole Allen who is the suspect in the shooting at the White House Correspondents; Dinner in DC on Saturday, April 25, 2026. (Louise Barnsley/Splash News for Fox News Digital)

The suspected home of the man accused in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting has been secured by the FBI and local law enforcement, Fox News has learned.

The suspect was identified as Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, according to a law enforcement briefing to Fox News Digital.

A federal judge in the Central District of California is expected to sign a search warrant, the U.S. Attorney’s Office told Fox News.

Once the warrant is approved, the FBI will be able to search the suspect’s home. Obtaining the warrant could take several hours.

Torrance mayor responds after resident identified as suspect in WHCD shooting

FBI Agents assemble outside of a residence in Torrance, California connected to Cole Allen who is the suspect in the shooting at the White House Correspondents; Dinner in DC on Saturday, April 25, 2026. (Louise Barnsley/Splash News for Fox News Digital)

The mayor of Torrance, California, issued a statement after a city resident was identified as the suspect in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting.

The suspected gunman was identified as Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, according to a law enforcement briefing to Fox News Digital.

“Tonight, our community joins the nation in condemning the violent incident that occurred in Washington, D.C., during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner,” Mayor George Chen said in a statement.

“We are grateful to the federal law enforcement officers and first responders whose swift actions helped prevent further harm, and we wish the injured agent a full recovery,” he added. “We are aware of reports identifying the suspect as a resident of Torrance.”

Chen emphasized the suspect does not represent the city.

“While that connection is deeply troubling, one individual’s alleged actions do not define our city or the values of the more than 143,000 residents who call Torrance home,” he said. “Torrance is a community built on respect, diversity, hard work, and public safety.”

“The City of Torrance stands firmly against political violence, extremism and acts of hatred in any form,” Chen continued. “We reject attempts to sow fear or division, whether here at home or anywhere in our country.”

Chen said the city will continue working with law enforcement.

“In moments like this, we are reminded that our shared values are stronger than the actions of any one person,” he added.

 

Secret Service official says gunman ‘stopped at first contact’ after WHCD shooting

Guests walk past a garage at the Hilton Hotel as they leave after shots were fired during the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. (Roberto Schmidt / AFP via Getty Images)

Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn praised law enforcement’s response after a California man allegedly opened fire outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, striking an agent.

The agent was shot in the vest after the gunman entered the Washington Hilton, rushed past a magnetometer and opened fire. The agent is OK.

“Tonight, a coward attempted to create a national tragedy,” Quinn said in a statement. “He underestimated the protective capabilities of the U.S. Secret Service, and was stopped at first contact.”

“The strength of our layered security posture was evident, with a myriad of countermeasures still ahead,” he added. “Grateful for the brave men and women of the Secret Service and our valued Law Enforcement partners.”

The suspected gunman was identified as Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, according to a law enforcement briefing to Fox News Digital.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said Saturday the suspect is charged with using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

 

FBI descends on suspect’s home as investigators race to build profile in WHCD shooting

An exterior view of a home in Torrance, California,. believed to be the residence of Cole Allen who is believed to be the shooter at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in DC tonight, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (Louise Barnsley/Splash News for Fox News Digital)

Investigators are quickly building a profile of the suspect in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting as federal agents move in on his California home.

The suspected gunman was identified as Cole Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, according to a law enforcement briefing to Fox News Digital.

Jason Pack, a retired FBI supervisory special agent, said authorities can rapidly compile detailed information about the suspect.

“Right now, tonight, federal agents know his name,” Pack told Fox News. “That name is running through every database the government owns. Criminal history, military service, mental health flags, travel records, known associates, prior contacts with law enforcement.”

Pack said investigators can gather critical information within minutes.

“That process takes minutes, not days,” he said. “Within the hour, prosecutors were likely already on the phone with judges seeking warrants. Digital warrants for his phone, his email, his social media accounts, his search history. Physical warrants for every address associated with his name.”

FBI agents arrived outside the suspect’s home in Torrance early Sunday.

“Those residences are being secured right now,” Pack said. “Agents are establishing a perimeter, making sure nobody enters or leaves, and waiting for a warrant.”

He added that evidence inside the home could provide key insight into the suspect’s motive.

“What is inside that residence, whether it is a manifesto, weapons, materials, a journal, correspondence, will tell investigators more about motive than almost anything else,” Pack said. “The physical space a person lives in is a biography.”

Pack said investigators are already working to reconstruct the suspect’s movements leading up to the shooting.

“The timeline reconstruction has already started,” he said. “Agents are working backwards from the lobby of the Washington Hilton and they will not stop until they reach the moment this began in his mind.”

 

White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting renews spotlight on Trump ballroom push

A rendering of the proposed White House ballroom.

The shooting inside the venue hosting the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner has renewed attention on President Donald Trump’s push for a secure White House ballroom — an idea he argues could help reduce such risks.

Trump pointed to the incident to criticize the hotel as insufficiently secure, promoting a new ballroom with features like reinforced materials.

The proposal, however, faces legal and political hurdles. Courts are weighing whether the administration bypassed required approvals, while critics question the cost and potential impact on the historic complex.

The planned 90,000-square-foot space would seat about 650 guests and replace the East Wing, marking a major change to the White House footprint. Supporters frame it as a largely privately funded security upgrade, while opponents see it as an unnecessary overhaul.

While the White House has hosted countless ceremonial events, it has never had a dedicated ballroom. The new structure would fill that gap, replacing the historic East Wing with a space built to accommodate large-scale gatherings.

 

Secret Service chief praises response after gunman charges WHCD security checkpoint

Director of the United States Secret Service, Sean Curran speaks to members of the media during a press conference on April 25, 2026 at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC. A gunman was taken into custody and shots were fired during the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. (Luke Johnson/Getty Images)

U.S. Secret Service Director Sean Curran praised law enforcement’s response after a 31-year-old California man allegedly opened fire outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, striking a Secret Service agent.

An agent was shot in the vest after the gunman entered the Washington Hilton, rushed past a magnetometer and opened fire. The agent is OK.

“Tonight we saw exactly what our brave men and women do each and every day to protect our protectees,” Curran said in a statement. “It’s not easy, and I will tell you that they performed admirably. We got to see what they do. And that individual, when he charged a checkpoint, was apprehended.”

“It shows that our multi-layered protection works,”Curran continued. “And I’m grateful to our partners that help assist us with building these sites and protecting these sites.”

 

Homeland Security chief praises Trump’s leadership after WHCD shooting

US First Lady Melania Trump and US President Donald Trump attend the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. (Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin commended President Donald Trump for showing “incredible composure and leadership” following a shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday.

“Thankfully, President Trump, the First Lady, all members of the Cabinet, the media, and guests are safe,” Mullin said in a post on X. “@POTUS has displayed incredible composure and leadership tonight.”

“I want to thank the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement personnel for their quick and heroic actions,” he added. “An investigation is ongoing, and we will provide updates as they become available.”

Trump was escorted from the Washington Hilton after shots were reported near a security screening area. One suspect has been taken into custody.

 

Suspect identified in White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting

The suspect was identified as Cole Allen, 31, according to a law enforcement brief to Fox News. (President Trump via Fox News)

The suspected shooter involved in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has been named, Fox News can confirm.

Cole Allen, 31, was identified via a law enforcement brief to Fox News. He is from Torrance, California.

Allen was potentially a guest at the Washington Hilton, according to law enforcement.

 

DC US attorney says suspect in WHCD incident faces federal charges, more possible

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro speaks during a press conference following a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in Washington, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said Saturday that the individual who rushed toward the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is facing federal charges, with more likely to follow.

Pirro said the suspect, who has not been identified, is currently charged with using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

“Right now, the defendant is being charged with two counts — 924(c), using a firearm during a crime of violence, and a second charge under 111, which is assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon,” Pirro said during a news conference.

She said the suspect is expected to be arraigned in federal district court Monday and could face additional charges.

“But make no mistake, there will be many more charges based upon the information that we are learning in this very fluid situation,” Pirro added.

 

Secret Service in line of fire at WHCA shooting still unpaid due to Dem-led shutdown

U.S. Secret Service agent stands in a secured area after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The shooting near President Trump and several Cabinet members at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is intensifying scrutiny of the Democrats’ funding standoff in Congress, which has left the Department of Homeland Security — including the Secret Service — in a prolonged funding lapse.

The incident comes as the standoff stretches past 60 days, with Democrats blocking funding measures and rejecting multiple Republican-backed proposals to reopen the department. The dispute, centered on immigration enforcement policy, has raised concerns about resources for agencies including the Secret Service, FEMA and the Coast Guard, all of which fall under DHS.

The episode adds to a series of recent security threats involving Trump, underscoring the strain on federal protective services. The Secret Service, tasked with protecting the president, vice president, their families and other senior officials, has faced growing demands in recent years.

Last week, Secret Service Director Sean Curran warned lawmakers the agency is not adequately staffed to handle major upcoming events, including the FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympics and the next presidential cycle — highlighting mounting concerns about staffing and resources.

 

Acting AG says charges coming soon after shooting near WHCD

US President Donald Trump listens as acting Attorney General Todd Blanche speaks during a press briefing in the Brady Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, shortly after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25, 2026. (Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Saturday night that charges are expected to be filed soon following the shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

“This investigation is ongoing,” he said during the briefing at the White House. “I expect you will see charges filed shortly.”

“The charges should be self-evident given the conduct,” he continued. “But as you’ll hear, there will be multiple charges surrounding the shooting, around the possession of firearms and anything else that we can get on this guy.”

 

Speaker Johnson praises first responders after shooting outside WHCD

Security officials evacuate U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 25, 2026. (REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst TPX)

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., thanked first responders for quickly responding to the shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday.

Johnson was attending the event at the Washington Hilton hotel with his wife, Kelly.

“Kelly and I were at the event tonight, and we’re thankful no innocent people were harmed and everyone is now safe,” Johnson said in a post on X.

“We’re grateful as always for the law enforcement and first responders who acted so quickly to bring the situation under control,” he added. “Praying for our country tonight.”

 

Trump says White House Correspondents’ Dinner to be rescheduled in 30 days, orders evacuation

U.S. President Donald Trump is escorted out during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 25, 2026, in this screen capture from video. (REUTERS/Bo Erickson)

President Donald Trump said law enforcement has requested all attendees leave the White House Correspondents’ Dinner venue following the earlier shooting incident.

“Law Enforcement has requested that we leave the premises, consistent with protocol, which we will do, immediately,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Trump said he will deliver a press conference from the White House briefing room in about 30 minutes and confirmed that the first lady, vice president and all Cabinet members are “in perfect condition.”

The president also said the event will be rescheduled within 30 days.

 

President Trump, First Lady arrive at White House Correspondents’ Dinner

US First Lady Melania Trump and US President Donald Trump attend the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. President Trump is attending the annual gala of the political press for the first time while in office. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images)

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were announced at the Washington Hilton on Saturday night, making a long-anticipated entrance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

Vice President JD Vance is also in attendance and was announced before the Trumps made their entrance.

The night’s program is getting underway as guests settle in for speeches, roasts and what’s expected to be a closely watched appearance.

 

Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives at White House Correspondents’ Dinner with wife Jeanette

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his wife Jeanette Christina Dousdebes Rubio attend the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. US President Donald Trump is attending the annual gala of the political press for the first time while in office. (Photo by Alex WROBLEWSKI / AFP via Getty Images)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night alongside his wife, Jeanette Christina Dousdebes Rubio, as red carpet arrivals continued at the Washington Hilton.

Rubio, dressed in a black tuxedo, appeared composed as he entered the venue, while his wife drew attention in an elegant strapless gown.

The appearance comes as Rubio remains at the center of ongoing foreign policy tensions, including developments related to Iran, as top administration officials gather for the annual event.

 

Bret Baier, wife Amy arrive at White House Correspondents’ Dinner

Bret Baier and Amy Baier attend the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner at Washington Hilton on April 25, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images)

Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier arrived at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night alongside his wife, Amy Baier, as red carpet arrivals wrapped up at the Washington Hilton.

Baier, host of “Special Report,” wore a classic black tuxedo, while Amy stood out in a strapless metallic floral gown paired with a statement necklace.

Taylor Lorenz spotted wearing mask years after pandemic at White House Correspondents’ Dinner

US journalist Taylor Lorenz attends the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. US President Donald Trump is attending the annual gala of the political press for the first time while in office. (Photo by Alex WROBLEWSKI / AFP via Getty Images)

“Independent” journalist Taylor Lorenz was seen arriving at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night wearing a black face mask, drawing attention on the red carpet years after pandemic-era restrictions were lifted.

Lorenz, a controversial media figure, has previously faced criticism after a 2024 post referred to former President Joe Biden as a “war criminal.”

She joined other journalists, lawmakers and high-profile guests at the Washington Hilton for the annual event, where President Donald Trump is expected to attend later in the evening.

 

Karoline Leavitt attends White House Correspondents’ Dinner ahead of maternity leave

Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, attends the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner at Washington Hilton on April 25, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images)

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt arrived at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night, appearing on the red carpet just a day after wrapping her final workday before maternity leave.

Leavitt, who is expecting her second child, a baby girl, wore a long-sleeved, sheer black shimmering gown as she joined administration officials, journalists and other guests at the Washington Hilton.

Leavitt, the youngest press secretary in American history, is also already a mother to son Nicholas or “Niko,” born in July of 2024.

 

Corke shares White House Correspondents’ Dinner ‘bingo card’ predictions on ‘The Big Weekend Show’

Kevin Corke shares WHCD “bingo card” predictions on The Big Weekend Show. (Fox News)

Fox News correspondent Kevin Corke previewed the White House Correspondents’ Dinner with a tongue-in-cheek “bingo card” on The Big Weekend Show, sharing moments he expects could play out during the night.

The card included potential references to “fake news,” jabs at the media, a possible teleprompter glitch and even a “Hilton chicken roast,” a nod to the dinner’s long-running traditions.

The other panelists also shared their picks for the night during the segment.

This will be the first time President Donald Trump has attended the storied annual event as commander in chief.

 

Trump Education Secretary Linda McMahon arrives at correspondents’ dinner in leopard print gown

US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon attends the White House Correspondents’ dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, DC, on April 25, 2026. US President Donald Trump is attending the annual gala of the political press for the first time while in office. (Photo by Alex WROBLEWSKI / AFP via Getty Images)

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon arrived at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night wearing a leopard print gown as guests continued to make their way down the red carpet at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C.

McMahon was among a number of administration officials and media figures attending the annual event, which brings together journalists, lawmakers and high-profile guests for an evening of speeches and roasts.

 

Jacqui Heinrich arrives at White House Correspondents’ Dinner with fiancé Brian Fitzpatrick

(L-R) Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Jacqui Heinrich attend the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner at Washington Hilton on April 25, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images)

Fox News senior White House correspondent Jacqui Heinrich arrived on the red carpet Saturday night alongside her fiancé, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., as guests began filing into the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C.

Heinrich was among the early arrivals at the Washington Hilton, where journalists, lawmakers and celebrities gathered for the annual event.

President Donald Trump is expected to attend the dinner later in the evening, marking his first appearance at the event as commander in chief after skipping it during his first term.

Heinrich and Fitzpatrick were engaged last summer after the Pennsylvania congressman proposed in Provence, France.

Spies, drones and blowtorches: How the US captured Maduro

Key Facts

Getty Images

crucial Quote

“We’re not afraid of boots on the ground,” Trump said Saturday afternoon, in response to a question of whether U.S. troops will have a presence in Venezuela after Maduro’s capture. In a subsequent question about troop presence, Trump said “there would be a presence in Venezuela as it pertains to oil.” He said “we’re going to make sure that country is run properly” and “we’re designating people, we’re talking to people” to run Venezuela. He said Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken to Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who was sworn in to take over for Maduro, and “she’s essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.” Rodríguez contradicted Trump in an address later Saturday, insisting the Venezuelan government stands firmly behind Maduro, repeatedly calling him Venezuela’s “only president” and calling the attacks “an unprecedented military aggression.”

What We Don’t Know

It is unclear how long the U.S. will administer Venezuela, whether troops will end up being deployed to the country and exactly what the benchmark would be for the U.S. ending its direct oversight. Trump said Saturday that “a group” will run Venezuela, and though he did not state who would fully compose it, he motioned toward Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine and said it would “largely” be them “for a period of time.” It is not known who could lead after U.S. involvement ends, with Trump saying Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado—a Venezuelan opposition leader who voiced support for Maduro’s capture—lacks “the support or respect within the country” to be a successful leader. Trump also did not explicitly state which American oil companies could be involved in the Venezuela’s oil industry moving forward.

What To Watch For

Trump and Rubio suggested the actions in Venezuela should be considered a warning sign for other Latin American countries that have poor relations with the U.S., specifically Cuba and Colombia. “I think Cuba is going to be something we’ll end up talking about because Cuba is a failing nation right now,” Trump said in response to a question about whether there’s a message for Cuba. “If I lived in Havana and I was in the government, I’d be concerned,” Rubio, who is the son of Cuban immigrants, said. Trump also reiterated his comments that Colombian President Gustavo Petro, whom Trump has accused of sending cocaine into the U.S., “has to watch his ass.” Trump also mentioned Mexico in his Fox News interview Saturday morning, claiming Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum “is not running Mexico” because “the cartels are running Mexico.” The president said the U.S. is “very friendly” with Sheinbaum, but “something’s going to have to be done with Mexico.”

Tangent

Trump warned Venezuelan officials in an interview with Fox News “if they stay loyal [to Maduro], the future is really bad, really bad for them,” but said “most of them have converted.” He also dismissed concerns being raised by some lawmakers that he did not seek proper congressional approval for the strikes, telling the network, “they should say ‘great job,’ they shouldn’t say ‘oh, gee, maybe it’s not constitutional.’ You know the same old stuff that we’ve been hearing for years and years and years.”

Key Background

Maduro and his wife were at their home in the Ft. Tiuna military base in Caracas when the U.S. “bombed” and “carried out what we would call a kidnapping of the president and the first lady of the country,” Venezuelan ruling party leader Nahum Fernández told the Associated Press. In addition to Caracas, the U.S. also conducted strikes in the states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira overnight, Venezuelan officials said. No U.S. military personnel were killed in the strikes, though Trump suggested several were injured when a helicopter was hit. The strikes follow a months-long U.S. military campaign against Venezuela the Trump administration has said is designed to target drug cartels. The U.S. has conducted dozens of strikes on vessels in the Caribbean it alleges were being used to smuggle narcotics into the U.S., killing more than 100 people. The U.S. military has also built up its presence in the Caribbean, intercepted Venezuelan oil tankers in recent weeks and conducted a drone strike on a dock in Venezuela last month, The New York Times previously reported. The U.S. views Maduro—whom the Trump administration has accused of being a “narco-terrorist”—as a fugitive and offered an award of up to $50 million for information leading to his arrest and/or conviction.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro aboard the USS Iwo Jima after he was captured by the U.S. military overnight Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026.

The White House

By Good Shepherd News Media | GoodShepherdMedia.net – Corona, CA: In a candid and wide-ranging interview, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco outlined his vision for California as he officially launches his campaign for governor. Speaking with determination and a dose of plainspoken frustration, Bianco addressed the state’s most pressing problems – from the exodus of businesses and soaring living costs to rising crime, untreated mental illness, and what he calls burdensome “over-regulation” and “over-taxation.”

In a bold move to reclaim the California Dream, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has officially announced his candidacy for Governor in the 2026 election. With over three decades of law enforcement experience and a track record of principled leadership, Bianco is poised to bring common-sense solutions to the Golden State.​Politico

“I am running for governor because our beautiful state—which I absolutely love—is heading down the wrong track and has been for years,” Bianco declared during his campaign launch at Avila’s Historic 1929 Event Center in Riverside. “Everyone knows it, except those sitting in the Sacramento echo chamber.” ​ABC7 Los Angeles+1KCRA+1

A Legacy of Service and Integrity

Born in 1967 at Hill Air Force Base in Ogden, Utah, Chad Bianco was raised in a small mining town where he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and personal responsibility. These principles guided him through a distinguished 30-year career in the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, culminating in his election as Sheriff in 2018 and re-election in 2022. ​Bianco for Governor 2026+1Wikipedia+1Los Angeles Times+2Riverside County Sheriff+2Los Angeles Times+2

As Sheriff, Bianco oversees a vast department responsible for five jail facilities, six court buildings, and 17 contract cities, managing an operating budget exceeding one billion dollars. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to public safety, transparency, and community engagement.​Riverside County Sheriff

A Vision for California’s Renewal

Sheriff Bianco’s gubernatorial platform centers on revitalizing California’s economy, enhancing public safety, and reducing bureaucratic overreach. He emphasizes the importance of fostering a business-friendly environment to stimulate job growth and economic prosperity.​Financial Times

“Working on ways to bring businesses back to California,” Bianco stated, highlighting his commitment to reversing the state’s economic decline. “As governor, I will immediately get rid of regulations burdening our businesses. I will immediately get rid of over-taxation and over-regulation.”​

On public safety, Bianco advocates for proactive measures to prevent crime before it occurs. “Preemptive policing prevents crime,” he asserts, underscoring his belief in strategic law enforcement approaches that protect communities while respecting individual rights.​

Addressing California’s Pressing Challenges

Sheriff Bianco recognizes the multifaceted issues facing Californians today, including rising crime rates, economic instability, mental health crises, and the pervasive impact of drug abuse. His comprehensive understanding of these challenges informs his policy proposals aimed at delivering tangible results.​

“As a governor, I will immediately get rid of regulations burdening our businesses,” Bianco reiterated, emphasizing his plan to dismantle unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that stifle innovation and growth. “I will immediately get rid of over-taxation and over-regulation.”​

A Call to Action

Sheriff Chad Bianco’s candidacy represents a return to principled leadership and a commitment to restoring California’s promise. His extensive experience in law enforcement, coupled with a clear vision for the state’s future, positions him as a formidable contender in the 2026 gubernatorial race.​Financial Times

Supporters are encouraged to contribute to his campaign at https://secure.anedot.com/bianco-for-governor-2026/donate and join the movement to bring effective, common-sense governance back to California.​

For more information, visit biancoforgovernor.com.

Published by Good Shepherd News Media | GoodShepherdMedia.net

VOTE FOR CHAD BIANCO FOR CALIFORNIA STATE GOVERNOR 

JOIN THE TEAM GIVE SUPPORT! SUPPORT CALIFORNIA REFORM AND BRING CALIFORNIA BACK TO THE GREAT STATE IT ONCE WAS

DONATE HERE

Supporters across California are encouraged to actively participate in Bianco’s campaign efforts by contributing through financial donations and volunteer opportunities. His campaign portal, accessible via https://secure.anedot.com/bianco-for-governor-2026/donate, provides a convenient platform for supporters to join the movement for change and prosperity.

Stay tuned to Good Shepherd News Media for comprehensive coverage of the 2026 California Governor race and regular updates on Sheriff Chad Bianco’s promising campaign. Sheriff Bianco invites all Californians to join him in building a safer, more prosperous, and vibrant future for everyone who calls the Golden State home.

Sheriff Chad Bianco Joins California Governor Race 2026: Promises Safety, Prosperity, and Change

Sheriff Chad Bianco, Joins California Governor’s Race

Sheriff Chad Bianco Vows to Fix a “Broken” California

Law-and-Order Leadership: Why Sheriff Bianco Should Be California’s Next Governor in 2026

Sheriff Chad Bianco’s Response to Southern California’s ICE-Related Protests

Sheriff Chad Bianco: A Proven Leader Ready to Restore California’s Greatness

https://goodshepherdmedia.net/sheriff-chad-bianco-vision-to-restore-california-as-his-duty-as-next-governor-of-california/

Minnesota state Sen. Nicole Mitchell (DFL-Woodbury) was found guilty of felony burglary by a Detroit Lakes jury Friday.

The latest: The jury delivered the verdict — guilty on charges of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools — just hours after closing arguments.

• Mitchell did not speak to the press following the verdict, but defense attorney Dane DeKrey told reporters she plans to appeal, per the Star Tribune.

The big picture: The fallout over the verdict could upend the balance of power at the State Capitol, where Democrats have a one-seat Senate majority.

Catch up fast: Mitchell, a first-term Democrat, meteorologist and former lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard, has faced pressure to resign since police arrested her on the morning of April 22, 2024, following a report of a burglary at her stepmother’s Detroit Lakes home.

Mitchell, discovered in the basement dressed in black, told officers at the time that she was there to retrieve her late father’s items, according to a criminal complaint and police body camera footage.

• But Mitchell later denied that her intent was to steal, saying she was attempting to check on her stepmother amid concerns about Alzheimer’s and associated “paranoia.”

What happened: In her trial testimony, Mitchell admitted to trespassing in the home and claimed she lied to police about her reasons for being there, but said she did both things out of concern for her ailing stepmother.

• In his closing argument, Mitchell’s attorney had argued there was a distinction between trespassing and burglary, saying the state couldn’t “rule out that Nicole Mitchell entered just to check on Carol.”

The other side: Prosecutors argued Mitchell’s explanations didn’t add up to a daughter’s concern, pointing out the tools she took with her, including latex gloves a small crowbar.

• “Who packs a freaking prybar just in case?” Becker County Attorney Brian McDonald said during his closing argument.

By the numbers: The felony burglary charge carries a minimum sentence of six months in jail, per Mitchell’s attorney, and a maximum sentence of 20 years.

• A sentencing date has not been set.

Between the lines: Mitchell repeatedly rebuffed Republicans’ calls to resign over the charges in the wake of her arrest.

• While some top Democrats, including Gov. Tim Walz, have said they thought she should step down, the Senate DFL Caucus repeatedly blocked GOP efforts to remove her from her seat.
• Defenders of Mitchell remaining in the Legislature, including Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, acknowledged the serious nature of the allegations, but said Mitchell had a right to due process.

Zoom in: As a result, Mitchell was able to continue to cast what was effectively the deciding vote whenever the narrowly divided chamber split on party lines.

• Those votes included major pieces of the DFL’s agenda when Democrats held full control of the Capitol in 2024, budget-related bills and procedural fights and resolutions related to her own standing in the Senate.

What we’re watching: What Mitchell — and top Senate Democrats — do next.

• In a statement issued minutes after the verdict, Murphy said Mitchell “has told colleagues that she intended to resign if found guilty of this crime, and I expect her to follow through on that pledge.”
• The governor’s office told Axios that Walz expects Mitchell will resign and will have more information on a special election soon.

The bottom line: The Legislature is scheduled to reconvene in February. If she doesn’t resign, Walz could call a special session for an expulsion vote.

• It would take a vote of two-thirds of the chamber to forcibly expel Mitchell from the chamber. source

Was the ‘Full Raw’ Jeffrey Epstein Prison Video Actually Modified?

Metadata Shows the FBI’s ‘Raw’ Jeffrey Epstein Prison Video Was Likely Modified

The United States Department of Justice this week released nearly 11 hours of what it described as “full raw” surveillance footage from a camera positioned near Jeffrey Epstein’s prison cell the night before he was found dead. The release was intended to address conspiracy theories about Epstein’s apparent suicide in federal custody. But instead of putting those suspicions to rest, it may fuel them further.

Metadata embedded in the video and analyzed by WIRED and independent video forensics experts shows that rather than being a direct export from the prison’s surveillance system, the footage was modified, likely using the professional editing tool Adobe Premiere Pro. The file appears to have been assembled from at least two source clips, saved multiple times, exported, and then uploaded to the DOJ’s website, where it was presented as “raw” footage.

Imagine you’re handed 11 hours of supposedly untouched security camera footage that could clarify whether one of the most high-profile sex criminals of our time died by his own hand or under suspicious circumstances…and it’s missing the exact minute he dies. A lot of people would naturally assume that’s not a coincidence.

According to a Wired investigation, the Jeffrey Epstein prison video’s metadata reveals that it was tampered with—or at the very least heavily edited—using Adobe Premiere Pro. Experts noticed it had been Frankensteined together from multiple clips, saved over repeatedly, and generally treated more like a VHS tape with old recordings of Happy Days and a child’s birthday party on it than a key piece of evidence in one of the most controversial deaths in modern memory.

In a long, rambling post on his social media network Truth Social, Trump, in one gigantic block of text, simultaneously tried to convince his rabid conspiratorial supporters that the whole Epstein story…

1. Doesn’t matter at all.
2. But no, it’s all actually the Democrats’ fault.
3. And, oh yeah, the election was rigged, but not the ones that I won.
4. Leave Pam Bondi alone; she’s just doing her job and is in no way covering up for me.
5. Also, don’t forget that Jeffrey Epstein doesn’t matter.
6. There’s nothing to see here.

It all reeks of a man and a presidential administration that is chasing cars and has no idea what to do with them once they catch them. He is vocally defending Pam Bondi and the DOJ, shifting all the blame to other people, as is usual for him and any modern Republican, all in the hope of trying to distract from the fact that he is named in unsealed Epstein court documents and was documented partying with Epstein at several points across nearly 30 years before his death.

Experts like UC Berkeley’s Hany Farid, who spoke to Wired, are ringing alarm bells. He says the edited nature of the footage compromises the chain of custody, aka the legal process ensuring evidence hasn’t been tampered with. He explained that if you really want to do all this with trust and transparency, you can’t trust anyone who is handing you the files. “Do a direct export from the original system,” he told Wired. “No monkey business.”

And that’s the problem. So far, it’s been nothing but monkey business. Unfortunately, this is the monkey business administration, so you shouldn’t expect anything more. Actually, it’s probably better to expect much, much less. source

DOJ’s “raw” Epstein prison video likely modified, political crisis widens as FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino thinks of resignation

The U.S. Department of Justice’s release of what it called “raw” surveillance footage from outside Jeffrey Epstein’s prison cell has plunged the Trump administration’s law enforcement leadership into chaos. The video, intended to quell years of speculation about Epstein’s 2019 death, was revealed by independent analysts to have been edited before its release, triggering the resignation of FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino and threatening the stability of the FBI’s top ranks.

Metadata reveals video was not “raw”

The DOJ released over 11 hours of surveillance footage from a hallway camera outside Epstein’s cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York, claiming it showed no one entered his cell prior to his death in August 2019. However, a technical review by WIRED and other video forensics experts found the video’s metadata shows it was processed using Adobe Premiere Pro, a professional editing program, and assembled from at least two separate source clips. The file was saved multiple times within a 23-minute period on May 23, 2025, before being uploaded to the DOJ website and labeled as “raw” footage.

Experts stress that while the metadata does not prove deceptive tampering, it confirms the footage is not a direct export from the prison’s surveillance system. The edits could be as simple as joining clips for public release, but the lack of a clear official explanation has fueled further suspicion and speculation. As author Mike Rothschild noted, “Any aspect of the official story that isn’t fully explained will be co-opted by conspiracy theorists”.

The released footage covers the period from 8:00 PM on August 9, 2019, to around 7:00 AM the next morning. The camera does not directly capture Epstein’s cell door, and there is no dramatic activity in the footage. However, the DOJ’s own memo and media reports confirm the existence of a “missing minute” in the recording, raising further questions about the chain of custody and completeness of the evidence.

DOJ memo and broken promises

The controversy comes on the heels of a DOJ memo, signed by both DOJ and FBI leadership, which closed the Epstein investigation and reaffirmed the official finding of suicide. The memo directly contradicted months of public statements by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had repeatedly promised explosive disclosures and a so-called “client list.” Instead, the memo stated there was no credible evidence of blackmail or a high-profile list, and no further documents would be released.

Bongino’s resignation

The fallout from the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files and the video release erupted into a fierce internal clash. Bongino, a trusted deputy to FBI Director Kash Patel, had a heated confrontation with Bondi at the White House earlier this week. The dispute centered on Bondi’s management of the case, the release of the edited video, and the DOJ’s abrupt closure of the investigation.

Sources confirm Bongino did not report to work Friday and has informed colleagues of his resignation, citing irreconcilable differences with Bondi and frustration over the DOJ’s lack of transparency. FBI Director Kash Patel is also reportedly considering stepping down if Bongino leaves, further escalating the crisis.

“He’s gone,” one source told Semafor. “Will come back if Bondi [is] held accountable.” source

On December 16, 2022, the LA Mayor’s Office issued Executive Directive 1 (ED1) to expedite the permitting process for qualifying 100% affordable housing projects. ED1 has become a rallying point for policymakers, developers, and communities to come together for sustainable, affordable housing solutions. But what is ED1 exactly? And what has its impact been on the LA housing landscape?

Understanding Executive Directive 1

Under ED1, LA city departments must complete the pre-construction review process for all 100% affordable housing developments within 60 days. Building permits must be issued within five days.

Eligible projects receive expedited processing, clearances, and approvals through the ED1 Ministerial Approval Process. These projects are exempt from discretionary review as long as they do not require legislative action (e.g., General Plan Amendment, Zone Change, or Height District Change) or entitlements (outside of Density Bonus or Transit Oriented Communities) to modify otherwise applicable objective standards.

A“100% affordable housing project” is defined as a project with five or more units where:

• All units are at 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) or lower, based on U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rent levels;

• or Units are mixed-income, with up to 20% of units at 120% AMI, but the balance is at 80% AMI or lower.

The Response

From its introduction to July 1, 2024, there have been 323 applications for ED1 Administrative Review, referred to as ADM applications. ED1 applications also submit a pre-application review (PAR) to check for eligibility before an ADM.

Interested in the number of applications and the average approval timelines? ATC has crunched the numbers below.

Project Breakdown

ATC also has the data on what proposed ED1 Projects look like. See below.

Recent Changes

On July 1, Mayor Karen Bass released her 3rd revision statement. The key takeaways:

• Prohibition on fast-tracked ED1 projects on parcels within an HPOZ
• Prohibition of fast-tracked ED1 projects on parcels containing 12+ units occupied in the 5 years
• Projects seeking Density Bonuses will be eligible for no more than 5 incentives and one waiver
• Calls for increased accountability within LAHD for applications with pending payments
• Future conversions of ADUs on ED1 projects will be deed-restricted
• All entitlements submitted to City Planning or vested before July 1 shall be deemed eligible to proceed under prior regulations

Permanent ED1 Ordinance

In Fall 2023, Los Angeles City Planning prepared a proposed Affordable Housing Streamlining Ordinance to amend the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) and codify the ED1 review process. Read more from the City of LA here.

The latest changes include eliminating any requests to decrease the required open space and bicycle parking beyond 50 percent. In addition, the minimum floor area ratio (FAR) in residential zones has been increased to 3.5:1.

The new ordinance also prohibits single-family zones from using the ED1 entitlement pathway, and a revised order was issued earlier this year to amend the ED1 parameters.

The new ordinance also prohibits R1 single-family zones from using the ED1 entitlement pathway. Before the announcement, several applications for ED1 projects in R1 single-family zones were submitted for approval, but with significant community pushback.

In a 5-1 vote on November 16, the Los Angeles City Planning Commission approved a draft ordinance.

Executive Directive 7

On November 16, Mayor Karen Bass announced Executive Order 7. The new directive aims to accelerate approvals for all housing projects, including those with market-rate units, and plans to increase the threshold for site plan review entitlements.

Notes on analysis:

ATC arrives at its findings using publicly available data from the City of Los Angeles based on biweekly case reports from Los Angeles City Planning. ATC’s analysis only covers Administrative Review (ADM) planning cases submitted from December 2022 to the end of February 2024 (including some projects legacied into the process).

Numbers may vary slightly depending on whether an application has been terminated or withdrawn since the publication of this data. Also, some projects do not include project plans with unit or affordability breakdowns; instead, we have noted the total number for those analyses. source

source

ED1 Los Angeles: Fast-Track Your 100% Affordable Housing Development

If you’re a developer in Los Angeles, Executive Directive 1 (ED1) is your golden ticket to dramatically expedite your next 100% affordable housing project. Signed into effect by Mayor Karen Bass in December 2022, ED1 is transforming the landscape of real estate development in LA—especially for builders focused on low-income and supportive housing.

Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a property owner exploring development, this blog will walk you through everything you need to know to take full advantage of ED1’s powerful incentives and fast-track your project through the bureaucracy.

What Is ED1 Los Angeles?

Executive Directive 1—commonly called ED1—is an emergency order by Mayor Karen Bass that streamlines the approval process for developments that are 100% deed-restricted affordable housing. The goal? Combat LA’s housing crisis by slashing red tape and empowering developers to build faster.

 In short: ED1 gives qualifying affordable housing projects a green light with minimal delays—often referred to as “rubber stamping” development.

ED1 = Ministerial Approval = Speed

Under ED1, eligible affordable housing developments receive ministerial approval, meaning:

• No public hearings
• No CEQA delays
• No discretionary decision-making
• No drawn-out appeals

This means your project could go from plan to permit in under 60 days—a fraction of the time compared to traditional permitting.

ED1 Eligibility Criteria: Does Your Project Qualify?

To benefit from ED1, your project must meet specific requirements:

Requirement	Details
100% Affordable Housing	All units (except manager’s) must be deed-restricted affordable.
Zoning Compliance	Must comply with existing zoning or require only minor deviations.
Supportive or Low-Income Focus	Designed for Extremely Low, Very Low, or Low-Income households.
Fast-Track Timeline	Plans must be reviewed and processed within 60 days.

Projects that qualify under SB 35, AB 2162, or similar state laws typically align well with ED1 standards.

Why Developers Should Act Now

Los Angeles is hungry for affordable housing. With ED1 in effect, city agencies are prioritizing and fast-tracking developments that would normally take months—if not years—to entitle.

Benefits of ED1 for Developers:

•  No CEQA delays for qualifying projects
•  Bypass design review boards in many zones
•  Shorter pre-construction timelines
•  Lower holding costs and improved ROI
• Ideal for adaptive reuse and infill projects

Where in LA Can You Use ED1?

ED1 applies citywide within the City of Los Angeles. Whether you’re developing in:

• Downtown LA
• South LA
• San Fernando Valley
• Venice
• Hollywood

…you can take advantage of this directive—if your site and proposal meet the eligibility criteria.

Use tools like ZIMAS and consult with a local planning expert to verify zoning, overlays, and use permissions.

What to Expect in the ED1 Process

1. Prepare Your Application
   Include site plans, affordability breakdowns, and zoning documentation.
2. Submit to the Planning Department
   Mark your project as an ED1 submission.
3. Receive Priority Routing
   Planning, Building & Safety, Transportation, and other departments expedite your review.
4. Get Ministerial Approval
   No hearings. No politics. Just process.
5. Pull Permits & Build
   Once approved, you’re ready to break ground.

ED1 Limitations

While ED1 is powerful, it doesn’t:

• Apply to mixed-income or market-rate housing.
• Override all zoning or height restrictions.
• Bypass state or federal affordable housing standards.

If you’re adding density bonuses or incentives beyond by-right entitlements, you may still need some discretionary review—but even those are now being streamlined under this initiative.

Final Thoughts: Why ED1 Is a Game-Changer

Los Angeles desperately needs housing—and you can help meet that need while accelerating your development goals.

ED1 is your opportunity to build faster, smarter, and with fewer barriers.

If you’re sitting on a property with development potential—or you’re looking to acquire one—this is the moment to act. source

Voting underway in the Senate on Monday in the chamber’s final showdown over President Donald Trump’s ‘big, beautiful

President Donald Trump is cheering on the GOP’s landmark spending and tax cut bill, as it faces judgment day in the Senate.

“ONE GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL, is moving along nicely!” the president wrote in a social media post hours before the Senate on Monday began to take a slew of votes on the Republican-crafted measure.

The bill, which the president is insisting pass Congress and reach his desk by this Friday, July 4, is stuffed full of Trump’s campaign trail promises and second-term priorities on tax cuts, immigration, defense, energy and the debt limit.

It includes extending his signature 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay, providing billions for border security and codifying his controversial immigration crackdown.

The text of the GOP’s landmark tax cut and spending bill is taken to the floor for the Senate clerks to read on Saturday, June 28, 2025. The bill text is around 940 pages. (Dan Scully/Fox News)

However, many of the latest national surveys indicate that Americans are far from thrilled with the measure.

By a 21-point margin, voters questioned in the most recent national poll opposed the federal budget legislation (38% favored vs. 59% opposed), which passed by the House of Representatives by just one vote last month.

The bill was also underwater in national surveys conducted this month by the Washington Post (minus 19 points), Pew Research (minus 20 points) and Quinnipiac University (minus 26 points).

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks to the media after the House narrowly passed a bill forwarding President Donald Trump’s agenda at the U.S. Capitol on May 22, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

As Democrats attack the bill, they’re highlighting the GOP’s proposed restructuring of Medicaid — the nearly 60-year-old federal program that provides health coverage to roughly 71 million low-income Americans. Additionally, Senate Republicans increased cuts to Medicaid over what the House passed.

The changes to Medicaid, as well as cuts to food stamps, another one of the nation’s major safety net programs, were drafted in part as an offset to pay for extending Trump’s 2017 tax cuts, which are set to expire later this year. The measure includes a slew of new rules and regulations, including work requirements for many of those seeking Medicaid coverage.

Meanwhile, Republicans criticize Democrats opposing the bill for voting to increase taxes on most Americans.

About half of respondents questioned in the Fox News poll said the bill would hurt their family (49%), while one quarter thought it would help (23%), and another quarter didn’t think it would make a difference (26%).

Sixty percent felt they had a good understanding of what is in the measure, formally known as the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, and while those voters were more likely to favor the legislation than those who are unfamiliar with it, more still think it will hurt rather than help their family (45% vs. 34%).

According to the Fox News poll, which was conducted June 13-16, nearly three-quarters of Republicans (73%) favored the bill, while nearly nine in ten Democrats (89%) and nearly three-quarters of independents (73%) opposed the measure. source

Congressional Republicans are proposing to permanently allow wealthy families to pass on more of their assets tax-free, as the federal government all but abandons taxing large inheritances.

Under current law, estates pay tax only on transfers above $13.99 million for single filers and $27.98 million for married couples. Those thresholds, doubled by President Donald Trump’s 2017 tax law, are scheduled to fall by roughly half at the end of 2025. But in the tax bill before Congress, both the House and Senate versions would raise the exemption starting next year to $15 million for individuals and $30 million for couples, then set them to adjust for inflation in the future.

Though they represent a small part of the overall costs of Trump’s tax bill, these changes are set to weaken an estate tax that already affects fewer households than it has in decades. When the federal estate tax was first imposed in 1934, roughly 8,600 deaths resulted in estate tax liability, or 0.9 percent of adult deaths. In 2019, the most recent year for which IRS data is available, only 2,100 deaths resulted in estate tax liability, or 0.08 percent of deaths. The proposed increases are expected to reduce that share even more.

“The estate tax is barely hanging on right now,” said Steve Wamhoff, federal policy director at the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. “This bill would make sure it almost disappears.”

The estate tax has proved divisive in Washington, as Republicans have for years sought its eradication. When someone dies, their assets become an estate. For 2025, only the portion of an estate above $13.99 million per person — a limit that also absorbs any large gifts made while someone is alive — is subject to the federal estate tax, and only the value over the exemption is taxed, at rates that top out at 40 percent. Twelve states and D.C. impose their own estate or inheritance taxes with lower thresholds and a variety of rates.

While the tax’s defenders say it is necessary to curb dynastic wealth at a time of rising inequality, conservatives have long argued the policy unfairly hits the same taxpayer twice because it taxes assets that were originally accumulated after their owners paid income taxes. Levies on consumption, many economists say, are more effective and efficient ways to make the tax code fairer.

The provision raising the limit is not considered controversial among Republicans and is expected to pass without dissent among the GOP ranks in either the House or Senate. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-South Dakota), who has sponsored Senate legislation to outright repeal what Republicans call “the death tax,” has said doing so is necessary to prevent cash-poor firms, including family farms, from selling off equipment or land to pay the tax.

The estate tax changes in the current GOP tax bill will cost the federal government roughly $210 billion over the next 10 years, according to the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation.

“It’s a tax on savings, and there’s a double-taxation issue — you earn the money, you paid taxes, and then the government comes after you again when you die,” said Michael Strain, an economist at the American Enterprise Institute, a center-right think tank. Strain said that the levy “creates weird perversities: Two people who know they’re going to die — one buys cocaine and goes to Vegas and gambles and pays no tax, the other gives money to kids and pays the tax.”

Several decades of GOP influence on federal policymaking have whittled down the estate tax. Before President George W. Bush’s 2001 tax cuts, about 2 percent of estates paid the levy, far more than do now. Even those estates who do owe the tax often reduce or eliminate their liability, said Howard Gleckman, senior fellow at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, through trusts, valuation discounts and life-insurance strategies.

Republicans under Bush sought to eliminate the estate tax, but because of Senate rules settled for merely shrinking it — a strategy the party has replicated under Trump.

“Having an estate tax that affects so few heirs allows this massive intergenerational transfer of wealth that keeps the rich richer and gives them the opportunity to get even richer,” Gleckman said.

The effects of the weaker estate tax on inequality are hard to measure. But federal data suggests that inequality has broadly continued to rise: The average wealth of a family in the top 10 percent soared from roughly $3 million in 1989 to more than $9 million in 2022, according to the latest nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office report. Over the same period of time, those in the bottom 10 percent found their average wealth rising from $27,000 to $74,000, the report found.

“The estate tax is one of the few federal policies that can slow down the growing wealth gap and this enormous growth in inequality,” said Wamhoff, of the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. “We’re basically not taxing generational wealth at all right now.” source

The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2025: What You Need to Know

‘This is exactly what Donald Trump campaigned on,’ says conservative consultant Nicole Schlinger

President Donald Trump is defending his muscular and controversial moves to tame unrest in the nation’s second most populous city.

“If I didn’t “SEND IN THE TROOPS” to Los Angeles the last three nights, that once beautiful and great City would be burning to the ground right now,” the president argued Tuesday in a social media post.

Aiming to extinguish escalating protests in Los Angeles sparked by immigration raids carried out by ICE at his administration’s direction, Trump sent in National Guard troops and even mobilized Marines.

Trump broke six decades of precedent by federalizing California’s National Guard without the consent of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Protesters block the intersection of 2nd St. and San Pedro St. during Monday night’s anti-ICE rally in downtown Los Angeles. (Peter D’Abrosca for Fox News Digital)

Regardless of the legality of his moves, Trump’s actions put immigration and law and order – key issues that helped him win back the White House in last year’s election – firmly back in the national spotlight, offering the president obvious political opportunities.

A source in the president’s political orbit told Fox News that it is “a winning script,” by putting Democrats on defense once again regarding immigration.

Additionally, the source said that Trump has a clear mandate from American voters for his mass deportation effort to clear the country of undocumented immigrants.

The optics – clashes with police and tear gas in the streets, masked protesters throwing rocks at police, setting cars on fire and waving Mexican flags – may likely boost support among a large swath of Americans, bolstering Trump’s political playbook.

While Trump’s overall approval ratings remain underwater in most national polling, thanks to negative numbers on the economy, the visuals from Los Angeles shine a spotlight on the issues on which the president performs best – immigration and border security, and law and order.

A woman waits for a bus at a stop vandalized with anti-ICE graffiti while riots grip Los Angeles. (Peter D’Abrosca for Fox News Digital)

“Images splashed across the media of Mexican flag-wielding rioters burning cars and assaulting police officers validate President Trump’s call for greater immigration enforcement and border control. It also puts Democrats on the defensive by highlighting their inability to maintain law and order in blue states,” veteran Republican strategist and communicator Ryan Williams told Fox News.

Additionally, Nicole Schlinger, a longtime conservative consultant, highlighted that “this is exactly what Donald Trump campaigned on, and the swing-state voters who backed him expect action before these riots reach their cities. He’s delivering on their votes, with action, not apology.”

The violence in Los Angeles also offers up a familiar foil to the president – Newsom, a Democrat, who is considered a potential contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination.

Newsom, whom Trump suggested should be arrested, has repeatedly accused the president and his administration of manufacturing the crisis and illegally militarizing Los Angeles.

BETA MALE (LEFT) VS ALPHA MALE (RIGHT) 

FUNNY THE BETA MALE IS FROM THE LEFT (DEMOCRATS) AND STANDS ON THE LEFT ON ISSUES AND THIS PHOTO

MEANWHILE ALPHA TRUMP IS FROM THE RIGHT AND STANDS ON THE RIGHT ON ISSUES AND THIS PHOTO

IRONY

BETA MALE (LEFT) [Getty Family propped up his whole life and connected by blood to Nancy Pelsosi another con theif] VS ALPHA MALE (RIGHT) [worked to be where he is, far from his daddy petty 50M he received, he is worth over 5,100M or 5.1 Billion]

Ceck out the softy gel filled Newsom approach “Daddy you better listen or else” (in a feminine voice half tearing) 

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, left, and President Donald Trump, seen meeting in Los Angeles in January amid rampant wildfires, are now trading fire over anti-ICE protests and the president’s federalizing of National Guard troops. (Pool)

Newsom, who is suing the president to reverse the order, charged in a social media post that “this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism that threatens the foundation of our republic. We cannot let it stand.”

While Newsom has condemned the violence in the streets, Schlinger claimed that “this is the visual that plays right into Trump’s hand. Liberal Gavin Newsom, who tried to wave a moderate flag on conservative podcasts, is now defending illegal immigrants flying the Mexican flag while standing on burning cars. There’s no middle ground with burning cars on it.”

Williams argued that “Newsom’s record of failed leadership, rank incompetence, and botched responses to multiple high-profile crises make him an excellent political foil for President Trump.”

Another fringe benefit for Trump – the rioting in Los Angeles bumped an uncomfortable headline for the administration – the nasty feud with Elon Musk is far from the spotlight.

FETTERMAN CALLS OUT HIS OWN PARTY OVER UNREST IN LOS ANGELES

Republican officials and committees are using the violence in Los Angeles as a cudgel to bash Democrats.

“If you look at what’s going on in L.A., it shows exactly what [former President] Biden and the Democrats did by opening their borders the way they did and allowing millions and millions and millions of people coming here unvetted. They’ve caused all this,” Republican Sen. Rick Scott of Florida claimed on Tuesday. “I think President Trump is doing what he said he was going to do on the campaign trail. He’s going to keep the country safe.”

The National Republican Congressional Committee, which is the campaign arm of the House GOP, charged that “While LA is burning and law enforcement is being attacked, radical House Democrats are ‘scoffing’ at any thought of condemning the violent riots. The party has completely lost their minds.”

Even first-term Sen. John Fetterman of California, who has increasingly bucked and criticized fellow Democrats, chastised his own party.

“I unapologetically stand for free speech, peaceful demonstrations, and immigration—but this is not that. This is anarchy and true chaos. My party loses the moral high ground when we refuse to condemn setting cars on fire, destroying buildings, and assaulting law enforcement,” Fetterman argued in a social media post.

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