A series of immigration raids across California in 2025 had one thing in common: Most of the federal agents detaining people wore masks over their faces. This month, the state of California and its largest county will ban law enforcement officers from covering their faces, with a few exceptions, putting local and state police at odds with masked immigration agents.
Archives for January 2, 2026
New Post Office Rule Puts Mail-In Ballot Postmarks In Doubt
The U.S. Postal Service has adopted a new rule that could create doubt about whether some ballots mailed by voters by Election Day will receive postmarks in time to be counted. A USPS rule that took effect on Dec. 24 says mail might not receive a postmark on the same day the agency takes possession of it. The postal service says it isn’t changing its existing postmark practices and is merely clarifying its policy, but some election officials have looked to postmarks as a guarantee that mail ballots were cast before polls closed.
Flagler Sheriff’s Detention Deputy’s Battery Charge Likely to Be Dropped as Alleged Victim Refuses to Pursue It
Following the New Year’s Night arrest of Flagler County Detention Deputy Sara Radford for misdemeanor domestic battery, the alleged victim, Jose Marine, has requested that the court dismiss the charge. Marine wrote a Volusia County Court judge that he does not recall the incident and that no physical harm occurred. Radford remains suspended without pay.
The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Friday, January 2, 2026
The year’s first First Friday in Flagler Beach this evening from 6 to 9, with Madam for entertainment, memories of the Aral Sea, and where the Dead Sea is headed next, with a Palestinian Walk.