National Security

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is directing commanding officers and supervisors throughout the military to institute a one-day stand-down within the next 60 days to address concerns of extremism within the armed forces.

National

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Signs Military 'Stand Down' Memo To Address Extremism

5:52pm February 06, 2021

by Jason Slotkin

Austin has ordered the armed forces to stand down for one day to address concerns over extremism in the ranks — an issue that has drawn renewed concern in the wake of the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

National

Canada Labels Proud Boys A Terrorist Group. What Are The Consequences?

5:08pm February 06, 2021

NPR's Michel Martin speaks with Ben Makuch, national security reporter at Vice News, about the Canadian government officially labeling the Proud Boys a terrorism organization.

The U.S. Capitol is seen earlier this week during ceremonies in honor of Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick who suffered fatal injuries during the Jan. 6 attack on the building.

National

U.S. Judge Grants Accused Rioter's Request To Vacation In Mexico

8:50pm February 05, 2021

by Bill Chappell

Jenny Cudd is accused of two misdemeanors: entering a restricted building or grounds, and violent entry or disorderly conduct. She told the court she had already paid for the work-related trip.

The U.S. Capitol Building is seen at sunrise as the remains of U.S. Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick lays in honor in the Rotunda on Feb. 3.

Acting Capitol Police Chief Promises 'Significant' Changes Following Deadly Riot

6:11pm February 05, 2021

by Alana Wise

The Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol exposed a number of security shortfalls at the seat of American democracy. Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman released a video statement Friday evening.

People wait for COVID-19 vaccinations in their vehicles at the Fairplex fairgrounds in Pomona, Calif., last month. The White House announced on Friday that active duty military personnel will soon be deployed to assist at vaccination sites, starting this

National

Pentagon Will Deploy Active Duty Troops To Support COVID-19 Vaccination Sites

1:38pm February 05, 2021

by Rachel Treisman

White House coronavirus adviser Andy Slavitt said part of the first contingent of more than 1,000 troops is set to begin operations in California mid-February with more vaccination missions to follow.

A large group of pro-Trump extremists stands on the east steps of the Capitol after storming its grounds on Jan. 6. A pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol that day, breaking windows and clashing with police officers to protest the 2020 election results.

National

'A Long Time Coming': Given DHS Warning, A Look At U.S. Domestic Extremism Threats

5:00am February 03, 2021

by Steve Inskeep

The Department of Homeland Security recently issued a bulletin warning of violence by domestic extremists. NPR takes a snapshot of the current threat.

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Robert Grenier says domestic extremists should be treated as an insurgency.

Former CIA Officer: Treat Domestic Extremism As An Insurgency

5:58pm February 02, 2021

by Mary Louise Kelly

Robert Grenier oversaw CIA's counterterrorism operations from 2004 to 2006. He argues that counterinsurgency tactics used overseas are needed to fight extremists such as those who stormed the Capitol.

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How The Biden Administration Can Tackle America's Longest War

5:58pm February 02, 2021

by Michele Kelemen

In a deal with the Taliban last year, the Trump administration agreed to withdraw U.S. troops by May, but the Biden administration says the Taliban isn't keeping its end of the bargain.

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Alejandro Mayorkas, seen here at his introduction by then-President-elect Biden, has been confirmed to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Senate Makes Alejandro Mayorkas First Latino Head Of Homeland Security

3:32pm February 02, 2021

by Alana Wise

Senate confirmation of the first immigrant to lead DHS comes on the same day President Biden is expected to sign a series of executive actions on immigration.

Pretrial Impeachment Brief Holds Trump Responsible For Jan. 6 Attack

12:00pm February 02, 2021

The House impeachment managers filed a pretrial brief arguing former President Trump should be convicted and barred from holding future federal office after inciting an insurrection.

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