by Ethan Faverino | May 25, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
The Republican Study Committee (RSC) held a fraud roundtable last week, led by Representative Brandon Gill (TX-26), calling for aggressive action and criminal prosecutions in response to a major Medicaid fraud scheme in Ohio uncovered by investigative reporting.
The event follows a Daily Wire investigation by reporter Luke Rosiak, which revealed how convicted felons and foreign nationals established 288 shell companies to fraudulently bill taxpayers for home health services that were never even provided.
The scheme defrauded Ohio’s Medicaid program of approximately $250 million. One single building in Columbus reportedly housed 94 fake companies that billed out $66 million.
Rosiak exposed the operation in about two months by analyzing publicly available data that state Medicaid officials had allegedly overlooked for four years.
Rep. Gill, who chairs the newly formed House Oversight Committee Task Force on Defending Constitutional Rights and Exposing Institutional Abuses, announced that the task force will launch a formal investigation equipped with subpoena power to pursue accountability and issue criminal referrals.
“Whenever you bring in infinity third worlders into American society from low trust countries, you kind of expect low trust behavior, and that’s what we’ve seen here,” stated Gill. “The American people want to know that their tax dollars are actually being used for the American people, not for foreigners, not for fraudsters. Our job is to stop it, to get the bad guys in jail by issuing criminal referrals.”
The roundtable aligns with broader Republican efforts to combat waste, fraud, and abuse in federal healthcare programs. These initiatives build upon the White House Fraud Task Force established by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, which has already deferred billions in Medicaid reimbursements from non-compliant states and imposed a hold on new hospice and home health care licenses until integrity requirements are met.
RSC Vice Chair Ben Cline (VA-06) emphasized the impact on legitimate beneficiaries: “Fraud is not a victimless crime. Fraudsters steal money from innocent people who are meant to benefit from these programs, Medicare, Medicaid, home health. One of the main weapons that we have is transparency.”
Additional remarks from members in attendance included:
- Rep. Michael Cloud (TX-27): “It’s unfortunate when people come to this country, have no intent in helping build this country, but are just simply here to defraud the American citizens who are here and working to build this country. The waste, fraud, and abuse is turned into a money laundering scheme for leftist organizations.”
- Rep. Laurel Lee (FL-15): “We are not providing federal funding for the purpose of subsidizing negligence, incompetence, or corruption. Every dollar that is stolen is $1 that is no longer available for vulnerable Americans who actually need these services.”
- Rep. Tim Burchett (TN-02): “We found over a trillion dollars in duplication and increased bureaucracy. Every time the Democrats holler and say, ‘Oh, you’re cutting this program,’ you’re damn right. We’re cutting the waste, abuse, and fraud.”
- Rep. Mike Kennedy (UT-03): “This criminal behavior is enriching filthy individuals who deserve to be in jail. If there are doctors on the tape, they should do the perp walk and go to jail. Their license should be taken and never returned.”
- Rep. Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08): “This is not just going to be hearings after hearings. It’s going to be arrests and prosecutions. We have to end this now. What we’re uncovering is criminals.”
Republicans characterized the Ohio Medicaid scam as a stark example of systemic vulnerabilities in federal healthcare programs that deflect critical resources away from the people who depend on these services.
The roundtable highlighted the GOP’s commitment to greater transparency, aggressive enforcement, and criminal prosecutions to protect taxpayer dollars and restore integrity to these programs.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | May 25, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Las Vegas may market itself as “Sin City,” but new 2026 data reveals it doesn’t even crack the top five when measuring where Americans actually live their most indulgent lifestyles.
A comprehensive study commissioned by PokerTubecities analyzed nightlife density, adult entertainment venues, single population rates, STI prevalence, and excessive drinking through a weighted index — offering one of the clearest looks at America’s true party capitals.
New York City claimed the top spot with a commanding composite “sin” score of 8.85/10. New York City overwhelmed competitors with 3,822 bars and 422 nightclubs (the highest totals nationwide) plus 79 adult stores. Nearly 46.8% of men and 44% of women are single, and the city logged a chlamydia rate of 558.4 cases per 100,000 residents.
Phoenix, Arizona, delivered one of the biggest surprises of the study, ranking second place nationally with a “sin” score of 8.77/10. Phoenix stands out with 925 bars and 122 nightclubs. Phoenix also features 46 adult stores, 11 casinos, and one of the higher excessive drinking rates in the top 10 at 18.81%.
Public health data paints an equally intense picture with Phoenix recording 552.5 chlamydia cases and 296.6 syphilis cases per 100,000 residents. With 44.65% of men and 37.52% of women single, Phoenix has earned its reputation as a major nightlife and entertainment hub.
Tucson, Arizona, ranked 15th on the list with a score of 7.96/10. It has 245 bars, 21 nightclubs, 7 casinos, and 46 adult stores. Tucson shares the same elevated state-level STI rates (552.5 chlamydia and 296.6 syphilis per 100K) and excessive drinking rate (18.81%), with 48.05% of men and 41.72% of women single.
Las Vegas fell to 7th place with a score of 8.48/10, despite leading the nation in casinos (292) and posting a strong number of strip clubs (17). Researchers noted that Vegas appears built more for tourism than resident-driven sin, with lower single-resident percentages (39.51% single men and 34.02% of single women) and more moderate excessive drinking rates (14.89%) compared to the top cities.
America’s Top 5 Most Sinful Cities (2026):
1. New York City, NY (8.85): 3,822 bars, 422 nightclubs, 79 adult stores, 558.4 chlamydia rate per 100k, 17.51% excessive drinking.
2. Phoenix, AZ (8.77): 925 bars, 122 nightclubs, 11 casinos, 46 adult stores, 296.6 syphilis rate per 100k, 18.81% excessive drinking.
3. Miami, FL (8.75): 1,961 bars, 386 nightclubs, 107 casinos, 10 strip clubs, 498.9 chlamydia rate per 100k, 17.18% excessive drinking.
4. Houston, TX (8.69): 1,844 bars, 345 nightclubs, 51 adult stores, 238.6 syphilis rate per 100k, 18.25% excessive drinking.
5. Dallas, TX (8.61): 891 bars, 157 nightclubs, 58 adults stores, 49.10% single men, 42.50% single women, 18.25 excessive drinking.
America’s Top 5 Least Sinful Cities (2026)
1. Fort Wayne, IN (4.46): Only 112 bars, 14 nightclubs, 0 casinos, 0 strip clubs, 491 chlamydia rate per 100k, 62.8 syphilis rate per 100k.
2. Virginia Beach, VA (4.58): 141 bars, 14 nightclubs, 1 casino, lowest syphilis rate in the study at 22 per 100k.
3. Little Rock, AR (4.78): 89 bars, 16 nightclubs, 13 adult stores, 0 casinos, 0 strip clubs, 15.42% excessive drinking.
4. Knoxville, TN (4.80): 124 bars, 13 nightclubs, 0 casinos, 0 strip clubs, 107 syphilis rate per 100k, 16.89% excessive drinking
5. Tallahassee, FL (4.92): 99 bars, 15 nightclubs, 0 casinos, 0 strip clubs 104.7 syphilis rate per 100k, 17.18 excessive drinking
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | May 24, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
As Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs adopts a firmer rhetorical stance toward the People’s Republic of China, The Center Square states national security experts are closely monitoring whether she will sign a package of bipartisan bills designed to protect the state’s critical infrastructure, land, universities, procurement processes, and consumers from foreign adversary influence.
In previous years, Governor Hobbs vetoed several China-related measures, citing concerns over economic growth, investment portfolios, and impacts on the healthcare system. However, she now has the opportunity to act on up to seven new bills addressing these national security priorities.
In the past three years (2024-2026), Hobbs vetoed measures including:
- HB 2504 and HB 2584: Genetic sequencing restrictions involving foreign adversary technology
- SB 1340: Prohibiting state investments in foreign adversaries
- HB 2542: Banning state contracts with companies domiciled in China for goods or services
- SB 1109: Restrictions on foreign adversary land purchases near military bases and critical infrastructure
Her veto messages previously emphasized potential economic harm and described one bill as “weak and spineless.” This year, despite vetoing another genetic sequencing bill over healthcare system concerns, her office has signaled a tougher approach toward China.
The current package includes targeted protections:
- Arizona Critical Infrastructure Protection Act (HB 2134): Prohibits Chinese companies from providing software for critical infrastructure and bars contracts granting them access. It requires annual certifications, establishes a prohibited equipment list (including Wi-Fi routers, modems, school bus cameras, smart meters, solar inverters, and IoT modules), and creates a score communications channel for emergencies. Exceptions exist for cases with no reasonable alternatives and pre-approval.
- Land Protection Bill (SB 1683): Bars foreign adversary nations and agents from purchasing, leasing, or acquiring substantial interests (+15%) in Arizona real property. It prohibits installing surveillance or communications equipment and includes strong enforcement mechanisms, including divestiture, forfeiture, and reporting to federal authorities. Limited exceptions apply for inheritance or debt collection with prompt divestiture.
- Higher Education Protections (SB 1327): Requires the Arizona Board of Regents to review and approve gifts, contracts, or partnerships with foreign adversary nations. Universities must adopt comprehensive research security policies and annually report significant foreign funding.
- Procurement Safeguards (SB 2170): Prevents companies domiciled in and controlled by the Chinese government, military, or ruling party from bidding on state electronic and information technology contracts. Requires certification letters, with severe penalties for false statements.
- Lobbyist Registration (SB 1100): Mandates foreign adversary principals to register lobbyists, disclose activities, and pay fees. Creates a public database and penalties for nondisclosures.
- Consumer Fraud Enforcement (SB 1308): Establishes a Foreign Adversary Fraud Office in the Attorney General’s office to pursue violations involving foreign adversary technology. Creates dedicated funds for enforcement and technology replacement in critical infrastructure.
Josh Hodges, former senior director at the National Security Council under President Trump, current member of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, and national security advisor to House Speaker Mike Johnson, described these bills as “massively impactful.”
Hodges told The Center Square, “It is important these bills are passed collectively to ‘really address the full scope’ of the Chinese threat.” He noted that Hobbs has vetoed almost every piece of legislation related to China for “specious reason” often based on claims that bills were too vague or broad, despite federal agencies identifying ongoing subnational Chinese Communist Party efforts to embed operations in key U.S. assets.
He expressed hope that Hobbs’ recent shift in rhetoric will translate into action: “Arizonans will find out quickly whether their interests are being chosen over politics.” According to Hodges, vetoing these measures without strong justification could indicate undue influence or undisclosed lobbying.
These bills represent a significant opportunity for Arizona to align with growing nationwide efforts to protect critical assets from foreign adversary risks while maintaining necessary flexibility for public safety and economic needs.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | May 23, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Earlier this week, Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05) introduced the Providing Resources and Oversight for Tactical Equipment to Communities and Troops Act, also known as the PROTECT Act. This bipartisan legislation is aimed at modernizing and improving the administration of the Department of War’s Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO).
The PROTECT ACT, commonly known as the 1033 program, seeks to enhance efficiency, oversight, and effectiveness of this longstanding federal program, which provides surplus Department of War property to state and local law enforcement agencies at minimal cost.
The equipment and resources — ranging from vehicles and special tactical gear to office supplies, computers, and medical items — support critical missions including active shooter response, disaster relief, counter drug operations, and border security.
“I introduced the PROTECT Act following conversations with Arizona stakeholders who were frustrated with the growing lack of coordination between state and federal partners,” stated Congressman Biggs. “This necessary update ensures greater oversight, clearer standards, and more effective state-federal coordination to carry out the program’s mission.”
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is responsible for disposing of excess and obsolete property from U.S. military units worldwide. Through the 1033 program, authorized by Congress in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 and granted permanent authority in the 1997 NDAA, eligible law enforcement agencies can acquire this surplus property for bona fide law enforcement purposes, with a particular emphasis on counter drug and counter terrorism activities.
As of February 2025, approximately 6,300 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies across 49 states and four U.S. territories participate in the program.
Participation requires each state to have a Governor-appointed State Coordinator responsible for oversight of the state’s participating agencies. States must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) with DLA’s LESO, and each approved agency must enter into a State Plan of Operation with the coordinator.
Once approved, law enforcement agencies can review available excess inventory online and submit requests through their State Coordinator. Agencies do not pay for the property itself but are responsible for shipping, storage, maintenance, and any costs associated with returning items when they are no longer needed. All property is also transferred “as-is.”
The PROTECT Act strengthens the role of the State Coordinator and responds to requests for greater consistency by implementing:
- Standardized state-federal consultation procedures
- Annual training requirement for coordinators
- Regular program reviews by the Defense Logistics Agency
- Transparent biennial reporting to Congress and the public
“I’m grateful for another opportunity to stand with our Arizona law enforcement community as these agencies protect our communities and respond to emergencies, natural disasters, and public safety threats,” said Biggs.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | May 22, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Jay Feely, a Republican candidate for Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, is drawing scrutiny following recent comments defending Haitian immigrants amid ongoing national debates over immigration policy.
Feely, who has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump despite past criticism of Trump and reported connections to the Clinton family, faced backlash after accusing his primary opponent, former Arizona State Representative Joseph Chaplik, of racism.
The exchange stems from Chaplik’s criticism of Feely’s support for bringing large numbers of Haitian refugees into the United States.
In response to Chaplik’s concerns about mass Haitian immigration, Feely cited his personal experience helping two Haitian men he described as “family,” saying they came to the United States legally and pursued education and employment.
Chaplik rejected the accusations, saying his remarks were aimed at Feely’s broader immigration policy positions rather than the individuals themselves. He accused Feely of “playing the race card” and shared video clips he said showed Feely supporting amnesty measures and assistance for NGOs facilitating Haitian migration. Chaplik also pointed to Feely’s lack of response when asked about Temporary Protected Status extensions for Haitians.
The controversy escalated when Feely appeared on Arizona’s 12 News. During the interview, Feely addressed President Trump’s 2024 campaign remarks regarding reports of Haitian immigrants in Ohio eating pets. Feely recounted conversations with the two Haitian men he helped bring into the U.S., noting cultural practices in Haiti, “that when somebody has no food at all, they’re going to find whatever it is, whether it’s a dog, a cat.”
“I don’t want to be derogatory about people,” added Feely. “I think that’s where President Trump and I differ, is that I think you can articulate your values and your beliefs without being derogatory about others.”
When asked directly about reports of pets being eaten in Ohio, Feely responded, “I’m saying that the Haitian men that we brought here, and we talked about it, they said, ‘Yeah, I could see that happening.’ And if somebody who did that in Haiti comes here and sees a swan and says, “Oh, that might make a good meal!”
Chaplik responded sharply to the interview in a comment to The Gateway Pundit, criticizing Feely for disregarding constituents, insulting the President, and attacking candidates with a conservative legislative record. “That’s why the voters of our Congressional District, CD1, don’t trust him, and that’s why we are up 20 points.”
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
