THE PRIVY POST

The text-only internet newspaper.

Volume 1 • Issue No. 227 • Updated Friday, August 15, 2025 at 08:07 AM UTC

Trump administration claims D.C. police chief powers, but capital leaders push back

The Trump administration has named the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration as Washington's 'emergency police commissioner', granting him the powers of the police chief, a move that increases national control over the city as part of the federal government's law-enforcement takeover.

Sources: NPR


Blackwater founder to deploy nearly 200 personnel to Haiti as gang violence soars

Erik Prince's security firm, Vectus Global, will deploy nearly 200 personnel to Haiti to help the government recover territory seized by heavily armed gangs, as part of a one-year deal to quell violence in the country.

Sources: NPR


Judge strikes down Trump administration guidance against DEI programs at schools

A federal judge struck down two Trump administration actions aimed at eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at schools and universities, ruling that the Education Department violated the law by threatening to cut federal funding from institutions continuing with DEI initiatives.

Sources: NPR


Trump and Putin have history. That adds to the intrigue for Anchorage summit

President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, is highly anticipated due to their complex history and Trump's desire to broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine.

Sources: NPR


Supreme Court allows Mississippi social media law to go into effect

The Supreme Court refused to block a Mississippi law requiring age verification for social media use, despite concerns it may violate the First Amendment, allowing the law to temporarily go into effect.

Sources: NPR


Anti-Trump podcast MeidasTouch is rivaling Joe Rogan. Does it have staying power?

MeidasTouch, a progressive media operation, has surged in popularity during Donald Trump's second term, appealing to progressives with its prolific output and unapologetically partisan content, rivaling conservative-dominated online streaming platforms.

Sources: NPR


'The Last of Us' actor Pedro Pascal says he wouldn't want to survive an apocalypse

Pedro Pascal, known for his role in HBO's 'The Last of Us', expressed doubts about his will to survive an apocalyptic scenario, highlighting his character's struggles in the post-apocalyptic thriller.

Sources: NPR


D.C. clergy slam federal takeover: 'Fear is not a strategy for safety'

Prominent religious leaders in Washington, D.C., criticized President Trump's federal takeover of the District's police force, arguing his rhetoric is inflammatory and counterproductive to ensuring public safety.

Sources: NPR


This virus seems like it's no longer a problem. It's still a threat

Despite a decline in global attention, mpox continues to spread rapidly across Africa, with critics arguing the global response has fallen dangerously short, leaving the virus to become entrenched in the human population.

Sources: NPR


At 45, Venus Williams will be the oldest player in the U.S. Open in decades

Venus Williams is set to make history at the U.S. Open as the oldest singles player in over 40 years, returning to the tournament with a wild card invitation and hopes for a repeat of her past victories.

Sources: NPR