Public Policy & NGOs
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NEW HERITAGE ACTION POLL: 82% of Texas Voters Support Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- Heritage Action for America posted the following news release:
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NEW HERITAGE ACTION POLL: 82% of Texas Voters Support Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote
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Washington D.C.--New polling commissioned by Heritage Action shows overwhelming support among Texas voters for strengthening citizenship verification and election transparency, with majorities across parties backing key election integrity reforms.
The statewide survey, drafted by Heritage Action Senior Communications Director Stefani Buhajla, found 82% of likely Texas voters support ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- Heritage Action for America posted the following news release: * * * NEW HERITAGE ACTION POLL: 82% of Texas Voters Support Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote * Washington D.C.--New polling commissioned by Heritage Action shows overwhelming support among Texas voters for strengthening citizenship verification and election transparency, with majorities across parties backing key election integrity reforms. The statewide survey, drafted by Heritage Action Senior Communications Director Stefani Buhajla, found 82% of likely Texas voters supportrequiring individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote, including 94% of Republicans, 83% of independents, and 66% of Democrats.
The poll also found strong support for reforms designed to make citizenship verification accurate, transparent, and fair to eligible voters.
Buhajla released the following statement:
"Texans across the political spectrum agree American elections should be decided by American citizens, and our show everyone agrees proving citizenship is the best way to do it. Election integrity and voter access do not have to be competing goals. Texas can make it easy to vote, and hard to cheat."
You can read more about this poll at the following link.
Methodology
The survey was conducted October 10-15, 2026, among 1,409 likely Texas voters through live calls, online panels, and automated telephone interviews. The margin of sampling error is +-2.61 percentage points.
The results were weighted using demographic information from the U.S. Census Bureau's Current Population Survey Voting and Registration Supplement and state election authorities. The survey was directed by Stefani Buhajla in partnership with Cor Strategies, LLC. Heritage Action paid all costs associated with the survey.
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Original text here: https://heritageaction.com/press/new-heritage-action-poll-82-of-texas-voters-support-proof-of-citizenship-to-register-to-vote
* * *
NEW HERITAGE ACTION POLL: 82% of Texas Voters Support Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote
*
Washington D.C.--New polling commissioned by Heritage Action shows overwhelming support among Texas voters for strengthening citizenship verification and election transparency, with majorities across parties backing key election integrity reforms.
The statewide survey, drafted by Heritage Action Senior Communications Director Stefani Buhajla, found 82% of likely Texas voters support ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- Heritage Action for America posted the following news release: * * * NEW HERITAGE ACTION POLL: 82% of Texas Voters Support Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote * Washington D.C.--New polling commissioned by Heritage Action shows overwhelming support among Texas voters for strengthening citizenship verification and election transparency, with majorities across parties backing key election integrity reforms. The statewide survey, drafted by Heritage Action Senior Communications Director Stefani Buhajla, found 82% of likely Texas voters supportrequiring individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote, including 94% of Republicans, 83% of independents, and 66% of Democrats.
The poll also found strong support for reforms designed to make citizenship verification accurate, transparent, and fair to eligible voters.
Buhajla released the following statement:
"Texans across the political spectrum agree American elections should be decided by American citizens, and our show everyone agrees proving citizenship is the best way to do it. Election integrity and voter access do not have to be competing goals. Texas can make it easy to vote, and hard to cheat."
You can read more about this poll at the following link.
Methodology
The survey was conducted October 10-15, 2026, among 1,409 likely Texas voters through live calls, online panels, and automated telephone interviews. The margin of sampling error is +-2.61 percentage points.
The results were weighted using demographic information from the U.S. Census Bureau's Current Population Survey Voting and Registration Supplement and state election authorities. The survey was directed by Stefani Buhajla in partnership with Cor Strategies, LLC. Heritage Action paid all costs associated with the survey.
***
Original text here: https://heritageaction.com/press/new-heritage-action-poll-82-of-texas-voters-support-proof-of-citizenship-to-register-to-vote
Moms, Pizzamakers to Gov Hochul: Kick Cancer Out of Our Food, Sign Food Safety Reform NOW!
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release:
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Moms, Pizzamakers to Gov Hochul: Kick Cancer Out of Our Food, Sign Food Safety Reform NOW!
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Today, the Center for Science in the Public Interest launched a five figure ad campaign featuring New York mothers, including Liuba Grechen Shirley, Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, and Afsana Haque, and pizzamakers Frank Pinello and John Gristina urging Governor Hochul to sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) into law. Amid longstanding food safety gaps ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release: * * * Moms, Pizzamakers to Gov Hochul: Kick Cancer Out of Our Food, Sign Food Safety Reform NOW! * Today, the Center for Science in the Public Interest launched a five figure ad campaign featuring New York mothers, including Liuba Grechen Shirley, Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, and Afsana Haque, and pizzamakers Frank Pinello and John Gristina urging Governor Hochul to sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) into law. Amid longstanding food safety gapsand a lax FDA, the legislation would strengthen consumer transparency and ban three harmful food additives linked to cancer and hormone disruption--Red No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben. The ads will run across social media, amplifying growing public support for the bill and longstanding concerns among parents and business owners about the dangers hiding in the food supply.
Under a decades-old federal loophole that allows companies to self-certify ingredients as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS), food giants are sneaking harmful chemicals into the nation's food supply without adequate FDA oversight. Sponsored by Senator Brian Kavanagh and Assemblymember Dr. Anna Kelles, the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act closes this loophole by requiring manufacturers to disclose safety data for chemicals that have bypas sed the FDA's formal safety review at little or no cost to the consumer.
Recent data confirms that more than 70% of American adults are alarmed about chemicals in the food supply, and 5 in 6 want government and businesses to do more on chemical safety and transparency. Passed with ample bipartisan support in the State Legislature, the bill awaits final signature from the Governor.
"Unfortunately, in the American food system, we come across ingredients that aren't so good for us. Potassium bromate just so happens to be one of them. It's a carcinogen that's already banned in Italy, the pizza capital of the world. It doesn't belong in New Yorkers' pizza either. Governor Hochul, what are you waiting for? Sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act into law," said Frank Pinello, pizzaiolo and owner of the Brooklyn-based, multinational Best Pizza chain.
"I've been in the industry since I was 16 years old. Potassium bromate is a dough conditioner, and growing up, bromated flour was the standard so I used it my entire career. But as I got older and learned more about the risks involved, I found that there are other ways to make a great product without using a chemical that could make somebody sick. Now, I can lay my head on my pillow at night knowing I make the greatest, safest product possible. Governor Hochul, kick cancer out of New York pizza," said John Gristina, pizzaiolo and owner of the Westchester-based Pizza Fenice.
"I'm a mom of three who cooks all the time. I shouldn't have to ask the government to keep my kids safe from secret chemicals and ingredients. It's time for companies to be honest about what they're putting in our food; the least they can do is prove that their ingredients are safe," said Liuba Grechen Shirley, mother, founder of Vote Mama.
"I live with my daughter and my granddaughter so I spend a lot of time making decisions about what we're going to cook. Yet, when we go to the grocery store, many of the products available just aren't good for our health. Every day, food companies are getting away with making millions of dollars off the backs of our families. But I want my family to have a shot at a healthy, long life," said Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, mother and grandmother, Greater Mount Carmel Cathedral and Worship Center.
"As an immigrant, I was never used to checking ingredient lists on packaged foods. Back home, I never had to second guess the safety of the food I was feeding my family. Since moving to New York, that sense of freedom has gone away entirely. Governor Hochul, you are a mom and a grandmother. You care about what your kids eat... Shouldn't you care about ours too?" said Afsana Haque, mother from the Bronx.
The Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) ends the secrecy of a federal loophole that allows companies to self-designate their ingredients as "generally recognized as safe" or GRAS without adequate FDA oversight. The bill prohibits the use of three harmful additives in foods sold statewide and requires companies to disclose evidence confirming the safety of food chemicals that bypass the FDA's safety review. By mandating transparency requirements for chemical use in foods and eliminating unsafe additives, the bill aims to improve health outcomes and protect New York consumers from health harms like cancer and developmental delays.
Why Food Safety Regulation Is Urgent:
* Dangers in the Nation's Food Supply: Americans are regularly exposed to food chemicals that have been banned throughout the European Union, Canada, China, and other countries due to known health risks. Additives like Red No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and other serious conditions--yet they remain legal and widely used in most U.S. states.
* Federal Inaction: According to a 2024 American Journal of Public Health analysis, the FDA rarely re-evaluates or revokes GRAS status, even as new research raises concerns about the safety of long-approved chemicals. Simultaneously, the FDA's food safety program has been severely weakened by ongoing layoffs and structural reforms, limiting its ability to inspect, regulate, or enforce food safety standards.
* Chronic Disease Risk: With rates of cancer, developmental disorders, and hormone-related illnesses on the rise, public health experts have warned that continued exposure to toxic food additives could further exacerbate health inequities and drive long-term costs to the healthcare system. The Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act offers New York an opportunity to lead in protecting its residents--especially children--from preventable harm.
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Original text here: https://www.cspi.org/press-release/moms-pizzamakers-gov-hochul-kick-cancer-out-our-food-sign-food-safety-reform-now
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Moms, Pizzamakers to Gov Hochul: Kick Cancer Out of Our Food, Sign Food Safety Reform NOW!
*
Today, the Center for Science in the Public Interest launched a five figure ad campaign featuring New York mothers, including Liuba Grechen Shirley, Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, and Afsana Haque, and pizzamakers Frank Pinello and John Gristina urging Governor Hochul to sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) into law. Amid longstanding food safety gaps ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release: * * * Moms, Pizzamakers to Gov Hochul: Kick Cancer Out of Our Food, Sign Food Safety Reform NOW! * Today, the Center for Science in the Public Interest launched a five figure ad campaign featuring New York mothers, including Liuba Grechen Shirley, Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, and Afsana Haque, and pizzamakers Frank Pinello and John Gristina urging Governor Hochul to sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) into law. Amid longstanding food safety gapsand a lax FDA, the legislation would strengthen consumer transparency and ban three harmful food additives linked to cancer and hormone disruption--Red No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben. The ads will run across social media, amplifying growing public support for the bill and longstanding concerns among parents and business owners about the dangers hiding in the food supply.
Under a decades-old federal loophole that allows companies to self-certify ingredients as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS), food giants are sneaking harmful chemicals into the nation's food supply without adequate FDA oversight. Sponsored by Senator Brian Kavanagh and Assemblymember Dr. Anna Kelles, the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act closes this loophole by requiring manufacturers to disclose safety data for chemicals that have bypas sed the FDA's formal safety review at little or no cost to the consumer.
Recent data confirms that more than 70% of American adults are alarmed about chemicals in the food supply, and 5 in 6 want government and businesses to do more on chemical safety and transparency. Passed with ample bipartisan support in the State Legislature, the bill awaits final signature from the Governor.
"Unfortunately, in the American food system, we come across ingredients that aren't so good for us. Potassium bromate just so happens to be one of them. It's a carcinogen that's already banned in Italy, the pizza capital of the world. It doesn't belong in New Yorkers' pizza either. Governor Hochul, what are you waiting for? Sign the Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act into law," said Frank Pinello, pizzaiolo and owner of the Brooklyn-based, multinational Best Pizza chain.
"I've been in the industry since I was 16 years old. Potassium bromate is a dough conditioner, and growing up, bromated flour was the standard so I used it my entire career. But as I got older and learned more about the risks involved, I found that there are other ways to make a great product without using a chemical that could make somebody sick. Now, I can lay my head on my pillow at night knowing I make the greatest, safest product possible. Governor Hochul, kick cancer out of New York pizza," said John Gristina, pizzaiolo and owner of the Westchester-based Pizza Fenice.
"I'm a mom of three who cooks all the time. I shouldn't have to ask the government to keep my kids safe from secret chemicals and ingredients. It's time for companies to be honest about what they're putting in our food; the least they can do is prove that their ingredients are safe," said Liuba Grechen Shirley, mother, founder of Vote Mama.
"I live with my daughter and my granddaughter so I spend a lot of time making decisions about what we're going to cook. Yet, when we go to the grocery store, many of the products available just aren't good for our health. Every day, food companies are getting away with making millions of dollars off the backs of our families. But I want my family to have a shot at a healthy, long life," said Pastor Sharmaine Byrd, mother and grandmother, Greater Mount Carmel Cathedral and Worship Center.
"As an immigrant, I was never used to checking ingredient lists on packaged foods. Back home, I never had to second guess the safety of the food I was feeding my family. Since moving to New York, that sense of freedom has gone away entirely. Governor Hochul, you are a mom and a grandmother. You care about what your kids eat... Shouldn't you care about ours too?" said Afsana Haque, mother from the Bronx.
The Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (S1239F/A1556G) ends the secrecy of a federal loophole that allows companies to self-designate their ingredients as "generally recognized as safe" or GRAS without adequate FDA oversight. The bill prohibits the use of three harmful additives in foods sold statewide and requires companies to disclose evidence confirming the safety of food chemicals that bypass the FDA's safety review. By mandating transparency requirements for chemical use in foods and eliminating unsafe additives, the bill aims to improve health outcomes and protect New York consumers from health harms like cancer and developmental delays.
Why Food Safety Regulation Is Urgent:
* Dangers in the Nation's Food Supply: Americans are regularly exposed to food chemicals that have been banned throughout the European Union, Canada, China, and other countries due to known health risks. Additives like Red No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and other serious conditions--yet they remain legal and widely used in most U.S. states.
* Federal Inaction: According to a 2024 American Journal of Public Health analysis, the FDA rarely re-evaluates or revokes GRAS status, even as new research raises concerns about the safety of long-approved chemicals. Simultaneously, the FDA's food safety program has been severely weakened by ongoing layoffs and structural reforms, limiting its ability to inspect, regulate, or enforce food safety standards.
* Chronic Disease Risk: With rates of cancer, developmental disorders, and hormone-related illnesses on the rise, public health experts have warned that continued exposure to toxic food additives could further exacerbate health inequities and drive long-term costs to the healthcare system. The Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act offers New York an opportunity to lead in protecting its residents--especially children--from preventable harm.
***
Original text here: https://www.cspi.org/press-release/moms-pizzamakers-gov-hochul-kick-cancer-out-our-food-sign-food-safety-reform-now
Extremist Content Online: ISIS Supporters Celebrate October 23 Jordan Church Shooting
NEW YORK, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- The Counter Extremism Project issued the following news release:
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Extremist Content Online: ISIS Supporters Celebrate October 23 Jordan Church Shooting
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The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) reports on the methods used by extremists and terrorist groups on the Internet to spread propaganda and incite violence. In this week's issue:
* ISIS Activity Roundup
* Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack
* ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance
* Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations
* Pro-ISIS ... Show Full Article NEW YORK, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- The Counter Extremism Project issued the following news release: * * * Extremist Content Online: ISIS Supporters Celebrate October 23 Jordan Church Shooting * The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) reports on the methods used by extremists and terrorist groups on the Internet to spread propaganda and incite violence. In this week's issue: * ISIS Activity Roundup * Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack * ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance * Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations * Pro-ISISVideo Propagandist Releases AI-Generated Video Featuring ISIS Hostage John Cantlie
* Pro-ISIS Tech Group Releases Cybersecurity Guide Focusing on Online Anonymity
* Pro-AQAP Social Media Posts Glorify Attempted FlyDubai Co-Pilot Attacker
* Telegram Account Linked to Active Club Movement Leadership Encourages Attacks on UK Government Contractors Providing Housing and Transport for Migrants and Asylum Seekers
* Member of Texas Chapter of White Supremacist Active Club Announces Upcoming Bare-Knuckle Boxing Match in Mexico
* Extreme Right Propagandists Blame Immigrants for France Unrest
* Polish Active Club Launches Substack
ISIS Activity Roundup
Between October 11 and 17, ISIS claimed credit for 21 attacks. ISIS claimed responsibility for eight attacks in Nigeria, four in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, four in Pakistan, two in Niger, two in Mozambique, and one in Burkina Faso.
Between October 18 and 24, ISIS claimed responsibility for 15 attacks. The terrorist group claimed responsibility for seven attacks in Nigeria, three in Pakistan, two in Mozambique, and one each in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, and Niger.
On October 12, ISIS released an Amaq statement claiming that on October 9, the group had repelled an attack from Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) in Oudalan Province, Burkina Faso, killing over 400 JNIM fighters, including commanders, in the initial battle and pursuit. The post claimed that ISIS destroyed over 300 motorcycles and captured over 100 motorcycles, as well as hundreds of small arms and light weapons. ISIS claimed in al-Naba issue 569 that the JNIM assault consisted of over 3,000 soldiers.
Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack
ISIS online supporters celebrated the October 23 attack on a Greek Orthodox Church in Hamoud village, Karak governorate, Jordan, where gunmen attacked a funeral service, killing nine people and wounding 40. ISIS online supporters glorified the attack and posted news updates and publicly available videos. On October 24, a pro-ISIS channel on Telegram mocked the Jordanian government, noting that their previous counter-ISIS efforts had failed.
As of October 25, ISIS has not claimed responsibility for the attack. Despite pro-ISIS online posts praising the attack, pro-ISIS channels noted on October 24 that the terrorist group had not released a statement taking credit or officially confirming a link to the perpetrators.
On October 26, three suspects were arrested following a shootout with Jordanian authorities.
ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance
In al-Naba issue 569, released on October 15, ISIS noted the importance of sharing the group's propaganda and message online, stating that the armed aspect of the conflict was fueled by a "war of words". The authors noted that it was essential to share content in the face of the "media war" against the group online, on television, radio, and in newspapers, and the removal of pro-ISIS online accounts. The editorial claimed that spreading ISIS media was a critical function.
Previous al-Naba editorials have similarly noted the importance of sharing ISIS content. In al-Naba issue 477, released on January 9, 2025, ISIS claimed that the group's propaganda had helped inspire the New Orleans New Year's Eve attacker who killed 14 people and injured 57 others in a vehicle and firearms attack.
A pro-ISIS propaganda poster located on SimpleX Chat on October 22, containing text from al-Naba editorial 569 promoting the sharing of ISIS online propaganda.
The editorial in al-Naba issue 570, released on October 22, promoted perseverance, patience, and faith, claiming that those who fight for ISIS are imbued with divine strength. The editorial claimed that disbelievers have always harbored hatred towards believers, and that the former will foment plots against the latter.
Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations
On October 20, a pro-ISIS propaganda channel on the RocketChat platform requested donations using the privacy cryptocurrency Monero. The channel posted a wallet address and QR code with the Monerujo Android crypto wallet logo. The channel posts exhortations to commit acts of terrorism in Bengali and English. Previous posts have called for violence against a wide variety of people, including those deemed apostates, those who have spoken out against ISIS, and Hindus.
Pro-ISIS Video Propagandist Releases AI-Generated Video Featuring ISIS Hostage John Cantlie
On October 18, a pro-ISIS propagandist released a short video totaling less than a minute and a half that contained AI-generated audio and video footage of John Cantlie, the British photojournalist captured by ISIS in Syria in November 2012.
The 2026 video features an AI-generated Cantlie stating that a three-minute recording of him allowed a voice recreation, and warning about the use of AI text-to-speech, deepfakes, and videos, noting that these could be used to deceive ISIS supporters. The video warned that news and videos should be double-checked to ensure truthfulness and concluded by stating that certain future pro-ISIS videos made by the same propagandist would feature the AI-generated Cantlie. Cantlie appeared in 14 ISIS propaganda videos from 2014 to late 2016. He is presumed to have been killed between 2017 and 2022.
Online ISIS supporters have mixed views regarding the use of AI. In 2024, ISIS supporters posted short propaganda videos featuring an AI-generated newscaster. A pro-ISIS tech group has previously recommended using the Proton Lumo AI. In contrast, other supporters of the terrorist group have warned that AI should never be used for potentially dangerous functions such as building explosive devices or components, or for depicting ISIS fighters.
An image from the video released on October 18. The footage of John Cantlie is from a video released in 2014. Screenshot taken on October 21.
Pro-ISIS Tech Group Releases Cybersecurity Guide Focusing on Online Anonymity
On October 22, CEP researchers located a cybersecurity manual released by the pro-ISIS Electronic Horizons Foundation (EHF). The 11-page pamphlet was split into 10 sections, all focused on increasing online anonymity. The segments included advice on using different devices and accounts; how to acquire phone numbers for social media and communications apps; using strong passwords and storing them properly; accessing internet networks not traceable to the user; disabling app permissions and preventing microphones and cameras on a mobile device from functioning; concealing a user's location with the use of paid VPNs or the Tor network; paying for online services or transferring money using the Monero privacy cryptocurrency; only downloading apps and programs from trusted sources; scanning files for malware; and using privacy-focused browsers.
Based on the manual's date, it was likely released in late September or early October. The pamphlet was located on RocketChat, SimpleX Chat, and pro-ISIS websites.
Electronic Horizons Foundation pamphlet located on October 22.
Pro-AQAP Social Media Posts Glorify Attempted FlyDubai Co-Pilot Attacker
On October 20, a pro-al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) social media account shared messages praising FlyDubai flight FZ1073 co-pilotHammam al-Hammami. On a September 30 flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to Tel Aviv, Israel, Al-Hammami reportedly attacked the pilot and sought to use the plane in a suicide terrorist attack. The social media posts claimed that the attempted attack was revenge for Israel's killing of civilians in Gaza, and urged others to follow in al-Hammani's footsteps.
The posts came after an October 11 statement from AQAP al-Malahem Media praising the attempted September 30 attack and declaring al-Hammami a hero to be emulated.
Al-Malahem Media message released on October 20 praising the FlyDubai attacker. The post used imagery depicting Ibrahim al-Qosi, a.k.a. Abu Khubaib al-Sudani. Screenshot taken on October 22.
Telegram Account Linked to Active Club Movement Leadership Encourages Vandalism and Intimidation Attacks on UK Government Contractors Providing Housing and Transport for Migrants and Asylum Seekers
On October 12, a Telegram account linked to the leadership of the Active Club movement posted a short essay noting recent attacks in England on alleged housing for migrants and asylum seekers and buses used to transport them. The post, which was attributed to a pseudonym used by a presumed leader in Active Club England, stated approvingly that anti-immigration activists were moving from "verbal protests to clandestine operations," claiming that the attacks were targeting government contractors providing housing and transport, accusing them of facilitating an "illegal invasion." The post encouraged property damage against companies providing services to migrants "until they have no choice but to pull out of their deal with the UK government." The post did not claim credit for attacks.
An individual using the same name previously made posts on Substack supporting anti-immigrant violence and providing advice for maintaining anonymity during protests and civil unrest.
Broken windows on buses used to transport asylum seekers and migrants in Hampshire, England. The photo, from a post on X unaffiliated with the Telegram channel, appeared in an anti-immigrant Telegram post by a leader in the Active Club movement. Screenshot taken on October 22.
Member of Texas Chapter of White Supremacist Active Club Announces Upcoming Bare-Knuckle Boxing Match in Mexico
CEP researchers located a TikTok post from a prominent member of a Texas chapter of the white supremacist Active Club movement announcing his participation in an upcoming bare-knuckle boxing competition in Sonora, Mexico. The fight, featuring the Lone Star Active Club member Avery Ross Ruiz facing off against an English fighter, is scheduled to take place in Puerto Penasco during the town's annual motorcycle rally in mid-November.
Ruiz has appeared in Active Club propaganda, including an October 2025 video where he spoke of his path to the white power movement and promoted street activism, as well as a short video released on October 17, 2026, by the Active Club-affiliated streetwear brand Will2Rise advertising clothing, accessories, and a sticker with white supremacist symbols and the phrase "white youth in revolt." In a February 2025 interview, Ruiz criticized societal condemnation of those who expressed hatred of people of color and Jews.
An advertisement stated that the Sonora, Mexico fight will be streamed live on the website Fight.Tv.
Extreme Right Propagandists Blame Immigrants for France Unrest
The week of October 18 to 24, dozens of extreme right propagandists on Telegram blamed non-white immigrants for unrest in France. Posts praised extreme right street gatherings in response to protests, rioting, and looting and blamed both the left and conservatives for permitting immigration, calling for a "racial solution." A Swedish entity affiliated with that country's Active Club movement noted that the current crisis was an opportunity, alluding to potential future recruitment efforts.
Polish Active Club Launches Substack
The main Polish Active Club launched a Substack in early October. In four English posts from October 4 to 20, the blog covered the Active Club movement in Poland, hatred of journalists, a definition of the "3.0" white supremacist counterculture, and an explainer on making graffiti stencils.
CEP researchers located a Substack affiliated with a Swiss Active Club chapter in September. Substack accounts for the main Active Club movement were removed from the platform in August, September, and October. Substack also likely removed an account connected to an Active Club chapter in North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota, in late August.
The landing page company Lnk.Bio removed an account for the Polish Active Club chapter on October 21 after CEP reported it.
A post on the Polish Active Club Substack page promoting the "3.0" white supremacist counterculture. Screenshot taken on October 22.
***
Original text here: https://www.counterextremism.com/press/extremist-content-online-isis-supporters-celebrate-october-23-jordan-church-shooting
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Extremist Content Online: ISIS Supporters Celebrate October 23 Jordan Church Shooting
*
The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) reports on the methods used by extremists and terrorist groups on the Internet to spread propaganda and incite violence. In this week's issue:
* ISIS Activity Roundup
* Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack
* ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance
* Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations
* Pro-ISIS ... Show Full Article NEW YORK, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- The Counter Extremism Project issued the following news release: * * * Extremist Content Online: ISIS Supporters Celebrate October 23 Jordan Church Shooting * The Counter Extremism Project (CEP) reports on the methods used by extremists and terrorist groups on the Internet to spread propaganda and incite violence. In this week's issue: * ISIS Activity Roundup * Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack * ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance * Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations * Pro-ISISVideo Propagandist Releases AI-Generated Video Featuring ISIS Hostage John Cantlie
* Pro-ISIS Tech Group Releases Cybersecurity Guide Focusing on Online Anonymity
* Pro-AQAP Social Media Posts Glorify Attempted FlyDubai Co-Pilot Attacker
* Telegram Account Linked to Active Club Movement Leadership Encourages Attacks on UK Government Contractors Providing Housing and Transport for Migrants and Asylum Seekers
* Member of Texas Chapter of White Supremacist Active Club Announces Upcoming Bare-Knuckle Boxing Match in Mexico
* Extreme Right Propagandists Blame Immigrants for France Unrest
* Polish Active Club Launches Substack
ISIS Activity Roundup
Between October 11 and 17, ISIS claimed credit for 21 attacks. ISIS claimed responsibility for eight attacks in Nigeria, four in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, four in Pakistan, two in Niger, two in Mozambique, and one in Burkina Faso.
Between October 18 and 24, ISIS claimed responsibility for 15 attacks. The terrorist group claimed responsibility for seven attacks in Nigeria, three in Pakistan, two in Mozambique, and one each in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, and Niger.
On October 12, ISIS released an Amaq statement claiming that on October 9, the group had repelled an attack from Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) in Oudalan Province, Burkina Faso, killing over 400 JNIM fighters, including commanders, in the initial battle and pursuit. The post claimed that ISIS destroyed over 300 motorcycles and captured over 100 motorcycles, as well as hundreds of small arms and light weapons. ISIS claimed in al-Naba issue 569 that the JNIM assault consisted of over 3,000 soldiers.
Online ISIS Supporters Celebrate Jordan Church Attack
ISIS online supporters celebrated the October 23 attack on a Greek Orthodox Church in Hamoud village, Karak governorate, Jordan, where gunmen attacked a funeral service, killing nine people and wounding 40. ISIS online supporters glorified the attack and posted news updates and publicly available videos. On October 24, a pro-ISIS channel on Telegram mocked the Jordanian government, noting that their previous counter-ISIS efforts had failed.
As of October 25, ISIS has not claimed responsibility for the attack. Despite pro-ISIS online posts praising the attack, pro-ISIS channels noted on October 24 that the terrorist group had not released a statement taking credit or officially confirming a link to the perpetrators.
On October 26, three suspects were arrested following a shootout with Jordanian authorities.
ISIS Al-Naba Editorials Promote Online Propaganda and Perseverance
In al-Naba issue 569, released on October 15, ISIS noted the importance of sharing the group's propaganda and message online, stating that the armed aspect of the conflict was fueled by a "war of words". The authors noted that it was essential to share content in the face of the "media war" against the group online, on television, radio, and in newspapers, and the removal of pro-ISIS online accounts. The editorial claimed that spreading ISIS media was a critical function.
Previous al-Naba editorials have similarly noted the importance of sharing ISIS content. In al-Naba issue 477, released on January 9, 2025, ISIS claimed that the group's propaganda had helped inspire the New Orleans New Year's Eve attacker who killed 14 people and injured 57 others in a vehicle and firearms attack.
A pro-ISIS propaganda poster located on SimpleX Chat on October 22, containing text from al-Naba editorial 569 promoting the sharing of ISIS online propaganda.
The editorial in al-Naba issue 570, released on October 22, promoted perseverance, patience, and faith, claiming that those who fight for ISIS are imbued with divine strength. The editorial claimed that disbelievers have always harbored hatred towards believers, and that the former will foment plots against the latter.
Pro-ISIS Propaganda Channel Requests Monero Donations
On October 20, a pro-ISIS propaganda channel on the RocketChat platform requested donations using the privacy cryptocurrency Monero. The channel posted a wallet address and QR code with the Monerujo Android crypto wallet logo. The channel posts exhortations to commit acts of terrorism in Bengali and English. Previous posts have called for violence against a wide variety of people, including those deemed apostates, those who have spoken out against ISIS, and Hindus.
Pro-ISIS Video Propagandist Releases AI-Generated Video Featuring ISIS Hostage John Cantlie
On October 18, a pro-ISIS propagandist released a short video totaling less than a minute and a half that contained AI-generated audio and video footage of John Cantlie, the British photojournalist captured by ISIS in Syria in November 2012.
The 2026 video features an AI-generated Cantlie stating that a three-minute recording of him allowed a voice recreation, and warning about the use of AI text-to-speech, deepfakes, and videos, noting that these could be used to deceive ISIS supporters. The video warned that news and videos should be double-checked to ensure truthfulness and concluded by stating that certain future pro-ISIS videos made by the same propagandist would feature the AI-generated Cantlie. Cantlie appeared in 14 ISIS propaganda videos from 2014 to late 2016. He is presumed to have been killed between 2017 and 2022.
Online ISIS supporters have mixed views regarding the use of AI. In 2024, ISIS supporters posted short propaganda videos featuring an AI-generated newscaster. A pro-ISIS tech group has previously recommended using the Proton Lumo AI. In contrast, other supporters of the terrorist group have warned that AI should never be used for potentially dangerous functions such as building explosive devices or components, or for depicting ISIS fighters.
An image from the video released on October 18. The footage of John Cantlie is from a video released in 2014. Screenshot taken on October 21.
Pro-ISIS Tech Group Releases Cybersecurity Guide Focusing on Online Anonymity
On October 22, CEP researchers located a cybersecurity manual released by the pro-ISIS Electronic Horizons Foundation (EHF). The 11-page pamphlet was split into 10 sections, all focused on increasing online anonymity. The segments included advice on using different devices and accounts; how to acquire phone numbers for social media and communications apps; using strong passwords and storing them properly; accessing internet networks not traceable to the user; disabling app permissions and preventing microphones and cameras on a mobile device from functioning; concealing a user's location with the use of paid VPNs or the Tor network; paying for online services or transferring money using the Monero privacy cryptocurrency; only downloading apps and programs from trusted sources; scanning files for malware; and using privacy-focused browsers.
Based on the manual's date, it was likely released in late September or early October. The pamphlet was located on RocketChat, SimpleX Chat, and pro-ISIS websites.
Electronic Horizons Foundation pamphlet located on October 22.
Pro-AQAP Social Media Posts Glorify Attempted FlyDubai Co-Pilot Attacker
On October 20, a pro-al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) social media account shared messages praising FlyDubai flight FZ1073 co-pilotHammam al-Hammami. On a September 30 flight from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to Tel Aviv, Israel, Al-Hammami reportedly attacked the pilot and sought to use the plane in a suicide terrorist attack. The social media posts claimed that the attempted attack was revenge for Israel's killing of civilians in Gaza, and urged others to follow in al-Hammani's footsteps.
The posts came after an October 11 statement from AQAP al-Malahem Media praising the attempted September 30 attack and declaring al-Hammami a hero to be emulated.
Al-Malahem Media message released on October 20 praising the FlyDubai attacker. The post used imagery depicting Ibrahim al-Qosi, a.k.a. Abu Khubaib al-Sudani. Screenshot taken on October 22.
Telegram Account Linked to Active Club Movement Leadership Encourages Vandalism and Intimidation Attacks on UK Government Contractors Providing Housing and Transport for Migrants and Asylum Seekers
On October 12, a Telegram account linked to the leadership of the Active Club movement posted a short essay noting recent attacks in England on alleged housing for migrants and asylum seekers and buses used to transport them. The post, which was attributed to a pseudonym used by a presumed leader in Active Club England, stated approvingly that anti-immigration activists were moving from "verbal protests to clandestine operations," claiming that the attacks were targeting government contractors providing housing and transport, accusing them of facilitating an "illegal invasion." The post encouraged property damage against companies providing services to migrants "until they have no choice but to pull out of their deal with the UK government." The post did not claim credit for attacks.
An individual using the same name previously made posts on Substack supporting anti-immigrant violence and providing advice for maintaining anonymity during protests and civil unrest.
Broken windows on buses used to transport asylum seekers and migrants in Hampshire, England. The photo, from a post on X unaffiliated with the Telegram channel, appeared in an anti-immigrant Telegram post by a leader in the Active Club movement. Screenshot taken on October 22.
Member of Texas Chapter of White Supremacist Active Club Announces Upcoming Bare-Knuckle Boxing Match in Mexico
CEP researchers located a TikTok post from a prominent member of a Texas chapter of the white supremacist Active Club movement announcing his participation in an upcoming bare-knuckle boxing competition in Sonora, Mexico. The fight, featuring the Lone Star Active Club member Avery Ross Ruiz facing off against an English fighter, is scheduled to take place in Puerto Penasco during the town's annual motorcycle rally in mid-November.
Ruiz has appeared in Active Club propaganda, including an October 2025 video where he spoke of his path to the white power movement and promoted street activism, as well as a short video released on October 17, 2026, by the Active Club-affiliated streetwear brand Will2Rise advertising clothing, accessories, and a sticker with white supremacist symbols and the phrase "white youth in revolt." In a February 2025 interview, Ruiz criticized societal condemnation of those who expressed hatred of people of color and Jews.
An advertisement stated that the Sonora, Mexico fight will be streamed live on the website Fight.Tv.
Extreme Right Propagandists Blame Immigrants for France Unrest
The week of October 18 to 24, dozens of extreme right propagandists on Telegram blamed non-white immigrants for unrest in France. Posts praised extreme right street gatherings in response to protests, rioting, and looting and blamed both the left and conservatives for permitting immigration, calling for a "racial solution." A Swedish entity affiliated with that country's Active Club movement noted that the current crisis was an opportunity, alluding to potential future recruitment efforts.
Polish Active Club Launches Substack
The main Polish Active Club launched a Substack in early October. In four English posts from October 4 to 20, the blog covered the Active Club movement in Poland, hatred of journalists, a definition of the "3.0" white supremacist counterculture, and an explainer on making graffiti stencils.
CEP researchers located a Substack affiliated with a Swiss Active Club chapter in September. Substack accounts for the main Active Club movement were removed from the platform in August, September, and October. Substack also likely removed an account connected to an Active Club chapter in North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota, in late August.
The landing page company Lnk.Bio removed an account for the Polish Active Club chapter on October 21 after CEP reported it.
A post on the Polish Active Club Substack page promoting the "3.0" white supremacist counterculture. Screenshot taken on October 22.
***
Original text here: https://www.counterextremism.com/press/extremist-content-online-isis-supporters-celebrate-october-23-jordan-church-shooting
Jaydn Burgin receives 2026 IWP Alumni Scholarship
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- The Institute of World Politics posted the following news release:
* * *
Jaydn Burgin receives 2026 IWP Alumni Scholarship
*
IWP's Alumni Scholarship has been awarded this year to Jaydn Burgin, who joined the Master of Arts in Strategic Intelligence Studies program this semester.
Jaydn is a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Bachelor's degrees in Political Science and French, with minors in History, Human Rights, and European Studies. She currently serves as an Intelligence Analyst with The Counterterrorism Group, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- The Institute of World Politics posted the following news release: * * * Jaydn Burgin receives 2026 IWP Alumni Scholarship * IWP's Alumni Scholarship has been awarded this year to Jaydn Burgin, who joined the Master of Arts in Strategic Intelligence Studies program this semester. Jaydn is a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Bachelor's degrees in Political Science and French, with minors in History, Human Rights, and European Studies. She currently serves as an Intelligence Analyst with The Counterterrorism Group,conducting open-source research and producing intelligence assessments focused on security and counterterrorism. At IWP, she plans to further develop her expertise in intelligence, counterterrorism, and national security.
Jaydn is the eighth recipient of the IWP Alumni Scholarship, a scholarship founded in 2020 at the request of IWP alumni. Four of IWP's Alumni Scholarship recipients have already graduated from IWP, one is on a leave of absence, and three are currently completing their academic programs.
57 alumni generously contributed to the scholarship fund in 2026.
To the scholarship donors, Jaydn said: "This scholarship means so much to me as I begin my master's at IWP. Your investment in my education will allow me to focus on developing the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in national security and intelligence."
Congratulations, Jaydn on receiving this scholarship! Many thanks to the alumni supporters who made it possible.
***
Original text here: https://www.iwp.edu/press-releases/2026/10/26/jaydn-burgin-receives-2026-iwp-alumni-scholarship/
* * *
Jaydn Burgin receives 2026 IWP Alumni Scholarship
*
IWP's Alumni Scholarship has been awarded this year to Jaydn Burgin, who joined the Master of Arts in Strategic Intelligence Studies program this semester.
Jaydn is a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Bachelor's degrees in Political Science and French, with minors in History, Human Rights, and European Studies. She currently serves as an Intelligence Analyst with The Counterterrorism Group, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Political] -- The Institute of World Politics posted the following news release: * * * Jaydn Burgin receives 2026 IWP Alumni Scholarship * IWP's Alumni Scholarship has been awarded this year to Jaydn Burgin, who joined the Master of Arts in Strategic Intelligence Studies program this semester. Jaydn is a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Bachelor's degrees in Political Science and French, with minors in History, Human Rights, and European Studies. She currently serves as an Intelligence Analyst with The Counterterrorism Group,conducting open-source research and producing intelligence assessments focused on security and counterterrorism. At IWP, she plans to further develop her expertise in intelligence, counterterrorism, and national security.
Jaydn is the eighth recipient of the IWP Alumni Scholarship, a scholarship founded in 2020 at the request of IWP alumni. Four of IWP's Alumni Scholarship recipients have already graduated from IWP, one is on a leave of absence, and three are currently completing their academic programs.
57 alumni generously contributed to the scholarship fund in 2026.
To the scholarship donors, Jaydn said: "This scholarship means so much to me as I begin my master's at IWP. Your investment in my education will allow me to focus on developing the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in national security and intelligence."
Congratulations, Jaydn on receiving this scholarship! Many thanks to the alumni supporters who made it possible.
***
Original text here: https://www.iwp.edu/press-releases/2026/10/26/jaydn-burgin-receives-2026-iwp-alumni-scholarship/
FDA moves on peptides put consumers in harm's way
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release:
* * *
FDA moves on peptides put consumers in harm's way
*
JAMA Viewpoint says integrity of advisory committees and drug approval threatened
If the Food and Drug Administration follows the advice of a recent advisory committee, it will not only expose the public to the dangers of unproven peptides but also threaten the integrity of the advisory committee system and the FDA's drug approval process itself, according to a Viewpoint published today in the Journal of the American ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release: * * * FDA moves on peptides put consumers in harm's way * JAMA Viewpoint says integrity of advisory committees and drug approval threatened If the Food and Drug Administration follows the advice of a recent advisory committee, it will not only expose the public to the dangers of unproven peptides but also threaten the integrity of the advisory committee system and the FDA's drug approval process itself, according to a Viewpoint published today in the Journal of the AmericanMedical Association by three authors from the Center for Science in the Public Interest. The issues raised in the Viewpoint are all the more urgent, as FDA has recently forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget a proposal that could allow the compounding of certain peptides and would apparently lead to non-enforcement of many FDA regulations as they apply to these peptides.
The FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee met on July 23-24, 2026, to discuss whether to add seven specific peptides to the 503A Bulks List, which would allow licensed pharmacists to provide them to individual patients with a prescription.
The seven peptides proposed for inclusion were BPC-157, KPV, TB-500, MOTs-C, emideltide, semax, and epitalon, which proponents variously claim will help with muscle and joint healing, reducing inflammation, improving metabolic health, and promoting longevity. In fact, authorizing these peptides would create a huge, largely unregulated market that will be characterized by misleading claims, needless risk, and widespread grift, according to CSPI.
Currently, peptides are sold over the Internet for research use only, although there is little evidence that meaningful research is being generated. In September 2023, the FDA restricted the compounding of these same seven peptides due to "significant safety risks." Subsequently, the Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., declared that peptides had "really good effect" based on his own experience and that he wanted to make peptides "more accessible."
In March 2026, only four members of the PCAC remained, due to infrequent meetings and term limits. In April and May 2026, eight new permanent members were appointed by the HHS, even with FDA officials expressing concerns about possible member conflicts of interest as most new members were tied to peptide-related businesses and clinics. For example, one of the recently appointed permanent members is a scientific director at a clinic that offers peptides and has developed a peptide optimization Substack called "The Syringe Runneth Over."
At the meeting, at which Dr. Peter Lurie, one of the coauthors and a former FDA associate commissioner testified, FDA staff presented detailed briefs on all seven peptides. These concluded that none of them could be sufficiently characterized, and many lacked thorough data supporting their safety and efficacy. The committee voted to include six out of seven peptides on the 503A Bulks List, with every favorable vote coming from the newly appointed permanent members. (After the eight new permanent members were appointed, the FDA appointed eight additional temporary members, but most were restricted to voting on one or two peptides, giving the Kennedy-appointed members a numerical advantage.)
CSPI's authors highlight the many concerning implications for the future of the FDA's drug approval process with this meeting as a precedent.
First, proponents for including peptides on the 503A Bulks List argue that the genie was out of the bottle and the size of the current market mandated listing. If the FDA allows peptides to be compounded based on market demand, this would open the doors for the agency to greenlight other unapproved products, such as kratom and cannabidiol, whose illegal sales reached a certain level. This would create an incentive for illegal sales.
Second, if peptides can be compounded and sold through this 503A pathway without providing the robust safety and effectiveness evidence required by the standard approval process, pharmaceutical companies, knowing that they will be undercut by compounders, would have less incentive to conduct clinical trials to demonstrate safety and effectiveness of their peptide drug candidates, thus undermining the drug approval process.
Third, the integrity of advisory committees themselves would be put into question if members have financial conflicts of interest and vote in lockstep, according to the authors.
"When votes are, in effect, predetermined by selective appointments, the role of advisory committees as a mechanism to solicit independent expertise and adjudicate scientific uncertainty is fundamentally undermined," according to the Viewpoint.
Finally, HHS is poised to expand peptides in other settings, as a March 2026 FDA meeting considered whether peptides could be considered dietary ingredients and included in supplements. If the agency adopts this policy, peptide products would be as accessible as any supplement in pharmacies or supermarkets, provided an oral preparation can be developed, as is the case for BPC-157.
"If the FDA continues to indulge RFK Jr.'s enthusiasm for peptides, we can expect cases of injury to consumers to continue to mount," said CSPI President Dr. Peter G. Lurie. "But if one of these peptides were to show promise, the FDA's actions make it much less likely that it would be developed into a safe and useful drug. Why would a reputable pharmaceutical company bother to conduct extensive clinical trials when consumers can just go to compounding pharmacies, or worse, find one of these peptides in a dietary supplement on a supermarket shelf?"
Besides Lurie, the Viewpoint authors included CSPI Policy Associate Isabella Xu and former intern Sophia Samantaroy.
***
Original text here: https://www.cspi.org/press-release/fda-moves-peptides-put-consumers-harms-way
* * *
FDA moves on peptides put consumers in harm's way
*
JAMA Viewpoint says integrity of advisory committees and drug approval threatened
If the Food and Drug Administration follows the advice of a recent advisory committee, it will not only expose the public to the dangers of unproven peptides but also threaten the integrity of the advisory committee system and the FDA's drug approval process itself, according to a Viewpoint published today in the Journal of the American ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 [Category: Science] -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued the following news release: * * * FDA moves on peptides put consumers in harm's way * JAMA Viewpoint says integrity of advisory committees and drug approval threatened If the Food and Drug Administration follows the advice of a recent advisory committee, it will not only expose the public to the dangers of unproven peptides but also threaten the integrity of the advisory committee system and the FDA's drug approval process itself, according to a Viewpoint published today in the Journal of the AmericanMedical Association by three authors from the Center for Science in the Public Interest. The issues raised in the Viewpoint are all the more urgent, as FDA has recently forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget a proposal that could allow the compounding of certain peptides and would apparently lead to non-enforcement of many FDA regulations as they apply to these peptides.
The FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee met on July 23-24, 2026, to discuss whether to add seven specific peptides to the 503A Bulks List, which would allow licensed pharmacists to provide them to individual patients with a prescription.
The seven peptides proposed for inclusion were BPC-157, KPV, TB-500, MOTs-C, emideltide, semax, and epitalon, which proponents variously claim will help with muscle and joint healing, reducing inflammation, improving metabolic health, and promoting longevity. In fact, authorizing these peptides would create a huge, largely unregulated market that will be characterized by misleading claims, needless risk, and widespread grift, according to CSPI.
Currently, peptides are sold over the Internet for research use only, although there is little evidence that meaningful research is being generated. In September 2023, the FDA restricted the compounding of these same seven peptides due to "significant safety risks." Subsequently, the Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., declared that peptides had "really good effect" based on his own experience and that he wanted to make peptides "more accessible."
In March 2026, only four members of the PCAC remained, due to infrequent meetings and term limits. In April and May 2026, eight new permanent members were appointed by the HHS, even with FDA officials expressing concerns about possible member conflicts of interest as most new members were tied to peptide-related businesses and clinics. For example, one of the recently appointed permanent members is a scientific director at a clinic that offers peptides and has developed a peptide optimization Substack called "The Syringe Runneth Over."
At the meeting, at which Dr. Peter Lurie, one of the coauthors and a former FDA associate commissioner testified, FDA staff presented detailed briefs on all seven peptides. These concluded that none of them could be sufficiently characterized, and many lacked thorough data supporting their safety and efficacy. The committee voted to include six out of seven peptides on the 503A Bulks List, with every favorable vote coming from the newly appointed permanent members. (After the eight new permanent members were appointed, the FDA appointed eight additional temporary members, but most were restricted to voting on one or two peptides, giving the Kennedy-appointed members a numerical advantage.)
CSPI's authors highlight the many concerning implications for the future of the FDA's drug approval process with this meeting as a precedent.
First, proponents for including peptides on the 503A Bulks List argue that the genie was out of the bottle and the size of the current market mandated listing. If the FDA allows peptides to be compounded based on market demand, this would open the doors for the agency to greenlight other unapproved products, such as kratom and cannabidiol, whose illegal sales reached a certain level. This would create an incentive for illegal sales.
Second, if peptides can be compounded and sold through this 503A pathway without providing the robust safety and effectiveness evidence required by the standard approval process, pharmaceutical companies, knowing that they will be undercut by compounders, would have less incentive to conduct clinical trials to demonstrate safety and effectiveness of their peptide drug candidates, thus undermining the drug approval process.
Third, the integrity of advisory committees themselves would be put into question if members have financial conflicts of interest and vote in lockstep, according to the authors.
"When votes are, in effect, predetermined by selective appointments, the role of advisory committees as a mechanism to solicit independent expertise and adjudicate scientific uncertainty is fundamentally undermined," according to the Viewpoint.
Finally, HHS is poised to expand peptides in other settings, as a March 2026 FDA meeting considered whether peptides could be considered dietary ingredients and included in supplements. If the agency adopts this policy, peptide products would be as accessible as any supplement in pharmacies or supermarkets, provided an oral preparation can be developed, as is the case for BPC-157.
"If the FDA continues to indulge RFK Jr.'s enthusiasm for peptides, we can expect cases of injury to consumers to continue to mount," said CSPI President Dr. Peter G. Lurie. "But if one of these peptides were to show promise, the FDA's actions make it much less likely that it would be developed into a safe and useful drug. Why would a reputable pharmaceutical company bother to conduct extensive clinical trials when consumers can just go to compounding pharmacies, or worse, find one of these peptides in a dietary supplement on a supermarket shelf?"
Besides Lurie, the Viewpoint authors included CSPI Policy Associate Isabella Xu and former intern Sophia Samantaroy.
***
Original text here: https://www.cspi.org/press-release/fda-moves-peptides-put-consumers-harms-way
Broad-developed technology powers an ultra-sensitive blood test for cancer DNA
CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Medical] -- The Broad Institute posted the following news:
* * *
Broad-developed technology powers an ultra-sensitive blood test for cancer DNA
*
The technology, MAESTRO, is at the heart of Abbott's new Oncodetect test, which detects extremely low levels of tumor DNA in a patient's blood sample, helping doctors detect cancer recurrence.
Highlights
* A product for cancer patients launched by Abbott is powered by technology called MAESTRO that was developed in the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at the Broad Institute.
* The Oncodetect test ... Show Full Article CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Medical] -- The Broad Institute posted the following news: * * * Broad-developed technology powers an ultra-sensitive blood test for cancer DNA * The technology, MAESTRO, is at the heart of Abbott's new Oncodetect test, which detects extremely low levels of tumor DNA in a patient's blood sample, helping doctors detect cancer recurrence. Highlights * A product for cancer patients launched by Abbott is powered by technology called MAESTRO that was developed in the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at the Broad Institute. * The Oncodetect testis designed to look for molecular residual disease -- traces of cancer DNA that may remain in a patient's body during and after treatment.
* MAESTRO is one of several technologies with potential clinical impact to arise from more than a decade of multidisciplinary collaboration across teams led by Viktor Adalsteinsson, senior director of the Gerstner Center.
When Viktor Adalsteinsson joined the Broad Institute's Cancer Program just over a decade ago, his goal was to improve cancer care through new innovations in cancer diagnostics. Detecting cancer early, including cancer that returns after treatment or surgery, means treating it sooner to maximize a patient's chances of survival.
Adalsteinsson focused on liquid biopsy -- a blood test that can find small amounts of DNA shed by cancer cells into the bloodstream and potentially detect cancer recurrence earlier than traditional methods like imaging scans. He wanted to develop a liquid biopsy test that was sensitive enough to find cancer DNA hidden among healthy, cell-free DNA circulating in blood.
Years of collaborative work from Adalsteinsson, his team at Broad, and colleagues at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and other research hospitals have now culminated in a technology that is at the core of a next-generation test launched for clinical use on October 26, 2026, by Broad's commercial partner, Abbott. The Oncodetect test is designed to detect and quantify the presence of a small amount of cancer DNA that may remain in a patient's body after cancer treatment, called molecular residual disease. That cancer DNA, shed by tumors into the bloodstream, is a strong prognostic indicator of cancer recurrence.1
The first generation Oncodetect test looked for up to 200 cancer mutations.2 The new version, powered by Adalsteinsson's technology called MAESTRO, looks across the whole genome to track up to 5,000 patient-specific cancer mutations and detect circulating tumor DNA levels below 1 part per million.3,4,*
This may help doctors detect cancer recurrence so that they can potentially adjust treatment for their patients. From the beginning of his career, that was Adalsteinsson's hope, and a key step towards his aspiration of enabling early cancer detection and intervention.
"I always knew that I wanted to pursue approaches that could improve the lives of cancer patients," said Adalsteinsson, co-inventor of MAESTRO and senior director of the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at Broad. "MAESTRO pushes the limits for molecular residual disease detection. With Exact Sciences, now Abbott, we're thrilled to see that this technology - the next-generation Oncodetect test - will reach patients to inform more precise care."
From idea to impact
As a graduate student at MIT, Adalsteinsson saw a path to improving cancer care through better diagnostics. He worked in Chris Love's lab, where they developed some of the first approaches for comprehensive sequencing of single circulating tumor cells.
After earning a PhD in chemical engineering in 2015, Adalsteinsson started his lab at the Broad where he established methods for in-depth sequencing of circulating tumor DNA. As his team analyzed thousands of liquid biopsy samples and learned more about how metastatic cancers evolve to evade therapy, they focused on developing methods for molecular residual disease detection, with the goal of spotting cancer recurrence early, when it could be most treatable. This work paved the way for the development of MAESTRO, which stands for "minor allele enriched sequencing through recognition oligonucleotides."
Pushing the limits
Once the team had established the framework, they began testing the technology for molecular residual disease detection. They used MAESTRO to analyze banked blood samples from cancer patients who had been monitored for disease recurrence for years.
In 2020, Adalsteinsson's team demonstrated that they could detect evidence of residual disease in patients who had been treated for breast cancer years before traditional approaches would find recurring disease -- an important step in the development of MAESTRO. In 2022, the team described MAESTRO in a study published in Nature Biomedical Engineering. The researchers later showed benefits of the technology in patients treated for lymphoma, head and neck cancer, HER2+ metastatic breast cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and other cancer types. Together with Abbott, they recently tested it in esophageal cancer.
"Like many successful projects, MAESTRO started by identifying a problem that needed a solution; tests need to be more sensitive to detect recurrent disease while not compromising their specificity," said Todd Golub, director of Broad, and previously the director of Broad's Cancer Program and chief scientific officer when he established the Gerstner Center alongside Adalsteinsson. "Viktor had scientific ideas to address this problem, and the collaborative nature of the Broad ecosystem with local hospitals and beyond helped bring it all together."
When it became clear that this technology had real potential for clinical benefit, Adalsteinsson, Golub, and the Broad's Office of Strategic Alliances and Partnering wanted to ensure that the test was made available to patients quickly, while ensuring that high quality standards were met. They concluded that the optimal strategy was partnering with an established diagnostic company. In Exact Sciences (acquired by Abbott in early 2026), the Broad found a partner that was committed to scientific integrity and benefit to patients. In 2023, the Broad established a research collaboration with Exact Sciences, now Abbott, and licensed the MAESTRO technology to the company. Adalsteinsson worked closely with their team to help them advance it into the Oncodetect test, now an ultra-sensitive test commercially available for molecular residual disease.
"The promise of innovation is ultimately measured by what it can mean for patients," said Jorge Garces, divisional vice president of R&D at Abbott. "Working with the Broad, we were able to take an extraordinary scientific innovation in MAESTRO and translate it into a test designed to give physicians more information about what may remain during and after cancer treatment."
The Gerstner Center continues to refine and improve liquid biopsy and other cancer diagnostics. Adalsteinsson and his team are developing the first "priming agents" for liquid biopsies -- diagnostic drugs that slow the clearance of tumor DNA from the bloodstream so more can be collected. These agents promise to further enhance the sensitivity of liquid biopsy tests and will be tested in humans by a company Adalsteinsson, Golub, and colleagues recently co-founded. New sequencing methods they developed, called CODEC and Methyl CODEC, further enhance tumor DNA detection and more.
"The Gerstner Family Foundation is proud to continue investing in the exceptional team at the Broad," said Elizabeth Gerstner, chair of the Foundation. "We believe in their ability not only to advance groundbreaking science, but to translate discoveries into better care for patients. The launch of Oncodetect demonstrates the power of that commitment and our shared mission to improve cancer outcomes."
Golub says the Oncodetect test is a good example of Broad science reaching the clinic through innovative research and strategic partnerships with companies.
"When we started the Broad, the idea from the very beginning was that our genomics research would benefit patients. It's easy to say that, but it's a long and arduous road," Golub said. "When it actually happens, it's very satisfying and a great validation of the multidisciplinary, collaborative nature of this place."
*under high-input conditions.
The Oncodetect test is a trademark of the Abbott group of companies.
References
* Mittal A, Molto Valiente C, Tamimi F, et al. "Utility of ctDNA in predicting relapse in solid tumors after curative therapy: a meta-analysis." JNCI Cancer Spectrum. 2023;7(4):pkad040. DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkad040.
* Diergaarde B, Young G, Hall DW, et al. Circulating Tumor DNA as a Marker of Recurrence Risk in Stage III Colorectal Cancer: The a-CORRECT Study. Journal of Surgical Oncology. 2025;132(1):175-186. DOI:10.1002/jso.27989
* Abbott Cancer Diagnostics. LoD and Precision Results from MRD v2 AV. Internal presentation, Aug 3, 2026.
* Tsvetanova B, et al. Association for Molecular Pathology 2025 Annual Meeting Abstracts. J Mol Diagn. 2025;27 Suppl:S113.
***
Original text here: https://www.broadinstitute.org/news/Broad-Abbott-ultra-sensitive-blood-test-for-cancer-DNA
* * *
Broad-developed technology powers an ultra-sensitive blood test for cancer DNA
*
The technology, MAESTRO, is at the heart of Abbott's new Oncodetect test, which detects extremely low levels of tumor DNA in a patient's blood sample, helping doctors detect cancer recurrence.
Highlights
* A product for cancer patients launched by Abbott is powered by technology called MAESTRO that was developed in the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at the Broad Institute.
* The Oncodetect test ... Show Full Article CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Medical] -- The Broad Institute posted the following news: * * * Broad-developed technology powers an ultra-sensitive blood test for cancer DNA * The technology, MAESTRO, is at the heart of Abbott's new Oncodetect test, which detects extremely low levels of tumor DNA in a patient's blood sample, helping doctors detect cancer recurrence. Highlights * A product for cancer patients launched by Abbott is powered by technology called MAESTRO that was developed in the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at the Broad Institute. * The Oncodetect testis designed to look for molecular residual disease -- traces of cancer DNA that may remain in a patient's body during and after treatment.
* MAESTRO is one of several technologies with potential clinical impact to arise from more than a decade of multidisciplinary collaboration across teams led by Viktor Adalsteinsson, senior director of the Gerstner Center.
When Viktor Adalsteinsson joined the Broad Institute's Cancer Program just over a decade ago, his goal was to improve cancer care through new innovations in cancer diagnostics. Detecting cancer early, including cancer that returns after treatment or surgery, means treating it sooner to maximize a patient's chances of survival.
Adalsteinsson focused on liquid biopsy -- a blood test that can find small amounts of DNA shed by cancer cells into the bloodstream and potentially detect cancer recurrence earlier than traditional methods like imaging scans. He wanted to develop a liquid biopsy test that was sensitive enough to find cancer DNA hidden among healthy, cell-free DNA circulating in blood.
Years of collaborative work from Adalsteinsson, his team at Broad, and colleagues at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and other research hospitals have now culminated in a technology that is at the core of a next-generation test launched for clinical use on October 26, 2026, by Broad's commercial partner, Abbott. The Oncodetect test is designed to detect and quantify the presence of a small amount of cancer DNA that may remain in a patient's body after cancer treatment, called molecular residual disease. That cancer DNA, shed by tumors into the bloodstream, is a strong prognostic indicator of cancer recurrence.1
The first generation Oncodetect test looked for up to 200 cancer mutations.2 The new version, powered by Adalsteinsson's technology called MAESTRO, looks across the whole genome to track up to 5,000 patient-specific cancer mutations and detect circulating tumor DNA levels below 1 part per million.3,4,*
This may help doctors detect cancer recurrence so that they can potentially adjust treatment for their patients. From the beginning of his career, that was Adalsteinsson's hope, and a key step towards his aspiration of enabling early cancer detection and intervention.
"I always knew that I wanted to pursue approaches that could improve the lives of cancer patients," said Adalsteinsson, co-inventor of MAESTRO and senior director of the Gerstner Center for Cancer Diagnostics at Broad. "MAESTRO pushes the limits for molecular residual disease detection. With Exact Sciences, now Abbott, we're thrilled to see that this technology - the next-generation Oncodetect test - will reach patients to inform more precise care."
From idea to impact
As a graduate student at MIT, Adalsteinsson saw a path to improving cancer care through better diagnostics. He worked in Chris Love's lab, where they developed some of the first approaches for comprehensive sequencing of single circulating tumor cells.
After earning a PhD in chemical engineering in 2015, Adalsteinsson started his lab at the Broad where he established methods for in-depth sequencing of circulating tumor DNA. As his team analyzed thousands of liquid biopsy samples and learned more about how metastatic cancers evolve to evade therapy, they focused on developing methods for molecular residual disease detection, with the goal of spotting cancer recurrence early, when it could be most treatable. This work paved the way for the development of MAESTRO, which stands for "minor allele enriched sequencing through recognition oligonucleotides."
Pushing the limits
Once the team had established the framework, they began testing the technology for molecular residual disease detection. They used MAESTRO to analyze banked blood samples from cancer patients who had been monitored for disease recurrence for years.
In 2020, Adalsteinsson's team demonstrated that they could detect evidence of residual disease in patients who had been treated for breast cancer years before traditional approaches would find recurring disease -- an important step in the development of MAESTRO. In 2022, the team described MAESTRO in a study published in Nature Biomedical Engineering. The researchers later showed benefits of the technology in patients treated for lymphoma, head and neck cancer, HER2+ metastatic breast cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and other cancer types. Together with Abbott, they recently tested it in esophageal cancer.
"Like many successful projects, MAESTRO started by identifying a problem that needed a solution; tests need to be more sensitive to detect recurrent disease while not compromising their specificity," said Todd Golub, director of Broad, and previously the director of Broad's Cancer Program and chief scientific officer when he established the Gerstner Center alongside Adalsteinsson. "Viktor had scientific ideas to address this problem, and the collaborative nature of the Broad ecosystem with local hospitals and beyond helped bring it all together."
When it became clear that this technology had real potential for clinical benefit, Adalsteinsson, Golub, and the Broad's Office of Strategic Alliances and Partnering wanted to ensure that the test was made available to patients quickly, while ensuring that high quality standards were met. They concluded that the optimal strategy was partnering with an established diagnostic company. In Exact Sciences (acquired by Abbott in early 2026), the Broad found a partner that was committed to scientific integrity and benefit to patients. In 2023, the Broad established a research collaboration with Exact Sciences, now Abbott, and licensed the MAESTRO technology to the company. Adalsteinsson worked closely with their team to help them advance it into the Oncodetect test, now an ultra-sensitive test commercially available for molecular residual disease.
"The promise of innovation is ultimately measured by what it can mean for patients," said Jorge Garces, divisional vice president of R&D at Abbott. "Working with the Broad, we were able to take an extraordinary scientific innovation in MAESTRO and translate it into a test designed to give physicians more information about what may remain during and after cancer treatment."
The Gerstner Center continues to refine and improve liquid biopsy and other cancer diagnostics. Adalsteinsson and his team are developing the first "priming agents" for liquid biopsies -- diagnostic drugs that slow the clearance of tumor DNA from the bloodstream so more can be collected. These agents promise to further enhance the sensitivity of liquid biopsy tests and will be tested in humans by a company Adalsteinsson, Golub, and colleagues recently co-founded. New sequencing methods they developed, called CODEC and Methyl CODEC, further enhance tumor DNA detection and more.
"The Gerstner Family Foundation is proud to continue investing in the exceptional team at the Broad," said Elizabeth Gerstner, chair of the Foundation. "We believe in their ability not only to advance groundbreaking science, but to translate discoveries into better care for patients. The launch of Oncodetect demonstrates the power of that commitment and our shared mission to improve cancer outcomes."
Golub says the Oncodetect test is a good example of Broad science reaching the clinic through innovative research and strategic partnerships with companies.
"When we started the Broad, the idea from the very beginning was that our genomics research would benefit patients. It's easy to say that, but it's a long and arduous road," Golub said. "When it actually happens, it's very satisfying and a great validation of the multidisciplinary, collaborative nature of this place."
*under high-input conditions.
The Oncodetect test is a trademark of the Abbott group of companies.
References
* Mittal A, Molto Valiente C, Tamimi F, et al. "Utility of ctDNA in predicting relapse in solid tumors after curative therapy: a meta-analysis." JNCI Cancer Spectrum. 2023;7(4):pkad040. DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkad040.
* Diergaarde B, Young G, Hall DW, et al. Circulating Tumor DNA as a Marker of Recurrence Risk in Stage III Colorectal Cancer: The a-CORRECT Study. Journal of Surgical Oncology. 2025;132(1):175-186. DOI:10.1002/jso.27989
* Abbott Cancer Diagnostics. LoD and Precision Results from MRD v2 AV. Internal presentation, Aug 3, 2026.
* Tsvetanova B, et al. Association for Molecular Pathology 2025 Annual Meeting Abstracts. J Mol Diagn. 2025;27 Suppl:S113.
***
Original text here: https://www.broadinstitute.org/news/Broad-Abbott-ultra-sensitive-blood-test-for-cancer-DNA
AFP-PA Pulls Endorsements of Four State House Candidates Over Price-Hiking Vote
ARLINGTON, Virginia, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release:
* * *
AFP-PA Pulls Endorsements of Four State House Candidates Over Price-Hiking Vote
*
HARRISBURG, PA - Today, Americans for Prosperity-Pennsylvania (AFP-PA) withdrew its endorsement of four candidates for the state House of Representatives on Monday in response to their votes in favor of a bill that would raise costs for taxpayers for public works projects.
State Representatives Jeremy Shaffer (LD-28), Valerie Gaydos (LD-44), Joe Emerick (LD-137), and Martina White (LD-170) ... Show Full Article ARLINGTON, Virginia, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release: * * * AFP-PA Pulls Endorsements of Four State House Candidates Over Price-Hiking Vote * HARRISBURG, PA - Today, Americans for Prosperity-Pennsylvania (AFP-PA) withdrew its endorsement of four candidates for the state House of Representatives on Monday in response to their votes in favor of a bill that would raise costs for taxpayers for public works projects. State Representatives Jeremy Shaffer (LD-28), Valerie Gaydos (LD-44), Joe Emerick (LD-137), and Martina White (LD-170)lost AFP-PA's endorsements for their votes to expand Pennsylvania's Prevailing Wage Act that Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law last week. In response, AFP-PA halted its canvassing, advertisements, voter outreach, and all other support for these candidates.
AFP-PA had actively opposed prevailing wage mandates for over a decade because of their manipulation of private labor markets by the government that result in higher costs for taxpayers. Before this vote, AFP-PA gave lawmakers notice that their votes would count toward its annual legislative scorecard.
Emily Brey, AFP-PA state director, gave the following statement:
"By voting to expand this prevailing wage mandate, these lawmakers consciously decided to raise costs for Pennsylvania taxpayers at a time when many families in our state are concerned with the cost of living.
"Pennsylvanians deserve principled leaders representing them in Harrisburg who vote for the best interests of their constituents - no matter the consequences. AFP-PA will continue supporting candidates who fight for hardworking taxpayers."
AFP-PA and its network of grassroots activists remain fully committed to its endorsements of six state House candidates and three state Senate candidates in competitive races across the state, including Sen. Jarrett Coleman (SD-16) and Rep. Tom Jones (SD-36).
***
Original text here: https://americansforprosperity.org/press-release/afp-pa-pulls-endorsements-of-four-state-house-candidates-over-price-hiking-vote/
* * *
AFP-PA Pulls Endorsements of Four State House Candidates Over Price-Hiking Vote
*
HARRISBURG, PA - Today, Americans for Prosperity-Pennsylvania (AFP-PA) withdrew its endorsement of four candidates for the state House of Representatives on Monday in response to their votes in favor of a bill that would raise costs for taxpayers for public works projects.
State Representatives Jeremy Shaffer (LD-28), Valerie Gaydos (LD-44), Joe Emerick (LD-137), and Martina White (LD-170) ... Show Full Article ARLINGTON, Virginia, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release: * * * AFP-PA Pulls Endorsements of Four State House Candidates Over Price-Hiking Vote * HARRISBURG, PA - Today, Americans for Prosperity-Pennsylvania (AFP-PA) withdrew its endorsement of four candidates for the state House of Representatives on Monday in response to their votes in favor of a bill that would raise costs for taxpayers for public works projects. State Representatives Jeremy Shaffer (LD-28), Valerie Gaydos (LD-44), Joe Emerick (LD-137), and Martina White (LD-170)lost AFP-PA's endorsements for their votes to expand Pennsylvania's Prevailing Wage Act that Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law last week. In response, AFP-PA halted its canvassing, advertisements, voter outreach, and all other support for these candidates.
AFP-PA had actively opposed prevailing wage mandates for over a decade because of their manipulation of private labor markets by the government that result in higher costs for taxpayers. Before this vote, AFP-PA gave lawmakers notice that their votes would count toward its annual legislative scorecard.
Emily Brey, AFP-PA state director, gave the following statement:
"By voting to expand this prevailing wage mandate, these lawmakers consciously decided to raise costs for Pennsylvania taxpayers at a time when many families in our state are concerned with the cost of living.
"Pennsylvanians deserve principled leaders representing them in Harrisburg who vote for the best interests of their constituents - no matter the consequences. AFP-PA will continue supporting candidates who fight for hardworking taxpayers."
AFP-PA and its network of grassroots activists remain fully committed to its endorsements of six state House candidates and three state Senate candidates in competitive races across the state, including Sen. Jarrett Coleman (SD-16) and Rep. Tom Jones (SD-36).
***
Original text here: https://americansforprosperity.org/press-release/afp-pa-pulls-endorsements-of-four-state-house-candidates-over-price-hiking-vote/
SAFETY ADVISORY: Ring cameras put families in danger from ICE this Halloween. Turn them off.
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Fight for the Future, an advocacy group for digital rights, posted the following news release:
* * *
SAFETY ADVISORY: Ring cameras put families in danger from ICE this Halloween. Turn them off.
*
October 26, 2026-- For the second year in a row, leading anti-surveillance group Fight for the Future warns that using Amazon Ring doorbell cameras on Halloween exposes communities to ICE surveillance and violence.
Despite winning a major victory in Ring's cancellation of its partnership with notorious surveillance company Flock, privacy advocates ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Fight for the Future, an advocacy group for digital rights, posted the following news release: * * * SAFETY ADVISORY: Ring cameras put families in danger from ICE this Halloween. Turn them off. * October 26, 2026-- For the second year in a row, leading anti-surveillance group Fight for the Future warns that using Amazon Ring doorbell cameras on Halloween exposes communities to ICE surveillance and violence. Despite winning a major victory in Ring's cancellation of its partnership with notorious surveillance company Flock, privacy advocateswarn that AI facial recognition features and Ring's continued partnership with Flock competitor Axon continue to put communities at risk.
To keep neighbors safe, Ring cameras should be turned off for the holiday.
The advisory reads:
To preserve human rights and community safety, all people in the United States are advised to turn off their Amazon Ring cameras this Halloween to avoid complicity with ICE surveillance and deportation of our immigrant neighbors.
Amazon has a long history of working with law enforcement, and in light of the ongoing attacks by ICE on our communities, it's critical that we do everything possible to minimize Amazon's surveillance of our neighborhoods.
Just last year, Amazon Ring announced a partnership Flock, making every doorbell and porch a tool of ICE surveillance. Amazon has since canceled the partnership following enormous backlash, including widespread public outcry against the company's Super Bowl ad promoting its "Search Party" feature that blankets entire communities with invasive AI surveillance.
But threats remain--Ring has added AI facial recognition that can scan every face that comes to your door and maintains a partnership with surveillance company Axon Enterprise with known ties to Customs & Border Patrol.
As surveillance devices like Ring doorbells are increasingly being weaponized against marginalized groups, Fight for the Future is raising awareness ahead of this Halloween so that trick-or-treating kids and families, and all our neighbors, stay safe.
Sarah Philips (she/they), Campaign Director at Fight for the Future said: "The conversation about Ring surveillance has shown us that people do not want their neighborhoods, their kids, and their homes under ICE surveillance. Last year when Fight for the Future issued this advisory, the resounding response we heard was shock at Ring's complicity with ICE and a continued reckoning about the surveillance that many people unwittingly put their communities under, with these cameras that are marketed for "safety."
ICE does not keep our communities safe, it has put our neighbors under constant risk of harassment and imprisonment for living their daily lives. Because of pressure from consumers, we were able to pressure Ring to break its partnership with Flock, which is a huge win. But Ring's continued use of AI facial recognition and its ties with Axon and CBP show that these cameras are not only invasive, they quite literally put everyone who walks by someone's doorbell at risk of being tracked and surveilled. We know people are rallying across the country to keep their neighbors safe from ICE: turning these cameras off for Halloween to keep the kids in your neighborhood out of ICE databases is a small action that everyone with one of these cameras should do. The bigger, more meaningful step is breaking up with these cameras altogether and committing to a better, more comprehensive idea of public safety that does not capitulate to surveilling our communities."
Along with the advisory, Fight for the Future urges Ring camera owners to take the following steps:
* Activate end-to-end encryption on all Ring cameras to block the sharing of data without the camera owner's consent.
* Stop using their Ring surveillance cameras for good - as this is the only way to truly guarantee that footage won't end up in the wrong hands.
* Continue having these conversations in neighborhoods and community meetings so that our doorsteps don't become one more tool for ICE deportation and criminalization of abortion.
* To support this effort, the organization has created a printable door hanger as a tool to start this conversation gently with neighbors. It can be downloaded below.
[ GET THE DOOR HANGER ]
To learn more:
***
Original text here: https://www.fightforthefuture.org/news/2026-10-26-safety-advisory-ring-cameras-put-families-in-danger-from-ice-this-halloween-turn-them-off/
* * *
SAFETY ADVISORY: Ring cameras put families in danger from ICE this Halloween. Turn them off.
*
October 26, 2026-- For the second year in a row, leading anti-surveillance group Fight for the Future warns that using Amazon Ring doorbell cameras on Halloween exposes communities to ICE surveillance and violence.
Despite winning a major victory in Ring's cancellation of its partnership with notorious surveillance company Flock, privacy advocates ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 26 [Category: Sociological] -- Fight for the Future, an advocacy group for digital rights, posted the following news release: * * * SAFETY ADVISORY: Ring cameras put families in danger from ICE this Halloween. Turn them off. * October 26, 2026-- For the second year in a row, leading anti-surveillance group Fight for the Future warns that using Amazon Ring doorbell cameras on Halloween exposes communities to ICE surveillance and violence. Despite winning a major victory in Ring's cancellation of its partnership with notorious surveillance company Flock, privacy advocateswarn that AI facial recognition features and Ring's continued partnership with Flock competitor Axon continue to put communities at risk.
To keep neighbors safe, Ring cameras should be turned off for the holiday.
The advisory reads:
To preserve human rights and community safety, all people in the United States are advised to turn off their Amazon Ring cameras this Halloween to avoid complicity with ICE surveillance and deportation of our immigrant neighbors.
Amazon has a long history of working with law enforcement, and in light of the ongoing attacks by ICE on our communities, it's critical that we do everything possible to minimize Amazon's surveillance of our neighborhoods.
Just last year, Amazon Ring announced a partnership Flock, making every doorbell and porch a tool of ICE surveillance. Amazon has since canceled the partnership following enormous backlash, including widespread public outcry against the company's Super Bowl ad promoting its "Search Party" feature that blankets entire communities with invasive AI surveillance.
But threats remain--Ring has added AI facial recognition that can scan every face that comes to your door and maintains a partnership with surveillance company Axon Enterprise with known ties to Customs & Border Patrol.
As surveillance devices like Ring doorbells are increasingly being weaponized against marginalized groups, Fight for the Future is raising awareness ahead of this Halloween so that trick-or-treating kids and families, and all our neighbors, stay safe.
Sarah Philips (she/they), Campaign Director at Fight for the Future said: "The conversation about Ring surveillance has shown us that people do not want their neighborhoods, their kids, and their homes under ICE surveillance. Last year when Fight for the Future issued this advisory, the resounding response we heard was shock at Ring's complicity with ICE and a continued reckoning about the surveillance that many people unwittingly put their communities under, with these cameras that are marketed for "safety."
ICE does not keep our communities safe, it has put our neighbors under constant risk of harassment and imprisonment for living their daily lives. Because of pressure from consumers, we were able to pressure Ring to break its partnership with Flock, which is a huge win. But Ring's continued use of AI facial recognition and its ties with Axon and CBP show that these cameras are not only invasive, they quite literally put everyone who walks by someone's doorbell at risk of being tracked and surveilled. We know people are rallying across the country to keep their neighbors safe from ICE: turning these cameras off for Halloween to keep the kids in your neighborhood out of ICE databases is a small action that everyone with one of these cameras should do. The bigger, more meaningful step is breaking up with these cameras altogether and committing to a better, more comprehensive idea of public safety that does not capitulate to surveilling our communities."
Along with the advisory, Fight for the Future urges Ring camera owners to take the following steps:
* Activate end-to-end encryption on all Ring cameras to block the sharing of data without the camera owner's consent.
* Stop using their Ring surveillance cameras for good - as this is the only way to truly guarantee that footage won't end up in the wrong hands.
* Continue having these conversations in neighborhoods and community meetings so that our doorsteps don't become one more tool for ICE deportation and criminalization of abortion.
* To support this effort, the organization has created a printable door hanger as a tool to start this conversation gently with neighbors. It can be downloaded below.
[ GET THE DOOR HANGER ]
To learn more:
***
Original text here: https://www.fightforthefuture.org/news/2026-10-26-safety-advisory-ring-cameras-put-families-in-danger-from-ice-this-halloween-turn-them-off/