https://meenews.co/post/6a455835c2ca79de2362b3c5 Dunkin's America 250 eagle cup sparks collector frenzy as fans race to snag one te 2026-07-01T18:11:01.168Z Dunkin's America 250 eagle cup sparks collector frenzy as fans race to snag one Dunkin' is celebrating America's 250th birthday by offering a limited-edition Dunkin' eagle cup, designed with a clear base topped with a sculpted eagle lid. "Whether you're sipping a vibrant Refresher or a classic iced coffee, this collectible turns every drink into a celebration," Dunkin' said in a news release. The cup quickly gained traction online. Even before it appeared in stores, Dunkin' announced that guests "may have already spotted the eagle cup taking flight across social media." STARBUCKS BRINGING BACK VIRAL MENU ITEM DESPITE 2017 BARISTA REVOLT: 'MAY GOD SAVE US ALL' "Run to Dunkin' because today is the day!" Instagram user @rebeldealz captioned a clip showing a visit to Dunkin' to secure a cup. Multiple other users on the platform commented on the post saying they bought several of the cups. "I also got 3 because they are already reselling on eBay for 50 bucks," one user wrote. A Reddit thread focused on users missing out on the limited-edition Barbie pink pineapple cup that Dunkin' dropped earlier this summer showed many celebrating getting their hands on the eagle cup. "When the pineapple cup dropped, my job had me away from my usual Dunkin' (or any Dunkin' really), and every location I tried after work were long sold out," one Reddit user wrote. "My job did the same thing to me today, but I managed to get to my morning Dunkin' spot today and snag one. Hurray." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Dunkin' is having fun with the cup's rollout. A company Instagram post comparing facts about a real eagle with the eagle cup garnered 21,000 likes and more than 400 comments. "Dunkin' eagle cup can be spotted across any room," the Massachusetts-based company wrote alongside a picture of the cup, next to a picture of an actual eagle and the message, "The bald eagle can spot prey from over two miles away." "Thankfully, I read this before poking my straw into a bald eagle. Whew," an Instagram commenter wrote. Dunkin' has rolled out a special "star-spangled lineup of limited-time beverages and bakery treats inspired by the flavors, colors and traditions of summer's biggest holiday," the company announced. It's also selling an "Americana-themed summer merch collection." "Dunkin' is bringing the energy of America's 250th birthday to every part of the menu," Anthony Epter, vice president of menu innovation at Dunkin', said in a news release. "Inspired by Fourth of July traditions, we've created a lineup of beverages, bakery treats and the collectible eagle cup that make every Dunkin' run a little more festive and every sip a celebration." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER The "Star-Spangled Sips and Summer Flavors" features "nostalgic flavors, colorful toppings and indulgent twists," according to Dunkin'. Some of the offerings include variations of fruity lemonades and a selection of flavored frozen coffees. The Dazzleberry Coolatta, which is blue-raspberry-flavored, is topped with whipped cream and "patriotic sprinkles." Dunkin's bakery case is filled with limited-time treats, including doughnuts and Munchkins (doughnut holes), dressed in red, white and blue. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS The Rocket Pop Donut features "a star-shaped yeast shell with Rocket Pop-flavored filling, topped with blue icing and a stars-and-stripes sprinkle blend," while the Stars & Stripes Donut is "dipped in blue icing and topped with festive red, white and blue sprinkles." The eagle cup is priced at $10.99 and available nationwide while supplies last. Twenty cups are available at each location, according to Dunkin'. Each eagle cup purchase includes a medium beverage. Fox News Digital reached out to Dunkin' for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455821c2ca79de2362b3bc Red-state capital city sparks conservative fire over Somali flag-raising at city hall: ‘Excuse me?’ te 2026-07-01T18:10:41.702Z Red-state capital city sparks conservative fire over Somali flag-raising at city hall: ‘Excuse me?’ The city of Columbus, Ohio, home to one of the largest Somali populations in the United States, is facing backlash on social media over a post celebrating the raising of the Somali flag. "Happy Somali Independence Day!" The Columbus Rec & Parks department posted on X on Wednesday. "As we celebrate the unification of the Trust Territory of Somaliland and the State of Somaliland into the Somali Republic in 1960, City Hall will be raising the flag of Somalia. " The post was quickly picked up by conservatives on social media, with many wondering why the city of Columbus would celebrate Somali independence so strongly, particularly given the proximity to the 250th anniversary of American independence. "Columbus, Ohio raising the flag of Somalia for America 250," White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller posted on X. BILL MAHER TELLS LIBERALS TO STOP 'PARTISAN SULKING' AND JOIN AMERICA 250 PARTY "No American government building should ever be raising another country's flag," journalist Mark Hemingway posted on X. "Ugh." "City Hall is not a foreign embassy," attorney and political commentator Mehek Cooke posted on X. "As an Ohioan, I am repulsed by the anti-Americanism here. Our leaders treat foreign nationalism as sacred while treating American patriotism as controversial. America’s public buildings should honor America." JACOB FREY PRAISES SOMALI COMMUNITY AS MINNESOTA FACES RENEWED SCRUTINY OVER FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS "This is AMERICA, not Little Somalia," ACT for America founder Brigitte Gabriel posted on X. "Flying the Somali flag at City Hall isn’t ‘celebration.’ It’s cultural surrender. Other nations aren’t parallel cultures here to dominate ours. Remove that flag. Remove the officials who demand it." "Excuse me?" Daily Wire investigative reporter Luke Rosiak, who has reported extensively on emerging fraud concerns within the Somali community in Columbus, posted on X. "Why the f--- is Columbus, Ohio celebrating ‘the unification of the Trust Territory of Somaliland…’ when America turns 250 this week?" Federalist reporter Brianna Lyman posted on X. "They all need to go back. They love their third world country so much, send them back. Denaturalize and deport." "One more way in which we encourage the refusal to assimilate." Ohio Republican State Rep. Brian Stewart posted on X. Fox News Digital reached out to the city of Columbus for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4555b4c2ca79de2362b35b The Democratic Incumbents Most at Risk of Losing to Progressive Primary Challengers in 2026 te 2026-07-01T18:00:20.911Z The Democratic Incumbents Most at Risk of Losing to Progressive Primary Challengers in 2026 A wave of outsider fervor has already knocked out a number of incumbents in primary races. Several more face spirited opposition. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455397c2ca79de2362b2ed Public library removes children's Pride display after local official sounds alarm on 'sexual grooming' te 2026-07-01T17:51:19.460Z Public library removes children's Pride display after local official sounds alarm on 'sexual grooming' A Pennsylvania public library removed a Pride Month display from its children's section after local officials requested it be taken down, prompting criticism from some community members and reigniting debate over who should influence library programming. "On Friday, I received word from the library that the municipal manager had directed our library director to take down the display in the children's room," Kelly Meredith, president of the Monroeville Public Library Board of Directors, said in a statement, local ABC affiliate WTAE reported Monday. The outlet reported that the Pride display had been up since June 1 and was removed last week despite opposition from Meredith. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION In a June 19 Facebook post resharing the library's photo of the Pride display, Monroeville Councilmember Bill Krut wrote, "Should these books be available for children at the Monroeville Library? I think not… I don’t care what adults do. This is child, sexual grooming." Some of the books featured in the Pride display shown in the photo shared by Krut included "The GayBC’s," "A Kid’s Book About Gay Parents," "Pride Puppy!," "Rainbow: A First Book of Pride," "My Two Moms," and "Sparkle Boy." Lindsay White, a pastor at Crossroads Presbyterian Church in Monroeville and a parent, called Krut’s comments "incredibly offensive." "We utilize the library every week, and the Pride display is an incredible resource in helping my children learn about the reality of the world that we live in. And we are very supportive of the LGBTQ community," White said during a library board meeting. BLISTERING REPORT EXPOSES HOW NATIONAL K-12 GROUP'S DEI AGENDA IS TRICKLING DOWN TO LOCAL SCHOOLS In a statement posted on Facebook Monday, Monroeville Mayor Dennis Biondo Jr., said, "As Mayor, I represent all residents of the Municipality of Monroeville, and I affirm our community’s values of safety, dignity and respect for all residents, including the LGBTQIA+ community. The Monroeville Public Library has served this municipality and surrounding communities for over 60 years, and we are blessed to have such a trusted public institution and its employees, locally accessible for information, community gathering, and literacy." He added, "Libraries must remain safe, welcoming spaces free from intimidation or censorship, so that all patrons have access to the books and resources that they need or want. I will continue to support the library, the Library Board, and the library’s employees to use their expert discretion in creating displays and activities that represent this community." THE ONLY MLB TEAM WITHOUT AN OFFICIAL PRIDE NIGHT HOLDS A FAITH & FAMILY NIGHT IN JUNE INSTEAD WTAE reported that Monroeville Municipal Manager Alex Graziani said the display could be removed due to the upcoming July 4 holiday. "I advised that the June Pride Month display in the children’s section of the Monroeville Public Library could be removed and replaced with a patriotic America 250 display in advance of the Independence Day holiday and our community celebration," Graziani said. Meanwhile, Meredith said that library staff, not public officials, make decisions regarding displays, WTAE reported. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Meredith said, "On Friday, June 26, I was notified of a directive from the municipal manager to the library director to remove the 'Love is Love' display in the children's room. This was following pressure from some members of council, who wanted the display removed. While we do not want to set a precedent that allows council or the municipality to dictate library displays, we ultimately decided to take the display down early to ensure a safe and comfortable working environment for the library staff." Meredith added, "Library displays fall under the library's board-approved collection development policy. The display met all criteria and standards set forth in this policy. The Board of Directors is grateful for all the support the library has received from community members and patrons throughout this." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455384c2ca79de2362b2e4 Angel mom warns Democrats 'we're not going to stop' after emotional House hearing on sanctuary policies te 2026-07-01T17:51:00.019Z Angel mom warns Democrats 'we're not going to stop' after emotional House hearing on sanctuary policies Angel mom Tammy Nobles warned lawmakers Wednesday that families of Americans killed by immigrants in the country illegally will continue confronting Congress until lawmakers take action on sanctuary city policies and illegal immigration. "If you guys don't do anything, it will continue to happen, and we will continue having those meetings, and we'll not be quiet and shut up about our children that were killed by illegal immigrants," she said on "America's Newsroom." "We're not gonna stop, and you're gonna listen to us every single time if you want to or not." GRIEVING MOTHERS SCORCH DEM LAWMAKER AFTER HE PIVOTS DURING HEARING TO ATTACK 'MAGA REPUBLICANS' Nobles' remarks came after fellow angel mom Jessica Gorman drew media attention for her tearful testimony before a House Judiciary subcommittee Tuesday. Gorman's daughter, 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago freshman Sheridan Gorman, was allegedly shot and killed by an illegal immigrant after going to the Chicago lakefront with friends to see the Northern Lights earlier this year. Sheridan's grieving mother accused sanctuary city leaders and politicians of failing to protect her daughter and begged lawmakers to "choose" American citizens over illegal immigrants. "I'm just asking you to choose us. We choose you," Gorman pleaded. GRIEVING PARENTS OF SLAIN STUDENT SHERIDAN GORMAN SPEAK OUT: 'WE CAN'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO ANOTHER FAMILY' "Why does my child matter less than an illegal immigrant...? Every day, I wake up with unimaginable pain. I wake up in the middle of the night and I think, 'Did my daughter cry for me?' She made it 40 feet... running for her life. Did she cry out for me? She died on that pavement all by herself, lonely, bleeding on that pavement, and I will never, ever rest..." Nobles expressed similar pain and frustration with the status quo. Her daughter, Kayla Hamilton, was raped and strangled by an MS-13 gang member in 2022. Since then, Nobles has advocated for families like hers and appeared before Congress to challenge lawmakers she says have been flippant about the policies she believes contribute to such crimes. "I had been sharing Kayla's story to prevent this from happening, and the Democrats on the panel just say the same thing: 'I'm sorry for your loss' and 'We're tired of being [there].' Well, I'm sure you're tired of being in there. It's going to continue to happen [unless something changes]." Fox News' Elizabeth Heckman and Alec Schemmel contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45535cc2ca79de2362b2b8 Cloudflare’s new policy pushes AI companies to pay for publishers’ content te 2026-07-01T17:50:20.584Z Cloudflare’s new policy pushes AI companies to pay for publishers’ content Cloudflare is giving AI companies until September 15 to separate web crawlers used for search from those used for AI training and agents, or risk being blocked by default on many publisher sites. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45518dc2ca79de2362b291 States gird for new Medicaid ‘medically frail’ rule te 2026-07-01T17:42:37.370Z States gird for new Medicaid ‘medically frail’ rule Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, speaks at the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C., in December. CMS last month released guidance on how states should implement new Medicaid work requirements. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) State Medicaid agencies are concerned that many sick and disabled enrollees will lose their coverage because the Trump administration is narrowing the definition of who is “medically frail” enough to get an exemption from new work requirements. Under the tax and spending law President Donald Trump signed a year ago, states that have expanded Medicaid to cover more adults under the Affordable Care Act — 40 states plus the District of Columbia — must mandate that those adults work, go to school or volunteer for at least 80 hours a month. The so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act exempts Medicaid recipients who are “medically frail,” with serious illnesses or disabilities. However, on June 1 the Trump administration published interim guidelines for implementing the law that specify that in order to qualify for the “medically frail” designation, a person must have a significant health condition and be significantly impaired in their ability to work. “This rule helps Americans build skills and independence through work, education, job training, or community service, creating new opportunities for themselves and their families,” said Dr. Mehmet Oz, director for the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, in a statement earlier this month announcing the new guidance. But states had been operating under the assumption that they would use the federal government’s traditional “medically frail” designation, which includes five distinct categories of disabilities and illnesses but does not require Medicaid agencies to determine whether the person can work. States already were scrambling to set up systems to enforce the new work rules by the January 2027 deadline, according to Jocelyn Guyer, managing director at Manatt Health, a consulting firm that advises state Medicaid agencies. “Now, it’s not enough just to have that diagnosis. You may need to go to your doctor and get a special note,” Guyer said. “So, it’s turned it from a very straightforward protection of people with disabilities and significant health conditions into a paperwork morass, where all of a sudden they have to get their healthcare providers involved in documenting and assessing their capacity to work.” Earlier this week, 25 Democratic-led states plus the District of Columbia sued the Trump administration over the work requirement, largely on the basis of the changed “medically frail” guidelines. Several state Medicaid agencies said they’re struggling to understand what they’ll have to do to comply. Even before the “medically frail” change, states were hiring consultants and creating IT systems to verify and track enrollees’ working status, which they never had to do before. “Most states were working on identifying a number of diagnoses that may be able to meet that definition in hopes that that would align with what the final guidance said,” Melanie Bush, deputy secretary for the North Carolina Medicaid Division of Health Benefits, said. “But the layering in of impaired ability to work — there’s not necessarily a data source that aligns with that.” Bush said states are focused on figuring out how to prevent eligible people from dropping off the rolls just because of paperwork and logistical challenges. One analysis estimates that five million people could lose coverage from the original work requirements alone. State leaders and consultants worry that figure could rise significantly with the new guidance. Healthcare providers are worried, too. “This is not what we’re trained to do. Most of us do not do disability determinations and employability assessments regularly, and even if we do feel comfortable with that role, we don’t have time, we’re not like we’re not paid to do that,” said Dr. Benjamin Sommers, a health economist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Primary care providers, in particular, are already overworked and burning out.” Still, Medicaid directors have experience in dealing with major shifts within the program, according to Michael Heifetz, a managing director at consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal and a former Medicaid director in Wisconsin. Heifetz said states regularly face major rule changes and tight timeline challenges, and with greater access to advanced technology to help automate some tasks, he’s confident they will be able to mitigate enrollment losses. Another big help, he said, is that Medicaid enrollees will be allowed to “self-attest” to their eligibility for an exemption through 2027. “States will work through it, and they will again work with the advocacy community to minimize the impact on beneficiaries,” Heifetz said. “There is still some ambiguity in the rule about how self-attestation will work in 2027, because the rule reads that other sources of information and documentation must still be sought, but in the end, self-attestation will prevail.” Jennifer Tolbert, an expert on state health policy at health research group KFF, said there are several data sources states might tap to determine a person’s ability to work, such as insurance claims, prescriptions and a person’s use of durable medical equipment. She cautioned, however, that it will be a challenge to use such data to make thoughtful determinations, especially for people with substance use disorders and mental health issues. To keep eligible people enrolled, California will use text message alerts, mailed notices, and electronic reminders to make sure recipients meet verification deadlines, according to Anthony Cava, a spokesperson for California Department of Health Care Services. Nevertheless, Cava said, the state is concerned that people, including those with serious illnesses and disabilities, will drop off the rolls “solely due to paperwork barriers.” Adela Flores-Brennan, Colorado’s Medicaid director, said states could come under fire for making errors. “We’re also worried about audits,” Flores-Brennan said. “There are new penalties for states, bigger penalties for states related to error rates, and the level of complexity that is being introduced into eligibility right now is making an environment that is ripe for errors because it’s confusing and it’s complex.” Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org  This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Arizona Mirror, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455179c2ca79de2362b274 NPR’s Alito retirement blunder raises eyebrows after reporter's ‘not plausible’ explanation stuns media world te 2026-07-01T17:42:17.395Z NPR’s Alito retirement blunder raises eyebrows after reporter's ‘not plausible’ explanation stuns media world The strange explanation surrounding NPR’s erroneous story about Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito retiring has raised more questions about the journalism debacle.  NPR was forced to retract a story Tuesday by legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg, who wrongly reported that Alito was retiring. NPR published the story headlined, "Justice Samuel Alito, who wrote the opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, retires," but quickly replaced it with an editor’s note insisting it was "erroneously published."  NPR top editor Thomas Evans issued a statement calling the botched report a "misunderstanding," and said Totenberg would appear on "All Things Considered" to explain how the gaffe occurred.  NPR RETRACTS FALSE REPORT CLAIMING JUSTICE SAMUEL ALITO IS RETIRING FROM THE SUPREME COURT But NPR Public Editor Kelly McBride addressed the situation before Totenberg appeared on-air and wrote that Totenberg "misheard" an announcement by Chief Justice John Roberts and simply thought he said Alito was retiring.  Totenberg then appeared on "All Things Considered" Tuesday and provided a different explanation for the "rookie mistake" that contradicted her own public editor. The 82-year-old Totenberg, who has been a working journalist for over five decades, read a letter she wrote to Alito apologizing for the mistake. "Dear Justice Alito, there are no words to adequately apologize for today's error in reporting your retirement. It was entirely my fault," Totenberg said. "I rushed out of the courtroom after the opinion announcements, and when I realized that the usual rush of folks after a few minutes had not happened, I asked somebody what was going on inside, to which the answer was, 'retirement announcements.' I didn't hear the 's' on 'announcements,' and I assumed, something no reporter should ever do, that you were retiring," Totenberg continued. "It was the worst professional mistake of my more than 50 years in journalism. I could go on, but I don't know what else to say, except that I am so, so sorry."  NPR REVEALS HOW A MISHEARD ANNOUNCEMENT LED TO IT FALSELY CLAIMING JUSTICE ALITO WAS RETIRING NPR was then forced to issue its second correction of the day, this time to McBride’s story about Totenberg’s misstep. McBride initially wrote that Totenberg misheard Justice Roberts, but the veteran reporter admitted on-air that she instead heard "somebody" say a retirement was being announced.  "This story was updated to include Totenberg's description of her error, as broadcast on ATC. She did not personally hear the announcement from the chief justice," the correction stated.  Alito's retirement would have massive implications if it happened, as President Donald Trump would be in position to have a fourth Supreme Court pick over his two terms. Totenberg's puzzling explanation not only contradicted McBride but also stunned media observers from across the industry. CNN media reporter Brian Stelter posted her apology on X and was promptly met with confusion.  Axios reporter Alex Thompson replied, "I don’t understand," to which Stelter added, "I don’t either." Others suggested that Totenberg might have jumped the gun on a looming announcement and many wondered why a veteran journalist would have published a pre-written bombshell without clear confirmation.  SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS Bethany Mandel added, "Her version of events is not plausible. She heard the word retirement and assumed Alito and published a whole story?"  "That is not an explanation. It's either a lie or unforgivable incompetence for which she must be fired," journalist Miranda Devine responded.  Former CBS News reporter Scott MacFarlane wrote, "This is staggering. Just… gobsmacking." "The Press Box" host Bryan Curtis added, "This is a different level of screw-up than a pre-write accidentally getting pubbed." Many others took to X with thoughts: NPR has said the process for posting breaking news will be reviewed. In the meantime, McBride blasted her colleague.  "As Totenberg said on air later in the day, ‘It was a rookie mistake.’ But had a rookie made such a mistake, he or she would have been dismissed. To make such an assumption is inexplainable," McBride wrote.  NPR did not immediately respond to a series of questions, including whether Totenberg would be disciplined and how the process for posting breaking news will change. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Alito, an appointee of then-President George W. Bush, has fueled speculation about his retirement because of two factors: his age and the length of his tenure on the bench. The 76-year-old justice has been part of the Court for more than 20 years.  Republicans currently control the U.S. Senate and White House, so a hypothetical Trump nominee wouldn't need Democratic support to get confirmed. Fox News Digital’s Rachel Wolf, Alec Schemmel and Ashley Oliver contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455165c2ca79de2362b26b JK Rowling confronts the BBC for pushing 'propaganda' over its transgender sports headline te 2026-07-01T17:41:57.938Z JK Rowling confronts the BBC for pushing 'propaganda' over its transgender sports headline "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling publicly called out the BBC on Tuesday for pushing "propaganda" in its coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark ruling upholding bans on transgender athletes participating in women’s and girls’ sports. Replying on X to a BBC News headline about the high court’s ruling, Rowling argued the British broadcaster was pushing an ideological position that the public "overwhelmingly rejects." The BBC headline read: "US Supreme Court upholds bans on transgender women in female school and college sports." Rowling immediately pushed back on the framing. "You mean men, men who claim to be women," Rowling wrote, taking issue with the network's refusal to use biological terms in its headline. ANDREW GARFIELD WARNS FANS AGAINST WATCHING 'HARRY POTTER,' CALLS ROWLING ‘SHE THAT SHALL REMAIN NAMELESS’ "You are a national broadcaster that consistently obfuscates facts around sex because you’ve taken an ideological position the public overwhelmingly rejects. This isn’t news, it’s propaganda," she added. In a statement to Fox News Digital, a BBC spokesperson defended the network's reporting by pointing to the context provided within the story itself. "This article states clearly that a transgender woman is a biological man who identifies as a woman," the spokesperson said. The BBC spokesperson also added that the organization recognizes the strong feelings around the subject, and said it continues to review coverage to reflect legal developments, like the Supreme Court ruling. In a 6-3 ruling authored by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of West Virginia and Idaho, which were being sued by transgender athletes to gain access to girls’ sports. The court upheld state laws requiring student athletes to compete on teams and in leagues that match their biological sex, not gender identity, a move that secures similar protections passed in over two dozen other states. WNBA PLAYER OPPOSES NEW OLYMPICS TRANSGENDER POLICY, SAYING THEY DO 'ANYTHING BUT' PROTECT WOMEN Rowling has faced criticism for her views on biological sex, frequently calling for the exclusion of transgender athletes from girls' and women’s sports. She has donated to campaign group For Women Scotland, which legally challenged how the word "woman" is defined by law in the United Kingdom. The BBC article later explained that, "Under those state bans, a transgender woman — a biological male who identifies as a woman — is not permitted to compete in female sports at schools and colleges." On Tuesday, LGBTQ+ advocates and social media users criticized Queen Camilla for posting a photo alongside Rowling with the caption on the Royal family’s Instagram page reading: "With a shared passion for books and a deep commitment to children reading for pleasure, The Queen and author J.K. Rowling have met at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh." "Her Majesty and Ms Rowling discussed the importance of ensuring that young people have access to books and the vital part reading plays in opening doors for future generations." Social media users criticized the decision to meet Rowling during June, which is widely recognized as Pride Month. ROYAL FAMILY FACES BACKLASH FROM CRITICS AFTER QUEEN CAMILLA HOSTS J.K. ROWLING Earlier this year, Rowling praised the International Olympic Committee’s decision to ban transgender women from competing in women’s sports. "Today's ruling by the IOC means a welcome return to fair sport for women and girls, but I'll never forget the scandal of Paris 2024, when people who consider themselves supremely virtuous and progressive publicly cheered on men punching women," she wrote on X. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Her outspoken views on the issues of transgender athletes have frequently put her at odds with other celebrities. Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the original films, and his co-star, Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, have both condemned Rowling’s opinions. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455152c2ca79de2362b262 Ex-Democrat reveals why he ditched party and is running as Republican in blue stronghold te 2026-07-01T17:41:38.484Z Ex-Democrat reveals why he ditched party and is running as Republican in blue stronghold Micah Jones, a former self-described JFK Democrat-turned-Republican, hopes to capitalize on a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity as he looks to flip Massachusetts' 6th Congressional District. "The last time this seat was open was 47 years ago," Jones said. "I think that Massachusetts suffers when we have a one-party congressional delegation that, in my opinion, is less inclined to work across the aisle than representatives of other states." Jones’s campaign is a bet that the district’s independent voters — and maybe some Democrats — will see the benefit Massachusetts could reap from having even just one Republican representative. Coupled with the precedent of the occasional Republican success is the Bay State, Jones believes his race can beat past odds and help decide the balance of power in the House of Representatives. LONE REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FINDS HIS EDGE AS A DOZEN DEMOCRATS CLASH IN RACE TO REPLACE MIKIE SHERRILL Before running for Congress, Jones served in the military in the 82nd Airborne Division, deploying on a tour in Afghanistan from 2014 to 2015. Later, after going to law school, he became an attorney. It was in law school that I began to have doubts about the Democratic Party's direction, describing a "shock" at its trajectory. "This was back in 2016. That was kind of the incubator before everything that we've now dealt with the last few years in regards to more progressive ideologies," Jones recalled. "In particular, when it came to support for law enforcement — this was during the defund the police movement. When it came to a worldview that tried to classify people between oppressors and oppressed, I felt that was fundamentally different than President Kennedy's vision. And at that point, I left the Democratic Party, became an independent." Although Jones believes a portion of the state’s 63% registered independents may share that view, his pitch to them is more pragmatic. He believes Massachusetts is missing out on Republican representation that can coordinate with the GOP administration and Congress. NEW YORK REPUBLICAN IN TOSS-UP DISTRICT GAINS MOMENTUM IN KEY RACE TO DETERMINE HOUSE CONTROL "Our two senators, our nine congressional members — none of them are Republicans. And I think that they have taken a resistance-only mindset," Jones said, referring to their posture towards the Trump administration. "And so, I think that we lose out on significant federal funding, billions of dollars in federal funding. I could be the sole Republican on that delegation, to work with the administration when it makes sense, push back when it doesn't, call balls and strikes, really focus on what's best for not only my district, [and] advocate for Massachusetts as a whole." When asked about the Republican label and why not just run as an independent, Jones said he believes he needs the party’s campaign infrastructure to meaningfully wage a campaign to flip the district. "You do need a party apparatus. And I am a Republican. I would say I’m center-right, especially on fiscal issues," Jones said. "The ‘R’ next to my name is going to be challenging. I fully acknowledge that. I do, however, think there is another 15% to 20% [of voters] that really are independents and really do care about candidate quality." As evidence, Jones pointed to other Republicans who have run successfully in Massachusetts. "People forget, Gov. Mitt Romney was governor of Massachusetts. You have Gov. Bill Weld; you have Gov. Charlie Baker. And so, I think that the Massachusetts Republican model is one to emulate and one that works very well here," Jones said. DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE APOLOGIZES FOR PAST PRO-POLICE, PRO-GUN POSTS IN KEY BATTLEGROUND RACE The district’s current occupant, Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., announced he would pursue a Senate seat rather than reelection. He last won reelection in a 62.9% to 35.2% victory over Republican challenger Robert May Jr., a mechanical engineer. Jones, who is running unopposed in the state’s Sept. 1 primaries, will likely advance to the general election on Nov. 3. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45513fc2ca79de2362b259 Southern Poverty Law Center's money women allegedly used major bank to fund pay-to-hate operation te 2026-07-01T17:41:19.029Z Southern Poverty Law Center's money women allegedly used major bank to fund pay-to-hate operation FIRST ON FOX: A pair of former top executives at the Southern Poverty Law Center used a network of checking accounts to secretly funnel $4.1 million to extremists, including one nicknamed "The Aryan Barbarian," in a long-running pay-to-hate scheme, federal officials told Fox News Digital. The SPLC's former chief financial officer Teenie Hutchison and ex-Intelligence Project chief Heidi Beirich allegedly created the accounts at Synovus Bank in 2008, making the beleaguered nonprofit’s trusted bank a hub for diverting supporters' donations to sketchy groups, sources said. The network ultimately supported secret payments to as many as 50 confidential "field sources," called "Fs," embedded within extremist organizations around the country. Some 13 field sources have so far been identified in court filings. "The SPLC found its niche, and its leaders built a fiefdom with donations they got like crazy," former NYPD intelligence official, attorney and Fox News contributor Paul Mauro said. Former SPLC Chief Executive Officer Margaret Huang allegedly signed a letter acknowledging the operation to Synovus bank officials in September 2021 before ending her tenure at the SPLC in July 2025. SPLC supporters have characterized the payment recipients as "informants," and they included a right-wing extremist behind the infamous 2017 "Unite the Right" protests in Charlottesville, Va. "The government can run informants," said Mauro. "Private industry cannot." The new revelations show the federal investigation of the SPLC is significantly larger than initially reported and was orchestrated at the organization's highest level. Beirich was previously believed to be involved in the alleged payments, but this is the first time federal officials have confirmed her involvement. The new details about the SPLC case emerge as the Trump administration's Justice Department intensifies scrutiny of influential nonprofit organizations. Earlier this week, Fox News Digital reported exclusively that federal prosecutors launched a grand jury investigation into Shanghai-based Marxist tech mogul Neville Roy Singham over possible illegality in his funding of left-wing activist groups. Together, the two federal investigations signal an aggressive effort by the administration to examine whether certain organizations are using their nonprofit status to conceal financial operations. A spokesperson for Synovus Bank told Fox News Digital that the lender, based in Columbus, Ga., is working with federal investigators in the "ongoing investigation."  "As a matter of policy, we do not comment on specific client relationships," the spokesperson said. "We have cooperated fully with the ongoing investigation and will continue to do so." Hutchison, Beirich and Huang didn't respond to repeated requests for comment. In late May, the SPLC filed a motion to dismiss the case. On June 9, days after the U.S. government filed a superseding indictment against the SPLC, the nonprofit's interim president and chief executive officer, Bryan Fair, denied any wrongdoing by the SPLC during a fiery hearing before the House Judiciary Committee. The allegations sit at the center of a federal case accusing the SPLC of bank fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Sources familiar with the investigation say additional charges will likely be filed against individual executives and former executives of the nonprofit. Fox News Digital's investigation unpacks the government’s theory of the alleged operation through the traditional three stages of money laundering: placement, layering and integration. In the first stage of placement, U.S. officials say Hutchison and Beirich created and controlled a hidden financial infrastructure at SPLC that became the entry point for $4.1 million in allegedly illicit payments made to so-called field sources. In the second stage, layering involves moving money through multiple accounts, transactions and entities, like a series of bank accounts Hutchison and Beirich allegedly set up for fake companies, designed to obscure the money's origin. Finally, in the third stage, integration occurs when the proceeds or products of an operation become absorbed into legitimate activities, like the organization's "Extremist Files," and become difficult to distinguish from ordinary business operations. According to federal prosecutors, the SPLC's alleged operation involved all three stages. DOJ LAUNCHES GRAND JURY PROBE INTO MARXIST MOGUL NEVILLE ROY SINGHAM'S FUNDING OF LEFTIST GROUPS Without naming the finance and intelligence chiefs, a grand jury indictment made public in April revealed that "Employee-1" and "Employee-2" in 2008 created a secret network of nine bank accounts at "Bank-1" and "Bank-2" that funneled millions of dollars to far-right extremists from 2014 through 2023. The initial indictment put the amount at $3 million, but it was increased to $4.1 million in a superseding indictment. The indictment notes that "individuals at the SPLC" were the ones who "secretly funneled donated money to the Fs," including "Employee-1," a "person who would become the Chief Financial Officer, and "Employee-2," a "person who would become the Director of the Intelligence Project." Federal officials told Fox News Digital that Hutchison, who moved from the position of treasurer and corporate secretary to chief financial officer, is "Employee-1." They said "Employee-" 2 is Beirich, who started in 1999 as a newly-minted Ph.D. student, and was named deputy director of the Intelligence Project in 2004 and later director of the Intelligence Report. The duo allegedly created a banking account structure under names that didn’t identify the SPLC. The nine shell entities were dubbed "Center Investigative Agency," "Fox Photography," "Imagery Ink," "J&J Electronics," "Kelly's Marine," "North West Technologies," "Tech Writers Group" and "Turner Personnel" and "Rare Books Warehouse." Federal prosecutors allege the accounts were used to pay informants while concealing the source of the money. The government's theory is that the accounts became the financial infrastructure supporting a sprawling money laundering operation. Federal prosecutors allege the accounts remained active for years, surviving leadership transitions and internal turmoil at one of the nation's most influential civil-rights organizations. TOP SPLC OFFICIAL ALLEGEDLY FUNNELED $1.2M TO NEO-NAZI INFORMANT WHO WAS SECRET ROMANTIC PARTNER Over two decades, Beirich became one of the nonprofit’s most influential figures, shaping how "far-right extremism," "White supremacy" and "neo-Nazi hate" were documented, defined and communicated. She testified before Congress, and appeared regularly on television and radio. Journalists, academics and policymakers frequently turned to her for analysis of White-nationalist groups, anti-government movements and domestic extremism. By 2017, ABC News described her as "the woman tracking hate in America." In contrast, Hutchison maintained a low profile and was rarely photographed, working quietly behind the scenes. In 2017, she was on the renewal document for the nonprofit’s "Mississippi Charitable Registration" as the SPLC’s treasurer and secretary, the custodian of financial records and one of the nonprofit’s two "check signers." The SPLC listed its official bank as Sterling Bank, a Synovus Bank subsidiary based in Montgomery. In October 2019, Beirich co-founded a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit, "Global Project Against Hate and Extremism," with a mailing address just three miles away from SPLC headquarters in Alabama's capital. Two months later, Beirich left SPLC after 20 years, according to her LinkedIn profile, just as the dragnet was closing in on the alleged pay-to-hate operation she’d been running for years. According to the SPLC's tax filing that year, she last earned a salary of $173,090 and a bonus of $25,721. The alleged violations continued after Beirich's and Hutchison’s tenures at SPLC. FIRST ON FOX: SPLC'S TAX-EXEMPT STATUS UNDER THREAT AFTER FIERY CAPITOL HILL HEARING One of the alleged recipients of secret SPLC payments was Erich Gliebe, the former chairman of a neo-Nazi organization, National Alliance. Known as "The Aryan Barbarian" during his time as a boxer, Gliebe allegedly received more than $140,000 from the SPLC between 2016 and 2023. At the same time he was allegedly collecting payments, Gliebe was featured in SPLC materials describing extremist figures and organizations. An SPLC "Extremist Files" profile dedicated to Gliebe contained a link through which visitors could donate to the organization. Gliebe didn't respond to requests for comment. Daniel Harvill, a Virginia attorney who represented National Alliance members in litigation involving Gliebe, described Gliebe as an ineffective leader. "Gliebe was a joke," Harvill told Fox News Digital. "He didn't know how to run a business or political organization. There was a large pile of stupid among them." Harvill said bitterness from that litigation may have contributed to Gliebe becoming an SPLC informant. Court filings indicate that larger accounts associated with the alleged operation remained active until August 2020, when the hidden account structure finally drew scrutiny from bank officials. Synovus Bank did an internal investigation, according to court filings. That review became a pivotal moment in the government's case. According to the indictment, around Sept. 9, 2021, the SPLC "President and Chief Executive Officer" and the SPLC "Board Chair" admitted in writing to Bank-1 – Synovus Bank – that the fictitious accounts were "opened for the benefit of the Southern Poverty Law Center operations and operated under the Center’s authority." They signed a document also stating that "pursuant to the discussion we had earlier this week…the accounts had been opened and operated for the benefit of the organization." The CEO was Huang, federal sources told Fox News Digital. Huang's acknowledgment now sits near the center of the government's legal theory that the account structure wasn’t the work of rogue employees but operated under organizational authority. The nonprofit and its sister organization, the SPLC Action Fund, had hired Huang the year earlier, describing her as an "internationally renowned human and civil rights leader," previously serving as executive director of Amnesty International USA. It isn’t clear who the board chair was at the time of the signing, but former Goldman Sachs executive Bennett Grau was a board member at the time. Grau didn't respond to repeated requests for comment. Huang’s role in signing the admission hasn’t been publicly disclosed before. SPLC INDICTMENT BUILDS MOMENTUM FOR BESSENT'S TREASURY TO PROBE PARTISAN NONPROFITS SPLC last listed Hutchison on its IRS 990 filing for the period ending on Oct. 31, 2022. According to that IRS filing, she last earned $237,749 and a bonus of $32,697. In early July 2025, Huang announced her resignation as president, stepping down "to prioritize family life." The board of directors named constitutional scholar and former SPLC Board Chair Bryan Fair as interim president and CEO. The role of senior SPLC officials in this alleged operation raises significant red flags for law enforcement, federal officials told Fox News Digital, saying the alleged activity reflects a structured ecosystem directed from the top. Investigators describe an operation in which financial flows, informants, public content and political work by the SPLC and its sister organizations were closely linked, with senior officials like Hutchison and Beirich positioned to control the money, narrative and influence of the SPLC. INDICTED SPLC CHIEF FACES HOUSE GRILLING OVER ALLEGED SECRET PAYMENTS TO KKK MEMBERS The court proceedings represent a form of vindication for some targets of the SPLC.  Back in October 2017, the SPLC and three other groups – Media Matters, ReThink Media and the Center for New Community – released a publication titled "Field Guide to Anti-Muslim Extremists." In interviews at the time, Beirich confirmed that Democratic billionaire George Soros's Open Society philanthropy had provided funding for the production of the report. The report included Maajid Nawaz, a British Muslim reformer who founded the Quilliam Foundation to combat Islamist extremism. The next year, in 2018, he sued the SPLC for defamation, winning a $3.375 million settlement and a public apology. Nawaz recently told Fox News Digital that the SPLC’s alleged system of paying extremists is corrupt, and he feels vindicated by the federal prosecution against the nonprofit. "They were funding both sides," Nawaz said. "If you control the rules of the game… you’re able to control where the hate comes from… and then control the reaction." "They were taking money to fight hate," he said, "and then funding the very hate they took money to fight." As the SPLC mounts its defense, Nawaz said, "This indictment demonstrates clearly that the SPLC should now cease to exist. It should come to an end." Fox News Digital's Bonnie Chu and Adriana James-Rodil contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45512bc2ca79de2362b250 Fever head coach lectures America on racism and homophobia as Caitlin Clark narrative starts to shift te 2026-07-01T17:40:59.570Z Fever head coach lectures America on racism and homophobia as Caitlin Clark narrative starts to shift Well, the narrative has officially been changed. Well done, WNBA. Well done, Alyssa Thomas. Well done, Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White. One day after Alyssa Thomas played the predictable victim card — saying she's received death threats over the incident with Clark — White further fueled that narrative during her opening statement to the media on Wednesday. SUSPENDED ALYSSA THOMAS RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM TEAMMATE & COACH AFTER CHEAP SHOT ON CAITLIN CLARK And by "statement," I mean a three-minute lecture on how racist and homophobic people are being towards Thomas, and the WNBA. That's right. Nothing on Clark. Nothing on the non-call. Nothing on the league's refusal to do anything about these incidents. A statement, from the opposing team's coach, about inclusivity. Amazing. "Before we start with questions I just want to address what is going on with AT," she said, referring to Thomas. "It's absolutely unacceptable. As a league, as a whole, there's been so much more toxicity, racism, homophobia. Straight out nonsense. Hate-nonsense. It's absolutely unacceptable. Most of this coming from the online community. MERCURY COACH CLAIMS ALYSSA THOMAS SUSPENSION WAS BASED ON 'SOCIAL MEDIA SCREENSHOTS' AFTER CAITLIN CLARK FOUL "Most of this, in my heart of hearts, I believe, not coming from WNBA fans, Indiana Fever fans, I believe it's coming from people using our league, using our players to further divisive agendas. It's not acceptable." Goodness, gracious. Like I said, the story has completely changed. And it's so predictable. This was always the path forward, right? Lord knows the WNBA couldn't allow the Caitlin Clark empathy to continue on for much longer. Nope. If the last few days have taught us anything, it's that we are the problem. The fans. The media. Not Alyssa Thomas. Not the refs. Not the WNBA turning a blind eye. Us. Or, as White put it, the "online community." So, trolls. Internet trolls. That's what Alyssa Thomas and Stephanie White are focused on. Keyboard warriors who mean nothing, and have been around since the dawn of social media, are now the focus. "It's crazy, you know, playing the game, being suspended, just the whole narrative that's being painted out there," Thomas said earlier this week. "It's unfortunate that it's come to this over basketball. A lot of us, myself included, didn't even know the play took place until after the game and now we're being painted as thugs. "And death threats out on us, so it's really unacceptable. It is something that needs to change in this league, and I'm just really sick and tired of it." Give me a break. Internet trolls are a dime a dozen. Social media is a toxic place. I get it. I hate it. But playing the victim card and acting like the WNBA is the only place that deals with this behavior is absurd. It's also, unfortunately, so predictable. This was always where this story was going to go. First Alyssa Thomas puts it out there. Then, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert dusts off the boilerplate statement that every league has saved on their computer: "The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate." Right on cue, she put that out yesterday evening. And now today, Indiana head coach Stephanie White opens up her presser with a lecture on how America is racist and homophobic. Perfect. Right on schedule. Don't be surprised if we get an apology from Caitlin Clark next. Spoiler alert: That's how this movie always ends. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a455104c2ca79de2362b241 Trump Remakes Washington, D.C., Into a Maze of Fences and Guard Members te 2026-07-01T17:40:20.666Z Trump Remakes Washington, D.C., Into a Maze of Fences and Guard Members President Trump seems to have turned swaths of the city into either a construction zone or an armed camp as he seeks to prove that he alone can improve it. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454ed6c2ca79de2362b1e6 Big Medicare change slashes weight-loss drug costs for eligible seniors te 2026-07-01T17:31:02.069Z Big Medicare change slashes weight-loss drug costs for eligible seniors Millions of Medicare beneficiaries struggling with obesity could soon see the cost of weight-loss drugs plummet, as a new federal pilot program launching July 1 expands access to GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Zepbound for eligible seniors. Through a new trial called Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, the federal government is now offering a selection of the brand-name medications to certain Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries for $50 a month, The Associated Press reported. The covered medications include drugmaker Eli Lilly’s Foundayo tablets and Zepbound KwikPens and Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy injections and tablets, all of which have been FDA-approved for weight loss, according to the report. OZEMPIC USERS MAY BE MAKING A MAJOR WEIGHT-LOSS MISTAKE, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS The temporary program is set to run until the end of 2027. This is the first time GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) will be covered by insurance when used solely for weight loss. Prior to this new Medicare pilot, seniors who wanted to access GLP-1s for obesity alone paid about $1,350-$1,650 per month for Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (semaglutide) and about $1,086 monthly for Lilly’s Zepbound (tirzepatide). However, both manufacturers offered some cash-pay options that significantly reduced those prices for eligible patients. GLP-1 WEIGHT LOSS DRUGS ARE RESHAPING THE BRIDAL INDUSTRY AS SHOPS RUSH ORDERS AND REQUIRE NEW WAIVERS There are some parameters surrounding the coverage — older adults must have had a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher when they started GLP-1 therapy, or a BMI of 27 or higher alongside another health condition, such as a past heart attack or stroke or prediabetes. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Those who already have insurance coverage for other diseases, such as diabetes and sleep apnea, are not eligible for the program. There are more than 70 million Americans currently enrolled in Medicare, 10 million of whom are overweight or obese, according to Juliette Cubanski, vice president and director of the program on Medicare policy at the healthcare research nonprofit KFF. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER "For many older Americans living with obesity, this is a moment they and their families have been waiting for," Jamey Millar, Novo Nordisk’s executive vice president of U.S. operations, said in a press release. "The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program offers a new, affordable path to an FDA-approved treatment that was previously not covered." CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, said he hopes the program can help his agency collect data to potentially work toward longer-term coverage, while providing immediate relief to cash-strapped older Americans, AP reported. "The sheer cost of these medications is a huge barrier to access," he said in a call with reporters. "That ends today." Oz told reporters that CMS plans to "carefully track participation and outcomes" to see whether an extension of the Bridge program or another solution is the best way to move forward. He told AP a federal law permanently allowing the coverage is "not essential right now" but something "for Congress to debate amongst themselves." "We can’t decide what’s going to happen long term with Bridge until we see some of the data," he said, adding that there are ongoing talks with drug companies to lower costs. One potential concern is that older patients tend to have more adverse effects to medication in general , according to Dr. Micah Eimer, a clinical assistant professor of cardiology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "Specifically, in our research, older patients on blood pressure medications were more likely to experience hypotensive side effects, such as fainting and dizziness, after starting a GLP-1," he said in a statement. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454ec2c2ca79de2362b1dd Florida woman tells police she knows nothing about drugs that allegedly fell out of her ‘jail purse’ te 2026-07-01T17:30:42.625Z Florida woman tells police she knows nothing about drugs that allegedly fell out of her ‘jail purse’ How did that get there? That's what police in Florida say a woman asked over the weekend after the jail scanner picked up an abnormality in her "lower region" and a baggie of cocaine allegedly hit the floor while she was in a change out room. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office reported that Reagan Cox was arrested on charges of resisting an officer without violence during a traffic stop. There's not a mention of why she was stopped in the first place, but that's neither here nor there. The story picked up after she was transported to jail and the scanner noticed something in what Sheriff Wayne Ivey described in a Facebook post about the alleged incident as her "Jail Purse." CALLING 911 BECAUSE A BAR WON’T SERVE YOU A JELL-O SHOT IS WHAT POLICE REFER TO AS A MISUSE OF SERVICES "Our Corrections Deputies moved Cox to a change out room where she was observed trying to cover her buttocks area with her hand," the sheriff wrote about what took place after the abnormality was picked up by the scanner. "After moving her hand, a baggie dropped to the floor containing approximately 3.8 grams of cocaine!!" Cox is alleged to have said that "she knew nothing about the drugs." She then, according to Ivey, pointed the finger at someone who "must have put it in there during an 'intimate encounter!!'" ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! The accuracy of that version of how the alleged baggie of drugs made its way into the jail will more than likely have to be decided during a court proceeding of some kind, because Cox picked up another charge. On top of her resisting without violence charge, she was charged with introduction of contraband into a detention facility. Ivey ended the Facebook post with some knowledge for the public to keep in mind as they're navigating their way through daily life. He wrote, "Folks, if not realizing that someone left cocaine in your 'Jail Purse,' is not a good enough reminder to not do drugs, then I don’t know what is!!" Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454c56c2ca79de2362b160 Even Honda is pivoting to data centers te 2026-07-01T17:20:22.221Z Even Honda is pivoting to data centers Honda wants in on the lucrative energy storage market. This week it began producing batteries destined for data centers, not driveways. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454a24c2ca79de2362b118 A missing kitten rode under a car hood. AI brought her home te 2026-07-01T17:11:00.099Z A missing kitten rode under a car hood. AI brought her home Ame thought Lucy might be hiding upstairs. The family's kitten had missed dinner, which felt odd. Still, cats hide. They nap in strange places. Sometimes, they ignore everyone. But when breakfast came the next morning, Lucy still did not show up. "When we fed dinner one night, and she didn't come running, I thought maybe she was upstairs in the kids' bedroom, but when we fed breakfast the next morning, she didn't come running again, so then I knew for sure she wasn't in the house," Ame said. That is when a normal morning in Dayton, Ohio, turned into a frantic search. Lucy was less than a year old. Ame's two young children were devastated. And wherever Lucy had gone, her family knew she had already spent the night away from home. "If she had been out all night, we were really worried," Ame said. Ame's daughter, Evi, felt that fear immediately. "I was really sad and cried a lot. It was really heartbreaking," Evi said. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report PRO WRESTLING STAR KILLER KROSS SHARES SWEET, LIFE-ALTERING MOMENT WHEN A CAT CAME INTO HIS LIFE After the first wave of searching, Ame turned to Petco Love Lost. "I found out about Petco Love Lost through a friend of mine who also had a cat go missing. She said Petco Love Lost is a website where you can match from finders who have uploaded pictures of pets that they've found," Ame said. Ame created a lost pet profile and uploaded Lucy's picture. The free nationwide database uses AI photo-matching technology to compare lost pet photos with found pet reports. Petco Love says the system looks at more than 500 visual markers to identify pets by features that stay with them wherever they go. Then came the lead Ame needed. "It was actually very easy and quick. It was only about 10 or 12 hours before I got a lead on where Lucy might be," Ame said. A finder had listed a cat who looked like Lucy as found. Soon after, Ame received a photo match alert. The price surprised her, too. "I was really surprised that Petco Love Lost is not subscription-based like most things are. It's completely free, so it's accessible to everyone," she said. For a family already scared and stressed, that free access made a big difference. Then Ame learned where Lucy had gone. "She was stuck under the hood of somebody's car. This person had driven to a shopping center across the highway, got out of their car and heard meowing and realized that the meowing was coming from under the hood of their car," Ame said. The driver got Lucy out safely. Thankfully, the kitten had not been hurt. The finder kept Lucy safe and uploaded her photo to Petco Love Lost as a found pet. That report connected with Ame's lost pet profile. From there, Ame could finally arrange the reunion her family had been hoping for. "I connected with the finder on Petco Love Lost and was able to message back and forth. We organized a time to meet up and we were just ecstatic, and overjoyed, and in shock that we actually found her and also that we found her so quickly and in such a short space of time. Having Lucy home is a relief," Ame said. Ame's family brought Lucy home a little more than 24 hours after she disappeared. For Ame's children, Lucy's return changed the whole mood in the house. Ame's daughter, Evi, went from heartbreak to happy tears. "When she was found, my mom put her on my lap. I was having a little bit of some happy tears," Evi said. Then came the sentence every pet parent wants to hear after a scare like this. "When Lucy was found, I was so happy to have her back," Evi said. That is the kind of reunion that sticks with you. A tiny kitten vanished, rode under a car hood, crossed a highway and still made it home because a finder uploaded one photo. WOMAN’S CANCER BATTLE TAKES UNBELIEVABLE TURN WHEN HER DOG GETS SAME DIAGNOSIS Lucy's story also shows why lost pet searches need more than one safety step. The finder tried to get Lucy scanned for a microchip. But that did not solve the problem. "The finder took her to scan the microchip, they couldn't even find it, they couldn't locate it. Petco Love Lost was literally the only link between us and Lucy to get her back," Ame said. That is important because many pet parents assume a microchip will always lead straight home. A microchip can help, but someone still needs access to a scanner. The chip also has to be found and connected to current contact details. Petco Love Lost adds another option. Instead of relying only on tags or a scan, it uses a pet's photo and physical features. Chelsea Staley, president of Petco Love, explains it this way: "Collars break, tags can fall off, and microchip scanners aren't always immediately accessible. Petco Love Lost offers an additional layer of protection by using AI to recognize distinctive physical features that stay with pets wherever they go. You know your pet is one of a kind, and so does Petco Love Lost." In Lucy's case, that extra layer helped bring her back. Lucy's story hits at a time when many pet parents need the reminder. July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month. The month also brings holiday fireworks, which can scare pets and send them running. Petco Love says more pets go missing during the summer than during any other time of year, and fireworks help drive that spike. That makes Lucy's story a good reminder to prepare before your pet bolts. Petco Love encourages pet parents to register their pets on Petco Love Lost at petcolove.org/lost/register-pet/ while they are safe at home. Then, if something goes wrong, they can activate a search with a single click. Set it up before the fireworks start. Check it before guests come over. Take care of it before someone says, "I thought the cat was upstairs." A lost pet search can turn emotional really fast. You may be scared, tired and unsure where to start. Lucy's story shows why preparation can help. Ame already had a clear photo of Lucy. She created a lost pet profile. Then a finder uploaded a found pet report, and the system connected them. That does not mean you should skip collars, ID tags or microchips. Keep those in place. However, Petco Love Lost can give you another way to search when those tools do not work fast enough. The biggest lesson is timing. Registering your pet while everything is calm can save precious time later. Your phone holds your email, passwords, photos, banking apps and personal data. In this free CyberGuy Live replay, Kurt the CyberGuy walks you step by step through simple phone security fixes you can do at your own pace. You’ll learn how to improve your privacy settings, spot the latest phone scams, use trusted security tools and walk away with a simple checklist to stay protected. Watch the replay and get our checklist here: CyberGuyLive.com RIDGLAN FARMS RESCUE BEAGLES FIND NEW LIFE HELPING VETERANS OVERCOME WAR TRAUMA WITH PAWS OF WAR Lucy's story could have ended badly. She slipped out, hid under a car hood and rode across a highway without the driver knowing she was there. Instead, one uploaded photo helped bring her home. Petco Love Lost matched Lucy's image with Ame's lost pet profile, and the family had her back in a little more than 24 hours. That to me is the reason this story is worth sharing. Technology can feel cold, but in this case, it helped a family get their kitten back. Have you ever had a pet go missing, and what helped bring them home? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454a10c2ca79de2362b10f Police identify two teen suspects after Penn State student shot dead over stolen phone te 2026-07-01T17:10:40.649Z Police identify two teen suspects after Penn State student shot dead over stolen phone Philadelphia police have issued arrest warrants for two 16-year-olds who allegedly killed Billy Schmidt on June 6 while he was walking home from an NBA Finals watch party. A spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department told Fox News Digital that the warrants were issued for two boys who are both 16. Fox News Digital is withholding their names because they are minors and haven't yet been charged. Schmidt, 22, was killed during an armed robbery attempt that happened June 6 at about 1:30 a.m. Officers found the Penn State student with a gunshot wound to his chest. He was taken to a local hospital but pronounced dead at 1:47 a.m. The teens are not yet in custody. MANHUNT UNDERWAY AFTER COLLEGE STUDENT FATALLY SHOT CHASING ROBBERS WHO ALLEGEDLY STOLE HIS PHONE In surveillance video, Schmidt can be heard saying, "Give me my phone," before a gunshot could be heard moments later. The video shows a man throwing a cellphone before another individual can be seen running around a corner being chased by Schmidt, who was then shot in the chest. The shooter was described by police as a Black male between 5’3″ and 5’5″ "wearing all dark (black) clothing with a light gray camouflage-colored facemask." Officials said this person was armed with a handgun. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST The second suspect was described by police as 5’8″ with braids and was "wearing a light gray colored custom designed "KONFUSED" brand hooded sweatshirt with a design on the front that includes three skulls and crossbones with a bejeweled halo above each skull." The U.S. Marshals Service has also joined the search for the teens, offering $5,000 for information leading to their arrest. MANHUNT UNDERWAY AFTER COLLEGE STUDENT FATALLY SHOT CHASING ROBBERS WHO ALLEGEDLY STOLE HIS PHONE Bill Schmidt, the victim's father, told ABC7 that his son was on his way home from a bar where he was watching the NBA Finals with friends. "He was a really good person who cared about everybody and never hurt or bothered a soul, never bothered anyone and for him to get shot like that is a travesty," Bill Schmidt said. "I'm shocked when they stole his phone that he chased them." SIGN UP TO GET TRUE CRIME NEWSLETTER Anna Schmidt, Billy's sister, told reporters she doesn't know how anyone could have killed her brother. MANHUNT UNDERWAY AFTER COLLEGE STUDENT FATALLY SHOT CHASING ROBBERS WHO ALLEGEDLY STOLE HIS PHONE "I miss him so much, and I don't understand how someone can do this," Anna Schmidt said. Schmidt was a student at Penn State World Campus studying journalism, where he was set to graduate in December. SEND US A TIP HERE "We are heartbroken over the tragic death of William Schmidt and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends," the university said in a statement to Fox News Digital. Police are urging anyone with information on the suspects' whereabouts to contact 215-686-TIPS. Fox News' CB Cotton contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4547e0c2ca79de2362b0a8 WWE star touts pro wrestlers tearing it up on independent circuit te 2026-07-01T17:01:20.941Z WWE star touts pro wrestlers tearing it up on independent circuit Matt Cardona knows a thing or two about the independent pro wrestling scene. After his release from WWE in April 2020, Cardona rebranded himself as the "Indy God" after spending years as Zack Ryder. He spent years cultivating his new look through several independent promotions and top companies in the U.S. whose names aren’t WWE or AEW. COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS DIGITAL There are several pro wrestlers on the indies currently who are finding success with their own branding and marketing as well. Cardona named a few in a recent interview with Fox News Digital when asked who he thought was the new "Indy God." "Who’s the ‘Indy God?’ Oh, I don’t know if anyone’s the ‘Indy God.’ But there are people who definitely have stepped up. For instance, Shotzi, who was in WWE at one time. When she left, I think she copied the Matt Cardona formula and good on her and we had some incredible matches together. She’s somebody who cares. I think effort is very, very important not just in independent wrestling but professional wrestling in general. If you aren’t doing whatever you can to succeed, like, if you don’t treat yourself like a big deal, I don’t think anyone else will. I would definitely put Shotzi on that list. "Two others to look out for on the independents – Richard Holliday. He’s another one who is always on social media. He’s always trying to force himself down your throat just like I did when I was gone. When you’re not in WWE, you can’t take a day off of being on your phone. Like, Chelsea (Green), would always yell at me for always being on my phone, ‘You’re posting too much on social media.’ I said, babe, if you don’t want to be on your phone, WWE will post about you, WWE Shop will post about you, USA Network will post about you, ESPN, Netflix. If I don’t post about myself, no one is going to post about me. So, Richard Holliday, he’s taking that to heart. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "Also, Ben Bishop, another guy. So, I would say, Shotzi, Ben Bishop and Richard Holliday, the three to look out for." Right now, Shotzi is the Major League Wrestling women’s world champion and has appeared in several different promotions around the world. Holliday and Bishop have also built up massive followings on social media, helping raise their profiles in the sport. Cardona shared some advice to those who were trying to follow his path. "It’s funny because guys and girls in the independents, they’d always ask me for advice. The answer was simple – don’t quit," he said. "Everyone has a different path. Everybody has a different journey but if you don’t quit … here’s what I would say, if you don’t quit, you might make it. If you quit, you definitely won’t. It’s as simple as that." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4547cdc2ca79de2362b09f NFL Hall of Famer Dwight Freeney calls out league for putting games on too many streaming services te 2026-07-01T17:01:01.500Z NFL Hall of Famer Dwight Freeney calls out league for putting games on too many streaming services Dwight Freeney understands why the NFL has leaned further into streaming. He also sees why many fans are frustrated. The Pro Football Hall of Famer said he believes NFL games should remain broadly accessible, even as the league continues to place more games across subscription platforms. Freeney, who played 16 NFL seasons and finished his career with 125.5 sacks, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024. "I don’t like it," Freeney said when asked about the growing number of services fans may need to follow the league. "Just to be honest with you, I think it should be accessible to all fans, no matter what your economic bracket is." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The issue has become a larger part of the NFL media conversation. The league’s 2026 schedule includes games across traditional broadcast networks, cable and multiple streaming platforms. According to the NFL, Prime Video will carry Thursday Night Football, Netflix will stream games in Week 1, on Thanksgiving Eve and on Christmas Day, and Peacock will exclusively stream a regular-season game in January. Freeney said the local fan experience should remain central. "If you can afford to get the local channels, you should be able to watch your favorite team on your local networks," he said. "And it shouldn’t be blacked out based on streaming and all of that." The NFL has noted that its games remain available free over the air in local markets. In its 2026 schedule announcement, the league said it is the only sports league that presents all regular-season and postseason games on free over-the-air television in local markets. But the broader access question has still drawn scrutiny in Washington. In June, the House Judiciary Committee released an interim staff report on the Sports Broadcasting Act and the NFL’s media model, saying fans increasingly need a combination of over-the-air, cable and streaming services to watch their favorite teams. The committee also said some fans must pay more than $600 per season to watch all of one team’s games. NFL ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL THANKSGIVING EVE GAME BETWEEN PACKERS AND RAMS WILL BE STREAMED ON NETFLIX Sen. Mike Lee also asked the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission to examine whether the NFL’s current distribution practices still fit within the Sports Broadcasting Act’s limited antitrust protection. In that request, Lee said fans spent nearly $1,000 last season when cable, streaming and internet costs were combined. Freeney did not dismiss the business side of the arrangement. He said the league’s streaming and television deals have financial benefits, including for players. "I understand the money and the economics behind it," Freeney said. "A lot of money goes into signing those contracts with the Amazons and, you know, and I don’t even know if it’s Netflix now... I know it helps the players obviously, because the more money that you, the deals that you do off the field and TV deals, the more money the players are gonna get. And so I know it’s good for the league." But he is still concerned for the consumers. "The fans, I’m not so sure," Freeney said. That balance is where Freeney’s position sits. He recognizes that streaming gives some viewers more flexibility. Fans who have the right subscriptions can watch on tablets, phones and other devices, without being tied to a traditional television setup. "If you can afford it, great," Freeney said. "And then you have your iPad, you can bring it, you can stream everything, you don’t have to be at home, that’s great." But Freeney still believes the league should look for a model that keeps streaming available while preserving local access. "Maybe there’s a combination of things to whereas though they can do to whereas though you have the ability to stream, but it also is on your local networks," Freeney said. "I wish there was a way to figure that out." Freeney acknowledged that he is not personally shut out by the current system. He said he subscribes to the services he needs, and then some. But he knows that does not reflect the reality for every fan. "I’m a junkie," Freeney said. "I have all of them. I have every single streaming. Even if I don’t need it, I have it... "I’m blessed enough to be able to have that ability to get all of those things," Freeney said. "My cable bill or my streaming bill is probably one of the higher ones... Not everyone has that ability maybe," Freeney said. "So, you know, I think they should have some way of changing certain things." Even with every service, Freeney said the modern setup can still be difficult to follow. "Sometimes, you know, even me, I’m having a hard time finding games from time to time," he said. When asked what he is most interested in seeing during the upcoming NFL season, Freeney said he is looking for the team that exceeds expectations. "I think it’s just seeing what team is gonna be the new team this year that no one’s talked about," Freeney said. He said preseason predictions often miss on at least a few teams, even when the league’s most established rosters remain near the top. Every season, he said, there are teams that enter the year with little attention before emerging as legitimate contenders. "So I wanna see who those surprises are," Freeney said. As for Freeney's longtime team, the Indianapolis Colts, he saidIndianapolis Colts, saying Daniel Jones’ health will be a major factor in how far the offense can go. He praised head coach Shane Steichen’s ability to work with quarterbacks and said Jones could benefit if he trusts the system. "If Daniel can stay healthy, I mean, sky’s the limit," Freeney said. Defensively, Freeney said the Colts need to improve in key areas, particularly with the pass rush. As one of the best pass rushers of his generation, he said that will be one of the first things he watches. "My question is, are we gonna get the pass rush that we need?" Freeney said. "If we can kind of mix the coverage with the rush, I think we’re gonna be good." Freeney was more cautious when asked about the Seahawks’ chances of repeating. He said winning back-to-back championships is one of the hardest things to do in the NFL, especially in a competitive division. "I would bet against the fact that they’re gonna repeat," Freeney said. "But that doesn’t mean they’re not gonna have a good year." Freeney is making his return to the American Century Championship this month, saying he is trying to measure how much progress he has made since last year. "I’m trying to see if my golf game is up to par," Freeney said, adding that he believes he has "an opportunity to be better this year than last year." He described his previous performance as uneven, saying his game was "really good until it’s not." Freeney said the key for him is limiting the damage when a round starts to slip away. "My whole goal right now is just to get to a point where I can be consistent, and my bad can’t be that bad," he said. SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS Freeney said he is not focused on beating one particular competitor. Instead, he wants to manage the course, avoid letting one bad stretch turn into several bad holes, and put himself in position for a respectable finish. "I’m not playing any individual, I’m really playing the course," Freeney said. "As long as I can stay steady, play golf the way that I know I can play, I’m gonna be in the top 15, hopefully." He said he does not believe his game is ready to win the event, but he thinks he can compete for a top-15 or top-10 finish. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4547bac2ca79de2362b096 DAVID MARCUS: Calling 9/11 'inevitable' is same as justifying it, and it is disgraceful te 2026-07-01T17:00:42.037Z DAVID MARCUS: Calling 9/11 'inevitable' is same as justifying it, and it is disgraceful The parade of Democratic Socialists ousting incumbent Democrats rolled on in Denver on Tuesday night with upstart 29-year-old, Ethiopian-born Milot Kiros defeating Rep. Diana DeGette, first elected to the seat before 9/11. Her would-be replacement justifies those attacks. Kiros and her commie allies may use the word "inevitable" as a euphemism for "justified," but in this context, they mean exactly the same disgraceful thing. In a recent interview, the socialist Kiros was asked if 9/11 was an inevitable consequence of American foreign policy. MUSLIM MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINNER SUGGESTED AMERICA DESERVED 9/11 IN UNEARTHED VIDEO "Inevitable in the sense that we destabilized a lot of the Middle East, which led people to believe that another act of violence was the only response," Kiros replied. "Our responsibility is to get rid of those conditions that lead to violence in the first place." Let’s be clear, by calling the cold-blooded murder of nearly 3,000 Americans "inevitable," Kiros is saying that Usama bin Laden had no other choice but to commit this massacre, and further, that if only the United States had acted differently, then maybe Bin Laden could have avoided it. That is absolutely a justification for 9/11, because if the United States created the conditions that made it impossible for anything but a 9/11 style attack to happen, then how can we blame Bin Laden? He had no choice, right? FIREFIGHTER BROTHER OF 9/11 VICTIM INCENSED BY 'RADICAL' MUSLIMS WINNING KEY DEM PRIMARIES Some will argue that Kiros is simply stating the cause of 9/11, not justifying that cause. Obviously, the cause of 9/11 was resentment and anger at U.S. foreign policy. But when you say that cause made the attack "inevitable," you are saying Al Qaeda only did what it had to do. With all due respect to Kiros, who was 4 years old when the attack on our nation that to this day still leaves searing emptiness in the hearts of the tens of thousands who lost loved ones, there was nothing inevitable about it. Not one thing. For decades before 9/11, America sought peace in the region time and again. In fact, it was in 2000 that former President Bill Clinton says then-Palestinian leader Yasser Arrafat "walked away from a once-in-a-lifetime peace opportunity." A year later, Clinton’s efforts would be rewarded in American blood. MUSLIM MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINNER SUGGESTED AMERICA DESERVED 9/11 IN UNEARTHED VIDEO I’m sorry, but Kiros and her purple-haired communist band of overeducated theater kids are not going to make America the bad guy of 9/11. We know exactly who the bad guy was, which is why we celebrated when former President Barack Obama took him out. In fairness to Kiros, while she is clearly saying that Bin Laden had justification for 9/11 based on America’s actions, she isn’t quite as ghoulish as podcaster and apparent kingmaker of the Democratic Party, Hasan Piker, who says America "deserved" 9/11. One can believe, as supporters of Israel do, that military action leading to civilian casualties is justified even though no civilian deserves to die, but clearly Piker does believe our 3,000 countrymen had that fate coming. This attempt by the far-left Marxists to make 9/11 a day of shame for Americans is not likely to work outside their small bubbles, even if they say "inevitable" instead of "justified." Because even 25 years later, what that day means to most Americans is pride in the sacrifice of those who gave their lives. Of course, for the Democratic Socialists, 9/11 is not about New York, or Washington, D.C., or Shanksville, Pa. Like everything else, it is about the poor terrorists in the Middle East who, in the DSA’s depraved minds, have no choice but to kill Americans. Just as, for those of us aged enough to remember the Cold War, it seems crazy that we must explain again why communism is bad, for those of us who truly remember 9/11, it seems crazy to blame the victims. But here we are. Not every act of murder and terrorism committed by jihadis across the globe is the inevitable result of American foreign policy, which by the way, has done more to uplift the freedom and prosperity of the global poor than any nation in history. Don’t let the communists get away with this shameful euphemism. Words mean things, and what Kiros and her ilk are clearly saying is that the attack on America was made inevitable and therefore justified, by America and its people. And it’s disgusting. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM DAVID MARCUS Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45459bc2ca79de2362b03b Missing mom's remains found, suspect with rap sheet already in jail on different charge te 2026-07-01T16:51:39.821Z Missing mom's remains found, suspect with rap sheet already in jail on different charge Deputies discovered the remains of a young mother buried at a home in North Carolina. Jordan Wishon was reported missing by the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office on Friday. Two days after she vanished, investigators pivoted the search to a murder investigation after making the grim find while executing a search warrant. In a post to social media, the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office said in part, "At approximately 5:17 a.m., investigators executed a search warrant at a residence on Pebblestone Lane in Rutherfordton. During the search, human remains were discovered buried on the property. Investigators were able to positively identify the remains as Jordan Wishon." FITNESS TRAINER TOLD FRIEND SHE WAS 'SCARED FOR HER LIFE' WEEKS BEFORE BODY WITH MATCHING CLOTHING FOUND 📩 Want me to investigate? kelsie.cairns@fox.com 📸 Instagram: kelsiecairns_tv 🎥 Facebook: Kelsie Cairns The man accused of killing her has had prior run-ins with the law, reports show. Jaydakis Kashaune Hamilton, 25, of Rutherfordton, North Carolina, is now facing a first degree murder charge. Hamilton was already in jail on another unrelated charge. WLOS reported Hamilton was arrested for an alleged vehicle theft in Polk County, and prior to that the North Carolina State Highway Patrol charged him with reckless driving offenses and resisting arrest. COLD CASE CRACKED AS ILLINOIS SUSPECT CHARGED IN BRUTAL 1993 KILLING OF MOTHER FOUND SLAIN IN FIELD Hamilton is currently in jail in Polk County awaiting his newest charge. According to her obituary, Wishon was a 30-year-old mother who had one child and a fiance. Casandra Toney, who said she is Wishon's sister, made a post to Facebook that said, "I’m gonna miss you so much. This is unfair. You did not deserve this, but I can’t promise you we will get justice for you." She went on to say, "I hope you know at the end of the day. I do love you and we’ll always love you. You’re my sister you’re my big sister at that." SAVANNAH GUTHRIE PLEADS FOR TIPS AS RANSOM NOTE CLAIMS MOM IS DEAD: 'SOMEBODY KNOWS SOMETHING' The murder investigation is ongoing. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454574c2ca79de2362b02d Ex-C.I.A. Chief Asks for Order Forcing Trump Administration to Preserve Records te 2026-07-01T16:51:00.910Z Ex-C.I.A. Chief Asks for Order Forcing Trump Administration to Preserve Records Lawyers for John O. Brennan said they want the materials saved in anticipation of bringing a vindictive prosecution motion if charges against Mr. Brennan are ultimately filed. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454560c2ca79de2362b00c Autonomous vehicle hype is back, and Humble Robotics is bringing it to freights te 2026-07-01T16:50:40.941Z Autonomous vehicle hype is back, and Humble Robotics is bringing it to freights The autonomous vehicle space is starting to feel like a repeat of the 2016 hype cycle. Travis Kalanick is back building a robotics company, and the talent wars and capital are heating up the same way they did the first time around. The money’s flowing back, and it’s the people who lived through that Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45454cc2ca79de2362b000 Arizona governor vetoes bill that would weaken referendums and empower data centers te 2026-07-01T16:50:20.981Z Arizona governor vetoes bill that would weaken referendums and empower data centers Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs recently vetoed a bill pushed by a data center developer lobbyist that would have significantly reduced the power of citizen initiatives statewide. HB 2873, passed by the state legislature in late April, would have allowed referendum petitions brought forth by Arizona citizens to be withdrawn before they are put to a vote. The Arizona Secretary of State defines referendums as the “method by which voters may veto a law (or part of a law) by gathering signatures from registered voters to place the issue on the ballot.” The bill was first introduced in the Arizona House of Representatives in January 2026 and after passing both chambers, the bill made its way to Hobbs’ desk in June for her rejection. According to Natali Fierros, executive director of Rural Arizona Action (RAZA), the organization assumed that Hobbs would most likely sign the bill. However, pressure from the public and advocacy organizations may have pushed her to veto. While the bill does not mention data centers directly, the referendum process was recently relevant in the Town of Marana, where construction of the controversial Project Blue is beginning. Earlier this year, residents collected signatures in an attempt to put the proposed data center to a vote. The residents later sued the town after their petitions were rejected. Had HB 2873 been signed, the grounds for appealing such rejections would have disappeared. “[This is] about self-determination,” Fierros said in an interview with CALÓ News. “The referendum process is empowering the people of Arizona and it’s been pivotal to our history. It’s a way for the public to really make their voice heard. Interfering with that referendum process, to us, is an attack on direct democracy.” The fight against HB 2873 began with Marana residents organizing, collecting signatures and challenging data centers being proposed in their backyards. At a Marana Planning Commission meeting in Dec. 2025, activists and residents booed the unanimous vote to rezone land for data centers. “We brought Marana residents to the Capitol,” Fierros said. “We helped mobilize — like literally carpooled — down to the Capitol so that residents could share with lawmakers directly.” Fierros also mentioned the environmental concerns associated with data centers and how they might affect the overall appeal of living in Arizona. While Marana residents currently face the worst of the data centers’ effects, other Arizona cities could also see environmental consequences. “If they did this to [the Marana] community, it could be replicated elsewhere,” Fierros said. “It would then become a tool in the toolbox of data center lobbyists.” Pressure from lobbyists helped pass HB 2873. “It continues to be a concern when lobbyists for developers or corporations can come in and throw their weight around with elected officials,” Fierros said. “Citizens come out on the losing end of that.” The upcoming midterm elections — which will take place in Arizona on July 21 — are expected to impact Arizona politicians seeking reelection. “You think about, ‘what is it that I want in my backyard where I’m raising a family?’” Fierros said. “It does mean being involved. It does mean casting a vote. It does mean civic participation. Whether you do politics or you don’t do politics, politics is going to do you.” As Fierros points out, politics is inevitable, and it is better to speak about the subject than to pretend it is not contentious or controversial. “These are not sexy conversations,” Fierros said. “They’re smack dab in the middle of the day, in the middle of a work week and people are still showing up. It matters to people. And if it matters to people, it should matter to the electeds who are representing them.” Most legislative processes in Arizona take place in Phoenix. Activists like Fierros, however,  encourage all Arizonans to unite against predatory practices by companies and governments. “You don’t have to live here to be concerned about the expansion of these data centers,” Fierros said. “The thing that connects us all is the water. There is not an unlimited supply of water in our state.” The post Arizona governor vetoes bill that would weaken referendums and empower data centers appeared first on AZ Luminaria. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a454309c2ca79de2362afc0 Two people climb to the top of Empire State Building with massive banner te 2026-07-01T16:40:41.379Z Two people climb to the top of Empire State Building with massive banner Two people climbed on top of the Empire State Building Wednesday afternoon holding a banner reading "when the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace." The New York City Police Department (NYPD) confirmed officers are responding. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4540b0c2ca79de2362af5c Russian generals' assassinations expose growing rift inside Putin's security apparatus te 2026-07-01T16:30:40.773Z Russian generals' assassinations expose growing rift inside Putin's security apparatus For the second time in little more than a year, a blast tore through the Moscow suburb of Balashikha, Russia, and left a Russian military figure dead. On June 9, explosives planted under a BMW detonated as the driver began leaving a parking lot, according to independent Russian outlet The Insider. The outlet identified the man killed as Lt. Gen. Damir Davydov, a Russian Defense Ministry official responsible for supplying missiles and artillery ammunition to Russian forces fighting in Ukraine. The location was striking. The explosion occurred roughly 1,150 feet from the site where Lt. Gen. Yaroslav Moskalik, deputy chief of the Main Operations Directorate of Russia's General Staff, was killed in a car bombing in April 2025, according to the French newspaper Le Monde. 'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET Months before Moskalik’s death, another senior Russian officer was assassinated in Moscow.  Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, the head of Russia’s nuclear, biological and chemical protection troops, was killed when a bomb hidden in an electric scooter exploded outside an apartment building. A source in Ukraine’s Security Service, known as the SBU, told Reuters the agency carried out the operation. Together, the attacks are part of a broader pattern of assassinations and attempted assassinations targeting senior Russian military figures — a campaign that a European intelligence source says is now exposing tensions inside Putin’s own security system. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, senior Russian military figures have been killed in missile strikes, drone attacks, car bombings, crashes and frontline combat — a toll that, according to a European intelligence source, is now fueling internal tensions between Russia’s military and the FSB, Russia’s powerful domestic security service and successor to the Soviet KGB. "There are internal frictions between Russian security institutions," a European intelligence source told Fox News Digital. "The Russian military wants the FSB to guarantee physical protection for Russian generals, but the FSB is opposed to taking responsibility for the military." The dispute reflects a deeper rivalry inside Russian President Vladimir Putin’s system, where the security services have long held a privileged position over the armed forces, according to multiple sources. 'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET "This goes back to Soviet times," the European intelligence source said. "The security services do not like the military, and the military does not like the security services." The central tension, according to the European intelligence source and Russian opposition figure Maxim Katz, is inside Putin’s own system: the war has elevated the importance of the military on the battlefield, while the political structure in Moscow still treats generals as a potential threat.    The result is a paradox for the Kremlin. Russia needs its military commanders to sustain the war, but the security services that dominate Putin’s system appear reluctant to take responsibility for protecting them.  At least 15 Russian generals have been confirmed killed since the full-scale invasion began, according to independent Russian outlet Mediazona.  The toll includes five lieutenant generals, seven major generals and three former generals. Some died far from Moscow, closer to the battlefield.  Lt. Gen. Oleg Tsokov, deputy commander of Russia’s Southern Military District, was killed in July 2023 in a Ukrainian Storm Shadow missile strike on the Russian-occupied city of Berdiansk. Maj. Gen. Sergei Goryachev, chief of staff of the 35th Combined Arms Army, was killed in June 2023 during Ukraine’s counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia region. Maj. Gen. Vladimir Zavadsky, deputy commander of the 14th Army Corps, was killed near Krynky in southern Ukraine in November 2023. Others were struck inside Russia or in Russian-controlled territory.  Lt. Gen. Alexander Otroshchenko, a senior Russian air force commander, died in a military transport plane crash over occupied Crimea in March 2026. Retired Maj. Gen. Kanamat Botashev, flying for the Wagner Group, was killed in May 2022 after his Su-25 was shot down over Ukraine’s Luhansk region. 'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET The losses began in the opening weeks of the invasion of Ukraine, when Maj. Gen. Andrei Sukhovetsky, deputy commander of Russia’s 41st Combined Arms Army, and Maj. Gen. Vladimir Frolov, deputy commander of the 8th Army, were killed. Katz said the military has long occupied a vulnerable position inside the Russian power structure. "In Russia, the FSB is the biggest and most powerful security organization, and Putin himself comes from that system," Katz told Fox News Digital. "The army, on the other hand, has always been viewed by these people as a threat." Katz said the Kremlin historically has feared popular military figures because the army is one of the few institutions with the capacity to challenge political power. "You will not find Russian military men in senior government positions," Katz said. "Since Stalin, they have been afraid of the army. Whenever there is a relatively well-known military figure with a name of his own, they deal with it somehow — legally, or like with Prigozhin, or like with other generals. In Russia, there is no such thing as a popular general." Katz argued that even during wartime, when the military might be expected to gain status, Putin’s system keeps the army politically weak. "The army does not take part in decision-making," Katz said. "It is funded now, but everything goes to the war. The generals are rich, but not like ministers or FSB people. Among the elites, they are the most deprived." UKRAINE LAUNCHES WHAT APPEARS TO BE ONE OF ITS LARGEST DRONE ATTACKS AGAINST RUSSIA: REPORT That dynamic, Katz said, helps explain why Russian generals may not want the FSB responsible for their protection. "For them, the FSB is a much bigger threat than the Ukrainian army," Katz said. "The Ukrainian army kills a general once in a while. The FSB puts generals in prison much faster." The European intelligence source said the killings matter not only because of the operational losses, but because of the psychological effect inside the Russian army. "Putin understands that losing prominent Russian generals can affect morale within the Russian army, which is already low from the Russian perspective," the source said. The apparent compromise, according to the European intelligence source, was to shift responsibility away from the FSB. "The FSB did not want to deal with military protection, so the security service of the Russian presidential administration would take care of those generals," the source said. Katz said the internal pressure on Putin may also collide with Russia’s parliamentary elections in September — a moment he believes Western observers are largely ignoring. RUSSIAN DRONES TEST NATO'S ARTICLE 5 DEFENSE GUARANTEE AHEAD OF FRIDAY SANCTIONS DEADLINE He said the vote will not be free, and the Kremlin is expected to manipulate the results.  But he argued that if public support for Putin’s United Russia party has fallen sharply, it may become harder for the regime to make the official results appear believable. "Everyone already knows what results they will announce," Katz said. "The question is whether anyone will believe those results." Katz said Putin’s system has long depended not only on control, but on the perception that the Kremlin still commands broad public support. "Putin has never ruled in a situation where he does not have a majority," Katz said. "His legitimacy rests on everyone believing that he has majority support. Once everyone believes he does not have a majority, and that he did not just cheat a little but simply drew the results, that is a different story." He compared the potential challenge to authoritarian systems that are forced to move from managed popularity to open coercion. "Putin cannot lose like Orban," Katz said. "But if everyone in Russia knows that everyone voted against him and he drew the results in his favor, that would be a new situation. He has never been in that position before." Fox News Digital reached out to the Russian and Ukrainian governments for comment but did not receive responses in time for publication. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453e6cc2ca79de2362af03 WATCH: Obama, Harris advisor warns ‘betrayed’ Black voters could be Texas Senate candidate's kryptonite te 2026-07-01T16:21:00.414Z WATCH: Obama, Harris advisor warns ‘betrayed’ Black voters could be Texas Senate candidate's kryptonite Democratic strategists are worried that Senate hopeful James Talarico’s chances of flipping Texas blue are being jeopardized by what they see as a major vulnerability: a lack of enthusiasm on the part of Texas Black voters, who are feeling "betrayed" by the party. Veteran Democratic strategist Ashley Etienne, a former advisor to President Barack Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris, said that despite Talarico’s history of controversial statements, she believes he is "incredibly well positioned" to become the first Democrat to flip a Texas Senate seat blue in decades. However, she identified one major vulnerability, saying Black voters are "feeling like they were betrayed" by "what happened to Jasmine Crockett." Talarico, a Texas state lawmaker and Presbyterian seminarian, defeated Black congresswoman Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate earlier this year. Etienne explained that following Crockett’s defeat, "some voters, Black women in particular, are feeling as though the Democratic Party and Democratic candidates want our labor, but not our leadership." The "two biggest examples," she said, are "Kamala Harris' loss and Jasmine Crockett's loss." CARVILLE ADVISES TALARICO 'TO DEAL WITH' PAST CULTURE WAR COMMENTS IF HE WANTS TO WIN TEXAS Talarico’s history of hot takes, such as saying he "hates Christianity," calling God "nonbinary" and asserting that there are six sexes, has caused significant controversy. While Etienne believes that Talarico can swat away these resurfaced comments, she believes the feeling of Black voter "betrayal" could sink his Senate hopes. A Texas native, Etienne also served as a senior advisor to former President Joe Biden, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and several members of Congress from Texas. She now runs the communications firm, Etienne & Saint. She referenced an opinion piece she co-authored in the Houston Chronicle, in which she quoted one Black female voter, who said, "We as Black women give 92 percent of our vote to the Democratic Party, and we get nothing out of the deal." "That's one example of what I think is a larger sentiment across Black women," she explained. This, Etienne posited, is an "alarm warning for Talarico." JAMES TALARICO ADMITS PAST COMMENTS 'MISSED THE MARK' WHEN CONFRONTED ON CLAIMS LIKE GOD IS 'NON-BINARY' Why should Talarico be worried about this? According to Etienne, approximately 1.1 million registered Black voters in Texas are not voting. To pull off an upset in the traditionally solid red state, Etienne said Talarico will have to motivate that untapped voter base. The key to doing that, she said, is appealing to Black women. When it comes to motivating the Democratic base, Etienne posited that "Black women aren't just another constituency." "We are a force multiplier effect when it comes to Black voters," she said. "We have the ability to bring the entire community to – and we have proven that we do this every cycle after cycle – bring the entire community to the polls." In other words, Etienne explained that "if the mood of Black women is low, then you lose an opportunity … to really reach and mobilize and engage and energize the rest of the Black community." "That's the nut he's going to have to crack," she said. SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER Dallas Jones, a Democratic strategist who served as the Texas political director for the 2020 Biden-Harris campaign, echoed Etienne's assessment. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Jones criticized Talarico supporters for pressuring Crockett to stump for him. Crockett has endorsed Talarico but has been notably absent from the campaign trail. "There's rhetoric that's being turned up that she has to come and support him, and a lot of that is coming from people that support him," he noted. "So, what it translates to is people basically telling this accomplished, decorated, Black female member of Congress what she ought to do. And all that does is stoke flames and fires for her supporters, who are saying, ‘She really doesn't have to do anything. You won, you're the nominee, you come earn our vote, she doesn't have to help you do that.’" DSA’S THIRD MAJOR PRIMARY WIN DEEPENS DEMOCRATS’ FIGHT OVER THE PARTY’S FUTURE "There are millions of black Texans out there ready for the taking, ready to support the campaign … [but] every day that goes by there's an erosion of that support," Jones continued. Jones said that he does not think Talarico’s controversial statements will have much of an impact on the Black vote in Texas "considering the alternative" is Republican state Attorney General Ken Paxton. "There will be a lot of energy and effort to weaponize those types of statements," he said. "But I truly don't think that it's going to have a huge impact." "Black Texans that show up in November are not voting for Ken Paxton," Jones asserted. "The challenge is creating the enthusiasm to get enough of them to go and vote for him." "He himself has admitted that he cannot win the state without Black voters," he continued, adding, "It's not a persuasion game, it's an enthusiasm game." Fox News Digital reached out to Talarico's campaign for comment. Fox News Digital also reached out to Crockett's office and Paxton's campaign for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453e58c2ca79de2362aefa RNC chair predicts first-ever midterm convention will turn Dallas into ‘Trumpapalooza’ for 2026 fight te 2026-07-01T16:20:40.967Z RNC chair predicts first-ever midterm convention will turn Dallas into ‘Trumpapalooza’ for 2026 fight EXCLUSIVE - Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters predicted Wednesday that Republicans will "knock it out of the park" at the party’s first-ever midterm convention, casting the Dallas gathering as a "Trumpapalooza" aimed at firing up GOP voters in a difficult midterm climate. Gruters spoke exclusively with Fox News Digital a day after President Donald Trump announced the Sept. 9-10 convention in Dallas, an unusual effort to put Trump and the GOP’s 2026 message center stage before voters decide control of Congress. "It gives us a chance to highlight all the wonderful things this president has done in our effort on this great American comeback to highlight the ideas, policies and people that's making it happen," Gruters said. TRUMP MAKES MAJOR 2026 ANNOUNCEMENT National political conventions, where party delegates from around the country formally nominate their party's presidential candidates, normally take place during presidential election years. But with Republicans facing a rough political climate as they aim to protect their narrow control of the Senate and their razor-thin House majority in this year's elections, they see the midterm convention as an effective vehicle to get their message out. "We can win. It's going to start here at the convention. I'm super excited about it," Gruters emphasized. And pointing to primary victories in recent weeks by far-left and socialist candidates over the Democratic Party establishment, Gruters said "we're going to be able to highlight and contrast where the Republican Party is versus what the left is, and the fact that they're getting pushed and now controlled and being run by these radical leftists that want to fundamentally change our country." SOCIALIST SURGE: DSA-BACKED CANDIDATES WIN AGAIN, THIS TIME IN COLORADO Party leaders are also hoping the convention will help to energize MAGA voters who don't always vote when Trump isn't on the ballot. Gruters called Trump the "best showman that's ever existed in politics, bar none... He knows how to deliver these low-propensity voters. He knows how to get people up, motivated, excited about the midterms, and that's what we're going to need." Currently, the president's approval ratings remain well underwater, with many Americans rating him poorly on his handling of the economy and on the issue of affordability. Democratic National Committee (DNC) Director of Rapid Response Kendall Witmer told Fox News Digital on Tuesday evening, "The American people can’t afford their bills or to fill up at the pump because of Donald Trump, and Republicans’ response is to throw a multi-million dollar televised celebration for Trump that will only remind Americans of his failed promise to them and tie already flailing Republican swing-seat candidates to a historically unpopular president." DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB The DNC, which significantly trails the RNC in fundraising, considered holding a midterm convention but decided earlier this year not to move forward with the costly event. Witmer emphasized that "Democrats are already hitting the trail and speaking directly with American voters about our plans to cut costs and make health care affordable. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c8ac2ca79de2362ae9d Sen Moreno pushes Congress to clarify birthright citizenship rules using Harry Reid's own 1993 legislation te 2026-07-01T16:12:58.792Z Sen Moreno pushes Congress to clarify birthright citizenship rules using Harry Reid's own 1993 legislation Ohio Sen. Bernie Moreno announced plans to revive a decades-old proposal from former Democratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid after Republicans' push to end birthright citizenship came to a screeching halt at the hands of the Supreme Court. "When I get back from recess on July 13th, [I'm going to introduce] the identical bill," Moreno said Tuesday, mere hours after the High Court's decision. "What it's going to do is highlight two things — the Democrats of today are nothing like the Democrats of 1993 and, if they choose to reject a bill sponsored by their majority leader that they named an airport in Las Vegas after, then I think to my Republican colleagues have no choice. We have to recognize that these Democrats want to systematically destroy this country." SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS Moreno's remarks referenced the Immigration Stabilization Act of 1993, a proposal put forth by Reid, which would have revoked birthright citizenship, among other things. According to PolitiFact, Section 1001 of Reid's bill, entitled "Basis of Citizenship Clarified," said that children born to illegal immigrants on U.S. soil should not become U.S. citizens. A press release issued by the Nevada Democrat's office at the time expounded upon the idea, suggesting the bill "clarifies that a person born in the United States to an alien mother who is not a lawful resident is not a U.S. citizen." ‘ILLEGALS FIRST’: SENATE REPUBLICANS BLAST SCHUMER’S GAMBIT TO FORCE VOTE ON PROTECTING HAITIAN MIGRANTS Under this notion, PolitiFact wrote, the incentive for female illegal immigrants who are late in their pregnancies and seeking to give birth on U.S. soil would be quashed. The bill never advanced out of committee, however. Moreno indicated that his bill will be a carbon copy of Reid's. On Tuesday, he urged that Republicans work to "eliminate the filibuster" and "get this thing done." "[Justice Kavanaugh] said that what we have to do is clarify what citizenship means. We can do that through an act of Congress," he said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c77c2ca79de2362ae94 The best Fourth of July sales we're shopping right now: Wayfair, HexClad and more te 2026-07-01T16:12:39.344Z The best Fourth of July sales we're shopping right now: Wayfair, HexClad and more The Fourth of July brings more than fireworks and barbecues — it also marks one of the biggest shopping weekends of the summer. Retailers like HexClad, REI, Wayfair and Best Buy are offering major discounts on everything from outdoor furniture and kitchen appliances to camping gear. Standout deals include a HexClad barbecue pan for 44% off, a Ninja Slushi machine discounted by $50 and a six-person outdoor dining set for less than $1,000. READ MORE: Shopping for America 250? Here's what's actually made in the USA — and what's imported HexClad is offering deep discounts on cookware, knives and themed bundles. (Fox is in an investor in HexClad). Hybrid fry pan set with lids, 6-piece: $329 (38% off) Stainless steel mixing bowl set: $79 (20% off) Kitchen utensils set: $199 (20% off) Beechwood cutting board: $87 (20% off) Original price: $99 Get all the grilling essentials in one HexClad set, now on sale for $60. The rust-resistant collection includes a spatula, tongs and fork with soft-grip handles, plus four skewers and a basting brush for everything from burgers to kebabs. Original price: $199 HexClad's 12-inch fry pan features the brand's hybrid construction, combining stainless steel with a nonstick cooking surface for even heating and reliable browning. The stay-cool handle provides a more comfortable grip, and the pan is both oven- and dishwasher-safe for added convenience. Original price: $159 Grill vegetables, seafood and other smaller foods without worrying about them falling through the grates with this HexClad barbecue pan. Perforations along the bottom allow heat and smoke to circulate for even cooking, and right now it's on sale for $89 — a savings of $70. Original price: $654 Save $285 on this HexClad Damascus steel knife set while the deal lasts. The hand-sharpened blades are designed for precise slicing and chopping, while the green Pakkawood handles add a distinctive look to any kitchen. READ MORE: Brands still making cookware and kitchen tools in the U.S. — from skillets to spatulas Find deals on gardening essentials, patio furniture and grills during Wayfair's Fourth of July sale. Vertical planter boxes: $54.99 (62% off) Patio set with rocking chairs and loveseat: $173.99 (60% off)  Patio umbrella: $85.99 (46% off) Weber Genesis gas grill: $949 (14% off) Original price: $1,076 Add flexible seating to your outdoor space with this set of four Adirondack chairs, built from weather-resistant HDPE. They withstand sun exposure and summer storms without fading or warping, and they fold flat for easy storage. Original price: $1,142.82 This wicker patio set includes a loveseat, two armchairs and a coffee table for just $340. The modular design makes it easy to rearrange the pieces to fit everything from compact patios to larger decks. Original price: $1,599.96 Host family dinners and outdoor gatherings with this six-person dining set made from durable, all-weather materials. The gently curved chair backs are designed for comfort, and right now you can save more than $700. Original price: $139 Grow vegetables, herbs or flowers with this raised cedar planter, no digging required. The naturally weather-resistant cedar construction is built for outdoor use, while drainage holes in the bottom help prevent excess water from collecting around your plants. READ MORE: From grills to boots: American-made products worth every penny Gear up for summer adventures with REI deals on sneakers, camp gear and more. Patagonia Terravia Sacoche crossbody bag: $28.83 (41% off)  JetBoil cooking system: $107.93 (40% off) Nike Swoosh support bra: $28.93 (31% off) Darn Tough men's hiking socks: $18.93 (27% off)  Original price: $155 The Hoka Clifton 10 is designed for running but works just as well for everyday walks. A breathable knit upper helps keep feet comfortable, while the cushioned midsole and durable outsole handle miles on the road or around town. Original price: $75 Go from the beach to weekend outings with these Patagonia shorts. The quick-drying fabric helps keep you comfortable on hot days, while drainage holes in the pockets allow water to escape after a swim. Their versatile design makes them an easy choice for outdoor adventures and casual dinners. Original price: $275 The Coleman Cascade combines a grill and a griddle, so you can make burgers, steaks, pancakes, eggs and more on the same setup. The cast-iron surfaces provide even heat retention, while built-in wind guards help keep the burners protected when cooking outdoors. Original price: $89.95 Compact enough to fit in your backpack, the Flexlite camp chair sets up quickly and supports up to 250 pounds. The durable fabric withstands repeated use, making it a reliable companion for camping trips, hikes and outdoor events. Score discounts on appliances, lawn equipment, vacuums and more. Energizer 3-in-1 charging stand: $15.99 (60% off) Countertop nugget ice maker: $132.99 (56% off) Costway portable air conditioner: $229.99 (48% off) Car jump starter: $139.99 (46% off) READ MORE: This week's top Best Buy deals: Save on Ninja appliances, air conditioners and more Original price: $629.99 The Dyson V11 tackles both hard floors and carpets in a lightweight cordless design. Its Motorbar cleaner head helps reduce hair tangles as you clean, while the LCD screen displays real-time battery life and power mode information so you know when it's time to recharge. Original price: $799.99 Take the work out of floor cleaning with the eufy X10 Pro Omni vacuum and mop. AI-powered laser navigation helps it clean around furniture and tackle everyday messes, while the companion app lets you create no-go zones and customize cleaning schedules. Original price: $349.99 Beat the heat with the Ninja Slushi, which makes frozen drinks without the need for ice. The 88-ounce reservoir is large enough for entertaining, while five preset programs let you prepare slushies, frozen cocktails, milkshakes and more with the push of a button. For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals Original price: $299.99 Greenworks' battery-powered lawn mower weighs just 11 pounds, making it easier to maneuver than many traditional models. The cordless design can cover approximately 0.5 to 0.75 acres on a charge while delivering performance comparable to many gas-powered alternatives. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c63c2ca79de2362ae8b Kathy Griffin claims gatekeepers at Jimmy Fallon’s ‘Tonight Show’ banned her for being 'too controversial' te 2026-07-01T16:12:19.895Z Kathy Griffin claims gatekeepers at Jimmy Fallon’s ‘Tonight Show’ banned her for being 'too controversial' Kathy Griffin claimed in an Instagram post on Tuesday that she had been banned from "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon for being inappropriate and controversial. "I have not done the Jimmy Fallon show since it was on at 12:30 Eastern and Pacific, so I guess I’m banned from the Fallon show, or inappropriate, or too controversial," Griffin said in the video posted to Instagram. "I don’t even know. When you’re banned from a show — and if you guys know me, I’m banned from most of them. You’re welcome, America and Indonesia — they don’t usually tell you you’re banned. They just can’t seem to find room for you." In 2017, Griffin drew bipartisan backlash after posting an image of herself holding a Halloween mask covered in ketchup that appeared to resemble the severed head of President Donald Trump. In addition to facing condemnation, Griffin was investigated by the Secret Service over whether the image constituted a threat against the president. COMEDIANS DIG AT TRUMP AS BILL MAHER ACCEPTS MARK TWAIN PRIZE AT KENNEDY CENTER She said she liked Fallon, but then slammed him for having Conor McGregor on in her Instagram tirade. "I think the Fallon folks made a mistake by having Conor McGregor on," Griffin said. "I think it sends yet another message to women and marginalized folks everywhere that we’re not equal and you can do anything to us and the perpetrators are still going to be out there being glorified." Griffin said it reminded her of when Fallon had Trump on the show and it didn't sit well with her. MENTALIST OZ PEARLMAN PULLS OUT OF KIMMEL GUEST APPEARANCE, REPLACED BY LEFT-WING PODCASTER "I think it’s time we kind of make up our minds about who we’re going to cancel and who we’re not," she added. "Take it from the most canceled celebrity in history, look it up. As the kids say, do better." A source with knowledge on the matter told Fox News Digital that there is no ban on Griffin. Griffin recently addressed an old photo she had taken with Trump, who she regularly criticizes now. She clarified that an old image of her and Trump sitting amicably next to each other at an event was, in fact, "not an AI photo." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE At the start of a video posted to her YouTube channel in early June, Griffin claimed that several people had been sending her a picture of her with Trump, whom she described as "someone I used to know, but now I don’t care to know any longer." Griffin confirmed that the photo was real, adding that she previously had a friendly relationship with Trump. "I know. Can you f---ing believe it?" Griffin exclaimed. "There was a time I knew Donald as someone who would show up at the opening of an envelope, and I would sit next to him sometimes, and he’d laugh at my jokes. I’m not glorifying him in his last, final days in any way. I want to show you that is not an AI photo, and that's why I got the dress out, which I still fit into, by the way, because that picture's got to be 20 years old." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c50c2ca79de2362ae82 As American pride hits a 25-year low, a new 9/11 education platform urges the nation to never forget te 2026-07-01T16:12:00.425Z As American pride hits a 25-year low, a new 9/11 education platform urges the nation to never forget FIRST ON FOX — A new national push to preserve the memory of the September 11 terrorist attacks for generations too young to remember that day is launching this week ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Starting July 1, the 9/11 Legacy Foundation will offer a free national curriculum on Freedom250.org to educate, increase awareness and encourage civic action. Built around an "Active Remembrance" model, the curriculum is designed to help participants not just learn about these historical events but also preserve these memories through community engagement. The website features modules designed from audiences of all ages that are customizable for elementary schools, universities, families, churches, and corporations, and it maps out more than 1,100 memorial sites across the nation. Dr. Chris Meek, founder of the 9/11 Legacy Foundation, told Fox News Digital the initiative is more important now than ever, citing educational gaps, alarming online trends and declining patriotism. Only 14 states currently mandate 9/11 education in schools, he said. Meek is also concerned by data showing American pride has hit a 25-year-low, according to Gallup, following other polling indicating many young people struggle to define the phrase, "Never Forget," along with TikTok videos sympathizing with Osama bin Laden’s 2002 "Letter to America" that racked up millions of views. MUSLIM MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINNER SUGGESTED AMERICA DESERVED 9/11 IN UNEARTHED VIDEO The release also comes just days after Colorado Democratic Socialist candidate Melat Kiros drew national headlines for saying that the 9/11 attacks were "inevitable" after U.S. and Israeli military actions in the Middle East. Meek told Fox News Digital this curriculum combats online misinformation by sticking strictly to the documented facts surrounding that day. "This is presenting all the facts, not the theories of conspiracy theories that are out there," Meek said. "We've just mapped out everything that's factual in nature... So it's allowing people to put their fingertips on the facts, and not listening to somebody's video or read a social media post based on theory or rhetoric." With over 100 million Americans born in the years after September 11, Meek says it's more important than ever to help new generations of Americans understand what these attacks cost America.  Terrorists hijacked four jets and crashed three of them into the World Trade Center and Pentagon; the fourth was forced down in a field in Pennsylvania by heroic passengers trying to prevent another building from being attacked.  Nearly 3,000 people were killed by the attacks. Thousands of deaths have also been attributed to illnesses related to toxic exposure at Ground Zero in New York City. 9/11 MUSEUM TO OFFER FREE ADMISSION FOR VETERANS AHEAD OF MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND "September 11 is not just a chapter in a history book, it is a living legacy that continues to shape who we are as a nation," he said in a statement. "Being part of the Freedom 250 platform on this milestone observance means that as Americans pause to reflect on 250 years of freedom, they will also have the opportunity to engage deeply with one of the most defining moments of the last 25 years." TUNNEL TO TOWERS ANNOUNCES 'STEEL ACROSS AMERICA' TOUR TO MARK 25 YEARS SINCE 9/11 ATTACKS Meek's mission is born out of his first-hand experience as a survivor of the terror attacks. On September 11, 2001, he was working as a trader for Goldman Sachs, less than half a mile from Ground Zero. The experience drove him to dedicate his life to giving back to U.S. service members, leading him to co-found SoldierStrong, a nonprofit that provides medical technology to help injured veterans. With the 25th anniversary of 9/11 falling 69 days after America's 250th, Meek hopes the resource will help Americans embrace the unity and patriotism that arose in the days following that tragic day. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "More than ever this country is divided, for various reasons. We need to go back to the way we were on September 12, where everyone was the United States of America," he said. This Sept. 11 will mark the 25th anniversary of the attacks. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c29c2ca79de2362ae64 Trump Takes First Flight on New Air Force One te 2026-07-01T16:11:21.513Z Trump Takes First Flight on New Air Force One The Boeing 747-8, a gift worth $200 million from the Qatari royal family, has attracted considerable scrutiny over whether a foreign government was trying to influence the president. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c16c2ca79de2362ae5b Troop Casualties in Ukraine War Top 2 Million, Study Finds te 2026-07-01T16:11:02.059Z Troop Casualties in Ukraine War Top 2 Million, Study Finds Russia has borne the heavier toll, with 1.4 million troops killed or wounded since it invaded in February 2022. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453c01c2ca79de2362ae36 Lime raises $167M in IPO after years of teasing a public debut te 2026-07-01T16:10:41.576Z Lime raises $167M in IPO after years of teasing a public debut The nine-year-old scooter and bike-share company has said it needs the funds to help pay down around $1 billion in liabilities. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453bedc2ca79de2362ae2a TPD combate carreras callejeras tras alza de muertes te 2026-07-01T16:10:21.619Z TPD combate carreras callejeras tras alza de muertes Leer en inglés La policía de Tucson ha pasado de una estrategia reactiva de dispersión de multitudes a una basada en la inteligencia, cuyo objetivo es desmantelar las redes organizadas que organizan las carreras callejeras, según informaron las autoridades al concejo municipal en mayo. La jefa de policía de Tucson, Monica Prieto, habló sobre la nueva estrategia del departamento durante la reunión del concejo del 5 de mayo; señaló que esta pone énfasis en la aplicación proactiva de la ley y en el uso de tecnología avanzada, al tiempo que fomenta la colaboración con socios estratégicos y fiscales. Las cifras subrayan la urgencia de la situación. Prieto informó que ya se han registrado 38 muertes por accidentes de tráfico en lo que va de 2026. Esta cifra incluye 16 fallecimientos de peatones, un aumento exponencial con respecto al año anterior, y 14 muertes relacionadas con vehículos. En 13 de los 16 casos de peatones fallecidos, la víctima se encontraba, en promedio, a unas 128 yardas de un paso de peatones. "No podemos hablar de carreras callejeras sin abordar la cultura de conducción insegura que existe aquí en Tucson," afirmó Prieto. "Esto se hace especialmente evidente al analizar las cifras de muertes por accidentes de tráfico en lo que va del año." Prieto anunció que el departamento intensificará la vigilancia para asegurar el cumplimiento de las normas en los pasos de peatones. Entre las iniciativas recientes del TPD para la seguridad vial se incluye un operativo realizado el 4 de marzo, en el que los agentes dedicaron intervalos de al menos 20 minutos a tareas de vigilancia y educación vial, ayudando así a la ciudad a identificar los puntos donde se producían las colisiones. El TPD espera completar 10,000 operativos de este tipo a lo largo de 2026. Se llevarán a cabo operativos adicionales a través del Regional Traffic Enforcement Task Force, con la participación de agencias asociadas que se centrarán en los principales corredores viales donde suelen ocurrir accidentes. Un tercer enfoque utiliza 21 unidades de agentes motorizados, incluidas cinco nuevas incorporaciones, para realizar despliegues basados ​​en datos, ampliando así la cobertura a los horarios nocturnos. El Foco de Tucson es la única redacción del sur de Arizona dedicada a formar a periodistas diversos y emergentes para que informen sobre las comunidades a las que pertenecen. Reciba su trabajo gratuitamente en su bandeja de entrada. La jefa del Departamento de Policía de Tucson (TPD), Monica Prieto, habló sobre los esfuerzos policiales para combatir las carreras callejeras dentro de los límites de la ciudad durante la reunión del concejo municipal del 5 de mayo. Prieto señaló que el programa de tráfico más reciente del TPD es el de las "cebras de tráfico,” un grupo voluntario de seis agentes que realizan despliegues de tres a cinco horas cada dos semanas; estas operaciones combinan la educación vial y la aplicación de la ley, al tiempo que atienden quejas específicas de los agentes de patrulla. Un despliegue de este grupo resultó en 92 multas y dos arrestos por conducción a alta velocidad. Prieto informó que el TPD recibió información de inteligencia sobre una concentración planeada en Houghton Road y respondió con un despliegue que incluyó 22 paradas de tráfico. La operación se interrumpió cuando un conductor que circulaba en sentido contrario estuvo a punto de atropellar a los agentes antes de chocar contra una mediana. Dicho conductor fue acusado de 10 cargos de delito grave por poner en peligro a terceros y de conducir bajo los efectos del alcohol o drogas (DUI) como delito grave. Prieto calificó las tomas de calles para carreras clandestinas como actos "completamente imprudentes e inaceptables," señalando que, si bien organizar y asistir a tales eventos constituye un delito en sí mismo, estos a menudo atraen otras actividades delictivas, como el consumo de drogas, disparos y redes de carreras organizadas. "Nuestro enfoque anterior era predominantemente reactivo, con el objetivo principal de despejar las vías y dispersar a las multitudes," dijo Prieto. "Sin embargo, nuestra respuesta más reciente se basa en un sólido marco de trabajo orientado por la inteligencia, diseñado para identificar, rastrear y desmantelar las redes organizadas de carreras callejeras." A partir del 9 de enero, la Threat Mitigation Unit asumió la recopilación y gestión de inteligencia, reuniendo 88 pistas sobre delitos, además de información proveniente de patrullas y del monitoreo de redes sociales. Dicha inteligencia confirmó que las carreras callejeras en Tucson están altamente organizadas, con roles definidos para organizadores, espectadores y conductores. El TPD cambió a una estrategia de aplicación proactiva de la ley, centrada en los organizadores, los participantes y los infractores reincidentes. Prieto indicó que el TPD utiliza lectores automatizados de matrículas como parte de sus investigaciones, herramientas que, según afirmó, fueron fundamentales para sus esfuerzos. El TPD también ejecutó órdenes de registro para obtener pruebas e incautó 18 vehículos; estas acciones podrían sustentar cargos por asociación delictiva. El 22 de febrero, el TPD identificó siete vehículos, incautó seis y realizó múltiples arrestos por evasión ilegal a la autoridad; a uno de los sospechosos se le encontró portando una pistola modificada. El 15 de marzo surgió otra oleada de tomas de calles, durante la cual se efectuaron 45 disparos. El operativo de mayor envergadura tuvo lugar el 18 de abril en la intersección de South Kolb Road y East Valencia Road; allí, los agentes incautaron cinco vehículos, confiscaron uno y realizaron decenas de detenciones. Entre los arrestados hubo 23 personas por allanamiento de propiedad privada, tres por participación en una organización delictiva y dos padres acusados ​​de contribuir a la delincuencia de un menor por llevar a niños pequeños al evento. Se está creando un grupo de trabajo regional especializado en carreras callejeras para mejorar la coordinación con las entidades colaboradoras. La alcaldesa Regina Romero declaró que el concejo decidió intensificar las medidas contra las carreras callejeras tras la reciente muerte de Anna García, una niña de 3 años, en un accidente relacionado con esta práctica; asimismo, habló sobre la propuesta de ley conocida como Anna's Law, que ya ha reunido 23,000 firmas. Dicha ley busca imponer sanciones más severas para quienes participen en carreras callejeras. "Admiro profundamente el valor y la fortaleza de la familia para transformar su dolor en una fuerza impulsora y abogar por la Ley de Anna," afirmó Romero. "La petición a favor de la Ley de Anna envía un mensaje claro: las carreras callejeras no son inofensivas; son actos temerarios y violentos que destruyen vidas. Una sola muerte causada por carreras callejeras es demasiado, y la vida de Anna García importaba." El concejo también recibió información actualizada sobre otro desafío de seguridad pública: los tiempos de respuesta ante emergencias. Tucson creó el Departamento de Comunicaciones de Seguridad Pública en 2017 para unificar los servicios de despacho policial y de bomberos, principalmente la atención de llamadas al 911. Este departamento gestiona más de un millón de llamadas al 911 al año a través de más de 280 líneas, y reducir ese volumen de llamadas es una prioridad. Los retrasos en los tiempos de respuesta implican que hasta el 75% de las llamadas de emergencia de alta gravedad no llegan a un equipo de respuesta inmediata. Mike Garcia, director del Departamento de Comunicaciones de Seguridad Pública, atribuyó este volumen, en parte, a que las personas utilizan el 911 como primera opción incluso cuando otro servicio sería más adecuado. Garcia señaló que esta situación llevó al departamento a buscar alternativas mediante la iniciativa Safe City, incluyendo colaboraciones con la Autoridad Regional de Salud Conductual de Arizona y la Coalición para la Co-ubicación de Profesionales en Crisis. También se mejoró la conectividad entre las llamadas al 911 y al 988; anteriormente, las llamadas al 988 se desviaban a Phoenix antes de regresar a un centro local, un proceso que contribuía a que se perdieran llamadas. La alcaldesa Regina Romero respaldó una moción en la reunión del 5 de mayo para rechazar el centro de detención propuesto por el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) en Marana. El departamento también deriva las llamadas que cumplen con los requisitos al personal de centros de crisis; según García, esto reduce el número de intervenciones policiales y de bomberos en incidentes de salud conductual que pueden ser atendidos mejor por profesionales especializados en crisis. García señaló que las llamadas de emergencia, por ejemplo, para solicitar una ambulancia o reportar un robo, no deberían competir por la capacidad de la línea con llamadas que corresponden al servicio 311. García también habló sobre la función del 311 para conectar a los residentes con servicios que incluyen el reporte de campamentos de personas sin hogar y la derivación a programas de vivienda y asistencia alimentaria. La ciudad colabora además con MD Ally para redirigir algunas llamadas del 911 a proveedores de atención médica capaces de recetar o suministrar medicamentos; García mencionó que, en ocasiones, las ambulancias trasladan a pacientes al hospital solo para descubrir que, en realidad, lo que necesitaban era un dentista. García afirmó que estas iniciativas han permitido ahorrar tiempo y dinero: la derivación de 2000 llamadas a proveedores médicos en lugar de a servicios de emergencia supuso un ahorro de 1,700 horas de operación de bomberos y servicios médicos de emergencia (EMS), así como de 4,100 horas de espera en salas de urgencias. "Este programa es ya un modelo de eficacia comprobada que se está estudiando en todo el país; contar con un profesional de crisis presente aquí mismo significa que la persona que llama en medio de una crisis recibe mejores recursos y obtiene mejores resultados con mayor rapidez," declaró García. El concejo también votó por unanimidad a favor de una resolución que rechaza el centro de detención propuesto por el ICE en Marana. La concejal del Distrito 6, Miranda Schubert, señaló que en toda la región persisten vestigios de abusos gubernamentales, citando como ejemplo el campamento Gordon Hirabayashi en Mount Lemmon; este lugar lleva el nombre de un hombre que se opuso al internamiento de estadounidenses de origen japonés durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial y fue condenado a realizar trabajos forzados en ese mismo sitio. Schubert comparó la lucha contra el internamiento con los desafíos actuales que enfrentan los inmigrantes indocumentados, recordando que aquellos campos de internamiento eran administrados por el Servicio de Inmigración y Naturalización y custodiados por agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza. "El centro de detención en Marana ni siquiera debería ser un tema de debate [para el Concejo Municipal de Tucson], pero aquí estamos," dijo Schubert. "Al seguir adelante con el contrato, el municipio de Marana avala políticas federales que separan familias y permiten que las empresas privadas de prisiones obtengan beneficios bajo el pretexto de la seguridad nacional." Otros miembros del concejo expresaron su apoyo a esta postura de rechazo.  "No estaba dispuesta a aceptar esto sin más ni más, sin expresar mi firme oposición a estos centros de detención del ICE, especialmente a cualquiera que se ubique cerca de la ciudad de Tucson," dijo Romero. "Siempre hemos sido una comunidad acogedora, y esta resolución reafirma nuestros valores, la dignidad humana de los inmigrantes, la unidad familiar y el respeto hacia todas las personas, independientemente de su estatus legal." Ian Stash es egresado de la Universidad de Arizona y periodista independiente en Tucson. Puede contactarlo en ianjgs16@gmail.com. Esta nota fue traducida por Diana Ramos, exalumna de la Universidad de Arizona, Directora de Iniciativas Bilingües y reportera del Foco de Tucson. Contáctala en diana@tucsonspotlight.org.   El Foco de Tucson es una sala de prensa comunitaria que ofrece oportunidades remuneradas a estudiantes y periodistas emergentes del sur de Arizona. Por favor, considera apoyar nuestro trabajo con una donación deducible de impuestos. Donar a El Foco Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453750c2ca79de2362acef USA Powerlifting, once in trans athlete lawsuit, supports SCOTUS ruling: 'Law has caught up with the science' te 2026-07-01T15:50:40.582Z USA Powerlifting, once in trans athlete lawsuit, supports SCOTUS ruling: 'Law has caught up with the science' USA Powerlifting "welcomed" the Supreme Court's ruling that upholds state laws regarding transgender athletes in girls' and women's sports. The Supreme Court ruled, 6-3, in favor of the states that were sued by biological males to gain access to girls' sports. USA Powerlifting had found itself embroiled in the battle when it was sued in 2021 by trans lifter JayCee Cooper after Cooper was rejected from the women's team three years earlier. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM And after Tuesday's historic ruling, it breathed a sigh of relief. "The highest court in the land has affirmed what we've argued for six years: protecting women's sports is common sense and not discrimination," USAPL past president Larry Maile said in a release. "The law has caught up with the science and now Minnesota is even more of a legal outlier. It is out of step with the U.S. Supreme Court, overwhelming public opinion and international sport governing organizations." A district court ruled in 2023 that the organization discriminated against Cooper, but after an appeal and then a cross-appeal by Cooper, the Minnesota Court of Appeals eventually decided that Cooper was not discriminated against. TRUMP REACTS TO SUPREME COURT RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES The federation opened an "open" category in 2021 "to serve all gender identities," according to Fox 9 in Minnesota. The states were backed by the law firm Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), while the trans athletes were represented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Cooley Legal. Now, more than half of the states in the U.S. are empowered to enforce protections for women's sports without fear of a legal challenge. However, there are still 23 states that don't have any such laws, and some of those states have laws to protect trans athletes in girls' sports. President Donald Trump continuously threatened to halt federal funding to states that did not abide by his executive order. Trump froze funds to Maine, but a federal judge ruled that the funds had to be restored. But now, those states are protected by law. Surveys have shown that roughly 80% of Americans do not believe biological males should compete against girls and women. Fox News' Jackson Thompson and Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4534f7c2ca79de2362ac91 World Cup round of 32 soccer preview as England, Belgium and USA all seek regulation wins on a packed day te 2026-07-01T15:40:39.869Z World Cup round of 32 soccer preview as England, Belgium and USA all seek regulation wins on a packed day The Round of 32 has not disappointed for the World Cup. Yesterday we had three games, and while there were no upsets, it was a fun day of soccer. France dominated Sweden as expected, but if you saw some of the goals, you had to be impressed and think that no one will be able to beat them. Norway was able to escape the Ivory Coast, and that was a bit of a sweaty win, but a win nonetheless. The final game of the night saw Mexico win 2-0 over Ecuador, with Mexico's defense looking great and their speed unmatched. We went 2-1 in plays, and I'm looking for more today. ALEXI LALAS DREADING THOUGHT ENGLAND COULD WIN WORLD CUP ON AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY: 'CANNOT HAVE THAT' This is the game on the slate today that shouldn't be much of a mystery. England is a -1200 favorite to win in regulation, meaning they should absolutely dominate the Congo DR. That doesn't mean there is no betting value. We found a winner on France yesterday, and they were -900 on their three-way moneyline as well. England got two wins and one draw in the group stages, and while they didn't look great in every game, they do have more talent on their side in this game. Congo DR had a win, a loss, and a draw in their three games. They haven't allowed more than one goal in a game this World Cup. Portugal and Colombia are both talented teams, and they held both to just one goal (even though they played to a draw and a loss, respectively). I think the under 2.5 is the best look. I don't see Congo scoring, and I think England is going to score two or fewer. This is the closest matchup based on the moneyline on today's schedule of games. Belgium comes into this after playing Egypt and Iran to draws and destroying New Zealand in the group stage. Senegal made it after losing to France and Norway in their first two games, but beating Iraq 5-0. I think it is fair to say that Senegal had a significantly harder group than Belgium. Although their offense isn't the caliber of France and Norway, Belgium is talented and should be the aggressor in this match. I'm curious to see if Senegal can slow down the attack after struggling against two of the better offenses. I do think they should be able to get a goal on Belgium as well, especially if they can force a turnover. I like both teams to score, but it is pricey at -150. If you prefer, take the 90-minute draw at +230. I could see this going to extra time to decide who advances. TEAM USA FALLS TO TÜRKIYE IN FINAL SECONDS, STILL SET FOR ROUND OF 32 MATCH VS BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA When the World Cup started, Team USA was billed as having a good path to advance and likely the potential to go far. As you can see, they've lived up to that expectation. They went 2-1 in the opening round, but the loss to Turkey was meaningless as they had already secured their group. There was also some controversy around the loss, but we can put that behind us. Bosnia-Herzegovina had a bit of everything in their three games. They played to a draw against Canada, then lost badly to Switzerland, and finally beat Qatar in their final match, 3-1. I think that both teams will score in this one as well. America has allowed a goal in two of their three matches, and if they have a concern, I'd say it is their defense. Give me both teams to score at -115. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4532dcc2ca79de2362ac26 Fake Verizon fraud call nearly stole his account te 2026-07-01T15:31:40.152Z Fake Verizon fraud call nearly stole his account A fake Verizon fraud call can feel real fast, especially when official-looking texts start landing on your phone. That is what makes this scam so dangerous. The caller creates panic, pushes you to "verify" your identity and then uses your own reaction against you. Chuck from New Braunfels, Texas, reached out after a frightening close call. "I usually am pretty savvy when it comes to scams, but I almost got fooled by a fake Verizon fraud investigator. He tricked me into giving him access to my account through text verification... he ordered an upgrade to my daughter's phone, which she would never do without me. In the end, thank God I figured it out and got a hold of the real Verizon fraud and stopped him before something bad happened. If there is any more information I can give to help someone else, let me know." Chuck's message should make all of us pause. He knew scams were out there. He still almost got caught because this one moved quickly and looked so convincing. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report ADT DATA BREACH EXPOSES CUSTOMER INFORMATION Chuck says the call came in around 7:15 p.m. The man on the phone claimed he worked for Verizon's fraud department. He gave a name, "John Rodriguez," along with the phone number 1-888-269-xxxx. That detail made the call feel more official. So did the extra pieces the caller supplied. Chuck says the scammer gave him a fraudulent number and a cancellation number. That is a common move in account takeover scams. The criminal gives you enough "case details" to sound legitimate. Then, while you feel like you are dealing with a real fraud alert, the scammer quietly tries to get control of your account. The messages Chuck received appeared to involve Verizon account security. One said there was a request to authenticate from the Verizon website. It asked him to confirm or deny through a link. Another message said there was a request to change the device associated with a line on the account. That message warned that the change could be tied to an upgrade or SIM change. Then came a more alarming message. It warned of a potential scam and said someone was trying to change the password from the Verizon website. It told Chuck to deny the request and call the Verizon fraud team immediately. Here is the scary part. Those alerts can make you feel safer while the scam is still unfolding. The caller keeps you on the phone and tells you what to click. That pressure can turn a security warning into a trap. Chuck says the caller asked him multiple times to verify. Then Chuck clicked a link to deny access. That moment changed everything. To Chuck, clicking "deny" felt like the safe move. To the scammer, it may have been exactly what he wanted. Once a criminal has you on the phone, he can walk you through alerts in real time. He may claim you are blocking fraud while he actually triggers account changes, resets credentials or pushes through an order. In this case, Chuck later saw that his daughter's line had been changed to a new iPhone 17 Pro Max. That caught his attention because his daughter would never make that kind of change without him. Chuck then received an email saying, "Your order is canceled." The email appeared to come from noreplay@vzreturn.com and the subject line said, "You've successfully canceled your order." The message listed an Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max 256GB Cosmic Orange and showed order details. Chuck described the sender as a non-verified email. That part deserves attention. A cancellation email can make you feel relieved. Yet it may also serve another purpose. It can make the victim believe the problem has been solved while the criminal keeps trying other account changes. WHAT SCAMMERS DO THE WEEK YOUR SPOUSE DIES Chuck says he knew something was off when his daughter's phone line changed to the new iPhone. Then he saw that his password had been changed. At that point, he took the right step. He contacted the real Verizon fraud team and changed the password again so he could regain control. Then the scammer tried to call him back twice. That is another major warning sign. Real fraud departments do not need to keep calling after you contact the company through a trusted channel. Chuck says the real Verizon fraud team checked the fraud case number and cancellation number the caller had given him. Both were bogus. After verifying his identity through a secure Verizon process, Verizon removed his My Verizon credentials and told him to re-register using two-factor authentication (2FA). That step deserves attention because the scammer had gotten too close to the account. When credentials, account access or device changes get involved, changing only the password may not be enough. This scam works because it borrows the language of real fraud prevention. The caller talks about account security. The texts mention authentication, SIM changes, password resets and fraud teams. That sounds protective. But the caller creates confusion and urgency. Once the victim follows instructions in real time, the scammer can steer the whole interaction. A phone upgrade also gives criminals a clear payday. A stolen device order can lead to theft of service, resale value or deeper account access. A SIM-related change can also put calls and texts at risk, including codes used to access other accounts. Several details stand out from Chuck's case. Any one of those should stop the conversation. Together, they point to an active account takeover attempt. After reviewing the details of Chuck's experience, Verizon said these kinds of social engineering scams have become a growing problem. "This type of fraudulent activity has unfortunately become all too common," a Verizon spokesperson told CyberGuy. "Verizon actively works against bad actors by tracking every case and identifying the hallmarks of social engineering events against our customers." The spokesperson added, "We incorporate these into real-time detections to prevent attempted fraud before the transaction is completed." Verizon also shared several steps customers can take to protect their accounts. Many line up with the same safety habits that can help stop fake carrier fraud calls before they turn into account takeovers. A few smart habits can make it much harder for a scammer to talk you into giving up control of your phone account. Use the number on your carrier's app, website or bill. Do not rely on a number the caller gives you. Verizon says it will never call you out of the blue asking for your password or a one-time security code. If you get that kind of call, hang up and call Verizon back using a publicly listed number, such as 611 from your Verizon phone. If a caller tells you to approve, deny, verify or authenticate through a text link, stop. Open the carrier app directly instead. A button or link that sounds safe can still help a scammer if they, in fact, triggered the request. Strong antivirus software can also help block malicious links and warn you before you land on a risky site. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com A new phone order, SIM change or line change should trigger immediate action. Verizon says customers should also watch for texts or emails about an unauthorized password change, transaction, SIM swap or port-out. If you see one, act fast to cancel the transaction and call Verizon immediately. Do this from a browser or app you opened yourself. Avoid links from texts or emails. Verizon says to treat your mobile and email accounts like bank accounts and never share passwords or security codes with anyone who calls unexpectedly. Also, do not reuse passwords across important accounts. Use a trusted password manager to create and store a strong, unique password for your carrier account. Use the strongest 2FA option your carrier offers, such as a passkey, authenticator app or account PIN. This adds another layer of protection so a scammer cannot get in with just your password. Verizon specifically recommends enabling two-factor authentication in the My Verizon app. Verizon says customers can enable Number Lock and SIM Protection in the My Verizon app. These extra protections can help stop unauthorized activity, including SIM-related scams and account changes. Many carriers let you add a PIN or security code for account changes. Make sure yours is unique and not something easy to guess, such as a birthday, address or repeated number. If criminals accessed the account, reduce what they can buy or change. Removing saved payment methods can limit damage while your carrier reviews the account. Make sure no phone numbers, devices, SIMs, shipping addresses or authorized users were changed. Also, check for pending orders or upgrades you did not request. Scammers often get names, phone numbers, addresses and family connections from people-search sites. A data removal service can help reduce what is exposed online, making it harder for criminals to build a convincing call around your personal details. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com Ask for the fraud department, explain the attempted takeover and request a full account security review. Verizon says if you are scammed, call your bank or financial institution first, then call Verizon. Verizon also points customers to its account security page for more information: verizon.com/about/account-security/overview Move quickly, but do it through trusted channels you open yourself. CARNIVAL BREACH MAY PUT YOUR TRAVEL DATA AT RISK What gets me about Chuck's story is how real the scam felt in the moment. The caller had a name, a fraud number, a cancellation number and security texts were landing while he was still on the phone. That to me is scary. Once a scammer gets you reacting, your account can start slipping away fast. Chuck caught it before things got worse, but not before a phone upgrade appeared and his password was changed. The safest move is to hang up and start fresh. Open the official app yourself. Type the website yourself. Call the number on your bill yourself. Never let a stranger guide your clicks. Chuck said it best: " Please use my mistake to help others avoid losing potential thousands in theft of service and money." Have you ever received a carrier fraud alert that looked real, and how did you decide whether to trust it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 Cyberguy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4532c8c2ca79de2362ac1d Ex-NFL reporter Dianna Russini interaction with police officer to dodge traffic ticket comes to light te 2026-07-01T15:31:20.694Z Ex-NFL reporter Dianna Russini interaction with police officer to dodge traffic ticket comes to light Police bodycam footage appeared to refute a claim made by former NFL reporter Dianna Russini earlier this year about what she did to get out of a traffic ticket. Russini, whose relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel led to her resigning from her role with The Athletic in April, said on the "Stugotz and Company" show back in February that she FaceTimed the NFL coach, though she didn't drop the name, of the officer's favorite team after being pulled over for being on her phone. It was a story that came up again during the New York Times' deep dive into the Russini-Vrabel controversy, and now police bodycam footage has confirmed that wasn't the case. However, she did name-drop a coach. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The footage went just over seven minutes long, as Russini was stopped in Ridgewood, New Jersey, for using her phone while driving. Not only did a FaceTime never happen, but no call at all occurred during the exchange between Russini and the officer. What did occur, though, was Russini showing the officer texts she had been having with Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, and she showed the officer her phone with the texts on it. DIANNA RUSSINI PULLED PATHETIC MOVE WITH AN OFFICER TO GET OUT OF A TICKET, AND IT SHOULD HAVE THE NFL NERVOUS "I'm an NFL reporter, and I just broke that Seam McDermott got fired from the Bills," Russini told the officer almost immediately, understanding why she was being pulled over. "I was gonna pull over because I have to make calls. I know you don't care, but I'm just letting you know my reason why. It was a work thing and it was an emergency for what I do." McDermott was fired the morning of Jan. 19, which was the date shown on the bodycam footage, after the Bills' AFC Divisional Round loss to the Denver Broncos. The officer replied that Russini had been on her phone "for a while" before pulling her over, though he did acknowledge she had a job to do. Russini continued, telling the officer that former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll "wants the job" with the Bills. He was connected to the team given his history with Buffalo prior to joining the Giants, but they hired in-house with Joe Brady being promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach. Daboll ended up joining Robert Saleh's staff as offensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans. Russini, then, asked if the officer was a Giants or Jets fan given the New Jersey ties. When he responded by saying he was a Vikings fan, it prompted Russini to seemingly show texts with O'Connell. The conversation, which included Russini saying the Vikings' quarterback "sucks" and "KOC's awesome" ultimately led to the officer letting her off with a warning. "I’m gonna cut you a break on the cellphone," the officer was heard saying. "I understand your job requires you to be on the phone a lot. Just try to wait until you get home, OK?" PATRIOTS SAY THEY 'FULLY SUPPORT' MIKE VRABEL AMID LATEST IN CONTROVERSY INVOLVING DIANNA RUSSINI The Center Square first reported Russini's interaction with the officer. Fox News Digital reached out to Russini and the Vikings for comment. Ridgewood Police Chief Forest Lyons issued a statement on the matter. "On January 19, 2026, at 9:40 a.m., a Ridgewood police officer conducted a motor vehicle stop on Godwin Avenue involving Ms. Dianna Russini for the use of a handheld cell phone while driving," the statement read. "After following department protocol during the stop, and reviewing Ms. Russini’s driving history, the officer exercised his professional discretion and issued a verbal warning to Ms. Russini. "The use of officer discretion in determining whether to issue a warning or a citation is consistent with Ridgewood Police Department policy and longstanding practice. Police officers are encouraged to use their judgment and, when appropriate, provide motorists with warnings as part of the Department’s commitment to fair, impartial and community-oriented policing." Russini resigned from her post at The Athletic amid mounting criticism over her relationship with Vrabel after photographs of them hugging and holding hands at a private resort in Sedona, Arizona, went viral. After initially trying to downplay it, saying "reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues," Russini ultimately released her resignation. After the original photos, others dating back to 2020 showed Vrabel and Russini kissing at a bar in New York City. The pictures exclusively obtained by the New York Post were taken in the early hours of March 11, 2020.  "They were kissing, and they were all over each other," an eyewitness told the outlet. "He had a ring on." While Russini resigned, Vrabel was back with the Patriots after a counseling visit, which fell on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Vrabel said he had difficult conversations with his family, while also speaking with his players about the situation. The Patriots said before the draft they "fully support" Vrabel, allowing him to seek the counseling he desired despite four rounds of the draft still remaining. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4532b5c2ca79de2362ac14 Melat Kiros becomes 28th far-left candidate to win a Democratic primary this year as socialists amass power te 2026-07-01T15:31:01.240Z Melat Kiros becomes 28th far-left candidate to win a Democratic primary this year as socialists amass power Melat Kiros has become the 28th candidate endorsed by a far-left group to win a Democratic primary election this cycle, according to a Fox News review. The 29-year-old Democratic socialist is now in the same company as Graham Platner, the scandal-plagued Democratic Senate nominee in Maine, as well as the trio of Zohran Mamdani-backed House nominees — Brad Lander, Claire Valdez, and Darializa Avila Chevalier. Kiros ran for Colorado's 1st congressional district and was supported by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the Working Families Party (WFP) and the Justice Democrats. DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISTS SEIZE THE MOMENT WITH EXTREME, ANTI-AMERICAN VIEWS THAT BADLY TARNISH THE PARTY Although not all 25 far-left House candidates who won Democratic primaries this year are guaranteed to win their general election bids in November, many of them, including Kiros, are in solidly blue districts where Republican challengers have little chance of being successful. If all the far-left House candidates tracked by Fox News were to win, they'd join another 18 like-minded colleagues, including Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich. In the best case scenario for the far left, they'd have a 43-member bloc in the House of Representatives come January 2027. WATCH: PELOSI, OMAR STAY SILENT AS MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST VICTORIES SHAKE DEMOCRAT PARTY Seeing as there are just 10 Blue Dog Democrats, a left-wing sweep would substantially tip the balance of power in the Democratic Party, which is favored to retake the House majority next year. The Blue Dog Caucus is a coalition of House Democrats who describe themselves as fiscally responsible and focused on bipartisan dealmaking. They also support a strong national defense. With her victory on Tuesday, Kiros also became the sixth insurgent candidate this year to oust an incumbent. CARVILLE WARNS DEMOCRATS ANTI-ISRAEL ‘LOUDMOUTHS’ COULD COST ELECTIONS Kiros defeated Rep. Diana DeGette, who served 15 terms in Congress, by a nearly 10-point margin, according to The Associated Press. DeGette was sworn into the House in January 1997, four months before Kiros was born. DeGette supported abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and implementing Medicare-for-All, two key priorities of her opponent and leftists at large. Largely aligned on domestic policy priorities, Kiros and DeGette diverged on the issue of Israel. DeGette is a strong supporter of the Jewish nation and has also advocated for a two-state solution. Kiros took a harsher stance, accusing Israel of committing a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Kiros, who supports a full U.S. arms embargo on Israel, criticized DeGette for backing continued U.S. military aid to the country, including funding for defensive systems like the Iron Dome. Kiros's other foreign policy ideas have drawn significant criticism, including her view that the U.S. shares culpability in the horrific 9/11 terror attacks. 9News journalist Kyle Clark asked Kiros in a June 22 interview whether she believed 9/11 was an "inevitable consequence" of American intervention. "Inevitable in the sense that we destabilized a lot of the Middle East, which led people to believe that another act of violence was the only response. And again, just like I said before, our responsibility is to get rid of those conditions that lead to violence in the first place," Kiros said. Before her campaign, Kiros was fired from her position at the Sidley Austin law firm in 2023 after publishing an open letter criticizing law firms, including her own, that called for action against antisemitism on college campuses. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4532a1c2ca79de2362ac0b Mamdani ripped for claiming victory over capitalism after NYC's multi-billion dollar taxpayer funded bailout te 2026-07-01T15:30:41.816Z Mamdani ripped for claiming victory over capitalism after NYC's multi-billion dollar taxpayer funded bailout New York City's mayor is again under fire after spewing outlandish claims that his socialist policies are to credit for a balanced budget in the Big Apple, just after the city received a multi-billion dollar bailout from the state. "In January, our administration inherited a $12 billion budget deficit — a fiscal crisis greater than the Great Recession," Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a Tuesday post on X announcing that the debt had been cleared. "We balanced the budget by taxing the rich and making government more efficient," Mamdani continued. "We did not balance this budget on the backs of working people, and we never will." MAMDANI ALLOCATES $500K FOR REPARATIONS TALKS AS NYC FACES $5.4B DEFICIT But the real reason the budget it balanced is because the city was handed $1.5 billion by the state of New York in January — funded by working class taxpayers across the state — as part of a multi-year plan to bail out the fiscally-challenged city. In late May, the city received another $4 billion. Of the combined $8 billion provided to the city's bailout fund under former Mayor Eric Adams' tenure and now Mamdani's mayorship, $5 billion was directly earmarked for the city to address fiscal measures. This includes allowing city government to defer pension contributions to close the budgetary gap. Mamdani's claims about socialist policies producing results — and his failure to mention the massive bailouts provided by taxpayer dollars — did not fly on social media. MAMDANI ALLOCATES $500K FOR REPARATIONS TALKS AS NYC FACES $5.4B DEFICIT "This is a lie," independent journalist Nick Shirley said in a reply to the mayor. "You balanced the budget by borrowing billions from the NY state government which pushed back pension payments, so you literally took money from 'the backs of hardworking people.' Don’t get it twisted," he added. Commentator and journalist Nick Sortor also flamed the mayor over the loan and his classification of the bailout. "Are you saying New Yorkers can 'balance their budgets' by taking out massive credit card loans?" he asked sarcastically. BROADCAST NETWORKS TOUT MAMDANI’S VICTORIES, PROCLAIM SOCIALISM IS ‘RESONATING’ "Mamdani balanced the budget by taking money from Albany, who in turn taxed Rochester and Buffalo" another social media user said. "That's who is paying for all of Mamdani's free crap." In a press conference earlier in the day, Mamdani claimed victory over capitalism. "Throughout this process I have been reminded of the words of the Austrian economist Friedrich Hayek: 'if socialists understood economics, they wouldn't be socialists.'" After the Republican National Convention (RNC) posted that clip, Mamdani also faced ridicule for that. "It always looks good at first until the chickens come home to roost," one person replied. "He'll soon 'deliver' bread lines instead," said another. Mamdani's office did not return Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453085c2ca79de2362ab9d Harris reaches out to socialist mayor Mamdani in latest sign she's shoring up support for possible 2028 bid te 2026-07-01T15:21:41.623Z Harris reaches out to socialist mayor Mamdani in latest sign she's shoring up support for possible 2028 bid Former Vice President Kamala Harris is courting New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and other progressive power players as 2028 speculation builds around another possible White House bid. The phone call with Mamdani last week, first reported by Axios and confirmed by Fox News Digital, along with other closed-door meetings with progressive groups, suggests Harris is trying to shore up support from factions of the party that didn’t support her during her 2024 run. Additionally, Harris met with progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., behind the scenes at a Black women empowerment summit in Chicago, Axios first reported, and Fox News Digital confirmed. Harris reportedly has also been reaching out to pro-Palestinian groups after she faced pushback from those groups during her 2024 presidential run. Harris reached out to at least one group that was part of the "Uncommitted Movement" that developed as a result of President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel and Gaza conflict. KAMALA HARRIS DROPS BIGGEST HINT YET ON 2028 WHITE HOUSE RUN Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani and Harris’ office for comment. News of the Harris and Mamdani call sparked criticism from conservatives online. "Kamala Harris 2020 was desperate, Kamala Harris 2024 was pathetic, Kamala Harris 2028 will be unhinged," GOP political strategist Nathan Brand posted on X. Mamdani's influence in the party has only grown since he was sworn into office in January, as highlighted by a clean sweep of socialist-aligned candidates he endorsed winning their races in the New York Democratic primary last month. CARVILLE WARNS DEMOCRATS ANTI-ISRAEL ‘LOUDMOUTHS’ COULD COST ELECTIONS "The fact that she's courting people like Mamdani, these socialists and communists, it goes back to the radical leftists, because the Democrats are in big trouble as a party," RNC chair Joe Gruters exclusively told Fox News Digital on Wednesday. "They're in the death spiral, because now they have these people inside their tent," he continued. "This is who the Democratic Party is today: these radical leftists that want to fundamentally transform our country. And that's why we have to fight. That's why we have to come together, unite, and we have to win. We have to win to save the country. We have to win to move our policies forward. There's a lot at stake. Certainly, Kamala Harris, the meeting with Mamdani and these radicals shows you where the left continues to go where they want to go, but listen, she has to kowtow to these radicals to try to win." Earlier this year, Harris made stops in the crucial primary state of South Carolina less than a week after she dropped a tantalizing comment at the first major cattle call of Democratic presidential contenders. "I might. I might. I’m thinking about it… I’ll keep you posted," Harris said in April at the National Action Network’s 35th Anniversary Convention, when asked by the event founder, the Rev. Al Sharpton, if she would seek the presidency in 2028. Harris, who replaced then-President Joe Biden as the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee but later lost the election to President Donald Trump, was greeted by the crowd with chants of "run again." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a453072c2ca79de2362ab94 How 'Obsession' went from a sub-$1M horror film to a $371.2M box office phenomenon that dethroned 'Sinners' te 2026-07-01T15:21:22.166Z How 'Obsession' went from a sub-$1M horror film to a $371.2M box office phenomenon that dethroned 'Sinners' "Obsession" is absolutely tearing up the box office. Basic info: LOW-BUDGET HORROR FLICK 'OBSESSION' SHATTERS BOX OFFICE EXPECTATIONS AS NEW STAR WARS FILM COMES UP SHORT The low-budget horror film (it was made for under $1 million) has been taking the entertainment world by storm since it premiered on May 15th. It tells the story of a man who uses what he thinks is a gimmick to wish for a woman to fall in love with him. What unfolds is a unique horror story that is unbelievably entertaining, psychologically torturing and incredibly fun. Despite it receiving limited hype heading into the release, "Obsession" was pretty much an instant hit with fans and that now includes a new box office record. TAYLOR SHERIDAN REVEALS HOW HE CONVINCED SAM ELLIOTT TO JOIN THE 'YELLOWSTONE' UNIVERSE Obsession has now earned $371.2 million at the box office as of Sunday, making it the highest-grossing live-action English-language original movie of the 2020s, according to The Numbers (via ScreenRant). Its earned $233.9 million domestically and $137.3 million internationally. It broke the record previously held by Michael B. Jordan's "Sinners" – another excellent film, in my opinion. More than anything, the incredible success of "Obsession" should be an easy lesson for Hollywood. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS People don't want remakes or another franchise installment. They want fresh and original ideas to dig their teeth into. That's what "Obsession" gave fans, and it's now reaping the words. Now, will Hollywood actually learn anything from the success of the low-budget horror flick? That remains to be seen, but it definitely should. Have you already seen obsession? Let me know at David.Hookstead@outkick.com. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45305ec2ca79de2362ab8b Taylor Swift's wedding secrecy went so far some guests still didn't know location days before ceremony: source te 2026-07-01T15:21:02.710Z Taylor Swift's wedding secrecy went so far some guests still didn't know location days before ceremony: source NEW YORK — Even some invited guests didn’t know the location of the wedding between Taylor Swift and her Super Bowl-winning beau Travis Kelce as recently as Sunday, according to a source with knowledge of the event — while New York City authorities are preparing for days of nuptials at Madison Square Garden this week. Details about the wedding remain scarce, but Fox News Digital reported Tuesday that the NYPD is preparing for an event spanning Thursday to the wee hours of Saturday morning and involving street closures, hundreds of VIPs and more, according to another source. While city leaders expect Swift and Kelce to wed at the Garden, according to the source, due to the pop star's wealth and affinity for "Easter eggs," there is still some speculation that the planned event at the home of the NBA champion Knicks could be a pump fake. TAYLOR SWIFT'S WEDDING RUMORS SPARK SPECULATION ABOUT CLOSE FRIENDS, INFAMOUS FALLOUTS AND BRIDAL PARTY "Let's see if Taylor actually turns up here, or if all of this is a diversion," said Paul Mauro, a retired NYPD inspector who has worked on securing MSG events in the past. "She has the money to rent out the Garden and any place else she wants, and then to go get married someplace else." The arena, which sits atop the Pennsylvania Station commuter railroad hub, is surrounded by subway lines, New Jersey Transit, Long Island Rail Road and Amtrak service, making it one of the busiest transit hubs in the country. It already routinely hosts a large police and National Guard presence. "You'll see all the resources," Mauro said. "You'll see the horses. You'll see the ESU guys, that's SWAT, with the uniforms and the long guns. You're going to see all of that. But there will also be a lot of stuff you don't see...You're going to have a lot of intelligence assets that are deployed, things that are a little bit more clandestine. Together with the feds, there are likely going to be a lot of federal agencies represented because, as I said, you are going to be coming into the Fourth of July. Irrespective of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, this was going to be a hotbed of activity." SECRET SERVICE, TSA AND NYPD TRANSFORM MADISON SQUARE GARDEN INTO FORTRESS FOR TRUMP'S NBA FINALS VISIT Penn Station is also the city's gateway to World Cup games hosted nearby in New Jersey. Commuters and tourists come and go at all hours. And less than 10 blocks away, on Saturday, July 4, Times Square will host a celebration for the nation's 250th birthday. "You've got a lot going on under the ground here," Mauro said. "They have to consider all that as well. You've got to keep the trains moving. A big heavy lift for New York City. I have no doubt that they'll come through." The NYPD has been doing it for decades, after all. Mauro pointed to President John F. Kennedy's famous birthday celebration at Madison Square Garden — where Marilyn Monroe serenaded the president with her iconic rendition of "Happy Birthday" — as well as Mick Jagger's birthday celebration at the end of a Rolling Stones tour — and President Donald Trump held a campaign rally inside during the 2024 campaign. SECRET SERVICE, TSA AND NYPD TRANSFORM MADISON SQUARE GARDEN INTO FORTRESS FOR TRUMP'S NBA FINALS VISIT Derrick Parker, a former member of the NYPD's hip-hop intelligence unit who was tasked with monitoring the comings and goings of high-profile visitors in the 1990s and 2000s, told Fox News Digital that the police department is preparing what is expected to be a "crazy weekend" between the World Cup, Independence Day and now, Swift and Kelce's marriage. "A lot of it is gonna go into planning," he said. "Who’s attending [the wedding]? Who’s got problems with each other? That’s always a big concern. Are people gonna come to oppose it? She had stalkers too. I’m sure there are people they’re gonna be watching." Police preparations are expected to include shutting down 31st Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, on the south side of the Garden, protecting the entrance to a parking garage where as many as 500 cars are expected to bring VIP guests to and from the wedding Friday. "One of the things you've got to consider when you're doing this level of security is who's picking up the tab," Mauro said. "The private security that goes on here, including what they call off-duty employment — those are cops who are allowed to work security on their own time, but they're allowed to wear the uniform...That gets paid by the Garden. But, of course, all the other NYPD assets that are deployed here, including some that are deployed now on 31st Street, those are paid by taxpayers. There's nothing unusual about that." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45304bc2ca79de2362ab82 NBC anchor forced to explain use of term 'biological male' during coverage of Supreme Court ruling te 2026-07-01T15:20:43.261Z NBC anchor forced to explain use of term 'biological male' during coverage of Supreme Court ruling NBC News issued an on-air explanation Tuesday about quoting the terms "biological male" and "biological female," language drawn directly from the Supreme Court's landmark ruling on transgender athletes in women's sports. "Just a quick note here," anchor Craig Melvin said during the morning broadcast. "The terms that we’re using here during our reporting, biological male, biological female, the high court put those terms in quotations in their decision and their dissent." "But just so you know, we’re using those terms from the decision itself, biological male, biological female," he added. DEMOCRATS REVOLT OVER 'BIOLOGICAL' WORDING IN WOMEN'S HISTORY MUSEUM BILL NBC News’ White House correspondent Kelly O’Donnell had been on the air for a special report about the Supreme Court ruling to uphold state laws barring transgender girls and women from participating in school athletic teams, and she had used the "biological" terms several times. She went on to clarify and seemingly downplay the decision, telling viewers, "it is also notable that it is narrow in the sense of the numbers of transgender athletes who are seeking to compete — that that is a very small pool, in many ways." The decision by NBC to explain using the phrase drew ridicule online, with legal expert Jonathan Turley commenting, "This is how the press becomes a parody of itself." ABC’s Supreme Court reporter, Devin Dwyer, described the ruling as "a blow" to members of the transgender community "on this last day of Pride Month," and described the transgender-identifying plaintiffs who challenged the lower court’s ruling, saying they "bravely brought this case." EDUCATION SECRETARY LINDA MCMAHON RIPS CALIFORNIA TRANS ATHLETE ‘COMPROMISE,’ TELLS NEWSOM TO ‘PICK A SIDE’ Additionally, ABC White House correspondent Mary Bruce said of President Donald Trump, "Rarely does a day go by here at the White House when the president doesn’t rail against the participation of transgender female athletes in girls and women’s sports." The decision was handed down by the court’s six-justice conservative majority and determined that state bans in West Virginia and Idaho are not in violation of the Constitution — with 27 states throughout the country passing similar laws restricting transgender women in female sports and locker rooms. The court also unanimously agreed that banning transgender females from school athletic teams does not go against Title IX, a federal law which prohibits sex discrimination in education settings. Liberal Justices Elena Kagan, Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor partially agreed with the majority opinion, but dissented on other parts. TRUMP ADMIN CRACKS DOWN ON COLORADO SCHOOL DISTRICT THAT MAY HAVE ALLEGEDLY PUT UP TO 61 MALES ON GIRLS' TEAMS Justice Brett Kavanaugh penned the ruling, writing that "states may maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females," in the interest of both safety and fairness for athletes. "The Constitution and Title IX do not require an overhaul of women’s and girls’ sports throughout America," Kavanaugh added. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Trump took a victory lap after news of the landmark decision broke, marking a success for his administration after a 2025 executive order directed the federal government to withhold funding from any school that permitted transgender students to participate in female sports. "BIG WIN: The United States Supreme Court just RULED AGAINST MEN PLAYING IN WOMEN’S SPORTS," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. "Wow! That takes that ridiculous situation off the table!!!" Fox News Digital reached out to NBC and ABC News for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452e03c2ca79de2362ab11 Vanilla Ice explains why he will always 'raise the flag' at his shows after doubling down on Freedom 250 show te 2026-07-01T15:10:59.637Z Vanilla Ice explains why he will always 'raise the flag' at his shows after doubling down on Freedom 250 show Vanilla Ice is all about sharing his patriotism with his fans. During an interview with Fox News Digital, the 58-year-old rapper once again defended his decision to perform at America 250's Great American State Fair, explaining "it's kinda shocking to me that we can't celebrate the birthday of our country" without backlash, saying he is "honored" to have been asked to perform and that "it's not about politics." "Man, I raise the flag at every concert I go to. You know that. And I'm proud because I know what we've gone through for 250 years to be where we are. And I am proud because I'm friends with so many soldiers," he said. "All the guys on the Vanilla Ice Project that do construction with me, they're all Marines. They teach me the code of ethics. They teach how, what it's like to be a real American. They teach what it is like to understand that the veterans that have lost their lives and everybody that has fought for this country, what it means." He went on to say that the celebrations are "part of our freedom" as well as "part of the fun that we are allowed to do these things and enjoy our freedom, and come together." DAVID MARCUS: LIBERAL ELITES SEETHE OVER AMERICA'S STATE FAIR When it comes to the backlash he received for agreeing to perform at the President Trump-backed events, the rapper said he is "just an entertainer" and that it isn't fair for him or any other entertainer "to be dragged into politics and stuff." WATCH: Vanilla Ice has the American Flag waving at all of his concerts "I think people are taking everything too serious, and you should enjoy this concert, this celebration of our country, and we should all come together. That's what music's for anyway, to bring people together," he said. "Music brings people together, and that's what it's all about." While other artists announced they were dropping out of the lineup, Vanilla Ice received backlash for not backing away, telling Fox News Digital that the critics only "reinforced" his resolve to perform. After the lineup was announced on May 29, several performers, including Martina McBride, Bret Michaels, Young MC, the Commodores, Morris Day and others announced they were dropping out. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "I don't think it's fair for all the other musicians. I respect them all too, that pulled out even, because they're still on tour with me, and they have their own reasons, and they live in different places, and it's different," he said. "They have to feel that heat. So for them, it's not fair and they just kind of like, 'Hey man, I don't need all this heat. I'm just here to play and enjoy.' But for me, I'm gonna celebrate my country and I don't think anybody should tell me I shouldn't, and I'm honored to be on this." WATCH: Vanilla Ice is 'shocked; that people were upset about entertainers celebrating America's birthday While he understands why the other artists chose to back out, he told Martha MacCallum on "The Story with Martha MacCallum" in June, that he chose not back out of the performance, because "I don't like anybody telling me I can't be proud of my country." "I'm born here. I'm raised here. I'm proud of it. I represent it everywhere I go. I wear the American Flag everywhere I go. It's just a shame that it's going down like this. I really don't think it's fair on us as musicians to have the pressure put on us like this, but it's a shame. It's a shame that we can't be proud." The rapper first shared his excitement over performing at the celebration, in an Instagram video posted in May, in which he said he was "honored" to be performing at the event, promising to "bring back the 90s." WATCH: Vanilla Ice doesn't blame the other artists for dropping out of the concert LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS In the caption, he promised that the concert will "bring us all together" in addition to being "an epic party," adding, "We are all one. This is not a political platform. This is celebrating America’s birthday." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452ddcc2ca79de2362aafc Pima Treasurer Johnson was hit with sex harassment claims days before resigning te 2026-07-01T15:10:20.730Z Pima Treasurer Johnson was hit with sex harassment claims days before resigning Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452bc0c2ca79de2362aa95 Pirates vs Phillies under bet looks compelling as Wheeler and Skenes set up a five-inning strikeout showdown te 2026-07-01T15:01:20.310Z Pirates vs Phillies under bet looks compelling as Wheeler and Skenes set up a five-inning strikeout showdown After a terrible week last week for sports betting in general, but specifically baseball, I found my way to get into the baseball gods' favor this week and have won four of the past five plays I've put out. When I do get hot, I want to ride the streak as long as possible, but you also have to stay grounded and make sure you don't unleash your bankroll because you never know when it can stop. I don't think it will stop in this game between the Pirates and Phillies. We are now more than halfway through the season, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are .500 for the season. That's an accomplishment for this team, but not where they ultimately want to end up for the year. They probably need to set their sights on a Wild Card spot at this point, though. They are 10.5 games back of the division, which isn't insurmountable. However, the Brewers are a very good team, and I think other teams ahead of them are going to have more resources to make moves at the trade deadline. The Pirates will need to find a way to get some pitching. Their offense has improved, but only one starter has been truly reliable, and he takes the mound tonight. Paul Skenes is on the hill today, and even though this is the worst ERA of his young career, he is still a top pitcher in the league. He is 6-7 for the season with a 3.10 ERA and a 0.97 WHIP. He is also ninth in strikeouts in the league. The Pirates have not done well in his starts lately; they've lost eight straight games he has started. In fairness, he has allowed four or more runs in three of those starts, so it isn't just a lack of run support. The Phillies knocked him around to start this losing streak as he went five innings, allowed five runs on six hits. PHILLIES FIRE ROB THOMSON, MAKE DON MATTINGLY INTERIM MANAGER AFTER DISMAL START TO THE SEASON The Philadelphia Phillies are the poster child for showing what can happen if you make moves. They cut ties with their manager, and it instantly turned their season around. They come into today's game with a 48-38 record for the year. They were 9-19 on April 26th, which means they've gone from 10 games under to 10 games over .500. They have to be considered one of the favorites to win the World Series, and they are just 2.5 games back of Atlanta for the division crown at the moment. There is still a long time for both of these to be figured out, though. Before we get there, we have one of the reasons I think the Phillies should be considered a major threat to win the World Series taking the mound today. Zack Wheeler is going to take the ball against Skenes in what should be the best pitching matchup of the day. Wheeler is having yet another phenomenal season. He started the season on the injured list, so he doesn't qualify for the lead in anything, but he is 8-1 for the year with a 2.03 ERA and a 0.86 WHIP. The Phillies have been great in his starts, winning 10 of his 12 outings. He allowed just six earned runs over five starts in June, not allowing more than two earned in any game. SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS Wheeler faced the Pirates in May and dominated. He went seven innings, allowed four hits, and no runs. Overall, he has been dominant against the Pirates, allowing just 24 hits to them over 128 at-bats in his career. Marcell Ozuna is a guy you'd want to fade today as he is just 12-for-64 with 25 strikeouts against Wheeler. The under is going to be something almost everyone wants to bet on today. I am a bit surprised that the total isn't lower, but that may be due to Skenes not pitching quite as well as he has in past seasons. I think he will be better in this game than he was the first time he faced the Phillies. He seems to learn well and make adjustments. I don't know who will win, but I think we should get under 3.5 runs through five innings at +105. If you want, I really like Wheeler under 2.5 earned runs allowed as well. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452bacc2ca79de2362aa8c NFL star's brother charged with murder of mother after police found him self-barricaded near body te 2026-07-01T15:01:00.852Z NFL star's brother charged with murder of mother after police found him self-barricaded near body The brother of a perennial Pro Bowl defensive lineman was arrested and charged with his mother's murder after she was found dead. Calais Campbell's brother, Ciarre, is accused of killing his 71-year-old mother, Nateal, in Atlanta. Police said officers responded to a welfare check call when they spotted a man who "appeared to have barricaded himself inside the home." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The male was then detained by police before officers found the "unresponsive elderly female" inside the home, prompting homicide investigators to report to the scene. Ciarre Campbell now faces two counts of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of or attempt to commit a felony, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. Calais Campbell's family released a statement to the NFL Network. AMAZON PRIME VIDEO NFL ANALYST DEFENDS STREAMING SERVICES BROADCASTING BUT UNDERSTANDS FAN FRUSTRATION "We are devastated to share that the Campbell Family has lost its matriarch, Mrs. Nateal Campbell. While the details of her passing are still being investigated, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with our father, her beloved Chuck, and in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," the statement said. "We ask for privacy at this time so that we may honor her and share in our overwhelming grief privately and as a family." Calais Campbell is getting ready to play in his 19th NFL season after signing a one-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens. He has spent 10 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals in two different stints and had stops with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins and also the Ravens. He has made six Pro Bowls in a seven-season span from 2014 through 2020. He is the active leader in games started with 259 and has 117.0 total sacks. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452b99c2ca79de2362aa83 Beloved amusement park with no gate fee takes top spot ahead of theme park giants te 2026-07-01T15:00:41.404Z Beloved amusement park with no gate fee takes top spot ahead of theme park giants As America celebrates its 250th birthday, travelers are recognizing some of the country’s most beloved amusement parks. Now, one century-old Pennsylvania destination has taken the top spot, beating out Disney and Universal favorites. In an era of pricey theme parks and gated admission, Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is still letting guests in for free. The family-owned park has been admission-free since it first opened on July 4, 1926. ICONIC DISNEYLAND ATTRACTION MUST SWITCH TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES TO COMPLY WITH BLUE STATE'S EMISSIONS STANDARDS The park ranked No. 1 in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards. The rankings are based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews submitted between Feb. 1, 2025, and Jan. 31, 2026. Eric Bowman, editor-in-chief of TravelPulse, based in Atlanta, told Fox News Digital that value likely played a major role in this year’s rankings. "Number one and two may surprise people on this list, but I think cost is playing a major factor here," Bowman said. Here's a look at Tripadvisor's five highest-ranked amusement parks in America. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, Knoebels is America's largest free-admission amusement park, allowing guests to purchase tickets only for the rides they want to experience instead of paying an admission fee. NEARLY 100 YEARS LATER, BELOVED AMUSEMENT PARK STILL REFUSES TO CHARGE ADMISSION The park features classic wooden roller coasters, family rides, camping, a large swimming pool, golf and picnic pavilions, making it a longtime favorite for multi-generational vacations. Bowman said the park's affordability and laid-back atmosphere help it resonate with visitors. "Knoebels Amusement Resort is free admission and a per ride cost," Bowman noted. "Knoebels doesn't get too busy," he said. "It also has a massive pool and large pavilions where many people often bring their own food." Dollywood earned the No. 2 spot on Tripadvisor's list after topping the rankings in recent years. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES The Tennessee theme park, co-owned by country music icon Dolly Parton, is known for blending thrill rides with live entertainment, Appalachian culture and traditional Southern cuisine. Bowman said its relatively affordable pricing compared with many larger destination parks likely helped keep it near the top. "Dollywood is much more affordable than the big parks of Florida," Bowman said. Magic Kingdom ranked as the highest-rated Disney park in the United States, continuing its reputation as one of the country's most iconic family destinations. The park is home to classic attractions such as Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and Cinderella Castle. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "No surprise at all [that] Magic Kingdom is the top Disney park here," Bowman said. Disney's Hollywood Studios continued its climb into Tripadvisor's top five after several years of major expansion. The park has added blockbuster attractions and themed lands in recent years, including Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land and Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway. Bowman credited those additions with helping to boost the park's reputation among visitors. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER "Hollywood Studios cracking the top five is a win for Disney given all the new changes and additions they've poured into that park over the recent years," he said. Universal Islands of Adventure rounded out the top five, remaining one of the country's premier destinations for thrill-seekers. The park is known for attractions based on major franchises, including Harry Potter, Marvel superheroes, Jurassic Park and Dr. Seuss, combining high-speed roller coasters with immersive themed lands. Although it narrowly missed the top four, Bowman said another Universal park deserved recognition, as well. "Not listed here but should be is Universal Volcano Bay Waterpark," he said. Completing the top 10 are Epcot, LEGOLAND California, Universal Studios Florida, Disneyland Park and Silver Dollar City. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4526d6c2ca79de2362a98d How the Iran War Ignited a Clash Between Trump and the Saudi Crown Prince te 2026-07-01T14:40:22.997Z How the Iran War Ignited a Clash Between Trump and the Saudi Crown Prince Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pressed President Trump earlier to cripple Iran. But as Iran asserted its power, the prince urged a cease-fire, and is now pursuing his security priorities. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4524b7c2ca79de2362a923 EXCLUSIVE: Inside the secretive mine DOGE helped drag out of a decades-old bureaucratic black hole te 2026-07-01T14:31:19.638Z EXCLUSIVE: Inside the secretive mine DOGE helped drag out of a decades-old bureaucratic black hole BOYERS, Pa. — Deep inside a limestone mine more than 230 feet underground, the Trump administration marked what it called the "Last Day of Paper" for federal retirements Tuesday, giving Fox News Digital rare access to the long-secretive Pennsylvania facility where millions of government records helped keep the retirement process trapped in an analog system for decades. "It was unlike anything I'd ever seen before, which I think is the reaction that I generally hear from lots of people… I believe that many [government employees] have just been constrained by a system that does not allow innovation and does not allow some element of risk-taking," U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor told Fox News Digital in a sit-down interview. "The only thing I did that was different than any other predecessor was we gave people permission to actually solve the problems that I knew needed to be solved," he continued.  FEDERAL HR OFFICE PULLS BACK CURTAIN ON SWEEPING NDA PLAN AIMED AT CURBING GOVERNMENT LEAKS For decades, retirement applications were physically mailed between federal agencies before arriving at OPM's Retirement Operations Center in Boyers, where workers manually processed roughly 10,000 retirements each month and houses over 400 million paper records. OPM celebrated moving from the paper system to digitized records, explaining the millions of documents languishing in the mine will be shredded. OPM functions as the federal government’s human resources department, overseeing the policies, benefits and personnel systems that affect millions of civilian federal employees and retirees. Kupor said the Biden administration and previous officials had discussed modernizing the online retirement application, but the effort never gained momentum.  "The idea of the online retirement application was an idea," he said. "I think what happened was it never got traction." The federal retirement system has relied on a largely paper-based process since it opened in the 1980s.  Over the years, officials launched multiple modernization efforts, including pilot programs and attempts to digitize retirement applications. Despite those initiatives, the government remained dependent on paper until the Trump administration accelerated adoption of OPM's Online Retirement Application following Musk's public criticism of the system. The underground operation became a national symbol of government bureaucracy after Elon Musk revealed its existence last year, calling it "like a time warp," while in the Oval Office. "Now people can retire as soon as they want, instead of waiting 6 months for paper to be carried into a mine," Musk exclusively told Fox News Digital.  READ: DR. OZ PUTS ALL 50 GOVERNORS ON NOTICE OVER BILLIONS LOST TO MEDICAID FRAUD Kupor shared that both Musk and U.S. Chief Design Officer Joe Gebbia deserve an "enormous amount of credit." "It's a great example to me of the more meta level of what Elon and the DOGE team was doing, which is rethink processes from ground zero, be creative in terms of what the solutions are and recognize that, look, you have to actually make significant change if you want to ultimately drive efficiency in the government," said Kupor. Iron Mountain provides secure archival storage for numerous museums, archives, cultural institutions and government agencies. Its holdings include materials for Getty Images, CBS, Disney, artifacts related to the Flight 93 National Memorial—near Shanksville, Pennsylvania—and Holocaust-related collections, Fox News Digital learned. TRUMP SAYS ANTI-FRAUD EFFORTS ARE UNCOVERING BILLIONS IN WASTE, CLAIMS SAVINGS COULD BALANCE BUDGET "We have a great team who does a lot of security, and obviously we're in a building here with other very highly secure agencies. There's a number of kind of three-letter agencies who also have records here," said Kupor. "I think by far the benefits of obviously getting off paper going to electronic records. Way outweigh any potential risks we might have from a security perspective," said Kupor when asked about any security concerns the physical copies presented. Kupor argued that government innovation is key to reducing costs for taxpayers. PENTAGON ANNOUNCES INVESTIGATION INTO LEAKS, WHICH COULD INCLUDE POLYGRAPH TESTS "I think the president has done and told us is take the skills that you have around innovation and creative thinking and apply that to modernization for the government and if we do that, we'll not only improve the quality of service, but that is where we get efficiency," said Kupor. "That's how we actually deliver more for the American people without constantly going to have to go back to the till and ask Congress for more money." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452490c2ca79de2362a906 Gemini Spark, Google’s agentic assistant, is now available on Mac te 2026-07-01T14:30:40.217Z Gemini Spark, Google’s agentic assistant, is now available on Mac Google's 24/7 agentic assistant, Gemini Spark, comes to Mac alongside other improvements, like real-time tracking and support for more apps. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45247cc2ca79de2362a8fd Venice AI becomes a unicorn with $65M Series A as its privacy-first AI platform takes off te 2026-07-01T14:30:20.774Z Venice AI becomes a unicorn with $65M Series A as its privacy-first AI platform takes off Venice AI is already profitable, with annualized run-rate revenues of over $70 million, CEO Erik Voorhees said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45225fc2ca79de2362a8b2 Haley Cavinder is a happy wife on bikini honeymoon in the Bahamas, Giusy Meloni has soccer news & theme parks te 2026-07-01T14:21:19.696Z Haley Cavinder is a happy wife on bikini honeymoon in the Bahamas, Giusy Meloni has soccer news & theme parks It's hump day, it's July, and we have another packed Screencaps to get through. There's meat, there are sunsets, there's more hot Velveeta and peanut butter sandwich talk and I have some theme park updates. But before we get into all that, we're going to head down to the Bahamas where Haley Cavinder, who has been married for like two seconds, is already using the "happy wife, happy life" line to describe her bikini-filled honeymoon. This marriage is off to a good start. I hope in 20 years we get a "happy wife, happy life" update from the Cavinder twin showing her tired husband doing all he can to fake a smile while she is busy holding onto her youth. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Those are my favorite kinds of relationship updates. I'm not, like some of you, one for watching the breakups while stuffing popcorn into my face. I'm an old school romantic who prefers to watch two people grow old together. Two people who do all they can to not completely hate each other as they age. It's a beautiful process to watch unfold. Haley Cavinder and her husband, Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson, have a long way to get to that point. They got married on Saturday, June 20, in a beachfront ceremony at The Biltmore Hotel in Miami. Congratulations to them. I'm looking forward to unselfishly, I might add, watching these two settle in. You know, have a few kids, make it through a home renovation or two, and find out exactly why it's called the honeymoon phase. - Brandon C See attached sunset. Third floor balcony of 3 Sisters brewery in Clearwater Beach. AMERICAN BEER DRINKERS LAMENT DEMISE OF ICONIC BRAND AFTER 177 YEARS AS MANY CITE 'MISTAKE' SeanJo There's something calming about a sunset, even a picture of one. Thanks for sending this one my way. - Chris B in Johnson City writes: Sean Jo I’ve been meaning to write. I spent Father’s Day and last week on the NC coast. We usually have simple meals and take it easy at the beach. I’m not one to gain weight on vacation. My wife didn’t know if the rental house had a grill, so we didn’t plan for it. However, when we arrived there was a "newer" Walmart grill under the house. After reading the Dad’s Day SC, I knew I had to fire it up.The next morning I stopped at the local IGA and tried to plan a meal on the fly. First, I grabbed some hotdogs and my wife found a can of ‘chili’ for dinner that evening. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but it filled our bellies after the beach. After grabbing some beer I passed the meat case. My eyes caught something called Surf City Sausage. I had to try the local fare. I ended up grilling patties in the morning for breakfast sausage on English muffins. They reheated well for the next few days. I’m looking forward to the 250th anniversary grilling. I plan to go pretty traditional. I may get creative for my wedding anniversary in a couple weeks. SeanJo Meat. Charcoal. A vacation at the beach. It doesn't get much better than that. This is exactly why I want to see your meat. Send the 250th my way. I imagine there will be a lot of traditional grilling going on this weekend. - CF (the Cheesy Cornhusker) writes: Sean, I had to respond to both you and Joe regarding cheese on sandwiches. The velveeta/pb sandwich was disgusting but good ol' Catholic guilt made me eat it all. I agree with Joe that cheddar cheese would have made the sandwich palatable. And this will warm the cockles of Joe's heart: In high school my lunch consisted of half a cheese sandwich, we're talking a thick hunk of cheese. Everything tastes better with cheese (except Velveeta)!! - CF continues: Thank you, Phil S. in Florida!!   Yes, please bring back Hank Williams Jr.'s Are You Ready for Some Football?! While I don't think it's the answer to solving the world's geopolitical problems, it is the perfect intro for Sunday/Monday night football. SeanJo I'm going to have to take your word on everything tasting better with cheese. I don’t think I could get through a PB&J with a slice or hunk of cheese on it. Also, I think you're underestimating the power of Hank Williams Jr's masterpiece. - Daren in GA writes: Having worked in restaurant service for a long time, service is a 2 way street. Folks need to understand the people in front of them are mostly hourly. I, well can be a semantic a**hole, "If I owned this place, do you think I'd be here now?" I know Joe's bashed on Wendy's, but regardless of hourly wages in hiring, you get what you get. And, sorry D non-economists, $25/hr minimum wage isn't putting better folks in the pot. With my experience I offer a suggestion to folks? Be semi-polite at least. The person may be : new, incompetent, untrained, or a total a'**hole. The first few, patience. The latter, F**ck em and walk away. Ain't worth your money-and time. Just my 2 cents. Oh, my last suggestion, find local. Better stuff and the employees know they have mgt at their backs. - D again: Managing a Corporate Domino's adjoining a franchise area. Very nice, sweet young girl/employee, taking, ah crap from a woman. Coupon from the franchise, not us. Got on the phone, short said no. Politely mind you. Hubby calls back later, equally unpleasant, said Five times he's a Very Successful Attorney and he'll sue our ass for not accepting the offer. Referred him to the Corp legal dept. My A'hole semantical part: He said, "I'm gonna have your job Dammit!" Said "You're a Very Successful Attorney, why do you want to manage a Domino's?" - Jim T in San Diego sends: - JS writes: I don't know about Canada, but there was a Flintstones Park around Custer, SD back in the day. As a Midwestern boy, the obligatory summer vacation to Mount Rushmore/Black Hills/Deadwood/Sturgis usually involved a stop there. SeanJo After reading your email response, I had to look it up. The Flintstones Park I'm thinking about was in Canada. It was called "Bedrock City" and was located in the Vancouver area. My grandmother drove us up there one summer. It opened in 1975 and after reopening in 1995 under non-licensed dinosaur theming, it permanently closed in 2010. Also an update for Brandon, who got this abandoned theme park discussion started. I have been to Boardwalk and Baseball. I was there as a kid. I talked to my parents last night. My dad said we visited the park when I was 9. We caught a few innings of a baseball game and rode on a rollercoaster. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS ########## That's all I have for the first day of July. This relief appearance has flown by. I toe the rubber one more time tomorrow, so keep sending me your emails sean.joseph@outkick.com. Joe will be back on Friday morning. You can also follow me on Twitter and over on Instagram if you'd like and slide into the DMs there if you'd like. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45224cc2ca79de2362a8a9 Viral German soccer fan who captivated America flees social media as story takes a predictable turn te 2026-07-01T14:21:00.239Z Viral German soccer fan who captivated America flees social media as story takes a predictable turn In the most predictable twist of 2026, the viral German soccer fan who has spent the past month traversing America and stealing hearts, has fled social media. That’s right. Freddy is gone. He deactivated his X (Twitter) account Tuesday because A) he’s sort of a fraud, B) folks grew tired of the act, and C) we can’t have nice things in this country. I’ve been shouting this from the rooftops for a month now. A MONTH. Ever since this Freddy guy came into our world at the start of the World Cup, I knew it was suspicious. I knew it was probably going to end poorly. And I was right. WHO IS THE GERMAN TOURIST WHOSE WORLD CUP ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE AMERICAN SOUTH IS WINNING OVER THE INTERNET And now, he’s gone. A tale as old as time. For those who haven’t followed Freddy (I don’t blame you), he’s basically a nameless, faceless guy from Germany who has been going viral on Twitter for simply sharing his trip across America. Nobody really knows who he actually is, which should’ve probably tipped us off, but we went along with it anyway. FREDDY, THE VIRAL WORLD CUP TOURIST, LINKS UP WITH COUNTRY SINGER ELLA LANGLEY AND THE INTERNET LOVES IT He documented his whole trip through Small Town USA, and folks fell in love with it. He saw a Buc-ee’s for the first time, and we all ate it up. He ate at Taco Bell, and went to Walmart, and enjoyed some cheesy eggs at Waffle House. Along the way, superstars from various different verticals got in on the action. Ella Langley invited him to a concert. JJ Watt put him up in a hotel room. He dined on Gordon Ramsay’s dime. All for free. All because this nameless guy who simply went by "Freddy," and covered his face in every single picture, was falling in love with America. Allegedly, of course. There’s always a "but" with these stories, you know. Things started to fall apart earlier this week, when the internet found out that Freddy had, in fact, been to America before. We were led to believe this was his first time in the US of A when this trip began, and that’s what made the whole thing click. That was the whole shtick. And then, BAM -- folks found out he had been here before. Not great. Now, to be fair, Freddy never said this was his first time here. He spent a year in Santa Barbara at some point in his life. Perhaps that’s the point he was trying to make? Spending a year in California versus a month traversing small town America is a big difference. Just last week, he went to Elmore, Ohio. Now, which place do you think is a better representation of America? Santa Barbara, or Elmore, Ohio? Come on. Stevie Wonder could answer that. And the LIBS hated this. They hated someone coming to Small Town USA for the first time and loving it. The optics were bad for them, and they pounced. Freddy deactivated his account Tuesday after the backlash. Some folks also went back and dug up some old posts, which is just the most insufferable thing we do as a society: The worst. I’m not even a Freddy fan, and this makes me want to pull my hair out. If you’re spending your day going back in time and trying to unearth old social media posts to "cancel" someone, you clearly live in your parents’ basement and own three cats. You’re basically Keith Olbermann. You never want to be Keith Olbermann. Do better. Anyway, it all came to a head Tuesday afternoon, when Freddy quit Twitter and moved over to the much less-rigid Instagram. He posted an update last night, saying all was well, but he needed something less toxic in his life. Seems like a cowardly move if you ask me, but I’ve also never had nearly 1 million followers observing my every move, so I’m not the best person to ask. "Don’t worry guys, we’re still gonna enjoy our time here and obviously celebrate Fourth of July. Our route now is Boston to Dallas. We can’t wait to get back into the South. Just not gonna update on Twitter anymore because it’s just too toxic over there," he said, via his Instagram story, before giving everyone a quick rundown of why he left. And just like that, he was gone. This vicious machine chewed him up and spit him out in predictable fashion. Part of me gets it. Again, this was always how this story was going to end. I’ve seen this movie before. What did Harvey Dent say? "You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain." Part of it was Freddy’s fault, by the way. The shtick grew a little old, a little stale, and a little tired. The free gifts at every stop? The free Ella Langley concert? The free hotel rooms and meals? All because he was going viral on social media? That was NEVER going to last. Not in this world. Not in this current era. No chance. In a way, Freddy — whoever he really is — went out by experiencing the most American thing of all: Getting trolled to death on social media. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a452224c2ca79de2362a88b Sony to end physical PlayStation game discs in 2028 te 2026-07-01T14:20:20.821Z Sony to end physical PlayStation game discs in 2028 Sony will stop producing physical discs for all new PlayStation games beginning in 2028, as the company embraces an all-digital future. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451fcdc2ca79de2362a830 Builders Stage agenda revealed: Practical strategies for scaling startups at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 te 2026-07-01T14:10:21.628Z Builders Stage agenda revealed: Practical strategies for scaling startups at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 The Builders Stage is returning to TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, bringing together 10,000+ founders, startup operators, and investors for practical conversations. and Q&A on what it takes to build and scale successful companies. Register now to save up to $330. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451e00c2ca79de2362a80b Cottonwood City Council kills rezoning for apartments by Sedona developer te 2026-07-01T14:02:40.196Z Cottonwood City Council kills rezoning for apartments by Sedona developer Council votes 5-2 against 252 apartment units Cottonwood City Council rejected the rezoning for the proposed 252-unit Spring Verde Apartments project with a 5-2 vote during its June 16 meeting. The real estate developer for the project is Sedona resident William Spring. Cottonwood Planning and Zonin Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451dd6c2ca79de2362a7f3 Western governors establish multi-state task force to update the region’s transmission lines te 2026-07-01T14:01:58.727Z Western governors establish multi-state task force to update the region’s transmission lines Governors Brad Little of Idaho, Mark Gordon of Wyoming, Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Spencer Cox of Utah, Josh Green of Hawaii, Jared Polis of Colorado and Joe Lombardo of Nevada stand together during a news conference in Park City, Utah on June 30, 2026. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) A bipartisan group of 11 Western governors signed a letter endorsing the establishment of a multi-state task force to develop a study and action plan to update the region’s energy grid.  The effort was announced Tuesday in Park City during the last days of Utah Republican Gov. Spencer Cox’s tenure as chair of the Western Governors Association in which he pushed an “energy superabundance” agenda. Joining Cox, governors of Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, North Dakota, Arizona, New Mexico and Washington signed the letter endorsing the Western Transmission Expansion Coalition, or WestTEC.   “WestTEC is an industry-led effort that takes a new collaborative approach to one of our region’s most pressing infrastructure challenges, recognizing that this grid system is a team sport, we can’t just fix the grid in Utah. It won’t help everywhere else. We have to do it everywhere,” Cox said on Tuesday surrounded by a group of governors at the posh Deer Valley resort. The study, according to the governors’ letter, must “promote open, competitive markets by reducing bottlenecks that restrict choice and limit access to lower-cost power,” provide a thorough assessment of transmission needs across the region, and offer a roadmap for expanding transmission infrastructure “that will improve reliability, reduce congestion and dispatch costs, strengthen the regional grid, and achieve energy superabundance.” The hope is that a unified voice helps push permitting reform across the finish line, Cox said. While permits are being issued quicker under the second Trump administration, states can still coordinate better to expedite timelines. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks during a news conference at a Western Governors’ Association meeting in Park City on June 30, 2026. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) “We cannot move enough electricity under the current national system,” New Mexico Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said. “The West has already demonstrated that they can do transmission better and faster, and that demonstration means that we can alleviate some of the consternation about what is possible and what isn’t.” Much of the West’s power system was built more than 60 years ago, Cox said. And transmission lines are aging or expanding too slowly to meet new energy demands. “We often talk about energy and energy production, it’s of course paramount to everything that we need to do as a country moving forward,” Cox said. “But that energy production and generation really doesn’t matter if we can’t move those electrons across the grid.” The governors also committed to establishing a group that would start taking the first steps to coordinate between states and the federal government to accelerate the development of new transmission lines. “We’re going to cut through the red tape, we’re going to do this together, we’re going to get projects moving much more quickly, and we’re going to fix our grid. Modernizing our grid will show that we can continue to increase economic competition, ensure energy security, and mitigate environmental hazards,” Cox said.  This story was originally produced by Utah News Dispatch, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Arizona Mirror, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451dc2c2ca79de2362a7d5 Taylor Sheridan reveals how he convinced Sam Elliott to join the 'Yellowstone' universe te 2026-07-01T14:01:38.755Z Taylor Sheridan reveals how he convinced Sam Elliott to join the 'Yellowstone' universe Sam Elliott was a little bit hesitant at first to join the "Yellowstone" universe. The world created by Taylor Sheridan has become a global entertainment phenomenon following the airing of the original neo-Western saga. There have been prequel series and multiple spinoffs. Elliott was a star of the prequel series "1883," and Sheridan is pulling back the curtain on how it all went down. TAYLOR SHERIDAN'S SECRETIVE 'YELLOWSTONE' PREQUEL '1944' IS STILL IN THE WORKS AT PARAMOUNT, REPORT SAYS Sheridan spoke with Howard Stern on Tuesday, and revealed it took a little convincing for Elliott to join the "Yellowstone" world. Why? He didn't like the series led by Kevin Costner. ALI LARTER DEFENDS TAYLOR SHERIDAN'S WRITING OF FEMALE CHARACTERS, CALLING CRITICISM A 'FALSE NARRATIVE' Sheridan stated the following, in part, when explaining how he cast Elliott in "1883": 'LANDMAN' STAR MICHELLE RANDOLPH STUNS IN BARELY-THERE METALLIC YELLOW BIKINI IN NEW SUMMER PHOTO DUMP You can watch Sheridan's full comments in the video below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com. I think I speak for fans everywhere when I say that it's a good thing Elliott agreed to join "1883." He was arguably the best part of the gritty Western series. His work has also continued with Sheridan since the hit "Yellowstone" prequel. The legendary actor also plays a major role in Sheridan's oil drama "Landman." Again, he's one of the best parts of the series. Let's hope the two continue to work together for a long time. It's great for entertainment. Let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451dafc2ca79de2362a7cc Trump takes inaugural flight aboard new Air Force One ahead of library debut honoring famed outdoorsman te 2026-07-01T14:01:19.300Z Trump takes inaugural flight aboard new Air Force One ahead of library debut honoring famed outdoorsman President Donald Trump is taking his first presidential flight aboard a newly retrofitted Boeing 747 serving as Air Force One on Wednesday, traveling to Medora, North Dakota, to mark the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and promote a conservation push tied to America’s 250th birthday. "This will be the first flight of what I think is maybe the greatest commercial plane ever built. I said to Boeing, what's the best one? He said, 'this is the best plane ever built, and you're going to have the privilege of flying it,'" Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews. Trump is traveling aboard a $400 million Boeing 747-8i donated by the government of Qatar and refurbished for presidential use. Trump is also set to meet with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and other officials in Medora, where he will mark the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and promote Roosevelt’s conservation legacy. NEW AIR FORCE ONE TAKES FLIGHT AS TRUMP UNVEILS REVAMPED PRESIDENTIAL AIRCRAFT "I'm excited about the first flight. It's something nobody's ever seen anything like it. Even you people, with all your experience and all of your talents, you will never see anything like it. They just completed it. They made it appropriate for a president," Trump added. "That means the security and all of the different bells and whistles they put on very complex stuff." He said the previous plane was around 36 years old and Americans should be proud of the new plane. "It would be parked next to the new ones like this. It really didn't look appropriate for our country… you can do two things. You can low-key it or you can show it," added Trump. NEW AIR FORCE ONE TAKES FLIGHT AS TRUMP UNVEILS REVAMPED PRESIDENTIAL AIRCRAFT Trump and Burgum will arrive to the museum with a ceremonial Rough Riders horseback escort before touring the presidential center later on Wednesday.  Roosevelt was known for his passion for the outdoors – dramatically expanding federal protection of natural resources and public lands. He established national parks, created national monuments, and strengthened the U.S. Forest Service. "The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased, and not impaired," Roosevelt famously said, which is inscribed on the museum’s wall. BIDEN-APPOINTED JUDGE ORDERS TRUMP TO RESTORE SLAVERY, CLIMATE CHANGE REFERENCES AT NATIONAL PARKS Trump will sign the "Great American Outdoors Act Reauthorization," which centers around previous legislation signed by the 45th and 47th president but renews funding in honor of America’s 250th birthday. The act continues investing about $1.9 billion per year for deferred maintenance projects, such as repairing roads, bridges, trails, campgrounds, visitor centers, and water systems on public lands. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451d9bc2ca79de2362a7c3 Smarter Systems, Safer Missions: AI, Autonomy and the Warfighter te 2026-07-01T14:00:59.846Z Smarter Systems, Safer Missions: AI, Autonomy and the Warfighter The future of autonomy is not defined by a single aircraft or system, but by how connected technologies work together to support the warfighter. In this video, experts from Lockheed Martin share how AI, the F-35, Lockheed Martin Vectis™, Matrix Autonomy and the U-Hawk are being used to help pilots and operators make better use of information in real time. The video highlights a practical view of autonomy: reducing workload, extending mission reach and helping keep people out of harm’s way. The emphasis remains on human-centered systems that support safer, more effective missions. Lockheed Martin is helping shape the next era of deep space exploration, from humanity’s return to the Moon to the long-term goal of reaching Mars. In this video, experts from Lockheed Martin share how the company’s legacy with NASA, from Viking 1 on Mars to Orion and Artemis, is helping build the technologies needed to send humans deeper into space and bring them home safely. The video explores how robotic missions, lunar resources, nuclear power, and advanced spacecraft systems are laying the foundation for future human missions. It also highlights the vision, teamwork, and engineering precision required to turn bold ideas into reality as Lockheed Martin helps NASA move from exploring the Moon to preparing for Mars.  Missile threats are evolving faster than ever, requiring defense systems that can see, decide, and respond at mission speed. In this video, experts from Lockheed Martin share how Missile Defense is being shaped by next-generation integrated systems, AI-enabled decision support, and open architecture that connects capabilities across land, sea, air, and space. As the global security landscape becomes more complex, Lockheed Martin is focused on building defense technology that can keep pace with emerging threats. Integration is central to modern missile defense, bringing together sensors, platforms, data, and decision-making tools into a more connected digital environment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451d88c2ca79de2362a7ba Walz post calling SCOTUS girls' sports ruling 'cruel' backfires online as critics reveal what's even crueler te 2026-07-01T14:00:40.394Z Walz post calling SCOTUS girls' sports ruling 'cruel' backfires online as critics reveal what's even crueler Minnesota’s Democratic Gov. Tim Walz faced backlash from conservatives on social media after denouncing Tuesday’s Supreme Court ruling on transgender athletes in women’s sports by calling it "cruel." "As the Supreme Court says states can be cruel to trans kids, my message is clear: Here in Minnesota, we stand with and value our trans neighbors and youth," Walz posted on X as the Supreme Court was ruling in favor of West Virginia and Idaho against trans athletes who sued to gain access to girls' sports. Walz’s comment was immediately blasted on social media by conservatives, many of whom are from Minnesota. "What’s cruel is making a teenage girl, already uncomfortable in her own skin, change in a locker room next to a naked boy," Minnesota Republican state Sen. Julia Coleman posted on X. "What’s cruel is letting our girls get the s--- kicked out of them by biological males on the field and lose out on scholarships and more chances to compete. What’s cruel is putting your base above female safety and opportunities." U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE MAKES NEW TRANS ATHLETE FINDINGS AGAINST USA HOCKEY "Once again you disregard the laws of America," retired Minnesota State Patrol Lt. John Nagel, running for Congress as Republican in Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, posted on X. "You don't support women's rights. You don't stand for anything. You are the face of everything that is wrong with the Democratic party." "Which Minnesota girl deserves to lose her spot on a team to a male athlete?" True North Legal attorney Renee Carlson posted on X. MARTINA NAVRATILOVA SAYS SHE TRIED TO WARN KAMALA HARRIS' CAMPAIGN ABOUT TRANS ATHLETES: 'NOBODY WOULD LISTEN' "Tim Walz calls it ‘cruel’ that the Supreme Court ruled to protect young girls and keep men out of their sports," a Republican National Committee account posted on X. "What’s actually ‘cruel’ is advocating for the gender mutilation of children and letting men in their locker rooms you sicko." "True cruelty to these children is perpetuating the LIE that they can be a different gender," Minnesota Republican state Sen. Michael Holmstrom posted on X. "The consequence of which is the destruction of lives -- and the victimization of girls across the state. The DFL has lost reality." WALZ APPROVAL RATING CRATERS TO LOWEST LEVEL EVER AND TRAILS TRUMP AMID MASSIVE FRAUD SCANDAL: 'TIRED OF IT' "Worst Governor in America," Townhall columnist Dustin Grage posted on X. "Thankfully we have exposed him and he’ll be headed to retirement soon. Good riddance, Tim." Fox News Digital reached out to Walz’s office for comment. Walz later in the day explained that his state’s position on girls in boys sports won’t change as a result of the ruling, Fox 9 Minneapolis reported. "The Supreme Court has allowed states to be as cruel as they want to be to transgender people," Walz told reporters. "They’ve also allowed states like Minnesota to be as kind and welcoming as they can, so I kind of view this as a mixed bag." "We’re going to view it as a positive considering what could have been done. In Minnesota, we can continue to treat our transgender athletes and youth with dignity and humanity and respect. We’ll continue to do that, nothing will change there. Anything that gets kids involved, I want them to be involved. This idea of folks who have never been to any youth event are hell-bent on making sure some kid doesn’t participate in bowling is ludicrous. I think Minnesotans find there’s a lot of other things to worry about than three little kids wanting to play sports somewhere." In the highly anticipated rulings in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox, the high court upheld state laws requiring student-athletes to compete on sports teams that correspond with their biological sex at birth rather than their gender identity. The Supreme Court ruled 6-3. Now, more than half of the states in the U.S. are empowered to enforce the protection of women's sports without fear of a legal challenge. However, there are still 23 states, including California, New York and Massachusetts, that don't have any such laws, and some of those have laws to protect trans athletes in girls' sports. Fox News Digital’s Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451b61c2ca79de2362a748 Flagstaff City Council considers ordinance prohibiting source of income discrimination in housing te 2026-07-01T13:51:29.335Z Flagstaff City Council considers ordinance prohibiting source of income discrimination in housing The council had voted to move forward with discussion about the topic in response to a citizen petition that had been brought to a meeting in April. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451b4cc2ca79de2362a71f Soros network targets deep-red Mississippi in bid to flip Senate seat te 2026-07-01T13:51:08.854Z Soros network targets deep-red Mississippi in bid to flip Senate seat Mississippians haven’t elected a Democrat to the Senate in nearly four decades, but powerful backers of the Magnolia State’s underdog candidate believe that by dumping money into the race they can overcome the hump. Scott Colom, a district attorney, is squaring off against incumbent Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., in deep-red Mississippi, and some of his top backers, including billionaire philanthropist George Soros’ top advisor, believe that he is primed to flip the seat. During a call earlier this month with Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., former Rep. Joe Kennedy, D-Mass., and Soros’ top advisor, Michael Vachon, Colom’s backers laid out his path forward. MISSISSIPPI'S GOP GOVERNOR DROPS ELECTION PLEDGE IN HUGE SETBACK FOR TRUMP’S MIDTERM PLAN "Scott can win in Mississippi," Vachon said on the call. "The conditions are right in a way that they've never been before at the national level and at the local level. He's a great candidate running against a very weak candidate, and people across the country are angry about the state of the nation." Vachon contended that there was one key hurdle for Colom, "Not enough people know who he is and that he’s running." "Once people know who he is and know his story and know he’s running, then they want to vote for him," he said. "And, you know, what stands in the way of that name recognition, honestly, is money, right?" TALARICO TOUTS TEXAS ROOTS AS OUT-OF-STATE CASH POWERS SENATE CAMPAIGN According to filings from the Federal Election Commission, members of the Soros family have donated nearly $30,000 to Colom’s campaign this cycle. "This comes as no surprise," Nathan Calvert, Hyde-Smith’s communications director, said. "Scott Colom has always relied on the backing of out-of-state liberal elites, and now George Soros’ political network and Elizabeth Warren are openly treating Mississippi as the next stepping stone to enacting their radical national agenda." Money from Soros also colored Colom and Hyde-Smith’s first clash, where the lawmaker torpedoed his nomination to serve as a district court judge in Mississippi under the Biden administration. WARREN TELLS TRUMP TO 'SIGN THE DAMN BILL' AS BIPARTISAN HOUSING PACKAGE REMAINS STALLED IN WASHINGTON At the time, she used the veto power each home-state senator has, known as a blue slip in the upper chamber, to weigh in on a judicial nominee — it’s a tradition that President Donald Trump has demanded be done away with to nullify Democratic resistance to his own judicial nominees. Colom argued that his record as district attorney was "proof of how I make decisions: based on the evidence and the law, not based on who's writing the checks." "I'm running a grassroots campaign powered by Mississippians, and the only voices I will ever listen to are theirs, not those of donors or special interests," Colom said. "That's the difference between me and Cindy Hyde-Smith, who answers to whoever cuts her the biggest check, while Mississippians pay the price." "Just ask the fertilizer companies under federal investigation, who gave to her campaign while Mississippi farmers are paying more for fertilizer," he continued. Indeed, Hyde-Smith has received $14,000 in donations from fertilizer industry donors since 2018, including $11,000 from Koch Industries and $3,000 from Nutrien, both of which are under federal investigation for allegedly inflating fertilizer prices. Meanwhile, Warren painted her vision of what a Democratic majority in the Senate could look like, aided in part by a hopeful Colom victory in November. "I know you've already talked about other things we can do here, but we need to deliver by passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Act — guarantee the right to get your vote counted," Warren said on the call, "ending gerrymandering anywhere in the United States, and, my own personal favorite, it's time for D.C. statehood." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a451b1dc2ca79de2362a701 Meta, like SpaceX, looks to turn excess AI compute into cash te 2026-07-01T13:50:21.231Z Meta, like SpaceX, looks to turn excess AI compute into cash Meta is developing plans for a cloud infrastructure business, selling access to AI compute power and models. The move would pit it against the big cloud providers like Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4511f8c2ca79de2362a5ab STEVE FORBES: Mamdani’s socialist rent-control puts New York on the road to housing ruin te 2026-07-01T13:11:20.273Z STEVE FORBES: Mamdani’s socialist rent-control puts New York on the road to housing ruin New York City has just taken another giant step backward. The Rent Guidelines Board voted 7-1 to freeze rents on roughly 1 million rent-stabilized apartments, handing Democrat Mayor Zohran Mamdani a major political trophy. Mamdani called it a "historic victory." It is nothing of the sort. It is an act of economic vandalism dressed up as compassion. This is not housing policy. It is price control. And price controls have failed everywhere they have been tried. TRUMP WARNS ‘GODLESS COMMUNISTS’ WILL TURN CITIES INTO SLUMS AS DEMS FAIL TO FIGHT SOCIALIST SURGE The mayor’s philosophy is no mystery. Mamdani comes from the hard-left, Democratic Socialists of America school of politics: Government knows best, private property is suspect, landlords are villains and markets must be bent to political will. The language may be modern, but the outlook is old: socialize the benefits, demonize ownership, punish investment and then act surprised when shortages and decay follow. A rent freeze is a form of backdoor expropriation. City Hall does not formally seize the building. It simply tells the owner: your taxes may rise, your insurance may rise, your fuel costs may rise, your labor costs may rise, your repairs may rise — but your revenue may not. That is not fairness. That is confiscation by regulation. The board’s own process tells the story. One landlord representative, Christina Smyth, resigned before the vote, accusing the panel of disregarding its own evidence and saying the outcome had been predetermined. Mamdani appointed six of the nine members after campaigning on the freeze. The vote was then celebrated as though it were some independent act of civic wisdom. Please. This was political theater with a prewritten ending. AOC’S HOUSING AGENDA UNDER FIRE AFTER NYC HOTEL RATES JUMP 12% The facts are unavoidable. New York does not have too much housing. It has too little. The city’s vacancy rate has been near historic lows. Families, workers, students and seniors are not struggling because owners have too much freedom. They are struggling because decades of bad government have made it too difficult, too slow and too expensive to build. So, what does City Hall do? It attacks the people who provide housing. Older rent-stabilized buildings are not magical assets that operate without cost. Boilers break. Roofs leak. Elevators fail. Pipes burst. Insurance premiums climb. Property taxes keep coming. Labor and materials cost more every year. A mayor can freeze a legal rent increase, but he cannot freeze Con Edison, insurance companies, plumbers, roofers, interest rates or the tax collector. AOC ISSUES WARNING TO HER FELLOW DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENTS IN THE WAKE OF SOCIALISTS WINNING BIG IN NYC The inevitable result will be less maintenance, fewer upgrades, more distressed buildings and less new rental housing. The owner who was thinking about renovating will delay. The investor who was considering a new project will look elsewhere. The small landlord who has been barely holding on will sell, defer repairs or walk away. Tenants may enjoy a temporary political sugar high, but they will eventually pay in deteriorating buildings and fewer choices. This is the oldest lesson in economics: when you cap the price of something below its real cost, you get less of it. Freeze rents and you reduce the incentive to supply rental housing. Punish ownership and you get less ownership. Demonize profit and capital flees. And now the danger is broader than one rent vote. Last Tuesday’s primaries showed that the DSA wing is gaining strength. Mamdani-backed left-wing candidates, including Brad Lander, Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez, scored major wins. Their success signals more pressure for the same failed formula: more government control, more hostility to private enterprise, more redistribution, more regulation and more contempt for the people who create jobs, build housing and pay the bills. If this ideology spreads, New York’s decline will accelerate. The city will become more expensive, not less. The tax base will erode. Construction will slow. Small businesses will suffer. Public services will weaken. More middle-class families will leave. The people hurt most will be the very tenants and working families the left claims to champion. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION New York became great because it was a magnet for ambition, enterprise, risk-taking and upward mobility. It was built by strivers, builders, entrepreneurs, immigrants, financiers, shopkeepers and workers who believed tomorrow could be better than today. It was not built by rent boards pretending arithmetic does not exist. The answer to New York’s housing crisis is not socialism. It is supply. Build more. Cut red tape. Reform zoning. Speed permits. Reduce taxes on housing. Encourage private capital. Make it profitable to create the homes New Yorkers desperately need. A rent freeze may win cheers in East Harlem. But cheers do not fix elevators, replace roofs or build apartments. New York needs growth, not grievance. It needs ownership, not class warfare. It needs housing, not socialist slogans. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4511e4c2ca79de2362a59d EXCLUSIVE: Millions of newborns to receive special Social Security cards celebrating America's 250th birthday te 2026-07-01T13:11:00.818Z EXCLUSIVE: Millions of newborns to receive special Social Security cards celebrating America's 250th birthday EXCLUSIVE: Millions of babies born during America's 250th anniversary celebration will receive a first-of-its-kind commemorative Social Security card under a new Social Security Administration (SSA) initiative obtained exclusively by FOX Business. The limited-edition cards, available only to children born in the United States between July 2 and Dec. 31, 2026, will feature the official Freedom 250 logo while functioning exactly like a standard Social Security card, according to an announcement from the Social Security Administration shared with FOX Business. Unlike commemorative coins, stamps or anniversary merchandise, these cards will become one of the very first official federal documents millions of American children ever receive. Only babies born during the six-month window will receive the Freedom 250 design, making it a once-in-a-generation keepsake tied to the nation's 250th birthday. FIRST ON FOX: BEHIND THE SCENES OF ARLINGTON’S MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE FOR AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY "Freedom 250 is a celebration of America's storied history and the monumental moments that have shaped our nation, including the creation of Social Security over 90 years ago," SSA Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano said. "The next generation of Americans born during this historic year will receive limited-edition Social Security cards bearing the Freedom 250 logo. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, we are strengthening Social Security, improving service, and building an SSA to serve Americans today and in the future." The commemorative designation is reserved exclusively for original cards issued through the agency's Enumeration at Birth (EAB) program during the qualifying period. Babies born before July 2 or after Dec. 31, 2026, along with anyone requesting a replacement Social Security card, will receive the standard version instead. FIRST ON FOX: BEHIND THE SCENES OF ARLINGTON’S MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE FOR AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY Parents won't have to submit any extra paperwork, pay additional fees or sign up for the commemorative version. According to SSA, the commemorative cards will automatically be issued through the Enumeration at Birth program, which allows parents to request a Social Security number while completing birth registration paperwork at hospitals, birthing centers or through licensed midwives. The agency said the cards will be produced at no additional cost to families or taxpayers. The commemorative design does not change a child's Social Security number or the legal function of the card. Replacement and duplicate cards issued after the initial enrollment period will not include the Freedom 250 designation, according to SSA. WHAT SCAMMERS DO THE WEEK YOUR SPOUSE DIES SSA has issued Social Security numbers through the Enumeration at Birth program since 1987, a partnership with hospitals and state vital records offices. More than 3.5 million children are born in the United States each year, meaning millions of families could receive the commemorative card during the six-month rollout. The agency also warned parents to beware of scammers seeking to capitalize on the announcement. "SSA will never call, text, or email you requesting payment to obtain a commemorative card for your child or otherwise," the agency said, adding that parents do not need to register or provide any information beyond the standard birth registration process. The commemorative rollout comes as the Trump administration has launched other initiatives focused on young Americans, including Trump Accounts, tax-advantaged investment accounts intended to help eligible families begin saving for their children's futures. For most Americans, a Social Security card is among the first official federal documents they receive. For babies born during America's 250th year, it will also serve as a lasting reminder that he or she entered the world during a special moment in our nation's history. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4511d1c2ca79de2362a594 One of America's oldest manufacturers says AI is creating jobs — not replacing them te 2026-07-01T13:10:41.365Z One of America's oldest manufacturers says AI is creating jobs — not replacing them Before Henry Ford rolled out the Model T, before the Wright brothers took to the skies and before the Statue of Liberty welcomed millions to America's shores, Corning was already charting a course of innovation that continues today. Best known to many Americans for the glass products that have been fixtures in kitchens for generations, Corning has also spent decades developing technologies that quietly transformed the modern world. From the glass used in Thomas Edison's light bulbs to the durable screens protecting billions of smartphones. Nearly 175 years after its founding, Corning is once again helping shape a technological revolution. As demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure surges, the New York-based manufacturer is ramping up production of optical fiber, the backbone of the high-speed networks powering AI. The company is also partnering with NVIDIA, the chipmaker at the center of the AI boom, to create 3,000 jobs in two states. NVIDIA CEO JENSEN HUANG SAYS AI WILL RESHAPE WORK LIKE THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND THE U.S. 'SHOULD ABSOLUTELY LEAD' At a time when many Americans worry artificial intelligence will replace human workers, Corning Chairman, CEO and President Wendell Weeks says the opposite is happening inside one of the nation's oldest manufacturers. "AI is a huge job creator, and it's a huge manufacturing job creator," Weeks told Fox News Digital. He said the AI boom is driving demand for Corning's optical fiber while fueling the company's fastest period of growth in nearly two centuries. "As a 175-year-old company, we're going through our fastest growth period," Weeks said. "We will probably double our size over the coming years and almost all of our new hires will be in advanced manufacturing, a significant part of them right here in America." That growth is already taking shape on Corning's factory floors. NVIDIA CEO JENSEN HUANG: WE ARE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE AI REVOLUTION "As the world develops and tells us what it needs, we're right there at the forefront," Emily Capek, planning supervisor at Corning’s Wilmington, North Carolina, facility told Fox News Digital. She said employees are seeing firsthand how demand for AI platforms is driving the need for Corning's products. "Right now, the world needs our glass optical fiber to support the AI demand we're seeing," Capek said. "It's a great feeling on the factory floor." Her comments reflect a much broader trend. While much of the attention surrounding AI has focused on chipmakers and software developers, companies like Corning are supplying the glass technology that connects AI systems and supports the industry's rapid expansion. That investment is already translating into the opening of new U.S. factories and creation of American jobs. SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER Earlier this year, NVIDIA partnered with Corning to build three advanced optical manufacturing facilities in North Carolina and Texas. It's expected to create more than 3,000 jobs across both states while expanding Corning's U.S. optical manufacturing capacity tenfold. Having worked with innovators such as Apple co-founder Steve Jobs during his career, Weeks said he's proud to now partner with NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang as Corning helps build the infrastructure powering the AI revolution. While companies like NVIDIA have become synonymous with artificial intelligence, Weeks said many people overlook the role optical fiber plays in connecting AI systems. "The common story is AI being powered by chips, but actually, those chips are connected by glass," Weeks said. The AI manufacturing boom isn't just fueling growth at longtime American companies like Corning. It's also attracting foreign investment into U.S. manufacturing. Wistron, a Taiwan-based electronics manufacturer, is establishing AI supercomputer manufacturing operations in Texas for NVIDIA, bringing advanced manufacturing jobs to the state. "Building in America is essential for speed, resilience and strategic advantage," Wistron Chairman Simon Lin told Fox News Digital. "Texas offers the talent, industrial strength, and strategic location to help power the next generation of AI infrastructure, while creating durable, high-value jobs at scale for the local workforce," he added. As America marks 250 years of independence, Weeks said the country's next chapter of innovation will depend not only on breakthrough ideas, but on manufacturing them at home. "The tools change, but the approach doesn't," Weeks said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a450d20c2ca79de2362a385 Alaska state fair bars parental rights group due to 'extremist' group designation by far-left organization te 2026-07-01T12:50:40.968Z Alaska state fair bars parental rights group due to 'extremist' group designation by far-left organization A grassroots parental rights organization was barred from attending a state fair in Alaska after being accused of being a "hate group" by a local activist citing a controversial left-leaning watchdog organization. Moms for Liberty, a prominent national conservative group known for challenging public school library books and curricula they deem inappropriate for minors, was denied an application to set up a one-day booth at the Tanana Valley State Fair in Fairbanks—Alaska’s oldest state fair. "Defending parental rights and standing up for your children is not extremist," Moms For Liberty President Tiffany Justice told Fox News Digital on Tuesday. BEN CARSON, RILEY GAINES FIGHT SCRUBBING OF FAITH FROM KIDS' US HISTORY BOOKS FOR AMERICA'S 250TH According to Justice, the Fairbanks chapter run by Gail McBride received a rejection letter on April 27 from the fair's board rejecting their application to participate in the event. "It was pretty interesting," McBride, chair of the Moms for Liberty Fairbanks chapter, told the Alaska Watchman. "The community needs to know it’s another one of these attempts to cancel conservatives by screaming loudly." Scott Vance, the executive director of the Tanana Valley State Fair Association (TVSFA), told Fox News Digital that "members of and peoples associated with the local chapter have lacked decorum at board meetings, antagonized staff, and association members in the past several months." "The Tanana Valley State Fair Association reserves the right to deny any application at its sole discretion. Applications that, in the judgment of the Association, may reasonably be expected to create disruption, compromise the safety or comfort of attendees, or conflict with the Fair’s mission to provide a welcoming, family-oriented environment will not be accepted," Vance said. He continued, "Vendors are responsible for their own actions, as well as the actions of their agents, employees, volunteers, and supplier." Aiming to promote their mission of defending parental rights, the conservative group’s local chapter applied for a single-day table at the annual gathering. Historically, the fair has been known for family-friendly events, livestock exhibits, and local crafts. McBride reportedly attended a Tanana Valley State Fair Board of Directors meeting on April 15 to introduce the chapter and correct what she described as local misinformation about the group. Following her remarks, David Leslie, a former fair employee who remains heavily involved in the event, addressed the board to object to the group's presence. Leslie claimed that Moms for Liberty is an "anti-government, extremist hate group," pointing to its designation by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). "They target LGBT people specifically," Leslie claimed, according to local reports by the Alaska Watchman. "This is extremely dangerous. People die because of hate. People kill themselves." The SPLC released its Year in Hate & Extremism report in 2022, designating Moms For Liberty as an "extremist group." An official from the group claimed Moms For Liberty seeks "to undermine public education holistically," NPR reported in 2023. CONSERVATIVE GROUP TARGETED IN SPLC-INSPIRED TERROR ATTACK DEMANDS RESTITUTION AFTER DOJ INDICTMENT Leslie also used his time to criticize the fair board for previously canceling a local drag performance and urged current members to bar anyone associated with Moms for Liberty from ever running for a seat on the fair board. A few days after the meeting, the fair's board of directors officially rejected the chapter's application for a one-day table without publicly providing a formal reason for the denial. McBride responded to the board in a June 25 letter, writing that she was "surprised to have been rejected" and asserting that the board's decision "does not represent our community." In her response, McBride also fired back at the board's reliance on the SPLC's "hate group" label, pointing to the watchdog organization's own mounting legal troubles. The SPLC has faced intense national scrutiny following a federal grand jury indictment charging the organization with multiple counts of fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Justice told Fox News Digital that the organization is "exploring legal actions right now" after being rejected to participate in the fair. She added that the SPLC is used by government entities as a source to identify "hate groups" and that the incident in Alaska is not the first. "The one that comes to mind is in Williamson County, Texas … they can't participate because they're on the SPLC hate map. Yes, it is a continuing problem all across the country," Justice said. LOUDOUN COUNTY PARENTS NOT 'SATISFIED' AFTER SCHOOL OFFICIALS TESTIFY ON TRANSGENDER POLICIES Citing the TVSFA mission in his statement to Fox News Digital, Vance quoted "The Fair encourages and welcomes involvement by all" and claimed that "the reputation of the overall organization and actions of the local associates does not align with" their mission. "TVSFA reserves the right to deny applications for any reason, and all decisions are final. Ultimately, the final decision to approve vendors lies at the discretion of the TVSFA Executive Director," Vance said. He concluded, "I have the unenviable task of sorting through all grievances and reports from our staff, members, and the community. Based on multiple issues that have come to my attention, this is the best decision that aligns with the mission of the fair and fostering a welcoming environment." The Southern Poverty Law Center did not respond to Fox News Digital’s requests for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a450aefc2ca79de2362a32c Guardians rookie tosses ball into stands after making second out, costs team go-ahead run te 2026-07-01T12:41:19.962Z Guardians rookie tosses ball into stands after making second out, costs team go-ahead run Cleveland Guardians left fielder Cooper Ingle suffered some brain fog on Tuesday night against the Texas Rangers and pieced together a moment he will want to brush off and move on from. The Guardians and Rangers were tied 2-2 in the bottom of the seventh. The Rangers had a runner on second with one out – the key phrase, "one out." Texas batter Alejandro Osuna popped one to left field where Ingle made a routine catch for the second out of the inning. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Ingle seemed to have thought it was the third out and the inning was over. He took the ball and threw it into the stands at Progressive Field. The lapse of judgment allowed Rangers runner Ezequiel Duran to run home and give the Rangers the go-ahead run. Texas won the game, 4-2. Ingle was 0-for-4 at the plate with three strikeouts. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS The 24-year-old only made his major league debut on Friday against the Seattle Mariners. He came into the 2026 season ranked No. 99 on MLB’s list of the top 100 prospects in baseball and No. 65 on Baseball Prospectus’ list. He was also No. 3 among Guardians prospects. He took responsibility for the error and vowed that it wouldn’t happen again. "Obviously you feel terrible," he told reporters, via MLB.com. "It's a pretty embarrassing feeling." With the result on Tuesday, each team is now 44-42 on the year. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a450adcc2ca79de2362a323 House Dem urges transparency by public officials after GOP colleague reveals reason for extended absence te 2026-07-01T12:41:00.504Z House Dem urges transparency by public officials after GOP colleague reveals reason for extended absence Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., said Tuesday that public officials have an obligation to be transparent about lengthy absences, after Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J.,disclosed that his recent monthslong time away from Congress was for treatment for depression. Kean had been missing House votes for months before returning on Tuesday. "As someone who has lived with depression, I have deep sympathy for anyone struggling with mental illness. I might not be alive today were it not for a prolonged hospitalization and proper medication. I know the value of taking a medical leave firsthand," Torres wrote in a post on X. GOP CONGRESSMAN REVEALS MYSTERY ILLNESS THAT SIDELINED HIM FROM CONGRESS FOR NEARLY FOUR MONTHS "At the same time, public office carries a duty of transparency. When a public official is absent for an extended period, the public has a right to an honest explanation," he continued. "Transparency deepens the public’s empathy, whereas secrecy breeds suspicion. When in doubt, err on the side of transparency. Tell the truth, and tell it early. The public is often most forgiving of those who level with them," Torres asserted. Kean disclosed the reason for his months-long absence during a Tuesday House floor speech. MISSING GOP CONGRESSMAN REVEALS HE'S 'MORE ENERGIZED THAN EVER' TO RETURN TO WASHINGTON "Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression," he noted. "But, as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing. There is no timeline for recovery. Only the work of getting better one day at a time," Kean said later during the speech. SWING-SEAT REPUBLICAN SIDELINED BY 'SERIOUS' ILLNESS MISSES 88 VOTES AS MAJORITY HANGS BY THREAD Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., commented on Kean's announcement, declaring in a post on X, "While we can certainly have compassion for him, and should, being in congress is not a right. There are 700,000 other people in his district, and could have done the job. It’s absolutely unforgivable to pretend this wasn’t a dereliction of duty." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a450ac9c2ca79de2362a31a VP Vance says the US is in a great position with Iran, has accomplished 'core mission' te 2026-07-01T12:40:41.052Z VP Vance says the US is in a great position with Iran, has accomplished 'core mission' The U.S. holds the upper hand in negotiations underway in the Middle East, Vice President JD Vance said in an exclusive interview Tuesday. He argued the Trump administration has already achieved its core objective in Iran, regardless of how the high-stakes talks in Doha unfold. "We have all the cards in the negotiation," Vance told "The Ingraham Angle." "We obviously want it to be successful, but even if it's not successful, we've accomplished the core mission, which is to ensure that the Iranians never have a nuclear weapon," he said. VANCE SAYS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION'S KEY OBJECTIVES HAVE BEEN REACHED IN US-IRAN DEAL "In other words, it's a win-win outcome for the American people." The vice president said successful negotiations would mean Iran is "permanently transformed" — without nuclear ambitions and no longer funding proxies that have wreaked havoc across the broader Middle East. Under those conditions, he said, Iran could be "welcomed back into the world economy." "That's a great outcome for the American people. It's a greater outcome for the whole region," Vance said. IRAN'S UNPRECEDENTED 'WHOLE-REGIME' DELEGATION AT US DEAL TALKS SIGNALS ONE GOAL: EXPERT "But if, on the other hand, the Iranians don't behave, if they don't make the concessions in the negotiations that we need to see, their nuclear program is still destroyed, their conventional military is still destroyed and the United States is still in a much stronger position relative to the Iranians." Vance's remarks come after U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Qatar for talks with mediators this week, though reports suggest there will be no high-level meeting between Washington and Tehran. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari told reporters Tuesday that, to his knowledge, "There are no direct meetings scheduled between the two parties in the coming days." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on "Fox & Friends" earlier this week that Iran had requested talks, and other members of the Trump administration, including President Donald Trump himself, have made similar remarks. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4503d3c2ca79de2362a1fc Prince Harry's security fight threatens highly-anticipated reunion with King Charles: expert te 2026-07-01T12:10:59.614Z Prince Harry's security fight threatens highly-anticipated reunion with King Charles: expert Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's trip to the United Kingdom is already marred by drama after reports circulated that the visit was canceled due to security concerns. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to return to Britain this month, marking the first return to the UK in four years for Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie. Issues surrounding official police protection for the Sussexes may damper their trek across the pond as Prince Harry fights for accommodations on a royal estate to best protect his family. While the Duke and Duchess stepped away from senior royal responsibilities in 2020, royal expert Kate Nicholl told Fox News Digital that there's a "real sense of frustration" from within the palace as the trip stays in limbo. PRINCE HARRY'S UK PLANS COULD SEND POWERFUL MESSAGE TO KING CHARLES AND PRINCE WILLIAM: EXPERTS "Harry knows that he doesn't have automatic right to taxpayer-funded police protection when he's over here in the UK," Nicholl said. "Now, this trip has been several months in the planning. The king was made aware of it. "The king was very happy to put Harry and Meghan and the children up in a royal residence where, by the way, they would have had full taxpayer police protection round the clock while they were a royal residence ... Where they don't get that taxpayer protection is if they're traveling around the country and Harry doing his Invictus Games. WATCH HERE: KING CHARLES WENT ‘ABOVE AND BEYOND’ FOR PRINCE HARRY: EXPERT' She added, "Now, Harry is a very wealthy man in his own right. He chose to step down from the royal family. He's not a working member of the royal family." PRINCE HARRY DEALT MAJOR BLOW AS UK COURT DENIES SECURITY APPEAL Nicholl, co-host of The Royals Uncensored podcast, said that the palace was "really going above and beyond" to accommodate the Sussexes. The Duke and Duchess were reportedly told that an official review over their request for security was scheduled for March, only to learn that the assessment was never conducted by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC), according to People magazine. In December, Prince Harry wrote privately to the home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, requesting a full security risk assessment to reassess threat levels for the first time since 2020, according to The Guardian. MEGHAN MARKLE STANDS BY PRINCE HARRY AFTER SECURITY APPEAL LOSS, SHOWS SUBTLE SUPPORT WITH TENDER FAMILY PHOTO Last year, Prince Harry made a rare appearance at a two-day hearing for his appeal challenging the U.K. government’s decision to remove his security. In court, Harry’s lawyers said the Duke and Duchess of Sussex "felt forced to step back from the role of full-time official working members of the royal family as they were considered they were not being protected by the institution." Harry had "wished to continue their duties in support of the late queen as privately funded members of the royal family." In May 2025, the British royal lost his appeal. The Court of Appeal ruled unanimously that a committee had not treated the Duke of Sussex unfairly when it decided to review his protection on a case-by-case basis each time he visits his home country. MEGHAN MARKLE HAS ONE CONDITION FOR RETURNING TO THE UK WITH PRINCE HARRY: EXPERTS Archewell confirmed earlier this week that Prince Harry's UK visit includes "both public and private engagements across the country," before noting that safe accommodations are only "one element" of an effective protection plan because "risk follows the person, not the place." "The issue has never been accommodation," Archewell told Fox News Digital. "The issue is whether appropriate and proportionate protective security is being provided throughout the entirety of the visit. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "The independent Risk Management Board that RAVEC itself decided was necessary last November has still not taken place. It is therefore difficult to understand how the proportionality of the current arrangements can credibly be maintained without that independent assessment." PRINCE WILLIAM'S DOOR IS 'BOLTED SHUT' AS PRINCE HARRY PLANS UK RETURN WITH MEGHAN MARKLE, CHILDREN: EXPERT Archewell added, "The Duke continues to explore every available option to enable the visit to proceed safely and to give his children the opportunity to enjoy the UK." Nicholl noted that there was "a genuine sense of delight" at the palace surrounding Prince Harry's return to the UK with his children. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS "You've got to remember that the king is getting older," she said. "He's living with cancer. He hasn't seen his grandchildren since the late Queens Platinum Jubilee in 2022." In 2020, Harry and Markle — who currently reside in California — made their royal exit, citing the unbearable intrusions of the British press and lack of support from the palace. On Sept. 10, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Harry spent time with the king, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, at Clarence House. It was the first time they had met in more than a year. "Putting aside his public position and his public role, he's just a grandfather who understandably wants to get to know his grandchildren," Nicholl said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4503c0c2ca79de2362a1f3 Hidden Revolutionary War bake house is uncovered after spending centuries underground te 2026-07-01T12:10:40.168Z Hidden Revolutionary War bake house is uncovered after spending centuries underground Archaeologists who were excavating an historic Connecticut town green have uncovered the well-preserved remains of an 18th-century bake house — an unusual remnant of the Revolutionary War. The structure, used to bake bread for French troops supporting the American Revolution, was found on the Lebanon Town Green in Lebanon, Connecticut. Archaeologists digging in the New London County town uncovered the bake house earlier in June. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING Pictures from the excavation show the exposed bake house foundation, as well as various small artifacts. Relatively few artifacts were found at the site, said Sarah P. Sportman, Connecticut state archaeologist — but one discovery in particular stood out. Sportman told Fox News Digital that — on the last day of the excavation — archaeologists found a burned gunflint. "Gunflints were chipped pieces of stone used in flintlock firearms, like the ones used during the Revolutionary War," she said. "The stone is used to create the spark that ignites the powder and fires the weapon." VETERAN-LED DIG OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELD SEEKS TO SHED LIGHT ON HISTORY, EMPOWER DISABLED VETS Many of the excavation's other finds were more routine and reflected different periods of the site's history. "In the top layers of [soil], we found some ceramic and glass fragments that date to the late 19th century," she said, which suggested general landscaping work. "As we got a little deeper, we found some older [pieces] ... [plus] late 18th century ceramic fragments, a few pieces of animal bone, clay smoking pipe fragments and older bottle glass." She said that "overall, though, the number of artifacts was quite low." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Sportman said historians had long believed a French bake oven stood on the town green, with the suspected location marked by a commemorative plaque. While an amateur excavation at the site in 1896 reportedly uncovered masonry and bricks, there were no maps, photographs or preserved artifacts documenting the dig, making this the first modern archaeological excavation of the bake house. "As far as anyone knew, that 1896 exploration was the only excavation ever carried out at the site and our work bears that out," she said. "We were unsure if the 1890s dig might have damaged the foundation, but it appears largely intact and filled in with a great deal of stone rubble." CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES The structure was apparently meant to be "semi-permanent," Sportman added, as the encampment in the area lasted several months. "The foundation is not very robust and doesn’t exhibit tightly built stonework," she said. "However, it is certainly more permanent than the earth ovens that troops on the move used for a couple of days at a time ... It looks as though it used stone as a base and brick for much of the actual oven portion." The oven's discovery doesn't mean the investigation is over. Sportman said researchers are still working to identify the structure's style and better understand the surrounding site. "A ground-penetrating radar survey carried out prior to the dig indicates that the stone and brick structure we excavated was part of a possible complex of structures in this part of the green," she said. "We hope that additional testing in the fall will clarify some of those features and help us better understand the site." Sportman emphasized that the bake house excavation is just part of a broader archaeological and historical project in Lebanon as the nation marks its 250th anniversary. Experts have identified "numerous sites related to 18th-century militia training and the possible location of the French hospital, demonstrating the scale of Revolutionary War activities in Lebanon," she said. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "The project is also important because the Lebanon encampment was part of the route of French troops under General Rochambeau who came to help the American colonists overthrow British rule," Sportman added. "It is an important reminder that the American victory required significant help from our French allies — and such partnerships have always made us stronger." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a45017bc2ca79de2362a16d Village People lead singer Victor Willis dead at 74 te 2026-07-01T12:00:59.382Z Village People lead singer Victor Willis dead at 74 he Village People singer Victor Willis died on Tuesday, his wife announced on social media. "It is with profound sadness that I must announce the death of my husband, VICTOR WILLIS. Victor passed away on Tuesday June 30, 2026 as a result of a short, but aggressive illness," a post on Willis' Facebook page states.  "The family request privacy at this time of great loss," the post adds. This is a breaking news story and will be updated. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a450167c2ca79de2362a15b Pro wrestler Vinnie Massaro found his 'WrestleMania moment' in Japan, shares love for building sport's future te 2026-07-01T12:00:39.933Z Pro wrestler Vinnie Massaro found his 'WrestleMania moment' in Japan, shares love for building sport's future Pro wrestler Vinnie Massaro is a relative unknown to those who primarily dedicate their viewing experiences to what comes on their televisions and streaming services a few times a week. Massaro has been in the ring for nearly three decades starting in Hayward, California, and making it to the top promotions Japan has to offer. He’s been a mainstay on the independents and is helping to train and wrestle those on the come up in West Coast Pro, Pandemonium Pro Wrestling and elsewhere. While he understands that the dream of reaching WWE or All Elite Wrestling (AEW) may be dashed, he told Fox News Digital he’s fallen in love with helping the younger generation grow as professional wrestlers. COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS DIGITAL "Honestly, the dream is not WWE, the dream is not AEW. Those dreams have kind of gone. I realize that I’m not young," he said. "I’ve reached that stage and that age where nobody is going to hire me as a professional wrestler. But there are other things like training. I love teaching young people how to wrestle. I love helping out in the back. I love doing agenting and that kind of stuff. To me, that’s a better outcome for me. "Ten years from now, people may be like, ‘Oh you know Vinnie Massaro, he used to be a wrestler.’ You’d be like, ‘Oh I kinda saw him but he’s a good trainer. He knows how to teach people, he’s a good agent and he knows how to do that stuff.’ So, I think, eventually, that’s what’s going to end up being my calling card. Even if it’s just being here at West Coast Pro, teaching the students at West Coast Pro and being a professional wrestler in the independent circuit, I’ll be happy." Massaro said the dream, in the first place, was never to get to WWE or World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He wanted to be on Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) as the hardcore promotion was becoming popular in the Northeast. But that goal went sideways when WWE bought out ECW. As he started training, Massaro turned his attention to Japan and performing at the famed Korakuen Hall. "But after I started training, the main thing I wanted to do was wrestle in Japan," he said. "My favorite wrestler was (Mitsuharu) Misawa and I was like, I want to meet Misawa, hopefully, one day, I want to wrestle Misawa and I’d like to wrestle for All Japan Pro Wrestling and then when he started (Pro Wrestling) Noah, when it was at Korakuen Hall, I wrestled for Noah. And I got to wrestle Misawa. I’ve wrestled for All Japan Pro Wrestling and I’ve wrestled for Pro Wrestling Noah at Korakuen Hall. I tagged with his former tag team partner – (Yoshinari Ogawa). CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "So to me, yeah, ‘What about your WrestleMania moment?’ I don’t even care about the WrestleMania moment. Being at Korakuen Hall, wrestling for Pro Wrestling Noah, being on my first Japanese tour, my first Japanese wrestling match and looking down at the mat and it’s ‘All Japan Pro Wrestling,’ the logo that I’ve seen so many times at Korakuen Hall, those are my highlights. Getting a chance to wrestle at Arena Mexico, that’s my highlight. Getting a chance to wrestle at the ECW Arena, that was a big one for me because I grew up watching ECW. "I loved ECW, it’s the reason why I started wrestling. I stopped watching wrestling but I got back into it because I started watching ECW. Now, honestly, I think, the fact that I have students that I have trained from day one, literally, they’re like, ‘I’ve never done anything. I’m here, please teach me how to wrestle, and the fact that those students after I’ve trained them and taught them everything from their very first bump and now they’re wrestling for Korakuen Hall, like Miko Alana. She came with me, she came to the school and was like, ‘I’ve never done any of this before in my life,’ and I taught her how to roll, I taught her how to bump, I taught her how to do moves and she was just on the Monday Magic pay-per-view at Korakuen Hall that … People are like, ‘Oh, Vinnie, you never made it,’ I’m like, that’s bulls---. To me, that’s making it." Massaro admitted that his skills in the ring are limited to hitting hard and showing his strength in the ring. A Spanish Fly off the top rope was probably never going to happen. He said he could have gone down two paths. He said he could have been Ole Anderson, who was "set in his ways," or he could have been Terry Funk, who adapted to different styles of wrestling and performed all over the world. "To me, I’d rather be a Terry Funk," he told Fox News Digital. "I’ve gone to Japan and trained with them, with the Joshis I went to Marvelous Pro and went to train with Takumi (Iroha), I went to Lucha Libre and trained with Lady Apache. So to me, you could just do one thing and keep doing it and if you fail that’s on you, but I tried a lot of different things. It’s not lucky if you just keep going." Soon, Massaro will get to tag with Japanese wrestling star Shigeo Okumura as they go up against a team led by Lucha Libre legend Blue Panther. Massaro, Okumura and Andrew Cass will take on Blue Panther, Jiah Jewel and Seabass Finn in a six-man tag team match at Pandemonium Pro’s End of Summer Event on Sept. 5 in Phoenix, Arizona. "I’m very excited because I grew up watching a lot of the AAA and Lucha Libre and CMLL and Blue Panther one of the few ones that you recognize and you always saw his match," he told Fox News Digital. "My first time watching Lucha Libre was Worlds Collide, of course, he was there and he played a big part … Getting a chance to wrestle against Blue Panther, I don’t have too many bucket lists anymore of wrestlers, "I don’t have a list, but Blue Panther is definitely on that list. They have me tagging with Okumura, somebody who’s been doing this for so long. He’s basically like the guy that helped the guys from Japan be in CMLL. … It’s going to be cool to tag with Okumura and awesome on the other side, Blue Panther. But also on a grand aspect, I’d like to say I’m very proud I’m a big part of Pandemonium Pro Wrestling." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44ff11c2ca79de2362a0c7 Socialist ousts 30-year Dem incumbent in House primary and more top headlines te 2026-07-01T11:50:41.876Z Socialist ousts 30-year Dem incumbent in House primary and more top headlines 1. Socialist challenger ousts longtime incumbent Democrat 2. Trump reportedly asked if US should abandon negotiations with Iran 3. State Department announces 'total compliance' from Venezuelan government HATE FOR HIRE — New York woman who wished 'every day were Oct. 7' charged with funding Palestinian terror group. Continue reading … IRON PIPELINE — Feds dismantle alleged gun trafficking ring that funneled dozens of firearms from Georgia to Chicago gangs. Continue reading … AGAINST ALL ODDS — Boy, 2, pulled alive from rubble six days after Venezuela's devastating twin earthquakes. Continue reading … SHOCKING FIND — Rotting human corpse found in chimney at school after report of foul odor. Continue reading … BOILING POINT — Thousands of police deployed across as deadly anti-immigration protests spread to multiple cities. Continue reading … -- WHY? — WATCH: Angel mom asks sanctuary politicians why they care more about illegal aliens than their own citizens. Continue reading … LEFT TURN — Socialism goes west as DSA-backed challenger ousts longtime Democrat. Continue reading … SOLE SURVIVOR — Boebert cruises to primary win, becoming last House Republican standing among Epstein files rebels. Continue reading … SUPREMACY CLAUSE — Federal judges blocks Virginia law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks on the job. Continue reading … Click here for more cartoons…   BROADCAST ERROR — NPR reveals how a misheard announcement led to them falsely claiming Justice Alito was retiring. Continue reading … ESCAPE PLAN EXPOSED — Dave Portnoy claims 'Call Her Daddy' hosts planned false sexual harassment allegations to exit contracts. Continue reading … BIRTHRIGHT BATTLE — Vance calls SCOTUS birthright citizenship ruling a 'major mistake,' warns of more birth tourism. Continue reading … TRIAL AHEAD — Judge rejects Meta's effort to dismiss states' claims that it designed Facebook, Instagram to addict children. Continue reading … REP. ROGER WILLIAMS — 250 years of hard work pay off for Main Street businesses. Continue reading … ERICH PRATT — Trump’s push for national concealed carry reciprocity would protect good guys with guns. Continue reading … -- RESTAURANT RULES — Automatic tip or service charge? New state law requires restaurants to tell diners before they order. Continue reading … HOME TURF ADVANTAGE — How to watch USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32. Continue reading … QUIET LUXURY — Sephora joins Walmart, Target with new 'quiet hours' shopping experience. Continue reading … AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ — Test yourself on cruise controversies, wedding whispers and more. Continue reading … Tune in as FOX News Sunday anchor Shannon Bream joins to discuss the intense 14th Amendment debate surrounding birthright citizenship. Check it out ...   What’s it looking like in your neighborhood? Continue reading…   Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter LinkedIn      Fox News First Fox News Opinion Fox News Lifestyle Fox News Entertainment (FOX411) Fox Business Fox Weather Fox Sports Tubi Fox News Go Thank you for making us your first choice in the morning! We’ll see you in your inbox first thing Thursday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f846c2ca79de23629f86 Stephanie Lueras: GMOs: More than a buzzword te 2026-07-01T11:21:43.000Z Stephanie Lueras: GMOs: More than a buzzword Over the next few weeks, I’m going to be sharing facts on some fear foods (aka: foods that are in the fear mongering wellness hotseat in popular culture). Kicking off with genetically modified organisms, better known as GMOs. Depending on… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f808c2ca79de23629f48 American vaccines that transformed public health over 250 years: 'Outweighs harm' te 2026-07-01T11:20:40.030Z American vaccines that transformed public health over 250 years: 'Outweighs harm' Before the first successful vaccine was developed in 1796, Americans had little protection against deadly infectious diseases like smallpox, measles and diphtheria. Over the next 250 years, vaccines helped eliminate or dramatically reduce many vaccine-preventable infectious diseases, preventing millions of illnesses, infections and deaths. "There is a reason that vaccines are widely considered to be the greatest public health tool after sanitation," Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital. LATEST COVID VACCINE MAY HAVE UNEXPECTED HEALTH BENEFIT, STUDY SUGGESTS "They are designed to ‘fool’ the immune system into thinking it has seen a disease, creating an ‘immune memory’ to provoke an immune response to the pathogen when it actually does appear." "True vaccines have side effects, and there is the risk of vaccine injury, but overall, the benefit to the individual and society vastly outweighs any harm," Siegel added. As the U.S. marks its 250th anniversary, the following vaccines stand out among the most significant medical achievements in the country's history. Smallpox, a highly contagious viral disease caused by the variola virus, was one of the world's deadliest diseases before vaccination, killing about 30% of those infected, according to CDC data. The infectious disease had no cure and spread through close person-to-person contact, causing fever, fatigue and a distinctive rash that led to pus-filled blisters. Survivors were often left with permanent scarring or blindness. AI-DESIGNED 'UNIVERSAL VACCINE' PASSES FIRST HUMAN CLINICAL TRIAL, COULD PREVENT FUTURE PANDEMICS The first successful vaccine, developed by English physician Edward Jenner in 1796, eventually transformed public health in the United States. Jenner's smallpox vaccine ultimately led to the global eradication of smallpox, according to the World Health Organization. The vaccine is no longer given routinely to the public and is mainly used for select military, laboratory and emergency-response needs. "The first vaccine against smallpox eradicated a disease that killed 5-10% of all humans who had ever lived for almost all of human history," Dr. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, a San Francisco biotechnology company, told Fox News Digital. "Then the drumbeat began of relentless progress right at the eve of the 20th century." A viral disease that attacks the brain and nervous system, rabies spreads through the saliva of infected mammals, most commonly through the bites of dogs, bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes. Once symptoms begin, rabies is almost always fatal, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Although there is no cure, vaccination immediately after exposure can prevent the disease. It can also be given before exposure for people at high risk. Researcher Louis Pasteur created the first rabies vaccine in 1885, according to The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Today, prompt vaccination after exposure remains the standard way to prevent an otherwise almost universally fatal disease. Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause a thick coating in the throat. It was fatal for some, and survivors could face serious complications, including heart damage, paralysis and breathing problems, according to the CDC. Before the vaccine's introduction in the 1920s, diphtheria was one of the leading causes of illness and death among youth in the U.S. During that decade, there were 100,000 to 200,000 cases and 13,000 to 15,000 deaths recorded each year, mostly affecting children. The diphtheria toxoid vaccine was introduced in the 1920s. Diphtheria is now extremely rare in the U.S. due to widespread vaccinations, per the CDC. The vaccine remains part of the routine childhood immunization schedule as part of the DTaP series, with boosters recommended for teens, adults and pregnant women. Tetanus is a bacterial disease caused by Clostridium tetani, which enters the body through cuts or wounds, according to the CDC. The infection can cause severe muscle spasms, "lockjaw" and death. Before vaccination, tetanus was often fatal because severe muscle spasms could make it impossible to swallow or breathe. Although the disease is not spread from person to person, hundreds of Americans died from tetanus each year, records show. NEW WAYS TO PREVENT FLU REVEALED IN 'ACCIDENTAL' LAB BREAKTHROUGH, STUDY FINDS The tetanus toxoid vaccine was developed in the 1920s, according to CHOP. Tetanus vaccination remains part of the routine childhood immunization schedule, with boosters recommended every 10 years and as needed following certain wounds. Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits, often making it difficult to breathe, eat or sleep. Infants are at highest risk, as they can develop pneumonia, seizures, brain damage or even death. Before widespread vaccination, the U.S. recorded more than 200,000 pertussis cases and thousands of youth hospitalizations each year, the CDC states. The first pertussis vaccine was introduced in the 1910s, followed by the combination DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) vaccine in the 1940s. Following widespread vaccination, cases fell by more than 90% and deaths from the disease became uncommon. The pertussis vaccine remains part of the routine U.S. immunization schedule for children, teens and adults, and doctors recommend vaccination during pregnancy to pass protective antibodies to newborns. Influenza is a contagious viral respiratory illness that can cause serious complications, hospitalization and death, CDC data shows. Before the vaccine was available, seasonal flu epidemics caused widespread illness and death every year. During the 1918 influenza pandemic ("Spanish flu"), an estimated one-third of the world's population was infected and at least 50 million people died worldwide, including about 675,000 Americans. 'I THOUGHT I HAD THE FLU': MOM NEARLY DIED AFTER DISMISSING DEADLY SEPSIS SYMPTOMS The first U.S. flu vaccine was licensed in 1945, helping launch routine seasonal influenza vaccination programs. Widespread vaccination has significantly reduced the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receives a seasonal flu vaccine each year, with rare exceptions. The vaccine is updated annually to target changing strains. Polio (poliomyelitis), a highly contagious viral disease caused by poliovirus, spreads mainly through contact with contaminated food, water or stool, per the CDC. For some, the virus can attack the nervous system, causing permanent paralysis, breathing difficulties and death. During the early 1950s, more than 15,000 cases of paralytic polio were reported each year in the U.S. In 1955, Jonas Salk’s polio vaccine was introduced in the country, greatly reducing case counts. In 1979, the U.S. was declared free of wild poliovirus, according to the World Health Organization. Injected polio vaccination is still part of the routine childhood U.S. immunization schedule. Before vaccines, measles, mumps and rubella were common childhood diseases that infected millions of Americans and could cause serious complications. Prior to the measles vaccine, nearly all American children contracted the highly contagious viral disease by age 15, according to the NIH. About 400 to 500 Americans died of measles each year, while about 1,000 experienced brain swelling and 48,000 were hospitalized, records show. RARE TICK-BORNE VIRUS TURNS DEADLY FAST AS US CASES REACH RECORD HIGH, EXPERTS WARN Before the first mumps vaccine, about 186,000 cases were reported in the U.S. each year, and the disease was a common cause of children's meningitis, per the NIH. Rubella epidemics also regularly occurred in the U.S. before vaccination. Between 1964 and 1965, about 12.5 million Americans were infected, resulting in approximately 2,100 newborn deaths and 20,000 babies born with congenital rubella syndrome, causing blindness, deafness, heart defects and developmental disabilities. The measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, followed by mumps in 1967 and rubella in 1969. In 1971, the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine became available, protecting against all three contagious viral diseases in a single shot. Prior to the combined vaccine, children typically had to receive three separate shots, the CDC noted. Widespread vaccination has reduced cases of all three diseases by more than 99% in the United States, per NIH data. Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, meaning it was no longer spreading continuously within the country. Routine vaccination also led to endemic rubella being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2004. Hepatitis B, a viral infection that attacks the liver, is spread through contact with infected blood and other body fluids, according to the CDC. Some people develop chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. HEPATITIS B IN THE SPOTLIGHT: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE VIRAL INFECTION Before vaccination, hepatitis B was a major public health threat in the U.S. In the early 1980s, an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 Americans contracted the infection each year, the NIH states. Infants infected at birth were at particularly high risk, with about 90% developing chronic infection. The hepatitis B vaccine was licensed in 1981, and the CDC began recommending universal infant vaccination in 1991. Since then, acute hepatitis B cases have declined by more than 80% in the U.S., and infections among children and adolescents have fallen by more than 95%, per the NIH. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections and severe throat swelling, per the CDC. Severe cases can lead to hearing loss or brain damage. Hib was once the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in young children in the U.S., with around 20,000 serious infections and 1,000 deaths reported each year in those 5 and younger. The first Hib vaccine was licensed in 1985, with routine immunizations reducing invasive disease by more than 99%, according to CDC data. The infection is now rare in the U.S. Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus that causes an itchy, blister-like rash, fever and fatigue, according to the CDC. In some people, it can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation and bacterial skin infections. Before the first chickenpox vaccine became available in the U.S. in 1995, about four million Americans were infected each year, with around 100 to 150 deaths and up to 13,000 hospitalizations, according to the CDC and NIH. Since routine two-dose childhood vaccination began, hospitalizations and deaths have declined by more than 90%, and severe complications have become rare, CDC data shows. A highly contagious viral liver infection, hepatitis A spreads mainly through contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person, per the CDC. While it does not cause chronic liver disease like hepatitis B, it can cause weeks or months of illness and, in rare cases, liver failure. CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Before vaccination, outbreaks led to as many as 30,000 infections each year. The first hepatitis A vaccine was licensed in the U.S. in 1995. Since routine childhood vaccination began, infection rates have dropped by more than 95%, according to the NIH. Pneumococcal disease, caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections, ear infections and sinus infections, the CDC states. Before vaccination, pneumococcal disease caused thousands of cases of meningitis and bloodstream infections and hundreds of deaths among young children, per the NIH. Older adults also faced a high risk of hospitalization from bacterial pneumonia. The first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was licensed in 2000. Routine childhood vaccination has dramatically reduced disease rates, and newer vaccines have been developed to protect against emerging bacterial strains. The most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar and oropharyngeal cancers, according to the CDC. The HPV vaccine was licensed in 2006, becoming the first immunization designed to prevent multiple types of cancer. SHINGLES VACCINE CONNECTED TO ‘EXCITING’ HEALTH BENEFITS IN LARGE STUDY Since the vaccine became available, HPV infections, precancers and genital warts have declined significantly, CDC data shows. HPV vaccination is now part of the routine U.S. immunization schedule, with two doses recommended for those younger than 15 and three doses for those 15 and older. Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects infants and young children, causing severe diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Before the vaccine became available in 2006, nearly every child contracted the virus by age 5, often leading to severe dehydrating diarrhea, the CDC states. Up to 70,000 children were hospitalized and 20 to 60 died each year in the U.S. Since routine rotavirus vaccination began, hospitalizations, emergency room visits and severe illness have declined significantly. Infants receive two or three oral doses as part of the routine immunization schedule. Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox, per the CDC. It can cause severe nerve pain lasting months or even years. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Before the vaccine was available, about one million Americans developed shingles each year, with adults over 50 at highest risk. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER The first shingles vaccine was licensed in 2006, and the more effective Shingrix vaccine was introduced in 2017, greatly reducing the risk of shingles and long-term nerve pain, according to the CDC and FDA. Experts recommend two doses for adults 50 and older and certain immunocompromised adults ages 19 and older. When the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide in 2020, there was no vaccine to prevent severe illness from the infection, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In the U.S., the contagious virus caused millions of hospitalizations and more than 1.2 million deaths, according to data from the CDC and NIH. The first COVID-19 vaccines received emergency authorization in December 2020. Multiple studies have shown that the vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death, particularly among high-risk groups. "COVID vaccines saved millions of lives around the world during the COVID pandemic," Siegel said. Although the CDC continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccination, specific guidance varies by age, risk level and previous vaccination history. Glanville, whose company is currently working to develop a universal flu vaccine, among others, summed up the impact of these and other vaccines in America. "To truly understand the impact that vaccines have had in the last 100 years, read through the list of pathogens along the timeline until they become familiar to you, until they include things you or your family may have been infected by in your own life," he advised. "You may barely even recognize most of the pathogens in the first half of the list – because vaccines pushed them out of the human experience. That is the power of vaccines." People should contact a doctor to discuss individual recommendations for vaccines, which can vary by age, health status, medical history and risk factors. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f5d6c2ca79de23629ecb Wisconsin student alleges school barred her from using Bible verse at graduation te 2026-07-01T11:11:18.940Z Wisconsin student alleges school barred her from using Bible verse at graduation A Wisconsin high school graduate is alleging religious discrimination after school officials barred her from including a Bible verse in a graduation ceremony slideshow due to the district's neutrality policy. Sarianne Beronja, a 2026 graduate of Arrowhead High School in Waukesha County, said she submitted Proverbs 3:6 as her personal message to appear beside her photo in a slideshow playing during the commencement ceremony. The verse reads: "In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path." Beronja said that less than 24 hours before the ceremony, an associate principal told her she could not use the verse because religious messages are prohibited. The student said school officials also told her she could not share an alternative message thanking God for being "beside me through these last four years." "My faith helped shape who I am," she told Fox News Digital. "Over the past four years, this verse was something I kept coming back to that kept me grounded and moving forward." COLORADO MIDDLE SCHOOLER SAYS SHE WAS BARRED FROM READING PRO-LIFE POEM IN CLASS Superintendent Conrad Farner told Fox News Digital that religious and political messages were barred from the graduation slideshow because it is considered "school-sponsored speech." He said students were given explicit instructions to limit messages to family thank-yous and future plans. "By defining the boundaries of the slideshow ahead of time (limiting the topic strictly to family thank-yous and future career/college plans), the expectations and limits were clearly articulated and established," Farner said. "The slideshow was never meant to be a forum for ANY religious or political viewpoints. It is an extremely brief picture of each graduate that allows for an extremely brief thank you or future plans. Again, the slideshow is district-sponsored speech, NOT a public forum." The school official cited the 1988 Supreme Court ruling in Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, which gives school administrators the right to restrict school-sponsored expression if it is "reasonably related to legitimate educational concerns." Farner said opening the door to political or religious expression would create a disruptive environment at graduation, adding that the school wanted to avoid a situation where students and parents would want to bring "signs and buttons and flags" to express themselves.  NORTH CAROLINA TEEN SUES SCHOOL AFTER CHARLIE KIRK TRIBUTE SPARKED ‘CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION’ AND CENSORSHIP Going forward, Farner said the school will no longer utilize a slideshow at graduation. However, Beronja told Fox News Digital she did not believe the school consistently barred religious statements at graduation, claiming students had included Bible verses and expressions of faith in past ceremonies. The student and her mother are fighting the school district policy to protect future students' expression, seeking help from the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL). "We are celebrating our country’s 250th birthday, and, after all, the United States was founded on being a nation of religious freedom," Beronja said. "I think the school district should make sure that students of faith are not treated differently because their expression is religious. Students shouldn’t worry that a Bible verse will be rejected when other personal messages are allowed." WILL has accused the district of violating the student's First Amendment rights. "Once a school creates an opportunity for students to express their own views, it cannot exclude religious viewpoints while permitting comparable non-religious speech," WILL said in a press release. "The actions by Arrowhead appear to have done exactly that." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE The organization is asking the Arrowhead Union High School District to immediately alter its policy to allow students of faith to receive "the same constitutional protections afforded to every other student." Cory Brewer, WILL deputy counsel, stated, "‘Separation of Church and State’ is not an excuse to erase the viewpoints of students of faith. Arrowhead invited students to express themselves and approved countless secular messages, but when Sarianne shared a Bible verse that reflected her faith, school officials censored it. That’s unconstitutional." Brewer said WILL is prepared to take legal action if the district does not comply. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f5c3c2ca79de23629ec2 America and Israel: A covenant, not a contract te 2026-07-01T11:10:59.485Z America and Israel: A covenant, not a contract The bond between America and the Jewish people did not begin with the creation of the modern State of Israel. It predates even the founding of our great country 250 years ago. This relationship has never been simply diplomatic. It is covenantal. Long before there was a United States, there was a people learning to govern themselves by the principles God gave at Sinai. The Puritan settlers read that story not as ancient history but as their own unfolding plot. In 1630, their leader John Winthrop preached a sermon, "A Model of Christian Charity," closing with the word of Moses to the Children of Israel who were about to enter the Promised Land, urging his followers "to love the Lord our God, and to love one another, to walk in his ways and to keep his Commandments and his Ordinance and his laws, and the articles of our Covenant with him." LIBERTY AND UNITY: WHAT AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY ASKS OF US TODAY The Mayflower Compact was understood to be a covenant, not a contract, because its signers understood that a contract is transactional while a covenant is consensual and is based upon freedom and personal responsibility. Scholar Os Guinness documents the source of the American Revolution not in the libraries of Greece or the common law of England, but the Jewish idea of a people who choose, freely and morally, to be bound to one another and to God. In his book America Agonistes, he writes, "America’s debt to the Jews is deepest when it comes to the Hebrew contribution to the founding genius of American freedom." Our founders repeatedly expressed admiration for the Jewish contribution to civilization. John Adams wrote, "The Hebrews have done more to civilize men than any other nation…. and have influenced the affairs of mankind more and more happily than any other nation, ancient or modern." Indeed, Adams was actually a Zionist. In correspondence, he declared, "I really wish the Jews again in Judea an independent nation." EXCLUSIVE: MEET THE MAN ISRAEL CHOSE TO BE ITS FIRST-EVER AMBASSADOR TO THE CHRISTIAN WORLD Walter Russell Mead’s The Arc of a Covenant explains that the pro-Israel conviction in America was never primarily a Jewish conviction. It was a Protestant one. In 1891, evangelical minister William E. Blackstone presented a petition to President Benjamin Harrison calling for the restoration of Palestine to the Jewish people, "According to God’s distribution of nations it is their home—an inalienable possession." Signatories included J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, members of Congress, governors, mayors, and other officials, publishers, educators and clergymen. Mead’s exhaustive argument is that long-held habits and cultural predispositions rooted in America’s identification with the Hebrew scriptures have shaped U.S. policy toward Israel far more than any organization or President. SIGN UP FOR ANTISEMITISM EXPOSED NEWSLETTER CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION In the modern era, since the Jewish people re-established their sovereignty in their own War of Independence, America’s relationship with Israel has been moored in shared interests and values. Their founding document is suffused with the same moral DNA as the American Declaration of 1776, the conviction that certain inalienable rights exist prior to government, are not granted by any king but instead are rooted in a higher authority than any legislature or army. The U.S.–Israel relationship does not begin with the intelligence-sharing, the joint military exercises, or the innovation Israel produces in water, medicine, and cybersecurity, though all of that matters enormously. It begins with our two nations, born out of the same audacious idea that people can covenant themselves to liberty and to law under God. This relationship is not merely strategic but is, in the deepest sense, a mirror. When America looks at Israel, at its tenacity, its survival against odds that have crushed far stronger empires, its insistence on being a democracy in a neighborhood that offers none, America sees a semblance of its own worthwhile struggle. This is what motivated me to found the U.S. Israel Education Association 15 years ago, to educate American leaders about this essential collaboration, to strengthen it, and to reap its benefits for our country well into the future. At 250, America does not necessarily need more allies, but it does need to remember and appreciate its origins and covenantal heritage. American and Israel both sprouted from the pages of the Jewish Bible and share a common script that reflects our identity and impacts our view of the world.  That is why our alliance with Israel runs deep and will endure even the strongest forces that oppose it. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f5b0c2ca79de23629eb9 REP TOM BARRETT: It’s up to Congress to prevent another endless American war te 2026-07-01T11:10:40.036Z REP TOM BARRETT: It’s up to Congress to prevent another endless American war War is something we are all contemplating as tensions with Iran continue. It certainly keeps me up at night. After spending 22 years in the Army and deploying around the world, it still consumes a lot of my attention. Europe and America fought the "War to End All Wars" more than 100 years ago in the trenches of World War I. Of course, it didn’t really end wars, and it directly fed into World War II, which left millions dead and reset the global national hierarchy. In the book "1984," George Orwell wrote that "by becoming continuous war has ceased to exist." When we normalize war, it becomes a constant in our lives, like a chronic disease we try to manage but never fully cure. That’s why one of the proudest votes I took in my first year in Congress was to repeal the 2002 authorization for use of military force in Iraq — almost 17 years to the day after I came home from my own deployment in that war. This marked the first time in my life that Congress successfully repealed an authorization for use of military force. AIR FORCE REVEALS B-2'S HIDDEN SHIP KILLER CAPABILITY AS CHINA THREAT GROWS Earlier this year I introduced my own bipartisan reform plan to repeal another dormant authorization and require future authorizations to be reapproved at least every five years. This package would also give Congress more tools to quickly and clearly define future missions after the president uses force to confront urgent threats. Our Constitution is clear: Only Congress can declare war and decide to engage in the use of military force. In 1973, Congress passed the War Powers Act, which delegated some authority to the president for up to 60 days before Congress must give consent for the effort to continue. When that timeline expired for the conflict in Iran, I felt compelled to enforce it for one simple reason — the decision of when and how to go to war is perhaps the most consequential that a government can make. It literally involves life and death. TRUMP CAN SAVE HIS LEGACY WITH VETERANS AND MAYBE RESCUE THE MIDTERMS, TOO Decisions like this demand the highest level of constitutional scrutiny. Iran must never get a nuclear weapon, but the people’s representatives must have a say when American lives and taxpayer dollars are on the line. Decisions about war can’t be taken lightly. Sadly, I have encountered what feels like a growing mindset that some Americans think we can fight wars using other people’s sons and daughters with technology that keeps us far from the battlefield. We haven’t had a draft in over 50 years, so it’s easy to feel insulated from the effects of war. But an entire generation of Global War on Terror-era veterans see it differently. We lost friends and battle buddies who either didn’t make it home or came back physically or psychologically wounded, with thousands more losing the battle to suicide than to combat. At the end of two decades, it was easy to wonder if it was all worth it or not. Staff Sergeant Duane Dreasky was my friend and roommate on a deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was struck by an IED in Iraq and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, just three miles from where I now cast my votes as a member of the United States Congress. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Other friends were lost to suicide or overdose. I think about the total human cost of war as I carry their memories and the thousands of other War on Terror veterans with me as I make these decisions. While my time in the military has passed, I owe it to this generation of warfighters to set clear, unambiguous objectives, prevent mission creep and protect against endless conflicts and nation building. When we do need to use military force, a clearly defined mission allows for overwhelming force to defeat the enemy quickly and decisively. It’s time for Congress to step up and have the debate on the use of force and avoid the tragic mistakes of the past. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44f100c2ca79de23629dbd WATCH: Angel mom turns tables on sanctuary politicians with basic question about their priorities te 2026-07-01T10:50:40.981Z WATCH: Angel mom turns tables on sanctuary politicians with basic question about their priorities The mother of an 18-year-old college freshman killed in March by a criminal illegal immigrant asked lawmakers Tuesday to look her in the eye and explain why "people here illegally matter more" than American citizens, delivering emotional testimony during a congressional hearing on sanctuary policies. Jessica Gorman, whose daughter Sheridan Gorman was fatally shot after going to the Chicago lakefront with friends to see the Northern Lights, accused sanctuary city leaders and politicians of failing to protect her child during a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing on sanctuary policies. "I want you to imagine that little girl on the 'buddy bench,' that innocent college freshman with a heart full of compassion and a head full of dreams that was gunned down by an illegal immigrant," Gorman said. "I want you to imagine that was your daughter, not mine. What if she was yours?" CHICAGO MAYOR ASKED ABOUT CITY'S IMMIGRATION POLICIES AFTER ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT ALLEGEDLY KILLED COLLEGE STUDENT Gorman's remarks came as she invoked a childhood story about Sheridan "stalking" the "buddy bench" at recess, waiting to help classmates who felt lonely or left out. She lamented that her daughter, who spent her life making others feel seen, had been failed by the people responsible for protecting her. "I bring this back to the buddy bench. I think Congress needs one. Yes, I think every governor, every mayor, every sanctuary city official and politician shifting blame and interest, hiding behind their slogans and talking points should have to all sit on one," Gorman said.  "I challenge you all to sit down with me. Take my hand, look me in the eye, and then explain to me, because I just don't understand. Explain why people here illegally matter more than your American citizens. Explain why sanctuary policies matter more than my Sheridan's life. Explain why cooperation with ICE was too much to ask for, but asking our American parents to bury our children is somehow acceptable. Ask me — I need you to tell me." BIDEN BORDER OFFICIALS RELEASED ALLEGED KILLER OF CHICAGO STUDENT 'DUE TO LACK OF SPACE,' DOCUMENTS SHOW Gorman identified the man accused of killing her daughter as Jose Medina, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela who she said "should not have even been in this country." She said Medina had previously committed a crime and had an outstanding warrant before he was left on the streets of Chicago. "But this story is not about him," Gorman told lawmakers. "The story is about my Sheridan." The hearing focused on sanctuary policies and whether jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities are putting Americans at risk. Republicans argued those policies allow criminal illegal immigrants to be released back into communities instead of being turned over to ICE, while Democrats pushed back by arguing such policies preserve trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement. Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., who chairs the subcommittee, opened the hearing by saying Republicans would continue highlighting the families of victims until sanctuary policies are "rectified." Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the ranking member, offered condolences to Gorman and another witness whose daughter was killed, but criticized the hearing as the committee’s fourth on sanctuary cities and argued Democrats should instead be examining the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies. The hearing grew heated even before Gorman testified, when Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., introduced her and was interrupted by Democrats who said his remarks had turned from an introduction into a broader speech on immigration policy. Gorman later told lawmakers she had never expected to become a public advocate, but said her daughter’s death forced her into the fight. "I’m a lover, not a fighter," Gorman said. "I’m not a public speaker. I’m not someone who ever speaks out about things. I have to." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44eea8c2ca79de23629d44 Inside the Supreme Court battle to 'Save Women's Sports' te 2026-07-01T10:40:40.752Z Inside the Supreme Court battle to 'Save Women's Sports' It was a crisp day in January when Riley Gaines stood in front of a divided crowd on the Supreme Court steps. Right in front of her were her supporters, mostly women dressed in casual or formal clothing, clapping as she spoke. But just to their left stood a horde of pro-transgender activists, some wearing costumes and others partially unclothed, shouting curse words. "They're so angry," Gaines told Fox News Digital of the crowd that day. "On our side ... you saw people smiling and embracing and hugging each other ... but you look across the bike racks that were there separating us, and you saw anger, and you saw negativity, and you saw screaming, and you saw vitriol, and you saw colored hair, and you saw colored hair, and you saw piercings, and you saw what I would describe, honestly, just visually looking at it, was island of the misfit toys. Not to be like, mean, but just speaking pretty objectively here." SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS Nearly six months after Gaines stood on those steps, the pro-transgender activists now sit on the losing side of the court's decision. Gaines and her "Save Women's Sports" activists can look back on that rally, and the obscenities hurled at them while they spoke, as obstacles in a winning fight, after the Supreme Court justices ruled Tuesday to uphold state laws that ban trans athletes from girls' and women's sports. Six years before Gaines stood on those steps — and almost three years before her infamous tie with Lia Thomas — Idaho State cross-country runner Mary Kate Marshall was put in a position that would change her life. In 2019, she and teammate Madison Kenyon competed against a biological male from the University of Montana. The following year, they joined the lawsuit that would reach the Supreme Court. "I lost every race I ran against this male, and so did a lot of my teammates. And then at a championship, I watched my teammate pushed off the podium," Marshall told Fox News Digital. It was 2020. The issue of trans athletes in women's sports hadn't become the cultural lightning rod it is today. There was less of a support system for women like Marshall. But she took a leap of faith, signing on as a voluntary defendant to a lawsuit against her state. The lawsuit, filed by former Boise State trans athlete Lindsay Hecox, blocked the state's law to keep males out of women's sports. "Seeing that no parents were standing up, no coaches were saying anything, like, we knew we had to," Marshall said. She was joined by her teammate Madison Kenyan. Together with their state, they would suffer a series of courtroom losses over the course of multiple years. All the while, they dealt with the sacrifices that Gaines and all the other "Save Women's Sports" activists would have to deal with in a heated political climate. "It was difficult at first because we were afraid of some of the backlash that we might get, but we had to do the right thing," Marshall said, adding that interactions with people they were close to became "scary." "Teammates that we had on the team just disappointed in us for putting our school's name out there... "We had some teammates who were just afraid, um, afraid of going against the norm, and at the time, back in 2020, there, this wasn't talked about a lot. So people were just scared about what would come of it or getting in trouble." Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, who was just working as a legal counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) at the time, says their decision to join the lawsuit as defendants was essential to getting the case to the Supreme Court years later. "I think it made all the difference in the world," Labrador, who became AG in 2023, told Fox News Digital. "Their courage and their conviction and their ability and desire to make very unpopular decisions at the time, and to make public stances that jeopardize, you know, their friendships, their ability to participate in sports, maybe in some cases even their abilities to be on the team... their fight was important." Then in West Virginia in 2021, a transgender student who was still a minor filed a similar lawsuit after being told, before entering sixth grade, that she could not compete on the girls’ cross-country and track-and-field teams. The West Virginia case differed from Idaho’s in one crucial way: It did not begin with a college athlete who had tried out for a women’s team. It began with a middle schooler, represented by the ACLU, who argued that West Virginia’s law amounted to a categorical ban. The ACLU said the athlete had taken medication from the onset of puberty and had not experienced the physiological changes associated with male puberty. The courts initially gave the student room to compete. The district court first blocked enforcement of the law, and the Fourth Circuit later ruled against West Virginia on the Title IX claim while sending the Equal Protection issue back for more fact-finding. It meant that, as the Supreme Court fight dragged on, the athlete continued competing in girls’ sports. For West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey, that was the hardest part. "The hardest part was getting the phone calls from the girls and the families who were being affected in West Virginia in real time," McCuskey told Fox News Digital. "There’s nothing you can do when the Fourth Circuit enjoins your law to overcome that until the Supreme Court decides what the Fourth Circuit did was wrong. And so there was this, what I knew to be an injustice happening in real time, and my hands were really tied." But the West Virginia story soon became about more than race times, throws and standings. In January, Fox News Digital reported that Bridgeport High School student Adaleia Cross, a former track-and-field teammate of the trans athlete at Bridgeport Middle School, had accused the athlete of making graphic sexual comments to her in the girls’ locker room during the 2022-23 school year. Cross said she later quit track at Bridgeport High School to avoid sharing a locker room again once the athlete reached high school. The ACLU denied the allegations on behalf of the athlete and the athlete’s mother, saying the school district investigated the claim and found it unsubstantiated. ADF, which represents Cross, said Cross had sworn under oath about the alleged incident and argued that she "had to step away from the sport she loved entirely" because of it. Jim Campbell, chief legal counsel for ADF, pointed to Cross’s alleged experience as one of the human costs behind the legal fight. "When we reject truth, the harm is real, widespread, and devastating," Campbell told Fox News Digital. "Across the country, girls have been losing medals, roster spots, titles, opportunities, and privacy. Consider our client, Adaleia Cross, who’s in the State of West Virginia. Not only did the plaintiff in the West Virginia case take her spot in a championship meet, that same plaintiff also sexually harassed her in the locker room, and she had to leave the sport that she loved as a result." The harassment allegation was not part of the Supreme Court case itself, but McCuskey said it affected how many people in West Virginia understood the broader stakes. "I think it is astronomically important that in the wake of this decision we make sure that we’re providing every single child a safe and fair place to play sports," McCuskey said. "And if you’re a biological woman, that means not competing against biological men." The trans athlete's legal representatives at the American Civil Liberties Union has denied the allegations. Then, as the Supreme Court weighed the case over the last six months, the West Virginia athlete was allowed to continue competing... then won a girls' state championship. 'SAVE WOMEN'S SPORTS' 2025 CULTURE WAR TIMELINE — THE YEAR THE TIDES TURNED In May, just weeks before the ruling, the athlete won the West Virginia Class AAA girls’ shot put state championship with a throw of 38 feet, 11¾ inches, beating the runner-up by just over two feet. The athlete also finished fourth in girls’ discus. The Supreme Court’s own opinion noted the athlete had won the state shot put title and had also won the Region 2 championship in both shot put and discus during the litigation. The ruling did not arrive until after the girls’ track season had ended. Still, McCuskey prefers to keep his eyes forward and hopes his state can easily move on from the recent track title. "I think it’s most important to look at this going forward and to say it isn’t going to happen again," McCuskey said. "I think what we will see is that everyone will understand looking back on this that, that the time in which before this decision came down, that there was astronomical irrationality happening throughout the country, and that we finally came to a place of common sense." That "place of common sense" arrived in 77 pages on Tuesday. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, writing for the court’s six conservative justices, opened the majority opinion not with the transgender athletes who sued, but with Title IX itself — the law supporters of the state bans have long argued was being turned against the very girls it was written to protect. "Title IX transformed American sports and American life," Kavanaugh wrote, crediting the 1972 law with helping create the modern era of girls’ and women’s athletics. But the court said Title IX did not require schools to let biological males compete on girls’ and women’s teams. Instead, it held that schools may separate teams by biological sex, and that West Virginia and Idaho did not violate the Constitution by doing so. The majority framed sports as different from other school settings because of what is at stake every time a roster is made, a medal is awarded or a scholarship is offered. "Sports are generally zero sum," Kavanaugh wrote. For the women who had spent years telling their stories, that line sounded like recognition. "The decision really is astounding," Campbell said. "It’s very clear on issues like what Title IX means. It’s very clear on issues like whether the Equal Protection Clause prevents states from protecting women’s sports." "Across the board, the court ruled in favor of women and girls," he added, "recognizing that they deserve equal opportunities, that they deserve podium spots, that they deserve scholarships, and that they do not need to step aside and allow males to compete against them." The ruling was split in two. On Title IX, even the three liberal justices agreed the West Virginia student’s claim failed, though they objected to parts of the majority’s reasoning. On the constitutional question, the court split 6-3, with Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson saying the case should have gone back to the lower courts for more fact-finding. Campbell said that distinction mattered. "The justices that dissented only did so on the constitutional question," he said. "It’s really important to recognize that every single justice on the Supreme Court recognized that Title IX allows states to protect women’s sports." "So on that Title IX issue, the court was unanimous," he added. "On the equal protection issue, the majority of the court said that the 14th Amendment allows states to protect women’s sports." Sotomayor, writing for the dissenters, argued the majority had moved too quickly. She said unresolved factual questions about the West Virginia athlete’s medical history and athletic advantage should have prevented the court from ending the equal protection claim. She accused the majority of resolving a divisive issue "without knowing all the facts." McCuskey said that argument missed the girls on the other side of the case. "The biggest frustration that I have, just in general, is this idea that there is no victim on the other side of these cases," McCuskey said. "The sort of understating the arguments being made by the biological women and girls on our side of this case… undercuts what are the true reasons why competitive sports are so important to women and girls." "It is an avenue for them to achieve incredible greatness in their lives," he added. For Labrador, the decision closed a circle that began before he was attorney general. Back in 2020, when Idaho became the first state in the country to pass a law protecting girls’ sports, Labrador said the state was under intense pressure. The NCAA had threatened consequences. Idaho’s previous attorney general had warned the law could be unconstitutional. Labrador, then outside the attorney general’s office, joined ADF as local counsel for the female athletes who stepped into the case. He said the issue was personal. "I have a daughter who played volleyball in high school," Labrador said. "Every time I think about this case, I think about how significant that moment in her life was, how important playing sports was for her." "If there would have been several male athletes ahead of her," he added, "I’m not sure that she would have made the varsity team." But for the activists who turned the issue from an obscure legal dispute into a national cause, the ruling was not a finish line. Gaines said the decision felt like the culmination of the last several years of her life, but also a reminder of how far the debate had moved. "I feel excited, of course. This is long awaited. It’s long overdue," Gaines said. "It feels kind of like the culmination of everything that I have found myself fighting for over the past few years." "But there is a level of me that’s exhausted as well," she added. "It’s exhausting that in the year 2026, we are still having this conversation, that the highest court in the land is having to rule on such insanity." Gaines said that just 10 years ago, such a ruling would have been treated as obvious. "We wouldn’t have necessarily celebrated this ruling," she said. "We would have kind of been like, ‘Yeah, duh. This is, like, the default.’" Jennifer Sey, a former U.S. national gymnastics champion and founder of XX-XY Athletics, said the ruling was a big victory, but not the final one ."We won, but we are not done," Sey told Fox News Digital. Sey pointed to the 23 states without laws protecting girls’ sports and said girls in those states remain exposed. "Girls in every ZIP code deserve fair sports," Sey said. "My daughter is nine, and we live in Colorado. That is a blue state that does not have a law on the books protecting women’s sports. Hopefully, it will soon." Sey said she is chairing a Colorado ballot initiative that she expects to appear before voters in November. But she said the broader fight is cultural, not just legal. "It should be absolutely unacceptable to every human, every parent, that a boy would be fielded in a girls’ category," Sey said. "When that becomes culturally unacceptable, that’s when it will stop happening." Gaines said the next phase will require Congress, states, federal agencies and parents to act. "We need Congress to codify President Trump’s executive orders," Gaines said. "We need states, whether it’s through legislation, although I think we’re kind of reaching the cap there, so through ballot initiatives at this point." She also called for "real enforcement mechanisms" against states and institutions that refuse to comply. "I think that’s what is gonna make any of these people move, is when you hit them where it hurts, which is always going to be the pockets," Gaines said. "Whether you’re a corporation, whether you’re a government entity, doesn’t matter." Sey said the ruling also had implications beyond school sports. Title IX, she noted, does not govern every arena where female athletes compete. "Title IX doesn’t actually cover the Olympic movement. It doesn’t actually cover private club sports," Sey said. "The Boston Marathon has its own governance. Men can compete in the women’s category in the Boston Marathon." "So there’s still a lot of work to do," she added. "It’s why I keep saying we have to focus on changing the culture, because I think once we do that, all of the governing bodies will fall in line and protect the women’s category." As Gaines continues to lead the charge on the issue, she doesn't envision the finish line existing in a courtroom or piece of legislation, but in a broader cultural influence. "When people, your everyday person, so think of parents, coaches, et cetera, when they’re bold enough to defend their daughters or defend their athletes or defend themselves," Gaines said. "That’s when you see real change." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e7eec2ca79de23629bca Let's all agree that dolphins are the 'smart kids who don't apply themselves' of the Animal Kingdom te 2026-07-01T10:11:58.643Z Let's all agree that dolphins are the 'smart kids who don't apply themselves' of the Animal Kingdom It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time to get what’s been eating at you off your chest in another edition of The Gripe Report. Now that it’s summer, more and more people will be going outside… unless, of course, it’s dangerously hot like it has been in parts of the country, in which case, maybe stay inside. And when you’re outside, your chances of encountering wild animals go up exponentially. I’ve always been fascinated by the animal kingdom, but it’s a part of the natural world that is far from gripe-proof. So, I decided to put together a few animal-related gripes so we could give some of the most frustrating fauna its due. I’ve got no problem with dolphins. I swam with them once, and they were cool to me. One even pulled me around a lagoon like a Jet Ski with a blowhole. I’m just tired of everyone telling me how smart dolphins are when obvious things are holding them back from realizing their full potential. That’s all I’m saying. BOY STUMBLES ON STRANGE BEACH OBJECT IDENTIFIED AS RARE 1.8M-YEAR-OLD FOSSIL The first thing I always point out when someone tells me what eggheads dolphins are is what smart animal would breathe air and decide, "Yeah, I’m going to post up in the water for my entire life." My French bulldog isn’t going to be writing any thesis papers, but he understands that you can’t breathe in water. Also, while they’ve shown they know how to smash crabs open with rocks, I feel like intelligence is only good if you can apply it, and it’s hard to apply it without hands. That might be the thing holding dolphins back the most. So, I guess if we’re talking water-dwelling mammals without hands, they’re like Einstein, Stephen Hawking, and Edison rolled into one… if they lived underwater and had no hands, of course. Just last week, I woke up to my wife on her hands and knees sweeping something by the front door. "Welp. They’re back," she said. "Aw, man; not poltergeists!" I said. "No, ants." "Oh… that’s bad too." We live in the bright, sunny free state of Florida, and when we get into the summer months, it doesn’t just become surface-of-the-sun hot; ants decide to saunter inside and cool off. In fact, just a couple of weeks earlier we had been remarking how well the guy we pay to make sure this very thing doesn’t happen had done… then it became ant season yet again. I understand the humble ant’s place in the ecosystem (although I’m still unclear on the fire ant’s place, unless it’s to bite my feet while I take the dog out to pee, in which case, I get it). I just don’t like that they want to come in my house. I’m not just anti-insect either. I’m anti-any animal that wants to come in my house. There are few things I hate more than having to try to catch small lizards inside by hitting them off the ceiling with a broom and then trapping them under a Ziploc container. Fortunately, after filling a small crack near the front door and calling our exterminator, we haven’t seen any ants… of course, I’m sure they're just plotting their next move as we speak. I think I’ve mentioned it before, but for my entire life, I’ve suffered from ornithophobia, or, to the layperson, the fear of birds. If it’s got feathers, a sharp beak, beady eyes, and creepy, spindly legs, then I steer well clear. But a subsection of birds I can’t stand are the ones that can talk. First of all, it’s creepy as hell. Maybe it wouldn’t be if more animals had it in their bag of tricks, but my skin crawls whenever a parrot starts getting chatty. I also don’t like that, despite this chattiness, these birds never offer anything insightful. It’s nothing but talk of wanting crackers, saying its own name, and repeating swear words you taught it as a goof. While I’m not big on these birds, I will say I’m all in on gorillas who can do sign language and dogs who communicate with an array of electronic buttons. Call it mammalian bias, but I’m a big fan. Of course, it’s always important to be safe around animals, and that’s why it drives me nuts that not only are we not getting clear messaging on what to do if you’re attacked by a bear, we’re getting conflicting reports. If I were to get attacked by a shark — let’s just pretend I was surfing and caught a really nice wave that impressed all the women on the beach and also I have really great surfer hair and a ripped physique — I would know what to do. I would start punching it in the nose and gouging its eyes. That is the guidance on sharks… although, I don’t think there’s an animal on Earth that this approach wouldn’t work on. But bears are different. I’ve heard that if you encounter one, you’re supposed to get really small. However, I’ve also heard that you’re supposed to make yourself as big as possible. You can’t do both, so in the moment, you have to pick one and hope it’s correct. The same goes for what to do about making noise. Some say you stay quiet; others say you make a ton of noise. Can we just decide once and for all if we should turn into church mice when we see bears or if we should put a Bluetooth speaker on full blast and play Slayer’s "South of Heaven" as loud as possible and blast it in their bear ears? Maybe the real answer is you can do pretty much anything you want to avoid a bear attack, but then what were the people who got attacked and didn’t live to talk about it doing? Pulling on its tail? Throwing sticks at it? Insulting its mother? … That’s it for this week’s edition of The Gripe Report! Be sure to send in your gripes for a future edition: matthew.reigle@outkick.com Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e7dbc2ca79de23629bc1 Automatic tip or service charge? New state law requires restaurants to tell diners before they order te 2026-07-01T10:11:39.187Z Automatic tip or service charge? New state law requires restaurants to tell diners before they order People dining out in Florida should see fewer surprises when their check arrives beginning July 1. A new state law requires restaurants to clearly disclose mandatory fees and service charges before customers even place their orders. The updated law expands existing requirements beyond automatic tips to cover a broader category of an "operations charge" — including service charges, credit card surcharges, delivery fees and other mandatory charges added to a customer's bill, excluding taxes. Restaurant that impose those charges must disclose the amount or percentage of the fee and explain its purpose on menus, websites, mobile ordering platforms and, when applicable, written contracts. The information also must appear on customers' bills, according to details of the law.  CUSTOMERS HIT WITH AUTOMATIC 20% GRATUITIES AS RESTAURANTS COMBAT TIPPING CONFUSION The change is meant to give diners a clearer understanding of what they'll pay ahead of time. "Restaurants today are navigating rising costs and evolving customer expectations, particularly around tipping and service charges," Ashley Chambers, communications director at the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, told Fox News Digital. "We support increasing transparency around restaurant charges, and we believe it can enhance trust and understanding between restaurants and their guests — provided it is implemented in a way that is clear for consumers and practical for operators." Eric Douglas, a partner with BOL Hospitality Group, which operates several South Florida restaurants, said transparency benefits both restaurants and diners. "Anything that's good for the customer is good for us," Douglas said. "We're in the customer service business at the end of the day. We want to make sure there's transparency with any charges that we might have." AMERICANS ARE FED UP WITH TIPPING CULTURE, YET MANY STILL SHELL OUT 20% AT RESTAURANTS His group plans to implement an 18% service charge at one of its restaurants, Douglas said, with all proceeds going directly to employees. He believes restaurants should be equally clear if any portion of a service charge is used for operational expenses. "If I'm going to be charged a service charge, and it's not going to be used 100% toward the staff, I think I deserve to know where it's going," he said. Douglas said automatic gratuities also serve a practical purpose for larger parties, helping to ensure servers are fairly compensated for the additional coordination and service those tables require. Not every restaurant relies on service charges. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Vicki Parmelee, owner of Jumby Bay Island Grill in Jupiter, said her restaurant has long favored building costs into menu prices rather than adding fees at the end of a meal. "We have always been straightforward with our guests at Jumby Bay Island Grill in regard to what they are paying for," Parmelee said. "A diner should not have to decipher the bill at the end of the meal with extra fees. Transparency is always much more appreciated." While she supports being upfront with customers, Parmelee said she worries the new law could unintentionally leave some diners wondering whether restaurants have been misleading them. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "I think this new law will unfortunately confuse diners, as they now may assume they have been being 'duped' in some way when they dine out," she said. Instead of adding service charges to offset rising costs, restaurants should simply price menu items accordingly, said Parmelee. "If expenses have increased for the restaurant, the menu prices should accurately reflect 28–35% food and beverage cost, not an added service charge," she said. "It's an honest way to present pricing to our customers and still make a marginal profit." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Parmelee said she has encountered restaurants that replace traditional tipping with mandatory service charges, a practice she believes often creates confusion for both diners and employees. "I would never adopt this fee structure," she said. "Tipping is voluntary and earned by the staff." The new law in Florida does not prohibit restaurants from adding mandatory service charges or automatic gratuities.  Rather, it requires restaurants that choose to impose those charges to clearly disclose them before customers order. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e7c7c2ca79de23629bb8 America's favorite beers — and the jobs tied to them — are at the center of a brewing trade fight te 2026-07-01T10:11:19.731Z America's favorite beers — and the jobs tied to them — are at the center of a brewing trade fight As the Trump administration weighs implementing tariffs on Mexican beer, a new report argues the move would hurt the very American workers it is intended to protect by squeezing one of the U.S. beer market's most profitable segments. The report, authored by Unleash Prosperity co-founder Stephen Moore and economist David Ozgo, comes as the Trump administration continues to expand its tariff agenda, which officials say is aimed at re-shoring manufacturing, reducing trade deficits and strengthening American industry. "There probably are some products for which tariffs are appropriate — products where there might be national security implications," Ozgo told Fox News Digital. "But obviously, beer is not one of those products." While Mexican beer is brewed south of the border, Ozgo said most of the jobs it supports, like distribution, wholesaling and retailing, are in the United States. ‘WE WERE RIGHT’: WINE IMPORTER TOOK TRUMP’S TARIFFS TO THE SUPREME COURT AND WON The report backs that claim with data showing the U.S. beer business supports roughly 1.74 million jobs, but only about 5% are directly involved in brewing. Most workers are employed by wholesalers, retailers, restaurants and suppliers that handle beer after it is brewed, jobs that remain in the U.S. even when the beer is imported. "If you end up slapping tariffs on Mexican beer, you're not protecting American workers," Ozgo said. "What you're really doing is cutting into the most profitable segment of the beer market right now and in turn putting U.S. jobs at risk." According to the report, Mexican beer already sells for about 52% more than mass-market domestic lagers in grocery and liquor stores. The authors say those higher prices mean bigger profits for U.S. distributors, retailers, restaurants and bars, helping support more American jobs than cheaper domestic lagers. Those higher prices create more value across the U.S. economy, the report notes. FROM BOURBON TO BORDEAUX: TRUMP'S TARIFFS SPILL INTO GLOBAL BOOZE MARKETS The authors estimate that every gallon of Mexican beer generates about $26.27 in economic value. About $19.42 of that — roughly 74% — goes to U.S. businesses and workers through distribution, retail, transportation, marketing, taxes and other domestic economic activity. By comparison, leading domestic beers generate about $15.76 in total value per gallon. Ozgo said tariffs would ultimately force brewers to either absorb the added costs, reduce investment, or pass the costs on to consumers through higher prices. "Either the company itself has to eat the cost of the tariff, or they pass the cost to the consumer," he said. "Either outcome isn't very good." The report also argues that moving production of Mexican beer to the United States could undermine the brands' authenticity and value, pointing to Anheuser-Busch InBev's decision to move production of Beck's beer from Germany to Missouri, which led to consumer litigation after the company continued marketing the beer as German. SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER It also notes that Constellation Brands, which imports Corona, Modelo and Pacifico, operates under a Justice Department consent decree requiring those brands to be produced in Mexico. "Consumers really, really value authenticity," Ozgo said. "When you move an import into the United States and you continue to market it as an import, you end up losing value." The Trump administration has argued more broadly that tariffs are intended to encourage domestic manufacturing and strengthen American industry, though officials have not specifically outlined a final policy regarding Mexican beer imports. The White House did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Read the full report: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e7b4c2ca79de23629baf Harris-backed Democrat scrubs BLM-era posts as House campaign heats up te 2026-07-01T10:11:00.276Z Harris-backed Democrat scrubs BLM-era posts as House campaign heats up Dan Koh, a candidate for Congress in Massachusetts’s 6th Congressional District, deleted a handful of Black Lives Matter (BLM) posts from then-Twitter, according to the Wayback internet archives tool. Koh’s resurfaced posts, which come as he wages a campaign to become the next representative for Massachusetts’s 6th Congressional District, suggest efforts to distance himself from BLM even as Koh highlights other elements of "racial justice." "JusticeForGeorgeFloyd," Koh wrote on May 29, 2020. "Pretty sure centuries of systemic racism exemplified by the murder of George Floyd has something to do with the ‘situation,’" Koh said in one of the posts, reacting to a press briefing about the riots that had broken out in Minnesota in 2020 shortly after Floyd’s death at the hands of a law enforcement officer. The posts, which originally went up on May 29 and May 30 in 2020, have since been deleted. TLAIB-BACKED SENATE CANDIDATE IN THE HOT SEAT AFTER DELETING 'DEFUND THE POLICE' SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS In another post published on April 20, 2021, Koh wrote simply, "JusticeForGeorgeFloyd." Notably, Koh has not shied away from making racial equity an element of his campaign and displays it as a part of his platform on his website. "President Trump is using the power of the federal government to target people of color at every turn. We must confront every action that systemically erodes justice and equality in American life, from attacks on fair housing and labor protections to efforts that undermine public education, environmental justice and civil rights enforcement," the website reads. MAYOR OF SANCTUARY CITY ADVANCES TO NOVEMBER ELECTION AMID ICE CRACKDOWN RESISTANCE In the past, BLM has acted as a lightning rod issue, pitting criticisms of racial prejudice in law enforcement against support for police. It would later feed into sentiments like calls to "defund the police." Koh’s campaign did not say why he deleted the posts or whether he sees them as at odds with his current positions. A spokesperson for the campaign did say, however, that Koh intends to make racial representation a facet of his time in office, if elected. "For years, Dan has spoken up, including on social media and national TV, about the murder of George Floyd and the injustices Black Americans have faced — and as a Member of Congress, he will fight every day against Trump’s racist agenda that is trying to strip Black Americans of their rights and freedoms," Olivia Brandon, a campaign spokesperson, said in a statement to Fox News Digital. In his time before running for office, Koh worked in the Biden White House, holding multiple senior roles and advising the administration on infrastructure-related matters. He has also worked as chief of staff to the U.S. Department of Labor and chief of staff for Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. Koh is running to replace outgoing Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass. The seat, which has been safely Democratic for decades, last went to Moulton in a 69.9% to 35.2% victory over Republican challenger Robert May. MASSACHUSETTS SENATE CANDIDATES TRADE SHARP ATTACKS IN FIERY DEBATE AS UNCUMBENT MARKEY SKIPS EVENT In turn, Moulton is pursuing a U.S. Senate seat in a primary challenge to Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass. Massachusetts will hold its primaries on Tuesday, Sept. 1. If he clinches the Democratic nomination, Koh will face off against Republican candidate Micah Jones. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e7a0c2ca79de23629ba6 Taylor Swift's rumored Madison Square Garden wedding faces one massive hurdle, celebrity planner warns te 2026-07-01T10:10:40.827Z Taylor Swift's rumored Madison Square Garden wedding faces one massive hurdle, celebrity planner warns Could Madison Square Garden trade sold-out concerts for wedding bells? If Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce really plan to walk down the aisle at Madison Square Garden on July 3, they'll first have to pull off the ultimate makeover. While reports and speculation continue to swirl over whether Madison Square Garden could play a role in the couple's wedding plans, luxury event designer Larry Walshe told Fox News Digital the iconic arena would require a dramatic transformation to shed its concert identity and become a romantic setting fit for a ceremony. TAYLOR SWIFT'S WEDDING RUMORS SPARK SPECULATION ABOUT CLOSE FRIENDS, INFAMOUS FALLOUTS AND BRIDAL PARTY "It would take a lot to make Madison Square Garden feel romantic, intimate and unforgettable, but there's a first for absolutely everything," the celebrity event planner, who has worked with Rihanna, Adele, Anna Wintour, the British Royal Family and more, emphasized. Unlike scenic destinations that become part of a wedding backdrop, Walshe said Madison Square Garden presents the opposite challenge because designers would first have to erase the venue's familiar arena feel before creating something entirely new. "Here, you need to hide the view, and you need to create basically a blank canvas before you actually begin to do anything," he said. "First, it's neutralize and then it's start to build." Fortunately, he said, the venue's existing production infrastructure gives designers a significant head start. "If I go into my, like, industry brain and start thinking about all the things I can do, you've got lighting and rigging galore," Walshe explained. "So those bits are really gonna help. But what you're otherwise looking at is how do you now soften that space? How do you make it smaller? How do you make it feel like there's a sense of femininity to it? How do you make it feel romantic? And there's the challenge." Walshe said the next step is layering in design elements that transform the arena into a more intimate setting. "And then, from there, you start looking at that now as a blank canvas and working in florals, looking at other scenic infrastructure that you can build in so that you're essentially creating almost, like, a residential-style quality to the surroundings." WATCH: CELEBRITY PLANNER REVEALS THE DRAMATIC MAKEOVER MSG WOULD NEED TO HOST A TAYLOR SWIFT WEDDING TAYLOR SWIFT, TRAVIS KELCE WEDDING BETTING FRENZY REVEALS ONE OVERWHELMING PREDICTION Once Madison Square Garden is stripped back and softened, Walshe explained, its biggest weakness actually becomes one of its greatest strengths. "You have the potential to do something world-class," Walshe, founder of Larry Walshe Studios, said. "You have the potential to do something never seen before." The arena's soaring ceilings and built-in rigging open the door to design elements that would be impossible in most traditional wedding venues, allowing for dramatic installations and large-scale productions that could transform the space into an unforgettable experience. Beyond the design possibilities, Walshe said the venue offers another major advantage for someone with Swift's level of fame. "The wonderful thing about that is the venue itself does have an infrastructure that lends itself to security and to privacy," he explained. "And certainly, if this is happening here, that's probably been a very strong consideration. The actual way that the venue is created allows for that element to be controlled." WATCH: SPECULATION GROWS OVER TAYLOR SWIFT, TRAVIS KELCE WEDDING RUMORS "So here, at least you have that ability to make sure that somebody of that notoriety can at least hopefully feel reassured, and relax and enjoy her own wedding day, which, quite frankly, anyone deserves the right to do." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Keeping a celebrity wedding private is one thing RoseMarie Terenzio knows firsthand after helping John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette pull off one of America's most famous secret ceremonies. "If you can, keep it small and intimate and don’t give details," she told Fox News Digital. "Tell your guests to save the date for something else and create a decoy event. If you’re choosing a venue, try to have it somewhere you frequent or way they know you well. The key is bringing everyone in on the secret, so they’ve invested in the surprise!" As John F. Kennedy Jr.'s former aide, she helped orchestrate the secrecy surrounding his 1996 wedding to Carolyn Bessette, relying on elaborate misdirection to keep reporters off the couple's trail. "I remember being so excited for them and wanting to help them have their wedding private," she recalled. "I was so nervous about it leaking and ruining it for them. We created fake itineraries to Ireland and left them around the office. A reporter called that day and asked me if he should book a flight to Ireland and I said, 'I wouldn’t if I were you.'" Terenzio said even seemingly routine wedding tasks became carefully guarded operations to avoid tipping anyone off. "Carolyn and I were in the ‘George’ offices late one night printing the programs for the wedding because we didn't want to go to a professional printer for fear they would leak it," the strategic communications expert said. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS She recalled the paper repeatedly jamming and later waking in the middle of the night, terrified that the programs had been left behind in the office printer. Terenzio eventually rushed back to the office to double-check in the middle of the night before finally breathing a sigh of relief. While Terenzio believes secrecy is essential for any celebrity wedding, she isn't convinced Madison Square Garden would actually host Swift and Kelce's ceremony. "I don’t think the actual wedding will be at MSG, but I think it could be a larger celebration Taylor and Travis are doing for friends and fans," she explained. "Taylor Swift has such an emotional connection to her fans, and I could see her doing some kind of watch party/celebration that they could see from outside the Garden." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e59ec2ca79de23629b42 AZ Lawmakers Receive Briefing On Expanding Sedona-Area Wildfire te 2026-07-01T10:02:06.503Z AZ Lawmakers Receive Briefing On Expanding Sedona-Area Wildfire By Matthew Holloway | State Representatives Quang Nguyen and Selina Bliss (R-LD1) met Sunday with Pocket Fire incident command at the Sedona Airport air operations base as the wind-driven wildfire north of Sedona continued to grow and threaten nearby communities. The Pocket Fire had burned 5,547 acres as of Sunday morning, with 871 personnel assigned to the incident. The fire was first reported June 19 about seven miles north of Sedona and is burning in steep, rugged terrain that limits where crews can safely attack it directly. By mid-Monday, the fire had grown to 11,192 acres with zero percent containment. The fire more than doubled in size between Saturday evening and Sunday morning as strong winds pushed it northeast. Fire crews shifted resources toward threatened communities and continued using bulldozers and other heavy equipment to build defensive lines. By Monday, the blaze had roughly doubled again. Incident Management Team to Hold an Online Public Meeting Tonight for the Pocket Fire https://t.co/2qyreMDsYI pic.twitter.com/51F7S0INNC — AzEIN 📢 (@AzEIN) June 29, 2026 Coconino County’s Pocket Fire information page said the fire began on June 19 on the Coconino National Forest, is burning in difficult-to-access terrain, and is expected to remain active for several weeks. The county listed Oak Creek Canyon, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands and Pine Del under SET evacuation status and encouraged residents susceptible to smoke to take precautions. As of Sunday afternoon, Oak Creek Canyon Zones 14 and 15, Kachina Village and Forest Highlands remained under SET status. State Route 89A remained closed to nonlocal traffic between Sedona and Interstate 17, and portions of the Coconino National Forest remained closed. Nguyen and Bliss requested the briefing to hear directly from incident command, determine whether additional state assistance is needed, and provide residents with current information. Fire officials thanked Yavapai County, Coconino County, the Arizona Department of Transportation, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and other agencies assisting with the response. “This is our district, and we have a duty to know where the threat is moving, what crews need and whether the state can do more,” Nguyen said. “We came to hear directly from incident command and see the operation firsthand. The men and women fighting this fire are working in dangerous conditions, and we stand ready to help secure any state resources they need.” Bliss urged residents in SET areas to prepare before conditions worsen. “SET means prepare now, not later,” Bliss said. “Pack medications, important documents and supplies. Account for family members and pets. Know where you will go, monitor official alerts and leave immediately if ordered. Do not wait for GO status to start preparing.” Coconino County Emergency Management ordered activation of the county Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Friday due to critical fire weather in connection with the Pocket Fire and to assist with an APS Public Safety Power Shutoff. The county said the EOC provides support and coordination for multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional emergencies affecting residents, businesses, property, and infrastructure. The U.S. Forest Service said earlier in the incident that resources assigned to the Pocket Fire included Hotshot crews, engines, helicopters, air attack, and other firefighting assets, with the Southwest Area Incident Management Team 2 ordered to assume command after initial response by a Northern Arizona Type 3 Incident Management Team. Nguyen and Bliss also honored three federal firefighters killed Saturday in a burnover incident while assigned to the Knowles and Gore fires near the Colorado-Utah border. Two other firefighters were injured. “The deaths of three firefighters this weekend are a painful reminder of the dangers wildland firefighters face to protect others,” Nguyen and Bliss said. “We mourn them, pray for the injured and remember the six lost in the Dude Fire and the 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots. At the height of fire season, the public must do its part: obey restrictions, prepare early and never interfere with crews on the line.” Coconino County has activated a Pocket Fire call center for questions about the fire, shelters or evacuation stages at 928-679-8525. County officials also said areas of Coconino County within and adjacent to the Coconino National Forest moved to Stage 2 fire restrictions effective Tuesday, June 30, at 8 a.m.. Officials urged residents to monitor Coconino County Emergency Management, Coconino National Forest, InciWeb, and AZ511 for current fire, evacuation, closure, and road information. They also warned the public not to fly drones near the fire because unauthorized aircraft can ground firefighting planes and helicopters. Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com. The post AZ Lawmakers Receive Briefing On Expanding Sedona-Area Wildfire first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e589c2ca79de23629b39 Arizona Cities Prepare For Independence Day Celebrations Marking America’s 250th Anniversary te 2026-07-01T10:01:45.513Z Arizona Cities Prepare For Independence Day Celebrations Marking America’s 250th Anniversary By Ethan Faverino | Arizona communities are preparing for one of the most widespread Independence Day celebrations in recent years as cities across the state host fireworks, drone shows, and family festivals in honor of America’s 250th year since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. From major metro hubs to rural towns, residents will gather July 3-4 for coordinated events that highlight both patriotic tradition and modern light displays. West Valley Celebrations In Avondale, “Light Up the Sky” returns on Saturday July 4, at 7602 Jimmie Johnson Dr. Gates open at 6 p.m., with fireworks launching at 8:25 p.m. Admission is free. Buckeye will hosts its Independence Day Celebration, July 4, at Buckeye Airport from 6-9 p.m., culminating in an 8:30 p.m. fireworks show. Admission is free. Goodyear’s “Star Spangled 4th” runs from 6-9 p.m. at Goodyear Ballpark, July 4, featuring a drone show at 8:45 p.m. Admission is free. Peoria will host its All-American Festival at Peoria Sports Complex, July 4, from 5-9 p.m. Fireworks will follow the concert lineup. Free admission with VIP tickets available Surprise will hold firework displays at Surprise Community Park and Mark Coronado Park beginning at 8:45 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the event is free. Glendale kicks off Independence Day weekend early with “Firework Fest” on Friday, July 3 at Westgate Entertainment District from 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Tolleson will hold its Fourth of July Celebration on Friday, July 3 at Tolleson Veterans Park from 4-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is Free Central and East Valley Phoenix hosts “Fabulous Phoenix 4th” at Steele Indian School Park from 6-10 p.m., featuring one of the largest free fireworks shows in the state. Fireworks show time TBD Chandler presents “Chandler’s All-American Bash”, July 4, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park from 7-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 8:15 p.m. Admission is free. Gilbert hosts its 4th of July Celebration at Gilbert Regional Park from 5-9:30 p.m., featuring fireworks and a drone show. Free admission with VIP tickets available. Mesa will hold the Arizona Celebration of Freedom in downtown Mesa from 6-10 p.m., with fireworks and a drone show at 9:25 p.m. Tempe hosts its Fourth of July Celebration at Tempe Diablo Stadium from 6-10 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled for 9 p.m. Admission is $2.50 Scottsdale will host its celebration at WestWorld from 5-9 p.m., on July 4, with fireworks starting at 9 p.m. Admission ranges from $25-$50 Queen Creek presents “Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms” from 2-10 p.m., featuring live entertainment and fireworks later in the evening. Admission ranges from $22.80 – $161.74. Fountain Hills will host “Fourth at the Fountain”, July 4, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m with free admission. Northern Arizona Flagstaff will host a Fourth of July Drone Show at Foxglenn Park from 4-9 p.m., with the drone display beginning at 9 p.m. Admission is free Cottonwood offers the “Fantastic Family Fourth of July” at Cottonwood Kids Park from 4-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $1 Wickenburg hosts its Independence Day Celebration at Sunset Park from 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free. Kingman holds an “Old Fashion 4th of July” morning celebration, July 4, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., with evening fireworks at 9 p.m. at 3333 Harrison Street. Admission is free Southern and Western Arizona Tucson hosts “Diamonds in the Sky: 4th of July Celebration”, July 4, at Kino Sports Complex from 5:30 -9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is a $1 donation or one canned food item. Marana presents its Star Spangled Spectacular at Crossroads at Silverbell District Park from 5-9:30 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free. Casa Grande hosts its 4th of July Celebration at Paul Mason Sports Complex from 7-10 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free. Yuma presents the “4th of July Spectacular” at Desert Sun Stadium from 6-10 p.m., with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free. Oro Valley hosts its July 4th Celebration at James D. Kriegh Park from 6-9:20 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free Wellton will host a community Fourth of July Celebration at Butterfield Park. Fireworks timing will be announced. Admission is free. Across Arizona, most Independence Day events remain free to the public, with select communities offering VIP seating or premium access options. Organizers across the state encourage attendees to arrive early, plan for high temperatures, and check local city websites for parking updates and event advisories. Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link. The post Arizona Cities Prepare For Independence Day Celebrations Marking America’s 250th Anniversary first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e575c2ca79de23629b30 Arizona GOP Leaders Praise Supreme Court Ruling Protecting Female Sports te 2026-07-01T10:01:25.033Z Arizona GOP Leaders Praise Supreme Court Ruling Protecting Female Sports By Staff Reporter | On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld state laws barring males from competing in female sports, even if they identify as female. The ruling drew praise from Arizona’s Republican leaders. In its opinion in West Virginia v. B.P.J. (inclusive of Little v. Hecox), the high court declared that biology defines sex, not gender identity, when considering federal regulations on sex-based discrimination.  “The term ‘sex’ […] cannot plausibly be interpreted to refer to anything other than biological sex,” stated the ruling.  Arizona participated in the lawsuit through its leaders in the Republican-led state legislature: Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen (LD14) and Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro (LD29). The pair filed an amicus brief last September.  Petersen hailed the Supreme Court decision as a “landmark ruling.” In a press release responding to Tuesday’s ruling, Petersen said the ruling represented a win in both the intellectual and moral sense, calling it common sense justice for women and girls.  “Every young woman deserves the opportunity to compete on a level playing field and earn a roster spot, a championship, a record, or a scholarship based on her hard work. Girls shouldn’t have to lose those opportunities because adults are afraid to acknowledge biological reality. That’s not fairness, and it’s not what Title IX was created to do,” said Petersen. “Arizona has been leading on this issue for years, and we were proud to stand with West Virginia and Idaho before the U.S. Supreme Court to defend girls’ sports. Today’s decision makes it clear that states can continue protecting the integrity of women’s athletics and the opportunities generations of women fought so hard to secure. This is a victory for every girl who dreams big, works hard, and deserves the chance to compete fairly.” Arizona Superintendent of Schools Tom Horne — the lone elected leader to defend in court Arizona’s law prohibiting biological males from participating in female-only sports — declared the ruling a victory for female success and safety in competition. Attorney General Kris Mayes refused to defend the law in court (Jane Doe v. Warren Petersen).  “The news has been full of stories about girls who worked hard on their sports, hoping to make the team, or even earn a college scholarship or qualify for the Olympics. But then they had to compete against biological boys and their advantages in birth in size, speed and strength. The girls’ dreams were shattered and they were devastated,” said Horne. “Girls have also been injured, including a brain injury, from having to compete against larger and stronger males. I am committed to making sure that Arizona schools follow state law protecting girls’ sports.” Former Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, passed the “Save Women’s Sports Act” under the Republican-led state legislature in 2022. In a letter approving the legislation, Ducey called it fair and common sense. “This legislation simply ensures that the girls and young women who have dedicated themselves to their sport do not miss out on hard-earned opportunities including their titles, standings and scholarships due to unfair competition,” stated Ducey. “This bill strikes the right balance of respecting all students while still acknowledging that there are inherent biological distinctions that merit separate categories to ensure fairness for all.”  AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Arizona GOP Leaders Praise Supreme Court Ruling Protecting Female Sports first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44e548c2ca79de23629afe WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert condemns 'hate' against Alyssa Thomas while Caitlin Clark stays exposed te 2026-07-01T10:00:40.496Z WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert condemns 'hate' against Alyssa Thomas while Caitlin Clark stays exposed WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert folded under pressure late Tuesday night by issuing a reactionary statement after Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas publicly shamed her for a lack of support. It's a great reminder that behind every incompetent league is bad judgment. Engelbert capitulated hours after Thomas, a lightning rod for controversy following her latest violent on-court altercation with Caitlin Clark, cast herself as the victim. Thomas successfully deflected from the fact that she had just been suspended for striking the league's golden goose. SUSPENDED ALYSSA THOMAS BLASTS WNBA'S SILENCE AFTER CAITLIN CLARK FOUL, OFFERS NO ACCOUNTABILITY Despite earning the suspension that fueled the backlash, Thomas still turned herself into the victim, blasted Engelbert and the commissioner predictably folded. "The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate," Engelbert said in the statement on Tuesday. One has to wonder where fists to the throat rank on the commissioner's list of priorities. The statement amounted to a complete submission to Thomas, who used her Tuesday media availability to blast Engelbert. "The safety and well-being of everyone in our community is always the league's top priority. We are aware of Alyssa Thomas' comments, and what she and her teammates have experienced is completely unacceptable and not representative of the WNBA community. The league and our security team have been in contact with the Phoenix Mercury organization and remain committed to protecting all players." Rather than hold Thomas to her action, Engelbert bent a knee to the wrong player. During a loose-ball scramble, Thomas struck Fever superstar Caitlin Clark in the throat with her fist. While officials on the floor inexplicably missed it, the league office later upgraded the play to a Flagrant 2 and slapped Thomas with a retroactive one-game suspension for a "non-basketball act." Fever coach Stephanie White called the initial no-call "absolutely unacceptable," and Clark ultimately exited the game with a back injury. Instead of answering for endangering a fellow player, Thomas displayed an astonishing lack of accountability, claiming, "A lot of us, myself included, didn't even know the play took place until after the game." She then complained that her team was being "painted as thugs," cited severe online harassment and attacked the WNBA for failing to properly notify her of the suspension. "Honestly, I didn't even know I was being suspended until 10 minutes before it was put on social media," Thomas said, taking a direct shot at the commissioner. "As usual, she remains silent." CAITLIN CLARK CALLS FOR 'GREAT LEADERSHIP,' SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM DOUBLES DOWN ON WNBA COMMISSIONER CONDEMNATION Engelbert took the bait. The league office showed it was more interested in validating Thomas' grievances than protecting its biggest gate attraction. Engelbert has consistently mismanaged the overt physical hostility directed at the league's biggest star. Hard fouls are routinely minimized, and meaningful discipline often arrives only after public outrage forces the league's hand. By validating the self-perceived victimhood of a player who had just been suspended for a "non-basketball act" against Clark, Engelbert's administration exposed its priorities. The WNBA continues to coddle veteran players who resent Clark's spotlight instead of enforcing a consistent standard of player safety. Engelbert made her choice. It wasn't Caitlin Clark. Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44da3fc2ca79de23629899 How American energy helped build 250 years of freedom and opportunity te 2026-07-01T09:13:35.783Z How American energy helped build 250 years of freedom and opportunity Two hundred and fifty years ago, a brave group of risk-takers believed that liberty was worth the cost and declared their future would rely not on the rule of a distant king but instead on the courage of free people. They had no guarantee of success. But they had conviction. And that conviction built a great nation. As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, it is worth asking what transformed a revolutionary idea into the most prosperous country the world has ever known. The answer has many parts: the rule of law, free enterprise and the ambition of generation after generation. Yet America’s story is not simply one of ideas. It is also a story of turning ideas into progress and achievement. And running through every chapter of that success is an often-overlooked force: abundant, affordable and reliable American energy. SENATE REPUBLICAN PUSHES OVERHAUL TO CUT RED TAPE AND SPEED UP AMERICAN ENERGY PROJECTS Time and again, ingenuity has transformed that energy into greater opportunity, greater prosperity and greater security. Energy is not a sidebar to the American story. It is one of the foundations. Throughout history, Americans have found new ways to harness energy for the benefit of our society. When Edwin "Colonel" Drakedrilled the world’s first commercial well in Titusville, Pa., in 1859, he did not simply strike oil. He unlocked a new source of human possibility. Within a few short years, kerosene refined from American crude replaced whale oil in lamps, lit homes and streets, and helped drive an industrial expansion unlike any the world had seen before. The age of American energy had begun, and our nation would never be the same. ANTARES REACHES REACTOR CRITICALITY UNDER TRUMP PILOT PROGRAM, MARKING MAJOR NUCLEAR MILESTONE Henry Ford put ordinary Americans behind the wheel. The Wright brothers gave us powered flight. Gasoline-powered tractors transformed farming to help feed a growing world. In each case, ingenuity supplied the vision and energy transformed bold ideas into reality. That energy proved decisive when the stakes were highest. During World War II, the United States produced nearly two-thirds of the world's oil and the overwhelming majority of the fuel that powered the Allied war effort. American fuel propelled the ships that crossed the Atlantic, the bombers that flew over Europe and Asia, and the tanks that rolled across North Africa. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower recognized that the war was, at the core, a war of logistics and fuel. Allied victory was forged in steel and powered by American oil. And energy helped build the peace that followed. The postwar boom was fueled, quite literally, at the corner service station. Millions of families bought their first car and took to the interstate, making America’s open roads synonymous with freedom itself. The decades that followed opened new frontiers. American energy powered the factories that built the middle class, fueled the airlines that shrank the globe and supplied the building blocks of modern-day innovation, from lifesaving medical devices to essential communication technologies. It even helped carry Americans to the moon. When the world needed reliable energy, American producers delivered. When markets shifted, they adapted. When technology advanced, they innovated. Today, the United States is the world’s largest energy producer. And we stand at yet another inflection point. A new technology revolution is underway. Artificial intelligence promises to transform how we work, learn, invent and create – with an almost insatiable appetite for reliable power. Data centers running these systems will consume electricity on the scale of entire nations. As with every great American leap forward — from industrialization to aviation to the internet — the technologies shaping tomorrow will rely on what powered our nation’s rise: abundant, affordable and reliable energy. For virtually all of America’s history, the men and women of my industry have quietly powered the nation’s progress. Their work is often out of sight and too often taken for granted. I have stood on platforms in the Gulf of America, walked oil fields in the Permian and refinery control rooms in California, boarded tankers carrying American energy across open water and traced the pipelines that connect it all. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION What strikes me is how invisible it is by design. Every day, millions of Americans flip a switch, board a plane, charge a phone or power a business without a second thought. That quiet reliability is one of the great achievements of modern America. The record is clear: American energy has fueled victory in wartime, prosperity in peacetime, and innovation at every turn. Two hundred and fifty years in, the American experiment continues. New challenges will arise. New technologies will emerge. New frontiers will open. The tools will change, but the formula remains the same. As it has been throughout our history, the future will be built by ingenuity and powered by American energy. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44da2cc2ca79de23629890 REP ROGER WILLIAMS: 250 years of hard work pay off for Main Street businesses te 2026-07-01T09:13:16.326Z REP ROGER WILLIAMS: 250 years of hard work pay off for Main Street businesses For 250 years, America's story has been written behind the counters of family-owned stores, on ranches and farms passed down through generations, and on Main Street where hardworking Americans take risks, open their doors and build something from the ground up. I know this because I’ve lived it. Before serving in Congress, I spent decades helping grow my family's business in Texas. I learned what it feels like to lie awake wondering how you're going to make payroll, and what it feels like the morning you finally can. It was grit, family, faith and a lot of long days. As America gets ready to celebrate its 250th birthday, I'll be thinking about the entrepreneurial spirit that has driven our country since its founding. Our Founding Fathers were entrepreneurs in their own right — visionaries and risk-takers who charted a new course for a nation built on freedom and opportunity. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING I'll also be thinking about those who have always done the quiet work of building this country — the shopkeepers, tradesmen and family businesses. Those business owners who bet on themselves and, in doing so, helped build the most prosperous nation the world has ever known. Two hundred and fifty years later, they're still at it. And this Independence Day, I’m proud to say that the backbone of our economy is roaring back. I hear it when I talk to people back home in Weatherford, Texas. This past May, our economy added 172,000 jobs — more than twice what the so-called experts predicted, and unemployment held steady at 4.3%. That made for the best three-month hiring run we've seen in over two years. It didn’t happen by luck; it happened because of less government, allowing small businesses to do what they do best — create jobs! THE RED STATES RACING AHEAD IN AMERICA’S POWERFUL WEALTH BOOM — AND THE STATES FALLING BEHIND Recently, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce took a hard look at the data and found that small businesses have accounted for about 78% of all hiring in this country since 2001. Lately, it's even more. Since early last year, small businesses have created roughly 4 million jobs a month and more than three-quarters of all new job openings. If you're looking for your next opportunity, odds are it's waiting for you on Main Street. Thanks to congressional Republicans and President Donald Trump, a big part of that growth is attributable to one thing: the Working Families Tax Cuts. LABOR SEC CHAVEZ-DEREMER: TRUMP TAX CUTS DELIVER BIGGER REFUNDS AND A BIG BOOST FOR WORKING FAMILIES The Working Families Tax Cuts prevented a $5 trillion tax hike, the largest in American history, and one that would have negatively impacted every family and small business in America. Instead of costing taxpayers more of their hard-earned money, the Working Families Tax Cuts put it right back into their pockets. This past filing season, 97% of filers got a tax cut, and most of that relief went to Americans earning under $100,000. We delivered key priorities: no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and a doubled Child Tax Credit benefiting nearly 40 million families. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and my Republican colleagues, we provided real relief to hardworking American families when they needed it most. As the U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently noted, America's small businesses finally have greater tax certainty and relief from burdensome regulations. That means more confidence to invest, hire and grow — helping keep our economy moving forward. With Republicans in Congress and President Trump in the White House focused on getting Washington out of the way, the foundation is in place for a true American comeback — one built from the ground up by workers, families and entrepreneurs. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION And the timing could not be more fitting as America celebrates its 250th anniversary. This Fourth of July, somewhere between backyard barbecues and fireworks, take a moment to thank the small business owners in your community. Stop by their stores. Support their work. Cheer them on. They carry forward the same spirit of enterprise, independence and determination that helped build this nation in 1776. And they remain living proof that America's greatest days are still ahead. Happy 250th birthday, America. God bless those who continue to be the backbone of our economy — those who dream big, take risks and keep this great nation moving forward — from the small businesses on Main Street, from the mountains to the prairies and in every community they serve. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FROM ROGER WILLIAMS Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44da18c2ca79de23629887 Trump’s push for national concealed carry reciprocity would protect good guys with guns te 2026-07-01T09:12:56.878Z Trump’s push for national concealed carry reciprocity would protect good guys with guns When President Trump recently spoke at the Mack Trucks facility in Macungie, Pennsylvania, gun owners were encouraged to hear him call for national concealed carry reciprocity. He's right. Constitutional rights shouldn't end at a state line. And the need for reciprocity isn't theoretical. Armed citizens save lives every year. FLORIDA COURT SAYS 18-YEAR-OLDS HAVE SAME GUN RIGHTS AS OTHER ADULTS Just recently, a Marine veteran carrying a concealed firearm helped police in Massachusetts stop and apprehend a convicted felon who had illegally obtained a firearm and was randomly shooting at motorists. In Missouri, two armed citizens confronted and stopped an active shooter in a parking lot. According to police, their actions prevented even greater bloodshed. Stories like these happen all across America. Yet millions of law-abiding gun owners still risk becoming criminals simply by crossing an invisible state line. You can drive your car across all 50 states. You can take your family, your luggage — even your dog. But in many states, you can't bring the firearm you legally carry for self-defense back home. That makes no sense. There is legislation in Congress that would establish national concealed carry reciprocity. Unfortunately, the Senate has become the graveyard for too many pro-gun reforms. SUPREME COURT STRIKES DOWN BLUE STATE'S 'VAMPIRE RULE' IN MAJOR WIN FOR GUN RIGHTS The last time the Senate voted on reciprocity — in 2013 — the measure actually received 57 votes. A majority of senators supported it, but not enough to overcome the filibuster. Back then, there were still a handful of Democrats willing to vote for legislation protecting the Second Amendment. Those days are largely behind us. Fortunately, Congress isn't the only battlefield. While politicians argue, Gun Owners of America has been building a nationwide patchwork that allows law-abiding Americans to carry in more and more places. It started with Constitutional Carry. GOA was the first national organization to make permitless carry a legislative priority. Today, thanks to years of relentless work by GOA and our allies, 29 states recognize Constitutional Carry. In well over half the country, law-abiding citizens no longer need a government-issued permit to exercise a constitutional right. But GOA didn't stop there. We also turned to the courts. For decades, anti-gun states like New York and California refused to recognize the rights of visitors. If you lived somewhere else, they simply denied you any meaningful opportunity to carry legally. GOA challenged those policies — and won. As a result, both New York and California must now provide a pathway for qualified, law-abiding Americans from other states to obtain concealed carry permits. It's not full reciprocity, because applicants still have to navigate each state's permitting process. But those states can no longer slam the door on out-of-state residents simply because they don't live there. We're pursuing the same principle in Illinois. Right now, Illinois recognizes permits from residents of only six states: Arkansas, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, Texas, and Virginia. GOA is challenging that discriminatory system because the correct number isn't six — it's all 50 states. GOA's legal victories didn't happen in a vacuum. They were built on a constitutional principle that the Supreme Court emphatically reaffirmed in 2022. That was the Supreme Court's landmark Bruen decision , which made clear that the Second Amendment protects the right to carry firearms outside the home. Many anti-gun states complied — but only on paper. Unable to ban carry outright, they devised new ways to make the right practically impossible to exercise. One of the worst examples became known as the "Vampire Rule." Like the vampires of folklore who supposedly needed permission before entering a home, states such as New York and Hawaii required gun owners to obtain affirmative permission before carrying on virtually all private property open to the public. The result was predictable. Overnight, lawful carry became prohibited in most stores, restaurants, gas stations, and businesses throughout those states. GOA sued New York and won. Hawaii initially prevailed in its own litigation, creating a split among the federal circuits. That gave the Supreme Court the opportunity to step in. In Wolford v. Lopez, the Court struck down Hawaii's Vampire Rule, reaffirming that constitutional rights cannot be nullified by requiring Americans to beg permission before exercising them. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Freedom won. Law-abiding Americans do not need to ask permission before carrying into the neighborhood grocery store, gas station, or restaurant. Freedom wasn’t restored all at once. It has been won one lawsuit, one state, and one victory at a time . Even here in Virginia, GOA recently secured a temporary injunction against the Commonwealth's unconstitutional ban on carrying certain commonly owned firearms. National reciprocity remains an important goal, and we welcome President Trump's support for making it a reality. But until Congress acts, GOA will continue doing what we've always done — using the courts, the legislatures, and every lawful avenue available to ensure that the right to bear arms doesn't disappear the moment an American crosses a state line. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d9f1c2ca79de23629864 Texas Stock Exchange Launches as Dallas Builds Y’all Street te 2026-07-01T09:12:17.960Z Texas Stock Exchange Launches as Dallas Builds Y’all Street City leaders are wagering that a growing cluster of Wall Street firms can cement Dallas as “Y’all Street,” even as marquee names head for the exits. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d9dec2ca79de2362985b Despite Some Losses for Trump, Supreme Court Delivers Enduring Conservative Wins te 2026-07-01T09:11:58.502Z Despite Some Losses for Trump, Supreme Court Delivers Enduring Conservative Wins The justices pushed back on some of President Trump’s signature moves, but they also expanded presidential power and supplied victories on long-sought conservative goals. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d9cbc2ca79de23629852 Trump’s Historical Yarns Often Stretch (or Disregard) the Truth te 2026-07-01T09:11:39.047Z Trump’s Historical Yarns Often Stretch (or Disregard) the Truth We fact-checked the president’s colorful — and inaccurate — accounts of American history from the Battle of Gettysburg to the Unabomber. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d9b7c2ca79de23629849 Ohio and Iowa Governors Races Tight, New Polls Show te 2026-07-01T09:11:19.592Z Ohio and Iowa Governors Races Tight, New Polls Show Voters polled in the states, Iowa and Ohio, also voiced high levels of disapproval for President Trump’s performance. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d9a4c2ca79de23629840 Control of the Senate Is Up for Grabs, Times/Siena Polls Find te 2026-07-01T09:11:00.135Z Control of the Senate Is Up for Grabs, Times/Siena Polls Find Republicans are defending seats in Alaska, Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas as they try to maintain their majority. Democrats are competitive in all six states — but not leading in enough to take the chamber. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d990c2ca79de23629837 Crunchtime in the Air-Conditioning Business: Long Days and Hot Work te 2026-07-01T09:10:40.690Z Crunchtime in the Air-Conditioning Business: Long Days and Hot Work With Chicago and much of the country in the grips of a heat wave, air-conditioning technicians are enduring sweltering temperatures to keep systems working. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d97dc2ca79de2362982e The Birthright Decision Was Surprisingly Close, Some Legal Scholars Say te 2026-07-01T09:10:21.229Z The Birthright Decision Was Surprisingly Close, Some Legal Scholars Say A bare majority of Supreme Court justices ruled that President Trump’s executive order was unconstitutional, reflecting a conservative shift on the issue. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d767c2ca79de236297ff Rockets Over the River Fireworks Laughlin te 2026-07-01T09:01:27.625Z Rockets Over the River Fireworks Laughlin Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d4f5c2ca79de23629762 Lake Havasu City Restaurant Inspections, April 2026 te 2026-07-01T08:51:01.221Z Lake Havasu City Restaurant Inspections, April 2026 Reported by the Mohave County Department of Health. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44d4e1c2ca79de23629759 Lake Havasu City candidate Q&A | Is the second bridge necessary, and are you happy with the project? te 2026-07-01T08:50:41.236Z Lake Havasu City candidate Q&A | Is the second bridge necessary, and are you happy with the project? As early voting for the 2026 primary election is underway, Today’s News-Herald is asking Lake Havasu City Council candidates one question each week. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44cb95c2ca79de236294ca Florida toddler dies after father realizes child was left in SUV during daycare pickup te 2026-07-01T08:11:01.287Z Florida toddler dies after father realizes child was left in SUV during daycare pickup A 23-month-old Florida boy was found dead Monday inside an SUV outside A World of Discovery Academy after his father mistakenly believed he had dropped him off at daycare, authorities said. The Plantation Police Department and Plantation Fire Department responded at approximately 5:39 p.m. Monday to a report of an unresponsive child inside a vehicle at the early childhood education center. Firefighters pronounced the child dead at the scene. Leslie Novoa, the owner of A World of Discovery Academy, told WSVN-TV she called 911 alongside the toddler's father after the child was discovered in the back seat of the family's SUV. HEARTBROKEN FATHER BLASTS ‘BROKEN’ SYSTEM THAT LET FAMILY MASSACRE TAKE HIS CHILDREN BEFORE THEY COULD REUNITE "This is hard for the parents, hard for us," Novoa told the station. "This is sad to see this family – a wonderful family – to go through so much pain." Novoa said the father arrived at the daycare to pick up his son before realizing the child had never been dropped off. "Unfortunately, the dad arrived to pick up his child, and when he arrived to the parking lot, he realized he forgot the child," she said. "He never dropped off the child at the school." PARENTS OF 7-YEAR-OLD WHO DIED WEIGHING 255 POUNDS CHARGED WITH MURDER IN SUSPECTED NEGLECT CASE Novoa said she has known the family for six years and described them as loving parents whose three children attended the daycare. "Like I said before, they’re a very loving family, and unfortunately, this happened," Novoa said. The daycare later released a statement expressing condolences and pledging support for the family. WISCONSIN TEEN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN BRUTAL SLAYING OF 5-YEAR-OLD BOY FOUND IN DUMPSTER "Our primary responsibility is the safety and well-being of our students and their families," the daycare wrote. "We communicated with our school community as soon as possible, and we remain in contact with our families to provide support during this incredibly difficult time," it continued. "This student and their family are beloved members of our community. At this time, our focus is on supporting those grieving this immense loss." According to Kids and Car Safety, formerly KidsAndCars.org, about 40 children die in hot cars each year in the United States. The organization says roughly half of those deaths occur after a parent or caregiver unintentionally leaves a child inside a vehicle. Plantation police said the circumstances surrounding the child's death remain under investigation. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44cb81c2ca79de236294c1 DSA’s third major primary win deepens Democrats’ fight over the party’s future te 2026-07-01T08:10:41.838Z DSA’s third major primary win deepens Democrats’ fight over the party’s future The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are taking their political playbook nationwide.  One week after DSA-aligned candidates scored ballot-box victories over establishment-backed contenders in two congressional primaries in New York City that grabbed outsized national attention, the group scored another major upset in a deep-blue U.S. House district in Denver, Colorado. Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, who was first elected to Congress in 1996 and took office in 1997, was defeated by DSA-backed Melat Kiros, a first-time candidate and former attorney who is 29 years old. Kiros’ victory comes a week after Darializa Avila Chevalier, a 32-year-old progressive community organizer in New York City, ousted incumbent Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and state Assembly Member Claire Valdez, another DSA-aligned contender, won a congressional primary to succeed retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez. VICTORIES BY MAMDANI-BACKED CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES SPOTLIGHTS GROWING RIFT IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY The victories by Chevalier and Valdez, who were backed by socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, coupled with the win this week by Kiros, are further emboldening the progressive left as it takes on the center-left establishment in a high-stakes battle for the future of the Democratic Party.  Hasan Piker, the controversial, far-left streamer, at the Kiros primary night event in Denver, told Fox News, "I think progressive politics, left populism, a politics that centers the needs of the working class, can work in every district, in every state. That's why I kept saying over and over again, it's coming to a city near you."  The latest DSA primary victory came in Colorado's 1st Congressional District, a Democrat-dominated seat anchored in Denver that then-Vice President Kamala Harris carried by nearly 56 points in the 2024 election. "Another Democratic Socialist is going to Congress!," the DSA touted in a social media post. "Congresswoman Kiros will take the fight for a better world to D.C: to Abolish ICE, free Palestine, and win Universal Childcare and Medicare for All."  Kiros, who lost her job as a lawyer in New York after writing an essay critical of Israel, was also supported by Justice Democrats, the nearly decade-old political group known for heavily supporting "Squad" members Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley and Rashida Tlaib as they toppled entrenched incumbents in their initial elections to Congress.  DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB University of Colorado regent Wanda James, who jumped into the Democratic congressional primary in April and was described as a spoiler, finished third, in single digits.  Progressives also scored an impressive victory in the neighboring 8th Congressional District, a crucial swing seat which stretches along the I-25 corridor north of Denver.  State Rep. Manny Rutinel tallied a convincing double-digit victory over former state Rep. Shannon Bird, a more moderate candidate. Rutinel will now take on Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, who flipped the seat in the 2024 cycle.  The race is considered one of two or three dozen that will determine if the GOP holds onto its razor-thin House majority in the midterms.  Immigration was a top issue in the Democratic primary in a district where roughly 40% of the population is Latino. Rutinel criticized Bird for a vote she cast last year opposing a measure limiting cooperation between local and state law enforcement and ICE. And Rutinel was boosted by big spending from allies, including prominent Latino groups.  While Rutinel has tempered his previous support for top progressive issues, including Medicare for All and opposition to fracking, Republicans viewed him as the easier general election challenger than Bird. During the primary campaign, the right spotlighted pictures of him rallying alongside Mamdani. "Democrats have chosen a far-left, radical socialist, Mamdani-wanna-be extremist — someone who supports eliminating oil and gas, defunding law enforcement, calling farmers and ranchers horrific, and threatening the industries that power our economy," Evans charged in a statement.  Another primary showdown highlighting the split between progressives and moderates, as well as the party's generational divide, was the Senate nomination battle between incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper, 74, and former state Sen. Julie Gonzales, a 43-year-old progressive.  Hickenlooper, a former Denver mayor and two-term governor, saw his once-large advantage over Gonzales, a one-time DSA member, narrow in the weeks ahead of the primary.  Hickenlooper prevailed and will now be the clear favorite in the general election against Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley, who was unopposed in his primary.  But Gonzales saw a silver lining in defeat, writing in a statement, "My heart is full, knowing that we've put the Democratic establishment on notice: keep taking folks like us for granted at your own peril."  Meanwhile, state Attorney General Phil Weiser topped U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet in the expensive and combustible Democratic gubernatorial primary.  Weiser, who ran to Bennet’s left on certain issues, closed the gap with the senator as he spotlighted his efforts to take on President Donald Trump, including filing or joining dozens of lawsuits against the Trump administration as attorney general. Longtime Democratic strategist Joe Caiazzo, a veteran of progressive champion Sen. Bernie Sanders' 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, told Fox News Digital that "it is undeniable that progressives have built a coalition and have a message that can serve to buoy a candidate when they are an acceptable alternative to the status quo."  While plenty of mainstream Democrats have racked up primary victories in recent weeks, it is the far-left that's grabbing the media spotlight. And that's giving Republicans more ammunition as they portray all Democrats as radicals.  "The socialist takeover of the Democrat Party is no longer confined to deep-blue strongholds. The radicals are taking over battleground districts, putting must-win seats out of reach for Democrats and sinking their chances of flipping the House," NRCC Spokesman Mike Marinella said as he pointed to Rutinel's victory.  Fox News' Olivia Palombo and Matthew Donnell contributed to this report Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c51ec2ca79de2362938c Gas prices July 1 te 2026-07-01T07:43:26.563Z Gas prices July 1 National average: $3.86 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c50ac2ca79de23629383 Davis Dam releases for July 1 te 2026-07-01T07:43:06.597Z Davis Dam releases for July 1 Thursday Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c4f6c2ca79de2362937a Best Bets: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 te 2026-07-01T07:42:46.625Z Best Bets: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 Today Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c4e2c2ca79de23629371 Bringing the Beat: Party Boyz DJs play to dance floors at the Laughlin Golden Nugget, weddings and more te 2026-07-01T07:42:26.660Z Bringing the Beat: Party Boyz DJs play to dance floors at the Laughlin Golden Nugget, weddings and more It’s a given that a DJ loves music. But to be a successful DJ, they must also love making people happy. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c4cec2ca79de23629368 Party Boyz Productions 3 te 2026-07-01T07:42:06.691Z Party Boyz Productions 3 David Rivera Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c4bac2ca79de2362935f Party Boyz Productions 2 te 2026-07-01T07:41:46.721Z Party Boyz Productions 2 Adriana and David Rivera Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c4a6c2ca79de23629356 Party Boyz Productions 1 te 2026-07-01T07:41:26.762Z Party Boyz Productions 1 Adriana and David Rivera Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c288c2ca79de236292cf Rollin' on the Colorado River: Commotion plays Creedence Clearwater Revival's all-American rock hits in Laughlin debut te 2026-07-01T07:32:24.536Z Rollin' on the Colorado River: Commotion plays Creedence Clearwater Revival's all-American rock hits in Laughlin debut Perhaps no band has been more associated with a specific time in American history than Creedence Clearwater Revival and the late 1960s/early 1970s. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c274c2ca79de236292c6 Commotion: America's #1 Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival te 2026-07-01T07:32:04.565Z Commotion: America's #1 Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44c221c2ca79de23629285 Trump administration threatens Kansas school district funding over transgender student policy te 2026-07-01T07:30:41.632Z Trump administration threatens Kansas school district funding over transgender student policy The Trump administration on Tuesday said it would pursue enforcement action that could include withholding federal funding from Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools over its policies that the administration says prevent staff from notifying parents of a transgender student's gender identity. The Education Department said that Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools’ policy of not disclosing a student's transgender status to their parents violated the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The agency announced it was partnering with the Justice Department to take "appropriate enforcement measures," including applicable judicial proceedings and potential loss of federal funding. LOUDOUN COUNTY PARENTS NOT 'SATISFIED' AFTER SCHOOL OFFICIALS TESTIFY ON TRANSGENDER POLICIES "Kansas City Kansas Public Schools' sustained efforts to sidestep FERPA, conceal its true policies, and obstruct parents’ lawful access to their children’s education records represents a serious and deliberate breach of federal law," said Frank Miller, Director of the Student Privacy Policy Office at the Education Department. "A strong and coordinated enforcement partnership between the Department of Education and the Department of Justice will ensure districts are held accountable and fully honor parents’ rights," he added. According to the government, the district's policy affirms that school personnel "should not disclose information that may reveal a student’s transgender status or gender nonconforming presentation to others, including parents." "Despite the Department’s proposed Resolution Agreement, which outlined specific actions the District should take to remedy their FERPA violations, the District continues to ignore federal parental rights law," the Education Department said. Fox News Digital has reached out to the district for comment. SUPREME COURT MAKES MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS The administration has threatened to pull federal funding from several other districts across the country over transgender policies. Earlier this year, the Education Department said policies concerning transgender students in four Kansas school districts, including Kansas City and Kansas Public Schools, were violating federal law. President Donald Trump has issued an executive order aimed at barring transgender women and girls from competing in girls’ and women’s sports. The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that states may bar transgender women and girls from girls’ and women’s sports, upholding Idaho and West Virginia laws while not requiring states without such bans to adopt them. Reuters contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44bd71c2ca79de2362918e Amy Coney Barrett draws backlash from conservative critics who want her to be a Trump partisan te 2026-07-01T07:10:41.570Z Amy Coney Barrett draws backlash from conservative critics who want her to be a Trump partisan The Supreme Court handed Donald Trump one major defeat and two lesser wins as it closed its session yesterday with a bang.  But the court, with three Trump appointees, also ruled against the president in some cases.  Trump, to no one's surprise, praised the favorable ones and ripped the adverse decisions.  So the atmosphere was ripe for all kinds of media spin.  SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS Perhaps the ruling that generated the most anger was the court upholding a $5 million Trump payment to writer E. Jean Carroll for her claims of defamation and sexual assault in a Bergdorf Goodman dressing room in 1996.  Trump’s reaction: "Surprisingly, the Supreme Court declined to ‘review’ a Fake Case brought against me by a woman I never met (Decades old celebrity photo line, standing with her husband, does not count!) I will continue the fight against this weaponization and Lawfare Case against me, including the ridiculous claim of Defamation, with all of my power and strength."  But he’s out of appeal. The Supreme Court just turned him down. It’s over. SUPREME COURT LAMBASTED OVER 'DESTRUCTIVE' AND 'OUTRAGEOUS' BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP DECISION You know what's fascinating? Every judicial nominee testifies before the Senate that they'll only call balls and strikes, as John Roberts once put it, and the lawmakers nod sagely.  But as soon as the newly minted justice votes against Trump and his team, they denounce him or her for being off the reservation — in other words, failing a political loyalty test that they had dismissed during the confirmation hearings.  The target du jour is Amy Coney Barrett, a Trump appointee who wrote the opinion in a 5-4 case in which she and Roberts joined the liberals.  Days after Election Day. The right went haywire. Conservative author Hans Mahncke said on X that "the worst part is that she’ll be there pushing leftist policies for the next 40 years." Barrett dissented Monday on whether Trump could fire a Fed governor, saying it was wrong to narrowly base their decision on an emergency request by Trump. In that job, a lifetime appointment, you need thick skin. In the trio of major cases decided yesterday, the most important by far was the court shooting down Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship, in which anyone born on U.S. soil is automatically considered an American citizen. SUPREME COURT'S MAJOR END-OF-TERM RULINGS ON BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP, TRANSGENDER ATHLETES AND CAMPAIGN FINANCE Barrett, along with the chief justice, joined the court’s liberals in saying that this is a violation of the 14th Amendment, which deals with equal rights for citizens and was ratified in 1868 to protect the rights of newly freed slaves. Barrett has deeply rooted beliefs based on her career as a Notre Dame law professor, and deep religious beliefs as a Catholic, who is also associated with a charismatic Christian community called People of Praise. Some Trump allies, says the New York Times, have called the justice, with seven children and two Black children adopted from Haiti, a DEI hire. Barrett wrote this week’s majority opinion, in that 5-4 case, in favor of a Mississippi law allowing mail-in ballots to be counted after Election Day.  The president, who despises mail-in ballots, called it a "tremendous loss." Of course, being a swing vote, as Sandra Day O’Connor was, enhances her influence during deliberations behind the white marble portico of Corinthian columns. In the other two major cases decided yesterday, the high court allowed political parties to coordinate directly with candidates, and upheld the right of states to bar biological males from competing in women’s sports.  "Once," Barrett wrote in her memoir, "when other justices joined a particularly tricky opinion of mine, my chambers celebrated with an impromptu bottle of champagne." She voted, for instance, to reinstate the death penalty for the Boston Marathon bomber, even though she is personally opposed to capital punishment. In the end, the conservative backlash against Amy Coney Barrett says more about her critics, and sometimes directed at other justices, than it does about her.  They feel betrayed because they want her to politically support the man who nominated her.  But that’s not judicial independence. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b8acc2ca79de2362904a Professor Fired for Criticizing Charlie Kirk Wins $1.9 Million Settlement te 2026-07-01T06:50:20.601Z Professor Fired for Criticizing Charlie Kirk Wins $1.9 Million Settlement Tamar Shirinian, a former professor at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, was among those who lost their jobs over their posts about the slain conservative activist. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b0c3c2ca79de23628e3f Panthers Trade for Former 1st-Round Goalie Amid Sergei Bobrovsky Uncertainty te 2026-07-01T06:16:35.123Z Panthers Trade for Former 1st-Round Goalie Amid Sergei Bobrovsky Uncertainty The Florida Panthers are clearly rebuilding their goaltending depth, and they acquired a former first-round net-minder on Tuesday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b0afc2ca79de23628e36 New GM Has Clear Answer About Whether Angels Need to Rebuild te 2026-07-01T06:16:15.667Z New GM Has Clear Answer About Whether Angels Need to Rebuild The Angels' newly appointed interim GM, John Mozeliak, offered a clear answer about whether the team needs to rebuild its roster. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b09cc2ca79de23628e2d Real Madrid Star Trolls Erling Haaland Before Brazil-Norway World Cup Clash te 2026-07-01T06:15:56.209Z Real Madrid Star Trolls Erling Haaland Before Brazil-Norway World Cup Clash Erling Haaland has put together a dream World Cup debut for Norway, but he'll have to go through Brazil next in the Round of 16. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b088c2ca79de23628e24 Toronto Just Brought Kawhi Leonard Back — There's Only One Thing Left to Do te 2026-07-01T06:15:36.756Z Toronto Just Brought Kawhi Leonard Back — There's Only One Thing Left to Do The Raptors just pulled off the most stunning trade of the summer. But one move would turn this from blockbuster to legendary. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b075c2ca79de23628e1b Maple Leafs' Gavin McKenna Surprisingly Not the 2027 Calder Trophy Favorite te 2026-07-01T06:15:17.299Z Maple Leafs' Gavin McKenna Surprisingly Not the 2027 Calder Trophy Favorite After being drafted No. 1 overall last week, Maple Leafs forward Gavin McKenna doesn't have the best odds of winning the Calder. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b061c2ca79de23628e12 Map Shows Where 53 Million Donated Eggs Are Going After Settlement  te 2026-07-01T06:14:57.337Z Map Shows Where 53 Million Donated Eggs Are Going After Settlement  A new settlement over alleged egg price-fixing will send 53 million donated eggs to food banks across 17 states. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b04dc2ca79de23628e09 Herb Dean Called Out by Yet Another UFC Fighter Over Recent Mistakes te 2026-07-01T06:14:37.363Z Herb Dean Called Out by Yet Another UFC Fighter Over Recent Mistakes Referee Herb Dean has been making some pretty big errors lately, and several UFC fighters aren't letting him get away with it. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b039c2ca79de23628e00 'The Brave and the Bold’ Batman Casting Rumor Has Fans Divided te 2026-07-01T06:14:17.906Z 'The Brave and the Bold’ Batman Casting Rumor Has Fans Divided A new casting rumor about the actor playing Batman in the DCU's "The Brave and the Bold" movie brought mixed reactions. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b025c2ca79de23628df7 Spain's Lamine Yamal Takes Shot at France During 2026 FIFA World Cup te 2026-07-01T06:13:57.939Z Spain's Lamine Yamal Takes Shot at France During 2026 FIFA World Cup France look like world-beaters at the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup, but Spain wunderkind Lamine Yamal isn't all that impressed. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44b012c2ca79de23628dee 10 Everyday Things You Didn’t Realize Are Quietly Endangering Your Dog te 2026-07-01T06:13:38.483Z 10 Everyday Things You Didn’t Realize Are Quietly Endangering Your Dog A dog's close encounter with stealing a knife off the counter prompted experts to warn owners about the dangers of everyday items. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44afffc2ca79de23628de5 Norway's Erling Haaland Goes Viral for Cowboy Transformation at World Cup te 2026-07-01T06:13:19.026Z Norway's Erling Haaland Goes Viral for Cowboy Transformation at World Cup Erling Haaland is winning over everyone at the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup, and it's not just because of his incredible goals. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44afebc2ca79de23628ddc Jalen Hurts, Eagles Get 'A' Grade for Offseason Moves te 2026-07-01T06:12:59.570Z Jalen Hurts, Eagles Get 'A' Grade for Offseason Moves Things are looking up for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44afd8c2ca79de23628dd3 Sabres Could Add Significant Offensive Boost With 500-Goal Scorer te 2026-07-01T06:12:40.121Z Sabres Could Add Significant Offensive Boost With 500-Goal Scorer The rumors linking the Buffalo Sabres to prolific scorer Patrick Kane are picking up steam. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44afc4c2ca79de23628dca Chargers Already Getting Glowing Reviews for Mike McDaniel Hire te 2026-07-01T06:12:20.667Z Chargers Already Getting Glowing Reviews for Mike McDaniel Hire The Los Angeles Charges are getting raves for Mike McDaniel. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44afb0c2ca79de23628dc1 Will Cameron Boozer Be the Hero for the Grizzlies? te 2026-07-01T06:12:00.691Z Will Cameron Boozer Be the Hero for the Grizzlies? The case for Cameron Boozer saving the Memphis Grizzlies. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44af9dc2ca79de23628db8 Pistons Made a 'Bold' Move in the NBA Draft — Was It Worth It? te 2026-07-01T06:11:41.233Z Pistons Made a 'Bold' Move in the NBA Draft — Was It Worth It? The Detroit Pistons mean business. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44af89c2ca79de23628daf Pacers Already Getting High Marks for Selecting Purdue's Braden Smith te 2026-07-01T06:11:21.779Z Pacers Already Getting High Marks for Selecting Purdue's Braden Smith The Indiana Pacers snagged a rising star in Braden Smith. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44af75c2ca79de23628da6 JD Vance Says US in 'Great Position' Whatever Happens in Iran Talks te 2026-07-01T06:11:01.316Z JD Vance Says US in 'Great Position' Whatever Happens in Iran Talks Vance's comments came as senior U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with a Qatari official in Doha on Tuesday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44af61c2ca79de23628d9d Brazil Lose Another Key Starter Before Norway Matchup at World Cup: Report te 2026-07-01T06:10:41.841Z Brazil Lose Another Key Starter Before Norway Matchup at World Cup: Report Brazil barely escaped Japan in the Round of 32, and they'll have to overcome key injuries against Norway in the Round of 16. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44af4dc2ca79de23628d94 Incumbents Are Having a Rough Primary Season  te 2026-07-01T06:10:21.881Z Incumbents Are Having a Rough Primary Season  Incumbent primary losses are piling up in the 2026 midterm elections. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44ad08c2ca79de23628d2e Thousands of beer cans spill across Connecticut highway after tractor-trailer overturns te 2026-07-01T06:00:40.611Z Thousands of beer cans spill across Connecticut highway after tractor-trailer overturns Thousands of beer cans spilled across a Connecticut roadway Tuesday after a tractor-trailer overturned, forcing authorities to shut down the highway for hours. Connecticut State Police said the crash took place around 5:39 a.m. on Route 44 near Twin Lakes Road in Salisbury. Police said the tractor-trailer veered off the roadway and overturned. The truck sustained significant damage, spilling its cargo of beer across the roadway, police said. WILD VIDEO SHOWS INMATES RIOTING INSIDE JAIL AFTER FRUSTRATIONS OVER ACCESS BOIL OVER Photos released by state police showed the tractor-trailer lying on its side, with cans of Michelob Ultra and Bud Light strewn across the roadway. The roadway remained closed for several hours while crews cleared the debris and removed the overturned truck, according to state police. Police said the closure was necessary because of the "large volume of debris" and to safely remove the damaged truck. CALIFORNIA COUPLE SAYS MOVING COMPANY DOUBLED THEIR PRICE AND IS NOW HOLDING BELONGINGS 'FOR RANSOM': REPORT "Thank you to all motorists for your patience and for seeking alternate routes during the closure," state police said in a statement. State police said local firefighters, EMS crews, the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the Department of Consumer Protection and towing crews assisted with the cleanup. Police said the cause of the crash remains under investigation. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said it was not notified of the crash, according to local reports. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44aab2c2ca79de23628ca2 Another New Yorker says officers confronted him after he criticized ICE te 2026-07-01T05:50:42.246Z Another New Yorker says officers confronted him after he criticized ICE A second New York resident said on Tuesday that federal authorities served him with a warning over an email that authorities deemed threatening after he criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s tactics. David Streever, of Rochester, was on a trip to Finland last week when two officers showed up to his home and handed his wife a warning notice notifying him that an email he sent earlier this year was deemed a threat, his lawyer told The Associated Press. Streever sent an email in January to Todd Lyons, who was the acting director of ICE at the time, after an ICE agent shot and killed U.S. citizen Renee Nicole Good during an immigration enforcement-related incident in Minneapolis. In the email, Streever told Lyons he was "a monstrous human being" who "will never know peace." MINNESOTA SENATE VOTES TO BAN ICE FROM WEARING MASKS, ALLOW RESIDENTS TO SUE FOR CONSTITUTIONAL VIOLATIONS "The way you are protecting the obvious execution in Minnesota, even as we see the videos, will lead to your downfall. Even Trump will turn on you before the end, and you will be a sad, despised man who eats himself alive with shame at your own pathetic weakness," Streever said in the email, according to Adam Steinbaugh, an attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression who is representing Streever. Federal officers also attempted to confront Streever at a New York City hotel after he returned from Finland, but hotel staff turned them away, Steinbaugh said. Steinbaugh argued the email was protected speech under the First Amendment and does not represent a legitimate threat. "A true threat is a serious expression of an intent to commit violence. This email doesn't even come close," Steinbaugh said. "It's political speech, it's an act of petitioning your government." Streever said he was shocked that federal officers came to his home to question him over his email. "Like many Americans, I was deeply upset after the shootings in Minnesota and I felt compelled to do something," he said in a statement to The Associated Press. "Writing a letter to the head of ICE seemed like the least I could do to express my sense of outrage. I never dreamed it would lead to a knock on my door by federal officers." Fox News Digital reached out to ICE for comment. "ICE investigates all credible threats towards its employees and officers, including threats to the ICE Director," the agency said in a statement to The Associated Press. The warning to Streever was presented the same week poll worker Paigelynne Gonyea, of Syracuse, said two federal officers confronted her at a voting site during New York’s primaries to question her about a social media post she made about Jonathan Ross, the ICE officer who killed Good. Gonyea said she believes the warning to her was because of a post she made in January in which she shared a picture of Ross along with the caption: "I think today is a great day for Jonathan to be indicted." Her post, which is still online, was made after Ross had already been identified by the media. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, Lauren Bis, shared an image of a different social media post from Gonyea in which she said the woman shared Ross’ address, according to The Associated Press, although part of the post was redacted. Bis said in a statement last week that Gonyea "committed a federal crime by posting the address of an ICE law enforcement officer online" and "if you doxx our officers, we will investigate you, and you will be brought to justice." MISSISSIPPI LAW COULD CREATE STATEWIDE REGISTRY OF UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS Free speech advocates, including those at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and the American Civil Liberties Union, have argued that these two incidents show federal law enforcement infringing on Americans' rights to privacy and free expression. Nathan Freed Wessler, deputy director of the ACLU's speech, privacy and technology project, said the First Amendment guarantees the right to criticize the government. "Nobody should be tracked down at their home or hotel room by federal agents in retribution for sending an email merely expressing frustration and opposition to the government’s actions," Wessler told The Associated Press. "This is an abuse of power and a gross attempt to chill Americans’ constitutionally protected speech." ICE and DHS have said they investigate credible threats and doxxing of law enforcement officers. The government has not publicly provided a fuller explanation of why Streever’s email was treated as a threat. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449a48c2ca79de23628912 Socialism goes west as DSA-backed challenger ousts longtime Democrat te 2026-07-01T04:40:40.240Z Socialism goes west as DSA-backed challenger ousts longtime Democrat Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., a 30-year incumbent, lost to a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)-backed challenger in a high-profile primary on Tuesday evening. Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old socialist, defeated DeGette in a Democratic primary for a deep-blue House seat anchored in Denver, according to The Associated Press, scoring a major victory for the socialist left on Tuesday evening. The DSA had been aiming to cast DeGette’s loss as evidence of its growing momentum after a slate of socialist candidates won Democratic primaries in New York City last week. "Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West," the DSA wrote in a social media post last week. SOCIALISTS CHEER ‘SHOCKWAVE’ PRIMARY NIGHT AS DSA-BACKED CANDIDATES WIN, ADVANCE ACROSS THE MAP If elected in November, Kiros, who was born in Ethiopia, will likely join the ranks of the far-left group known as the Squad and become one of a handful of the House chamber's outspoken socialists.  The millennial challenger was endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., and the anti-incumbent leftist organization Justice Democrats. Controversial socialist streamer Hasan Piker, who has said Hamas is "a thousand times better" than Israel and praised the Chinese Communist Party, also backed Kiros’ insurgent primary run. DeGette, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus who supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), sought to win a 16th House term by flexing her leftist bona fides. She argued her seniority on an influential House committee would allow her to push for Medicare-for-All legislation — a longtime priority of the party’s far-left flank. DeGette, who was endorsed by former CPC Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., also spotlighted her experience as an impeachment manager during Trump’s second impeachment trial in 2021. Though DeGette and Kiros shared few policy disagreements, they diverged sharply over Israel and antisemitism. Kiros also sharply criticized DeGette for accepting corporate PAC contributions. Kiros, a PhD student and lawyer, was fired from a New York firm in 2023 after publishing an open letter, arguing that pro-Palestinian student protesters calling for the elimination of Israel were not antisemitic and appearing to defend Hamas. WATCH: HOUSE DEMS UNLOAD ON TEXAS DEMOCRAT OVER ‘DEMENTED’ ANTISEMITIC COMMENTS She has also described the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks against the Jewish state as the "inevitable consequence of apartheid" and declined to characterize the deadly firebombing of protesters in Boulder last year who were urging the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza as antisemitic.  "I don't know what was in the heart of the perpetrator," Kiros told Colorado's 9News in a recent television interview. "All I know is that he went and attacked innocent people because of what they might have believed." A June 2025 bipartisan resolution condemning the attack as part of a "rise in ideologically motivated attacks on Jewish individuals" won every present lawmaker’s support, except for Reps. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., and Thomas Massie, R-Ky., who voted present. Kiros has also suggested the United States deserved 9/11. "Inevitable in the sense that we destabilized a lot of the Middle East that forced people to believe that another act of violence was the only response," Kiros told 9News when asked if she thought the terror attack was "the inevitable consequence of American foreign policy." "And again, just like I said before, our responsibility is to get rid of those conditions that lead to violence in the first place," Kiros continued. DeGette argued that Kiros' embrace of Piker and her comments about antisemitism and 9/11 were disqualifying.  "I’m shocked and disgusted that Kiros is doubling down on excusing terrorism and the murder of innocent people," the 30-year incumbent wrote on Facebook earlier this month. Colorado’s 1st Congressional District is the most liberal seat in the state and voted for former Vice President Kamala Harris by 56 points in 2024. The primary fight was further scrambled by University of Colorado Regent Wanda James, also running for DeGette's seat. Though James did not pose the same threat as Kiros, her vote share could ultimately have swayed the contest. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4495fcc2ca79de23628820 Blue Cross deadline arrives for LCMC patients te 2026-07-01T04:22:20.456Z Blue Cross deadline arrives for LCMC patients By Shawn White  Blue Cross Blue Shield patients in Winslow face a major insurance deadline today as Little Colorado Medical Center (LCMC) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona continue a contract dispute that could leave the region’s only hospital out of network for thousands of local patients.  LCMC Chief Executive Officer Travis Udall told the Winslow City Council last week that the situation was still moving and that a recent meeting with Blue Cross had gone better than prior talks. “We get a lot of questions on the Blue Cross negotiations,” Udall said. “We had a meeting today, which is probably the most positive meeting we’ve had in a year.” Udall said the hospital had sent its final proposal back to BCBS and was waiting for a response. He told council members he hoped the issue could be settled before the July 1 deadline. At the time of printing an agreement has not been announced.   For now, LCMC remains in network with Blue Cross for the time being and it is hoped any disruption would have minimal to no impact on patients. But the hospital administration also urged patients to prepare in case the contract lapses, because the financial difference between in-network and out-of-network care can be significant.  For local patients, the stakes are higher than they would be in a larger city. LCMC is Winslow’s only hospital and the next full hospital is over 50 miles away in Flagstaff. Residents on the reservation may have to travel even farther to Show Low or Flagstaff to receive in-network care. For many residents, especially those in an emergency or those receiving ongoing care, simply choosing another in-network hospital may not be realistic.  In a public notice to patients, Udall said LCMC’s Board of Directors concluded that the reimbursement levels offered by Blue Cross, “would not support the essential health services that our community needs.” The hospital says the issue is not just a business disagreement but a question of whether a small rural hospital can continue providing services that are costly, necessary and not always fully covered by insurance payments.  That concern was echoed in Udall’s broader report to the council. He said LCMC is trying to grow and stabilize services by hiring local people, bringing new care options to Winslow and keeping more patients in town rather than transferring them away.  “One of the things that I feel strongly about as the CEO is that we hire local people,” Udall said. “That our hospital, the strength of our facility will be based off the local people that we hire that stay here, build here, that live here.”  The insurance fight comes as LCMC is trying to preserve some of the most expensive services it offers. Udall told council members the hospital is seeking rural transformation funding from the state, including support for women’s health and obstetrics. He said LCMC loses nearly $1.5 million a year on obstetrics services because reimbursement rates do not cover costs and liability insurance is among the highest expenses in the hospital.  Udall told the council, “The liability insurance is the highest across the hospital. It’s very costly for the babies. But I think it’s something that we’re connected to because it’s something that this area needs.”  Udall said LCMC is one of only three small hospitals in the state continuing to provide OB care in that category and said the hospital is seeing more patients from the Show Low and White Mountain area as other regional options have become limited. Without the service in Winslow, he said, families would have to travel farther for care.  LCMC is also applying for funding for a mobile clinic that could serve Holbrook, Joseph City and Happy Jack, areas where Udall said a permanent clinic would be difficult to establish. He said he had spoken with Holbrook Mayor Kathleen Smith about the idea of taking a clinic to Holbrook a couple of days at a time to provide services and connect patients back to the hospital in Winslow.  Udall said LCMC has also regained its Level IV trauma designation, which had lapsed before he arrived. He said the designation matters because it can affect access to supplies, funding, equipment and state resources and the hospital now plans to pursue Level III trauma status.  Udall said another priority is keeping more patients in Winslow instead of transferring them to Flagstaff. “One of the things that I think is an issue for our hospital when I got here I heard loud and clear, is that a lot of times people come to the hospital and they get transferred away to Flagstaff,” Udall said.  Council members praised the hospital’s improvement during the meeting and one raised the issue of dialysis patients still having to be transferred out. Udall said LCMC had investigated dialysis, bought equipment and considered the service but could not get the necessary staff training and encountered complications involving the local dialysis center. He said dialysis remains on the list but the hospital must make sure it can provide services well before adding more.  Udall said LCMC has added seven or eight outpatient services in the last 18 months, including swing bed, pain management, stroke and telemental health programs. He also said the clinic has added 7,000 new visits this year, which he attributed to marketing, changes in patient service, better communication and efforts to rebuild trust.  “We’re seeing that volume come back from Holbrook, Joe City, the Snowflake areas, where we have lost that,” Udall said.  For BCBS patients, the hospital’s advice is to contact the insurer directly. Patients should call the member number on the back of their Blue Cross Blue Shield card and ask how services at Little Colorado Medical Center, the rural health clinic and the physical therapy clinic will be covered if LCMC is treated as out of network.  Patients should also ask about their specific deductible, coinsurance and out-of-network benefits and should request written confirmation from Blue Cross. If a patient is in active treatment, including pregnancy, post-surgical recovery, chemotherapy or other ongoing care, they should ask BCBS about continuity of care before receiving a bill.  Emergency care is different. Under federal patient protections, emergency care is generally billed at in-network cost-sharing levels even if the hospital is out of network. LCMC and patient advocates are stressing that patients should not drive to Flagstaff or another hospital during a true emergency because of the insurance dispute.  Non-emergency care may be different if the contract lapses. Scheduled visits, follow-up appointments, clinic visits, physical therapy or other non-emergency services could come with higher out-of-pocket costs depending on a patient’s individual plan.  LCMC has said it will work with affected patients and is offering a 40% discount on out-of-network cost sharing, along with cash and prompt-pay discounts, to help offset added costs during the dispute. The hospital also has financial assistance and sliding-fee programs and says no one is denied care because of inability to pay.  Patients with questions for BCBS can call 1-800-232-2345 or submit a request through. www.azblue.com. Patients with billing questions for LCMC can contact the hospital’s Billing and Patient Financial Services office at 928-289-6369 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or by emailing businessoffice@lcmcwmh.com. The hospital’s main line is 928-289-4691.  Udall told council members that trust is central to the hospital’s future and said LCMC is trying to respond more directly when patients have problems. He said he and other hospital leaders are willing to meet with patients, hear what happened and try to fix what the hospital can fix.  The council also opened public hearings on the city’s final budget for fiscal year 2026-27 and the estimated tax levy, which was broken down in an article in the May 13, edition of The Tribune. City Manager David Coolidge said the final budget was identical to the tentative budget previously presented to the council, with “no changes, no reductions” and no members of the public spoke during either hearing. The budget was officially adopted during a special meeting held shortly after the regular meeting last week.  Coolidge also gave a legislative update after the end of the state session, saying the state budget signed June 13 includes tax conformity provisions tied to the federal H.R. 1 bill that are expected to reduce Winslow’s state-shared revenues by about $100,000 per year. He said that may not sound large in an $11 million budget but “that’s one to two employees,” and he also noted a state backfill for 911 system costs, a three-year moratorium on data center tax incentives and a November ballot expected to include 10 referendums, including one that would cap grocery taxes at 2%.   The city also received its May financial report. As of May 31, with 92% of the fiscal year complete, citywide revenues for May were $2 million bringing year-to-date revenues to $24 million while citywide expenditures for May were $2.7 million, bringing year-to-date expenditures to $23.5 million. General fund revenues were at 110% of budget and expenditures were at 98% of budget and total cash and investments stood at $16.4 million.  During the meeting the council also approved past meeting minutes, the check register and cancelled the Aug. 25, regular meeting. The post Blue Cross deadline arrives for LCMC patients first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4495e9c2ca79de23628817 Holbrook nonprofit offers a First Step toward employment for people with disabilities te 2026-07-01T04:22:01.000Z Holbrook nonprofit offers a First Step toward employment for people with disabilities By Shawn White  By the time payday comes around at First Step Workshop, some of the workers have already been talking about it for a week. For the adults with developmental disabilities who work at the Holbrook thrift store and training program, payday means a trip to the bank, a nice lunch out and the pride of having earned something of their own. It is a welcomed chance for normalcy and independence in the lives of people who have to fight harder than most to be seen as ordinary.   For Michelle Hale, director of First Step Workshop, payday is one of the clearest reminders of what the organization is really about: giving members the same ordinary experiences everyone else wants from work, independence and community.  “They may have some challenges, and they may have a different sensory input, the way they process things, but they’re still people just like everybody else,” Hale said. First Step Workshop is easy to mistake as just a thrift store. People drop off clothing, toys, household goods and other items. Shoppers come in looking for a bargain but behind the storefront is something much bigger.  First Step Workshop is a nonprofit program contracted through the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities. Its members qualify through the state and often live with developmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or cognitive disorders.  The thrift store is part of what the program calls center-based employment. Members learn how to show up for work, dress for work, follow expectations and build the habits needed to hold a job.  They work seven-hour days, 35 hours a week and the routine is not pretend work. It is work, with expectations, responsibilities, co-workers and a paycheck. “Our goal is to train them to eventually be able to go out into the community and hold a job in the community,” Hale said.  First Step Workshop also has group-supported employment contracts, including with the Navajo County and Holbrook High School, where members go out into the community and perform cleaning work for pay. Hale said those opportunities give members a sense of purpose, accomplishment and a visible role in the community.  The organization also operates a day program for members who are not in the work program, are waiting to become eligible or have aged out of work and want to retire. In that setting, members work on daily living skills such as hygiene, cooking, mobility and maintaining the abilities they already have.  For someone in the day program, success might not look like a job in town. It might be learning a new skill after months of practice, getting out of the house or being able to do one more thing independently than they could do before.  When those moments happen, Hale said, staff members feel them deeply. She spoke about members of the day program who practice the same skill over and over again for months, sometimes with very little progress. Then, “All of a sudden one day they just do it, and you’re like, you gotta leave the room because you want to cry,” Hale said. “It’s phenomenal when that happens.”  There are currently about 10 members between First Step Workshop’s two programs. Some come from Holbrook, while others are picked up from Winslow and Snowflake, making transportation one of the things that keeps the program possible for families across the region.  First Step is also one of the few work programs left in the area. Hale said similar programs have closed over the years, including programs in the Show Low area, leaving First Step Workshop as one of the only options on this side of the state.  That makes the small thrift store feel bigger than its walls. It is a workplace, a classroom, a social space and a bridge between members and the community around them. The bridge does not always go as far as Hale would like. The hope is to help members gain enough experience to work in the community, but Hale said the biggest barrier is not the members. “It is finding employers that are willing to hire someone that’s going to take a little extra supervision, a little extra coaching,” Hale said.  That frustration comes from knowing what the members are capable of. Hale described them as dedicated workers who take pride in being there and hate missing work. “These are some of the best workers you’ll ever see,” Hale said. “They’re very dedicated to their jobs.”  The work is also about changing old ideas. Hale has spent about 25 years in the field and said people with disabilities were once kept apart from the rest of the community in ways many people today may not fully understand.  That mindset has not disappeared completely. Hale remembered walking into a fast-food restaurant with a group of people with disabilities and watching people on one side of the restaurant get up and move away. “There’s still that old-school thinking,” Hale said.  “They have the same basic rights you and I have, and people don’t understand that,” Hale said. “They have the right to get married. They have the right to have those relationships. They have the right to live in a safe environment.”  The thrift store itself depends on the community. First Step is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies heavily on donations to keep the store running. Clothing and toys come in regularly, but Hale said the store especially needs household goods and other items in clean, working condition.   Still, the gratitude is real. Donations help pay wages, keep the store open and allow First Step Workshop to help others when the need is urgent. Hale recalled a family that lost everything in a fire and was told to come to the store and take what they needed. It’s that kind of community passion at the heart of First Step Workshop.  Hale said the one thing the board is in a real need of is new board members. Some of the organization’s board members have served for decades and some were there at the beginning, when the program opened in 1980 under a different name.  Now, Hale said, the organization needs younger members, new ideas and people willing to help carry the work forward. The most important requirement is that board members keep the members’ best interests at the center of every decision. That is what the story keeps coming back to. Not the thrift store, not the donations and not even the paycheck by itself. At First Step, a paycheck is proof that someone showed up, did the work and got to take part in the same ordinary life everyone else is trying to build. The post Holbrook nonprofit offers a First Step toward employment for people with disabilities first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4495d5c2ca79de2362880e Holbrook council debates budget priorities te 2026-07-01T04:21:41.546Z Holbrook council debates budget priorities By Shawn White  Over $1 million dollars that had been listed for updating the city pool in Holbrook’s proposed 2026-27 budget was moved into a general administrative contingency line after concerns were raised by council members about whether the city was moving too quickly toward a pool, civic center or multipurpose facility.  City Manager Randy Sullivan told the Holbrook City Council during a June 24, budget work session that the money was removed from the parks section of the budget and placed into contingency. He said the change keeps the money available for future needs, including possible grant matches, streets or design work, but does not commit the city to one project.  “The key thing about the pool is anything that we do for that is going to have to come to you guys anyways,” Sullivan said, addressing the council, adding that large design costs or other project expenses would still have to return to the council for approval.  Sullivan said the city is likely about a year away from making major decisions about how to finance a project, whether through bonds or another method. If the money is not spent in the coming year, he said, it would carry over into the city’s fund balance.  He also said the city has about $11 million in investments and that he generally tries not to budget the general fund balance. Savings from efficiencies, unfilled positions or other cost reductions are rolled into longer-term investments so the city has money available when large needs arise.  “Anytime that we find efficiencies throughout the year, or cost savings throughout the year, or we’re short guys in the department, those end up being cost savings that I end up rolling over into long-term savings accounts,” Sullivan said. “So that way, when we do run into an issue with the pool, we have $12 million in there that could help us.”  Councilmember Roxanne Pergesen, who participated by phone, said her concern was making sure limited city money is used in a way that produces the greatest benefit. She said money could be used for grant matches, infrastructure, tourism or other projects that help the city generate revenue.  “When you’re running on a very limited-type budget, money has to be extended to develop maximum effort,” Pergesen said. “If we can utilize whatever money we are utilizing for specific projects we have to have, then let that money make us money.”  Councilmember Robert Black said he remained uncomfortable with the change because he believed moving the money into contingency could still allow the city to continue toward the same project. He said he worried the council could approve the budget and then see the administration continue moving forward with plans for a pool or multipurpose center.  “I’m still not warm and fuzzy on this because I know what happens,” Black said. “We’ll move that over in contingency and then we’ll keep on going with the same plans.”  Sullivan said the money was not set aside for any specific project and that any purchase over $15,000 would have to come back to the council. Black was told he and other council members would have the ability to oppose any future proposal when it comes forward.  Black said his larger concern is that Holbrook should focus more on basic infrastructure before pursuing a large quality-of-life project. He said roads, sewer systems, schools and other public needs have to be ready before new residents or businesses arrive. “We have not done anything with our infrastructure.” He later clarified that he was referring to underground systems such as sewer and water lines, not bridges or other visible improvements.  Black said he liked the idea of a multipurpose center but questioned whether it was the right direction for the city. He called the project a “pipe dream” and said Holbrook should put money toward more immediate needs. “I think we’re heading the wrong direction. If you’re looking at doing something for Holbrook and trying to get on the right track for Holbrook, I think we’re on the wrong track.”  Mayor Kathleen Smith disagreed with the idea that the city was neglecting infrastructure. She pointed to the city’s recently completed general plan and said the civic center discussion did not mean other priorities had been abandoned. “For the accusation to be said that we’re neglecting the utilities and the infrastructure, that is an untrue statement,” Smith said.   “I think that we’re wanting to move forward, and also have to provide that quality of life for our residents,” Councilmember Karina Pack said. She said the city needs to take care of current residents while also preparing for the future.  Sullivan said the city’s current direction is to work with the Holbrook Unified School District, Northland Pioneer College and Navajo County but staff does not want to lose a year if those partnerships do not come together. In that case, he said, the city may need to keep moving on a pool-only option.   The meeting did not result in a vote because it was just a work session. However, beforehand the council met briefly in a special meeting to authorize the transfer of a right-of-way segment of land on the edge of the church’s parking lot at 1202 W. Hopi Drive from the city to Calvary Chapel of Holbrook Inc. The post Holbrook council debates budget priorities first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4495c0c2ca79de236287e5 Socialism goes west as DSA-backed challenger ousts longtime Democrat te 2026-07-01T04:21:20.040Z Socialism goes west as DSA-backed challenger ousts longtime Democrat Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., a 30-year incumbent, lost to a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)-backed challenger in a high-profile primary on Tuesday evening. Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old socialist, defeated DeGette in a Democratic primary for a deep-blue House seat anchored in Denver, according to The Associated Press, scoring a major victory for the socialist left on Tuesday evening. The DSA had been aiming to cast DeGette’s loss as evidence of its growing momentum after a slate of socialist candidates won Democratic primaries in New York City last week. "Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West," the DSA wrote in a social media post last week. SOCIALISTS CHEER ‘SHOCKWAVE’ PRIMARY NIGHT AS DSA-BACKED CANDIDATES WIN, ADVANCE ACROSS THE MAP If elected in November, Kiros, who was born in Ethiopia, will likely join the ranks of the far-left group known as the Squad and become one of a handful of the House chamber's outspoken socialists.  The millennial challenger was endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., and the anti-incumbent leftist organization Justice Democrats. Controversial socialist streamer Hasan Piker, who has said Hamas is "a thousand times better" than Israel and praised the Chinese Communist Party, also backed Kiros’ insurgent primary run. DeGette, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus who supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), sought to win a 16th House term by flexing her leftist bona fides. She argued her seniority on an influential House committee would allow her to push for Medicare-for-All legislation — a longtime priority of the party’s far-left flank. DeGette, who was endorsed by former CPC Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., also spotlighted her experience as an impeachment manager during Trump’s second impeachment trial in 2021. Though DeGette and Kiros shared few policy disagreements, they diverged sharply over Israel and antisemitism. Kiros also sharply criticized DeGette for accepting corporate PAC contributions. Kiros, a PhD student and lawyer, was fired from a New York firm in 2023 after publishing an open letter, arguing that pro-Palestinian student protesters calling for the elimination of Israel were not antisemitic and appearing to defend Hamas. WATCH: HOUSE DEMS UNLOAD ON TEXAS DEMOCRAT OVER ‘DEMENTED’ ANTISEMITIC COMMENTS She has also described the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks against the Jewish state as the "inevitable consequence of apartheid" and declined to characterize the deadly firebombing of protesters in Boulder last year who were urging the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza as antisemitic.  "I don't know what was in the heart of the perpetrator," Kiros told Colorado's 9News in a recent television interview. "All I know is that he went and attacked innocent people because of what they might have believed." A June 2025 bipartisan resolution condemning the attack as part of a "rise in ideologically motivated attacks on Jewish individuals" won every present lawmaker’s support, except for Reps. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., and Thomas Massie, R-Ky., who voted present. Kiros has also suggested the United States deserved 9/11. "Inevitable in the sense that we destabilized a lot of the Middle East that forced people to believe that another act of violence was the only response," Kiros told 9News when asked if she thought the terror attack was "the inevitable consequence of American foreign policy." "And again, just like I said before, our responsibility is to get rid of those conditions that lead to violence in the first place," Kiros continued. DeGette argued that Kiros' embrace of Piker and her comments about antisemitism and 9/11 were disqualifying.  "I’m shocked and disgusted that Kiros is doubling down on excusing terrorism and the murder of innocent people," the 30-year incumbent wrote on Facebook earlier this month. Colorado’s 1st Congressional District is the most liberal seat in the state and voted for former Vice President Kamala Harris by 56 points in 2024. The primary fight was further scrambled by University of Colorado Regent Wanda James, also running for DeGette's seat. Though James did not pose the same threat as Kiros, her vote share could ultimately have swayed the contest. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449599c2ca79de236287c5 Melat Kiros, a Left-Wing Insurgent, Ousts a 15-Term Congresswoman in Colorado te 2026-07-01T04:20:41.127Z Melat Kiros, a Left-Wing Insurgent, Ousts a 15-Term Congresswoman in Colorado Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old democratic socialist, unseated Representative Diana DeGette in a Democratic primary to represent the Denver area. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449585c2ca79de236287bc Democratic Outsiders Keep Rolling: 5 Takeaways From Colorado’s Primaries te 2026-07-01T04:20:21.677Z Democratic Outsiders Keep Rolling: 5 Takeaways From Colorado’s Primaries A democratic socialist ousted a veteran congresswoman in Denver, and a U.S. senator lost his bid for governor. But the state’s other senator fended off a progressive primary challenger. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44937dc2ca79de23628777 Independence Day celebrations slated te 2026-07-01T04:11:41.181Z Independence Day celebrations slated Area residents and visitors in the region will have plenty of activities to choose from as they celebrate Independence Day. Holbrook  It’s parade time for the 4th of July and all are invited! Bikes, trikes, strollers, wheelbarrows, walkers, unicycles, etc. meet and gather beginning at 8 a.m. at Hunt Park, located at Park Road. Red, white, and blue decorations available and helpers willing to assist trimming participants wheels! Show up at 8:30 a.m. and join in with the parade at 9 a.m., led by the Holbrook Volunteer Fire Department fire truck.  There’s more fun after the parade with games and water activities happening throughout the morning. Treats will be provided too. Come support the traditional 4th of July in Happy Holbrook!    The annual Holbrook Volunteer Firemen’s Barbecue is scheduled from 12 p.m. until the food is gone at Fire Station No. 3, located at 100 Airport Road. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids. Takeout plates are also available. Tickets may be purchased from any fireman or at the door.  The Holbrook firemen will also present their free fireworks show after dark at the Navajo County Governmental Complex in southern Holbrook. Joseph City  The community of Joseph City has a full lineup of holiday festivities for the Fourth of July with all events at Tanner Park, located at 4560 Main St., unless otherwise noted. Beginning at 5:15 a.m., there will be a 5K Fun Run. Meet at the northeast corner of the park for registration beginning at 4:15 a.m.   At 8 a.m., a patriotic parade will make its way down Main Street from Hansen Street and ending at Tanner Park. Lineup is at 7:30 a.m.   At 8:30 a.m. the flag raising will take place, then at 9 a.m. the Bucket of Blood Re-enactors will present its “I do, I do” Old West shootout.  At 9:30 a.m. tournament registrations open (call Blaine for info and advance registration at 480-217-5476). Also at that time food and craft vendors open, the Kid Zone opens and tournaments begin on the 1/2 hour including a volleyball tournament at 10:00 a.m., horseshoes tournament at 10:30 a.m., Human foosball and cornhole at 11 a.m.  At 1 p.m. it’s the Color Blast, followed by basketball at 1:30 p.m. at the Joseph City High School Gym.   This event is hosted by the Joseph City Chamber of Commerce. Snowflake/Taylor  On Friday, the festivities begin at 12 p.m., at Rodeo Park in Taylor with the Snowflake/Taylor Chamber of Commerce hosting an arts & crafts event. The event will go on until 5 p.m. then begin again at 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday.   Also on Friday, head to the rodeo grounds for super fresh calf roping beginning at 6 p.m. Cowboy poetry and country music will be held beginning at 7 p.m. at Rodeo Park.   On Saturday, the day begins at 5 a.m., with the annual firing of the anvil and band serenade beginning at Solomon Hill Ball Park, located at Center and 700 East Street, with stops at Old Center Street Church, the church at 309 W. Willow and concluding at Rodeo Park in Taylor at 6:15 a.m.   At 6 a.m. on Saturday, a free pancake breakfast will be held at the Rodeo Pavilion.   Beginning at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, it’s the Fourth of July Freedom Run to begin at the Snowflake Bike Park, located at 1784 W. 7th S. St. in Snowflake. The cost is $30 for adults and $15 for youth 17 and under. Register in advance at www.rec.us/taylor.  At 10 a.m. a patriotic program will take place at the Town Hall of Fame, located at 309 W. Willow Lane in Taylor, featuring the Jennings Band and keynote speaker Brad Click.  That evening it’s the 72nd annual Fourth of July Taylor Rodeo at the Taylor Rodeo Grounds. The preshow begins at 7 p.m. with the rodeo events to begin at 7:30. Ticket prices are $15, with kids 5 and under free. Following the rodeo there will be team roping.  Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. followed by a dance beginning at 9:30 p.m. at the Rodeo Pavilion.  Winslow  From 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.., (or when food runs out) the Winslow Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a community barbecue on the 4th of July. It will be at the Hayden Walton Memorial Park near the Route 66 Splash Pad. There’ll be a few games and a tattoo station for kids. There is no charge for this event. There will also be lots of activities at McHood Park/Clear Creek Reservoir such as swimming, tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking, picnics, etc.  The fireworks show will start when the sky is dark. Winslow’s fireworks show is funded by donations from the community and is directed by lifelong resident Dan Simmons. The show lasts about an hour and a half with a 15-minute intermission. The post Independence Day celebrations slated first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449369c2ca79de2362876e Board of Supervisors finalize 2026-27 budget te 2026-07-01T04:11:21.729Z Board of Supervisors finalize 2026-27 budget By Talaina Kor  The Navajo County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting June 23, during which the board entered a special meeting to review and approve the final Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 budget, which had no changes from the tentative budget presented in the previous meeting.   Highlights in this year’s budget are capital improvements, IT and software enhancements, new positions and staff compensation. The general fund budget is $54.1 million, with an additional $18.5 million in contingency funds, totaling $72.6 millions. Special revenue funds totaled at $150.3 million, and the capital project funds totaled at $33 million. The FY 2026 budget totaled approximately $247 million, and FY 2027 totaled approximately $258 million.   A public hearing was held regarding the budget, during which no one spoke.  In the county business update County Manager Bryan Layton announced that the county’s website has a new webpage with information relating to the county’s economic and renewable energy developments. “We think this will be a valuable resource to educate, clarify misunderstandings and help dispel some of the misinformation that’s been circulating on those issues,” Layton stated. The new webpage is now live and can be found on the County Information Center page of the Navajo County website.  Recently retired county employee Ernie Neff was celebrated for over a decade and a half of service in the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office. “He’s done over 24 years of service in the corrections world,” stated Sheriff David Clouse, “and he’s done 16 of those with the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office.” Clouse said that while Neff is a man of few words, he exhibited leadership and great work during his time with the county.  K-9 units Sejn and Zolton were also honored on their retirement. Sejn was responsible for the seizure of 138.7 pounds of methamphetamine, 28 pounds of marijuana, 18,573 fentanyl pills, 8 PCP blotters and 1.58 ounces of crack cocaine. Zolton was responsible for the seizure of 89.4 pounds of cocaine, 40.3 pounds of fentanyl powder, 757,330 fentanyl pills, 18 pounds of heroin, 1,819.6 pounds of marijuana, 1,316 THC vape pens, 600.4 pounds of methamphetamine, 600 ecstasy pills, 54 LSD blotters and $220,339.  County Supervisors Association (CSA) Executive Director Craig Sullivan presented on the activities of the CSA for FY 2025-2026, which included a discussion of the recent legislative session.   Personnel service awards were presented to employees for their continued service to the county, which included Elizabeth Whitehorne-Benally, Kayenta Constable, 10 years; Betty Starns, Sheriff’s Office, 10 years; Jerald VanWinkle, Jail Operations, 10 years; Katy Chee, Health Department, 15 years; Sheri Martinez, Holbrook Justice Court, 20 years; and Catrina Jenkins, Emergency Management, 25 years.   During the meeting, the board:  * Approved tax exemptions filed as requests for redemption of waiver.  * Approved the reissuance of stale dated checks.  * Approved updating constable salaries for January 2027. Salaries are Holbrook Precinct 1, $27,000; Winslow Precinct 2 $36,000; Snowflake Precinct 3, $50,000; Kayenta Precinct 4, $15,000; Show Low Precinct 5, $55,000; and Pinetop Precinct 6, $55,000.  * Approved to conduct an election for Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District, for a bond on the Nov. 3 election.  * Approved an amendment for the Vehicle Repeaters and Components contract with JC Cullen Inc. dba Niles Radio Communications to extend the contract for one year to July 14, 2027.  * Approved a professional services agreement with Stanley Consultants, Inc. for right-of-way services for the Shumway Road at Silver Creek Bridge Replacement Project in the amount of $72,098.  * Approved legal services for dependency cases for Public Defenders Office contract amendment to extend the contract with Belt Law Firm for one additional year to Aug. 11, 2027.  * Approved an amendment to the contract for on-call surveying services with Painted Sky Engineering & Survey, LLC. to extend for one additional year to July 30, 2027.  * Approved a contract for janitorial services for the Navajo County Holbrook Complex with WCD Enterprises, LLC.  * Approved a contract for janitorial services for the Navajo County Complex located at 1121 W. Pinedale Road in Taylor, with WCD Enterprises, LLC.  * Approved a letter of support for the Little Colorado Medical Center’s (LCMC) proposal for a residency program. Supervisor Alberto Peshlakai abstained from voting due to his new position on the LCMC Board of Directors.  * Approved a grant award from the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, pass-through entity for the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Sheriff’s Office was awarded $75,165 for the salary and fringe benefits of the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Program Coordinator. This grant requires a match of $18,791 which will be funded from opioid settlement monies.   * Approved the Robert Santos contract amendment for Law Enforcement Services for Navajo County Sheriff’s Office. Robert Santos is an independent contractor assigned to the Northern Arizona Regional Training Academy (NARTA) as a Recruit Training Officer.  * Approved vehicle donations request by the Northeastern Arizona Training Center. Two retired law enforcement vehicles from the Sheriff’s Office will be donated to the NARTA. Due to their age, mileage, condition and anticipated repair costs, the vehicles have minimal market value and were not suitable for continued fleet service.  * Approved naming two existing unnamed roads in the Clay Springs area to “Ironstone Road” (East to West) and “Red Tail Way” (North to South) in Section 15, Township 11 North – Range 19 East in District IV.  * Approved a sympathy letter to Joel Ruechel.  * Approved the award of the contract for Starlight Pavement Reconstruction – Phase 2 to Jud Co, LLC, for just over $1.3 million. Funds were budgeted in FY 2027 under the Capital Improvement Projects. The work consists of removing existing pavement and subgrade, installing new geogrid, aggregate base course, three inches of asphalt concrete pavement and other related work. The board also received a presentation on the Starlight Ridge Estates Unit III development.  * Approved an IGA between Navajo County and Whippoorwill Chapter. Whippoorwill Chapter is responsible for supportive maintenance on public roads within the Whippoorwill Chapter service area supporting school bus routes, emergency medical access and daily transportation for residents of the Chapter. To ensure continued service, funding is needed for repairs on their backhoe, which is needed for backfilling, assisting with culvert replacements and other routine maintenance. With the support from Navajo County, Whippoorwill Chapter will be able to sustain their road grading efforts and continue collaborative service alongside BIA and NDOT — ultimately benefiting the health, safety, and mobility of the community members.  * Held a truth in taxation public hearing then approved the 2027 property tax levy with no change to property tax rates. Although the property tax rates did not increase, the amount of property tax paid will increase slightly due to increases in assessed valuations. These increases are $209,000 due to new construction and an additional $200,000 due to valuation increases. The rate is 0.8114. A public hearing was held, during which no one spoke.  Convening as the Navajo County Public Health Services District, the board:  * Approved the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) amendment between the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Navajo County Public Health Services District for the COVID-19 expansion IGA. The amendment reallocates existing grant funds from the additional project costs budget category to the indirect costs, supplies and professional and outside services categories.   * Approved an IGA amendment between the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Navajo County Public Health Services District for the Public Health Infrastructure Grant IGA. The amendment includes minimal changes, with no changes to the scope of work or budget.  * Approved the Child Care Health Consultation contract with First Things First for FY 2027 annual contract renewal.  * Approved an amendment to IGA Arizona’s Prescription Drug Overdose Prevention Program between the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Navajo County Public Health Services District. The amendment includes minor revisions to the scope of work, primarily removing references to partnering entities and making minor adjustments to budget line-item allocations. No significant changes to the overall grant funding, program objectives, service delivery, or anticipated community impact.  Convening as the Board of Directors, the board:  * Approved adoptions of final FY 2026-27 budgets for: Navajo County Public Health Services District, Navajo County Library District, Navajo County Flood Control District including LCR Flood Control Zone, White Mountain Lakes County Recreation Improvement District, Silver Creek County Road Improvement District, Victory Heights Road Maintenance District, Porter Mountain Domestic Water Improvement District, Fawnbrook Domestic Water Improvement District, Joseph City Street Lighting Improvement District, Navajo County Jail District, Timberland Acres Special Road District, White Mountain Lakes No. 2 Special Road District and Silver Creek Flood Protection District. The post Board of Supervisors finalize 2026-27 budget first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449356c2ca79de23628765 Supervisor Whiting proposes nuclear development in Navajo County to bring jobs te 2026-07-01T04:11:02.281Z Supervisor Whiting proposes nuclear development in Navajo County to bring jobs Determined to bring new jobs and economic development to the region, Supervisor Jason Whiting told state energy regulators last Thursday that Arizona’s next nuclear power plant should be built in Navajo County. “As Arizona plans for future energy demands, nuclear energy should be at the top of the list,” Whiting said. “Nuclear power offers unparalleled benefits, including 24/7 baseload power that ensures unmatched reliability and affordability.”  Whiting argued that Navajo County is the ideal location for a new nuclear power plant, whether it is a small modular reactor (SMR)—a newer, scalable nuclear technology—or a traditional large plant like the Palo Verde Generating Station west of Phoenix, which employs over 2,500 full-time employees. He specifically encouraged commissioners to consider the former Cholla Power Plant near Joseph City, noting that the site’s existing transmission infrastructure and experienced local workforce make it a compelling option for redevelopment.  “My constituents are tired of large-scale solar farms that don’t bring jobs and mar the landscape,” Whiting testified. “They want to see reliable energy projects that create jobs and economic activity for our schools and small businesses. Nuclear power can help deliver that future, and Navajo County is ready to play a leading role.”  The workshop and Whiting’s testimony follow recent announcements by Arizona Public Service, Tucson Electric Power, and Salt River Project that they are evaluating options for new nuclear generation, including possible early site studies at retiring coal plant locations such as Cholla. The utilities have emphasized that any new nuclear project would take several years to develop and construct. The post Supervisor Whiting proposes nuclear development in Navajo County to bring jobs first appeared on Painted Desert Tribune. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a449341c2ca79de2362873b Feds dismantle alleged gun trafficking ring that funneled dozens of firearms from Georgia to Chicago gangs te 2026-07-01T04:10:41.285Z Feds dismantle alleged gun trafficking ring that funneled dozens of firearms from Georgia to Chicago gangs Federal authorities have dismantled an alleged firearms trafficking ring that prosecutors say funneled dozens of guns from Georgia to Chicago street gangs, with some of the weapons later linked to a juvenile murder and other violent crimes. Five people were charged in a 23-count federal indictment unsealed this month in the Middle District of Georgia following a Homeland Security Task Force investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Prosecutors said Anthony Edmond and Rafael Enriquez face the most serious charges, including conspiracy involving firearms trafficking, machineguns and drug trafficking. Both face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted, while three additional defendants also face federal firearms conspiracy charges. According to court documents, Edmond is allegedly a member of the Chicago-based Black Disciples gang and an associate of another Chicago street gang known as the Conservative Vice Lords. MORE ILLEGAL MIGRANTS BUSTED RUNNING MASSIVE GUN-RUNNING OPERATIONS According to prosecutors, Edmond was directed by co-conspirators to make straw purchases of firearms from Georgia gun stores that were later transported and distributed to gang members in the Chicago area. Prosecutors allege Edmond purchased dozens of firearms from Georgia gun stores between 2020 and 2021, including at least 22 firearms over a 10-month period. Some of those firearms were allegedly converted into fully automatic weapons and later used in multiple violent crimes, according to the indictment. MD, BALTIMORE MAYOR TARGET GLOCK FOR SELLING PISTOLS THAT CAN BE CONVERTED INTO MACHINE GUNS Prosecutors also allege Edmond purchased ammunition, extended magazines and drum magazines, and test-fired firearms before transferring them. Edmond is also accused of making multiple trips from Georgia to Illinois to deliver the firearms to gang members in Chicago. Authorities said police recovered 20 firearms allegedly purchased by Edmond in three states between 2021 and 2026. According to prosecutors, the Chicago Police Department recovered a Glock pistol in 2021 from the bedroom of a known juvenile gang member. Forensic testing later linked the firearm to three separate violent crimes. Prosecutors allege the pistol was used in a 2021 Chicago murder and later in the shooting of a rival gang member. Investigators said Edmond purchased the firearm in Georgia just 36 days before it was allegedly used in the homicide. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a448c38c2ca79de236285d8 Foul odor at NYC school leads police to body hidden in chimney te 2026-07-01T03:40:40.787Z Foul odor at NYC school leads police to body hidden in chimney Human remains were found in the chimney of a public school in Queens, New York, on Tuesday morning while officials were investigating a foul odor, according to police. The remains were discovered at P.S./I.S. 113 Anthony J. Pranzo shortly before 9 a.m. Police were called to the elementary and middle school, and authorities are now working to identify the deceased individual. The city’s medical examiner removed  the remains and will determine the cause of death. MYSTERY OF REMAINS FOUND INSIDE SLEEPING BAG IN OLYMPIC PARK SOLVED AFTER 26 YEARS It is unclear how long the remains had been there or how they ended up in the chimney. No students or staff were in the building when the remains were uncovered, as school ended for the summer on Friday and the school was closed for construction, police said. Contractors had been working on the building over the last few days, and police are now trying to confirm whether all the workers have been accounted for, according to the New York Daily News. Permits were obtained for wiring, hot water heating and other work, City Buildings Department records show. REMAINS FOUND IN UTAH DESERT 28 YEARS AGO WITH HELP OF PSYCHIC FINALLY IDENTIFIED THROUGH DNA GENEALOGY The City Department of Education described the discovery of the corpse as "deeply upsetting and concerning." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a448774c2ca79de236283fc The “Father of the Internet” is finally retiring te 2026-07-01T03:20:20.128Z The “Father of the Internet” is finally retiring Vinton Cerf, one of the creators of the protocols underlying the internet, will step down as Google's chief internet evangelist next week. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4482d9c2ca79de2362833e Boy, 2, pulled alive from rubble six days after Venezuela's devastating twin earthquakes te 2026-07-01T03:00:41.438Z Boy, 2, pulled alive from rubble six days after Venezuela's devastating twin earthquakes Emergency workers in Venezuela on Tuesday rescued a 2-year-old boy who had been trapped beneath the rubble for six days, marking the only reported rescue of a survivor on the sixth day of operations following last week's devastating earthquakes. Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez said in a Telegram post that Jordanian emergency workers pulled the child from a collapsed building in La Guaira, where the worst destruction from last week's earthquakes occurred. The child, identified by authorities as Klieber Moran, was rescued after spending six days trapped beneath the rubble, Rodríguez said. Moran was taken to a hospital for treatment, she added. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION PLEDGES $150M IN AID, DEPLOYS NAVY WARSHIPS AFTER DEADLY VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez said in a televised address Tuesday that officials remain hopeful more survivors will be found. "We ⁠must hold onto the hope of continuing to find people alive beneath the rubble," Jorge said. "Early this morning, a 2-year-old boy was rescued and is currently ​receiving care at ​a health ⁠center in Caracas." Rescue efforts have continued since magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck Venezuela's northern coast last Wednesday. DEATH TOLL FROM VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES RISES TO AT LEAST 235, WITH THOUSANDS REPORTED MISSING The death toll from the twin earthquakes rose to 1,943 on Tuesday, with more than 10,500 people injured, according to Venezuelan officials. On Monday, the death toll stood at 1,719. Tuesday's rescue marked another glimmer of hope amid the disaster that has devastated the South American country. On Saturday, the U.S. State Department shared video showing American search-and-rescue teams pulling an infant alive from beneath the rubble in Venezuela. EX-MLB PLAYER SAYS WIFE DIED IN DEVASTATING VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES The infant, who is 9 months old, was rescued along with her mother, the State Department told Fox News Digital. Both suffered only minor injuries, according to the rescue team. "Against impossible odds, hope endures," the State Department posted on X. On Tuesday, a shipment from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) containing 47 metric tons of humanitarian supplies arrived in Venezuela. FORMER METS PITCHER NARROWLY ESCAPES DEATH IN VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES THANKS TO ELEVATOR MALFUNCTION The shipment includes emergency health kits for urgent medical care, including supplies for safe births, newborn care, disease prevention and treatment, according to the United Nations. Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams from Virginia, California and Florida were dispatched to Venezuela on Friday to help search collapsed buildings. According to the State Department, the three USAR teams include 312 personnel and 18 canine teams, made up of firefighters, physicians, structural engineers and canine search specialists, and deployed with more than 200,000 pounds of specialized rescue equipment. Reuters contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a448080c2ca79de236282b8 Willson Contreras at the center of benches-clearing scuffle, throws helmet at Nationals pitcher te 2026-07-01T02:50:40.316Z Willson Contreras at the center of benches-clearing scuffle, throws helmet at Nationals pitcher Absolute bedlam broke loose at Fenway Park Tuesday night. The Red Sox and Nationals turned a regular June game into the biggest baseball brawl of the season after Boston hothead Willson Contreras completely lost it. Commissioner Rob Manfred can't hop on the phone fast enough. BENCHES CLEAR AS DODGERS-PADRES RIVALRY BOILS OVER IN HEATED SHOWDOWN AFTER FERNANDO TATIS JR GETS DRILLED It all started in the fourth inning when Nationals right-hander Cade Cavalli punched out a visibly frustrated Contreras and barked at him to "sit down." Contreras immediately erupted. He charged the mound, and the dugouts and bullpens emptied as the infield turned into a full-blown brawl. Contreras eventually broke free from the sea of players trying to hold him back, reigniting the chaos. WATCH: Things hit a boiling point when Contreras leaped into the air and hurled his batting helmet directly at Cavalli. The umpires issued a flurry of ejections. Contreras was tossed immediately, while Red Sox outfielder Nate Eaton, interim manager Chad Tracy and Washington pitcher Miles Mikolas were all sent to the showers early. Tuesday night's explosion from Contreras had actually been 24 hours in the making. On Monday night, Contreras was ejected in the second inning after a check-swing strikeout prompted him to give a sarcastic ABS challenge gesture at the umpire, earning an instant boot. Earlier that day, Contreras had broken down in tears while talking about the deadly earthquakes that devastated his native Venezuela. RED SOX STAR WEEPS FOR EARTHQUAKE-HIT VENEZUELA AFTER HOME RUN, GETS TOSSED BY UMPIRE MINUTES LATER By getting ejected on consecutive nights, the 34-year-old capped one of the wildest 48-hour stretches of his career. But MLB isn't exactly in the empathy business. When you turn your batting helmet into a weapon, the suspension hammer is coming regardless. Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447e2ac2ca79de2362823c DOJ says 11 migrants indicted in multi-state sex trafficking, drug, firearms case te 2026-07-01T02:40:42.544Z DOJ says 11 migrants indicted in multi-state sex trafficking, drug, firearms case Federal prosecutors have charged 11 Venezuelan and Colombian nationals — 10 of whom the Justice Department says are currently unlawfully present in the United States — in a sweeping, multi-state criminal case alleging the defendants trafficked a minor and an adult woman for sex while also dealing drugs and illegally trafficking firearms, the Justice Department announced Tuesday. Ten of the defendants were arrested Tuesday during coordinated law enforcement operations in Ohio, Tennessee, North Carolina and Florida, while one remains at large. Prosecutors said 10 of the 11 defendants are currently in the United States illegally. A 30-count federal indictment, returned June 11 and unsealed Tuesday, alleges four defendants conspired between July and August 2025 to sex traffic a minor and an adult woman. The Justice Department’s announcement appears to contain conflicting references to the minor’s age, describing the alleged victim as 17 in one section and 14 in a quote from the U.S. attorney. DHS HAS ONLY 7 CHILD EXPLOITATION ANALYSTS, HAWLEY MEASURE WOULD FUND 200 INVESTIGATORS According to the Justice Department, the defendants traveled across state lines to promote prostitution and created online commercial sex advertisements in the central Ohio area. Beyond the alleged sex trafficking scheme, prosecutors say members of the group also sold ecstasy and trafficked firearms, including at least nine guns. Some defendants are additionally accused of illegally possessing firearms while in the country. "These defendants — ten of whom are currently illegally present in this country — allegedly engaged in a panoply of illicit trafficking activity, from drugs to firearms to human beings," U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II said. "We have no tolerance for anybody who commits such crimes in our communities, and we will prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law." KASH PATEL TOUTS FBI 'FULL-THROTTLE MISSION' AFTER OPERATION SPRING CLEANING YIELDS 615 INDICTMENTS/COMPLAINTS The charges stem from an investigation led by a Homeland Security Task Force. "We will continue to work hard to keep Ohio safe and get narcotics, firearms, and violent criminals off the streets," FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Jason Cromartie said. Acting Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey said the indictment demonstrates the task force's commitment to protecting communities from transnational criminal organizations accused of exploiting vulnerable victims while trafficking drugs and firearms. BIDEN JUDGE OVERRULED ON KEY TRUMP IMMIGRATION POLICY Among those charged are six defendants living in Ohio. They include Venezuelan nationals Jean Pierre Alejandro Guillen Salcedo, 30, and Taidin Adreina Ferrer Guillen, 34, both of Hilliard; Venezuelan nationals Pedro Angel Colls-Flores, 34, and Alismar Daniela Contreras-Arevalo, 20, both of Columbus; and Colombian nationals Briyi Daniela Ordonez-Iter, 21, of Hilliard, and Julian David Patino Pena, 33, of Columbus. Two additional defendants are Venezuelan nationals living in Tennessee: John Alexandre Fajardo-Ulzcategui, 27, and Jose Ruben Sanchez-Pena, 34, both of Smyrna. The remaining defendants are Venezuelan national Keivar Elian Guillen Salcedo, 26, of Charlotte, North Carolina; Venezuelan national Therry Brayant Leon Gavida, 34, of Jacksonville, Florida; and Venezuelan national Dervin Alejandro Colmenares Quintero, 29, whose residence is listed as Mexico. The Justice Department said the case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative established under President Donald Trump's Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The initiative is intended to target transnational criminal organizations, foreign gangs, human trafficking networks and violent criminal aliens operating in the United States. An indictment contains allegations only. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Justice Department seeking clarification about an apparent discrepancy in its announcement regarding the age of one of the alleged trafficking victims and will update this story if a response is received. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447bd1c2ca79de236281be Anti-Trump senator defeated by far-left rival after heated gubernatorial primary te 2026-07-01T02:30:41.977Z Anti-Trump senator defeated by far-left rival after heated gubernatorial primary Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser defeated Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., in Colorado’s Democratic primary for governor Tuesday, blocking Bennet’s attempted move from the Senate to the governor's residence and putting Weiser in position as the favorite to replace term-limited Democratic Gov. Jared Polis. Weiser’s win over Bennet, a three-term senator and former 2020 presidential candidate, marked a major upset in one of the most closely watched Democratic primaries of the year. The winner of the Democratic nomination is favored in November in a state where Democrats have dominated recent statewide elections. The result also means Bennet is expected to remain in the Senate, avoiding what would have been a major vacancy fight had he won the governorship in November. COLORADO DEPUTY COULD FACE MASSIVE FINE FOR SHARING INFORMATION WITH IMMIGRATION AUTHORITIES "Phil has dedicated his life to the law, justice, and public service," says Weiser's campaign website. "As your Governor he will continue to advance the rule of law, protect our democracy, and promote justice for all. Phil Weiser will continue to defend and protect every Coloradan across the state." The primary battle pitted two high-profile Colorado Democrats against each other — Bennet, a three-term senator and former 2020 presidential candidate, and Weiser, the state’s two-term attorney general. Polis, a Democrat, is barred by term limits from seeking another term after eight years in office. MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES Bennet entered the primary with support from much of Colorado’s Democratic establishment, with his campaign listing endorsements from more than 200 Colorado leaders, including Sen. John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Reps. Joe Neguse, D-Colo., Jason Crow, D-Colo., and Brittany Pettersen, D-Colo., along with state legislative leaders and labor groups. Weiser’s campaign, meanwhile, touted support from former Colorado Gov. Roy Romer, former Rep. Ed Perlmutter, former Denver Mayor Federico Peña, former Sen. Tim Wirth and a long list of local officials, state lawmakers and progressive organizations. Bennet argued during the race that he could be more effective fighting Trump and advancing policy as governor, while Weiser leaned on his experience as Colorado’s attorney general and his legal background as he made the case for his own campaign. Barb Kirkmeyer was leading the Republican primary for governor Tuesday evening as the Dem primary was called.  Whether Kirkmeyer or one of her trailing opponents, Victor Marx or Scott Bottoms, the GOP nominee faces an uphill battle against Weiser in November. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44798bc2ca79de23628149 Ex-talk show host will take on former chief advisor to Kamala Harris’ husband te 2026-07-01T02:20:59.725Z Ex-talk show host will take on former chief advisor to Kamala Harris’ husband Jessica Killin won the Democratic primary in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District on Tuesday, setting up a November match-up against incumbent Rep. Jeff Crank, R-Colo., for the Colorado Springs-based seat. Killin, a former Army captain and former chief of staff to second gentleman Doug Emhoff, defeated fellow Army veteran and nonprofit leader Joe Reagan, according to the Associated Press. The result means she will take on Crank, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary and is seeking a second term representing the district, which is centered on Colorado Springs and most of El Paso County, including several military-heavy communities. Killin entered the race as a first-time candidate with national support and strong fundraising, while Reagan, who ran for the seat in 2024, leaned on his local roots, combat service and nonprofit work helping veterans open businesses. PROGRESSIVE MOMENTUM HITS SPEED BUMP AS VETERAN DEMOCRAT FENDS OFF CHALLENGER IN COLORADO MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES The general election will test whether Democrats can make gains in a Republican-leaning district that includes Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy, along with fast-growing Colorado Springs suburbs. The race drew national attention from Democrats because the Colorado Springs-based district, long a Republican stronghold, has shown signs of becoming more competitive. The Colorado Sun reported that Trump’s margin in El Paso County, which largely overlaps with the 5th District, fell from 22 points in 2016 to 10 points in 2024, while Republican margins in the House race have also narrowed over the past decade. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) added Killin to its Red to Blue program, signaling national Democrats viewed the Republican-held seat as a potential pickup opportunity, even though the district remains GOP-leaning. The district's current incumbent, Crank, is a former Capitol Hill staffer of seven years, who subsequently moved back home to Colorado where he served as Vice President for the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, Chief Operating Officer at nonprofit Americans for Prosperity and president of his own real estate investment company, according to his campaign website. Crank's background in broadcasting includes hosting both The Jeff Crank Show in Colorado and the American Potential Podcast. Killin aligned herself with a centrist Democratic push shortly before the primary, signing onto an initiative that described its signatories as "capitalist, not socialist" and emphasized public safety, fiscal responsibility, secure borders and national pride. Meanwhile, Killin said during an online news conference that candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America "should not be the face of our party," according to local news outlet Colorado Politics. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447964c2ca79de2362810d Trump drops restrictions on Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable models te 2026-07-01T02:20:20.308Z Trump drops restrictions on Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable models Anthropic said it would begin restoring access to the Fable on July 1. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44775ac2ca79de236280cd Mamdani comparisons follow Colorado Democrat into pivotal House race after primary win te 2026-07-01T02:11:38.748Z Mamdani comparisons follow Colorado Democrat into pivotal House race after primary win Manny Rutinel, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, won a primary race on Tuesday evening, securing his party’s bid to challenge incumbent Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo. Rutinel, a member of the state’s House of Representatives, faces one of the country’s most competitive races that could help decide the balance of power in Washington, D.C., where Republicans hold a governing trifecta across the House, Senate and Oval Office. Democrats see seats like this district as a prime opportunity to pry away the GOP’s narrow grip on the House, where they have a slim majority. Evans, the current seat holder, won the election in 2024 by just 0.8%. REPUBLICAN GABE EVANS WINS COLORADO'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, BEATING INCUMBENT YADIRA CARAVEO Rutinel, a former state legislator, has pitched himself as a Democrat ready to protect government programs against GOP cuts and protect minorities against government overreach. On his website, he lists protecting Social Security and Medicaid, expanding tax credits, ending Trump’s immigration crackdown, and lowering housing costs among his top priorities. "I was raised on Medicaid. It's deeply personal for me and now Donald Trump and Gabe Evans are trying to destroy it to give tax breaks to their billionaire buddies," Rutinel said in a campaign video posted to Instagram. "I’m afraid of Donald Trump continuing to destroy our democracy and our economy and making life impossible for working people and Latino immigrants across the country." REPUBLICANS TARGET 2 KEY DEMOCRATIC RACES WITH MAMDANI CONNECTION STRATEGY Because his platform includes elements like expanding taxes on the rich and universal healthcare, Republicans have made efforts to paint Rutinel as in the same vein as New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. "Those policies may sell in New York, but Coloradans aren’t buying it," a spokesperson for Gabe Evans told Fox News Digital when asked about the similarities back in November. Moreover, the Congressional Leadership Fund, an arm of the House Republican fundraising apparatus, highlighted a video posted to Instagram of a Mamdani campaign rally, offering it as proof that Rutinel belongs in the same bucket as Mamdani. The video briefly shows someone who appears to be Rutinel standing behind Mamdani. SCOOP: HOUSE REPUBLICANS LINK MAYOR-ELECT MAMDANI TO VULNERABLE CONGRESSIONAL DEMOCRATS "What does the CO-08 race have in common with the NYC Mayoral Race? Democrat Manny Rutinel is campaigning in both," CLF pointed out in one of its ads. Having secured his party’s nomination, Rutinel will face off against Evans in the general election on Nov. 3. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447747c2ca79de236280c4 State Department congratulates Keiko Fujimori as Peru's president-elect following razor-thin vote count te 2026-07-01T02:11:19.292Z State Department congratulates Keiko Fujimori as Peru's president-elect following razor-thin vote count The State Department on Tuesday congratulated conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori after she was declared the winner of Peru’s presidential runoff election by a razor-thin margin. The statement marked a significant milestone in Latin American relations, with Washington signaling it expects to work closely with Fujimori’s administration on shared priorities. "The United States congratulates President-Elect Keiko Fujimori of Peru on her important electoral victory," the department said.  "The Trump Administration looks forward to deepening collaboration with the Fujimori Administration to advance security cooperation and to strengthen bilateral cooperation on investment and trade in our region." TRUMP ADMIN WARNS PERU IT COULD LOSE SOVEREIGNTY AS CHINA TIGHTENS GRIP ON NATION Her victory comes as Washington seeks to strengthen ties with pro-market allies in Latin America amid growing Chinese economic influence in the region. Beijing recently completed the Chancay deepwater port in Peru — a $1.3 billion mega-project that serves as China’s key logistics hub on the Pacific coast. Fujimori’s tough stance on organized crime also aligns with U.S. efforts to expand regional security and anti-trafficking cooperation. BIDEN, XI TO MEET ON SATURDAY IN PERU, US OFFICIALS SAY Fujimori was declared the winner Monday by Peru’s National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE), the electoral authority responsible for reporting vote count results. The country’s final authority on election matters, the National Jury of Elections (JNE), has yet to issue its official proclamation, according to Reuters. According to the ONPE, Fujimori secured 50.1% of the vote, winning by fewer than 50,000 votes out of roughly 18 million ballots cast. Her victory over leftist challenger Roberto Sánchez marks her fourth presidential bid and makes her Peru’s first female president-elect.  The result caps a deeply divisive election cycle in a country that has gone through nine presidents in the past decade. Fujimori is also the daughter of former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who ruled the country during the 1990s. TRUMP VICTORY BOOSTS CONSERVATIVES IN LATIN AMERICA, WAKE-UP CALL TO DICTATORS: 'THERE WILL BE CONSEQUENCES' Fujimori’s presidency marks a return of her family’s political brand to Peru’s highest office — a movement that has long carried a complicated relationship with the United States. While Washington once backed her father for his fight against communist guerrillas and economic reforms in the 1990s, the U.S. later condemned his government over the dismantling of democratic institutions and allegations of human rights abuses. Keiko Fujimori has since spent more than two decades attempting to reshape "Fujimorismo" into a modern conservative, law-and-order political movement.   Peruvians voted in favor of Fujimori amid a surge in violent crime, extortion and years of political instability. Fujimori campaigned on an "iron fist" approach to security and a pledge to protect Peru’s free-market economy, while her opponent focused on rural economic grievances.  Reuters contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447720c2ca79de236280a5 Colorado’s Attorney General Upsets Bennet in Primary for Governor te 2026-07-01T02:10:40.379Z Colorado’s Attorney General Upsets Bennet in Primary for Governor Phil Weiser beat Senator Michael Bennet in the Democratic primary, presenting himself as the stronger foil for President Trump. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44770cc2ca79de23628080 Wayve launches $85M employee tender offer at $8.5B valuation te 2026-07-01T02:10:20.419Z Wayve launches $85M employee tender offer at $8.5B valuation Wayve’s offering is part of a growing trend of AI startups using employee tenders as a strategic tool to attract and retain talent. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4474cbc2ca79de23628034 State Department announces 'total compliance' from Venezuelan government in relief efforts after Maduro arrest te 2026-07-01T02:00:43.297Z State Department announces 'total compliance' from Venezuelan government in relief efforts after Maduro arrest The Trump administration says it has complete support from the Venezuelan government amid humanitarian efforts just months after the removal of former dictator Nicolás Maduro, which sparked rage among the president's opponents. After magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck the northern part of the South American nation last week, the American government stepped in to help in a move that the administration says has been welcomed by the Venezuelan government and citizenry alike. "We have seen total compliance from the interim authorities in Venezuela as a result of the unprecedented response by the United States to these deadly earthquakes," a State Department official told Fox News Digital Tuesday. US MILITARY TOUTS WORK TO ASSIST IN VENEZUELA FOLLOWING DEADLY EARTHQUAKES The death toll from the natural disaster stands at nearly 2,000 and continues to rise. "Every request we have made has been immediately granted and in turn, we have seen an incredible outpouring of support from the Venezuelan people towards Americans on the ground," the official continued. TRUMP 'SERIOUSLY CONSIDERING' PLAN TO MAKE VENEZUELA AND ITS $40 TRILLION IN OIL PERMANENT PART OF USA On Jan. 3, U.S. special forces successfully took Maduro into custody after a daring nighttime mission that overwhelmed the dictator's armed guards. After penetrating Maduro's palace, they took him into custody. He was relocated to the United States where he remains in jail awaiting trial on narco-terrorism and gun charges. The progressive political left rushed to the defense of the brutal socialist authoritarian in the wake of his capture. US CAPTURE OF MADURO THROWS SPOTLIGHT ON VENEZUELA’S MASSIVE OIL RESERVES Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., warned that the event risked violating international law, while Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., called the United States a "rogue state." "Trump’s illegal and unprovoked bombing of Venezuela and kidnapping of its president are grave violations of international law and the U.S. Constitution. These are the actions of a rogue state," Tlaib wrote on social media. "The American people do not want another regime change war abroad," she added. "Maduro's illegitimate election does not give the president the power to invade without congressional approval, nor does it create a national security justification. That contention is laughable," said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. The Trump administration has taken swift action to help the Venezuelan people amid the crisis, including mobilizing $150 million in humanitarian relief. It has assembled a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) composed of more than 250 people, including three specialized Urban Search-and-Rescue (USAR) teams. The administration says the teams have conducted critical life-saving measures. The U.S. military has assisted with logistics. Venezuela's Supreme Court installed Delcy Rodríguez as the country's interim president. Since then, diplomatic relations with the country have been restored, though officials in Washington have made it clear that such cooperation is temporary, while emphasizing the U.S. does not view her presidency as a permanent solution. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4472aac2ca79de23627f40 Kirk Herbstreit goes off with complaints about modern Major League Baseball, gets everything wrong te 2026-07-01T01:51:38.839Z Kirk Herbstreit goes off with complaints about modern Major League Baseball, gets everything wrong Major League Baseball, sometimes despite its best efforts, is in the best place that it's been in decades. Attendance has grown each year for the past several seasons, with some teams, like the White Sox, Blue Jays and Mariners seeing huge increases in 2026. Ratings are up, with the 2025 World Series being the most watched domestically since 2017 and Game 7 drawing a whopping 51 million viewers between the US, Canada and Japan. National television broadcasts have seen significant increases, pace-of-play is up, the new ABS challenge system has been mostly well-received and small market teams are outperforming big spending clubs through the first half of the season, undermining parity concerns. BREWERS HUMAN HOWITZER JACOB MISIOROWSKI BREAKS HIS OWN RECORD FOR HARDEST PITCH THROWN BY A STARTER Highlight reels are dominated by exceptional athletes doing exceptional things. Jacob Misiorowski hit 105 mph as a starting pitcher. Shohei Ohtani is dominating as a hitter and a pitcher, something virtually unprecedented over such a lengthy time frame. Kyle Schwarber is threatening home run records, even as pitching continues to improve. Mason Miller has been virtually unhittable. Young stars in small markets, like Jackson Chourio, Konnor Griffin, Bobby Witt Jr., Jackson Merrill, Kevin McGonigle, Colt Emerson and Samuel Basallo, are locked up for most of their primes, ensuring fans can go years without worrying over free agency. But if you ask football commentator Kirk Herbstreit, baseball is dying. Because there aren't enough athletes, apparently. In response to a complaint from former Yankees catcher Jorge Posada, Herbstreit posted a lengthy diatribe on X completely misunderstanding the modern game. "THANK YOU!!!!! Where did the athletic ability go?," he said. "Clutch hitting in the 8th and 9th inning? Starting pitching that goes 8 or 9 innings? Base stealing-hell just good base running and SPEED?!? Sac bunts-moving runners over late in a game? Where’s Tony Gwynn? Rod Carew? Wade Boggs? Ichiro? Those guys wouldn’t exist in today’s ridiculous HR or K 'launch angle' game! The game has been dying with the youth of America for YEARS and now is losing the core fanbase as well with this ridiculous product we’ve had to digest for the last 7-10 years. Bring back Small Ball and athleticism…this s*** dreadful!!!" There's just one problem; virtually all of this is wrong. Athleticism in baseball has never been higher, which is why you see pitchers like Misiorowski and Mason Miller sitting well over 100 mph. And why hitters are still able to be successful when facing an average fastball velocity that's steadily increased year-over-year. ROYALS PITCHER DRILLED IN HEAD WITH TERRIFYING 107 MPH LINER, AND THE BATTER WHO HIT IT PULLED A RARE MOVE As recently as 2008, average fastball velocity was just 90.4 mph. Today? It's roughly 95mph. That increase is because pitchers have become more athletic thanks to improvements in training, nutrition, and biomechanical development. It's harder to hit now than it's ever been, yet Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh and others have had historically successful offensive seasons. So that's wrong. Pitchers don't go eight or nine innings because, over time, after analyzing years of data, it became clear that as pitchers tire and face the same hitters more times, they become less effective. That's regardless of their pitch mix, velocities, or athletic ability. The "third time through the order penalty" is very real, and has always been real, as hitters adjust to what they see, and front offices and managers realized that their best chance of winning games was to bring in fresh relievers instead of letting exhausted pitchers continue to prove some sort of point. Despite catchers specifically trying to optimize "pop times," stolen bases are also up. In 2024, there were 3,617 stolen bases league-wide. The most in any year during the 1980s was 3,585. But, to be fair, slightly larger bases have helped. Teams, though, have again realized that stolen bases are only valuable if you don't get caught. Take 1986, for example. That season, there were 3,312 stolen bases and 1,620 runners caught stealing. That's an atrocious 67% success rate. In 2024, the success rate was 80%. Teams in the 1980s gave away outs at an astonishing rate. Herbstreit is also wrong about the 1980s stars, too. Those types of players are still enormously valuable because many of their skills are always valuable. Boggs' career on base percentage is .415. Gwynn had a .388 OBP and .459 career slugging percentage. That's an .847 OPS, over his entire career, which would put Gwynn ahead of Witt Jr., Pete Alonso, Cody Bellinger, Ketel Marte and Elly De La Cruz this season. Along with many other stars. Does Herbstreit think a player who hit .370/.447/.511 with 56 stolen bases, as Gwynn did in 1987, wouldn't have a job in 2026? Because they absolutely would. They'd probably win an MVP, in fact. The issue is that hitting now is harder than it's ever been because pitchers are better than they've ever been. And teams have realized that home runs are more valuable than other types of hits because they guarantee that runs score. Sacrificing some singles is worth it because home runs create more runs. In 1989, the time period Herbstreit lionizes, the league averaged 8.26 runs per game. Thus far in 2026, the league is averaging 9 runs per game. So scoring is up, athleticism is up, prior era stars would still be valuable today, small ball doesn't lead to more runs and baseball is not losing fans, but gaining them. Other than that, he nailed it. Ironically, the product that's actually tough to watch is the modern NFL, which Herbstreit broadcasts. Quarterbacks are protected to an absurd degree, to the point that late-hit penalties on Patrick Mahomes have become a running joke among fans. There's 10-11 minutes of in-game action over a 185-190 minute broadcast. Teams averaged 353 yards per game in 2015. In 2025? Just 326.6. Why doesn't the NFL lose fans? Gambling. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Herbstreit going full "old man yells at cloud" is one thing, but do it at the NFL. Nobody ever will, though, because that league is somehow above criticism despite its clear and obvious decline in excitement. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447297c2ca79de23627f37 Trump-backed incumbent survives right-wing primary challenge after endorsement drama in Colorado te 2026-07-01T01:51:19.382Z Trump-backed incumbent survives right-wing primary challenge after endorsement drama in Colorado Rep. Jeff Hurd, R-Colo., clinched the GOP nomination against a right-wing challenger Tuesday, as the freshman lawmaker seeks to hold a competitive House district Democrats are seeking to flip in November’s midterm elections.  Hurd defeated former state Rep. Ron Hanks, R-Colo., in the Republican primary for a sprawling House district covering nearly all of western and southern Colorado, according to The Associated Press. Hurd ran with President Donald Trump's endorsement after the president initially revoked his support, following Hurd joining Democrats in support of a largely symbolic measure terminating Trump’s Canada tariffs in February. TRUMP PULLS ENDORSEMENT FROM GOP LAWMAKER OVER ALLEGED LACK OF SUPPORT FOR ADMINISTRATION'S TARIFF AGENDA Trump later re-issued his endorsement in March and asked Navy veteran Hope Scheppelman, who was challenging Hurd from the right, to suspend her campaign and join his administration. Scheppelman, a former vice chair of the state's Republican Party and acute care nurse, now serves as a senior advisor on substance abuse in the Department of Health and Human Services. "I will be fully supporting Jeff’s Re-Election to the House of Representatives, giving him my Complete and Total Endorsement!" Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Every true MAGA supporter and Republican, if they truly care about saving our Country, will do everything in their power to unify together, and defeat the Crazed Radical Left Democrats this November."  Following Scheppelman's exit, Hanks entered the Republican primary to challenge Hurd. He previously ran against Hurd in the 2024 GOP primary, where the now-incumbent lawmaker won with just over 40% of the vote.  Hanks, an Air Force veteran, has alleged, without evidence, that former President Joe Biden was "fraudulently elected." He was also present during the Jan. 6 riots, though he said he did not enter the U.S. Capitol complex and was not criminally charged. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., previously represented the Republican-leaning district before moving across the state in 2024 to run for a more Republican-leaning seat in eastern Colorado.  GOP FIREBRAND LASHES OUT AT REPORTER OVER MASSIE ALLEGATION: ‘F--- YOU, FIRST OF ALL!’ Businessman Alex Kelloff and Army veteran Dwayne Romero are seeking the Democratic nomination. Democrats are hoping to unseat Hurd after he won Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District by just five points in 2024. The GOP-leaning district contains Democratic strongholds concentrated in several wealthy ski towns and Pueblo. Hanks cast Hurd as a "fake conservative" in an interview with The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel and insufficiently loyal to the president. Hurd has bucked Trump on tariff policy and a Russia sanctions package, but he has voted with the president on most high-profile pieces of legislation. He also joined Boebert in a failed vote to override Trump’s veto on a water pipeline project in Colorado’s Arkansas Valley. Hurd is a lawyer who previously served as chair of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. He is a vice chair of the Western Caucus and is a member of the House Natural Resources and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447283c2ca79de23627f2e Progressive momentum hits speed bump as veteran Democrat fends off challenger in Colorado te 2026-07-01T01:50:59.927Z Progressive momentum hits speed bump as veteran Democrat fends off challenger in Colorado A moderate Democrat mounting his last campaign staved off a progressive challenger in Colorado, marking a small speed bump in the rapid far-left evolution of the Democratic Party.  Sen. John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., a longtime fixture in Colorado politics, overcame a challenge from state Sen. Julie Gonzales, his progressive challenger, who has argued that Democrats need to be more aggressive in their pushback against President Donald Trump.  Hickenlooper, who is vying for a second term in the upper chamber, said this would be his final campaign for the Senate. Gonzales hoped to speed up his exit with a campaign that went after the lawmaker’s moderate position and votes in favor of some of Trump’s nominees.  DEMOCRATS TORN BETWEEN PROGRESSIVE FIRE AND CENTRIST CAUTION AS NOVEMBER ELECTIONS LOOM "John Hickenlooper has been in office for over 20 years," Gonzales said in her campaign launch ad. "I know that we’re not fooled by his so-called ‘commonsense approach,’ cause there is no sense in voting for Donald Trump’s nominees." Still, Gonzales’ defeat Tuesday night was a stumble for the progressive wave that has swept the Democratic Party during this midterm election cycle, which has seen new blood hungry for change challenging the old guard and party leadership in Washington, D.C.  Hickenlooper, 74, who served two terms each as Denver’s mayor and Colorado’s governor before launching a failed bid for president, has been a stalwart fixture in the Centennial State, while Gonzales, 43, positioned herself as part of the new wave.  THE PLOT TO STOP MAMDANI: DEMOCRATS SCRAMBLE TO BLOCK FAR-LEFT TAKEOVER IN NEW YORK Their battle for the Democratic nomination came just a week after a trio of progressive candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani clinched their Democratic nominations. Notably, Mamdani-backed Darializa Avila Chevalier, a community organizer and socialist, toppled five-term incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y. And the battle between Hickenlooper and Gonzales was not the only intraparty fist fight between a moderate incumbent and progressive in Colorado.  'IT'S A MESS': GOP TURNS ON HOUSE CONSERVATIVES AS VOTER ID BLOCKADE STALLS TRUMP'S AGENDA Melat Kiros, a socialist, is squaring off against longtime Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st Congressional District. Kiros also sported the endorsement of one of Hickenlooper’s colleagues: Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. Meanwhile, Hickenlooper will now face state Sen. Mark Baisley in November. Baisley, who ran unopposed in the Colorado GOP primary, initially launched a campaign for governor in the race to replace term-limited Gov. Jared Polis but dropped out of the contest to run for the Senate.  Fox News Digital did not immediately receive comment from the Hickenlooper and Gonzales campaigns. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44725dc2ca79de23627f10 Manny Rutinel, a Progressive, Wins Colorado Primary for Competitive House Seat te 2026-07-01T01:50:21.021Z Manny Rutinel, a Progressive, Wins Colorado Primary for Competitive House Seat Manny Rutinel, a state representative and former activist, will face Representative Gabe Evans, a Republican seen as vulnerable, in the fall. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a447018c2ca79de23627ea1 Conservative firebrand cruises to primary win despite clash with Trump te 2026-07-01T01:40:40.121Z Conservative firebrand cruises to primary win despite clash with Trump Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., clinched her Republican primary after running unopposed to represent Colorado's 4th Congressional District on Tuesday evening, setting herself up to pursue a fourth term. Despite notable clashes with House GOP leadership and President Donald Trump, Boebert emerged from her primary largely unscathed, separating herself from the three other Republicans who voted with Democrats to advance the Epstein Files Transparency Act. If reelected in the state’s Nov. 3 general election, she will be the only one remaining next Congress among fellow GOP rebels Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky.; Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.; and Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C. Greene, a once-outspoken backer of the president, resigned her seat at the beginning of the year when the two split on foreign aid, government transparency and federal spending. THE REVOLT OF MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE, NOW DONALD TRUMP’S FIERCEST CRITIC Although he’s presently still in office, Massie lost a primary bid to a Trump-backed challenger earlier this year. And Mace, who ran for governor in the Palmetto State, fell woefully short of capturing the GOP nomination after Trump declined to endorse her. Despite outlasting her fellow GOP colleagues, Boebert hasn’t fully escaped Trump’s wrath. The president noted that Boebert had changed districts to run for a considerably safer seat and appeared ready to test the waters against her. TRUMP THREATENS TO PULL BOEBERT ENDORSEMENT, CALLS CONGRESSWOMAN ‘WEAK MINDED’ OVER MASSIE SUPPORT "Is anyone interested in running against weak-minded Lauren Boebert in Colorado’s fourth congressional district?" Trump said in a post to Truth Social in May. "You remember Lauren moved to the district when it became obvious that she couldn’t win in her original congressional district. Boebert is campaigning for the worst ‘Republican’ congressman in the history of our country, Thomas Massie. Even though I long ago endorsed Boebert, if the right person came along, it would be my honor to withdraw that endorsement and endorse a good and proper alternative." Boebert announced her decision to switch districts in December 2023, before her vote on the Epstein Files. Despite her disagreements with the White House, Boebert has said she remains an ally to Trump. "Below is my friend Thomas Massie," Boebert said in a post to X, posting a picture of Massie alongside Trump. "He loves America and is fighting to save it. Also below is my friend and President Donald Trump. He’s put his life on the line to save this great country. I support both of these men. I’ve worked with both to preserve freedom and liberty. And if that makes you angry, bless your heart," Boebert wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a446dbfc2ca79de23627e2f Conservative firebrand cruises to primary win despite clash with Trump te 2026-07-01T01:30:39.956Z Conservative firebrand cruises to primary win despite clash with Trump Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., clinched her Republican primary after running unopposed to represent Colorado's 4th Congressional District on Tuesday evening, setting herself up to pursue a fourth term. Despite notable clashes with House GOP leadership and President Donald Trump, Boebert emerged from her primary largely unscathed, separating herself from the three other Republicans who voted with Democrats to advance the Epstein Files Transparency Act. If reelected in the state’s Nov. 3 general election, she will be the only one remaining next Congress among fellow GOP rebels Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky.; Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.; and Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C. Greene, a once-outspoken backer of the president, resigned her seat at the beginning of the year when the two split on foreign aid, government transparency and federal spending. THE REVOLT OF MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE, NOW DONALD TRUMP’S FIERCEST CRITIC Although he’s presently still in office, Massie lost a primary bid to a Trump-backed challenger earlier this year. And Mace, who ran for governor in the Palmetto State, fell woefully short of capturing the GOP nomination after Trump declined to endorse her. Despite outlasting her fellow GOP colleagues, Boebert hasn’t fully escaped Trump’s wrath. The president noted that Boebert had changed districts to run for a considerably safer seat and appeared ready to test the waters against her. TRUMP THREATENS TO PULL BOEBERT ENDORSEMENT, CALLS CONGRESSWOMAN ‘WEAK MINDED’ OVER MASSIE SUPPORT "Is anyone interested in running against weak-minded Lauren Boebert in Colorado’s fourth congressional district?" Trump said in a post to Truth Social in May. "You remember Lauren moved to the district when it became obvious that she couldn’t win in her original congressional district. Boebert is campaigning for the worst ‘Republican’ congressman in the history of our country, Thomas Massie. Even though I long ago endorsed Boebert, if the right person came along, it would be my honor to withdraw that endorsement and endorse a good and proper alternative." Boebert announced her decision to switch districts in December 2023, before her vote on the Epstein Files. Despite her disagreements with the White House, Boebert has said she remains an ally to Trump. "Below is my friend Thomas Massie," Boebert said in a post to X, posting a picture of Massie alongside Trump. "He loves America and is fighting to save it. Also below is my friend and President Donald Trump. He’s put his life on the line to save this great country. I support both of these men. I’ve worked with both to preserve freedom and liberty. And if that makes you angry, bless your heart," Boebert wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a446939c2ca79de23627d35 Riley Gaines and MyKayla Skinner send message to Simone Biles on women's sports debate after SCOTUS ruling te 2026-07-01T01:11:21.294Z Riley Gaines and MyKayla Skinner send message to Simone Biles on women's sports debate after SCOTUS ruling Just over a year ago, Simone Biles came at Riley Gaines. In now-infamous X posts, Biles called out Gaines for speaking up about a transgender pitcher who won a Minnesota girls' softball championship, and mocked Gaines' body saying "bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male." It ignited the biggest pop culture flashpoint in the "Save Women's Sports" movement. Now just over a year later, Gaines has a close ally in Biles' former US Olympic gymnastics team teammate, MyKayla Skinner. Gaines and Skinner celebrated the Supreme Court's decision to uphold state laws that protect women's sports on Tuesday, and sent a message to Biles one year after the infamous social media feud. SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS "Just being able to try to find my voice and how I could use my voice after Simone had come out against Riley, it had really affected me," Skinner said. "I have a little daughter, and we are hoping to put her in sports soon, and I just really want her to have everything that I got to have, all the opportunities." Skinner, who won an Olympic silver medal in vault at the Tokyo Games, said her own athletic career shaped her view of the issue. "I’ve broken records, I’ve been an Olympian, I was a college athlete, and I want her to have the opportunities that I had," Skinner said of her daughter. "And so this, for me, was a way that I felt like this is the time for me to come up and stand for what I believe in, stand with Riley, and to join in on this fight." Skinner then turned her attention directly to Biles. "I think it would just be really cool to see Simone stand with us," Skinner said. "She’s one of the best athletes in the world." Skinner said she wants to see more elite female athletes join Gaines, XX-XY Athletics founder Jennifer Sey and others in the movement. "To be able to see her as my teammate, as an Olympian, as an amazing athlete that she is, to be able to stand with us and fight alongside Riley and everyone else on this road," Skinner said. "I would just love, love to see my teams, especially Simone, in step with us." Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer who became one of the most prominent advocates against transgender athletes in women’s sports after tying transgender swimmer Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA championships, previously called on Biles to stand with her on the issue in a March interview with Fox News Digital, months before Biles' social media attack. Gaines renewed her call to Biles, alongside Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, to stand on her side, after Tuesday's SCOTUS ruling. "Let this be a clarion call, not just to Simone, but to every, I think especially elite female athlete, professional female athlete, the likes of Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, Serena Williams, to link arms," Gaines said. Gaines added that the ruling made her feel "absolutely vindicated." "I feel, of course, excited, I feel optimistic about the future," Gaines said. "But I think the feeling that I feel the most of is vindicated. "Being a mom, I look at her and I think of the country and the world that I want her to inherit," Gaines said of her daughter. "It’s a more fair, more safe, more prosperous, more opportunistic world, country." "Let it be known that you also think young girls are worthy of calling themselves champions one day," Gaines added. Biles’ feud with Gaines began June 6, 2025, after Gaines drew attention to a biologically male transgender softball pitcher who helped a Minnesota girls’ team win a state championship. Biles called Gaines "truly sick," a "straight up sore loser" and a "bully," and later suggested Gaines was the "same size" as a male, according to Fox News Digital. Biles later deleted the posts and apologized. The feud also became a turning point for Skinner. Skinner had already endured her own public clash with Biles after she posted a video about the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team and made comments about the team’s "talent and depth." Biles responded at the time with the post, "Not everyone needs a mic and a platform," and Skinner later apologized while saying her remarks were misinterpreted. Skinner told Fox News Digital last year that the backlash included death threats and messages saying she "shouldn’t be a mom." Skinner later joined XX-XY Athletics as an ambassador in the brand’s "Gold Medal Campaign," aligning herself with Gaines, Sey, Olympic swimmer Nancy Hogshead and other prominent activists in the "Save Women’s Sports" space. 'SAVE WOMEN'S SPORTS' 2025 CULTURE WAR TIMELINE — THE YEAR THE TIDES TURNED When asked whether she believes Biles truly meant what she said to Gaines last year, Skinner did not hesitate. "100% yes," Skinner said. "I’ve known Simone since I was 13 years old, and we’ve had our moments. There’s times where she has belittled me as an athlete, as a person, bullied. And so this wasn’t a shock to me when she came out against Riley." Skinner said she believes Biles "stands firm" in her position, but hopes that can change. "Being at this level and being a mom, we look up to these amazing athletes," Skinner said. "I really think that she’s not on this side with us, and I really would love to see her come forward and maybe change her mind." Gaines agreed that Biles’ initial comments reflected her real views, while suggesting the apology that followed felt more like public-relations cleanup. "You could even notice the very obvious tone switch between the initial tweet or two and the very ChatGPT-coded apology," Gaines said. Gaines said she accepted Biles’ apology and would still be willing to "link arms" with the Olympic gymnastics legend. "That’s kind of like water off the duck’s back to me," Gaines said. But Gaines said she believes the backlash Biles faced after her posts may have revealed a cultural shift on the issue. "I think it took that for her to realize, ‘Oh dang, I think I was living in my own little bubble here,’" Gaines said. "Maybe the people I surrounded myself with think this, but majority of Americans don’t." The Supreme Court’s ruling does not force every state or school to adopt bans on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports. The court said the cases did not present the separate question of whether schools may allow biological males who identify as female to compete on girls’ and women’s teams. But for Gaines and Skinner, Tuesday’s decision marked a defining legal victory — and another chance to pressure some of the biggest names in women’s sports to pick a side. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a446925c2ca79de23627d24 Royal Family faces backlash from critics after Queen Camilla hosts J.K. Rowling te 2026-07-01T01:11:01.331Z Royal Family faces backlash from critics after Queen Camilla hosts J.K. Rowling Queen Camilla faced a backlash on Tuesday after she posted a photo of herself with "Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling. "With a shared passion for books and a deep commitment to children reading for pleasure, The Queen and author J.K. Rowling have met at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh," the caption on the royal family’s Instagram page said. "Her Majesty and Ms Rowling discussed the importance of ensuring that young people have access to books and the vital part reading plays in opening doors for future generations." One critic wrote in the comments: "As an admirer of the Queen and her Reading Room I’m deeply disappointed in her giving a platform to JKR, any month but especially during Pride Month. There are many other admirable individuals to spotlight who champion reading for children and young people." KATE MIDDLTON SCALES UK'S 3 HIGHEST PEAKS IN 24 HOURS WITH A DEEPLY PERSONAL MESSAGE FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Rowling has put herself at odds with the transgender community in the past for comments she made about trans women not being women. In 2023, she captioned a photo on social media that said "Repeat after us: Trans women are women" with "No" and said she would "happily do two years — [behind bars] if the alternative is compelled speech and forced denial of the reality and importance of sex." LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS This came after fans encouraged her to vote for the Labour Party, which was reportedly at the time considering making attacks on gender identity a criminal offense. In a 2020 essay, Rowling wrote: "So I want trans women to be safe. At the same time, I do not want to make natal girls and women less safe."  PRINCE WILLIAM REFUSES TO QUIT HOBBY THAT TERRIFIES KATE MIDDLETON: EXPERTS After explaining that she was a victim of sexual assault, she added, "When you throw open the doors of bathrooms and changing rooms to any man who believes or feels he’s a woman...then you open the door to any and all men who wish to come inside." Another person commented on Tuesday: "During pride month, is a statement" and a third wrote: "Trans rights are human rights!" "Not during gay pride month," another commenter wrote. "If tone deaf was a picture," someone else quipped, and another called it "deplorable." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Others posted trans pride flags in the comments and: "protest trans youth." Still, the billionaire author had plenty of support in the comments. "J.K. Rowling is just as entitled to her opinion as anyone else," someone said, and other fans called the photo: "Beautiful," "Two remarkable and inspiring women," and another said that Rowling deserved a DBE, the female version of a knighthood. "She encouraged a whole new generation of children to read again, and she is such a supporter of women’s rights," the person wrote. Rowling previously revealed to fans she turned that honor down because she didn't want a title. Another fan added, "Rowling has done so much good for the UK and world. Few could ever dream of having that impact." Rowling has also been criticized in the past by some of the actors from the "Harry Potter" movie franchise, including Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, although Watson said she still treasures the time she spent with Rowling. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4468fec2ca79de23627d07 Trump’s Moneymaking Run: Unrivaled in Presidential History te 2026-07-01T01:10:22.421Z Trump’s Moneymaking Run: Unrivaled in Presidential History The president’s move to open new business ventures, rather than eliminate potential conflicts, defies a long-held tradition. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4466d1c2ca79de23627caa Detroit City Council narrowly votes to renew ShotSpotter gunshot detection contract despite opposition te 2026-07-01T01:01:05.872Z Detroit City Council narrowly votes to renew ShotSpotter gunshot detection contract despite opposition The Detroit City Council on Tuesday narrowly voted to renew the city’s contract with SoundThinking for its ShotSpotter gunshot detection system. The decision will allow the California-based company to continue providing crime-fighting technology through the end of March 2027.  The system will deploy acoustic sensors mounted above city streets to detect gunfire-like sounds and automatically alert law enforcement when a suspected shot is fired. According to Michigan Advance, the measure passed by a 5–4 vote, with several councilmembers and critics citing high costs and privacy concerns during Tuesday’s hearing. NORTHEASTERN CITY VOTES TO END SHOTSPOTTER CONTRACT FOR GUNFIRE-DETECTION TECH DESIGNED TO FIGHT CRIME Council President James Tate, who has historically supported ShotSpotter in Detroit, reportedly opposed the renewal, arguing that the $2.1 million price tag was difficult to justify.  "I have a challenge with that dollar amount. It’s not about the technology," Tate said.  "When asked, would they renegotiate the contract, the answer was no, because we’ve been giving you a deal in the first place, so that leads me now to a situation where I cannot support this particular amendment." HOW SURVEILLANCE TECH LED POLICE TO ACCUSE THE WRONG PERSON Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero, who voted against the measure, said her opposition stemmed from a lack of data showing the technology’s effectiveness, Michigan Advance reported.  "Frankly, I still have not heard enough support from the public, have not seen data that shows that this is working for the cost and that it’s actually protecting our information," Santiago-Romero said.  Gabrielle Dresner, a policy strategist for the ACLU of Michigan who testified against the extension, said false alerts can lead to unnecessary police responses and reinforce perceptions that minority communities are inherently dangerous, according to the outlet. SCHOOLS TURN TO AI GUN DETECTION FOR SAFETY Critics also questioned whether acoustic microphones monitoring public spaces could amount to a form of surveillance, as well as who would have access to any audio data collected.  However, the ShotSpotter technology has reported successful cases. According to Assistant Chief Franklin Hayes, a ShotSpotter alert on Detroit’s west side led officers to a gunshot victim who was found alive in a case where no one had made a 911 call, Michigan Advance said.  The technology has drawn public controversy since Detroit first signed a contract covering certain police precincts in 2020, and again in late 2022. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4466aac2ca79de23627c98 Bear Breaks Into Truck, Helping Itself to Handyman’s Lunch te 2026-07-01T01:00:26.452Z Bear Breaks Into Truck, Helping Itself to Handyman’s Lunch A handyman was returning to his truck when he opened the door and found a cub eating his lunch from the passenger seat in Steamboat Springs, Colo. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a446477c2ca79de23627b67 BlackRock CEO Larry Fink 'worried' about NYC under Mamdani, floats investing elsewhere under weaker conditions te 2026-07-01T00:51:03.858Z BlackRock CEO Larry Fink 'worried' about NYC under Mamdani, floats investing elsewhere under weaker conditions ASPEN, COLORADO — BlackRock CEO Larry Fink expressed concern about the future of New York City under its Democratic Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani, suggesting he'd do business elsewhere under "weaker" conditions. "I'm worried about New York," Fink said Tuesday at the Aspen Institute's Ideas Festival. Fink, who told CNN host Fareed Zakaria that he hadn't spoken with Mamdani since he was only mayor-elect, cited what he called a "great statistic" showing that 47% of the taxes that go into New York City come from the top 1%. "So if we lose 5,000 1-percenters, that's gonna offset all the other stuff this administration is going to do. And the look of it, we're gonna lose the 5,000 or more," Fink warned. NYC MAYOR MAMDANI CALLS THREAT OF REACH PEOPLE LEAVING NYC OVER TAXES 'IMAGINED' The billionaire CEO panned the city's "13 years of weak administrations," naming Michael Bloomberg "the last best mayor" of the Big Apple, which he calls his "adopted home." "The quality of life that's showing up in so many different areas, and it's sad to watch," he lamented. "I always said I have never had a problem with paying my full load of taxes as a New Yorker. But it's now asymmetric. I do not believe the amount of taxes I'm paying I'm getting the appropriate services." MAMDANI'S WALL STREET COURTSHIP SPARKS CRITICISM OF ANTI-BILLIONAIRE AGENDA Fink pointed to the tax system in the Netherlands where the highest wagers pay 50% in taxes but get free medical care and education, telling the Aspen crowd, "I don't get that in New York, nobody does," and that "mismanagement is the issue." "And here's one thing I tell every Democrat and every Republican, I tell it every administration, it is not about taxes. We need to find a way to grow the economy," Fink said. "The greatest problem we have in this country is we have just ungodly deficits... Both parties are guilty. And fortunately, we have a global capital market. We have AI. We're the engine of growth that people want to invest in this country. But if there's ever a moment where that value proposition is not here, then we have severe issues." "Are you thinking at BlackRock of moving jobs out of New York or of growing new jobs in other places?" Zakaria asked. "We have globally about 25,000, 26,000 employees. We have about 8,000 in New York. So we have systematically grown," Fink responded. "If the environment gets weaker in New York City, like other businesses, we will think about not moving, but even in deploying more of our U.S. resources to a different location." Mamdani's office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a446464c2ca79de23627b5e Vance calls SCOTUS birthright citizenship ruling a 'major mistake,' warns of more birth tourism te 2026-07-01T00:50:44.410Z Vance calls SCOTUS birthright citizenship ruling a 'major mistake,' warns of more birth tourism Vice President JD Vance condemned the Supreme Court’s "atrocious" birthright citizenship ruling, warning it could encourage more people to exploit the nation’s immigration system during an interview with "The Ingraham Angle" on Tuesday. The Supreme Court ruled against President Donald Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship, finding that the Constitution guarantees automatic American citizenship for most people born in the United States. "This is a very disappointing ruling from the Supreme Court," Vance said. "Of course, we respect it, but we also think that it was a major, major mistake." "One of the things that might invite is people to come here quite literally on a vacation, give birth and then all of a sudden, the child and their family have the full benefits of American citizenship. It's just a preposterous ruling." THESE 11 UPCOMING SUPREME COURT DECISIONS COULD MAKE OR BREAK TRUMP'S SECOND TERM AGENDA The Supreme Court struck down Trump’s Executive Order 14160, holding that it conflicted with the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship. The ruling means most children born in the United States will continue to receive citizenship regardless of their parents’ immigration status, an idea the Trump administration opposes. SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS Vance identified a "silver lining" in the ruling, arguing the court’s narrow opinion suggests that birthright citizenship is on thin ice. "A lot of legal experts expected this case to go the wrong direction by 7–2, or even 8–1," Vance said. He added that the outcome of the case "effectively means that the concept of birthright citizenship, which is an absurdity to the 14th Amendment — that concept is hanging by a thread." Vance voiced his dissent toward birthright citizenship, which has been a constitutional right in the United States for more than 150 years, claiming it rewards illegal immigrants. MISSISSIPPI LAW COULD CREATE STATEWIDE REGISTRY OF UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS "I hate to call it birthright citizenship," the vice president told Fox News. "It's fundamentally a loophole that now exists in our immigration system that rewards illegal aliens just because they have a baby in the United States while they're in our country illegally." The vice president said the administration is considering "a number" of strategies to respond to the Supreme Court’s decision. Among them are potential restrictions involving U.S. territories such as the Northern Mariana Islands, which are located in the western Pacific near Asia. Senior administration officials have raised concerns over China sending women to the islands solely to give birth and secure U.S. citizenship for their children in a so-called "birth tourism" scheme. "We actually have an opportunity to reverse this decision, just as we reverse so many bad decisions throughout the generations," the vice president said. "We've got to fix the immigration system even more," he continued. "We have to be even more aware of who's coming into our country to make sure that they're not benefiting from this atrocious Supreme Court ruling." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44620ac2ca79de23627b09 Arizona joins Democratic-led states to sue Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements te 2026-07-01T00:40:42.286Z Arizona joins Democratic-led states to sue Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements Attorney General Kris Mayes speaks to reporters on June 1, 2026, announcing a lawsuit accusing MultiPlan and health insurers of colluding on prices in violation of Arizona law. (Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror) Twenty-five Democratic-led states plus the District of Columbia have sued the Trump administration over its new work requirements for people who get their health insurance through Medicaid. At issue is a “medically frail” designation that the states say is too narrow and will make it too difficult for ill and disabled people to remain on Medicaid. They’re challenging the administration’s guidance on who can be exempt from the work requirements included in the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the broad tax and spending measure President Donald Trump signed a year ago. Medicaid is the publicly-funded health insurance for people with low incomes. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, states that have expanded Medicaid eligibility to more adults under the Affordable Care Act — 40 states plus the District of Columbia — must require those adults to prove they’re working, going to school or serving their communities for at least 80 hours a month to receive Medicaid. Georgia, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, which have used federal waivers to expand their Medicaid programs, are also subject to the new work rules. The new lawsuit specifically targets new federal guidance that narrows the definition of who can qualify as “medically frail,” a key exemption used to excuse Medicaid recipients from work requirements if they have serious disabilities or illnesses. The guidance came in the form of an interim final rule published this month by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The Democratic attorneys general and governors who are plaintiffs in the suit claim the feds surprised them with this new rule months after they’d already been working with CMS on how to implement the work requirements. “This eleventh-hour attempt to further narrow protections for medically frail Medicaid recipients seeks to punish those who cannot fend for themselves,” said Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, a Democrat, in a statement. “Further, this Administration is once again attempting to sidestep Congress by unlawfully reinterpreting the law, and coercing the states to rush to implement their last-minute changes or face penalties,” he said. To qualify as “medically frail” and therefore exempt from work requirements, the new guidance says, a Medicaid recipient must have a significant health condition and be significantly impaired in their ability to work. It’s a distinction the states say Congress did not make in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The states also claim the new guidance violates federal law by ignoring evidence that work requirements cause people to lose coverage due to red tape. For example, Arkansas tried instituting work requirements for Medicaid recipients in 2018, during Trump’s first term. A federal judge halted the policy less than a year later, after 18,000 adults had lost coverage. Studies later found that Arkansas’ work requirements didn’t increase employment. A recent analysis from the Urban Institute projects that 3-7 million people could lose coverage because of the new work requirements. Supporters of the new work rules say they are sufficiently flexible and that the category of who qualifies as “medically frail” remains broad. “This rule helps Americans build skills and independence through work, education, job training, or community service, creating new opportunities for themselves and their families,” said Dr. Mehmet Oz, director for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, in a statement earlier this month announcing the new guidance. The lawsuit says states have already invested significant resources into implementing the new work requirements based on the original law’s language and prior federal guidance. They’re staring down an August 31, 2026, deadline for notifying Medicaid recipients about changes to the “medically frail” designation, a timeline the states say is not workable. They face financial penalties for not meeting the deadline. States are expected to put the new work requirements into place by January 1, 2027, though the feds could choose to grant them temporary extensions through 2028. The lawsuit was filed by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin, as well as the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org. This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Arizona Mirror, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445fefc2ca79de23627ab2 Trump’s Great American State Fair: Modest crowds, $23 turkey legs, MAHA and controversy te 2026-07-01T00:31:43.954Z Trump’s Great American State Fair: Modest crowds, $23 turkey legs, MAHA and controversy WASHINGTON – The Great American State Fair underway on the National Mall is operating under a cloud of controversy.  The fair, a centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary, has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers, state officials and performers who say it has become closely aligned with Trump’s political movement. Despite its atmosphere, with food vendors and exhibits, the event is steeped in Trump-era politics.  The schedule features MAHA Mondays, a reference to the “Make America Healthy Again” movement championed by vaccine skeptic and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as well as appearances from administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and television personality Dr. Mehmet Oz and Superman actor Dean Cain. The temporary fairground is nestled between Smithsonian museums, with views of the Capitol at one end and the Washington Monument on the other.  Visitors had mixed reviews. Mario Beckles, 61, a deputy comptroller with the Army Reserve visiting from Dumfries, Virginia, 30 miles south, said all he noticed was “Americana” that embodies a celebratory spirit that anyone could enjoy, regardless of their political leanings.  He wasn’t going to miss it, since the next big celebration – the tricentennial – won’t be until 2076. “I’m not going to be here for the 300th anniversary,” he said.  Barbara Jurs, who flew to Washington for a day trip from Berkeley County, South Carolina, just to spend the day at the fair, called it “the best idea.” This is “an event that is to unify our country,” she said, adding, “If somebody isn’t participating, they are the ones not being unifying.” Josh Brulé, a resident of suburban Maryland, deemed the fair just “OK,” and not even as good as the annual Montgomery County Fair in Gaithersburg, 25 miles north. “The most disappointing part is that people are just kind of apathetic” about the fair and the 250th commemoration, he said, adding that he wished attendees “were more excited.” Invited guests wave flags at the kickoff celebration for the Great American State Fair with President Donald Trump on the National Mall in Washington on June 24, 2026. (Photo by Hayli Griffin/Cronkite News) Nonpartisan event turns partisan Trump led an “America is Back” kickoff event June 24 ahead of the fair’s opening last Thursday. At times it felt like a campaign-style rally, though flyovers by fighter jets and a B-2 stealth bomber took it to another level. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, in one of the edgier speeches, addressed the well-publicized cancellations by musical acts, including Martina McBride, Bret Michaels, Young MC, The Commodores and Morris Day and The Time.  McBride wrote on Instagram that she had been “assured this was a nonpartisan event” but later concluded that characterization was “misleading.” Young MC and The Commodores cited similar concerns. “We have to give a big round of applause to our military band and singers. Way better than those libtards that canceled on us,” Duffy told a crowd where MAGA hats were a common sight, drawing cheers. Country singer Lee Greenwood performed “Proud to be an American,” the unofficial Republican anthem. Flag waving supporters erupted into chants of “USA” and prolonged applause as Trump took the stage. “Tonight, as we stand on the edge of our 250th year of independence, I am thrilled to declare that America is back,” he said in a speech laced with attacks on political opponents. Taking a poke at former President Joe Biden, he said: “A short time ago, we were a dead country. … Now we’re the hottest country anywhere in the world. We’re respected. … Nobody’s laughing at us anymore.” Freedom 250 spokesperson Julia Friedland told The Hill that the organization Trump created to oversee celebrations for the semiquincentennial is “inherently nonpolitical.” But to Trump’s critics, Freedom 250 is prime evidence that he has tried to hijack the anniversary. Congress created the America 250 commission a decade ago to organize the festivities.  Trump’s initiative has largely taken over, with events tailored to his tastes and those of his political base, such as mixed martial arts cage bouts on the White House lawn on his 80th birthday on June 14 and the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an IndyCar race on the streets of the capital in late August. “By and large, I just see people just enjoying the day and just celebrating our country’s 250th anniversary,” Beckles said during his visit to the fair Monday, though he acknowledged that “there’s some of those people in here … maybe trying to have an agenda that they want to communicate.” Snubs by Democratic states The fair is designed to resemble a traditional state fair, with a 110-foot Ferris wheel with spectacular views of the Capitol; exhibits from states, territories and federal agencies; $23 turkey legs and other fair food; and live entertainment from rodeo demonstrations to concerts.  Unlike most state fairs, admission is free. That has not ensured big crowds so far, though. Attendance has been modest even on days with milder weather than the capital will see on July 4. Far bigger crowds are expected on the Fourth for a fireworks show that Trump has billed as 10 times bigger than anything the U.S. has ever seen.  The fair runs through July 10.  Each participating state operates a pavilion showcasing its identity through exhibits on scenic destinations, culture, signature foods and major industries. Many also offered interactive displays and souvenirs. Arizona contributed “Arizona Illuminated,” a multi-sensory pavilion designed to recreate the iconic landscapes of Antelope Canyon, a ponderosa pine forest and the Sonoran Desert at night. Alix Skelpsa Ridgway, director of the Arizona Office of Tourism, said the installation was intended to highlight the state’s beauty and encourage tourism. But 11 states controlled by Democrats declined to participate: Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. Many cited costs. Some also cited concerns about the event’s MAGA tilt. The event had become more of a “partisan affair than originally presented,” a spokesperson for Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek told OregonLive. An aide to Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey told Cronkite News that the state remains “a proud partner in America250” – the nonpartisan entity created by Congress. The crowds included families, veterans and visitors from across the country, as well as some international tourists. Patriotic and Trump-themed apparel was a common sight throughout the fairgrounds. A volunteer with David’s Tent, a Christian ministry hosting a 24/7 worship and prayer at the fair, said the crowd seemed diverse to her.  Felicia Adeyinka of Towson, Maryland, a Baltimore suburb, said her favorite part has been “seeing the different people, the different cultures, and how everyone is so receptive and amazing.”  Whatever political frictions exist, she said, Americans can get past them ”if we keep loving on people and showing them goodness and showing them kindness.” The post Trump’s Great American State Fair: Modest crowds, $23 turkey legs, MAHA and controversy appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445fb1c2ca79de23627a7f Federal judge blocks blue state's law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks on the job te 2026-07-01T00:30:41.493Z Federal judge blocks blue state's law prohibiting ICE agents from wearing masks on the job A federal judge on Tuesday blocked Virginia from enforcing a new law that would prohibit federal agents — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol — from wearing masks while carrying out enforcement operations, siding with the Trump administration in a dispute over federal authority. Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne granted the Department of Justice's (DOJ) request for a preliminary injunction, preventing the law from taking effect Wednesday while the legal challenge proceeds. The injunction will remain in place while the case is litigated. Payne found the federal government is likely to succeed on the merits because Virginia's law attempts to regulate how federal officers enforce immigration laws, violating the Constitution's Supremacy Clause. MINNESOTA SENATE VOTES TO BAN ICE FROM WEARING MASKS, ALLOW RESIDENTS TO SUE FOR CONSTITUTIONAL VIOLATIONS The judge also found the government demonstrated it would likely suffer irreparable harm because enforcing the law could expose federal employees to "real risk of physical harm" while carrying out immigration enforcement duties. The ruling stems from a lawsuit the DOJ filed last week challenging two laws signed by Democrat Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger. The DOJ argued the measures would subject masked federal agents to criminal penalties and threaten agreements between federal immigration authorities and local law enforcement. DOJ ESCALATES BLUE-STATE ICE STANDOFF AFTER STATES REFUSE KEY FEDERAL REQUEST "Law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to keep Americans safe, and they do not deserve to be doxed or harassed simply for carrying out their duties," Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said when the lawsuit was filed. "Virginia's anti-law enforcement policies regulate the federal government and are designed to create risk for our agents," he added. "These laws cannot stand." The lawsuit argued Virginia was attempting to dictate how federal officers carry out law enforcement operations by restricting when they may wear face coverings, requiring them to display identifying information and placing conditions on cooperation agreements between local agencies and ICE. MINNESOTA SENATE VOTES TO BAN ICE FROM WEARING MASKS, ALLOW RESIDENTS TO SUE FOR CONSTITUTIONAL VIOLATIONS According to the DOJ, federal officers who violated Virginia's mask and identification law could have faced a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. The lawsuit names Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones and Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano as defendants. Payne's order applies only to Virginia's mask and identity law. The judge noted the Justice Department's separate challenge to another provision governing immigration enforcement agreements will proceed on a different briefing schedule, with a hearing scheduled for Aug. 3. Spanberger, Jones and Descano have all taken steps to counter the Trump administration's ICE agenda in Virginia. In February, Spanberger rescinded an executive order issued by former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin directing state law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Fox News Digital has reached out to Spanberger’s office for comment on the development. Fox News Digital's Ashley J. DiMella contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445d6cc2ca79de23626633 Fitness influencer says Lufthansa told her she looked ‘naked,’ forced her to zip up before boarding flight te 2026-07-01T00:21:00.806Z Fitness influencer says Lufthansa told her she looked ‘naked,’ forced her to zip up before boarding flight Fitness influencer Edda Elisa Pilz says she was prevented from boarding a Lufthansa flight from Berlin to Austria until she covered up her athletic outfit, alleging an airline employee repeatedly called her "naked" during the encounter as temperatures reached 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Pilz, 24, who boasts more than 500,000 followers on both Instagram and TikTok, shared a video describing the confrontation while preparing to board the Lufthansa flight during the summer heatwave. The video has since circulated widely on social media, where Pilz questioned whether the airline has a dress code for passengers and criticized what she described as the employee's treatment of her. Pilz said she was waiting to have her boarding pass scanned when a Lufthansa employee stopped her from boarding. POPULAR CRUISE LINE’S BIKINI CRACKDOWN COULD SURPRISE PASSENGERS AT ISLAND PORTS According to Pilz, the employee told her, "You cannot board like that," before repeatedly telling her she was "naked." Pilz said she was wearing a matching athletic top and shorts and questioned why the outfit was considered inappropriate in the summer heat. "What am I supposed to put on?" she said in the video. "What should I wear? It is clothing." POPULAR CRUISE LINE’S BIKINI CRACKDOWN COULD SURPRISE PASSENGERS AT ISLAND PORTS According to Pilz, the employee told her she was not wearing "normal clothes" and instructed her to put something over her outfit before she would be allowed to board the aircraft. Pilz said she put on a jacket but was then told she also had to zip it completely before being allowed to proceed. She alleged the employee then blamed her for delaying the boarding process. PASSENGER ALLEGEDLY BOARDS FLIGHT WITH FAKE BOARDING PASS, FORCING PLANE BACK TO GATE According to Pilz, the employee told her, "Because of you, we are now delayed. Because of you, the whole flight is delayed, because you are holding up all the traffic here." Pilz said she replied that she had simply asked for an explanation because she had never heard of an airline dress code. She also claimed men wearing shorts were allowed to board the same flight without being stopped. The influencer said the incident was less about whether Lufthansa has a clothing policy than the way she said she was treated by the employee. "I can accept rules," she said. "But the attitude was unacceptable." Pilz ended the video by directly questioning Lufthansa and asking whether the airline condones that type of customer service, adding that she was waiting for an official response. Lufthansa's General Conditions of Carriage do not appear to include a specific passenger dress code. The airline says it may refuse transportation under certain circumstances, including when a passenger's conduct could significantly affect the "safety and security, the health or wellbeing of other passengers," or for other operational or security reasons, but the policy does not specifically address athletic clothing. Pilz and Lufthansa did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Fox News Digital's Christina Shaw contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445d45c2ca79de23626476 Lopez: Arizona businesses should have right to boycott Israel te 2026-07-01T00:20:21.307Z Lopez: Arizona businesses should have right to boycott Israel Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445b3ac2ca79de23626050 Riley Gaines and MyKayla Skinner send message to Simone Biles on women's sports debate after SCOTUS ruling te 2026-07-01T00:11:38.296Z Riley Gaines and MyKayla Skinner send message to Simone Biles on women's sports debate after SCOTUS ruling Just over a year ago, Simone Biles came at Riley Gaines. In now-infamous X posts, Biles called out Gaines for speaking up about a transgender pitcher who won a Minnesota girls' softball championship, and mocked Gaines' body saying "bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male." It ignited the biggest pop culture flashpoint in the "Save Women's Sports" movement. Now just over a year later, Gaines has a close ally in Biles' former US Olympic gymnastics team teammate, MyKayla Skinner. Gaines and Skinner celebrated the Supreme Court's decision to uphold state laws that protect women's sports on Tuesday, and sent a message to Biles one year after the infamous social media feud. SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS "Just being able to try to find my voice and how I could use my voice after Simone had come out against Riley, it had really affected me," Skinner said. "I have a little daughter, and we are hoping to put her in sports soon, and I just really want her to have everything that I got to have, all the opportunities." Skinner, who won an Olympic silver medal in vault at the Tokyo Games, said her own athletic career shaped her view of the issue. "I’ve broken records, I’ve been an Olympian, I was a college athlete, and I want her to have the opportunities that I had," Skinner said of her daughter. "And so this, for me, was a way that I felt like this is the time for me to come up and stand for what I believe in, stand with Riley, and to join in on this fight." Skinner then turned her attention directly to Biles. "I think it would just be really cool to see Simone stand with us," Skinner said. "She’s one of the best athletes in the world." Skinner said she wants to see more elite female athletes join Gaines, XX-XY Athletics founder Jennifer Sey and others in the movement. "To be able to see her as my teammate, as an Olympian, as an amazing athlete that she is, to be able to stand with us and fight alongside Riley and everyone else on this road," Skinner said. "I would just love, love to see my teams, especially Simone, in step with us." Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer who became one of the most prominent advocates against transgender athletes in women’s sports after tying transgender swimmer Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA championships, previously called on Biles to stand with her on the issue in a March interview with Fox News Digital, months before Biles' social media attack. Gaines renewed her call to Biles, alongside Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, to stand on her side, after Tuesday's SCOTUS ruling. "Let this be a clarion call, not just to Simone, but to every, I think especially elite female athlete, professional female athlete, the likes of Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, Serena Williams, to link arms," Gaines said. Gaines added that the ruling made her feel "absolutely vindicated." "I feel, of course, excited, I feel optimistic about the future," Gaines said. "But I think the feeling that I feel the most of is vindicated. "Being a mom, I look at her and I think of the country and the world that I want her to inherit," Gaines said of her daughter. "It’s a more fair, more safe, more prosperous, more opportunistic world, country." "Let it be known that you also think young girls are worthy of calling themselves champions one day," Gaines added. Biles’ feud with Gaines began June 6, 2025, after Gaines drew attention to a biologically male transgender softball pitcher who helped a Minnesota girls’ team win a state championship. Biles called Gaines "truly sick," a "straight up sore loser" and a "bully," and later suggested Gaines was the "same size" as a male, according to Fox News Digital. Biles later deleted the posts and apologized. The feud also became a turning point for Skinner. Skinner had already endured her own public clash with Biles after she posted a video about the 2024 U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team and made comments about the team’s "talent and depth." Biles responded at the time with the post, "Not everyone needs a mic and a platform," and Skinner later apologized while saying her remarks were misinterpreted. Skinner told Fox News Digital last year that the backlash included death threats and messages saying she "shouldn’t be a mom." Skinner later joined XX-XY Athletics as an ambassador in the brand’s "Gold Medal Campaign," aligning herself with Gaines, Sey, Olympic swimmer Nancy Hogshead and other prominent activists in the "Save Women’s Sports" space. 'SAVE WOMEN'S SPORTS' 2025 CULTURE WAR TIMELINE — THE YEAR THE TIDES TURNED When asked whether she believes Biles truly meant what she said to Gaines last year, Skinner did not hesitate. "100% yes," Skinner said. "I’ve known Simone since I was 13 years old, and we’ve had our moments. There’s times where she has belittled me as an athlete, as a person, bullied. And so this wasn’t a shock to me when she came out against Riley." Skinner said she believes Biles "stands firm" in her position, but hopes that can change. "Being at this level and being a mom, we look up to these amazing athletes," Skinner said. "I really think that she’s not on this side with us, and I really would love to see her come forward and maybe change her mind." Gaines agreed that Biles’ initial comments reflected her real views, while suggesting the apology that followed felt more like public-relations cleanup. "You could even notice the very obvious tone switch between the initial tweet or two and the very ChatGPT-coded apology," Gaines said. Gaines said she accepted Biles’ apology and would still be willing to "link arms" with the Olympic gymnastics legend. "That’s kind of like water off the duck’s back to me," Gaines said. But Gaines said she believes the backlash Biles faced after her posts may have revealed a cultural shift on the issue. "I think it took that for her to realize, ‘Oh dang, I think I was living in my own little bubble here,’" Gaines said. "Maybe the people I surrounded myself with think this, but majority of Americans don’t." The Supreme Court’s ruling does not force every state or school to adopt bans on transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports. The court said the cases did not present the separate question of whether schools may allow biological males who identify as female to compete on girls’ and women’s teams. But for Gaines and Skinner, Tuesday’s decision marked a defining legal victory — and another chance to pressure some of the biggest names in women’s sports to pick a side. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445b26c2ca79de23626047 Wild video shows inmates rioting inside jail after frustrations over access boil over te 2026-07-01T00:11:18.840Z Wild video shows inmates rioting inside jail after frustrations over access boil over Missouri officials have released video and a 100-page report documenting a February riot inside a local jail, where 34 inmates briefly took control of a housing unit and damaged property following phone and Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Surveillance cameras captured the February 7 incident, which began when inmates at the St. Louis County Justice Center expressed anger over phone access, Wi-Fi connections, and their allocated time outside of their cells, while refusing to return to them, FOX 2 Now reported. The incident began as a peaceful mass refusal of inmates to return to their cells before they became more physically disruptive, the report states. Officials directly blamed the unrest on severe staffing shortages. "This incident shows how unpredictable conditions are inside a jail and how important the role corrections officers play," said Captain Tim Ware, acting director of the St. Louis County Department of Justice Services. "The discontent of residents that resulted in this incident is all due to our understaffing in corrections officers which required limitations on the residents' movements." TWO CORRECTIONS OFFICERS HELD HOSTAGE AFTER INMATES TAKE OVER PORTIONS OF NORTH CAROLINA DETENTION CENTER As corrections officers tried to de-escalate the situation, inmates barricaded the entrance of the housing unit with common area furniture. "They tried to de-escalate with the residents and that was not working; the residents moved some furniture and barricaded the door," Ware said. ESCAPED NORTH CAROLINA INMATE HAS HISTORY OF TRYING TO FLEE LAW ENFORCEMENT At one point, an inmate used a basketball to knock down a mounted security camera. The inmates also broke televisions, a commissary kiosk, and parts of the ceiling, Spectrum News reported. Total damages climbed past $30,800, according to St. Louis County records. Authorities eventually deployed chemical agents to safely secure the area. Out of the 34 inmates involved, criminal charges for four "main actors" have been turned over to the Clayton Police Department and the county prosecutor for review, Ware noted. In response to the incident, county leaders approved $3 million in emergency funding for medical services to better support the nearly 1,200 inmates housed in the facility. In addition, officials are actively looking to fill approximately 80 correctional officer vacancies. To prevent future disturbances, the jail is shifting its operational approach. "We have started extra training... tabletop exercises and physical exercises... so the officers will be prepared to make decisions when something similar happens," Ware said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445b13c2ca79de2362603e How to watch USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 te 2026-07-01T00:10:59.383Z How to watch USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 The United States men’s national soccer team (USMNT) did its job to begin this 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, winning Group D and moving on to the knockout stages. Now, the real run they’ve been looking forward to for the past four years begins on Wednesday night in the San Francisco Bay Area. The USMNT will be pitted against Bosnia and Herzegovina, one of the great stories of this World Cup, in the round of 32 to determine who is moving on in the tournament, and who will be heading home. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM For the "visitors" in this case, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey not only knocked off Italy, an iconic country in terms of soccer, to get into this World Cup, but they’ve done enough to become a third-place team that moves on in this inaugural expanded format. WATCH USA VS BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA ON FOX ONE Their 3-1 win over Qatar on June 24 gave them the necessary three points needed to move on after drawing against Canada, a fellow host country alongside the U.S. and Mexico, which earned them one point. They fell to Switzerland, 4-1, as the winners of Group B moved on in their own right. But Bosnia and Herzegovina knew what they needed to do against Qatar, and now they carry momentum into a matchup against a Team USA squad that was hoping for a bit more themselves when they faced Türkiye in their final Group D matchup last week. Of course, the game meant nothing, but Türkiye’s late goal in stoppage time gave them a 3-2 victory that soured what appeared to be a 2-2 draw in Los Angeles. Granted, U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino wasn’t taking any chances, leaving many on his usual starting XI on the bench, though Christian Pulisic made his return in the second half after missing time due to a calf injury. However, that’s looking at it from the pessimist’s point of view. The patriotic optimist viewed that game as nothing because the USMNT already punched their ticket to the knockout stages with a 4-2 win over Paraguay, which just upset Germany on Monday afternoon in Boston with a penalty-shootout victory to move on to the round of 16, and a 2-0 win over Australia to win Group D. Now, with many starters well rested and the home crowd still on their side out in the Bay Area, the U.S. are strong favorites to get the job done against Bosnia and Herzegovina to cement their own spot in the round of 16. Here's how to watch the game, including start time, TV information and streaming options. When: Wednesday, July 1 at 8 p.m. ET Where: San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, Santa Clara, California TV: FOX Stream: Watch on FOX One and FOX Sports Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445affc2ca79de23626035 NPR reveals how a misheard announcement led to it falsely claiming Justice Alito was retiring te 2026-07-01T00:10:39.933Z NPR reveals how a misheard announcement led to it falsely claiming Justice Alito was retiring NPR was forced to retract a story on Tuesday after it falsely reported that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito was retiring. The story, headlined "Justice Samuel Alito, who wrote the opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, retires," apparently started with a misheard announcement. The outlet said NPR legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg was reporting on the final day of the Supreme Court session when, as she was leaving the court, she misheard Chief Justice John Roberts' announcement about upcoming retirements. NPR explained that it had a lengthy story about Alito's career already prepared, a practice that is common in the news industry that is often done ahead of notable retirements and deaths of important figures. Totenberg joined "All Things Considered" on Tuesday to explain what happened. The reporter said that the error was "entirely on me" and something she called a "rookie mistake." The reporter then read on-air a letter that she wrote to Alito apologizing for the mistake. She noted that she had not heard back from the justice, adding that she did not expect to. NPR RETRACTS FALSE REPORT CLAIMING JUSTICE SAMUEL ALITO IS RETIRING FROM THE SUPREME COURT "Dear Justice Alito, there are no words to adequately apologize for today's error in reporting your retirement. It was entirely my fault," she said. "I rushed out of the courtroom after the opinion announcements, and when I realized that the usual rush of folks after a few minutes had not happened, I asked somebody was going on inside, to which the answer was, 'retirement announcements.' I didn't hear the 's' on 'announcements,' and I assumed, something no reporter should ever do, that you were retiring. It was the worst professional mistake of my more than 50 years in journalism. I could go on, but I don't know what else to say, except that I am so, so sorry," she added. "We profoundly regret the error and the confusion that this has caused and Nina has reached out to Alito to apologize personally," NPR Executive Editor Krishnadev Calamur told NPR Public Editor Kelly McBride. SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS Calamur's statement about Totenberg's apologizing to Alito was echoed by top NPR editor Thomas Evans, who told Fox News Digital something similar on Tuesday. "Due to a misunderstanding, NPR’s Supreme Court and Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg incorrectly reported that Justice Samuel Alito had retired. Neither Justice Alito nor the Supreme Court Public Information Office has announced his retirement," Evans told Fox News Digital. In April, a source told Fox News Digital that Alito "is not stepping down this term and is in the process of hiring the rest of his clerks for the next term." Two other sources have told Fox News that Alito is not retiring this term, which lasts until the Supreme Court begins its new term in October. Evans said that once the outlet realized the error, which had been published on NPR's website and announced on its airwaves, there was a swift correction online and on the air. McBride said that NPR published the story on its website at 10:51 a.m. ET and that it was "live for about 5 minutes," though the outlet noted that the story remained live on some member station websites for longer periods of time. "It was taken down and replaced with an editor's note by 10:57 a.m. The error was corrected on the broadcast at 11:07 a.m. ET," the outlet reported. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Totenberg is a seasoned reporter who has been covering the Supreme Court for NPR since 1975. Calamur told NPR that Totenberg's status led him to believe what she reported was accurate. However, following the incident, Calamur said he would be reviewing the breaking news process. McBride admitted that "while there's really no excuse for this kind of error, it was a result of an honest mistake and a rush to publish. Had it been true, NPR, The New York Times, The Washington Post and many other newsrooms all would have published their stories within minutes of each other." Alito, a 2005 appointee of then-President George W. Bush, has fueled speculation about his retirement because of two factors: his age and the length of his tenure on the bench. The 76-year-old justice has been part of the Court for more than 20 years. Some have suggested that he may be waiting to make sure a conservative successor is confirmed by the Republican-led Senate before the upcoming midterm elections. Fox News Digital’s Julia Bonavita, Alec Schemmel and Ashley Oliver contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445910c2ca79de23625fed Davis Dam decorates for July 4, Thunderbirds fly over Hoover Dam June 27 te 2026-07-01T00:02:24.341Z Davis Dam decorates for July 4, Thunderbirds fly over Hoover Dam June 27 BULLHEAD CITY — The south face of Davis Dam will display a 75-foot by 25-foot banner for the July 4, America250 holiday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4458fcc2ca79de23625fdf Drug cartels adapt as US boat strikes fail to curb cocaine, fentanyl supply te 2026-07-01T00:02:04.369Z Drug cartels adapt as US boat strikes fail to curb cocaine, fentanyl supply WASHINGTON – Stopping drug trafficking has been a key priority for President Donald Trump. But his policies – redirecting the focus from routine counter-narcotics operations to shows of military force – have made that goal harder to achieve, according to veterans of the U.S. war on drugs and other experts on drug smuggling. If anything, the experts say, strikes that put barely a dent in the flow of narcotics have been a gift to the cartels by impeding international cooperation to combat drug trafficking. And as they always do in the perennial game of whack-a-mole, cartels adapted to disruptions in the supply chain. Since September, the U.S. military has conducted 66 strikes in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean against vessels officials say were transporting narcotics, killing 215 people. But drug trafficking networks are far more complex than a few dozen boats.  Cocaine prices have stayed roughly the same since the first strike, at $60 to $100 per gram, according to addiction scientists. Fentanyl prices are also stable. Nor do police and federal authorities report shortages on the street.  All of which indicates that supply and demand remain in equilibrium. It’s impossible to know the quantity of drugs smuggled into the U.S., though both proponents and critics of the boat strikes cite Customs and Border Protection drug seizures as a good proxy. That data shows fentanyl interdiction on track to drop 6.3% in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, and cocaine interdiction on pace to drop by 5.4%. Those dips are big enough for Trump and his allies to claim success, and far too modest for critics to give him credit for solving the chronic problem. “These sporadic, high-profile, theatrical strikes are not really going to address that broader issue,” said Lee Schlenker, a research associate at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, adding there’s no direct evidence the boat strikes reduced the flow of narcotics into the U.S. Nor has the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January – as evidenced in part by the fact the boat strikes continue even as Maduro awaits trial in New York. Striking drug boats The first such strike was on Sept. 2, 2025, when the U.S. Southern Command sank a boat in international waters off Venezuela, killing 11 people. Trump asserted that the boat was transporting narcotics to the U.S., and that those killed were members of a group he described as “Tren de Aragua Narcoterrorists.” “TDA is a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, operating under the control of Nicolas Maduro, responsible for mass murder, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and acts of violence and terror across the United States and Western Hemisphere,” he said on Truth Social. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized a follow-on strike against the disabled vessel, killing two survivors clinging to the boat. Reports of the “double-tap” strike provoked an uproar and allegations of unlawful military action. Hegseth ousted the four-star head of SOUTHCOM, Adm. Alvin Holsey, after he raised concerns about the strikes’ legality. Tren de Aragua is a Venezuelan transnational criminal organization that the Trump administration designated as a terrorist group in February 2025. Elements do traffic narcotics. But it is not a drug cartel in the usual sense, and no large cocaine shipments have been linked to it. Within a week of the double-tap strike, Trump announced that the military had conducted another strike on an alleged drug boat in international waters off Venezuela, killing three people. The most recent known strike was June 21 in the Eastern Pacific, killing two and leaving six survivors at large in the ocean. Derek Maltz, a 28-year veteran of the Drug Enforcement Administration who served as acting DEA administrator in the first four months of Trump’s second term, said the strikes show the world that the U.S. treats drug traffickers like other terror groups. “This is a big deterrent,” he said. Still, he said, “These bad guys are very knowledgeable on how they strategically move their products around the world.” A UH-1Y Venom crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), Littoral Combat Force-24, fires a M240-D machine gun during an aerial gun range while over the Caribbean Sea, June 8, 2026. U.S. forces are deployed to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Southern Spear. (U.S. Marine Corps photo) No evidence The Defense Department has not provided evidence of drugs aboard any of the boats.  And there’s no indication that any drugs on most boats sunk so far are destined for the U.S. Instead, they’re most likely headed to Europe, Schlenker said. Drugs are smuggled throughout the Western Hemisphere by plane, rail, container ship and truck, in addition to the go-fast boats and semisubmersible vessels hit in the strikes. Drug cartels have increased their reliance on air transport and shipping containers since the strikes began, according to a March report on Operation Southern Spear from the Department of Defense Inspector General. At a House Armed Services Committee hearing that month, acting Assistant Secretary of Defense Joseph Humire testified that drug boat traffic has dropped 20% in the Caribbean and 25% in the Eastern Pacific since the first strike. Traditional interdiction efforts in the Caribbean involve the U.S. Coast Guard seizing narcotics and arresting traffickers. Airstrikes that kill the smugglers don’t leave that sort of intelligence behind, Schlenker pointed out. SOUTHCOM has not publicly released metrics of Operation Southern Spear’s effectiveness. Marine Gen. Francis Donovan, who took over SOUTHCOM in February, told the Senate Armed Services Committee in March that the strikes have led traffickers to change their patterns. He acknowledged that “the boat strikes aren’t the answer,” though, and said the military is moving toward a counter-cartel campaign targeting the full drug transit network. At a June 2 Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, pressed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to explain the criteria for ordering a strike against a particular boat. Rubio said intelligence must show “true links” to criminal activity.  But he conceded that evidence that drugs are aboard is not one of the three criteria, all of which remain classified. “How odd it is that the presence of narcotics on a boat is not one of the targeting criteria,” Kaine said. Jonathan Caulkins, a professor of public policy at Carnegie Mellon University, said that destroying boats or seizing drugs make for good optics but are just a cost of doing business for traffickers. The boat strikes can certainly inconvenience cartels, he said – while also failing to deliver a significant blow to the trafficking network. “There are many other ways of moving the drugs from point A to point B,” he said. Much of a drug’s street price stems from the risks and costs of transportation. Early in the journey, the product is relatively cheap and the cartels can absorb losses fairly easily. “Often the more valuable contribution is destroying the throughput capacity of the network,” Caulkins said.  Unless authorities can make the business unprofitable, the revenue continues to fuel the drug trade, he said, so the key metric is whether a network remains intact after a seizure by authorities. If so, he said, “the network will continue to supply drugs.” Seizures also can’t eliminate drugs from the market if cartels can scale up production. South American cocaine production grew fourfold from 2014 to 2024, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Capturing Maduro Maduro’s capture is another element of Trump’s drug strategy that experts view as more theatrical than effective. Enrique Desmond Arias, a professor of Western Hemisphere affairs at Baruch College, said the institutional corruption that allowed drug trafficking to thrive in Venezuela persists. “Nothing in what’s happened in Venezuela suggests to me a more profound change,” Arias said. Annette Idler, a professor of global security at the University of Oxford, wrote in January that Maduro’s capture could even cause disorder that would benefit organized crime. “Decades of evidence show that militarized drug policies do not reduce supply or demand – they fragment violence and expand illicit networks,” she wrote. The wrong drug Another knock on Operation Southern Spear is that it almost exclusively addresses the flow of cocaine while ignoring fentanyl. That’s “the primary cause of overdose deaths in the U.S.,” the Government Accountability Office reported on the same day as the first boat strike. Synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, accounted for 69% of overdose deaths in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cocaine was responsible for 28%. Nearly all illicit fentanyl in the U.S. comes from Mexico.  Despite that, Trump claimed in an address to military leadership in Quantico, Virginia, in late September that the boats were “stacked up with bags of white powder, that’s mostly fentanyl and other drugs, too.” Following Maduro’s capture, the White House characterized him as “the kingpin flooding America with deadly fentanyl.” There is no evidence of that, and the claim has been debunked. Coast Guard announcements of drug seizures in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific routinely describe discoveries of cocaine and marijuana. The press releases make no mention of fentanyl. A check of Coast Guard press releases dating to 2022 find no mention of fentanyl interdiction in the region. Most fentanyl that reaches American streets is manufactured in Mexico with chemicals from China, according to the 2025 International Narcotics Control Strategy report. “The supply chains providing fentanyl to American consumers do not pass through South America,” Caulkins said. In general, Venezuela is not a major producer of illicit drugs. According to a 2024 DEA report, Colombia produced 84% of cocaine seized by the U.S., but the UNODC categorized Venezuela as a major transit country hotspot in its 2025 World Drug Report. International cooperation The boat strikes are also problematic because they have alienated key allies and partners in the war on drugs. “Whatever potential short-term benefits from a strike would be more than offset if that strike were to damage the willingness of the other country to cooperate with us in the long run,” Caulkins said. In November, reports emerged that the United Kingdom stopped sharing intelligence about suspected drug boats with the U.S.  Canada placed limits on how the U.S. can use its intelligence, and the Netherlands restricted information sharing over feared human rights violations. The strikes also created tensions between Trump and outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro. In October, Petro accused the U.S. of killing Colombian nationals in one of the strikes. When Trump threatened to raise tariffs and cut aid, Petro recalled Colombia’s ambassador. Petro ordered Colombia’s intelligence agencies to halt cooperation with U.S. counterparts  until the strikes end. He later clarified intelligence would still be shared if it is used only for non-fatal drug seizures. A new Colombian president backed by Trump, Abelardo De La Espriella, takes office in August. Maltz said that during his time at DEA, extensive intelligence sharing and cooperation with the U.K., Canada and Colombia was integral to U.S. counter-narcotics operations. He blamed the breakdown of coordination on shifting domestic politics in those countries, rather than on U.S. military action under Trump. Schlenker said antagonizing international partners is counterproductive. “These are comprehensive, complex public policy interventions that we’ve been studying for decades,” he said. “But those effective policies run up against and are contested by the spectacle and theatrics of drug war politics.” The post Drug cartels adapt as US boat strikes fail to curb cocaine, fentanyl supply appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4458a9c2ca79de23625f9f U.S. Mobilizes for Venezuela Despite Trump’s Disdain for Foreign Aid te 2026-07-01T00:00:41.935Z U.S. Mobilizes for Venezuela Despite Trump’s Disdain for Foreign Aid The State Department has promised $100 million in new funds to aid groups, after President Trump was criticized for an anemic response to an earthquake in Myanmar last year. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a445894c2ca79de23625f74 UA program blends arts and health to fight inequality te 2026-07-01T00:00:20.964Z UA program blends arts and health to fight inequality 💡 This story is part of Tucson Spotlight's solutions journalism coverage, which examines responses to community challenges — what works, what doesn't and what we can learn. Learn more at solutionsjournalism.org. A University of Arizona program is pairing nursing students with photographers, mechanical engineers and artists to reframe how the next generation of health professionals thinks about who is responsible for public health. The Health and Arts Community Collaboratory merges health sciences with the arts to build a broader understanding of what makes people well, drawing on what Associate Clinical Professor Lisa Kiser calls "an infusion of different expertise" rooted in the idea that health extends far beyond the health sciences alone. The program began as a single course, Health Equity: Connections, Community and Healing in Urgent Times. The course encourages students to think critically about health inequalities and is co-listed across the College of Nursing and health sciences to draw students from different majors. NURS/HSD 250 was not a traditional class. It did not include long lectures and quizzes. Instead, students learned from guest speakers and experiential learning days. "We've been out to the San Xavier Co-Op Farm, we've been out to Desert Survivors, we've been out to Mission Garden… We even had a climate activist in Costa Rica who talked directly with our students on a live session via Zoom," said Kiser, a professor in the School of Health Professions at the Zuckerman College of Public Health who teaches the class. "It's that the world then becomes your classroom, the community is your classroom." NURS/HSD 250 students visited Watershed Management Group to learn about water in the desert. Courtesy of Lisa Kiser. Arpit Kaur Sohi, a rising junior in pharmaceutical science at the UA, took the class last spring as a way to explore different health careers. She recalls when a nurse from Oro Valley Hospital talked to the class about the importance of listening and taking the necessary time when comforting patients. "I think that's a really valuable lesson that I'm going to take away in my future health profession, whatever I choose to do," Kaur Sohi said. Research has shown that arts-based learning is beneficial for nursing students to acquire social skills like empathy and compassion toward others, with a World Health Organization report finding that photography and digital storytelling can enhance a person's understanding of complex health issues. The Health and Arts Community Collaboratory views health inequality as not exclusive to health sciences, but as a complex social issue that needs to be addressed by every discipline and field. "Health equity is everybody's problem. It's not only a healthcare problem," said Tarnia Newton, an associate clinical professor at the UA College of Nursing who helped create the Collaboratory. "It's every scientist, it's the IT person, it's the mechanical engineer, civil engineer, chemist, pharmacist, it's everybody's problem." The Collaboratory was funded by UA Research, Innovation and Impact, Research Development Production and the Hispanic Serving Institution to create interactive pop-up exhibits exploring the relationship between health and arts in healing communities across the U.S.-Mexico border. Using Photovoice, a form of documentary photography, students in NURS/HSD 250 created visual narratives reflecting on their understanding of health. Graduate students in art education then reviewed the photos and curated exhibitions around themes designed to spark conversation about health inequalities in the community. One exhibit was displayed at the UA's Center for Creative Photography, where community members were invited to reflect on their own experiences with health and what it means to be well, including writing down recipes that made them feel cared for. Patrick Pinder-Newton's photo of stacked hands spanning generations became a reflection on reproductive health. Courtesy of HACC. Seeing his art exhibited at the Center for Creative Photography was surreal for UA alumnus Patrick Pinder-Newton, who said he felt a combination of pride and excitement when he saw the community engaging with his work. "To see our work out there. It's a tad bit vulnerable, but then also to see that it's positively taken by the community, it was also nice," said Pinder-Newton, who participated in HACC while studying mechanical engineering in his senior year. With no prior art experience, Pinder-Newton found meaning in photographing ordinary things that carried deeper significance. A photo of stacked hands, spanning generations from wrinkled to youthful, became Pinder-Newton's reflection on reproductive health. "We usually think that reproductive health is only a women's issue, but I wanted to show that everyone's involved," Pinder-Newton said. "If you only think it as to be an issue centered around women, it's going to just widen the gap to be a women's centric issue rather than a human centric issue." The Collaboratory also expanded across the border, with two exhibits displayed in Hermosillo and Guaymas, Mexico, through a partnership with the University of Sonora and the Inter-American Institute of Higher Education. The bilingual exhibits paired the work of NURS/HSD 250 students with that of Mexican nursing students reflecting on health resilience and migration. The decision to create exhibits was intentional, rooted in the Collaboratory's belief that healing happens in community. "It's one thing to read a journal article or see something on Instagram, which are very isolating individual activities. But an exhibit is a community event. You show up in person," Kiser said. Students from Mexico present at one of the HACC pop-exhibits at the University of Arizona College of Public Health. Courtesy of Lisa Kiser. The HACC hopes to collaborate with more community partners and present at conferences, teaching attendees how an interdisciplinary and binational model can shape a more holistic understanding of health and wellness. "There is no healthcare, if there's no equity," said Kiser, adding that 80% of a person's health comes from the social determinants of health. Social determinants of health are conditions in a community environment that influence quality of life outcomes and risks, like having access to grocery stores, clean water and reliable transportation, according to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. "We have to prepare people to go out and be healthcare providers and educators and promotoras. So that they understand that part of our work is building community and making change," Kiser said. "That you can't just go into the clinic and take care of the person in front of you. You have to say, why does every single person I take care of can't afford their medication?" Dominique Zuniga took NURS/HSD 250 in 2023 to bolster her nursing school application. Three years later, she's working at Tucson Medical Center as an operating room nurse. Zuniga said she wouldn't describe herself as a creative person, but the class showed her how health and arts can blend together. One of Zuniga's Photovoice images was a crowded bus stop, a reflection on how many people depend on public transportation to reach doctors' appointments and a meditation on the social determinants of health. "Art isn't just painting, it isn't just sculptures. It's also noticing small daily things that relate to health in people's lives," Zuniga said. Diana Ramos is a University of Arizona alum and Tucson Spotlight reporter. Contact her at diana@tucsonspotlight.org.   Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4453f8c2ca79de23625eb1 Suspended Alyssa Thomas blasts WNBA's silence after Caitlin Clark foul, offers no accountability te 2026-06-30T23:40:40.746Z Suspended Alyssa Thomas blasts WNBA's silence after Caitlin Clark foul, offers no accountability Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas took aim at WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Tuesday after receiving a one-game suspension for a flagrant hit to Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark's throat. Thomas said she learned of the suspension moments before it became public and accused Engelbert of abandoning players while remaining silent amid the backlash. She said, "Honestly, I didn't even know I was being suspended until 10 minutes before it was put on social media. We still have yet to hear anything from Cathy. It's no surprise. WNBA SUSPENDS ALYSSA THOMAS FOR 'RECKLESSLY' HITTING CAITLIN CLARK IN THROAT DURING SCRAMBLE "You can see what's being said on social media. Yeah, I mean, it's unfortunate, but as usual she remains silent, and that's unfortunate when our lives are being threatened." WATCH: Thomas's comments came just days after the WNBA suspended her for the flagrant sequence involving Clark, a play the league office determined warranted additional discipline. Thomas continued, "It's crazy, you know, playing the game, being suspended, just the whole narrative that's being painted out there. It's unfortunate that it's come to this over basketball. A lot of us, myself included, didn't even know the play took place until after the game and now we're being painted as thugs. "And death threats out on us, so it's really unacceptable. It is something that needs to change in this league, and I'm just really sick and tired of it." The lack of accountability in Thomas' remarks is difficult to ignore. Rather than acknowledging the reckless play that earned her suspension, Thomas immediately shifted the focus to herself, portraying her punishment, rather than the hit on Clark, as the real injustice. It's a curious defense from one of the WNBA's most physical players, whose reputation has long been built on imposing her will and delivering punishing contact. SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM CALLS OUT WNBA REFS FOR NOT PROTECTING CAITLIN CLARK AFTER STARTING FIGHT TO PROTECT HER The comments also underscore the debate over how Clark has been officiated and protected. For months, Clark has absorbed hard fouls, excessive contact and increasingly dangerous plays while the league has struggled to respond consistently to physical play involving the player responsible for driving its biggest television audiences, attendance figures and surge in popularity. Yet when one of the veterans finally receives meaningful discipline, the conversation suddenly pivots away from Clark's safety and toward sympathy for the player who committed the foul. CAITLIN CLARK HARD CONTACT TIMELINE: WNBA'S GROWING HISTORY OF BRUTAL HITS AGAINST THE FACE OF THE SPORT None of that excuses actual threats. But those allegations don't change why Thomas was suspended in the first place. Clark, meanwhile, continues to do what she's done throughout her career ... get up, say little publicly and keep producing despite becoming the league's biggest target, absorbing the kind of physical treatment few superstars in professional sports would be expected to endure while driving record television ratings, attendance and unprecedented interest in the WNBA. Thomas had every opportunity to acknowledge the play warranted discipline. Instead, she chose to cast herself as the victim. Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4451dcc2ca79de23625c87 Thousands of police deployed across South Africa as deadly anti-immigration protests spread to multiple cities te 2026-06-30T23:31:40.313Z Thousands of police deployed across South Africa as deadly anti-immigration protests spread to multiple cities Thousands of police officers were deployed across South Africa after large-scale protests against illegal immigration erupted Tuesday, with destructive clashes spreading across multiple cities. The unrest, involving thousands of protesters, broke out ahead of a June 30 deadline set by some organizers demanding the departure of all illegal migrants, according to Reuters. The marches reportedly drew thousands of mostly poor or unemployed South Africans, who say foreign migrants have taken jobs by accepting lower wages while also fueling higher crime rates. At least four people have been killed as violence and looting spread across the country, Reuters reported. STATE DEPARTMENT REPORT CONDEMNS SOUTH AFRICA OVER 'EXTRAJUDICIAL KILLINGS' IN ANNUAL HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT The clashes mark the largest migration-related protests since anti-migrant violence erupted in South Africa in 2008. While thousands of foreign nationals from other African countries had already fled ahead of Tuesday’s so-called deadline, tensions have remained high, Reuters said. Multiple businesses and properties were vandalized in several areas, according to reports. In anticipation of further attacks, many shops reportedly closed, with foreign workers staying home. Landlords in Durban and Johannesburg also evicted foreign tenants illegally to avoid further trouble, witnesses alleged. Reuters added that 100 Congolese nationals were reported sleeping on the streets of Durban.   SOUTH AFRICA'S HIGH VIOLENCE AND LAND DEBATES CLASH WITH WESTERN MEDIA VIEWS While many marches were considered peaceful, police reported that they arrested several looters and fired rubber bullets to disperse crowds. National broadcaster SABC added that protesters looted shacks belonging to foreign nationals in the Soweto township.  In Thembisa, a suburb of Johannesburg, rioters reportedly threw stones at police and suspected migrants, with witnesses saying sporadic gunfire was heard. STATE DEPT SAYS G20 BOYCOTT TIED TO SOUTH AFRICA’S ‘GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED DISCRIMINATION’ AGAINST AFRIKANERS Police deployed tactical vehicles and fired shots in Benoni, east of Johannesburg, after being confronted by a group of roughly 500 protesters, Daily Maverick reported.  Thousands of police officers have been deployed nationwide, while the military was placed on standby, a defense spokesperson said in a statement.  "To those who intend to break the law tomorrow, our message is simple: do not test the resolve of the State," Lt. Gen. Tebello Mosikili said.  The "March and March" group, one of the more prominent organizations behind the unrest, addressed the violence, saying it cannot be held responsible for spontaneous incidents breaking out during the demonstrations.   "Unfortunately, we can't be in every single community telling them ... how to behave," Jacinta Ngobese, leader of the March and March group, told Reuters two weeks ago.  Ngobese said the group plans to hold weekly marches until its demands are met, despite the government rejecting the deadline and saying only authorities can enforce immigration laws. "For ​the next six months, we are asking for our national resources to be used to take the illegal immigrants out of this country. From building to building -- they ​must go," Ngobese said, according to ZimLive. Despite South Africa’s high unemployment rate, the country remains Africa’s largest economy and continues to draw migrants. The immigrant population stands at about 3 million, or roughly 4% of the total, according to StatsSA. Reuters contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4451c8c2ca79de23625be5 Republican Party to host historic midterm convention in Dallas, Trump announces on Truth Social te 2026-06-30T23:31:20.143Z Republican Party to host historic midterm convention in Dallas, Trump announces on Truth Social President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday to announce the Republican Party will host its very first "Midterm Convention" this fall in Texas. The two-day event, scheduled to take center stage on Sept. 9 and Sept. 10 in Dallas, aims to celebrate the "great American comeback" and highlight the ongoing achievements of the administration's America First Agenda, the president said. "It will be in Dallas, Texas — One of my favorite places in the World," Trump wrote in the announcement. "It has never been done before, and will be a truly Historic Event." MIDTERM ALARM BELLS: DEMOCRATS FACE STEEP FAVORABILITY DEFICIT DESPITE ELECTION GAINS In his post, the president touted a list of policy victories and economic milestones that will serve as the focal point of the convention, including eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, as well as securing stronger borders and safer communities. BIDEN JUDGE OVERRULED ON KEY TRUMP IMMIGRATION POLICY He also highlighted American energy dominance alongside dropping oil prices, progress on denuclearizing Iran, and driving affordability for Americans. "We are delivering on the promises that politicians talked about for decades, but never got done," Trump wrote. The president said the "rally like none other," will feature "lots of great entertainment" and spotlight the nation's first responders, innovators, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and job creators. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4451b4c2ca79de23625b4c Investing in prodigy Jackson Koivun and four other golfers at the 2026 John Deere Classic te 2026-06-30T23:31:00.688Z Investing in prodigy Jackson Koivun and four other golfers at the 2026 John Deere Classic We are officially in the closing stretch of the PGA TOUR 2026 season, with last week's Travelers Championship being the final "signature event" of the year. This week, the TOUR heads to Silvis, Illinois, aka the Quad Cities, for the 2026 John Deere Classic at TPC Deere Run. This is a relatively soft field since most of the best players on TOUR are skipping this tournament to get ready for the next two weeks overseas for the Genesis Scottish Open and golf's final major, The 154th Open Championship in England. Historically, the John Deere has been a showcase for up-and-coming stars, longshots and veterans. Jordan Spieth became the youngest PGA TOUR champion when he won the 2013 John Deere at 19-years-old and won it again in 2015. Bryson DeChambeau won his first PGA TOUR event here as well. JORDAN SPIETH SAYS GAMBLING IS FUELING ROWDY GOLF CROWDS AND WANTS THE SPORT TO ADDRESS IT SOON That said, I'm leading my 2026 John Deere Classic card with one of the best amateur golfers ever making his first start as a full-time TOUR pro. Otherwise, I'm allocating 2.46 units (u) on my five outrights and 1.25u on their top-fives "including ties." Here's who I'm riding with at TPC Deere Run. The following odds are based on my previous bets on the golfers listed below. Subject to change. 🇺🇸 Jackson Koivun +2700 (0.74u) and Top-5 with ties +530 (0.25u), both at DraftKings 🇺🇸 Jacob Bridgeman +3300 at BetMGM (0.61u) and Top-5 with ties +573 at Kalshi (0.25u) 🇰🇷 Tom Kim +3500 at DraftKings (0.57u) and Top-5 with ties +755 at Kalshi (0.25u) 🇺🇸 Denny McCarthy +6566 (0.30u) and Top-5 with ties +1073 (0.25u), both at Kalshi 🇦🇷 Emiliano Grillo +8400 (0.24u) at DraftKings and Top-5 with ties +1240 at Kalshi (0.25u) This is Koivun’s first start as a full-time PGA TOUR pro, earning his status through the PGA TOUR University’s accelerated program. He is the first golfer ever to win all four collegiate awards this year while playing for Auburn. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Koivun has made the cut in eight of his 10 PGA TOUR events, including T23, and the low amateur score at the 2026 U.S. Open with Ryder Cowan his last time out, T4 at the 2025 Procore Championship, T5 at the 2026 Wyndham Championship, T6 at the ISCO Championship (an alternate event) and T11 at last year’s John Deere. He has gained strokes with his driver in those five starts, and he has gained strokes with the putter in eight straight tournaments with ShotLink data. It would be insane for Koivun to win his first tournament as a full-time pro, but he is a generational talent, and that’s good enough to get my money in this god-awful field. If the John Deere were in April, Bridgeman’s odds would be shorter than +2000. He looked like the GOAT to start the season, finishing T18-or-better in the first eight events of 2026, featuring a win at The Genesis Invitational and a T5 at THE PLAYERS Championship. After struggling since The Masters, Bridgeman finished T11 at the RBC Canadian Open and T39 at the U.S. Open in his past two starts. His putter cooled off, but he is still second in Strokes Gained (SG): Putting on TOUR this year. Bridgeman picked up 4.58 strokes on the greens at Shinnecock for the U.S. Open, which has some of the toughest green complexes in the world. Last year, he tied for fifth at the John Deere while gaining strokes across the board: Driving, on approach, around-the-green and putting. Finally, most of the approach shots at TPC Deere Run are from 100-150 yards, and Bridgeman has been dialed in with his wedges this season. He ranks ninth on TOUR this year in proximity to the hole on approach shots from 100-125 yards and 12th in the 125-150-yard range.  These odds are disrespectful. There is no way Eric Cole, Pierceson Coody and Michael Thorbjornsen should have better odds to win the John Deere. None of those guys have won on the PGA TOUR, whereas Kim has three wins, and he is younger than all of them. Coming off a T15 at the RBC Canadian Open and a third at the U.S. Open in his last two starts, Kim is starting to look like the player who burst onto the scene with two wins in his first six months on TOUR. Over the last 20 rounds, Kim leads the field in SG: Approach, per Bet The Number. The 24-year-old has gained strokes on the greens in four of his last five starts, and he is one of the most accurate drivers on TOUR. Based on this weak field, his lead-in form and resume, Kim's odds should be lower than +3000. Even though it's been a down year for McCarthy, I'm taking a flier on him because of his strong course history. He finished T11 in last year's John Deere Classic, T7 in 2024, T6 in 2023 and T6 in 2022. McCarthy was one of the top five betting favorites in the last four John Deere Classics. His shortest closing odds over that span were +1550 in 2023 when he was the betting favorite. TPC Deere Run is an easy tee-to-green test and a "birdie fest," so you have to make putts. McCarthy is one of the best putters on TOUR and pounds fairways when he is playing well. He has gained strokes on the field in driving accuracy and putting in six of his seven John Deere Classics. McCarthy showed some life last week, finishing T14 at the Travelers Championship and gaining strokes across the board vs. a star-studded field. If he builds off last week's performance, McCarthy's odds shouldn't be four times higher this year than the previous four, given how well he plays at TPC Deere Run. The Argentinian’s juju is probably solid because his native country is the reigning World Cup champion and has a realistic chance of going back-to-back this summer. In his three career John Deere Classics, Grillo lost in a playoff to Brian Campbell last year, missed the cut in 2023, and tied for second in 2022. Grillo missed the cut two years ago while carding a -2, so it wasn’t like he played that badly. TPC Deere Run strongly favors driving accuracy over distance, and Grillo has gained strokes on the field in driving accuracy in 11 consecutive starts, according to DataGolf.com. He finished T20 at the RBC Canadian Open and a respectable T23 at the U.S. Open in his last two outings. Again, this is a weak field; Grillo is a two-time PGA TOUR winner, and he is coming into the John Deere in decent form. Hence, Grillo has more win equity than his +8400 odds indicate. _____________________________ Follow me on X @Geoffery-Clark, and check out my "OutKick Bets Podcast" for more betting content and random rants. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44518dc2ca79de23625a7c 10-Year-Old Boy Charged With First-Degree Murder in Shooting of Infant Niece te 2026-06-30T23:30:21.781Z 10-Year-Old Boy Charged With First-Degree Murder in Shooting of Infant Niece The boy shot his 7-month-old niece at a St. Louis home with a firearm that had been kept under a mattress, the police said. The baby’s father, who owned the weapon, has also been charged. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444d7fc2ca79de236259e5 MAGNET seizes nearly 3-ounces of powdered fentanyl in traffic stop te 2026-06-30T23:13:03.343Z MAGNET seizes nearly 3-ounces of powdered fentanyl in traffic stop BULLHEAD CITY — A traffic stop resulted in the seizure of about $8,000 in street-value of powdered fentanyl. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444d6bc2ca79de236259dc STEPHEN MILLER.JPG te 2026-06-30T23:12:43.324Z STEPHEN MILLER.JPG Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444d2cc2ca79de2362599b Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding of the year: Everything we know so far te 2026-06-30T23:11:40.855Z Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding of the year: Everything we know so far Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are gearing up to host the wedding of the year. In the days leading up, new reports, rumors and conspiracies have bubbled — so we're taking a look at everything we do know. Swift and Kelce have not confirmed anything about their wedding, but fan theories began to run wild shortly after they announced their engagement in a joint Instagram post in August 2025. Swift and Kelce first sparked dating rumors in 2023 after the Kansas City Chiefs tight end revealed that he had unsuccessfully tried to give the pop superstar a friendship bracelet during her Eras Tour stop in Kansas City. The pair later confirmed their romance when Swift began attending Chiefs games and cheering Kelce on from the stands. On Tuesday, Page Six reported that Swift's private plane landed in the New York area – just days before she is set to tie the knot. The outlet reported that Swift landed in Morristown, New Jersey, not too far from Madison Square Garden.  Below is a look at everything we know about the upcoming wedding. TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE WEDDING SPECULATION IS NARROWING FAST AS VENUE RUMORS FOCUS ON RHODE ISLAND, MSG Multiple outlets have reported that Swift and Kelce are set to tie the knot on July 3. The New York Times published an article that stated a permit application was filed to close the streets outside Madison Square Garden from July 2 until July 4. The outlet also reported that Kelce's Kansas City Chiefs teammates had made hotel accommodations at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square around July 3. Winick Productions also allegedly filed a permit with New York City's Street Activity Permit Office to set up a tent or canopy outside MSG. The prominent event planning company has produced large-scale red carpet events, according to The New York Times. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS A source told TMZ this week that wedding invitations began being mailed out in the spring, but a location for the event was not disclosed. "It simply lists New York City as the location and July 3 as the date," a source told TMZ. There has not been a confirmed guest list for Swift and Kelce's wedding, however, there are many reports circling about who received a coveted invite. A source told Fox News Digital that the wedding is expected to host 1,000 guests, and for the star players, many of them are described as "high profile" and "VIP" by the NYPD. About 100 people were invited to a rehearsal dinner that will also take place at the Garden an evening before the big day, the source said. Ed Sheeran, San Francisco 49ers player George Kittle, Jason and Kylie Kelce, Suki Waterhouse, and Graham Norton have all spoken out about attending the festivities. A source told People magazine on Tuesday that Kate Middleton and Prince William will not be attending the wedding, ending months of speculation. PRINCE WILLIAM SAYS HE'S 'HOPING' FOR AN INVITE TO TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE'S WEDDING Page Six previously reported that Miles Teller and his wife, Keleigh Sperry, did not receive an invitation after having a falling out with Swift. The outlet also shared that Swift's former close friend, model Karlie Kloss, also did not get an invitation. Swift's inner circle — Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid and Zoë Kravitz — have been rumored to make up her bridal party. According to Harper's Bazaar, Hadid and Gomez are the only two women confirmed to be among Swift's bridal party. "Queer Eye" star Antoni Porowski, one of Swift's close friends, gave a strange answer when asked if he is planning on attending the wedding. TAYLOR SWIFT’S UNUSUAL WEDDING GIFT RULE IGNITES ETIQUETTE DEBATE: 'HONOR THEIR WISHES' "They’re getting married?" Porowski responded to Andy Cohen's question on "Watch What Happens Live." "I should really send some flowers or some kind of a congratulations," he added. Cohen then replied, "And because he didn’t answer your question, that means he is going." Kittle shared an interesting tidbit about the upcoming wedding while attending the Tight Ends & Friends concert. Speaking to ExtraTV, the NFL player confirmed he was attending the wedding and was told not to bring a gift. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "They said absolutely no gifts. But I was thinking, Travis, for some reason, really likes old coins, so I might get him an old coin," Kittle shared. TMZ reported on Monday that Kelce and Swift took drastic measures to keep the details of their wedding from the public. The outlet shared that the couple's wedding invitations were all individually watermarked with the guests' initials, so if an image of the invite surfaced online, they would know who leaked it. According to the New York Times, Swift's engagement ring was designed by Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry in New York. Swift's diamond, which was seen being flashed on Instagram during the announcement, appears to be a bezel-set diamond on a gold band. A jeweler told the outlet that the diamond looks to be between seven and nine carats and could have cost Kelce anywhere from $250,000 to $500,000. New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke about the upcoming wedding during a press conference about the heat wave that is occurring on the East Coast. "My recommendation to all New Yorkers is to stay inside and stay cool. And if you happen to be getting married at Madison Square Garden, you will be staying inside and you will be staying cool," Mamdani joked. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444d05c2ca79de2362598a Trump Had a Billion-Dollar Windfall After Returning to the White House te 2026-06-30T23:11:01.439Z Trump Had a Billion-Dollar Windfall After Returning to the White House The release of a mandatory financial disclosure for 2025 shows that the Trump family’s holdings, particularly the president’s crypto businesses, were stunningly lucrative. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444cf1c2ca79de23625981 After a Tap Heard in Rubble, U.S. Rescue Teams Begin a Grueling Marathon te 2026-06-30T23:10:41.972Z After a Tap Heard in Rubble, U.S. Rescue Teams Begin a Grueling Marathon Surrounded by the devastation of Venezuela’s earthquakes, emergency specialists from California, Virginia and Florida work with locals to search for survivors. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444cdec2ca79de23625959 Startup Battlefield Australia application closes in days: Apply before July 6 te 2026-06-30T23:10:22.015Z Startup Battlefield Australia application closes in days: Apply before July 6 What if one pitch changed everything? The next company nobody has heard of yet is building something that will matter. It could be yours. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444ad9c2ca79de23625944 Drugs pic.jpg.jpg te 2026-06-30T23:01:45.531Z Drugs pic.jpg.jpg Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444a9bc2ca79de23625922 White House budget director advocates more funding for own agency, cuts for others te 2026-06-30T23:00:43.069Z White House budget director advocates more funding for own agency, cuts for others White House budget director Russell Vought speaks with reporters inside the U.S. Capitol on July 15, 2025. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom) WASHINGTON — White House budget director Russ Vought testified before a U.S. House panel Tuesday that his agency needs lawmakers to increase its annual budget, even though he hasn’t spent much of the $100 million Republicans approved in their “big, beautiful” law. That earlier funding, he said, is intended to help the agency keep track of fraud throughout the federal government and to oversee a substantial increase to the annual defense budget should Congress agree to provide the $1.5 trillion requested.  “That would be one of those portfolios that we feel like we have nowhere near the number of (full-time employees) to be able to provide accountability for,” Vought said of the proposed defense budget. “And we are trying to invest in tools that would allow us to use technology to do OMB’s work better.” The Office of Management and Budget, the agency’s official title, would then use the increase in its annual funding level to update a computer system, provide security and pay rent in two locations while it moves office space. OMB asked Congress to approve $146.1 million in its annual spending bill, which is supposed to become law before the start of the next fiscal year on Oct. 1. That would represent a 13.3% increase compared to its current funding level if both chambers agree to match the request.  The $100 million that Republicans provided OMB in their “big, beautiful” law last year is in addition to the agency’s annual budget.  Vought testified during a hearing before the House Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee the agency hopes to increase the number of full-time employees from about 500 to 675. Whether other agencies will be able to bolster their funding levels and staffing will be up to their directors, Vought said.  Proposed cuts across departments The Trump administration’s fiscal 2027 budget request asked Congress to cut domestic spending by 10% and increase defense spending to $1.5 trillion, a $445 billion increase. The proposal envisions cuts to spending across several departments, including Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Interior, Labor and State.  Lawmakers from both political parties pressed Vought about staff reductions and funding cuts throughout the federal government, some of which were carried out by the U.S. Doge Service.  New York Republican Rep. Nick LaLota asked why OMB allowed staffing at the World Trade Center Health Program to drop from 93 to 84 employees, despite it being approved for 120 people.  “There were delays reported in claims of processing, treatment authorizations and enrollment appeals,” LaLota said. “For a program serving 9/11 first responders and survivors, what should have OMB’s early warning indications have been that those staffing levels were dropping to dangerously low levels that would impede their ability to deliver on this important mission?” Vought testified OMB was unaware of the issues at the program.  “OMB does not have this all-encompassing view of what is happening across the entire federal government,” he said. “We are a nerve center, I would agree with that, but we do not have the ability to know everything that is happening in the agencies.” Screwworm and foreign aid Georgia Democratic Rep. Sanford Bishop asked Vought a series of questions about whether cuts to staff at the USDA had an impact on the New World screwworm, which had resurfaced in the United States after six decades without a case.   “We don’t believe that this issue is under-resourced,” Vought said. “We believe that USDA has everything it needs to both create a long-term capability here and also find as many shots on goal to be able to deal with this in real time for farmers.” Wisconsin Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan pressed Vought repeatedly during a tense exchange about whether cuts to foreign aid programs, including those at the U.S. Agency for International Development, led to deaths. Vought said “there is nothing about those studies that has caused us to think differently about” the Trump administration’s approach to foreign aid spending.   Pocan asked Vought whether he believes it’s morally or ethically wrong “to facilitate the death of children.” Vought responded he doesn’t believe the Trump administration’s actions have led to that and that the United States provides “adequate foreign aid.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4448ccc2ca79de236258a6 Arizona moves forward with HCR 2003 as Supreme Court upholds state bans on transgender athletes te 2026-06-30T22:53:00.713Z Arizona moves forward with HCR 2003 as Supreme Court upholds state bans on transgender athletes PHOENIX – Arizona lawmakers hailed a U.S. Supreme Court decision on Tuesday that upheld state laws barring transgender girls and women from playing on school athletic teams. Proponents say the ruling serves as a sought-after validation of efforts by Idaho and West Virginia to enact similar policies, despite attempts from faith leaders, parents and advocacy groups to escalate a lawsuit challenging Arizona’s proposed ballot measure.  Those critics of Arizona’s ballot measure argue that the ruling could not only lead to the harassment, exploitation and bullying of girls, but also distract from underlying issues in the state’s education system. The ruling in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox affirms that states may define athletic eligibility based on biological sex. The Court’s majority wrote that “the States argue – and the Court agrees – that the interests of safety and competitive fairness are important interests for purposes of equal protection analysis.” It also held that “schools may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ sports based on biological sex.” In another passage, the Court emphasized that Title IX’s regulations require “equal athletic opportunity for members of both sexes.”  Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen, who helped champion the Legislature’s involvement in the case, called the decision “a win for common sense and, more importantly, a win for girls,” in a statement released on Tuesday. Arizona lawmakers positioned themselves at center of national fight Petersen and Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro filed an amicus brief last year urging the justices to uphold West Virginia’s and Idaho’s Save Women’s Sports Acts. To further advance the states’ support of the two laws, Petersen even traveled to Washington for oral arguments alongside West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey and Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador. “Every young woman deserves the opportunity to compete on a level playing field and earn a roster spot, a championship, a record or a scholarship based on her hard work,” Petersen said. “Girls shouldn’t have to lose those opportunities because adults are afraid to acknowledge biological reality. That’s not fairness, and it’s not what Title IX was created to do.” Petersen further emphasized his support for the cause. “Arizona has been leading on this issue for years, and we were proud to stand with West Virginia and Idaho before the U.S. Supreme Court to defend girls’ sports. Today’s decision makes it clear that states can continue protecting the integrity of women’s athletics and the opportunities generations of women fought so hard to secure.” The Court’s ruling, Petersen said, provides “important legal certainty” for Arizona and other states with similar laws. Arizona’s ballot measure: HCR 2003 The decision arrives as Arizona lawmakers advance HCR 2003, the Protect Girls’ Sports in Arizona Act, a ballot referral that would require K‑12 schools and athletic associations to designate sports teams as male, female or coeducational based on biological sex listed on original birth certificates. As a result, female teams would be closed to biological males. The House passed the measure 32–25 on Feb. 23. The Senate approved it on June 12, meaning voters will now decide on the proposal on the November general election ballot. Sponsored by Rep. Selina Bliss, HCR 2003 also includes privacy rules prohibiting schools from allowing students to use restrooms, locker rooms or showers not aligned with their biological sex. If passed, those provisions would take effect Jan. 1, 2027. Bliss said the measure restores clarity after the Ninth Circuit partially blocked Arizona’s 2022 Save Women’s Sports Act. “Today the House acted to protect fair competition for girls across Arizona,” Bliss said in February. “Women’s sports were created because biological differences matter. When those differences are ignored, girls lose roster spots, scholarships and opportunities they earned. HCR 2003 gives voters the chance to protect female athletes and establish clear, durable rules for schools.” She further highlighted what the act entails, and its effects, should voters enact it into law. “Court rulings have created uncertainty for schools and families,” Bliss said. “This referral allows Arizona voters to decide whether girls’ sports should remain for girls. It protects privacy in locker rooms and showers and restores clarity statewide.” The measure allows athletes to participate on teams aligned with their biological sex or on coeducational teams. It also prohibits accrediting bodies or athletic associations from penalizing schools that maintain female‑only teams while creating a private cause of action for athletes who lose opportunities or suffer harm due to violations. Furthermore, it protects whistleblowers from retaliation, and it applies to public and qualifying private K‑12 schools. A split inside Arizona government Arizona’s Save Women’s Sports Act has been the subject of ongoing litigation, and when the law was challenged in Doe v. Petersen, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes declined to defend it. Petersen intervened on behalf of the Arizona State Legislature, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has separately continued defending the law. Horne said he has spent “education money” to continue the defense after Mayes refused to represent him. “The newspapers are full of stories about girls who worked really hard hoping to make the team or maybe even get a college scholarship,” Horne said. “And then they come against a biological male who was born with better muscles and better all kinds of physical strength. And they’re devastated. It’s a terrible blow to them. And it’s not fair. It’s completely unfair.” Arizona Interscholastic Association records show that out of roughly 170,000 high school athletes statewide, they received approximately 16 requests from transgender students to participate between 2017 and 2022. Meanwhile, from a national perspective, NCAA leadership has stated that out of more than 500,000 college student-athletes, fewer than 10 transgender athletes are participating in NCAA sports.  Horne said allowing transgender athletes to compete would defy the purpose of Title IX. “It’s contrary to Title IX, which was supposed to make it so girls could participate in sports and excel in sports just the same as boys,” Horne told Cronkite News. “When you have biological boys participating, that disappears.” Horne said biological males have an advantage “even prior to puberty,” citing expert testimony.  “Anybody who’s hung around an elementary school playground knows it,” he said. He also criticized Mayes for not representing him.  “Two large New York law firms sued us, three of the defendants conceded, and I’m the only one who fought it. The attorney general should have represented me. That was her duty. She refused to do it.” Faith leaders and Progress Arizona sue to block HCR 2003 On June 22, eight days before the Supreme Court ruling, Valley ministers and the advocacy organization Progress Arizona filed a lawsuit challenging HCR 2003. They argue the measure would harm transgender youth, invite invasive “gender checks” and undermine local control. “Every kid deserves the chance to learn, play and belong, no matter their race, gender or where they come from,” said Alison Marciniak, executive director of Progress Arizona. “But the same politicians invading students’ privacy with unnecessary gender checks, bullying transgender kids off sports teams, and separating immigrant children from their families are also cutting money from our schools to give breaks to their wealthy friends. Arizonans aren’t fooled.” Marciniak said the measure distracts from broader education issues. “We can see when politicians are trying to play us against each other to distract from what they’re really doing,” she said. The group rallied the same evening of the filing at Title 9 Sports Grill, a bar in Phoenix that prioritizes women’s sports. Tempe parent Paul Schneider said the measure could lead to harassment of girls. “We should want more young people to play sports, but a blanket ban on transgender kids would invite anyone to call for a ‘gender check’ on any girl who wants to play sports if they think she is ‘too tall’ or ‘too strong,’” Schneider said. “Local schools and sports associations should be handling this issue, not politicians.” Rev. Sarah Oglesby‑Dunegan said the measure sends harmful messages to children. “I’m here as a faith leader and as a parent – as someone who holds the value of each human in our communities as inherently worthy,” she said. “We are facing a moment where we are making decisions that will either expand or limit human flourishing. Our kids are smart. When they see us bully someone, they wonder when they will be next.” Schneider closed the opposition rally with a call to action for Arizona’s politicians.  “All kids should be able to be on a team without fear of strangers subjecting them to forced inspections,” he said. Let’s call this what it is: bullying. Arizonans aren’t going to let kids be bullied by politicians.” What the Supreme Court ruling means for Arizona The ruling does not resolve Arizona’s ongoing litigation, nor does it determine the fate of HCR 2003, but it reshapes the legal landscape in which both will unfold.  Supporters say the decision strengthens the legal footing of Arizona’s proposed ballot measure while opponents say it heightens the urgency of their lawsuit and their campaign to defeat the measure. Ultimately, the decision is in the hands of Arizona voters to decide whether to adopt the Arizona Legislature’s proposed restrictions, even as litigation continues and national standards evolve. The post Arizona moves forward with HCR 2003 as Supreme Court upholds state bans on transgender athletes appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44488ec2ca79de23625873 Dave Portnoy claims 'Call Her Daddy' hosts planned false sexual harassment allegations to exit contracts te 2026-06-30T22:51:58.761Z Dave Portnoy claims 'Call Her Daddy' hosts planned false sexual harassment allegations to exit contracts Barstool founder Dave Portnoy said former "Call Her Daddy" co-hosts Alex Cooper and Sofia Franlyn planned to falsely claim they were sexually harassed at the company in order to get out of their contracts.  "Call Her Daddy" quickly emerged as a wildly popular podcast when it was launched by Barstool in 2018. Cooper and Franklyn, who were also roommates, lured young female audiences with first-hand tales of their sexual experiences and dating lives until contract negotiations and a feud between the co-hosts caused a public breakup in 2020.  In Portnoy’s new book, "Cancel Me If You Can," he wrote that Cooper was happy with an offer that would allow the co-hosts to keep their intellectual property, but Franklyn wanted to leave Barstool altogether.  "’Okay,’ I said. ‘You guys realize I’ll sue you if you take the podcast to another network before your contract is out, right?’ Alex claimed to me that they had a plan to say they were both sexually harassed at Barstool," Portnoy wrote. DAVE PORTNOY LEFT 'STUNNED' BY NYC SOCIALIST VICTORIES, SAYS THE AMERICAN DREAM IS UNDER SIEGE "That was it," he continued. "That was their game plan to get out of their contractual obligation to Barstool Sports in the event that I did not relinquish their IP to them and wish them well on their merry way as they jumped ship to a rival podcast network." Portnoy, who has been accused of misogyny throughout his career, added that he has "never been accused of inappropriate workplace conduct." "But had they decided to go that route, even though it was patently untrue, it would have been a tough fight for us to win in the court of public opinion. Nobody would have believed my side of the story," Portnoy wrote. "I realize that this is a heavy accusation I just made: how Call Her Daddy was allegedly planning to break their contract with us by lying about sexual harassment at Barstool." DAVE PORTNOY CELEBRATES NOT LIVING IN NYC AFTER DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MAMDANI'S MAYORAL WIN Cooper and Franklyn did not immediately respond to a request for comment.  Portnoy also sat down with the WSJ Magazine to promote his book and explained that retaining talent like Cooper and Franklyn is difficult if other companies are offering more money.  "In practice, it’s not always so smooth. Cooper, he claims, told him she and Franklyn had a plan to say they were sexually harassed at Barstool to get out of their contract," WSJ senior writer Joshua Chaffin wrote. MEET THE BARSTOOL PERSONALITY WHO DELIVERS VIRAL NEWSCASTS BY ‘JOURNALISMING’ CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "The dirty little secret nobody else knew about… the girls hated each other," Portnoy told Chaffin.  Chaffin then moved on, noting that "Cooper and Franklyn didn’t respond to requests for comment."  Cooper ended up staying at Barstool for long enough to keep her IP and then took "Call Her Daddy" to Spotify for a massive contract that reportedly paid her $20 million per year. Franklyn now hosts her own podcast, "Sofia with an F." Fox News Digital's David Rutz contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44487bc2ca79de2362586a EXCLUSIVE: New York woman who wished 'every day were Oct. 7' charged with funding Palestinian terror group te 2026-06-30T22:51:39.300Z EXCLUSIVE: New York woman who wished 'every day were Oct. 7' charged with funding Palestinian terror group FIRST ON FOX: A New York woman accused of leading a radical extremist group and posing with hand grenades in front of a Hamas flag has been arrested after allegedly funneling tens of thousands of dollars to a Palestinian terrorist organization. Catherine Beth Washburn, 37, of Irondequoit, a suburb of Rochester, is charged with attempting to provide material support to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Washburn was the leader of the Direct Action Movement for Palestinian Liberation (DAMPL), a radical organization formed in the wake of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, according to the Justice Department. The federal complaint noted that DAMPL rejects peaceful protests, opting instead for "direct action," including property destruction and acts of sabotage against entities it associates with Israel. FBI ARRESTS 4 ALLEGED MEMBERS OF RADICAL PRO-PALESTINIAN GROUP ACCUSED OF PLOTTING NEW YEAR’S EVE BOMBINGS Communications recovered by the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force revealed messages to a person claiming to be an active PIJ fighter in Gaza, where Washburn allegedly said she hated Jewish people "very much" and wished Israel "would disappear." "I wish every day were October 7th," Washburn is accused of writing in one exchange. "If I lived in Gaza, I would fight alongside the resistance." Later, she allegedly said she felt "excited every time I see news of the killing of an occupation soldier." MAN LINKED TO HAMAS ATTACK ON ISRAEL INDICTED IN LOUISIANA FOR CONSPIRING TO SUPPORT TERRORIST GROUP MAN LINKED TO HAMAS ATTACK ON ISRAEL INDICTED IN LOUISIANA FOR CONSPIRING TO SUPPORT TERRORIST GROUP U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo said Washburn went to "great lengths" to finance violence, driven by "her self-described hate of Israel and Jewish people." Financial records show she sent roughly 80 cryptocurrency transfers totaling more than $30,000 to an account used by the PIJ fighter. In a November 2025 message, she allegedly joked about the illicit activities, writing, "Based on my passed [sic] fundraising and posting Im [sic] gonna get put away for a few life times," accompanied by a laughing emoji. FBI Counterterrorism Division Acting Assistant Director Coult Markovsky said anyone who provides assistance to violent organizations will be held responsible. "This individual, as alleged in the criminal complaint, provided money to a foreign terrorist organization engaged in acts of violence," Markovsky said. "The FBI is committed to cutting off funding to terrorist groups and will continue to work side-by-side with our Justice Department partners to make sure anyone who engages in terrorism or provides assistance to such organizations is held fully accountable in our justice system." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444854c2ca79de23625851 Advocacy groups sue to kick GOP’s controversial last-minute referrals off Arizona ballot te 2026-06-30T22:51:00.393Z Advocacy groups sue to kick GOP’s controversial last-minute referrals off Arizona ballot Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444840c2ca79de23625848 'An exercise in uncertainty': Extreme heat limits Tucson's outdoor festivals te 2026-06-30T22:50:40.930Z 'An exercise in uncertainty': Extreme heat limits Tucson's outdoor festivals Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44482cc2ca79de23625827 Marana, Oro Valley adopt divergent 2026-27 budgets te 2026-06-30T22:50:20.970Z Marana, Oro Valley adopt divergent 2026-27 budgets Marana and Oro Valley have adopted their final budgets for fiscal year 2026-27, with the two neighboring municipalities taking markedly different approaches. Marana's $560.2 million budget is up $144 million from last year, driven largely by capital projects, while Oro Valley's $128 million budget is down $23.5 million. Marana passed its budget, which focused on capital outlay, at its June 16 town council meeting. Oro Valley passed its budget at a town council meeting the next day, while also authorizing the collection of a 2.5% use tax on local businesses. Capital outlay, which covers purchasing, maintaining and upgrading land and infrastructure, accounts for $400.2 million, or 72% of Marana's total budget, according to Finance Director Yiannis Kalaitzidis, who said the budget was not altered from the preliminary version council members approved in May. Councilmember Herb Kai did not attend the meeting, but the remaining six council members unanimously approved the budget. The council then held a short public hearing during which Kalaitzidis summarized the final budget. "A lot of road infrastructure and a lot of utility projects are included in this budget," Kalaitzidis said. The town's projected revenues for the 2026-27 fiscal year total $491 million. "We continue to put together a budget that reflects the careful allocation of resources and invest in our community and in key areas," Kalaitzidis said. Oro Valley's budget includes a 10-year capital improvement plan and a 1.5% raise to the minimum and maximum pay for town employees. Chief Financial Officer David Gephart told council members the budget reflects a $420,000 net decrease in projected revenues for the General Fund and Highway Fund but made no changes to the expenditure limit or allocation of funds. "Over the course of my time on council … I've come to appreciate the professionalism of our staff, of the seriousness with which they approach the stewardship of taxpayer dollars," said Mayor Joe Winfield. "This budget, in my view, is another example of that commitment." The budget was unanimously approved by the council, which also discussed the addition of a 2.5% use tax to the Oro Valley tax code. The tax had previously been approved Jan. 14 but was invalidated after the Arizona Department of Revenue missed a procedural deadline. Under the new law, local businesses would be taxed 2.5% on any purchases made outside of Oro Valley. Gephart said the tax was intended to level the playing field between local and out-of-state businesses. He also cited annual gas tax revenues outstripping the annual cost of road maintenance as another reason for the change. "The difference between the expenditure growth and revenue growth is about $1.7 million to the negative," Gephart said. The council's response was mixed. Vice Mayor Melanie Barrett, who had previously voted against the tax in January, said she wanted to wait until an operational efficiency audit had been completed before approving a new tax. Winfield and three other council members voted in favor. "This is a standard provision used by nearly every municipality in our region," he said. "It promotes fairness, supports local businesses, and provides modest additional revenue to help maintain the (city's) services." The use tax passed 4-3. Benjamin DePue is a University of Arizona student and Tucson Spotlight intern. Contact him at bdepue@arizona.edu. Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4445e7c2ca79de236257db Talarico Seizes on Paxton Tabloid Story to Test Corruption Attacks in Texas Senate Race te 2026-06-30T22:40:39.772Z Talarico Seizes on Paxton Tabloid Story to Test Corruption Attacks in Texas Senate Race After a salacious report about Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee for Senate in Texas, his Democratic rival, James Talarico, seized on the news — but focused on corruption and affordability. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4445d4c2ca79de236257ca Photos: Tucson Samaritans 'flood' remote desert to mark 24 years of helping migrants te 2026-06-30T22:40:20.316Z Photos: Tucson Samaritans 'flood' remote desert to mark 24 years of helping migrants Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4443dec2ca79de23625759 Alex Murdaugh faces state pushback on Maggie DNA testing and prison laptop request te 2026-06-30T22:31:58.388Z Alex Murdaugh faces state pushback on Maggie DNA testing and prison laptop request FIRST ON FOX – South Carolina prosecutors are trying to shut down Alex Murdaugh’s latest push for a new look at evidence in the murders of his wife and son, which includes DNA found under Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails. In new court filings, the state opposed two defense motions from the disgraced former attorney: one seeking independent DNA testing tied to Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails and another asking for Murdaugh to be allowed to review case materials electronically while behind bars. The filings come as Murdaugh’s defense team prepares for a retrial after the South Carolina Supreme Court overturned his murder convictions in May after finding that former Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca "Becky" Hill’s conduct had tainted the jury. ALEX MURDAUGH RETURNS TO COURT AS DEFENSE ARGUES FOR RETRIAL MOVE AFTER CLERK SCANDAL POISONED JURY POOL The DNA fight centers on SLED Item No. 70, identified in court filings as left fingernail clippings from Margaret "Maggie" Murdaugh. Murdaugh’s attorneys have argued the sample contained DNA from an unknown, unrelated male and asked that it be sent to Othram Inc., a forensic genetic genealogy company, for additional testing at Murdaugh’s expense. DNA FROM MYSTERY JUVENILE MALE RAISES QUESTIONS IN CARNIVAL CRUISE MURDER CASE AGAINST TEEN STEPBROTHER Othram Inc. is a renowned Houston-based lab which gained notoriety by helping authorities identify Bryan Kohberger as the suspect in the 2022 quadruple homicide of four University of Idaho students. Prosecutors pushed back hard, saying the evidence has already been tested by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and produced only a mixture of Maggie Murdaugh’s DNA and what the state described as a "very partial and incomplete" profile from another contributor. The unknown profile, prosecutors said, did not contain enough identifying information to be submitted to CODIS, the national DNA database. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST The state also sought to undercut the defense theory that the DNA could point to an unknown suspect, arguing that trace DNA under fingernails does not automatically suggest a struggle with an assailant. Prosecutors said so-called touch DNA can be transferred through casual contact, objects or the environment. They also noted that Maggie Murdaugh had her nails done the day she and her son, Paul, were killed. SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST TRUE CRIME NEWS Prosecutors said Murdaugh’s attorneys have not shown whether the remaining sample is suitable for the testing they want, what an outside lab could do that SLED could not, or how further testing would likely produce useful evidence. The state characterized the request as unsupported and aimed more at "public consumption" than viable forensic evidence. During Murdaugh’s first status hearing on Monday, Judge Debra McCaslin did not rule on the DNA evidence, telling defense attorneys to clarify if the sample was viable. Murdaugh’s team is also fighting for easier access to the massive trove of case materials as it prepares for another courtroom battle. His attorneys had proposed allowing him to use a secure laptop in prison with an encrypted, password-protected hard drive, no internet access and no cellular capabilities. But prosecutors said Murdaugh should not be trusted with unsupervised electronic access in prison, citing prior South Carolina Department of Corrections disciplinary issues involving his misuse of a prison tablet and unauthorized use of another inmate’s PIN. They also pointed to a previous contraband issue during trial involving a book that was allegedly passed to Murdaugh through defense staff and later recovered from his cell. GOT A TIP? Judge McCaslin weighed in on the laptop issue during Monday's hearing, saying that the prison warden would not allow Murdaugh to keep a laptop in his cell due to safety concerns. She suggested that defense attorneys could bring a laptop and review materials within a conference room, but someone must be with him. FOLLOW THE FOX TRUE CRIME TEAM ON X She is expected to decide on the issue at the next pretrial hearing, set for August 14. Fox News Digital has reached out to Murdaugh's defense team for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4443cac2ca79de23625750 Nicole Scherzinger flaunts toned abs in blue bikini during birthday beach vacation te 2026-06-30T22:31:38.933Z Nicole Scherzinger flaunts toned abs in blue bikini during birthday beach vacation Nicole Scherzinger is celebrating her birthday in style. In a recent Instagram post, the singer and actress shared a series of photos from her beach vacation, in celebration of her 48th birthday. "Last day at this age and she was feeling cute at sunset, back home at her fav beach 🥰🩵🤙🏽" she captioned the post. The slideshow featured multiple photos of Scherzinger flaunting her toned abs in a blue bikini, with the ocean waves visible behind her. Sher paired the look with minimal makeup, a pair of dangling earrings and a sunhat to shield her face from the sun. ELIZABETH HURLEY WOWS IN DARING YELLOW STRING BIKINI AS SHE CELEBRATES HER 61ST BIRTHDAY One of the photos show Scherzinger pursing her lips at the camera, while others show her flashing the camera a big smile. "Looking GORGGGG AS ALWAYS 😍💖💋," one fan wrote in the comments section, while another added, "You continue to look young, beautiful to see🫶." A third chimed in with, "This face card and body tea woah ❤️‍🔥." Others wished her a happy birthday, with one writing, "HAPPY BIRTHDAYYYY MOTHER SCHERZY🩷🩷," and another adding, "Happy birthday 🥳 your just not real , looooooking good 👍." Never one to shy away from posting bikini photos, the "When I Grow Up" singer previously shared a few pictures of herself in a black-and-white zebra-print bikini in honor of Earth Day, calling the holiday "a reminder that this planet is not ours to own, but to protect." Scherzinger got her break in the entertainment industry when she competed on the TV reality show, "Popstars," earning a place in the girl group, Eden's Crush in 1999. She later gained international recognition as the lead singer of The Pussycat Dolls. Having been in the industry since the late 90s, Scherzinger has experience balancing her faith with her fame, telling Variety in November 2025, faith often "gets a bad rap." "I think Christianity does get a bad rap, but I think that’s why, if you’re a true Christian, you have to lead by example and be the light," Scherzinger told the outlet. APP USERS CLICK HERE FOR POST These comments came a year after she received backlash online for commenting in support of a video comedian Russell Brand posted on Instagram the day after the 2024 presidential election. In the video, the comedian is wearing a hat which read, "Make Jesus First Again." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS The singer commented on the hat, writing, "Where do I get this hat?!" prompting many to criticize her because Brand’s hat was inspired by President Donald Trump’s "Make America Great Again" slogan. At the time, she wrote, "Many of the marginalized communities feeling hurt and concerned by the results of the presidential election are people I care about most. I stand with them, as I always have throughout my life and career. If you know me, you know that." "For me, Christ embodies peace, compassion, hope, and — above all — unconditional love, especially for those who may feel it the least right now," she added. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4443b7c2ca79de23625747 Sarah Spain is angry and bitter that Christine Brennan would dare defend Caitlin Clark te 2026-06-30T22:31:19.476Z Sarah Spain is angry and bitter that Christine Brennan would dare defend Caitlin Clark Former ESPN host Sarah Spain is upset over a USA Today column by Christine Brennan urging the WNBA to do more to protect Caitlin Clark. "A fist to the throat. That's the picture that has immediately become part of WNBA lore," Brennan began, referring to Alyssa Thomas driving her fist into Clark's throat during a recent game. "In it, Caitlin Clark, the most famous, marketable and important women's professional team sport athlete in history, is being punched by Alyssa Thomas, whose earnings, fame and way of life have all been greatly enhanced over the past couple of years by the woman she is hitting." She continued: "For three seasons now, in ways big and small, the WNBA and its players have continued to show their unabashed jealousy, disdain and outright hatred for the greatest thing to happen to them. "Clark is getting pummeled on a regular basis and WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who was given the greatest gift, in Clark, any women's sports commissioner has ever received, has done precious little about it, until today, kind of, just a little." CAITLIN CLARK HARD CONTACT TIMELINE: WNBA'S GROWING HISTORY OF BRUTAL HITS AGAINST THE FACE OF THE SPORT Brennan's thesis should hardly be considered controversial. She argues that Clark has been the target of more hard fouls and dirty plays than any other player in the WNBA because of jealousy and resentment. Brennan believes the league should prevent the situation from escalating before Clark suffers a serious injury and the WNBA loses its biggest attraction. According to Spain, Brennan making that argument is a "dereliction of duties as a journalist." LET'S HAVE AN HONEST CONVERSATION ABOUT CAITLIN CLARK, RACISM, AND MEDIA COWARDICE | BOBBY BURACK "We would never say the 'NBA hates' fill-in-the-blank," Spain said in a video posted to LinkedIn on Monday. "That's describing every single player in the league as having that opinion and being a part of an agenda. She does that all the time with the WNBA, and it is frankly dereliction of duties as a journalist." Before we proceed, we're also wondering why Spain posted the video on LinkedIn instead of a more traditional social media platform. Strange. Still, Spain has become one of the more miserable personalities in all of sports media, assuming she is still part of the industry. Earlier this year, she made headlines for calling Vice President JD Vance a "demon" who "made her feel ill" after he was seated near her during a Team USA Olympic hockey game. DAKICH: SPORTS MEDIA HAS CREATED AN ‘INDUSTRY’ OUT OF COMPLAINING ABOUT WHITE ATHLETES LIKE CAITLIN CLARK So it's no surprise to see her side against Brennan and Clark. Through no fault of her own, Clark has become part of the culture war. Because many Black players and media members dislike her, many on the left have cast Clark and her fans as villains. This week, Jemele Hill claimed, "The right has found their White Grievance Batman in Caitlin Clark." Naturally, Spain is going to oppose Brennan's defense of Clark. She also may be jealous of Brennan, who, unlike Spain, doesn't seem to feel the need to speak in code or conform to the prevailing opinion. Spain has spent much of her career trying to fit in with the cool kids, limiting the depth and honesty of her commentary. Of course, Brennan is right. The WNBA shouldn't protect Clark because she is its biggest star or give her special treatment. The league should simply enforce the rules the same way it would for every other player. That means not allowing bitter opponents to drive their fists into another player's throat without meaningful consequences. And most common-sensical Americans agree. As a rule, vultures like Spain are a part of the loud minority. Perhaps that's why she is relegated to expressing her rage on Bluesky and LinkedIn. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4443a4c2ca79de2362573e US women Olympians react to historic Supreme Court ruling on the protection of women's sports te 2026-06-30T22:31:00.025Z US women Olympians react to historic Supreme Court ruling on the protection of women's sports The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a historic win to the "Save Women's Sports" movement on Tuesday, ruling 6-3 to uphold state laws that ban biological males from competing with girls and women. The decision was met with celebration by women's sports activists, including several high-profile Olympians. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! "Today’s Supreme Court ruling is a victory for every girl who has ever dreamed of competing at the highest level," O'Brien-Amico told Fox News Digital. "As a three-time Olympic Gold Medalist, I am deeply grateful that I had the opportunity to compete on a level playing field with other biological females. The integrity and safety of women’s sports must be protected in every way. We can continue to find ways to honor the dignity of every person while protecting the spaces that generations of women worked so hard to build." "People from the far left... hopefully they wake up and just realize just how many girls are affected by this. It's a real thing, and I think sometimes it just goes over their head and they don't see what's going on with the girls," Skinner told Fox News Digital. "Women’s sports has changed my life, providing opportunities and a career I couldn’t have got elsewhere. I get to do what I love because people fought to create and protect a space for biological women. The female category was established so biological women can compete on a level playing field," Humphries told Fox News Digital. "Today is a win for the generations of girls that will step on to a field, court, track, or rink. We can now all Dream Big knowing we are safe and have a fair environment to compete in any sport at all levels. It’s a big win for women’s sports in this country." "Today’s decision is a step in the right direction for female fairness & safety in sport! Still, it doesn’t go as far as the UK Supreme Court — it doesn’t define the meaning of 'sex' in law. Allowing 27 states to establish boundaries around female sport categories should give sports governance a sigh of relief; they don’t need to worry about very expensive litigation sucking their resources," Hogshead told Fox News Digital. "But Sport cannot have a state-by-state web of laws. Even age group and Little League athletes travel across state lines. Further, will sport governing bodies award national competitions to states like California, who do not protect females? In short, Democrats aren’t done with this issue impacting elections, power and everything else on their agenda." MARTINA NAVRATILOVA SAYS SHE TRIED TO WARN KAMALA HARRIS' CAMPAIGN ABOUT TRANS ATHLETES: 'NOBODY WOULD LISTEN' "Today the Supreme Court decision upholds the significant role biology plays in the lives of all women.  Safeguarding girls and women’s spaces is just, fair and humane," de Varona told Fox News Digital. "The Supreme Court made the proper decision today, allowing 27 states to continue formally protecting girls’ and women’s sports. Democratic politicians and blue states need to wake up to the biological reality of a female’s sex," Navratilova said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital by Hogshead. "Today’s Supreme Court ruling is inspiring because it recognizes that protecting women as a biological class is not discrimination. It affirms that fairness matters, that reality matters, and that women shouldn’t have to apologize for asking for fair and safe competition. Without Fairness, there is no sport," Uhlaender told Fox News Digital. "Recently, a respected academic and clinician, told me that acknowledging biological sex is discriminatory. They directed me to respected institutions like the American Psychological Association, and I was shocked to find misleading information on it. The APA suggested that the role of testosterone isn’t proven to enhance athletic performance. The causal effects of testosterone on human physiology have been understood for decades. Suggesting otherwise gives the public an inaccurate picture of the science. Things like that have made it incredibly difficult for women to advocate for fairness." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44437cc2ca79de23625708 Grupo de Tucson mapea 20 años de muertes de migrantes en la frontera te 2026-06-30T22:30:20.609Z Grupo de Tucson mapea 20 años de muertes de migrantes en la frontera Leer en inglés Un grupo humanitario con sede en Tucson ha publicado una base de datos que mapea más de dos décadas de muertes de migrantes a lo largo de la frontera del sur de Arizona, incluso cuando las nuevas políticas federales han dificultado el seguimiento de lo que sucede sobre el terreno. La base de datos de muertes de migrantes de No More Deaths se nutre de registros públicos que abarcan desde 2002 hasta abril de 2025. No More Deaths, al igual que muchos grupos de ayuda comunitaria en Tucson, surgió en respuesta a las políticas fronterizas más estrictas de finales de la década de 1990. El grupo comenzó a operar a principios de la década de 2000, pero la mayoría de sus valores fundamentales provienen del Movimiento Santuario de los años 80. La misión del grupo es poner fin a las muertes y el sufrimiento de los migrantes en la frontera, principalmente mediante iniciativas civiles que ayudan a las comunidades a colaborar para garantizar los derechos humanos fundamentales. Su labor de ayuda sobre el terreno incluye dejar alimentos y agua en puntos clave de las rutas, realizar misiones de búsqueda y rescate, y gestionar líneas telefónicas de asistencia para las familias de personas desaparecidas. "No quiero vivir en un mundo donde la gente muere al cruzar fronteras," afirmó Monica Ruiz-House, coordinadora de medios y voluntaria encargada de la organización de datos en No More Deaths. Ruiz-House lleva tres años en el grupo. Ha recorrido miles de millas a pie por el desierto, cuenta con certificación para rutas de senderismo y divide su tiempo entre Tucson y Chicago, donde trabaja como especialista en datos para un colectivo contra las deportaciones. "Hay algo singularmente horrendo e inconcebible en una política fronteriza que daña a las personas de la manera en que yo he visto que sufren," comentó. "Creo que, cuando reconoces que cada persona registrada en nuestra base de datos tiene una historia, un nombre y una familia, se te rompe el corazón; y creo que debería romperse." La base de datos muestra una disminución en las muertes reportadas, señaló, pero los voluntarios continúan buscando y recopilando información, aun cuando las nuevas políticas federales han reducido la actividad visible en la frontera.  El Foco de Tucson forma a la próxima generación de periodistas del sur de Arizona y publica sus trabajos de forma gratuita para todos. Sin muros de pago ni respaldo corporativo, solo lectores que creen que esta comunidad merece mejores noticias locales. Photo caption: La base de datos de No More Deaths mapea las muertes de migrantes a lo largo de la frontera del sur de Arizona desde 2002 hasta abril de 2025, registrando variables como las posibles razones para cruzar, las políticas fronterizas pertinentes y la presencia de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza, CBP por sus siglas en inglés. El proceso de mapeo comienza con voluntarios que realizan búsquedas sobre el terreno y presentan solicitudes de acceso a registros públicos. Cuando se recibe una llamada, la persona que llama suele indicar una ubicación general donde se vio o se tuvo contacto por última vez con su ser querido, y los voluntarios llevan a cabo una búsqueda sistemática por cuadrículas en la zona. Si los voluntarios recuperan el cuerpo de la persona, llaman a la oficina del sheriff correspondiente para gestionar su traslado. Para mapear estos hallazgos, los voluntarios comienzan presentando solicitudes de registros públicos ante los forenses, jueces de paz y médicos legistas del condado. Revisan las notas del caso, que contienen información como la edad, el sexo y una narración del incidente, o al menos la causa de muerte determinada por el médico legista. Tras depurar los datos, estos se introducen en una hoja de cálculo. Ruiz-House y su compañero voluntario Bryce Peterson crearon la base de datos más reciente, basándose en metodologías que Peterson desarrolló mientras trabajaba en el Mapa de Muertes de Migrantes del Sector de El Paso y en el Mapa de Puntos Rojos de Humane Borders. "Creo que es muy importante que todo el proyecto sea gestionado y realizado por voluntarios," afirmó. El mapa de No More Deaths incluye variables como las posibles razones para cruzar la frontera, las políticas específicas que pudieron haber provocado cada incidente y la presencia de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza, CBP por sus siglas en inglés. "A No More Deaths le interesa investigar cómo la Patrulla Fronteriza está directamente involucrada en las muertes," dijo Ruiz-House. "Creo que existe una participación indirecta si se considera la violencia estructural y la militarización de la frontera. Pero también hay una participación directa que, a mi parecer, muchas bases de datos oficiales no registran.” La CBP no respondió a las solicitudes de comentarios sobre estos datos. En 1998, la Patrulla Fronteriza de EE. UU. implementó la política de "Prevención mediante la disuasión,” cuyo objetivo era hacer que cruzar la frontera fuera tan peligroso que la gente desistiera de emprender el viaje. El gobierno cerró los puntos de cruce más populares y accesibles, empujando a los migrantes hacia zonas más remotas y con condiciones ambientales hostiles. El Dr. Bruce Anderson señala una pared con modelos de reconstrucción facial, una técnica utilizada para identificar cuerpos a partir únicamente del cráneo. Ruby Wray / El Foco de Tucson. La política no logró disuadir a quienes cruzaban la frontera. Por el contrario, provocó un fuerte aumento de las muertes por deshidratación y exposición a la intemperie. "Creo que ese es posiblemente uno de los aspectos más desalentadores de realizar labores de ayuda humanitaria," afirmó Ruiz-House. "En cierto modo, este remedio provisional no soluciona el terrible sistema de 'prevención mediante la disuasión,' que canaliza a las personas a través de zonas rurales sumamente peligrosas." Las consecuencias de dicha política seguían manifestándose años después, cuando Peterson se unió a la iniciativa. Peterson comenzó a trabajar con la organización No More Deaths en el sur de Arizona durante el verano de 2022. "Aquel verano resultó ser, con gran diferencia, el más mortífero jamás registrado en la zona," señaló Peterson, haciendo referencia a las más de 800 muertes documentadas a lo largo de la frontera entre Estados Unidos y México. Aun así, las cifras solo cuentan una parte de la historia. Según Ruiz-House, los datos no siempre reflejan con exactitud la realidad sobre el terreno, y la labor que realizan dista mucho de ser exhaustiva. Es frecuente que existan casos no contabilizados o que pasan desapercibidos, y miles de cuerpos recuperados aún no han sido identificados. "Mucha gente pregunta: '¿Qué está pasando en la frontera?'" comentó. "En realidad, hay mucha calma. Hemos visto una especie de internalización de las fronteras, si tenemos en cuenta las redadas que se producen en Chicago o las que han ocurrido en Los Ángeles. En cierto sentido, es como si la frontera hubiera llegado hasta ellos." Este cambio se refleja en los datos procedentes de la oficina forense del condado. La Oficina del Médico Forense del Condado de Pima investiga, identifica y gestiona los restos recuperados en sus instalaciones situadas en la zona este de Tucson, cerca de la Base de la Fuerza Aérea Davis-Monthan. "Mi puesto se creó a raíz de la problemática migratoria," explicó el antropólogo forense Dr. Bruce Anderson. El Dr. Bruce Anderson está sentado en su escritorio en la Oficina del Médico Forense del Condado de Pima. Anderson ha trabajado como antropólogo forense durante los últimos 41 años y continúa identificando a migrantes desaparecidos a medida que evoluciona la situación en la frontera. Ruby Wray / El Foco de Tucson. Anderson lleva 41 años trabajando en antropología forense y forma parte del personal del Condado de Pima desde el año 2000, cuando las muertes de migrantes comenzaron a ser un problema importante en el sur de Arizona. "Quienes trabajamos aquí somos bastante buenos controlando nuestras emociones y lidiando con los fallecidos, así como con cuerpos y huesos horriblemente desfigurados y cosas por el estilo," dijo Anderson. "Pero no tenemos mucha capacitación para tratar con familias que atraviesan un duelo o que están desesperadas; familias que ni siquiera han empezado a vivir el duelo todavía, porque desean fervientemente encontrar vivo a su ser querido." La oficina solo registra los restos recuperados, no el número total de fallecimientos. "Veremos si hay un nuevo presidente dentro de dos o tres años, o si las cosas vuelven a ser como antes, pero este año ha habido cerca de un 50% menos de casos," señaló Anderson. "Pensé que podría haber más, pero cabe pensar que, debido a que la gente teme hablar sobre sus familiares o tiene miedo de cruzar en general, esto podría estar provocando una disminución general." Anderson también especuló que la presencia de la CBP (Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza) en las principales ciudades podría estar repercutiendo en la situación fronteriza. "Puede que el clima político en Washington y todas estas redadas en Chicago, St. Louis, Portland, Nueva York y Charlotte estén asustando a la gente,” afirmó. Independientemente de las circunstancias, la organización No More Deaths y la Oficina del Médico Forense del Condado de Pima planean seguir registrando y actualizando la información sobre estos cambios. Aunque la recopilación de datos para la base de información está actualmente en pausa, se espera continuar con el proyecto como un memorial vivo para aquellos que perdieron la vida intentando cruzar la frontera. "Creo que es una carga para todos nosotros," dijo Ruiz-House. "Creo que lo difícil es aceptar que, en última instancia, nos enfrentamos a un problema estructural; que al final del día, podemos dejar agua en el desierto y realizar todas estas operaciones de búsqueda y recuperación... pero eso no ataca la raíz de por qué muere la gente." Ruby Wray estudia Periodismo y Escritura Creativa en la Universidad de Arizona y es pasante en El Foco de Tucson. Puedes contactarla en rubywray@arizona.edu. Esta nota fue traducida por Diana Ramos, exalumna de la Universidad de Arizona, Directora de Iniciativas Bilingües y reportera del Foco de Tucson. Contáctala en diana@tucsonspotlight.org.    El Foco de Tucson es una sala de prensa comunitaria que ofrece oportunidades remuneradas a estudiantes y periodistas emergentes del sur de Arizona. Por favor, considera apoyar nuestro trabajo con una donación deducible de impuestos. Donar a El Foco Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44415fc2ca79de236256ce WWE's Sami Zayn shares praise for Johnny Gargano, opens up about his 'vegetative state' on SmackDown te 2026-06-30T22:21:19.426Z WWE's Sami Zayn shares praise for Johnny Gargano, opens up about his 'vegetative state' on SmackDown WWE star Sami Zayn has used Johnny Gargano as a sounding board for his complaints over the last few weeks on "Friday Night SmackDown." Gargano, known as "Johnny Wrestling," has been lying face down during most of his segments for months. He hasn’t spoken to anyone nor has he been in a wrestling ring since Stand & Deliver all the way back in April. The only signal to know that Gargano is actually alive is when Zayn has spoken to him. COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS DIGITAL Zayn talked about Gargano and what it would take to get him moving again in an interview with Fox News Digital before he won the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions. "I think he’s an immensely talented person. Anyone who’s followed his career, actually watched his work especially in NXT, knows what he’s capable of," Zayn said. "Some people when they come to the main roster never really got to showcase what they’re made of and I definitely think he falls into that category. … CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "He’s almost in this sort of vegetative state or whatever and he just needs like the Prince Charming or whatever is to come around and swoop him and get him out of it. … I think something just needs the right spark to get him to remember who he is and I do think if, and when, that happens we’re gonna get to see a side of him that’s very exciting, that hasn’t been seen in a very long time." Gargano is one of the best pure wrestlers on the roster. He put on some of the best matches in NXT history. He’s won the NXT Championship, NXT North American Championship and the NXT Tag Team Championship, which made him the first NXT Triple Crown champion. On the main roster, he’s been a WWE tag team champion twice. But every fan is hoping that he gets another shot at wrestling again and snaps out of this slumber and gets back to what he does best. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44414bc2ca79de236256c5 First lady cites memoir after Supreme Court upholds state laws reserving girls' sports for biological females te 2026-06-30T22:20:59.970Z First lady cites memoir after Supreme Court upholds state laws reserving girls' sports for biological females First lady Melania Trump pointed to a passage from her bestselling memoir Tuesday after the Supreme Court ruled that states may limit women's and girls' sports teams to biological females, saying the decision aligns with a position she has long supported. In a post on X, Trump highlighted a passage from Melania that was published months before the court's landmark 6-3 decision, which held that states may determine eligibility for women's and girls' sports based on biological sex under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause. "As many of you may know, I fully support the LGBTQIA+ community. But we must also ensure that our female athletes are protected and respected," the first lady wrote on X, pointing readers to page 156 of her memoir, "Melania." U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE MAKES NEW TRANS ATHLETE FINDINGS AGAINST USA HOCKEY "The U.S. Supreme Court has now legally confirmed this opinion: ‘Under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, may schools maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females? ... The answer is yes,’" Trump continued, citing the court’s decision. "America, we can support the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community and also protect opportunities for female athletes," she added. "Respect everyone and keep girls' sports fair. Both ideals are essential." The first lady's comments came just hours after the Supreme Court established a new nationwide precedent allowing states to maintain women's and girls' sports teams for biological females. U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE MAKES NEW TRANS ATHLETE FINDINGS AGAINST USA HOCKEY In the consolidated cases West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox, the justices ruled 6-3 in favor of West Virginia and Idaho, upholding state laws requiring student-athletes to compete on teams that correspond with their biological sex at birth rather than their gender identity. Writing for the majority, the court held: "Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women's and girls' sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women's and girls' sports based on biological sex." The decision marks a major victory for supporters of so-called "Save Women's Sports" laws, validating similar legislation enacted in 27 states in recent years. The ruling also clears the way for those states to continue enforcing the laws without the legal uncertainty that surrounded them while the cases moved through the courts. LAWYERS FIGHTING SJSU OVER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL RESPOND TO FEDERAL TITLE IX PROBE FINDINGS Justice Sonia Sotomayor filed an opinion concurring in part and dissenting in part, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson. West Virginia Attorney General John McCuskey praised the ruling, calling it "a monumental victory for every female athlete who has ever competed, or dreamed of competing, on a fair and safe playing field." Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador likewise hailed the decision, saying it confirmed states' authority to "preserve fair competition and protect the opportunities that generations of women fought to secure." The cases centered on West Virginia's Save Women's Sports Act and Idaho's Fairness in Women's Sports Act, both of which had been blocked after legal challenges brought by transgender athletes. Fox News Digital's Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a444138c2ca79de236256bc Conservatives hail Justice Thomas for 'truth bomb' about ruling protecting women's sports te 2026-06-30T22:20:40.520Z Conservatives hail Justice Thomas for 'truth bomb' about ruling protecting women's sports Conservatives rallied around Justice Clarence Thomas on Tuesday as he wrote about the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld state laws barring biological men from women’s sports. Thomas followed the high court's ruling to uphold state laws preventing transgender athletes from participating in women's sports with a concurring opinion, saying, "Men and boys with gender dysphoria are not women or girls, even if they believe that they are. Sex is an immutable ‘biological’ characteristic, see ante, at 10; it is binary; and ‘man’ and ‘woman,’ ‘boy’ and ‘girl,’ are the terms that correspond to adults and children of each sex." He added, "To use language to obscure reality to show ‘indifference regarding the truth’— is to lie to the public and cease to treat our fellow citizens ‘as equal[s].’" This concurrence was touted by numerous conservative public figures as they celebrated the ruling. MARTINA NAVRATILOVA SAYS SHE TRIED TO WARN KAMALA HARRIS' CAMPAIGN ABOUT TRANS ATHLETES: 'NOBODY WOULD LISTEN' Texas Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne wrote, "Truth, fact, and common sense from Justice Thomas in ruling that "men and boys with gender dysphoria ARE NOT WOMEN OR GIRLS". Amen, sir!!" "Right into my veins!" Evolutionary biologist Colin Wright joked. Conservative influencer Allie Beth Stuckey touted the ruling as "a win for reality." LAWYERS FIGHTING SJSU OVER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL RESPOND TO FEDERAL TITLE IX PROBE FINDINGS "This is fire," Texas state Rep. Jeff Leach wrote with a flame emoji, going on to suggest, "Put it in the louvre." Breitbart News reporter Elizabeth Weibel praised Thomas’ words as a "TRUTH BOMB." The opponents of the ruling slammed the court's decision.  The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which represented trans athletes in West Virginia and Idaho, expressed "heartbreak" over the justices’ decision. "This is a heartbreaking ruling for our clients and transgender girls like them who’ve asked for nothing more than the same opportunities afforded to their peers," ACLU senior counsel Joshua Block said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.  "The reality is that the equality of transgender women and girls takes nothing away from, and in fact promotes, the equality of all women and girls. We will continue to advance the fundamental principle that all young people deserve equal opportunity to thrive and succeed." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Fox News' Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443f5bc2ca79de23625679 ‘Be a shark’: GCU soccer’s Addie Vali perseveres after battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma te 2026-06-30T22:12:43.184Z ‘Be a shark’: GCU soccer’s Addie Vali perseveres after battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma PHOENIX – Standing on the grass at her new home after joining the Grand Canyon University women’s soccer team, the last thing on Addie Vali’s mind was a little itchiness and a swollen lymph node. After all, two doctors had cleared her.  Coming off of a knee injury and making the move from Southern Methodist University was stressful enough. The then-sophomore was ready to give it her all in the spring season of 2025 with her new team. Then she got the call. On April 1, at just 19, Vali learned that biopsy results confirmed Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Her family listened, stunned, on the other end of the line. After attempting to track down the cause of the swollen lymph node for six months, Vali was confident it was the mono that doctors suspected. Vali sat horrified and the word “cancer” brought her to tears. The memory remains vivid a year later, as June is National Cancer Survivors Month. Her parents asked as many questions of the doctor as they could in the moment while the terrifying information sank in, but the truth was no one knew what to expect. The news was crushing to the family as her mother, Kirsten Vali, survived breast cancer when Addie was young. “Cancer is just such a strong word,” Addie said. “When I found out, I was heartbroken and didn’t know what my future would look like.” Addie told her trusted roommate and friend, Payton Fisher, the news on that same April Fool’s Day. The thought that the news couldn’t be anything but a joke didn’t cross Fisher’s mind until she realized Addie was serious. “She (Fisher) took me to every single appointment,” Addie said. “Whether it was a Mayo Clinic appointment or a fertility clinic appointment, she was there by my side the entire time. It was truly a blessing that I was put in a room with her.” Even during summer appointments when Fisher could not be by Addie’s side, she would call her during every appointment without fail. “She brought out a side of me I don’t think anybody ever has,” Fisher said. “I struggle with vulnerability and being open, but with her, I feel like she really brought that out of me. It was a friendship I never knew I needed.” Addie Vali said, “Now being on the flipside of it, it’s more like, ‘Thank God it was me,’” about her cancer battle. (Photo courtesy of GCU Athletics) The next five months changed Addie’s perspective forever. With no time to waste, she began four rounds of chemo and 10 rounds of radiation to attack the stage 1A blood cancer, all while continuing training during the summer. “I just wanted to get back on the field.” Addie said. “I knew I had to put my body through hard things and that my body can do hard things. That’s the cool part about being an athlete.” During every other week she would have off from chemotherapy, Addie trained and practiced with the team so as to not lose her muscle and strength. “She was just so motivated to get back to what she loves,” Kirsten said. “It drove her to heal.” Although Addie pushed her body to continue training during some of the most trying months of her life, the chemo was not without debilitating side effects. While some days were accompanied by extreme fatigue that resulted in hours of sleep, other days were inflicted with bone pain, full-body shakes and hospital trips where she would go in and out of consciousness. While the initial lymph node had been removed, the treatment plan for her Hodgkin’s lymphoma had to be aggressive to try and eradicate any potential harmful cell from every inch of her body. The ABVD chemo treatments included the potent drug known as “the Red Devil,” which contributed to many of the vicious side effects. Somewhere in between the side effects of chemo and the 38 appointments Addie endured to get healthy again, she found love and support from every area of her life in ways she never could have imagined.  Although terrified to tell her new coaching staff the terrible news, she was met with a room of tears and compassion. The staff expressed how they viewed her as a daughter and would do whatever they could to support her and make her athletic dreams still feasible. “When I was over the toilet with bone pain, my athletic trainer, he made me bone broth because he knew it would help my body,” Addie said. It was valuable to have a knowledgeable coaching staff, she said, especially because she had a different experience at her previous school. The transfer to GCU could not have come at a better time in Addie’s life, and those close to her believe this move was divinely inspired. “There was no doubt that she was put in that specific environment for a reason,” Kirsten said. “She was put in the right place at the right time. … God had a huge hand in that.” In her final round of chemo, all her teammates showed up to support her as she rang the bell on her last treatment. The culture and community present at GCU was evident when 200 athletes surrounded Addie on campus in a prayer circle during the time of her cancer. “The color ribbon for lymphoma is purple and our school color is purple,” Payton said. “That is not a coincidence. I think she was brought there for a reason.” While initially struggling with questions of “Why me?” at the beginning of her treatment, Addie found that her faith in God flipped and only became stronger. “Now being on the flip side of it, it’s more like, ‘Thank God it was me,’” Addie said.  “One, I wouldn’t want it to be anybody else. And two, now I’m seeing all the bits and pieces he was doing in my life that I wouldn’t have even thought of if I didn’t go through what I went through.” Fisher and Addie regularly attend North Phoenix Church and find support and community through their time there.  “Be a shark” was the one mantra Addie carried with her through this experience. She believed that like sharks, you can only swim forward and there’s no point in looking back. This phrase has gone on to be a staple in the locker room and inspire many of her other teammates as well. It took five months from the beginning of the diagnosis to full remission, but Addie said it felt like a lifetime and it changed her outlook on life permanently. Many other collegiate athletes who are dealing with similar circumstances have reached out to her as a result of her sharing her story. It has inspired her to pursue a career in opening a clinic specifically designed to help athletes diagnosed with cancer. Addie is now back to doing the one thing she loves: soccer. She returned to the field in the spring for the first time after remission and said she feels 100%. In many ways, Addie’s story is only a beginning. It will continue on the field as GCU begins play Aug. 6 in an exhibition match against New Mexico State. The post ‘Be a shark’: GCU soccer’s Addie Vali perseveres after battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443f1dc2ca79de23625647 Fox News Poll: Maine Senate race is tight, with concerns about both candidates te 2026-06-30T22:11:41.226Z Fox News Poll: Maine Senate race is tight, with concerns about both candidates The Maine Senate race is shaping up to be a close contest.  While majorities have concerns about both major party candidates, the worries about Democratic candidate Graham Platner are more intense.  That’s according to a Fox News statewide poll that also suggests voter motivation is helping keep the race competitive.  The new poll finds Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins has a small three percentage-point advantage, receiving 50% to Platner’s 47% among Maine registered voters.  But among the two-thirds of voters who say they are extremely motivated to vote, Platner leads by 9 points, 53-44%.  FOX NEWS POLL: LOOKING AHEAD TO AMERICA'S 250TH ANNIVERSARY That’s driven by a 15-point enthusiasm gap, as more Democrats (76%) than Republicans (61%) describe themselves as highly motivated to cast a ballot this year. FOX NEWS POLL: VOTERS EMBRACE HEALTH AGENDA WHILE RATING RFK JR NEGATIVELY Maine voters express concern about both Senate candidates. More than half say Platner lacks the judgment to serve as a U.S. senator, while a similar share believes Collins has been in office too long.  Yet concerns about Platner run a bit deeper. Nearly 4 in 10 are extremely worried about his judgment compared with 3 in 10 who say the same about Collins' lengthy tenure. Roughly one-third of independents are extremely concerned about both Platner’s judgment (33%) and Collins’ tenure (30%). Only 10% of Democrats express concern about Platner, and only 10% of Republicans about Collins. About 1 in 10 of those concerned about Platner’s judgment still support him, while 2 in 10 of those worried Collins has served too long continue to favor her.  In 2024, Harris beat Donald Trump statewide by nearly 7 points.  "Along with North Carolina, Maine is the Democrats’ most obvious Senate target — a blue state with a restless electorate and a 30-year establishment Republican incumbent," says Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducts the Fox News Poll with Democrat Chris Anderson. "How do you blow that?  Maybe by nominating someone facing allegations of sexual abuse, racism, and dishonesty.  This race could demonstrate whether partisan and populist loyalties trump all else." In the horse race, Collins’ edge primarily comes from men (+10 points), voters without a college degree (+15), gunowner households (+21), and rural voters (+8).  For the most part, she is matching her performance among these groups compared to her most recent re-election, according to the 2020 Maine Fox News Voter Analysis election survey.  Platner is preferred among women (+5 points), voters with a college degree (+15), and suburban voters and moderates (+10 each). He is underperforming former Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2024 support among those groups.  The 2024 Maine FNVA finds she won women by 10 points, voters with a degree by 42, suburban voters by 27, and moderates by 24.  Despite Collins’ reputation as a moderate Republican, 97% of MAGA Republicans favor her.  Among non-MAGA GOPers, 82% go for Collins and 15% for Platner.  Collins garners more within-party support than Platner, getting 93% of Republicans, while he gets 86% among Democrats. Independents favor Platner by 2 points, 47-45%.  While Platner is a veteran, he trails Collins by 18 points among military voters. About 8 in 10 of both Collins (79%) and Platner backers (81%) are committed to their choice, while 2 in 10 voters say they could still change their mind.  Only 1 in 10 Maine voters say they are getting ahead financially.  More than 4 in 10 say they’re falling behind, while about half are holding steady.  The most important issue to Maine voters in deciding their Senate vote is inflation (30%). That’s followed by political divisions within the country (19%), healthcare (17%), and immigration (14%).  Far fewer prioritize unemployment, Iran, abortion, or crime as their top issue. Inflation ranks first among independents and Democrats, while Republicans narrowly put immigration and border security ahead of inflation. Collins, first elected to the Senate 30 years ago, won reelection by 9 points in 2020.  Still, slightly more view her negatively than positively by 3 points (47% favorable, 50% unfavorable).  Platner’s personal rating is weaker, with negative ratings by 10 points (43-53%).  President Trump’s ratings are negative by 19 (40-59%).   Democratic gubernatorial candidate Hannah Pingree has a 17-point positive rating (53 favorable vs. 36% unfavorable).  Republican Bobby Charles is viewed about evenly (39-40%), although some 21% are unable to rate him. In the gubernatorial race, Pingree leads Charles by 11 points, 53-42%.  Her lead expands to 18 points among those who are extremely motivated to vote in November. Seventeen percent of those favoring Collins in the Senate race cross party lines to support Pingree for governor, while 5% of Platner backers go for Charles, the Republican. Sitting Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, who is term limited, has served since 2019. She suspended her campaign in the U.S. Senate race in April but has yet to endorse Platner.   CLICK HERE FOR CROSSTABS AND TOPLINE Conducted June 23-27, 2026 under the joint direction of Beacon Research (D) and Shaw & Company Research (R), this Fox News Poll includes interviews with a sample of 1,003 Maine registered voters randomly selected from a statewide voter file.  Respondents spoke with live interviewers on landlines (102) and cellphones (653) or completed the survey online after receiving a text message (248).  Results based on the full sample have a margin of sampling error of ± 3 percentage points. Sampling error for results among subgroups is higher.  In addition to sampling error, question wording and order can influence results. Sources for developing weight targets include the most recent American Community Survey, Fox News Voter Analysis, and voter file data.  Weights are generally applied to age, race, education, and area variables to ensure the demographics of respondents are representative of the registered voter population.  Results among subgroups are only shown when the sample size is at least N=100.  Fox News’ Victoria Balara contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443f09c2ca79de2362563e Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed doubles down on controversial rhetoric about how to treat Republicans te 2026-06-30T22:11:21.769Z Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed doubles down on controversial rhetoric about how to treat Republicans Michigan Senate Democratic candidate Dr. Abdul El-Sayed doubled down on some of his controversial rhetoric during interview on Monday.  El-Sayed, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for Michigan’s Senate seat in 2026, has recently scrubbed some of his past social media comments about defunding the police. He also has faced controversy for having responded to an attack on a synagogue in March by noting that "hurt people hurt people." Rhetoric from far-left politicians that refers to violence, even in metaphor, has come under heavy scrutiny in recent years after the assassination attempts on President Donald Trump and the murder of TPUSA co-founder Charlie Kirk. During Monday's interview, CBS anchor Major Garrett noted that "Michelle Obama used to have a phrase, 'When they go low, we go high.' You have a variation on that. What is it?" RASKIN ACTS CLUELESS WHEN PRESSED ON DEMOCRATS' ANTI-TRUMP RHETORIC FOLLOWING WHCD SHOOTING "Listen, I deeply respect the First Lady," El-Sayed began. "I do think, though, that Democrats need to recognize, and I learned this the hard way, when I was a kid named Abdul in school, I learned the hard way that if you let them take your lunch, guess what happens, you don't eat lunch. And I want to eat lunch. I want everybody to eat lunch. So if they're going to show up and try to bully us, don’t be surprised when we hit back. I won't start the fight, but I’ll end it." "I’ve heard it said that you said, 'When they go low, we choke them out," Garrett said. This appeared to refer to a famous moment during a rally when El-Sayed had declared, "When they go low, we don't go high. We take them to the mud and choke them out." "I mean, their choice to go low," Garrett said. "Don’t go low. I’m just saying." EXPERTS WARN LEFTIST CELEBRATIONS OF CHARLIE KIRK'S DEATH SIGNAL A DANGEROUS MAINSTREAM SHIFT IN POLITICS Garrett also pressed him during the interview that his campaigning with far-left streamer Hasan Piker would inevitably be an issue his opponents would also target him on.  "Major, I'm hanging out with you. I don't know everything you've said. I'm sure you've said some things I disagree with. You said some things I agree with," El-Sayed replied. "It tends to be in the real world. We hold people accountable for what they said, not what somebody around them said. And it's this funny gotcha game that Democrats love to play and Republicans love to play, which I think people are sick and tired of in politics." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443ef6c2ca79de23625635 Ecuador isn't thrilled after Mexican fans make a ruckus outside its hotel before Round of 32 te 2026-06-30T22:11:02.316Z Ecuador isn't thrilled after Mexican fans make a ruckus outside its hotel before Round of 32 When the Round of 32 picture started to take shape, there had to be some teams disappointed with their matchups, but I'm not sure anyone could've been bummed harder than Ecuador when it realized it had drawn Mexico in Mexico City. You've got an always-dangerous team playing at home in the most soccer-crazed of the tournament's three host nations. What could possibly go wrong?! ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Well, for starters, you could end up with the worst night's sleep of your life, and that's if you were able to sleep at all. Mexican fans went to the Ecuadorians' hotel and made as much noise as humanly possible to make sure that when they hit the field on Tuesday evening they are anything but well-rested. There are two ways to look at this. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE On one hand, it's not exactly an example of fine sportsmanship. On the other hand, if someone told me I could help my team by standing outside the opponents' hotel banging pots and pans, I probably wouldn't do it because I like my sleep, but dammit, I would really consider it. Also, I feel like Ecuador should've expected this. Someone should've hopped on Amazon and bought some Bluetooth eye masks, and the problem would've been solved. But clearly, they didn't do this because, on Tuesday, just hours before the game, Ecuador's football federation put out a statement about the impromptu block party outside their hotel. "Regarding certain non-footballing actions that took place in the lead-up to the round of 32 match, the Ecuadorian Football Federation informs that it has sent a formal complaint to the organization, as this behavior is a far cry from the principles of fair play, equity, and unity that a football World Cup should represent," the statement reads. I feel like the toothpaste is out of the tube on this one, but I do know one thing: things might get really interesting when these two teams — and their respective fans — meet up at Mexico City Stadium. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443ecdc2ca79de23625608 8 candidates vie for 3 South Tucson Council seats te 2026-06-30T22:10:21.873Z 8 candidates vie for 3 South Tucson Council seats Eight candidates are vying for three seats on the South Tucson City Council in a nonpartisan primary election ending July 21, with public safety, a persistent budget deficit and the future of the city's surveillance camera system among the central issues in the race. With early voting underway, candidates include current members Roxanna Valenzuela, Cesar Aguirre and Brian Flagg, and challengers Christopher Dodson, Diana Moreno-Sears, Zeke Cook, Debbie Federico and Eduardo Baca. Dodson and Baca previously ran as write-in candidates in the August 2025 recall election that sought to remove Valenzuela, Flagg and Aguirre from office. The recall failed, and all three incumbents retained their seats. The three candidates who receive the most votes in the July 21 primary will join the council. Tucson Spotlight reached out to all eight candidates with questions about public safety, budget deficits and development plans for the one-square-mile municipality. Dodson, Moreno-Sears and Aguirre did not respond. Roxanna Valenzuela A hair stylist who once owned her own salon, Valenzuela has served on the South Tucson City Council since 2022 and was appointed mayor by her fellow council members following the 2024 election. She, Flagg and Aguirre have campaigned together and volunteered together at Casa Maria Soup Kitchen. The three incumbents have governed largely in lockstep since taking office. In February, the South Tucson City Council voted 5-1-1 to cancel its contract with Flock Safety over concerns about data collection and privacy. Residents have continued to speak about the issue since the contract's cancellation, with a small majority supporting the implementation of a new system. Flock cameras were credited by South Tucson Police Chief Danny Denogean with an arrest in the homicide of a 60-year-old South Tucson resident. The council is currently in talks about potential camera implementation. "We are building a comprehensive safety network that combines rapid emergency response with deep community care," Valenzuela told Tucson Spotlight. Mayor Roxanna Valenzuela is running on a platform centered on affordable housing, with a plan she says will help low-income families stay in their homes and achieve homeownership in South Tucson. Courtesy of Defend Nuestro Barrio. Valenzuela's plan includes keeping a fully staffed police department, funding operations through the $1 million Pascua Yaqui Tribe donation and continuing to take legal action against slumlords. "Crucially, our safety strategy puts a massive focus on expanding prevention and youth programming, giving our young people better opportunities and positive paths away from street life," Valenzuela said. South Tucson passed a tentative budget earlier this month that reduces a $1.6 million deficit to $400,000. The elimination of the 1.5% food and consumption tax in late April has added pressure, leaving the city to manage a persistent shortfall with a constrained budget. "Moving forward, we will continue balancing the budget through strict administrative fiscal discipline and by aggressively leveraging external regional partnerships for our infrastructure and operational needs, ensuring our residents don't bear the financial burden," Valenzuela said. On development, candidates were asked what they would like to see in the city. "Our absolute priority is expanding affordable housing, starting with our plan to secure 300 stable, dignified units across the municipality," Valenzuela said. "We are investing directly in our community's families and culture by increasing direct funding for after-school youth activities and sports, launching a low-cost municipal Wi-Fi network to provide free public internet and lower monthly utility bills for everyone and by bringing back beloved celebrations like the Norteño Festival." Brian Flagg Flagg has been a longtime advocate for South Tucson residents and has served on the council since 2022. He credits recent safety improvements to voter-approved fire department upgrades under Proposition 409. He also wants to maintain a fully staffed police department while exploring new strategies, including a police bike patrol inspired by Ward 3's safety initiative and continued barrio walks and cleanups with Barrio Restoration. "When you go knock on doors, which we do in South Tucson, people tell you what they want," Flagg said. "They want public safety, and they want to have a responsive police department … we feel like we're on the right track on that." If reelected, Flagg plans to work with Pima County to offset jail costs while continuing discussions about opioid settlement funds. "There's an estimate of $150,000 for our jail bill … and in recent history, Pima County has deferred our jail bill. I would like to explore that possibility," Flagg said. A campaign sign for incumbents Roxanna Valenzuela, Brian Flagg and Cesar Aguirre, who are each seeking reelection to the South Tucson City Council in the July 21 primary. He'd also like to see local programs and safety initiatives funded before development can take hold. "The base of that is to have a strong fire (and) police presence in our town," Flagg said. "I think if people feel comfortable bringing up business here and coming down here to do business, to shop, to eat at a restaurant … that's what we need. Public safety things related to the economic development piece." Zeke Cook Cook is running alongside Federico and has emphasized a data-driven approach to the city's budget and public safety. "The most effective method to increase public safety is installing license plate reading cameras," Cook said. "The Flock cameras were up for only 6 months, but led to 14 arrests and one solved murder." Cook pointed to a late May incident in which thieves stripped copper wiring from street lamps in an area previously covered by Flock cameras, causing an estimated $39,000 in damage. "Give the police the tools they deserve to keep us safe," he said. Cook said the city needs roughly $2 million more in annual tax revenue to bring staff salaries up to par and stabilize the budget. "If it all comes from the transaction privilege tax, that implies that we need a forty million dollar increase in retail sales. In other words, we need responsible development," Cook said. "(In the) short term, we need grants. Grants to make the city more attractive to investors and citizens. The good news is that we have partners willing to help." If elected, Cook plans to work with South Tucson Planning and Zoning Director Josue Licea to achieve financial milestones through a comprehensive development plan. Cook also wants to shift the focus from the unhoused community to currently housed South Tucson residents who need assistance with home upkeep. "There are grants available for home repair, and the city needs to aggressively pursue them," Cook said, adding that residents are selling their homes because they cannot cover major home repairs. Clockwise from upper left: Roxanna Valenzuela, Cesar Aguirre, Zeke Cook, Deborah Federico and Brian Flagg. Cook would also like the city to implement a vacancy tax on empty lots and a blight tax on neglected properties, while encouraging the city's Housing Authority to invest in more third spaces for residents of all ages. "We are not delivering a good first impression with the sight of open drug use, messy vacant lots and people simply wandering in the middle of traffic," Cook said. "A new comprehensive plan will give us a framework for improving this area." Debbie Federico Federico has emphasized fiscal discipline and an updated comprehensive plan for the city. "Real safety means reaching people before the crisis, using every tool we have, county programs, nonprofits, treatment, not just a patrol car, and not leaving grants and partnerships on the table that other cities fight for," Federico said. She also supports reinstalling the Flock cameras, but under strict rules, following guidelines provided by the American Civil Liberties Union, running independent audits and maintaining the previous camera transparency portal. "I would require in the contract that the data stays in South Tucson, not shared with outside agencies, (keeping) residents safe and (keeping) our information ours," Federico said. Federico also weighed in on the budget. "We already lean on a sales tax, the most regressive tool there is, and we widened the hole by cutting the grocery tax but with no plan to replace the roughly $173,000 a year it brought in," Federico said. "Fill the empty Food City and the vacant storefronts on South 6th and South 4th, make it quick and cheap to open a business here. Chase every outside dollar we're owed, federal grants, tribal partnerships … and adopt an updated comprehensive plan so we stop making money decisions one vote at a time." She agreed with the city's need for an updated comprehensive plan. "Development, housing, and safety all depend on having a real plan instead of reacting vote to vote," Federico said. Debbie Federico's late grandfather as a boy in South Tucson, circa 1950. Federico says her family's deep roots in the community are what drove her to run. Courtesy of Debbie Federico. She also wants to see a home repair and rehabilitation program for South Tucson residents, as well as small business support to help fill vacant spaces in the city. "Funded through CDBG and similar grants, a local program keeps longtime residents in place and pushes back on displacement without a single new local tax," Federico said. "South Tucson is not an experiment. They're the basics South Tucson has been owed for years." Eduardo Baca A local business owner from Baca Upholstery, Baca previously ran as a write-in candidate in the August 2025 recall election seeking to unseat Aguirre. Baca said he wants to speak directly to community members, include residents in safety planning and bring more beautification projects to the city. "I want to speak to community members and assure them of safety needs," Baca said. He would also like to see the city take more responsibility for the current budget deficits and reduce its overall spending. "(The council) shouldn't spend funds they quickly gain," Baca said. On development, Baca said he wants to see more investment in the community's cultural roots. Inspired by his son's organization Ballet Folklorico Tapatio, Baca said he would like to increase youth-based programs while also maintaining new and legacy businesses in the area. "Now is the time we do something about it," Baca said. The three candidates with the most votes will be sworn in by the end of November, with the council electing its next mayor the following Tuesday. 💡 The LD20 primary is July 21. Early voting began June 24, with a mail ballot deadline of July 14. Pima County voters can register, check their registration or request a mail ballot at recorder.pima.gov Topacio “Topaz” Servellon is a reporter with Tucson Spotlight. Contact them at topacioserve@gmail.com. Gabriel Sadza is a student at University High School and Tucson Spotlight intern. Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443cc4c2ca79de236255ce House backs Massie's push to release taxpayer-funded sexual harassment settlement records te 2026-06-30T22:01:40.904Z House backs Massie's push to release taxpayer-funded sexual harassment settlement records The House of Representatives overwhelmingly backed a measure Tuesday that would force the disclosure of lawmakers who used taxpayer funds to settle sexual harassment claims. The resolution, introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., would require the House Ethics Committee to "preserve and publicly release" records related to monetary settlements involving sexual misconduct.  Massie, a frequent thorn in House GOP leadership's side, forced a vote on the resolution, arguing that gaps in reporting requirements enacted in 2018 may still allow taxpayer-funded settlements to remain hidden. The Kentucky lawmaker said he discovered there were no reported cases involving any members repaying sexual harassment settlements since then. MASSIE LASHES OUT WHEN PRESSED ON EX-GIRLFRIEND'S ALLEGATIONS OF AFFAIR WITH GOP FIREBRAND His resolution would specifically direct the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights to publicly report sexual misconduct cases involving lawmakers and their staff that resulted in taxpayer-funded settlements, along with the total amount of taxpayer money spent. "We need to know what's been going on here in the House of Representatives in order to convince the people and assure the people that we are conducting the people's business with the utmost integrity and treating offices and employees of this institution with the respect they serve," Massie said. The final vote was 420-0-1. No lawmaker spoke against the resolution during debate on the House floor. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., was the lone lawmaker to vote "present," arguing Tuesday's vote was "nothing more than political theater" after she released information earlier this year showing the federal government paid out more than $330,000 to settle sexual harassment claims since the early 2000s. "Now Congress wants to vote on doing what we already did," the South Carolina Republican wrote on social media. ETHICS PANEL CLEARS GALLEGO AS LUNA DECLARES, 'ONCE A CREEP, ALWAYS A CREEP' Mace, who helped orchestrate a transparency push targeting lawmakers’ behavior toward women amid several high-profile resignations, subpoenaed the Congressional Office of Workplace Rights through her position on the House Oversight Committee for a bevy of settlement documents involving at least six lawmakers or their offices. Former Rep. Blake Farenthold, R-Texas, who resigned in disgrace in 2018 amid a House ethics probe into sexual misconduct allegations, was among the lawmakers named in the documents. Former Rep. Patrick Meehan, R-Pa., who similarly resigned in 2018 amid reports he used taxpayer funds to settle a sexual harassment suit filed by a former staffer, was also listed. Ten lawmakers did not vote, as the chamber was scheduled to begin the July 4 recess immediately following the vote amid a conservative blockade of the House floor in protest of the stalled SAVE America Act. The resolution’s passage comes after Cynthia West, a former Massie girlfriend, accused the Kentucky lawmaker of emotional abuse in May. West also alleged that Massie attempted to pay her $5,000 to drop a wrongful termination lawsuit against the office of Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., who fired her shortly after taking a position in the office. The House in March rejected a resolution offered by Mace to require the House Ethics Committee to release all documents compiled by the panel involving probes into members of Congress related to sexual misconduct. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443cb1c2ca79de236255c5 Nick Saban wrote letter to court supporting 'exceptional character' of former Lions CB Terrion Arnold te 2026-06-30T22:01:21.448Z Nick Saban wrote letter to court supporting 'exceptional character' of former Lions CB Terrion Arnold One of the most shocking stories of the 2026 NFL offseason has been the saga of cornerback Terrion Arnold. Arnold, a former 2024 first-round pick of the Detroit Lions, was arrested recently on charges of armed robbery and kidnapping. Arnold appeared in court in Hillsborough County, Florida this week, with Judge Christopher Sabella setting his bond at $1 million. He was also instructed not to contact the six co-defendants in the case, along with surrendering his passport and being subject to home confinement in Tallahassee. The Lions announced Monday that they'd released Arnold, seemingly as a result of the charges and court appearance. TERRION ARNOLD, LIONS' 2024 FIRST-ROUND PICK, CHARGED WITH KIDNAPPING AND ARMED ROBBERY IN FLORIDA But there's one piece of good news for the 23-year-old: he's received a letter of support from none other than legendary Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban. Saban wrote a letter, dated June 26, telling the judge that he's long respected Arnold for his "exceptional character" and the "genuine care" he has for others off the field. "My name is Nick Saban," the letter reads, "and I have spent decades as a football coach working with young men from diverse and often difficult backgrounds. In that time, I have had the privilege of watching hundreds of athletes grow not just as players, but as men. I write this letter because of the exceptional character I witnessed in Terrion Arnold over the more than six years I have known him." Saban also wrote that Arnold treated his family and staff with "respect, humility, and kindness," and never gave him or others cause to doubt his behavior and personal conduct. "I first met Terrion when he joined my program in 2021," he wrote. "From the beginning, he stood out not only because of his athletic ability, but because of who he was off the field. Based on my experiences with Terrion, I’ve always believed he leads with genuine care for the people around him. "Over the years, I have welcomed Terrion into my home and around my family. He has consistently treated my family and my staff with respect, humility, and kindness. In all the time I have known him, he never once gave me cause to question his conduct, his integrity, or his respect for others. I don’t ever recall him being involved in any behavior that would be described as aggressive or irresponsible." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Saban concludes by telling the court that he hopes they consider his personal "experience" with Arnold, despite not being "overly familiar" with the charges he faces. "Based on my experiences with Terrion, I remain committed to supporting him," Saban wrote. "While I’m not overly familiar with or educated on the charges he is facing, and understand the seriousness of his situation before the Court, I would respectfully ask the Court to take into account my experience with Terrion, his character, history and the positive impact he had on our program." Given the conditions placed on Arnold and the large bail set by the judge, it doesn't appear Saban's letter had a tremendous impact in this case. This letter is yet another bizarre entry in this extremely odd case. Arnold's alleged behavior obviously doesn't align with Saban's character reference. But Saban surely wouldn't submit such a letter unless he felt it accurately reflected the player and person he knew. Arnold is, of course, innocent until proven guilty. And although he's been released by the Lions, he at least has one big supporter left: the best college football coach in the sport's history. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443c8ac2ca79de236255b6 Trump Announces Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas, Texas te 2026-06-30T22:00:42.536Z Trump Announces Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas, Texas Parties normally hold conventions only in presidential years, but President Trump liked the idea of mobilizing Republicans this fall. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443c74c2ca79de23625591 OpenClaw is finally available on Android and iOS te 2026-06-30T22:00:20.705Z OpenClaw is finally available on Android and iOS The free open source agentic program is finally invading your phone. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443a30c2ca79de2362553f Tim Burchett, UFO whistleblower recount ominous government warnings after demanding UFO transparency te 2026-06-30T21:50:40.528Z Tim Burchett, UFO whistleblower recount ominous government warnings after demanding UFO transparency Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., revealed the chilling warning he received from someone connected to the Trump administration after pushing for UFO disclosure during a new episode of "Hang Out with Sean Hannity." "It was another Saturday. I was sitting at the house, and I got a call from, I’ll just say, a friend of the administration," the congressman said. "He said I had kicked a hornet’s nest. They said, ‘You need to get bodies around you.’ And I’m in East Tennessee. I’ve got bodies around me. There are enough good ol’ boys out there… We have kicked a virtual hornet’s nest, and these people don’t want this stuff out." UFO disclosure activist Luis Elizondo told "Hang Out with Sean Hannity" he received a similar threat, claiming there were discussions to "eliminate" him during a classified congressional briefing. NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON DARES GOVERNMENT TO 'JUST SHOW THE ALIEN,' AS DISCLOSURE FERVOR CONTINUES TO GROW Elizondo said he received two separate calls from staffers who had just gotten out of the briefing who were worried about him and whistleblower David Grusch. 🔍 Got a story tip? Email nora.moriarty@fox.com "He says, ‘I was in a meeting where government officials had told myself and other staff… that there was a plan at one point, a discussion, to eliminate you and Grusch,’" Elizondo told host Sean Hannity. STRING OF SCIENTIST DEATHS, VANISHINGS FUELS EXPERT TALKS OF SHADOW OPS AND SILENCED SECRETS: 'VERY SERIOUS' "I received another call from a different staffer. The first thing he said was, ‘Lou, are you okay?" I said, ‘Yeah, I'm fine. Why?’ He’s like, ‘You really need to watch yourself because there were discussions involving you and Grusch. Some people were very upset with what you guys did,’" he added. Burchett went on to claim the U.S. government limits Americans' access to government information by transferring classified UFO documents to private companies. "We've come to find out they turn it over to a private entity, like one of our missile defense contractors. There’s probably five or six of them," the congressman said. PENTAGON FILES REVEAL AGENTS' REPORTS OF 'ORBS LAUNCHING ORBS' NEAR SENSITIVE US SECURITY SITE "What they do is they give it to these corporations so that you and I can't get to it through FOIA, the Freedom of Information Act," he continued. "I can FOIA Ford Motor Company, but they don't have to answer me." The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows citizens to request access to federal agency records as a way to ensure government transparency. By transferring UFO documents to private entities, Burchett argued the government can prevent the public from accessing the information. 📲 More stories at @newswithnora on X The congressman claimed there is sworn testimony indicating the U.S. government is in possession of alien bodies. Elizondo said there are "a lot" of reasons why organizations may want to keep information about extraterrestrial life hidden from the American people. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE As for President Donald Trump, Burchett said he was told in a secure environment that the commander-in-chief was on a "need-to-know" basis when it came to alien life. "Someone is making a unilateral decision in our government not to inform the president," Elizondo added. Hannity’s full interview with Burchett and Elizondo, where they delve deeper into the U.S. government’s knowledge of alien life, is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4437d7c2ca79de2362501f Shelter-in-place order lifted after freight train derailment sparks hazmat concerns in Pennsylvania te 2026-06-30T21:40:39.900Z Shelter-in-place order lifted after freight train derailment sparks hazmat concerns in Pennsylvania Officials said no hazardous material leaks were found after a freight train derailment Tuesday afternoon in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, and that earlier shelter-in-place and evacuation orders have been lifted. "Hazmat personnel have deemed the area safe," the Bensalem Police Department said in a statement. "There is no threat to the public.  All residents may return to their homes and businesses." About 16 freight cars derailed around 2:15 p.m. between Street Road and the Neshaminy Falls train station, according to local outlets NBC10 and 6abc. BYSTANDER VIDEO CAPTURES NORFOLK SOUTHERN TRAIN T-BONING SEPTIC TRUCK AT VIRGINIA RAILROAD CROSSING Authorities initially worked to determine what the cars were carrying amid concerns that some may have contained hazardous materials. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., said no injuries had been reported and that his office was coordinating with local officials, first responders and the Department of Transportation. TWO-TRAIN CRASH LEAVES AT LEAST 1 DEAD, 89 INJURED AS EMERGENCY CREWS RUSH TO CHAOTIC SCENE "This was a freight derailment and did not occur on commuter rail lines," Fitzpatrick wrote on X. "Local officials have reported several cars involved, which may contain hazardous materials." A one-mile shelter-in-place order was initially issued, with residents urged to stay indoors, bring pets inside, close windows, doors and vents, and turn off heating and air conditioning systems. DEATH OF GREAT-GRANDMOTHER BRUTALLY KILLED ON TRAIN TRIGGERS FEDERAL ACTION People outside the area were asked to avoid the scene and keep nearby roads clear for emergency crews. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The incident comes more than three years after the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment raised national concerns over rail safety and the transport of hazardous materials. Bucks County Emergency Management and the Bensalem Township Police Department could not immediately be reached by Fox News Digital for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443593c2ca79de23624faa Serena Williams drops Wimbledon comeback match to 20-year-old Maya Joint after four-year absence te 2026-06-30T21:30:59.636Z Serena Williams drops Wimbledon comeback match to 20-year-old Maya Joint after four-year absence Serena Williams fought hard but ultimately lost in her first singles match since 2022 on Tuesday at Wimbledon, falling to 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint, 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3, in the first round on Centre Court. There's a common axiom in sports that "Father Time is undefeated" and that rang true in London on Tuesday night. Williams, 44, had not played a singles match since the 2022 U.S. Open, when she lost to Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round in what many believed would be the final match of her legendary career. Instead, nearly four years later, she walked back onto the grass at the All England Club. And not just any court. Centre Court. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE The same court where Williams won seven of her 23 Grand Slam singles titles, an Olympic gold medal and authored some of the most dominant moments of the modern women's tennis era. This one, obviously, was different. Williams entered Wimbledon as a wild card and with far more questions than expectations. How much tennis did she still have in her legs? Could her serve still carry her through pressure games? Could one of the greatest competitors in sports history summon enough of the old Serena to make this more than a ceremonial comeback? For a while, the answer looked complicated. Joint, the 87th-ranked women's player in the world, came out sharp and took the opening set 6-3. After the set got to 3-3, with each player holding each of her first three serves, Joint won the next three games, breaking Serena once to take the first set. It was a reminder that nostalgia does not win tennis matches, especially at Wimbledon, where the grass can punish even small dips in movement and timing. But Williams’ fought back in the second set. Despite being broken in the first game and falling down 3-1, Williams eventually forced a tiebreak. The 20-year-old Australian had match point with a 6-5 lead in the tiebreak, but Williams won the next three points to square the match. Williams came out strong in the third set, getting the first break to take a 2-1 lead. But that's when it seemed that Williams' age started to become a bigger factor. Her daughters, Olympia and Adira, were in attendance, along with her husband Alexis Ohanian and sister Venus Williams. Venus is also scheduled to team with Serena in doubles at Wimbledon, giving the tournament another Williams sisters moment after years of uncertainty over whether fans would ever see that again. Williams has spent most of the past four years away from the tour after saying in 2022 that she was "evolving away" from tennis. She never fully closed the door, though. SERENA WILLIAMS OPENS UP ABOUT 31-POUND WEIGHT LOSS USING GLP-1 MEDICATION: ‘SOMETHING I SUFFERED WITH’ She won Wimbledon singles titles in 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2016. She reached four other Wimbledon finals. She and Venus also built one of the great doubles partnerships in tennis history, including six Wimbledon women’s doubles titles together. So when Williams accepted a wild card into the singles draw, it immediately became one of the biggest stories of the tournament. That’s the power of Serena. Even after nearly four years without a singles match, even at 44, even with no real evidence that she could contend at a Grand Slam again, her presence changed the feel of the draw. Unfortunately for Williams, she did not get the storybook result Tuesday, but this was never going to be judged like an ordinary first-round loss. Not really. Yes, Williams is out of the singles draw after losing to a woman less than half her age. But the fact that she even took the court is a story in and of itself. Now comes the obvious question. Was this just a Wimbledon one-off, or was it the first step toward one more run in New York? The U.S. Open main draw begins Aug. 30, and if Williams wants another singles swing this summer, Flushing Meadows would be the obvious place to do it. That’s where she played her last singles match before this comeback. That’s where American tennis fans believed they said goodbye to her in 2022. Maybe they did. Maybe they didn’t. Either way, Serena Williams taking the court at a Grand Slam tournament is good for tennis, particularly in the United States. And if Tuesday was any indication, plenty of people would show up to watch her try it again. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443580c2ca79de23624fa1 Jim Banks, GOP lawmakers rally behind DOJ probe into alleged CCP-linked funding network te 2026-06-30T21:30:40.188Z Jim Banks, GOP lawmakers rally behind DOJ probe into alleged CCP-linked funding network FIRST ON FOX: Top members of Congress are supporting a federal grand jury investigation into alleged financial crimes committed by Neville Roy Singham, tied to his funding of socialist, communist and Marxist organizations. According to a Fox News Digital investigation, Singham has funneled $278 million into the broad network of nonprofits since 2017. As reported, Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche authorized a grand jury in Manhattan to issue subpoenas as part of a probe of Singham's financial network. The investigation was launched by U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York, one of the country's most powerful districts for federal prosecutions. Singham hasn’t responded to repeated requests for comment that Fox News Digital has sent him over the past several months. "Neville Singham is a traitor to our country. He has ties to the CCP," Sen. Jim Banks, R-Indiana, told Fox News Digital. "He is an American citizen, but all of his loyalties lie with the Chinese Communist Party. And when you begin to untangle the web of his massive fortune and his philanthropic activities, the money that he sends to left-wing groups in America, and not just groups that espouse ideologies, but espouse violence." DOJ LAUNCHES GRAND JURY PROBE INTO MARXIST MOGUL NEVILLE ROY SINGHAM'S FUNDING OF LEFTIST GROUPS Last April, Banks sounded the alarm about the Singham network, calling on former Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate CodePink, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has received funds from Singham. Co-founded by Singham’s wife, Jodie Evans, CodePink hasn’t responded to repeated requests for comment. Neither has Evans. Earlier this year, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent traveled to New York City for a meeting with Goldman Sachs Chairman and CEO David Solomon, and sources told Fox News Digital that Bessent gave a blunt ultimatum to Solomon. Bessent told Solomon that Goldman Sachs could face scrutiny for alleged conspiracy in the funneling of the Singham money and urged Solomon to cooperate with federal investigators. PROBE INTO 'SUBVERSIVE' ANTI-AI SINGHAM NETWORK IS 'ENORMOUS,' FORMER TREASURY ADVISOR SAYS A person familiar with the meeting told Fox News Digital that the discussion wasn't contentious and that Solomon readily agreed to pledge his cooperation with the Justice Department investigation. A spokesperson for the bank said "all distributions from Mr. Singham’s donor-advised fund were made to legal nonprofits, as determined by the IRS. There have been no distributions from the account since August 2023, and it was closed in early 2024." Banks serves on the Senate Banking Committee, which is responsible for bank oversight and regulation. The Indiana senator explained that Goldman’s cooperation is welcome news, but that Wall Street should be more cautious about working with individuals tied to "our biggest enemy." "It sounds like Goldman wants to put this to bed," Banks explained. "They want to do their part to help the investigation. But Wall Street should know that you can't get away with helping our biggest enemy. You can't get away with helping the Chinese Communist Party through money funneled through tech billionaires like Neville Singham. You will be held accountable for that." FIRST ON FOX: POWERFUL HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS CHAIR THROWS HAMMER DOWN ON 'FOREIGN-ALIGNED INFLUENCE NETWORK' In his letter to Bondi, Banks also raised concerns about CodePink potentially violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). The law requires individuals or entities acting as agents of foreign principals to register as foreign agents and publicly disclose their finances and relationships. "CodePink has clearly become an agent of CCP influence in the United States. Despite activities and funding so blatant that even the New York Times acknowledged the organization’s activities ‘usually require’ groups to register under FARA, Code Pink has not registered with the DOJ," the letter read. A number of lawmakers weighed in on news of the DOJ’s recent grand jury probe of Singham’s finances, including Rep. Pat Fallon (R-Texas), who is running for chairman of the House Oversight Committee. Fallon recently announced his run with Fox News Digital and said at the time that holding accountable nonprofits aligned with the CCP and tied to Singham would be one of his priorities if he secured the chairmanship. "Far-left NGOs are the means by which U.S. adversaries like communist China work to undermine our country," Fallon told Fox News Digital on Tuesday. "Groups like CodePink, which Singham has funded, openly spew CCP propaganda. Their objective is to spark division, resentment and unrest." "My colleagues and I on the House Oversight Committee have been committed to dismantling the dark network of communist NGOs, which is why we sent a letter to the DOJ earlier this year urging them to expose these groups for what they really are. We cannot stop until we put an end to the communist threat facing our Republic here at home." House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., who launched an investigation into the Singham nonprofit network last year, took to social media to say the grand jury investigation is overdue. "It’s about time he is brought to justice and he is held accountable for his ties to the CCP," Smith said on X. For years, critics like Smith have alleged that Singham has used the generous tax status awarded to tax-exempt nonprofit organizations to fund left-wing chaos in streets across the country. A Fox News Digital investigation uncovered a video that showed Singham calling for a "new world order' promoted by Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party during the "Global South Academic Forum," in Beijing last year. Singham has funneled millions into a network of nonprofits that regularly mobilize agitators for demonstrations across the country, including anti-ICE protests and anti-Israel protests. His financial contributions, which were routed through Goldman Sachs Donor Advised Philanthropy Fund For Wealth Management Inc., include an estimated $22.44 million to People's Forum Inc., a hub for far-left activity in Manhattan, and at least $223 million and other forms of support into a global network of organizations. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44333bc2ca79de23624f3a Los Angeles Clippers finally give up on Kawhi Leonard, send former Finals MVP back to Toronto Raptors te 2026-06-30T21:20:59.222Z Los Angeles Clippers finally give up on Kawhi Leonard, send former Finals MVP back to Toronto Raptors The Kawhi Leonard era is over in Los Angeles. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Clippers are finalizing a blockbuster trade that will send the two-time Finals MVP back to the Toronto Raptors, closing the book on an era defined by lofty expectations and limited postseason success. The Raptors will part with forward Brandon Ingram, guard Gradey Dick, two future first-round picks, a first-round pick swap and two second-round picks. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! The deal represents a major swing for Toronto and a reset for Los Angeles. Leonard returns to the country where he led the Raptors to the 2019 NBA championship, while the Clippers move on from an era that never produced an NBA Finals appearance despite owner Steve Ballmer's massive investment in the franchise. CLIPPERS' KAWHI LEONARD RECEIVED PAYMENT FROM 'NO-SHOW JOB' DAYS AFTER INVESTMENT BY MINORITY OWNER: REPORT When the Clippers acquired Leonard in 2019, they were expected to become title contenders. Instead, the next seven seasons were defined by injuries and postseason frustration. The Clippers won just three playoff series during Leonard's tenure. Chronic knee injuries and repeated playoff absences prevented the franchise from reaching its potential, culminating in Tuesday's huge trade. The gamble shows Toronto is looking to catch lightning in a bottle for a second time. Leonard remains under contract through 2027 and is set to earn more than $50 million next season. According to reports, he also hopes to sign a two-year, $126.1 million extension that would allow him to finish his career in Canada. At the very least, pairing Leonard with the ascending Scottie Barnes makes the Raptors one of the Eastern Conference's most intriguing contenders. Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a443327c2ca79de23624f31 California couple says moving company doubled their price and is now holding belongings 'for ransom': report te 2026-06-30T21:20:39.773Z California couple says moving company doubled their price and is now holding belongings 'for ransom': report A couple looking to leave California said their moving company is holding their belongings hostage after allegedly doubling the agreed-upon price. Roughly one month has passed since John Nelson and his wife, who were relocating from Oceanside to North Carolina, encountered what they described as a troubling experience at the end of May, according to CBS 8. The couple initially signed a contract with a moving broker for just over $16,000 for a full-service move and paid a $7,000 deposit upfront, the outlet reported.  However, on moving day, the company allegedly increased the cost to $32,000, claiming the couple had more belongings than originally estimated. CALIFORNIANS FLEEING TO RED STATES ARE DRIVING UP HOME PRICES AND RENTS IN THEIR NEW CITIES, DATA SHOWS While Nelson ultimately agreed to move forward to avoid losing his deposit, he later alleged that the company attempted to charge another round of additional fees upon delivery. According to the couple, the company attempted to deliver their belongings on June 3 — one week before the date Nelson said they would be available to receive them, CBS 8 reported. The failed delivery attempt allegedly led the contractors to issue an additional redelivery fee, according to the report. AMERICAN DRIVERS WARNED ABOUT RED FLAGS TO AVOID ‘PREDATORY TOWING’ TARGETING MOTORISTS ACROSS US "They’ve got $30,000 and they’ve got our stuff… and they’re basically holding it for ransom," Nelson said.  "When you move, it’s an exciting thing...you never expect for somebody to take your stuff and not deliver it," he added. SOPHISTICATED PORCH PIRATE RING HACKED SHIPMENT TRACKING INFO TO STEAL HUNDREDS OF PHONES, PROSECUTOR SAYS Nelson also claimed the initial delivery attempt may have been staged to pressure the couple into paying additional charges, alleging that the moving truck captured on video did not appear to be the same vehicle used to load their belongings.  "I think they just pulled up an empty truck to stage a charade," he said.  "As far as I’m concerned, they’ve got stolen property that’s crossed state lines," Nelson added.  Nelson and his wife reportedly filed police reports in both Oceanside and their new city in North Carolina. Complaints were also filed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), a dispute-resolution service that helps consumers address issues with companies, the outlet said.  According to CBS 8, the broker has received 280 complaints with the BBB over the past three years.  The broker reportedly disputed the couple’s claims but said it was working to find a resolution. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4430e4c2ca79de23624ecc Raskin tells Lawler to 'get the hell out' during contentious hearing te 2026-06-30T21:11:00.693Z Raskin tells Lawler to 'get the hell out' during contentious hearing A tense hearing on sanctuary city policies devolved Tuesday into a shouting match between Reps. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., and Jamie Raskin, D-Md., who accused each other of not caring about the deaths of Americans at the hands of illegal immigrants or anti-ICE protesters killed by federal agents. During a House Judiciary Committee hearing on sanctuary policies, Lawler scolded some of his colleagues, accusing them of apathy regarding the deaths of Laken Riley and Sheridan Gorman—two women allegedly killed by illegal immigrants in separate incidents. However, he noted their voicing of outrage over the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two anti-ICE agitators who were shot and killed by federal agents while allegedly interfering in law enforcement operations in Minnesota earlier this year. "So while some of my colleagues may not want to hear the truth, the same outrage you feel about Renee Good and Alex Pretti, you should feel about Sheridan Gorman and Laken Riley and every Angel family in this country," Lawler said. GRIEVING PARENTS OF SLAIN STUDENT SHERIDAN GORMAN SPEAK OUT: 'WE CAN'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO ANOTHER FAMILY' "I do feel that outrage. You do not," Raskin shouted in response. "You do not, because if you did, you would not support sanctuary jurisdictions. You should be ashamed of yourself. You should be ashamed of yourself, Jamie. You're a disgrace," Lawler replied. RASKIN ACTS CLUELESS WHEN PRESSED ON DEMOCRATS' ANTI-TRUMP RHETORIC FOLLOWING WHCD SHOOTING "Do you feel the outrage of Renee Good and Alex Pretti?" Raskin asked. "You don't belong on this committee. You should get the hell out of here!" Lawler noted that he wrote a Jan. 27 New York Times op-ed about Good and Pretti's deaths. "The deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis this month were tragic and preventable. No matter where you stand on immigration enforcement, the shootings show that what the country has been doing is not working," Lawler wrote in the piece. "Agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection are conducting forceful operations in American communities," he added. "They should reassess their current tactics." Raskin has voiced strong support for sanctuary policies, which shield illegal aliens—even those arrested and convicted of crimes—from federal immigration authorities. He has frequently defended sanctuary policies against federal overreach, emphasizing that compelling local police to enforce federal immigration law is unconstitutional. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4430bdc2ca79de23624ebe Takeaways From a Transformative Supreme Court Term te 2026-06-30T21:10:21.291Z Takeaways From a Transformative Supreme Court Term The justices rejected some of President Trump’s signature initiatives, but delivered lasting, long-sought conservative wins. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442ef2c2ca79de23624e83 DAVID BLACKMON: Solar Doesn’t Use Much Farmland — Until You Define What ‘Much’ Really Means te 2026-06-30T21:02:42.081Z DAVID BLACKMON: Solar Doesn’t Use Much Farmland — Until You Define What ‘Much’ Really Means By David Blackmon | I have to admit that I laughed out loud – almost spewing coffee on my keyboard – Friday morning when I read this headline from a competing platform’s energy-related newsletter: “SOLAR DOESN’T USE MUCH FARMLAND: Solar occupies less than 1% of farmland in the U.S., according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.” To paraphrase from former President Bill Clinton’s grand jury testimony, that depends on what the meaning of “much” is. Curious about the subject, I decided to research the question, accessing a wealth of public information easily available to anyone, including those in the solar industry. The answer I found might surprise the folks at the Solar Energy Industries Association. Or maybe it wouldn’t, which might explain why they choose to couch the answer in such a misleading way. The salient question: How many acres make up 1% of U.S. farmlands? The easily discovered answer: Approximately 8.74 million acres (using the latest 2025 figure of ~874 million acres total), according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. According to the USDA’s most recent data, the 2025 total land in farms is 873.95 million acres (down slightly from prior years). Earlier years were a bit higher (e.g., ~900 million in 2017), but the total has been gradually declining. One percent of 873.95 million acres = 8.74 million acres. Farmland here generally refers to “land in farms” per USDA definitions (including cropland, pasture, woodland, etc., on farms). Figures can vary slightly by source or definition (e.g., cropland-only vs. all agricultural land), but the ~874 million acre range is the standard benchmark from official USDA reports. Now, for some context. The King Ranch in South Texas is arguably the largest and most celebrated big farming and ranching operation in U.S. history. Established in 1854 by pioneering rancher Richard King, the ranch at its peak consisted of 1.2 million acres. Thus, the solar power industry itself admits that its wind arrays currently occupy an area of fertile farmlands that is roughly 8 times the size of the biggest farming and ranching operation in United States history. That is a stunning number, yet the authors of that referenced newsletter characterize it as being “not much.” Being a guy who grew up in a farming and ranching family, that sure seems like “much” to me. It also most likely seems like “much” to experts whose own studies find that placing solar arrays atop farmlands robs the land of crucial nutrients and renders it more vulnerable to erosion. Disturbingly, unless radical changes are quickly made, the industry plans to cover up many more King Ranch-sized swaths of fertile land in the coming years. A 2024 report by the Institute for Energy Research finds that, despite these warnings by experts in the field, the vast majority of new solar projects are targeting farmland to house their industrial projects in the coming years. “The target for solar operations is increasingly in the Midwest, where government handouts to solar allow them to pay more to rent land than the farmers providing food for the nation,” the report says, adding, “Farmland preservation groups believe 83 percent of new solar installations will come from farm and ranch lands with half of these installations on the richest land for food and crops.” Fortunately, the big federal subsidies which drove the recent huge solar expansion are scheduled to begin expiring in July. But with hundreds of new solar projects already in the queue, millions more acres of fertile farmlands will be removed from the food system in the years to come even as a fertilizer shortage threatens to disrupt global food supplies. All to create unreliable, unpredictable, intermittent electricity for a few hours a day that could be provided by an array of more reliable power sources which occupy a fraction of the land, none of which intentionally target farmlands as their homes. It’s a completely irrational misallocation of hundreds of billions of dollars in capital brought to us directly by the Biden autopen presidency and its Orwellian Inflation Reduction Act. You could never make this stuff up if it weren’t already happening before your very eyes. Watch it and weep. Originally published by the Daily Caller News Foundation. David Blackmon is a contributor to The Daily Caller News Foundation, an energy writer, and consultant based in Texas. He spent 40 years in the oil and gas business, where he specialized in public policy and communications. The post DAVID BLACKMON: Solar Doesn’t Use Much Farmland — Until You Define What ‘Much’ Really Means first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442ec7c2ca79de23624e75 Arizona’s largest egg producer agrees to $1M settlement over price fixing te 2026-06-30T21:01:59.580Z Arizona’s largest egg producer agrees to $1M settlement over price fixing Key Points: Hickman’s Egg Ranch settles price-fixing complaints with $1 million fine and 3.25 million egg donation Federal court lawsuit says Hickman’s and others manipulated egg prices through information sharing on Urner Barry Hickman’s and other companies will donate 53 million eggs to food banks Hickman’s Egg Ranch, Arizona’s largest egg producer, has agreed to a $1 million civil penalty and a 3.25 million egg donation under a proposed federal and multi-state settlement over complaints that it conspired to keep prices artificially high. The civil lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice and attorneys general from 17 states says Hickman’s Egg Ranch exchanged information with other companies through coordinated bids, calls and text messages that allowed them not only to coordinate egg prices but to drive them up through “manipulation.” Prosecutors say Hickman’s and two other major producers, Cal-Maine Foods and Versova Holdings, used Urner Barry Publications — a market-reporting company whose daily egg price quotations are widely used in supply contracts — to influence the benchmark prices that grocery stores, restaurants and other buyers pay for eggs nationwide. And the U.S. Department of Justice says egg price quotations fell from record highs after Hickman’s and the other companies learned of the investigation and were instructed to preserve the documents, following a period in which coordinated bidding had helped push those benchmark prices up. A representative of MTQ USA said everything in the federal complaint occurred before the international company acquired the family-owned operation last year. “This settlement fully resolves the allegations against Hickman’s Egg Ranch related to that period,” said Nikki Richardson. “We are committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations and to conducting business with the highest standards of integrity.” What enabled the alleged price-fixing scheme for egg producers, according to the federal court complaint, was Urner Barry Publications, a firm that reports market pricing for eggs. Hickman’s and the other companies have contracts with retailers that set prices based on those Urner Barry quotations. But federal prosecutors said Hickman’s and others coordinated as far back as 2022 to “hold” prices, “meaning they worked together to stop prices from declining.” And an executive from Cal-Maine Foods Inc., the nation’s largest egg producer and another defendant in the case, texted Glenn Hickman, who is the CEO, stating, “we are bidding up. Let’s hold it today.” There also were regularly scheduled calls among Hickman’s and other companies where they discussed Urner Barry’s price quotations. There was another instance where federal prosecutors said the companies submitted dozens of bids to Urner Barry, resulting in that operation increasing its price data for white, large shell eggs across all regions of the country. That resulted in Hickman’s and the others submitting data showing there were higher bid prices, resulting in Urner Barry, relying on that information, reporting that egg prices were “hitting records.” Under the terms of the proposed settlement signed by an attorney for Hickman’s, the company agrees not to communicate, discuss or negotiate, whether directly or indirectly, with any competitors about the prices or bids it is or will make and the timing of those bids. It also must designate an antitrust compliance officer and adopt an antitrust compliance program to monitor and report any potential violations. The company has also agreed to produce twice-a-year reports for the next five years certifying it has not engaged in prohibited communications. Then there’s the agreement to provide 3.25 million eggs to food banks or related nonprofit organizations in states where Hickman’s currently does business over the next 18 months. And the deal makes it clear that these can’t just be eggs the company cannot sell. “Eggs provided in the egg donation must be unspoiled, non-expired, and non-damaged medium or large white Grade A eggs, with at least 20 days of shelf life,” the agreement says. It also says the eggs “must be at least of a quality identical to that of eggs sold by Hickman’s to its grocery store or food service customers.” Those deliveries are required to be at Hickman’s expense, with the company forbidden to charge any fee for shipping, freight, handling or service fees associated with the donations. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said the settlement will help Arizonans who have already been hit with higher prices for household staples by inflation and illegal tariffs, noting that some of the egg price increases were the result of illegal price-fixing by major producers. And the deal says that eggs that Hickman’s had previously donated or promised to food banks will not count toward the total “and Hickman’s will make any such previously planned donations as planned.” Overall, all the defendants will donate about 53 million eggs, with 30 million from Cal-Maine and 20 million from Versova Holdings, on top of the 3.25 million Hickman’s has agreed to provide. The $1 million payment from Hickman’s — $3.3 million from all the affected egg producers — will be divided among the 17 states that joined with the federal government in filing suit, with the decision about how to divide up the cash left by those states. Hickman’s, founded in 1944, was sold last year to MTQ USA in the wake of the avian flu that resulted in the company having to destroy six million laying eggs at two farms west of Phoenix and lay off hundreds of workers. In a prepared statement, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who joined in the federal and multi-state lawsuit, said residents have already been beset by higher prices for household supplies because of inflation and illegal tariffs and rising inflation. “But now we know that some price increases, like those affecting eggs, were the result of illegal price-fixing by major egg producers,” she said. “This settlement holds these companies accountable, ends their illegal conduct, and helps Arizonans who need it most.” The Department of Justice, in its own statement, said the deal will prevent the companies from engaging in “coordinated manipulation” in the future. “No product more quintessentially represents affordability than the price Americans pay for eggs,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. “These actions prove this department’s continued commitment to protecting competition and providing real relief for everyday Americans’ pocketbooks.” The agreement with Hickman’s and others is not a done deal. While the attorneys for the companies have agreed, by law it is only a proposed settlement and must be published and opened to written public comments for 60 days. After that, a federal judge in Iowa, where the case was filed, can enter a final judgment if the court finds the settlement is in the public interest under federal antitrust law. The post Arizona’s largest egg producer agrees to $1M settlement over price fixing first appeared on Arizona Capitol Times. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442eb3c2ca79de23624e4f Blue Jackets head coach says he's as shocked as anyone about Zach Werenski wanting out of Columbus te 2026-06-30T21:01:39.610Z Blue Jackets head coach says he's as shocked as anyone about Zach Werenski wanting out of Columbus NHL free agency gets underway on Wednesday, but this has been a weird offseason in that there seems to be more talk about players who have asked for trades than we are about players about to hit the open market. One of the most shocking of these is Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski, who told GM Don Waddell he wants out just weeks after locking up the Norris Trophy as the top blueliner in the NHL. In fact, it was such a surprise that even his head coach was blindsided by the request. "I’m as shocked as anyone that these came up," Bowness said, per The Athletic. "I mean, at the end of the year meetings, we looked each other in the eye and had great meetings and gave each other a hug leaving, and all that. "So everything was good. So when all of this broke, I was shocked and caught off-guard like everyone else." Werenski — whose current deal runs through 2027-28 — wasn't the only player who wanted out. Forward Kirill Marchenko also told the team he wants a change of scenery. Still, it was a major surprise. Sure, the end of the Blue Jackets' season was an unmitigated disaster, and that final stretch of the season is why they whiffed on the postseason. It happens, and they owned it. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! But the rest of the season looked pretty promising, and the fiery post-regular-season message from Bowness probably should've had players fired up. Maybe not, for at least two of them. And, while it's never a good look to have a player wanting out like this, especially after they win a Norris Trophy, at least that accolade increases Werenski's trade value. If the Jackets can strike a deal, they should be getting a pretty hefty haul in return, because a D-man of Werenski's caliber is not always easy to come by. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442ea0c2ca79de23624e46 Evel Knievel's most legendary stunts retold in exclusive new Fox Nation documentary te 2026-06-30T21:01:20.155Z Evel Knievel's most legendary stunts retold in exclusive new Fox Nation documentary When it comes to death-defying stunts, Evel Knievel was one of a kind. The trailblazing motorcycle-riding daredevil defied the odds during the 1960s and 1970s, becoming an American icon. This summer, longtime fans and curious viewers alike can uncover the infamy and inspiration behind the legend. "Evel: America's Daredevil" is a brand-new documentary streaming exclusively on Fox Nation. Hosted by sportswriter Mike O'Hara, the show chronicles Knievel's ascension to stardom, starting with his Montana childhood and working in the copper mines. From there, the show highlights his historic motorcycle stunt career — including his infamous attempts to jump the Caesars Palace fountains in Las Vegas and the Snake River Canyon in Idaho.  TOM CRUISE PERFORMED UNFORGETTABLE OLYMPICS STUNT WITHOUT PAY, INSISTED ON NO STUNT DOUBLE As shown in the special, Knievel himself scoffed at the idea that fear of his stunts would ever hold him back. When a reporter once asked whether he expected to die during one of his otherworldly feats, he replied, "I'm Evel Knievel, honey. I'm not supposed to be afraid." The special features iconic interviews from Knievel's heyday, and expert analysis from Fox News personalities, television executives, and even exclusive commentary from the stuntman's granddaughter, Krysten.  "Evel was the most recognizable guy on two wheels," comedian Adam Carolla said in the special. FANATICS SPORTSBOOK LAUNCHES PROGRAM TO IDENTIFY, PUNISH SPORTS BETTORS WHO THREATEN ATHLETES ON SOCIAL MEDIA Olympic athlete and motocross competitor Colby Raha praised Knievel as vastly influential to a generation of children, explaining that while adults watched the stunts, it was younger Americans that fueled his popularity. "They see the superhero thing, and they're inspired — just a great role model," he said. Fox News host Jesse Watters emphasized Knievel's ability to rally the nation around his jaw-dropping feats, praising his persistence in attempting new tricks despite often crashing and sustaining severe injuries.  "Getting the whole country's attention on you for an absolutely ludicrous jump, and many of the times crashing, but then doing it again and again—that's resilience," Watters said. "That's the American spirit. Get knocked down, get right back up." FLYING MOTORCYCLE ZOOMS AT 124 MPH WITHOUT TOUCHING THE GROUND The riveting new Fox Nation special is not the only way to relive Knievel's legend this summer. The Evel Knievel Experience in Las Vegas is now open, offering an immersive, unique attraction to show visitors some of the stuntman's full story and the most famous motorcycles, jumpsuits, and other artifacts that defined his extraordinary life. "We all wanted to be Evel Knievel," FOX Business host Dagen McDowell said. "It was America, it was daring, and it was fun as hell." CLICK HERE TO JOIN FOX NATION FOX Nation programs are viewable on demand and from your mobile device app but only for FOX Nation subscribers. Go to FOX Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite FOX Nation personalities. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442e8cc2ca79de23624e3d Jordan Spieth says gambling is fueling rowdy golf crowds and wants the sport to address it soon te 2026-06-30T21:01:00.697Z Jordan Spieth says gambling is fueling rowdy golf crowds and wants the sport to address it soon It's safe to say that Jordan Spieth wants sports fandom to go back to the way it used to be. Ahead of the John Deere Classic at TPC Deere Run in Illinois, Spieth was asked if he felt golf crowds were getting rowdier in the wake of Wyndham Clark's treatment at the U.S. Open, and Spieth blamed a lot of it on gambling. "I do think that betting in golf is something that's going to have to be tackled here soon," Spieth said, unprovoked. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "I don't know how much of, say, the Wyndham scenario was the fact that it was enticing to bet the field versus Wyndham on Sunday in a legalized betting state, and you could have had people out there that are essentially, you know, have $100 to $10,000, depending on who it is, on the field versus somebody else. "In golf it's tricky because you could actually impact the outcome if you wanted to. It may not last very long, but you could impact a shot if you wanted to. I don't know of another sport that you could impact as a fan like you can golf. So I don't know how much that's having to do with it, if it's different than it used to be." XANDER SCHAUFFELE DISCUSSES 'PASSIONATE' NEW YORK GOLF FANS AFTER RYDER CUP, WYNDHAM CLARK VITRIOL Spieth said that fan vitriol is not "a crazy new thing," but most of it now "has to do with betting, and that is in the last five years." It should be known that Spieth was once an ambassador for FanDuel. Clark's jeers came at Shinnecock Hills in the Hamptons, roughly 60 miles away from Bethpage Black, where fans became the subject of controversy during the Ryder Cup. It prompted Golf Channel's Eamon Lynch to call Long Island fans a "stain" on golf who did not deserve another major golf event in their area. Sports gambling has been legalized in 39 states since 2018 — only Nevada had allowed it prior. Thirty-two of those states, including Illinois, allow online betting. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442e65c2ca79de23624e28 Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention te 2026-06-30T21:00:21.284Z Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442c6ec2ca79de23624dd8 Advocacy groups sue to kick GOP’s controversial last-minute referrals off the ballot te 2026-06-30T20:51:58.256Z Advocacy groups sue to kick GOP’s controversial last-minute referrals off the ballot Photo by Getty Images To avoid the governor’s veto stamp and enshrine their policies in the Arizona Constitution, Republican lawmakers sent some of their most controversial proposals to voters. Now they’re facing down lawsuits as advocacy groups fight to keep the issues off of the November ballot.  Republicans put 10 measures on this year’s ballot, giving voters a chance to weigh in on a range of topics. One targets trans students, barring them from using bathrooms consistent with their gender identity and prohibiting trans girls from joining the sports teams that reflect who they are. Another aims to erase diversity, equity and inclusion or intersectionality from the state’s hiring practices. Both are the subject of lawsuits from a political action committee that says they are contrary to the Arizonans’ values. In total, five of the 10 ballot measures Republicans hope voters will approve in the fall are facing legal challenges.  GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE Will of the People, a political action committee formed to oppose the GOP-backed ballot measures, filed lawsuits against the proposals that critics say discriminate against trans students and would make it more difficult for public institutions to be inclusive. On the landing page of the group’s website, it refers to the ballot propositions as “deceptive” and denounces the one that restricts the ability of trans girls to play on sports teams consistent with their gender identity as a “blanket discrimination.”  The lawsuit against the so-called “Protect Girls’ Sports Act”  is set to go to trial on July 16. Attorney Jim Barton, who is representing the committee, wrote that the ballot referral should be thrown out because it is misleading and violates the Arizona Constitution. The state constitution establishes guidelines for ballot measures. Those guidelines include the single subject requirement, which mandates that a proposition put before voters cover only one subject to avoid confusing voters or forcing them to support something they would otherwise oppose because they approve of part of it.  Barton argued that the so-called “Protect Girls’ Sports Act” unfairly mischaracterizes what it’s about to convince voters to support it and also spans more than one subject. The proposal regulates school sports and also restricts what facilities, like locker rooms, bathrooms and showers, students can use.  “(The) title is misleading to the point of fraud and creates a significant danger of electorate confusion and unfairness,” Barton wrote.  Barton is also representing the Will of the People committee in its effort to strike the anti-DEI measure from the November ballot. The proposal forbids preferential treatment or discrimination against someone based on race or ethnicity. It also prohibits public institutions from requiring employees or students to undergo training programs that promote DEI or commit to upholding those principles. In the lawsuit against the proposal, Barton pointed out that the Arizona Constitution already prohibits discrimination or preferential treatment based on race or ethnicity. Barton warned that the proposition instead infringes on free speech protections.  “The absolute bar on trainings, policies, and procedures that are designed or implemented with reference to race or ethnicity is both a content-based and viewpoint-based restriction on speech and therefore violates the First Amendment,” he wrote.  The case is scheduled for a trial on July 16.  The “Fast Election Results Act” would require all voters, including those who vote by mail, to provide proof of a government-issued ID, beginning in 2028. The proposal doesn’t address how Arizonans who vote by mail would do that, however. Arizona law already requires voters to show some form of government-issued ID when registering to vote in state and local elections. Randy Keating, who sits on the Tempe City Council, filed a lawsuit against the push to overhaul Arizona’s elections, arguing that it violates the state’s single-subject rule because it addresses multiple election processes. Legal challenges against proposals headed for the ballot are often based on the single subject rule, because objections to the content of the proposal usually can’t be debated until voters have a chance to weigh in.   “The Act’s title suggests it is devoted to faster election results, but its provisions are in fact reforms to far flung areas of law: voter qualifications, voter ID requirements, ballot tabulation, the Legislature’s ability to pass election laws and – perhaps most perplexingly – campaign finance,” attorney Roy Herrera wrote.  Republican lawmakers also approved two ballot measures in reaction to the push from public education advocates to reform private school vouchers. The Arizona Education Association, the state’s largest teachers union, is one of several advocacy groups backing the “Protect Education Act.” The citizens initiative would regulate the state’s universal school voucher program, including imposing a $150,000 income cap.  Republicans, who have long resisted efforts to regulate the program, put together a ballot measure during the last hours of the legislative session dubbed the “Military Families College Savings and Scholarship Protection Act” that would forbid the state from “confiscating” voucher money from the children of military families. A clause in the proposal would also void the “Protect Education Act,” and make future reforms virtually impossible.  The campaign behind the voucher reform proposal has filed a lawsuit against the GOP ballot measure, arguing that it shouldn’t be sent to voters because it covers more than one subject and misleads voters.  “Behind the banner of protecting the children of military families, the Legislature has buried a sweeping and unrelated structural demand: a provision that…would void in their entirety any future law or voter-approved initiative the Legislature dislikes,” reads the lawsuit. “The result is a single, take-it-or-leave-it ballot question.”  In what teachers have denounced as a thinly-veiled attempt to punish the public education community for supporting voucher reform, Republicans also green lit a proposal that would make it harder for the state’s largest teachers union to organize. The ballot measure would forbid teachers from speaking about union activities during school hours, prohibit the use of school resources to advance union goals, including printing flyers or gathering in classrooms, and bars school districts from deducting union membership fees from employee paychecks — even though doing so is done at the employee’s own request.  The Arizona Education Association and multiple local chapters of the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees filed a lawsuit against the GOP ballot measure. While the proposal targets unions in public education, critics say it could also loop other public sector unions, like those that represent police officers and firefighters. The lawsuit argues that the ballot measure should be thrown out because it affects more groups than it purports to regulate, violating the single subject rule in the state constitution. Barton, who is also representing the group of unions, pointed out that the ballot measure focuses on school districts, which leaves out much of its actual impact. “A reasonable elector reading a title limited to ‘school districts’ and ‘labor organization use of public resources,’ where public resources are also defined to only include funds directed toward school districts, would not expect…a sweeping prohibition on collective bargaining binding the State and every county, city, town and special district in Arizona, not only with respect to school district employees, but all public employees,” Barton wrote.   YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT ***UPDATE: This story has been updated with the July 16 trial date for the Protect Girls’ Sports Act challenge. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442c5ac2ca79de23624dba Kate Gosselin defends herself against son Collin as he prepares to release shocking new memoir te 2026-06-30T20:51:38.286Z Kate Gosselin defends herself against son Collin as he prepares to release shocking new memoir Kate Gosselin is defending herself in the comments section of her social media posts. The 51-year-old former reality TV star responded to comments on her recent TikTok posts referencing claims her 22-year-old son, Collin, made against her, alleging she "forced" him and his seven siblings apart and "pitted them against each other" as they were growing up. He recently announced his upcoming memoir, titled, "In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood." Gosselin has consistently denied all allegations made against her by Collin, doubling down in the comments section of her TikTok videos. "If you are 100% certain that the accusations against you are lies, my suggestion would be to take him to court and sue him for defamation!" one fan asked. She responded, ""I can’t bc I’m a public figure. Rules are different unfortunately. Or I def would!" KATE GOSSELIN’S LAWYER SAYS SHE DIDN’T ‘INTENTIONALLY’ HARM KIDS AFTER SON COLLIN ACCUSES HER OF ABUSE She continued defending herself in the comments, responding to another with, "Malice is one of the hardest things to prove. I tried :(. The rules are different for ppl in the public eye." Gosselin also shared that she "consulted a high power LA attorney" in the past "when other ppl were putting crazy stuff out there," and that is what they told her. "The courts don’t honor it if you’re in the public eye :(" she added. She later responded to another comment, saying, "Sadly, Only parents who have a mentally ill child understand! It’s so tough and I’m learning that ppl have NO ability to understand unless they’ve been through it themselves." In response to his mom's statements, Collin doubled down on his allegations of abuse, taking to his Instagram stories to share she allegedly used to hit him. "Never forget the fact that my mom would write in her diary how she 'had to pray to God to stop hitting me' (this was while I was 2 years old by the way)," he alleged. "And this is why using my voice to put these things in the light is so important." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Collin first spoke out against his mother in 2022, telling Entertainment Tonight that he was estranged from his mother and that the estrangement began after she sent him to live at the Fairmount Behavioral Health System – a psychiatric hospital located in Philadelphia – without telling anyone in the family, when he was 12 years old. While Gosselin claimed she sent him to the facility because he was diagnosed with a behavior disorder, and she couldn't meet his needs, however, during an episode of Vice's "Dark Side of the 2000s" in 2023, Collin alleged he was sent there so that he couldn't tell people about her "abusive" behavior towards him, adding she sent him "somewhere where [he] wouldn't be able to put the secrets out." After spending two years in the facility, Collin left to go live with his father, who has been divorced from Gosselin since 2009, after his father filed for and was awarded full custody of him in December 2018. Aside from Hannah, who also chose to live with their father, Collin is estranged from his siblings, in addition to being estranged from his mother. LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS The 22-year-old's tell-all memoir is set to release in October. Collin posted a cover of the book — which features him as a child with his mom covering his mouth with her hand — writing, "For a long time, I wasn’t sure I’d ever tell this story." "Growing up, millions of people watched my life on television. People felt like they knew me. They knew my family. They watched me grow up. But there was so much they never saw," he said. "For years, I kept those experiences to myself. Some because I was afraid. Some because I didn’t think anyone would believe me. And some because I just wasn’t ready." Collin added, "Writing this book forced me to revisit some of the hardest moments of my life, but it also gave me something I’ve been searching for for a long time: my voice. This isn’t the story people think they know. It’s the story I’ve lived." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442c46c2ca79de23624db1 Wave of attacks on Iran's IRGC raises questions about renewed Kurdish insurgency te 2026-06-30T20:51:18.831Z Wave of attacks on Iran's IRGC raises questions about renewed Kurdish insurgency Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is facing a new round of violence in the country’s Kurdish-majority west, raising questions about whether a long-simmering Kurdish insurgency is entering a more active phase as fragile talks between Iran and Washington continue, experts say. The flare-up matters beyond Iran’s borderlands because Kurdish opposition groups were recently viewed as a potential pressure point against Iran during the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran — and now some Kurdish voices fear they could be left exposed as Washington and Tehran return to fragile diplomacy.  In recent days, Iranian security forces have been killed in several reported attacks and clashes across western and northwestern Iran. Four Iranian security personnel reportedly were killed and several others injured in two separate armed attacks Tuesday, reported The Jerusalem Post, in an analysis by Seth J. Frantzman, citing Iraq’s Shafaq News.  IRANIAN REGIME CRITIC WARNS TRUMP DEAL COULD BE 'LIFELINE' FOR REGIME, CLAIMS PEOPLE ARE 'NERVOUS' Two Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members were reportedly killed and two others wounded in what it called an "armed terrorist attack" in Paveh, Iran, a border city in Kermanshah Province, reported Tasnim News, an Iranian outlet close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.  In Baneh, Iran, gunmen attacked a police checkpoint, killing two police officers and injuring three other people, including a three-year-old girl, The Jerusalem Post reported. Clashes had spread to Iran's Paveh, Marivan and Mahabad, the outlet reported, citing Rojhelat.Info, a Kurdish-focused media account.  The Paveh, Iran, attack was claimed by a little-known armed group called Xore Heva, or "Sun of Hope," which said it carried out the attack in retaliation for Iran’s crackdown on protests sparked by the 2022 death of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini. The 22-year-old died after being detained by Iran’s morality police for allegedly violating the country’s mandatory hijab rules, The National reported. The Kurds are one of the largest stateless ethnic groups in the Middle East, with communities spread across Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey.  In Iran, many Kurds live in the country’s mountainous west and northwest, where Kurdish opposition groups have long accused Iran of political repression, executions, forced assimilation and military crackdowns.  Iranian authorities, in turn, view armed Kurdish factions as separatist or terrorist threats, especially groups such as PJAK, which has clashed for years with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps along Iran’s western border. The fight is not simply ethnic: It is also political, rooted in Kurdish demands for rights and autonomy, Iran’s fear of separatism and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’s role in suppressing dissent in border regions. Jino Victoria Doabi, Head of International Relation at Hiwa, a Kurdish-led human rights organization, told Fox News Digital the latest clashes could appear to mark more than isolated exchanges. "It looks like this could be an escalation," Doabi said, referring to the spread of reported clashes.  She said the initial attack appeared to be framed by Kurdish forces as retaliation, but argued the geographic spread suggested the confrontation may continue. IRANIAN REGIME CRITIC WARNS TRUMP DEAL COULD BE 'LIFELINE' FOR REGIME, CLAIMS PEOPLE ARE 'NERVOUS' Doabi said Kurdish anger is being driven not only by the latest casualties, but by a broader sense that Iran has been able to target Kurdish areas and opposition groups systemically without consequence. "The Kurdish people in Iran are very dissatisfied that the IRGC can attack Kurdish parties and Kurdish fighters and no one reacts," Doabi said. The violence comes as Iran is moving forward with a memorandum of understanding with Washington that has drawn criticism from Iranian opposition circles. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had approved the U.S.–Iran memorandum after receiving assurances that Iran’s rights would be protected, IranWire reported Tuesday.  Iranian officials have described the deal as having the support of top officials, even as critics inside Iran have attacked negotiators over the arrangement, IranWire also reported.  Doabi said Kurdish parties are deeply skeptical of any memorandum of understanding or negotiated arrangement with Iran, arguing that many Kurds believe such a deal would only strengthen the regime. "Kurdish parties do not believe that making a deal with this regime can help the people in Iran," Doabi said. "Their position is that a deal would only strengthen the regime." IRANIAN REGIME CRITIC WARNS TRUMP DEAL COULD BE 'LIFELINE' FOR REGIME, CLAIMS PEOPLE ARE 'NERVOUS' She added that many Kurds in Iran are "very angry" over the idea of any agreement with Iran, citing decades of repression, arrests and killings in Kurdish areas. "It is going to be very dangerous for people in Iran, and especially in Kurdistan, Azerbaijan and Baluchistan," Doabi said, "because that is where much of the resistance and activism is." The Kurdish groups now under scrutiny include the Party for a Free Life in Kurdistan, known as PJAK, and its armed wing, the East Kurdistan Defense Units, or YRK.  IranWire reported earlier in June that YRK accused the Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of launching artillery and mortar attacks against its positions near Marivan, Iran, beginning June 8, prompting what YRK described as a defensive response. Iranian official outlets had not responded to YRK’s casualty claims at the time, according to IranWire. That regional sensitivity was on display earlier in 2026, when reports emerged that Kurdish opposition groups could open a front against Iran during the U.S.–Israeli war with Iran.  Israel had been backing plans by Iranian Kurdish militias to seize border areas inside Iran, Reuters reported in March, though the outlet said the fighters would likely need U.S. and Israeli backing to make a significant move. Five long-standing Iranian dissident groups, including PJAK, the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan and the Kurdistan Freedom Party, had formed an alliance, Reuters also reported.  During the war, Trump told Reuters that he would be "all for it" if the Kurds wanted to move against Iran and said their objective should be "to win." But Reuters reported that Kurdish commanders were frustrated by a lack of clear U.S. or Israeli strategy and that Iran’s threats helped keep Kurdish forces from launching an incursion. Regional reports later claimed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan persuaded Trump to abandon a plan to arm Iranian opposition groups and Iraqi Kurdish groups against Tehran. Israeli media reported June 6 that Erdogan pressed Trump to scrap the proposal after details were allegedly leaked to Turkey by White House officials. The latest violence does not prove that a coordinated insurgency is underway. But the reported spread of clashes across multiple Kurdish areas, the involvement claimed by Kurdish militant factions and Kurdish opposition to ongoing U.S.–Iran talks suggest that Iran’s western borderlands could become a new pressure point for Tehran at a moment when the regime is trying to preserve both internal control and fragile diplomatic momentum. Fox News Digital has reached out to Iranian officials and Kurdish representatives for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442c33c2ca79de23624da8 USPS worker arrested after alleged mass shooting threat against Texas Pride event, FBI says te 2026-06-30T20:50:59.373Z USPS worker arrested after alleged mass shooting threat against Texas Pride event, FBI says A United States Postal Service (USPS) employee was arrested Sunday after threatening on social media to commit a mass shooting at a Pride parade in Texas, the FBI announced on Monday. Michael Thompson, who resides in Clovis, New Mexico, was taken into custody after authorities received a tip regarding a threat to conduct a mass casualty attack at a Pride event in Lubbock, Texas. "This weekend’s arrest out of Lubbock, Texas, is the best of this FBI and our law enforcement partners in action—yet again stopping a potentially deadly attack thanks to brilliant execution from our teams and partners," said FBI Director Kash Patel. "Our agents, intel teams, and state and local partners out of Texas acted decisively and stopped him before he could act." Thompson admitted to making and subsequently deleting the social media posts, authorities said. He also identified himself as a USPS employee. Fox News Digital has reached out to the USPS for comment. FORMER NORTH CAROLINA POLICE OFFICER ACCUSED OF THREATENING MASS SHOOTING AT NEW ORLEANS FESTIVAL Authorities said they recovered four firearms from Thompson's residence. He is legally prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior felony domestic violence conviction, according to the FBI. Thompson is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm as well as transmitting threatening interstate communications. "More lives saved thanks to good cops being cops," Patel added. 2 TEENS SHOT NEAR NYC’S STONEWALL INN AFTER PRIDE MARCH: POLICE Investigators continued to interview Thompson on Monday, and he was expected to make his initial court appearance later that day. Lubbock hosted its LubbockPRIDE festival over the weekend without incident, according to local reports. "Yesterday was filled with so much love, fun, and community, and we couldn’t have asked for a better celebration," organizers wrote on Facebook following the event. "Thank you to everyone who came out and made it so special!" In a separate incident in Brunswick, Georgia, a man was arrested earlier this month after police said he threatened to attack attendees at a local LGBTQ+ Pride event. Christopher Waller, 25, was charged with making terroristic threats stemming from comments posted in a local Facebook group on June 9. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442c1fc2ca79de23624d9f American soccer is repeating the same mistakes the WNBA continues to make with Caitlin Clark te 2026-06-30T20:50:39.925Z American soccer is repeating the same mistakes the WNBA continues to make with Caitlin Clark When the United States men's national team takes the field for its Round of 32 match at the World Cup on Wednesday against Bosnia and Herzegovina, the country should be having one of those rare, uncomplicated sports moments. The flags are out, the bars are packed and the casual fans are in. This is what American soccer has wanted forever, right? UNITED STATES SHATTERS WORLD CUP VIEWERSHIP RECORD IN FIRST MATCH VS PARAGUAY IN LOS ANGELES It begged for more people treating a USMNT game like a national event instead of something only for soccer diehards who have spent years insisting everyone else just doesn't understand "the beautiful game." Well, congratulations. America cares. And some of American soccer's gatekeepers don't seem very happy about it. Sound familiar? It should, because the WNBA is going through the same thing with Caitlin Clark. For years, the WNBA asked the country for more attention, more coverage, more respect and more casual sports fans. Then Clark showed up and delivered all of it almost overnight. She brought Iowa fans, men, women, families and gamblers. She made the WNBA a topic on sports debate shows and news programs. She helped convince people who had never watched a WNBA regular-season game in their entire lives to give the league a chance. Essentially, she brought the mainstream. And a lot of people started acting like someone had opened the wrong door. That included players in the league, team owners, coaches and media members. Hell, just this week talking head Emmanuel Acho actually said out loud that the WNBA "would be better off without Caitlin Clark." There have been a lot of terrible takes about Clark's impact on the league. That one was, without question, the worst. But Acho's comments sound a lot like what we're hearing from some members of the soccer media. It's not that the WNBA and the USMNT are the same. Obviously, they aren't. However, both exposed the same gatekeeping instinct from certain types of people. For years, the WNBA and members of the American soccer media claimed they wanted, and deserved, growth. But that's not the whole truth. What they really want is approved growth. Growth from the right people, with the right politics and using the right language. The WNBA wanted new fans until Clark brought the "wrong" fans. Now American soccer is learning what happens when the "wrong" Americans show up for the World Cup. The USMNT's first knockout game should be a dream moment for the sport in this country. Not only is Team USA into the second stage of soccer's biggest event, but the Americans are favored to advance to the Round of 16. And this is all happening on U.S. soil. This is the kind of moment that turns casual fans into real fans. Just look at the impact Team USA hockey’s Olympic gold medal had on the sport in the United States. The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs boasted some of its best television ratings in history. Yet, the same people who begged for this opportunity for years suddenly want to police the moment. The Guardian made that very clear with its ridiculous piece on Fox's World Cup coverage, framing Thierry Henry vs. Alexi Lalas as "the World Cup's most compelling battle," while calling Henry a "French aristocrat" and Lalas an "all-American idiot." The article labeled Lalas a "MAGA hack" and argued that Fox's loud, patriotic, American approach to covering the tournament clashed with what soccer supposedly is in the United States. EX-USWNT STAR CARLI LLOYD CALLS OUT ALEXI LALAS CRITICS, SAYS BACKLASH STEMS FROM CONSERVATIVE POLITICAL VIEWS And what is soccer in the United States, according to The Guardian? A sport for "migrants, urban liberals" and people "too scrawny" for other American sports. Translation: soccer belongs to them. Not to you. Not to the casual fan or the Fox viewer. And certainly not to the American who hears the national anthem and feels pride in the country instead of disgust. And The Guardian wasn't alone. USA Today columnist Nancy Armour wrote before the tournament that the United States had "already lost" the World Cup because of its "greed and hostility." MS NOW turned a Department of Homeland Security post celebrating the USMNT into another immigration and nationalism lecture. The Athletic asked who, exactly, this World Cup is for. This is the same attitude the WNBA exposed during the Caitlin Clark explosion. The league wanted relevance. It wanted to be discussed like a major American sport. Clark brought exactly that. And suddenly everyone discovered that major American sports discourse is loud, tribal and impossible to control. Were there bad actors in the Clark conversation? Of course. Every fan base has idiots and every popular athlete attracts trolls. There are always going to be people who say dumb things online and should probably touch a little more grass. Nobody has to defend that. But too many media members and league-adjacent voices took the worst people online and tried to use them to discredit the entire new audience. Clark fans weren't just passionate. They were toxic. Now American soccer is facing a version of the same test. The USMNT's World Cup run is bringing in people who don't usually watch soccer. Some of them won't know all the rules. Some of them won't know most of the players. They'll just know the United States is playing and they'll want the United States to win. That's enough. Or at least it should be. But gatekeepers hate that because it means they lose control of the room. The Independent ran an article with the headline, "Are you rooting against the US at the World Cup? You’re not alone." It included this line: "Sports have a way of fueling nationalistic passions, and I fully expect plenty of people who don’t care much about soccer to channel their patriotic sentiments into the tournament." See what we mean? The sport no longer belongs only to the people who were there when nobody else cared. The league no longer belongs only to the (very few) fans who watched before Clark arrived. The national team no longer belongs only to the people who understand "soccer culture." That's what mainstream popularity does: gives everyone a "seat at the table." Isn't that what the left is always asking for in every other context? The NFL doesn't get to choose its fans. Neither does college football, the NBA or Major League Baseball. If American soccer wants to be mainstream, it doesn't get to choose either. Neither does the WNBA. The Caitlin Clark boom should have been treated as a victory for the WNBA. She proved there was an audience for women's basketball when the right star came along. She proved people would watch, buy merchandise and care enough to argue. THIS IS THE USA'S ROADMAP TO WINNING THE WORLD CUP NOW THAT THEY'VE MADE THE KNOCKOUT ROUND American soccer should see the USMNT's World Cup moment the same way. If casual fans are showing up for group stage games, good. If people are chanting "USA!" too much, good. If they call it soccer, good. If they watch Fox News or vote Republican, good. That means the sport reached people outside the bubble. Isn't that what everyone said they wanted? Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4429cbc2ca79de23624d38 4 Warning Signs for Graham Platner. And 4 for Susan Collins Too. te 2026-06-30T20:40:43.213Z 4 Warning Signs for Graham Platner. And 4 for Susan Collins Too. The Maine race, which both parties see as key to winning control of the Senate, is extremely close, a Times/Portland Press Herald/Siena poll found. Both candidates have reasons for concern. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4429b4c2ca79de23624d14 The DeepMind trio who built a poker AI, are now making money for quant hedge funds te 2026-06-30T20:40:20.181Z The DeepMind trio who built a poker AI, are now making money for quant hedge funds EquiLibre Technologies, a Prague-based AI lab founded by three ex-DeepMind researchers is now valued at more than $500 million. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442785c2ca79de23624ca7 Kansas college student drowns after jumping into 'breathtaking' destination with deadly track record te 2026-06-30T20:31:01.027Z Kansas college student drowns after jumping into 'breathtaking' destination with deadly track record A 21-year-old Wichita State University student drowned after jumping into a popular Oregon swimming hole where authorities say the water is cold enough to cause immediate physical shock. Kenny Truong, of Wichita, Kansas, was visiting Tamolitch Falls, which is commonly known as Blue Pool, with friends Friday evening when he jumped into the water and was unable to get out, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office said. Dispatchers received a 911 call at 8:47 p.m. on June 26 reporting that a man had gone into the pool, located off Highway 126, and was struggling. "Witnesses describe him struggling as he swam toward shore, before submerging," Linn County Undersheriff Micah Smith said in a release. "Despite the best efforts of those at Tamolitch Falls who tried to help him, and the first responders who arrived in response to the 911 call, Kenny did not survive." NPS INVESTIGATES AFTER 23-YEAR-OLD REPORTEDLY SWEPT OVER NOTORIOUS YOSEMITE WATERFALL The Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Upper McKenzie Rural Fire responded to the remote area Friday evening. "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Kenny Truong, 21, of Kansas, during what is an unimaginable time," Smith said. FAMOUS LANDMARKS SLASH VISITING HOURS AS DEADLY HEAT WAVE THREATENS TOURISTS Truong was a finance major at the W. Frank Barton School of Business and a member-at-large of the Cummings Student Managed Investment Fund, Wichita State University confirmed to Fox News Digital. RESCUERS FREE CLIMBER TRAPPED BENEATH 16,000-POUND BOULDER ON OREGON'S MOUNT HOOD IN COMPLEX OPERATION Blue Pool, known for its striking turquoise water and cliffside views, is a major draw for hikers and visitors across the Pacific Northwest, but officials warned it can be deadly. "It is also a place that has taken lives before and will take lives again if visitors do not understand what they are facing," Smith said. Authorities said the cliffs surrounding the pool rise between 10 and 60 feet, while the water averages just 37 degrees. The area also has minimal to no cellphone service, and rescue efforts can be complicated by the remote terrain. "When something goes wrong at Blue Pool — or on the trail leading into the falls — it can take up to several hours from the moment of injury to reach a hospital," the sheriff’s office said. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS A GoFundMe organized by Carter Nguyen remembered Truong as a deeply loved friend with "fire in him" who pushed others to become "the brightest, best, fullest" versions of themselves. "Kenny wasn’t just my best friend; he was my brother," Nguyen wrote. "He had a way of making everyone around him feel seen, feel loved, and feel like they were capable of more than they ever believed on their own." GOT A TIP? "Every room he walked into got a little brighter just because he was in it," Nguyen wrote. "That’s not something you can fake; that was just Kenny." The sheriff’s office urged visitors to understand the risks before entering the water at Tamolitch Falls, watch out for the people they arrive with and call 911 immediately if someone is in distress. Officials said visitors with questions about current conditions should contact the McKenzie River Ranger Station. FOLLOW US ON X Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442771c2ca79de23624c9e Tennessee university to pay professor $1.9M after calling Charlie Kirk a 'disgusting psychopath' te 2026-06-30T20:30:41.579Z Tennessee university to pay professor $1.9M after calling Charlie Kirk a 'disgusting psychopath' A University of Tennessee professor will receive $1.9 million to settle a lawsuit accusing the school of violating her constitutional rights after officials sought to discipline her over social media posts criticizing conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Knox News reported Monday that the University of Tennessee System Board of Trustees approved a $1.9 million settlement for former professor Tamar Shirinian after she called Kirk, who was assassinated September 10 during his "American Comeback Tour" at Utah Valley University, a "disgusting psychopath." Shirinian was put on administrative leave following a social media post where she had said in part, "The world is better off without him in it," and added, "His kids are better off living in a world without a disgusting psychopath like him and his wife, well, she’s a sick f--- for marrying him so I dont [sic] care about her feelings." ALLEGED CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSIN TYLER ROBINSON'S ROOMMATE AND LOVER RECEIVED LIMITED IMMUNITY: PROSECUTORS She later apologized and said it was "insensitive" and "uncharacteristic of me as a person." Shirinian was fired on Feb. 11. She will not be reinstated, Knox News reported. In the February letter to Shirinian informing her that she had been fired, UT Chancellor Donde Plowman wrote, "Your words celebrated a gruesome murder, which horrifically took place on a college campus similar to our own, and then went on to callously demean the grief and loss felt by the widow and young children of the victim while also mocking any grief felt by others who sympathized with the surviving family." ALLEGED CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSIN TYLER ROBINSON'S ROOMMATE AND LOVER RECEIVED LIMITED IMMUNITY: PROSECUTORS "My client is pleased that the parties reached a resolution," Robb Bigelow, Shirinian's attorney, said in an email to Knox News. "Litigation is always difficult, and we're grateful to everyone on both sides who worked diligently to bring this matter to a close. "We believe the resolution reflects the seriousness of the issues while allowing everyone to move forward," Bigelow said. "We wish the University nothing but success in the future." In a statement to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for The University of Tennessee System said, "We do not have a comment outside of what was publicly said in the board meeting yesterday. A link to that meeting can be found here." ALLEGED CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSIN TYLER ROBINSON'S ROOMMATE AND LOVER RECEIVED LIMITED IMMUNITY: PROSECUTORS Fox News Digital reached out to Bigelow for comment and attempted to reach Shirinian. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442553c2ca79de23624c65 Arizona high court revives ‘dark money’ free speech fight te 2026-06-30T20:21:39.139Z Arizona high court revives ‘dark money’ free speech fight Key Points: Arizona Supreme Court rejects constitutional challenge to 2022 voter-approved law Law requires groups to disclose donors for election influence The law includes an “opt-out” option for donors who want to remain anonymous Arizona’s Supreme Court has largely upheld the state’s voter-approved crackdown on “dark money,” keeping in place one of the nation’s most sweeping donor-disclosure laws while sending a narrow free-speech challenge back to a lower court. The court dismissed most of the claims against the 2022 donor-disclosure law but allowed one as-applied free-speech claim to move forward in trial court. In a divided 4-3 opinion written by Chief Justice Ann Scott Timmer, the court rejected arguments that the “dark money” law is unconstitutional on its face or that it violates privacy rights in the state constitution. The “Voters Right to Know” Act, approved by more than 70% of voters in 2022, is aimed at ending anonymous big-money spending in Arizona elections and is widely described as one of the most comprehensive transparency laws in the country. The law requires any organization that spends more than $50,000 on a statewide race – or half that on other contests – to publicly disclose anyone who has given at least $5,000 to their cause. It also says those groups have to trace the money back to the original source, a requirement aimed at preventing wealthy ‘dark money’ donors from obscuring their identities through intermediary nonprofits. All claims in the case, including the one the Supreme Court has now revived, had previously been rejected by a trial court judge and by the Arizona Court of Appeals.  The Center for Arizona Policy and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club brought the case, along with two unnamed donors who say they could face harassment or retaliation if their identities are disclosed. They first argued that it was unconstitutional for the state to impose a blanket requirement for political groups to publicly disclose what they are spending and where the money is coming from. Timmer said that argument fails, citing provisions in the state’s original constitution directing legislators to enact laws requiring “general publicity” for campaign contributions and laws to secure the purity of elections and guard against abuses of the elective franchise. That leaves a narrower question: whether the donor-disclosure requirements in Proposition 211 burden the state constitutional right to “speak freely” for these specific groups and donors, who say their supporters could be deterred out of fear of harassment and retaliation. Taken as true at this early stage, Timmer wrote, those allegations are “minimally sufficient” to make a threshold showing that the Act’s disclosure provisions impose a concrete, non-speculative burden on their expressive activities, and the groups are entitled to try to prove that in trial court.  A statement issued by the Goldwater Institute, whose lawyers argued just that, called the revival of the challenge a victory for free speech rights. It said that the court recognized that nonprofit and donor plaintiffs do not surrender their privacy rights simply because they contribute money to causes they believe in. “This is an important victory for every Arizonan who believes people should be free to support the causes they care about without fear of government-compelled disclosure,” Goldwater senior attorney Scott Freeman said. “The Arizona Supreme Court recognized that our state constitution independently protects free speech and that citizens are entitled to prove that compelled donor disclosure violates those protections.” The challenge is far from over. The plaintiffs now have to persuade a trial court judge that the harms they say disclosure causes to their donors’ speech and association are significant enough to overcome Arizona’s long-standing interest in giving voters the right to know who is trying to influence an election. That concept has been part of state law since before Arizona became a state in 1912, Timmer pointed out in a detailed 50-page opinion that delved into the history and reach of the constitution’s “Speak Freely Clause,” “Privacy Clause” and those laws requiring election funding disclosure in Arizona.  Those disclosure requirements included pre-statehood laws requiring political parties to disclose all funding and funding sources within 30 days of an election and the constitution itself, approved by state voters in 1911, which contained directives about disclosure, she wrote in rejecting free speech claims generally in the context of disclosure laws. “Arizonans at statehood also understood that the Arizona Constitution itself required the Legislature to enact certain laws, even when doing so might incidentally restrain or compel expression,” Timmer wrote. “Most notably, the Constitution directs the Legislature to enact laws ‘providing for a general publicity’ of contributions to campaign committees and candidates, and ‘to secure the purity of elections and guard against abuses of the elective franchise.’ ” In reviving the once-rejected challenge, Timmer wrote that funding campaigns is not a private matter as a matter of law. But she said that at this early stage of the litigation the two groups and two unnamed donors who joined their lawsuit have a right to have those claims heard. “Taken as true at this early stage, these allegations are minimally sufficient to make a threshold showing that the Act’s disclosure provisions impose a concrete, non-speculative burden on CAP’s and FEC’s expressive activities,” Timmer’s opinion said. Terry Goddard, the former Arizona attorney general who was one of the main backers of Proposition 211, said the high court rejected almost all of the challengers’ constitutional arguments.  “Any kind of thought that this was somehow automatically unconstitutional is completely resolved in our favor,” Goddard told Capitol Media Services. And he contends that the groups that sued will have a hard time proving that donors’ speech will actually be affected by pressure from opponents, considering that a century of disclosure laws hadn’t led to that result. “It’s a fact that in Arizona, for 114 years, we’ve had disclosure requirements for people who make campaign contributions,” Goddard said. “And in that 114 years, there hasn’t been a single recorded incident of anybody being harassed or intimidated or somehow deferred in their action because of their contribution that was disclosed.” In effect, Proposition 211 closes gaps that have opened in the past couple of decades when wealthy “dark money” donors took advantage of disclosure loopholes to hide their backing of candidates or issues.  “Prop 211 is not new in the area of disclosure,” Goddard added. “What it did do was it went after those very small groups of very wealthy people who wanted to stay anonymous, wanted to hide their identity,” Goddard said. “So I think we’ve made a big step here against giving them special privileges through this decision.” In addition to the case decided Monday, two other challenges to Proposition 211 are ongoing in the courts. One is a challenge brought by Republican House Speaker Steve Montenegro and GOP Senate President Warren Petersen. In February, Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Greg Como ruled that a provision of Proposition 211 that says the Legislature does not have the right to interfere with the Citizens Clean Election Commission’s administration and enforcement of the Voters Right to Know Act was unconstitutional because it violated the separation of powers. But Como rejected efforts by Petersen and Montenegro to get the whole law gutted because of that and said it remains in effect without that provision.  The second is a federal constitutional challenge brought by Americans for Prosperity, a libertarian leaning conservative group founded by the wealthy industrialists Charles and David Koch in 2004, that is heavily involved in funding conservative causes and candidates. In that case, U.S. District Judge Roslyn Silver ruled that there’s nothing inherently unconstitutional about requiring the disclosure of donors to groups that spend money to influence elections. The post Arizona high court revives ‘dark money’ free speech fight first appeared on Arizona Capitol Times. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44253fc2ca79de23624c3f Lucky traveler wins $3.3M jackpot on 'Wheel of Fortune' slot machine at Harry Reid International Airport te 2026-06-30T20:21:19.170Z Lucky traveler wins $3.3M jackpot on 'Wheel of Fortune' slot machine at Harry Reid International Airport For most airline passengers, a layover means a rushed cup of coffee or a frantic search for an available charging station.  But for one lucky traveler this weekend, a brief stop at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) turned into a life-changing event. Airport officials took to social media on Monday to announce that a passenger, identified by game manufacturer IGT as "Anthony," hit a jaw-dropping $3.3 million jackpot while playing a "Wheel of Fortune" slot machine. "Congratulations to a lucky traveler who hit a $3.3 million jackpot on the Wheel of Fortune slot machine over the weekend in C Gates at LAS Airport," the post read. MAD SCRAMBLE UNDERWAY NEAR VEGAS TO SAVE CASINO RESORT GHOST TOWN FROM TOTAL COLLAPSE The massive win occurred in the airport's C Gates after the traveler placed a $10 bet, marking an unforgettable trip to the Entertainment Capital of the World. While airport slot machines are known for having tighter payouts than the mega-resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, LAS has a history of minting unexpected millionaires. The airport is one of only two commercial aviation hubs in the United States to feature terminal gambling (the other is Reno-Tahoe International Airport). STUNNING VACATION HOT SPOT TURNS INTO OVERCROWDED NIGHTMARE AS TOURISTS FLOOD STREETS Michael Gaughan’s Airport Slot Concession operates over 1,400 machines across the terminals, according to local reports, generating tens of millions in annual revenue that helps lower operating costs for airlines — ultimately keeping airfares more competitive. The multimillion-dollar windfall by "Anthony" is just the latest in a string of recent high-profile terminal jackpots. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER In May 2025, another traveler pocketed a cool $1.8 million on a $5 bet on a "Wheel of Fortune" machine in the D Gates. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES Before that, the airport celebrated a $1.4 million jackpot won by a visitor from San Diego and a $1.3 million win in 2023. While "Anthony" will have to account for a 24% federal tax withholding on his $3.3 million prize, Nevada does not tax personal income or gambling winnings. "Congratulations on your incredible win, and thanks for making LAS part of your lucky journey," airport officials wrote on social media. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44252bc2ca79de23624c36 LeBron James thanks Lakers ahead of free agency departure for 24th NBA season: 'Hope I made a few proud' te 2026-06-30T20:20:59.714Z LeBron James thanks Lakers ahead of free agency departure for 24th NBA season: 'Hope I made a few proud' A fourth chapter is on the horizon for LeBron James. The soon-to-be 42-year-old will truly test free agency for a third time this offseason after he and the Los Angeles Lakers confirmed that he will leave the team after eight seasons. ESPN initially reported that James informed the Lakers on Tuesday that he would be departing the team for his unprecedented 24th NBA season. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Following the reports, the Lakers offered a statement thanking James, and it does not seem as though the two parties are ending their relationship on bad terms. "LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers – including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold," Lakers owner Jeanie Buss said. "We wish him all the best in the future, both on the court and off. He will always be a cherished part of the Lakers family." James reposted the Lakers' statement and shared his own sentiments. LEBRON JAMES TELLS LOS ANGELES LAKERS HE WILL LEAVE IN FREE AGENCY AFTER EIGHT SEASONS: REPORT "No, THANK YOU! Truly a honor to wear the (purple and gold) while trying to continuing the greatness & legacies that came before me!" he said. "Hope I made a few proud during my stint." During his tenure with the Lakers, James won his fourth NBA championship, extended his record All-Star streak to 22 years and became the NBA's all-time leading scorer — yet another record he continues to extend. The Lakers reportedly wanted James back, but the four-time MVP was all set — even with his son, Bronny, on the team. The Jameses became the first father-son duo to not only be teammates in the NBA, but also to be active at the same time. It is worth noting that Bronny's salary of more than $2.3 million became fully guaranteed on Monday. James joined the Lakers in 2018 after a second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers in which he finally brought a championship to the Ohio city after 52 years. James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds last season, helping the Lakers win a playoff series while Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were nursing injuries. The Golden State Warriors are currently the favorites to land James, which would turn a rivalry between him and Stephen Curry into one of the most star-powered dynamic duos in sports history. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442504c2ca79de23624c2a C.I.A. Reorganization Prioritizes Cyberoperations te 2026-06-30T20:20:20.811Z C.I.A. Reorganization Prioritizes Cyberoperations John Ratcliffe, the C.I.A. director, said that the agency would take “smart risks,” but that people would have oversight of artificial intelligence. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44230dc2ca79de23624bcc WATCH: Maryland Dems defend ‘big tent’ party as New York socialist surge fuels Dem divide te 2026-06-30T20:11:57.997Z WATCH: Maryland Dems defend ‘big tent’ party as New York socialist surge fuels Dem divide Maryland Democrats rejected the idea that New York's socialist surge in primary victories signals a broader Democratic divide, insisting the races are a reflection of individual districts rather than a national shift as the party looks ahead to the midterm elections. "We have a big tent party, that's what it says," Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., said when asked what New York’s election results mean for Democrats. "This is a democracy," he continued. "You're going to have lots of perspectives. It's up to the voters to decide, and they did." AOC ISSUES WARNING TO HER FELLOW DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENTS IN THE WAKE OF SOCIALISTS WINNING BIG IN NYC The comments come after three far-left candidates won New York Democratic primaries, including two who defeated sitting Democratic incumbents, fueling debate over whether the victories signal growing influence and intraparty division heading into November’s midterms. "I’m all about new leadership," Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., told Fox News Digital when asked about New York’s election results. Several Maryland Democrats argued the results reflected the unique politics of individual New York districts rather than a broader ideological shift within the Democratic Party. "I think it's very reflective of the district," former U.S. Capitol Police Officer and former Maryland congressional candidate Harry Dunn said. He continued, "I think we've got to be careful applying what happened in New York to everywhere around the country." WATCH: KELLYANNE CONWAY INSISTS SOCIALIST PRIMARY VICTORIES DON'T REFLECT AMERICAN VALUES NATIONWIDE Other Maryland Democrats stressed the need to respect voters’ choices in their own districts, even when they disagree with the candidates who won. "I don't agree with all the things they've said," Rep. Johnny Olszewski, D-Md., said about the socialist candidates in New York. "I don't agree with all their positions, but I respect what the voters have done in New York. That's not reflective of the entire country." "Every district determines who they want," Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., said. "We may not like it. Some people didn't want me in. So you have to respect what a district, a congressional district, does. It's still the rule of the people." But as the party strives to regain control in Congress, some moderate Democrats have sought to distance themselves from socialism and the party’s leftward push. Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville condemned some of the radical views of the newly nominated Democratic candidates, particularly Darializa Avila Chevalier — a member of Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) — who ousted five-term Democrat Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y. "She has attacked interracial relationships and the American flag. Lady, I ain't in the same party as you. I'm sorry," Carville said in an episode of his podcast, Politics War Room. He continued, "Everybody's always said, 'No, no, we're a coalition. We're a big tent. And there's some – there's just some s--- that I can't be in the same tent with." JAMES CARVILLE SAYS SOCIALIST DEMOCRAT SHOULDN'T BE IN THE PARTY, CALLS HER VIEWS 'A BRIDGE TOO FAR' "I'm a capitalist, not a socialist," Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-N.Y., previously told Fox News Digital regarding his views on the New York Democratic candidates. "And I believe in safety, not lawlessness. And I'm proud of America. I'm not ashamed of America." Raskin, however, defended the progressivism within his party, arguing the new wave of socialism the Democratic Party is seeing is not consistent with traditional values held by socialists. "When people say they're socialists today, I don't think that they believe in dialectical materialism and dictatorship of the proletariat and classical Marxian socialism," Raskin said. "I think what they believe is much greater equality and reduction of all the class differences that have grown up under Trump and the plutocrats." Republicans have increasingly pointed to the Democratic Party's move toward socialist principles as a crux in campaigning to hold both their control of the Senate and razor-thin majority in the House. Most Democratic lawmakers seem to be urging their party to focus on gaining control in Congress in the upcoming midterm elections, regardless of their feelings toward some of the ideology fueling new candidates within the party. "In a perfect world, everybody should come together — Democratic socialists, moderates," Dunn said. "Everybody should come together and work together to represent everybody and not just the people who elected them." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4422fac2ca79de23624bc3 South Korean soccer team gets booed during their early morning return from disastrous World Cup te 2026-06-30T20:11:38.541Z South Korean soccer team gets booed during their early morning return from disastrous World Cup It's pretty early in the week, but even if things are already going sideways for you, I can promise you you're still probably having a better week than the South Korean soccer team that just arrived home from the World Cup. Let's say that they were not received like conquering heroes. In fact, it was more like whatever the opposite of that is. I'm not sure too many people had the South Koreans going the distance in this year's tournament, but they were certainly expected to get out of the group stage. However, the Koreans finished third in Group A thanks to losses against Mexico and South Africa, with a 2-1 win over Czechia keeping their World Cup from being a complete disaster. However, with three points and a -1 goal differential, the South Koreans were not one of the eight-best third-place teams, which meant an early return flight back home. WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE But, not before the coach resigned and the nation's president called for an investigation into the World Cup failure and the hiring process for the national team coach. So, that couldn't have been a fun flight knowing what was waiting for them. In fact, the team flew in at 4 a.m., hoping to avoid protesters, and, well... that probably seemed like a good idea, but it sure didn't work. FAN CELEBRATES MEXICO ADVANCING IN THE WORLD CUP BY DUNKING HIS HEAD INTO A COTTON CANDY MACHINE Oh man. All I could think about watching this was how I can't imagine anything that would make me so mad that I would go out to the airport just to give them a piece of my mind. FOX ONE’S NEW WORLD CUP VIEWING EXPERIENCE And even if there was something that got me that mad, the chance of me going out to do that at 4 a.m. is virtually zero. So, these fans are about as mad as you'll ever see any fans, and it goes to show how intense the World Cup truly is. But, the worst part for the South Koreans and their fans is that it will be a long four years before the next World Cup gets underway. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4422e7c2ca79de23624bba Nearly 100 monkeys escape enclosure, invade neighborhoods as officials scramble to recapture them te 2026-06-30T20:11:19.083Z Nearly 100 monkeys escape enclosure, invade neighborhoods as officials scramble to recapture them Nearly 100 monkeys ran loose through neighborhoods in central Thailand after escaping from a government-run enclosure overnight, prompting authorities to launch a large-scale effort to capture the animals. Officials said nearly 100 monkeys broke through part of an enclosure at the Lopburi Municipality Animal Nursery. The monkeys were being housed under the care of local authorities after being transferred from Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Workers were able to prevent more than 1,000 other monkeys at the facility from escaping. MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER, RELEASED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FORCING TODDLER INTO CROCODILE ENCLOSURE AT ZOO Provincial officials, wildlife authorities and municipal workers searched nearby residential areas Tuesday after the escape. Authorities used food-baited cages to lure some of the escaped monkeys back into custody. Other monkeys, including some of the larger and more dominant macaques, had to be subdued with tranquilizer darts before they could be captured. Crews repaired the damaged enclosure while officials continued efforts to recapture the escaped monkeys. MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER, RELEASED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FORCING TODDLER INTO CROCODILE ENCLOSURE AT ZOO Lopburi Gov. Weeraphong Ritrod said the damaged enclosure had been repaired and reinforced to help prevent additional escapes. He said officials also plan to build a more secure, double-layer enclosure designed to keep dominant monkeys from breaking out in the future. The governor said the province is also preparing to establish a foundation to help support food costs and improve the monkeys' welfare. FLORIDA WOMAN MAULED TO DEATH BY DOGS THAT HAD ALLEGEDLY TERRORIZED NEIGHBORHOOD, OWNER CHARGED IN KILLING Mayor Chamroen Salacheep said the monkeys may have escaped because of hunger, extreme heat, overcrowding or their natural instinct to roam. He also apologized to residents affected by the incident and encouraged anyone whose property was damaged to report it so authorities could assess the damage and determine what assistance may be available. Lopburi has long been known for its large population of free-roaming macaques. The monkeys have also caused problems for residents and businesses because of property damage and aggressive behavior. Authorities have worked in recent years to reduce the monkey population through sterilization programs and by relocating some animals to dedicated enclosures. Fox News Digital reached out to the Lopburi Municipality and Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation for comment but did not immediately receive a response. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4422d3c2ca79de23624bb1 RILEY GAINES: Supreme Court hands women an important win, but the fight isn’t over te 2026-06-30T20:10:59.630Z RILEY GAINES: Supreme Court hands women an important win, but the fight isn’t over The Supreme Court has handed women a massive victory by upholding reality and federal law with a favorable ruling on two landmark cases in a single opinion. Women’s sports CAN be just for women. The phrasing there is important and I’ll explain why in a moment. In a landmark decision addressing laws in Idaho and West Virginia, the Court upheld state protections reserving women's sports for women. The Court held that state laws reserving girls’ and women’s sports for biological females do not violate Title IX or the Equal Protection Clause. In other words, "sex" means biological sex — not a subjective identity that changes from person to person. DEMOCRATS REVOLT OVER 'BIOLOGICAL' WORDING IN WOMEN'S HISTORY MUSEUM BILL That shouldn't be controversial. Until just a few years ago, it wasn't. The timing couldn't be more fitting. Just days after the 54th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark civil rights law that opened doors for generations of female athletes, the Supreme Court affirmed that states may preserve the very category Title IX was designed to protect. There was one important divide. The Court split 6-3 on whether these laws violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The three dissenting justices (all Democrat-appointed women) would have held that laws protecting women's sports unlawfully discriminate. The irony speaks for itself. In short, the Supreme Court held that states are free to reserve women's sports for women because the sexes are not similarly situated when it comes to athletic competition. The Court acknowledged what every parent, coach, athlete, and frankly every kindergartener already knows: men and women are biologically different, and those differences matter in sports. If your first reaction is, "how did we ever get here?" you're not alone. I ask myself that question almost daily. For nearly 250 years, America had no trouble understanding what words like "man," "woman," "male," "female," and "sex" meant. Then came the cultural insanity of the last several years, when institutions, corporations, universities, governing bodies, and even courts began pretending that objective reality was somehow up for debate. We reached a point where a sitting Supreme Court justice famously said she couldn't define what a woman is because she "wasn't a biologist." When we've reached the point where the judge on the highest court in the country can't answer a question every child can answer, it becomes difficult to be surprised by anything. Thankfully, today's decision moves us back toward common sense. But let's be clear about what this ruling does and what it doesn't. What does this ruling mean? I hate to bring you down just as I built you up, but this decision isn’t as strong as we’d like it to be. And by "we", I mean those of us who believe girls, regardless of where they live, should never have to fear being met with a large man staring her down on the other side of the volleyball net. While we should certainly celebrate the win, the ruling just means having a sports category solely for women isn’t unconstitutional. Until 2020, this wouldn’t have been considered progress or worth celebrating because it was the standard position to take. The ruling does not mean states have to make the women’s category exclusive to real women, it just means it’s not illegal if they do. That distinction matters. May — not must. Basically, this ruling doesn’t reach the 23 states that have not passed some sort of state law banning men from competing in women’s sports. Fairness and safety in sports for girls depends on your zipcode. Where do we go from here? President Trump deserves credit for making this issue impossible to ignore. He campaigned on protecting women's sports, signed an executive order shortly after taking office, and hasn’t been shy talking about it since. You’ve all seen the videos of him imitating the male weightlifter…If the President of the United States ever becomes too much for him, he could always be a comedian. But executive orders aren't permanent. The next president can revoke them with the stroke of a pen. That's why Congress must act. The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act passed the House but has stalled in the Senate. If lawmakers truly believe women deserve equal opportunity, fairness, and safety, they should codify these protections into federal law rather than leaving them dependent on whichever administration occupies the White House. We need states to act through legislation or ballot measures. We need real enforcement mechanisms. We need a culture willing to push back. Despite the positive ruling, the fight continues. What happens to states like California or Washington state who will inevitably continue to act in defiance because they have crippling Trump Derangement Syndrome? Those states will continue to suffer from the very real, diagnosable disease they contracted in 2016: TDS. The usual bad actors will keep being the villains in the story. They will continue to put the feelings of boys before the physical safety of girls. Chew on that for a second. I hope the Department of Justice and the Department of Education aggressively enforce existing federal law against institutions that continue violating the rights of women and girls. Unfortunately, legal challenges take time, and activist states will almost certainly seek injunctions and other delays. Accountability will also have to come elsewhere. History shows institutions change course when ignoring reality becomes too expensive. Parents, athletes, donors, consumers, and voters all have leverage. Universities, athletic associations, corporations, and governing bodies should understand there are real consequences for sacrificing women's rights in service of political ideology. Most importantly, individual athletes should continue standing up for themselves. When schools or athletic organizations violate the rights of girls, litigation should remain on the table. Every successful lawsuit makes it more expensive to discriminate against female athletes and harder for institutions to pretend there isn't a problem. It must be expensive for the people who knowingly and willingly put girls in harm's way for the sake of ideology. They believe they’re giving a middle finger to President Trump when they defy his Executive Order and Title IX, but they’re not. They’re giving a middle finger to all the girls and women in their state. Will the trans issue continue to be an issue in 2026 and 2028? Will Democrats keep leaning into their extremism? I’m no political strategist (although, at this rate, I do believe I could advise the Democrats better than their current advisors if the goal is success), but I have no reason to believe the issue won’t be front and center again the next election cycle. This is the hill Democrats have chosen to die on. We won the Presidency, maintained control in the House, and gained control in the Senate. It was the red-wave I had expected largely thanks to how radical the Democrats had become on the culture issues. As a person who understands cause and effect, I thought the Democrats would slowly begin to recant from their voting record and previous positions. The other side has only become more radical. The extremism isn’t limited to just the gender ideology issue either. Look at the candidates they’ve put forward since the 2024 election. James Talarico believes God is non-binary and there are 6 genders for crying out loud. As long as they continue insisting biological sex doesn't matter in sports, Republicans shouldn't stop asking the question. Every candidate seeking public office should have to answer something incredibly simple: Should girls compete against boys? If their answer is some form of "yes", deflection, or a refusal to engage, then that should be disqualifying to any common sense American. If you can’t emphatically say men can't become women, why should I believe a single word that comes out of your mouth on any topic? You’ve already proven yourself detached from reality. What’s still at stake? This ruling isn’t the finish line like we want it to be; it’s really just the starting line. Title IX, once again, means something. Now we work to make sure every state recognizes its significance for all Americans, but specifically for women and girls. This case was never only about sports. Sports simply revealed the broader question our country has been wrestling with for years: does biological sex still matter under the law? Today's decision says yes. That's an enormous victory, but until every girl in every state has the same protections, the work remains unfinished. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION For me, this isn't an abstract legal debate. It's about my daughter. I want her to know that if she earns a championship, it's because she beat the best women, not because adults redefined what a woman is. I want her to know that if she's told she has equal opportunity, those words actually mean something. I want her generation to inherit a country that doesn't require courage to acknowledge obvious biological reality. That's what's still at stake. Today, the Supreme Court took an important step toward restoring that reality. Now it's up to the rest of us to finish the job. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4422c0c2ca79de23624ba8 Brooke Fletcher makes White Sox history, Taylor Swift's fake castle & OnlyFans models have PR firms now te 2026-06-30T20:10:40.194Z Brooke Fletcher makes White Sox history, Taylor Swift's fake castle & OnlyFans models have PR firms now We've made it, folks. To the halfway point of 2026. Incredible, right? It feels like just yesterday I was ringing in the New Year — watching drunk Anderson Cooper on my TV and sipping champagne with my dog. The dog wasn't sipping champagne, of course, but you know what I mean. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE And now we're in the last day of June. It's hotter than the devil's buttcrack outside, the air smells like campfires and bug spray, and some of you are enjoying your last few days with all 10 of your fingers. That's right, it's Fourth of July week, baby. America 250. Physically, I'm writing Nightcaps at my dining room table. Mentally, I'm four Miller Lites deep and sucking on a glizzy with my rear end firmly planted in an inner tube. A glizzy is a hot dog, by the way. Don't be a pervert. Although "sucking on" is an appalling way to refer to consuming a hot dog. Don't blame me. Blame John Mellencamp. It's been one hell of a week for me. If you recall, this time last week I was on my way to New York City to visit Fox HQ. I don't have any wild stories for you from the Big Apple because I spent most of my time doing super duper important work stuff. But it was really rad to meet many of the faces I see in Zoom boxes in actual human form. Good people there at the New York office. And I did have a couple hours of free time. So, naturally, I went to the Top of the Rock. Touristy, sure. But I'm a sucker for a view. Immediately when I got home from New York, I dumped out my suitcase and re-packed it to go to Athens, Tennessee. What the hell is in Athens, Tennessee? I'm so glad you asked. See, I'm a member of a book club here in my humble Nashville suburb. We read a lot of novels, and we meet at a brewery every two weeks to talk about them. This past weekend, 15 of us went on a retreat to a gorgeous house with a saltwater pool and a water slide. In Athens, Tennessee! Let me tell you something. I am feeling refreshed as heck — despite all the charcuterie and booze I inhaled over those three days. Sometimes — after a stressful week of work travel — you just need a little girl power. So log off and grab a margarita slushie. Let's do some Nightcaps. Speaking of girl power, did you see what Brooke Fletcher did last week? Brooke is a White Sox reporter for CHSN. When regular color analyst Steve Stone fell ill, she had to take over. And she became the first female TV analyst in White Sox history. If you're unfamiliar with Brooke's work, she is incredibly talented and deserving of this opportunity. Don't you go throwing any DEI accusations around because I will pull receipts faster than Dianna Russini pulled up her text messages to get out of that speeding ticket. But Brooke also happens to be the daughter of former White Sox shortstop Scott Fletcher. And over the weekend, her dad surprised her with a souvenir from her night in the booth. Brooke's crying. Scott's crying. I'm crying. You're crying. What a moment! And now onto something significantly less heartwarming. I know, you're tired of hearing (reading?) me gripe about it. And since the wedding is (allegedly) on Friday, there's an end in sight. KYLIE JENNER INSPIRES KNICKS LINGERIE, SWIFT-KELCE MSG WEDDING RUMORS & GERMAN DISCOVERS WAFFLE HOUSE But I simply refuse to believe Taylor Swift is actually choosing to have her wedding at Madison Square Garden. Yuck. Ew. Blech. The tackiness, the sticky folding chairs, the ugly basketball arena aesthetic. There's no way this billionaire pop star — who has endless options and an unlimited budget — is really getting married at MSG, right? You have to be kidding me. I refuse to believe they are actually getting married at MSG. This has to be a red herring to send the paparazzi elsewhere so that they can have their actual wedding somewhere majestic and private and beautiful. And then. As if things couldn't get any worse. I see this. They're building a CASTLE. Taylor, my sister in Christ. You have the money to go to Europe and rent out an actual castle. Please tell me this is just some sort of elaborate setup for a fan club party. Look, I know it's not my wedding. My wedding was perfect (minus the weather and the chemical burns). So I shouldn't be so invested in what Taylor Swift and dopey Travis Kelce are doing about their wedding venue. But something about this circus just offends me on a spiritual level. Let's open the mailbag. 📩 Email: amber.harding@outkick.com (Send your thoughts, stories, tips, rants and photos of your dog.) 🐦 Twitter/X: @TheAmberHarding 📸 Instagram: @amberharding Folks, I s--- you not. One of the more annoying things about being a reporter is that your inbox is constantly flooded with PR pitches. Some of them are relevant. Most of them are not. A good majority of the emails I get are just people who want me to shill some sort of random household item you can order on Amazon. But this... this was a first. Yes, friends, that is an official PR pitch from an agency that solely represents OnlyFans models and other "adult" creators. Complete with quotes and a Google Drive folder full of approved photos. Unbelievable stuff. I have, of course, redacted the model's name. No free promotions from me, young lady! But — out of curiosity — I did go to her Instagram profile and saw that a guy I briefly dated back in 2019 follows her. Probably just for her expert insight on soccer fans. Definitely not for her enormous fake boobs. What a world we live in. I love it when y'all email me or comment on my social media. I really do. Even if you're (respectfully) giving me a hard time about something I wrote, it's fun to hear from you. But every once in a while, someone goes above and beyond to tell me just what a jackass they think I am. Like this sweet 72-year-old lady Jeri, for example, who landed in my Instagram DM requests yesterday -- fuming over an article I wrote about Caitlin Clark. Jeri Wrote: "Typical Faux News story dissing Caitlin Clark. God, you people are amazing. Lost souls who hate America. All you need is blonde hair to complete the clueless ensemble." That is certainly ...a take. I cannot fathom how a person can look at Fox News or OutKick and think to themselves, "Wow, these people really hate America and Caitlin Clark." CAITLIN CLARK. We post stories singing Caitlin's praises every single day of the week and twice on Sunday. Jeri, what do you mean?! And so I asked her exactly that. Turns out, it was an article I wrote yesterday about click-me artist Emmanuel Acho claiming that the WNBA would be "better off" without Caitlin. That really got Jeri's knickers in a twist. I, obviously, reported what Acho said and then explained why what he said was complete buffoonery. It was a pro-Caitlin Clark article. Hence my confusion. Jeri Elaborated: "I think your article was a very mixed message. On purpose? Who knows. Most of it was spent giving credit to the dissers, with a few sentences at the end in support. Faux news distorts everything it touches. I am a middle of the road person. I honestly hate the crap that comes from faux news." Why Jeri spends so much time scanning a website she hates, I do not know. I wonder if she's seeing this column, too. But methinks we can chalk this one up to a reading comprehension problem on her part. Also, there's nothing wrong with blondes. Caitlin R. Writes: OK, last one on this, but did you see what Luke posted??? 😂 Amber: Last month, Luke Bryan released one of the most embarrassing songs in country music history. Golf. Fish. Hunt. Drink. Do the hokey pokey. Turn yourself around. I don't know, it's a blur to me. But I pointed out in Nightcaps how God awful terrible this song was. I was certainly not the only one to point it out. His comments were full of people just absolutely s---ing on this song. And, at first, Luke got defensive. I was adamant that this was absolutely the wrong way to handle things. His only recourse was to completely lean in. Make jokes about the absurdity of this song. Sell camo T-Shirts with "CLIMB TREE" in big, bold letters. Own it. Glad to see he's finally taking my advice. I'm so much smarter than Jeri gives me credit for. OutKick Nightcaps is a daily column set to run Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44207bc2ca79de23624b4a America's top party college hit by another sex attack weeks after brutal campus rape case te 2026-06-30T20:00:59.831Z America's top party college hit by another sex attack weeks after brutal campus rape case Another sexual assault suspect is being sought at America's top party school. The University of California Santa Barbara police have issued a second campus-wide warning in less than two months after a woman reported being stalked and groped in broad daylight, as detectives continue searching for the suspect in the brutal rape and strangulation of an 18-year-old freshman reported in May. According to a campus-wide Timely Warning, the latest incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. on June 24 as the victim walked along a paved access road on UCSB's West Campus. Police said a man riding a bicycle passed the victim before circling back multiple times over the next 15 minutes. MAN FOUND WITH ZIP TIES AND DUCT TAPE CHARGED WITH ASSAULTING FIVE WOMEN ON UCLA CAMPUS IN UNDER AN HOUR During the first two encounters, he stopped to ask questions. On the third pass, investigators said he approached the victim from behind, groped her and fled toward nearby Tierra De Fortuna Park. 🚨 Know something about crime or public safety in your area? 📩 stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 @fndstephprice 🎥 @StephenyPrice Your tip could become our next story. The suspect is described as a Hispanic or Middle Eastern man, about 35 years old, approximately 5-foot-8 with a thin build, shaved head, brown eyes and scruffy facial hair. He was wearing a gray tank top or cut-off T-shirt, shorts and a black backpack while riding a bicycle. Police said he was not known to the victim. MAN FOUND WITH ZIP TIES AND DUCT TAPE CHARGED WITH ASSAULTING FIVE WOMEN ON UCLA CAMPUS IN UNDER AN HOUR The warning is the second issued by UCSB police since May, when an 18-year-old freshman reported she was raped and strangled after meeting a man at a Sigma Pi fraternity party before returning to her dorm at Tropicana Gardens in Isla Vista. LAWYERS FIGHTING SJSU OVER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL RESPOND TO FEDERAL TITLE IX PROBE FINDINGS That investigation remains unsolved. Days after the attack, the survivor's family, through attorney Tyrone Maho, publicly appealed for witnesses to come forward, saying anyone who attended the Sigma Pi fraternity party or was near Tropicana Gardens on the night of May 9 could hold critical information. FOLLOW US ON X The family also urged the chancellor to ask the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office to take over the investigation, arguing the attacker remained "a potential threat to our community," while expressing gratitude for the work already done by UC Santa Barbara police. The May attack prompted a candlelight vigil, where students gathered to support the survivor and voice concerns about campus safety. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS UC Santa Barbara has been ranked the nation's top party school by Niche for the past two years. Campus crime data also show the university has recorded more than 100 reported rapes between 2022 and 2024, according to its Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports. The reports also show increases in other reported crimes in recent years, including weapons arrests and burglaries. GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS In a statement previously provided to Fox News Digital following the May attack, UC Santa Barbara police said federal law limits what officials can disclose about active investigations but emphasized that reports of crimes on university property are fully investigated by sworn officers. The department said it has remained in direct contact with the survivor's family and works closely with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office and the District Attorney's Office when appropriate. GOT A TIP? Investigators are asking anyone with information about the June 24 incident to contact the UC Santa Barbara Police Department. Fox News Digital reached out to the UCSB Police Department for comment. Fox News Digital's Kelsie Cairns contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a442054c2ca79de23624b3f States Sue Trump Administration Over Medicaid Work Requirements te 2026-06-30T20:00:20.414Z States Sue Trump Administration Over Medicaid Work Requirements The lawsuit argues that new federal rules went beyond what Congress enacted and broke from guidance that the federal government previewed to states. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441c1bc2ca79de23624a81 City of Flagstaff starts neighborhood repaving work te 2026-06-30T19:42:19.841Z City of Flagstaff starts neighborhood repaving work Asphalt removal and paving will take place in multiple neighborhoods beginning this week and continuing into July. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441c07c2ca79de23624a78 Animal Welfare: What the HCH/CHA merger means for animal care in Flagstaff going forward te 2026-06-30T19:41:59.874Z Animal Welfare: What the HCH/CHA merger means for animal care in Flagstaff going forward How can you help and support this expanded city/county shelter? Adopt, volunteer, foster and/or donate! Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441bf3c2ca79de23624a50 Hazmat crews rush to Pennsylvania train derailment as residents told to shelter in place te 2026-06-30T19:41:39.392Z Hazmat crews rush to Pennsylvania train derailment as residents told to shelter in place Emergency crews are responding to a freight train derailment in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, officials said Tuesday afternoon. Bensalem Police, Fire, EMS and hazmat teams were called to the area between Street Road and Neshaminy Falls Train Station after reports that 5 to 10 freight cars had derailed, according to the Bensalem Township Police Department. BYSTANDER VIDEO CAPTURES NORFOLK SOUTHERN TRAIN T-BONING SEPTIC TRUCK AT VIRGINIA RAILROAD CROSSING Officials said they are working to determine what the train cars were carrying. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "Residents in the area are urged to stay away and shelter in place until we have an update," the Bensalem Township Police Department said. This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441bccc2ca79de23624a41 House G.O.P. Revolt Blocks Pentagon Bill te 2026-06-30T19:41:00.485Z House G.O.P. Revolt Blocks Pentagon Bill Ultraconservative lawmakers refused to back a critical procedural measure as they pressed for action on voting legislation championed by President Trump. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441bb9c2ca79de23624a38 55% of Americans support birthright citizenship. te 2026-06-30T19:40:41.025Z 55% of Americans support birthright citizenship. The Supreme Court decision puts the court in line with the views of a majority of Americans. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441ba5c2ca79de23624a2f Trans Sports Ruling Puts Pressure on States Without Bans te 2026-06-30T19:40:21.577Z Trans Sports Ruling Puts Pressure on States Without Bans Almost half of states do not prohibit trans girls and women from competing. The Supreme Court ruling doesn’t force them to, but lawmakers and voters could change that. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4419b6c2ca79de236249f5 Lighting up Independence Day skies: Fireworks shows along the Colorado River te 2026-06-30T19:32:06.312Z Lighting up Independence Day skies: Fireworks shows along the Colorado River BULLHEAD CITY — Adding sparkle to the Fourth of July, fireworks shows are on tap to celebrate Independence Day throughout the Tri-state. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4419a2c2ca79de236249ec Davis Dam displays America 250 banner for July 4 te 2026-06-30T19:31:46.346Z Davis Dam displays America 250 banner for July 4 BULLHEAD CITY — The south face of Davis Dam will display a 75-foot by 25-foot banner for the July 4, America250 holiday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44198ec2ca79de236249e3 Findlay's All American Tailgate Party celebrates America's 250th birthday te 2026-06-30T19:31:26.382Z Findlay's All American Tailgate Party celebrates America's 250th birthday BULLHEAD CITY - Bullhead City scores with Findlay's All American Tailgate Party to celebrate America's 250th birthday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441790c2ca79de23624958 EXCLUSIVE: Hawley launches investigation into postal service over dumped mail, millions in executive bonuses te 2026-06-30T19:22:56.434Z EXCLUSIVE: Hawley launches investigation into postal service over dumped mail, millions in executive bonuses FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., is opening a congressional investigation into the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), demanding internal records on dumped mail, potential criminal wrongdoing and millions in executive bonuses as his standoff with Postmaster General David Steiner intensifies. In a scathing letter Tuesday on behalf of the Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, Hawley said the probe comes after Steiner failed to answer questions at a recent committee hearing about thousands of pieces of dumped mail discovered in St. Louis in April. Following the hearing, Steiner sent a letter to Hawley deflecting responsibility for the dumped mail to an active Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigation, while lecturing the senator on his lack of Southern "decorum." Hawley, who took to X on June 24 to demand Steiner resign if he doesn't return his bonus money, noted that it was "unbelievable" that Steiner was unaware of the highly publicized mail dumping incident. DOGE LAWMAKERS LOOK TO DEFUND BIDEN'S ANEMIC-PACED $3B EV POSTAL TRUCK 'BOONDOGGLE' In his letter Tuesday, Hawley requested all internal USPS communications regarding the St. Louis mail dumping and requested the exact date Steiner was first informed. The senator also asked if any postal employees have been referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal prosecution under federal statutes regarding the theft, delay or destruction of mail, and clarification on whether postal workers have been falsifying scanning data to artificially inflate delivery metrics. DHS APPROVES PLAN TO VERIFY VOTER CITIZENSHIP, MONITOR MAIL BALLOTS AS TRUMP PUSH INTENSIFIES Taking aim at the millions in "non-salary compensation" paid to USPS executives over the last decade, Hawley is seeking a complete, itemized statement of all compensation paid to Steiner since his appointment, along with "scorecards" used to justify the bonuses. "You seem to operate under the misapprehension that you are entitled to some kind of special deference," Hawley wrote. "In fact, it’s the people of Missouri that are entitled to something: you doing your job." According to the letter, an audit of the St. Louis distribution center revealed the "worst case of failed on-time delivery" the inspector general had seen in field operations reviews, while a Kansas City audit found 100,000 delayed pieces of mail over just three days. The USPS did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44177cc2ca79de2362494f Congress eyes rare bipartisan housing win with or without Trump's help te 2026-06-30T19:22:36.986Z Congress eyes rare bipartisan housing win with or without Trump's help The House has officially shipped a colossal bipartisan housing package to President Donald Trump, and lawmakers are hoping that, at the very least, he doesn’t veto it. Trump was supposed to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act last week, but his last-minute decision to ghost the signing ceremony with House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., put into question whether the bill was dead. His refusal to sign the bill, which passed with overwhelmingly bipartisan support in both chambers, was to leverage the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, which doesn’t currently have the votes to succeed in the Senate. WARREN TELLS TRUMP TO 'SIGN THE DAMN BILL' AS BIPARTISAN HOUSING PACKAGE REMAINS STALLED IN WASHINGTON Trump appears to be in no hurry to sign the bill, despite Republicans who are hungry for a win in the affordability fight ahead of the midterm elections. "It's so unimportant … compared to the SAVE America Act," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Monday. "I think the SAVE America Act is exactly what it says. It's saving America from crooked elections." "Here's what I would like to sign, much more than a bill that — big deal, it's a yawn," he continued. "Some people say it's wonderful. To me, compared to the SAVE America Act, just about everything is a big yawn." GOP INFIGHTING OVER TRUMP'S VOTER ID BILL ERUPTS AS TOP SENATOR CALLS STRATEGY 'FANTASY' It's legislation that is loaded with nearly 60 provisions from both sides of the aisle in both chambers that's designed to make it easier for homes to be built and for younger Americans to buy their first home. It also includes a ban on hedge funds buying up housing stock that Trump pushed Congress to include during the State of the Union earlier this year. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., one of the architects behind the bill in the upper chamber alongside Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., charged that Congress handed the bill to Trump "on a silver platter." "When you ask me what happens next, if he cared about the American people, he'd have already signed the damned thing, and we'd be underway," Warren said on WCVB's "On the Record" on Sunday. But Trump doesn’t have to put his signature on the bill for it to become law. IRATE REPUBLICANS ACCUSE TRUMP OF HANDING DEMOCRATS A WIN AFTER BLOWING UP HOUSING PACKAGE The Constitution grants presidents the ability to veto a bill within 10 days of it being transferred over to the White House. In that scenario, Congress could override a veto of the housing package. It’s happened before under the Trump administration. In early 2021, Congress overrode Trump’s veto of the annual National Defense Authorization Act — a massive Pentagon funding authorization package that some House Republicans are trying to use as a vehicle to pass the SAVE America Act. But during that 10-day period, if Trump doesn’t sign the bill, it would automatically become law. That’s unless Congress completely adjourns, in which case a "pocket veto" could happen. The Senate is currently in recess and the House is scheduled to leave town by week's end, but neither count as a full adjournment. Johnson, who spent the last few days meeting with Trump at the White House about the housing bill and the SAVE America Act, said: "I hope he does sign it." "If he doesn't, it's still law," Johnson said. "We'll still celebrate it, but he's trying to make a point, and I think he's making it very effectively. And the fact that you all ask me every three steps down the hallway illustrates that he has achieved the desired objective, and that is to make SAVE America the number one thing, because if we don't get that right, everybody's concerned about what happens next." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441769c2ca79de23624946 We were forced to compete against a male. The Supreme Court had our backs te 2026-06-30T19:22:17.524Z We were forced to compete against a male. The Supreme Court had our backs The U.S. Supreme Court just moved us much closer to leveling the playing field. In a decision that defends justice and biological reality, the court upheld laws in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Idaho (Little v. Hecox) that preserve fairness and safety for female athletes by keeping men out of women’s sports. The ruling effectively upholds the laws of 27 states; now the other 23 states need to act. By affirming the clear meaning of the law and common sense, the Supreme Court’s decision also affirmed state governments’ ability to recognize the inherent biological differences between men and women. In doing so, the justices have thrown legal cold water on years of cultural and political pressure to deny that reality—efforts that have led thousands of girls and young women like us into senseless defeat, discouragement, and, for some, even physical danger. SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS We didn’t compete to win "participation" trophies. And we didn’t train to lose before we even stepped up to the starting line. So we’re deeply grateful that now, by supporting states’ legal authority to keep men out of women’s sports, the court has reasserted decades-long efforts to promote women’s athletics as separate from men’s sports. The court validated fair competition rather than an increasingly destructive laboratory for social experimentation. Most Americans will appreciate this. They know men can’t become women. They know differences between the sexes run deep and can’t be erased with drugs and surgeries that do terrible damage to those who undergo them. As Justice Clarence Thomas explained in his concurring opinion today, "Men and boys with gender dysphoria are not women or girls, even if they believe that they are." The impact of this forcible "fairness" has done damage to countless girls and women nationwide: damaging their chances for greater athletic and, through scholarships, academic success; discarding years of hard work, training, and sacrifice; in some cases, doing them serious physical harm; and, in many more, draining away the purest joys of athletic competition. LAWYERS FIGHTING SJSU OVER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL RESPOND TO FEDERAL TITLE IX PROBE FINDINGS We know. Both of us were forced to compete against a male in Idaho track and field and cross-country events; as a result, we both fell significantly in our respective athletic rankings. Other women—including Adaleia Cross, who competed on the same team and in the same events as B.P.J., were among the approximately 400 female athletes in West Virginia displaced across a three-year period by a single male athlete competing in their events. That same male athlete was given access to girls’ locker and shower areas and allegedly repeatedly sexually harassed Adaleia and other girls. The unwillingness of school officials to properly address Adaleia’s complaints is a story echoed in other schools all over the country, where women and girls have been compelled to forfeit personal privacy, physical safety, and athletic success in deference to a dangerous cultural trend and an ironclad political agenda. EMERGENCY ACTION SEEKS TO PREVENT ERASURE OF 'MOTHER' AND 'FATHER' IN CODE OF LARGEST US TOWN That is another reason why this week’s legal victory is so important. Twenty-three states still aren’t protecting women’s sports. This week’s decision affirms for officials and concerned citizens in all those states the legal protection and moral incentive to change that—to restore to this generation of young women their right to equal opportunity, personal safety, and the lifelong benefits of fair athletic competition. We would first like to thank God for His strength and hand in this effort. We’re also thankful for all those who have stood for truth. We are grateful to West Virginia Attorney General J.B. McCuskey and Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador for having the courage to stand up for every girl in their states. And to our attorneys at Alliance Defending Freedom, who worked alongside them and fought so hard for us: Thank you. We couldn’t have done this without you. We're also thankful for every parent, coach, and community member who showed up—at school board meetings, in statehouses, and online—and refused to stay quiet. And to the women athletes who used their own platforms to speak out: Riley Gaines, Wendy Enderle, Stephanie Turner, and countless others. We see you, and we’re grateful you had our backs. But particularly, this week, we give thanks for a decision that gives us justice and points our nation back to common sense … to reality … to the truth. Over the last few years, so many people have worked tirelessly to promote the lie that men can become women—that one sex should step aside and let another one destroy all that so many women struggled for so long to make possible: equality, fairness, and opportunity. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The girls and women athletes of this country have paid a terrible price for those lies and that destruction. But this decision is the beginning of the end of all that—a great, long step back toward justice and common sense. There are more long steps to come, but they will be easier now. The playing field isn’t level yet—but it’s a lot closer than it was. Editor's note: Former Idaho State University track athletes Madison Kenyon and Mary Kate Marshall are parties to the women’s sports cases that the U.S. Supreme Court decided on June 30. Mary Kate Marshall is a former track athlete at Idaho State University. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441756c2ca79de2362493d America's national parks could add years to your life — here's how they boost health te 2026-06-30T19:21:58.067Z America's national parks could add years to your life — here's how they boost health As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, many Americans are taking extra notice of all the things the country has to offer. One such case is our access to vast wilderness. Today, the nation's national parks are bustling tourist attractions, but they may also serve as vital resources for public health, experts say. The most immediate health boost comes from physical movement. HIKERS FACE URGENT GRAND CANYON HEAT WARNING AFTER TEEN’S DEATH ON POPULAR TRAIL Guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that regular physical activity is crucial for reducing obesity, improving sleep quality and lowering the risk of chronic illnesses. The nation's public lands include parks, trails and open spaces that encourage outdoor recreation and physical activity. A review by the Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) found that implementing park, trail and greenway infrastructure directly increases physical activity across communities. AMERICA'S LIFESPAN HAS DOUBLED SINCE 1776 — EXPERTS REVEAL WHAT CHANGED When people walk, hike or bike through national parks, they are actively lowering their blood pressure, boosting immune function and reducing overall mortality, data shows. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER Beyond physical fitness, national parks may contribute to documented mental health benefits. Previous research has demonstrated that direct exposure to nature significantly reduces physiological stress, lowers heart rates and decreases levels of stress hormones, like cortisol. This research also shows that natural environments boost attention span, combat mental fatigue and improve cognitive performance. CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Parks also act as natural venues for mindfulness and social connection. Research shows that practicing mindfulness in quiet outdoor spaces lowers stress and mitigates feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Additionally, because parks protect cultural and historical resources, they can inspire lifelong learning. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ According to the data, engaging in educational activities and lifelong learning preserves brain function, improves memory and helps stave off age-related cognitive decline. The National Park Service was established in 1916 to conserve the nation's natural and historic resources for future generations, according to the organization. Today, that mission has expanded, as parks are recognized not only for their scenic and cultural value, but also the opportunities they provide for recreation and physical activity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441742c2ca79de23624934 San Francisco home with history of squatters under contract for $1.3 million te 2026-06-30T19:21:38.611Z San Francisco home with history of squatters under contract for $1.3 million A San Francisco home with a long history of squatters has hit the market for 1.3 million and, despite its severe neglect, already has a buyer. Located on Yukon Street near the city's historic Castro neighborhood, the abandoned 2,100-square-foot home has been occupied by a rotating group of squatters over the past five years, according to the San Francisco Standard. Neighbors say police have repeatedly been called over the years for drugs, noise and other disturbances. Property listing photos show boarded-up doors, shattered windows and interior walls covered in graffiti. According to local reports, the property is littered with hypodermic needles and squatters left a poop bucket on the top-floor deck. SPENCER PRATT SAYS HIS POLICY WILL FORCE HOMELESS OUT OF LA AND INTO CITIES LIKE SEATTLE The vacant property also lacks running water and electricity, NBC Bay Area reported. Despite its condition, listing agents Zara and James Rowbotham said the home has had "nonstop" showings. The property is already listed as under contract on the Vanguard Properties website. The home's rapid sale underscores how properties in dilapidated condition can fetch millions of dollars in San Francisco's limited real estate market. "If this were a single-family, it would have gone in a minute," Zara Rowbotham told the SF Standard. "It could have reached something like $2 million." BIDEN'S ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION SURGE CAUSED HIGHER RENT AND HOME PRICES, FED STUDY FINDS The listing's surprising success comes amid a rise in squatting incidents in California and across the nation in recent years. According to a New York Times report, a 2024 survey found that 76 percent of California property owners considered squatting a major issue, with 70 percent of respondents saying they had been victimized by squatters or personally knew someone who had been. In response, several states have passed aggressive legislation allowing law enforcement to immediately arrest unauthorized occupants and bypass traditional court backlogs. California, however, remains a strict outlier. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Under California law, property owners must go through a lengthy civil eviction process to remove squatters. In the Golden State, squatters are also allowed to legally claim ownership of a property if they occupy it and pay its property taxes for five continuous years. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44171bc2ca79de23624926 Amy Coney Barrett Faces Right-Wing Ire Over Recent Rulings te 2026-06-30T19:20:59.698Z Amy Coney Barrett Faces Right-Wing Ire Over Recent Rulings Justice Barrett sided with Chief Justice Roberts and the liberal minority to uphold birthright citizenship and mail-in voting practices. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441708c2ca79de23624914 Supreme Court sides with GOP states on anti-trans sports ban te 2026-06-30T19:20:40.243Z Supreme Court sides with GOP states on anti-trans sports ban Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4416f4c2ca79de236248f7 Realta Fusion generates electricity directly from a fusion reaction, an apparent first te 2026-06-30T19:20:20.282Z Realta Fusion generates electricity directly from a fusion reaction, an apparent first Realta Fusion showed it could generate electricity from a fusion reaction, no steam turbine required. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441511c2ca79de236248b7 North Carolina cold case heats up with stepmother accused of killing missing teen te 2026-06-30T19:12:17.448Z North Carolina cold case heats up with stepmother accused of killing missing teen More than 11 years after an 18-year-old North Carolina woman mysteriously disappeared on her way to work, authorities say the case has finally cracked open. Sara Nicole Graham's stepmother, Connie Graham, is now charged with first-degree murder, while two of her sons are accused of helping cover up the crime, according to the Robeson County Sheriff's Office. The arrests mark a dramatic turn in a case that baffled investigators for more than a decade and left Graham's family searching for answers as her body remained missing. COLD CASE CRACKED AS ILLINOIS SUSPECT CHARGED IN BRUTAL 1993 KILLING OF MOTHER FOUND SLAIN IN FIELD Connie Graham, of Fairmont, was arrested Thursday on charges of first-degree murder, altering, stealing or destroying criminal evidence and two counts of felony conspiracy. Her sons, Bobby Matthew McLellan and Luke Locklear, both of Lumberton, were also arrested. McLellan is charged with accessory after the fact, felony conspiracy and evidence tampering, while Locklear is charged with felony conspiracy and evidence tampering. 🔍 Have information the public should know? 📩 stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 @fndstephprice 🎥 @StephenyPrice Whether it's a developing case, concerning trend, or something you think deserves attention, your information could help lead our next story or investigation. Connie Graham was denied bond during her first court appearance. McLellan and Locklear are each being held on $1 million secured bonds. Sara Graham vanished on Feb. 4, 2015, after leaving her home around 6:30 a.m. for her shift at a Walmart in nearby Pembroke. She never made it to work. INVESTIGATORS REVISIT FLORIDA SERIAL KILLER CASE AS SEARCH RESUMES FOR POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL VICTIMS Later that day, deputies found her van abandoned in a field near Interstate 95, but Graham had seemingly vanished without a trace. The mystery lingered for years. Earlier this month, a Robeson County judge legally declared Graham dead after she had been missing for more than seven years, clearing the way for prosecutors to move forward as a homicide case. MYSTERY OF REMAINS FOUND INSIDE SLEEPING BAG IN OLYMPIC PARK SOLVED AFTER 26 YEARS Even now, investigators have not recovered her body. Sheriff Burnis Wilkins said the investigation never went cold, despite the years that passed without an arrest. "While some may have believed this case had gone cold, the reality is a case like this never leaves the minds of the investigators assigned to it," Wilkins said. FOLLOW US ON X "When I took office in 2018, one of my first priorities was to get justice for Sara, and that doesn't end with the criminal charges today. We will not stop until we find her." Wilkins said he hopes the arrests bring "some measure of comfort" to Graham's loved ones after more than a decade of unanswered questions. "While nothing can undo the loss felt by so many, we hope these arrests provide some measure of comfort," he said. "The pursuit of justice never stopped, Sara was never forgotten, and those responsible, no matter how hard they tried, did not outrun the pursuit of justice." CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS Authorities have not revealed what evidence led investigators to arrest Graham's stepmother and stepbrothers, saying they cannot disclose key details while the case moves through the courts. Sara Graham's mother, Catherine Armenta, told WPDE through her attorney that the past 11 years have been "tremendously difficult." GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS "Not a day goes by that my other children and I don't think about Sara. We miss her terribly," Armenta said, according to the station. GOT A TIP? Armenta said the family's decision to have Sara legally declared dead earlier this month was "incredibly painful" but necessary after more than a decade without answers. She also thanked the Robeson County Sheriff's Office, the FBI and prosecutors for continuing to pursue the case and renewed the family's plea for anyone with information about Sara's disappearance to come forward. The FBI is still offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the recovery of Sara Graham's body. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Robeson County Sheriff's Office for any additional updates or comment as the investigation continues. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4414fdc2ca79de236248ae MS NOW guest admits 'great trepidation' about celebrating America's 250th, claims country is being destroyed te 2026-06-30T19:11:57.996Z MS NOW guest admits 'great trepidation' about celebrating America's 250th, claims country is being destroyed MS NOW guest Eddie Glaude, an author and professor at Princeton, said Tuesday that he felt "great trepidation" about celebrating America's 250th anniversary because he felt the country is being "destroyed," and questioned what they were celebrating. "Well, I've been struggling with what are we actually celebrating," Glaude told the hosts of "Morning Joe," adding, "I'm thinking about Donald Trump, kind of, in so many ways, blending his own kind of cult of personality with the celebration of the nation, and wondering what exactly are we celebrating? Is it a storybook version of America?" "This idea that, you know, we are a beacon of freedom and that our perfection was secured in our salvation, or are we looking at the way in which our ideals don't match up to our practices, our current practices?" he continued. "And so I'm really going into July 4, grappling with whether or not the ugly ghosts of our country have us by the nape of the neck, Mika." Co-host Mika Brzezinski asked Glaude if he still had hope in the country. DAVID MARCUS: AS THE NATION BICKERS, SMALL-TOWN AMERICA STILL LOVES A PARADE "I don't know, you know, how can I put this, that the country that made my life possible is being destroyed right in front of me," he said. Glaude argued that people who imagine the country as a "White Republic" were actively trying to make it so, and that diversity was no longer seen as a strength. "I believe, in this 250th, we have to make a choice," he said. "America, in many ways, has to leave behind [this] guaranteed innocence, Willie. And confront who we actually are so that we can release ourselves into being otherwise. Otherwise, we're not going to make it to the other side of this madness, it seems to me."  "So I'm barreling towards July 4 with great trepidation, but hoping that the great diversity of this country will make itself known, and we can beat back some of these ugly forces," he added. "Because remember, JD Vance doesn't believe that the creed defines who we are. He believes in something more sinister. That there's something more fundamental about who we are as Americans that we need to reject, I think, outright," Glaude said. MS NOW's Mike Barnicle told Glaude that he still sings the "Star Spangled Banner" at sporting events and still enjoyed seeing the American flag fly on a sunny day, but also says a slave owner wrote the words, "All men are created equal." "And I also know that we're a country that we fail to remember what Lincoln once said. We cannot escape history. And we cannot escape our own history, but we can improve it, I think," he said. "And we can celebrate it without thinking that we are carrying a millstone around our neck because of the political activities that have taken place in the last, certainly the last six or seven years." WASHINGTON POST COLUMNIST: IT WILL BE 'HARDER' TO CELEBRATE AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY Barnicle went on to ask Glaude if he saw optimism "at the end of this July 4 rainbow." "No, Mike, I don't. And it comes about I think that that orientation follows from my own formation. I don't think I've ever teared up around patriotism, I don't ever think I've found joy in singing the ‘Star Spangled Banner.’ It has something to do with the tradition out of which I've come," he responded. He added he's had to live the "contradiction of America itself, even as we have struggled for its promise." He said he had a "blue-soaked hope" that the world is ugly and that the U.S. has a burdensome past that has it by the throat, but that he had some faith in human beings. MS NOW host Ali Velshi is among those who have expressed feeling unease about celebrating the 250th anniversary of America, as well as far-left journalist Joy Reid and MS NOW host Al Sharpton, who expressed uncertainty about the 4th of July, specifically for Black Americans. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "They're going to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the country July 4, but that's not our celebration," Sharpton said at the National Action Network’s 35th Anniversary National Convention in April. He continued, "We were slaves then, and they celebrate signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. We were not even emancipated until 1863. So I don't know what everybody is getting ready for a celebration [for]. You know that it seems crazy for me to have on the birthday hat at your birthday party. That ain't my party." Reid said during a podcast conversation earlier this month, "I can promise you, Black folks, we will take that day off, we will barbecue because we [are] off, but nobody Black I know is really excited about the 4th of July." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4414d7c2ca79de23624899 Woman Wading in Central Florida River Is Fatally Bitten by Alligator te 2026-06-30T19:11:19.081Z Woman Wading in Central Florida River Is Fatally Bitten by Alligator The woman, 31, was kneeling in the shallow part of a river in Seminole County, in Central Florida, when an alligator bit her, the authorities said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4414c3c2ca79de23624890 Trump Urges Congress to Take Up Birthright Citizenship. Here’s Why It’s Unlikely. te 2026-06-30T19:10:59.624Z Trump Urges Congress to Take Up Birthright Citizenship. Here’s Why It’s Unlikely. The president lost his case in the Supreme Court, but mere legislation would not be enough. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4414b0c2ca79de2362487e No, your drinking water isn’t contaminated by abortion pills te 2026-06-30T19:10:40.167Z No, your drinking water isn’t contaminated by abortion pills Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44149cc2ca79de23624861 Google introduces a faster, cheaper image generator with Nano Banana 2 Lite te 2026-06-30T19:10:20.211Z Google introduces a faster, cheaper image generator with Nano Banana 2 Lite Google is updating its image generator to make it faster and cheaper, making it a more useful tool for creators looking to make AI content. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4412b9c2ca79de23624828 Bigfoot is a Neanderthal-Human hybrid, according to the man who claims to have found remains te 2026-06-30T19:02:17.905Z Bigfoot is a Neanderthal-Human hybrid, according to the man who claims to have found remains The mystery of Bigfoot has been solved, if you believe Snake the Bigfoot Hunter. He's been labeled a hoaxer and scammer by some, but that has done nothing to slow him down. After finding what he claims are remains in the Adirondack Mountains in October 2024 and putting the body on display at last year's The Great New York State Fair, he now says he has the DNA results. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Folks like veteran Bigfoot researcher Matthew Moneymaker from the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization sounded the alarms after Snake's announcement that he was putting the remains on display. "A newcomer hoaxer/scammer going by the name Charles 'Snake' Stuart is claiming to have a bigfoot corpse that he will exhibit at New York State Fair in August 2025," Moneymaker wrote on BFRO's Facebook page last July. "No, he doesn't actually have bigfoot remains. It's just a cheesey fake dead bigfoot, perhaps a little bit better than Tom Biscardi's famous fake dead bigfoot." GROUP OF TEENAGE CAMPERS STALKED BY A GROUP OF SASQUATCHES IN IDAHO OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND Dack, the nickname Snake aka Charles Stuart has given the 8-foot-tall, 300-pound Bigfoot, had DNA testing performed on him at Cornell University, according to Snake. I told you those labels did nothing to slow him down. Snake told Click On Detroit in a recent interview that the results of the supposed DNA testing at Cornell's Veterinary DNA Lab found that "the body has 58.5% Neanderthal and 41.5% human DNA." He has plans to show his groundbreaking discovery to as many people as he can. He knows he'll face those who don't believe in his discovery. Those who will tell him the famous Patterson-Gimlin film isn't real. Save your breath. Snake knows that one was "an obvious hoax," because Bigfoot is not a great ape as has been claimed over the years. He has the DNA results to prove that the creature is a Neanderthal-Human hybrid. Is this the answer to the mystery we've all been sitting on the edge of our seats waiting for? Or is it just another Bigfoot hoax? Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4412a6c2ca79de2362481f Lawmakers press Eli Lilly for China drug trials tied to military-linked hospitals te 2026-06-30T19:01:58.452Z Lawmakers press Eli Lilly for China drug trials tied to military-linked hospitals FIRST ON FOX: House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Chairman John Moolenaar is launching an investigation into pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly's clinical trial operations in China, demanding records related to research conducted at Chinese military-affiliated hospitals and facilities in Xinjiang. In a Tuesday letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Moolenaar, R-Mich., demanded that Eli Lilly provide detailed information about its clinical trial operations in China, including how the company ensures ethical standards, protects sensitive biotechnology and intellectual property, and veterans research conducted at hospitals linked to the People's Liberation Army and in Xinjiang, where the Chinese government has been accused of widespread human rights abuses against Muslim Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities. The committee says publicly available records indicate Lilly has sponsored or collaborated on more than 220 clinical studies in China since 2003, including at least 11 trials involving hospitals in Xinjiang, China, and at least 16 involving Chinese military medical centers. Several remain active today, the letter says.  The inquiry marks an escalation in congressional scrutiny of U.S. pharmaceutical companies' growing ties to China as lawmakers warn that clinical research conducted at Chinese military-affiliated hospitals and in Xinjiang, China, could pose national security, intellectual property and human rights risks. The committee is seeking records from Lilly as it expands its investments and research partnerships in China. CHINA’S GRIP ON RARE-EARTH MAGNETS COULD CRUSH US DRONE INDUSTRY BEFORE IT GROWS Moolenaar stressed that the committee has "no evidence that Lilly has engaged in illegal activity or wrongdoing," but argued that conducting clinical trials in China — particularly in Xinjiang, China, and at military-affiliated hospitals, hospitals affiliated with China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), which the committee argues could gain access to valuable biotechnology research and clinical trial data generated through collaborations with U.S. companies. "The United States is engaged in a fierce biotechnology competition with the People's Republic of China," Moolenaar wrote, arguing that biotechnology has become a strategic arena in U.S.-China competition with implications for national security, economic competitiveness and the protection of Americans' medical data. He pointed to China's latest five-year plan, which identifies biotechnology as a national priority and calls for expanded use of artificial intelligence across the sector. Moolenaar said China has transformed itself into one of the world's fastest and least expensive places to conduct early-stage human drug trials through regulatory reforms, state subsidies and rapid patient enrollment. The committee argues that speed has made China increasingly attractive for global drug development while also raising concerns about ethics, data security and intellectual property. GABBARD SAYS DECLASSIFIED BIOLAB RECORDS VALIDATE CONCERNS PREVIOUSLY DISMISSED AS MISINFORMATION The inquiry comes as Lilly has continued expanding its presence in China.  Earlier in 2026, the company announced a roughly $3 billion investment to expand manufacturing and local supply in the country, bringing its total investment in China to nearly $6 billion. Lilly also has deepened its research ties with Chinese biotechnology companies, announcing an up to $8.8 billion oncology and immunology collaboration with Innovent Biologics in February and an agreement worth up to about $3 billion with Haisco Pharmaceutical Group earlier ni June. Both partnerships are referenced in Moolenaar's letter as examples of the company's expanding relationships with Chinese drugmakers. The chairman also questioned whether China's clinical trial system adequately protects participants' rights. He cited research suggesting many participants misunderstand the experimental nature of drug studies or mistakenly believe treatments have already been proven effective, raising concerns about whether informed consent is being properly obtained. The letter separately raises concerns about trials conducted in Xinjiang, pointing to reports from the United Nations, the State Department and human rights organizations documenting allegations of forced medical testing, DNA collection and other abuses targeting Uyghurs. Moolenaar argued those conditions warrant heightened scrutiny over whether clinical trial participants in the region are volunteering freely. The committee also argues that research conducted at hospitals affiliated with the People's Liberation Army raises questions about whether sensitive biotechnology research and proprietary data developed through clinical trials could ultimately benefit China's military biotechnology programs. Moolenaar gave Lilly until July 17 to provide documents detailing its due diligence procedures, inspections of clinical trial sites, agreements with Chinese companies, and safeguards for protecting sensitive data and intellectual property. "Lilly has received the letter from the House Select Committee on China. We are reviewing the letter closely," a company spokesperson told Fox News Digital. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441292c2ca79de23624816 PAYTON MCNABB: Girls deserve fair competition, and the Supreme Court just agreed te 2026-06-30T19:01:38.995Z PAYTON MCNABB: Girls deserve fair competition, and the Supreme Court just agreed After years of what seems like walking through hell and back, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Idaho and West Virginia in two critical cases that defend laws protecting women’s sports and spaces. Today, I feel something that I haven’t felt in a long time when it comes to the protection of women’s sports and spaces: relief. Personally, I have witnessed male athletes dressed in makeup and sports bras allowed to hold trophies after humiliating the hardworking female athletes for whom they were intended. I watched my athletic career disappear before my eyes due to a life-altering injury that was 100% preventable. I watched as roster spots and championships got ripped out from underneath more-than-deserving women. I watched girls who trained their entire lives lose opportunities to boys. LAWYERS FIGHTING SJSU OVER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL RESPOND TO FEDERAL TITLE IX PROBE FINDINGS As a former athlete, I know what it means to pour your heart into the sport you love. Every athlete does. We are well acquainted with the early mornings, exhausting practices, injuries, sacrifices, and countless hours that nobody sees. We know what it feels like to chase a goal for years with little to no guarantee of success. That’s why this issue hits so close to home for nearly 70% of Americans. When I was in high school, I suffered a traumatic brain injury in a volleyball match due to a male playing on the girls’ team. His spike was harder, faster, stronger than any girl I have ever been across the net from. Years later, I have not recovered from this injury, and it will genuinely affect me for the rest of my life. For most athletes, we already have the pressure of making the team. We stress about form, speed, agility, and technique before tryouts. We live with the potential that there may be another girl who’s better than us, so we won’t make the cut. This alone makes athletics enough of a strain, physically and mentally — yet for thousands of us, it’s a strain we are glad to bear. Then, policies that allow males to take female spots on the team throw yet another wrench into the plan. It not only lessens the chance for girls and women to chase their dreams, but it cheapens the spot in the first place. What makes today so meaningful is not simply the legal outcome. It is the recognition that women and girls should not have to apologize for wanting a category that exists specifically for us. Women’s sports were not created because women needed a participation trophy—they were created because female athletes deserve to compete on the highest level of their sport and win on fair grounds. That principle should have never become controversial. WATCH: HEARING ERUPTS AFTER DEM CHAIR TRIES TO SIDESTEP GOP TRANSGENDER SPORTS BILLS: ‘THEY’RE PETRIFIED’ It somehow has. For years, the political establishment and woke ideology abandoned the very women that they claimed to protect. Organizations that once championed women suddenly seemed afraid to acknowledge biological reality, and began giving awards and brand deals to men pretending to be women, at the expense of well-deserving female athletes. Brave women, coaches, parents, and athletes began speaking up and speaking the truth, even when it was unpopular. That began the change evident in today’s Supreme Court opinion. Change rarely happens when the powerful speak out — it’s when the high-school athletes and college sports coaches of this country decide to step up and say what everyone is thinking. That’s when change happens. Today’s decision is a reminder that truth does not disappear simply because someone believes a delusion. Reality does not change because people are uncomfortable discussing hard topics. Compassion and inclusion are traits that are ultimately good, but when people twist them to fit a comfortable lie, it can become incredibly messy. Genuine empathy and diversity cannot require women to lose the protections and categories that generations before us fought to create. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION I feel so blessed to be surrounded by so many people who have spoken out with me, first and foremost my parents, who stood by my side through my recovery and when I was at my darkest point. I feel overwhelmingly blessed by my community and fellow advocates who never backed down in the face of adversity. In fact, I believe it’s a full circle moment. In athletics, you never back down from the daunting competitor — you fight, you hustle, and you work harder than ever before to win. And today, we finally did. As I think about the next generation of girls, I feel hopeful. I think about the young athlete waking up before school to train. I think about the girl dreaming about a scholarship, a championship, or simply the chance to compete on a team with other girls who share her passion. She deserves the protections and opportunities that the Supreme Court has now upheld. Women’s sports are always worth protecting. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44127fc2ca79de2362480d France expected to cruise past Sweden in World Cup Round of 32 as betting odds heavily favor them te 2026-06-30T19:01:19.539Z France expected to cruise past Sweden in World Cup Round of 32 as betting odds heavily favor them I'm watching the Norway and Ivory Coast World Cup game at the moment, and I started looking into the great matchups that await us with the World Cup Round of 32 tonight. We've already gotten some very good games and some big surprises in the first two days. Germany lost in penalty kicks to Paraguay, and Morocco won the same way against the Netherlands. One of my favorite tweets that I've seen about the World Cup this season is from someone making suggestions about how to make soccer better. Someone reposted about how it is the biggest sport in the world, and you don't need to change things just to accommodate people who watch occasionally. It is an instance where both sides are correct. However, watching two penalty kick outcomes yesterday, I couldn't believe any game ever would end without them. It just makes watching the game better. Maybe we will get lucky and have some more today. France vs. Sweden This is one of a handful of games this round where people already seem to think the winner is predetermined. There are a number of ways to bet on soccer -- there is the moneyline, which includes the 90 minutes, and then up to another 30 minutes of extra time. If it goes to penalty kicks, this would be a draw. The total does not include penalty kicks either. France is a -340 moneyline favorite. The draw is at +500, so that should give you a good idea of how most expect this game to go. France is a true favorite to win the World Cup, so it would be a big shock to even see this go to penalties. France should win this game 2-0 or 3-1. There is one clear play here: give me France -1.5 on the spread at -125. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Another look here would be to play the goalscorer props. Kylian Mbappe is a heavy price to pay for him to score, but I actually think he struggles to get there here as I think Sweden will double-team him. I think his counterpart, Ousmane Dembele, will be the one scoring for France. He has four goals, just like Mbappe, and should have an easier chance to score. At +100, I think Dembele will be a good choice for an anytime goalscorer. That would not include penalty kicks in the unlikely event they happen in this game. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE Mexico vs. Ecuador This one will be rowdy. There is a reason that home-field or home-court advantage is such a big thing in sports and betting, and Mexico will have it tonight. This game will be played in Mexico City, Mexico. This is a fairly even match, but with the home-field advantage on their side, it is hard to think Ecuador will pull off the upset. In Mexico's three games, they beat Saudi Arabia, Korea and Czechia. They haven't allowed a goal in any of their three games. Ecuador has been all over the map. They lost to the Ivory Coast, then played to a draw with Curacao and beat what ended up being a disappointing Germany team. In three games, there have been a total of four goals. This should be a good matchup and a conservative matchup. I think the draw and penalty kicks are a likely outcome for this game. At +185, it is worth a look. You could bet both Mexico to win and a draw and get a little bit of profit. It really wouldn't be much, but risking 200 would return either 230 or 285. You would need to dodge Ecuador winning, though. I am going to officially back Mexico to win. I think they will be more aggressive, and I think they are going to have the crowd with them. Give me Mexico on the moneyline. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44126cc2ca79de23624804 Venezuelan nationals charged in $529K ATM jackpotting scheme at I-95 rest stops, feds say te 2026-06-30T19:01:00.083Z Venezuelan nationals charged in $529K ATM jackpotting scheme at I-95 rest stops, feds say Four Venezuelan nationals are accused of turning Connecticut rest-stop ATMs into cash-spewing machines in a "jackpotting" scheme that netted more than $529,000 in less than two weeks, federal prosecutors said. The alleged crew hit ATMs along Interstate 95 and at other Connecticut locations between Aug. 8 and Aug. 18, 2025, using specialized hardware and malware to force the machines to dispense their cash, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut. Prosecutors allege that Euclides Moreno Itanare, 28, of Raleigh, North Carolina; Willian Ricardo Flores, 49, of the Bronx, New York; Alberto Jose Freites Arvilla, 41, of Queens, New York; and Luis Jose Freites Arvilla, 38, of Lynn, Massachusetts were arrested June 25 and charged with interstate transportation of stolen property and conspiracy. All four are citizens of Venezuela, prosecutors said. VENEZUELAN GANG MEMBERS WHO ENTERED US ILLEGALLY PLEAD GUILTY TO GUNNING DOWN TWO UNARMED AMERICANS Federal authorities said the men targeted ATMs in Milford and Ansonia, as well as I-95 rest stops in Fairfield, Branford, Madison and Darien. GLOBAL SCAM CRACKDOWN LEADS TO 276 ARRESTS In one alleged haul, the crew stole $136,000 from an ATM at the I-95 northbound rest stop in Fairfield, according to prosecutors. Other alleged thefts included $84,000 from an I-95 southbound rest stop in Madison, $66,400 from an I-95 northbound rest stop in Branford and multiple hits in Darien totaling more than $177,000. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS Prosecutors said the alleged scheme followed a similar pattern each time: one suspect acted as a lookout while another opened the ATM’s hood and accessed its internal components. Over the next several hours, the men allegedly took turns walking up to the compromised ATM and collecting cash as it was dispensed. The suspects sometimes changed clothes to avoid drawing attention when returning to the same machine multiple times, according to court documents. Investigators said the case was built in part on surveillance footage, phone records, Google and Apple account records, and photos allegedly recovered from the suspects’ devices. According to the criminal complaint reviewed by Fox News Digital, one suspect’s Apple account contained photos of victimized ATMs before and during the thefts, images of cash in a vehicle and black plastic bags, and photos allegedly showing suspects counting money in New York hours after a Connecticut rest-stop theft. FOLLOW US ON X READ THE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT – APP USERS, CLICK HERE: One attempted hit at a Cumberland Farms ATM in Ansonia was blocked because a software patch protected the machine from that type of theft, prosecutors said. GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS All four men are currently detained. If convicted, the stolen-property charge carries up to 10 years in federal prison, while the conspiracy charge carries up to five years. Fox News Digital has reached out to attorneys for Flores, Luis Arvilla and Alberto Arvilla. The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from Connecticut State Police, the Raleigh Police Department and the New York City Police Department. Officials said the investigation remains ongoing as authorities look into whether the same alleged crew can be tied to other ATM thefts. SEND US A TIP "Jackpotting" incidents are on the rise in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI. In a report issued in February, federal investigators said that of 1,900 ATM jackpotting incidents reported since 2020, over 700 of them with more than $20 million in losses occurred in 2025 alone. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441244c2ca79de236247f9 Supreme Court to Weigh Constitutional Protection for AR-15 Rifles te 2026-06-30T19:00:20.756Z Supreme Court to Weigh Constitutional Protection for AR-15 Rifles Two cases to be heard in the fall challenge legality of state and local bans on the weapons, which are popular with gun owners and have been used in mass shootings. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a441017c2ca79de2362477e 'George Washington was not the first president.' What?! te 2026-06-30T18:51:03.091Z 'George Washington was not the first president.' What?! Who was the first president? I know, you are going to say George Washington. Nope. Wrong. It was President John Hanson. Who? SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING "There's no question about it. Chronologically, he certainly was," says Hanson descendant Peter Michael. "For a nation to be a nation, it has to have a government and a head of state. So the first thing the newly seated government did was elect a head of state. And it was John Hanson." Really? The hidden story of John Hanson is told in the second episode of "Crazy American History with Eric Shawn," now streaming on Fox Nation. Michael is the author of "Remembering John Hanson, A Biography of the First President of the Original United States Government." AS AMERICA TURNS 250, A RARE 1790 EXCHANGE BETWEEN WASHINGTON AND BISHOP CARROLL TAKES ON NEW RELEVANCE And he says even George Washington would have agreed with him that Hanson was number one. "He said so as president and later. He said so throughout the rest of his life, John Hanson was the first president," says Michael. He points out that Hanson had a Cabinet, including a secretary of war, secretary of foreign affairs and postmaster general. It was Hanson who sent Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, John Jay and Henry Laurens to Paris in 1782 to negotiate the British surrender in the Revolutionary War. In addition, the first national bank, census and U.S. coinage were created during Hanson's tenure. Hanson also established Thanksgiving, issuing the proclamation on March 19, 1782. OBAMA TAKES NEW SWIPE AT FOUNDING FATHERS AHEAD OF AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY: 'DEEP FLAW' Hanson was elected by the delegates of the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation as president of the United States, in Congress on Nov. 5, 1781. "Every other president since Hanson inherited a functioning government, but he inherited a blank slate, and he had to be a government builder, which he was. So he started appointing his cabinet, including some big names, and then some of the more minor offices, like Postmaster General, and put together a government in his one-year term. That's all he had. At the end of his year, we had a functioning government. And a functioning nation." So, why hasn't Hanson gotten any credit? Have we really been wrong all these centuries? Should Washington, D.C. be renamed, Hanson, D.C? Should the $1 bill swap out the image of George...for John? Find out more about the contention that our first, first president was John Hanson in the new Fox Nation series "Crazy American History with Eric Shawn," now streaming on Fox Nation. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440ff0c2ca79de23624769 School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water te 2026-06-30T18:50:24.188Z School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440de2c2ca79de236246f4 Ex-Yankee Mark Teixeira unloads on MLB for trying to 'silence' Christian faith te 2026-06-30T18:41:38.646Z Ex-Yankee Mark Teixeira unloads on MLB for trying to 'silence' Christian faith Former New York Yankees star and Texas congressional candidate Mark Teixeira called Major League Baseball’s handling of a Pride Night dispute a "total disaster" aimed at silencing Christian athletes. Speaking on the "Fox News Rundown" podcast, the 2009 World Series champion and current congressional candidate argued that sports should not cross the line into being political. "We live in a Christian culture where people are trying to silence us," Teixeira told Fox News’s Jacqui Heinrich. "And we're not [going to] let the San Francisco Giants or any outside group, silence our faith." BUSTER POSEY MYSTERIOUSLY YANKED FROM RADIO INTERVIEW AS PRIDE NIGHT CONTROVERSY DRAGS ON, CEO MAKES IT WORSE The controversy stemmed from the Giants’ annual "Pride Night" celebration earlier this month. Several players protested the event by writing Bible verses onto the rainbow-colored Pride caps or declining to wear the caps altogether. In a statement reported by The Athletic, an MLB spokesperson said, "The writing on the cap violates our rules, and consistent with normal practice, we have warned the players about future violations." Teixeira argued that requiring players to wear the hats would force them to support something they may not believe in, calling the situation a "PR disaster." FIVE GLARING REASONS WHY MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL SHOULD IMMEDIATELY STOP CELEBRATING PRIDE NIGHT | JON ROOT "Yep, total disaster, PR disaster for the league, PR disaster for The Giants. You know, these players were just expressing their Christianity. They were forced to do something that they didn't want to do," he said. TIM SHEEHY EXPOSES A 'SCARY' SHIPBUILDING COLLAPSE THAT LEAVES THE US VULNERABLE TO CHINA "I played in the major leagues for 14 years. We play 162 games a year, we don't have these conversations. We don't take political stances," Teixeira said. "It's a hard job playing baseball and bringing something like a pride night and forcing players to wear a cap. Whether that was the rule or not, that's what it looked like." Some players have spoken about their decision to include Bible verses, including starting pitcher Landen Roupp, who said the message was intended to represent "God’s covenant," not hatred toward anyone. MLB COMMISSIONER TELLS SEN. HAWLEY GIANTS PLAYERS WON’T BE DISCIPLINED OVER BIBLE VERSES ON PRIDE NIGHT HATS The Giants apologized to the LGBTQ+ community for the incident, writing in a statement that they were "sorry" for the "pain and anger" experienced by its members.  GOP Sen. Josh Hawley, however, defended the players’ rights to religious expression. Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred told Hawley that the players who wrote the Bible verses will not face fines or be disciplined over the incident. In a letter posted by Hawley on June 22, Manfred said the players were issued a "routine oral warning" after the incident. He also said the warning came before they learned the players had not been properly told it was optional to wear the pride caps, writing: "My office issued a routine oral warning about the uniform policy violation – unfortunately it was issued before we became aware of the Giants’ lapse in communication. The players were neither fined nor disciplined, nor will they ever be." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440dcfc2ca79de236246eb Dems join Republicans to crush Tlaib's war powers resolution in lopsided House vote te 2026-06-30T18:41:19.189Z Dems join Republicans to crush Tlaib's war powers resolution in lopsided House vote The House of Representatives rejected a measure from Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., targeting U.S. military involvement in Lebanon.  Tlaib’s measure failed in a bipartisan vote of 189-235 on Tuesday, with 22 Democrats joining nearly all Republicans against it.  The resolution would have specifically barred U.S. forces from engaging in "any hostilities" in the country, despite the U.S. military not joining Israel's war in Lebanon and conducting few operations there.  Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., a leading critic of Israel, was among the Republicans who supported the measure. DEMOCRATS SPLIT OVER TLAIB'S LEBANON MEASURE AS REPUBLICANS SEIZE ON HEZBOLLAH OMISSION The Squad member’s measure was a concurrent resolution, which is largely symbolic and not sent to President Donald Trump's desk for a veto if passed. Tlaib, Congress’ sole Palestinian American, is a fierce opponent of Israel and has accused the Jewish state of pursuing "ethnic cleansing" in Gaza and Lebanon. Her sharp criticism of Israel’s war in Lebanon has spurred GOP attacks that she is providing cover for Iran-backed Hezbollah. The resolution did not mention the terrorist group, which has been engaged in a military conflict with Israel since early March around the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran. Tuesday’s vote came after Tlaib previously forced a vote on a more expansive Lebanon war powers resolution earlier this month that critics argued would have required U.S. military personnel protecting embassy staff to leave the country. Opponents also charged that the measure would have restricted any assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces, which is fighting Hezbollah. REPORTER'S NOTEBOOK: TLAIB FORCES RARE HOUSE PROCEDURE AFTER REPUBLICAN ACCUSES HER OF DEFENDING TERRORISTS Tlaib tailored her second resolution to clarify that it exempted protection of diplomatic personnel and cooperation with Lebanon’s military. Republicans questioned the timing of the resolution since the U.S. is not at war in Lebanon. "There are not U.S. combat forces conducting operations or engaged in hostilities in Lebanon," House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, R-Fla., said during debate on the House floor. "They are training the Lebanese Armed Forces. "Why are they training?" Mast continued. "Because there’s probably at least 40,000 — probably more — Hezbollah terrorists spread across the South of Lebanon that are actively engaged in targeting Israel and have been doing so for many years." House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., countered that the resolution would keep the United States "out of another forever war that is not in our national interest." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440da8c2ca79de236246d6 U.S. Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order te 2026-06-30T18:40:40.277Z U.S. Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440d94c2ca79de236246b9 Clicks shows off its BlackBerry-inspired phone in a new hands-on video te 2026-06-30T18:40:20.319Z Clicks shows off its BlackBerry-inspired phone in a new hands-on video A new video shows the final production version of the upcoming Clicks Communicator, a BlackBerry-like smartphone that runs modern apps. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440b77c2ca79de23624680 Kathie Lee Gifford admits she 'wanted to die' after misdiagnosis and multiple surgeries for chronic pain te 2026-06-30T18:31:19.133Z Kathie Lee Gifford admits she 'wanted to die' after misdiagnosis and multiple surgeries for chronic pain After a year marked by multiple surgeries, chronic pain and moments when she questioned whether she could keep going, Kathie Lee Gifford says she's finally getting her life back. The TV veteran is opening up about the "debilitating" health battle that once left her praying to "go home." "I wanted to die a few times," Gifford told People. "I wasn't going to hurt myself. I wasn't going to kill myself. I just didn't want to be here — as blessed as I am." Gifford also revealed that her pain was initially attributed to the wrong condition, saying she spent nearly a year being treated for a spinal issue before doctors discovered the real source of her discomfort. FORMER 'DWTS' HOST SAMANTHA HARRIS SURVIVED BREAST CANCER TWICE AFTER DOCTORS DISMISSED HER SYMPTOMS "Thank God, I finally had the hip surgery. I had been misdiagnosed. And for a year they kept trying to treat my spine. And I said, 'I have no pain in my spine. It's in my hip. I don't know how you missed that on an X-ray.'" The former "Today" host said the extent of the damage became clear only after her operation. "The doctor, wonderful doctor here in Tennessee, in my post-op, the next day, he said, ‘Kathie, how were you existing? How were you existing with the most excruciating pain?’ He said, ‘That’s one of the worst hips I’ve ever seen. In fact, you didn’t have one' … he said all it was was ashes, arthritic ash and little, teeny bone spurs.’" The 72-year-old opened up about her difficult recovery, revealing how one medical setback quickly snowballed. "I feel like Mr. Potato Head! One thing falls off and then another," she said. What began with a total hip replacement turned into an even longer recovery after Gifford fractured her hip and required another surgery. She later broke her arm after rolling onto it while sleeping, suffered another broken bone after a fall on uneven pavement and eventually underwent cataract surgery after noticing problems with her depth perception. Even as her body struggled, Gifford noted her sense of humor never disappeared. "I'm a tough broad," she said. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS The physical pain, however, dramatically changed her day-to-day life, preventing her from playing with her five young grandchildren and making her reluctant to appear in public. "I couldn't carry them, I couldn't love on them, I couldn't run and play with them," she said. "All I could do was sit there and sing and write silly songs with them." The emotional burden of living with constant pain became overwhelming, Gifford admitted. "I've had emotional pain many times in my life, but never this chronic physical pain where you literally want to go home to Jesus." Gifford explained the experience reminded her of conversations with her late husband, Frank Gifford, who often worried about meeting fans' expectations as his health declined. "I remember Frank saying to me before he passed, 'When I go somewhere, I know what people are expecting from me. I want to be Frank Gifford when I go out,'" she recalled. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "I want to be Kathie Lee, the person they expect," she explained. "I don't want to disappoint people. But when you're in pain, it's so debilitating, and everything's a grimace. I've had emotional pain many times in my life, but never this chronic physical pain where you literally want to go home to Jesus. At her lowest point, Gifford said she repeatedly prayed, "Lord, if this is all you have left for me, I want to go home." Now, after multiple surgeries, stem cell therapy and physical therapy six days a week, Gifford says she's finally reclaiming her life. She now runs "all over the place" with her grandchildren — a milestone she once feared might never come again. "They're all fantastic," she said. "I'm hoping, Lord willing, that I have many, many years with them." The television personality has embraced a busy new chapter as a grandmother, welcoming five grandchildren in just three years: Cody's children, Frank, 4; Ford, 2; and Faith, 10 months; as well as Cassidy's children, Finn, 3, and Rosie, 13 months. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440b63c2ca79de23624677 House conservatives derail GOP agenda in SAVE America Act showdown te 2026-06-30T18:30:59.671Z House conservatives derail GOP agenda in SAVE America Act showdown The House floor remained effectively shut down Tuesday after more than a dozen House conservatives continued their blockade in protest of the stalled SAVE America Act. The group of holdouts, including Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., blocked a procedural vote, effectively freezing legislative business for the foreseeable future, after forcing GOP leaders to punt several votes last week. The hardball tactics have forced the chamber into legislative paralysis as House Speaker Mike Johnson, races to advance several legislative priorities before the July 4 recess. Lawmakers voted 198-224 against advancing a spate of legislative items — including a must-pass defense bill that will be paired with the SAVE America Act — with 14 Republicans voting "no." 'AS LONG AS IT TAKES': TRUMP ALLIES FREEZE HOUSE FLOOR TO PRESSURE SENATE ON VOTER ID BILL With such slim margins, Johnson could afford to lose just a handful of defections. The conservative rebels continued their floor blockade in apparent defiance of President Donald Trump, who urged the cohort to stop "grandstanding" in a Truth Social post last week. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also called their hardball tactics "self-defeating" for Republicans’ agenda. "It doesn't make any sense," Johnson told reporters Monday. "We have to move forward with legislation and that's what I'll be telling them all."   He was seen having a tense conversation with Luna and several holdouts shortly before the failed vote. In a likely attempt to appease conservative hardliners, Johnson used a rare procedural maneuver this week to revive the Trump-backed election measure, which has sat in limbo in the Senate chamber for months amid widespread opposition from Democrats.  GOP leaders proposed merging the SAVE America Act with an annual defense policy bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act, when sending the legislation over to the Senate. The House already passed that version of the SAVE America Act, but Johnson argued the upper chamber would be more likely to pass the measure if paired with a traditionally bipartisan bill. "Let's just have the full bill that's still sitting there and has been transmitted to the Senate, let's send it again, but put it as part of something that we hope and believe will be a bipartisan vote in both chambers, and that Democrats in the Senate will understand," Johnson said during a leadership press conference on Tuesday.  The GOP holdouts have repeatedly demanded that leadership attempt to jam the upper chamber with the election measure as Trump insists it's his top legislative priority. They largely withheld their support for Johnson’s proposal prior to the vote, arguing it would not force Senate action on the SAVE America Act. HOUSE GOP'S SAVE ACT RESCUE PLAN HITS RESISTANCE FROM CONSERVATIVE HOLDOUTS Luna said she wanted the SAVE America Act to be attached to the NDAA as an amendment or have a vote on an amendment to attach voter identification proof of citizenship requirements to the defense policy bill. "IF IT IS NOT DONE THIS WAY, IT WILL EASILY BE TAKEN OUT," Luna wrote on social media shortly before the vote.  Though both Trump and Johnson sharply criticized the floor blockade, Luna disputed that her approach was derailing Republicans’ agenda. "To, you know, say that we're holding up the process. This is legislating," the Florida lawmaker told reporters Monday, standing next to Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., who has also joined the SAVE protest. "If people elected us to just come up here and vote in line with what the party wants, then it would be a whole lot different."  The upper chamber is also considering its own version of the NDAA that does not include the election measure. Tuesday’s procedural vote also advanced fiscal year 2027 funding for the State Department and other foreign operations and a GOP-authored measure commemorating the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, among other measures. Some conservatives, including Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, threatened to withhold their support during the test vote over a stalled border security package they want to put to a chamber-wide vote. Johnson promised conservatives a vote on the legislation before the July 4 recess, but that deadline appears likely to pass without a floor vote. Republicans have also yet to release the bill text.  "There's no consensus," House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., told reporters Tuesday. "At the end of the day, we've got to have consensus before we can move forward." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440b50c2ca79de2362466e 'Save Women's Sports' legal defense and trans athlete's attorneys speak out after landmark SCOTUS ruling te 2026-06-30T18:30:40.224Z 'Save Women's Sports' legal defense and trans athlete's attorneys speak out after landmark SCOTUS ruling The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling to uphold state laws protecting women's sports from trans athletes sent shockwaves across the nation on Tuesday. The attorneys who fought on both sides of the case have now spoken out in response. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) that represented trans athletes in West Virginia and Idaho, expressed "heartbreak" over the ruling. "This is a heartbreaking ruling for our clients and transgender girls like them who’ve asked for nothing more than the same opportunities afforded to their peers." ACLU senior counsel Joshua Block said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. "The reality is that the equality of transgender women and girls takes nothing away from, and in fact promotes, the equality of all women and girls. We will continue to advance the fundamental principle that all young people deserve equal opportunity to thrive and succeed." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Lambda Legal, a firm that also provided counsel to the trans athletes, also condemned the ruling, vowing to fight back. "This ruling is deeply harmful for transgender women and girls who only asked for the ability to participate in sports with their peers," Lambda Legal senior attorney Sasha Burchert added. "Countless studies have demonstrated the myriad benefits that come with participation in team sports. Now, one population, transgender youth and collegians, are targeted for specific and baseless discrimination. We will not be deterred and will continue to fight back to secure the equal participation that all youth, including transgender youth, deserve." Meanwhile, the attorneys from Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) and the attorneys general from Idaho and West Virginia praised and celebrated the court's ruling, while expressing disagreement with the three liberal justices who dissented and the attorneys who represent the trans athletes. Jim Campbell, chief legal counsel for ADF, told Fox News Digital in a post-ruling interview that the decision was a long-awaited correction after years of female athletes being forced to compete against biological males. "When we reject truth, the harm is real, widespread and devastating," Campbell said in the interview. "Across the country, girls have been losing medals, roster spots, titles, opportunities and privacy." SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS "But this decision changes all that," Campbell added in the interview. "It makes clear that states are free to protect women and girls and ensure that their sports remain for them." Campbell struck a similar tone during a press conference with the attorneys general, calling the ruling "a resounding victory for every girl told to sit down, stay quiet and get comfortable with males taking their roster spots, medals, records and scholarships." "The Supreme Court’s decision today affirms that states may enact common-sense laws protecting fairness, safety and equal opportunities for women and girls," Campbell said during the press conference. Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador told Fox News Digital in a separate interview that the case was personal to him even before he became attorney general, citing his daughter’s experience playing high school volleyball. "This is one of the reasons I ran for attorney general," Labrador said in the interview, "because I thought our state deserved an attorney general that would defend the laws of the state and would defend common sense." Labrador also said he had thought about what would have happened to his daughter’s own athletic opportunities "if there would have been several male athletes ahead of her." IDAHO AG SAYS SUPREME COURT TRANSGENDER SPORTS CASE DEFIES 'COMMON SENSE' During the press conference, Labrador said Idaho "led the nation" by becoming the first state to pass a law protecting women’s sports and "never wavered" in defending it. "Today’s decision is a victory for common sense, fairness and the countless girls and women who dedicate themselves to athletics," Labrador said during the press conference. "The Supreme Court has now confirmed that states can preserve fair competition and protect the opportunities that generations of women fought to secure." West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey told Fox News Digital in an interview that the hardest part of the litigation was hearing from girls and families in his state while the law was blocked. "There was this, what I knew to be an injustice happening in real time, and my hands were really tied by the rule of law and the decision by the Fourth Circuit," McCuskey said in the interview. "Listening to these girls and talking to these girls and believing in these girls, but having to wait… was very, very difficult." That, McCuskey said, made the ruling "vindicating," because "I know they won’t have to go through that again." During the press conference, McCuskey credited the legal teams and the female athletes who joined the fight. WOMEN INVOLVED IN SUPREME COURT CASES OVER TRANS ATHLETES OPEN UP ON FIGHTING HISTORIC LEGAL BATTLE "Without the bravery of those young women, I don’t think we’re standing here today," McCuskey said during the press conference. "This is a victory that has many, many fathers. And there is no more important group of people than these young women who courageously stood up." The ruling came in two consolidated cases, West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox. The court held that Title IX allows schools to provide separate women’s and men’s sports teams defined by biological sex, and that West Virginia and Idaho did not violate the Equal Protection Clause by limiting girls’ and women’s sports to biological females. Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote the majority opinion, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett. The court’s liberal bloc — Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson — dissented on the Equal Protection issue, while agreeing in part that the Title IX claim failed in a seemingly unanimous 9-0 agreement. The Supreme Court’s opinion noted that 27 states have enacted laws maintaining women’s and girls’ sports for biological females, and that the cases before the court concerned West Virginia’s 2021 Save Women’s Sports Act and Idaho’s 2020 Fairness in Women’s Sports Act. ADF represented female athletes who intervened in the cases, including Idaho State athletes Madison Kenyon and Mary Kate Marshall in the Idaho case and former West Virginia State soccer player Lainey Armistead in the West Virginia case, according to ADF case materials. The ACLU had argued that West Virginia’s law violated the Constitution and Title IX as applied to B.P.J., a transgender student who sought to compete in cross-country and track and field. Campbell told Fox News Digital in the interview that he believed the dissenters were wrong on the constitutional question, but he emphasized that the Title IX portion of the decision was a major defeat for the challengers. "The justices that dissented only did so on the constitutional question," Campbell said in the interview. "It’s really important to recognize that every single justice on the Supreme Court recognized that Title IX allows states to protect women’s sports." "On the equal protection issue, the majority of the court said that the 14th Amendment allows states to protect women’s sports, and the dissenting justices had a different view," Campbell added. McCuskey, responding in the interview to the statements from the ACLU and Lambda Legal, said he expected the groups to "respect the process and the rule of law" the same way conservatives did in cases they lost. "Nine of nine justices decided that these laws did not violate Title IX, and six of nine justices decided that this law did not violate the Equal Protection Clause," McCuskey said in the interview. "Sometimes in this world you lose, and in this instance they did, and the real winners here are the young women and girls who are going to be provided a safe and fair place to play going forward." Labrador, when asked in the interview about the response from the other side, said he felt sympathy for children dealing with gender identity issues, but said the case was ultimately about biological girls. "The reality is that biological girls were protected today, and that’s what this case was about," Labrador said in the interview. "That’s what Title IX is about. That’s what the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution is about, and I think it was the right decision." The majority opinion leaned heavily on fairness and safety, saying sports are "generally zero sum" and that every roster spot, medal, starting position and scholarship can come at the expense of another athlete. The court concluded that states may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ teams based on biological sex, and that the Constitution does not require schools to make case-by-case exceptions for certain biological males who identify as female. Sotomayor, writing for the liberal justices, accused the majority of cutting the litigation short and argued that unresolved factual questions should have been returned to the lower courts. She wrote that the majority "inflicts a hardship on those it disfavors without giving them the fair and full opportunity the Constitution requires to litigate their contentions." Campbell said in the interview that the ruling should now put pressure on the remaining states that have not passed similar laws. "So at this point, what’s important to consider from a national perspective is that 27 states have protected women’s sports, but 23 states haven’t," Campbell said. "This decision is a wake-up call for those other 23 states to also protect women and girls on the playing field." During the press conference, McCuskey also called on Congress to act. 'SAVE WOMEN'S SPORTS' 2025 CULTURE WAR TIMELINE — THE YEAR THE TIDES TURNED "We are very, very hopeful that Congress specifically will step up, read this decision and say it’s time for a national policy on this issue," McCuskey said. "This is common sense. Nine justices agree with it on Title IX and six justices agree with this on equal protection." Campbell told Fox News Digital in the interview that ADF is already looking beyond Idaho and West Virginia. "We’re considering all options," Campbell said. "We’re certainly evaluating whenever we see injustice on the playing field, and if there are opportunities to bring lawsuits in other venues, we will strongly consider that." The ruling also raised immediate questions about whether the court’s reasoning could affect future cases involving locker rooms, bathrooms and other sex-separated spaces. Labrador said during the press conference that "there’s a lot of language in this decision" that could apply to locker rooms and bathrooms, while McCuskey said the opinion would "instruct" future cases involving whether women should have sex-specific spaces to change, sleep and get dressed. For supporters of the ruling, Tuesday’s decision was a sweeping victory for the women’s sports movement. For opponents, it was a setback that could fuel the next wave of litigation. Neither side sounded ready to stand down. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440922c2ca79de23624613 Democratic congressman warns of 'dangerous' socialist agenda after far-left primary wins te 2026-06-30T18:21:22.346Z Democratic congressman warns of 'dangerous' socialist agenda after far-left primary wins A high-ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee blasted the rise of democratic socialism on Tuesday following last week's primary election wins in New York, calling the far-left sweep "dangerous" while poking holes in the party’s campaign platform. Speaking with CNN’s John Berman, Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., weighed in on the primary election victories of two Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) members, Darializa Avila Chevalier and State Assemblywoman Claire Valdez, and former DSA member Brad Lander. All three candidates were endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. "Well, there's two big things that are going on here that need to be separated," Smith told "CNN News Central," adding, "On the one hand, there is a real desire within the Democratic Party, within the broader coalition that we put together. They want to see us fight [President Donald] Trump more effectively. They want us to go after income inequality more aggressively, and they want new, younger faces." "When you look at some of these democratic socialists that are running, their ideology is vastly more radical than that," Smith said as he later turned to discuss the far-left primary wins. "You see that in expressing support for communism, in expressing support for open borders [and] defunding the police — a fundamental attack on America itself and the premises behind it." AOC ISSUES WARNING TO HER FELLOW DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENTS IN THE WAKE OF SOCIALISTS WINNING BIG IN NYC He added that the platform on which socialist candidates are promising to voters is inherently "dangerous" to the country and not a solid foundation on which to run a campaign. "It’s dangerous that people come in and say, ‘Hey, I’m going to fight Trump. I’m new. I’m going to get after income inequality,’" Smith continued. "But they’re pushing ideas and agendas that are not popular in this country — and frankly, not good policy on immigration enforcement, criminal justice, and the basic concept of personal responsibility, accountability and economic opportunity." "So it is a significant challenge for our coalition, no doubt about it," he added. MAMDANI-BACKED CLAIRE VALDEZ FACES BACKLASH OVER PAST ‘ABOLISH PRECHECK,’ AIRLINE NATIONALIZATION CALLS Berman then asked Smith who exactly is at risk of danger with the rise in the far-left, socialist agenda. "It’s bad policy," Smith said. "I think not having any immigration enforcement creates problems. It's also going to make it difficult for us to have an election — not actually funding the police and having a criminal justice system creates less security." He went on to point to the lapses in feasibility of carrying out such policies. "I also think that if you take personal responsibility and accountability out of it, and just say, ‘We’re going to give free stuff to everybody,’ then you have a problem making that work from a funding standpoint," Smith continued. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Smith concluded his argument against the rise of Democratic socialism by holding firm on the party’s key principles — while insisting the policies backed by socialist candidates are simply unable to win elections. "Look, it's work hard, play by the rules, get ahead," Smith said. "We need more opportunity, but the agenda, as you just described, of some of these folks is pretty radical, and I don't think good policy." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44090ec2ca79de2362460a JONATHAN TURLEY: Birthright citizenship ruling leaves conservatives with only one path te 2026-06-30T18:21:02.889Z JONATHAN TURLEY: Birthright citizenship ruling leaves conservatives with only one path Today, Folarin Balogun secured a spot on the American soccer team for the World Cup...for a second time. That may be the most positive spin I can offer to those upset by today's 5-4 decision in favor of birthright citizenship. Balogun, one of the stars on our team, was born to Nigerian parents visiting the United States and then raised in England. According to the Supreme Court, he is — and was always intended to be — a citizen under the Fourteenth Amendment. SUPREME COURT RULES ON MAIL-IN BALLOTS RECEIVED AFTER ELECTION DAY It is a conclusion that divided the court 5-4, but, as in soccer, a one-point win is as good as a nine-point win. Roberts wrote for the majority that "The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to 'every free-born person in this land.' We keep that promise today." The victory for birthright citizenship was due to the joining of Chief Justice John Roberts (who authored the decision) and Justice Amy Coney Barrett with the three liberal justices. They found the language and history of the amendment to be clear and, relying on prior rulings dating back decades, concluded that birth alone in this country is enough to confer citizenship — even if born to a tourist or someone briefly on our soil. It is a view that is rejected by the vast majority of countries, which rightfully view birthright citizenship as bonkers, including some which followed the practice and then rescinded it. The United States remains one of the outliers in maintaining this ill-considered practice. Justice Clarence Thomas wrote a dissent, joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch, effectively arguing that this is the invention of the Court, which refused to reconsider its lazy prior analysis. That included the Court's 1898 ruling in United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which expanded birthright citizenship beyond what the Reconstruction Congress had ever "contemplated." He noted that the Court could have resolved the case on narrower grounds consistent with the 14th Amendment: "Wong Kim Ark addressed only the citizenship of a child born to parents who were lawfully and permanently domiciled in the United States." The 5-4 decision unleashed another furious broadside on social media against Barrett, particularly after she authored the 5-4 decision on mail-in ballots again, this time with Roberts and her liberal colleagues. Barrett hit a nerve as one of the three Trump appointees, whom many hoped would be more in the vein of Alito or Thomas. Instead, she often writes with Roberts. The attacks on Barrett ignored that there are good-faith arguments on both sides of the birthright citizenship case. They also ignore that she regularly voted with the conservatives and for positions of the administration. For example, she voted to support states in requiring transgender athletes to compete with their biological sex. She previously was the most vocal justice in rejecting transgender status as a protected class akin to race or religion. President Trump has lashed out at his nominees over their adverse rulings. However, they remain one of his most impressive and positive legacies. President Trump said that he wanted independent and principled conservatives. He got them in Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. They are all extraordinary jurists who have dramatically elevated the Court's intellectual discussions. When I testified at Gorsuch's confirmation in the Senate, I told the senators that they were wrong to pigeonhole the nominee: he would go wherever his convictions took him. That has proven to be the case, and it is a great credit to Trump that he selected such independent minds. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION On birthright citizenship, the matter now rests not with the court, but the country. We have never truly had a national debate over the practice. The basis and future of birthright citizenship have remained matters almost exclusively for the courts. We must now decide whether to pursue such a debate as a constitutional amendment. While Congress can pass legislation cracking down on birth tourism, there is only so much that such laws can do in questioning why particular births occurred in the United States, such as the birth of Balogun. I can think of no more appropriate debate to have as we celebrate our 250th anniversary than what it means to be a citizen of this unique republic. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM JONATHAN TURLEY Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4408e4c2ca79de236245e1 Nvidia competitor Etched hits $5B valuation, $1B in sales for AI chip te 2026-06-30T18:20:20.399Z Nvidia competitor Etched hits $5B valuation, $1B in sales for AI chip Nvidia AI chip competitor Etched says it has already booked $1 billion under contract for the inference systems powered by its chip. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4406c7c2ca79de236245a7 Americans are giving up multivitamins for a different daily health habit, study finds te 2026-06-30T18:11:19.119Z Americans are giving up multivitamins for a different daily health habit, study finds Americans are popping more supplements – and fewer multivitamins – than ever before, a new study found. Research published in JAMA Network Open, led by researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, looked at 25 years of U.S. dietary supplement use data from 1999 to 2023. This included more than 63,000 adults over the age of 20 who reported their supplement usage. AGING COULD SLOW DOWN WITH ONE COMMON DAILY HABIT: 'LIVE LONGER AND BETTER' When tracking patterns over time, the analysis revealed that overall supplement use increased from 51% of U.S. adults to 60%. The largest rise – from 62% to 78% – was identified in adults 65 and older. Supplement use was found to be more common in women, people with a higher income or education, and those with insurance. During the same period, multivitamin use decreased from 35% to 31%, while intake of vitamins and minerals outside of multivitamins increased. Some of the largest increases in intake were seen in vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, vitamin B12 and turmeric. Other emerging supplements include ashwagandha, elderberry, collagen, hyaluronic acid, probiotics and prebiotics, according to the research. 'WILD WEST' PEPTIDE CRAZE SURGES BEYOND GLP-1S AS FDA FACES PRESSURE TO EASE ACCESS The later post-pandemic period saw an influx of immune support-based products, like zinc and vitamin D (outside of multivitamins). The rise in supplement use aligns with the longevity movement, as more people seek products tailored to specific health goals, such as immune support, inflammation, gut health, skin health and joint health. The study only shows that people are taking more supplements, but does not prove that they're effective for these uses, the researchers noted. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Los Angeles-based registered dietitian nutritionist Ilana Muhlstein gave her take on the emerging supplement movement. "I love that people are getting more educated and more intentional – I just wish they were being advised by more doctors and dietitians and less by ‘wellness influencers’ who are likely not doing the due diligence on the quality and efficacy of the supplements they’re promoting," she said. CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Muhlstein expressed concern that all-in-one-multivitamin use has "slipped," despite the rise in GLP-1 weight-loss medications. "A multivitamin is where I think people should start as the foundation to help bridge nutrient gaps, especially for people on a GLP-1 who are eating about 15% to 30% less, and therefore likely consuming 15% to 30% less vitamins and minerals," she said. "I recommend that everyone on a GLP-1 medication [should] take a multivitamin daily." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER A daily probiotic, magnesium and vitamin D3 are also "smart for many of us," the nutritionist added. She also recommends elderberry as an effective supplement for boosting the immune system when fighting a cold. Collagen has also been shown to benefit the skin and joints, which Muhlstein said is "worth considering as we get older." "My real concern is the unregulated market," she cautioned. "I can’t tell you how many calls I’ve received over the years of people pitching me new supplements ... because the margins are high and the market is huge." "That’s why I’m extremely picky about what I take and what I recommend to my family and clients." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Muhlstein warned against taking a supplement that hasn't gone through third-party testing for safety and quality. "The best ones go further and test for pesticides, arsenic and heavy metals, especially for protein powders," she said. "If a product has many ingredients, I like to see that they do testing on each individual ingredient." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4406b3c2ca79de2362459e ABC has no business on public airwaves because it operates 'like a partisan cable network,’ watchdog tells FCC te 2026-06-30T18:10:59.662Z ABC has no business on public airwaves because it operates 'like a partisan cable network,’ watchdog tells FCC The Media Research Center (MRC) has continued its crusade against Disney, declaring Monday that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) should not renew ABC’s licenses because it operates like a "partisan cable network." FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said in April that eight ABC-owned stations must prove they have been operating in the public interest as part of an ongoing look at Disney’s diversity, equity and inclusion [DEI] practices. The MRC called ABC "a political operation that peddles falsehoods, suppresses actual journalism, and justifies political violence" in a petition to the FCC.  "We finally have an FCC willing to hold Disney and ABC accountable. Broadcast licenses are a privilege, not an entitlement. In exchange for free use of the public airwaves, broadcasters agree to serve the public interest," MRC President David Bozell told Fox News Digital. "If ABC wants to operate like a partisan cable network, it should give up the benefits reserved for broadcast licensees," Bozell continued. "No one is above the law, and ABC should not have its broadcast licenses renewed." ABC LAUNCHES ON-AIR CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGING VIEWERS TO SUPPORT ‘THE VIEW’ IN BATTLE WITH TRUMP’S FCC The Disney-owned ABC affiliates’ licenses were originally scheduled to be renewed between 2028 and 2031, but Trump’s FCC expedited the process. The stations are KFSN-TV in Fresno, KABC-TV in Los Angeles, KGO-TV in San Francisco, WLS-TV in Chicago, WABC-TV in New York, WTVD in Durham, North Carolina, WPVI-TV in Philadelphia and KTRK-TV in Houston. The 27-page petition, first reported by The New York Post and obtained by Fox News Digital, said the "MRC has reviewed nearly 50,000 hours of ABC programming over 38 years, and has produced hundreds of studies detailing ABC’s systemic bias, dishonesty, and partisan activism."  ABC is home to entertainment programs like "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" along with news offerings including "Good Morning America," "The View" and "World News Tonight." Bozell, along with other supporters and MRC colleagues, laid out examples of the alleged bias, including criticism of ABC’s 2024 presidential debate and "The View" prominently featuring liberal guests.  "As unethical as its motives may be, ABC has First Amendment rights. But it does not have a right to use public spectrum to do so. It has numerous, non-public spectrum avenues to express whatever opinions it wishes," the petition said.  ABC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. FCC LAUNCHING PROBE INTO ABC'S 'THE VIEW' AMID CRACKDOWN ON EQUAL TIME FOR CANDIDATES ABC launched ads in those markets that declared, "The FCC is questioning our commitment to viewers by threatening to take us off the air," and urged viewers to speak up and help.  ABC wants viewers to offer public comment through the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System online and enter the corresponding docket number along with their submission. There have been over 100,000 public comments in support of ABC. The FCC is also investigating ABC's "The View" amid the agency's crackdown on equal time for political candidates after Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico appeared on the daytime gabfest. Disney’s ABC believes "The View" is bona fide news and, therefore, exempt from the equal time rule.    Bozell has emerged as a thorn in Disney’s side since taking control of the conservative watchdog last year and recently penned an 18-page letter arguing "The View" is not based on newsworthiness but rather is used for "partisan purposes" such as advancing a preferred candidate.  "ABC claims that its daytime television program The View is a ‘bona fide news interview program’ and thus should be exempt from Congress’s equal opportunity rules. This claim is belied by the facts," Bozell wrote to FCC division chief Maria Mullarkey in a letter that was first obtained by Fox News Digital.  ABC FIRES BACK AT FCC PROBE OF 'THE VIEW,' CALLS OUT AGENCY'S 'CHILLING EFFECT ON FIRST AMENDMENT' "While The View may once have qualified for an exemption, the evidence shows that it has for years operated for political purposes and is therefore not entitled to an exemption to the law," he added. "The View is a political operation of the Democratic Party, not a bona fide news interview program." Bozell said the MRC "has the documentation to demonstrate that The View is a partisan political operation that advocates for Democrats and their party, against President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans, and for the political priorities of the left," and can prove that ABC "misrepresented its program in its petition to the FCC" by improperly citing First Amendment case law, and trivializing the actual harms of censorship through false outrage at the Commission’s legitimate questions. "In support of its petition, MRC will be submitting 2,473 separate pieces of evidence documenting The View’s pervasive bias and, at times, willful electioneering as exhibits to this comment," Bozell wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44068cc2ca79de2362456f Anthropic launches Claude Sonnet 5 as a cheaper way to run agents te 2026-06-30T18:10:20.246Z Anthropic launches Claude Sonnet 5 as a cheaper way to run agents Anthropic’s Claude Sonnet 5 brings stronger agentic capabilities, lower pricing, and improved safety, positioning the model as a cheaper alternative to Opus, GPT-5.5, and Gemini Pro. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440499c2ca79de236244dc Supreme Court lambasted over 'destructive' and 'outrageous' birthright citizenship decision te 2026-06-30T18:02:01.799Z Supreme Court lambasted over 'destructive' and 'outrageous' birthright citizenship decision The Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision upholding birthright citizenship as the law of the land enraged critics, who warned it will open the floodgates for third-world and pro-Communist "birth tourism" at a time when immigration enforcement is cracking down on illegal entry. Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett joined Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. and the court's three liberals in the 6-3 majority in Trump v. Barbara, while the court's three remaining conservatives dissented. The case, brought by an immigrant in New Hampshire under the pseudonym Barbara for her own protection from retaliation, challenged President Donald Trump’s executive order that sought to exempt birthright citizenship from the Fourteenth Amendment, which was crafted to ensure formerly enslaved people obtained American citizenship. SUPREME COURT'S LATEST IMMIGRATION RULING WILL CAUSE AMERICANS TO 'DIE AND SUFFER' ATTORNEY WARNS White House advisor Stephen Miller called the ruling "one of the most destructive and outrageous decisions in the long history of the Supreme Court." "American citizenship is not the birthright of the world. It belongs only and solely to Americans. No provision of the Constitution can be read to require our national self-obliteration," he said. "The constant diluting of our citizenship. Everyone can vote. Everyone’s a citizen. Everyone gets Medicaid. Everyone qualifies for food stamps," said Daniel Turner, president of the pro-domestic energy group Power the Future. LOS ANGELES PROPOSAL TO ALLOW NONCITIZENS TO VOTE IN LOCAL ELECTIONS SPARKS ONLINE BACKLASH "You’re American. So is the Mexican who arrived 11 minutes ago or the Chinese spy who paid for birth tourism: Because ‘equity’." Turner’s take echoed a common refrain among those long concerned that such a ruling would result in an influx of illegal immigrants having babies on American soil before returning to their home countries, allowing their children to vote in U.S. elections once they turn 18. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., wasted no time proposing legislation to address the ruling after Kavanaugh wrote in his concurring opinion that Trump’s order didn’t violate the Constitution but did violate a federal law crafted in the spirit of the Fourteenth Amendment. TRUMP'S SAVE AMERICA ACT SHOWS SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE SENATE DESPITE REPUBLICAN REVOLT "The Supreme Court’s birthright citizenship decision is wrong, dangerous, and disastrous for American sovereignty and the American people," Schmitt said in a statement. "If we can't fix it with ordinary legislation, then we must do what the Constitution commands in moments of national crisis: We must amend the Constitution and restore American citizenship." "We must again put ‘We the People’ first. The Supreme Court’s decision constitutionalizing unlimited birthright citizenship for the children of illegal aliens and temporarily present aliens is wrong—and disastrous for our sovereignty and the future of our republic." Schmitt said America is already reaping the fruits of birthright citizenship in light of "foreign communists essentially taking over New York City politics." Mayor Zohran Mamdani, for one, was born in Uganda, moved to New York with his family as a child and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Schmitt said his constitutional amendment — which would be the first in nearly 40 years if ratified — would fix the loophole the court created. "Today is a sad day in the history of our republic," he said. Rep. Clay Fuller, R-Ga., who recently succeeded former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, said on X that the Supreme Court put the future of illegal immigrants over real American children. "We cannot continue to support this invasion taking place. Congress must act before it's too late," he said, adding that he is introducing HR 172 – a Constitutional amendment likely to correspond with Schmitt’s Senate version. Former law professor John Eastman, who previously advised Trump on election law matters, said Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch’s dissents were "strong, and in my view, correct." Meanwhile, Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet tweeted that a willingness to overturn the case is the "new litmus test for every new Supreme Court justice." "The Court has utterly and completely failed America. The dissent of Justice Thomas will prove prescient: 'I'm not sure that today's decision will stand the test of time.'" In the run-up to the decision, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis correctly predicted on X that Thomas and Alito would be featured dissenting against a "bad ruling." When informed of the ruling during a news conference on Capitol Hill, House Speaker Mike Johnson audibly grumbled before stating that the majority justices put forth what one "could say [is] a textualist originalist view." "However, I do think that this has been grossly abused in recent years." Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts agreed, adding in a statement that the ruling is a "tremendous betrayal of the Republic." "The Justices in the majority have inflamed the all-out assault on our sovereignty and cheapened the sacred value of American citizenship. Universal birthright citizenship erases any uniquely American birthright—a distortion that was never the meaning or intention of the 14th Amendment. It is time for a constitutional amendment to correct this gross injustice." SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER The ruling did have its celebrants, including Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, and Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif. Padilla said in a statement that the Constitution "could not be clearer" that if someone is born in the U.S. they are a citizen — "period." "While there is nothing surprising about Donald Trump’s efforts to erode birthright citizenship and disregard laws he doesn’t like, today’s decision reaffirms over a century of legal precedent protecting this fundamental constitutional right," Padilla said. The senator added that the ruling is personal for him as the son of Mexican immigrants. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul concurred, saying in a statement that as the granddaughter of Irish immigrants, she was "heartened" by the court. "The Statue of Liberty stands proudly in our harbor, and New York will always stand with those seeking the promise of America," Hochul said. Schmitt and Fuller’s amendment would require approval by two-thirds of both the House and Senate, or by a constitutional convention called by two-thirds of the states. The convention method has never been used to ratify any of the Constitution’s 27 amendments. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440486c2ca79de236244d3 Mamdani-backed socialist in hot seat again over deleted posts praising communism, Marxism: 'Crazypants' te 2026-06-30T18:01:42.338Z Mamdani-backed socialist in hot seat again over deleted posts praising communism, Marxism: 'Crazypants' Socialist New York congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier is facing criticism over a deleted social media account that featured posts where she expressed support for communism, Marxist principles, and reverence for Soviet figures.  Avila Chevalier, backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), operated the Twitter account Darializabonet until it was deleted in June 2022. The account, according to CNN, called Karl Marx a "must read", complained that libraries didn’t provide enough Marxist literature, and quoted convicted cop killer Assata Shakur.  "I just cannot get over the fact that the universe has foisted upon us the perfect illustration of literally every failing of capitalism and people are still like we can’t be communists cuz there won’t be enough types of soup," a post retweeted by Avila Chevalier said. Avila Chevalier, who has already faced criticism over deleted posts calling to abolish the police and discussing wiping her hands on an American flag, was widely slammed by conservatives and moderates both online and on television over the new CNN report. MAMDANI STANDS BY FELLOW SOCIALIST CANDIDATE DESPITE RESURFACED FAR-LEFT, ANTI-AMERICAN POSTS "Our party has become an orgy of socialism," Sen. John Fetterman said during a Fox News appearance and also posted on X, "Will Democrats continue to defend Crazypants or pretend, ‘Oh, I wasn’t really paying attention?’" "It cannot be overstated just how radical Darializa Avila Chevalier is," UPenn student Eyal Yakoby posted on X.  "Funny, I was told repeatedly on live TV that socialism and communism are totally different and in no way, shape, or form are these Democratic Socialists the same as communists," CNN political commentator Scott Jennings posted on X. MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINNER FOUNDED GROUP WHOSE GOAL IS TO ‘ERADICATE' WESTERN CIVILIZATION "‘Democratic Socialist’ is to the Communist what ‘National Socialist’ was to the Nazi," reality TV star and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt posted on X. "The enemy is inside the gates," Republican Sen. Tim Sheehy posted on X. "Socialism/communism have killed more people than every other -’ism’ combined. Add in radical Islamism and you have an apocalyptic combination." "These people are the vanguard of an America-hating wave of progressive lunatics." Fox News Digital reached out to Avila Chevalier for comment.  AvilaChevalier, despite her history of anti-American rhetoric, defeated the incumbent Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat in New York's 13th Congressional District Democratic primary on Tuesday. She is widely expected to defeat her Republican opponent in November in one of the bluest cities in the United States. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440472c2ca79de236244ca Celebrate America 250 with this $10 hat FOX readers can't stop buying te 2026-06-30T18:01:22.895Z Celebrate America 250 with this $10 hat FOX readers can't stop buying This FOX News reader-favorite hat lets you celebrate America's 250th anniversary in style. It has everything from the American flag to bold patriotic designs engraved on the front and is actually super comfortable. More than 300 shoppers bought it in the past month, making it a standout pick for the Fourth of July. Grab yours for just $10 on Amazon. READ MORE: America 250 gear on Amazon: Save up to 60% on hats, garden flags and more The adjustable baseball hat features some of the country's most recognizable symbols, including the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell and a bald eagle, all set against a navy background that pairs easily with your favorite patriotic outfits. An embroidered American flag on the side also adds a classic finishing touch. READ MORE: Don't let the heat ruin your Fourth of July plans — 13 products to help you stay cool It's easy to see why this America 250 commemorative hat has earned mostly 5-star reviews on Amazon. The printed design stands up to regular wear, while the adjustable metal clasp keeps the fit secure and comfortable. "This hat can handle more than it should," one reviewer wrote, adding that it's "well-made and very sturdy." Other shoppers were just as impressed, especially considering the $10 price tag. One reviewer said the "stitching is tight, everything is straight and colors are vibrant." If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get this hat sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a44045fc2ca79de236244c1 Mississippi district attorney Jody Owens resigns after pleading guilty in federal bribery case: report te 2026-06-30T18:01:03.426Z Mississippi district attorney Jody Owens resigns after pleading guilty in federal bribery case: report Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens resigned on Monday after pleading guilty in a sprawling federal bribery case in Mississippi. Owens pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge Monday in U.S. District Court in Jackson, according to a report by local outlet WAPT. An October 2024 indictment initially charged Owens with conspiracy, federal program bribery, wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements, according to the report. The case stemmed from a 2022 FBI undercover operation where agents posed as real estate developers interested in building a convention center hotel in downtown Jackson, the outlet reported.  JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI, MAYOR FACING FEDERAL BRIBERY CHARGES TRAILS CHALLENGER IN MAYORAL ELECTION RESULTS Federal prosecutors allegedthat  Owens accepted at least $115,000 in cash, along with promises of future financial perks, in exchange for using his influence to push the project through city government channels, according to WAPT. Undercover recordings allegedly captured Owens detailing how public officials could be bribed and how the illicit funds could be laundered through businesses and campaign donations, the outlet reported. RESIGNATION IS THE NEW ESCAPE HATCH AS LAWMAKERS FACE EXPULSION In the wake of his guilty plea, Owens took to Facebook on Monday to announce his official resignation, which takes effect July 1. Calling it "one of the most difficult decisions" he has ever made, Owens wrote that while it "hurts beyond measure" to leave a position he loves, it was the best choice for his family and the district attorney's office.  "Serving as your District Attorney has been the privilege and honor of a lifetime," Owens wrote in the post.  "To everyone who has supported, encouraged, and prayed for Michelle, our children, and me over these past two years, thank you.… As we begin this next chapter, I ask only that you continue to keep our family in your prayers," he added. A conspiracy conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, along with a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Owens’ sentencing date has been set for Oct. 15. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and Hinds County District Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's requests for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a440434c2ca79de23624492 Acti puts AI agents directly into your smartphone keyboard te 2026-06-30T18:00:20.499Z Acti puts AI agents directly into your smartphone keyboard Startup Acti is betting the smartphone keyboard is the next home for AI assistants. Its new keyboard for iOS and Android works across apps and lets users create custom AI-powered shortcuts using natural language. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4401ccc2ca79de2362442d US Supreme Court upholds transgender athlete bans in Idaho, West Virginia te 2026-06-30T17:50:04.423Z US Supreme Court upholds transgender athlete bans in Idaho, West Virginia The U.S. Supreme Court on Oct. 29, 2024. (Photo by Jane Norman/States Nerwsroom) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday kept in place state laws banning transgender athletes from participating on women’s and girls’ sports teams. The decision stems from challenges to bans in Idaho and West Virginia and marks a major setback for transgender rights across the country. The opinion also came as President Donald Trump’s administration has pursued a broad anti-trans agenda that has extended beyond athletics. The nation’s highest court found, 6-3, that the bans in Idaho and West Virginia do not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment — a key question in both cases before the court.  The court was unanimous that Title IX, a landmark 1972 law that mandated sports teams be equally provided to male and female students, does not block bans like the ones in Idaho and West Virginia. Becky Pepper-Jackson attends the Lambda Legal Liberty Awards on June 8, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Lambda Legal ) The majority opinion, written by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, rejected the argument from Becky Pepper-Jackson, the transgender West Virginia girl in the case, that excluding trans girls from boys’ teams ran afoul of a 1974 amendment to Title IX that schools set “reasonable” provisions about sports participation. West Virginia’s law — similar to those imposed by 27 other states, the International Olympic Committee, the NCAA and other sports bodies — was at least reasonable, Kavanaugh said. “Whether biological males may participate on women’s and girls’ sports teams may be a debated policy question,” he wrote. “But the legal question for Title IX purposes is whether West Virginia may limit women’s and girls’ sports teams to biological females. As a matter of text and history, West Virginia may do so.” Liberals would impose more scrutiny The court’s three liberal justices agreed that Title IX did not prevent laws such as West Virginia’s and Idaho’s. But they disagreed on the equal protection issue, and would have remanded the case back to the West Virginia federal trial court for further fact-finding. “In not taking this modest step, the majority badly errs in two ways,” Justice Sonia Sotomayor said in a dissent joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson. Demonstrators rallied outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, as justices heard two cases on state bans of trans athletes. (Photo by Jane Norman/States Newsroom) There is an “unresolved factual dispute” about if transgender and cisgender girls “are similarly situated,” Sotomayor said. And the majority invoked “scientific uncertainty” to give too much deference to West Virginia. Both matters could have been resolved at lower courts, Sotomayor wrote. “None of this is to suggest what the eventual outcome of this litigation would have been, or even should have been, had the majority allowed the courts below to make the missing factual determinations and had those courts correctly applied heightened scrutiny with the benefit of those facts,” she said. “The point, rather, is that this Court’s equal protection precedents require a very different approach.” Idaho law The Idaho case contested the Gem State’s 2020 law categorically banning trans athletes from competing on women’s and girls’ sports teams. Lindsay Hecox sued over the ban in 2020, just months before the law — the first of its kind in the nation — was set to take effect.  Hecox wanted to try out for the women’s track and cross-country teams at Boise State University, but the Idaho law would have prevented her from doing so because she is transgender.  An Idaho federal court halted the law from taking effect later in 2020. A federal appeals court upheld the ruling in 2023 but later adjusted its scope in 2024 to only apply to Hecox, not other athletes. In July 2024, Idaho appealed to the Supreme Court. Hecox later asked both an Idaho federal court and the Supreme Court to drop the case.  Though a federal judge in Idaho rejected that attempt in October, the Supreme Court deferred the request until after oral arguments were heard back in January.  Idaho Republicans cheer Several of Idaho’s leading elected officials, all Republicans, issued statements praising Tuesday’s ruling. Gov. Brad Little noted in an emailed statement that the Idaho law was the first of its kind at the state level. “We are leading the nation in supporting generations of women and men who fought hard to uphold Title IX protections and keep girls and women safe,” he said. “I want to thank the Idaho Legislature and Representative Barbara Ehardt in particular for her leadership on this issue of great importance to female athletes across Idaho and the nation. This is a historic moment for common sense!” Ehardt,who sponsored Idaho’s ban in the state Legislature called the decision the end of an “amazing journey.”  “I said from the very beginning that it would end up at the Supreme Court, and when it did, I was privileged enough to sit in that courtroom and listen,” Ehardt said. “I expected my legislation, and thus Title IX, to be upheld as it should be. Opportunities for girls and women should never be confused with male feelings!” West Virginia law The case in West Virginia surrounded a 2021 Mountain State law that also bans trans athletes from participating on women’s and girls’ sports teams.   Pepper-Jackson wanted to try out for the girls’ cross-country team when starting middle school, but would have been prevented from doing so under the state law because she is transgender.  In 2021, Pepper-Jackson’s mother sued on her behalf. A federal appeals court in 2024 barred the state from enforcing the ban, which prompted West Virginia to ask the Supreme Court to weigh in.  Trump’s anti-trans agenda Meanwhile, the Trump administration has sought at the federal level to prohibit trans athletes’ participation in women’s sports teams aligning with their gender identity, including through an executive order Trump signed last year. That executive order made it the policy of the United States to “rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and deprives them of privacy.” The NCAA promptly changed its policy to comply with the order, limiting “competition in women’s sports to student-athletes assigned female at birth only.” Trump has signed other executive orders targeting trans people, including orders that make it the “policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female,” restrict access to gender-affirming care for kids and aim to bar openly transgender service members from the U.S. military. Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, to commend the justices. “BIG WIN: The United States Supreme Court  just RULED AGAINST MEN PLAYING IN WOMEN’S SPORTS,” he wrote. “Wow! That takes that ridiculous situation off the table!!!” Other reaction Reaction poured in Tuesday from lawmakers and other officials, both in favor and against the court’s ruling. Many who endorsed the decision, including U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg, made some version of the declaration that “women’s sports are for women.” “Unfortunately, radical gender ideology bolstered by policies pushed under the Biden-Harris administration chipped away at Title IX protections. As a result, the very female athletes the law was meant to empower were sidelined in the name of ‘equality,’” Walberg, a Michigan Republican, said in a statement. He added that he was “grateful” to the justices and said his committee’s Republicans “will always stand with women athletes.” U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito made a similar statement in a social media post “Girls’ sports are for girls. It’s common sense,” the West Virginia Republican said. “I’m thankful SCOTUS has upheld West Virginia’s law protecting female athletes.” Critics of the ruling vowed to continue efforts to create protections for trans people. League of Women Voters CEO Celina Stewar said the decision “sends a dangerous message that some students are less worthy of dignity, opportunity, and belonging.”  “Policies that intentionally target and marginalize young people simply for who they are weaken our democracy and violate the values of fairness and inclusion that define who we are as a nation,” she said. “The League stands in solidarity with all affected students, and we remain committed to ensuring that equality  becomes a lived reality for everyone.” U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, a New Mexico Democrat who co-chairs the Democratic Women’s Caucus, said in a post to social media the decision centered on “whether LGBTQ+ rights are civil rights protected by federal law.” “The answer is YES—and we will keep fighting until it is clear this is the law of the land!” she added. And leaders in blue states that do not have laws like the ones upheld Tuesday said they would not be affected. “Today’s ruling, while predictable, is yet another disturbing affront to personal liberties by providing states with a license to discriminate,” Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey said. “The Court was clear that this decision had no bearing with respect to a state’s choice to include transgender athletes and as such, will not implicate the Department of Justice’s case against Maine.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4401cbc2ca79de23624405 What to Know About the Supreme Court’s Birthright Citizenship Order te 2026-06-30T17:50:03.526Z What to Know About the Supreme Court’s Birthright Citizenship Order The decision ends one of the most aggressive parts of Trump’s immigration agenda. But hundreds of other restrictions have taken effect. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43ff72c2ca79de23624397 Texas Rangers get the nod over Cleveland Guardians in tonight's MLB betting pick despite road struggles te 2026-06-30T17:40:02.966Z Texas Rangers get the nod over Cleveland Guardians in tonight's MLB betting pick despite road struggles I finally got off the slide last night and now have won three of the past four MLB games that I've played. I did catch a little bit of luck yesterday as the Diamondbacks scored three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. In fairness, they were winning until the top of the fifth. It was nice to be on the right side of it either way. Tonight, we head to the American League and look for a win. If you're familiar with Greek mythology at all, you've probably heard about Sisyphus. For those who don't know, he was a guy who was condemned by the Greek gods to push a huge boulder up the hill, only for it to roll back down every time it got to the top. That's how I feel about the Texas Rangers. Every time they get close to looking like a winning team, they have a setback and go back under .500. They are over for the moment at 42-41, and perhaps, this is the time they get the boulder over and keep moving forward. However, I think they are what they are - an average team that needs to find a way to get on a roll. Starting pitching really hasn't been the problem for the Rangers. It has been more about a lack of consistent offense. Today, they send out Jacob deGrom to do his work. We know that deGrom's arm was blessed by the gods early in his career, but even now, he is still turning in solid outings. He is 6-5 for the season with a 3.55 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP. He has struggled on the road this year with a 4.60 road ERA. What is crazy is that he has three games where he allowed six earned runs. He faced Cleveland earlier this month and allowed no runs in six innings of work. I'm not sure I have a mythological comparison for the Cleveland Guardians. All I can say about this team is that every year, they seem to be one of the better teams in baseball and find a way to win despite not having top-tier talent. Perhaps that is a lesson in roster construction for the rest of the league. The Guardians are three games over .500, and they are one game back of the White Sox, so you can once again count on them having a say on who wins the division. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! What the Guardians have always done a very good job of is finding reliable starting pitching. Tonight, they have Tanner Bibee taking the hill. Bibee is 2-8 for the season with a 3.78 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. He is doing slightly better at home than on the road. However, he has allowed more homers at home than on the road. And, he has allowed identical earned runs on the road as at home this season; he just has one more start at home and roughly five more innings. Bibee also faced the Rangers earlier this month and turned in his best start of the year. He went eight scoreless innings and allowed three hits. Bibee has good numbers against Rangers hitters in his career, with just 11 hits allowed in 56 at-bats. Jake Burger might be worth a look at for total bases or a homer, as he is 2-for-5 with two homers against him. I'm not sure I'll get involved in the player prop market for this game, though. The play here is to take the Rangers. Call it a bit of a hunch, but if I'm backing either of these pitchers to replicate the performance from earlier in the month, I'm taking deGrom. He has struggled a bit on the road, but part of that is from the really bad games. Otherwise, he is pitching fairly well. Give me the Rangers on the moneyline tonight. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43ff72c2ca79de2362438e Air Force reveals B-2's hidden ship killer capability as China threat grows te 2026-06-30T17:40:02.643Z Air Force reveals B-2's hidden ship killer capability as China threat grows The Air Force revealed Monday that its flagship B-2 Spirit stealth bomber can now strike enemy warships with the long range anti-ship missile (LRASM), publicly unveiling the capability after a live-fire exercise in the Western Pacific. The stealth bomber launched a long-range anti-ship missile during Exercise Valiant Shield 26, a U.S.-led multinational exercise involving American and allied forces across the Western Pacific, in a sinking exercise north of the Mariana Islands. The announcement comes as the Pentagon increasingly focuses on preparing for a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific, where China's rapidly expanding navy would present one of the U.S. military's biggest challenges. Publicly demonstrating the B-2's new maritime strike capability also serves as a signal that the stealth bomber could play a key role in holding high-value naval targets at risk. "The B-2's impressive performance underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to adaptability and flexibility in the face of emerging security challenges," Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, commander of Pacific Air Forces, said in a statement. TRUMP PLAN FOR FOREIGN SHIPBUILDERS COULD CREATE 540,000 JOBS AND EXPAND US FLEET "By prioritizing counter-maritime strike operations, we can maintain a decisive edge over adversaries, protect our national interests and ensure the free and open Pacific that underpin our global security." Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) could not immediately be reached by Fox News Digital for details, but confirmed to The War Zone that the B-2 fired the anti-ship missile at a decommissioned amphibious warfare ship known as the USS Juneau during the exercise. U.S. and partner-nation forces battered the decommissioned warship, which entered service in 1969, with coordinated air, surface and subsurface strikes June 27 and June 28, sending it to the bottom of the Philippine Sea more than 200 nautical miles off the coast of Guam, according to a Navy release. A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine delivered the final blow with a torpedo. TIM SHEEHY EXPOSES A 'SCARY' SHIPBUILDING COLLAPSE THAT LEAVES THE US VULNERABLE TO CHINA China continues to expand the world's largest navy and fields an array of long-range anti-ship missiles aimed at keeping U.S. forces at bay in the Western Pacific. The People's Liberation Army Navy will grow from more than 370 battle force ships to roughly 435 by 2030, according to Pentagon projections. U.S. Navy currently operates about 291 battle force ships. But Beijing has yet to field its long-awaited H-20 stealth bomber, leaving the U.S. with an operational capability China has not yet publicly demonstrated: pairing a stealth bomber with a long-range anti-ship cruise missile capable of striking high-value naval targets in heavily defended airspace. While long range anti-ship missile already is carried by the Air Force's B-1B Lancer and the Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, integrating the missile onto the B-2 gives the Air Force a stealth platform capable of carrying the weapon. The B-2 Spirit is the Air Force's only operational stealth bomber, designed to penetrate sophisticated enemy air defenses while carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons. Most recently, B-2s flew from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri to strike Iranian nuclear facilities during Operation Midnight Hammer, dropping 30,000-pound GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator bombs in the weapon's first combat use. The demonstration could also foreshadow future missions for the B-21 Raider, the Air Force's next-generation stealth bomber, which eventually will replace the B-2. While the Air Force has not disclosed which anti-ship weapons the B-21 will carry, officials say it is being designed to employ a broad mix of stand-off and direct-attack conventional munitions.  EUROPE'S $116B FIGHTER JET 'FAILURE' RAISES FRESH DOUBTS ABOUT ABILITY TO DEFEND ITSELF WITHOUT US The B-21 is expected to begin entering operational service in 2027. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43ff72c2ca79de23624385 Jackson accuses Thomas of echoing infamously racist court decision in birthright citizenship clash te 2026-06-30T17:40:02.270Z Jackson accuses Thomas of echoing infamously racist court decision in birthright citizenship clash Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson on Tuesday accused Justice Clarence Thomas of echoing "one of Dred Scott’s core tenets" by opposing the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold birthright citizenship.  In Jackson’s concurrence with the majority’s opinion in Trump v. Barbara, she argued that the 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause was historically intended to apply to all people born in the United States, including children of illegal immigrants, contrary to Thomas’s position that the amendment was ratified specifically to provide slaves freed after the Civil War with citizenship. "Freed Blacks fought for the shared humanity of all people. And the Great Emancipator eventually foresaw that the only path forward that could prevent a return — in any form — to slavery and race-based subordination was to link the fates of all," Jackson wrote. "Of course, the ultimate irony is that for all the talk about the detestable Dred Scott decision, the Government and [Thomas] propose a return to its core tenet. Their bottom line is that, for certain people, being born on American soil will not suffice to confer citizenship." By invoking "Dred Scott," Jackson is referencing an 1857 Supreme Court decision in which the majority held that people of African descent "are not included, and were not intended to be included, under the word 'citizens' in the Constitution, and can therefore claim none of the rights and privileges which that instrument provides for and secures to citizens of the United States." CHINA EXPLOITING 'BIRTH TOURISM' TO GAIN LONG-TERM POLITICAL INFLUENCE IN US, AUTHOR WARNS According to Thomas, however, Jackson’s universalist characterization of the historical context surrounding the 14th Amendment was unfounded. "After the Civil War, the Reconstruction Congress overruled Dred Scott, first with the Civil Rights Act of 1866, then with the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment," Thomas wrote. "Both the Civil Rights Act and the Citizenship Clause guaranteed citizenship to persons born and domiciled in the United States regardless of their race. Neither guaranteed citizenship to persons who were not domiciled in the United States." LAWYER WHO BEAT HAWAII GUN LAW CALLS STATE’S RELIANCE ON BLACK CODE ‘DISGRACEFUL’ Thomas went on to describe the distinction he believes is drawn between Black Americans and foreigners residing in the country. "Blacks were entitled to citizenship because they were Americans. They had no other homeland, owed no allegiance to any foreign power, and were subject to no other authority," the justice went on. "The same could not be said for the children of foreign temporary visitors. Foreign temporary visitors were attached to their home country, lacked similar bonds to this country, and would not be called upon in time of war." SUPREME COURT'S SHOWDOWN ON BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP DECISION COULD RESHAPE AMERICA Thomas argued that citizenship under the 14th Amendment requires birth in the United States as well as "domicile," a legal concept he defines as both one’s physical home and one's permanent allegiance to the country. Children of foreign temporary visitors, per Thomas, do not qualify because, although subject to U.S. laws while here, they remain tied to another sovereign and are not fully "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States in the constitutional sense. Jackson fired back at this line of reasoning, calling it "myopic." "Despite his longstanding endorsement of a ‘colorblind’ Constitution, Justice Thomas now surprisingly suggests that the Citizenship Clause was a race-conscious remedial measure, relating only to ‘freed slaves such as Dred Scott,’" she wrote. "It is for this reason, he says, that ‘children who were born in the United States but [to parents] not domiciled here’ are not entitled to claim birthright citizenship. But that narrow vision of the Fourteenth Amendment bears little relationship to the history of its ratification. Even worse, Justice Thomas’s telling elides the entire point of the Second Founding." "The Reconstruction Amendments were an anticaste, antisubordination reset for the Nation, not a mere spot treatment for the dark stain of slavery," Jackson asserted. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43ff71c2ca79de23624377 ‘Heartbreaking’ Ruling Leaves Trans Advocates Crestfallen te 2026-06-30T17:40:01.234Z ‘Heartbreaking’ Ruling Leaves Trans Advocates Crestfallen The ruling upholding two state laws blocking transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports was the latest in a series of defeats. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fd1cc2ca79de23624339 ‘Breathing oven air’: 32 years after Lake Havasu City became America’s hottest city te 2026-06-30T17:30:04.840Z ‘Breathing oven air’: 32 years after Lake Havasu City became America’s hottest city This week marks 32 years since the record-breaking 128-degree temperature was recorded at a fire station in Lake Havasu City. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fd1cc2ca79de23624330 🚧 Havasu Tip List | How 'blind person area' signage works te 2026-06-30T17:30:04.467Z 🚧 Havasu Tip List | How 'blind person area' signage works Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fd1bc2ca79de23624307 Wisconsin Badgers just added the perfect jersey sponsorship if there is such a thing te 2026-06-30T17:30:03.464Z Wisconsin Badgers just added the perfect jersey sponsorship if there is such a thing One of the most controversial things to happen in sports over the last five to seven years or so is the introduction of jersey ads. Sure, they've been around in Europe and in the minor leagues forever, but now major league teams and even colleges are adding them. But now and then, someone comes up with a perfect jersey ad, and that's what the Wisconsin Badgers have done. It seems borderline sacrilegious to throw a corporate sponsorship on the Badgers' iconic cardinal red and white getups. Especially one that doesn't share those colors. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE But they may have found a solution: Butter burger-flippin', Concrete Mixer-slingin' fast-food chain, Culver's. I feel like a significant portion of the Badgers fanbase was very angry when they heard they were slapping ads on their uniforms, but that subsided at least 20%, if not completely, when they saw it was Culver's. They love Culver's there. And I think this might be the answer to these jersey sponsorships. I don't totally hate the way they look, because I think they become part of the uniform. Think about motorsports, where the sponsor is the paint scheme or livery. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! But I think you can convince even more of the haters if you bring in a sponsor that has some ties to the region, and that's what Wisconsin has done. More schools will be adding sponsors, so hopefully they will follow suit. Get a Texas school to partner with Buc-ee's or a Philly-area school to throw a Wawa patch on their uniforms (of course, it doesn't have to stay limited to regional convenience store chains, but there's a lot of pride in those). Is it still fun to see corporate logos slapped on iconic uniforms? No. But you've got to bring in that money somehow if you want to throw a competitive roster on the field. And if that means slapping a burger chain's logo on the shoulder, go for it. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fac3c2ca79de2362429d Obama blames splintered media for preventing superstar Democrat from rising up te 2026-06-30T17:20:03.526Z Obama blames splintered media for preventing superstar Democrat from rising up Former President Barack Obama blamed a splintered media landscape for the lack of a second Obama-like political figure emerging on the national stage during an interview on Tuesday. NBC "Today" co-host Craig Melvin talked to the former president about the new Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on his "Glass Half Full" podcast and told him, "You’ve always represented a lot of different communities, but there has always been this singularity to your story. Earlier this week, one of your former aides was talking on one of these cable shows and said Democrats should stop looking for Obama 2.0. Not gonna happen." "Do you think in the current climate that someone like you with your background and your story, do you think that you could break through now the same way you did back in ’07, ’08?" Melvin asked Obama.  "I do think it’s harder because of the nature of your business, the media, it’s more splintered," Obama said. OBAMA CHOOSES SUPPORTER STEPHEN COLBERT FOR DEBUT INTERVIEW AT CONTROVERSIAL PRESIDENTIAL CENTER "I hadn’t even been elected yet to the U.S. Senate," he continued. "I had won the primary. I’d won the nomination — Democratic nomination to be the senator of Illinois, but nobody really knew who I was except outside of Illinois. And when I gave that speech at the convention, suddenly I’m a national figure because all the networks covered it. And if you’re on the cover of Time magazine or Newsweek back then, suddenly everybody knows who you are because we all shared one culture." Obama said that people "who are just as gifted or in some cases more gifted" than him were not breaking through because of a splintered media. He suggested the country was in a transition period. "So I think we’re in a transition period where there are a lot of Barack and Michelle Obamas out there doing cool stuff, but politics hasn’t quite given them the platform yet. Media hasn’t shined a spotlight on them yet. If we can help focus on the great work they’re doing, then that’s one of our core missions," he said. OBAMA REMAINS DEM HEADLINER WHILE PRESIDENT WITH MOST VOTES EVER FADES INTO BACKGROUND: 'IT WAS ALL A DREAM' Obama said during the dedication of his presidential center in Chicago earlier this month that America’s Founders fell "terribly short" of the Declaration of Independence’s promise, while casting the nation’s story as one of generations coming together to make the union "more perfect." "The success of this experiment was never a given," Obama said in his speech, referring to the nation's founding ahead of America celebrating its 250th anniversary on the 4th of July. "In forming our union, the founders fell terribly short of the Declaration's promise, leaving slavery intact, allowing states to restrict the franchise to white men who owned property," he said. "But in drafting a Constitution and a Bill of Rights, they did have the foresight, the genius, to provide us with a framework that allows each generation to make our union more perfect." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE The 44th president devoted much of his speech to outlining the work he believes America still has ahead, echoing themes he has emphasized in past appearances on the campaign trail and during his time in the White House. Fox News' Ashley J. DiMella contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fac3c2ca79de23624294 Amazon Prime Video NFL analyst defends streaming services broadcasting but understands fan frustration te 2026-06-30T17:20:03.227Z Amazon Prime Video NFL analyst defends streaming services broadcasting but understands fan frustration It is no secret that it's much harder to find a primetime NFL game thanks to streaming services taking over. Amazon Prime Video, Peacock and Netflix each have scored exclusive rights to specific games, and that may just be the tip of the iceberg. The new way of watching sports, which is also more expensive than ever, was recently called into question during a hearing regarding the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Andrew Whitworth is one of the faces of Amazon Prime Video's NFL coverage, and while he believes in not "put[ting] the genie back in the bottle," he also understands fans' frustrations. "I get it. I get that fans are trying to figure out the landscape of how they want to watch this or that or anything else," Whitworth told Fox News Digital about the new "road we've gone down." However, Whitworth also believes that watching sports is hardly any different from finding one's favorite movies or television shows that are stretched across certain services. "It's always the most complicated thing ever when I'm like, 'Oh, I heard I should watch this show.' And I'm like, 'Well, where is that on?' And so it's that journey you go on to figure out what service has this TV show that you want to watch that somebody told you about or whatever," Whitworth said. "I think that's just kind of where this stuff is at this time. I don't think I have a great answer for what a fan or somebody should do other than that's kind of the world we live in... BROADCASTERS URGE CONGRESS TO REEXAMINE SPORTS BROADCASTING ACT AS GAMES SHIFT TO STREAMING PAYWALLS "I think sports is right along with where entertainment is, and right now a lot of that is you go to these specific places to watch these specific things. I think it's just kind of the world we're in right now. I think it's all starting to figure itself out. And I'm sure, as with anything else in the world, we'll find ways to simplify it and make it easier. But right now it feels like everyone's establishing themselves and where they fit in the industry. Then I think, over time, we'll start to see the process get simpler." If one were to strictly stream all NFL games throughout the 2025 season on Sunday Ticket, Netflix, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN Unlimited and NFL+, it would have cost a minimum of $575, and for others (prior Sunday Ticket watchers) nearly $800. The sports leagues have cashed in on the pivot to streaming, with the NFL landing $1 billion a year to air "Thursday Night Football" on Amazon as an example. The Sports Broadcasting Act exemption passed in 1961 applies only to broadcast television. Courts have ruled in the past that it does not apply to other media, including cable, satellite and streaming. The Sports Broadcasting Act includes a rule allowing blackouts of local games, which still applies to out-of-market packages sold by the leagues. Follow Fox News Digital's sports coverage on X , and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fac2c2ca79de2362428b Stephen Miller blasts Barrett, Roberts for caving to the 'radical left' in SCOTUS mail-in voting ruling te 2026-06-30T17:20:02.841Z Stephen Miller blasts Barrett, Roberts for caving to the 'radical left' in SCOTUS mail-in voting ruling White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller called out Supreme Court Justices Amy Coney Barrett and John Roberts Monday, accusing the two of "cav[ing] to the radical left" by ruling in favor of a Mississippi law allowing mail-in ballots to be counted even if they are received after Election Day.  "Justice Roberts and Justice Barrett decided to cave to the radical left. [Justice] Alito was so clear in his wording about what Election Day means. Nobody could read the statute, could read that opinion, could read what Alito wrote and come to any other conclusion," he told "The Ingraham Angle." "It's Election Day, not election week, not election month, not election months. So this was really a travesty, and it underscores why we have to keep fighting to pass the SAVE America Act." SUPREME COURT RULES ON MAIL-IN BALLOTS RECEIVED AFTER ELECTION DAY Miller's remarks came after Roberts and Barrett sided with liberal justices in a 5-4 ruling Monday, holding that Election Day, in the context of federal law, set a deadline for when voters must make a choice regarding their preferred candidate but said that relevant laws have no standard for when ballots must be received to be considered valid.  Trump-appointed Barrett authored the majority opinion ruling in favor of the law. She was joined by Chief Justice John Roberts, as well as Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson. TRUMP'S SAVE AMERICA ACT SHOWS SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE SENATE DESPITE REPUBLICAN REVOLT Justice Samuel Alito penned the dissent, warning the decision could erode already-fragile trust among many in the nation's electoral systems. Miller argued Monday that the American people elected Republican majorities in Congress hoping to see the SAVE Act passed, echoing other conservatives who have cited the Supreme Court's recent ruling as evidence that more ballot box protections are needed. "80 million Americans elected a Republican Senate majority, and they elected a Republican Congress to deliver on this fundamental priority," he said. "It must get done." Fox News' Robert Schmad and Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43fac2c2ca79de23624282 Save up to 70% on camping gear, luggage and more on REI's 4th of July deals te 2026-06-30T17:20:02.511Z Save up to 70% on camping gear, luggage and more on REI's 4th of July deals REI's 4th of July Deals include discounts of up to 70% on camping, hiking and other outdoor gear. Shop everything from six-person tents and camp stoves to waterproof Keen sandals and Patagonia backpacks. This sale ends on July 6, so shop now while these deals last. Save on popular brands like Nike, Hoka and Patagonia. Darn Tough women’s no-show running socks: $6.83 (57% off) Nike Swoosh support bra: $28.93 (31% off) Teva universal sandals: $41.73 (30% off) UPF shirt: $48.93 (30% off) Darn Tough men’s hiking socks: $18.93 (27% off) Original price: $130 Keen's Newport sandals combine the protection of a hiking shoe with the breathability of a sandal. Built for both land and water, they feature a quick-adjust bungee lacing system that slips on easily while helping keep your feet secure on uneven terrain. Original price: $155 The Hoka Clifton 10 is designed for running, but works just as well as an everyday walking shoe. A lightweight build and breathable knit upper help keep feet comfortable, while the durable outsole is built to handle frequent wear. READ MORE: Shopping for America 250? Here's what's actually made in the USA — and what's imported Original price: $64.95 Swiftland's running shorts feature a breathable mesh liner and high-rise waistband that stays in place during workouts. The lightweight design makes them a comfortable option for runs, walks and other warm-weather activities. Original price: $75 These water-repellent shorts transition easily from the beach to everyday wear. Quick-drying fabric and built-in drainage in the side and rear pockets help prevent water from pooling after swimming or other water activities. READ MORE: American-owned clothing brands for effortless red, white and blue style Gear up for camping season with deals on tents, cooking systems and chairs. Petzl Tikka headlamp: $14.73 (57% off) JetBoil cooking system: $107.93 (40% off) Ultra-Sil dry bag: $16.93 (28% off) Coleman camping coffee maker: $109.73 (26% off) Original price: $329 The Campwell six-person tent offers a spacious cabin-style design with nearly vertical walls that provide extra headroom. It's currently 50% off, making it a great time to upgrade your camping setup. Original price: $275 Cook breakfast and dinner on the same stove with the Coleman Cascade, which pairs a cast iron grill on one side with a cast iron griddle on the other. Built-in wind guards help shield the burners from gusts for more consistent cooking outdoors. READ MORE: Brands still making cookware and kitchen tools in the U.S. — from skillets to spatulas Original price: $89.95 The Flexlite camp chair packs down small without sacrificing comfort at camp. Its lightweight frame supports up to 250 pounds, while the durable fabric is built to handle repeated use on the trail. Original price: $579 Get out on the water with this inflatable paddleboard, now 30% off. It inflates quickly and packs down into a compact bag, so there's no need for a roof rack or extra storage space. Travel anywhere with these duffels, backpacks and more. The North Face Base Camp day pack: $63.83 (50% off) Patagonia Terravia Sacoche crossbody bag: $28.83 (41% off) The North Face Glen Canyon sling bag: $40.73 (25% off) Osprey Daylite carry-on: $186.73 (25% off) Original price: $125 This duffel bag easily transitions from road trips to camping weekends with a spacious, organized interior. A dedicated laptop compartment adds extra protection, while the shoulder straps convert it into a backpack for hands-free carrying. READ MORE: The Great American Road Trip: 8 places to travel (and stay) to celebrate America 250 this summer Original price: $59 Built for camping and outdoor adventures, these gear cubes feature a durable, water-repellent exterior and compression straps to maximize packing space. They're a practical way to organize clothing, gear and other essentials. Original price: $149 The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is currently half off, bringing this popular hiking pack below $100. Its 25-liter capacity provides plenty of room for day hikes, while the padded laptop sleeve and front stash pocket add everyday versatility. For more Deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals Original price: $39.95 Carry your everyday essentials without the bulk of a backpack with this compact sling bag. The water-repellent exterior protects your belongings, while padded construction keeps it comfortable during hikes, walks and daily errands. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f9bec2ca79de23624245 Oatman Sidewalk Egg Fry offers sizzling July 4 competition te 2026-06-30T17:15:42.773Z Oatman Sidewalk Egg Fry offers sizzling July 4 competition OATMAN — Bring your team to Oatman on Saturday, July 4 for the annual Sidewalk Egg Fry. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f9aac2ca79de2362423c Beat the heat with a pool party on Independence Day te 2026-06-30T17:15:22.793Z Beat the heat with a pool party on Independence Day BULLHEAD CITY — Parks and Recreation is hosting a free Independence Day Pool Party. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f996c2ca79de2362422d States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says te 2026-06-30T17:15:02.320Z States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says WASHINGTON – In 2022, Lia Thomas won the women’s 500-yard freestyle at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships. The victory, the first Division I title for a transgender athlete, sparked a national debate. Four years later, the Supreme Court agreed with states that have sought to bar athletes born male from competing against girls and women. The ruling Tuesday was 6-3. “Separate sports teams for biological males and biological females are reasonable,” Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote for the conservative majority. “Given the inherent physical differences between the sexes, allowing only biological females to play on women’s and girls’ teams can reduce the risk of physical injury and ensure fair competition.” The court heard more than three-and-a-half hours of oral arguments in January on the issue, in a pair of cases from Idaho and West Virginia involving transgender athletes’ participation in sports. The ruling has implications nationwide. Arizona is one of 27 states with laws intended to block transgender athletes from participating in sports, under the Save Women’s Sports Act signed by former Gov. Doug Ducey in 2022.  Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing a dissenting opinion for the three liberal justices, chastised the majority for allowing states to bar all transgender athletes without exception, “even if the facts show that they do not” as individuals enjoy an athletic advantage. “The ban is absolute,” she added, meaning that a transgender athlete “cannot practice on girls’ teams, even if she would not take anyone’s spot in an eventual competition, even if everyone who tries out for the team makes it, and even if having the chance to participate could aid immensely in treating (that child’s) gender dysphoria.” Education Secretary Linda McMahon called the ruling a “tremendous victory,” saying it “affirms the common sense right of states to prohibit men from competing in women’s sports, safeguard the integrity of female spaces, and ensure no woman faces discrimination on the basis of sex.” Advocates for transgender athletes had feared this outcome. “Transgender girls just want to play school sports with their friends and we all know what it feels like to be excluded from something growing up,” said Rachel Berg, senior staff attorney for the National Center for LGBTQ Rights. The center represents a transgender girl identified in court as Jane Doe in Doe v. Horne, a lawsuit against the Arizona Interscholastic Association, which sought to enforce the 2022 law barring her from competition. Doe runs cross-country and track and plays soccer and flag football. At age 7, she was diagnosed with gender dysphoria. In 2023, at age 11, she started taking the puberty-blocking medication Supprelin. Lower courts found that the treatment meant Doe would not experience a rise in testosterone levels and would therefore have no physiological advantages over female competitors. In July 2023, a federal court in Arizona issued an injunction blocking the enforcement of the Arizona law and allowing Doe to continue participating in sports. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles cases in nine Western states, including Arizona and Idaho, upheld the injunction in September 2024. The Supreme Court’s ruling opens the way for enforcement of the law Ducey signed, banning transgender athletes from playing sports in Arizona. “The two States here – along with 25 other States, the IOC, the USOPC, and the NCAA – have concluded at this time that women and girls should be allowed to compete … on an equal playing field, without fear of physical injury from biological males or being forced to compete against biological males,” Kavanaugh wrote in the majority opinion. “Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ sports based on biological sex. The Constitution and Title IX do not require an overhaul of women’s and girls’ sports throughout America,” he wrote. Two weeks into his second term, President Donald Trump ordered McMahon to use Title IX – a provision of a 1972 law that bans sex discrimination in federally funded education programs – to crack down on schools that allow transgender girls and women to participate in girls’ sports. The Arizona Interscholastic Association, citing the Trump executive order, has used Title IX to ban transgender athletes from competition. Under the 2023 appeals court injunction, Doe and another plaintiff, known in court filings as Megan Roe, are allowed to compete in Arizona. “These laws are part of the pattern and are part of the strategy and desire of those on the right to essentially deny the existence of – and erase from public life – transgender individuals,” said Scott McCoy, deputy legal director at the Southern Poverty Law Center, and a former Utah state senator, the first openly gay man elected to that post. Groups that want to ban transgender athletes from competition assert that regardless of treatment, biological sex doesn’t change and people born male have an unfair advantage over girls on the playing field. “The science and common sense shows us testosterone suppression does not erase the advantages that males have over females,” said Suzanne Beecher, legal counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom. “That’s the reason that we have separate categories in sports in the first place.” In the West Virginia case, a student named Becky Pepper Jackson, known as BPJ in court filings, started taking puberty blockers in 2020 before she started middle school. BPJ recently took first place in girls shot put at the state championship, throwing more than 2 feet farther than the runner-up. “This just illustrates the very real advantages that males have over females and the real harms that come when we deny this biological reality,” Beecher said. One year ago, the Supreme Court upheld a Tennessee law banning the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy in a 6-3 ruling. The text of the law says the ban “encourages minors to appreciate their sex, particularly as they go through puberty.” In the ruling, Chief Justice John Roberts rejected assertions that such a ban “enforces a government preference that people conform to expectations about their sex.” Advocates for transgender athletes call efforts to exclude these athletes narrow-minded. “It takes a lot of guts to put yourself in front of the public like that,” said Val Pizzo, a rugby player for the Baltimore Flamingos Rugby Football Club, Maryland’s first LGBTQ rugby team. “But if you can achieve more inclusion for trans athletes, it makes such a huge difference in the lives of a lot of people.” The debate over transgender athletes has been highly charged, though it involves a small fraction of students. “In the public testimony before the Arizona Legislature, the AIA testified that only between 10 to 15 transgender people – boys or girls – had played school sports in Arizona in the last decade,” Berg said. “So of all the 100,000-plus school athletes in Arizona, we’re talking about maybe one a year at most.” One of Trump’s second-term campaign priorities was to reverse Biden-era Title IX policies at the Department of Education. The Trump order narrows enforcement to discrimination based on sex but not gender identity.  In a June 23 letter to McMahon, three dozen members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus in the House, including Tucson Rep. Adelita Grijalva, said they were “outraged” at the way her department’s Office of Civil Rights has wielded Title IX.  OCR has not settled a single case of sexual harassment or sexual violence during McMahon’s tenure, they noted, even as it used the provision to undermine the rights of transgender athletes. “Your failure to enforce Title IX protections for millions of women and girls is deliberate and indefensible,” the lawmakers wrote. “We urge you to cease baseless investigations and demonstrate immediate progress in effectively resolving all pending OCR cases to deliver real enforceable legal protection for students facing discrimination based on their sex.” Under pressure from the Trump administration, including threats to cut federal research funding, Thomas’ university, the University of Pennsylvania, agreed to remove her records and apologize to female athletes she had competed against. The two cases before the Supreme Court – Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J. – challenged state restrictions on the grounds that transgender athletes have protection under Title IX and the 14th Amendment.  Berg asserted that the 9th Circuit got it right: “A blanket ban on transgender girls playing school sports … regardless of their medical history, regardless of their age, regardless of the sport that they’re playing, regardless of any other factors” would violate those athletes’ Equal Protection rights. “The state has not provided any reason that’s rational to exclude these girls from girls’ teams,” she said. The Idaho case involved a track and field athlete named Lindsay Hecox, now 24, who wanted to compete at Boise State University. State officials didn’t want her to compete, and in 2020, the Legislature enacted the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, a ban on transgender athletes competing under anything but their gender at birth. Gov. Brad Little, a Republican, signed it. A federal court blocked enforcement, and the 9th Circuit upheld the lower court. Hecox began testosterone suppression and estrogen treatments in her first year at Boise State. House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg, R-Mich., lauded the ruling, saying the justices “stood up for fairness, common sense, and the integrity of women’s sports.” “Women’s sports are for women. Unfortunately, radical gender ideology bolstered by policies pushed under the Biden-Harris administration chipped away at Title IX protections,” he said. The post States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f988c2ca79de2362421f States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says te 2026-06-30T17:14:48.388Z States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says WASHINGTON – In 2022, Lia Thomas won the women’s 500-yard freestyle at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships. The victory, the first Division I title for a transgender athlete, sparked a national debate. Four years later, the Supreme Court agreed with states that have sought to bar athletes born male from competing against girls and women. The ruling Tuesday was 6-3. “Separate sports teams for biological males and biological females are reasonable,” Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote for the conservative majority. “Given the inherent physical differences between the sexes, allowing only biological females to play on women’s and girls’ teams can reduce the risk of physical injury and ensure fair competition.” The court heard more than three-and-a-half hours of oral arguments in January on the issue, in a pair of cases from Idaho and West Virginia involving transgender athletes’ participation in sports. The ruling has implications nationwide. Arizona is one of 27 states with laws intended to block transgender athletes from participating in sports, under the Save Women’s Sports Act signed by former Gov. Doug Ducey in 2022.  Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing a dissenting opinion for the three liberal justices, chastised the majority for allowing states to bar all transgender athletes without exception, “even if the facts show that they do not” as individuals enjoy an athletic advantage. “The ban is absolute,” she added, meaning that a transgender athlete “cannot practice on girls’ teams, even if she would not take anyone’s spot in an eventual competition, even if everyone who tries out for the team makes it, and even if having the chance to participate could aid immensely in treating (that child’s) gender dysphoria.” Education Secretary Linda McMahon called the ruling a “tremendous victory,” saying it “affirms the common sense right of states to prohibit men from competing in women’s sports, safeguard the integrity of female spaces, and ensure no woman faces discrimination on the basis of sex.” Advocates for transgender athletes had feared this outcome. “Transgender girls just want to play school sports with their friends and we all know what it feels like to be excluded from something growing up,” said Rachel Berg, senior staff attorney for the National Center for LGBTQ Rights. The center represents a transgender girl identified in court as Jane Doe in Doe v. Horne, a lawsuit against the Arizona Interscholastic Association, which sought to enforce the 2022 law barring her from competition. Doe runs cross-country and track and plays soccer and flag football. At age 7, she was diagnosed with gender dysphoria. In 2023, at age 11, she started taking the puberty-blocking medication Supprelin. Lower courts found that the treatment meant Doe would not experience a rise in testosterone levels and would therefore have no physiological advantages over female competitors. In July 2023, a federal court in Arizona issued an injunction blocking the enforcement of the Arizona law and allowing Doe to continue participating in sports. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles cases in nine Western states, including Arizona and Idaho, upheld the injunction in September 2024. The Supreme Court’s ruling opens the way for enforcement of the law Ducey signed, banning transgender athletes from playing sports in Arizona. “The two States here – along with 25 other States, the IOC, the USOPC, and the NCAA – have concluded at this time that women and girls should be allowed to compete … on an equal playing field, without fear of physical injury from biological males or being forced to compete against biological males,” Kavanaugh wrote in the majority opinion. “Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ sports based on biological sex. The Constitution and Title IX do not require an overhaul of women’s and girls’ sports throughout America,” he wrote. Two weeks into his second term, President Donald Trump ordered McMahon to use Title IX – a provision of a 1972 law that bans sex discrimination in federally funded education programs – to crack down on schools that allow transgender girls and women to participate in girls’ sports. The Arizona Interscholastic Association, citing the Trump executive order, has used Title IX to ban transgender athletes from competition. Under the 2023 appeals court injunction, Doe and another plaintiff, known in court filings as Megan Roe, are allowed to compete in Arizona. “These laws are part of the pattern and are part of the strategy and desire of those on the right to essentially deny the existence of – and erase from public life – transgender individuals,” said Scott McCoy, deputy legal director at the Southern Poverty Law Center, and a former Utah state senator, the first openly gay man elected to that post. Groups that want to ban transgender athletes from competition assert that regardless of treatment, biological sex doesn’t change and people born male have an unfair advantage over girls on the playing field. “The science and common sense shows us testosterone suppression does not erase the advantages that males have over females,” said Suzanne Beecher, legal counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom. “That’s the reason that we have separate categories in sports in the first place.” In the West Virginia case, a student named Becky Pepper Jackson, known as BPJ in court filings, started taking puberty blockers in 2020 before she started middle school. BPJ recently took first place in girls shot put at the state championship, throwing more than 2 feet farther than the runner-up. “This just illustrates the very real advantages that males have over females and the real harms that come when we deny this biological reality,” Beecher said. One year ago, the Supreme Court upheld a Tennessee law banning the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy in a 6-3 ruling. The text of the law says the ban “encourages minors to appreciate their sex, particularly as they go through puberty.” In the ruling, Chief Justice John Roberts rejected assertions that such a ban “enforces a government preference that people conform to expectations about their sex.” Advocates for transgender athletes call efforts to exclude these athletes narrow-minded. “It takes a lot of guts to put yourself in front of the public like that,” said Val Pizzo, a rugby player for the Baltimore Flamingos Rugby Football Club, Maryland’s first LGBTQ rugby team. “But if you can achieve more inclusion for trans athletes, it makes such a huge difference in the lives of a lot of people.” The debate over transgender athletes has been highly charged, though it involves a small fraction of students. “In the public testimony before the Arizona Legislature, the AIA testified that only between 10 to 15 transgender people – boys or girls – had played school sports in Arizona in the last decade,” Berg said. “So of all the 100,000-plus school athletes in Arizona, we’re talking about maybe one a year at most.” One of Trump’s second-term campaign priorities was to reverse Biden-era Title IX policies at the Department of Education. The Trump order narrows enforcement to discrimination based on sex but not gender identity.  In a June 23 letter to McMahon, three dozen members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus in the House, including Tucson Rep. Adelita Grijalva, said they were “outraged” at the way her department’s Office of Civil Rights has wielded Title IX.  OCR has not settled a single case of sexual harassment or sexual violence during McMahon’s tenure, they noted, even as it used the provision to undermine the rights of transgender athletes. “Your failure to enforce Title IX protections for millions of women and girls is deliberate and indefensible,” the lawmakers wrote. “We urge you to cease baseless investigations and demonstrate immediate progress in effectively resolving all pending OCR cases to deliver real enforceable legal protection for students facing discrimination based on their sex.” Under pressure from the Trump administration, including threats to cut federal research funding, Thomas’ university, the University of Pennsylvania, agreed to remove her records and apologize to female athletes she had competed against. The two cases before the Supreme Court – Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J. – challenged state restrictions on the grounds that transgender athletes have protection under Title IX and the 14th Amendment.  Berg asserted that the 9th Circuit got it right: “A blanket ban on transgender girls playing school sports … regardless of their medical history, regardless of their age, regardless of the sport that they’re playing, regardless of any other factors” would violate those athletes’ Equal Protection rights. “The state has not provided any reason that’s rational to exclude these girls from girls’ teams,” she said. The Idaho case involved a track and field athlete named Lindsay Hecox, now 24, who wanted to compete at Boise State University. State officials didn’t want her to compete, and in 2020, the Legislature enacted the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, a ban on transgender athletes competing under anything but their gender at birth. Gov. Brad Little, a Republican, signed it. A federal court blocked enforcement, and the 9th Circuit upheld the lower court. Hecox began testosterone suppression and estrogen treatments in her first year at Boise State. House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg, R-Mich., lauded the ruling, saying the justices “stood up for fairness, common sense, and the integrity of women’s sports.” “Women’s sports are for women. Unfortunately, radical gender ideology bolstered by policies pushed under the Biden-Harris administration chipped away at Title IX protections,” he said. The post States can ban transgender athletes from girls sports, Supreme Court says appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f982c2ca79de23624216 Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment te 2026-06-30T17:14:42.858Z Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected President Donald Trump’s attempt to end automatic citizenship to children born in the United States to parents in the country illegally or temporarily. The decision affirming the traditional interpretation of birthright citizenship was 6-3.  “Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are ‘subject to the jurisdiction’ of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the majority opinion. Trump v. Barbara scrutinized Executive Order 14160, signed by Trump hours into his second term. The order sought to end automatic U.S. citizenship for any newborn without at least one parent who holds citizenship or legal permanent residency.  Every lower court that considered the order struck it down, and skepticism was widespread among the justices during oral arguments April 1.  Trump’s order reinterpreted the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War, which granted citizenship to people born in the U.S. and “subject to the jurisdiction thereof.” But his focus on parentage didn’t fly with the high court. “If Congress intended to limit American citizenship to the children of those domiciled in the United States, nothing in the succinct language of the Citizenship Clause conveyed that design. Words appearing frequently in the Executive Order –`mother,’ ‘father,’ ‘lawful,’ ‘temporary’ – are absent from the Clause. For a simple reason: they did not matter,” Roberts wrote. Congress crafted the Citizenship Clause to overrule the infamous 1857 Dred Scott ruling, which held that Black people whose ancestors were brought to the U.S. as slaves did not have automatic citizenship. “For them, blood, not soil, was made the rule,” Roberts wrote of Dred Scott in Tuesday’s ruling. ‘Scant evidence’ In 1952, Congress codified the precise language of the 14th Amendment in the Immigration and Nationality Act. That gave the Supreme Court another path for rebuffing the president. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, in a concurring opinion that supported the decision to overturn Trump’s executive order, wrote that in his view, the order did not violate the 14th Amendment but did violate the 1952 law. Either way, the Trump administration asserted, the provision had been misinterpreted for over a century. U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued before the high court that the amendment was only intended to grant citizenship to children whose parents are in the U.S. lawfully, and that the 1952 law was similarly misinterpreted. Wong Kim Ark’s Departure Statement, Nov. 5, 1894 National Archives, San Francisco, Records of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (from the National Archives) At oral arguments, several justices challenged the assertion, noting that the Citizenship Clause focuses on where the child is born, not the parents’ immigration status.  “There is scant evidence for this dramatically revisionist view,” Roberts wrote for the court Tuesday. Roberts was joined by the three liberal justices, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, along with Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Kavanaugh provided the sixth vote. In a dissent joined by Justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch, Justice Clarence Thomas called it “extraordinary” to allow citizenship for “the children of foreign temporary visitors and illegal aliens.” He warned that the version of birthright citizenship affirmed by the court has “encouraged ‘birth tourism’ – the practice of traveling here with temporary authorization solely to give birth and obtain citizenship for one’s children, then returning to raise them in another country. Today, ‘birth tourism companies’ reportedly collect large fees from wealthy foreigners to facilitate their trips to give birth in the United States.” Trump attended the oral argument, a first for a sitting president, signaling the priority he puts on the issue. “We are the only Country in the World STUPID enough to allow ‘Birthright’ Citizenship!” he wrote on Truth Social beforehand.  1898 precedent The Supreme Court seemed to settle the issue of birthright citizenship in 1898, when it ruled in United States v. Wong Kim Ark that a man born in San Francisco – to Chinese immigrant parents who had not been naturalized – was a U.S. citizen. Sauer argued that unrestricted birthright citizenship acts as a magnet or “pull factor” for illegal immigration and has contributed to so-called birth tourism, in which foreign nationals travel to the United States to give birth to secure lifelong citizenship for their child. The argument closely mirrored assertions from White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, the architect of Trump immigration policies, who has called birthright citizenship a “scam” allowing immigrants to obtain “unlimited welfare.” No American is entitled to unlimited welfare. But to the extent the government provides benefits, every baby born in the U.S. is as eligible as any other, regardless of parentage.  Alito, in a separate dissent, called the ruling “a serious mistake.” He depicted the traditional interpretation of birthright citizenship upheld Tuesday as an outlier: “Other than Canada, the United States will be the only affluent nation where birth alone is enough to establish citizenship,” he wrote. Worldwide, 32 nations confer citizenship automatically to anyone born on their soil. Conservatives have also at times raised the specter of “terror babies” who grow up with no allegiance to the U.S. but, thanks to their lifelong citizenship, can come and go at will on behalf of adversaries. Up to a quarter of a million babies born in the U.S. each year would have been denied citizenship under the rules Trump sought – about 7% of all births nationwide in 2024. In Arizona, ending automatic citizenship at birth would have excluded about 3,400 babies born in 2022, the state told a federal court shortly after Trump issued the order. “Tens of thousands” of people who are essentially stateless would be born each year under Trump’s order, said Leon Rodriguez, who served as director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services under President Barack Obama. “The way the Constitution has been interpreted going back to the Civil War is that if you are born in the United States and you are neither the child of an enemy combatant or a diplomat, then you are presumed to be a U.S. citizen,” he said by phone, adding, ”Many different parts of our legal system, including the immigration system itself (are) built on that assumption.” Arizona was one of 22 states that challenged Trump’s order. The ruling, Attorney General Kris Mayes said, “upheld the soul of this nation.” A Reuters/IPSOS poll from April found that 64% of adults disapprove of Trump’s order, including 91% of Democrats, though 64% of Republicans approve.  The post Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f974c2ca79de2362420d Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment te 2026-06-30T17:14:28.932Z Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected President Donald Trump’s attempt to end automatic citizenship to children born in the United States to parents in the country illegally or temporarily. The decision affirming the traditional interpretation of birthright citizenship was 6-3.  “Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are ‘subject to the jurisdiction’ of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the majority opinion. Trump v. Barbara scrutinized Executive Order 14160, signed by Trump hours into his second term. The order sought to end automatic U.S. citizenship for any newborn without at least one parent who holds citizenship or legal permanent residency.  Every lower court that considered the order struck it down, and skepticism was widespread among the justices during oral arguments April 1.  Trump’s order reinterpreted the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War, which granted citizenship to people born in the U.S. and “subject to the jurisdiction thereof.” But his focus on parentage didn’t fly with the high court. “If Congress intended to limit American citizenship to the children of those domiciled in the United States, nothing in the succinct language of the Citizenship Clause conveyed that design. Words appearing frequently in the Executive Order –`mother,’ ‘father,’ ‘lawful,’ ‘temporary’ – are absent from the Clause. For a simple reason: they did not matter,” Roberts wrote. Congress crafted the Citizenship Clause to overrule the infamous 1857 Dred Scott ruling, which held that Black people whose ancestors were brought to the U.S. as slaves did not have automatic citizenship. “For them, blood, not soil, was made the rule,” Roberts wrote of Dred Scott in Tuesday’s ruling. ‘Scant evidence’ In 1952, Congress codified the precise language of the 14th Amendment in the Immigration and Nationality Act. That gave the Supreme Court another path for rebuffing the president. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, in a concurring opinion that supported the decision to overturn Trump’s executive order, wrote that in his view, the order did not violate the 14th Amendment but did violate the 1952 law. Either way, the Trump administration asserted, the provision had been misinterpreted for over a century. U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued before the high court that the amendment was only intended to grant citizenship to children whose parents are in the U.S. lawfully, and that the 1952 law was similarly misinterpreted. Wong Kim Ark’s Departure Statement, Nov. 5, 1894 National Archives, San Francisco, Records of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (from the National Archives) At oral arguments, several justices challenged the assertion, noting that the Citizenship Clause focuses on where the child is born, not the parents’ immigration status.  “There is scant evidence for this dramatically revisionist view,” Roberts wrote for the court Tuesday. Roberts was joined by the three liberal justices, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, along with Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Kavanaugh provided the sixth vote. In a dissent joined by Justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch, Justice Clarence Thomas called it “extraordinary” to allow citizenship for “the children of foreign temporary visitors and illegal aliens.” He warned that the version of birthright citizenship affirmed by the court has “encouraged ‘birth tourism’ – the practice of traveling here with temporary authorization solely to give birth and obtain citizenship for one’s children, then returning to raise them in another country. Today, ‘birth tourism companies’ reportedly collect large fees from wealthy foreigners to facilitate their trips to give birth in the United States.” Trump attended the oral argument, a first for a sitting president, signaling the priority he puts on the issue. “We are the only Country in the World STUPID enough to allow ‘Birthright’ Citizenship!” he wrote on Truth Social beforehand.  1898 precedent The Supreme Court seemed to settle the issue of birthright citizenship in 1898, when it ruled in United States v. Wong Kim Ark that a man born in San Francisco – to Chinese immigrant parents who had not been naturalized – was a U.S. citizen. Sauer argued that unrestricted birthright citizenship acts as a magnet or “pull factor” for illegal immigration and has contributed to so-called birth tourism, in which foreign nationals travel to the United States to give birth to secure lifelong citizenship for their child. The argument closely mirrored assertions from White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, the architect of Trump immigration policies, who has called birthright citizenship a “scam” allowing immigrants to obtain “unlimited welfare.” No American is entitled to unlimited welfare. But to the extent the government provides benefits, every baby born in the U.S. is as eligible as any other, regardless of parentage.  Alito, in a separate dissent, called the ruling “a serious mistake.” He depicted the traditional interpretation of birthright citizenship upheld Tuesday as an outlier: “Other than Canada, the United States will be the only affluent nation where birth alone is enough to establish citizenship,” he wrote. Worldwide, 32 nations confer citizenship automatically to anyone born on their soil. Conservatives have also at times raised the specter of “terror babies” who grow up with no allegiance to the U.S. but, thanks to their lifelong citizenship, can come and go at will on behalf of adversaries. Up to a quarter of a million babies born in the U.S. each year would have been denied citizenship under the rules Trump sought – about 7% of all births nationwide in 2024. In Arizona, ending automatic citizenship at birth would have excluded about 3,400 babies born in 2022, the state told a federal court shortly after Trump issued the order. “Tens of thousands” of people who are essentially stateless would be born each year under Trump’s order, said Leon Rodriguez, who served as director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services under President Barack Obama. “The way the Constitution has been interpreted going back to the Civil War is that if you are born in the United States and you are neither the child of an enemy combatant or a diplomat, then you are presumed to be a U.S. citizen,” he said by phone, adding, ”Many different parts of our legal system, including the immigration system itself (are) built on that assumption.” Arizona was one of 22 states that challenged Trump’s order. The ruling, Attorney General Kris Mayes said, “upheld the soul of this nation.” A Reuters/IPSOS poll from April found that 64% of adults disapprove of Trump’s order, including 91% of Democrats, though 64% of Republicans approve.  The post Born in the USA? Supreme Court says you’re a citizen, rejecting Trump effort to rewrite 14th Amendment appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f959c2ca79de236241fc DAR marks 250th signing of the Declaration te 2026-06-30T17:14:01.908Z DAR marks 250th signing of the Declaration The Oak Creek Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a weeklong exhibit at Community Library Sedona and costumed public readings of the Declaration at two locations in Sed Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f94cc2ca79de236241ef DAR marks 250th signing of the Declaration te 2026-06-30T17:13:48.998Z DAR marks 250th signing of the Declaration The Oak Creek Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a weeklong exhibit at Community Library Sedona and costumed public readings of the Declaration at two locations in Sed Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f92fc2ca79de236241dc Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention te 2026-06-30T17:13:19.400Z Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention A detainee stands silhouetted in a window of the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, N.J., on May 28, 2026. Many federal judges are freeing immigrants held under a mandatory detention policy. (Photo by Anne-Marie Caruso/New Jersey Monitor) Gilberto Pacheco was driving to work for a construction job in California when he was pulled over in what court papers called a “traffic stop” in January. He was not accused of any crime, not even a traffic infraction, but he was imprisoned without bond for months because he arrived illegally in the United States more than 30 years ago from Mexico. Cases like that of Pacheco, who has applied for legal status through three U.S. citizen children, are what the Supreme Court has to consider when it rules next year on the Trump administration’s mandatory detention policy.  Justices are expected to hear the case as soon as October after the U.S. solicitor general requested the court to resolve conflicting rulings on the matter from appeals courts.  The Trump administration’s policy requires detention without bond for anyone who crossed a border illegally, and has been used to pressure immigrants into voluntary departure to escape sometimes squalid conditions. For now, plenty of U.S. district judges are questioning the idea that immigrants should be incarcerated indefinitely at the whim of the executive branch.  Stateline reviewed every immigrant habeas petition case decided in a single day — June 16 — across the country, in order to sample judicial opinion. A habeas case is a request from an immigration prisoner for a judge to review the legality of his imprisonment and order a bond hearing or release.  Of the cases that were decided that day, judges released detainees immediately or ordered bond hearings 142 times, and denied them only 36 times. Many of the judges, even Republican appointees, argued that unlimited detention was unconstitutional. One of those judges was U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison, who heard Pacheco’s case. After being picked up in California, Pacheco was held in Houston, and filed a habeas case in Texas.  Ellison ruled that it was a violation of Pacheco’s civil rights to detain him for months. He ordered Pacheco to be freed immediately. “Given the severity of this ongoing unconstitutional deprivation of liberty, the Court concludes that immediate release from custody is required,” Ellison wrote.  Quotation Fortunately, federal judges uphold the Constitution and will grant such a writ, leading to direct release. Aside from this, there are virtually no other ways to obtain release. – Xin Tian, California immigration attorney He wrote that he recognized that the Trump policy applied to Pacheco, and that it was upheld by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which governs Texas, but said that he was releasing the man anyway.  “The Due Process clause does not permit the government to ‘detain any noncitizen, no matter how long they have actually lived in the United States, for any length of time, without any individualized justification [merely because] that person initially entered the country without lawful admission,’” Ellison wrote, partially quoting a 2003 Supreme Court ruling.  Ellison is a Democratic appointee from the Bill Clinton administration, but judges from both parties, including Trump nominees, ordered bond hearings for immigrants and found the Trump policy unconstitutional. They included judges in states where appeals courts had already upheld the policy.  Many judges are going beyond bond hearings and ordering release directly, as Ellison did. In some situations the judges are holding the legal cases open to make sure releases are made or bond hearings are fair.  Few immigrants get bond hearings because of the policy, making court challenges their only recourse, said Xin Tian, an attorney representing an immigrant who was released June 16 in a California case. His client’s case was among those reviewed by Stateline. “The individual’s only recourse for release is to seek a writ of habeas corpus,” Tian wrote in an email to Stateline. “Fortunately, federal judges uphold the Constitution and will grant such a writ, leading to direct release. Aside from this, there are virtually no other ways to obtain release.” A Trump appointee in Texas, U.S. District Judge Jason K. Pulliam, ordered five releases in one day, calling the detentions “unlawful” and ordering immediate release during court proceedings. In each case, he wrote that the detainee “has no known criminal history, had been complying with the terms of a prior release, and there is no indication of flight risk or danger to the community.”   He acknowledged in court papers that he made the rulings despite the fact that an appeals court ruling for the Fifth Circuit — affecting Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi — had concluded mandatory detention was legal in those cases. A President Joe Biden appointee in Utah, U.S. District Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen, was one of the rare judges to agree with the Trump administration’s policy, according to Stateline’s review.  McIff Allen denied a petition for a bond hearing by a man from Venezuela who had arrived in Texas in 2024 to seek asylum. He had scheduled an appointment with U.S. Customs and Border Protection through an official mobile app, then settled in Florida.  His immigration case was still pending when the Trump administration revoked his parole and arrested him in May. The man was “not entitled to immediate release or a bond hearing,” McIff Allen ruled, acknowledging that “some district courts have determined the issue differently.”  The detention was legal under a Trump administration policy that interprets immigration law to mean all immigrants who arrived illegally can be treated as if they’re at the border “seeking admission” to the country.  Stateline found only seven cases where judges favorably cited the administration’s policy of mandatory detention when denying a habeas case. Besides the ruling from a Biden appointee in Utah, there were six involving Trump judicial appointees: four in New York and one each in Puerto Rico and Texas.  U.S. District Judge Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, a Trump appointee, denied release to Marcelo Jerez, a Dominican Republic native living in Puerto Rico with a U.S. citizen wife and sick 1-year-old child who required his help with monitoring and care.   “The crux of this case has been the subject of myriad lawsuits throughout the nation and dutiful judges have reached divergent answers,” Arias-Marxuach wrote.  But relatively few judges in the Stateline review considered the mandatory detention policy valid: Four of the other six cases for the day that did so, other than the Utah case, were denied by a single judge, Trump appointee Judge John L. Sinatra in New York’s Western District court. Sinatra wrote in one of the cases, for a Venezuelan man who had been allowed into the country in 2024 on parole, that such people should be treated as if they were still at the border “seeking admission,” and face mandatory detention, and should not get the constitutional rights of someone already in the United States with legal status. “How could it be otherwise? If he were not seeking admission he would have given up and departed already,” Sinatra wrote in his decision.  David Wilson, a Minnesota immigration attorney who serves on an immigration court committee for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, said that criminal records among immigration detainees are a bone of contention among judges. There’s widespread disagreement over whether they should be detained indefinitely without bond, he said, even if a U.S. citizen in the same circumstance would be freed on bond in a criminal court.  “This kind of lingering question is, how long is too long for people with criminal records? Some circuits have come along and said, ‘There is not too long because your criminal activity is what it is, you’re just stuck, if you want to end this stop fighting your case,’” Wilson said.  Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org. This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Arizona Mirror, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f923c2ca79de236241cd Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention te 2026-06-30T17:13:07.012Z Flouting Trump policy, federal judges are freeing immigrants from mandatory detention A detainee stands silhouetted in a window of the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, N.J., on May 28, 2026. Many federal judges are freeing immigrants held under a mandatory detention policy. (Photo by Anne-Marie Caruso/New Jersey Monitor) Gilberto Pacheco was driving to work for a construction job in California when he was pulled over in what court papers called a “traffic stop” in January. He was not accused of any crime, not even a traffic infraction, but he was imprisoned without bond for months because he arrived illegally in the United States more than 30 years ago from Mexico. Cases like that of Pacheco, who has applied for legal status through three U.S. citizen children, are what the Supreme Court has to consider when it rules next year on the Trump administration’s mandatory detention policy.  Justices are expected to hear the case as soon as October after the U.S. solicitor general requested the court to resolve conflicting rulings on the matter from appeals courts.  The Trump administration’s policy requires detention without bond for anyone who crossed a border illegally, and has been used to pressure immigrants into voluntary departure to escape sometimes squalid conditions. For now, plenty of U.S. district judges are questioning the idea that immigrants should be incarcerated indefinitely at the whim of the executive branch.  Stateline reviewed every immigrant habeas petition case decided in a single day — June 16 — across the country, in order to sample judicial opinion. A habeas case is a request from an immigration prisoner for a judge to review the legality of his imprisonment and order a bond hearing or release.  Of the cases that were decided that day, judges released detainees immediately or ordered bond hearings 142 times, and denied them only 36 times. Many of the judges, even Republican appointees, argued that unlimited detention was unconstitutional. One of those judges was U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison, who heard Pacheco’s case. After being picked up in California, Pacheco was held in Houston, and filed a habeas case in Texas.  Ellison ruled that it was a violation of Pacheco’s civil rights to detain him for months. He ordered Pacheco to be freed immediately. “Given the severity of this ongoing unconstitutional deprivation of liberty, the Court concludes that immediate release from custody is required,” Ellison wrote.  Quotation Fortunately, federal judges uphold the Constitution and will grant such a writ, leading to direct release. Aside from this, there are virtually no other ways to obtain release. – Xin Tian, California immigration attorney He wrote that he recognized that the Trump policy applied to Pacheco, and that it was upheld by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which governs Texas, but said that he was releasing the man anyway.  “The Due Process clause does not permit the government to ‘detain any noncitizen, no matter how long they have actually lived in the United States, for any length of time, without any individualized justification [merely because] that person initially entered the country without lawful admission,’” Ellison wrote, partially quoting a 2003 Supreme Court ruling.  Ellison is a Democratic appointee from the Bill Clinton administration, but judges from both parties, including Trump nominees, ordered bond hearings for immigrants and found the Trump policy unconstitutional. They included judges in states where appeals courts had already upheld the policy.  Many judges are going beyond bond hearings and ordering release directly, as Ellison did. In some situations the judges are holding the legal cases open to make sure releases are made or bond hearings are fair.  Few immigrants get bond hearings because of the policy, making court challenges their only recourse, said Xin Tian, an attorney representing an immigrant who was released June 16 in a California case. His client’s case was among those reviewed by Stateline. “The individual’s only recourse for release is to seek a writ of habeas corpus,” Tian wrote in an email to Stateline. “Fortunately, federal judges uphold the Constitution and will grant such a writ, leading to direct release. Aside from this, there are virtually no other ways to obtain release.” A Trump appointee in Texas, U.S. District Judge Jason K. Pulliam, ordered five releases in one day, calling the detentions “unlawful” and ordering immediate release during court proceedings. In each case, he wrote that the detainee “has no known criminal history, had been complying with the terms of a prior release, and there is no indication of flight risk or danger to the community.”   He acknowledged in court papers that he made the rulings despite the fact that an appeals court ruling for the Fifth Circuit — affecting Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi — had concluded mandatory detention was legal in those cases. A President Joe Biden appointee in Utah, U.S. District Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen, was one of the rare judges to agree with the Trump administration’s policy, according to Stateline’s review.  McIff Allen denied a petition for a bond hearing by a man from Venezuela who had arrived in Texas in 2024 to seek asylum. He had scheduled an appointment with U.S. Customs and Border Protection through an official mobile app, then settled in Florida.  His immigration case was still pending when the Trump administration revoked his parole and arrested him in May. The man was “not entitled to immediate release or a bond hearing,” McIff Allen ruled, acknowledging that “some district courts have determined the issue differently.”  The detention was legal under a Trump administration policy that interprets immigration law to mean all immigrants who arrived illegally can be treated as if they’re at the border “seeking admission” to the country.  Stateline found only seven cases where judges favorably cited the administration’s policy of mandatory detention when denying a habeas case. Besides the ruling from a Biden appointee in Utah, there were six involving Trump judicial appointees: four in New York and one each in Puerto Rico and Texas.  U.S. District Judge Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, a Trump appointee, denied release to Marcelo Jerez, a Dominican Republic native living in Puerto Rico with a U.S. citizen wife and sick 1-year-old child who required his help with monitoring and care.   “The crux of this case has been the subject of myriad lawsuits throughout the nation and dutiful judges have reached divergent answers,” Arias-Marxuach wrote.  But relatively few judges in the Stateline review considered the mandatory detention policy valid: Four of the other six cases for the day that did so, other than the Utah case, were denied by a single judge, Trump appointee Judge John L. Sinatra in New York’s Western District court. Sinatra wrote in one of the cases, for a Venezuelan man who had been allowed into the country in 2024 on parole, that such people should be treated as if they were still at the border “seeking admission,” and face mandatory detention, and should not get the constitutional rights of someone already in the United States with legal status. “How could it be otherwise? If he were not seeking admission he would have given up and departed already,” Sinatra wrote in his decision.  David Wilson, a Minnesota immigration attorney who serves on an immigration court committee for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, said that criminal records among immigration detainees are a bone of contention among judges. There’s widespread disagreement over whether they should be detained indefinitely without bond, he said, even if a U.S. citizen in the same circumstance would be freed on bond in a criminal court.  “This kind of lingering question is, how long is too long for people with criminal records? Some circuits have come along and said, ‘There is not too long because your criminal activity is what it is, you’re just stuck, if you want to end this stop fighting your case,’” Wilson said.  Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at thenderson@stateline.org. This story was originally produced by Stateline, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Arizona Mirror, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f91bc2ca79de236241c4 US Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order te 2026-06-30T17:12:59.949Z US Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order Protesters held a rally on protecting birthright citizenship outside the U.S. Supreme Court as President Donald Trump attended oral arguments on April 1, 2026 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday struck down President Donald Trump’s attempt to redefine the constitutional right to birthright citizenship. In the decision, a majority of the justices upheld the country’s long understanding of automatic citizenship by birth on American soil, regardless of the immigration status of a newborn’s parents. The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., found the president’s executive order violated the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.  “Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights—to freely participate in our political community,” Roberts wrote. “The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land.’ We keep that promise today.” While six of the justices agreed — Roberts, Amy Coney Barrett, Brett Kavanaugh, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson — that the president’s executive order was unlawful, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil M. Gorsuch dissented.  Only five of the justices agreed that the 14th Amendment extends citizenship to the children of immigrants, with Kavanaugh partially dissenting along with Thomas, Alito and Gorsuch.  Kavanaugh argued that Trump’s executive order did not violate the 14th Amendment, but instead violated federal statute. He added in his dissent that Congress could “enact new legislation establishing exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to foreign citizens unlawfully or temporarily in the country. But Congress has not yet done so.” The White House did not immediately respond to States Newsroom’s request for comment, but a day before the decision, Trump said in the Oval Office that he would accept the Supreme Court’s ruling.  “It’s up to them, but in terms of for the good of the country, it’d be great if they … didn’t allow it,” Trump, who in a highly unusual move for a president attended the oral arguments on the case, said of birthright citizenship.  After the ruling, the president called on Congress, which is controlled by Republicans, to pass legislation to codify his executive order into law, dismissing the need for a constitutional amendment.  However, a constitutional amendment would be needed, not legislative law, because a majority of the justices still found that any change to birthright citizenship violated the Constitution’s 14th Amendment. Utah’s GOP Sen. Mike Lee, who previously clerked for Alito, noted that “we’re going to need a constitutional amendment.”  The opinion is a major blow to Trump, who has sought to redefine who is American as part of his broader immigration agenda.  But it also follows two decisions from the high court that vastly expanded the president’s authority over immigration policy by allowing him to limit asylum seeker claims at the Southern border and strip legal protections for 350,000 Haitians and 6,000 Syrians.   Tuesday’s decision is based on one of the first executive orders that the president signed on the first day of his second term. It aimed to deny citizenship to children born to parents who either do not have legal status, or hold temporary legal visas.  Experts warned if the order were to take effect, it could create an entire class of stateless people and cause chaos for hospitals and local governments. Case brought by expectant parents The case, Trump v. Barbara, was brought by expectant mothers who feared their children would not be American citizens because of their immigration status. During oral arguments in April, a majority of the justices seemed skeptical of the Trump administration’s arguments, presented by Solicitor General D. John Sauer.  Before the justices, Sauer argued that the citizenship clause of the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which is the basis for birthright citizenship, was meant to apply to newly freed African American slaves after the Civil War, not to children of immigrants.  Most legal scholars and historians disagree with that interpretation and have argued the Supreme Court in the 1898 case United States v. Wong Kim Ark already settled the idea that automatic citizenship was granted to children born on U.S. soil. Ark was born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant parents. When he left California, he was denied entry back into the United States after visiting relatives in China.  Officials at the time argued that because Ark’s parents were Chinese citizens in the United States on temporary visas at the time of his birth, and therefore were not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the U.S., he was not a citizen.  Ark took the issue to the Supreme Court. In 1898, the high court affirmed that he, along with any child born on U.S. soil, were guaranteed citizenship, and rejected the argument that the 14th Amendment only applied to newly freed African American slaves. American Civil Liberties Union lead attorney Cecillia Wang, who argued before the justices, said that when the federal government tried to strip Ark of his citizenship, “largely on the same grounds (the Trump administration) raised today,” the Supreme Court at that time rejected those efforts and upheld the 14th Amendment. “This Court held that the 14th Amendment embodies the English common law rule (that) virtually everyone born on U.S. soil is subject to its jurisdiction and is a citizen,” Wang, who is the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, said. Her parents were in the U.S. on student visas when she was born in Oregon, meaning that if Trump’s executive order were in effect at that time, she would have been denied U.S. citizenship. Roberts agreed that the Supreme Court made the correct decision in 1898 about Ark’s case. “What the Court held in Wong Kim Ark was simple: the Citizenship Clause incorporated the common law and granted citizenship to nearly all children born in the United States,” he wrote. “Not surprisingly, then, in the 128 years since, we have repeatedly understood the rule of Wong Kim Ark to guarantee citizenship to all children born in the United States and subject to its power.”  “We see no reason to depart from that view today,” he continued.  14th Amendment argument During April’s oral arguments, Sauer made that case that the phrase in the 14th Amendment “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” means that children born to parents without legal status or temporary visitors are not “subject to the jurisdiction of the United States” and are instead subject to the laws of their home country.  The 14th Amendment reads: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” Roberts rejected Sauer’s position, and wrote that the Trump administration’s “[a]rguments for limiting birthright citizenship to those domiciled in the United States fail.” “Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are ‘subject to the jurisdiction’ of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause,” he wrote. “Under the Constitution, they are citizens at birth.” The 14th Amendment was passed to rectify the Supreme Court’s decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford, in which justices ruled that neither free or enslaved Black people could have citizenship or rights. The amendment was also meant to give African Americans citizenship while also denying citizenship to the mass migration of Chinese laborers not born on U.S. soil.  The “jurisdiction” language in the amendment, tribal scholars have said, was aimed to exempt Indigenous people who resided in Native nations — part of their tribal governments — from birthright citizenship, along with the children born to foreign diplomats.    Congress in 1924 specifically passed the Indian Citizenship Act to grant birthright citizenship to Indigenous people, regardless of their residence in Native nations.  Because of this, tribal scholars have explained the language “subject to the jurisdiction” was never meant to apply to immigrants and their home country, and instead refers to the political alliance of tribes. Congress reacts Following Tuesday’s decision, Democrats praised the decision. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that “despite Trump’s best efforts to bully them, the Supreme Court just reaffirmed that if you are born in America, you belong in America.” “No matter how much President Trump tries to steal citizenship from people that the Constitution has said have earned it and reverse the grand American tradition of welcoming newcomers to our nation, the Supreme Court confirmed today that those born in America are American,” he said. Chairs of the Congressional Tri-Caucus — the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and Congressional Black Caucus — issued a joint statement that the high court’s ruling was a rejection of “Trump’s dangerous and exclusionary vision of America.” “We are American, we belong here, and we will continue to defend birthright citizenship for generations to come,” said New York Reps. Adriano Espaillat of the CHC; Grace Meng of the CAPAC; and Yvette Clarke of the CBC.  Wang, of the ACLU, who argued the case before the Supreme Court, said in a statement that Tuesday’s decision reaffirmed a core American principle.  “If you are born here, you are a citizen,” she said. “A president cannot change the Constitution by executive fiat.” An immigration advocacy group that has also challenged the Trump administration’s efforts to redefine birthright citizenship, We Are CASA, said the decision was a victory for immigrant families.  “The Trump administration’s attempt to deny citizenship to United States-born children, threaten generations of children with legal uncertainty, and overturn more than a century of settled constitutional law has failed,” said Shana Khader, the deputy legal director at We Are CASA. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f90fc2ca79de236241bb US Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order te 2026-06-30T17:12:47.557Z US Supreme Court upholds birthright citizenship, rejecting Trump order Protesters held a rally on protecting birthright citizenship outside the U.S. Supreme Court as President Donald Trump attended oral arguments on April 1, 2026 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday struck down President Donald Trump’s attempt to redefine the constitutional right to birthright citizenship. In the decision, a majority of the justices upheld the country’s long understanding of automatic citizenship by birth on American soil, regardless of the immigration status of a newborn’s parents. The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., found the president’s executive order violated the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.  “Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights—to freely participate in our political community,” Roberts wrote. “The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land.’ We keep that promise today.” While six of the justices agreed — Roberts, Amy Coney Barrett, Brett Kavanaugh, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson — that the president’s executive order was unlawful, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil M. Gorsuch dissented.  Only five of the justices agreed that the 14th Amendment extends citizenship to the children of immigrants, with Kavanaugh partially dissenting along with Thomas, Alito and Gorsuch.  Kavanaugh argued that Trump’s executive order did not violate the 14th Amendment, but instead violated federal statute. He added in his dissent that Congress could “enact new legislation establishing exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to foreign citizens unlawfully or temporarily in the country. But Congress has not yet done so.” The White House did not immediately respond to States Newsroom’s request for comment, but a day before the decision, Trump said in the Oval Office that he would accept the Supreme Court’s ruling.  “It’s up to them, but in terms of for the good of the country, it’d be great if they … didn’t allow it,” Trump, who in a highly unusual move for a president attended the oral arguments on the case, said of birthright citizenship.  After the ruling, the president called on Congress, which is controlled by Republicans, to pass legislation to codify his executive order into law, dismissing the need for a constitutional amendment.  However, a constitutional amendment would be needed, not legislative law, because a majority of the justices still found that any change to birthright citizenship violated the Constitution’s 14th Amendment. Utah’s GOP Sen. Mike Lee, who previously clerked for Alito, noted that “we’re going to need a constitutional amendment.”  The opinion is a major blow to Trump, who has sought to redefine who is American as part of his broader immigration agenda.  But it also follows two decisions from the high court that vastly expanded the president’s authority over immigration policy by allowing him to limit asylum seeker claims at the Southern border and strip legal protections for 350,000 Haitians and 6,000 Syrians.   Tuesday’s decision is based on one of the first executive orders that the president signed on the first day of his second term. It aimed to deny citizenship to children born to parents who either do not have legal status, or hold temporary legal visas.  Experts warned if the order were to take effect, it could create an entire class of stateless people and cause chaos for hospitals and local governments. Case brought by expectant parents The case, Trump v. Barbara, was brought by expectant mothers who feared their children would not be American citizens because of their immigration status. During oral arguments in April, a majority of the justices seemed skeptical of the Trump administration’s arguments, presented by Solicitor General D. John Sauer.  Before the justices, Sauer argued that the citizenship clause of the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which is the basis for birthright citizenship, was meant to apply to newly freed African American slaves after the Civil War, not to children of immigrants.  Most legal scholars and historians disagree with that interpretation and have argued the Supreme Court in the 1898 case United States v. Wong Kim Ark already settled the idea that automatic citizenship was granted to children born on U.S. soil. Ark was born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant parents. When he left California, he was denied entry back into the United States after visiting relatives in China.  Officials at the time argued that because Ark’s parents were Chinese citizens in the United States on temporary visas at the time of his birth, and therefore were not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the U.S., he was not a citizen.  Ark took the issue to the Supreme Court. In 1898, the high court affirmed that he, along with any child born on U.S. soil, were guaranteed citizenship, and rejected the argument that the 14th Amendment only applied to newly freed African American slaves. American Civil Liberties Union lead attorney Cecillia Wang, who argued before the justices, said that when the federal government tried to strip Ark of his citizenship, “largely on the same grounds (the Trump administration) raised today,” the Supreme Court at that time rejected those efforts and upheld the 14th Amendment. “This Court held that the 14th Amendment embodies the English common law rule (that) virtually everyone born on U.S. soil is subject to its jurisdiction and is a citizen,” Wang, who is the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, said. Her parents were in the U.S. on student visas when she was born in Oregon, meaning that if Trump’s executive order were in effect at that time, she would have been denied U.S. citizenship. Roberts agreed that the Supreme Court made the correct decision in 1898 about Ark’s case. “What the Court held in Wong Kim Ark was simple: the Citizenship Clause incorporated the common law and granted citizenship to nearly all children born in the United States,” he wrote. “Not surprisingly, then, in the 128 years since, we have repeatedly understood the rule of Wong Kim Ark to guarantee citizenship to all children born in the United States and subject to its power.”  “We see no reason to depart from that view today,” he continued.  14th Amendment argument During April’s oral arguments, Sauer made that case that the phrase in the 14th Amendment “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” means that children born to parents without legal status or temporary visitors are not “subject to the jurisdiction of the United States” and are instead subject to the laws of their home country.  The 14th Amendment reads: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” Roberts rejected Sauer’s position, and wrote that the Trump administration’s “[a]rguments for limiting birthright citizenship to those domiciled in the United States fail.” “Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are ‘subject to the jurisdiction’ of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause,” he wrote. “Under the Constitution, they are citizens at birth.” The 14th Amendment was passed to rectify the Supreme Court’s decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford, in which justices ruled that neither free or enslaved Black people could have citizenship or rights. The amendment was also meant to give African Americans citizenship while also denying citizenship to the mass migration of Chinese laborers not born on U.S. soil.  The “jurisdiction” language in the amendment, tribal scholars have said, was aimed to exempt Indigenous people who resided in Native nations — part of their tribal governments — from birthright citizenship, along with the children born to foreign diplomats.    Congress in 1924 specifically passed the Indian Citizenship Act to grant birthright citizenship to Indigenous people, regardless of their residence in Native nations.  Because of this, tribal scholars have explained the language “subject to the jurisdiction” was never meant to apply to immigrants and their home country, and instead refers to the political alliance of tribes. Congress reacts Following Tuesday’s decision, Democrats praised the decision. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said in a statement that “despite Trump’s best efforts to bully them, the Supreme Court just reaffirmed that if you are born in America, you belong in America.” “No matter how much President Trump tries to steal citizenship from people that the Constitution has said have earned it and reverse the grand American tradition of welcoming newcomers to our nation, the Supreme Court confirmed today that those born in America are American,” he said. Chairs of the Congressional Tri-Caucus — the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and Congressional Black Caucus — issued a joint statement that the high court’s ruling was a rejection of “Trump’s dangerous and exclusionary vision of America.” “We are American, we belong here, and we will continue to defend birthright citizenship for generations to come,” said New York Reps. Adriano Espaillat of the CHC; Grace Meng of the CAPAC; and Yvette Clarke of the CBC.  Wang, of the ACLU, who argued the case before the Supreme Court, said in a statement that Tuesday’s decision reaffirmed a core American principle.  “If you are born here, you are a citizen,” she said. “A president cannot change the Constitution by executive fiat.” An immigration advocacy group that has also challenged the Trump administration’s efforts to redefine birthright citizenship, We Are CASA, said the decision was a victory for immigrant families.  “The Trump administration’s attempt to deny citizenship to United States-born children, threaten generations of children with legal uncertainty, and overturn more than a century of settled constitutional law has failed,” said Shana Khader, the deputy legal director at We Are CASA. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f907c2ca79de236241b2 Dave Portnoy left 'stunned' by NYC socialist victories, says the American Dream is under siege te 2026-06-30T17:12:39.977Z Dave Portnoy left 'stunned' by NYC socialist victories, says the American Dream is under siege Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy had an answer Monday about whether he is weighing a potential mayoral run in the Big Apple: "Maybe."  Speaking with Fox News Digital following a 92NY event promoting his new book, the New England native debated whether he’d be the best candidate to take on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whose socialist brand is rising in the Democratic Party. "Depends what day you ask me," Portnoy told Fox News Digital. "I don’t know that I could win, but somebody’s got to take that guy and beat him."  "So I don’t know," he added. "Maybe I’m the guy to do it. Depends on how much more he keeps pissing me off." DAVE PORTNOY CELEBRATES NOT LIVING IN NYC AFTER DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MAMDANI'S MAYORAL WIN The comments came following a panel promoting Portnoy’s new book, "Cancel Me If You Can," in which the Barstool founder left no stone unturned when it came to topics of discussion — including touching on the recent sweep by three far-left socialists in New York City’s primary elections last week.  "I don't want to say, ‘We don't do politics,’ and then I jump into politics," Portnoy said during the panel, in response to a question submitted by Fox News Digital. "And I can't stay out of it, because it is blowing in my mind what's going on [in New York City] right now."  Portnoy went on to blast previous comments from Mamdani-backed candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier that have resurfaced in light of her primary win. DEM SOCIALIST'S NYC PRIMARY UPSET SIGNALS 'GENERATIONAL' SHIFT IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY, STRATEGISTS SAY  "That lady, Chevalier, just got elected," Portnoy said. "The things she has said are unbelievable."  "She said all Arab men [and] Black men shouldn’t date ugly colonizers," he continued. "She said no prisons, no quarters, no jails. She started a group at Columbia that’s goal was to overthrow Western society — she just got elected." Although Chevalier has not been elected to office, her victory is effectively a certainty in her deep-blue district after winning the Democratic nomination. He also pointed to resurfaced remarks made by Mamdani-backed Aber Kawas, who won her primary race in New York State Senate District 12, in which she appeared to suggest the United States deserved the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. MAMDANI'S FAILURE TO WALK BACK THESE POSITIONS COULD CAUSE RECKONING IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY: 'FIVE-ALARM WARNING' "[Kawas], who just got elected, said America deserved 9/11," Portnoy said. "Like that to me, is just — I can’t even wrap my brain around it."  "I don’t know if it’s scary or if I should be scared or like, [if] I gotta get into politics," he added. "I am stunned by some of the things that are happening now."  Kawas’ previous comments stemmed from a 2017 episode of the Asian American Writers' Association podcast titled "Islamophobia beyond 9/11 with Aber Kawas," in which she said, "The system of capitalism and racism and White supremacy… and Islamophobia have all been used to colonize lands, to take resources from other people and so this is a long trajectory, and we're just seeing the manifestations of that continuation with 9/11." NYC MAYORAL CANDIDATE ZOHRAN MAMDANI DEFENDS PAST TWEETS, SAYS CUOMO ATTACKING ‘MYTHICAL VERSION’ OF HIM The socialist candidate later walked back her comments days after her win, telling Fox News Digital, "I’ve always been outspoken about the wrongful scapegoating of Muslim Americans, both before and after 9/11, and in this interview I was speaking about the harmful notion that Muslims should have to apologize for an act of violence they have nothing to do with."  The pizza critic known as "El Presidente" took aim at Mamdani, blasting the sitting mayor’s socialist agenda while refusing to confirm whether a mayoral run was off the table.  WATCH: DAVE PORTNOY DISCUSSES WHETHER HE'D RUN FOR POLITICAL OFFIC "I’d want to go right for Mamdani," Portnoy told the audience at 92NY, in response to Fox News Digital’s question. RAPPING, ACTING CAMEO AMONG FRINGE ACTIVITIES LINING MAMDANI'S THIN WORK RESUME "Unlike Mamdani, who’s never had a job, I’ve had a real job," he added. "And I’ve actually done a lot of good when I wasn’t doing it to run for office. I’m doing it because it’s the right thing to do."  "I don’t know if I could win this city with a Democrat, but [Mamdani] has said what he wanted to do before he got elected. And I trust what people say before they’re running, and he said some pretty crazy things about what he wants to do."  Portnoy lamented that he believes entrepreneurship — a fundamental principle of the American Dream — has been demonized by far-left candidates throughout Democratic cities in the country. MAHER DEFENDS CAPITALISM AS BETTER THAN 'REVERSE,' CALLS OUT MAMDANI'S SOCIALIST BELIEFS "To me, I think Barstool is the American Dream. I really do," Portnoy said. "It’s like, you work your a-- off, you build a company, you employ 400 to 450 people who enjoy it. I’ve become wealthy beyond my reach. It kind of is the American Dream."  "I don’t like when I hear that people should be ashamed for being successful — that bothers me greatly," the Barstool founder continued, earning a round of applause. "A lot of things [Mamdani] says really do bother me." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office for comment.  Speaking to the audience in response to Fox News Digital’s question, Portnoy paraphrased a famous line from philosopher Plato to emphasize his belief that Americans should run for office if they are unhappy with the politicians elected to represent them. "If you don’t do your job in public service, then you’re doomed to be ruled by people dumber than you," Portnoy said.  Fox News Digital’s Peter D’Abrosca contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8fbc2ca79de236241a9 Dave Portnoy left 'stunned' by NYC socialist victories, says the American Dream is under siege te 2026-06-30T17:12:27.586Z Dave Portnoy left 'stunned' by NYC socialist victories, says the American Dream is under siege Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy had an answer Monday about whether he is weighing a potential mayoral run in the Big Apple: "Maybe."  Speaking with Fox News Digital following a 92NY event promoting his new book, the New England native debated whether he’d be the best candidate to take on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whose socialist brand is rising in the Democratic Party. "Depends what day you ask me," Portnoy told Fox News Digital. "I don’t know that I could win, but somebody’s got to take that guy and beat him."  "So I don’t know," he added. "Maybe I’m the guy to do it. Depends on how much more he keeps pissing me off." DAVE PORTNOY CELEBRATES NOT LIVING IN NYC AFTER DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MAMDANI'S MAYORAL WIN The comments came following a panel promoting Portnoy’s new book, "Cancel Me If You Can," in which the Barstool founder left no stone unturned when it came to topics of discussion — including touching on the recent sweep by three far-left socialists in New York City’s primary elections last week.  "I don't want to say, ‘We don't do politics,’ and then I jump into politics," Portnoy said during the panel, in response to a question submitted by Fox News Digital. "And I can't stay out of it, because it is blowing in my mind what's going on [in New York City] right now."  Portnoy went on to blast previous comments from Mamdani-backed candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier that have resurfaced in light of her primary win. DEM SOCIALIST'S NYC PRIMARY UPSET SIGNALS 'GENERATIONAL' SHIFT IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY, STRATEGISTS SAY  "That lady, Chevalier, just got elected," Portnoy said. "The things she has said are unbelievable."  "She said all Arab men [and] Black men shouldn’t date ugly colonizers," he continued. "She said no prisons, no quarters, no jails. She started a group at Columbia that’s goal was to overthrow Western society — she just got elected." Although Chevalier has not been elected to office, her victory is effectively a certainty in her deep-blue district after winning the Democratic nomination. He also pointed to resurfaced remarks made by Mamdani-backed Aber Kawas, who won her primary race in New York State Senate District 12, in which she appeared to suggest the United States deserved the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. MAMDANI'S FAILURE TO WALK BACK THESE POSITIONS COULD CAUSE RECKONING IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY: 'FIVE-ALARM WARNING' "[Kawas], who just got elected, said America deserved 9/11," Portnoy said. "Like that to me, is just — I can’t even wrap my brain around it."  "I don’t know if it’s scary or if I should be scared or like, [if] I gotta get into politics," he added. "I am stunned by some of the things that are happening now."  Kawas’ previous comments stemmed from a 2017 episode of the Asian American Writers' Association podcast titled "Islamophobia beyond 9/11 with Aber Kawas," in which she said, "The system of capitalism and racism and White supremacy… and Islamophobia have all been used to colonize lands, to take resources from other people and so this is a long trajectory, and we're just seeing the manifestations of that continuation with 9/11." NYC MAYORAL CANDIDATE ZOHRAN MAMDANI DEFENDS PAST TWEETS, SAYS CUOMO ATTACKING ‘MYTHICAL VERSION’ OF HIM The socialist candidate later walked back her comments days after her win, telling Fox News Digital, "I’ve always been outspoken about the wrongful scapegoating of Muslim Americans, both before and after 9/11, and in this interview I was speaking about the harmful notion that Muslims should have to apologize for an act of violence they have nothing to do with."  The pizza critic known as "El Presidente" took aim at Mamdani, blasting the sitting mayor’s socialist agenda while refusing to confirm whether a mayoral run was off the table.  WATCH: DAVE PORTNOY DISCUSSES WHETHER HE'D RUN FOR POLITICAL OFFIC "I’d want to go right for Mamdani," Portnoy told the audience at 92NY, in response to Fox News Digital’s question. RAPPING, ACTING CAMEO AMONG FRINGE ACTIVITIES LINING MAMDANI'S THIN WORK RESUME "Unlike Mamdani, who’s never had a job, I’ve had a real job," he added. "And I’ve actually done a lot of good when I wasn’t doing it to run for office. I’m doing it because it’s the right thing to do."  "I don’t know if I could win this city with a Democrat, but [Mamdani] has said what he wanted to do before he got elected. And I trust what people say before they’re running, and he said some pretty crazy things about what he wants to do."  Portnoy lamented that he believes entrepreneurship — a fundamental principle of the American Dream — has been demonized by far-left candidates throughout Democratic cities in the country. MAHER DEFENDS CAPITALISM AS BETTER THAN 'REVERSE,' CALLS OUT MAMDANI'S SOCIALIST BELIEFS "To me, I think Barstool is the American Dream. I really do," Portnoy said. "It’s like, you work your a-- off, you build a company, you employ 400 to 450 people who enjoy it. I’ve become wealthy beyond my reach. It kind of is the American Dream."  "I don’t like when I hear that people should be ashamed for being successful — that bothers me greatly," the Barstool founder continued, earning a round of applause. "A lot of things [Mamdani] says really do bother me." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office for comment.  Speaking to the audience in response to Fox News Digital’s question, Portnoy paraphrased a famous line from philosopher Plato to emphasize his belief that Americans should run for office if they are unhappy with the politicians elected to represent them. "If you don’t do your job in public service, then you’re doomed to be ruled by people dumber than you," Portnoy said.  Fox News Digital’s Peter D’Abrosca contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8f4c2ca79de236241a0 WATCH: Fights break out at Russian gas stations as Putin admits fuel shortages te 2026-06-30T17:12:20.533Z WATCH: Fights break out at Russian gas stations as Putin admits fuel shortages Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly acknowledged that Ukrainian long-range strikes are creating fuel supply problems inside Russia, as videos obtained by Fox News Digital show long lines, angry motorists and fights erupting at filling stations across several Russian regions. Speaking at a meeting with government ministers and other officials after a wave of Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, Putin said on Sunday that strikes on "critical infrastructure" and energy facilities were creating "problems," including shortages affecting motorists, businesses and agricultural producers, but said Russia was dealing with them, according to Reuters.  The remarks marked a rare admission from the Kremlin that Ukraine’s long-range campaign is having an impact beyond the battlefield. UKRAINE LAUNCHES WHAT APPEARS TO BE ONE OF ITS LARGEST DRONE ATTACKS AGAINST RUSSIA: REPORT For Ukraine, the fuel crisis is evidence that its long-range strike campaign is doing more than damaging individual facilities. The attacks are forcing Moscow to manage visible problems at home, exposing a vulnerability in a country whose global power has long rested on its energy sector.  Ukraine increasingly has used long-range drones to target Russian oil refineries, depots and supply routes hundreds of miles from its border. Ukraine hit two Russian oil refineries overnight, Reuters reported Sunday, including one in Krasnodar, Russia, and another in Yaroslavl, Russia, as Kyiv continues targeting infrastructure linked to Moscow’s war effort. Fuel shortages have spread across Russia, including occupied Crimea, southern Russia, Siberia and Moscow. Moscow also is weighing emergency measures, including temporarily allowing the production and import of lower-quality fuel, according to a draft government document reported by the Kommersant daily newspaper. Maxim Katz, a Russian opposition figure and former Moscow municipal deputy, told Fox News Digital that the fuel shortages are real and increasingly difficult for Russians to ignore. "There are fuel problems in Russia right now — real ones," Katz told Fox News Digital. "I’m getting a lot of reports, and I can see it too: It’s hard. You can’t find fuel, or you have to stand in line. In some cities, you have to spend half a day looking for fuel, and then they give you only a little, and you have to get back in line again." Katz said the shortages appear tied directly to Ukraine’s attacks on Russian refining capacity. "They are bombing the refineries very effectively," he said. "Putin doesn’t have a way to defend them. Right now, it looks like there is no way to defend them, and that is a major pressure point on Putin." Videos obtained by Fox News Digital from East2West news agency show scenes of frustration at Russian filling stations, where drivers are seen waiting in long queues and arguing as shortages bite. In one video, two women appear to argue over a place in line, with one insisting, "I was in the queue," before the confrontation escalates into shouting and threats. 'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET In Serov, Russia, police were called after a male driver was seen shouting obscenities at several women before punching one of them, according to a video.  In Ryazan, Russia, video shows a fight breaking out near a forecourt as drivers waited for fuel. In Irkutsk, Russia, a man is seen leaning into the open window of a hatchback and repeatedly hitting another motorist. One woman, identified only as Tanya, 29, told east2west she waited 13 hours in Siberia to get half a tank of fuel and blamed Putin’s war for the chaos. "He should stop this senseless conflict and let us live normally," she told the outlet.  'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET Katz said the fuel disruption comes alongside deeper economic pressure caused by the Russia–Ukraine war, including high domestic borrowing, steep interest rates and a budget increasingly built around military spending. "The whole economy is now built on war," Katz said. "War does not produce anything. Nothing comes back from it. So what remains is a big hole." He said Russia is not yet on the verge of collapse, but the strain is "growing and growing," with economic officials warning that spending may need to be cut as the budget deficit becomes harder to close. This assessment was also confirmed to Fox News Digital by a European intelligence source, who said the economic pressure is effectively working. Fox News Digital reached out to Russian and Ukrainian spokespeople for comment.  Reuters contributed to this story. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8e8c2ca79de23624197 WATCH: Fights break out at Russian gas stations as Putin admits fuel shortages te 2026-06-30T17:12:08.131Z WATCH: Fights break out at Russian gas stations as Putin admits fuel shortages Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly acknowledged that Ukrainian long-range strikes are creating fuel supply problems inside Russia, as videos obtained by Fox News Digital show long lines, angry motorists and fights erupting at filling stations across several Russian regions. Speaking at a meeting with government ministers and other officials after a wave of Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure, Putin said on Sunday that strikes on "critical infrastructure" and energy facilities were creating "problems," including shortages affecting motorists, businesses and agricultural producers, but said Russia was dealing with them, according to Reuters.  The remarks marked a rare admission from the Kremlin that Ukraine’s long-range campaign is having an impact beyond the battlefield. UKRAINE LAUNCHES WHAT APPEARS TO BE ONE OF ITS LARGEST DRONE ATTACKS AGAINST RUSSIA: REPORT For Ukraine, the fuel crisis is evidence that its long-range strike campaign is doing more than damaging individual facilities. The attacks are forcing Moscow to manage visible problems at home, exposing a vulnerability in a country whose global power has long rested on its energy sector.  Ukraine increasingly has used long-range drones to target Russian oil refineries, depots and supply routes hundreds of miles from its border. Ukraine hit two Russian oil refineries overnight, Reuters reported Sunday, including one in Krasnodar, Russia, and another in Yaroslavl, Russia, as Kyiv continues targeting infrastructure linked to Moscow’s war effort. Fuel shortages have spread across Russia, including occupied Crimea, southern Russia, Siberia and Moscow. Moscow also is weighing emergency measures, including temporarily allowing the production and import of lower-quality fuel, according to a draft government document reported by the Kommersant daily newspaper. Maxim Katz, a Russian opposition figure and former Moscow municipal deputy, told Fox News Digital that the fuel shortages are real and increasingly difficult for Russians to ignore. "There are fuel problems in Russia right now — real ones," Katz told Fox News Digital. "I’m getting a lot of reports, and I can see it too: It’s hard. You can’t find fuel, or you have to stand in line. In some cities, you have to spend half a day looking for fuel, and then they give you only a little, and you have to get back in line again." Katz said the shortages appear tied directly to Ukraine’s attacks on Russian refining capacity. "They are bombing the refineries very effectively," he said. "Putin doesn’t have a way to defend them. Right now, it looks like there is no way to defend them, and that is a major pressure point on Putin." Videos obtained by Fox News Digital from East2West news agency show scenes of frustration at Russian filling stations, where drivers are seen waiting in long queues and arguing as shortages bite. In one video, two women appear to argue over a place in line, with one insisting, "I was in the queue," before the confrontation escalates into shouting and threats. 'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET In Serov, Russia, police were called after a male driver was seen shouting obscenities at several women before punching one of them, according to a video.  In Ryazan, Russia, video shows a fight breaking out near a forecourt as drivers waited for fuel. In Irkutsk, Russia, a man is seen leaning into the open window of a hatchback and repeatedly hitting another motorist. One woman, identified only as Tanya, 29, told east2west she waited 13 hours in Siberia to get half a tank of fuel and blamed Putin’s war for the chaos. "He should stop this senseless conflict and let us live normally," she told the outlet.  'PURE HELL' IN MOSCOW AS UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE MAJOR REFINERY SUPPLYING CAPITAL'S FUEL MARKET Katz said the fuel disruption comes alongside deeper economic pressure caused by the Russia–Ukraine war, including high domestic borrowing, steep interest rates and a budget increasingly built around military spending. "The whole economy is now built on war," Katz said. "War does not produce anything. Nothing comes back from it. So what remains is a big hole." He said Russia is not yet on the verge of collapse, but the strain is "growing and growing," with economic officials warning that spending may need to be cut as the budget deficit becomes harder to close. This assessment was also confirmed to Fox News Digital by a European intelligence source, who said the economic pressure is effectively working. Fox News Digital reached out to Russian and Ukrainian spokespeople for comment.  Reuters contributed to this story. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8e1c2ca79de2362418e Trump suffers major Supreme Court defeat as justices uphold birthright citizenship te 2026-06-30T17:12:01.063Z Trump suffers major Supreme Court defeat as justices uphold birthright citizenship The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected President Donald Trump's bid to restrict birthright citizenship, preserving the long-standing constitutional interpretation that most children born in the United States are automatically U.S. citizens, including children born to parents who are unlawfully or temporarily present in the country. The ruling is a major setback for Trump, who made curbing birthright citizenship a key part of his immigration agenda. "Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are 'subject to the jurisdiction' of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause," the court said.  "The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to 'every free-born person in this land.' We keep that promise today."  LIVE UPDATES: SUPREME COURT TO UNVEIL BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP, TRANSGENDDER ATHLETES DECISIONS ON TERM'S FINAL DAY The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to affirm a district court ruling blocking Trump's executive order, with Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joining the court's three liberal justices. Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurred in judgment.  The court found that a person's citizenship status is not dependent on their parents', citing the 14th Amendment. Roberts wrote that the Court's 1898 ruling in Wong Kim Ark had settled the issue. The majority said the Citizenship Clause was adopted to reverse the Supreme Court's Dred Scott ruling, which denied citizenship to Black Americans, and to ensure that citizenship is determined by birth on U.S. soil. While Kavanaugh agreed that Trump's executive order could not take effect, he reached that conclusion on different legal grounds than the majority in a concurring opinion.  Kavanaugh argued that Trump's executive order violated current federal law; however, he said the Constitution would allow Congress to pass legislation restricting birthright citizenship for children born to parents who are in the country unlawfully or temporarily. SUPREME COURT STRIKES DOWN LIMIT ON PARTY CAMPAIGN SPENDING IN COORDINATION WITH CANDIDATES "Congress could—consistent with the Fourteenth Amendment — amend or otherwise enact new legislation establishing exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to foreign citizens unlawfully or temporarily in the country. But Congress has not yet done so," Kavanaugh ruled. Justice Clarence Thomas, joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch, authored a 91-page dissent, arguing that the majority misinterpreted the 14th Amendment. He wrote that the 14th Amendment does not guarantee birthright citizenship to children born to parents who are in the country unlawfully or temporarily. Thomas argued that the Court's 1898 ruling in Wong Kim Ark expanded birthright citizenship beyond what the Reconstruction Congress had ever "contemplated." "Wong Kim Ark addressed only the citizenship of a child born to parents who were lawfully and permanently domiciled in the United States," Thomas wrote. Justice Samuel Alito wrote a separate dissent, calling the Court's ruling a "serious mistake." He suggested the Court failed to consider the rise of "birth tourism," in which foreigners come to the United States solely to give birth, and argued that it could have serious national security implications. "Suppose that a person's only connection to this country is that he was born here to a mother who was present just long enough to give birth and then quickly return to her native country," Alito wrote. "Suppose that country is a strategic adversary or enemy of the United States. Suppose the child never visited the United States while grown and was inculcated with hatred of this country." TRUMP'S FIRING POWER FACES TWIN SUPREME COURT TESTS, BUT ONE AGENCY MAY GET SPECIAL TREATMENT Alito pointed out that this hypothetical person can now enter and leave the United States without any restrictions. "Even if he plots to harm this country, he cannot be deprived of his status as a citizen, at least under current precedent," Alito continued. The Supreme Court's ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of families challenging President Donald Trump's executive order, "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship." Trump said the order was intended to curb illegal immigration, arguing that granting automatic U.S. citizenship to anyone born in the country acts as a "magnet for illegal immigration." The order sought to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to certain children born in the United States to parents who were in the country unlawfully or temporarily. The lawsuit, led by a Honduran woman identified only as "Barbara" to protect her identity, argued that the policy violated the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause and was therefore unconstitutional. The ACLU and other immigrant rights groups argued that the Constitution guarantees birthright citizenship to nearly all children born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents' immigration status, and that the president could not alter that constitutional guarantee through executive action. The Supreme Court ultimately agreed, striking down the order. "The court’s decision reaffirms a fundamental American promise — if you are born here, you are a citizen," said ACLU National Legal Director Cecillia Wang, who argued the case before the Supreme Court. "A president cannot change the Constitution by executive fiat. Our brave clients and our legal team stand with millions of people around our country who spoke up for one of our most cherished rights. The Constitution’s guarantee of birthright citizenship stands strong." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8d4c2ca79de23624185 Trump suffers major Supreme Court defeat as justices uphold birthright citizenship te 2026-06-30T17:11:48.676Z Trump suffers major Supreme Court defeat as justices uphold birthright citizenship The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected President Donald Trump's bid to restrict birthright citizenship, preserving the long-standing constitutional interpretation that most children born in the United States are automatically U.S. citizens, including children born to parents who are unlawfully or temporarily present in the country. The ruling is a major setback for Trump, who made curbing birthright citizenship a key part of his immigration agenda. "Children born in the United States to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are 'subject to the jurisdiction' of the United States and are citizens at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause," the court said.  "The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to 'every free-born person in this land.' We keep that promise today."  LIVE UPDATES: SUPREME COURT TO UNVEIL BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP, TRANSGENDDER ATHLETES DECISIONS ON TERM'S FINAL DAY The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to affirm a district court ruling blocking Trump's executive order, with Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joining the court's three liberal justices. Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurred in judgment.  The court found that a person's citizenship status is not dependent on their parents', citing the 14th Amendment. Roberts wrote that the Court's 1898 ruling in Wong Kim Ark had settled the issue. The majority said the Citizenship Clause was adopted to reverse the Supreme Court's Dred Scott ruling, which denied citizenship to Black Americans, and to ensure that citizenship is determined by birth on U.S. soil. While Kavanaugh agreed that Trump's executive order could not take effect, he reached that conclusion on different legal grounds than the majority in a concurring opinion.  Kavanaugh argued that Trump's executive order violated current federal law; however, he said the Constitution would allow Congress to pass legislation restricting birthright citizenship for children born to parents who are in the country unlawfully or temporarily. SUPREME COURT STRIKES DOWN LIMIT ON PARTY CAMPAIGN SPENDING IN COORDINATION WITH CANDIDATES "Congress could—consistent with the Fourteenth Amendment — amend or otherwise enact new legislation establishing exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to foreign citizens unlawfully or temporarily in the country. But Congress has not yet done so," Kavanaugh ruled. Justice Clarence Thomas, joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch, authored a 91-page dissent, arguing that the majority misinterpreted the 14th Amendment. He wrote that the 14th Amendment does not guarantee birthright citizenship to children born to parents who are in the country unlawfully or temporarily. Thomas argued that the Court's 1898 ruling in Wong Kim Ark expanded birthright citizenship beyond what the Reconstruction Congress had ever "contemplated." "Wong Kim Ark addressed only the citizenship of a child born to parents who were lawfully and permanently domiciled in the United States," Thomas wrote. Justice Samuel Alito wrote a separate dissent, calling the Court's ruling a "serious mistake." He suggested the Court failed to consider the rise of "birth tourism," in which foreigners come to the United States solely to give birth, and argued that it could have serious national security implications. "Suppose that a person's only connection to this country is that he was born here to a mother who was present just long enough to give birth and then quickly return to her native country," Alito wrote. "Suppose that country is a strategic adversary or enemy of the United States. Suppose the child never visited the United States while grown and was inculcated with hatred of this country." TRUMP'S FIRING POWER FACES TWIN SUPREME COURT TESTS, BUT ONE AGENCY MAY GET SPECIAL TREATMENT Alito pointed out that this hypothetical person can now enter and leave the United States without any restrictions. "Even if he plots to harm this country, he cannot be deprived of his status as a citizen, at least under current precedent," Alito continued. The Supreme Court's ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of families challenging President Donald Trump's executive order, "Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship." Trump said the order was intended to curb illegal immigration, arguing that granting automatic U.S. citizenship to anyone born in the country acts as a "magnet for illegal immigration." The order sought to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to certain children born in the United States to parents who were in the country unlawfully or temporarily. The lawsuit, led by a Honduran woman identified only as "Barbara" to protect her identity, argued that the policy violated the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause and was therefore unconstitutional. The ACLU and other immigrant rights groups argued that the Constitution guarantees birthright citizenship to nearly all children born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents' immigration status, and that the president could not alter that constitutional guarantee through executive action. The Supreme Court ultimately agreed, striking down the order. "The court’s decision reaffirms a fundamental American promise — if you are born here, you are a citizen," said ACLU National Legal Director Cecillia Wang, who argued the case before the Supreme Court. "A president cannot change the Constitution by executive fiat. Our brave clients and our legal team stand with millions of people around our country who spoke up for one of our most cherished rights. The Constitution’s guarantee of birthright citizenship stands strong." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8cdc2ca79de2362417c UAP whistleblower Luis Elizondo details congressional staffer's warning of a plot to 'eliminate' him te 2026-06-30T17:11:41.609Z UAP whistleblower Luis Elizondo details congressional staffer's warning of a plot to 'eliminate' him A whistleblower's brush with death, a congressman's dive into one of America's biggest mysteries and chilling warnings for their safety have taken center stage on the latest episode of the "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" podcast. Former Pentagon official and UFO whistleblower Luis Elizondo recalled a startling warning he received from a congressional staffer regarding him and fellow whistleblower David Grusch. "There was a plan to eliminate you," Elizondo said, recounting the warning. UFO WHISTLEBLOWER CLAIMS BILLIONS IN SECRET SPENDING HIDDEN FROM CONGRESS According to Elizondo, the "inebriated" staffer had left a classified briefing on Capitol Hill where government officials had disclosed the information just prior to the call. Though no details were provided regarding how the plan had been formulated or exactly what it entailed, he indicated he was prepared for such a faceoff. "It's the reason why I have five German shepherds, and I'm heavily armed," he said. A call from another staffer immediately followed, offering another ominous warning related to the news. EX-PENTAGON OFFICIAL SAYS UAP FILES REVEAL 'TREASURE TROVE' OF INTELLIGENCE DATING BACK TO THE 1940S "[The] first thing he says, 'Lou, are you okay?' I said, 'Yeah, I'm fine, why?' He's like, 'Well, you need to really watch yourself. Because there was discussions involving you and Grusch, that some people were very upset with what you guys did,'" he recounted. Both Elizondo and Grusch were former intelligence officials who helped spearhead calls to disclose classified information regarding UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs). Their calls have been met with some resistance, he says, including the alleged plan. Tennessee GOP Rep. Tim Burchett, also appearing on the podcast, similarly touched on the dangers of pressing for transparency, "I was sitting at the house and I got a call from... a friend of the administration. It told me that I'd kicked a hornet's nest, and it said, you need to get bodies around you," he recalled. "I'm in East Tennessee, I've got bodies around me. There's enough good old boys out there..." he continued. "Lou will tell you we have kicked a virtual hornet's nest, and these people don't want this stuff out, and I have my own theories about that as well. I'm sure Lou does, too." The full "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" episode with Elizondo and Burchett is available now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8c1c2ca79de23624173 UAP whistleblower Luis Elizondo details congressional staffer's warning of a plot to 'eliminate' him te 2026-06-30T17:11:29.219Z UAP whistleblower Luis Elizondo details congressional staffer's warning of a plot to 'eliminate' him A whistleblower's brush with death, a congressman's dive into one of America's biggest mysteries and chilling warnings for their safety have taken center stage on the latest episode of the "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" podcast. Former Pentagon official and UFO whistleblower Luis Elizondo recalled a startling warning he received from a congressional staffer regarding him and fellow whistleblower David Grusch. "There was a plan to eliminate you," Elizondo said, recounting the warning. UFO WHISTLEBLOWER CLAIMS BILLIONS IN SECRET SPENDING HIDDEN FROM CONGRESS According to Elizondo, the "inebriated" staffer had left a classified briefing on Capitol Hill where government officials had disclosed the information just prior to the call. Though no details were provided regarding how the plan had been formulated or exactly what it entailed, he indicated he was prepared for such a faceoff. "It's the reason why I have five German shepherds, and I'm heavily armed," he said. A call from another staffer immediately followed, offering another ominous warning related to the news. EX-PENTAGON OFFICIAL SAYS UAP FILES REVEAL 'TREASURE TROVE' OF INTELLIGENCE DATING BACK TO THE 1940S "[The] first thing he says, 'Lou, are you okay?' I said, 'Yeah, I'm fine, why?' He's like, 'Well, you need to really watch yourself. Because there was discussions involving you and Grusch, that some people were very upset with what you guys did,'" he recounted. Both Elizondo and Grusch were former intelligence officials who helped spearhead calls to disclose classified information regarding UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs). Their calls have been met with some resistance, he says, including the alleged plan. Tennessee GOP Rep. Tim Burchett, also appearing on the podcast, similarly touched on the dangers of pressing for transparency, "I was sitting at the house and I got a call from... a friend of the administration. It told me that I'd kicked a hornet's nest, and it said, you need to get bodies around you," he recalled. "I'm in East Tennessee, I've got bodies around me. There's enough good old boys out there..." he continued. "Lou will tell you we have kicked a virtual hornet's nest, and these people don't want this stuff out, and I have my own theories about that as well. I'm sure Lou does, too." The full "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" episode with Elizondo and Burchett is available now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8bac2ca79de23624161 Supreme Court strikes down limit on party campaign spending in coordination with candidates te 2026-06-30T17:11:22.158Z Supreme Court strikes down limit on party campaign spending in coordination with candidates The Supreme Court struck down a longstanding federal campaign spending limit, ruling that political parties can now spend unlimited amounts in coordination with their federal candidates, as long as they otherwise comply with campaign finance laws. The 6-3 vote in the case National Republican Senatorial Committee v. Federal Election Commission saw all the conservative justices in the majority, ruling against the restriction in the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA). "In short, constitutional text, history, and precedent establish that the political-party coordinated-expenditure limits violate the First Amendment," Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote in the majority opinion. "Importantly, by holding FECA’s political-party coordinated-expenditure restrictions unconstitutional, the Court’s decision today treats all political parties equally." Then-Senator JD Vance, R-Ohio, was among those who brought the original lawsuit to remove the spending limits in 2022, along with the Republican senatorial and congressional committees. TRUMP SUFFERS MAJOR SUPREME COURT DEFEAT AS JUSTICES UPHOLD BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP Democrats had called on the Court to uphold the law, even though there is wide agreement that the spending limits have hurt political parties in an era of unlimited spending by other organizations. Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented. Kagan wrote in her dissenting opinion that "today, the Court rewrites the rules, to allow circumvention of the contribution limits." "The majority invalidates Congress’s restriction of coordinated expenditures, thus enabling a party to serve as an alternative checking account for a campaign," Kagan wrote. SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS The limits on party spending stem from a desire to prevent large donors from skirting caps on individual contributions to a candidate by directing unlimited sums to the party, with the understanding that the money will be spent on behalf of the candidate. The Supreme Court had previously upheld the limits in 2001. The ruling comes ahead of the November midterm elections, as President Donald Trump and Republicans work to maintain the the GOP's congressional majorities. Fox News’ Shannon Bream and Bill Mears, along with The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f8adc2ca79de23624158 Supreme Court strikes down limit on party campaign spending in coordination with candidates te 2026-06-30T17:11:09.761Z Supreme Court strikes down limit on party campaign spending in coordination with candidates The Supreme Court struck down a longstanding federal campaign spending limit, ruling that political parties can now spend unlimited amounts in coordination with their federal candidates, as long as they otherwise comply with campaign finance laws. The 6-3 vote in the case National Republican Senatorial Committee v. Federal Election Commission saw all the conservative justices in the majority, ruling against the restriction in the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA). "In short, constitutional text, history, and precedent establish that the political-party coordinated-expenditure limits violate the First Amendment," Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote in the majority opinion. "Importantly, by holding FECA’s political-party coordinated-expenditure restrictions unconstitutional, the Court’s decision today treats all political parties equally." Then-Senator JD Vance, R-Ohio, was among those who brought the original lawsuit to remove the spending limits in 2022, along with the Republican senatorial and congressional committees. TRUMP SUFFERS MAJOR SUPREME COURT DEFEAT AS JUSTICES UPHOLD BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP Democrats had called on the Court to uphold the law, even though there is wide agreement that the spending limits have hurt political parties in an era of unlimited spending by other organizations. Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented. Kagan wrote in her dissenting opinion that "today, the Court rewrites the rules, to allow circumvention of the contribution limits." "The majority invalidates Congress’s restriction of coordinated expenditures, thus enabling a party to serve as an alternative checking account for a campaign," Kagan wrote. SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS The limits on party spending stem from a desire to prevent large donors from skirting caps on individual contributions to a candidate by directing unlimited sums to the party, with the understanding that the money will be spent on behalf of the candidate. The Supreme Court had previously upheld the limits in 2001. The ruling comes ahead of the November midterm elections, as President Donald Trump and Republicans work to maintain the the GOP's congressional majorities. Fox News’ Shannon Bream and Bill Mears, along with The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f89ac2ca79de23624139 Caitlin Clark's teammate called 'wildly unprofessional' for airing true thoughts on Mercury te 2026-06-30T17:10:50.305Z Caitlin Clark's teammate called 'wildly unprofessional' for airing true thoughts on Mercury Sophie Cunningham is throwing more fuel onto the WNBA fire. Caitlin Clark's sidekick is never one to hide from anything, and on the latest episode of her "Show Me Something" podcast, she did not shy away from her true feelings about her former team. Cunningham once played for the Phoenix Mercury, but last week the Mercury was Public Enemy No. 1 after Alyssa Thomas' hard foul on Caitlin Clark. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The foul went uncalled before the WNBA reviewed the play, upgraded the foul to a Flagrant 2, and suspended Thomas. But the Mercury also poked fun at the incident in a since-deleted social media post. Continuously having Clark's back, Cunningham said "no one" likes the Mercury. "I know people in their own organization — no one likes their team this year. They say that they're the unfriendliest group," Cunningham said. "So we're not the only ones who feel that way. Internal people feel that way too." That, however, drew the ire of USA TODAY WNBA reporter Meaghan L. Hall, who said Cunningham should keep her comments to herself. REPUBLICAN LAWMAKER RIPS WNBA’S ‘THUG TREATMENT’ OF CAITLIN CLARK AFTER LATEST ON-COURT CONTROVERSY "Goodness gracious. I — 1) This is wildly unprofessional," she began in an X post. "2) How is this helping with the points at everything current discourse? 3) There is not any scenario that exists where a player should be saying this about any organization." Cunningham spent six seasons with the Mercury before joining the Indiana Fever last year. She was named in a lawsuit last year that claimed she had a sexual relationship with Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein, which she denied. The Fever and Mercury will face off again on July 9, but Clark's status remains in question due to a lingering back issue. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f890c2ca79de2362410e Anthropic’s Claude Science bets on workflow, not a new model, to win over scientists te 2026-06-30T17:10:40.681Z Anthropic’s Claude Science bets on workflow, not a new model, to win over scientists Anthropic's Claude Science is a workbench that gives scientists one environment to do computational research, saving them from the need to bounce between databases, pipelines, and tools. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f886c2ca79de23624105 Republicans declare war on 'organized theft' with government fraud crackdown te 2026-06-30T17:10:30.852Z Republicans declare war on 'organized theft' with government fraud crackdown FIRST ON FOX: A cohort of Senate Republicans are launching an anti-fraud task force to mirror the efforts of the Trump administration in its multibillion-dollar fraud crusade. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., is leading the group of nine Senate Republicans in their formation of the Anti-Fraud Task Force, a group that will examine fraud, waste and abuse across federal programs, identify vulnerabilities in those programs and ensure that the buck stops where the flow of funding begins: Congress. "The fraud epidemic burdening our country is one of the most pressing issues facing Americans today," Schmitt said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "It’s organized theft on a national scale, and the Americans paying the price are the ones swinging the hammer and driving the trucking, working their tails off to make ends meet." TRUMP SAYS ANTI-FRAUD EFFORTS ARE UNCOVERING BILLIONS IN WASTE, CLAIMS SAVINGS COULD BALANCE BUDGET "Our Task Force will go after the fraud rings and bad actors exploiting our systems and robbing Americans," he continued. "Following President Trump's lead, we’re declaring war on fraud." Schmitt has recruited Sens. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., Katie Britt, R-Ala., Ashley Moody, R-Fla., Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., and Ron Johnson, R-Wis. SENATE REPUBLICAN PUSHES OVERHAUL TO CUT RED TAPE AND SPEED UP AMERICAN ENERGY PROJECTS Johnson contended that depending on the database you accessed — like the Government Accountability Office or LexisNexis — the amount of federal government fraud fluctuated between $250 billion and $1 trillion per year. "It’s nearly impossible to recover those funds through prosecutions, so we must focus on preventing the money from getting to the fraudsters in the first place," Johnson said. Schmitt’s task force is meant to align with the Trump administration’s anti-fraud efforts led by Vice President JD Vance, whom President Donald Trump tapped to be his anti-fraud czar, that were launched earlier this year. SENATE REPUBLICAN EXPANDS CHILDCARE FRAUD CRACKDOWN TO MORE BLUE STATES Vance’s operation hit the ground running in April and identified nearly $6.3 billion in government contracts believed to be tied to potentially fraudulent businesses. Those findings showed nearly 400 businesses would be required to prove they had legitimate operations and physical addresses. In May, the task force withheld $1.4 billion in federal funding from home health and hospice providers nationwide. Schmitt’s effort isn’t the only one in the Senate, either. Sen. Bill Cassidy, who chairs the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, has been ramping up anti-fraud efforts since the beginning of the year in the wake of the Minnesota fraud scandal. Cassidy launched an anti-fraud task force cracking down on abuses in Minnesota that has since expanded to other blue states, including New York, Michigan and Oregon. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f87cc2ca79de236240fc Threads adds new features to Live Chats as it expands access te 2026-06-30T17:10:20.713Z Threads adds new features to Live Chats as it expands access The updates include translations, new tools for hosts, and more. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f873c2ca79de236240f3 Trump reacts to Supreme Court ruling on trans athletes te 2026-06-30T17:10:11.394Z Trump reacts to Supreme Court ruling on trans athletes President Donald Trump called the Supreme Court's Tuesday ruling on transgender athletes a "big win."  The justices ruled in favor of West Virginia and Idaho on Thursday, 6-3, against trans athletes who sued to gain access to girls' sports.  ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! "BIG WIN: The United States Supreme Court just RULED AGAINST MEN PLAYING IN WOMEN’S SPORTS. Wow! That takes that ridiculous situation off the table!!!" Trump posted to Truth Social. As Trump celebrated the ruling, the Supreme Court said it was up to the states to make the decision on trans athletes in women's sports. Justice Sotomayor filed an opinion concurring with the judgment in part and dissenting in part, which Justices Kagan and Jackson joined. Jackson filed an opinion concurring in the judgment in part and dissenting in part. Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ sports based on biological sex. The states were backed by the law firm Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), while the trans athletes were represented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Cooley Legal. Now, more than half of the states in the U.S. are empowered to enforce the protection of women's sports without fear of a legal challenge. However, there are still 23 states that don't have any such laws, and some of those have laws to protect trans athletes in girls' sports. Trump signed the "No Men In Women's Sports" executive order on Feb. 5, 2025, prompting more restrictions on trans athletes and states to abide by Trump's order. On the flip side, it also welcomed a highly-publicized spat shortly after the order was signed between Trump and Maine Gov. Janet Mills. Trump continuously threatened to halt federal funding to states who did not abide by his executive order. Trump froze funds to Maine, but a federal judge ruled that the funds had to be unfrozen. But now, those states are protected by law. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Education Secretary Linda McMahon released a statement later. "Today’s ruling affirms the common sense right of states to prohibit men from competing in women’s sports, safeguard the integrity of female spaces, and ensure no woman faces discrimination on the basis of sex," she said. "For years, ideologues distorted Title IX to advance a radical transgender agenda, subjecting women to immeasurable harm.  "The Trump Administration has fought to restore Title IX’s protections for women and girls since Day One. Today’s ruling cements those reforms and builds on decades of work to secure equal educational opportunities for women and girls. This is a tremendous victory, and we look forward to ensuring that every educational institution in America abides by the law of the land." Surveys have shown that roughly 80% of Americans do not believe biological males should compete against girls and women. Fox News' Jackson Thompson and Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f85fc2ca79de236240e3 Supreme Court financial disclosures reveal concert tickets from Bad Bunny's label, millions in book payments te 2026-06-30T17:09:51.940Z Supreme Court financial disclosures reveal concert tickets from Bad Bunny's label, millions in book payments One Supreme Court justice accepted more than $4,300 in concert tickets from Bad Bunny's record label during a private trip to Puerto Rico last year, while several other justices collected millions in book deals and other outside income, according to financial disclosures. The annual reports released on Monday cover activity in 2025 for eight of the nine justices. Justice Samuel Alito received a 90-day extension to file his disclosure. Justice Sonia Sotomayor reported receiving concert tickets valued at $4,333 from Puerto Rican record label Rimas Entertainment, stating the company "provided tickets for a concert for me and guests while I was on a private trip to Puerto Rico in August 2025." Sotomayor's disclosure did not identify which concert she attended. Rimas Entertainment represents several artists, including global music star Bad Bunny, who was holding a residency with more than 30 shows in San Juan during that period. ALITO BLASTS LATEST SCOTUS BALLOT RULING AS INVITATION TO 'VOTER FRAUD' RISKS The disclosures also showed four justices earned more than $2 million combined in book payments during the year. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson reported receiving a $1.18 million book advance from Penguin Random House for her memoir, "Lovely One," published in 2024. The payment came after she disclosed nearly $2.07 million in book advance income from the same publisher the previous year. Jackson also reported receiving a painting valued at $2,500 from Chicago artists Paul Branton and Kristen Williams. The portrait, titled "Worthy," is displayed in her Supreme Court chambers. Sotomayor disclosed $88,100 in royalties from Penguin for her children's books, "Turning Pages" and "Just Ask!" Her filing noted those figures reflected earnings after her literary agent's commission and that the publisher spent $7,473 to support sales of her book "Just Shine!" Justice Amy Coney Barrett reported earning $849,071 in royalties tied to her 2025 book, "Listening to the Law." FEDERAL JUDGE WHO HAD SEX IN CHAMBERS APOLOGIZES TO FORMER CLERK AS IMPEACHMENT PUSH RAMPS UP Justice Neil Gorsuch disclosed $300,361 in book royalties, primarily from HarperCollins, which recently published the children's book he co-authored, "Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence." Several justices also reported income from teaching positions. Barrett and Justice Brett Kavanaugh each earned $33,285 for teaching at the University of Notre Dame Law School, where both serve as adjunct professors. Chief Justice John Roberts reported receiving $25,000 from New England Law after teaching a two-week course in Galway, Ireland. Justice Clarence Thomas disclosed $18,000 in teaching income from The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, while Gorsuch reported $30,380 for teaching at George Mason University. The financial disclosure reports have come under increasing public scrutiny in recent years after revelations that some justices failed to disclose luxury travel and certain real estate transactions, prompting calls from lawmakers and ethics advocates for greater transparency and stricter oversight of the Supreme Court. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f84cc2ca79de236240da Dem senator faces DOJ probe after allegations of spending campaign funds on luxury lifestyle te 2026-06-30T17:09:32.483Z Dem senator faces DOJ probe after allegations of spending campaign funds on luxury lifestyle An embattled Democrat Senator from Arizona is facing a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation after allegedly using campaign donations to fund lavish vacations with his family. A source familiar with the investigation confirmed to Fox News Digital that Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., is subject to the probe for potential violations of campaign finance laws. A week ago, Politico reported that Gallego used campaign money on family trips to Miami, Saint Barthélemy, Disneyland, Disney World and Chicago. He also used funds to attend the 2023 Super Bowl in Arizona, but the senator insisted that the tickets were a legitimate campaign fundraising expense. The report last week also said that the senator, who was just cleared Monday by the Senate Ethics Committee after a complaint about the alleged campaign finance violations and suspected sexual misconduct, also used $18,000 in funds from his leadership PAC to reimburse himself for childcare costs. SWALWELL FRIEND GALLEGO DEFENDS CAMPAIGN-FUNDED SUPER BOWL, MIAMI TRIPS: ‘GO WHERE THE MONEY IS’ Gallego brushed off the allegations in the Politico story. "This is not breaking news," he reportedly told the outlet. "With the rising costs of child care and the burden it has on the budgets of American families, Democrats and Republicans in Congress and the White House alike regularly travel with their wives and children, as is permitted by the FEC." Monday afternoon, after the ethics complaints were dismissed, Gallego said they were merely "right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists," according to NPR. DOJ OPENS INVESTIGATION INTO ERIC SWALWELL OVER SEXUAL ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS Less than a day after he was cleared by Congress, the DOJ investigation was revealed. Fox News Digital reached out to Gallego's office for comment. Gallego was close friends with disgraced former Democratic lawmaker Eric Swalwell of California, who was forced to resign from Congress following a wave of sexual misconduct allegations against him, including claims of rape and sexual assault.  Swalwell admitted to making "mistakes," but denied the allegations of criminal behavior. The former congressman, who was running for governor of California at the time of his undoing, attended the 2023 Super Bowl with Gallego. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f839c2ca79de236240d1 GOP congressman reveals mystery illness that sidelined him from Congress for nearly four months te 2026-06-30T17:09:13.032Z GOP congressman reveals mystery illness that sidelined him from Congress for nearly four months Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., delivered an emotional speech Tuesday revealing for the first time the medical condition that kept him away from the House and campaign stops for nearly four months.  Kean said he was given a diagnosis of depression after entering the hospital for "some testing." He said the illness took him months to heal from and left him under doctors' care during a prolonged stay in the hospital.  "I'm grateful that I accepted help, because today I stand before you stronger, healthier and excited to return to the work that I love," Kean said on the House floor. Tuesday's speech came after Kean, 57, returned to Washington this week after being absent since early March. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Republican said earlier this month that Kean would return for the June 30 session.  REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN WILL END MONTHS-LONG ABSENCE FROM DC AFTER MISSING 135 ROLL CALL VOTES During his recovery, he missed 140 roll call votes, amounting to a 100% absence rate, according to the website GovTrack. Throughout his absence, Kean's office suggested he would return to work shortly but pushed back the timeline on several occasions. In his speech, Kean said the reason was that he didn't understand how long it would take him to fully recover. "When I said I hoped to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it," Kean said. "Those were the best estimates that the doctors could provide. But as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing." The two-term lawmaker kept the nature of his condition private while recovering, but promised transparency upon his return. His silence appeared to extend to House Republican leadership, who said they were in the dark about Kean’s ailment when questioned by reporters on several occasions. His return will pad Republicans' razor-thin majority as House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., aims to clear a must-pass defense bill through the House chamber this week. Johnson said Tuesday that he expected Kean to receive a lot of empathy for his condition upon its reveal, adding that he had encouraged the New Jersey lawmaker to be transparent during his absence. "It's not an uncommon kind of condition and ailment that he's been fighting, and I think people resonate with that," the speaker said. Kean previously told The New Jersey Globe that the medical issue did not impact his cognitive ability and that he was not dealing with any chronic problems that could affect his decision to seek a third House term. Even while away from the Capitol, Kean's office continued to post on social media, draft legislation and introduce his remarks into the congressional record. MISSING GOP CONGRESSMAN REVEALS HE'S 'MORE ENERGIZED THAN EVER' TO RETURN TO WASHINGTON Kean’s return to work comes as he is facing a serious re-election threat from former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett, a Democrat running with establishment support.  Bennett is expected to emphasize her national security credentials — a similar playbook that Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., deployed during her rise to the governorship.  The suburban swing seat is one of the most competitive House districts in the country and Democrats are expected to aggressively seek Kean’s defeat. The GOP incumbent is endorsed by President Donald Trump and did not face a challenger during the May primary. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report rates Kean’s re-election bid as a "toss-up." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f825c2ca79de236240c8 Crocodile attack horror unfolds as couple tries to save victim: ‘We felt so helpless’ te 2026-06-30T17:08:53.571Z Crocodile attack horror unfolds as couple tries to save victim: ‘We felt so helpless’ A California couple who tried to rescue a tourist during a deadly crocodile attack is warning travelers about dangerous swimming conditions in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The attack occurred around 6:30 p.m. local time on Friday, June 26, the Jalisco State Police (JSP) confirmed to Fox News Digital. Jamie Yetter and her fiancé, Chris Bury, saw the attack unfold while they were swimming nearby. They attempted to help the victim, who was identified as Irving Mauricio, 28, of Mexico City. EXTREME DEATH MADE FATAL CAVE DIVE PERILOUS AT LUXURY HONEYMOON DESTINATION "We were at the pool when we heard some screams down at the water … We thought he was just stuck in the rip current," Bury told Fox News Digital. Yetter and Bury, of Orange County, were both on swim teams and are used to pulling people out of rip currents, she said.  When Bury got in the water, people warned him there was a crocodile.  "I saw that [the victim] was kind of struggling," he recalled. "There was … no one around that could help save him." OLDER TRAVELERS WHO SKIP KEY STEP BEFORE POPULAR VACATION ACTIVITY COULD BE RISKING THEIR HEALTH Bury, 48, quickly grabbed a kayak, but there were no oars.  "I laid on my stomach and paddled with my hands to get out there," he recounted. Meanwhile, Yetter and her daughter were on the beach and watched the incident unfold. "Every time the man would resurface, [he] was deeper and deeper into the ocean," she said. Yetter, 42, wanted to run into the water and help, but she worried there could be other crocodiles in the water, she said. UP CLOSE AND SCARY: JUVENILE GREAT WHITE SHARK EMERGES OFF COAST AFTER WINTER MIGRATION "It was so gruesome and graphic. I saw [him] being taken under by the crocodile over and over," Yetter recounted. She said the 12-foot crocodile was "massive," noting "his head was as long as my torso, his tail thicker than my legs." "It was absolutely horrible. We felt so helpless," she said. A search and location operation was implemented in coordination with the Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR), the Directorate of Civil Protection and Firefighters of Puerto Vallarta, and the State Unit of Civil Protection and Firefighters of Jalisco, the Jalisco State Police told Fox News Digital. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER The search operation lasted through the night, and the victim's body was discovered at approximately 7 a.m. Saturday, the police confirmed.  The crocodile was also captured. The victim's mother, Claudia Mauricio, expressed her grief in a message posted online. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "I only ask God that on the day I leave this world, I may find you again and that you may greet me with that beautiful smile you always had for me," she said. "You will always live in my heart." The police confirmed to Fox News Digital that the beach was not closed after the incident. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES It is an open beach for tourists, and it typically remains open, the police said. In the areas near the mouths of the rivers and the estuary, there is permanent signage with warnings and restrictive cordoning, the police noted. There has been increased discussion about crocodiles in the region since July 2025, when lifeguards captured a 12-foot crocodile on a southern Puerto Vallarta beach, according to Mexico News Daily. Local experts estimated last year that the Puerto Vallarta region — especially around Boca de Tomatlán and Boca Negra — has around 200 to 250 American crocodiles, the news outlet reported. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f812c2ca79de236240bf GOP infighting over Trump's voter ID bill erupts as top senator calls strategy 'fantasy' te 2026-06-30T17:08:34.115Z GOP infighting over Trump's voter ID bill erupts as top senator calls strategy 'fantasy' Senate Republicans are taking closed-door conversations online to snipe at one another over stalled voter ID and citizenship verification legislation.  President Donald Trump wants Republicans to pass the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, but the political reality in the Senate, albeit through extreme measures that don't have unified support among the Senate GOP, makes passage unlikely.  Still, that has not stopped Trump, supporters online, and key proponents of the legislation in the Senate from pushing the message that the SAVE America Act can pass, but only if Republicans have the guts to do it. That avenue would be through the "talking filibuster," which proponents say would grind down Democrats’ resistance and ultimately lead to the SAVE America Act passing at a simple majority threshold. 'IT'S A MESS': GOP TURNS ON HOUSE CONSERVATIVES AS VOTER ID BLOCKADE STALLS TRUMP'S AGENDA Opponents warn that doing so would dominate the Senate’s most valuable commodity — floor time — and allow Democrats to control the tempo of the upper chamber. And, there’s fear that Republicans wouldn’t stay unified to kill Democratic amendments on a variety of issues.  Those dueling positions have caused clashes typically kept behind closed doors in the Senate to manifest on social media, notably between Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and John Cornyn, R-Texas.  "There is not [a] single instance in the history of the United States Senate where a ‘talking filibuster’ has resulted in a favorable outcome for the proponent," Cornyn said on X while sharing a memo that included numerous "issues" with launching a talking filibuster. Among those were the arguments that it would make campaigning more difficult because of attendance requirements, that it would allow Democrats to force unlimited votes on politically tough amendments on "issues that divide" Republicans, and that Democrats could drag out the process so long that the SAVE America Act might not be implemented before the election. Lee shot back that Cornyn’s memo "perfectly illustrates why the talking filibuster is necessary — not why we should avoid it like the plague or pretend it doesn’t exist." SEN LEE DARES DEMOCRATS TO REVIVE TALKING FILIBUSTER OVER SAVE ACT, SLAMMING CRITICISM AS ‘PARANOID FANTASY' "The procedural hurdles you list (including the two-speech rule, quorum, calendar drag, and opportunity costs) are real," Lee said. "But they’re also manageable—and in many instances can even be used to strengthen our negotiating position—if Republicans actually use the rules instead of surrendering to them." "The alternative — walking away from the SAVE America Act — has far higher costs: another election without proof of citizenship, more erosion of public confidence, and Democrats continuing to weaponize the same procedures against us," he continued.  Cornyn’s response: "fantasy." Meanwhile, the House is facing its own SAVE America Act dispute, which has threatened to blow up the perennial, must-pass National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., demanded that House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., include the legislation in the colossal NDAA package.  He relented, but it will be the same version of the voter ID bill that the House already passed and that the Senate has been unable to move. And during negotiations over the NDAA in the coming weeks and months, the Senate can easily strip the measure out to ensure that the Pentagon authorization bill passes.  The House will take its first step on that plan Tuesday afternoon.  Most Senate Republicans support the original SAVE America Act, which includes voter ID, citizenship verification to register to vote, giving the Department of Homeland Security access to voter rolls, and other policies.  But Trump wants his version of the SAVE America Act, which tacks on tight restrictions on mail-in ballots, halts biological men from participating in women’s sports and bans transgender surgeries on minors, which does not have 50 votes of support among the Senate GOP.  TRUMP HEADS TO CAPITOL HILL FOR PIVOTAL MEETING AS SENATE GOP DIVISIONS DEEPEN That version of the bill has also not passed through the House. The Supreme Court's decision on Monday to allow mail-in ballots that arrive late to still be counted has again stoked Trump’s interest in the legislation and directed his ire toward the Senate. "In a time when there is a powerful Communist Movement taking place in our Country, one more dangerous than World War I, World War II, Pearl Harbor, or September 11th, all Dumocrats, and our five Republican Senate Hold Outs, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, Thom Tillis, Bill Cassidy, and Mitch McConnell must vote to SAVE OUR COUNTRY," Trump said on Truth Social. "There can be no more excuses!"  Notably, Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., has never voted against the SAVE America Act in its many different variations in the Senate, and Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, supports the original version of the bill that passed the House. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f7fec2ca79de236240b6 Amazon's Fourth of July sale: Save up to 80% on tech, clothing, generators and more te 2026-06-30T17:08:14.658Z Amazon's Fourth of July sale: Save up to 80% on tech, clothing, generators and more America is celebrating its 250th anniversary this Fourth of July, and retailers are matching the milestone with some of their biggest summer discounts. Standout deals include Apple AirPods for $99, a reader-favorite Shark vacuum at 50% off and a commemorative America 250 baseball cap, plus savings on everything from grills and robot vacuums to kitchen appliances. Levi's men's 505 regular fit jeans: $32.99 (56% off) HeyDude Wendy slip-in loafers: $29.74 (54% off) Portable tire inflator: $21.99 (45% off) Mini chainsaw: $29.99 (40% off) UPF protection shirt: $14.99 (25% off) Stock up on blenders, coffee makers and grills while deals last. Keurig K-Elite K-Cup pod coffee maker: $94 (55% off) HexClad 10-inch hybrid frying pan: $132 (22% off) Iceman by Chefman Slush-Ease: $275.39 (21% off) Ninja FlexFlame grill and smoker: $999.99 (17% off) Original price: $649.95 Save $231 on the Vitamix Ascent X3, a high-performance blender built for everything from smoothies and frozen desserts to hot soups. Discounts this deep on Vitamix blenders are uncommon, making this a notable deal while supplies last. Original price: $219.99 The Keurig K-Duo brews both K-Cup pods and ground coffee, giving you more flexibility for your morning routine. It also includes settings for hot and iced coffee, with a stronger brew mode designed to reduce dilution over ice. A drip-minimizing glass carafe and warming plate help keep coffee hot after brewing. Original price: $219.99 Ninja's Kitchen System includes multiple blending containers for everything from smoothies to chopping herbs and vegetables, helping reduce the need for separate appliances. The powerful motor and blade assembly are designed to handle tougher ingredients like ice and nuts with ease. READ MORE: 18 brands still making cookware and kitchen tools in the U.S. — from skillets to spatulas Original price: $299.99 The Charbroil Performance grill offers enough cooking space to prepare up to 17 burgers at once, making it a solid option for family cookouts and backyard gatherings. An electronic ignition system starts the grill with the push of a button, so there's no need for a lighter. Find coolers, patio furniture and other outdoor gear for less. Best Choice Products solar LED patio umbrella: $44.99 (57% off) Coleman 54-quart steel cooler: $149.99 (25% off) Wicker swivel rocker chairs: $618.99 (21% off) Ninja Foodi air fryer: $199.99 (20% off) Coleman Ice Chest wheeled cooler: $59.99 (20% off) Original price: $34.99 Add a warm glow to your backyard with these solar-powered string lights. They automatically turn on at night after charging during the day, and the included remote lets you switch between three different lighting modes to match the occasion. Original price: $129.99 Watch Fourth of July fireworks from the comfort of this Adirondack chair, now just $100. The classic design adds a timeless touch to any patio or backyard, and it folds flat for easier storage when the season ends. Original price: $289.99 The Igloo Trailmate is built for beach days, tailgates and camping trips, with oversized all-terrain wheels and an elevated design that rolls more easily over uneven ground. It also includes a removable serving tray for drinks and snacks, plus built-in holders for fishing rods and other gear. Original price: $249.99 Take the edge off hot summer days with this portable misting fan, which delivers cooling airflow and mist for patios, backyards and outdoor gatherings. The versatile design converts from a pedestal fan to a tabletop model in seconds, and the rechargeable battery provides up to 24 hours of runtime on a single charge. READ MORE: Shopping for America 250? Here's what's actually made in the USA — and what's imported Vacuums, pillows and cleaning products are heavily discounted right now. Lefant LiDAR Robot vacuum and mop: $129.99 (50% off) Dryer vent cleaner: $7.99 (43% off) Chenille bath rug: $9.37 (37% off) Pain relief cooling pillow: $39.98 (33% off) Original price: $199.99 Unlike battery-powered models, the corded Shark Rocket provides continuous power for uninterrupted cleaning. Weighing less than nine pounds, it's easy to carry from room to room, and the included upholstery tool helps remove pet hair from furniture and other soft surfaces. Original price: $599 The Shark Matrix Clean robot vacuum uses a grid-style cleaning pattern to cover floors thoroughly from edge to edge. After each cleaning cycle, it automatically empties into a self-emptying dock that can hold debris for up to 60 days. The self-cleaning brushroll is designed to reduce hair wrap and minimize maintenance. Original price: $79.99 Save $20 on this two-pack of hotel-style pillows. The no-shit fill is designed to help the pillows maintain their shape overnight, while the 250-thread-count cover provides a soft, smooth feel. Original price: $27.99 Keep shower essentials organized and off the ledge with this five-piece shower caddy set. The adhesive installation requires no drilling, and each shelf is designed to hold bottles, soap and other bathroom essentials while supporting up to 40 pounds. Get ready for your next trip with carry-ons, toiletry bags, neck pillows and more. Travel neck pillow: $15.86 (28% off) Bagsmart travel duffle: $29.99 (19% off) Luggage scale: $7.99 (11% off) Original price: $219.99 Save $104 on this scratch-resistant Samsonite suitcase. The distinctive color makes it easier to spot at baggage claim, while 360-degree spinner wheels help you maneuver smoothly through busy airports. Original price: $22.99 Bagsmart's hanging toiletry bag keeps skincare, toiletries and other travel essentials neatly organized with multiple compartments. The built-in hook lets you hang it on a towel rack or bathroom door for easy access without taking up valuable counter space. READ MORE: Celebrate America's 250th with these patriotic keepsakes and collectibles, from $16 Original price: $39.99 Keep your suitcase organized with this 10-piece packing cube set. Multiple cube sizes, a shoe bag and a hanging toiletry case make it easier to separate clothing, shoes and travel essentials while maximizing luggage space. Save hundreds on outlet extenders, AirPods and more. Blink Outdoor 4 cameras, 5-pack: $104.99 (65% off) Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones: $149.95 (25% off) Travel power strip: $16.99 (19% off) Apple AirTag, 4-pack: $89 (10% off) Original price: $12.96 Turn one wall outlet into nine with this outlet extender, which includes five AC outlets and four USB ports. It also features built-in surge protection to help safeguard connected devices from power spikes. Original price: $129 Apple's AirPods 4 are available for less than $100 for the Fourth of July. The updated design provides a more secure fit, while the dust-, sweat- and water-resistant construction is built for everyday use. Improved audio quality makes them a solid choice for music, podcasts and calls.  Original price: $359 These Bose QuietComfort headphones have dropped to their lowest price yet. Plush ear cushions provide lasting comfort during extended listening sessions, and up to 24 hours of battery life keep the music going throughout the day. Power outages are common in the summer, so grab these discounted options now. Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus: $1,799 (36% off) Pulsar 7,250-watt dual-fuel generator: $998 (23% off) PowerSmart 3600-watt portable inverter generator: $365.49 (21% off) DuroMax 15,000-watt tri-fuel generator: $2,499 (17% off) Original price: $829 The Jackery Explorer 1,000 v2 powers appliances like fridges, electric pots and AC units, but takes up a fraction of the space of other generators. It has multiple charging ports, including USB-C, USB-A, a DC car port and three AC outlets. Activate emergency charging and get back to full battery in just one hour. Original price: $499.99 Prepare for potential power outages and emergencies with the Anker SOLIX C1000. It has 11 charging ports that combine to offer 1,800 watts of power and fully recharges in less than an hour. Use the app to adjust charging speeds and track your energy usage. Original price: $3,699 The EF EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 provides up to 4,000 watts of power for backup use during outages or off-grid living. It supports charging through standard AC power or compatible solar panels, and the connected app makes it easy to monitor and manage the system from your phone. Popular brands on sale include Eddie Bauer, Carhartt and Hanes. Button-up pajama set: $19.99 (44% off) Eddie Bauer men's Rainier pants: $42 (40% off) Carhartt men's Iconic K87 T-shirt: $13.68 (32% off) Under Armour men's golf polo: $27.82 (30% off) READ MORE: American-owned clothing brands for effortless red, white and blue style Original price: $19.99 Celebrate America's 250th anniversary with this commemorative hat, now 30% off. The front features patriotic symbols including a bald eagle, the Statue of Liberty and the American flag, making it a standout choice for Fourth of July festivities. Original price: $28 Made with cotton sourced from American farms, this Hanes zip-up hoodie is a lightweight layer for cool summer evenings. An adjustable drawstring hood and roomy front pockets add everyday comfort and convenience. Original price: $24.98 With summer in full swing, this $10 polo is a wardrobe staple. Reviewers say it fits true to size, and the quick-drying fabric makes it a practical choice for everything from golf outings to backyard barbecues. Original price: $39.99 At 80% off, this wireless sports bra is one of the biggest discounts in the roundup. The stretchy fabric provides a barely-there feel, while the wide straps offer comfortable support for everyday wear and low-impact workouts. Practice more self-care with these beauty products. Oral-B Rechargeable electric toothbrush: $99.99 (23% off) Dyson Airwrap i.d. multi-styler: $519 (20% off) Minoxidil for men hair regrowth treatment: $63.96 (20% off) Manscaped The Beard Hedger trimmer: $84.99 (15% off) Original price: $109.96 The Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5300 offers an affordable way to upgrade to an electric toothbrush. It includes a pressure sensor to help prevent overly aggressive brushing, along with multiple cleaning modes for everyday care and gum health. READ MORE: 4 veteran-owned beard care brands worth trying, plus expert grooming tips Original price: $249.99 The Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex is designed to speed up your styling routine with high-speed airflow and multiple styling positions. Its rotating nozzle adjusts to different angles for added flexibility while drying and styling. Original price: $9.99 Refresh tired-looking eyes with these under-eye patches, which contain a cooling, hydrating treatment. The patches are designed to help hydrate the under-eye area and leave skin looking smoother. For more Deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals Original price: $49.99 The GE smart scale tracks up to 14 body metrics beyond weight, including body fat, muscle mass and bone mass. Measurement sync to the companion app to monitor changes over time. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f7ebc2ca79de236240ad Xander Schauffele discusses 'passionate' New York golf fans after Ryder Cup, Wyndham Clark vitriol te 2026-06-30T17:07:55.202Z Xander Schauffele discusses 'passionate' New York golf fans after Ryder Cup, Wyndham Clark vitriol Just months after New York golf fans were the subject of controversy for how they behaved at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, they hardly slowed their roll as the PGA Tour returned there. The U.S. Open took place at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club near the Hamptons this past weekend, and on championship Sunday, Wyndham Clark was public enemy No. 1. Clark had to go through boos and jeers en route to his second U.S. Open title, which are extremely unusual sounds at golf tournaments. Perhaps one particular reason for facing somewhat of a road-game crowd was the fact that he was paired with Scottie Scheffler, who is a U.S. Open victory away from winning the career Grand Slam. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM On the other hand, one could argue Clark has brought it upon himself — he was banned from Oakmont Country Club after destroying a locker and has had other on-course outbursts and cheating controversies. "I sort of heard some things about, I try to turn some golf on. I saw I think I saw his 18th hole, I got back to the house and watched him play come up 18. But yeah, I did hear, you know, he's getting some flack. It's a tricky thing," Xander Schauffele told Fox News Digital in a recent interview. But Clark was all class after the victory in his post-round media availability and in a heartfelt social media post, and Schauffele took notice. "I thought he handled it incredibly well and, like he even mentioned in his interview, he kind of used that as fuel to play even better and sort of prove it to himself more than anyone else," Schauffele said. RORY MCILROY DISCUSSES BETHPAGE BLACK FANS, WHETHER HE'D WANT RYDER CUP BACK IN NEW YORK Schauffele even mentioned that the boos Clark heard in Canada for wearing a Jack Hughes jersey were "more lighthearted than what was happening to him in New York," which begs the question of whether players want to, and should, still go to the New York area. The ruckus caused Golf Channel's Eamon Lynch to call Long Island golf fans a "stain" on the game who "don't deserve" to have major championships in the area. It doesn't need repeating what Rory McIlroy and Team Europe went through last September at Bethpage Black. But Schauffele, whose father even admitted he would not go to last year's Ryder Cup because of what he accurately predicted, would not go that far. "I've always enjoyed playing anywhere near New York or in the Northeast. My experiences have been good. I mean, I know the Ryder Cup got a little spicy and there's obviously anticipation that, you know, fans are pretty, I like to call passionate. So, it is what it is. "I'm sure if you ask 100 different people, you're going to get different answers. But for the most part, you know, I try to get them on my side as soon as possible." The PGA Championship will be at Bethpage Black in 2033, and Shinnecock Hills will again host the U.S. Open in 2036. Other upcoming PGA events in the New York metro area include next year's BMW Championship at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, the 2028 U.S. Open at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, and the 2029 PGA Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f7d7c2ca79de236240a4 NPR retracts false report claiming Justice Samuel Alito is retiring from the Supreme Court te 2026-06-30T17:07:35.747Z NPR retracts false report claiming Justice Samuel Alito is retiring from the Supreme Court NPR retracted a story on Tuesday after falsely reporting that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito had retired.  NPR published a story headlined, "Justice Samuel Alito, who wrote the opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, retires," that would have rocked the Supreme Court. However, NPR quickly retracted the story and replaced it with an editor’s note.  "Earlier today we erroneously published a story saying that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito was retiring. He has not announced his retirement and we have retracted the story," NPR wrote.  NPR top editor Thomas Evans said the reporter has reached out to apologize to Justice Alito.  ALITO NOT EXPECTED TO RETIRE THIS TERM, COOLING SUPREME COURT VACANCY SPECULATION: SOURCES "Due to a misunderstanding, NPR’s Supreme Court and Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg incorrectly reported that Justice Samuel Alito had retired. Neither Justice Alito nor the Supreme Court Public Information Office has announced his retirement," Evans told Fox News Digital. "As soon as the error was realized, the story was retracted and removed from NPR’s website and an on-air correction was broadcast. We regret the error and any confusion this may have caused," Evans continued. "This afternoon, Mrs. Totenberg will appear on ‘All Things Considered’ to explain what happened. She has reached out to Justice Alito to apologize." The Supreme Court did not immediately respond to a request for comment by Fox News Digital. Courthouse News reporter Kelsey Reichmann posted a comment from SCOTUS public information officer declaring the NPR report to be "inaccurate."  Rumors about Alito, 76, potentially retiring have grown because of his age, his two-decade tenure on the bench and speculation that he may want to make sure a conservative successor is confirmed by the current Republican-led Senate before the upcoming midterm elections. Former President George W. Bush nominated him for the nation's highest court in 2005.  In April, a source told Fox News Digital that Alito "is not stepping down this term and is in the process of hiring the rest of his clerks for the next term." Two other sources have told Fox News that Alito is not retiring this term, which lasts until the Supreme Court's new year kicks off in October. TRUMP YANKS FEDERAL FUNDING FROM NPR IN MOVE CONSERVATIVE ADVOCATES SAID WAS LONG OVERDUE President Donald Trump recently told Fox Business' Maria Bartiromo he is "prepared" to appoint up to three Supreme Court justices if vacancies arise. Trump added he has a shortlist of nominees in mind, though he did not mention any names. During that interview, Trump said he thinks Alito, who has sided with him on most high-profile cases, is "in very good physical health" and called him "one of the great justices of our time." In 2025, Trump’s rescissions package included over $1 billion in cuts from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the government-backed funding arm for NPR and PBS. The clawback package teed up cuts to "woke" spending on foreign aid programs and public media, as Republicans finally yanked federal money from NPR in a move advocates said was long overdue. JONATHAN TURLEY: SUPREME COURT HANDS TRUMP A BORDER VICTORY LIBERALS CAN'T SPIN Once Trump returned to the White House, stripping public media of federal funding began to emerge as a realistic possibility after longtime NPR editor Uri Berliner spoke out about the public radio outlet in 2024 with a Free Press essay. Berliner, who detailed the "absence of viewpoint diversity" at the organization, criticized NPR’s coverage of Russiagate, the COVID lab leak theory and Hunter Biden’s scandalous laptop, among other issues. Once Trump signed the rescissions package into law, Republicans celebrated it as a victory for cutting off the flow of U.S. taxpayer dollars to what they called "woke" initiatives. NPR has continued to operate, relying on benefactors, member donations, and corporate sponsorship. This is a developing story, more to come. Fox News Digital’s Julia Bonavita, Alec Schemmel and Ashley Oliver contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f7c4c2ca79de2362409b Shock poll: Talarico ties Paxton in Texas Senate race, threatening GOP stronghold te 2026-06-30T17:07:16.289Z Shock poll: Talarico ties Paxton in Texas Senate race, threatening GOP stronghold It's been nearly four decades since a Democrat won a U.S. Senate election in reliably red Texas. But a new poll suggests that Democrats have a good shot this year of breaking their long losing streak. Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico and Republican nominee Ken Paxton, the longtime state attorney general, are tied at 47% support among likely voters in Texas, according to a New York Times/Siena survey released on Tuesday. Paxton, who defeated longtime GOP incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in last month's Republican nomination runoff election just days after landing the backing of President Donald Trump, is facing off against Talarico, a state representative considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, in a midterm race that is among a handful that will likely determine if the Republicans hold their slim Senate majority. MAGA TRIUMPH: PAXTON TOPS CORNYN IN BATTLE FOR GOP SENATE NOMINATION The poll points to some troubling signs for Paxton, who has faced a slew of scandals and legal problems that have battered him over the past decade. In 2023, the Texas House of Representatives voted to impeach Paxton, but he was eventually acquitted of all charges by the state Senate. And Paxton is dealing with a messy divorce, with his wife Angela, a state senator, citing "biblical grounds" based on "recent discoveries" in filing last year to end their marriage. According to the poll, fewer than four in 10 respondents said Paxton has good character or the right kind of moral values. And half said Paxton, a MAGA firebrand and one of the leaders of the legal effort to overturn Trump's 2020 presidential election loss, is too extreme. Also problematic for Paxton is that his support, at 47%, is below the 50% of respondents who said they preferred Republicans to control the Senate next year. The poll also shows Talarico winning the support of 61% of Hispanic — voters less than two years after Trump carried the Hispanic vote in Texas in the last presidential election — and leading the 63-year-old Paxton by 27 points among independents. THE TEN RACES THAT WILL DETERMINE THE SENATE'S MAJORITY And the survey spotlights a massive gender gap, with Talarico winning female votes by 18 points and Paxton ahead among male voters by the same margin. Talarico, a 37-year-old former middle school teacher and Presbyterian seminarian who topped progressive firebrand and vocal Trump critic Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the March Democratic Senate primary, has emerged as the top Democratic fundraiser in Senate races, hauling in a massive $27 million in the first three months of this year. But Republicans have repeatedly targeted Talarico, spotlighting his past controversial comments, including suggesting that "God is nonbinary" or that there are six biological sexes. TRUMP ROASTS DEM CANDIDATE AS UNELECTABLE FOR CARDINAL SIN IN TEXAS In his victory speech last month, Paxton mocked the Democratic nominee as "tofu Talarico," "six-gender Jimmy," "James Talafreako" and "low-T Talarico."  And he said in a Fox News Digital interview after winning the nomination: "James Talarico doesn't belong in Texas. We cannot let him be the center of the state of Texas. He fits in California. He does not fit here." The poll suggests the Democratic Party brand may impede Talarico, with a majority of respondents seeing Democrats as too far to the left. DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB And following a divisive primary with Crockett, who is Black, the poll indicates that 12% of Black voters have a negative opinion of Talarico, who is White. But likely helping Talarico is the economy. Sixty percent of those questioned gave a thumbs down to how Trump was handling cost-of-living issues, which will do Paxton no favors. It's no surprise: Talarico is highlighting economic concerns over soaring prices, saying in a new ad as he walks out of a grocery store that "too many Texans feel like they’re drowning." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f7b0c2ca79de23624092 Appeals court revives lawsuit by Alaska Airlines flight attendants fired after opposing Pride message te 2026-06-30T17:06:56.840Z Appeals court revives lawsuit by Alaska Airlines flight attendants fired after opposing Pride message A federal appeals court revived a lawsuit brought by two former Alaska Airlines flight attendants who say they were fired after expressing religious objections to the airline's support for the Equality Act, allowing their religious discrimination claims to proceed. The Ninth Circuit ruled Wednesday there is sufficient evidence for a jury to determine whether Lacey Smith and Marli Brown were fired because of their religious beliefs, reviving the lawsuit they filed against the airline. "We are grateful the court recognized the clear evidence of religious discrimination against Marli and Lacey by both Alaska Airlines and the flight attendants’ union," Stephanie Taub, senior counsel at First Liberty Institute, who argued before the Court back in August 2025, said in a statement. JUDGE AWARDED $640K AFTER REFUSING TO OFFICIATE SAME-SEX WEDDINGS "The Ninth Circuit’s decision today reinforces that federal civil rights laws protect people of faith from discrimination by their employer or their union," Taub added. "You cannot be fired because your employer does not like your religious beliefs." In early 2021, Alaska Airlines said it would support the proposed Equality Act on an online internal employee network. The Equality Act, which was introduced by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., sought to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes in employment, housing, and other capacities under federal civil rights law. It passed the House in February 2021. MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL FACES BACKLASH FOR ITS STANCE ON CHRISTIANS WRITING BIBLE VERSES ON PRIDE CAPS The airline asked employees to comment in an online forum for employees, and Smith asked a question, writing, "As a company, do you think it’s possible to regulate morality?" In the same forum, Brown shared a comment conveying her sincere religious beliefs that the Equality Act would adversely affect women, girls, and people of faith. Following their comments on the online forum, Smith and Brown were investigated and fired from their jobs, with Alaska Airlines saying that the comments from Smith and Brown were "discriminatory," "hateful" and "offensive." DOJ CRACKING DOWN ON MLB FOR POTENTIAL RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION AFTER PRIDE NIGHT CAPS CONTROVERSY In a statement to Fox News Digital, Smith said, "Even though the lawsuit is between Alaska and myself, the win in the Ninth Circuit is for a nation of people who have also been facing religious discrimination in the workplace." Brown told Fox News Digital, "When I read the decision from the Ninth Circuit, I was overwhelmed with gratefulness. I’m hopeful that with this favorable ruling, no one else will have to go through anything like what I’ve been through." Fox News Digital reached out to Alaska Airlines for comment. Fox News’ Joshua Nelson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f79dc2ca79de23624089 117 dead dogs found at animal rescue, many with gunshot wounds as investigators probe for answers te 2026-06-30T17:06:37.378Z 117 dead dogs found at animal rescue, many with gunshot wounds as investigators probe for answers Deputies uncovered the remains of more than 100 dogs, many of them with gunshot wounds, during a search of an animal rescue under investigation for alleged abuse and fraud. While executing a search warrant, deputies with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office made the gruesome discovery at Miranda's Rescue in Fortuna, California on Thursday. In what Sheriff William Honsal dubbed as a "horrific scene," investigators uncovered 117 "canine remains," skulls, "hundreds of bones, and six loose microchips" at various dig sites on the property, according to a release. 'DEEPLY DISTURBING' ANIMAL CRUELTY OPERATION INVOLVING BABY MONKEYS BUSTED BY ICE INVESTIGATION The search warrant authorized investigators to search the grounds and buildings associated with Miranda’s Rescue and Shannon Miranda for evidence related to alleged animal cruelty and fraud, including excavating open fields where investigators believed deceased dogs were buried in mass graves. 📩 Send me a story idea: kelsie.cairns@fox.com 📸 Instagram: kelsiecairns_tv 🎥 Facebook: Kelsie Cairns Dozens of the unearthed dog bodies appeared to be in varying states of decomposition. X-ray results revealed several dogs showed evidence of bullet fragments, deputies say. FOLLOW US ON X Investigators also discovered an area inside a barn on the property where they believe the dogs were killed. More than 600 dog collars were recovered from that same location. RIDGLAN FARMS RESCUE BEAGLES FIND NEW LIFE HELPING VETERANS OVERCOME WAR TRAUMA WITH PAWS OF WAR Currently, no charges have been filed. However, the sheriff's office said, "If there is sufficient evidence to support violations of animal cruelty, fraud, or other applicable laws, the case will be submitted to the prosecution team for review and consideration of criminal charges." GET BREAKING NEWS BY EMAIL In a recent public statement posted to the rescue's website, founder Shannon Miranda said in part: "Allegations made without a full understanding of the circumstances can harm not only my reputation but also the future of an organization that has served this community for decades. At Miranda’s Rescue, our mission is to save as many animals as we safely can—always balancing compassion for animals with our responsibility to protect families, children, other pets, and the public." Fox News Digital has reached out to Miranda for comment. CLICK HERE FOR MORE US NEWS The investigation is ongoing. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f789c2ca79de23624080 Internet tries to dunk on German super fan Freddy after discovering he's been to America before te 2026-06-30T17:06:17.930Z Internet tries to dunk on German super fan Freddy after discovering he's been to America before With Germany's unceremonious exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the hands of Paraguay on Monday evening, it means the four-time world champions, as well as their rabid fans, are heading across the pond and back to Deutschland. Though apparently, not all of their fans are heading back home for the rest of the summer. German superfan Freddy, the viral sensation who has been documenting his romp through the United States, booked his stay in America through the end of the tournament (love the confidence), so he will be hanging out in the good old U-S-of-A for another month. Not everyone is happy about this apparently, as large portions of cynics and haters on social media are apparently ready to say auf wiedersehen to Freddy. INTERNET FALLS IN LOVE WITH GERMAN SOCCER FAN DISCOVERING AMERICAN SOUTH AHEAD OF 2026 WORLD CUP It's true what Harvey Dent once said, "You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain." What's even worse is some other fans on the internet have done some digging on Freddy's X account and have found instances of him in the United States before this year's World Cup trip and even disparaging the country he has come to love. I'll address the "never been to America" claim first. I went back and looked through Freddy's posts pretty extensively (in addition to having covered his initial trip to America back at the beginning of the month), and unless I missed something, he never once said that this was his first time in the country. FREDDY, THE VIRAL WORLD CUP TOURIST, LINKS UP WITH COUNTRY SINGER ELLA LANGLEY AND THE INTERNET LOVES IT People keep pointing to his posts back in 2023 about having been to a concert in the States, but going to a venue in a major city like New York or Los Angeles and staying there for a few days before flying home is a lot different than renting a car and driving through all the small towns throughout America. Freddy experienced the real beauty of our country, not just the coastal elite cities, which is why the second post needs addressing too. There have been a ton of people who have unearthed posts from Freddy speaking ill of the United States, and honestly, this just drives home what I and several others have been saying. REPUBLICAN LEADERS EMBRACE VIRAL WORLD CUP FANS THEY SAY ARE DISCOVERING THE 'REAL AMERICA' Freddy's preconceived notions of America were likely on full display in all of those "hate posts," but he clearly gave the country a second chance and even fell in love with it in the process. He got to see the absolute best that small-town America had to offer during his trip here, and it looks like he's changed his tune. That's the funny thing about these losers on the internet who have nothing better to do but try and scrub through every moment of someone's internet life in hopes of finding a "gotcha" moment. TNA WRESTLING INVITES VIRAL WORLD CUP FAN TO SLAMMIVERSARY: 'THIS WILL BE FUN!' They don't think people have the capacity to change their thoughts, opinions, and biases. FOX ONE’S NEW WORLD CUP VIEWING EXPERIENCE Maybe there was a time in his life when Freddy hated America, or at least what he thought was America, but that has obviously changed. I hope Freddy had a blast while he experienced America at its finest, and I'm appreciative he let us all come along for the journey. WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE Unfortunately, the downside to that is having to deal with the droves of internet trolls, but I'm sure he didn't let that put a damper on an otherwise awesome World Cup trip. Come back anytime, Freddy, and danke schön. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f776c2ca79de23624077 The trick to smoother streaming at home and on the road te 2026-06-30T17:05:58.466Z The trick to smoother streaming at home and on the road Ever settle in for movie night, hit play, and thirty seconds later, the picture dissolves into a blurry mess of pixels? You restart the app. You restart the router. You're paying for a fast internet plan, so what gives? Before you spend forty minutes on hold with your provider, there's something you should know: the problem might not be your connection speed at all. It m ight be your internet provider putting the brakes on certain types of traffic. The good news is that one tool may help, especially when your provider is slowing down streaming traffic that it can recognize. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report TRAVEL MISTAKE PUTS PHONE, LAPTOP AND STREAMING ACCOUNTS AT RISK Internet service providers handle enormous amounts of traffic. When their networks get congested, they look for ways to manage the load. One of the handiest tools in their bag is a technique called bandwidth throttling. It means deliberately slowing down certain types of traffic to ease the pressure on their infrastructure. Streaming video is one of the first things they may target because it eats up a lot of bandwidth fast. Here's the part that most people don't realize: your ISP can often see what kind of traffic you're sending and receiving. When they detect a steady stream of traffic flowing from a streaming platform, they may put a speed limit on that traffic specifically, even while your overall connection seems fine. You won't always get a warning, but you will notice a dip in video quality. That's why you can load a webpage in a blink but still have to sit through buffer wheels before your show even gets going. The issue may not be your speed. It may be what your ISP does with it once they know how you're using it. Travelers can run into an additional wrinkle. Hotel networks and public connections are often shared across dozens or hundreds of people at once. When everyone is streaming, browsing and video calling at the same time, the network slows to a crawl and your video quality pays the price. What worked fine at home suddenly stutters and stalls on the road. A VPN, or virtual private network, is usually thought of as a privacy and security tool, but it may also help with some throttling problems. It runs quietly in the background while you stream. When you connect to the internet through a VPN, your traffic gets encrypted before it leaves your device. Your ISP can still see that you're using data, but it can no longer easily see what kind. Streaming traffic looks like encrypted data passing through, which means there's no obvious streaming target to throttle. The result can be a more consistent connection, fewer interruptions and less of that infuriating mid-episode quality drop. And there's an extra benefit for travelers: Your traffic is encrypted on hotel, airport and café Wi-Fi. That can help protect what you're doing online, though it won't magically fix a network that's overloaded. A good VPN can help keep your connection more stable across the unpredictable variety of networks you encounter while traveling, not to mention help protect you from public Wi-Fi hackers. Just keep in mind that some streaming services may limit or block VPN connections, so you may need to switch servers or check the service's rules. NETFLIX CO-CEO CLARIFIES STREAMING GIANT’S LIVE SPORTS STRATEGY AMID NFL LINEUP EXPANSION, FEDERAL SCRUTINY There's no shortage of VPN options out there, but for streaming, a few things matter more than others. Speed is king when it comes to video. A VPN that encrypts your traffic but slows your connection defeats the whole purpose. Look for a provider with a large network of fast servers and a proven track record with high-definition and 4K content. Device support matters too. Your streaming life doesn't live on just one screen. It's also on your phone, your smart TV, your tablet and your laptop. A good VPN covers all of them under one subscription and will let you run it on multiple devices simultaneously. Our top VPN pick checks all these boxes and is more than fast enough for high-quality streaming. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com Before blaming throttling, test your speed with the VPN on and off, restart your router, move closer to Wi-Fi, use a 5 GHz or 6 GHz network when available and try Ethernet for your main TV. If everything else is fast but streaming keeps dropping quality, throttling becomes a more likely suspect. Pair a VPN with these tips, and buffering becomes a rare event instead of a nightly battle. Turn on your VPN first, then launch your streaming service. It'll save you the hassle of reconnecting in the middle of the episode. In general, the closer the server, the lower the lag. A server in your home city usually delivers the best balance of speed and stability. If streaming still struggles with a VPN running, an outdated router might be your weakest link. A dual-band or Wi-Fi 6 model makes a noticeable difference on busy home networks. Looking to upgrade your home setup? Check out our guide to the Top 5 routers for best security in 2026 at Cyberguy.com Most major streaming apps let you save content for offline playback. Load up a few episodes on your home connection before a long trip, and you might not need to stream at all for the first leg of your journey. INSTANTLY UPGRADE YOUR STREAMING: AT HOME AND WHEN TRAVELING Buffering isn't something you have to accept, and your internet plan may not be the issue. Your provider could be managing your traffic when it recognizes what you're watching. A reliable VPN can make it that much harder, whether you're on your couch or in a hotel room across the country. Remember: the trick to smoother streaming isn't always paying for faster speed. It's making sure the speed you're already paying for actually reaches your device. Are you using a VPN for streaming, or have you found another workaround that does the job? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f763c2ca79de2362406e Postal worker and mom of two killed while delivering mail, leaving kids orphaned after husband's death: cops te 2026-06-30T17:05:39.011Z Postal worker and mom of two killed while delivering mail, leaving kids orphaned after husband's death: cops A mother of two and longtime postal worker was killed while delivering mail Tuesday in North Carolina, officials said, leaving her children orphaned just months after their father died in a December car accident. Brandi Reynolds, who was a postal deliver driver for the United States Postal Service, was shot and killed on Friday just before 4:16 p.m. in Hayes, North Carolina, according to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. William Craig Durham was arrested after allegedly killing Reynolds and is charged with kidnapping and murder. Authorities found Reynolds dead when they arrived to the scene. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST Reynolds was employed as a rural mail carrier for the USPS, according to The Wilkes Record. She was delivering mail when Durham allegedly shot and killed her, according to the Charlotte Observer. SUSPECT CHARGED IN FATAL STABBING OF POSTAL WORKER IN NYC DELI OVER SPOT IN LINE HAS HISTORY OF KNIFE VIOLENCE Authorities alleged in an arrest report obtained by the Charlotte Observer that Durham restrained Reynolds and removed "the victim from one place to another without the consent of the victim." LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? FIND MORE ON THE TRUE CRIME HUB Reynolds' husband Brent Reynolds passed away after he was in a car accident in December. The couple have two kids, who will now be without parents. In a Facebook post from February, Reynolds wrote in a caption of a picture with her two kids: "The reason I get up every morning. Love these babies. They are what makes life worth living." She frequently posted pictures with her kids and husband on social media. In one post about her child, Reynolds wrote: "I couldn’t deny this baby if I tried. Love her so much and man do i wish i could slow time down and keep her little forever." Officials haven't revealed any relationship between Reynolds and Durham. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f74fc2ca79de23624065 Trump admin backs Bolivia state of emergency as leftist ex-leader's loyalists fracture nation te 2026-06-30T17:05:19.555Z Trump admin backs Bolivia state of emergency as leftist ex-leader's loyalists fracture nation The conservative, pro-U.S. government of President Rogrigo Paz is being challenged in the streets by radical elements led by a former socialist president recently forcing the new Bolivian government to introduce a state of emergency. The landlocked mineral-rich nation is facing one of its deepest political crises in decades as economic turmoil, nationwide protests and a battle over the country’s future threaten to reshape the balance of power in South America. The unrest comes after years of political divisions following the tenure of socialist President Evo Morales, whose Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) dominated Bolivian politics for nearly two decades. Internal fractures, economic decline and public frustration have weakened the movement and opened a new chapter of uncertainty. US, SHIELD OF THE AMERICAS CONDEMN 'ONGOING EFFORTS' TO OVERTHROW BOLIVIA'S ELECTED PRESIDENT AMID UNREST The Trump administration recently signaled strong backing for the Paz government while condemning efforts to destabilize the country. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States "Will not allow criminals and drug traffickers to overthrow democratically elected leaders in our hemisphere" and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Bolivia’s "stability, security, and a better future for all Bolivians." Speaking on background, a State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that, "The United States strongly supports President Rodrigo Paz's decision on June 20 to declare a State of Exception to restore order and ensure the free flow of food, medicine, and essential supplies to the Bolivian people.  We are glad that the blockades in Bolivia have ended and the government has restored order." Bolivia’s crisis has been driven by Morales and his supporters furious at the Paz reforms. Protests and road blockades have disrupted transportation, caused shortages and increased pressure on the Paz government. José Luis Lupo, chief of staff and minister of the presidency of Bolivia told Fox News Digital: "After more than 50 days of blockades that severely disrupted the supply of food, fuel, and medicines, paralyzing much of the country's economic activity and straining its democratic stability, I am convinced that Bolivia now faces a unique opportunity to transform a deep crisis into the starting point for a new phase of national reconstruction." He noted that "for weeks, we sought agreements with various sectors because we believe that, in a democracy, every avenue for mutual understanding must be exhausted before resorting to extraordinary measures." He said the state of emergency [state of exception] "was the constitutional last resort to restore freedom of movement, protect critical infrastructure and ensure that Bolivians could once again access essential goods. It was not a measure intended to restrict rights, but rather to protect lives, preserve democracy and restore freedom of movement to millions of citizens." PETE HEGSETH WARNS NARCO-TERRORISTS AS US BACKS BOLIVIA'S GOVERNMENT AMID COUP WARNINGS The turmoil has also had consequences beyond Bolivia’s borders. The country holds some of the world’s largest lithium resources, a key mineral for electric vehicles, batteries and advanced technology supply chains. Competition for influence in resource-rich Latin America has become increasingly important for Washington as China and other global powers expand their presence in the region. Bolivia’s political crisis reflects a broader trend across Latin America, where voters in the last few election cycles have elected conservatives who challenged the left’s business-as-usual politics and in doing so have taken the continent in a rightward direction. The socialist Morales remains an influential figure and continues to command support among rural and indigenous groups, keeping Bolivia’s political divisions alive even as the country searches for a path out of the crisis. Mauricio Ríos García, manager of Crusoe Research and editor of FRACTAL Index in Bolivia, told Fox News Digital, "The 50-day blockades have caused estimated losses of $2.5 billion and the closure of around 13,000 companies. Once the blockades end, a rebound in demand combined with excess liquidity is expected to drive inflation higher." Ríos said, "The government is nearing an IMF agreement that would likely include a new devaluation (exchange rate unification) and other adjustments in exchange for financing of around $3.3–5 billion. This marks growing dependence on the IMF and the United States, while the gradualist approach has left the economy with very little room for maneuver and risks further instability. "Expectations for Bolivia’s economy in the second half of the year have been revised downward. Blockades and deeper structural problems rooted in the government’s gradualist fiscal and monetary policies have worsened the difficult inheritance from the previous administration," he concluded. COLOMBIA'S 'EL TIGRE' SECURES PRESIDENCY AS LEFTIST RIVAL FINALLY CONCEDES DEFEAT For Washington, Bolivia’s future represents more than a domestic political dispute. The outcome could influence America’s strategic position in the Western Hemisphere, the future of critical minerals, and whether Latin America’s recent political shift continues moving away from the left-wing movements that dominated parts of the region during the last two decades. "I am convinced that stability will only endure if it is accompanied by inclusion. There can be no peace where neglect and inequality persist. That is why we are driving a development agenda for historically marginalized regions, particularly the provinces of La Paz, focused on infrastructure, basic services, productive development and the participation of the communities themselves," Lupo said. And as the barricades have lessened, Lupo, chief of staff and minister of the presidency of Bolivia, says, "A different phase is now beginning. I believe the country needs a broad political and social agreement involving the government, parliamentary forces, the regions, the productive sector, and civil society. Bolivia needs to pass reforms that provide legal certainty, promote investment, and modernize strategic sectors such as hydrocarbons, mining, lithium, renewable energy and the justice system. Such consensus is essential to restoring confidence, stabilizing the economy and generating sustainable growth. "I hope to see Bolivia definitively replace confrontation with dialogue, strengthen its institutions, and build a more robust economy characterized by clear rules, democratic stability and greater opportunities for all," Lupo concluded. The Trump administration had increased emergency humanitarian assistance to help address food and medical shortages caused by weeks of unrest, underscoring U.S. concerns that prolonged instability could have broader implications for regional security and democracy. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f73cc2ca79de2362405c Brooke Slusser calls Supreme Court transgender ruling the ‘biggest win’ yet for female athletes te 2026-06-30T17:05:00.097Z Brooke Slusser calls Supreme Court transgender ruling the ‘biggest win’ yet for female athletes Former San Jose State volleyball player Brooke Slusser called Tuesday’s Supreme Court ruling in favor of states protecting women’s sports the "biggest win" female athletes have had yet. Slusser appeared on Fox News’ "The Faulkner Focus" after the high court ruled 6-3 in favor of West Virginia and Idaho in two landmark transgender athlete cases. The ruling upheld state laws requiring student-athletes to compete on sports teams that correspond with their biological sex at birth rather than their gender identity. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE For Slusser, who became one of the most prominent voices in the fight to protect women’s sports after speaking out about a transgender player on her volleyball team in 2024, the decision was deeply personal. "I mean, it’s amazing," Slusser told Harris Faulkner. "It’s the biggest win we’ve had yet, so I couldn’t be happier. We couldn’t ask for more right now." Slusser filed a lawsuit last year over her experience at SJSU, where she said she was not told that teammate Blaire Fleming was transgender despite sharing team spaces, including hotel rooms, locker rooms and living quarters. "I found out from other student-athletes at the university, so it wasn’t even the institution itself that informed us, which makes it even worse," Slusser said. "My whole team had to find out on their own through other student-athletes." Slusser said the issue was not limited to competition. She argued that female athletes were deprived of the ability to make informed decisions about their own privacy and comfort in intimate spaces. "It’s taking away the student-athlete’s choice to choose which safe spaces they’re in," she said. "You’re going into locker rooms, or for my situation, my living space, and being told these are all women, thinking I’m comfortable doing whatever I need to be doing, changing and getting dressed where I want to. And then I found out the whole time that I’ve been sharing hotel rooms, locker rooms, my living space with a man." Slusser continued, "They’re stripping me of my choice to basically choose where I want to get ready and who I am getting ready around. That’s the biggest issue. It’s not even just about safety in the sport as well, it’s about everything else that goes into it." SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS The SJSU volleyball controversy became one of the most high-profile examples in the debate over trans-identifying athletes in women’s sports. Multiple Mountain West teams forfeited matches against San Jose State during that season amid concerns about Fleming’s participation. Slusser told Faulkner that even as Fleming’s teammate, she still had concerns about the physical differences in practice. "I just had to practice with him. I wasn’t even playing against him in a real game," Slusser said. "So the bare minimum, at least I got to know his tendencies so I could keep myself a little bit safer. But even then, I’m still getting slammed in my body. I had bruises on my legs from getting hit with a ball." She added that opponents were put in an even worse position because they didn’t have the same familiarity before stepping on the court. "These other teams don’t know what they’re walking into," Slusser said. "That’s even worse than what I had to go through going into practice every single day, trying to keep myself safe." The Supreme Court’s ruling in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox gives states the authority to maintain separate women’s and girls’ sports categories based on biological sex. The decision is a major victory for advocates who have argued that Title IX was designed to protect female athletes, not force them to compete against biological males. Slusser said San Jose State failed its female athletes by prioritizing Fleming over the rest of the roster. "The fact that they allowed these student-athletes that were men pretending to be women be protected under those Title IX rules that were meant for women to be protected in is the biggest fault that happened," Slusser said. "My institution itself, SJSU, they decided to protect a man and not worry about the 18 other women that should have been protected as well." Slusser also referenced former high school volleyball player Payton McNabb, who suffered serious injuries after being hit in the face by a spike from a transgender opponent in 2022. "This could ruin people’s lives, not even just in athletics, but overall," Slusser said. "Payton McNabb will never be the same from what happened to her, and that’s what we’re trying to stop." For Slusser and other women who have fought this battle publicly, Tuesday’s ruling marks a legal victory that’s been a long time coming. And for the states that passed laws protecting women’s sports, the Supreme Court has now made clear they have the constitutional authority to enforce them. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f728c2ca79de23624053 LeBron James tells Los Angeles Lakers he will leave in free agency after eight seasons: report te 2026-06-30T17:04:40.650Z LeBron James tells Los Angeles Lakers he will leave in free agency after eight seasons: report LeBron James will be in a new destination when his 24th NBA season commences. The NBA's all-time leading scorer reportedly told the Los Angeles Lakers that he would leave the team in free agency after eight seasons with the organization. James joined the Lakers in 2018 after a second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers in which he finally brought a championship to the Ohio city. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM With Los Angeles, James won the 2020 NBA title, his fourth, and passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most points scored in NBA history -- he is at 43,440 and counting. This past season James, who will turn 42 in December, scored 20.9 points per game, the lowest mark of his career, but still managed 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds per contest. The Golden State Warriors are reportedly looking to pair James with Stephen Curry, which would turn one of the NBA's greatest rivalries into two of the game's greatest stars fighting for their fifth title together. The Cavaliers could also be in the mix, but Draymond Green already reportedly opted out of a deal to eventually take even less money with Golden State to make room for James. Meanwhile, Los Angeles will now fully be Luka Doncic's team. The Lakers acquired him in a blockbuster deal with the Dallas Mavericks last year that is widely regarded as one of the most lopsided trades in the history of the league. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! The Lakers reportedly wanted James back, but the four-time MVP was all set -- even with his son, Bronny, on the team. The Jameses became the first father-son duo to not only be teammates in the NBA but also to be active at the same time. If it is Golden State, it would be the fourth team for James. He and Curry teamed up in the 2024 Olympics to bring gold back to the United States for the fifth time in a row. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f701c2ca79de23624048 The 1952 Law That Was Central to the Birthright Citizenship Case te 2026-06-30T17:04:01.739Z The 1952 Law That Was Central to the Birthright Citizenship Case When Congress passed a sweeping immigration reform measure after World War II, it included language that mirrored the 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause — and perhaps even took it a step further. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f6eec2ca79de2362403f The Supreme Court Just Gave the G.O.P. a New Midterm Edge te 2026-06-30T17:03:42.273Z The Supreme Court Just Gave the G.O.P. a New Midterm Edge The decision, which allows parties to spend more in coordination with candidates, is likely to further expand the power of big money in American politics. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f6dac2ca79de23624036 In dissents, justices decried the ruling as a ‘serious mistake’ that would aid ‘birth tourists.’ te 2026-06-30T17:03:22.822Z In dissents, justices decried the ruling as a ‘serious mistake’ that would aid ‘birth tourists.’ Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f6c6c2ca79de23624021 U of A secures $3.74 million to strengthen Arizona's preparedness for New World screwworm te 2026-06-30T17:03:02.854Z U of A secures $3.74 million to strengthen Arizona's preparedness for New World screwworm U of A secures $3.74 million to strengthen Arizona's preparedness for New World screwworm nprevenas Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 16:46 U of A secures $3.74 million to strengthen Arizona's preparedness for New World screwworm Today The University o Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f6b2c2ca79de2362400d Lumo, Proton’s privacy-focused AI chatbot, gets an upgrade te 2026-06-30T17:02:42.883Z Lumo, Proton’s privacy-focused AI chatbot, gets an upgrade Proton's Lumo 2.0 is dropping this week, giving users a broader variety of capabilities. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f69fc2ca79de23624004 Your brand deserves its own stage — Side Events at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 te 2026-06-30T17:02:23.431Z Your brand deserves its own stage — Side Events at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 From October 10-16, host a Side Event and command the room during the week of TechCrunch Disrupt 2026. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f68bc2ca79de23623ffb Amazon launches new $1 billion FDE org, following OpenAI and Anthropic te 2026-06-30T17:02:03.974Z Amazon launches new $1 billion FDE org, following OpenAI and Anthropic Engineers on the new team will embed within companies to deploy purpose-built agents, focusing on fast deployments and customer self-sufficiency. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f678c2ca79de23623ff2 Podcasting platform Riverside enters the newsletter publishing game te 2026-06-30T17:01:44.005Z Podcasting platform Riverside enters the newsletter publishing game Users will be able use AI to create newsletters based on their recordings. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f663c2ca79de23623fe9 Arcturus could halve the grid’s electrical losses using its nano-infused copper te 2026-06-30T17:01:23.542Z Arcturus could halve the grid’s electrical losses using its nano-infused copper Stealthy startup Arcturus uses lasers to infuse carbon nanomaterials into copper, dramatically improving its ability to conduct electricity. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f650c2ca79de23623fe0 X now offers an MCP server to make its platform easier for AI tools to use te 2026-06-30T17:01:04.080Z X now offers an MCP server to make its platform easier for AI tools to use X has launched a hosted MCP server, making it easier for developers to connect AI applications with the company’s API. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f63cc2ca79de23623fd7 Tesla starts testing Cybercab without pedals or a steering wheel in Austin te 2026-06-30T17:00:44.613Z Tesla starts testing Cybercab without pedals or a steering wheel in Austin The company may finally be ready to try to deliver on Elon Musk's years-long promise of launching a robotaxi network of its own. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43f626c2ca79de23623fce Blue Origin still doesn’t know why its New Glenn rocket blew up last month te 2026-06-30T17:00:22.452Z Blue Origin still doesn’t know why its New Glenn rocket blew up last month But the company is still claiming that New Glenn will return to flight this year. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b9d4197238567836bc75 FLL All-Stars Roundup: 10s win district title, Majors rolls on, 11s open with shutout, Juniors face elimination te 2026-06-30T12:43:00.530Z FLL All-Stars Roundup: 10s win district title, Majors rolls on, 11s open with shutout, Juniors face elimination All four Flagstaff Little League All-Star teams were in action over the weekend. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b9c0197238567836bc6c Flagstaff softball Juniors All-Stars falter in two-team district tournament te 2026-06-30T12:42:40.570Z Flagstaff softball Juniors All-Stars falter in two-team district tournament The FGSLL Juniors All-Stars took two losses hosting the District 1 Tournament against Mountain Pines Little League over the weekend. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b9ac197238567836bc63 FGSLL All-Stars Roundup: 10s reach title game, Majors stay alive te 2026-06-30T12:42:20.596Z FGSLL All-Stars Roundup: 10s reach title game, Majors stay alive The FGSLL All-Star 10s will take on Winslow in the district championship on Monday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b998197238567836bc5a HCH Pet of the Week: Diesel te 2026-06-30T12:42:00.627Z HCH Pet of the Week: Diesel Meet Diesel, a handsome 3.5-year-old Shepherd mix who's been patiently waiting for his forever family for far too long. This playful, loyal boy is ready to find a home where he can be someone's best friend and adventure buddy. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b984197238567836bc51 HCH Pet of the Week: Axle te 2026-06-30T12:41:40.657Z HCH Pet of the Week: Axle Axle is waiting at the shelter to meet YOU! Visit us and see if this scruffy, handsome fella could be a great new partner for you. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b970197238567836bc48 Pride-oriented blood drive to take place at Flagstaff DoubleTree te 2026-06-30T12:41:20.692Z Pride-oriented blood drive to take place at Flagstaff DoubleTree A Pride-oriented blood drive is scheduled to take place Wednesday, July 1, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Flagstaff. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b95c197238567836bc36 Flagstaff Event Almanac for June 30 te 2026-06-30T12:41:00.725Z Flagstaff Event Almanac for June 30 June 30 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b948197238567836bc0e Pope Leo pleads with breakaway Catholic group not to commit 'sin of extreme gravity' te 2026-06-30T12:40:40.250Z Pope Leo pleads with breakaway Catholic group not to commit 'sin of extreme gravity' Pope Leo XIV issued an extraordinary last-minute plea Tuesday to a breakaway traditionalist Catholic group to abandon plans to consecrate four bishops without Vatican approval, warning the move was a "sin of extreme gravity" and could deepen a decades-old split with the Church. In a letter addressed to the Rev. Davide Pagliarani, leader of the Society of St. Pius X, Leo urged the group to reconsider before Wednesday's planned ceremony in Econe, Switzerland, saying it would place the bishops involved outside the Church’s communion. "I plead with you and ask you with all my heart: please turn back!" the pope wrote. POPE LEO SENDS UNMISTAKABLE MESSAGE ON IMMIGRANTS DURING VISIT HONORING AMERICA'S FIRST SAINT Under church law, consecrating bishops without papal approval is considered a schismatic act and carries automatic excommunication for both the bishops being ordained and the bishop performing the ceremony. "I urge you to consider carefully the spiritual good of the faithful, because the schismatic act you are about to undertake would deprive them of the licit, and in some cases, even valid reception of the sacraments," Leo wrote. The dispute marks the first major challenge of Leo's pontificate. Since becoming pope, the American-born pontiff has emphasized healing divisions within the Church, including tensions with traditionalist Catholics who favor the old Latin Mass. POPE LEO XIV JOKES YOUNG SPANIARDS WOULD PICK BAD BUNNY OVER HIM DURING MADRID VISIT THIS WEEKEND The Society of St. Pius X was founded after the Second Vatican Council, rejecting many of the church's reforms, including allowing Mass to be celebrated in local languages instead of Latin. The group has long argued that it is preserving authentic Catholic teaching. The society defended its decision to consecrate four new bishops, saying there is a "state of necessity" requiring it to provide bishops for its faithful. The planned ceremony echoes a similar confrontation in 1988, when the group's founder, Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, consecrated four bishops without papal approval. The Vatican responded by excommunicating Lefebvre and the newly ordained bishops, though those excommunications were lifted in 2009 as part of an effort to restore relations. Despite years of dialogue with the Vatican, the SSPX remains outside the church's formal structure. The society has continued to expand in recent decades, reporting hundreds of priests, seminarians and religious members across dozens of countries, making it one of the largest traditionalist movements operating outside the Catholic Church's official authority. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b81e197238567836bbdb Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market Future Scope, Emerging Trends and Revenue Growth by 2031 | Expert Review te 2026-06-30T12:35:42.402Z Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Market Future Scope, Emerging Trends and Revenue Growth by 2031 | Expert Review The pressure sensitive adhesives market is expanding steadily, fueled by growing demand from packaging, automotive, healthcare, electronics, and construction industries. Leading companies are investing in sustainable formulations, high-performance products, and capacity expansion to strengthen their Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b80a197238567836bbd2 As Chronic Back Pain Continues to Affect Millions, Injury 2 Wellness Centers Highlights Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Georgia Residents te 2026-06-30T12:35:22.437Z As Chronic Back Pain Continues to Affect Millions, Injury 2 Wellness Centers Highlights Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Georgia Residents Healthcare providers encourage early, conservative care to help patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7f5197238567836bbc1 Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less te 2026-06-30T12:35:01.448Z Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has offered Iran hundreds of billions of dollars more than it received under President Barack Obama’s nuclear agreement – the one Trump condemned as “the worst deal in history.” The memorandum of understanding released June 17 provides $300 billion for Iran’s economic development and recovery, eases sanctions and unfreezes up to $24 billion in Iranian funds. The deal also implies that Iran will soon be able to charge ships for passing through the Strait of Hormuz, effectively recognizing control of the strategic chokepoint that didn’t exist before the war. By comparison, Obama’s Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action released about $50 billion in frozen Iranian assets, according to the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.  Under a separate deal that coincided with the JCPOA, the U.S. delivered pallets stacked with $400 million in Swiss francs and other currency, a source of particular Republican outrage; the sum was transferred in cash due to sanctions that precluded a wire transfer. Trump’s $300 billion package for Iran makes the JCPOA “look like a pittance,” said Sen. Roger Wicker, the Mississippi Republican who chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee. Trump withdrew the U.S. from the JCPOA in 2018, calling it “one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into.”  The MOU he signed June 17 in France establishes a framework to end the war he initiated four months earlier and to guide negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.  Unlike the JCPOA, the MOU doesn’t tie the funds to an agreement on nuclear enrichment or weapons development. Without such assurances, analysts and former officials said it’s hard to see much in the deal other than unprecedented concessions by the U.S. – certainly not the “unconditional surrender” Trump promised to squeeze from Iran. President Donald Trump oversees Operation Epic Fury at Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Feb. 28, 2026. (White House photo by Daniel Torok) The JCPOA that Trump scrapped included concrete agreements on nuclear material and weapons, rules for monitoring and penalties for non-compliance. “A lot has been sacrificed up front just to get the Strait of Hormuz open again,” said Daniel Schneiderman, who served in the State and Defense departments. He now directs global policy programs at the University of Pennsylvania Washington. Wicker emphasized that he supported Trump’s decision to attack Iran. But he condemned lifting sanctions and unfreezing assets, warning that Iran will use such funds to pursue its anti-American goals. “I am concerned that the memorandum of understanding negotiates away the victories of Operation Epic Fury in ways that are completely out of step with the President’s goals,” he said in a June 18 statement. Tolls in the Strait of Hormuz Roughly 7.9% of global maritime trade flows through the Strait of Hormuz, including 20% of the world’s supply of oil and natural gas. In March, Iran declared the waterway closed, began attacking ships attempting to pass through it and laid mines. The moves made insurance for vessels transiting the strait prohibitively expensive. Iran spent decades incorporating a strait blockage into its war planning. Western powers were also well aware of the likelihood. When Trump attacked, Iran tested the strategy for the first time. Closing the strait sent global energy markets into a tailspin. By late March, the average price per gallon of gas in the U.S. climbed from $3 to $4.56. Although Trump has asserted that the strait will remain toll-free, Iran has already taken steps to implement fees. One mechanism: mandatory insurance policies. Before the ceasefire, Iran charged $2 million per tanker or $1 per barrel of oil for the few ships it allowed to pass. At pre-war shipping levels, that would top $7.7 billion a year in revenue. Schneiderman called it “significant and extraordinary” for Trump to grant Iran the right to charge tolls.  The legality, however, is dubious. The strait is just 20 miles wide at its narrowest point but international law requires free passage in international waters. Sanctions relief and economic development One big target of criticism in the MOU is the $300 billion economic development plan.  Trump and aides say the U.S. will not contribute funding, but will organize it with regional partners that will contribute or catalyze private investment.  That fund has no equivalent in the JCPOA. The MOU adopts the JCPOA strategy of economic benefits in exchange for cooperation on elimination of nuclear weapons. But key provisions go far beyond the Obama deal’s rewards. Under the JCPOA, the U.S. rolled back most sanctions against Iran, including on its economy and oil exports. Sanctions related to terrorism, human rights abuses and arms remained in place. In exchange, Iran agreed to restrict nuclear enrichment to levels sufficient only for civilian uses and to submit to international inspections. Trump’s MOU, by contrast, calls for the U.S. to “terminate all types of sanctions” against Iran on a schedule to be negotiated later. The U.S. agreed to immediately issue waivers to allow Iran to export oil at market rate for 60 days – a boon worth up to $3 billion by some estimates. Frozen assets Tehran says the West is holding $24 billion of its assets.  The Wall Street Journal reported June 19 that the U.S. and Qatar were working to unfreeze $6 billion of that initially – to be used only for food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies. The Trump administration has highlighted that Iran can only unlock the full benefits offered under the MOU if it meets certain conditions. Officials have described the approach as pay for performance. “Fundamentally, that money is not going to be unfrozen unless we continue to see progress, and that will obviously be a big part of the negotiation in the days to come,” Vice President JD Vance told reporters Monday in Switzerland after talks with Iranian negotiators. The JCPOA also unfroze funds incrementally as Iran met certain targets. The deal was fully implemented in 2016 after the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran had made the promised changes to its nuclear program. Trump killed that deal, and Iran resumed its nuclear program. In 2019, Iran accelerated uranium enrichment. Two years later, it suspended implementation of its monitoring agreement with the IAEA. By 2025, it was rapidly increasing its supply of nuclear material. The MOU provides economic incentives upfront, with no agreement on limits to Iran’s nuclear program. “This was a pretty lopsided deal,” said Bob Einhorn, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former State Department official who helped lead early JCPOA negotiations until 2013. “The benefits to Iran were spelled out pretty clearly – some immediate benefits and some eventual benefits – but the benefits to the United States were amorphous, put off until future negotiations.” Bankrolling aid or terrorism? At a campaign rally in September 2015 in Washington, Trump condemned the JCPOA and called its negotiators “very, very stupid people.” He cited an inflated figure of $150 billion that Iran stood to receive and argued that the unfrozen assets would be used to menace Israel and to pursue other anti-American aims. “They rip us off, they take our money, they make us look like fools, and now they’re back to being who they really are,” he said. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, then a Florida senator, warned at the time that the JCPOA would let Iran buy missiles and boost its terror affiliates. “Flush with cash and arms, Iran will have even more opportunity to expand its influence across the Middle East and threaten its neighbors,” he wrote in September 2015. Rubio and Vance, then an Ohio senator, co-sponsored a bill in 2023 that stated “funds released to Iran for so-called humanitarian purposes cannot be reliably prevented from funding future terrorist attacks.” Trump, Vance and Rubio are now doing precisely what they argued against, critics say. Vance said that unfrozen funds could only purchase American soy, corn and wheat for Iranian civilians. He called it “a classic Trump deal.” Iranian officials disputed that, saying they have agreed to no such limitations. Skeptics of the MOU point out that if Iran has more funds to buy food, it also has more funds to rebuild its military and, potentially, to finance global terror – the exact critique Trump leveled against the JCPOA. “The MOU says, basically, these unfrozen funds can be used just as Iran pleases with no restriction,” Einhorn said. “They have a green light if they wanted to use some of those funds for supporting their Axis of Resistance, their proxies or for their military programs.” “One can hope that the U.S. team will do a better job negotiating the final deal than it did negotiating the MOU,” he added. “I’m not confident that’s going to be the case.” The post Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7f4197238567836bbb9 Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less te 2026-06-30T12:35:00.418Z Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has offered Iran hundreds of billions of dollars more than it received under President Barack Obama’s nuclear agreement – the one Trump condemned as “the worst deal in history.” The memorandum of understanding released June 17 provides $300 billion for Iran’s economic development and recovery, eases sanctions and unfreezes up to $24 billion in Iranian funds. The deal also implies that Iran will soon be able to charge ships for passing through the Strait of Hormuz, effectively recognizing control of the strategic chokepoint that didn’t exist before the war. By comparison, Obama’s Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action released about $50 billion in frozen Iranian assets, according to the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.  Under a separate deal that coincided with the JCPOA, the U.S. delivered pallets stacked with $400 million in Swiss francs and other currency, a source of particular Republican outrage; the sum was transferred in cash due to sanctions that precluded a wire transfer. Trump’s $300 billion package for Iran makes the JCPOA “look like a pittance,” said Sen. Roger Wicker, the Mississippi Republican who chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee. Trump withdrew the U.S. from the JCPOA in 2018, calling it “one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into.”  The MOU he signed June 17 in France establishes a framework to end the war he initiated four months earlier and to guide negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.  Unlike the JCPOA, the MOU doesn’t tie the funds to an agreement on nuclear enrichment or weapons development. Without such assurances, analysts and former officials said it’s hard to see much in the deal other than unprecedented concessions by the U.S. – certainly not the “unconditional surrender” Trump promised to squeeze from Iran. President Donald Trump oversees Operation Epic Fury at Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Feb. 28, 2026. (White House photo by Daniel Torok) The JCPOA that Trump scrapped included concrete agreements on nuclear material and weapons, rules for monitoring and penalties for non-compliance. “A lot has been sacrificed up front just to get the Strait of Hormuz open again,” said Daniel Schneiderman, who served in the State and Defense departments. He now directs global policy programs at the University of Pennsylvania Washington. Wicker emphasized that he supported Trump’s decision to attack Iran. But he condemned lifting sanctions and unfreezing assets, warning that Iran will use such funds to pursue its anti-American goals. “I am concerned that the memorandum of understanding negotiates away the victories of Operation Epic Fury in ways that are completely out of step with the President’s goals,” he said in a June 18 statement. Tolls in the Strait of Hormuz Roughly 7.9% of global maritime trade flows through the Strait of Hormuz, including 20% of the world’s supply of oil and natural gas. In March, Iran declared the waterway closed, began attacking ships attempting to pass through it and laid mines. The moves made insurance for vessels transiting the strait prohibitively expensive. Iran spent decades incorporating a strait blockage into its war planning. Western powers were also well aware of the likelihood. When Trump attacked, Iran tested the strategy for the first time. Closing the strait sent global energy markets into a tailspin. By late March, the average price per gallon of gas in the U.S. climbed from $3 to $4.56. Although Trump has asserted that the strait will remain toll-free, Iran has already taken steps to implement fees. One mechanism: mandatory insurance policies. Before the ceasefire, Iran charged $2 million per tanker or $1 per barrel of oil for the few ships it allowed to pass. At pre-war shipping levels, that would top $7.7 billion a year in revenue. Schneiderman called it “significant and extraordinary” for Trump to grant Iran the right to charge tolls.  The legality, however, is dubious. The strait is just 20 miles wide at its narrowest point but international law requires free passage in international waters. Sanctions relief and economic development One big target of criticism in the MOU is the $300 billion economic development plan.  Trump and aides say the U.S. will not contribute funding, but will organize it with regional partners that will contribute or catalyze private investment.  That fund has no equivalent in the JCPOA. The MOU adopts the JCPOA strategy of economic benefits in exchange for cooperation on elimination of nuclear weapons. But key provisions go far beyond the Obama deal’s rewards. Under the JCPOA, the U.S. rolled back most sanctions against Iran, including on its economy and oil exports. Sanctions related to terrorism, human rights abuses and arms remained in place. In exchange, Iran agreed to restrict nuclear enrichment to levels sufficient only for civilian uses and to submit to international inspections. Trump’s MOU, by contrast, calls for the U.S. to “terminate all types of sanctions” against Iran on a schedule to be negotiated later. The U.S. agreed to immediately issue waivers to allow Iran to export oil at market rate for 60 days – a boon worth up to $3 billion by some estimates. Frozen assets Tehran says the West is holding $24 billion of its assets.  The Wall Street Journal reported June 19 that the U.S. and Qatar were working to unfreeze $6 billion of that initially – to be used only for food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies. The Trump administration has highlighted that Iran can only unlock the full benefits offered under the MOU if it meets certain conditions. Officials have described the approach as pay for performance. “Fundamentally, that money is not going to be unfrozen unless we continue to see progress, and that will obviously be a big part of the negotiation in the days to come,” Vice President JD Vance told reporters Monday in Switzerland after talks with Iranian negotiators. The JCPOA also unfroze funds incrementally as Iran met certain targets. The deal was fully implemented in 2016 after the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran had made the promised changes to its nuclear program. Trump killed that deal, and Iran resumed its nuclear program. In 2019, Iran accelerated uranium enrichment. Two years later, it suspended implementation of its monitoring agreement with the IAEA. By 2025, it was rapidly increasing its supply of nuclear material. The MOU provides economic incentives upfront, with no agreement on limits to Iran’s nuclear program. “This was a pretty lopsided deal,” said Bob Einhorn, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former State Department official who helped lead early JCPOA negotiations until 2013. “The benefits to Iran were spelled out pretty clearly – some immediate benefits and some eventual benefits – but the benefits to the United States were amorphous, put off until future negotiations.” Bankrolling aid or terrorism? At a campaign rally in September 2015 in Washington, Trump condemned the JCPOA and called its negotiators “very, very stupid people.” He cited an inflated figure of $150 billion that Iran stood to receive and argued that the unfrozen assets would be used to menace Israel and to pursue other anti-American aims. “They rip us off, they take our money, they make us look like fools, and now they’re back to being who they really are,” he said. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, then a Florida senator, warned at the time that the JCPOA would let Iran buy missiles and boost its terror affiliates. “Flush with cash and arms, Iran will have even more opportunity to expand its influence across the Middle East and threaten its neighbors,” he wrote in September 2015. Rubio and Vance, then an Ohio senator, co-sponsored a bill in 2023 that stated “funds released to Iran for so-called humanitarian purposes cannot be reliably prevented from funding future terrorist attacks.” Trump, Vance and Rubio are now doing precisely what they argued against, critics say. Vance said that unfrozen funds could only purchase American soy, corn and wheat for Iranian civilians. He called it “a classic Trump deal.” Iranian officials disputed that, saying they have agreed to no such limitations. Skeptics of the MOU point out that if Iran has more funds to buy food, it also has more funds to rebuild its military and, potentially, to finance global terror – the exact critique Trump leveled against the JCPOA. “The MOU says, basically, these unfrozen funds can be used just as Iran pleases with no restriction,” Einhorn said. “They have a green light if they wanted to use some of those funds for supporting their Axis of Resistance, their proxies or for their military programs.” “One can hope that the U.S. team will do a better job negotiating the final deal than it did negotiating the MOU,” he added. “I’m not confident that’s going to be the case.” The post Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7f2197238567836bbb1 Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less te 2026-06-30T12:34:58.740Z Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has offered Iran hundreds of billions of dollars more than it received under President Barack Obama’s nuclear agreement – the one Trump condemned as “the worst deal in history.” The memorandum of understanding released June 17 provides $300 billion for Iran’s economic development and recovery, eases sanctions and unfreezes up to $24 billion in Iranian funds. The deal also implies that Iran will soon be able to charge ships for passing through the Strait of Hormuz, effectively recognizing control of the strategic chokepoint that didn’t exist before the war. By comparison, Obama’s Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action released about $50 billion in frozen Iranian assets, according to the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.  Under a separate deal that coincided with the JCPOA, the U.S. delivered pallets stacked with $400 million in Swiss francs and other currency, a source of particular Republican outrage; the sum was transferred in cash due to sanctions that precluded a wire transfer. Trump’s $300 billion package for Iran makes the JCPOA “look like a pittance,” said Sen. Roger Wicker, the Mississippi Republican who chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee. Trump withdrew the U.S. from the JCPOA in 2018, calling it “one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into.”  The MOU he signed June 17 in France establishes a framework to end the war he initiated four months earlier and to guide negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.  Unlike the JCPOA, the MOU doesn’t tie the funds to an agreement on nuclear enrichment or weapons development. Without such assurances, analysts and former officials said it’s hard to see much in the deal other than unprecedented concessions by the U.S. – certainly not the “unconditional surrender” Trump promised to squeeze from Iran. President Donald Trump oversees Operation Epic Fury at Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Feb. 28, 2026. (White House photo by Daniel Torok) The JCPOA that Trump scrapped included concrete agreements on nuclear material and weapons, rules for monitoring and penalties for non-compliance. “A lot has been sacrificed up front just to get the Strait of Hormuz open again,” said Daniel Schneiderman, who served in the State and Defense departments. He now directs global policy programs at the University of Pennsylvania Washington. Wicker emphasized that he supported Trump’s decision to attack Iran. But he condemned lifting sanctions and unfreezing assets, warning that Iran will use such funds to pursue its anti-American goals. “I am concerned that the memorandum of understanding negotiates away the victories of Operation Epic Fury in ways that are completely out of step with the President’s goals,” he said in a June 18 statement. Tolls in the Strait of Hormuz Roughly 7.9% of global maritime trade flows through the Strait of Hormuz, including 20% of the world’s supply of oil and natural gas. In March, Iran declared the waterway closed, began attacking ships attempting to pass through it and laid mines. The moves made insurance for vessels transiting the strait prohibitively expensive. Iran spent decades incorporating a strait blockage into its war planning. Western powers were also well aware of the likelihood. When Trump attacked, Iran tested the strategy for the first time. Closing the strait sent global energy markets into a tailspin. By late March, the average price per gallon of gas in the U.S. climbed from $3 to $4.56. Although Trump has asserted that the strait will remain toll-free, Iran has already taken steps to implement fees. One mechanism: mandatory insurance policies. Before the ceasefire, Iran charged $2 million per tanker or $1 per barrel of oil for the few ships it allowed to pass. At pre-war shipping levels, that would top $7.7 billion a year in revenue. Schneiderman called it “significant and extraordinary” for Trump to grant Iran the right to charge tolls.  The legality, however, is dubious. The strait is just 20 miles wide at its narrowest point but international law requires free passage in international waters. Sanctions relief and economic development One big target of criticism in the MOU is the $300 billion economic development plan.  Trump and aides say the U.S. will not contribute funding, but will organize it with regional partners that will contribute or catalyze private investment.  That fund has no equivalent in the JCPOA. The MOU adopts the JCPOA strategy of economic benefits in exchange for cooperation on elimination of nuclear weapons. But key provisions go far beyond the Obama deal’s rewards. Under the JCPOA, the U.S. rolled back most sanctions against Iran, including on its economy and oil exports. Sanctions related to terrorism, human rights abuses and arms remained in place. In exchange, Iran agreed to restrict nuclear enrichment to levels sufficient only for civilian uses and to submit to international inspections. Trump’s MOU, by contrast, calls for the U.S. to “terminate all types of sanctions” against Iran on a schedule to be negotiated later. The U.S. agreed to immediately issue waivers to allow Iran to export oil at market rate for 60 days – a boon worth up to $3 billion by some estimates. Frozen assets Tehran says the West is holding $24 billion of its assets.  The Wall Street Journal reported June 19 that the U.S. and Qatar were working to unfreeze $6 billion of that initially – to be used only for food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies. The Trump administration has highlighted that Iran can only unlock the full benefits offered under the MOU if it meets certain conditions. Officials have described the approach as pay for performance. “Fundamentally, that money is not going to be unfrozen unless we continue to see progress, and that will obviously be a big part of the negotiation in the days to come,” Vice President JD Vance told reporters Monday in Switzerland after talks with Iranian negotiators. The JCPOA also unfroze funds incrementally as Iran met certain targets. The deal was fully implemented in 2016 after the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran had made the promised changes to its nuclear program. Trump killed that deal, and Iran resumed its nuclear program. In 2019, Iran accelerated uranium enrichment. Two years later, it suspended implementation of its monitoring agreement with the IAEA. By 2025, it was rapidly increasing its supply of nuclear material. The MOU provides economic incentives upfront, with no agreement on limits to Iran’s nuclear program. “This was a pretty lopsided deal,” said Bob Einhorn, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former State Department official who helped lead early JCPOA negotiations until 2013. “The benefits to Iran were spelled out pretty clearly – some immediate benefits and some eventual benefits – but the benefits to the United States were amorphous, put off until future negotiations.” Bankrolling aid or terrorism? At a campaign rally in September 2015 in Washington, Trump condemned the JCPOA and called its negotiators “very, very stupid people.” He cited an inflated figure of $150 billion that Iran stood to receive and argued that the unfrozen assets would be used to menace Israel and to pursue other anti-American aims. “They rip us off, they take our money, they make us look like fools, and now they’re back to being who they really are,” he said. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, then a Florida senator, warned at the time that the JCPOA would let Iran buy missiles and boost its terror affiliates. “Flush with cash and arms, Iran will have even more opportunity to expand its influence across the Middle East and threaten its neighbors,” he wrote in September 2015. Rubio and Vance, then an Ohio senator, co-sponsored a bill in 2023 that stated “funds released to Iran for so-called humanitarian purposes cannot be reliably prevented from funding future terrorist attacks.” Trump, Vance and Rubio are now doing precisely what they argued against, critics say. Vance said that unfrozen funds could only purchase American soy, corn and wheat for Iranian civilians. He called it “a classic Trump deal.” Iranian officials disputed that, saying they have agreed to no such limitations. Skeptics of the MOU point out that if Iran has more funds to buy food, it also has more funds to rebuild its military and, potentially, to finance global terror – the exact critique Trump leveled against the JCPOA. “The MOU says, basically, these unfrozen funds can be used just as Iran pleases with no restriction,” Einhorn said. “They have a green light if they wanted to use some of those funds for supporting their Axis of Resistance, their proxies or for their military programs.” “One can hope that the U.S. team will do a better job negotiating the final deal than it did negotiating the MOU,” he added. “I’m not confident that’s going to be the case.” The post Trump deal gives Iran $100s of billions more than Obama nuclear pact he slammed, in return for far less appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7e1197238567836bba8 Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick te 2026-06-30T12:34:41.986Z Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX – Former Arizona high school basketball star Koa Peat was just 10 when the Suns drafted Devin Booker. As a young fan, he attended the first game of the 2021 NBA Finals between the Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks.  “I remember those days seeing the team compete and seeing the team win,” Peat said at his introductory news conference on Friday at the Suns’ practice facility. “Seeing the crowd be involved with the team was super special and this is a super special place to be.” Five years later, Peat will have the chance to play in front of that very same crowd. The Suns selected the Gilbert Perry High School graduate and University of Arizona standout with the last pick (No. 30) of the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft on June 25 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  “We’re so excited about this opportunity to bring this young man into our franchise,” Suns GM Brian Gregory said. “Winning is really important. You have to continue to bring in guys that know what winning’s all about.”  It’s a full-circle moment for Peat and his family. His father, Todd, is a former NFL offensive lineman who played with the Phoenix Cardinals in the ’80s.  “His family has built an amazing athletic legacy here in the Valley and throughout the country,” Gregory said. “They’re ingrained in the Valley which is a unique situation for us and one that we’re very excited about. This community already has an unbelievable bond with Koa.”  Peat’s resume so far in his young career is filled with nothing but winning. During his four seasons at Perry, Peat led the school to state championships in each one, while simultaneously capturing four gold medals with Team USA at the FIBA World Cup.  “When he has a goal or a dream like being in the NBA, nothing is going to stop him,” said Sam Duane Jr., Peat’s high school coach. “He sacrificed a lot growing up. You have to give credit for the work that he’s put in to make himself the player he is.”   Following his decorated high school career, Peat signed to play for coach Tommy Lloyd at the University of Arizona. He helped guide the Wildcats to one of their best seasons in program history as they won 36 games this past season en route to their first Final Four appearance since 2001.  “Koa’s value is a lot higher than the number he got picked at,” Lloyd said. “If you’re basing this draft on impact on winning, Koa to me is a guy that’s a top-10 type pick.”  Peat’s presence at both Arizona and Perry was felt mostly in the paint. The Wildcats sported one of college basketball’s most physical frontcourts, thanks in large part to the 6-foot-8, 235-pound forward’s services.  “He’s gifted with his body,” Duane Jr. said. “He probably plays with more force than any player I’ve ever had. Some of his dunks in practice, the ball would go through, hit the floor and bounce almost back up to the rim.” The Suns entered the 2026 NBA Draft without a first-round pick but acquired the 30th selection in a four-team deal involving the Lakers, Knicks and Mavericks. The organization was determined to land Peat according to Lloyd.  “They started to work trades for Koa a lot earlier than the 30th pick,” Lloyd said. “They really wanted him. Koa ended up in a situation where they want to rebuild with tough, hardworking, blue-collar kinda guys, and he fits that billing.”  Gregory said Peat reflects the type of culture the Suns are trying to establish.  “His work ethic, his character, his ability and desire to continue to improve,” Gregory said. “All of those things are important for where we’re at and where we want to get to.”  Before the draft, speculation swirled regarding Peat’s potential landing spot. Many analysts initially believed Peat could be a lottery pick, but a shaky combine performance fueled concerns about his shooting and readiness for the league. It’s believed Peat turned down a hefty NIL deal to return to Arizona.  “I’m all about development. I’m 19 years old so there’s a lot I can grow into and get better at,” Peat said. “Talking with BG and coach about their player development, that’s the number one thing they harp on. I’m gonna come in here and work hard every day and try to get better as a young player.”  Gregory believes Peat’s physicality and unique skill set will address on-court issues the team had a year ago.  “The two key areas for us are defensive pressure and offensive rebounding,” Gregory said. “It’s an area that he’s really good at right now and he’s only going to get better at.” Peat will jockey for minutes in the Suns’ frontcourt after the recent acquisition of Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets.   The post Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7e0197238567836bb9f Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick te 2026-06-30T12:34:40.965Z Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX – Former Arizona high school basketball star Koa Peat was just 10 when the Suns drafted Devin Booker. As a young fan, he attended the first game of the 2021 NBA Finals between the Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks.  “I remember those days seeing the team compete and seeing the team win,” Peat said at his introductory news conference on Friday at the Suns’ practice facility. “Seeing the crowd be involved with the team was super special and this is a super special place to be.” Five years later, Peat will have the chance to play in front of that very same crowd. The Suns selected the Gilbert Perry High School graduate and University of Arizona standout with the last pick (No. 30) of the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft on June 25 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  “We’re so excited about this opportunity to bring this young man into our franchise,” Suns GM Brian Gregory said. “Winning is really important. You have to continue to bring in guys that know what winning’s all about.”  It’s a full-circle moment for Peat and his family. His father, Todd, is a former NFL offensive lineman who played with the Phoenix Cardinals in the ’80s.  “His family has built an amazing athletic legacy here in the Valley and throughout the country,” Gregory said. “They’re ingrained in the Valley which is a unique situation for us and one that we’re very excited about. This community already has an unbelievable bond with Koa.”  Peat’s resume so far in his young career is filled with nothing but winning. During his four seasons at Perry, Peat led the school to state championships in each one, while simultaneously capturing four gold medals with Team USA at the FIBA World Cup.  “When he has a goal or a dream like being in the NBA, nothing is going to stop him,” said Sam Duane Jr., Peat’s high school coach. “He sacrificed a lot growing up. You have to give credit for the work that he’s put in to make himself the player he is.”   Following his decorated high school career, Peat signed to play for coach Tommy Lloyd at the University of Arizona. He helped guide the Wildcats to one of their best seasons in program history as they won 36 games this past season en route to their first Final Four appearance since 2001.  “Koa’s value is a lot higher than the number he got picked at,” Lloyd said. “If you’re basing this draft on impact on winning, Koa to me is a guy that’s a top-10 type pick.”  Peat’s presence at both Arizona and Perry was felt mostly in the paint. The Wildcats sported one of college basketball’s most physical frontcourts, thanks in large part to the 6-foot-8, 235-pound forward’s services.  “He’s gifted with his body,” Duane Jr. said. “He probably plays with more force than any player I’ve ever had. Some of his dunks in practice, the ball would go through, hit the floor and bounce almost back up to the rim.” The Suns entered the 2026 NBA Draft without a first-round pick but acquired the 30th selection in a four-team deal involving the Lakers, Knicks and Mavericks. The organization was determined to land Peat according to Lloyd.  “They started to work trades for Koa a lot earlier than the 30th pick,” Lloyd said. “They really wanted him. Koa ended up in a situation where they want to rebuild with tough, hardworking, blue-collar kinda guys, and he fits that billing.”  Gregory said Peat reflects the type of culture the Suns are trying to establish.  “His work ethic, his character, his ability and desire to continue to improve,” Gregory said. “All of those things are important for where we’re at and where we want to get to.”  Before the draft, speculation swirled regarding Peat’s potential landing spot. Many analysts initially believed Peat could be a lottery pick, but a shaky combine performance fueled concerns about his shooting and readiness for the league. It’s believed Peat turned down a hefty NIL deal to return to Arizona.  “I’m all about development. I’m 19 years old so there’s a lot I can grow into and get better at,” Peat said. “Talking with BG and coach about their player development, that’s the number one thing they harp on. I’m gonna come in here and work hard every day and try to get better as a young player.”  Gregory believes Peat’s physicality and unique skill set will address on-court issues the team had a year ago.  “The two key areas for us are defensive pressure and offensive rebounding,” Gregory said. “It’s an area that he’s really good at right now and he’s only going to get better at.” Peat will jockey for minutes in the Suns’ frontcourt after the recent acquisition of Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets.   The post Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7df197238567836bb96 Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick te 2026-06-30T12:34:39.285Z Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX – Former Arizona high school basketball star Koa Peat was just 10 when the Suns drafted Devin Booker. As a young fan, he attended the first game of the 2021 NBA Finals between the Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks.  “I remember those days seeing the team compete and seeing the team win,” Peat said at his introductory news conference on Friday at the Suns’ practice facility. “Seeing the crowd be involved with the team was super special and this is a super special place to be.” Five years later, Peat will have the chance to play in front of that very same crowd. The Suns selected the Gilbert Perry High School graduate and University of Arizona standout with the last pick (No. 30) of the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft on June 25 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  “We’re so excited about this opportunity to bring this young man into our franchise,” Suns GM Brian Gregory said. “Winning is really important. You have to continue to bring in guys that know what winning’s all about.”  It’s a full-circle moment for Peat and his family. His father, Todd, is a former NFL offensive lineman who played with the Phoenix Cardinals in the ’80s.  “His family has built an amazing athletic legacy here in the Valley and throughout the country,” Gregory said. “They’re ingrained in the Valley which is a unique situation for us and one that we’re very excited about. This community already has an unbelievable bond with Koa.”  Peat’s resume so far in his young career is filled with nothing but winning. During his four seasons at Perry, Peat led the school to state championships in each one, while simultaneously capturing four gold medals with Team USA at the FIBA World Cup.  “When he has a goal or a dream like being in the NBA, nothing is going to stop him,” said Sam Duane Jr., Peat’s high school coach. “He sacrificed a lot growing up. You have to give credit for the work that he’s put in to make himself the player he is.”   Following his decorated high school career, Peat signed to play for coach Tommy Lloyd at the University of Arizona. He helped guide the Wildcats to one of their best seasons in program history as they won 36 games this past season en route to their first Final Four appearance since 2001.  “Koa’s value is a lot higher than the number he got picked at,” Lloyd said. “If you’re basing this draft on impact on winning, Koa to me is a guy that’s a top-10 type pick.”  Peat’s presence at both Arizona and Perry was felt mostly in the paint. The Wildcats sported one of college basketball’s most physical frontcourts, thanks in large part to the 6-foot-8, 235-pound forward’s services.  “He’s gifted with his body,” Duane Jr. said. “He probably plays with more force than any player I’ve ever had. Some of his dunks in practice, the ball would go through, hit the floor and bounce almost back up to the rim.” The Suns entered the 2026 NBA Draft without a first-round pick but acquired the 30th selection in a four-team deal involving the Lakers, Knicks and Mavericks. The organization was determined to land Peat according to Lloyd.  “They started to work trades for Koa a lot earlier than the 30th pick,” Lloyd said. “They really wanted him. Koa ended up in a situation where they want to rebuild with tough, hardworking, blue-collar kinda guys, and he fits that billing.”  Gregory said Peat reflects the type of culture the Suns are trying to establish.  “His work ethic, his character, his ability and desire to continue to improve,” Gregory said. “All of those things are important for where we’re at and where we want to get to.”  Before the draft, speculation swirled regarding Peat’s potential landing spot. Many analysts initially believed Peat could be a lottery pick, but a shaky combine performance fueled concerns about his shooting and readiness for the league. It’s believed Peat turned down a hefty NIL deal to return to Arizona.  “I’m all about development. I’m 19 years old so there’s a lot I can grow into and get better at,” Peat said. “Talking with BG and coach about their player development, that’s the number one thing they harp on. I’m gonna come in here and work hard every day and try to get better as a young player.”  Gregory believes Peat’s physicality and unique skill set will address on-court issues the team had a year ago.  “The two key areas for us are defensive pressure and offensive rebounding,” Gregory said. “It’s an area that he’s really good at right now and he’s only going to get better at.” Peat will jockey for minutes in the Suns’ frontcourt after the recent acquisition of Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets.   The post Full circle: Valley product Koa Peat returns to Phoenix as Suns’ first-round draft pick appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7ce197238567836bb8d Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:34:22.530Z Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – The Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed misconduct allegations against Sen. Ruben Gallego, finding no evidence that the Arizona Democrat engaged in sexual misconduct or misused campaign funds. The committee informed him on Friday, according to a letter released Monday by Gallego’s office that read, in part, that its investigation “did not find evidence that your actions violated Federal law, Senate Rules or related standards of conduct.”  Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., a staunch Trump supporter who has accused several lawmakers of misconduct, had leveled the accusations. Luna claimed in April that four women had endured “multiple and uncomfortably/inappropriate advances/comments/touching, etc. from Senator Gallego.” The senator also faced scrutiny over his close friendship with former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who was forced out of the California governor’s race earlier this year after accusations by multiple women of sexual assault or misconduct.  Swalwell resigned April 13 under pressure from Luna and others. Gallego initially resisted calls for his resignation but eventually joined the chorus. “It is time Congress has a good house cleaning,” Luna posted on X two days before Swalwell resigned. “The dismissal by the Ethics Committee reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House, and their allies,” Gallego said in a statement issued by his office. “I look forward to an apology from Rep. Luna for weaponizing the ethics process while refusing to investigate historic corruption that’s making life harder for families.”  IRS records show that Gallego created a legal defense fund on May 26. In a scathing attack posted Monday on X, Luna warned Gallego that he would likely need that defense fund in the future. “There are plenty of people who know about your antics,” she wrote. “Once a creep always a creep, and you’re gonna need it.” She also rejected his characterization of her accusations. “These are not conspiracy theories. You’re a gross example of representation. Need I mention you leaving your pregnant wife during your Campaign for Senate?” Luna posted. Gallego did file for divorce from Kate Gallego, now the mayor of Phoenix, when she was nine months pregnant. But that was in December 2016, weeks after he won his second House term. The records were unsealed in October 2024, just before he won his Senate seat. Luna has targeted members of her own party, too. In February, she demanded the resignation of Tony Gonzales, a moderate Texas Republican, after allegations surfaced that he had coerced a staff member into a sexual relationship.  Gonzales resigned April 14. Luna has also pushed for the resignation of two fellow Floridians, Republican Cory Mills and Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.  In November, Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted on federal fraud and conspiracy charges. Prosecutors say she kept a $5 million overpayment from FEMA to her family’s business for a COVID-19 vaccine staffing contract, then diverted some of that to her campaign account through straw donors. On March 26, the House Ethics panel found that she violated House rules involving campaign finance and financial disclosures. She resigned April 21, shortly before the panel was to meet to recommend a punishment. Mills is the subject of an investigation by the House Ethics Committee over allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. The post Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7cd197238567836bb84 Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:34:21.505Z Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – The Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed misconduct allegations against Sen. Ruben Gallego, finding no evidence that the Arizona Democrat engaged in sexual misconduct or misused campaign funds. The committee informed him on Friday, according to a letter released Monday by Gallego’s office that read, in part, that its investigation “did not find evidence that your actions violated Federal law, Senate Rules or related standards of conduct.”  Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., a staunch Trump supporter who has accused several lawmakers of misconduct, had leveled the accusations. Luna claimed in April that four women had endured “multiple and uncomfortably/inappropriate advances/comments/touching, etc. from Senator Gallego.” The senator also faced scrutiny over his close friendship with former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who was forced out of the California governor’s race earlier this year after accusations by multiple women of sexual assault or misconduct.  Swalwell resigned April 13 under pressure from Luna and others. Gallego initially resisted calls for his resignation but eventually joined the chorus. “It is time Congress has a good house cleaning,” Luna posted on X two days before Swalwell resigned. “The dismissal by the Ethics Committee reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House, and their allies,” Gallego said in a statement issued by his office. “I look forward to an apology from Rep. Luna for weaponizing the ethics process while refusing to investigate historic corruption that’s making life harder for families.”  IRS records show that Gallego created a legal defense fund on May 26. In a scathing attack posted Monday on X, Luna warned Gallego that he would likely need that defense fund in the future. “There are plenty of people who know about your antics,” she wrote. “Once a creep always a creep, and you’re gonna need it.” She also rejected his characterization of her accusations. “These are not conspiracy theories. You’re a gross example of representation. Need I mention you leaving your pregnant wife during your Campaign for Senate?” Luna posted. Gallego did file for divorce from Kate Gallego, now the mayor of Phoenix, when she was nine months pregnant. But that was in December 2016, weeks after he won his second House term. The records were unsealed in October 2024, just before he won his Senate seat. Luna has targeted members of her own party, too. In February, she demanded the resignation of Tony Gonzales, a moderate Texas Republican, after allegations surfaced that he had coerced a staff member into a sexual relationship.  Gonzales resigned April 14. Luna has also pushed for the resignation of two fellow Floridians, Republican Cory Mills and Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.  In November, Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted on federal fraud and conspiracy charges. Prosecutors say she kept a $5 million overpayment from FEMA to her family’s business for a COVID-19 vaccine staffing contract, then diverted some of that to her campaign account through straw donors. On March 26, the House Ethics panel found that she violated House rules involving campaign finance and financial disclosures. She resigned April 21, shortly before the panel was to meet to recommend a punishment. Mills is the subject of an investigation by the House Ethics Committee over allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. The post Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7cb197238567836bb7b Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:34:19.829Z Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. WASHINGTON – The Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed misconduct allegations against Sen. Ruben Gallego, finding no evidence that the Arizona Democrat engaged in sexual misconduct or misused campaign funds. The committee informed him on Friday, according to a letter released Monday by Gallego’s office that read, in part, that its investigation “did not find evidence that your actions violated Federal law, Senate Rules or related standards of conduct.”  Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., a staunch Trump supporter who has accused several lawmakers of misconduct, had leveled the accusations. Luna claimed in April that four women had endured “multiple and uncomfortably/inappropriate advances/comments/touching, etc. from Senator Gallego.” The senator also faced scrutiny over his close friendship with former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who was forced out of the California governor’s race earlier this year after accusations by multiple women of sexual assault or misconduct.  Swalwell resigned April 13 under pressure from Luna and others. Gallego initially resisted calls for his resignation but eventually joined the chorus. “It is time Congress has a good house cleaning,” Luna posted on X two days before Swalwell resigned. “The dismissal by the Ethics Committee reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House, and their allies,” Gallego said in a statement issued by his office. “I look forward to an apology from Rep. Luna for weaponizing the ethics process while refusing to investigate historic corruption that’s making life harder for families.”  IRS records show that Gallego created a legal defense fund on May 26. In a scathing attack posted Monday on X, Luna warned Gallego that he would likely need that defense fund in the future. “There are plenty of people who know about your antics,” she wrote. “Once a creep always a creep, and you’re gonna need it.” She also rejected his characterization of her accusations. “These are not conspiracy theories. You’re a gross example of representation. Need I mention you leaving your pregnant wife during your Campaign for Senate?” Luna posted. Gallego did file for divorce from Kate Gallego, now the mayor of Phoenix, when she was nine months pregnant. But that was in December 2016, weeks after he won his second House term. The records were unsealed in October 2024, just before he won his Senate seat. Luna has targeted members of her own party, too. In February, she demanded the resignation of Tony Gonzales, a moderate Texas Republican, after allegations surfaced that he had coerced a staff member into a sexual relationship.  Gonzales resigned April 14. Luna has also pushed for the resignation of two fellow Floridians, Republican Cory Mills and Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.  In November, Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted on federal fraud and conspiracy charges. Prosecutors say she kept a $5 million overpayment from FEMA to her family’s business for a COVID-19 vaccine staffing contract, then diverted some of that to her campaign account through straw donors. On March 26, the House Ethics panel found that she violated House rules involving campaign finance and financial disclosures. She resigned April 21, shortly before the panel was to meet to recommend a punishment. Mills is the subject of an investigation by the House Ethics Committee over allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. The post Senate ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7bb197238567836bb72 USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation te 2026-06-30T12:34:03.075Z USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. LOS ANGELES – The last time the United States hosted the World Cup in 1994, the team had not advanced to the knockout rounds in 60 years. “When I was 8 years old, my dad took us to watch USA vs. Colombia at the Rose Bowl where they won 2-1,” L.A. local Israel Guerrero said. That historic upset pushed the U.S. through the group stage for the first time since the inaugural World Cup in 1930. When the Americans lost in the Round of 16 in 1934, there was no group stage. With the World Cup back in North America, fans are falling in love with the game. FIFA has helped create intimate fan experiences throughout the tournament’s various host cities, including one at Union Station in Los Angeles from June 25-28, when fans shared their early reactions to the USMNT’s performance. “The World Cup has sparked my interest ‘cause I love sports,” Californian Melanie Shaw said. “I’m actually a baseball fan, and the Olympics, but I started watching since it’s in America. I’m learning more about soccer just by watching the USA team, showing more of an appreciation to soccer.” The World Cup hype is so real that Nike is struggling to keep up with the demand, with recent reports showing that many top retailers ran out of jerseys before the knockouts even began. Additionally, ratings are through the roof. FOX Sports reported that 84.3 million Americans have watched the World Cup on FOX and FS1 through leg two of the group stage. Telemundo added that is has “5.5 million viewers to date, pacing at more than double FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.” Seasoned fans know this is an extraordinary time. The United States Men’s National Team finished first in its group at the World Cup for the first time since 2010. “I did not think, in my lifetime, that I would see a good American soccer team,” L.A. local Phreezy Naufaldy said.  Excitement can be felt throughout the nation. “I was in Seattle for the USA versus Australia game and everyone there was stunned by how comfortably we won that one,” Orange County Register reporter Benjamin Royer said. As dominant as the Stars and Stripes were in their first two matches, fans were upset that the team lost its final Group D match to Turkey. Coach Mauricio Pochettino encouraged them not to overreact. “The objective was to finish first and we are first,” he told reporters Thursday in his post-match press conference. “Now is the next stage, and it’s going to be a final, but we are ready.” Entering the knockout stage, the USMNT is inspiring the nation in more ways than one. Barbra McLendon and her son Ian show off their custom sign supporting the USMNT’s World Cup efforts at Men in Blazers Matchday Live! at the Union Station Fan Zone in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 25. (Photo by Matthew Badger/Cronkite News) Pochettino’s power Since taking charge in late 2024, Pochettino has actualized what fans always believed was possible for the USMNT. “Pochettino and the quality of the players, they’re at a completely different level than they’ve been anytime in the recent past,” Guerrero said. “Better than they’ve ever been.” The Argentine manager is bringing passion to a country largely devoid of soccer fandom. “I think Poch is a great manager, he’s expediting what these players can do,” said fan Joshua Di Fiore, who lives in Long Beach. “For example, putting (Antonee) Robinson and (Sergiño) Dest on the wings elevates their game instead of having them play back.” The U.S. Soccer Federation recently offered Pochettino a contract extension that would see him coaching the U.S. through the next World Cup in 2030. Fans are hopeful this could be the beginning of something beautiful. “He’s really good at pushing players for short periods of time, and with the national team, you’re not with the players for years at a time, you’re in spurts, so I think it could be a good thing,” Guerrero said. Not all fans agree, seeing as Pochettino has yet to defeat a European nation with the USMNT. “I’m a Gregg Berhalter defender, so I’ve been less than impressed with Pochettino as a coach until the World Cup,” Royer said, citing the USMNT’s previous coach. “I am a little surprised by everything that’s going on.” Matched up with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, now is the opportunity for Pochettino to change that narrative. The American dream With the knockout bracket finalized, fans are keeping their expectations realistic. “I think the Round of 16 is the limit for this group,” Royer said “They’ve got a good draw, but I don’t trust this group to play to their potential. Maybe that’s just the pessimism of rooting for the United States Men’s National Team my entire life.” If the U.S. defeats Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, it will face the winner of Belgium and Senegal in the Round of 16. A win in that matchup would send the Americans to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. “If they don’t get (to the quarterfinals) it would be a disappointment,” Guerrero said. “Quarterfinals or bust.” The projected quarterfinal matchup would likely pit the USMNT against Spain, one of the tournament’s favorites. Spanish fans are certain they will spoil the USA’s Cinderella run. “It’s a pipe dream,” Spain fan Chris Aguilera said of U.S. hopes.  But the United States is a nation that never backs down from a challenge, proven decades ago by Mike Eruzione and the Miracle on Ice. Fans are hopeful Pochettino’s unit can create something similar. “I think they can get as far as the quarterfinals,” Di Fiore said. “But anything’s possible because they’ve played so well in these group games.” Growing the game Regardless of how the U.S. performs in the knockouts, it has already won the nation’s support.  “With players like Messi playing in MLS and the fact that we have the World Cup here, people are not just seeing this sport for what it is, but the culture of it,” Naufaldy said. “It’s not just putting the ball in the net. It’s so much more than that.” Soccer is growing exponentially, with statistics showing it has passed baseball in popularity. The USMNT’s opening match against Paraguay generated over 27 million viewers, the most-watched soccer game ever in the U.S. “I think it would be really fun if more people in the United States got involved,” local fan Barbra McLendon said. “I think soccer, unlike a lot of other sports, the fans have a role to play, the chanting, the singing.  “It’s not like other American sports where you just sit there and cheer when there’s a score, you’re supposed to be in it all the way.” That passion could take the U.S. to new heights as future generations watch star players they can idolize. “I love Pochettino, (Christian) Pulisic is already a legend, (Folarin) Balogun is awesome,” Naufaldy said. “It’s really exciting to be a fan of US soccer right now.” The post USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7ba197238567836bb69 USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation te 2026-06-30T12:34:02.052Z USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. LOS ANGELES – The last time the United States hosted the World Cup in 1994, the team had not advanced to the knockout rounds in 60 years. “When I was 8 years old, my dad took us to watch USA vs. Colombia at the Rose Bowl where they won 2-1,” L.A. local Israel Guerrero said. That historic upset pushed the U.S. through the group stage for the first time since the inaugural World Cup in 1930. When the Americans lost in the Round of 16 in 1934, there was no group stage. With the World Cup back in North America, fans are falling in love with the game. FIFA has helped create intimate fan experiences throughout the tournament’s various host cities, including one at Union Station in Los Angeles from June 25-28, when fans shared their early reactions to the USMNT’s performance. “The World Cup has sparked my interest ‘cause I love sports,” Californian Melanie Shaw said. “I’m actually a baseball fan, and the Olympics, but I started watching since it’s in America. I’m learning more about soccer just by watching the USA team, showing more of an appreciation to soccer.” The World Cup hype is so real that Nike is struggling to keep up with the demand, with recent reports showing that many top retailers ran out of jerseys before the knockouts even began. Additionally, ratings are through the roof. FOX Sports reported that 84.3 million Americans have watched the World Cup on FOX and FS1 through leg two of the group stage. Telemundo added that is has “5.5 million viewers to date, pacing at more than double FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.” Seasoned fans know this is an extraordinary time. The United States Men’s National Team finished first in its group at the World Cup for the first time since 2010. “I did not think, in my lifetime, that I would see a good American soccer team,” L.A. local Phreezy Naufaldy said.  Excitement can be felt throughout the nation. “I was in Seattle for the USA versus Australia game and everyone there was stunned by how comfortably we won that one,” Orange County Register reporter Benjamin Royer said. As dominant as the Stars and Stripes were in their first two matches, fans were upset that the team lost its final Group D match to Turkey. Coach Mauricio Pochettino encouraged them not to overreact. “The objective was to finish first and we are first,” he told reporters Thursday in his post-match press conference. “Now is the next stage, and it’s going to be a final, but we are ready.” Entering the knockout stage, the USMNT is inspiring the nation in more ways than one. Barbra McLendon and her son Ian show off their custom sign supporting the USMNT’s World Cup efforts at Men in Blazers Matchday Live! at the Union Station Fan Zone in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 25. (Photo by Matthew Badger/Cronkite News) Pochettino’s power Since taking charge in late 2024, Pochettino has actualized what fans always believed was possible for the USMNT. “Pochettino and the quality of the players, they’re at a completely different level than they’ve been anytime in the recent past,” Guerrero said. “Better than they’ve ever been.” The Argentine manager is bringing passion to a country largely devoid of soccer fandom. “I think Poch is a great manager, he’s expediting what these players can do,” said fan Joshua Di Fiore, who lives in Long Beach. “For example, putting (Antonee) Robinson and (Sergiño) Dest on the wings elevates their game instead of having them play back.” The U.S. Soccer Federation recently offered Pochettino a contract extension that would see him coaching the U.S. through the next World Cup in 2030. Fans are hopeful this could be the beginning of something beautiful. “He’s really good at pushing players for short periods of time, and with the national team, you’re not with the players for years at a time, you’re in spurts, so I think it could be a good thing,” Guerrero said. Not all fans agree, seeing as Pochettino has yet to defeat a European nation with the USMNT. “I’m a Gregg Berhalter defender, so I’ve been less than impressed with Pochettino as a coach until the World Cup,” Royer said, citing the USMNT’s previous coach. “I am a little surprised by everything that’s going on.” Matched up with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, now is the opportunity for Pochettino to change that narrative. The American dream With the knockout bracket finalized, fans are keeping their expectations realistic. “I think the Round of 16 is the limit for this group,” Royer said “They’ve got a good draw, but I don’t trust this group to play to their potential. Maybe that’s just the pessimism of rooting for the United States Men’s National Team my entire life.” If the U.S. defeats Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, it will face the winner of Belgium and Senegal in the Round of 16. A win in that matchup would send the Americans to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. “If they don’t get (to the quarterfinals) it would be a disappointment,” Guerrero said. “Quarterfinals or bust.” The projected quarterfinal matchup would likely pit the USMNT against Spain, one of the tournament’s favorites. Spanish fans are certain they will spoil the USA’s Cinderella run. “It’s a pipe dream,” Spain fan Chris Aguilera said of U.S. hopes.  But the United States is a nation that never backs down from a challenge, proven decades ago by Mike Eruzione and the Miracle on Ice. Fans are hopeful Pochettino’s unit can create something similar. “I think they can get as far as the quarterfinals,” Di Fiore said. “But anything’s possible because they’ve played so well in these group games.” Growing the game Regardless of how the U.S. performs in the knockouts, it has already won the nation’s support.  “With players like Messi playing in MLS and the fact that we have the World Cup here, people are not just seeing this sport for what it is, but the culture of it,” Naufaldy said. “It’s not just putting the ball in the net. It’s so much more than that.” Soccer is growing exponentially, with statistics showing it has passed baseball in popularity. The USMNT’s opening match against Paraguay generated over 27 million viewers, the most-watched soccer game ever in the U.S. “I think it would be really fun if more people in the United States got involved,” local fan Barbra McLendon said. “I think soccer, unlike a lot of other sports, the fans have a role to play, the chanting, the singing.  “It’s not like other American sports where you just sit there and cheer when there’s a score, you’re supposed to be in it all the way.” That passion could take the U.S. to new heights as future generations watch star players they can idolize. “I love Pochettino, (Christian) Pulisic is already a legend, (Folarin) Balogun is awesome,” Naufaldy said. “It’s really exciting to be a fan of US soccer right now.” The post USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7b8197238567836bb60 USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation te 2026-06-30T12:34:00.379Z USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. LOS ANGELES – The last time the United States hosted the World Cup in 1994, the team had not advanced to the knockout rounds in 60 years. “When I was 8 years old, my dad took us to watch USA vs. Colombia at the Rose Bowl where they won 2-1,” L.A. local Israel Guerrero said. That historic upset pushed the U.S. through the group stage for the first time since the inaugural World Cup in 1930. When the Americans lost in the Round of 16 in 1934, there was no group stage. With the World Cup back in North America, fans are falling in love with the game. FIFA has helped create intimate fan experiences throughout the tournament’s various host cities, including one at Union Station in Los Angeles from June 25-28, when fans shared their early reactions to the USMNT’s performance. “The World Cup has sparked my interest ‘cause I love sports,” Californian Melanie Shaw said. “I’m actually a baseball fan, and the Olympics, but I started watching since it’s in America. I’m learning more about soccer just by watching the USA team, showing more of an appreciation to soccer.” The World Cup hype is so real that Nike is struggling to keep up with the demand, with recent reports showing that many top retailers ran out of jerseys before the knockouts even began. Additionally, ratings are through the roof. FOX Sports reported that 84.3 million Americans have watched the World Cup on FOX and FS1 through leg two of the group stage. Telemundo added that is has “5.5 million viewers to date, pacing at more than double FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.” Seasoned fans know this is an extraordinary time. The United States Men’s National Team finished first in its group at the World Cup for the first time since 2010. “I did not think, in my lifetime, that I would see a good American soccer team,” L.A. local Phreezy Naufaldy said.  Excitement can be felt throughout the nation. “I was in Seattle for the USA versus Australia game and everyone there was stunned by how comfortably we won that one,” Orange County Register reporter Benjamin Royer said. As dominant as the Stars and Stripes were in their first two matches, fans were upset that the team lost its final Group D match to Turkey. Coach Mauricio Pochettino encouraged them not to overreact. “The objective was to finish first and we are first,” he told reporters Thursday in his post-match press conference. “Now is the next stage, and it’s going to be a final, but we are ready.” Entering the knockout stage, the USMNT is inspiring the nation in more ways than one. Barbra McLendon and her son Ian show off their custom sign supporting the USMNT’s World Cup efforts at Men in Blazers Matchday Live! at the Union Station Fan Zone in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 25. (Photo by Matthew Badger/Cronkite News) Pochettino’s power Since taking charge in late 2024, Pochettino has actualized what fans always believed was possible for the USMNT. “Pochettino and the quality of the players, they’re at a completely different level than they’ve been anytime in the recent past,” Guerrero said. “Better than they’ve ever been.” The Argentine manager is bringing passion to a country largely devoid of soccer fandom. “I think Poch is a great manager, he’s expediting what these players can do,” said fan Joshua Di Fiore, who lives in Long Beach. “For example, putting (Antonee) Robinson and (Sergiño) Dest on the wings elevates their game instead of having them play back.” The U.S. Soccer Federation recently offered Pochettino a contract extension that would see him coaching the U.S. through the next World Cup in 2030. Fans are hopeful this could be the beginning of something beautiful. “He’s really good at pushing players for short periods of time, and with the national team, you’re not with the players for years at a time, you’re in spurts, so I think it could be a good thing,” Guerrero said. Not all fans agree, seeing as Pochettino has yet to defeat a European nation with the USMNT. “I’m a Gregg Berhalter defender, so I’ve been less than impressed with Pochettino as a coach until the World Cup,” Royer said, citing the USMNT’s previous coach. “I am a little surprised by everything that’s going on.” Matched up with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, now is the opportunity for Pochettino to change that narrative. The American dream With the knockout bracket finalized, fans are keeping their expectations realistic. “I think the Round of 16 is the limit for this group,” Royer said “They’ve got a good draw, but I don’t trust this group to play to their potential. Maybe that’s just the pessimism of rooting for the United States Men’s National Team my entire life.” If the U.S. defeats Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, it will face the winner of Belgium and Senegal in the Round of 16. A win in that matchup would send the Americans to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. “If they don’t get (to the quarterfinals) it would be a disappointment,” Guerrero said. “Quarterfinals or bust.” The projected quarterfinal matchup would likely pit the USMNT against Spain, one of the tournament’s favorites. Spanish fans are certain they will spoil the USA’s Cinderella run. “It’s a pipe dream,” Spain fan Chris Aguilera said of U.S. hopes.  But the United States is a nation that never backs down from a challenge, proven decades ago by Mike Eruzione and the Miracle on Ice. Fans are hopeful Pochettino’s unit can create something similar. “I think they can get as far as the quarterfinals,” Di Fiore said. “But anything’s possible because they’ve played so well in these group games.” Growing the game Regardless of how the U.S. performs in the knockouts, it has already won the nation’s support.  “With players like Messi playing in MLS and the fact that we have the World Cup here, people are not just seeing this sport for what it is, but the culture of it,” Naufaldy said. “It’s not just putting the ball in the net. It’s so much more than that.” Soccer is growing exponentially, with statistics showing it has passed baseball in popularity. The USMNT’s opening match against Paraguay generated over 27 million viewers, the most-watched soccer game ever in the U.S. “I think it would be really fun if more people in the United States got involved,” local fan Barbra McLendon said. “I think soccer, unlike a lot of other sports, the fans have a role to play, the chanting, the singing.  “It’s not like other American sports where you just sit there and cheer when there’s a score, you’re supposed to be in it all the way.” That passion could take the U.S. to new heights as future generations watch star players they can idolize. “I love Pochettino, (Christian) Pulisic is already a legend, (Folarin) Balogun is awesome,” Naufaldy said. “It’s really exciting to be a fan of US soccer right now.” The post USMNT’s dominant World Cup performances could turn USA into soccer-loving nation appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7a7197238567836bb57 Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp te 2026-06-30T12:33:43.621Z Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX — Rainbow colored hula hoops spun around campers’ waists as they laughed and practiced on the basketball court at Capitol Elementary School. Just steps away inside the school’s gymnasium, young participants balanced on giant exercise balls, walked on stilts, juggled and climbed aerial ropes hanging from the ceiling. While many children spend their summers scrolling through social media, watching TV or playing video games, these campers are choosing something different. They came to the Phoenix Youth Circus Arts program for hands-on learning and physical activity. Each week, a group of campers consists of new and returning students who take to the stage to perform for friends and family. Oliver Breecher practices juggling balls outside Capitol Elementary School’s gymnasium before his performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Among them is 13-year-old Oliver Breecher, a recent graduate of Madison Park Middle School. For Breecher, circus arts offer more than entertainment. Beneath the spinning hoops and aerial tricks, he sees lessons that reach far beyond camp.  “Swiping and tapping on your phone doesn’t really help me keep active,” he said. “Circus arts teach you the art of how to balance in life.” The chance to try something new also appeals to 10-year-old Isabelle Fernandez Carreno. During camp, she focused on practicing her stilt routine. She carefully balanced on one-and-a-half-foot tall wooden stilts as she tried to master one of the more unique activities of the camp. Isabelle Fernandez Carreno, left, puts on stilts backstage with the help of an instructor at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “The stilts are awesome,” Carreno said. “It’s something that not a lot of people can do. Also, they make me look tall.” Show director Dave Davis, a former software engineer who took up juggling as a hobby, has been teaching at the camp for four years. Davis and the coaching staff work closely with campers each day to help them build their skills. They spend hours guiding students through activities like balancing on a rola bola, giant exercise balls, juggling and practicing aerial acrobatics.  Their support helps campers gain confidence as they learn new tricks. The camp has created an environment where students feel safe taking risks and discovering talents they may not have known they had. Show director Dave Davis leads campers through an interactive activity during a training session in the gymnasium of Capitol Elementary School on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “Watching the students improve throughout the week is very rewarding,” Davis said. “They come in unsure of themselves but by the end they’re performing in front of an audience.” The lessons learned at camp, Davis said, can follow students long after summer ends. Whether in school, sports or future careers — growth begins when you keep going.  The weekly performances also give students a chance to step into the spotlight. Standing before a crowd, even for a few minutes, can build confidence that carries into adulthood. Davis helps a camper balance on a rola bola during her performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “There will be people who get in front of meetings and have to make a presentation,” Davis said. “Knowing how to be in front of a crowd, it’s a wonderful skill to acquire in life.” Davis believes circus arts offer something many children are missing in today’s digital world: the feeling of working toward a goal and seeing results. “Every single kid today has a lot of screen time and I won’t say that is bad in itself,” Davis said. “But it is so much more satisfying to do something where you’re actually succeeding at something, not just watching pixels on a screen.” Isabelle Fernandez Carreno shows off her aerial silks routine during a camp showcase on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers juggle balls and balance on big exercise balls during their performance at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers balance on stilts backstage as they get ready to perform on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Stilts, first-time juggling and landing an aerial trick, none of it comes easy. Many campers spend hours trying to stay balanced on a giant exercise ball or working their way up to the aerial silks. Every new skill is achieved by practicing and not giving up.  “It’s fun to be tired. It’s fun to be exhausted. It’s fun to work hard,” Davis said. “It’s fun to have your muscles sore to a degree.” The post Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7a6197238567836bb4e Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp te 2026-06-30T12:33:42.593Z Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX — Rainbow colored hula hoops spun around campers’ waists as they laughed and practiced on the basketball court at Capitol Elementary School. Just steps away inside the school’s gymnasium, young participants balanced on giant exercise balls, walked on stilts, juggled and climbed aerial ropes hanging from the ceiling. While many children spend their summers scrolling through social media, watching TV or playing video games, these campers are choosing something different. They came to the Phoenix Youth Circus Arts program for hands-on learning and physical activity. Each week, a group of campers consists of new and returning students who take to the stage to perform for friends and family. Oliver Breecher practices juggling balls outside Capitol Elementary School’s gymnasium before his performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Among them is 13-year-old Oliver Breecher, a recent graduate of Madison Park Middle School. For Breecher, circus arts offer more than entertainment. Beneath the spinning hoops and aerial tricks, he sees lessons that reach far beyond camp.  “Swiping and tapping on your phone doesn’t really help me keep active,” he said. “Circus arts teach you the art of how to balance in life.” The chance to try something new also appeals to 10-year-old Isabelle Fernandez Carreno. During camp, she focused on practicing her stilt routine. She carefully balanced on one-and-a-half-foot tall wooden stilts as she tried to master one of the more unique activities of the camp. Isabelle Fernandez Carreno, left, puts on stilts backstage with the help of an instructor at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “The stilts are awesome,” Carreno said. “It’s something that not a lot of people can do. Also, they make me look tall.” Show director Dave Davis, a former software engineer who took up juggling as a hobby, has been teaching at the camp for four years. Davis and the coaching staff work closely with campers each day to help them build their skills. They spend hours guiding students through activities like balancing on a rola bola, giant exercise balls, juggling and practicing aerial acrobatics.  Their support helps campers gain confidence as they learn new tricks. The camp has created an environment where students feel safe taking risks and discovering talents they may not have known they had. Show director Dave Davis leads campers through an interactive activity during a training session in the gymnasium of Capitol Elementary School on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “Watching the students improve throughout the week is very rewarding,” Davis said. “They come in unsure of themselves but by the end they’re performing in front of an audience.” The lessons learned at camp, Davis said, can follow students long after summer ends. Whether in school, sports or future careers — growth begins when you keep going.  The weekly performances also give students a chance to step into the spotlight. Standing before a crowd, even for a few minutes, can build confidence that carries into adulthood. Davis helps a camper balance on a rola bola during her performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “There will be people who get in front of meetings and have to make a presentation,” Davis said. “Knowing how to be in front of a crowd, it’s a wonderful skill to acquire in life.” Davis believes circus arts offer something many children are missing in today’s digital world: the feeling of working toward a goal and seeing results. “Every single kid today has a lot of screen time and I won’t say that is bad in itself,” Davis said. “But it is so much more satisfying to do something where you’re actually succeeding at something, not just watching pixels on a screen.” Isabelle Fernandez Carreno shows off her aerial silks routine during a camp showcase on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers juggle balls and balance on big exercise balls during their performance at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers balance on stilts backstage as they get ready to perform on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Stilts, first-time juggling and landing an aerial trick, none of it comes easy. Many campers spend hours trying to stay balanced on a giant exercise ball or working their way up to the aerial silks. Every new skill is achieved by practicing and not giving up.  “It’s fun to be tired. It’s fun to be exhausted. It’s fun to work hard,” Davis said. “It’s fun to have your muscles sore to a degree.” The post Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b7a4197238567836bb45 Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp te 2026-06-30T12:33:40.921Z Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. PHOENIX — Rainbow colored hula hoops spun around campers’ waists as they laughed and practiced on the basketball court at Capitol Elementary School. Just steps away inside the school’s gymnasium, young participants balanced on giant exercise balls, walked on stilts, juggled and climbed aerial ropes hanging from the ceiling. While many children spend their summers scrolling through social media, watching TV or playing video games, these campers are choosing something different. They came to the Phoenix Youth Circus Arts program for hands-on learning and physical activity. Each week, a group of campers consists of new and returning students who take to the stage to perform for friends and family. Oliver Breecher practices juggling balls outside Capitol Elementary School’s gymnasium before his performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Among them is 13-year-old Oliver Breecher, a recent graduate of Madison Park Middle School. For Breecher, circus arts offer more than entertainment. Beneath the spinning hoops and aerial tricks, he sees lessons that reach far beyond camp.  “Swiping and tapping on your phone doesn’t really help me keep active,” he said. “Circus arts teach you the art of how to balance in life.” The chance to try something new also appeals to 10-year-old Isabelle Fernandez Carreno. During camp, she focused on practicing her stilt routine. She carefully balanced on one-and-a-half-foot tall wooden stilts as she tried to master one of the more unique activities of the camp. Isabelle Fernandez Carreno, left, puts on stilts backstage with the help of an instructor at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “The stilts are awesome,” Carreno said. “It’s something that not a lot of people can do. Also, they make me look tall.” Show director Dave Davis, a former software engineer who took up juggling as a hobby, has been teaching at the camp for four years. Davis and the coaching staff work closely with campers each day to help them build their skills. They spend hours guiding students through activities like balancing on a rola bola, giant exercise balls, juggling and practicing aerial acrobatics.  Their support helps campers gain confidence as they learn new tricks. The camp has created an environment where students feel safe taking risks and discovering talents they may not have known they had. Show director Dave Davis leads campers through an interactive activity during a training session in the gymnasium of Capitol Elementary School on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “Watching the students improve throughout the week is very rewarding,” Davis said. “They come in unsure of themselves but by the end they’re performing in front of an audience.” The lessons learned at camp, Davis said, can follow students long after summer ends. Whether in school, sports or future careers — growth begins when you keep going.  The weekly performances also give students a chance to step into the spotlight. Standing before a crowd, even for a few minutes, can build confidence that carries into adulthood. Davis helps a camper balance on a rola bola during her performance on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) “There will be people who get in front of meetings and have to make a presentation,” Davis said. “Knowing how to be in front of a crowd, it’s a wonderful skill to acquire in life.” Davis believes circus arts offer something many children are missing in today’s digital world: the feeling of working toward a goal and seeing results. “Every single kid today has a lot of screen time and I won’t say that is bad in itself,” Davis said. “But it is so much more satisfying to do something where you’re actually succeeding at something, not just watching pixels on a screen.” Isabelle Fernandez Carreno shows off her aerial silks routine during a camp showcase on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Phoenix. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers juggle balls and balance on big exercise balls during their performance at the camp on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Campers balance on stilts backstage as they get ready to perform on Friday, June 5, 2026. (Photo by Samad Khan/Cronkite News) Stilts, first-time juggling and landing an aerial trick, none of it comes easy. Many campers spend hours trying to stay balanced on a giant exercise ball or working their way up to the aerial silks. Every new skill is achieved by practicing and not giving up.  “It’s fun to be tired. It’s fun to be exhausted. It’s fun to work hard,” Davis said. “It’s fun to have your muscles sore to a degree.” The post Phoenix kids are swapping screen time for stage time, thanks to a circus camp appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b794197238567836bb3c London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic te 2026-06-30T12:33:24.162Z London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. TEMPE – When Arizona State hired Kenny Dillingham in 2022, he said the Sun Devils would “play anybody anywhere, any time.” The university took him at his word and on Sept. 19, ASU will face Kansas in the inaugural Union Jack Classic at London’s Wembley Stadium. It’s a chance to start Big 12 Conference play with a winning record, not to mention extend the school’s global reach. The “Big Noon Kickoff” pregame show will precede the FS1 game and give ASU another high profile stage. The 5 p.m. BST game translates to a 9 a.m. MST kickoff in Arizona. “Big noon kickoff in London at Wembley Stadium is a four-hour showcase of what’s going on at ASU, what’s going on within Sun Devil football and a great platform for coach (Kenny) Dillingham to talk about what we’re building here,” Arizona State athletic director Graham Rossini said.   In addition to football, it gives Arizona State a chance to showcase what it has in store for building a presence in London. The university’s new campus in the city opens two days after the game. “The fact that ASU London is on the horizon, and we can introduce ASU at a deeper level across the pond, it’s pretty exciting, and it’s nice how this has come together,” Rossini said.  This will be the first U.S. college football game played at Wembley Stadium, but it joins a long list of international games played overseas. Over the last three college football seasons, there have been three international regular season games, all played in Dublin, Ireland. ASU versus Kansas will be the second modern Big 12 overseas game after last year saw Iowa State defeat Kansas State 24–21.  Going to London is not cheap. Playing a football game there isn’t either, but Rossini and university officials see the far-reaching benefits to the game.   “We look at it as a tremendous investment, tremendous opportunity, not only for the young people in our program, but at an overall universal level,” Rossini said. “What better way to start the first class of students at ASU London than being at the game with us?”  Sparky and his pitchfork will also be making the trip across the pond in an effort to spotlight the university and share U.S. culture to the world.  “The mascot aspect of U.S. sports is really unique, and that’s a fun thing to share globally as well,​​ all the content that will capture, you know, part of it is showcasing ASU,” Rossini said. ASU will fly across the pond on British Airways the day after the team returns from College Station after facing Texas A&M in a Week 2 matchup. The goal is to make it feel like a normal week and maintain a football rhythm that’s as familiar as possible for the athletes and coaches.  “ It was really important to coach Dillingham that we, knowing it’s going to be different, know it’s going to be a departure from how we normally travel,” Rossini said.  Dillingham appreciates the importance of the occasion, and despite his excitement for the opportunity, he knows he has a job to do.  “I want them to experience it right when we land,” Dillingham told DAZN. “Then let’s lock back in. We’ve got to go win a football game.” However, it won’t stop the Sun Devils and Sparky from having some fun and taking advantage of a trip overseas.  “They’re still college athletes, and experiences are what college is about,” Dillingham told DAZN. “I think this is one of the experiences they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.” Despite the main event being the game, Rossini remains grounded in what the role of a university is through the opportunities it provides.  “We’re still in a learning environment, we’re here to win a football game, but our focus is always bigger than just the sport,” he said. “It’s about preparing young people to enter the real world.” This will be year four of Kenny ‘Dillingham’s tenure as Arizona State’s coach. He has a 22–17 record and a Big 12 championship under his belt. He would love to start the season with a conference victory after last year’s 8-5 record and sixth-place conference record was widely seen as disappointing. With the overall success he has achieved and the goals he still has yet to accomplish, he said he remains focused on what is important through it all: the athletes.  “College is an experience in your life that you’re going to remember forever,” he told DAZN. “Hopefully, there are moments in that stadium where, 30 years from now, they can say, ‘I played there.'” The post London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b793197238567836bb33 London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic te 2026-06-30T12:33:23.139Z London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. TEMPE – When Arizona State hired Kenny Dillingham in 2022, he said the Sun Devils would “play anybody anywhere, any time.” The university took him at his word and on Sept. 19, ASU will face Kansas in the inaugural Union Jack Classic at London’s Wembley Stadium. It’s a chance to start Big 12 Conference play with a winning record, not to mention extend the school’s global reach. The “Big Noon Kickoff” pregame show will precede the FS1 game and give ASU another high profile stage. The 5 p.m. BST game translates to a 9 a.m. MST kickoff in Arizona. “Big noon kickoff in London at Wembley Stadium is a four-hour showcase of what’s going on at ASU, what’s going on within Sun Devil football and a great platform for coach (Kenny) Dillingham to talk about what we’re building here,” Arizona State athletic director Graham Rossini said.   In addition to football, it gives Arizona State a chance to showcase what it has in store for building a presence in London. The university’s new campus in the city opens two days after the game. “The fact that ASU London is on the horizon, and we can introduce ASU at a deeper level across the pond, it’s pretty exciting, and it’s nice how this has come together,” Rossini said.  This will be the first U.S. college football game played at Wembley Stadium, but it joins a long list of international games played overseas. Over the last three college football seasons, there have been three international regular season games, all played in Dublin, Ireland. ASU versus Kansas will be the second modern Big 12 overseas game after last year saw Iowa State defeat Kansas State 24–21.  Going to London is not cheap. Playing a football game there isn’t either, but Rossini and university officials see the far-reaching benefits to the game.   “We look at it as a tremendous investment, tremendous opportunity, not only for the young people in our program, but at an overall universal level,” Rossini said. “What better way to start the first class of students at ASU London than being at the game with us?”  Sparky and his pitchfork will also be making the trip across the pond in an effort to spotlight the university and share U.S. culture to the world.  “The mascot aspect of U.S. sports is really unique, and that’s a fun thing to share globally as well,​​ all the content that will capture, you know, part of it is showcasing ASU,” Rossini said. ASU will fly across the pond on British Airways the day after the team returns from College Station after facing Texas A&M in a Week 2 matchup. The goal is to make it feel like a normal week and maintain a football rhythm that’s as familiar as possible for the athletes and coaches.  “ It was really important to coach Dillingham that we, knowing it’s going to be different, know it’s going to be a departure from how we normally travel,” Rossini said.  Dillingham appreciates the importance of the occasion, and despite his excitement for the opportunity, he knows he has a job to do.  “I want them to experience it right when we land,” Dillingham told DAZN. “Then let’s lock back in. We’ve got to go win a football game.” However, it won’t stop the Sun Devils and Sparky from having some fun and taking advantage of a trip overseas.  “They’re still college athletes, and experiences are what college is about,” Dillingham told DAZN. “I think this is one of the experiences they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.” Despite the main event being the game, Rossini remains grounded in what the role of a university is through the opportunities it provides.  “We’re still in a learning environment, we’re here to win a football game, but our focus is always bigger than just the sport,” he said. “It’s about preparing young people to enter the real world.” This will be year four of Kenny ‘Dillingham’s tenure as Arizona State’s coach. He has a 22–17 record and a Big 12 championship under his belt. He would love to start the season with a conference victory after last year’s 8-5 record and sixth-place conference record was widely seen as disappointing. With the overall success he has achieved and the goals he still has yet to accomplish, he said he remains focused on what is important through it all: the athletes.  “College is an experience in your life that you’re going to remember forever,” he told DAZN. “Hopefully, there are moments in that stadium where, 30 years from now, they can say, ‘I played there.'” The post London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b791197238567836bb2a London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic te 2026-06-30T12:33:21.459Z London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic Cronkite News offers an audio version of this story using an automated voice created by AI. Errors in pronunciation, pacing and intonation may occur. If you notice an error please contact cronkitenews@asu.edu. TEMPE – When Arizona State hired Kenny Dillingham in 2022, he said the Sun Devils would “play anybody anywhere, any time.” The university took him at his word and on Sept. 19, ASU will face Kansas in the inaugural Union Jack Classic at London’s Wembley Stadium. It’s a chance to start Big 12 Conference play with a winning record, not to mention extend the school’s global reach. The “Big Noon Kickoff” pregame show will precede the FS1 game and give ASU another high profile stage. The 5 p.m. BST game translates to a 9 a.m. MST kickoff in Arizona. “Big noon kickoff in London at Wembley Stadium is a four-hour showcase of what’s going on at ASU, what’s going on within Sun Devil football and a great platform for coach (Kenny) Dillingham to talk about what we’re building here,” Arizona State athletic director Graham Rossini said.   In addition to football, it gives Arizona State a chance to showcase what it has in store for building a presence in London. The university’s new campus in the city opens two days after the game. “The fact that ASU London is on the horizon, and we can introduce ASU at a deeper level across the pond, it’s pretty exciting, and it’s nice how this has come together,” Rossini said.  This will be the first U.S. college football game played at Wembley Stadium, but it joins a long list of international games played overseas. Over the last three college football seasons, there have been three international regular season games, all played in Dublin, Ireland. ASU versus Kansas will be the second modern Big 12 overseas game after last year saw Iowa State defeat Kansas State 24–21.  Going to London is not cheap. Playing a football game there isn’t either, but Rossini and university officials see the far-reaching benefits to the game.   “We look at it as a tremendous investment, tremendous opportunity, not only for the young people in our program, but at an overall universal level,” Rossini said. “What better way to start the first class of students at ASU London than being at the game with us?”  Sparky and his pitchfork will also be making the trip across the pond in an effort to spotlight the university and share U.S. culture to the world.  “The mascot aspect of U.S. sports is really unique, and that’s a fun thing to share globally as well,​​ all the content that will capture, you know, part of it is showcasing ASU,” Rossini said. ASU will fly across the pond on British Airways the day after the team returns from College Station after facing Texas A&M in a Week 2 matchup. The goal is to make it feel like a normal week and maintain a football rhythm that’s as familiar as possible for the athletes and coaches.  “ It was really important to coach Dillingham that we, knowing it’s going to be different, know it’s going to be a departure from how we normally travel,” Rossini said.  Dillingham appreciates the importance of the occasion, and despite his excitement for the opportunity, he knows he has a job to do.  “I want them to experience it right when we land,” Dillingham told DAZN. “Then let’s lock back in. We’ve got to go win a football game.” However, it won’t stop the Sun Devils and Sparky from having some fun and taking advantage of a trip overseas.  “They’re still college athletes, and experiences are what college is about,” Dillingham told DAZN. “I think this is one of the experiences they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.” Despite the main event being the game, Rossini remains grounded in what the role of a university is through the opportunities it provides.  “We’re still in a learning environment, we’re here to win a football game, but our focus is always bigger than just the sport,” he said. “It’s about preparing young people to enter the real world.” This will be year four of Kenny ‘Dillingham’s tenure as Arizona State’s coach. He has a 22–17 record and a Big 12 championship under his belt. He would love to start the season with a conference victory after last year’s 8-5 record and sixth-place conference record was widely seen as disappointing. With the overall success he has achieved and the goals he still has yet to accomplish, he said he remains focused on what is important through it all: the athletes.  “College is an experience in your life that you’re going to remember forever,” he told DAZN. “Hopefully, there are moments in that stadium where, 30 years from now, they can say, ‘I played there.'” The post London calling: ASU football prepares to ‘showcase’ university at Union Jack Classic appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b780197238567836bb21 Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression te 2026-06-30T12:33:04.709Z Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider whether Arizona can require proof of citizenship for voter registration, in a case being closely watched by voting rights advocates. In February 2025, a federal appeals court blocked enforcement of two Arizona laws enacted in 2022 that Democrats and others say are intended to deter Latino voters.  Republicans want to overturn that ruling, arguing that the Legislature is simply trying to ensure that noncitizens cannot cast ballots.  “It’s not racist to believe that only U.S. citizens should vote in America,” said Arizona Republican Party Chair Sergio Arellano in a statement after the high court announced Monday that it will hear oral arguments in the fall. “The 9th Circuit lives in its own fantasyland, but common sense is still alive and well at the U.S. Supreme Court.”  Voting rights advocates say the case, Republican National Committee v. Mi Familia Vota, could have enormous implications if the justices allow Arizona and other states to require proof of citizenship. Under federal law, people registering to vote check a box affirming they are citizens but don’t have to show any documents.  “Under the false pretense of combating noncitizen voting, despite overwhelming evidence that it is exceedingly rare, the Trump administration and its MAGA allies are advancing one of the most aggressive voter suppression efforts in modern history,” Hector Sanchez Barba, president and CEO of Mi Familia Vota, said in a statement Monday evening. Likening the proof of citizenship requirement to poll taxes and literacy tests, he added, “We have already seen eligible citizens wrongly removed from voter rolls and forced through burdensome bureaucratic hurdles to restore their voting rights. That is not election integrity – it’s disenfranchisement.” Critics say that the laws could prevent millions of eligible voters from casting ballots.  A study by the Brennan Center for Justice found that more than 9% of U.S. citizens of voting age do not have proof of citizenship readily available. That percentage is higher for citizens of color. “The RNC is proud to lead this effort,” said Chairman Joe Gruter in a statement Monday. “We will keep fighting nationwide to defend election integrity and ensure only eligible citizens can cast a ballot.” The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles appeals from Arizona and eight other Western states, ruled in Mi Familia Vota v. Fontes early last year that two election laws adopted by the Arizona Legislature violate the National Voter Registration Act. That federal law requires states to “accept and use” a federal voter registration form.  One of the new Arizona laws requires use of a state form that adds a requirement to provide proof of citizenship. Voters who insist on using the federal form would be allowed to cast ballots for president and Congress, but not in state and local elections. More than 19,000 Arizonans were registered as federal-only voters as of July 2023, according to court records.  The second Arizona law on hold by order of the 9th Circuit would allow county election officials to investigate a voter they have “reason to believe” is not a citizen. Critics call the provision discriminatory and say it has subjected naturalized citizens to an unequal verification process.  Arizona’s governor at the time, Republican Doug Ducey, signed the measures into law. In August 2024, the Supreme Court issued an order allowing the state’s proof of citizenship requirement to remain in effect while the case works through the courts.  “Arizona does need clarity from the Court on how to administer the citizenship requirements for voting,” Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, the state’s top election official, said in a statement Monday. “The current process is confusing to voters and results in some voter applications being totally rejected just because of which form they happened to use.”  In 2004, Arizona voters approved Proposition 200, which required proof of citizenship to register to vote and for voters to show identification at polling stations. The two 2022 laws the Supreme Court will review were approved amid a wave of similar measures by GOP-controlled states. Many of those were inspired by President Donald Trump’s unsubstantiated claims that widespread voting by noncitizens cost him the 2020 election.  In fact, the number of noncitizens on voting lists is very low and the number who actually cast a ballot in a federal election – which is illegal – is even lower. A review by the Department of Homeland Security found that out of 49.5 million voter registrations from roughly half the states that were compared against federal databases, about 10,000, or 0.2%, could have been noncitizens.  But state elections officials called that figure inflated, noting that many citizens were flagged incorrectly. Nor did that review turn up evidence of illegal voting.   In late May, Utah officials released the results of a yearlong review that cross-referenced voter rolls with a federal citizenship verification database. The review identified  27 noncitizens out of 2 million registered voters.  Trump has been demanding a proof of citizenship law at the federal level: the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which also includes a photo ID requirement at the polls. The bill is stalled in the Senate.  After the Supreme Court ruled Monday that states are allowed to count mail-in ballots that were postmarked by Election Day – rejecting a GOP challenge 5-4 – Trump called the SAVE Act even more vital to avert cheating. The SAVE Act would eliminate federal-only voters in Arizona. Arizona only counts ballots that arrive by 7 p.m. on Election Day, so Monday’s ruling does not affect Arizona’s elections. The post Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b77f197238567836bb18 Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression te 2026-06-30T12:33:03.683Z Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider whether Arizona can require proof of citizenship for voter registration, in a case being closely watched by voting rights advocates. In February 2025, a federal appeals court blocked enforcement of two Arizona laws enacted in 2022 that Democrats and others say are intended to deter Latino voters.  Republicans want to overturn that ruling, arguing that the Legislature is simply trying to ensure that noncitizens cannot cast ballots.  “It’s not racist to believe that only U.S. citizens should vote in America,” said Arizona Republican Party Chair Sergio Arellano in a statement after the high court announced Monday that it will hear oral arguments in the fall. “The 9th Circuit lives in its own fantasyland, but common sense is still alive and well at the U.S. Supreme Court.”  Voting rights advocates say the case, Republican National Committee v. Mi Familia Vota, could have enormous implications if the justices allow Arizona and other states to require proof of citizenship. Under federal law, people registering to vote check a box affirming they are citizens but don’t have to show any documents.  “Under the false pretense of combating noncitizen voting, despite overwhelming evidence that it is exceedingly rare, the Trump administration and its MAGA allies are advancing one of the most aggressive voter suppression efforts in modern history,” Hector Sanchez Barba, president and CEO of Mi Familia Vota, said in a statement Monday evening. Likening the proof of citizenship requirement to poll taxes and literacy tests, he added, “We have already seen eligible citizens wrongly removed from voter rolls and forced through burdensome bureaucratic hurdles to restore their voting rights. That is not election integrity – it’s disenfranchisement.” Critics say that the laws could prevent millions of eligible voters from casting ballots.  A study by the Brennan Center for Justice found that more than 9% of U.S. citizens of voting age do not have proof of citizenship readily available. That percentage is higher for citizens of color. “The RNC is proud to lead this effort,” said Chairman Joe Gruter in a statement Monday. “We will keep fighting nationwide to defend election integrity and ensure only eligible citizens can cast a ballot.” The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles appeals from Arizona and eight other Western states, ruled in Mi Familia Vota v. Fontes early last year that two election laws adopted by the Arizona Legislature violate the National Voter Registration Act. That federal law requires states to “accept and use” a federal voter registration form.  One of the new Arizona laws requires use of a state form that adds a requirement to provide proof of citizenship. Voters who insist on using the federal form would be allowed to cast ballots for president and Congress, but not in state and local elections. More than 19,000 Arizonans were registered as federal-only voters as of July 2023, according to court records.  The second Arizona law on hold by order of the 9th Circuit would allow county election officials to investigate a voter they have “reason to believe” is not a citizen. Critics call the provision discriminatory and say it has subjected naturalized citizens to an unequal verification process.  Arizona’s governor at the time, Republican Doug Ducey, signed the measures into law. In August 2024, the Supreme Court issued an order allowing the state’s proof of citizenship requirement to remain in effect while the case works through the courts.  “Arizona does need clarity from the Court on how to administer the citizenship requirements for voting,” Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, the state’s top election official, said in a statement Monday. “The current process is confusing to voters and results in some voter applications being totally rejected just because of which form they happened to use.”  In 2004, Arizona voters approved Proposition 200, which required proof of citizenship to register to vote and for voters to show identification at polling stations. The two 2022 laws the Supreme Court will review were approved amid a wave of similar measures by GOP-controlled states. Many of those were inspired by President Donald Trump’s unsubstantiated claims that widespread voting by noncitizens cost him the 2020 election.  In fact, the number of noncitizens on voting lists is very low and the number who actually cast a ballot in a federal election – which is illegal – is even lower. A review by the Department of Homeland Security found that out of 49.5 million voter registrations from roughly half the states that were compared against federal databases, about 10,000, or 0.2%, could have been noncitizens.  But state elections officials called that figure inflated, noting that many citizens were flagged incorrectly. Nor did that review turn up evidence of illegal voting.   In late May, Utah officials released the results of a yearlong review that cross-referenced voter rolls with a federal citizenship verification database. The review identified  27 noncitizens out of 2 million registered voters.  Trump has been demanding a proof of citizenship law at the federal level: the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which also includes a photo ID requirement at the polls. The bill is stalled in the Senate.  After the Supreme Court ruled Monday that states are allowed to count mail-in ballots that were postmarked by Election Day – rejecting a GOP challenge 5-4 – Trump called the SAVE Act even more vital to avert cheating. The SAVE Act would eliminate federal-only voters in Arizona. Arizona only counts ballots that arrive by 7 p.m. on Election Day, so Monday’s ruling does not affect Arizona’s elections. The post Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b77e197238567836bb0f Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression te 2026-06-30T12:33:02.005Z Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider whether Arizona can require proof of citizenship for voter registration, in a case being closely watched by voting rights advocates. In February 2025, a federal appeals court blocked enforcement of two Arizona laws enacted in 2022 that Democrats and others say are intended to deter Latino voters.  Republicans want to overturn that ruling, arguing that the Legislature is simply trying to ensure that noncitizens cannot cast ballots.  “It’s not racist to believe that only U.S. citizens should vote in America,” said Arizona Republican Party Chair Sergio Arellano in a statement after the high court announced Monday that it will hear oral arguments in the fall. “The 9th Circuit lives in its own fantasyland, but common sense is still alive and well at the U.S. Supreme Court.”  Voting rights advocates say the case, Republican National Committee v. Mi Familia Vota, could have enormous implications if the justices allow Arizona and other states to require proof of citizenship. Under federal law, people registering to vote check a box affirming they are citizens but don’t have to show any documents.  “Under the false pretense of combating noncitizen voting, despite overwhelming evidence that it is exceedingly rare, the Trump administration and its MAGA allies are advancing one of the most aggressive voter suppression efforts in modern history,” Hector Sanchez Barba, president and CEO of Mi Familia Vota, said in a statement Monday evening. Likening the proof of citizenship requirement to poll taxes and literacy tests, he added, “We have already seen eligible citizens wrongly removed from voter rolls and forced through burdensome bureaucratic hurdles to restore their voting rights. That is not election integrity – it’s disenfranchisement.” Critics say that the laws could prevent millions of eligible voters from casting ballots.  A study by the Brennan Center for Justice found that more than 9% of U.S. citizens of voting age do not have proof of citizenship readily available. That percentage is higher for citizens of color. “The RNC is proud to lead this effort,” said Chairman Joe Gruter in a statement Monday. “We will keep fighting nationwide to defend election integrity and ensure only eligible citizens can cast a ballot.” The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which handles appeals from Arizona and eight other Western states, ruled in Mi Familia Vota v. Fontes early last year that two election laws adopted by the Arizona Legislature violate the National Voter Registration Act. That federal law requires states to “accept and use” a federal voter registration form.  One of the new Arizona laws requires use of a state form that adds a requirement to provide proof of citizenship. Voters who insist on using the federal form would be allowed to cast ballots for president and Congress, but not in state and local elections. More than 19,000 Arizonans were registered as federal-only voters as of July 2023, according to court records.  The second Arizona law on hold by order of the 9th Circuit would allow county election officials to investigate a voter they have “reason to believe” is not a citizen. Critics call the provision discriminatory and say it has subjected naturalized citizens to an unequal verification process.  Arizona’s governor at the time, Republican Doug Ducey, signed the measures into law. In August 2024, the Supreme Court issued an order allowing the state’s proof of citizenship requirement to remain in effect while the case works through the courts.  “Arizona does need clarity from the Court on how to administer the citizenship requirements for voting,” Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, the state’s top election official, said in a statement Monday. “The current process is confusing to voters and results in some voter applications being totally rejected just because of which form they happened to use.”  In 2004, Arizona voters approved Proposition 200, which required proof of citizenship to register to vote and for voters to show identification at polling stations. The two 2022 laws the Supreme Court will review were approved amid a wave of similar measures by GOP-controlled states. Many of those were inspired by President Donald Trump’s unsubstantiated claims that widespread voting by noncitizens cost him the 2020 election.  In fact, the number of noncitizens on voting lists is very low and the number who actually cast a ballot in a federal election – which is illegal – is even lower. A review by the Department of Homeland Security found that out of 49.5 million voter registrations from roughly half the states that were compared against federal databases, about 10,000, or 0.2%, could have been noncitizens.  But state elections officials called that figure inflated, noting that many citizens were flagged incorrectly. Nor did that review turn up evidence of illegal voting.   In late May, Utah officials released the results of a yearlong review that cross-referenced voter rolls with a federal citizenship verification database. The review identified  27 noncitizens out of 2 million registered voters.  Trump has been demanding a proof of citizenship law at the federal level: the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, which also includes a photo ID requirement at the polls. The bill is stalled in the Senate.  After the Supreme Court ruled Monday that states are allowed to count mail-in ballots that were postmarked by Election Day – rejecting a GOP challenge 5-4 – Trump called the SAVE Act even more vital to avert cheating. The SAVE Act would eliminate federal-only voters in Arizona. Arizona only counts ballots that arrive by 7 p.m. on Election Day, so Monday’s ruling does not affect Arizona’s elections. The post Supreme Court takes up GOP bid to revive Arizona proof of citizenship law that critics call voter suppression appeared first on Cronkite News. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b759197238567836baff JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes te 2026-06-30T12:32:25.283Z JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes By Jason Bedrick | Arizona lawmakers may soon be summoned back to the Capitol for a special session to consider a “grand bargain” on Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs). If so, they should put the interests of ESA families first. Under one version of the deal, the Arizona Education Association (AEA) and its allies would drop their ballot initiative restricting ESAs. In exchange, the legislature would abandon three measures it referred to the ballot this session — protections for military families’ scholarships, payroll reform for teachers’ unions, and a mandate that districts spend 60 percent of their budgets on instruction — and would enact most of the ESA provisions debated this session in House Bill 2142. (There’s one important exception: the unnecessary testing mandate would be dropped.) A much better deal, proposed by Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, would offer “one for one,” with the legislature dropping the payroll ballot measure in return for the AEA dropping its ballot measure. The legislative GOP caucus is behind the Biggs deal—the question is just how desperate the AEA is to avoid going to the ballot. But if the “grand bargain” requires some reforms to the ESA program, legislators should hold out for a better deal than the original proposal. The AEA-backed initiative is not a modest accountability measure; it is a serious threat to the ESA program, imposing a host of harmful regulations, including a restrictive income cap that would kick tens of thousands of students off the program, blocking parents from buying basic school supplies, and confiscating funds that families had saved for their children’s education. If Democrats balk at the Biggs proposal, trading away three referred measures and a handful of program restrictions to make that threat disappear is a defensible trade. But as Arizona’s ESA defenders take yes for an answer, they should be honest about what they’re doing and minimize harm to ESA families. The HB2142-based “grand bargain” is not, as the American Federation for Children (AFC) has suggested, a set of “commonsense reforms” that simply tidy up the program. It is a series of concessions — real costs imposed on real families — that ESA supporters are accepting because the alternative is worse. Calling it “commonsense” or a “fix” obscures this. It allows the organization to claim credit for “saving” the ESA program without ever having to explain to the families of more than 100,000 students who rely on it what its own proposed changes will actually do to their accounts. In the wake of the HB2142-based proposal, I solicited feedback about it on a social network page for ESA families. I received nearly 400 comments from ESA parents who overwhelmingly opposed the proposed regulations. They explained in detail how the supposedly “commonsense” restrictions would hamper their ability to provide their children with an education that works best for them. Here is what the three central provisions of the HB2142-based proposal would actually do — and why each of them, even if ultimately worth swallowing in some form, makes the program worse for the families it serves. Capping Rollover Funds A key feature of ESAs that distinguishes them from a traditional voucher is that families can save unspent funds from year to year rather than being forced to spend a lump sum on a single school by a single deadline. This matters because families spend their own money more efficiently than bureaucrats spend other people’s money. The ability to save and re-deploy funds gives families both the incentive to economize and the flexibility to plan for expenses that don’t arrive on a tidy nine-month school-year schedule. A voucher must be spent now, at one school, or it will be lost. ESA funds can be banked for next year’s therapy bill, a multi-year curriculum purchase, or a future tuition increase. The deal under discussion would cap how much families can carry forward — $50,000 for students with disabilities, $24,000 for everyone else — with the excess confiscated and deposited into the state general fund each year. That won’t matter for most families who spend close to their full allotment annually. But for the families who most need the flexibility ESAs were designed to provide, particularly families of students with special needs, it will be a bitter pill to swallow. Families saving toward a multi-year placement at a specialized school, parents stockpiling funds for a major piece of assistive technology, or families anticipating a more expensive placement as a child with a disability ages into more intensive services — these are exactly the families a cap punishes. The rollover cap is a “solution” in search of a problem. The rollover cap creates a perverse “use it or lose it” incentive that won’t save money; it will only encourage wasteful spending. If lawmakers proceed with a cap, the least they should do is exempt students with disabilities entirely. The case for forced spend-down is weakest exactly where the case for flexibility is strongest: students whose educational and therapeutic needs are least predictable and most expensive over time. Fingerprinting Mandate The deal would require fingerprint clearance cards — the same background-check credential used for school district and charter school employees — for individuals providing tutoring or teaching services paid for with ESA funds, as well as for staff at qualified private schools. For an institution — a school, a learning center, a tutoring company with a storefront and rotating staff — this is a reasonable extension of an existing framework, as schools are already required to fingerprint their teachers. But the bill does not stop at institutions. As drafted, it would also sweep in independent tutors — the retired teacher down the street who tutors a handful of children at a family’s kitchen table, the local college student who helps with algebra twice a week. This is a fundamentally different relationship from a teacher supervising a classroom of other people’s children at an institution. A tutor working in a family’s own home, under that family’s direct supervision and invited in by that family’s own judgment, is not analogous to a stranger left alone with a building full of students. Parents already vet who comes into their homes; that is what parental choice means. Mandating a state-administered background-check bureaucracy on top of that judgment does not make children safer — it makes it harder and more expensive to find a tutor at all, particularly in the specialized subjects and therapeutic disciplines where the pool of qualified providers is already thin. The fix here is narrow and obvious: limit the fingerprinting requirement to qualified schools and institutional tutoring providers, and exempt individual tutors providing services in a student’s own home. That preserves the child-safety rationale where it actually applies — institutional settings with unsupervised access to multiple children — without taxing the much more common, much more easily supervised arrangement of one family hiring one tutor. Spending Restrictions The deal under consideration also adds a long, explicit list of disallowed expenses. Most of this list is theater. Jewelry, lingerie, hot tubs, bounce houses, and gift cards were never allowable ESA expenses in the first place. Codifying their prohibition changes nothing about what families can actually buy. It exists to give legislators something to point to — a list that sounds tough — rather than to solve an actual problem in the program. That is itself a tell about how this provision came to be. But a few items on the list are genuinely new restrictions, and those deserve scrutiny on the merits. Barring out-of-state and international museums and excursions, for instance, would forbid spending ESA funds on precisely the kind of experiential, field-based learning that homeschooling and hybrid-schooling families have used for years — a trip to a Civil War battlefield, a national museum in Washington, D.C., a language-immersion excursion across the border. These are not luxuries dressed up as education — for many families building a curriculum outside a traditional classroom, they are the curriculum. Banning them doesn’t close a loophole. It closes off a category of legitimate, well-documented educational practice that happens to be easy to caricature in a press release. Hotel stays, meals, plane tickets and other travel expenses are already properly forbidden, but there’s no good reason to prevent families from purchasing tickets to a museum outside Arizona that would be allowed if it were in Arizona. Any grand bargain should restore legitimate educational purchases to the allowable-uses list. Why AFC Is Getting This Wrong None of these three provisions emerged from a serious conversation with ESA families about what they need. They emerged from a desire to manage headlines. Rather than designing ESA policy in the best interests of ESA families, AFC’s strategy would let school-choice opponents dictate the policy agenda. Chief among them is school-choice opponent Craig Harris at Channel 12, who has spent the better part of a year manufacturing alarm about ESA account balances and fraud rates that bear little resemblance to reality. The Arizona Department of Education has confirmed that flagged fraudulent or egregious spending amounts to roughly 0.3 percent of total ESA spending — a rate that would be the envy of nearly any government program. Harris has claimed fraud rates many times higher, and signature gatherers for the AEA-backed and AFC-backed ballot campaigns alike have been caught on camera spreading those falsehoods to voters. The right response to false claims is to correct them. Instead, AFC has chosen to give ESA opponents a say in how to regulate the program — an approach that has repeatedly proven disastrous for ESA families. Instead of proposing rollover caps because Harris made an issue of high account balances, school-choice proponents should explain to Arizona voters why families save those balances in the first place — often precisely because they have a child with disabilities whose needs are expensive and unpredictable. AFC’s approach sets a dangerous precedent: when an activist-journalist manufactures a talking point, AFC’s policy response is to regulate around it rather than to defend the program based on the facts. Arizona’s ESA families were not asked whether they would trade their ability to save for a child’s future needs, or their ability to hire a trusted neighbor as a tutor, for a quieter news cycle. They deserve a coalition that designs policy around what actually serves them — not one that lets their loudest opponents write the rules by proxy, then dresses up the result as “commonsense.” The next time AFC or any other organization in this space asks Arizona families to accept a “commonsense reform,” someone should ask the obvious question: commonsense according to whom, and at whose expense? If the goal is just to keep Craig Harris’s headlines at bay, it’s a fool’s errand — he and his ilk will continue manufacturing anti-ESA headlines so long as there’s an ESA program. “Avoiding bad headlines” is not a serious approach to policymaking and certainly not in the interests of ESA families. Arizona’s ESA families deserve better. Consider the Deal — With Open Eyes None of this is an argument against the special-session deal. The AEA-backed initiative would do far more damage to far more families than a rollover cap or a fingerprinting mandate ever could, and trading three referred ballot measures plus some unnecessary or even harmful ESA restrictions to take that threat off the table is a trade worth considering. Dropping the testing mandate from the deal is itself a meaningful win, preserving the central insight of school choice: families, not state-mandated exams, are the accountability mechanism. Taking the HB2142-based deal might be a necessary evil, but it’s certainly not a victory. At best, it would be a retreat to a more politically defensible position, not a “commonsense” fix or policy advance. If there is a special session, lawmakers who support the ESA should do everything in their power to minimize the harm to ESA families. That would entail supporting the Biggs proposal or, at the very least, holding out for revisions to HB2142 that seriously consider the impact on ESA families. Jason Bedrick is a Senior Research Fellow at The Heritage Foundation’s Center for Education Policy. The post JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b758197238567836baf5 JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes te 2026-06-30T12:32:24.779Z JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes By Jason Bedrick | Arizona lawmakers may soon be summoned back to the Capitol for a special session to consider a “grand bargain” on Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs). If so, they should put the interests of ESA families first. Under one version of the deal, the Arizona Education Association (AEA) and its allies would drop their ballot initiative restricting ESAs. In exchange, the legislature would abandon three measures it referred to the ballot this session — protections for military families’ scholarships, payroll reform for teachers’ unions, and a mandate that districts spend 60 percent of their budgets on instruction — and would enact most of the ESA provisions debated this session in House Bill 2142. (There’s one important exception: the unnecessary testing mandate would be dropped.) A much better deal, proposed by Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, would offer “one for one,” with the legislature dropping the payroll ballot measure in return for the AEA dropping its ballot measure. The legislative GOP caucus is behind the Biggs deal—the question is just how desperate the AEA is to avoid going to the ballot. But if the “grand bargain” requires some reforms to the ESA program, legislators should hold out for a better deal than the original proposal. The AEA-backed initiative is not a modest accountability measure; it is a serious threat to the ESA program, imposing a host of harmful regulations, including a restrictive income cap that would kick tens of thousands of students off the program, blocking parents from buying basic school supplies, and confiscating funds that families had saved for their children’s education. If Democrats balk at the Biggs proposal, trading away three referred measures and a handful of program restrictions to make that threat disappear is a defensible trade. But as Arizona’s ESA defenders take yes for an answer, they should be honest about what they’re doing and minimize harm to ESA families. The HB2142-based “grand bargain” is not, as the American Federation for Children (AFC) has suggested, a set of “commonsense reforms” that simply tidy up the program. It is a series of concessions — real costs imposed on real families — that ESA supporters are accepting because the alternative is worse. Calling it “commonsense” or a “fix” obscures this. It allows the organization to claim credit for “saving” the ESA program without ever having to explain to the families of more than 100,000 students who rely on it what its own proposed changes will actually do to their accounts. In the wake of the HB2142-based proposal, I solicited feedback about it on a social network page for ESA families. I received nearly 400 comments from ESA parents who overwhelmingly opposed the proposed regulations. They explained in detail how the supposedly “commonsense” restrictions would hamper their ability to provide their children with an education that works best for them. Here is what the three central provisions of the HB2142-based proposal would actually do — and why each of them, even if ultimately worth swallowing in some form, makes the program worse for the families it serves. Capping Rollover Funds A key feature of ESAs that distinguishes them from a traditional voucher is that families can save unspent funds from year to year rather than being forced to spend a lump sum on a single school by a single deadline. This matters because families spend their own money more efficiently than bureaucrats spend other people’s money. The ability to save and re-deploy funds gives families both the incentive to economize and the flexibility to plan for expenses that don’t arrive on a tidy nine-month school-year schedule. A voucher must be spent now, at one school, or it will be lost. ESA funds can be banked for next year’s therapy bill, a multi-year curriculum purchase, or a future tuition increase. The deal under discussion would cap how much families can carry forward — $50,000 for students with disabilities, $24,000 for everyone else — with the excess confiscated and deposited into the state general fund each year. That won’t matter for most families who spend close to their full allotment annually. But for the families who most need the flexibility ESAs were designed to provide, particularly families of students with special needs, it will be a bitter pill to swallow. Families saving toward a multi-year placement at a specialized school, parents stockpiling funds for a major piece of assistive technology, or families anticipating a more expensive placement as a child with a disability ages into more intensive services — these are exactly the families a cap punishes. The rollover cap is a “solution” in search of a problem. The rollover cap creates a perverse “use it or lose it” incentive that won’t save money; it will only encourage wasteful spending. If lawmakers proceed with a cap, the least they should do is exempt students with disabilities entirely. The case for forced spend-down is weakest exactly where the case for flexibility is strongest: students whose educational and therapeutic needs are least predictable and most expensive over time. Fingerprinting Mandate The deal would require fingerprint clearance cards — the same background-check credential used for school district and charter school employees — for individuals providing tutoring or teaching services paid for with ESA funds, as well as for staff at qualified private schools. For an institution — a school, a learning center, a tutoring company with a storefront and rotating staff — this is a reasonable extension of an existing framework, as schools are already required to fingerprint their teachers. But the bill does not stop at institutions. As drafted, it would also sweep in independent tutors — the retired teacher down the street who tutors a handful of children at a family’s kitchen table, the local college student who helps with algebra twice a week. This is a fundamentally different relationship from a teacher supervising a classroom of other people’s children at an institution. A tutor working in a family’s own home, under that family’s direct supervision and invited in by that family’s own judgment, is not analogous to a stranger left alone with a building full of students. Parents already vet who comes into their homes; that is what parental choice means. Mandating a state-administered background-check bureaucracy on top of that judgment does not make children safer — it makes it harder and more expensive to find a tutor at all, particularly in the specialized subjects and therapeutic disciplines where the pool of qualified providers is already thin. The fix here is narrow and obvious: limit the fingerprinting requirement to qualified schools and institutional tutoring providers, and exempt individual tutors providing services in a student’s own home. That preserves the child-safety rationale where it actually applies — institutional settings with unsupervised access to multiple children — without taxing the much more common, much more easily supervised arrangement of one family hiring one tutor. Spending Restrictions The deal under consideration also adds a long, explicit list of disallowed expenses. Most of this list is theater. Jewelry, lingerie, hot tubs, bounce houses, and gift cards were never allowable ESA expenses in the first place. Codifying their prohibition changes nothing about what families can actually buy. It exists to give legislators something to point to — a list that sounds tough — rather than to solve an actual problem in the program. That is itself a tell about how this provision came to be. But a few items on the list are genuinely new restrictions, and those deserve scrutiny on the merits. Barring out-of-state and international museums and excursions, for instance, would forbid spending ESA funds on precisely the kind of experiential, field-based learning that homeschooling and hybrid-schooling families have used for years — a trip to a Civil War battlefield, a national museum in Washington, D.C., a language-immersion excursion across the border. These are not luxuries dressed up as education — for many families building a curriculum outside a traditional classroom, they are the curriculum. Banning them doesn’t close a loophole. It closes off a category of legitimate, well-documented educational practice that happens to be easy to caricature in a press release. Hotel stays, meals, plane tickets and other travel expenses are already properly forbidden, but there’s no good reason to prevent families from purchasing tickets to a museum outside Arizona that would be allowed if it were in Arizona. Any grand bargain should restore legitimate educational purchases to the allowable-uses list. Why AFC Is Getting This Wrong None of these three provisions emerged from a serious conversation with ESA families about what they need. They emerged from a desire to manage headlines. Rather than designing ESA policy in the best interests of ESA families, AFC’s strategy would let school-choice opponents dictate the policy agenda. Chief among them is school-choice opponent Craig Harris at Channel 12, who has spent the better part of a year manufacturing alarm about ESA account balances and fraud rates that bear little resemblance to reality. The Arizona Department of Education has confirmed that flagged fraudulent or egregious spending amounts to roughly 0.3 percent of total ESA spending — a rate that would be the envy of nearly any government program. Harris has claimed fraud rates many times higher, and signature gatherers for the AEA-backed and AFC-backed ballot campaigns alike have been caught on camera spreading those falsehoods to voters. The right response to false claims is to correct them. Instead, AFC has chosen to give ESA opponents a say in how to regulate the program — an approach that has repeatedly proven disastrous for ESA families. Instead of proposing rollover caps because Harris made an issue of high account balances, school-choice proponents should explain to Arizona voters why families save those balances in the first place — often precisely because they have a child with disabilities whose needs are expensive and unpredictable. AFC’s approach sets a dangerous precedent: when an activist-journalist manufactures a talking point, AFC’s policy response is to regulate around it rather than to defend the program based on the facts. Arizona’s ESA families were not asked whether they would trade their ability to save for a child’s future needs, or their ability to hire a trusted neighbor as a tutor, for a quieter news cycle. They deserve a coalition that designs policy around what actually serves them — not one that lets their loudest opponents write the rules by proxy, then dresses up the result as “commonsense.” The next time AFC or any other organization in this space asks Arizona families to accept a “commonsense reform,” someone should ask the obvious question: commonsense according to whom, and at whose expense? If the goal is just to keep Craig Harris’s headlines at bay, it’s a fool’s errand — he and his ilk will continue manufacturing anti-ESA headlines so long as there’s an ESA program. “Avoiding bad headlines” is not a serious approach to policymaking and certainly not in the interests of ESA families. Arizona’s ESA families deserve better. Consider the Deal — With Open Eyes None of this is an argument against the special-session deal. The AEA-backed initiative would do far more damage to far more families than a rollover cap or a fingerprinting mandate ever could, and trading three referred ballot measures plus some unnecessary or even harmful ESA restrictions to take that threat off the table is a trade worth considering. Dropping the testing mandate from the deal is itself a meaningful win, preserving the central insight of school choice: families, not state-mandated exams, are the accountability mechanism. Taking the HB2142-based deal might be a necessary evil, but it’s certainly not a victory. At best, it would be a retreat to a more politically defensible position, not a “commonsense” fix or policy advance. If there is a special session, lawmakers who support the ESA should do everything in their power to minimize the harm to ESA families. That would entail supporting the Biggs proposal or, at the very least, holding out for revisions to HB2142 that seriously consider the impact on ESA families. Jason Bedrick is a Senior Research Fellow at The Heritage Foundation’s Center for Education Policy. The post JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b755197238567836baeb JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes te 2026-06-30T12:32:21.558Z JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes By Jason Bedrick | Arizona lawmakers may soon be summoned back to the Capitol for a special session to consider a “grand bargain” on Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs). If so, they should put the interests of ESA families first. Under one version of the deal, the Arizona Education Association (AEA) and its allies would drop their ballot initiative restricting ESAs. In exchange, the legislature would abandon three measures it referred to the ballot this session — protections for military families’ scholarships, payroll reform for teachers’ unions, and a mandate that districts spend 60 percent of their budgets on instruction — and would enact most of the ESA provisions debated this session in House Bill 2142. (There’s one important exception: the unnecessary testing mandate would be dropped.) A much better deal, proposed by Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, would offer “one for one,” with the legislature dropping the payroll ballot measure in return for the AEA dropping its ballot measure. The legislative GOP caucus is behind the Biggs deal—the question is just how desperate the AEA is to avoid going to the ballot. But if the “grand bargain” requires some reforms to the ESA program, legislators should hold out for a better deal than the original proposal. The AEA-backed initiative is not a modest accountability measure; it is a serious threat to the ESA program, imposing a host of harmful regulations, including a restrictive income cap that would kick tens of thousands of students off the program, blocking parents from buying basic school supplies, and confiscating funds that families had saved for their children’s education. If Democrats balk at the Biggs proposal, trading away three referred measures and a handful of program restrictions to make that threat disappear is a defensible trade. But as Arizona’s ESA defenders take yes for an answer, they should be honest about what they’re doing and minimize harm to ESA families. The HB2142-based “grand bargain” is not, as the American Federation for Children (AFC) has suggested, a set of “commonsense reforms” that simply tidy up the program. It is a series of concessions — real costs imposed on real families — that ESA supporters are accepting because the alternative is worse. Calling it “commonsense” or a “fix” obscures this. It allows the organization to claim credit for “saving” the ESA program without ever having to explain to the families of more than 100,000 students who rely on it what its own proposed changes will actually do to their accounts. In the wake of the HB2142-based proposal, I solicited feedback about it on a social network page for ESA families. I received nearly 400 comments from ESA parents who overwhelmingly opposed the proposed regulations. They explained in detail how the supposedly “commonsense” restrictions would hamper their ability to provide their children with an education that works best for them. Here is what the three central provisions of the HB2142-based proposal would actually do — and why each of them, even if ultimately worth swallowing in some form, makes the program worse for the families it serves. Capping Rollover Funds A key feature of ESAs that distinguishes them from a traditional voucher is that families can save unspent funds from year to year rather than being forced to spend a lump sum on a single school by a single deadline. This matters because families spend their own money more efficiently than bureaucrats spend other people’s money. The ability to save and re-deploy funds gives families both the incentive to economize and the flexibility to plan for expenses that don’t arrive on a tidy nine-month school-year schedule. A voucher must be spent now, at one school, or it will be lost. ESA funds can be banked for next year’s therapy bill, a multi-year curriculum purchase, or a future tuition increase. The deal under discussion would cap how much families can carry forward — $50,000 for students with disabilities, $24,000 for everyone else — with the excess confiscated and deposited into the state general fund each year. That won’t matter for most families who spend close to their full allotment annually. But for the families who most need the flexibility ESAs were designed to provide, particularly families of students with special needs, it will be a bitter pill to swallow. Families saving toward a multi-year placement at a specialized school, parents stockpiling funds for a major piece of assistive technology, or families anticipating a more expensive placement as a child with a disability ages into more intensive services — these are exactly the families a cap punishes. The rollover cap is a “solution” in search of a problem. The rollover cap creates a perverse “use it or lose it” incentive that won’t save money; it will only encourage wasteful spending. If lawmakers proceed with a cap, the least they should do is exempt students with disabilities entirely. The case for forced spend-down is weakest exactly where the case for flexibility is strongest: students whose educational and therapeutic needs are least predictable and most expensive over time. Fingerprinting Mandate The deal would require fingerprint clearance cards — the same background-check credential used for school district and charter school employees — for individuals providing tutoring or teaching services paid for with ESA funds, as well as for staff at qualified private schools. For an institution — a school, a learning center, a tutoring company with a storefront and rotating staff — this is a reasonable extension of an existing framework, as schools are already required to fingerprint their teachers. But the bill does not stop at institutions. As drafted, it would also sweep in independent tutors — the retired teacher down the street who tutors a handful of children at a family’s kitchen table, the local college student who helps with algebra twice a week. This is a fundamentally different relationship from a teacher supervising a classroom of other people’s children at an institution. A tutor working in a family’s own home, under that family’s direct supervision and invited in by that family’s own judgment, is not analogous to a stranger left alone with a building full of students. Parents already vet who comes into their homes; that is what parental choice means. Mandating a state-administered background-check bureaucracy on top of that judgment does not make children safer — it makes it harder and more expensive to find a tutor at all, particularly in the specialized subjects and therapeutic disciplines where the pool of qualified providers is already thin. The fix here is narrow and obvious: limit the fingerprinting requirement to qualified schools and institutional tutoring providers, and exempt individual tutors providing services in a student’s own home. That preserves the child-safety rationale where it actually applies — institutional settings with unsupervised access to multiple children — without taxing the much more common, much more easily supervised arrangement of one family hiring one tutor. Spending Restrictions The deal under consideration also adds a long, explicit list of disallowed expenses. Most of this list is theater. Jewelry, lingerie, hot tubs, bounce houses, and gift cards were never allowable ESA expenses in the first place. Codifying their prohibition changes nothing about what families can actually buy. It exists to give legislators something to point to — a list that sounds tough — rather than to solve an actual problem in the program. That is itself a tell about how this provision came to be. But a few items on the list are genuinely new restrictions, and those deserve scrutiny on the merits. Barring out-of-state and international museums and excursions, for instance, would forbid spending ESA funds on precisely the kind of experiential, field-based learning that homeschooling and hybrid-schooling families have used for years — a trip to a Civil War battlefield, a national museum in Washington, D.C., a language-immersion excursion across the border. These are not luxuries dressed up as education — for many families building a curriculum outside a traditional classroom, they are the curriculum. Banning them doesn’t close a loophole. It closes off a category of legitimate, well-documented educational practice that happens to be easy to caricature in a press release. Hotel stays, meals, plane tickets and other travel expenses are already properly forbidden, but there’s no good reason to prevent families from purchasing tickets to a museum outside Arizona that would be allowed if it were in Arizona. Any grand bargain should restore legitimate educational purchases to the allowable-uses list. Why AFC Is Getting This Wrong None of these three provisions emerged from a serious conversation with ESA families about what they need. They emerged from a desire to manage headlines. Rather than designing ESA policy in the best interests of ESA families, AFC’s strategy would let school-choice opponents dictate the policy agenda. Chief among them is school-choice opponent Craig Harris at Channel 12, who has spent the better part of a year manufacturing alarm about ESA account balances and fraud rates that bear little resemblance to reality. The Arizona Department of Education has confirmed that flagged fraudulent or egregious spending amounts to roughly 0.3 percent of total ESA spending — a rate that would be the envy of nearly any government program. Harris has claimed fraud rates many times higher, and signature gatherers for the AEA-backed and AFC-backed ballot campaigns alike have been caught on camera spreading those falsehoods to voters. The right response to false claims is to correct them. Instead, AFC has chosen to give ESA opponents a say in how to regulate the program — an approach that has repeatedly proven disastrous for ESA families. Instead of proposing rollover caps because Harris made an issue of high account balances, school-choice proponents should explain to Arizona voters why families save those balances in the first place — often precisely because they have a child with disabilities whose needs are expensive and unpredictable. AFC’s approach sets a dangerous precedent: when an activist-journalist manufactures a talking point, AFC’s policy response is to regulate around it rather than to defend the program based on the facts. Arizona’s ESA families were not asked whether they would trade their ability to save for a child’s future needs, or their ability to hire a trusted neighbor as a tutor, for a quieter news cycle. They deserve a coalition that designs policy around what actually serves them — not one that lets their loudest opponents write the rules by proxy, then dresses up the result as “commonsense.” The next time AFC or any other organization in this space asks Arizona families to accept a “commonsense reform,” someone should ask the obvious question: commonsense according to whom, and at whose expense? If the goal is just to keep Craig Harris’s headlines at bay, it’s a fool’s errand — he and his ilk will continue manufacturing anti-ESA headlines so long as there’s an ESA program. “Avoiding bad headlines” is not a serious approach to policymaking and certainly not in the interests of ESA families. Arizona’s ESA families deserve better. Consider the Deal — With Open Eyes None of this is an argument against the special-session deal. The AEA-backed initiative would do far more damage to far more families than a rollover cap or a fingerprinting mandate ever could, and trading three referred ballot measures plus some unnecessary or even harmful ESA restrictions to take that threat off the table is a trade worth considering. Dropping the testing mandate from the deal is itself a meaningful win, preserving the central insight of school choice: families, not state-mandated exams, are the accountability mechanism. Taking the HB2142-based deal might be a necessary evil, but it’s certainly not a victory. At best, it would be a retreat to a more politically defensible position, not a “commonsense” fix or policy advance. If there is a special session, lawmakers who support the ESA should do everything in their power to minimize the harm to ESA families. That would entail supporting the Biggs proposal or, at the very least, holding out for revisions to HB2142 that seriously consider the impact on ESA families. Jason Bedrick is a Senior Research Fellow at The Heritage Foundation’s Center for Education Policy. The post JASON BEDRICK: Proposed ESA Reforms Are Concessions, Not Fixes first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b745197238567836bae2 Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments te 2026-06-30T12:32:05.827Z Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments By Matthew Holloway | U.S. Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ01), chairman of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), warned that the United States faces growing fiscal risk unless Congress acts sooner to stabilize the federal debt-to-GDP ratio. Schweikert sent the committee’s latest Views and Estimates letter to House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington in a letter earlier this month. “There is great uncertainty about when and how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare,” Schweikert wrote. “Every year we wait to change course increases leverage, and the higher the debt-to-GDP ratio the easier it is for bad headwinds—such as crisis spending or interest rate fragility—to lock us into a debt spiral. In short, allowing the debt burden to increase is a levered bet, and the downside risks are already enormous.” JEC Chairman @RepDavid sent @HouseBudgetGOP Chairman @RepArrington the latest Views & Estimates. “There is great uncertainty about when & how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare. https://t.co/pPMp4K17EP — Joint Economic Committee Republicans (@JECRepublicans) June 8, 2026 The committee’s Republican staff found that rising federal debt is structurally unsustainable and that stabilizing the debt-to-GDP ratio will require large early policy changes. The letter states that delaying action materially increases the risk of severe economic and financial consequences. According to the letter, federal debt has recently reached 100 percent of gross domestic product, meaning the federal debt is now roughly the size of the economy’s total annual output. The Congressional Budget Office projects debt held by the public will reach 118 percent of GDP by 2035, 142 percent by 2045, and 172 percent by 2055. Treasury projections cited in the letter are higher, estimating 129 percent by 2035, 183 percent by 2045, and 245 percent by 2055. The JEC letter describes the current debt path as a “levered bet on stability” that depends on avoiding major crises requiring substantial fiscal headroom and on future interest rates remaining favorable relative to economic growth. The letter warns that the damage to the nation’s fiscal position and status as a world power could be “catastrophic and irreversible” if those conditions deteriorate. The committee cited estimates from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget indicating that a fiscal adjustment of about $9.5 trillion over ten years would be needed to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio at about 100 percent. The JEC letter used a similar ballpark estimate of about $9.2 trillion to close the primary deficit over a ten-year window, while noting that the exact adjustment would depend on interest rates, economic growth, the timing of policy changes, and the path of the primary deficit. “In any case, these are magnitudes of adjustment virtually absent from current policy debates,” the letter states. The letter recommended reforms in Medicare, international taxation, and immigration that it estimated would produce about $3.6 trillion in deficit reduction over ten years, or roughly 40 percent of the adjustment identified as necessary to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio. The largest proposed savings would come from Medicare Advantage reform. The letter states that Medicare Advantage now covers 55 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries and that flawed payment policies, excessive coding practices, insufficient enforcement, and federal inaction have driven up costs. According to the JEC, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are now estimated to cost roughly 14 percent more than they would under traditional Medicare, amounting to an estimated $76 billion in excess federal spending in 2025. The letter cites H.R. 3467, the Better Medicare Act, as a proposal to realign Medicare Advantage incentives. The JEC estimated the legislation would reduce federal spending by approximately $1.8 trillion over ten years. In a Fox Business appearance posted to X by Schweikert’s office, Schweikert described what he called “institutional design fraud,” citing his team’s investigations into New York and California “where they’re exploiting part of the Medicaid system for billions and billions and billions of dollars.” Federal prosecutors say a $30 million Medicaid scheme meant for children’s mental health services helped pay for a fleet of luxury vehicles. That is bad actor fraud. But the real bleeding is coming from New York and California exploiting parts of Medicaid for billions and… pic.twitter.com/jFyGJr3JAC — Rep. David Schweikert (@RepDavid) June 5, 2026 “If New York actually had the same cost in their Medicaid system,” he continued, “it would be a $50 billion savings a year if they had the same costs as other states. That’s actually where the tremendous amount of money is, because remember, we’re borrowing about a million dollars every 15 seconds. So, the scale is what’s just so hard to get your head around.” The committee also recommended a border adjustment tax policy, which would tax business income based on where products are sold rather than where they are produced. Under the proposal, export receipts would be excluded from the tax base and import deductions would be disallowed. The JEC estimated the policy could raise approximately $1.5 trillion over ten years. On immigration, the committee recommended shifting employment-based admissions toward higher-producing applicants through a points-based, industry-targeted framework. The letter states that an aging population and a shrinking pool of younger workers are reducing the labor force needed to grow the economy and service the debt. The JEC estimated that such a reform could produce a net fiscal benefit of $335 billion over ten years and $1.34 trillion over twenty years, assuming annual immigration remains at current levels. Schweikert has raised the alarm regarding demographic decline as a driver of fiscal collapse, citing three unassailable facts: “debt, deficits and demographics,” in March 2025. The letter also credited H.R. 1, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with pro-growth tax provisions. The JEC said policymakers should redirect their focus toward “transparently pro-growth reforms” and cited federal land sales, reforms of the Jones Act, and policy related to port automation as examples of areas that could support growth. Schweikert’s letter concluded that growth alone should not be counted on to resolve the federal government’s fiscal problems. “I have highlighted fiscal reforms that would bring us about 40 percent of the way to stability of the debt-to-GDP ratio,” Schweikert concluded in the letter. “While there is strong potential for increasing economic growth as a partial solution, we should not count on growth alone to address our fiscal problems.” Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com. The post Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b744197238567836bad9 Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments te 2026-06-30T12:32:04.291Z Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments By Matthew Holloway | U.S. Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ01), chairman of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), warned that the United States faces growing fiscal risk unless Congress acts sooner to stabilize the federal debt-to-GDP ratio. Schweikert sent the committee’s latest Views and Estimates letter to House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington in a letter earlier this month. “There is great uncertainty about when and how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare,” Schweikert wrote. “Every year we wait to change course increases leverage, and the higher the debt-to-GDP ratio the easier it is for bad headwinds—such as crisis spending or interest rate fragility—to lock us into a debt spiral. In short, allowing the debt burden to increase is a levered bet, and the downside risks are already enormous.” JEC Chairman @RepDavid sent @HouseBudgetGOP Chairman @RepArrington the latest Views & Estimates. “There is great uncertainty about when & how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare. https://t.co/pPMp4K17EP — Joint Economic Committee Republicans (@JECRepublicans) June 8, 2026 The committee’s Republican staff found that rising federal debt is structurally unsustainable and that stabilizing the debt-to-GDP ratio will require large early policy changes. The letter states that delaying action materially increases the risk of severe economic and financial consequences. According to the letter, federal debt has recently reached 100 percent of gross domestic product, meaning the federal debt is now roughly the size of the economy’s total annual output. The Congressional Budget Office projects debt held by the public will reach 118 percent of GDP by 2035, 142 percent by 2045, and 172 percent by 2055. Treasury projections cited in the letter are higher, estimating 129 percent by 2035, 183 percent by 2045, and 245 percent by 2055. The JEC letter describes the current debt path as a “levered bet on stability” that depends on avoiding major crises requiring substantial fiscal headroom and on future interest rates remaining favorable relative to economic growth. The letter warns that the damage to the nation’s fiscal position and status as a world power could be “catastrophic and irreversible” if those conditions deteriorate. The committee cited estimates from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget indicating that a fiscal adjustment of about $9.5 trillion over ten years would be needed to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio at about 100 percent. The JEC letter used a similar ballpark estimate of about $9.2 trillion to close the primary deficit over a ten-year window, while noting that the exact adjustment would depend on interest rates, economic growth, the timing of policy changes, and the path of the primary deficit. “In any case, these are magnitudes of adjustment virtually absent from current policy debates,” the letter states. The letter recommended reforms in Medicare, international taxation, and immigration that it estimated would produce about $3.6 trillion in deficit reduction over ten years, or roughly 40 percent of the adjustment identified as necessary to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio. The largest proposed savings would come from Medicare Advantage reform. The letter states that Medicare Advantage now covers 55 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries and that flawed payment policies, excessive coding practices, insufficient enforcement, and federal inaction have driven up costs. According to the JEC, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are now estimated to cost roughly 14 percent more than they would under traditional Medicare, amounting to an estimated $76 billion in excess federal spending in 2025. The letter cites H.R. 3467, the Better Medicare Act, as a proposal to realign Medicare Advantage incentives. The JEC estimated the legislation would reduce federal spending by approximately $1.8 trillion over ten years. In a Fox Business appearance posted to X by Schweikert’s office, Schweikert described what he called “institutional design fraud,” citing his team’s investigations into New York and California “where they’re exploiting part of the Medicaid system for billions and billions and billions of dollars.” Federal prosecutors say a $30 million Medicaid scheme meant for children’s mental health services helped pay for a fleet of luxury vehicles. That is bad actor fraud. But the real bleeding is coming from New York and California exploiting parts of Medicaid for billions and… pic.twitter.com/jFyGJr3JAC — Rep. David Schweikert (@RepDavid) June 5, 2026 “If New York actually had the same cost in their Medicaid system,” he continued, “it would be a $50 billion savings a year if they had the same costs as other states. That’s actually where the tremendous amount of money is, because remember, we’re borrowing about a million dollars every 15 seconds. So, the scale is what’s just so hard to get your head around.” The committee also recommended a border adjustment tax policy, which would tax business income based on where products are sold rather than where they are produced. Under the proposal, export receipts would be excluded from the tax base and import deductions would be disallowed. The JEC estimated the policy could raise approximately $1.5 trillion over ten years. On immigration, the committee recommended shifting employment-based admissions toward higher-producing applicants through a points-based, industry-targeted framework. The letter states that an aging population and a shrinking pool of younger workers are reducing the labor force needed to grow the economy and service the debt. The JEC estimated that such a reform could produce a net fiscal benefit of $335 billion over ten years and $1.34 trillion over twenty years, assuming annual immigration remains at current levels. Schweikert has raised the alarm regarding demographic decline as a driver of fiscal collapse, citing three unassailable facts: “debt, deficits and demographics,” in March 2025. The letter also credited H.R. 1, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with pro-growth tax provisions. The JEC said policymakers should redirect their focus toward “transparently pro-growth reforms” and cited federal land sales, reforms of the Jones Act, and policy related to port automation as examples of areas that could support growth. Schweikert’s letter concluded that growth alone should not be counted on to resolve the federal government’s fiscal problems. “I have highlighted fiscal reforms that would bring us about 40 percent of the way to stability of the debt-to-GDP ratio,” Schweikert concluded in the letter. “While there is strong potential for increasing economic growth as a partial solution, we should not count on growth alone to address our fiscal problems.” Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com. The post Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b741197238567836bad0 Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments te 2026-06-30T12:32:01.076Z Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments By Matthew Holloway | U.S. Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ01), chairman of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), warned that the United States faces growing fiscal risk unless Congress acts sooner to stabilize the federal debt-to-GDP ratio. Schweikert sent the committee’s latest Views and Estimates letter to House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington in a letter earlier this month. “There is great uncertainty about when and how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare,” Schweikert wrote. “Every year we wait to change course increases leverage, and the higher the debt-to-GDP ratio the easier it is for bad headwinds—such as crisis spending or interest rate fragility—to lock us into a debt spiral. In short, allowing the debt burden to increase is a levered bet, and the downside risks are already enormous.” JEC Chairman @RepDavid sent @HouseBudgetGOP Chairman @RepArrington the latest Views & Estimates. “There is great uncertainty about when & how the debt will switch from sustainable, business as-usual, to an unsustainable, market-unraveling nightmare. https://t.co/pPMp4K17EP — Joint Economic Committee Republicans (@JECRepublicans) June 8, 2026 The committee’s Republican staff found that rising federal debt is structurally unsustainable and that stabilizing the debt-to-GDP ratio will require large early policy changes. The letter states that delaying action materially increases the risk of severe economic and financial consequences. According to the letter, federal debt has recently reached 100 percent of gross domestic product, meaning the federal debt is now roughly the size of the economy’s total annual output. The Congressional Budget Office projects debt held by the public will reach 118 percent of GDP by 2035, 142 percent by 2045, and 172 percent by 2055. Treasury projections cited in the letter are higher, estimating 129 percent by 2035, 183 percent by 2045, and 245 percent by 2055. The JEC letter describes the current debt path as a “levered bet on stability” that depends on avoiding major crises requiring substantial fiscal headroom and on future interest rates remaining favorable relative to economic growth. The letter warns that the damage to the nation’s fiscal position and status as a world power could be “catastrophic and irreversible” if those conditions deteriorate. The committee cited estimates from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget indicating that a fiscal adjustment of about $9.5 trillion over ten years would be needed to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio at about 100 percent. The JEC letter used a similar ballpark estimate of about $9.2 trillion to close the primary deficit over a ten-year window, while noting that the exact adjustment would depend on interest rates, economic growth, the timing of policy changes, and the path of the primary deficit. “In any case, these are magnitudes of adjustment virtually absent from current policy debates,” the letter states. The letter recommended reforms in Medicare, international taxation, and immigration that it estimated would produce about $3.6 trillion in deficit reduction over ten years, or roughly 40 percent of the adjustment identified as necessary to stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio. The largest proposed savings would come from Medicare Advantage reform. The letter states that Medicare Advantage now covers 55 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries and that flawed payment policies, excessive coding practices, insufficient enforcement, and federal inaction have driven up costs. According to the JEC, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are now estimated to cost roughly 14 percent more than they would under traditional Medicare, amounting to an estimated $76 billion in excess federal spending in 2025. The letter cites H.R. 3467, the Better Medicare Act, as a proposal to realign Medicare Advantage incentives. The JEC estimated the legislation would reduce federal spending by approximately $1.8 trillion over ten years. In a Fox Business appearance posted to X by Schweikert’s office, Schweikert described what he called “institutional design fraud,” citing his team’s investigations into New York and California “where they’re exploiting part of the Medicaid system for billions and billions and billions of dollars.” Federal prosecutors say a $30 million Medicaid scheme meant for children’s mental health services helped pay for a fleet of luxury vehicles. That is bad actor fraud. But the real bleeding is coming from New York and California exploiting parts of Medicaid for billions and… pic.twitter.com/jFyGJr3JAC — Rep. David Schweikert (@RepDavid) June 5, 2026 “If New York actually had the same cost in their Medicaid system,” he continued, “it would be a $50 billion savings a year if they had the same costs as other states. That’s actually where the tremendous amount of money is, because remember, we’re borrowing about a million dollars every 15 seconds. So, the scale is what’s just so hard to get your head around.” The committee also recommended a border adjustment tax policy, which would tax business income based on where products are sold rather than where they are produced. Under the proposal, export receipts would be excluded from the tax base and import deductions would be disallowed. The JEC estimated the policy could raise approximately $1.5 trillion over ten years. On immigration, the committee recommended shifting employment-based admissions toward higher-producing applicants through a points-based, industry-targeted framework. The letter states that an aging population and a shrinking pool of younger workers are reducing the labor force needed to grow the economy and service the debt. The JEC estimated that such a reform could produce a net fiscal benefit of $335 billion over ten years and $1.34 trillion over twenty years, assuming annual immigration remains at current levels. Schweikert has raised the alarm regarding demographic decline as a driver of fiscal collapse, citing three unassailable facts: “debt, deficits and demographics,” in March 2025. The letter also credited H.R. 1, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with pro-growth tax provisions. The JEC said policymakers should redirect their focus toward “transparently pro-growth reforms” and cited federal land sales, reforms of the Jones Act, and policy related to port automation as examples of areas that could support growth. Schweikert’s letter concluded that growth alone should not be counted on to resolve the federal government’s fiscal problems. “I have highlighted fiscal reforms that would bring us about 40 percent of the way to stability of the debt-to-GDP ratio,” Schweikert concluded in the letter. “While there is strong potential for increasing economic growth as a partial solution, we should not count on growth alone to address our fiscal problems.” Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com. The post Joint Economic Committee Warns Debt Stabilization Will Require Trillions In Fiscal Adjustments first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b732197238567836bac7 Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign te 2026-06-30T12:31:46.375Z Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign By Staff Reporter | Andrew Costanzo, a Republican candidate for the 7th legislative district, still believes public education is key to Arizona’s future. But Costanzo says Arizona has serious need for reform — and that’s why public schools continue to decline.  Costanzo has proposed remedying low student proficiency rates by increasing school choice competition, mirroring Mississippi law, and implementing merit-based bonuses for educators.  He has also proposed growing the state’s universal school choice program by allowing property taxes to follow the child rather than according to the geographical predeterminations that fund school districts.  Costanzo is also very much against the proposed ballot initiative to end universal school choice. He said opportunity for educational freedom should be afforded to all, regardless of economic status. He also said educators would benefit from greater competition because they would be marketable on merit. “How will these children reach their full potential as adults if they can’t read? We’re causing them a lifetime of pain,” said Costanzo in an interview last month. “The schools need something that benefits all businesses, and that’s competition.”  Costanzo also proposed enacting legislation similar to Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act in Arizona, which policy experts have credited with a dramatic turnaround in student outcomes. The lifelong Republican, who operates a family business near Payson, views freedom as the result of individuals taking on personal responsibilities and risks. “Security, which is typically imagined, requires minimal personal responsibility and risk,” stated Costanzo’s website. “The alleged security is always provided at the loss of freedom.” Beyond those philosophical takes on political matters, Costanzo presented a platform heavy on reducing government regulations through serious bureaucratic downsizing and greater deference to local governments, while increasing election security measures, resisting increased gun restrictions and abortion freedoms, retaining protections for law enforcement, and rolling back renewable energies.  Costanzo said in an interview last month that the legislature must “economically strangle” cartels and further scrutinize state agencies to recover what he says are sizable amounts of taxpayer funds being lost.  “It is so evident that there is waste, fraud, and abuse [in Arizona],” said Costanzo.  Costanzo’s platform also addressed at length the ongoing consequences of mass illegal immigration. He described opposition to the present government handling of the illegal immigration crisis. According to Costanzo, the status quo victimizes both the illegal aliens and Americans. Illegal aliens face exploitation due to their vulnerable status as noncitizens, while Americans face the burdens of increased crime and strained public resources. “Illegal aliens are often exploited financially, physically, or sexually. These people become part of an underclass of humans, a new form of slavery,” said Costanzo. “Whomever the victim, law enforcement resources must be implemented, the legal system is burdened, and incarcerations are applied. All paid for by the American taxpayer. […] [And t]he children of illegal aliens only put more pressure on an already failing [public school] system. Children who do not speak English must receive additional attention and resources, depriving the same from American students.” Costanzo has been involved with the Arizona Republican Party, Gila County Republican Committee, Maricopa County Republican Committee, and Arizona Law Enforcement Emerald Society. He served as a precinct committeeman as well as a chairman, first vice chairman, and secretary for his legislative district.  This year marks Costanzo’s second time running for this office. He failed to secure the nomination in the 2024 Republican primary, which proved to be more crowded than this year’s primary: six candidates fought for two seats. The 7th legislative district has fewer contenders in the Republican primary this time around.  State Rep. Walt Blackman is running to retain his seat, the other vacated by the April resignation of former lawmaker David Marshall. Three candidates are fighting for that spot vacated by a would-be incumbent: Costanzo and fellow 2024 primary candidate, Barby Ingle, and former state representative David Cook. AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b72f197238567836babe Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign te 2026-06-30T12:31:43.810Z Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign By Staff Reporter | Andrew Costanzo, a Republican candidate for the 7th legislative district, still believes public education is key to Arizona’s future. But Costanzo says Arizona has serious need for reform — and that’s why public schools continue to decline.  Costanzo has proposed remedying low student proficiency rates by increasing school choice competition, mirroring Mississippi law, and implementing merit-based bonuses for educators.  He has also proposed growing the state’s universal school choice program by allowing property taxes to follow the child rather than according to the geographical predeterminations that fund school districts.  Costanzo is also very much against the proposed ballot initiative to end universal school choice. He said opportunity for educational freedom should be afforded to all, regardless of economic status. He also said educators would benefit from greater competition because they would be marketable on merit. “How will these children reach their full potential as adults if they can’t read? We’re causing them a lifetime of pain,” said Costanzo in an interview last month. “The schools need something that benefits all businesses, and that’s competition.”  Costanzo also proposed enacting legislation similar to Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act in Arizona, which policy experts have credited with a dramatic turnaround in student outcomes. The lifelong Republican, who operates a family business near Payson, views freedom as the result of individuals taking on personal responsibilities and risks. “Security, which is typically imagined, requires minimal personal responsibility and risk,” stated Costanzo’s website. “The alleged security is always provided at the loss of freedom.” Beyond those philosophical takes on political matters, Costanzo presented a platform heavy on reducing government regulations through serious bureaucratic downsizing and greater deference to local governments, while increasing election security measures, resisting increased gun restrictions and abortion freedoms, retaining protections for law enforcement, and rolling back renewable energies.  Costanzo said in an interview last month that the legislature must “economically strangle” cartels and further scrutinize state agencies to recover what he says are sizable amounts of taxpayer funds being lost.  “It is so evident that there is waste, fraud, and abuse [in Arizona],” said Costanzo.  Costanzo’s platform also addressed at length the ongoing consequences of mass illegal immigration. He described opposition to the present government handling of the illegal immigration crisis. According to Costanzo, the status quo victimizes both the illegal aliens and Americans. Illegal aliens face exploitation due to their vulnerable status as noncitizens, while Americans face the burdens of increased crime and strained public resources. “Illegal aliens are often exploited financially, physically, or sexually. These people become part of an underclass of humans, a new form of slavery,” said Costanzo. “Whomever the victim, law enforcement resources must be implemented, the legal system is burdened, and incarcerations are applied. All paid for by the American taxpayer. […] [And t]he children of illegal aliens only put more pressure on an already failing [public school] system. Children who do not speak English must receive additional attention and resources, depriving the same from American students.” Costanzo has been involved with the Arizona Republican Party, Gila County Republican Committee, Maricopa County Republican Committee, and Arizona Law Enforcement Emerald Society. He served as a precinct committeeman as well as a chairman, first vice chairman, and secretary for his legislative district.  This year marks Costanzo’s second time running for this office. He failed to secure the nomination in the 2024 Republican primary, which proved to be more crowded than this year’s primary: six candidates fought for two seats. The 7th legislative district has fewer contenders in the Republican primary this time around.  State Rep. Walt Blackman is running to retain his seat, the other vacated by the April resignation of former lawmaker David Marshall. Three candidates are fighting for that spot vacated by a would-be incumbent: Costanzo and fellow 2024 primary candidate, Barby Ingle, and former state representative David Cook. AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b72c197238567836bab5 Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign te 2026-06-30T12:31:40.595Z Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign By Staff Reporter | Andrew Costanzo, a Republican candidate for the 7th legislative district, still believes public education is key to Arizona’s future. But Costanzo says Arizona has serious need for reform — and that’s why public schools continue to decline.  Costanzo has proposed remedying low student proficiency rates by increasing school choice competition, mirroring Mississippi law, and implementing merit-based bonuses for educators.  He has also proposed growing the state’s universal school choice program by allowing property taxes to follow the child rather than according to the geographical predeterminations that fund school districts.  Costanzo is also very much against the proposed ballot initiative to end universal school choice. He said opportunity for educational freedom should be afforded to all, regardless of economic status. He also said educators would benefit from greater competition because they would be marketable on merit. “How will these children reach their full potential as adults if they can’t read? We’re causing them a lifetime of pain,” said Costanzo in an interview last month. “The schools need something that benefits all businesses, and that’s competition.”  Costanzo also proposed enacting legislation similar to Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act in Arizona, which policy experts have credited with a dramatic turnaround in student outcomes. The lifelong Republican, who operates a family business near Payson, views freedom as the result of individuals taking on personal responsibilities and risks. “Security, which is typically imagined, requires minimal personal responsibility and risk,” stated Costanzo’s website. “The alleged security is always provided at the loss of freedom.” Beyond those philosophical takes on political matters, Costanzo presented a platform heavy on reducing government regulations through serious bureaucratic downsizing and greater deference to local governments, while increasing election security measures, resisting increased gun restrictions and abortion freedoms, retaining protections for law enforcement, and rolling back renewable energies.  Costanzo said in an interview last month that the legislature must “economically strangle” cartels and further scrutinize state agencies to recover what he says are sizable amounts of taxpayer funds being lost.  “It is so evident that there is waste, fraud, and abuse [in Arizona],” said Costanzo.  Costanzo’s platform also addressed at length the ongoing consequences of mass illegal immigration. He described opposition to the present government handling of the illegal immigration crisis. According to Costanzo, the status quo victimizes both the illegal aliens and Americans. Illegal aliens face exploitation due to their vulnerable status as noncitizens, while Americans face the burdens of increased crime and strained public resources. “Illegal aliens are often exploited financially, physically, or sexually. These people become part of an underclass of humans, a new form of slavery,” said Costanzo. “Whomever the victim, law enforcement resources must be implemented, the legal system is burdened, and incarcerations are applied. All paid for by the American taxpayer. […] [And t]he children of illegal aliens only put more pressure on an already failing [public school] system. Children who do not speak English must receive additional attention and resources, depriving the same from American students.” Costanzo has been involved with the Arizona Republican Party, Gila County Republican Committee, Maricopa County Republican Committee, and Arizona Law Enforcement Emerald Society. He served as a precinct committeeman as well as a chairman, first vice chairman, and secretary for his legislative district.  This year marks Costanzo’s second time running for this office. He failed to secure the nomination in the 2024 Republican primary, which proved to be more crowded than this year’s primary: six candidates fought for two seats. The 7th legislative district has fewer contenders in the Republican primary this time around.  State Rep. Walt Blackman is running to retain his seat, the other vacated by the April resignation of former lawmaker David Marshall. Three candidates are fighting for that spot vacated by a would-be incumbent: Costanzo and fellow 2024 primary candidate, Barby Ingle, and former state representative David Cook. AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Costanzo Highlights School Choice, Immigration Enforcement In AZ House Campaign first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b71e197238567836baac Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  te 2026-06-30T12:31:26.913Z Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  By Staff Reporter | A series of public safety reforms will go into effect after Gov. Katie Hobbs signed them into law over the past week.   State Sen. Kevin Payne (R-LD27), chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, sponsored the bills. Payne’s press release announcing the reforms said the state’s approach to public safety should be proactive, not just reactive. “Public safety is about more than responding after a crime has occurred,” said Payne. “It’s about stopping criminal organizations before they victimize more people and making sure the men and women who protect our communities have the support they need to do their jobs.” The bills in this bipartisan public safety reform package — Senate Bills 1215, 1400, 1452, and 1493 — represent changes to cargo theft investigations and prosecutions, wellness and crisis response for first responder employees, and workers’ compensation claims for cancer-stricken firefighters. SB 1215 represented a fix to something Payne called a “drafting error” in the state’s presumptive cancer law which enabled challenges to workers’ compensation claims filed by first responders diagnosed with certain cancers contracted while in the line of duty.  Workers’ compensation providers have reportedly denied claims based on what critics of the original legislation called a “punctuation problem” with missing commas that created ambiguous meaning and purportedly allowed providers to reject certain claims.  These latest legislative fixes are retroactive to July 1, 2021. “Firefighters put their lives on the line for complete strangers every day,” said Payne. “When they develop cancer linked to years of service, they shouldn’t have to fight insurance companies over a misplaced comma in state law.” SB 1400 permits first responder entities to establish wellness and crisis response programs for those employees exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty. Programs would offer employees access to certain resources including counseling, peer support, and crisis intervention services. Part of that legislation, Payne noted, created confidentiality protections for participating employees’ communications. “Our firefighters, police officers, dispatchers, and public safety professionals witness things most people will never experience,” said Payne. “Too often, the culture of these professions tells them to carry those burdens alone.” SB 1452 creates the Cargo Theft Task Force under the attorney general, dedicated specifically to investigating and prosecuting organized cargo theft operations: the theft, diversion, embezzlement, unlawful taking, or fraudulent acquisition of cargo or freight.  The bill requires the attorney general to invite federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to participate in the task force.  Task force membership will include one full-time prosecutor, one full-time paralegal, one full-time support staff member, six investigators, and any additional law enforcement personnel designated by the attorney general.  In addition to their investigatory duties, the task force will be required to meet regularly to review investigations and intelligence and share case updates, and to coordinate with local, state, or federal law enforcement on case referrals and the latest developments in the illicit cargo theft industry.  The attorney general will be required to submit an annual report on the task force’s activities, intelligence gathered, and any recommendations for legislative or policy action.  “Organized cargo theft has become a sophisticated criminal enterprise that impacts far more than warehouses and trucking companies,” said Payne. When criminals steal products moving through the supply chain, Arizona families ultimately pay the price at the checkout counter.” SB1493 would require employers of wrongfully terminated law enforcement officers to cover any appeal costs and fees.  “When an officer is wrongly terminated and later proven right, justice shouldn’t stop at reinstatement,” said Payne. “No one should have to drain their savings or jeopardize their family’s financial future simply to clear their name.” AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b718197238567836ba9f Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  te 2026-06-30T12:31:20.116Z Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  By Staff Reporter | A series of public safety reforms will go into effect after Gov. Katie Hobbs signed them into law over the past week.   State Sen. Kevin Payne (R-LD27), chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, sponsored the bills. Payne’s press release announcing the reforms said the state’s approach to public safety should be proactive, not just reactive. “Public safety is about more than responding after a crime has occurred,” said Payne. “It’s about stopping criminal organizations before they victimize more people and making sure the men and women who protect our communities have the support they need to do their jobs.” The bills in this bipartisan public safety reform package — Senate Bills 1215, 1400, 1452, and 1493 — represent changes to cargo theft investigations and prosecutions, wellness and crisis response for first responder employees, and workers’ compensation claims for cancer-stricken firefighters. SB 1215 represented a fix to something Payne called a “drafting error” in the state’s presumptive cancer law which enabled challenges to workers’ compensation claims filed by first responders diagnosed with certain cancers contracted while in the line of duty.  Workers’ compensation providers have reportedly denied claims based on what critics of the original legislation called a “punctuation problem” with missing commas that created ambiguous meaning and purportedly allowed providers to reject certain claims.  These latest legislative fixes are retroactive to July 1, 2021. “Firefighters put their lives on the line for complete strangers every day,” said Payne. “When they develop cancer linked to years of service, they shouldn’t have to fight insurance companies over a misplaced comma in state law.” SB 1400 permits first responder entities to establish wellness and crisis response programs for those employees exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty. Programs would offer employees access to certain resources including counseling, peer support, and crisis intervention services. Part of that legislation, Payne noted, created confidentiality protections for participating employees’ communications. “Our firefighters, police officers, dispatchers, and public safety professionals witness things most people will never experience,” said Payne. “Too often, the culture of these professions tells them to carry those burdens alone.” SB 1452 creates the Cargo Theft Task Force under the attorney general, dedicated specifically to investigating and prosecuting organized cargo theft operations: the theft, diversion, embezzlement, unlawful taking, or fraudulent acquisition of cargo or freight.  The bill requires the attorney general to invite federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to participate in the task force.  Task force membership will include one full-time prosecutor, one full-time paralegal, one full-time support staff member, six investigators, and any additional law enforcement personnel designated by the attorney general.  In addition to their investigatory duties, the task force will be required to meet regularly to review investigations and intelligence and share case updates, and to coordinate with local, state, or federal law enforcement on case referrals and the latest developments in the illicit cargo theft industry.  The attorney general will be required to submit an annual report on the task force’s activities, intelligence gathered, and any recommendations for legislative or policy action.  “Organized cargo theft has become a sophisticated criminal enterprise that impacts far more than warehouses and trucking companies,” said Payne. When criminals steal products moving through the supply chain, Arizona families ultimately pay the price at the checkout counter.” SB1493 would require employers of wrongfully terminated law enforcement officers to cover any appeal costs and fees.  “When an officer is wrongly terminated and later proven right, justice shouldn’t stop at reinstatement,” said Payne. “No one should have to drain their savings or jeopardize their family’s financial future simply to clear their name.” AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Hobbs Signs Bipartisan Public Safety Reform Package Into Law  first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b704197238567836ba75 Stephen A. Smith warns Democrats embracing socialism is 'handing the presidency to the GOP' te 2026-06-30T12:31:00.854Z Stephen A. Smith warns Democrats embracing socialism is 'handing the presidency to the GOP' Stephen A. Smith emphasized how socialism could threaten the Democratic Party's presidential goals for 2028 if it embraces democratic socialist candidates like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. During his "Straight Shooter" show on Monday, Smith reacted to Mamdani's claims on ABC News that a democratic socialist "can get elected anywhere across this country for any position." Though Smith agreed with Mamdani on concerns about the wealth gap and the working class, he bristled at the idea of the Democratic Party pushing socialism. AOC ISSUES WARNING TO HER FELLOW DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENTS IN THE WAKE OF SOCIALISTS WINNING BIG IN NYC "I am not a socialist, nor do I aspire to see socialism in the United States of America," Smith said. "I don't know anywhere in the world where true socialism has worked. I don't see it. I don't know where communism has worked." Smith added that Mamdani's socialist policies are unlikely to appeal to many voters outside New York City and could risk damaging the Democratic Party's broader reach. "If he's coming, what does that mean for the rest of America? Because I got questions. Where has socialism ever succeeded? If so, tell us where that is. How is it going to succeed in New York? How are you going to sell that in a capitalistic society? You might do it in New York with young voters. What about the people in the suburbs? What about them? You really, really think this kind of message is going to resonate with them?" Smith asked. STEPHEN A SMITH QUESTIONS WEALTH OF BILL CLINTON AND BARACK OBAMA, SAYS AMERICANS SHOULD PROSPER FIRST He continued, "If it resonates within the Democratic Party, but it doesn't have a snowball's chance of resonating in a general election, then you're basically handing the presidency to the GOP as well. That's what you're doing because the party, the Democratic Party, will have been perceived as being fragmented. That's what I'm seeing when I see Zohran Mamdani. That's what I'm looking at, and that's what I see when I see his ascension taking fold before our very eyes." At the end of his show, Smith revealed that Mamdani "was supposed to be coming on" the show but has yet to appear to discuss the issues. Despite his concerns, Smith acknowledged that it was important to pay attention to Mamdani's rise in popularity. BILL MAHER TEARS INTO SOCIALISM AND BEGS DEMOCRATS TO EMBRACE MODERATE CANDIDATES "That wealth gap is real, y'all. It's very, very real. There are two Americas in this country, no matter what way we slice it. The haves and the have-nots. And there's a lot more have-nots than haves, which is why Zohran Mamdani is relevant, if not more so. So think about that," Smith said. Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office and the Democratic Socialists of America for comment. Mamdani's original comments came after Mamdani-backed candidates Brad Lander, Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier won Democratic congressional primaries in New York, with Lander and Chevalier defeating incumbent Democrats. Other socialist candidates have also launched primary campaigns throughout the country. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6f4197238567836ba69 Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption te 2026-06-30T12:30:44.418Z Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption Key Points: Coalition of 24 attorneys general sues Trump administration Lawsuit challenges federal rule limiting Medicaid work exemptions The lawsuit seeks to block the rule and ultimately have it struck down A coalition of 24 attorneys general, including Attorney General Kris Mayes, and two governors sued the Trump administration on Monday to block a federal rule limiting exemptions to a new federal Medicaid work requirement.  The directive issued in June would “dramatically narrow” exclusions for medically vulnerable people under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and sow “harm and chaos” in the states by forcing them to scuttle expensive and complex plans they had spent months devising based on regular communication with federal officials, the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts alleges.  “States had already made substantial investments relying on the plain language of the law and CMS’s prior guidance and now face the risk of harsh financial penalties for noncompliance with the Medicaid work requirements interim final rule,” Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said in a statement.  “The interim final rule creates administrative burdens and unnecessary red tape that put eligible people at risk of losing their health coverage — including those who are already working or qualify for an exemption.” State officials have received regular presentations and guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services throughout the year outlining how they would be expected to implement the new work requirements established by Congress in the Big Beautiful Bill, the lawsuit alleges. The official directive took them by surprise with an additional hurdle that was not in the statutory language. While the Big Beautiful Bill mandated that most adults enrolled in Medicaid work or participate in qualifying activities for at least 80 hours a month, CMS adopted a restrictive definition of who could claim an exemption because of “medical frailty.” Read More: Guidance stirs fear of larger health insurance losses The new rule would require enrollees to prove that their medical condition prevents them from working. That test was not included in the Big Beautiful Bill. “People with serious illnesses or disabilities already face major challenges in their daily lives — they shouldn’t also have to worry about losing their healthcare because of work requirements or related barriers,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said. “That was Congress’s will, and it must be respected.” The work requirement begins on Jan. 1, 2027, but states are required to begin notifying beneficiaries by Aug. 31. The short runway doesn’t provide enough time for states to request changes through the federal rulemaking process, the lawsuit alleges. It asks for the rule to be blocked and ultimately struck down.  Bonta, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport are co-leading the lawsuit. They are joined by Weiser and the attorneys general of Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin, as well as the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. The post Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption first appeared on Arizona Capitol Times. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6f1197238567836ba60 Reds' Dane Myers carted off field after crashing into wall making acrobatic catch vs Brewers te 2026-06-30T12:30:41.346Z Reds' Dane Myers carted off field after crashing into wall making acrobatic catch vs Brewers Cincinnati Reds center fielder Dane Myers needed to be carted off the field after a play that could be a candidate for "Catch of the Year" turned scary after he crashed into the fence in Milwaukee on Monday night. Milwaukee Brewers veteran Andrew Vaughn smashed a ball to center field in the bottom of the fourth inning, and Myers got a great jump as he started to track the ball. As he sprinted toward the gap, Myers reached up and made an acrobatic catch, but he lost his balance and was too close to the wall when he collided with the fence at top speed. It was a miracle he even held on to the ball considering the collision, but it clearly took a toll. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Myers, writhing in pain on the warning track, was bent over when his fellow outfielders came over to tend to him, while Reds training staff started the sprint out onto the field. Myers was holding his right shoulder, though his collision was head-on with the fence. Trainers looked at Myers for some time, as the crowd was hushed in hopes he would walk away from this somehow. REDS ROOKIE TYLER CALLIHAN BREAKS ARM CRASHING INTO WALL WHILE TRYING TO MAKE DIVING CATCH Eventually, a cart came out and Myers rose to his feet with some assistance as the crowd gave him a round of applause for sacrificing his body for his team. TJ Friedl ended up taking his spot in center field. Myers was taken to a local hospital in Milwaukee for further testing, and it was a good sign that initial X-rays came back negative, according to manager Terry Francona following the Reds' 5-3 loss to the Brewers. Francona wouldn't go into specifics on what ailment Myers may be dealing with. Myers, a 30-year-old Columbus, Texas, native, is in his first season with the Reds, where he serves as a bench outfielder. He has played in 63 games this season, owning a .256/.358/.385 slash line with a .742 OPS, three homers and 14 RBI across 117 at-bats. Prior to his time in Cincinnati, Myers made his big league debut with the Miami Marlins in 2023, playing 22 games that year and hitting .269 over 67 at-bats. He spent the next two seasons with the Marlins, though his longest tenure in MLB came in 2025 when he played 106 games and hit .235/.291/.326 with six home runs and 31 RBI with Miami. Unfortunately for the Reds, they were unable to get the win for Myers in the end. Joey Ortiz's two-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning broke the 3-3 tie at the time in this NL Central bout, which capped a comeback that also saw Brice Turang, who starred for Team USA during the World Baseball Classic, smash a solo home run to tie the game in the bottom of the seventh. The Reds were up 1-0 at the time of Myers' injury. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6ed197238567836ba57 Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption te 2026-06-30T12:30:37.106Z Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption Key Points: Coalition of 24 attorneys general sues Trump administration Lawsuit challenges federal rule limiting Medicaid work exemptions The lawsuit seeks to block the rule and ultimately have it struck down A coalition of 24 attorneys general, including Attorney General Kris Mayes, and two governors sued the Trump administration on Monday to block a federal rule limiting exemptions to a new federal Medicaid work requirement.  The directive issued in June would “dramatically narrow” exclusions for medically vulnerable people under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and sow “harm and chaos” in the states by forcing them to scuttle expensive and complex plans they had spent months devising based on regular communication with federal officials, the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts alleges.  “States had already made substantial investments relying on the plain language of the law and CMS’s prior guidance and now face the risk of harsh financial penalties for noncompliance with the Medicaid work requirements interim final rule,” Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said in a statement.  “The interim final rule creates administrative burdens and unnecessary red tape that put eligible people at risk of losing their health coverage — including those who are already working or qualify for an exemption.” State officials have received regular presentations and guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services throughout the year outlining how they would be expected to implement the new work requirements established by Congress in the Big Beautiful Bill, the lawsuit alleges. The official directive took them by surprise with an additional hurdle that was not in the statutory language. While the Big Beautiful Bill mandated that most adults enrolled in Medicaid work or participate in qualifying activities for at least 80 hours a month, CMS adopted a restrictive definition of who could claim an exemption because of “medical frailty.” Read More: Guidance stirs fear of larger health insurance losses The new rule would require enrollees to prove that their medical condition prevents them from working. That test was not included in the Big Beautiful Bill. “People with serious illnesses or disabilities already face major challenges in their daily lives — they shouldn’t also have to worry about losing their healthcare because of work requirements or related barriers,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said. “That was Congress’s will, and it must be respected.” The work requirement begins on Jan. 1, 2027, but states are required to begin notifying beneficiaries by Aug. 31. The short runway doesn’t provide enough time for states to request changes through the federal rulemaking process, the lawsuit alleges. It asks for the rule to be blocked and ultimately struck down.  Bonta, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport are co-leading the lawsuit. They are joined by Weiser and the attorneys general of Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin, as well as the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. The post Blue states file lawsuit over ‘narrow’ Medicaid work requirement exemption first appeared on Arizona Capitol Times. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6e0197238567836ba4d Trump’s sharpened focus on investigating elections raises fears of midterm meddling te 2026-06-30T12:30:24.963Z Trump’s sharpened focus on investigating elections raises fears of midterm meddling As President Donald Trump's administration pursues multiple election probes in advance of the midterm elections, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents carried out a raid on Jan. 28, 2026, at the Fulton County Election Hub and Operation Center in Union City, Georgia. (Photo by Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder) President Donald Trump was speaking to supporters at a Pennsylvania rally June 23 when he made an extraordinary admission about an election a continent away. Trump and his allies had spent several days in June savaging California over its slow vote counting and baselessly alleging its contests were fraudulent. But now the president divulged that his actions went beyond just public criticism. “I called up the very powerful, very good U.S. attorney in California and I said, ‘Do me a favor, take a look, they’re trying to steal that election, too,’” Trump recounted.  Over the past six months, the Trump administration has focused the power of federal law enforcement — and even a top U.S. intelligence official  — on elections and discredited grievances over the president’s 2020 loss.  In January, the FBI raided an elections facility in Fulton County, Georgia, seizing hundreds of boxes of 2020 ballots. FBI agents are probing the 2020 election in Milwaukee and subpoenas have gone out to officials in Arizona. The Department of Justice demanded to see Detroit-area ballots and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence confirmed it took voting machines from Puerto Rico. The FBI searched the offices of an Ohio voting rights group in June. Democrats, election experts, former federal prosecutors and others say the administration’s actions raise deep concerns about whether the White House will use groundless investigations to disrupt the November midterm elections. They say Trump’s recent acknowledgment that he personally directed a federal prosecutor to examine voting in California only underscores their fears. “The notion that a president or anybody in the White House calls up the U.S. attorney’s office, certainly on our end, would have been considered, I think, completely inappropriate,” said Stephen McAllister, who served as the U.S. attorney in Kansas during the first Trump administration. Shattering a norm After Watergate, the Department of Justice built a reputation for independence from the White House. While presidents nominated DOJ leaders and set broad priorities for the department, they were expected to steer clear of specific investigations. The norm was tested during the first Trump term but didn’t entirely break.  By contrast, the second term has shattered it, creating a clear path for the president to act on his false claims of stolen elections, according to individuals who have worked in the Justice Department and critics of the Trump administration. Growing evidence, they say, points to Trump personally intervening in federal law enforcement action on elections — or top officials getting the message and acting accordingly. “I think the focus and the direction is whatever the president wants, and I think this is wrong,” McAllister, now a law professor at the University of Kansas, said of the current Justice Department.  “The DOJ, especially post-Watergate, there were a lot of things done to try to strengthen it as an institution that could stand up and protect, defend the rule of law,” he said. “And this administration has torn so much of it down.” The California election shows how quickly the Justice Department can take action after Trump makes his views known. California’s primary election was Tuesday, June 2, but election officials are allowed to take roughly a month to complete vote counting. The lengthy process is a product of the state’s large population, as well as its reliance on voting by mail.  While politicians, including Democrats, have called on the state to speed up its count, the sometimes plodding process isn’t evidence of fraud. Late the night after the primary, Trump posted on Truth Social that Democrats were trying to steal the election. “Here we go with the very late and massive numbers of MAIL IN BALLOTS,” he wrote. It isn’t clear which U.S. attorney received the call from Trump or when exactly he placed the call or if it actually occurred. California is divided into multiple federal judicial districts, each with their own top federal prosecutor.  Asked about the call, the White House referred States Newsroom to Trump’s comments and the Justice Department, which didn’t respond to questions. By the Friday morning after the election, First Assistant U.S Attorney Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor in Los Angeles, announced that his office had multiple election fraud investigations underway with the FBI. He also dispatched a prosecutor to observe vote counting. In the days that followed, Essayli gave several interviews with conservative media, including an appearance on commentator Glenn Beck’s show where he predicted criminal cases. “I expect people will be charged,” he said. After Trump’s comments in Pennsylvania, the office of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who frequently clashes with Trump, posted on social media that Trump had “just admitted it.” “The President of the United States is personally directing federal prosecutors to start investigations into his political opponents when his preferred candidate may lose the election,” the post said. DOJ pursuing 30 lawsuits on voter rolls Ahead of the midterms, Trump and other administration officials have shown a high level of interest in how elections are administered.  Last week, the president refused to sign a bipartisan housing bill to pressure the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act, which would implement a nationwide requirement that voters show documents proving their citizenship. In March, he signed an executive order attempting to restrict voting by mail, which a federal judge blocked last week. The Justice Department has filed 30 lawsuits against states that have refused to turn over their unredacted voter rolls, which include sensitive personal information like driver’s license and Social Security numbers.  The Department of Homeland Security also overhauled a powerful computer program into a system that can search voter rolls for possible noncitizen voters (a judge recently halted use of the reconfigured system). “President Trump is committed to ensuring that Americans have full confidence in the administration of elections, and that includes totally accurate and up-to-date voter rolls free of errors and unlawfully registered non-citizen voters,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement when asked about Trump’s approach to election-related investigations. Jackson named several federal laws — including the Civil Rights Act, National Voting Rights Act and Help America Vote Act — that she said give the Justice Department “full authority to ensure states comply with federal election laws, which mandate accurate state voter rolls.” “This campaign pledge from the President is why millions of Americans sent him back to the White House,” Jackson said, noting Trump’s support of the SAVE America Act. Within the Justice Department, criminal investigations involving elections have traditionally been treated with particular sensitivity, McAllister said.  Anything touching on elections needed to be coordinated with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., he said, adding that there was a lot of centralized control to prevent U.S. attorneys “from just poking around where they shouldn’t be.” The Justice Department has previously published a manual on prosecuting election crimes on its website, but at some point it was removed without explanation. In June, a group of Democratic senators voiced concern its disappearance could presage attempts to interfere in the midterms. They noted that during Trump’s first term the manual was accompanied by a memo outlining the DOJ’s election non-interference policy. Robert Weiner, who served in the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division during the Biden administration, said the government used to enjoy what the legal community calls the presumption of regularity — the belief among judges that it was acting lawfully. He said courts should not extend that presumption now. Trump may be trying to impair the ability of local election officials to conduct fair elections and “generally create chaos” that could serve as an excuse to seize voting machines and not accept legitimate election results, Weiner said. “I am very worried,” said Weiner, who is now the director of the Voting Rights Project at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, an advocacy group. “I think we have to act on the assumption that bad things are going to happen. That’s not saying that they will. We have to be prepared and able to counter.” US Senate Dems form task force Some Democratic states — including California, Colorado, Connecticut and others — have passed new limits on federal election interference. At the federal level, Senate Democrats have formed an election protection task force and announced plans to train their staff members as election observers. “The president of the United States is clearly laying the groundwork to try to interfere with the midterms and try to undermine confidence in any election results that he is not happy about,” Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat, told reporters. Voting rights advocates fear the FBI’s raid on a Fulton County election facility in January offered a window into what it might look like for federal law enforcement to seize ballots after the November election. While Trump has long promoted false allegations about voter fraud in Fulton County, which includes Atlanta, the raid shocked election experts in part because the FBI obtained a search warrant, meaning a federal judge found probable cause to believe evidence of federal crimes would be found at the election facility. Fulton County officials vocally condemned the raid and successfully sued to unseal the affidavit used to support the warrant. The 19-page document included previously investigated claims about the 2020 elections and revealed the investigation originated from a referral by Kurt Olsen, an election denier who Trump last fall made a special government employee to look into the 2020 election.  Trump appears to have taken a personal interest in the Fulton County raid. Tulsi Gabbard, then the director of national intelligence, was photographed at the scene and later told Congress she was present at Trump’s request. The New York Times reported that she put the president on the phone with FBI agents the next day. Gabbard left her role in June, but Trump has indicated he wants the new acting director of national intelligence, Bill Pulte, to also look into elections. The director of intelligence, a Cabinet-level position established in the wake of 9/11, is supposed to help lead the U.S. intelligence community and has no formal role in elections. Pulte, who has no previous intelligence experience and previously led the Federal Housing Finance Agency, is known for antagonizing the president’s perceived opponents, including the former Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell and New York Democratic Attorney General Letitia James. “He may find out some things about the rigged elections,” Trump told reporters in early June. Marisa Pyle, senior democracy defense manager at All Voting is Local Georgia, praised Fulton County officials for aggressively pushing back against the raid.  She said that while she is concerned the search could create a chilling effect among voters and election workers, she has been heartened that it had also motivated some people to sign up to work the polls. While no one has a crystal ball, Pyle said, she expressed hope that Fulton County’s rejection of federal interference will minimize future attempts. “I think that’s optimistic,” Pyle said. “I think we prepare as best as we can and we just have to be ready to defend the results.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6d9197238567836ba41 Trump’s sharpened focus on investigating elections raises fears of midterm meddling te 2026-06-30T12:30:17.141Z Trump’s sharpened focus on investigating elections raises fears of midterm meddling As President Donald Trump's administration pursues multiple election probes in advance of the midterm elections, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents carried out a raid on Jan. 28, 2026, at the Fulton County Election Hub and Operation Center in Union City, Georgia. (Photo by Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder) President Donald Trump was speaking to supporters at a Pennsylvania rally June 23 when he made an extraordinary admission about an election a continent away. Trump and his allies had spent several days in June savaging California over its slow vote counting and baselessly alleging its contests were fraudulent. But now the president divulged that his actions went beyond just public criticism. “I called up the very powerful, very good U.S. attorney in California and I said, ‘Do me a favor, take a look, they’re trying to steal that election, too,’” Trump recounted.  Over the past six months, the Trump administration has focused the power of federal law enforcement — and even a top U.S. intelligence official  — on elections and discredited grievances over the president’s 2020 loss.  In January, the FBI raided an elections facility in Fulton County, Georgia, seizing hundreds of boxes of 2020 ballots. FBI agents are probing the 2020 election in Milwaukee and subpoenas have gone out to officials in Arizona. The Department of Justice demanded to see Detroit-area ballots and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence confirmed it took voting machines from Puerto Rico. The FBI searched the offices of an Ohio voting rights group in June. Democrats, election experts, former federal prosecutors and others say the administration’s actions raise deep concerns about whether the White House will use groundless investigations to disrupt the November midterm elections. They say Trump’s recent acknowledgment that he personally directed a federal prosecutor to examine voting in California only underscores their fears. “The notion that a president or anybody in the White House calls up the U.S. attorney’s office, certainly on our end, would have been considered, I think, completely inappropriate,” said Stephen McAllister, who served as the U.S. attorney in Kansas during the first Trump administration. Shattering a norm After Watergate, the Department of Justice built a reputation for independence from the White House. While presidents nominated DOJ leaders and set broad priorities for the department, they were expected to steer clear of specific investigations. The norm was tested during the first Trump term but didn’t entirely break.  By contrast, the second term has shattered it, creating a clear path for the president to act on his false claims of stolen elections, according to individuals who have worked in the Justice Department and critics of the Trump administration. Growing evidence, they say, points to Trump personally intervening in federal law enforcement action on elections — or top officials getting the message and acting accordingly. “I think the focus and the direction is whatever the president wants, and I think this is wrong,” McAllister, now a law professor at the University of Kansas, said of the current Justice Department.  “The DOJ, especially post-Watergate, there were a lot of things done to try to strengthen it as an institution that could stand up and protect, defend the rule of law,” he said. “And this administration has torn so much of it down.” The California election shows how quickly the Justice Department can take action after Trump makes his views known. California’s primary election was Tuesday, June 2, but election officials are allowed to take roughly a month to complete vote counting. The lengthy process is a product of the state’s large population, as well as its reliance on voting by mail.  While politicians, including Democrats, have called on the state to speed up its count, the sometimes plodding process isn’t evidence of fraud. Late the night after the primary, Trump posted on Truth Social that Democrats were trying to steal the election. “Here we go with the very late and massive numbers of MAIL IN BALLOTS,” he wrote. It isn’t clear which U.S. attorney received the call from Trump or when exactly he placed the call or if it actually occurred. California is divided into multiple federal judicial districts, each with their own top federal prosecutor.  Asked about the call, the White House referred States Newsroom to Trump’s comments and the Justice Department, which didn’t respond to questions. By the Friday morning after the election, First Assistant U.S Attorney Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor in Los Angeles, announced that his office had multiple election fraud investigations underway with the FBI. He also dispatched a prosecutor to observe vote counting. In the days that followed, Essayli gave several interviews with conservative media, including an appearance on commentator Glenn Beck’s show where he predicted criminal cases. “I expect people will be charged,” he said. After Trump’s comments in Pennsylvania, the office of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who frequently clashes with Trump, posted on social media that Trump had “just admitted it.” “The President of the United States is personally directing federal prosecutors to start investigations into his political opponents when his preferred candidate may lose the election,” the post said. DOJ pursuing 30 lawsuits on voter rolls Ahead of the midterms, Trump and other administration officials have shown a high level of interest in how elections are administered.  Last week, the president refused to sign a bipartisan housing bill to pressure the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act, which would implement a nationwide requirement that voters show documents proving their citizenship. In March, he signed an executive order attempting to restrict voting by mail, which a federal judge blocked last week. The Justice Department has filed 30 lawsuits against states that have refused to turn over their unredacted voter rolls, which include sensitive personal information like driver’s license and Social Security numbers.  The Department of Homeland Security also overhauled a powerful computer program into a system that can search voter rolls for possible noncitizen voters (a judge recently halted use of the reconfigured system). “President Trump is committed to ensuring that Americans have full confidence in the administration of elections, and that includes totally accurate and up-to-date voter rolls free of errors and unlawfully registered non-citizen voters,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in a statement when asked about Trump’s approach to election-related investigations. Jackson named several federal laws — including the Civil Rights Act, National Voting Rights Act and Help America Vote Act — that she said give the Justice Department “full authority to ensure states comply with federal election laws, which mandate accurate state voter rolls.” “This campaign pledge from the President is why millions of Americans sent him back to the White House,” Jackson said, noting Trump’s support of the SAVE America Act. Within the Justice Department, criminal investigations involving elections have traditionally been treated with particular sensitivity, McAllister said.  Anything touching on elections needed to be coordinated with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., he said, adding that there was a lot of centralized control to prevent U.S. attorneys “from just poking around where they shouldn’t be.” The Justice Department has previously published a manual on prosecuting election crimes on its website, but at some point it was removed without explanation. In June, a group of Democratic senators voiced concern its disappearance could presage attempts to interfere in the midterms. They noted that during Trump’s first term the manual was accompanied by a memo outlining the DOJ’s election non-interference policy. Robert Weiner, who served in the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division during the Biden administration, said the government used to enjoy what the legal community calls the presumption of regularity — the belief among judges that it was acting lawfully. He said courts should not extend that presumption now. Trump may be trying to impair the ability of local election officials to conduct fair elections and “generally create chaos” that could serve as an excuse to seize voting machines and not accept legitimate election results, Weiner said. “I am very worried,” said Weiner, who is now the director of the Voting Rights Project at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, an advocacy group. “I think we have to act on the assumption that bad things are going to happen. That’s not saying that they will. We have to be prepared and able to counter.” US Senate Dems form task force Some Democratic states — including California, Colorado, Connecticut and others — have passed new limits on federal election interference. At the federal level, Senate Democrats have formed an election protection task force and announced plans to train their staff members as election observers. “The president of the United States is clearly laying the groundwork to try to interfere with the midterms and try to undermine confidence in any election results that he is not happy about,” Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat, told reporters. Voting rights advocates fear the FBI’s raid on a Fulton County election facility in January offered a window into what it might look like for federal law enforcement to seize ballots after the November election. While Trump has long promoted false allegations about voter fraud in Fulton County, which includes Atlanta, the raid shocked election experts in part because the FBI obtained a search warrant, meaning a federal judge found probable cause to believe evidence of federal crimes would be found at the election facility. Fulton County officials vocally condemned the raid and successfully sued to unseal the affidavit used to support the warrant. The 19-page document included previously investigated claims about the 2020 elections and revealed the investigation originated from a referral by Kurt Olsen, an election denier who Trump last fall made a special government employee to look into the 2020 election.  Trump appears to have taken a personal interest in the Fulton County raid. Tulsi Gabbard, then the director of national intelligence, was photographed at the scene and later told Congress she was present at Trump’s request. The New York Times reported that she put the president on the phone with FBI agents the next day. Gabbard left her role in June, but Trump has indicated he wants the new acting director of national intelligence, Bill Pulte, to also look into elections. The director of intelligence, a Cabinet-level position established in the wake of 9/11, is supposed to help lead the U.S. intelligence community and has no formal role in elections. Pulte, who has no previous intelligence experience and previously led the Federal Housing Finance Agency, is known for antagonizing the president’s perceived opponents, including the former Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell and New York Democratic Attorney General Letitia James. “He may find out some things about the rigged elections,” Trump told reporters in early June. Marisa Pyle, senior democracy defense manager at All Voting is Local Georgia, praised Fulton County officials for aggressively pushing back against the raid.  She said that while she is concerned the search could create a chilling effect among voters and election workers, she has been heartened that it had also motivated some people to sign up to work the polls. While no one has a crystal ball, Pyle said, she expressed hope that Fulton County’s rejection of federal interference will minimize future attempts. “I think that’s optimistic,” Pyle said. “I think we prepare as best as we can and we just have to be ready to defend the results.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6cd197238567836ba38 US Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:30:05.505Z US Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego Ruben Gallego in August 2024. (Photo by Gage Skidmore | Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed a complaint against Sen. Ruben Gallego, writing in a letter it found no evidence the Arizona Democrat violated the chamber’s rules or federal law. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna filed a complaint to the six-member committee earlier this year, claiming the senator had violated campaign finance laws and engaged in what the letter described as “inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature.” Gallego wrote in a social media post Monday the “dismissal by the Ethics Committee reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House, and their allies.”  “I look forward to an apology from Rep. Luna for weaponizing the ethics process while refusing to investigate historic corruption that’s making life harder for families,” Gallego added. Luna wrote in a social media post in response to Gallego’s post that she doesn’t believe the complaints are “conspiracy theories.” “The good news about DC is everyone talks, and eventually the reporters come forward with your texts,” she wrote. “Do yourself a favor and keep raising for your legal defense fund. Once a creep always a creep, and you’re gonna need it.” The Ethics Committee wrote in the letter dated June 26 that it “retains the authority to revisit this matter should additional facts become known to the Committee.” Ethics Committee Chairman James Lankford, R-Okla., ranking member Chris Coons, D-Del., Idaho Republican Sen. James Risch, Hawaii Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz, Nebraska Republican Sen. Deb Fischer and New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, signed the letter.  Luna made the allegations against Gallego in April just after California Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations.  She wrote in a social media post addressed to Senate Majority Leader John Thune on April 15 that it “seems like the Senate has its own trash to take out. @LeaderJohnThune You need to look into the allegations against one of your Senators, it’s very disturbing. My chief will be contacting your chief.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6c5197238567836ba06 US Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:29:57.683Z US Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego Ruben Gallego in August 2024. (Photo by Gage Skidmore | Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate Ethics Committee has dismissed a complaint against Sen. Ruben Gallego, writing in a letter it found no evidence the Arizona Democrat violated the chamber’s rules or federal law. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna filed a complaint to the six-member committee earlier this year, claiming the senator had violated campaign finance laws and engaged in what the letter described as “inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature.” Gallego wrote in a social media post Monday the “dismissal by the Ethics Committee reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House, and their allies.”  “I look forward to an apology from Rep. Luna for weaponizing the ethics process while refusing to investigate historic corruption that’s making life harder for families,” Gallego added. Luna wrote in a social media post in response to Gallego’s post that she doesn’t believe the complaints are “conspiracy theories.” “The good news about DC is everyone talks, and eventually the reporters come forward with your texts,” she wrote. “Do yourself a favor and keep raising for your legal defense fund. Once a creep always a creep, and you’re gonna need it.” The Ethics Committee wrote in the letter dated June 26 that it “retains the authority to revisit this matter should additional facts become known to the Committee.” Ethics Committee Chairman James Lankford, R-Okla., ranking member Chris Coons, D-Del., Idaho Republican Sen. James Risch, Hawaii Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz, Nebraska Republican Sen. Deb Fischer and New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, signed the letter.  Luna made the allegations against Gallego in April just after California Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations.  She wrote in a social media post addressed to Senate Majority Leader John Thune on April 15 that it “seems like the Senate has its own trash to take out. @LeaderJohnThune You need to look into the allegations against one of your Senators, it’s very disturbing. My chief will be contacting your chief.” Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6ba197238567836b9fd US Supreme Court to take up Arizona proof of citizenship case te 2026-06-30T12:29:46.056Z US Supreme Court to take up Arizona proof of citizenship case The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to take up a case casting the Republican National Committee against a host of Democratic and voting rights groups over voting restrictions in Arizona. (Photo by Jim Small/Arizona Mirror) The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to consider a case that could decide whether the state can require Arizonans to provide proof of citizenship to register to vote and if it can purge voter rolls in the months leading up to an election. The high court’s decision in the case, which could come before the 2028 presidential election, could impact similar laws in other states that also face legal challenges.  The case originated in 2022 when a group of voting rights organizations, including Mi Familia Vota and Living United for Change in Arizona, challenged two new laws signed by then-Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican.  The laws would ban voters who don’t provide proof of citizenship from voting by mail and in presidential elections. It would require more frequent and extensive checks of voter rolls for noncitizens, and subsequent purges.  GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature enacted the laws in response to unproven claims of widespread noncitizen voting in 2020, which were made alongside baseless claims that the 2020 election was stolen from President Donald Trump. The Republican National Committee and the U.S. Department of Justice asked the nation’s highest court to take up the case after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last year, in agreement with a trial court, that Arizona’s proof of citizenship and purge requirements violate the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 and the Civil Rights Act.  The lower court blocked portions of the Arizona laws, and the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision. “Only American citizens should vote in American elections,” RNC Chairman Joe Gruters said in a Monday statement. “It’s the law, and it’s supported by the overwhelming majority of Americans.”  Studies show that noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare, with one study of the 2016 election finding that it accounted for 0.0001% of votes cast. The Campaign Legal Center, which is representing the voting rights groups in the case, said in a Monday statement that the U.S. Supreme Court’s involvement puts the voter protections bestowed by the NVRA at risk.  “Ignoring critical voter protections like the National Voter Registration Act forces Arizonans to jump through unnecessary hoops to participate in our democracy,” spokesperson Danielle Lang said in the statement. “We must ensure that every Arizonan, regardless of their background, has an equal and unobstructed path to exercise their fundamental freedom to vote.”  Since 2004, Arizona has required its residents to provide proof of citizenship when they register to vote in state and local elections. But in 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the state couldn’t require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections, per the NVRA.  After that, those who were unable to provide proof of citizenship could register as federal-only voters, allowing them to vote in federal races if they attest that they are U.S. citizens under penalty of perjury.  But the 2022 laws went further by banning federal-only voters from voting by mail — by far the most popular way to vote in the Grand Canyon State — and allowing voter rolls to be purged of noncitizens within the 90 days leading up to an election. The NVRA imposes strict limits on sweeping voter registration purges in the 90 days before a federal election. Voting rights groups say that these rules disproportionately impact Latino, Native American and student voters who are citizens but don’t have access to the documents — such as birth certificates or passports — necessary to prove it. During a Feb. 9 discussion on the floor of the Arizona Senate, Democratic Sen. Theresa Hatathlie of Coal Mine Mesa, who is Navajo, said that her 67-year-old sister still doesn’t have a birth certificate. Hatathlie’s sister was born at home on a rural part of the Navajo Nation, 22 miles from the nearest community. She has been unsuccessfully trying to get a birth certificate for more than 15 years, Hatathlie said. Proof of citizenship to vote and giving election officials the ability to purge alleged noncitizen voters ahead of elections is a key aim of the SAVE America Act, Trump’s signature elections legislation that is stalled in Congress due to some Republican holdouts So, Trump’s Justice Department last month asked the U.S. Supreme Court to take up RNC v. Mi Familia Vota, to overturn the lower court rulings and find that the Arizona laws don’t violate the NVRA.  The Trump administration has been pushing for states to hand over voter rolls to the Department of Justice to run them through the Department of Homeland Security’s SAVE system, which it uses to verify citizenship by checking information in federal databases.  Many Republican states have begun uploading their voter rolls to SAVE to search for potential noncitizens, and the Trump administration unsuccessfully sued the states that refused to hand over their voter rolls, including Arizona.  Critics of the program say SAVE has incorrectly identified U.S. citizens as noncitizens, a problem that could be exacerbated if the Supreme Court allows its widespread use in the weeks before an election. Last-minute misidentifications would leave little time for voters to prove their citizenship. Arizona’s Democratic Secretary of State Adrian Fontes reminded voters in a Monday statement that the Supreme Court’s decision to take on the case will not impact 2026 elections.  “However, after years of legal wrangling and legislation, Arizona does need clarity from the Court on how to administer the citizenship requirement for voting,” Fontes wrote. “The current process is confusing to voters and results in some voter applications being totally rejected because of which form they use.”  Contributing reporting by Jonathan Shorman  YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6b2197238567836b9f4 US Supreme Court to take up Arizona proof of citizenship case te 2026-06-30T12:29:38.231Z US Supreme Court to take up Arizona proof of citizenship case The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to take up a case casting the Republican National Committee against a host of Democratic and voting rights groups over voting restrictions in Arizona. (Photo by Jim Small/Arizona Mirror) The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to consider a case that could decide whether the state can require Arizonans to provide proof of citizenship to register to vote and if it can purge voter rolls in the months leading up to an election. The high court’s decision in the case, which could come before the 2028 presidential election, could impact similar laws in other states that also face legal challenges.  The case originated in 2022 when a group of voting rights organizations, including Mi Familia Vota and Living United for Change in Arizona, challenged two new laws signed by then-Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican.  The laws would ban voters who don’t provide proof of citizenship from voting by mail and in presidential elections. It would require more frequent and extensive checks of voter rolls for noncitizens, and subsequent purges.  GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature enacted the laws in response to unproven claims of widespread noncitizen voting in 2020, which were made alongside baseless claims that the 2020 election was stolen from President Donald Trump. The Republican National Committee and the U.S. Department of Justice asked the nation’s highest court to take up the case after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last year, in agreement with a trial court, that Arizona’s proof of citizenship and purge requirements violate the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 and the Civil Rights Act.  The lower court blocked portions of the Arizona laws, and the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision. “Only American citizens should vote in American elections,” RNC Chairman Joe Gruters said in a Monday statement. “It’s the law, and it’s supported by the overwhelming majority of Americans.”  Studies show that noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare, with one study of the 2016 election finding that it accounted for 0.0001% of votes cast. The Campaign Legal Center, which is representing the voting rights groups in the case, said in a Monday statement that the U.S. Supreme Court’s involvement puts the voter protections bestowed by the NVRA at risk.  “Ignoring critical voter protections like the National Voter Registration Act forces Arizonans to jump through unnecessary hoops to participate in our democracy,” spokesperson Danielle Lang said in the statement. “We must ensure that every Arizonan, regardless of their background, has an equal and unobstructed path to exercise their fundamental freedom to vote.”  Since 2004, Arizona has required its residents to provide proof of citizenship when they register to vote in state and local elections. But in 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the state couldn’t require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections, per the NVRA.  After that, those who were unable to provide proof of citizenship could register as federal-only voters, allowing them to vote in federal races if they attest that they are U.S. citizens under penalty of perjury.  But the 2022 laws went further by banning federal-only voters from voting by mail — by far the most popular way to vote in the Grand Canyon State — and allowing voter rolls to be purged of noncitizens within the 90 days leading up to an election. The NVRA imposes strict limits on sweeping voter registration purges in the 90 days before a federal election. Voting rights groups say that these rules disproportionately impact Latino, Native American and student voters who are citizens but don’t have access to the documents — such as birth certificates or passports — necessary to prove it. During a Feb. 9 discussion on the floor of the Arizona Senate, Democratic Sen. Theresa Hatathlie of Coal Mine Mesa, who is Navajo, said that her 67-year-old sister still doesn’t have a birth certificate. Hatathlie’s sister was born at home on a rural part of the Navajo Nation, 22 miles from the nearest community. She has been unsuccessfully trying to get a birth certificate for more than 15 years, Hatathlie said. Proof of citizenship to vote and giving election officials the ability to purge alleged noncitizen voters ahead of elections is a key aim of the SAVE America Act, Trump’s signature elections legislation that is stalled in Congress due to some Republican holdouts So, Trump’s Justice Department last month asked the U.S. Supreme Court to take up RNC v. Mi Familia Vota, to overturn the lower court rulings and find that the Arizona laws don’t violate the NVRA.  The Trump administration has been pushing for states to hand over voter rolls to the Department of Justice to run them through the Department of Homeland Security’s SAVE system, which it uses to verify citizenship by checking information in federal databases.  Many Republican states have begun uploading their voter rolls to SAVE to search for potential noncitizens, and the Trump administration unsuccessfully sued the states that refused to hand over their voter rolls, including Arizona.  Critics of the program say SAVE has incorrectly identified U.S. citizens as noncitizens, a problem that could be exacerbated if the Supreme Court allows its widespread use in the weeks before an election. Last-minute misidentifications would leave little time for voters to prove their citizenship. Arizona’s Democratic Secretary of State Adrian Fontes reminded voters in a Monday statement that the Supreme Court’s decision to take on the case will not impact 2026 elections.  “However, after years of legal wrangling and legislation, Arizona does need clarity from the Court on how to administer the citizenship requirement for voting,” Fontes wrote. “The current process is confusing to voters and results in some voter applications being totally rejected because of which form they use.”  Contributing reporting by Jonathan Shorman  YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b6a6197238567836b9eb School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water te 2026-06-30T12:29:26.594Z School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water Photo via Getty Images/iStock A plan by Republican lawmakers to call a special session of the Arizona Legislature to strike a deal with the state’s largest teachers union to kill a ballot initiative aimed at the school voucher program is likely dead in the water.  In the final hours of the annual legislative session just three weeks ago, Republican lawmakers pushed through a ballot referral that, if approved by voters, would nullify the two citizen-led initiatives aimed at regulating the state’s billion-dollar school voucher program, formally known as the Empowerment Scholarship Account program.  The move came after the Arizona Education Association, the state’s largest teachers union, tried and failed to make a deal to keep both initiatives off the ballot. That proposal would have implemented more modest reforms on the universal K-12 voucher system, in exchange for GOP legislators abandoning a ballot referral asking voters to effectively kill the AEA. GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The push for the Republican constitutional amendment barring school voucher reforms that passed along party lines in the last hours of the legislative session was a backup plan for GOP lawmakers pushed through after the compromise with the teachers union failed.The ESA program provides payments for any K-12 Arizona student to attend private or parochial schools, and pays for tutoring or homeschooling supplies. In exchange for getting the AEA to abandon the initiative campaign, Republicans had reportedly pledged to drop their retaliatory ballot referral that would effectively defund the teachers union by prohibiting school districts from deducting membership fees from employee paychecks — even though that is done at the employee’s request.  However, when that negotiated bill materialized on the Senate floor, it failed to pass, with two Republicans, Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, and Senate President Warren Petersen, joining Democrats in killing it.  Republicans then swiftly moved on to Plan B, House Concurrent Resolution 2048, dubbed the “Military Families College Savings and Scholarship Protection Act.”  But the legislation does far more than Republicans advertised: Buried in the bill is a clause that says it is not just limited to “scholarship account programs that are established and maintained by this state for only children of military families.” Democrats said that means it would effectively bar any reforms to the ESA program. Last week rumors began to circulate of a deal being proposed by Republican leadership that would see them withdrawing HCR2048, among other pieces of legislation aimed at teachers in exchange for some concessions on ESA reform.  In return AEA would drop its ballot initiative. Multiple sources at the Capitol confirmed to the Arizona Mirror that lawmakers were meeting to discuss some sort of deal and that the AEA was monitoring the situation last week.  Now it appears that a deal is unlikely as signatures for the petitions are due Thursday, meaning a special session would need to be held before then. Gov. Katie Hobbs said she wouldn’t call for one.  “Legislative Republicans are throwing firefighters, police and teachers under the bus in order to protect waste, fraud and abuse in the ESA entitlement program,” Hobbs’ office said in a statement to the Arizona Mirror “They’ve chosen to pull back from a deal they already agreed to at the end of session in order to appease partisan politicians in Washington, DC.”  The ballot referral issued by Republicans at the last hour has come under attack by firefighter and police unions who have said that an amendment made by Hoffman to the bill impacts them as well. Critics warned that the ballot referral  could ban police and firefighter union bargaining if voters favor it.  Meanwhile, Republicans Monday continued to push for Hobbs to call a legislative session and for a deal that would include what they call a “one-for-one ballot measure exchange.”  “It’s shameful that they would put their own partisan political agenda ahead of protecting public safety and public education,” Hobbs’ office said in the statement. “Governor Hobbs will continue standing with our firefighters, police and teachers who show up for Arizonans every day, and she will not accept a sham deal.” Some long-time ESA advocates are continuing to push for what is now being called the “Biggs plan,” named after Republican Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, despite signals from the ninth floor that the governor will not agree to that deal.  “Keep refreshing Gov. Hobbs’ X page to see if she announces a special session before midnight,” Jason Bedrick, a Heritage Foundation employee said to another user on X who asked where they could get updates on the possible deal.  Meanwhile Democratic members of the Arizona Legislature slammed Republicans for the attempt.  “Republicans created this mess by rushing harmful and misleading ballot referrals through the Legislature, including an attack on teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers and other public employees who wish to join a union and negotiate the terms of their employment,” Senate Minority Leader Priya Sundareshan and House Democratic Leader Oscar De Los Santos said in a joint statement. “Today, they had the opportunity to come together and work with Democrats to pull back these rushed and ill-considered reforms and once again, they failed Arizona.” YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b69e197238567836b9e2 School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water te 2026-06-30T12:29:18.771Z School voucher special session deal is likely dead in the water Photo via Getty Images/iStock A plan by Republican lawmakers to call a special session of the Arizona Legislature to strike a deal with the state’s largest teachers union to kill a ballot initiative aimed at the school voucher program is likely dead in the water.  In the final hours of the annual legislative session just three weeks ago, Republican lawmakers pushed through a ballot referral that, if approved by voters, would nullify the two citizen-led initiatives aimed at regulating the state’s billion-dollar school voucher program, formally known as the Empowerment Scholarship Account program.  The move came after the Arizona Education Association, the state’s largest teachers union, tried and failed to make a deal to keep both initiatives off the ballot. That proposal would have implemented more modest reforms on the universal K-12 voucher system, in exchange for GOP legislators abandoning a ballot referral asking voters to effectively kill the AEA. GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The push for the Republican constitutional amendment barring school voucher reforms that passed along party lines in the last hours of the legislative session was a backup plan for GOP lawmakers pushed through after the compromise with the teachers union failed.The ESA program provides payments for any K-12 Arizona student to attend private or parochial schools, and pays for tutoring or homeschooling supplies. In exchange for getting the AEA to abandon the initiative campaign, Republicans had reportedly pledged to drop their retaliatory ballot referral that would effectively defund the teachers union by prohibiting school districts from deducting membership fees from employee paychecks — even though that is done at the employee’s request.  However, when that negotiated bill materialized on the Senate floor, it failed to pass, with two Republicans, Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, and Senate President Warren Petersen, joining Democrats in killing it.  Republicans then swiftly moved on to Plan B, House Concurrent Resolution 2048, dubbed the “Military Families College Savings and Scholarship Protection Act.”  But the legislation does far more than Republicans advertised: Buried in the bill is a clause that says it is not just limited to “scholarship account programs that are established and maintained by this state for only children of military families.” Democrats said that means it would effectively bar any reforms to the ESA program. Last week rumors began to circulate of a deal being proposed by Republican leadership that would see them withdrawing HCR2048, among other pieces of legislation aimed at teachers in exchange for some concessions on ESA reform.  In return AEA would drop its ballot initiative. Multiple sources at the Capitol confirmed to the Arizona Mirror that lawmakers were meeting to discuss some sort of deal and that the AEA was monitoring the situation last week.  Now it appears that a deal is unlikely as signatures for the petitions are due Thursday, meaning a special session would need to be held before then. Gov. Katie Hobbs said she wouldn’t call for one.  “Legislative Republicans are throwing firefighters, police and teachers under the bus in order to protect waste, fraud and abuse in the ESA entitlement program,” Hobbs’ office said in a statement to the Arizona Mirror “They’ve chosen to pull back from a deal they already agreed to at the end of session in order to appease partisan politicians in Washington, DC.”  The ballot referral issued by Republicans at the last hour has come under attack by firefighter and police unions who have said that an amendment made by Hoffman to the bill impacts them as well. Critics warned that the ballot referral  could ban police and firefighter union bargaining if voters favor it.  Meanwhile, Republicans Monday continued to push for Hobbs to call a legislative session and for a deal that would include what they call a “one-for-one ballot measure exchange.”  “It’s shameful that they would put their own partisan political agenda ahead of protecting public safety and public education,” Hobbs’ office said in the statement. “Governor Hobbs will continue standing with our firefighters, police and teachers who show up for Arizonans every day, and she will not accept a sham deal.” Some long-time ESA advocates are continuing to push for what is now being called the “Biggs plan,” named after Republican Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs, despite signals from the ninth floor that the governor will not agree to that deal.  “Keep refreshing Gov. Hobbs’ X page to see if she announces a special session before midnight,” Jason Bedrick, a Heritage Foundation employee said to another user on X who asked where they could get updates on the possible deal.  Meanwhile Democratic members of the Arizona Legislature slammed Republicans for the attempt.  “Republicans created this mess by rushing harmful and misleading ballot referrals through the Legislature, including an attack on teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers and other public employees who wish to join a union and negotiate the terms of their employment,” Senate Minority Leader Priya Sundareshan and House Democratic Leader Oscar De Los Santos said in a joint statement. “Today, they had the opportunity to come together and work with Democrats to pull back these rushed and ill-considered reforms and once again, they failed Arizona.” YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b693197238567836b9d9 Arizona Supreme Court upholds dark money law, allows free speech challenge to proceed te 2026-06-30T12:29:07.138Z Arizona Supreme Court upholds dark money law, allows free speech challenge to proceed Photo by iStock / Getty Images Plus The Arizona Supreme Court on Monday dismissed most of the challenges to a voter-approved anti-dark-money law, but allowed one of the challenges from deep-pocketed conservative opponents to move forward.  The remaining challenge questions whether disclosing the identities of political donors creates a chilling effect that violates the state constitution.  Since voters in 2022 overwhelmingly approved Proposition 211, the Voters Right to Know Act, proponents of the anonymous campaign spending that has transformed American elections over the past 15 years have challenged its constitutionality. The law’s conservative opponents have argued that forcing disclosure of the source of political spending limits the free speech of wealthy people who want to influence voters, but don’t want those voters to know who is trying to persuade them.  On Monday, months after hearing oral arguments, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled to dismiss a number of the challenges brought against the law, upholding the voter approved initiative. The court agreed to let live a challenge arguing that disclosing the identity of donors chilled free speech under Arizona’s constitution.  GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The state constitution’s “Speak Freely Clause,” which provides protections to Arizonans’ freedom of speech and the press, was the main focus of the 4-3 opinion released Monday.  The legal challenges that the court considered were brought by the anti-abortion advocacy group Center for Arizona Policy and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, a dark money nonprofit. They were joined by two anonymous donors who said they feared harassment and violence if their political spending was disclosed.  They argued that mandating disclosure of the source of political spending violates the Arizona Constitution’s protections of free speech, association, privacy and separation of powers. Lower courts have rejected arguments that Prop. 211 chills free speech and said the law complies with the state constitution, including a unanimous decision at the Arizona Court of Appeals.   Republican legislative leaders made similar arguments in their failed attempt to overturn the ballot measure, which was broadly supported by Arizonans across all political ideologies and ultimately won the backing of more than 70% of voters.  Under federal tax law, neither the Arizona Free Enterprise Club nor the Center for Arizona Policy’s political arm have to disclose donors. But under Prop. 211, they will be forced to do so for their election-related activities.  The two groups campaigned against the passage of Prop. 211, claiming that it enshrined “cancel culture” into law. And the Center for Arizona Policy, which has a history of pushing anti-LGBTQ laws, said it feared the harassment it already received would be directed to its donors if they are revealed.  The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice Ann Timmer, noted that Arizona’s constitution strongly favors protecting freedom of speech but also supports political campaign disclosures.  “[T]he framers included a provision prohibiting corporations from making contributions ‘for the purpose of influencing any election or official action,’” Timmer wrote. “The Speak Freely Clause therefore does not prevent the prohibition of corporate campaign contributions…This is so despite the fact that the First Amendment prohibits such a restriction.” While the U.S. Supreme Court deemed corporate campaign contributions protected speech under the infamous Citizens United ruling, Timmer and the majority concluded that Arizona’s constitution and its framers did not anticipate this and thus are not impacted by it. The majority also wrote that landmark cases argued under Arizona’s Speak Freely Clause have focused more on “prohibiting punishment for expression” and did not address the chilling of speech.  In one of those cases, the court determined that a City of Phoenix nondiscrimination ordinance could not force a Christian-owned company to create invitations for a same-sex couple. The majority argued that the government has certain “police-power” rights over certain types of speech that were recognized by the authors of the Arizona Constitution, citing ordinances dating to 1910, prior to statehood. Those ordinances required residents to report contagious diseases, physicians to report births and deaths and poisons to be labeled.  “These enactments, existing before and at statehood, evidence Arizonans’ understanding that the exercise of the State’s police powers for health, safety, and welfare—as illustrated—did not conflict with Arizonans’ right to speak “‘freely,’” Timmer wrote.  However, Timmer and the majority noted the clash between the Speak Freely Clause and Arizona’s history of election spending transparency. Timmer wrote for the majority that donating to an organization for the “express purpose of funding campaign media” or knowing that it will be used for messaging is “expressive conduct protected by the Speak Freely Clause.”  Spending that reflects the organization’s messaging is also seen as “expressive conduct” so both the Center for Arizona Police and the Free Enterprise Club have “adequately alleged that expression protected by the Speak Freely Clause is at issue.”  But the state has a long history of favoring campaign disclosure, Timmer noted.  “​​Using disclosure requirements to advance integrity and transparency in election spending is deeply rooted in Arizona’s history,” Timmer wrote. “On the eve of statehood, territorial law already required candidates and political committees to file detailed public reports disclosing the sources and expenditures of campaign funds, both direct and indirect through intermediaries.” She wrote that with both those things taken together that “free-speech protections do not shield campaign-related contributions, even those made through intermediaries, or contributor identities from reasonable publicity requirements.”  Not all of the court agreed.  “We concur with the majority’s conclusion that Plaintiffs’ as-applied challenge under the Speak Freely Clause should not have been dismissed,” Justice Kathryn King wrote in the dissent. “But we depart from the majority in all other respects.”  King, along with Vice Chief Justice John Lopez IV and Justice Clint Bolick, argued that the majority’s interpretation “creates a new limitation on free speech rights, permitting censorship and restraint on speech in ‘the state’s proper exercise of its regulatory authority.” “Most fundamentally, this police power justification departs from clear constitutional text that limits the scope and exercise of legislative authority infringing on the right to speak freely to ‘abuse of that right,’” King wrote. “ But this police power justification is also nebulous and sweeping, invites government suppression of speech, and is unprecedented.”  Timmer and the majority argue that isn’t the case and that electoral disclosures, restrictions on advertisements and other similar laws are all “police-power regulation affecting expression” that have never been deemed unconstitutional and do not impact one’s ability to “speak freely.”  The dissenting justices also took umbrage with the possibility of an “indirect donor” having their private information exposed due to a second or third organization triggering the Voters Right to Know Act. The justices provided two scenarios they said were plausible under the law.  In one of them a woman  “donates $5,100 to her church over the course of a year without designating her funds to be used in any way” and then her church donates those funds to a “social justice organization.” That organization then donates the money to an immigrant relief organization that then purchases campaign advertisements against a ballot measure seeking to prohibit local law enforcement agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  “Under the Act, the woman will be publicly identified as supporting ‘anti-ICE’ campaign media spending, even if she strongly supports ICE,” King wrote.  The group gave another example involving a man who donates a total of $5,005 to a non-profit that, with his donation eventually going to an organization that funds a gun rights group, even though the person “vehemently supports gun control and increased government restrictions on the purchase and use of guns.”  “And not only are their names reported as supporting ballot measures and messages they fundamentally oppose, but their addresses, occupations, and employers are publicly reported too,” King wrote. “The notion that a citizen—who anonymously donates a total of $5,001 over two years to an organization that later uses the donation to speak through media on a matter of public interest—is a ‘major donor’ who represents a threat to our citizenry is contrary to the text and history of the Arizona Constitution.”  Both groups of justices seem to agree that the opt-out option for donors who want to make sure their money is not used for campaign media is not entirely clear.  “To be sure, the Act does not answer every question about how its notice and tracing provisions operate in all circumstances,” Timmer wrote.  “For example, it does not expressly specify who must provide upstream donors notice of the opt-out opportunity or require a covered person to investigate whether an immediate donor’s contribution includes original monies from upstream donors. We need not resolve those implementation questions here.” Both also seemed to agree that both the Center for Arizona Police and the Free Enterprise Club have faced possible threats to their speech. While both groups have “sufficiently alleged a concrete, non-speculative burden on protected expression” it does not impact their ability to “publicly communicate messages” as the act only impacts donations used for campaign media.  “They do allege, however, that the prospect of public identification under the Act will cause major donors to fear harassment and retaliation, deterring them from contributing sufficient money and resources needed for CAP and FEC to engage in campaign media related to their issue advocacy,” Timmer wrote. “As a result, CAP and FEC allege that the Act ‘chills’ their speech by forcing them to curtail their campaign media messaging.”  The Center for Arizona Policy provided an example of receiving death threats as did the Free Enterprise Club, both citing their advocacy on controversial issues as a basis for the harassment.  The Goldwater Institute, which has been representing the two organizations, applauded Monday’s opinion.  “This is an important victory for every Arizonan who believes people should be free to support the causes they care about without fear of government-compelled disclosure,” Scott Freeman, senior attorney at the Goldwater Institute said in a statement. “The Arizona Supreme Court recognized that our state constitution independently protects free speech and that citizens are entitled to prove that compelled donor disclosure violates those protections.” The case will now head back to Maricopa County Superior Court where the Center for Arizona Police and Free Enterprise Club will be allowed to argue that the act is unconstitutional because it chills their clients’ speech. YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b68b197238567836b9d0 Arizona Supreme Court upholds dark money law, allows free speech challenge to proceed te 2026-06-30T12:28:59.316Z Arizona Supreme Court upholds dark money law, allows free speech challenge to proceed Photo by iStock / Getty Images Plus The Arizona Supreme Court on Monday dismissed most of the challenges to a voter-approved anti-dark-money law, but allowed one of the challenges from deep-pocketed conservative opponents to move forward.  The remaining challenge questions whether disclosing the identities of political donors creates a chilling effect that violates the state constitution.  Since voters in 2022 overwhelmingly approved Proposition 211, the Voters Right to Know Act, proponents of the anonymous campaign spending that has transformed American elections over the past 15 years have challenged its constitutionality. The law’s conservative opponents have argued that forcing disclosure of the source of political spending limits the free speech of wealthy people who want to influence voters, but don’t want those voters to know who is trying to persuade them.  On Monday, months after hearing oral arguments, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled to dismiss a number of the challenges brought against the law, upholding the voter approved initiative. The court agreed to let live a challenge arguing that disclosing the identity of donors chilled free speech under Arizona’s constitution.  GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBE The state constitution’s “Speak Freely Clause,” which provides protections to Arizonans’ freedom of speech and the press, was the main focus of the 4-3 opinion released Monday.  The legal challenges that the court considered were brought by the anti-abortion advocacy group Center for Arizona Policy and the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, a dark money nonprofit. They were joined by two anonymous donors who said they feared harassment and violence if their political spending was disclosed.  They argued that mandating disclosure of the source of political spending violates the Arizona Constitution’s protections of free speech, association, privacy and separation of powers. Lower courts have rejected arguments that Prop. 211 chills free speech and said the law complies with the state constitution, including a unanimous decision at the Arizona Court of Appeals.   Republican legislative leaders made similar arguments in their failed attempt to overturn the ballot measure, which was broadly supported by Arizonans across all political ideologies and ultimately won the backing of more than 70% of voters.  Under federal tax law, neither the Arizona Free Enterprise Club nor the Center for Arizona Policy’s political arm have to disclose donors. But under Prop. 211, they will be forced to do so for their election-related activities.  The two groups campaigned against the passage of Prop. 211, claiming that it enshrined “cancel culture” into law. And the Center for Arizona Policy, which has a history of pushing anti-LGBTQ laws, said it feared the harassment it already received would be directed to its donors if they are revealed.  The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice Ann Timmer, noted that Arizona’s constitution strongly favors protecting freedom of speech but also supports political campaign disclosures.  “[T]he framers included a provision prohibiting corporations from making contributions ‘for the purpose of influencing any election or official action,’” Timmer wrote. “The Speak Freely Clause therefore does not prevent the prohibition of corporate campaign contributions…This is so despite the fact that the First Amendment prohibits such a restriction.” While the U.S. Supreme Court deemed corporate campaign contributions protected speech under the infamous Citizens United ruling, Timmer and the majority concluded that Arizona’s constitution and its framers did not anticipate this and thus are not impacted by it. The majority also wrote that landmark cases argued under Arizona’s Speak Freely Clause have focused more on “prohibiting punishment for expression” and did not address the chilling of speech.  In one of those cases, the court determined that a City of Phoenix nondiscrimination ordinance could not force a Christian-owned company to create invitations for a same-sex couple. The majority argued that the government has certain “police-power” rights over certain types of speech that were recognized by the authors of the Arizona Constitution, citing ordinances dating to 1910, prior to statehood. Those ordinances required residents to report contagious diseases, physicians to report births and deaths and poisons to be labeled.  “These enactments, existing before and at statehood, evidence Arizonans’ understanding that the exercise of the State’s police powers for health, safety, and welfare—as illustrated—did not conflict with Arizonans’ right to speak “‘freely,’” Timmer wrote.  However, Timmer and the majority noted the clash between the Speak Freely Clause and Arizona’s history of election spending transparency. Timmer wrote for the majority that donating to an organization for the “express purpose of funding campaign media” or knowing that it will be used for messaging is “expressive conduct protected by the Speak Freely Clause.”  Spending that reflects the organization’s messaging is also seen as “expressive conduct” so both the Center for Arizona Police and the Free Enterprise Club have “adequately alleged that expression protected by the Speak Freely Clause is at issue.”  But the state has a long history of favoring campaign disclosure, Timmer noted.  “​​Using disclosure requirements to advance integrity and transparency in election spending is deeply rooted in Arizona’s history,” Timmer wrote. “On the eve of statehood, territorial law already required candidates and political committees to file detailed public reports disclosing the sources and expenditures of campaign funds, both direct and indirect through intermediaries.” She wrote that with both those things taken together that “free-speech protections do not shield campaign-related contributions, even those made through intermediaries, or contributor identities from reasonable publicity requirements.”  Not all of the court agreed.  “We concur with the majority’s conclusion that Plaintiffs’ as-applied challenge under the Speak Freely Clause should not have been dismissed,” Justice Kathryn King wrote in the dissent. “But we depart from the majority in all other respects.”  King, along with Vice Chief Justice John Lopez IV and Justice Clint Bolick, argued that the majority’s interpretation “creates a new limitation on free speech rights, permitting censorship and restraint on speech in ‘the state’s proper exercise of its regulatory authority.” “Most fundamentally, this police power justification departs from clear constitutional text that limits the scope and exercise of legislative authority infringing on the right to speak freely to ‘abuse of that right,’” King wrote. “ But this police power justification is also nebulous and sweeping, invites government suppression of speech, and is unprecedented.”  Timmer and the majority argue that isn’t the case and that electoral disclosures, restrictions on advertisements and other similar laws are all “police-power regulation affecting expression” that have never been deemed unconstitutional and do not impact one’s ability to “speak freely.”  The dissenting justices also took umbrage with the possibility of an “indirect donor” having their private information exposed due to a second or third organization triggering the Voters Right to Know Act. The justices provided two scenarios they said were plausible under the law.  In one of them a woman  “donates $5,100 to her church over the course of a year without designating her funds to be used in any way” and then her church donates those funds to a “social justice organization.” That organization then donates the money to an immigrant relief organization that then purchases campaign advertisements against a ballot measure seeking to prohibit local law enforcement agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  “Under the Act, the woman will be publicly identified as supporting ‘anti-ICE’ campaign media spending, even if she strongly supports ICE,” King wrote.  The group gave another example involving a man who donates a total of $5,005 to a non-profit that, with his donation eventually going to an organization that funds a gun rights group, even though the person “vehemently supports gun control and increased government restrictions on the purchase and use of guns.”  “And not only are their names reported as supporting ballot measures and messages they fundamentally oppose, but their addresses, occupations, and employers are publicly reported too,” King wrote. “The notion that a citizen—who anonymously donates a total of $5,001 over two years to an organization that later uses the donation to speak through media on a matter of public interest—is a ‘major donor’ who represents a threat to our citizenry is contrary to the text and history of the Arizona Constitution.”  Both groups of justices seem to agree that the opt-out option for donors who want to make sure their money is not used for campaign media is not entirely clear.  “To be sure, the Act does not answer every question about how its notice and tracing provisions operate in all circumstances,” Timmer wrote.  “For example, it does not expressly specify who must provide upstream donors notice of the opt-out opportunity or require a covered person to investigate whether an immediate donor’s contribution includes original monies from upstream donors. We need not resolve those implementation questions here.” Both also seemed to agree that both the Center for Arizona Police and the Free Enterprise Club have faced possible threats to their speech. While both groups have “sufficiently alleged a concrete, non-speculative burden on protected expression” it does not impact their ability to “publicly communicate messages” as the act only impacts donations used for campaign media.  “They do allege, however, that the prospect of public identification under the Act will cause major donors to fear harassment and retaliation, deterring them from contributing sufficient money and resources needed for CAP and FEC to engage in campaign media related to their issue advocacy,” Timmer wrote. “As a result, CAP and FEC allege that the Act ‘chills’ their speech by forcing them to curtail their campaign media messaging.”  The Center for Arizona Policy provided an example of receiving death threats as did the Free Enterprise Club, both citing their advocacy on controversial issues as a basis for the harassment.  The Goldwater Institute, which has been representing the two organizations, applauded Monday’s opinion.  “This is an important victory for every Arizonan who believes people should be free to support the causes they care about without fear of government-compelled disclosure,” Scott Freeman, senior attorney at the Goldwater Institute said in a statement. “The Arizona Supreme Court recognized that our state constitution independently protects free speech and that citizens are entitled to prove that compelled donor disclosure violates those protections.” The case will now head back to Maricopa County Superior Court where the Center for Arizona Police and Free Enterprise Club will be allowed to argue that the act is unconstitutional because it chills their clients’ speech. YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. SUPPORT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b67f197238567836b9c7 How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America te 2026-06-30T12:28:47.171Z How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America July 4th is more than marking America’s independence with patriotic flags, parades and fireworks. It's about celebrating American ingenuity, our firm belief that our country can engineer solutions to achieve the impossible, from launching the modern age of aviation to landing a man on the moon. Some of the most compelling evidence of American exceptionalism today is happening thousands of feet beneath the surface of the Gulf of America, where our offshore industry has spent more than a decade solving one of the hardest engineering problems in the history of energy. More than 100 miles offshore from the Gulf Coast sits a geological layer of sandstone and shale rock deep beneath the seabed called the Paleogene that holds tens of billions of barrels of oil. For years, most of it was considered unattainable. The reservoir pressures – up to 20,000 pounds per square inch, equivalent to an elephant standing on a quarter – exceeded anything existing technology could handle. No equipment had ever been built to work under those conditions. TRUMP’S ENERGY INITIATIVES MAY FINALLY EXTRACT AMERICA FROM MIDEAST CHAOS The solution was engineered here, in American waters, by the people who know them best. Transocean developed the first drillships in the world built to work in these high-pressure conditions. Their Deepwater Titan and Deepwater Atlas are currently operating in the Gulf of America. Trendsetter Engineering designed subsea systems and manifolds capable of operating reliably at pressures once considered beyond reach. Other offshore companies have developed similar equipment that has unlocked the Paleogene. The results speak for themselves. Chevron's Anchor project came online in 2024, representing roughly $5.7 billion in development spending. Beacon Offshore's Shenandoah is also producing oil and natural gas. BP's development plan for its $5 billion Kaskida project has secured federal approval and is moving toward first production. Together, these projects mark the opening of a new chapter of American offshore capability. TRUMP’S ENERGY INITIATIVES MAY FINALLY EXTRACT AMERICA FROM MIDEAST CHAOS The people who did this work aren't household names. They're engineers and subsea specialists and vessel crews spread across the Gulf Coast, part of a remarkable expertise that shows up when an impossible problem needs solving. And our people have proven this equipment is safe and reliable. Safety and containment systems were purpose-built, independently verified, and rigorously tested under federal oversight before a single well was drilled. Offshore consortiums HWCG and Marine Well Containment Co. (MWCC) both maintain 20,000 psi containment systems that can be deployed rapidly in the event of an incident. CONGRESS MUST NOT DERAIL THE FREIGHT RAIL LIFELINE FOR AMERICA’S FARMERS Federal regulations require operators to demonstrate access to containment resources, submit detailed response plans, and conduct robust recurring training exercises before drilling begins. The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement requires third-party certification on every major high-pressure component: blowout preventers, subsea trees, wellheads and completion equipment. Nothing goes offshore without it. This achievement that’s producing more American energy is worth celebrating today, especially during a time when we take stock of what this country is built on. The Paleogene wasn't unlocked by a single mandate or a government program. It was unlocked by an ecosystem of companies, engineers, regulators, suppliers and workers who collectively decided a problem was worth solving and spent years doing it. That's a distinctly American model, and it works. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The Gulf of America supplies roughly 15% of U.S. oil production. Offshore projects support shipyards, manufacturers, ports, marine operators and skilled trades across the country. There are jobs and investments in all 50 states. The Paleogene represents the next chapter of that output, backed by existing infrastructure, an experienced workforce, and decades of hard-won operating knowledge. The economic and national security benefits don't happen without the long-term investment decisions and the long-term confidence that make them possible. At 250, America is still a country that does seemingly impossible things. The Paleogene in the Gulf of America is proof. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM ERIK MILITO Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b677197238567836b9be How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America te 2026-06-30T12:28:39.346Z How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America July 4th is more than marking America’s independence with patriotic flags, parades and fireworks. It's about celebrating American ingenuity, our firm belief that our country can engineer solutions to achieve the impossible, from launching the modern age of aviation to landing a man on the moon. Some of the most compelling evidence of American exceptionalism today is happening thousands of feet beneath the surface of the Gulf of America, where our offshore industry has spent more than a decade solving one of the hardest engineering problems in the history of energy. More than 100 miles offshore from the Gulf Coast sits a geological layer of sandstone and shale rock deep beneath the seabed called the Paleogene that holds tens of billions of barrels of oil. For years, most of it was considered unattainable. The reservoir pressures – up to 20,000 pounds per square inch, equivalent to an elephant standing on a quarter – exceeded anything existing technology could handle. No equipment had ever been built to work under those conditions. TRUMP’S ENERGY INITIATIVES MAY FINALLY EXTRACT AMERICA FROM MIDEAST CHAOS The solution was engineered here, in American waters, by the people who know them best. Transocean developed the first drillships in the world built to work in these high-pressure conditions. Their Deepwater Titan and Deepwater Atlas are currently operating in the Gulf of America. Trendsetter Engineering designed subsea systems and manifolds capable of operating reliably at pressures once considered beyond reach. Other offshore companies have developed similar equipment that has unlocked the Paleogene. The results speak for themselves. Chevron's Anchor project came online in 2024, representing roughly $5.7 billion in development spending. Beacon Offshore's Shenandoah is also producing oil and natural gas. BP's development plan for its $5 billion Kaskida project has secured federal approval and is moving toward first production. Together, these projects mark the opening of a new chapter of American offshore capability. TRUMP’S ENERGY INITIATIVES MAY FINALLY EXTRACT AMERICA FROM MIDEAST CHAOS The people who did this work aren't household names. They're engineers and subsea specialists and vessel crews spread across the Gulf Coast, part of a remarkable expertise that shows up when an impossible problem needs solving. And our people have proven this equipment is safe and reliable. Safety and containment systems were purpose-built, independently verified, and rigorously tested under federal oversight before a single well was drilled. Offshore consortiums HWCG and Marine Well Containment Co. (MWCC) both maintain 20,000 psi containment systems that can be deployed rapidly in the event of an incident. CONGRESS MUST NOT DERAIL THE FREIGHT RAIL LIFELINE FOR AMERICA’S FARMERS Federal regulations require operators to demonstrate access to containment resources, submit detailed response plans, and conduct robust recurring training exercises before drilling begins. The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement requires third-party certification on every major high-pressure component: blowout preventers, subsea trees, wellheads and completion equipment. Nothing goes offshore without it. This achievement that’s producing more American energy is worth celebrating today, especially during a time when we take stock of what this country is built on. The Paleogene wasn't unlocked by a single mandate or a government program. It was unlocked by an ecosystem of companies, engineers, regulators, suppliers and workers who collectively decided a problem was worth solving and spent years doing it. That's a distinctly American model, and it works. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The Gulf of America supplies roughly 15% of U.S. oil production. Offshore projects support shipyards, manufacturers, ports, marine operators and skilled trades across the country. There are jobs and investments in all 50 states. The Paleogene represents the next chapter of that output, backed by existing infrastructure, an experienced workforce, and decades of hard-won operating knowledge. The economic and national security benefits don't happen without the long-term investment decisions and the long-term confidence that make them possible. At 250, America is still a country that does seemingly impossible things. The Paleogene in the Gulf of America is proof. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM ERIK MILITO Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b66b197238567836b9b5 Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories: 'Orgy of socialism' te 2026-06-30T12:28:27.714Z Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories: 'Orgy of socialism' Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., unloaded on his own party on Sunday evening, blasting a series of victories for progressives he called "anti-America." "Big night for the dirtbag left," Fetterman said, referring to New York’s recent primaries, when two members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) won primaries. "I’ve said the party is becoming an orgy of socialism. Clearly anti-America, anti-Western Civilization," Fetterman said. Fetterman’s striking calls give a rare look at how some moderates may view the developments on their far-left flank that have dominated the party’s momentum in recent months, sparking concern that their high visibility is dragging the party further and further left. FETTERMAN WARNS DEMOCRATS 'DRIFTING FIRMLY INTO COMMUNISM' AFTER SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINS His comments come on the heels of a handful of key progressive victories. In Maine, Graham Platner, a controversial Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, has attracted controversy for denying knowledge of the meaning behind a Nazi-linked tattoo, for off-color comments about race and calling himself a "communist" in a deleted Reddit post. In New York, one DSA member, Claire Valdez, won a primary on a platform of abolishing ICE and a Green New Deal-style approach to climate change. Similarly, Darializa Avila-Chevalier, another DSA candidate, beat out incumbent Rep. Adriano Espillat, D-N.Y., a high-ranking Democrat and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. WINNERS AND LOSERS EMERGE AFTER SOCIALIST EARTHQUAKE ROCKS NYC PRIMARIES Both Chevalier and Valdez had the backing of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who is a self-proclaimed socialist. The wins have captured national attention and drawn criticism from Republicans who have pointed to their success as emblematic of the direction of the Democratic Party. Fetterman, who has not shied away from confrontations, has been one of the few Democrats to express alarm about the kind of candidates carrying the party’s banner. "I mean, you look at some of the things that people have said. Abolish prison, abolish the border, abolish ICE, I mean these crazy people — I have colleagues in my caucus that refuse to even call this out," Fetterman said. FETTERMAN REACTS TO MAMDANI’S REFUSAL TO ACCEPT SUPREME COURT’S IMMIGRATION RULING "Between P-hustle in Maine and some of the other winners in New York, they should form their own party and run on all the things that they’ve had to delete on social media," Fetterman said, referring to Platner. "That’s where our party has moved," he added. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b663197238567836b9ac Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories: 'Orgy of socialism' te 2026-06-30T12:28:19.890Z Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories: 'Orgy of socialism' Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., unloaded on his own party on Sunday evening, blasting a series of victories for progressives he called "anti-America." "Big night for the dirtbag left," Fetterman said, referring to New York’s recent primaries, when two members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) won primaries. "I’ve said the party is becoming an orgy of socialism. Clearly anti-America, anti-Western Civilization," Fetterman said. Fetterman’s striking calls give a rare look at how some moderates may view the developments on their far-left flank that have dominated the party’s momentum in recent months, sparking concern that their high visibility is dragging the party further and further left. FETTERMAN WARNS DEMOCRATS 'DRIFTING FIRMLY INTO COMMUNISM' AFTER SOCIALIST PRIMARY WINS His comments come on the heels of a handful of key progressive victories. In Maine, Graham Platner, a controversial Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, has attracted controversy for denying knowledge of the meaning behind a Nazi-linked tattoo, for off-color comments about race and calling himself a "communist" in a deleted Reddit post. In New York, one DSA member, Claire Valdez, won a primary on a platform of abolishing ICE and a Green New Deal-style approach to climate change. Similarly, Darializa Avila-Chevalier, another DSA candidate, beat out incumbent Rep. Adriano Espillat, D-N.Y., a high-ranking Democrat and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. WINNERS AND LOSERS EMERGE AFTER SOCIALIST EARTHQUAKE ROCKS NYC PRIMARIES Both Chevalier and Valdez had the backing of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who is a self-proclaimed socialist. The wins have captured national attention and drawn criticism from Republicans who have pointed to their success as emblematic of the direction of the Democratic Party. Fetterman, who has not shied away from confrontations, has been one of the few Democrats to express alarm about the kind of candidates carrying the party’s banner. "I mean, you look at some of the things that people have said. Abolish prison, abolish the border, abolish ICE, I mean these crazy people — I have colleagues in my caucus that refuse to even call this out," Fetterman said. FETTERMAN REACTS TO MAMDANI’S REFUSAL TO ACCEPT SUPREME COURT’S IMMIGRATION RULING "Between P-hustle in Maine and some of the other winners in New York, they should form their own party and run on all the things that they’ve had to delete on social media," Fetterman said, referring to Platner. "That’s where our party has moved," he added. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b658197238567836b9a3 Socialists take fight west, target Colorado in latest bid to oust Democratic Party establishment te 2026-06-30T12:28:08.256Z Socialists take fight west, target Colorado in latest bid to oust Democratic Party establishment The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is setting its sights on Colorado. A handful of Tuesday's primaries in the Democrat-dominated Rocky Mountain state are the next battleground in the fight between the far left and the center-left establishment over the future of the Democratic Party. "Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West," the DSA wrote in a social media post last week, hours after their ballot-box victories in a handful of congressional primaries in New York City. The post came after DSA-aligned Darializa Avila Chevalier, a 32-year-old far-left community organizer, ousted incumbent Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and state Assembly Member Claire Valdez, another democratic socialist, won a congressional primary by defeating an establishment-backed candidate. VICTORIES BY MAMDANI-BACKED CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES SPOTLIGHTS GROWING RIFT IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY The victories by Chevalier and Valdez, who were heavily supported by democratic socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, further emboldened the far left as it takes on the center-left establishment in a high-stakes battle for the future of the Democratic Party. The DSA is now looking to replicate its playbook across the country, starting Tuesday in the Democratic primary in Colorado's 1st Congressional District, a solidly blue seat anchored in Denver that then-Vice President Kamala Harris carried by a whopping 56 points in the 2024 election. Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, who was first elected to Congress three decades ago, is facing two primary challengers, including DSA-backed Melat Kiros, a first-time candidate and former attorney born four months after DeGette first took office. Kiros, who lost her job as a lawyer in New York after writing an essay critical of Israel, is also supported by Justice Democrats, the nearly decade-old political group known for heavily supporting "Squad" members Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley and Rashida Tlaib as they toppled entrenched incumbents in their initial elections to Congress. DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB "ELECT ANOTHER SOCIALIST TO CONGRESS ON JUNE 30TH," a DSA social media post states as it urges supporters to lend a hand to the Kiros campaign. The Democratic Party divide will also play out in the primary in the neighboring 8th Congressional District, which stretches along the I-25 corridor north of Denver. State Rep. Manny Rutinel is running to the left of former state Rep. Shannon Bird, with the winner taking on Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, who flipped the seat in the 2024 cycle. The race is considered one of two or three dozen that will determine if the GOP holds onto its razor-thin House majority in the midterms. Immigration has been a top issue in the Democratic primary in a district where roughly 40% of the population is Latino. Rutinel has criticized Bird for a vote she cast last year opposing a measure limiting cooperation between local and state law enforcement and ICE. MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES Another primary showdown highlighting the split between progressives and moderates, as well as the party's generational divide, is the Senate nomination battle between incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper, 74, and former state Sen. Julie Gonzales, a 43-year-old progressive. Hickenlooper, a former Denver mayor and two-term governor, has seen his once-large advantage over Gonzales, a one-time DSA member, narrow. The winner will face Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley, who is unopposed in his primary. Shannon Jackson, a longtime progressive political strategist and grassroots organizer best known for his leadership roles in Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, pointed to last week's results and told Fox News Digital that "people are frustrated." "The key message of the victors: Medicare-for-All, the importance of affordability and a living wage. Progressives have long fought for these values and I expect the primary victories to continue," he emphasized. Meanwhile, the state's expensive and combustible Democratic gubernatorial primary pits Sen. Michael Bennet against state Attorney General Phil Weiser. Bennet or Weiser will be considered the clear favorite in the race to succeed two-term Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, the first openly gay man elected governor in the nation's history. Weiser, who is running to Bennet's left on certain issues, closed the gap with the senator as he spotlighted his efforts to take on President Donald Trump, including suing Trump 66 times as attorney general. The winner will face either state Rep. Scott Bottoms, state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer or pastor and Marine Corps veteran Victor Marx as the Republican nominee. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b650197238567836b99a Socialists take fight west, target Colorado in latest bid to oust Democratic Party establishment te 2026-06-30T12:28:00.448Z Socialists take fight west, target Colorado in latest bid to oust Democratic Party establishment The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) is setting its sights on Colorado. A handful of Tuesday's primaries in the Democrat-dominated Rocky Mountain state are the next battleground in the fight between the far left and the center-left establishment over the future of the Democratic Party. "Today, the East Coast, next week the Mountain West," the DSA wrote in a social media post last week, hours after their ballot-box victories in a handful of congressional primaries in New York City. The post came after DSA-aligned Darializa Avila Chevalier, a 32-year-old far-left community organizer, ousted incumbent Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and state Assembly Member Claire Valdez, another democratic socialist, won a congressional primary by defeating an establishment-backed candidate. VICTORIES BY MAMDANI-BACKED CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES SPOTLIGHTS GROWING RIFT IN DEMOCRATIC PARTY The victories by Chevalier and Valdez, who were heavily supported by democratic socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, further emboldened the far left as it takes on the center-left establishment in a high-stakes battle for the future of the Democratic Party. The DSA is now looking to replicate its playbook across the country, starting Tuesday in the Democratic primary in Colorado's 1st Congressional District, a solidly blue seat anchored in Denver that then-Vice President Kamala Harris carried by a whopping 56 points in the 2024 election. Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, who was first elected to Congress three decades ago, is facing two primary challengers, including DSA-backed Melat Kiros, a first-time candidate and former attorney born four months after DeGette first took office. Kiros, who lost her job as a lawyer in New York after writing an essay critical of Israel, is also supported by Justice Democrats, the nearly decade-old political group known for heavily supporting "Squad" members Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley and Rashida Tlaib as they toppled entrenched incumbents in their initial elections to Congress. DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB "ELECT ANOTHER SOCIALIST TO CONGRESS ON JUNE 30TH," a DSA social media post states as it urges supporters to lend a hand to the Kiros campaign. The Democratic Party divide will also play out in the primary in the neighboring 8th Congressional District, which stretches along the I-25 corridor north of Denver. State Rep. Manny Rutinel is running to the left of former state Rep. Shannon Bird, with the winner taking on Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, who flipped the seat in the 2024 cycle. The race is considered one of two or three dozen that will determine if the GOP holds onto its razor-thin House majority in the midterms. Immigration has been a top issue in the Democratic primary in a district where roughly 40% of the population is Latino. Rutinel has criticized Bird for a vote she cast last year opposing a measure limiting cooperation between local and state law enforcement and ICE. MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES Another primary showdown highlighting the split between progressives and moderates, as well as the party's generational divide, is the Senate nomination battle between incumbent Sen. John Hickenlooper, 74, and former state Sen. Julie Gonzales, a 43-year-old progressive. Hickenlooper, a former Denver mayor and two-term governor, has seen his once-large advantage over Gonzales, a one-time DSA member, narrow. The winner will face Republican state Sen. Mark Baisley, who is unopposed in his primary. Shannon Jackson, a longtime progressive political strategist and grassroots organizer best known for his leadership roles in Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, pointed to last week's results and told Fox News Digital that "people are frustrated." "The key message of the victors: Medicare-for-All, the importance of affordability and a living wage. Progressives have long fought for these values and I expect the primary victories to continue," he emphasized. Meanwhile, the state's expensive and combustible Democratic gubernatorial primary pits Sen. Michael Bennet against state Attorney General Phil Weiser. Bennet or Weiser will be considered the clear favorite in the race to succeed two-term Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, the first openly gay man elected governor in the nation's history. Weiser, who is running to Bennet's left on certain issues, closed the gap with the senator as he spotlighted his efforts to take on President Donald Trump, including suing Trump 66 times as attorney general. The winner will face either state Rep. Scott Bottoms, state Sen. Barb Kirkmeyer or pastor and Marine Corps veteran Victor Marx as the Republican nominee. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b644197238567836b991 MORNING GLORY: Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense te 2026-06-30T12:27:48.803Z MORNING GLORY: Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense Extraordinarily gifted legislators in the United States Senate are rare. As preconditions to their effectiveness, they must accumulate both significant seniority in the body of 100, and the respect of their ever-changing 99 colleagues. It’s a small club — the United States Senate — and everyone knows who has got the ability and the respect to guide big lifts through the (intentionally) complicated process. Maine Senator Susan Collins is one of the handful of senators who command the respect of her Republican Conference colleagues and most of the Democratic senators who actually care about making the country run well. That is why Collins is the chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee and is also one of the 17 senators on the critical Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. (Collins is also a member of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions.) As chair of the Appropriations Committee, Collins has a unique power to guide the country’s spending. In partnership with the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), Collins’ greatest responsibility as a legislator is to ensure the American military is fully funded to the level necessary to "provide for the common defense," as the Preamble of the Constitution succinctly puts it. TRUMP PLAN FOR FOREIGN SHIPBUILDERS COULD CREATE 540,000 JOBS AND EXPAND US FLEET Collins long ago earned a reputation as a Senate "workhorse," and her 10,000th consecutive Senate roll call vote — extending the unbroken voting streak she began in 1997 — made her the first senator in U.S. history to have cast this many votes without ever missing one. Even as Joe DiMaggio’s 1941 run of hits in 56 consecutive games is regarded as untouchable, so is Collins’ remarkable milestone (which towers higher with every roll call vote she makes.) All of that experience and all of that earned respect will be needed in the weeks and months immediately ahead as Collins, along with Wicker and the Senate GOP leadership, tackle perhaps the most difficult challenge of her already distinguished and widely admired career: Allocating the funds needed to modernize the Pentagon in an era of rapidly changing technology when it comes to war and intelligence gathering, both the visible markers of American power like ships, submarines and the new B-21 bombers which provide the nation with deterrence and the secret and extraordinarily sensitive virtual stockpiles of cyber strength. Collins must do this even as hyper-partisanship engulfs the country’s politics. Collins faces the urgent need to thread this extremely partisan era which is defined by negative polarization and rhetorical extremism of both the far left and far right. The nation requires a steady and effective set of military appropriation bills that will keep the nation’s defenses funded for the immediate demands of the conflict with Iran, even as the United States must continue to define and meet the challenge posed by the aggressive plans of China’s iron-fisted Leninist dictator Xi Jinping. That Collins is leading in this moment of peril is very fortunate for the country. That she has to do so in what is for her an election year against a self-described "communist" and wildly extremist radical from the fringe of the Democrat’s far left edge is a new challenge. Graham Platner was nominated by the Democrats because he is a human wrecking ball. By nominating the very opposite of Collins when it comes to achievement and temperament, the radical wing of the Democrats hope to cripple the Senate by denying it one of its most effective members. They are asking Mainers to destroy their own state’s vast advantage in the Congress in the service of their anti-West, anti-American, anti-Israel and antisemitic agenda. They are also aiming to deeply injure the process that defends America at this crucial moment. GRAHAM PLATNER BLASTS NEW ALLEGATIONS AS 'FALSE ACCUSATIONS': 'MAINE, YOU HAVE MY BACK' The House and Senate must soon decide how to proceed on the Pentagon’s budget for 2027 and beyond. Both the SASC and the Senate Appropriations Committee must act. SASC provides the defense spending architecture via the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), but as The Wall Street Journal noted this past weekend, the NDAA "is a policy guide not a check, and the big question is whether the President’s $1.5 trillion defense budget" will actually pass and in what form and via what process. Genuine legislators like Collins would prefer to use "regular order" to hold hearings, conduct mark-ups and send proposed bills to House-Senate conference committees. That is the ideal. That ideal is doomed to fail this year as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, assailed by his party’s radicals, is intent on creating a government shutdown before the midterms. That shutdown isn’t a prophecy or a dart thrown with a blindfold. It’s the inevitable result of how the Democrats have framed the midterm elections this fall. Schumer cannot stop the House from enacting a defense budget but he can and will make the Senate’s regular order grind to a halt in order to satisfy his party’s whacko left-wing with a shutdown. Which puts Collins and every Republican who is serious about keeping our military strong in a bind. The military must be as equipped and prepared in an era of rapidly evolving threats and technology. It cannot lurch from "Continuing Resolution" to "Continuing Resolution" (CR) which is the best result of "shutdown politics." Democrats intend that very result. And if the Democrats win either or both Houses back from the Republicans in the fall, they will go much farther than a long string of CRs. They will savage defense spending in favor of their socialist pipe dreams. This isn’t a secret and it’s not doom-casting. Believe what Democrats tell you. The party has launched off the left cliff in American politics, heading to places no American party has ever proposed to go before, much less actually traveled towards. The left is now opposed to American power and stature in the world. It would strip us of our defenses. Even the handful of crazed leftists nominated for the House by Democrats in New Jersey and New York in recent weeks would combine with the existing fringe — the "Squad" — to eviscerate American military strength. Even five radical House members will be enough to control defense spending in a closely divided House and only one or two senators can do so in an even or one-vote majority Senate. The Congress ahead is very likely to be the most radical in America’s 250 years. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Which is why Collins and Wicker, along with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Senate Budget Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Senate Intelligence Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR) must make the anti-institutionalist choice to fund the Pentagon via the "budget reconciliation process," a complicated and controversial means to the end of tackling major tax and spending bills like the Working Families Tax Cut of 2025 and various COVID relief bills of both Republican and Democratic presidents. (Collins and then Senator Marco Rubio led the crafting of the Paycheck Protection Program which was the critical part of the economy-saving CARES Act of March 2020.) Because Democrats are going to hold the federal government hostage in the fall as a giant campaign stunt, it falls to the serious and sober-minded Republican senators to advance national security spending through reconciliation. The harder question is whether to do so for two or three years instead of just one. That’s a difficult choice to make because it would recognize the yawning chasm between the mainstream American consensus about the country’s defenses and the hard left’s "defund defense" corollary to its "defund the police" and "defund ICE" platform planks. Using reconciliation to forward funds up to $5 trillion is nobody’s ideal. But it is a necessity to provide time for our troops until the Democrats’ collective fever breaks. Hugh Hewitt is a Fox News contributor and host of "The Hugh Hewitt Show" heard weekday afternoons from 3 PM to 6 PM ET on the Salem Radio Network, and simulcast on Salem News Channel. Hugh drives Americans home on the East Coast and to lunch on the West Coast on over 400 affiliates nationwide, and on all the streaming platforms where SNC can be seen. He is a frequent guest on the Fox News Channel’s news roundtable, hosted by Bret Baier weekdays at 6pm ET. A son of Ohio and a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Michigan Law School, Hewitt has been a Professor of Law at Chapman University’s Fowler School of Law since 1996 where he teaches Constitutional Law. Hewitt launched his eponymous radio show from Los Angeles in 1990. Hewitt has frequently appeared on every major national news television network, hosted television shows for PBS and MSNBC, written for every major American paper, has authored a dozen books and moderated a score of Republican candidate debates, most recently the November 2023 Republican presidential debate in Miami and four Republican presidential debates in the 2015-16 cycle. Hewitt focuses his radio show and his column on the Constitution, national security, American politics and the Cleveland Browns and Guardians. Hewitt has interviewed tens of thousands of guests from Democrats Hillary Clinton and John Kerry to Republican Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump over his 40 years in broadcasting. This column previews the lead story that will drive his radio/ TV show today. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM HUGH HEWITT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b63c197238567836b988 MORNING GLORY: Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense te 2026-06-30T12:27:40.986Z MORNING GLORY: Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense Extraordinarily gifted legislators in the United States Senate are rare. As preconditions to their effectiveness, they must accumulate both significant seniority in the body of 100, and the respect of their ever-changing 99 colleagues. It’s a small club — the United States Senate — and everyone knows who has got the ability and the respect to guide big lifts through the (intentionally) complicated process. Maine Senator Susan Collins is one of the handful of senators who command the respect of her Republican Conference colleagues and most of the Democratic senators who actually care about making the country run well. That is why Collins is the chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee and is also one of the 17 senators on the critical Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. (Collins is also a member of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions.) As chair of the Appropriations Committee, Collins has a unique power to guide the country’s spending. In partnership with the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), Collins’ greatest responsibility as a legislator is to ensure the American military is fully funded to the level necessary to "provide for the common defense," as the Preamble of the Constitution succinctly puts it. TRUMP PLAN FOR FOREIGN SHIPBUILDERS COULD CREATE 540,000 JOBS AND EXPAND US FLEET Collins long ago earned a reputation as a Senate "workhorse," and her 10,000th consecutive Senate roll call vote — extending the unbroken voting streak she began in 1997 — made her the first senator in U.S. history to have cast this many votes without ever missing one. Even as Joe DiMaggio’s 1941 run of hits in 56 consecutive games is regarded as untouchable, so is Collins’ remarkable milestone (which towers higher with every roll call vote she makes.) All of that experience and all of that earned respect will be needed in the weeks and months immediately ahead as Collins, along with Wicker and the Senate GOP leadership, tackle perhaps the most difficult challenge of her already distinguished and widely admired career: Allocating the funds needed to modernize the Pentagon in an era of rapidly changing technology when it comes to war and intelligence gathering, both the visible markers of American power like ships, submarines and the new B-21 bombers which provide the nation with deterrence and the secret and extraordinarily sensitive virtual stockpiles of cyber strength. Collins must do this even as hyper-partisanship engulfs the country’s politics. Collins faces the urgent need to thread this extremely partisan era which is defined by negative polarization and rhetorical extremism of both the far left and far right. The nation requires a steady and effective set of military appropriation bills that will keep the nation’s defenses funded for the immediate demands of the conflict with Iran, even as the United States must continue to define and meet the challenge posed by the aggressive plans of China’s iron-fisted Leninist dictator Xi Jinping. That Collins is leading in this moment of peril is very fortunate for the country. That she has to do so in what is for her an election year against a self-described "communist" and wildly extremist radical from the fringe of the Democrat’s far left edge is a new challenge. Graham Platner was nominated by the Democrats because he is a human wrecking ball. By nominating the very opposite of Collins when it comes to achievement and temperament, the radical wing of the Democrats hope to cripple the Senate by denying it one of its most effective members. They are asking Mainers to destroy their own state’s vast advantage in the Congress in the service of their anti-West, anti-American, anti-Israel and antisemitic agenda. They are also aiming to deeply injure the process that defends America at this crucial moment. GRAHAM PLATNER BLASTS NEW ALLEGATIONS AS 'FALSE ACCUSATIONS': 'MAINE, YOU HAVE MY BACK' The House and Senate must soon decide how to proceed on the Pentagon’s budget for 2027 and beyond. Both the SASC and the Senate Appropriations Committee must act. SASC provides the defense spending architecture via the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), but as The Wall Street Journal noted this past weekend, the NDAA "is a policy guide not a check, and the big question is whether the President’s $1.5 trillion defense budget" will actually pass and in what form and via what process. Genuine legislators like Collins would prefer to use "regular order" to hold hearings, conduct mark-ups and send proposed bills to House-Senate conference committees. That is the ideal. That ideal is doomed to fail this year as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, assailed by his party’s radicals, is intent on creating a government shutdown before the midterms. That shutdown isn’t a prophecy or a dart thrown with a blindfold. It’s the inevitable result of how the Democrats have framed the midterm elections this fall. Schumer cannot stop the House from enacting a defense budget but he can and will make the Senate’s regular order grind to a halt in order to satisfy his party’s whacko left-wing with a shutdown. Which puts Collins and every Republican who is serious about keeping our military strong in a bind. The military must be as equipped and prepared in an era of rapidly evolving threats and technology. It cannot lurch from "Continuing Resolution" to "Continuing Resolution" (CR) which is the best result of "shutdown politics." Democrats intend that very result. And if the Democrats win either or both Houses back from the Republicans in the fall, they will go much farther than a long string of CRs. They will savage defense spending in favor of their socialist pipe dreams. This isn’t a secret and it’s not doom-casting. Believe what Democrats tell you. The party has launched off the left cliff in American politics, heading to places no American party has ever proposed to go before, much less actually traveled towards. The left is now opposed to American power and stature in the world. It would strip us of our defenses. Even the handful of crazed leftists nominated for the House by Democrats in New Jersey and New York in recent weeks would combine with the existing fringe — the "Squad" — to eviscerate American military strength. Even five radical House members will be enough to control defense spending in a closely divided House and only one or two senators can do so in an even or one-vote majority Senate. The Congress ahead is very likely to be the most radical in America’s 250 years. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Which is why Collins and Wicker, along with Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Senate Budget Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Senate Intelligence Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR) must make the anti-institutionalist choice to fund the Pentagon via the "budget reconciliation process," a complicated and controversial means to the end of tackling major tax and spending bills like the Working Families Tax Cut of 2025 and various COVID relief bills of both Republican and Democratic presidents. (Collins and then Senator Marco Rubio led the crafting of the Paycheck Protection Program which was the critical part of the economy-saving CARES Act of March 2020.) Because Democrats are going to hold the federal government hostage in the fall as a giant campaign stunt, it falls to the serious and sober-minded Republican senators to advance national security spending through reconciliation. The harder question is whether to do so for two or three years instead of just one. That’s a difficult choice to make because it would recognize the yawning chasm between the mainstream American consensus about the country’s defenses and the hard left’s "defund defense" corollary to its "defund the police" and "defund ICE" platform planks. Using reconciliation to forward funds up to $5 trillion is nobody’s ideal. But it is a necessity to provide time for our troops until the Democrats’ collective fever breaks. Hugh Hewitt is a Fox News contributor and host of "The Hugh Hewitt Show" heard weekday afternoons from 3 PM to 6 PM ET on the Salem Radio Network, and simulcast on Salem News Channel. Hugh drives Americans home on the East Coast and to lunch on the West Coast on over 400 affiliates nationwide, and on all the streaming platforms where SNC can be seen. He is a frequent guest on the Fox News Channel’s news roundtable, hosted by Bret Baier weekdays at 6pm ET. A son of Ohio and a graduate of Harvard College and the University of Michigan Law School, Hewitt has been a Professor of Law at Chapman University’s Fowler School of Law since 1996 where he teaches Constitutional Law. Hewitt launched his eponymous radio show from Los Angeles in 1990. Hewitt has frequently appeared on every major national news television network, hosted television shows for PBS and MSNBC, written for every major American paper, has authored a dozen books and moderated a score of Republican candidate debates, most recently the November 2023 Republican presidential debate in Miami and four Republican presidential debates in the 2015-16 cycle. Hewitt focuses his radio show and his column on the Constitution, national security, American politics and the Cleveland Browns and Guardians. Hewitt has interviewed tens of thousands of guests from Democrats Hillary Clinton and John Kerry to Republican Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump over his 40 years in broadcasting. This column previews the lead story that will drive his radio/ TV show today. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM HUGH HEWITT Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b631197238567836b97f How capitalism missed out and failed to capitalize on America’s 250th anniversary te 2026-06-30T12:27:29.347Z How capitalism missed out and failed to capitalize on America’s 250th anniversary I love a good celebration, and Americans know how to go all-out to celebrate. Whether it’s Halloween, Christmas or even a major sporting event, we decorate, we costume, we have themed and branded food, and we fête the specific holiday or milestone. And, as Americans, we go hard. As such, I was looking forward to an all-out barrage of red, white and blue patriotism coming from every direction as we headed into 2026, the 250th anniversary of our declaration of independence from England and the milestone celebrating the founding of our great country. Now, as we are just a week away from July 4th, I find myself still looking. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING Capitalism, it seems, has failed America’s 250th anniversary. In a land of clever people who look to lean into every possible opportunity, it seems like our 250th has been a wasted one. Sure, you can find some merchandise here and there, or your normal July 4th fare, but the economic response to this huge milestone event has been utterly milquetoast at best. I expected to see T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters and more in red, white and blue, emblazoned with oversized "America 250" and "America: Established 1776." I expected to see accessories proudly featuring the Stars and Stripes and "250." I expected every grocery store product, from condiments to candy, to feature not only limited-edition red, white and blue variations, but branding about celebrating 250 years of America. DAVID MARCUS: AS THE NATION BICKERS, SMALL-TOWN AMERICA STILL LOVES A PARADE Where are the crazy themed decorations, the 250th balloons and the commemorative knick-knacks? Where are the blow-up Uncle Sams on the suburban lawns? Where are the special festivals and events? The big apple pie baking contests? Why, when I walk down the street, is it not covered in red, white and blue from top to bottom and oversized "America’s 250th" banners, not just for the 4th of July, but all year long? It seems like we have witnessed more American patriotism from foreigners visiting America for the FIFA World Cup than we have seen from American industry. NEW DIRECTOR'S CUT OF 2024 ‘REAGAN’ BIOPIC WILL RETURN TO THEATERS FOR AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY Corporate America is usually first to jump on any theme, event or milestone. The fact that they have largely ignored America’s 250th is incredibly disappointing. For those who might say that they don’t want to get too "political," not only has it never stopped them in the past, but, moreover, the founding of our country isn’t about a political party. In fact, America’s 250th is about all of us as individuals. America was founded on a unique idea, to uphold and protect the rights of each of us as individuals. It’s a celebration of independence and a celebration of people over government. It’s a celebration of defying odds through smarts, grit and strategy and being willing to put ideas into action. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The country belongs to us as Americans, regardless of what you think of anyone or everyone in government at any point in time. That is something worth celebrating, loudly, proudly and with an obscene amount of themed merchandise. With half of the year gone, it’s a little late in the game, but it’s never too late for capitalism. I hope that July 4th will mark the beginning of a wave of in-your-face patriotism. We have the greatest country in the world and that deserves appropriate celebration. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM CAROL ROTH Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b629197238567836b976 How capitalism missed out and failed to capitalize on America’s 250th anniversary te 2026-06-30T12:27:21.525Z How capitalism missed out and failed to capitalize on America’s 250th anniversary I love a good celebration, and Americans know how to go all-out to celebrate. Whether it’s Halloween, Christmas or even a major sporting event, we decorate, we costume, we have themed and branded food, and we fête the specific holiday or milestone. And, as Americans, we go hard. As such, I was looking forward to an all-out barrage of red, white and blue patriotism coming from every direction as we headed into 2026, the 250th anniversary of our declaration of independence from England and the milestone celebrating the founding of our great country. Now, as we are just a week away from July 4th, I find myself still looking. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING Capitalism, it seems, has failed America’s 250th anniversary. In a land of clever people who look to lean into every possible opportunity, it seems like our 250th has been a wasted one. Sure, you can find some merchandise here and there, or your normal July 4th fare, but the economic response to this huge milestone event has been utterly milquetoast at best. I expected to see T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters and more in red, white and blue, emblazoned with oversized "America 250" and "America: Established 1776." I expected to see accessories proudly featuring the Stars and Stripes and "250." I expected every grocery store product, from condiments to candy, to feature not only limited-edition red, white and blue variations, but branding about celebrating 250 years of America. DAVID MARCUS: AS THE NATION BICKERS, SMALL-TOWN AMERICA STILL LOVES A PARADE Where are the crazy themed decorations, the 250th balloons and the commemorative knick-knacks? Where are the blow-up Uncle Sams on the suburban lawns? Where are the special festivals and events? The big apple pie baking contests? Why, when I walk down the street, is it not covered in red, white and blue from top to bottom and oversized "America’s 250th" banners, not just for the 4th of July, but all year long? It seems like we have witnessed more American patriotism from foreigners visiting America for the FIFA World Cup than we have seen from American industry. NEW DIRECTOR'S CUT OF 2024 ‘REAGAN’ BIOPIC WILL RETURN TO THEATERS FOR AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY Corporate America is usually first to jump on any theme, event or milestone. The fact that they have largely ignored America’s 250th is incredibly disappointing. For those who might say that they don’t want to get too "political," not only has it never stopped them in the past, but, moreover, the founding of our country isn’t about a political party. In fact, America’s 250th is about all of us as individuals. America was founded on a unique idea, to uphold and protect the rights of each of us as individuals. It’s a celebration of independence and a celebration of people over government. It’s a celebration of defying odds through smarts, grit and strategy and being willing to put ideas into action. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The country belongs to us as Americans, regardless of what you think of anyone or everyone in government at any point in time. That is something worth celebrating, loudly, proudly and with an obscene amount of themed merchandise. With half of the year gone, it’s a little late in the game, but it’s never too late for capitalism. I hope that July 4th will mark the beginning of a wave of in-your-face patriotism. We have the greatest country in the world and that deserves appropriate celebration. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM CAROL ROTH Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b61d197238567836b96d Probe into 'subversive' anti-AI Singham network is 'enormous,' former Treasury advisor says te 2026-06-30T12:27:09.889Z Probe into 'subversive' anti-AI Singham network is 'enormous,' former Treasury advisor says FIRST ON FOX: Former Treasury senior advisor and chief speechwriter Sam Lyman says the Southern District of New York's investigation into the finances behind the activist network tied to American Marxist businessman Neville Roy Singham marks one of the most significant developments yet in the federal government's scrutiny of the organization and far-left protests in the U.S. "It's an enormous development because it's one of the first legal actions that's taking a deeper look into this network, which is among the most subversive political networks here in the United States, period," Lyman told Fox News Digital. Lyman was reacting to Fox News Digital's exclusive report that U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton from the Southern District of New York has opened a grand jury investigation into the finances behind Singham's sprawling activist network. The former Treasury official, who now serves as head of research at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, released a new report on Monday, first obtained by Fox News Digital, examining the Singham network's role in organizing opposition to artificial intelligence infrastructure and data center development across the country. DOJ LAUNCHES GRAND JURY PROBE INTO MARXIST MOGUL NEVILLE ROY SINGHAM'S FUNDING OF LEFTIST GROUPS Researchers conclude that about $23.6 billion in proposed AI and data center investment has been delayed, scaled back or blocked in campaigns where Party for Socialism and Liberation served as "a critical mobilizer in efforts that delayed, scaled back, or blocked the proposed AI infrastructure investment." "What we've uncovered is that Neville Singham's network, in particular the Party for Socialism and Liberation, has been boots on the ground in dozens of protests across the country targeting data centers," Lyman said. According to the report, the Party for Socialism and Liberation, which has emerged in the past decade as a key political and activist arm of the Singham network, has developed a nationwide organizing operation that has participated in 21 campaigns across 14 states opposing AI infrastructure projects. The report documents 19 case studies involving cities and counties including: Charlotte, N.C.; Prince George's County, Md.; DeForest, Wisc.; Monterey Park, Calif.; Denver, Co.; Tucson, Ariz.; Athens, Ga.; Durham, N.C.; Madison, Wisc.; New Orleans; Cleveland and other locations. According to the report, those campaigns resulted in 10 local data center moratoria, one permanent data center ban and four rejected or withdrawn projects. The authors note that the figure likely understates the total impact because several additional campaigns involved projects whose investment values were never publicly disclosed. REPORT: CHINESE PROPAGANDA, SINGHAM NETWORK, FOREIGN DARK MONEY LINKED TO CAMPAIGNS AGAINST DATA CENTERS The report argues that while many residents have legitimate concerns over water use, electricity demand and land use, activists linked to the Singham network have built a sophisticated nationwide operation that amplifies those concerns through coordinated organizing, demonstrations and political pressure. "The American opposition to data centers is real and mostly homegrown," the report states. "But an organized, foreign-aligned party has worked to amplify and convert genuine grievances into actions that slow or degrade America's buildout of data centers." One of the report's featured examples is Charlotte, N.C., where it says Party for Socialism and Liberation organizers canvassed neighborhoods, circulated petitions and helped organize demonstrations before the City Council unanimously approved a 150-day moratorium on new data centers. According to the report, organizers are now pushing for a permanent ban. In Prince George's County, Md., researchers say the Party for Socialism and Liberation chapter in Washington, D.C., helped organize town halls, canvass neighborhoods and gather more than 20,000 petition signatures opposing Lerner Enterprises' proposed $5 billion Brightseat Tech Park. County officials later paused data center approvals while reviewing local policy. SEN. TOM COTTON URGES DOJ TO PROBE CHINESE BID TO 'KNEECAP' AMERICAN AI The report also highlights DeForest, Wisc., where it says Party for Socialism and Liberation organizers joined local residents opposing Blackstone-backed QTS' proposed $12 billion hyperscale data center campus. Following months of public opposition, village officials declared the proposal "not feasible," leading the developer to withdraw the project. In Southern California, the report said the Los Angeles chapter of Party for Socialism and Liberation participated in the "No Data Centers SGV" coalition, which organized petitions, public meetings and a ballot initiative culminating in California's first permanent municipal ban on new data centers in Monterey Park. According to the report, the coalition also influenced neighboring cities to adopt additional restrictions or temporary moratoria. Researchers further cite campaigns in Arizona opposing Amazon's proposed $3.6 billion Project Blue near Tucson and a separate $2 billion AI data center proposal in Chandler, both of which encountered significant setbacks following organized opposition. The report argues that the campaign against AI infrastructure is only one part of a broader effort by organizations linked to Singham. "The common thread in all of these nonprofit organizations is that they agitate against American causes — what they call American empire," Lyman said. NETWORK FUNDED BY PRO-CCP TECH TYCOON TARGETS PALANTIR AMID ANTI-US PROTESTS THAT SUPPORT THE REGIME IN IRAN "After Oct. 7, these nonprofit networks and their political affiliates were boots on the ground protesting Israel and any action Israel took in Gaza. They did the exact same thing when President Trump took office and started enforcing immigration laws. Now we're seeing the exact same thing take place against the technology industry here in the United States." As reported by Fox News Digital, nonprofits funded by Singham — including CodePink, Tricontinental, People's Dispatch and Liberation News — have spent years publishing material opposing American AI development and criticizing leading technology companies including Palantir, Google, Amazon and Meta. Lyman said the network's organizing capacity has made it an increasingly influential political force. "This network is incredibly good at organizing," he said. "Self-identified socialists in America are incredibly good at getting out the vote, getting their people to protest and getting them to sign petitions." He argued that the federal investigation by the Justice Department's Southern District of New York reflects growing recognition in Washington, D.C., of Singham's influence. "Singham essentially is the figurehead who's funding all of this," Lyman said. "It makes sense both from a legal perspective and from a policymaking perspective that the American people are starting to take notice of his subversive activities because they are truly prolific." The report concludes by calling for greater transparency into the funding behind the Party for Socialism and Liberation and other organizations tied to Singham, arguing that Americans should know who is financing organized campaigns that seek to shape the future of the country's AI infrastructure. Fox News Digital's Mitch Picasso contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b616197238567836b964 Probe into 'subversive' anti-AI Singham network is 'enormous,' former Treasury advisor says te 2026-06-30T12:27:02.073Z Probe into 'subversive' anti-AI Singham network is 'enormous,' former Treasury advisor says FIRST ON FOX: Former Treasury senior advisor and chief speechwriter Sam Lyman says the Southern District of New York's investigation into the finances behind the activist network tied to American Marxist businessman Neville Roy Singham marks one of the most significant developments yet in the federal government's scrutiny of the organization and far-left protests in the U.S. "It's an enormous development because it's one of the first legal actions that's taking a deeper look into this network, which is among the most subversive political networks here in the United States, period," Lyman told Fox News Digital. Lyman was reacting to Fox News Digital's exclusive report that U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton from the Southern District of New York has opened a grand jury investigation into the finances behind Singham's sprawling activist network. The former Treasury official, who now serves as head of research at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, released a new report on Monday, first obtained by Fox News Digital, examining the Singham network's role in organizing opposition to artificial intelligence infrastructure and data center development across the country. DOJ LAUNCHES GRAND JURY PROBE INTO MARXIST MOGUL NEVILLE ROY SINGHAM'S FUNDING OF LEFTIST GROUPS Researchers conclude that about $23.6 billion in proposed AI and data center investment has been delayed, scaled back or blocked in campaigns where Party for Socialism and Liberation served as "a critical mobilizer in efforts that delayed, scaled back, or blocked the proposed AI infrastructure investment." "What we've uncovered is that Neville Singham's network, in particular the Party for Socialism and Liberation, has been boots on the ground in dozens of protests across the country targeting data centers," Lyman said. According to the report, the Party for Socialism and Liberation, which has emerged in the past decade as a key political and activist arm of the Singham network, has developed a nationwide organizing operation that has participated in 21 campaigns across 14 states opposing AI infrastructure projects. The report documents 19 case studies involving cities and counties including: Charlotte, N.C.; Prince George's County, Md.; DeForest, Wisc.; Monterey Park, Calif.; Denver, Co.; Tucson, Ariz.; Athens, Ga.; Durham, N.C.; Madison, Wisc.; New Orleans; Cleveland and other locations. According to the report, those campaigns resulted in 10 local data center moratoria, one permanent data center ban and four rejected or withdrawn projects. The authors note that the figure likely understates the total impact because several additional campaigns involved projects whose investment values were never publicly disclosed. REPORT: CHINESE PROPAGANDA, SINGHAM NETWORK, FOREIGN DARK MONEY LINKED TO CAMPAIGNS AGAINST DATA CENTERS The report argues that while many residents have legitimate concerns over water use, electricity demand and land use, activists linked to the Singham network have built a sophisticated nationwide operation that amplifies those concerns through coordinated organizing, demonstrations and political pressure. "The American opposition to data centers is real and mostly homegrown," the report states. "But an organized, foreign-aligned party has worked to amplify and convert genuine grievances into actions that slow or degrade America's buildout of data centers." One of the report's featured examples is Charlotte, N.C., where it says Party for Socialism and Liberation organizers canvassed neighborhoods, circulated petitions and helped organize demonstrations before the City Council unanimously approved a 150-day moratorium on new data centers. According to the report, organizers are now pushing for a permanent ban. In Prince George's County, Md., researchers say the Party for Socialism and Liberation chapter in Washington, D.C., helped organize town halls, canvass neighborhoods and gather more than 20,000 petition signatures opposing Lerner Enterprises' proposed $5 billion Brightseat Tech Park. County officials later paused data center approvals while reviewing local policy. SEN. TOM COTTON URGES DOJ TO PROBE CHINESE BID TO 'KNEECAP' AMERICAN AI The report also highlights DeForest, Wisc., where it says Party for Socialism and Liberation organizers joined local residents opposing Blackstone-backed QTS' proposed $12 billion hyperscale data center campus. Following months of public opposition, village officials declared the proposal "not feasible," leading the developer to withdraw the project. In Southern California, the report said the Los Angeles chapter of Party for Socialism and Liberation participated in the "No Data Centers SGV" coalition, which organized petitions, public meetings and a ballot initiative culminating in California's first permanent municipal ban on new data centers in Monterey Park. According to the report, the coalition also influenced neighboring cities to adopt additional restrictions or temporary moratoria. Researchers further cite campaigns in Arizona opposing Amazon's proposed $3.6 billion Project Blue near Tucson and a separate $2 billion AI data center proposal in Chandler, both of which encountered significant setbacks following organized opposition. The report argues that the campaign against AI infrastructure is only one part of a broader effort by organizations linked to Singham. "The common thread in all of these nonprofit organizations is that they agitate against American causes — what they call American empire," Lyman said. NETWORK FUNDED BY PRO-CCP TECH TYCOON TARGETS PALANTIR AMID ANTI-US PROTESTS THAT SUPPORT THE REGIME IN IRAN "After Oct. 7, these nonprofit networks and their political affiliates were boots on the ground protesting Israel and any action Israel took in Gaza. They did the exact same thing when President Trump took office and started enforcing immigration laws. Now we're seeing the exact same thing take place against the technology industry here in the United States." As reported by Fox News Digital, nonprofits funded by Singham — including CodePink, Tricontinental, People's Dispatch and Liberation News — have spent years publishing material opposing American AI development and criticizing leading technology companies including Palantir, Google, Amazon and Meta. Lyman said the network's organizing capacity has made it an increasingly influential political force. "This network is incredibly good at organizing," he said. "Self-identified socialists in America are incredibly good at getting out the vote, getting their people to protest and getting them to sign petitions." He argued that the federal investigation by the Justice Department's Southern District of New York reflects growing recognition in Washington, D.C., of Singham's influence. "Singham essentially is the figurehead who's funding all of this," Lyman said. "It makes sense both from a legal perspective and from a policymaking perspective that the American people are starting to take notice of his subversive activities because they are truly prolific." The report concludes by calling for greater transparency into the funding behind the Party for Socialism and Liberation and other organizations tied to Singham, arguing that Americans should know who is financing organized campaigns that seek to shape the future of the country's AI infrastructure. Fox News Digital's Mitch Picasso contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b60a197238567836b95b Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties te 2026-06-30T12:26:50.433Z Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties Former Bill Clinton aide Doug Band is set to face a grilling by congressional investigators after his name was referenced dozens of times in the Epstein files. Band will testify voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee on Tuesday in a transcribed interview as part of the bipartisan panel’s probe into the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted on federal sex-trafficking and conspiracy charges. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., invited Band to testify about his interactions with Epstein and Maxwell while serving as a top aide to Clinton during the early years of his post-presidency.  Band attended a 2003 dinner at Epstein’s Manhattan town house and corresponded with Maxwell between 2002 and 2006, according to files released by the Justice Department. FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON DEPOSED IN EPSTEIN PROBE IN POTENTIAL FIRST FOR CONGRESS In a 2006 email, Band, who is a University of Florida alumnus, asked to use Maxwell’s plane to attend the NCAA men’s basketball finals to watch the Florida Gators play. In other correspondence published by the DOJ, he called Maxwell his "lover" and "social matchmaker," among other flirtatious messages. The pair were photographed together at a Valentine's Day tea party at a members-only club in New York City in 2007. Band has not been charged with any wrongdoing, and his interactions with the couple appeared to largely predate Epstein’s conviction of soliciting a minor in 2008. The ex-Clinton advisor is likely to be peppered with questions about the former president’s ties to the disgraced financier. Band, who initially served as Clinton’s personal aide and ultimately became a member of his inner circle, helped establish the Clinton Foundation and the Clinton Global Initiative during Clinton’s post-presidency. He later cut ties with the Clintons during a public falling out in the early 2010s. In a 2020 tell-all interview with Vanity Fair, Band said he grew to dislike Epstein during a 2002 trip aboard Epstein’s private jet with Clinton to Africa and advised the former president to end his relationship with him.  Also in the interview, Band said Clinton in 2003 traveled to Epstein’s private Caribbean island, Little St. James. Band said he declined to attend over his objections to Epstein. Band’s account conflicts with Clinton’s repeated assertion that he never visited. Clinton, who has denied any wrongdoing, has pointed to travel logs that do not show such a trip. Band told Vanity Fair he sought to bar Maxwell from Clinton-related events amid his broader rupture with the Clinton family. Maxwell was notably close to Chelsea Clinton and was invited to her wedding in 2010. JEFFREY EPSTEIN ALLEGEDLY SAID BILL CLINTON 'LIKES' YOUNG GIRLS, DOCUMENTS REVEAL The House Oversight interview will take place behind closed doors, but a transcript is expected to be published at a later date. Tuesday’s testimony comes after Bill and Hillary Clinton testified to congressional investigators in March about their interactions with Epstein under the threat of civil contempt charges. Lawmakers threatened to criminally refer the couple to the Justice Department for contempt charges if they refused. A bipartisan group of lawmakers has also interviewed former Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates as part of the committee’s probe. Comer’s panel in July is expected to interview former Goldman Sachs attorney and Obama counsel Kathryn Ruemmler, Harvard law professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz and former JPMorgan Chase executive and ex-Barclays CEO Jes Staley. All three knew Epstein personally and were among the high-profile figures whose names appear in recently released Epstein-related files, though none has been charged with wrongdoing. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b602197238567836b952 Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties te 2026-06-30T12:26:42.612Z Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties Former Bill Clinton aide Doug Band is set to face a grilling by congressional investigators after his name was referenced dozens of times in the Epstein files. Band will testify voluntarily before the House Oversight Committee on Tuesday in a transcribed interview as part of the bipartisan panel’s probe into the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted on federal sex-trafficking and conspiracy charges. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., invited Band to testify about his interactions with Epstein and Maxwell while serving as a top aide to Clinton during the early years of his post-presidency.  Band attended a 2003 dinner at Epstein’s Manhattan town house and corresponded with Maxwell between 2002 and 2006, according to files released by the Justice Department. FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON DEPOSED IN EPSTEIN PROBE IN POTENTIAL FIRST FOR CONGRESS In a 2006 email, Band, who is a University of Florida alumnus, asked to use Maxwell’s plane to attend the NCAA men’s basketball finals to watch the Florida Gators play. In other correspondence published by the DOJ, he called Maxwell his "lover" and "social matchmaker," among other flirtatious messages. The pair were photographed together at a Valentine's Day tea party at a members-only club in New York City in 2007. Band has not been charged with any wrongdoing, and his interactions with the couple appeared to largely predate Epstein’s conviction of soliciting a minor in 2008. The ex-Clinton advisor is likely to be peppered with questions about the former president’s ties to the disgraced financier. Band, who initially served as Clinton’s personal aide and ultimately became a member of his inner circle, helped establish the Clinton Foundation and the Clinton Global Initiative during Clinton’s post-presidency. He later cut ties with the Clintons during a public falling out in the early 2010s. In a 2020 tell-all interview with Vanity Fair, Band said he grew to dislike Epstein during a 2002 trip aboard Epstein’s private jet with Clinton to Africa and advised the former president to end his relationship with him.  Also in the interview, Band said Clinton in 2003 traveled to Epstein’s private Caribbean island, Little St. James. Band said he declined to attend over his objections to Epstein. Band’s account conflicts with Clinton’s repeated assertion that he never visited. Clinton, who has denied any wrongdoing, has pointed to travel logs that do not show such a trip. Band told Vanity Fair he sought to bar Maxwell from Clinton-related events amid his broader rupture with the Clinton family. Maxwell was notably close to Chelsea Clinton and was invited to her wedding in 2010. JEFFREY EPSTEIN ALLEGEDLY SAID BILL CLINTON 'LIKES' YOUNG GIRLS, DOCUMENTS REVEAL The House Oversight interview will take place behind closed doors, but a transcript is expected to be published at a later date. Tuesday’s testimony comes after Bill and Hillary Clinton testified to congressional investigators in March about their interactions with Epstein under the threat of civil contempt charges. Lawmakers threatened to criminally refer the couple to the Justice Department for contempt charges if they refused. A bipartisan group of lawmakers has also interviewed former Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates as part of the committee’s probe. Comer’s panel in July is expected to interview former Goldman Sachs attorney and Obama counsel Kathryn Ruemmler, Harvard law professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz and former JPMorgan Chase executive and ex-Barclays CEO Jes Staley. All three knew Epstein personally and were among the high-profile figures whose names appear in recently released Epstein-related files, though none has been charged with wrongdoing. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5f6197238567836b949 One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed by historian te 2026-06-30T12:26:30.979Z One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed by historian When Americans think of the beverage that fueled the American Revolution, they usually picture black tea — but it turns out that green tea was just as popular. The Founding Fathers and their contemporaries drank both types of tea, Bruce Richardson, the Kentucky-based founder of Elmwood Inn Fine Teas, told Fox News Digital. British subjects "were as likely to be drinking green tea as black tea, whether you were in Jane Austen [era] England ... or you were in colonial Boston," he added. WANT TO EAT LIKE THE FOUNDING FATHERS THIS JULY 4TH? HOW TO INCORPORATE THEIR FAVORITE FOODS INTO YOUR HOLIDAY "There were five teas, all from China, because that was the only country that was exporting tea," Richardson said. "And of those five different teas, two of them were green and three of them were black." Richardson, a tea historian who works as the tea master at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, said the five types of tea dumped into Boston Harbor in protest of the Tea Act of 1773 included three black varieties — Bohea, Souchong and Congou — as well as the green teas Hyson and Singlo. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Bohea, the most common and least expensive black tea of the era, was often made from older tea leaves harvested after the highest-quality leaves of the season had already been picked. Most of the tea dumped into Boston Harbor was Bohea, Richardson said — and it was so ubiquitous that he compared it to the way Kleenex has become synonymous with tissues today. "It was so common that often teapots at the time, or some that I've seen, would say Bohea on the side of the teapot," he said. "If they wanted tea, they'd say, 'I'll have a cup of Bohea.' It was that common." Not only did colonial Americans distinguish between green and black tea, they even stored them differently. "The well-to-do people would have a tea caddy – a wooden, beautifully made tea caddy to store their tea in," he said. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "It was kept under lock and key. And in that tea caddy, [there] would be two compartments, one for green tea and one for black tea." Merchants often favored black tea because it held up better during the long voyage from China to Europe and onward to the American colonies, Richardson said. "The green tea was what China had always drunk," he said. "And so they were exporting that as well, but they found that the black tea actually made the voyage better than the green teas." Even after many colonists swore off British tea, they kept the ritual of drinking it — or at least a close substitute. Many patriots brewed so-called "Liberty Teas" made from ingredients such as dried apples, blueberries, chamomile and herbs grown in their gardens. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "They still wanted their tea time, but they didn't want to support the British government," Richardson said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5ef197238567836b940 One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed by historian te 2026-06-30T12:26:23.156Z One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed by historian When Americans think of the beverage that fueled the American Revolution, they usually picture black tea — but it turns out that green tea was just as popular. The Founding Fathers and their contemporaries drank both types of tea, Bruce Richardson, the Kentucky-based founder of Elmwood Inn Fine Teas, told Fox News Digital. British subjects "were as likely to be drinking green tea as black tea, whether you were in Jane Austen [era] England ... or you were in colonial Boston," he added. WANT TO EAT LIKE THE FOUNDING FATHERS THIS JULY 4TH? HOW TO INCORPORATE THEIR FAVORITE FOODS INTO YOUR HOLIDAY "There were five teas, all from China, because that was the only country that was exporting tea," Richardson said. "And of those five different teas, two of them were green and three of them were black." Richardson, a tea historian who works as the tea master at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, said the five types of tea dumped into Boston Harbor in protest of the Tea Act of 1773 included three black varieties — Bohea, Souchong and Congou — as well as the green teas Hyson and Singlo. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Bohea, the most common and least expensive black tea of the era, was often made from older tea leaves harvested after the highest-quality leaves of the season had already been picked. Most of the tea dumped into Boston Harbor was Bohea, Richardson said — and it was so ubiquitous that he compared it to the way Kleenex has become synonymous with tissues today. "It was so common that often teapots at the time, or some that I've seen, would say Bohea on the side of the teapot," he said. "If they wanted tea, they'd say, 'I'll have a cup of Bohea.' It was that common." Not only did colonial Americans distinguish between green and black tea, they even stored them differently. "The well-to-do people would have a tea caddy – a wooden, beautifully made tea caddy to store their tea in," he said. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "It was kept under lock and key. And in that tea caddy, [there] would be two compartments, one for green tea and one for black tea." Merchants often favored black tea because it held up better during the long voyage from China to Europe and onward to the American colonies, Richardson said. "The green tea was what China had always drunk," he said. "And so they were exporting that as well, but they found that the black tea actually made the voyage better than the green teas." Even after many colonists swore off British tea, they kept the ritual of drinking it — or at least a close substitute. Many patriots brewed so-called "Liberty Teas" made from ingredients such as dried apples, blueberries, chamomile and herbs grown in their gardens. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "They still wanted their tea time, but they didn't want to support the British government," Richardson said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5e3197238567836b937 Iran fights to keep grip on Hormuz as US, Gulf allies carve new shipping route te 2026-06-30T12:26:11.522Z Iran fights to keep grip on Hormuz as US, Gulf allies carve new shipping route Iran's latest attacks on commercial shipping came just as the United States and Oman were beginning to steer more vessels through a new southern shipping corridor hugging Oman's coastline — an alternative route designed to move traffic farther from Iran's immediate reach. Former U.S. military commanders and regional analysts told Fox News Digital the timing was no coincidence. They said Iran was trying to preserve one of its greatest strategic advantages as new shipping routes and regional infrastructure begin chipping away at Tehran's leverage over the Strait of Hormuz. "The southern route creates a route they can't toll or control," retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery told Fox News Digital. "They felt it necessary to attack it." SHIPPING GIANT WARNS STRAIT OF HORMUZ CHAOS IS 'NEW NORMAL' AS TEHRAN SHIFTS 4M BARRELS For decades, Iran's ability to threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has given it influence well beyond its borders. But that advantage is increasingly under pressure as Gulf states invest in pipelines that bypass Hormuz and the United States and Oman expand use of the southern corridor.  Nearly half of inbound commercial traffic through the strait is already using that route, according to maritime intelligence firm Windward.  After Iran attacked vessels using the corridor, the U.S. responded with strikes on Iranian military targets tied to maritime operations. Iran retaliated in recent days with attacks on U.S. facilities and regional partners before Trump announced both sides had agreed to halt further strikes and return to negotiations in Doha.  Iran has denied that its negotiators would be meeting with U.S. officials in Qatar on Tuesday.  Former Navy Fifth Fleet commander, Vice Adm. Kevin Donegan, said Iran's objective isn't necessarily to halt shipping altogether. "The IRGC has been trying to make it commercially unworkable," Donegan told Fox News Digital, referring to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "These attacks on shipping to me aren't random. They're strategy." Rather than closing the strait outright, Donegan said, Iran only needs to keep insurance premiums high enough that commercial shipping companies remain reluctant to return. "Their strategy is to enforce their control of the straits," he said, by driving up insurance costs while continuing to "test the U.S. resolve." VANCE REJECTS CLAIMS TRUMP-IRAN DEAL ECHOES OBAMA-ERA LOGIC AS HAWKS RAISE ALARM The question now is whether Iran can translate that military pressure into lasting influence over the strait. Under the memorandum of understanding negotiated after the ceasefire, Iran, Oman and the Gulf littoral states are expected to negotiate the strait's "future administration and maritime services" while commercial traffic moves toll-free for 60 days. President Donald Trump has insisted on social media that there will be "NO TOLLS" after the negotiating period expires, even though the memorandum itself does not explicitly guarantee that outcome. Asked about the discrepancy, Trump argued that "common sense" and the threat of renewed U.S. military action would keep Iran from interfering with commercial traffic. Iran, however, has signaled a different vision. An IRGC-linked news outlet portrayed last-minute revisions to the agreement — including language governing the strait's future administration and the temporary toll provision — as negotiating victories for Tehran. The White House could not immediately be reached for comment ahead of Tuesday's negotiations.  America's Gulf partners have made equally clear they are not interested in rewriting the status quo. "The management of the strait was working fine before the conflict," Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said. "Why should we now, as a result of a conflict, accept some novel arrangement?" The disagreement reflects competing visions of what Iran's role in the strait looks like once the fighting ends. Former Assistant Secretary of State David Schenker said the negotiations reflect Iran's effort to emerge from the conflict with "a new status quo in the Persian Gulf." But preserving leverage over the Strait is about more than commercial shipping. "Iran is trying to basically step into that void," said Clionadh Raleigh, executive director of the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project. Raleigh argued the conflict has left Gulf governments questioning whether "the U.S. is a partner that's unreliable," creating an opportunity for Tehran to argue that Gulf security should increasingly be managed by countries in the region rather than by Washington. Those doubts are already reshaping regional strategy. "They're seeking to really develop their own defense posture," Raleigh said. "And they're also seeking alternative means for them to continue trade." Those efforts have been underway for years, but the latest conflict has accelerated them. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in the East-West Pipeline linking Gulf oil fields to the Red Sea, while the United Arab Emirates has expanded export capacity through Fujairah, allowing crude exports to bypass Hormuz altogether. Every barrel that leaves the Gulf without transiting the strait — and every ship that safely uses the southern corridor — chips away at the leverage Iran has historically derived from one of the world's most important maritime choke points. If those alternatives continue to expand, Iran's ability to wield the strait as a strategic pressure point could gradually diminish even if Hormuz itself remains one of the world's most vital energy corridors. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5db197238567836b92e Iran fights to keep grip on Hormuz as US, Gulf allies carve new shipping route te 2026-06-30T12:26:03.724Z Iran fights to keep grip on Hormuz as US, Gulf allies carve new shipping route Iran's latest attacks on commercial shipping came just as the United States and Oman were beginning to steer more vessels through a new southern shipping corridor hugging Oman's coastline — an alternative route designed to move traffic farther from Iran's immediate reach. Former U.S. military commanders and regional analysts told Fox News Digital the timing was no coincidence. They said Iran was trying to preserve one of its greatest strategic advantages as new shipping routes and regional infrastructure begin chipping away at Tehran's leverage over the Strait of Hormuz. "The southern route creates a route they can't toll or control," retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery told Fox News Digital. "They felt it necessary to attack it." SHIPPING GIANT WARNS STRAIT OF HORMUZ CHAOS IS 'NEW NORMAL' AS TEHRAN SHIFTS 4M BARRELS For decades, Iran's ability to threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has given it influence well beyond its borders. But that advantage is increasingly under pressure as Gulf states invest in pipelines that bypass Hormuz and the United States and Oman expand use of the southern corridor.  Nearly half of inbound commercial traffic through the strait is already using that route, according to maritime intelligence firm Windward.  After Iran attacked vessels using the corridor, the U.S. responded with strikes on Iranian military targets tied to maritime operations. Iran retaliated in recent days with attacks on U.S. facilities and regional partners before Trump announced both sides had agreed to halt further strikes and return to negotiations in Doha.  Iran has denied that its negotiators would be meeting with U.S. officials in Qatar on Tuesday.  Former Navy Fifth Fleet commander, Vice Adm. Kevin Donegan, said Iran's objective isn't necessarily to halt shipping altogether. "The IRGC has been trying to make it commercially unworkable," Donegan told Fox News Digital, referring to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "These attacks on shipping to me aren't random. They're strategy." Rather than closing the strait outright, Donegan said, Iran only needs to keep insurance premiums high enough that commercial shipping companies remain reluctant to return. "Their strategy is to enforce their control of the straits," he said, by driving up insurance costs while continuing to "test the U.S. resolve." VANCE REJECTS CLAIMS TRUMP-IRAN DEAL ECHOES OBAMA-ERA LOGIC AS HAWKS RAISE ALARM The question now is whether Iran can translate that military pressure into lasting influence over the strait. Under the memorandum of understanding negotiated after the ceasefire, Iran, Oman and the Gulf littoral states are expected to negotiate the strait's "future administration and maritime services" while commercial traffic moves toll-free for 60 days. President Donald Trump has insisted on social media that there will be "NO TOLLS" after the negotiating period expires, even though the memorandum itself does not explicitly guarantee that outcome. Asked about the discrepancy, Trump argued that "common sense" and the threat of renewed U.S. military action would keep Iran from interfering with commercial traffic. Iran, however, has signaled a different vision. An IRGC-linked news outlet portrayed last-minute revisions to the agreement — including language governing the strait's future administration and the temporary toll provision — as negotiating victories for Tehran. The White House could not immediately be reached for comment ahead of Tuesday's negotiations.  America's Gulf partners have made equally clear they are not interested in rewriting the status quo. "The management of the strait was working fine before the conflict," Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said. "Why should we now, as a result of a conflict, accept some novel arrangement?" The disagreement reflects competing visions of what Iran's role in the strait looks like once the fighting ends. Former Assistant Secretary of State David Schenker said the negotiations reflect Iran's effort to emerge from the conflict with "a new status quo in the Persian Gulf." But preserving leverage over the Strait is about more than commercial shipping. "Iran is trying to basically step into that void," said Clionadh Raleigh, executive director of the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project. Raleigh argued the conflict has left Gulf governments questioning whether "the U.S. is a partner that's unreliable," creating an opportunity for Tehran to argue that Gulf security should increasingly be managed by countries in the region rather than by Washington. Those doubts are already reshaping regional strategy. "They're seeking to really develop their own defense posture," Raleigh said. "And they're also seeking alternative means for them to continue trade." Those efforts have been underway for years, but the latest conflict has accelerated them. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in the East-West Pipeline linking Gulf oil fields to the Red Sea, while the United Arab Emirates has expanded export capacity through Fujairah, allowing crude exports to bypass Hormuz altogether. Every barrel that leaves the Gulf without transiting the strait — and every ship that safely uses the southern corridor — chips away at the leverage Iran has historically derived from one of the world's most important maritime choke points. If those alternatives continue to expand, Iran's ability to wield the strait as a strategic pressure point could gradually diminish even if Hormuz itself remains one of the world's most vital energy corridors. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5d0197238567836b925 Seattle Pride parade pandemonium as nude marchers prance through streets in front of children te 2026-06-30T12:25:52.078Z Seattle Pride parade pandemonium as nude marchers prance through streets in front of children WARNING: Graphic Content Seattle's LGBT Pride parade on Sunday descended into bedlam as attendees stripped off their clothes and marched the streets naked while children looked on. One video filmed by Chloe Cole, a de-transitioner activist, and posted by Frontlines Turning Point USA, shows people from a group called "Friends of Denny Blaine" marching in the nude. Some onlookers clapped and cheered, while the video panned to young children watching the spectacle. Another video shows naked people prancing around an outdoor fountain near children who were playing in the water. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION The "Friends of Denny Blaine" website says it is dedicated to protecting Denny Blaine Park, which is known for its "historic nude & queer character." Currently, the park is facing a lawsuit from concerned citizens over its graphic nature, according to the website. "Nude ≠ Lewd," "Free to be Naked" and "Nude is Nourishing," read signs held by the marchers in the parade. BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY PLANS 19 DRAG QUEEN STORY HOURS FOR YOUNG KIDS DURING PRIDE MONTH Yet another lewd video shows naked men cycling in the parade, again to the applause and appreciation of the crowd, though some spectators can be seen shielding the eyes of children from the nude bodies. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION The Frontlines TPUSA video showing people parading nude around the Seattle Center International Fountain after the gay pride event includes scenes of children splashing in the water that sprays from the fountain just feet from several naked men and one naked woman. It comes as Pride Month, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community every June, comes to a close. In 1999, then-President Bill Clinton officially declared June the "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month," and in the years after gay marriage was codified in 2015, the parades and celebration have become increasingly crass, often with scenes of nude or nearly nude people parading in public. The three videos of naked demonstrators caused online fury from viewers shocked by the indecent display. INDIANA REPUBLICAN SENATOR MOVES TO BLOCK KIDS FROM ACCESSING PORN ONLINE "How is this not indecent exposure? Wtf?" one X user said. "Why the f--- would you take your children to see and celebrate this vile filthy celebration of perversion and degeneracy?" asked another. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION A third said: "Those parents are stupid, both for bringing children to a Pride Parade, and for keeping them there when a bunch of naked pervs exposed themselves. Pride Parades are infamous for crap like this." Seattle's municipal code mentions nothing about public nudity, and the Seattle Police Department (SPD) has reiterated multiple times that being nude in Seattle is not a crime in itself. "However, public nudity can quickly become a case of indecent exposure if the nudity causes a person to reasonably experience fear, alarm or concern," an SPD press release says. Instead, the city is governed by Washington's indecent exposure law. "A person is guilty of indecent exposure if he or she intentionally makes any open and obscene exposure of his or her person or the person of another knowing that such conduct is likely to cause reasonable affront or alarm," Revised Code of Washington 9A.88.010 says. A subsection of the law says indecent exposure is a misdemeanor "on the first offense if the person exposes himself or herself to a person under the age of fourteen years." It is a felony for convicted sex offenders to commit the crime of indecent exposure. The Seattle Police Department did not return a request for comment when asked whether anyone was arrested during the city's pride festivities. Mayor Katie Wilson's Office also did not return Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5c8197238567836b916 Seattle Pride parade pandemonium as nude marchers prance through streets in front of children te 2026-06-30T12:25:44.244Z Seattle Pride parade pandemonium as nude marchers prance through streets in front of children WARNING: Graphic Content Seattle's LGBT Pride parade on Sunday descended into bedlam as attendees stripped off their clothes and marched the streets naked while children looked on. One video filmed by Chloe Cole, a de-transitioner activist, and posted by Frontlines Turning Point USA, shows people from a group called "Friends of Denny Blaine" marching in the nude. Some onlookers clapped and cheered, while the video panned to young children watching the spectacle. Another video shows naked people prancing around an outdoor fountain near children who were playing in the water. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION The "Friends of Denny Blaine" website says it is dedicated to protecting Denny Blaine Park, which is known for its "historic nude & queer character." Currently, the park is facing a lawsuit from concerned citizens over its graphic nature, according to the website. "Nude ≠ Lewd," "Free to be Naked" and "Nude is Nourishing," read signs held by the marchers in the parade. BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY PLANS 19 DRAG QUEEN STORY HOURS FOR YOUNG KIDS DURING PRIDE MONTH Yet another lewd video shows naked men cycling in the parade, again to the applause and appreciation of the crowd, though some spectators can be seen shielding the eyes of children from the nude bodies. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION The Frontlines TPUSA video showing people parading nude around the Seattle Center International Fountain after the gay pride event includes scenes of children splashing in the water that sprays from the fountain just feet from several naked men and one naked woman. It comes as Pride Month, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community every June, comes to a close. In 1999, then-President Bill Clinton officially declared June the "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month," and in the years after gay marriage was codified in 2015, the parades and celebration have become increasingly crass, often with scenes of nude or nearly nude people parading in public. The three videos of naked demonstrators caused online fury from viewers shocked by the indecent display. INDIANA REPUBLICAN SENATOR MOVES TO BLOCK KIDS FROM ACCESSING PORN ONLINE "How is this not indecent exposure? Wtf?" one X user said. "Why the f--- would you take your children to see and celebrate this vile filthy celebration of perversion and degeneracy?" asked another. DRAG QUEEN INVITED TO BALTIMORE ORIOLES PRIDE NIGHT TAKES A SHOT AT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION A third said: "Those parents are stupid, both for bringing children to a Pride Parade, and for keeping them there when a bunch of naked pervs exposed themselves. Pride Parades are infamous for crap like this." Seattle's municipal code mentions nothing about public nudity, and the Seattle Police Department (SPD) has reiterated multiple times that being nude in Seattle is not a crime in itself. "However, public nudity can quickly become a case of indecent exposure if the nudity causes a person to reasonably experience fear, alarm or concern," an SPD press release says. Instead, the city is governed by Washington's indecent exposure law. "A person is guilty of indecent exposure if he or she intentionally makes any open and obscene exposure of his or her person or the person of another knowing that such conduct is likely to cause reasonable affront or alarm," Revised Code of Washington 9A.88.010 says. A subsection of the law says indecent exposure is a misdemeanor "on the first offense if the person exposes himself or herself to a person under the age of fourteen years." It is a felony for convicted sex offenders to commit the crime of indecent exposure. The Seattle Police Department did not return a request for comment when asked whether anyone was arrested during the city's pride festivities. Mayor Katie Wilson's Office also did not return Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5bc197238567836b90d HOA threatens American flag-flying homeowners as they fight for Old Glory before nation’s 250th birthday te 2026-06-30T12:25:32.617Z HOA threatens American flag-flying homeowners as they fight for Old Glory before nation’s 250th birthday As Americans prepare to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, homeowners in an upscale Southern California community say they're being threatened with fines for flying Old Glory. Residents in San Marcos, whose townhome community is governed by the Ambiance Owners Association, are refusing to remove American flags displayed outside their homes despite notices from the homeowners' association. Real estate websites show townhomes in the community are valued at just under $1 million. OBAMA JUDGE RULES ON EFFORT TO BLOCK AMERICA 250 EVENTS AT WH AND LINCOLN MEMORIAL Documents reviewed by Fox News Digital show the dispute dates back at least three years. In May 2023, the HOA notified one homeowner that sports flags were prohibited while stating that "the American flag is the only approved flag to be hung on and within common property." 📢 See a problem in your neighborhood that isn't getting attention? 📩 stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 Instagram: @fndstephprice 🎥 X: @StephenyPrice Whether it's a developing case, concerning trend, or something you think deserves attention, your information could help lead our next story or investigation. By May 2026, however, the HOA issued Amy and Christopher Cooke a violation notice alleging the American flag mounted outside their home violated the association's flag policy and directing them to remove the flag mount within 15 days or face enforcement action. Neighbor Terri Collins also received a violation notice over the American flag displayed outside her home and said she's prepared to fight the HOA alongside the Cookes. "The journey has been long and hard, and we are ready to put an end to it once and for all," Collins told Fox News Digital. Amy Cooke told Fox News Digital the controversy began after another resident attempted to fly a San Diego Padres flag, prompting the HOA to revisit its flag rules. PRIDE FLAGS SPARK CONTROVERSY AFTER BEING DISPLAYED WITH VETERANS' TRIBUTE BANNERS IN LONG ISLAND TOWN "Both American flags had been flying around here for decades without issue," Cooke said. "The fact is it's about the American flag, distinctly." Cooke said she laughed when she first received notice that the HOA considered her American flag to be in violation. "My first reaction was, 'No,'" she said. "'Wait a minute, this isn't legal.'" REMEMBERING THE COLLEAGUES WE LOST: A VETERAN'S MEMORIAL DAY REFLECTION According to Cooke, the flag has flown from her garage door frame for more than 20 years in honor of her husband's grandfather, who was killed in World War II while rescuing fellow sailors. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross and Purple Heart. Cooke contends the HOA has repeatedly failed to explain why it considers her garage door frame to be a common area rather than an exclusive-use common area under the association's governing documents. In a June 19 letter to the HOA obtained by Fox News Digital, the Cookes requested board meeting minutes adopting the flag policy, records supporting the HOA's interpretation of the property's common areas and the authority it relied upon in issuing the violation. They also asked that their disciplinary hearing be postponed until those records were produced, writing that the same questions "remain unanswered." Cooke said she and her husband have spent nearly two years researching federal and California law, gathering HOA records, corresponding with the HOA and preparing for what they believe could become a lengthy legal battle. The couple has since launched an online fundraiser to help cover attorney fees, court costs and other legal expenses if the dispute heads to court. FOLLOW US ON X "This isn't about refusing to follow reasonable rules," Cooke wrote on the fundraising page. "We believe this is about preserving the right to display the American flag in our own community and ensuring that HOA rules are enforced fairly and consistently." Cooke said any money remaining after legal expenses would be donated to patriotic organizations or causes supporting Gold Star military families. The homeowners' fight has also attracted attention from legal advocates. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS "California law is clear. While homeowners associations may adopt reasonable rules governing the manner, placement, or safety of flag displays, they cannot prohibit homeowners from flying the American flag on their own property," Courtney Corbello, counsel at the Center for American Liberty, told Fox News Digital. "No homeowner should be threatened with fines for respectfully displaying the flag of the country they love, especially on the eve of America's 250th birthday. A blanket policy that sweeps in longstanding flag displays and punishes residents instead of pursuing reasonable solutions is likely to face serious legal scrutiny. HOAs cannot bully homeowners into taking down the Stars and Stripes." WATCH: Poll shows 27% of Democrats won't fly flag for July 4 The controversy has also reached the political arena. "What is wrong with these people? We are just about to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country," California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton told the California Post. "One of the most beautiful and magnificent things about America is the way we show our love of our country together all the time. ... And now these tin-pot bureaucrats at some ridiculous HOA want to trample on our flag and stifle national pride at this of all moments? What a bunch of anti-American losers." GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS Hilton urged residents to ignore the HOA's demands and respond by displaying even more American flags in celebration of America's 250th birthday. Cooke said the dispute has already had a ripple effect throughout the neighborhood. SEND US A TIP "We have flags going up and down emotionally, which is really sad," she said. "Just fly the flag. It shouldn't be an emotional decision." She said she hopes the case encourages other homeowners not to be intimidated by their HOAs. "Stand up for what you believe in. Show some pride in your country and appreciate what America gives you," Cooke said. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Ambiance Owners Association and the San Marcos mayor's office for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5b4197238567836b904 HOA threatens American flag-flying homeowners as they fight for Old Glory before nation’s 250th birthday te 2026-06-30T12:25:24.788Z HOA threatens American flag-flying homeowners as they fight for Old Glory before nation’s 250th birthday As Americans prepare to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, homeowners in an upscale Southern California community say they're being threatened with fines for flying Old Glory. Residents in San Marcos, whose townhome community is governed by the Ambiance Owners Association, are refusing to remove American flags displayed outside their homes despite notices from the homeowners' association. Real estate websites show townhomes in the community are valued at just under $1 million. OBAMA JUDGE RULES ON EFFORT TO BLOCK AMERICA 250 EVENTS AT WH AND LINCOLN MEMORIAL Documents reviewed by Fox News Digital show the dispute dates back at least three years. In May 2023, the HOA notified one homeowner that sports flags were prohibited while stating that "the American flag is the only approved flag to be hung on and within common property." 📢 See a problem in your neighborhood that isn't getting attention? 📩 stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 Instagram: @fndstephprice 🎥 X: @StephenyPrice Whether it's a developing case, concerning trend, or something you think deserves attention, your information could help lead our next story or investigation. By May 2026, however, the HOA issued Amy and Christopher Cooke a violation notice alleging the American flag mounted outside their home violated the association's flag policy and directing them to remove the flag mount within 15 days or face enforcement action. Neighbor Terri Collins also received a violation notice over the American flag displayed outside her home and said she's prepared to fight the HOA alongside the Cookes. "The journey has been long and hard, and we are ready to put an end to it once and for all," Collins told Fox News Digital. Amy Cooke told Fox News Digital the controversy began after another resident attempted to fly a San Diego Padres flag, prompting the HOA to revisit its flag rules. PRIDE FLAGS SPARK CONTROVERSY AFTER BEING DISPLAYED WITH VETERANS' TRIBUTE BANNERS IN LONG ISLAND TOWN "Both American flags had been flying around here for decades without issue," Cooke said. "The fact is it's about the American flag, distinctly." Cooke said she laughed when she first received notice that the HOA considered her American flag to be in violation. "My first reaction was, 'No,'" she said. "'Wait a minute, this isn't legal.'" REMEMBERING THE COLLEAGUES WE LOST: A VETERAN'S MEMORIAL DAY REFLECTION According to Cooke, the flag has flown from her garage door frame for more than 20 years in honor of her husband's grandfather, who was killed in World War II while rescuing fellow sailors. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross and Purple Heart. Cooke contends the HOA has repeatedly failed to explain why it considers her garage door frame to be a common area rather than an exclusive-use common area under the association's governing documents. In a June 19 letter to the HOA obtained by Fox News Digital, the Cookes requested board meeting minutes adopting the flag policy, records supporting the HOA's interpretation of the property's common areas and the authority it relied upon in issuing the violation. They also asked that their disciplinary hearing be postponed until those records were produced, writing that the same questions "remain unanswered." Cooke said she and her husband have spent nearly two years researching federal and California law, gathering HOA records, corresponding with the HOA and preparing for what they believe could become a lengthy legal battle. The couple has since launched an online fundraiser to help cover attorney fees, court costs and other legal expenses if the dispute heads to court. FOLLOW US ON X "This isn't about refusing to follow reasonable rules," Cooke wrote on the fundraising page. "We believe this is about preserving the right to display the American flag in our own community and ensuring that HOA rules are enforced fairly and consistently." Cooke said any money remaining after legal expenses would be donated to patriotic organizations or causes supporting Gold Star military families. The homeowners' fight has also attracted attention from legal advocates. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS "California law is clear. While homeowners associations may adopt reasonable rules governing the manner, placement, or safety of flag displays, they cannot prohibit homeowners from flying the American flag on their own property," Courtney Corbello, counsel at the Center for American Liberty, told Fox News Digital. "No homeowner should be threatened with fines for respectfully displaying the flag of the country they love, especially on the eve of America's 250th birthday. A blanket policy that sweeps in longstanding flag displays and punishes residents instead of pursuing reasonable solutions is likely to face serious legal scrutiny. HOAs cannot bully homeowners into taking down the Stars and Stripes." WATCH: Poll shows 27% of Democrats won't fly flag for July 4 The controversy has also reached the political arena. "What is wrong with these people? We are just about to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country," California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton told the California Post. "One of the most beautiful and magnificent things about America is the way we show our love of our country together all the time. ... And now these tin-pot bureaucrats at some ridiculous HOA want to trample on our flag and stifle national pride at this of all moments? What a bunch of anti-American losers." GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS Hilton urged residents to ignore the HOA's demands and respond by displaying even more American flags in celebration of America's 250th birthday. Cooke said the dispute has already had a ripple effect throughout the neighborhood. SEND US A TIP "We have flags going up and down emotionally, which is really sad," she said. "Just fly the flag. It shouldn't be an emotional decision." She said she hopes the case encourages other homeowners not to be intimidated by their HOAs. "Stand up for what you believe in. Show some pride in your country and appreciate what America gives you," Cooke said. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Ambiance Owners Association and the San Marcos mayor's office for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5a9197238567836b8fb Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal: Trust him, not his team te 2026-06-30T12:25:13.153Z Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal: Trust him, not his team Influential evangelical leaders are divided over the Trump administration's memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, as conflict continues across the Middle East and debate grows over whether the framework strengthens U.S. leverage or risks harming Israel. President Donald Trump recently threatened to re-escalate U.S. military strikes against Iran after Tehran continued attacks in the Strait of Hormuz after the regime launched strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain over the weekend, drawing condemnations from both Gulf neighbors. The split is emerging at a delicate moment for Trump, who is trying to turn military pressure on Iran into a diplomatic framework without alienating supporters who helped power his political coalition. Supporters of the MOU say Trump has earned trust because he weakened Tehran first, while critics say any deal that gives Iran relief before its threat to Israel is permanently neutralized risks betraying the alliance his base expects him to protect. Dr. Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem and a close evangelical ally of Trump, told Fox News Digital that many people are underestimating the American president. EVANGELICAL LEADERS RALLY FOR TRUMP AND ISRAEL AS OPERATION EPIC FURY RESHAPES THE REGION "The facts are that Donald Trump was key to ending the Gaza war, he was key to getting hostages out of there, and he was key in breaking the back of the Iranian regime, including destroying its navy, air force, missile defense and leadership," Evans said. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION UNVEILS SWEEPING TERMS OF PROPOSED IRAN AGREEMENT There are 750 million Bible-believing Christians around the world who identify as Zionists, Evans said, adding that while they may disagree on Israeli political issues, they agree that Israel is the biblical homeland given by God to the Jewish people through Abraham. While running for president, Trump met with Christian groups, including Evans, and asked whether they would support him, Evans said, adding that they agreed on the condition that he support Christian values in the United States and stands by the State of Israel. I'M A CHRISTIAN PASTOR WHO WAS BORN IN EGYPT. HERE ARE 3 FACTS I LEARNED ABOUT IRAN'S NUCLEAR OBSESSION "He promised to do both and so far he’s exceeded all of our expectations," Evans said. "Israel is willing to shed its blood for America in the Middle East. America needs to do everything possible to support the State of Israel. We, as believers, believe that God birthed this nation. We don’t have any fear about Israel’s future," he added. U.S. officials worked with the Israel Defense Forces to complete Operation Epic Fury in February, which was a 38-day effort to dismantle the Iranian regime’s military capabilities.  "Following the historic destruction of Iran’s military capabilities through the successful Operation Epic Fury, President Trump and his negotiating team have brokered an excellent, performance-based MOU that advances the interests of the United States by ending the fighting, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to significantly lower energy prices, and forcing Iran to commit to abandon its nuclear ambitions," White House spokesperson Olivia Wales told Fox News Digital. "President Trump has a strong relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Israel has always been a great ally to the United States. There has been no greater friend to Israel and a fighter for peace than President Trump... Americans and our allies around the world are already safer for the United States and Israel’s bold actions to deny the Iranian regime the ability to develop a nuclear weapon," a White House official added in a comment to Fox News Digital. The Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of The Congress of Christian Leaders, told Fox News Digital that, in 2016, opposition to President Obama's catastrophic Iran deal was one of the top three reasons evangelicals rallied to Donald Trump, helping forge one of the most consequential, enduring and powerful political coalitions in American history — a coalition that stands with him still and knows its power. "Evangelicals know, and President Trump knows, that words on paper don't change terrorists. Accountability does. Action does. This president has been willing to confront the Iranian regime in ways no predecessor would, and the regime has never been weaker," Moore said. TRUMP PIVOTS ON STRIKES WHILE DANGLING IRAN DEAL, TESTING WHETHER TEHRAN BLINKS "The nuclear threat, at least for now, is gone. What brought Iran to this table was not a memorandum — it was precise and unrelenting military action that shattered their nuclear ambitions and broke their conventional forces," he continued. "We also know, as the president knows, that the regime will say and do anything to deceive everyone around him — because they understand they cannot deceive the president himself. Evangelicals trust President Trump entirely. That does not mean that we trust many of those now involved in the negotiation," he added.  The risk the president must manage, he said, is that Tehran turns this into a stalling game — as it tried and failed to do with his own team at least twice and did successfully with Presidents Biden and Obama.  "In the end, because of the president, America will win this too — negotiation or not. But it is clear where our community stands. The regime only understands one language: strength. American strength," he said. ISRAEL FEARS TRUMP WEARY OF ‘HIGHLY SUSPICIOUS’ NETANYAHU AND COULD 'FLIP' AMID IRAN DEAL: ANALYST  Other leaders expressed concerns over recent comments on Israel from the administration. Laurie Cardoza-Moore, president of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, told Fox News Digital that evangelical Christians were largely responsible for the election of the current administration and said the agreement with Iran is extremely worrying. "One of our core issues is the Biblical requirement to stand with Israel and G-d's chosen people as described in the Books of Genesis and Obadiah. As the Bible teaches, those who stand with Israel will be blessed, and those who curse her will be cursed," she said. "There is a strong feeling that Israel is being betrayed and thrown under the bus in favor of the Islamic Republic of Iran. We are particularly concerned about recent harsh and false statements made by Vice President Vance, which could be perceived as cursing Israel," she added. The office of the vice president declined to comment when approached by Fox News Digital. Vance has supported Israel but has also said he is willing to criticize the country when he believes its actions warrant it. He condemned antisemitism in February, telling the Daily Mail, "I think Jew hatred is disgusting." "You shouldn’t hate people because they’re White. You shouldn’t hate people because they’re Jewish. You shouldn’t hate people because they’re Black," he said. But Vance has also made clear that support for Israel does not mean automatic agreement with Netanyahu’s government. "Prime Minister Netanyahu, look, he governs a country that has obviously been a very close partner of the United States. But, even when we've been close partners, sometimes we have interests that are perfectly aligned, and sometimes we have interests that are misaligned," Vance said in an interview on "CBS Sunday Morning" June 10. TRUMP'S IRAN AGREEMENT RAISES A BASIC QUESTION: IS IT ACTUALLY A DEAL? The Trump administration publicly released details of the memorandum outlining plans for immediate waivers on Iranian oil exports, a framework for at least $300 billion in reconstruction and economic development assistance if a final agreement is reached, and a 60-day negotiating period aimed at securing a comprehensive deal on Iran’s nuclear program. Pastor John Hagee, founder and chairman of Christians United for Israel, told Fox News Digital that, in its current form, the MOU appears ill-advised at best, as the military gains achieved by Washington and Jerusalem have yet to be fully realized. "I have yet to hear from anyone who was not surprised by such an about-face in signing the MOU. Who would not be concerned with the U.S. effectively agreeing to forever negotiations with a highly militarized radical Islamist regime, flush with cash, in pursuit of nuclear weapons," Hagee said. Most evangelical Christians, he added, see what everyone else sees: The U.S. negotiating team appears to have fumbled the ball on the one-yard line. Nevertheless, the U.S.-Israel alliance remains a cornerstone of both countries’ security and a key pillar of global stability. AMERICANS KNOW IRAN IS OUR ENEMY. IT’S TIME ESTABLISHMENT POLITICIANS AGREED RETIRED US MILITARY LEADERS SUPPORT LETTING ISRAEL 'FINISH THE JOB' AGAINST IRAN, PROXIES "From a religious perspective, we have a divine mandate to stand with Israel. From a national security perspective, we have no stronger or wiser ally anywhere in the world. And from the Christian pilgrim’s perspective, our holy sites in the Holy Land have never been more open and yet more secure," Hagee said. "The most ‘America-first’ thing one can do is stand with our only true ally in the region," he continued. "The Islamic Republic declared war on the West the day it was founded nearly half a century ago. That has not changed. Democracies rarely get to decide who their enemies are. The only conclusion to this conflict is regime change through domestic revolution in Iran," Hagee added. MORNING GLORY: PRESIDENT TRUMP AND THE US ARE WAGING A RIGHTEOUS BATTLE — AND WINNING After the 60-day timeframe, Evans predicted Trump is likely to extend negotiations for another 90 days, carrying them through the end of the year and beyond the midterm elections. President Trump, Evans said, will then break the economic back of the regime, take Kharg Island and completely bankrupt the regime. "I am not panicking because I know Donald Trump. I am the strongest supporter in the state of Israel of Donald Trump. I am the one that hosted the embassy gala, put up all the billboards and gave him an award. I am not panicking over this," he added. Evans said Christians do not believe the battle can be won by bombs alone, and that they view prayer as their most powerful weapon. "We are hosting the largest prayer in history at the Kotel (Western Wall) with 5 to 10 million Christians on Oct. 7. I now have more than a dozen ambassadors involved and 23 additional ones I am meeting with who want to represent their country," he said. Dr. Jürgen Bühler, president of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), said his organization has witnessed up close for decades how the Iranian regime has progressively raised the sword of radical Islam over Israel, as well as over indigenous Christians throughout the Middle East. "Given the current deal being worked out with Iranian leaders, we share the sense of most Israelis that the war against this intolerable Iranian threat has been stopped short of its needed objective," he told Fox News Digital. "Israel is a fellow Western democracy that deserves our full support in its fight to defend our shared freedoms and values, and many Christians in this region look to Israel as a light of hope for securing their own freedoms and futures," he added. Ultimately, Bühler said, the best and most just answer to the Iranian threat is genuine regime change in Tehran. "We have not given up hope that the Iranian people themselves will be able to rise up and overcome their oppressive rulers and steer their nation away from this self-destructive obsession with destroying Israel," he said. Heather Johnston, founder and president of the U.S.-Israel Education Association, said in a statement to Fox News Digital in reaction to the MOU that the U.S.-Israel relationship has advanced American interests for decades and should be strengthened — not strained — by U.S. diplomacy with Iran. "Iran’s long record of supporting terrorism and threatening Israel gives Americans ample reason to assess this agreement carefully and skeptically. Any diplomacy with Iran should be measured against whether it advances or undermines that progress," she said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b5a1197238567836b8f2 Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal: Trust him, not his team te 2026-06-30T12:25:05.332Z Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal: Trust him, not his team Influential evangelical leaders are divided over the Trump administration's memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, as conflict continues across the Middle East and debate grows over whether the framework strengthens U.S. leverage or risks harming Israel. President Donald Trump recently threatened to re-escalate U.S. military strikes against Iran after Tehran continued attacks in the Strait of Hormuz after the regime launched strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain over the weekend, drawing condemnations from both Gulf neighbors. The split is emerging at a delicate moment for Trump, who is trying to turn military pressure on Iran into a diplomatic framework without alienating supporters who helped power his political coalition. Supporters of the MOU say Trump has earned trust because he weakened Tehran first, while critics say any deal that gives Iran relief before its threat to Israel is permanently neutralized risks betraying the alliance his base expects him to protect. Dr. Mike Evans, founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem and a close evangelical ally of Trump, told Fox News Digital that many people are underestimating the American president. EVANGELICAL LEADERS RALLY FOR TRUMP AND ISRAEL AS OPERATION EPIC FURY RESHAPES THE REGION "The facts are that Donald Trump was key to ending the Gaza war, he was key to getting hostages out of there, and he was key in breaking the back of the Iranian regime, including destroying its navy, air force, missile defense and leadership," Evans said. TRUMP ADMINISTRATION UNVEILS SWEEPING TERMS OF PROPOSED IRAN AGREEMENT There are 750 million Bible-believing Christians around the world who identify as Zionists, Evans said, adding that while they may disagree on Israeli political issues, they agree that Israel is the biblical homeland given by God to the Jewish people through Abraham. While running for president, Trump met with Christian groups, including Evans, and asked whether they would support him, Evans said, adding that they agreed on the condition that he support Christian values in the United States and stands by the State of Israel. I'M A CHRISTIAN PASTOR WHO WAS BORN IN EGYPT. HERE ARE 3 FACTS I LEARNED ABOUT IRAN'S NUCLEAR OBSESSION "He promised to do both and so far he’s exceeded all of our expectations," Evans said. "Israel is willing to shed its blood for America in the Middle East. America needs to do everything possible to support the State of Israel. We, as believers, believe that God birthed this nation. We don’t have any fear about Israel’s future," he added. U.S. officials worked with the Israel Defense Forces to complete Operation Epic Fury in February, which was a 38-day effort to dismantle the Iranian regime’s military capabilities.  "Following the historic destruction of Iran’s military capabilities through the successful Operation Epic Fury, President Trump and his negotiating team have brokered an excellent, performance-based MOU that advances the interests of the United States by ending the fighting, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to significantly lower energy prices, and forcing Iran to commit to abandon its nuclear ambitions," White House spokesperson Olivia Wales told Fox News Digital. "President Trump has a strong relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Israel has always been a great ally to the United States. There has been no greater friend to Israel and a fighter for peace than President Trump... Americans and our allies around the world are already safer for the United States and Israel’s bold actions to deny the Iranian regime the ability to develop a nuclear weapon," a White House official added in a comment to Fox News Digital. The Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of The Congress of Christian Leaders, told Fox News Digital that, in 2016, opposition to President Obama's catastrophic Iran deal was one of the top three reasons evangelicals rallied to Donald Trump, helping forge one of the most consequential, enduring and powerful political coalitions in American history — a coalition that stands with him still and knows its power. "Evangelicals know, and President Trump knows, that words on paper don't change terrorists. Accountability does. Action does. This president has been willing to confront the Iranian regime in ways no predecessor would, and the regime has never been weaker," Moore said. TRUMP PIVOTS ON STRIKES WHILE DANGLING IRAN DEAL, TESTING WHETHER TEHRAN BLINKS "The nuclear threat, at least for now, is gone. What brought Iran to this table was not a memorandum — it was precise and unrelenting military action that shattered their nuclear ambitions and broke their conventional forces," he continued. "We also know, as the president knows, that the regime will say and do anything to deceive everyone around him — because they understand they cannot deceive the president himself. Evangelicals trust President Trump entirely. That does not mean that we trust many of those now involved in the negotiation," he added.  The risk the president must manage, he said, is that Tehran turns this into a stalling game — as it tried and failed to do with his own team at least twice and did successfully with Presidents Biden and Obama.  "In the end, because of the president, America will win this too — negotiation or not. But it is clear where our community stands. The regime only understands one language: strength. American strength," he said. ISRAEL FEARS TRUMP WEARY OF ‘HIGHLY SUSPICIOUS’ NETANYAHU AND COULD 'FLIP' AMID IRAN DEAL: ANALYST  Other leaders expressed concerns over recent comments on Israel from the administration. Laurie Cardoza-Moore, president of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, told Fox News Digital that evangelical Christians were largely responsible for the election of the current administration and said the agreement with Iran is extremely worrying. "One of our core issues is the Biblical requirement to stand with Israel and G-d's chosen people as described in the Books of Genesis and Obadiah. As the Bible teaches, those who stand with Israel will be blessed, and those who curse her will be cursed," she said. "There is a strong feeling that Israel is being betrayed and thrown under the bus in favor of the Islamic Republic of Iran. We are particularly concerned about recent harsh and false statements made by Vice President Vance, which could be perceived as cursing Israel," she added. The office of the vice president declined to comment when approached by Fox News Digital. Vance has supported Israel but has also said he is willing to criticize the country when he believes its actions warrant it. He condemned antisemitism in February, telling the Daily Mail, "I think Jew hatred is disgusting." "You shouldn’t hate people because they’re White. You shouldn’t hate people because they’re Jewish. You shouldn’t hate people because they’re Black," he said. But Vance has also made clear that support for Israel does not mean automatic agreement with Netanyahu’s government. "Prime Minister Netanyahu, look, he governs a country that has obviously been a very close partner of the United States. But, even when we've been close partners, sometimes we have interests that are perfectly aligned, and sometimes we have interests that are misaligned," Vance said in an interview on "CBS Sunday Morning" June 10. TRUMP'S IRAN AGREEMENT RAISES A BASIC QUESTION: IS IT ACTUALLY A DEAL? The Trump administration publicly released details of the memorandum outlining plans for immediate waivers on Iranian oil exports, a framework for at least $300 billion in reconstruction and economic development assistance if a final agreement is reached, and a 60-day negotiating period aimed at securing a comprehensive deal on Iran’s nuclear program. Pastor John Hagee, founder and chairman of Christians United for Israel, told Fox News Digital that, in its current form, the MOU appears ill-advised at best, as the military gains achieved by Washington and Jerusalem have yet to be fully realized. "I have yet to hear from anyone who was not surprised by such an about-face in signing the MOU. Who would not be concerned with the U.S. effectively agreeing to forever negotiations with a highly militarized radical Islamist regime, flush with cash, in pursuit of nuclear weapons," Hagee said. Most evangelical Christians, he added, see what everyone else sees: The U.S. negotiating team appears to have fumbled the ball on the one-yard line. Nevertheless, the U.S.-Israel alliance remains a cornerstone of both countries’ security and a key pillar of global stability. AMERICANS KNOW IRAN IS OUR ENEMY. IT’S TIME ESTABLISHMENT POLITICIANS AGREED RETIRED US MILITARY LEADERS SUPPORT LETTING ISRAEL 'FINISH THE JOB' AGAINST IRAN, PROXIES "From a religious perspective, we have a divine mandate to stand with Israel. From a national security perspective, we have no stronger or wiser ally anywhere in the world. And from the Christian pilgrim’s perspective, our holy sites in the Holy Land have never been more open and yet more secure," Hagee said. "The most ‘America-first’ thing one can do is stand with our only true ally in the region," he continued. "The Islamic Republic declared war on the West the day it was founded nearly half a century ago. That has not changed. Democracies rarely get to decide who their enemies are. The only conclusion to this conflict is regime change through domestic revolution in Iran," Hagee added. MORNING GLORY: PRESIDENT TRUMP AND THE US ARE WAGING A RIGHTEOUS BATTLE — AND WINNING After the 60-day timeframe, Evans predicted Trump is likely to extend negotiations for another 90 days, carrying them through the end of the year and beyond the midterm elections. President Trump, Evans said, will then break the economic back of the regime, take Kharg Island and completely bankrupt the regime. "I am not panicking because I know Donald Trump. I am the strongest supporter in the state of Israel of Donald Trump. I am the one that hosted the embassy gala, put up all the billboards and gave him an award. I am not panicking over this," he added. Evans said Christians do not believe the battle can be won by bombs alone, and that they view prayer as their most powerful weapon. "We are hosting the largest prayer in history at the Kotel (Western Wall) with 5 to 10 million Christians on Oct. 7. I now have more than a dozen ambassadors involved and 23 additional ones I am meeting with who want to represent their country," he said. Dr. Jürgen Bühler, president of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), said his organization has witnessed up close for decades how the Iranian regime has progressively raised the sword of radical Islam over Israel, as well as over indigenous Christians throughout the Middle East. "Given the current deal being worked out with Iranian leaders, we share the sense of most Israelis that the war against this intolerable Iranian threat has been stopped short of its needed objective," he told Fox News Digital. "Israel is a fellow Western democracy that deserves our full support in its fight to defend our shared freedoms and values, and many Christians in this region look to Israel as a light of hope for securing their own freedoms and futures," he added. Ultimately, Bühler said, the best and most just answer to the Iranian threat is genuine regime change in Tehran. "We have not given up hope that the Iranian people themselves will be able to rise up and overcome their oppressive rulers and steer their nation away from this self-destructive obsession with destroying Israel," he said. Heather Johnston, founder and president of the U.S.-Israel Education Association, said in a statement to Fox News Digital in reaction to the MOU that the U.S.-Israel relationship has advanced American interests for decades and should be strengthened — not strained — by U.S. diplomacy with Iran. "Iran’s long record of supporting terrorism and threatening Israel gives Americans ample reason to assess this agreement carefully and skeptically. Any diplomacy with Iran should be measured against whether it advances or undermines that progress," she said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b595197238567836b8e9 WWE star dubs New Jersey coastal casino mecca 'saddest' in America te 2026-06-30T12:24:53.697Z WWE star dubs New Jersey coastal casino mecca 'saddest' in America Atlantic City, New Jersey, is far from the shining casino resort capital of the East Coast that it used to be. Sure, there are still great hotels and casinos left in the city and the beach, unlike most in New Jersey, is still free. But crime and corruption have changed the perception of the city over the years. COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS DIGITAL WWE star Grayson Waller took advantage of that. Atlantic City’s iconic Boardwalk Hall played host to "Monday Night Raw" and a taping of "Friday Night SmackDown." Waller posted a video of himself running on the beach on social media and dubbed the beach town the "saddest city in America." "I’ve been to a lot in America, but Atlantic City, New Jersey, might just be the saddest," the Australian heel said. "It’s like Las Vegas for people who have given up on life. But it’s Monday morning. Technically, I’m at a beach – an American version of a beach. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "While the rest of the Raw roster is sleeping in, I’m out here getting after it. I don’t want to end up like one of these people who has to vacation in Atlantic City, New Jersey. So sad." While it might feel like that for some, fellow WWE star Matt Cardona had different memories of Atlantic City. Cardona performed for Game Changer Wrestling at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City. The promotion would turn the hotel’s ballroom into a wrestling ring and put on some memorable matches on the independent scene. "Back in Atlantic City tonight for @WWE. Matt Cardona, the man, was born on Long Island. Matt Cardona, the pro wrestler, was born in AC!" he wrote on X. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b58d197238567836b8e0 WWE star dubs New Jersey coastal casino mecca 'saddest' in America te 2026-06-30T12:24:45.876Z WWE star dubs New Jersey coastal casino mecca 'saddest' in America Atlantic City, New Jersey, is far from the shining casino resort capital of the East Coast that it used to be. Sure, there are still great hotels and casinos left in the city and the beach, unlike most in New Jersey, is still free. But crime and corruption have changed the perception of the city over the years. COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON FOX NEWS DIGITAL WWE star Grayson Waller took advantage of that. Atlantic City’s iconic Boardwalk Hall played host to "Monday Night Raw" and a taping of "Friday Night SmackDown." Waller posted a video of himself running on the beach on social media and dubbed the beach town the "saddest city in America." "I’ve been to a lot in America, but Atlantic City, New Jersey, might just be the saddest," the Australian heel said. "It’s like Las Vegas for people who have given up on life. But it’s Monday morning. Technically, I’m at a beach – an American version of a beach. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "While the rest of the Raw roster is sleeping in, I’m out here getting after it. I don’t want to end up like one of these people who has to vacation in Atlantic City, New Jersey. So sad." While it might feel like that for some, fellow WWE star Matt Cardona had different memories of Atlantic City. Cardona performed for Game Changer Wrestling at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City. The promotion would turn the hotel’s ballroom into a wrestling ring and put on some memorable matches on the independent scene. "Back in Atlantic City tonight for @WWE. Matt Cardona, the man, was born on Long Island. Matt Cardona, the pro wrestler, was born in AC!" he wrote on X. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b582197238567836b8d7 Man accused of killing two teens claimed he was carjacked — his own dashcam footage shows otherwise: cops te 2026-06-30T12:24:34.242Z Man accused of killing two teens claimed he was carjacked — his own dashcam footage shows otherwise: cops The New Jersey man accused of killing two girls told police he was carjacked — but his own dashcam footage showed him driving to the scene, a criminal complaint obtained by Fox News Digital alleges. Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, both 17, were riding an electric bike on Sept. 29, 2025 in Cranford, New Jersey, where prosecutors say 18-year-old Vincent Battiloro intentionally mowed them down. He was charged as an adult Friday. When detectives brought Battiloro to the Cranford Police Department, he told them he had been carjacked earlier that day — before the two teen girls were killed — by an unknown person wearing a red mask and armed with a knife, the criminal complaint alleges. However, dash camera footage obtained by police allegedly disputes his account. TEEN MURDER SUSPECT ALLEGEDLY SWATTED VICTIM'S HOME WEEKS BEFORE DEADLY HIT-AND-RUN: LAWYER "The defendant stated he was driving the Jeep Compass that afternoon when he was carjacked by an unknown individual wearing a red mask and armed with a knife," the complaint states. "Search warrants were executed on the Jeep Compass, and dash camera footage was obtained from the vehicle. The footage from 9/29 showed the defendant getting into and driving the vehicle to the area of Burnside Avenue, where he parked. Shortly thereafter, both victims were seen on the e-bike heading in the opposite direction." According to police, Battiloro's dash camera video showed him getting inside the Jeep Compass on Sept. 29, 2025, and driving to the area of Burnside Avenue in Cranford, near the home of one of the victims. Shortly after he parked, police said both teen girls were seen on electric bicycles headed in the opposite direction. TEEN ACCUSED OF KILLING TWO GIRLS IN ALLEGED HIT-AND-RUN WILL BE TRIED AS ADULT AFTER IDENTITY REVEALED Detectives said Battiloro then made a U-turn in order to follow the victims while he accelerated. The dash camera video then allegedly shows both girls being struck at a "high rate of speed before the vehicle ultimately stopped," according to the complaint. Afterward, according to the complaint, Battiloro fled the area by foot. Brent Bramnick, who is representing Niotis’ family, told Fox News Digital they are thankful the case was moved to adult court. "The decision to try the defendant as an adult is a welcomed sliver of justice. We are grateful to the Prosecutor’s Office for their efforts as well as the community at large for continuing to keep Maria and Isabella’s memories alive," Bramnick said. SEND US A TIP HERE Battiloro's identity was previously withheld because he was a minor when allegedly committing the crimes, but his case was transferred to adult court on Friday. He is now charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Bramnick previously told Fox News Digital that the suspect allegedly swatted the family's home in Cranford twice in September. He said both incidents took place between Sept. 1 and Sept. 15 in 2025. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST After the two incidents, Bramnick said the Niotis family wants to know "what went on?" "What investigation, if any, went on after all that the family reported and all the information that the police had in their possession. That's the question. So we need those questions answered," Bramnick said. "And that's why we're involved, because we're doing our own investigations to try to get to the bottom of those questions." Foulla Niotis, Maria's mother, previously told Fox News that the suspect "planned" the attack and thought he was "untouchable" because he had relatives working in law enforcement. "I want justice for Maria and Isabella. That's what I want," she added. Fox News Digital reached out to Battiloro's attorney and father for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b57a197238567836b8ce Man accused of killing two teens claimed he was carjacked — his own dashcam footage shows otherwise: cops te 2026-06-30T12:24:26.418Z Man accused of killing two teens claimed he was carjacked — his own dashcam footage shows otherwise: cops The New Jersey man accused of killing two girls told police he was carjacked — but his own dashcam footage showed him driving to the scene, a criminal complaint obtained by Fox News Digital alleges. Maria Niotis and Isabella Salas, both 17, were riding an electric bike on Sept. 29, 2025 in Cranford, New Jersey, where prosecutors say 18-year-old Vincent Battiloro intentionally mowed them down. He was charged as an adult Friday. When detectives brought Battiloro to the Cranford Police Department, he told them he had been carjacked earlier that day — before the two teen girls were killed — by an unknown person wearing a red mask and armed with a knife, the criminal complaint alleges. However, dash camera footage obtained by police allegedly disputes his account. TEEN MURDER SUSPECT ALLEGEDLY SWATTED VICTIM'S HOME WEEKS BEFORE DEADLY HIT-AND-RUN: LAWYER "The defendant stated he was driving the Jeep Compass that afternoon when he was carjacked by an unknown individual wearing a red mask and armed with a knife," the complaint states. "Search warrants were executed on the Jeep Compass, and dash camera footage was obtained from the vehicle. The footage from 9/29 showed the defendant getting into and driving the vehicle to the area of Burnside Avenue, where he parked. Shortly thereafter, both victims were seen on the e-bike heading in the opposite direction." According to police, Battiloro's dash camera video showed him getting inside the Jeep Compass on Sept. 29, 2025, and driving to the area of Burnside Avenue in Cranford, near the home of one of the victims. Shortly after he parked, police said both teen girls were seen on electric bicycles headed in the opposite direction. TEEN ACCUSED OF KILLING TWO GIRLS IN ALLEGED HIT-AND-RUN WILL BE TRIED AS ADULT AFTER IDENTITY REVEALED Detectives said Battiloro then made a U-turn in order to follow the victims while he accelerated. The dash camera video then allegedly shows both girls being struck at a "high rate of speed before the vehicle ultimately stopped," according to the complaint. Afterward, according to the complaint, Battiloro fled the area by foot. Brent Bramnick, who is representing Niotis’ family, told Fox News Digital they are thankful the case was moved to adult court. "The decision to try the defendant as an adult is a welcomed sliver of justice. We are grateful to the Prosecutor’s Office for their efforts as well as the community at large for continuing to keep Maria and Isabella’s memories alive," Bramnick said. SEND US A TIP HERE Battiloro's identity was previously withheld because he was a minor when allegedly committing the crimes, but his case was transferred to adult court on Friday. He is now charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Bramnick previously told Fox News Digital that the suspect allegedly swatted the family's home in Cranford twice in September. He said both incidents took place between Sept. 1 and Sept. 15 in 2025. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST After the two incidents, Bramnick said the Niotis family wants to know "what went on?" "What investigation, if any, went on after all that the family reported and all the information that the police had in their possession. That's the question. So we need those questions answered," Bramnick said. "And that's why we're involved, because we're doing our own investigations to try to get to the bottom of those questions." Foulla Niotis, Maria's mother, previously told Fox News that the suspect "planned" the attack and thought he was "untouchable" because he had relatives working in law enforcement. "I want justice for Maria and Isabella. That's what I want," she added. Fox News Digital reached out to Battiloro's attorney and father for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b56e197238567836b8c5 Los Angeles schools quietly remove compulsory 'affirm and respect' gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training te 2026-06-30T12:24:14.786Z Los Angeles schools quietly remove compulsory 'affirm and respect' gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) will reportedly no longer require educators to agree to "affirm and respect" the "identities" of LGBTQ students, following a legal challenge. Middle and high school teachers in the district must complete one hour of online cultural competency training every year to support LGBTQ students, according to the California Department of Education. The Liberty Counsel, a non-profit legal organization, revealed that the training mandated teachers to check a box acknowledging the following prompt: "I am aware that LAUSD policy requires me to affirm and respect the identities of all students, including those who identify as LGBTQ+." On Friday, Liberty Counsel announced it had sent a demand letter to LAUSD on June 8, arguing the prompt violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. LOUDOUN COUNTY PARENTS NOT 'SATISFIED' AFTER SCHOOL OFFICIALS TESTIFY ON TRANSGENDER POLICIES "Federal law protects employees from being compelled to choose between their employment and adherence to their faith," the group wrote to the district. LAUSD reportedly modified the questionnaire just two days after receiving the letter, according to Liberty Counsel. The updated prompt removes the "affirm and respect" language, instead asking teachers to simply confirm they are "aware" of the district’s nondiscrimination policies regarding LGBTQ students. In statements released through Liberty Counsel, two LAUSD sixth-grade teachers expressed relief over the change. JUDGE AWARDED $640K AFTER REFUSING TO OFFICIATE SAME-SEX WEDDINGS "When LAUSD implemented a mandatory LGBTQ training, I feared losing my job, yet I knew I had to stand firm in my faith and conviction," one teacher said. "What a victory for religious liberty! Thank you, Liberty Counsel, for courageously defending the rights of believers and helping ensure that people of faith can remain true to their convictions in the workplace." Liberty Counsel Chairman Mat Staver praised the district's swift pivot. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "The Los Angeles Unified School District did the right thing in changing its training certification language. Federal law is clear that teachers cannot be required to ‘affirm’ a student’s perceived gender identity or use inconsistent pronouns against their personal religious convictions. Title VII ensures that people cannot be forced to choose between their faith and their livelihood," he said in a statement. LAUSD did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. The online training stems from California's "Safe and Supportive Schools Act," originally introduced in 2019. Expansions to the bill passed in 2023 required school districts provide annual training to middle and high school educators to support LGBTQ students. According to a California Department of Education press release, the state partnered with LGBTQ advocacy organizations, such as the Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign, to develop the online training course, known as PRISM. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b566197238567836b8bc Los Angeles schools quietly remove compulsory 'affirm and respect' gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training te 2026-06-30T12:24:06.962Z Los Angeles schools quietly remove compulsory 'affirm and respect' gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) will reportedly no longer require educators to agree to "affirm and respect" the "identities" of LGBTQ students, following a legal challenge. Middle and high school teachers in the district must complete one hour of online cultural competency training every year to support LGBTQ students, according to the California Department of Education. The Liberty Counsel, a non-profit legal organization, revealed that the training mandated teachers to check a box acknowledging the following prompt: "I am aware that LAUSD policy requires me to affirm and respect the identities of all students, including those who identify as LGBTQ+." On Friday, Liberty Counsel announced it had sent a demand letter to LAUSD on June 8, arguing the prompt violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. LOUDOUN COUNTY PARENTS NOT 'SATISFIED' AFTER SCHOOL OFFICIALS TESTIFY ON TRANSGENDER POLICIES "Federal law protects employees from being compelled to choose between their employment and adherence to their faith," the group wrote to the district. LAUSD reportedly modified the questionnaire just two days after receiving the letter, according to Liberty Counsel. The updated prompt removes the "affirm and respect" language, instead asking teachers to simply confirm they are "aware" of the district’s nondiscrimination policies regarding LGBTQ students. In statements released through Liberty Counsel, two LAUSD sixth-grade teachers expressed relief over the change. JUDGE AWARDED $640K AFTER REFUSING TO OFFICIATE SAME-SEX WEDDINGS "When LAUSD implemented a mandatory LGBTQ training, I feared losing my job, yet I knew I had to stand firm in my faith and conviction," one teacher said. "What a victory for religious liberty! Thank you, Liberty Counsel, for courageously defending the rights of believers and helping ensure that people of faith can remain true to their convictions in the workplace." Liberty Counsel Chairman Mat Staver praised the district's swift pivot. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "The Los Angeles Unified School District did the right thing in changing its training certification language. Federal law is clear that teachers cannot be required to ‘affirm’ a student’s perceived gender identity or use inconsistent pronouns against their personal religious convictions. Title VII ensures that people cannot be forced to choose between their faith and their livelihood," he said in a statement. LAUSD did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. The online training stems from California's "Safe and Supportive Schools Act," originally introduced in 2019. Expansions to the bill passed in 2023 required school districts provide annual training to middle and high school educators to support LGBTQ students. According to a California Department of Education press release, the state partnered with LGBTQ advocacy organizations, such as the Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign, to develop the online training course, known as PRISM. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b55b197238567836b8b3 Scientists discover possible link between 9/11 and accelerated aging te 2026-06-30T12:23:55.329Z Scientists discover possible link between 9/11 and accelerated aging A study of World Trade Center responders found that PTSD is associated with molecular changes linked to accelerated biological aging and a higher risk of chronic disease. The study, led by Stony Brook University in New York, could offer new clues to the long-term physical health effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. The researchers tested blood samples from 393 WTC responders, collected approximately 18 years after the September 11, 2001, attacks, according to a university press release. THE 'AGE' OF YOUR BLOOD COULD PREDICT DEMENTIA RISK, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS Out of the sampled responders, 232 were diagnosed with PTSD and 161 were not. Between the two groups, 114 proteins and seven metabolites were significantly different. In particular, the researchers detected changes in blood markers linked to brain function, immune activity, energy metabolism, protection against cell damage and how cells communicate and repair tissues. Also reported were signs of accelerated biological aging in multiple organs — including the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs — among responders with PTSD. COMMON VITAMIN MAY INFLUENCE BRAIN AGING IN WAYS SCIENTISTS DIDN'T EXPECT These discoveries could help explain why people with long-term PTSD are at greater risk for chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, cognitive decline and other age-related illnesses. "This study found that chronic PTSD is associated with long-lasting biological changes throughout the body, affecting multiple organs and biological systems decades after their traumatic exposure," lead study author Benjamin Luft, director and principal investigator at the Stony Brook WTC Wellness Program, told Fox News Digital. The study reinforces the view that PTSD is a "whole-body illness" rather than simply a mental health disorder, he noted. "Traumatic experiences can produce lasting biological changes that persist for decades," Luft said. "These changes appear to accelerate aspects of biological aging and may increase the risk of many chronic diseases." FOX NEWS' ERIC SHAWN REVEALS CANCER AND RESPIRATORY ILLNESS FROM 9/11 TOXIC DUST Several proteins that are critical for healthy brain function were also altered in those with PTSD, the researchers found. "Many of these proteins play critical roles in helping brain cells communicate with one another, repair damage and maintain healthy connections that support memory and thinking," Luft said. The study – which was funded in part by the CDC, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and the National Institutes of Health – was published in Nature Communications. Luft said the findings should be viewed with "cautious optimism." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER "The research provides compelling evidence that PTSD is associated with long-lasting biological changes throughout the body, including signs of accelerated aging, altered metabolism and changes in proteins involved in brain health," he said. "These findings strengthen the growing recognition that PTSD is not simply a mental health disorder, but a condition that can have lasting effects on physical health as well." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but called the results "fascinating." "This speaks to the complex reality that PTSD is not an isolated psychiatric event due to emotional trauma alone, but that it is also tied in with physical trauma," he told Fox News Digital. "The stress is both emotional and physical, and leads directly to immune dysregulation and aging processes." "The chronic diseases that resulted from high exposure in the aftermath of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks were conjoined in terms of the impact on physical and emotional well-being, longevity and effects on multiple organ systems, as well as core metabolic and immunological processes," the doctor added. There were some limitations to the findings, the researchers noted. "Because all measurements were taken at one point in time, the research can only show an association — not that PTSD directly caused the changes," Luft noted. "We are currently doing studies in these patients examining multiple time points to see whether the changes in specific proteins and metabolites precede clinical changes." CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Also, because the study was done on a unique population – World Trade Center responders who experienced very specific trauma and environmental exposures – the findings may not apply to everyone with PTSD, "such as combat veterans, survivors of abuse or people who experienced other types of trauma." Women are not well-represented in the study, comprising only 10% of responders. "Blood tests cannot tell us exactly what is happening inside the brain," Luft said. "Although many of the altered proteins are related to brain function, blood measurements are only an indirect reflection of processes occurring in the brain." Additional studies are needed to determine whether these blood markers can predict disease progression or treatment response. "From a public health and policy perspective, the study reinforces the importance of recognizing PTSD as a chronic medical condition with significant long-term health implications," Luft said. "Investing in early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and long-term follow-up for trauma survivors, including our first responders and veterans, may improve quality of life while reducing the burden of chronic disease." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b553197238567836b8aa Scientists discover possible link between 9/11 and accelerated aging te 2026-06-30T12:23:47.506Z Scientists discover possible link between 9/11 and accelerated aging A study of World Trade Center responders found that PTSD is associated with molecular changes linked to accelerated biological aging and a higher risk of chronic disease. The study, led by Stony Brook University in New York, could offer new clues to the long-term physical health effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. The researchers tested blood samples from 393 WTC responders, collected approximately 18 years after the September 11, 2001, attacks, according to a university press release. THE 'AGE' OF YOUR BLOOD COULD PREDICT DEMENTIA RISK, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS Out of the sampled responders, 232 were diagnosed with PTSD and 161 were not. Between the two groups, 114 proteins and seven metabolites were significantly different. In particular, the researchers detected changes in blood markers linked to brain function, immune activity, energy metabolism, protection against cell damage and how cells communicate and repair tissues. Also reported were signs of accelerated biological aging in multiple organs — including the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs — among responders with PTSD. COMMON VITAMIN MAY INFLUENCE BRAIN AGING IN WAYS SCIENTISTS DIDN'T EXPECT These discoveries could help explain why people with long-term PTSD are at greater risk for chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, cognitive decline and other age-related illnesses. "This study found that chronic PTSD is associated with long-lasting biological changes throughout the body, affecting multiple organs and biological systems decades after their traumatic exposure," lead study author Benjamin Luft, director and principal investigator at the Stony Brook WTC Wellness Program, told Fox News Digital. The study reinforces the view that PTSD is a "whole-body illness" rather than simply a mental health disorder, he noted. "Traumatic experiences can produce lasting biological changes that persist for decades," Luft said. "These changes appear to accelerate aspects of biological aging and may increase the risk of many chronic diseases." FOX NEWS' ERIC SHAWN REVEALS CANCER AND RESPIRATORY ILLNESS FROM 9/11 TOXIC DUST Several proteins that are critical for healthy brain function were also altered in those with PTSD, the researchers found. "Many of these proteins play critical roles in helping brain cells communicate with one another, repair damage and maintain healthy connections that support memory and thinking," Luft said. The study – which was funded in part by the CDC, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and the National Institutes of Health – was published in Nature Communications. Luft said the findings should be viewed with "cautious optimism." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER "The research provides compelling evidence that PTSD is associated with long-lasting biological changes throughout the body, including signs of accelerated aging, altered metabolism and changes in proteins involved in brain health," he said. "These findings strengthen the growing recognition that PTSD is not simply a mental health disorder, but a condition that can have lasting effects on physical health as well." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but called the results "fascinating." "This speaks to the complex reality that PTSD is not an isolated psychiatric event due to emotional trauma alone, but that it is also tied in with physical trauma," he told Fox News Digital. "The stress is both emotional and physical, and leads directly to immune dysregulation and aging processes." "The chronic diseases that resulted from high exposure in the aftermath of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks were conjoined in terms of the impact on physical and emotional well-being, longevity and effects on multiple organ systems, as well as core metabolic and immunological processes," the doctor added. There were some limitations to the findings, the researchers noted. "Because all measurements were taken at one point in time, the research can only show an association — not that PTSD directly caused the changes," Luft noted. "We are currently doing studies in these patients examining multiple time points to see whether the changes in specific proteins and metabolites precede clinical changes." CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES Also, because the study was done on a unique population – World Trade Center responders who experienced very specific trauma and environmental exposures – the findings may not apply to everyone with PTSD, "such as combat veterans, survivors of abuse or people who experienced other types of trauma." Women are not well-represented in the study, comprising only 10% of responders. "Blood tests cannot tell us exactly what is happening inside the brain," Luft said. "Although many of the altered proteins are related to brain function, blood measurements are only an indirect reflection of processes occurring in the brain." Additional studies are needed to determine whether these blood markers can predict disease progression or treatment response. "From a public health and policy perspective, the study reinforces the importance of recognizing PTSD as a chronic medical condition with significant long-term health implications," Luft said. "Investing in early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and long-term follow-up for trauma survivors, including our first responders and veterans, may improve quality of life while reducing the burden of chronic disease." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b547197238567836b8a1 Morocco sends the Netherlands home with dramatic World Cup knockout in penalties te 2026-06-30T12:23:35.873Z Morocco sends the Netherlands home with dramatic World Cup knockout in penalties The World Cup provided a second miraculous moment on Monday night. The Netherlands, a favorite to win the tournament after years of making long runs, took the lead late in the match when Cody Gakpo took control of a loose ball in the box and sent it into the back of the net. But the lead didn’t last long, as Morocco’s Issa Diop headed one behind the Dutch goalie in stoppage time. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Morocco and the Netherlands went to penalties. Morocco’s Ismael Saibari nailed the winning penalty kick to give Morocco the 3-2 win in the stage, advancing the squad to the Round of 16. "We know when we do everything on the pitch, it’s God that gives something back to us as well," Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi said after the match. "We give all the energy that we have on the field. Rahimi’s goal could have not been a goal, but it went in thankfully." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The Dutch had reached at least the Round of 16 in the last 11 World Cups, including a quarterfinal appearance in 2022 in Qatar. It was the same year Morocco became the first African team to reach the semifinals. Morocco will play Canada in the Round of 16 in Houston on Saturday. Morocco defeated Canada 2-1 in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup. "I think Morocco has gained everybody’s respect now," Ouahbi said. "I saw (the Netherlands’ style of play) as a form of respect." It was the latest surprising knockout of the World Cup. Paraguay defeated Germany after a controversial call to reverse a German goal late in their match. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b540197238567836b898 Morocco sends the Netherlands home with dramatic World Cup knockout in penalties te 2026-06-30T12:23:28.057Z Morocco sends the Netherlands home with dramatic World Cup knockout in penalties The World Cup provided a second miraculous moment on Monday night. The Netherlands, a favorite to win the tournament after years of making long runs, took the lead late in the match when Cody Gakpo took control of a loose ball in the box and sent it into the back of the net. But the lead didn’t last long, as Morocco’s Issa Diop headed one behind the Dutch goalie in stoppage time. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Morocco and the Netherlands went to penalties. Morocco’s Ismael Saibari nailed the winning penalty kick to give Morocco the 3-2 win in the stage, advancing the squad to the Round of 16. "We know when we do everything on the pitch, it’s God that gives something back to us as well," Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi said after the match. "We give all the energy that we have on the field. Rahimi’s goal could have not been a goal, but it went in thankfully." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The Dutch had reached at least the Round of 16 in the last 11 World Cups, including a quarterfinal appearance in 2022 in Qatar. It was the same year Morocco became the first African team to reach the semifinals. Morocco will play Canada in the Round of 16 in Houston on Saturday. Morocco defeated Canada 2-1 in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup. "I think Morocco has gained everybody’s respect now," Ouahbi said. "I saw (the Netherlands’ style of play) as a form of respect." It was the latest surprising knockout of the World Cup. Paraguay defeated Germany after a controversial call to reverse a German goal late in their match. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b534197238567836b88f Warehouse robots move packages without human handoff te 2026-06-30T12:23:16.416Z Warehouse robots move packages without human handoff A busy warehouse loading dock can be a grind. Trucks pull up. Packages pour in. Workers have to move fast, lift heavy boxes and keep everything flowing before the next trailer arrives. That part of the warehouse has always been one of the hardest places to automate. Every box can be a different size. Freight can shift in transit. Labels may face the wrong way. And when one system finishes a task, the next system still has to know what to do with the package. Now, Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot Company say they have linked their robotic systems to help solve that handoff problem. The companies announced a commercial integration that connects Pickle Robot's trailer-unloading robots with Ambi Robotics' AmbiStack pallet-building system. In other words, one robot system unloads mixed freight from a trailer. Then a conveyor moves those cases downstream so another robotic system can scan and stack them for warehouse receiving. If this works well in large facilities, it points to a future where robots can handle more of the work that happens between a truck and a warehouse floor. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report OHIO ROBOT COP RETIRES AFTER ZERO ARRESTS The setup starts at the trailer. Pickle Robot's system unloads boxes from trailers or containers. That matters because unloading mixed freight can be exhausting work. It also creates bottlenecks when warehouses do not have enough people on the dock. From there, the packages move by conveyor into AmbiStack. Ambi Robotics designed AmbiStack as a multipurpose stacking system. It reads package information and builds pallets for the next stage of the warehouse process. The key here is the handoff. Many warehouses already use automation. However, those systems often work in separate lanes. One machine may handle unloading. Another may handle sorting or stacking. Yet the warehouse still needs people or custom engineering to connect the pieces. This collaboration tries to make that connection smoother. The companies say the system can work with existing warehouse infrastructure. That means operators may avoid tearing apart a facility to use it. Physical AI means AI that controls machines doing physical work. That is important here because warehouse robots have to deal with moving boxes, shifting freight, conveyor timing and pallet stability. That creates a very different challenge from software that writes a paragraph or answers a question. A warehouse robot has to react to what sits in front of it. A box can arrive dented. A label can face the wrong way. A pallet can become unstable if the next case goes in the wrong spot. This Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot integration shows how that can work inside a warehouse. Pickle Robot handles the trailer unloading. AmbiStack takes over downstream by scanning and stacking cases for receiving. Together, the systems show how specialized robots can connect across a warehouse workflow. "Warehouse operators shouldn't have to choose between best-in-class technologies and seamless integration," said Jim Liefer, CEO of Ambi Robotics. "As Physical AI transforms supply chains, interoperability will become increasingly important." AJ Meyer, founder and CEO of Pickle Robot Company, put the customer demand more directly: "Customers want automation that improves real-world throughput while fitting into existing operations." AI MAY SPOT DEADLY HEART RISK IN A ROUTINE ECG Anyone who has waited on a delayed package knows the supply chain can break down fast. Sometimes the problem starts long before a delivery truck reaches your home. Inbound logistics covers the work that happens when goods arrive at a warehouse. That includes getting boxes off trailers and moving them into the right workflow. It sounds pretty straightforward until you see the reality. Trailers can be packed unevenly. Boxes can arrive in odd shapes. Warehouse teams also deal with tight schedules and physical strain. That is why loading docks have become such a major focus for automation. If robots can unload freight and pass it into a pallet-building system without constant human intervention, warehouses could move goods faster through one of the most labor-heavy parts of the operation. The big question is obvious. What happens to workers? Robots can take over repetitive and physically demanding tasks. That may reduce injuries and help warehouses handle labor shortages. It may also change which jobs companies need most. Instead of spending a full shift unloading trailers, some workers may monitor the unloading and stacking systems. Others may step in when a package jams, a label fails to scan or a pallet needs human attention. Still, that shift can feel unsettling. Automation often comes with a promise of safety and efficiency. Workers want to know where they fit in next. That is very important. A robot may move a box, but people still handle judgment calls, customer issues and fast decisions when the workflow changes. Retailers and logistics companies feel pressure from several directions. Consumers expect faster shipping. Warehouses face staffing challenges. Meanwhile, e-commerce keeps creating more package volume. That creates a hard math problem. Companies need to move more goods without slowing down at the dock. This Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot setup gives warehouse operators another option. Instead of buying one giant system from a single vendor, they can connect specialized robotic tools that handle different parts of the job. That could give operators more flexibility. It could also help them avoid major redesigns, which can be expensive and disruptive. In other words, the robots are getting smarter. They are also starting to work together in more useful ways. Even if you never set foot in a warehouse, this kind of automation can affect your life. When warehouses move goods more efficiently, stores may restock faster. Online orders may move with fewer delays. Returns may get processed more quickly. There is another side, too. More automation can reshape job roles inside warehouses. That means workers may need new training as companies bring in more robotic systems. You may also hear fewer excuses when packages run late. If robots help warehouses operate with fewer bottlenecks, retailers may raise expectations for speed even more. That sounds convenient, but it also means the race for faster delivery keeps putting pressure on every part of the supply chain. Your phone holds your email, passwords, photos, banking apps and personal data. In this free CyberGuy Live replay, Kurt the CyberGuy walks you step by step through simple phone security fixes you can do at your own pace. You’ll learn how to improve your privacy settings, spot the latest phone scams, use trusted security tools and walk away with a simple checklist to stay protected. Watch the replay and get our checklist here: CyberGuyLive.com MOST PROMINENT AI CHATBOTS HAVE LIBERAL BIAS, NEW STUDY FINDS What grabs me here is the handoff. One robot unloads packages from a trailer. Another scans and stacks them for the next part of the warehouse process. That is the piece that could change how loading docks operate. Warehouses are full of little delays that add up fast. If a package sits in the wrong place or waits for a person to move it to the next step, the whole process can slow down. This integration shows how warehouse robots may start taking over more of that middle work between the truck and the warehouse floor. Still, the human side deserves attention. These systems could reduce backbreaking work, which is a good thing. At the same time, they may change what warehouse workers are asked to do. The companies that make that transition clear, fair and useful for workers will be the ones to watch. If robots can unload the truck, build the pallet and keep the warehouse moving, what job inside the warehouse gets automated next? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b52c197238567836b886 Warehouse robots move packages without human handoff te 2026-06-30T12:23:08.597Z Warehouse robots move packages without human handoff A busy warehouse loading dock can be a grind. Trucks pull up. Packages pour in. Workers have to move fast, lift heavy boxes and keep everything flowing before the next trailer arrives. That part of the warehouse has always been one of the hardest places to automate. Every box can be a different size. Freight can shift in transit. Labels may face the wrong way. And when one system finishes a task, the next system still has to know what to do with the package. Now, Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot Company say they have linked their robotic systems to help solve that handoff problem. The companies announced a commercial integration that connects Pickle Robot's trailer-unloading robots with Ambi Robotics' AmbiStack pallet-building system. In other words, one robot system unloads mixed freight from a trailer. Then a conveyor moves those cases downstream so another robotic system can scan and stack them for warehouse receiving. If this works well in large facilities, it points to a future where robots can handle more of the work that happens between a truck and a warehouse floor. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report OHIO ROBOT COP RETIRES AFTER ZERO ARRESTS The setup starts at the trailer. Pickle Robot's system unloads boxes from trailers or containers. That matters because unloading mixed freight can be exhausting work. It also creates bottlenecks when warehouses do not have enough people on the dock. From there, the packages move by conveyor into AmbiStack. Ambi Robotics designed AmbiStack as a multipurpose stacking system. It reads package information and builds pallets for the next stage of the warehouse process. The key here is the handoff. Many warehouses already use automation. However, those systems often work in separate lanes. One machine may handle unloading. Another may handle sorting or stacking. Yet the warehouse still needs people or custom engineering to connect the pieces. This collaboration tries to make that connection smoother. The companies say the system can work with existing warehouse infrastructure. That means operators may avoid tearing apart a facility to use it. Physical AI means AI that controls machines doing physical work. That is important here because warehouse robots have to deal with moving boxes, shifting freight, conveyor timing and pallet stability. That creates a very different challenge from software that writes a paragraph or answers a question. A warehouse robot has to react to what sits in front of it. A box can arrive dented. A label can face the wrong way. A pallet can become unstable if the next case goes in the wrong spot. This Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot integration shows how that can work inside a warehouse. Pickle Robot handles the trailer unloading. AmbiStack takes over downstream by scanning and stacking cases for receiving. Together, the systems show how specialized robots can connect across a warehouse workflow. "Warehouse operators shouldn't have to choose between best-in-class technologies and seamless integration," said Jim Liefer, CEO of Ambi Robotics. "As Physical AI transforms supply chains, interoperability will become increasingly important." AJ Meyer, founder and CEO of Pickle Robot Company, put the customer demand more directly: "Customers want automation that improves real-world throughput while fitting into existing operations." AI MAY SPOT DEADLY HEART RISK IN A ROUTINE ECG Anyone who has waited on a delayed package knows the supply chain can break down fast. Sometimes the problem starts long before a delivery truck reaches your home. Inbound logistics covers the work that happens when goods arrive at a warehouse. That includes getting boxes off trailers and moving them into the right workflow. It sounds pretty straightforward until you see the reality. Trailers can be packed unevenly. Boxes can arrive in odd shapes. Warehouse teams also deal with tight schedules and physical strain. That is why loading docks have become such a major focus for automation. If robots can unload freight and pass it into a pallet-building system without constant human intervention, warehouses could move goods faster through one of the most labor-heavy parts of the operation. The big question is obvious. What happens to workers? Robots can take over repetitive and physically demanding tasks. That may reduce injuries and help warehouses handle labor shortages. It may also change which jobs companies need most. Instead of spending a full shift unloading trailers, some workers may monitor the unloading and stacking systems. Others may step in when a package jams, a label fails to scan or a pallet needs human attention. Still, that shift can feel unsettling. Automation often comes with a promise of safety and efficiency. Workers want to know where they fit in next. That is very important. A robot may move a box, but people still handle judgment calls, customer issues and fast decisions when the workflow changes. Retailers and logistics companies feel pressure from several directions. Consumers expect faster shipping. Warehouses face staffing challenges. Meanwhile, e-commerce keeps creating more package volume. That creates a hard math problem. Companies need to move more goods without slowing down at the dock. This Ambi Robotics and Pickle Robot setup gives warehouse operators another option. Instead of buying one giant system from a single vendor, they can connect specialized robotic tools that handle different parts of the job. That could give operators more flexibility. It could also help them avoid major redesigns, which can be expensive and disruptive. In other words, the robots are getting smarter. They are also starting to work together in more useful ways. Even if you never set foot in a warehouse, this kind of automation can affect your life. When warehouses move goods more efficiently, stores may restock faster. Online orders may move with fewer delays. Returns may get processed more quickly. There is another side, too. More automation can reshape job roles inside warehouses. That means workers may need new training as companies bring in more robotic systems. You may also hear fewer excuses when packages run late. If robots help warehouses operate with fewer bottlenecks, retailers may raise expectations for speed even more. That sounds convenient, but it also means the race for faster delivery keeps putting pressure on every part of the supply chain. Your phone holds your email, passwords, photos, banking apps and personal data. In this free CyberGuy Live replay, Kurt the CyberGuy walks you step by step through simple phone security fixes you can do at your own pace. You’ll learn how to improve your privacy settings, spot the latest phone scams, use trusted security tools and walk away with a simple checklist to stay protected. Watch the replay and get our checklist here: CyberGuyLive.com MOST PROMINENT AI CHATBOTS HAVE LIBERAL BIAS, NEW STUDY FINDS What grabs me here is the handoff. One robot unloads packages from a trailer. Another scans and stacks them for the next part of the warehouse process. That is the piece that could change how loading docks operate. Warehouses are full of little delays that add up fast. If a package sits in the wrong place or waits for a person to move it to the next step, the whole process can slow down. This integration shows how warehouse robots may start taking over more of that middle work between the truck and the warehouse floor. Still, the human side deserves attention. These systems could reduce backbreaking work, which is a good thing. At the same time, they may change what warehouse workers are asked to do. The companies that make that transition clear, fair and useful for workers will be the ones to watch. If robots can unload the truck, build the pallet and keep the warehouse moving, what job inside the warehouse gets automated next? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b520197238567836b87d Supreme Court set to close term with landmark birthright citizenship ruling and more top headlines te 2026-06-30T12:22:56.962Z Supreme Court set to close term with landmark birthright citizenship ruling and more top headlines 1. Supreme Court to close term with birthright citizenship ruling  2. Socialists take fight west in bid to oust Democratic establishment 3. US, Iran send delegations to Qatar as Tehran denies direct talks ENERGY SECURITY — Gulf states quietly building ways to bypass Iran's greatest geopolitical weapon. Continue reading … HOUSE DIVIDED — Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories. Continue reading … HISTORIC UPSET — Disallowed goal in extra time leads Paraguay over Germany in stunner at FIFA World Cup. Continue reading … SUMMER MENACE — Deadly tick virus cases explode in US as doctors warn infection happens in minutes. Continue reading … STAR POWER — HOA threatens American flag fines as homeowners refuse to remove Old Glory. Continue reading … -- ‘PERVERSION’ — Online fury after viral Seattle Pride videos show nude adults marching next to children. Continue reading … CIRCLE OF TRUST — Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties. Continue reading … COVENANT CRISIS — Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal. Continue reading … SILICON SQUEEZE — AOC targets tech giants for breakup over surging processor costs and AI strain. Continue reading … Click here for more cartoons…   POLICY PIVOT — Schools quietly remove gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training. Continue reading … HOT TAKE — Paris deputy mayor blasts Americans on Instagram for France's deadly heat wave. Continue reading … DEFYING THE ODDS — Savannah Guthrie proved doubters wrong 64 days after her mother's disappearance. Continue reading … SPEAKING OUT — Meteorologist axed after Instagram rant blasts station's workplace culture. Continue reading … HUGH HEWITT — Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense. Continue reading …  DAN GAINOR — How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America. Continue reading … -- PATRIOTISM BREWED — One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed. Continue reading … HIDDEN INFESTATION — Man's headaches led doctors to suspect cancer — the real cause was far more bizarre. Continue reading … BILLIONAIRE BRIDE — Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession. Continue reading … AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ — Test yourself on cruise controversies and wedding whispers. Take the quiz here … Tune in to hear how the World Cup is reshaping global views of the United States and explore the history behind America’s biggest sports moments. Check it out ... What's it looking like in your neighborhood? Continue reading…   Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter LinkedIn      Fox News First Fox News Opinion Fox News Lifestyle Fox News Entertainment (FOX411) Fox Business Fox Weather Fox Sports Tubi Fox News Go Thank you for making us your first choice in the morning! We'll see you in your inbox first thing Wednesday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b519197238567836b874 Supreme Court set to close term with landmark birthright citizenship ruling and more top headlines te 2026-06-30T12:22:49.149Z Supreme Court set to close term with landmark birthright citizenship ruling and more top headlines 1. Supreme Court to close term with birthright citizenship ruling  2. Socialists take fight west in bid to oust Democratic establishment 3. US, Iran send delegations to Qatar as Tehran denies direct talks ENERGY SECURITY — Gulf states quietly building ways to bypass Iran's greatest geopolitical weapon. Continue reading … HOUSE DIVIDED — Fetterman unleashes on 'dirtbag' wing of Dems after far-left victories. Continue reading … HISTORIC UPSET — Disallowed goal in extra time leads Paraguay over Germany in stunner at FIFA World Cup. Continue reading … SUMMER MENACE — Deadly tick virus cases explode in US as doctors warn infection happens in minutes. Continue reading … STAR POWER — HOA threatens American flag fines as homeowners refuse to remove Old Glory. Continue reading … -- ‘PERVERSION’ — Online fury after viral Seattle Pride videos show nude adults marching next to children. Continue reading … CIRCLE OF TRUST — Clinton confidant who called Maxwell his 'lover' grilled by Congress over Epstein ties. Continue reading … COVENANT CRISIS — Trump’s massive GOP faith bloc raises red flag on Iran deal. Continue reading … SILICON SQUEEZE — AOC targets tech giants for breakup over surging processor costs and AI strain. Continue reading … Click here for more cartoons…   POLICY PIVOT — Schools quietly remove gender identity pledge from LGBTQ training. Continue reading … HOT TAKE — Paris deputy mayor blasts Americans on Instagram for France's deadly heat wave. Continue reading … DEFYING THE ODDS — Savannah Guthrie proved doubters wrong 64 days after her mother's disappearance. Continue reading … SPEAKING OUT — Meteorologist axed after Instagram rant blasts station's workplace culture. Continue reading … HUGH HEWITT — Senator Susan Collins and the nation’s national defense. Continue reading …  DAN GAINOR — How American engineers unlocked the impossible beneath the Gulf of America. Continue reading … -- PATRIOTISM BREWED — One of the biggest myths about the Boston Tea Party revealed. Continue reading … HIDDEN INFESTATION — Man's headaches led doctors to suspect cancer — the real cause was far more bizarre. Continue reading … BILLIONAIRE BRIDE — Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession. Continue reading … AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ — Test yourself on cruise controversies and wedding whispers. Take the quiz here … Tune in to hear how the World Cup is reshaping global views of the United States and explore the history behind America’s biggest sports moments. Check it out ... What's it looking like in your neighborhood? Continue reading…   Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter LinkedIn      Fox News First Fox News Opinion Fox News Lifestyle Fox News Entertainment (FOX411) Fox Business Fox Weather Fox Sports Tubi Fox News Go Thank you for making us your first choice in the morning! We'll see you in your inbox first thing Wednesday. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b50d197238567836b86b Juan Soto's misread turns routine single into Little League home run as Mets' woes continue te 2026-06-30T12:22:37.506Z Juan Soto's misread turns routine single into Little League home run as Mets' woes continue Just how bad are things going for the 2026 New York Mets? Look no further than the first batter they faced against the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday night, where a routine base hit turned into a Little League home run. And Juan Soto, the team’s $765 million man, was at the center of the brutal mishap. The Mets came into this game 35-49, which has been one of the most shocking pre-All-Star-break stories of the season given their spot as the second-highest payroll in MLB this season, only behind the reigning World Series-champion Los Angeles Dodgers. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Starting a six-game road trip on Monday night in Toronto, the Mets were hoping to get something going in their favor just days after manager Carlos Mendoza was fired. But the game couldn’t have started off worse for New York, and it ultimately hurt them in a 2-1 loss. George Springer stepped into the batter’s box against Mets starter Sean Manaea when he served a 2-2 pitch to left field – a routine single is all it should’ve been. WHY ARE THE METS SO BAD? OFFENSIVE STRUGGLES AND A DISJOINTED CLUBHOUSE LEAD TO WORST RECORD IN MLB However, Soto misread the ball bouncing off the turf completely, choosing to have an aggressive route toward the ball and potentially catch it on the short hop. Instead, the ball went right underneath his glove and started to roll all the way to the left field fence. Soto was jogging to the ball, while the veteran Springer was booking it around the basepaths. Soto’s decision not to sprint himself was because rookie center fielder A.J. Ewing was in pursuit already. But things only got worse from there. As Ewing looked up to see where Springer was on the bases, he didn’t field the ball cleanly, rather tossing it back to the fence after trying to scoop it up with his glove. As a result, Springer was waved around third base. By the time Soto picked the ball up and looked toward the infield, Springer was already around third base to score his Little League home run to the delight of the Rogers Centre crowd. Errors have been among the pain points for the Mets this season, having the third-most in MLB, only behind the Washington Nationals and San Francisco Giants. It was just five days ago when the Mets committed six infield errors as they were swept by the Chicago Cubs in a doubleheader. This moment was one Soto tried to explain postgame. "When you have an outfield like that, that it bounces a lot, you have to be aware because you can give up extra base hits really easy," Soto told reporters after going 1-for-3 at the plate with a walk in the loss. "So, I would say you got to be aggressive – that was my mindset. Just be aggressive, come through the ball instead of playing it back and let it bounce over my head. But I actually just stopped." This is obviously not what owner Steve Cohen and the Mets had in mind when they began the 2026 campaign, but they find themselves in a hole that seems to get deeper with every game, and plays like this only pile on to the disappointment that continues for the team and its fan base.   Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b505197238567836b862 Juan Soto's misread turns routine single into Little League home run as Mets' woes continue te 2026-06-30T12:22:29.683Z Juan Soto's misread turns routine single into Little League home run as Mets' woes continue Just how bad are things going for the 2026 New York Mets? Look no further than the first batter they faced against the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday night, where a routine base hit turned into a Little League home run. And Juan Soto, the team’s $765 million man, was at the center of the brutal mishap. The Mets came into this game 35-49, which has been one of the most shocking pre-All-Star-break stories of the season given their spot as the second-highest payroll in MLB this season, only behind the reigning World Series-champion Los Angeles Dodgers. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Starting a six-game road trip on Monday night in Toronto, the Mets were hoping to get something going in their favor just days after manager Carlos Mendoza was fired. But the game couldn’t have started off worse for New York, and it ultimately hurt them in a 2-1 loss. George Springer stepped into the batter’s box against Mets starter Sean Manaea when he served a 2-2 pitch to left field – a routine single is all it should’ve been. WHY ARE THE METS SO BAD? OFFENSIVE STRUGGLES AND A DISJOINTED CLUBHOUSE LEAD TO WORST RECORD IN MLB However, Soto misread the ball bouncing off the turf completely, choosing to have an aggressive route toward the ball and potentially catch it on the short hop. Instead, the ball went right underneath his glove and started to roll all the way to the left field fence. Soto was jogging to the ball, while the veteran Springer was booking it around the basepaths. Soto’s decision not to sprint himself was because rookie center fielder A.J. Ewing was in pursuit already. But things only got worse from there. As Ewing looked up to see where Springer was on the bases, he didn’t field the ball cleanly, rather tossing it back to the fence after trying to scoop it up with his glove. As a result, Springer was waved around third base. By the time Soto picked the ball up and looked toward the infield, Springer was already around third base to score his Little League home run to the delight of the Rogers Centre crowd. Errors have been among the pain points for the Mets this season, having the third-most in MLB, only behind the Washington Nationals and San Francisco Giants. It was just five days ago when the Mets committed six infield errors as they were swept by the Chicago Cubs in a doubleheader. This moment was one Soto tried to explain postgame. "When you have an outfield like that, that it bounces a lot, you have to be aware because you can give up extra base hits really easy," Soto told reporters after going 1-for-3 at the plate with a walk in the loss. "So, I would say you got to be aggressive – that was my mindset. Just be aggressive, come through the ball instead of playing it back and let it bounce over my head. But I actually just stopped." This is obviously not what owner Steve Cohen and the Mets had in mind when they began the 2026 campaign, but they find themselves in a hole that seems to get deeper with every game, and plays like this only pile on to the disappointment that continues for the team and its fan base.   Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4fa197238567836b859 House GOP's SAVE Act rescue plan hits resistance from conservative holdouts te 2026-06-30T12:22:18.049Z House GOP's SAVE Act rescue plan hits resistance from conservative holdouts House Republican leaders are making another bid to salvage the stalled SAVE America Act after a conservative revolt froze floor action last week, but GOP lawmakers behind the blockade are withholding support for the plan. The House Rules Committee on Monday approved a rule in an 8-4 vote that would merge an annual defense policy bill with the Trump-backed election measure in a rare procedural maneuver before sending the package to the Senate.  Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the panel who was among the conservatives last week that backed the SAVE-related floor blockade, did not vote.  Meanwhile, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla. — the leader of the lower chamber's SAVE protest — argued the procedural tactic would fail to force Senate action, instead calling for a SAVE amendment to be added to the defense bill. 'AS LONG AS IT TAKES': TRUMP ALLIES FREEZE HOUSE FLOOR TO PRESSURE SENATE ON VOTER ID BILL "The only way to ensure the Senate passes this is to make sure it’s in the bill text of the NDAA, meaning that my amendment(s) must be made an order," the Florida Republican wrote on X. "I’m not trying to be difficult, but this is what 80% of Americans want and what we promised the American people, so I stand by my decision."  Johnson’s proposal comes after the conservative holdouts rejected his appeal to enact parts of SAVE in another ‘Big Beautiful Bill" last week. Given House Republicans' slim majority, the speaker will likely need their support to pass a rule later Tuesday teeing up the chamber's version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Because procedural votes are typically party-line, he can afford to lose only a handful of GOP defections. Tuesday’s vote will also advance a spending bill funding the State Department and other foreign operations for fiscal year 2027 and a resolution commemorating the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which Republicans now refer to as the Working Families Tax Cuts. If Republican leadership fails to advance the legislative items, the House floor would effectively be frozen and lawmakers could return home early ahead of the July 4 recess. Johnson warned Monday that continuing the floor blockade would be a "self-defeating" approach. "It doesn't make any sense," Johnson told reporters. "We have to move forward with legislation and that's what I'll be telling them all."  'IT'S A MESS': GOP TURNS ON HOUSE CONSERVATIVES AS VOTER ID BLOCKADE STALLS TRUMP'S AGENDA But Luna indicated her reluctance to unlock the House floor until she receives assurances on the SAVE America Act’s fate in the Senate. "But to, you know, say that we're holding up the process. This is legislating," Luna told reporters Monday, standing next to Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., who has also joined the SAVE protest. "If people elected us to just come up here and vote in line with what the party wants, then it would be a whole lot different." Democrats, who would like to see the rules package fail, argued the GOP holdouts should not listen to Republican leadership because their proposal would be dead on arrival in the Senate.  "Let me be clear, the Senate will just strip the SAVE Act out," Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Conn., said during the Rules Committee debate Monday. "They've already said that merging it with the NDAA bill doesn't prevent that. Nothing in this rule will prevent that." "There is a 0% chance SAVE ends up in the NDAA because of this rule today," he continued. "So this is a ‘cover-your-behind’ maneuver, if you will." Under the rule approved Monday, the procedural maneuver would facilitate SAVE’s attachment to the NDAA without requiring lawmakers to vote on it again. Leadership did not choose a version of the election bill including all the president’s SAVE priorities, such as curtailing mail-in voting and banning men in women’s sports and child sex change procedures. Johnson has yet to ask House Republicans to consider the comprehensive measure, and it is unclear whether a crackdown on mail-in ballots could clear the chamber. Johnson’s SAVE gambit comes as House Republicans appear to have little leverage to force the bill through the Senate, where GOP leaders say it lacks the votes to pass. The election measure has struggled to win unified Republican support, let alone the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. Trump sharply criticized five alleged holdouts — Sens. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, Susan Collins, R-Maine, Thom Tillis, R-N.C., Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. — in a Truth Social post Monday, arguing the cohort "must vote to SAVE OUR COUNTRY." "There can be no more excuses!" he wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4f2197238567836b850 House GOP's SAVE Act rescue plan hits resistance from conservative holdouts te 2026-06-30T12:22:10.228Z House GOP's SAVE Act rescue plan hits resistance from conservative holdouts House Republican leaders are making another bid to salvage the stalled SAVE America Act after a conservative revolt froze floor action last week, but GOP lawmakers behind the blockade are withholding support for the plan. The House Rules Committee on Monday approved a rule in an 8-4 vote that would merge an annual defense policy bill with the Trump-backed election measure in a rare procedural maneuver before sending the package to the Senate.  Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the panel who was among the conservatives last week that backed the SAVE-related floor blockade, did not vote.  Meanwhile, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla. — the leader of the lower chamber's SAVE protest — argued the procedural tactic would fail to force Senate action, instead calling for a SAVE amendment to be added to the defense bill. 'AS LONG AS IT TAKES': TRUMP ALLIES FREEZE HOUSE FLOOR TO PRESSURE SENATE ON VOTER ID BILL "The only way to ensure the Senate passes this is to make sure it’s in the bill text of the NDAA, meaning that my amendment(s) must be made an order," the Florida Republican wrote on X. "I’m not trying to be difficult, but this is what 80% of Americans want and what we promised the American people, so I stand by my decision."  Johnson’s proposal comes after the conservative holdouts rejected his appeal to enact parts of SAVE in another ‘Big Beautiful Bill" last week. Given House Republicans' slim majority, the speaker will likely need their support to pass a rule later Tuesday teeing up the chamber's version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Because procedural votes are typically party-line, he can afford to lose only a handful of GOP defections. Tuesday’s vote will also advance a spending bill funding the State Department and other foreign operations for fiscal year 2027 and a resolution commemorating the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which Republicans now refer to as the Working Families Tax Cuts. If Republican leadership fails to advance the legislative items, the House floor would effectively be frozen and lawmakers could return home early ahead of the July 4 recess. Johnson warned Monday that continuing the floor blockade would be a "self-defeating" approach. "It doesn't make any sense," Johnson told reporters. "We have to move forward with legislation and that's what I'll be telling them all."  'IT'S A MESS': GOP TURNS ON HOUSE CONSERVATIVES AS VOTER ID BLOCKADE STALLS TRUMP'S AGENDA But Luna indicated her reluctance to unlock the House floor until she receives assurances on the SAVE America Act’s fate in the Senate. "But to, you know, say that we're holding up the process. This is legislating," Luna told reporters Monday, standing next to Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., who has also joined the SAVE protest. "If people elected us to just come up here and vote in line with what the party wants, then it would be a whole lot different." Democrats, who would like to see the rules package fail, argued the GOP holdouts should not listen to Republican leadership because their proposal would be dead on arrival in the Senate.  "Let me be clear, the Senate will just strip the SAVE Act out," Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Conn., said during the Rules Committee debate Monday. "They've already said that merging it with the NDAA bill doesn't prevent that. Nothing in this rule will prevent that." "There is a 0% chance SAVE ends up in the NDAA because of this rule today," he continued. "So this is a ‘cover-your-behind’ maneuver, if you will." Under the rule approved Monday, the procedural maneuver would facilitate SAVE’s attachment to the NDAA without requiring lawmakers to vote on it again. Leadership did not choose a version of the election bill including all the president’s SAVE priorities, such as curtailing mail-in voting and banning men in women’s sports and child sex change procedures. Johnson has yet to ask House Republicans to consider the comprehensive measure, and it is unclear whether a crackdown on mail-in ballots could clear the chamber. Johnson’s SAVE gambit comes as House Republicans appear to have little leverage to force the bill through the Senate, where GOP leaders say it lacks the votes to pass. The election measure has struggled to win unified Republican support, let alone the 60 votes needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. Trump sharply criticized five alleged holdouts — Sens. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, Susan Collins, R-Maine, Thom Tillis, R-N.C., Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. — in a Truth Social post Monday, arguing the cohort "must vote to SAVE OUR COUNTRY." "There can be no more excuses!" he wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4e6197238567836b847 Discoveries that reshaped what historians knew about America's Founding Fathers te 2026-06-30T12:21:58.594Z Discoveries that reshaped what historians knew about America's Founding Fathers The Founding Fathers left behind extensive writings, but new discoveries continue to deepen historians' understanding of America's most influential figures. Advances in archaeology, DNA analysis and archival research have uncovered forgotten documents, artifacts and other evidence from the nation's earliest years. Over the past century, discoveries have offered fresh insight into America's founders, changing how historians understand their lives and legacies, as detailed below. ANCIENT ROMAN'S 'MISHAP' LEADS TO RARE JEWELRY DISCOVERY IN BRITISH COUNTRYSIDE According to the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF), Thomas Jefferson, principal author of the Declaration of Independence, fathered at least six children with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman at Monticello. Though it was rumored during his lifetime that Jefferson fathered children with one of the enslaved women, it wasn't until a landmark 1998 DNA study that historians found scientific evidence that appears to support the claim. EXCAVATORS DISCOVER PREHISTORIC VILLAGE BENEATH FUTURE GOLF COURSE: 'REMARKABLE JOURNEY' Hemings was brought to Paris from 1787 to 1789 to work as a servant and maid for Jefferson's household. "While in Paris, where enslaved people could petition for their freedom, she negotiated with Jefferson to return to enslavement at Monticello in exchange for 'extraordinary privileges' for herself and freedom for her unborn children," the TJF states on its website. "Decades later, Jefferson freed all of Sally Hemings’s children ... [he] did not grant freedom to any other enslaved family unit." ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNEARTH STRANGE HEAD DEPICTING ROMAN GOD BENEATH CATHOLIC BASILICA After reviewing documentary, scientific, statistical and oral history evidence, the Foundation concluded that Jefferson most likely fathered Hemings' children, a position now widely accepted by mainstream historians. Not all historians agree with that assessment, however. After reviewing historical evidence, the Thomas Jefferson Heritage Society concluded that Hemings "was only a minor figure in Thomas Jefferson's life and that it is very unlikely he fathered any of her children," according to the TJF website. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "This committee also suggested in its report, issued in April 2001 and revised in 2011, that Jefferson's younger brother Randolph (1755-1815) was more likely the father of at least some of Sally Hemings's children," the website adds. In 1999, archaeologists at Mount Vernon uncovered the remains of George Washington's long-lost whiskey distillery — revealing that the first president operated what had become the largest commercial distillery in the U.S. by the time he died in 1799. Historians had long known that Washington operated a distillery through surviving records, but the archaeological excavation revealed the scale and sophistication of the operation. The facility was "one of the largest, highest producing operations in the area," Mount Vernon's website says. "The evidence also highlights the fact that this distillery was operating at an industrial scale, compared to the one or two still farmer-distillers common in the 18th and early 19th centuries," the site adds. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ During the excavation, archaeologists uncovered stone foundations, teacups, drinking glasses and evidence of the distillery's copper stills and boilers, which helped researchers reconstruct how the massive operation functioned. "Research suggests that George Washington was one of the most innovative and enterprising farmers in America’s history," Mount Vernon's website says. "This entrepreneurial spirit can be seen in such exhibits as the 16-sided treading barn, the gristmill and the distillery." In 1947, historian Julian P. Boyd discovered a previously unknown draft of the Declaration of Independence among Jefferson's papers. The Library of Congress's website describes the draft as "brief, but critically important," noting that it predated the famous "Rough Draught" Jefferson later produced. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Comparing the older fragment and the "Rough Draught," the historian found that Jefferson revised his language more extensively than previously documented. The fragment also gave historians a clearer picture of the drafting process, helping them trace Jefferson's edits alongside revisions made by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Congress before the Declaration's adoption. "Heavily edited in Jefferson's clear, precise hand, the fragment proved to be a key component in unraveling the story of the writing of the Declaration," the website notes. "The existence of the fragment confirmed the view of those historians, who had argued that a heavily edited draft must have preceded the copy Jefferson had endorsed as the original rough draft." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4de197238567836b83e Discoveries that reshaped what historians knew about America's Founding Fathers te 2026-06-30T12:21:50.771Z Discoveries that reshaped what historians knew about America's Founding Fathers The Founding Fathers left behind extensive writings, but new discoveries continue to deepen historians' understanding of America's most influential figures. Advances in archaeology, DNA analysis and archival research have uncovered forgotten documents, artifacts and other evidence from the nation's earliest years. Over the past century, discoveries have offered fresh insight into America's founders, changing how historians understand their lives and legacies, as detailed below. ANCIENT ROMAN'S 'MISHAP' LEADS TO RARE JEWELRY DISCOVERY IN BRITISH COUNTRYSIDE According to the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF), Thomas Jefferson, principal author of the Declaration of Independence, fathered at least six children with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman at Monticello. Though it was rumored during his lifetime that Jefferson fathered children with one of the enslaved women, it wasn't until a landmark 1998 DNA study that historians found scientific evidence that appears to support the claim. EXCAVATORS DISCOVER PREHISTORIC VILLAGE BENEATH FUTURE GOLF COURSE: 'REMARKABLE JOURNEY' Hemings was brought to Paris from 1787 to 1789 to work as a servant and maid for Jefferson's household. "While in Paris, where enslaved people could petition for their freedom, she negotiated with Jefferson to return to enslavement at Monticello in exchange for 'extraordinary privileges' for herself and freedom for her unborn children," the TJF states on its website. "Decades later, Jefferson freed all of Sally Hemings’s children ... [he] did not grant freedom to any other enslaved family unit." ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNEARTH STRANGE HEAD DEPICTING ROMAN GOD BENEATH CATHOLIC BASILICA After reviewing documentary, scientific, statistical and oral history evidence, the Foundation concluded that Jefferson most likely fathered Hemings' children, a position now widely accepted by mainstream historians. Not all historians agree with that assessment, however. After reviewing historical evidence, the Thomas Jefferson Heritage Society concluded that Hemings "was only a minor figure in Thomas Jefferson's life and that it is very unlikely he fathered any of her children," according to the TJF website. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "This committee also suggested in its report, issued in April 2001 and revised in 2011, that Jefferson's younger brother Randolph (1755-1815) was more likely the father of at least some of Sally Hemings's children," the website adds. In 1999, archaeologists at Mount Vernon uncovered the remains of George Washington's long-lost whiskey distillery — revealing that the first president operated what had become the largest commercial distillery in the U.S. by the time he died in 1799. Historians had long known that Washington operated a distillery through surviving records, but the archaeological excavation revealed the scale and sophistication of the operation. The facility was "one of the largest, highest producing operations in the area," Mount Vernon's website says. "The evidence also highlights the fact that this distillery was operating at an industrial scale, compared to the one or two still farmer-distillers common in the 18th and early 19th centuries," the site adds. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ During the excavation, archaeologists uncovered stone foundations, teacups, drinking glasses and evidence of the distillery's copper stills and boilers, which helped researchers reconstruct how the massive operation functioned. "Research suggests that George Washington was one of the most innovative and enterprising farmers in America’s history," Mount Vernon's website says. "This entrepreneurial spirit can be seen in such exhibits as the 16-sided treading barn, the gristmill and the distillery." In 1947, historian Julian P. Boyd discovered a previously unknown draft of the Declaration of Independence among Jefferson's papers. The Library of Congress's website describes the draft as "brief, but critically important," noting that it predated the famous "Rough Draught" Jefferson later produced. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Comparing the older fragment and the "Rough Draught," the historian found that Jefferson revised his language more extensively than previously documented. The fragment also gave historians a clearer picture of the drafting process, helping them trace Jefferson's edits alongside revisions made by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Congress before the Declaration's adoption. "Heavily edited in Jefferson's clear, precise hand, the fragment proved to be a key component in unraveling the story of the writing of the Declaration," the website notes. "The existence of the fragment confirmed the view of those historians, who had argued that a heavily edited draft must have preceded the copy Jefferson had endorsed as the original rough draft." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4d3197238567836b835 Heartbroken father blasts ‘broken’ system that let family massacre take his children before they could reunite te 2026-06-30T12:21:39.137Z Heartbroken father blasts ‘broken’ system that let family massacre take his children before they could reunite A father is grieving the loss of his four young children following an alleged murder-suicide poisoning plot. Speaking with Fox News Digital, the children's father, Brady Harmon, said nothing could have prepared him for the shocking and devastating news. He said, "There is no preparation. It's horrendous." The children's grandmother is suspected of poisoning the four children and their mother before taking her own life in Mechanicville, New York, police said during a Thursday news conference. "There is recovered evidence inside the apartment that indicates intentional poisoning with numerous prescriptions and over-the-counter medication," said Mechanicville Police Chief William Rabbitt. WOMAN LINKED TO TRANSGENDER ZIZIAN CULT CHARGED WITH ARRANGING HER PARENTS' MURDERS ON HER 30TH BIRTHDAY 📩 Send me a story idea: kelsie.cairns@fox.com 📸 Instagram: kelsiecairns_tv 🎥 Facebook: Kelsie Cairns He added that during an autopsy examination it was discovered that one of the child victims may have "suffered fatal sharp force injuries." FOLLOW US ON X Investigators made their grim discovery during a welfare check at the home on Tuesday, June 23. MPD named those found dead: GET BREAKING NEWS BY EMAIL During the news conference, police named Steadman as the children's grandmother. Rabbitt said investigators found a "handwritten note" that may link her to the deaths. CLICK HERE FOR MORE US NEWS He also said causes of death are pending additional investigation and toxicology testing. Before the young victims were found dead, Harmon, who lives in Utah, told Fox News Digital he was planning on taking his children back to Utah with him for the summer. He never had the chance. He was fighting an ongoing custody battle with the children's mother, Myers, he said. He also told Fox News Digital he had concerns about the children's safety and well-being before the tragedy. His worst fears became realized. "The system is broken, it takes way too long to get anything done. I spent six and a half years fighting to be able to have access to my kids," he said. While the murder investigation continues, Harmon said, "My concern right now is being able to bring my kids home, and have them away from those two monsters that did this to them." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4cb197238567836b82c Heartbroken father blasts ‘broken’ system that let family massacre take his children before they could reunite te 2026-06-30T12:21:31.316Z Heartbroken father blasts ‘broken’ system that let family massacre take his children before they could reunite A father is grieving the loss of his four young children following an alleged murder-suicide poisoning plot. Speaking with Fox News Digital, the children's father, Brady Harmon, said nothing could have prepared him for the shocking and devastating news. He said, "There is no preparation. It's horrendous." The children's grandmother is suspected of poisoning the four children and their mother before taking her own life in Mechanicville, New York, police said during a Thursday news conference. "There is recovered evidence inside the apartment that indicates intentional poisoning with numerous prescriptions and over-the-counter medication," said Mechanicville Police Chief William Rabbitt. WOMAN LINKED TO TRANSGENDER ZIZIAN CULT CHARGED WITH ARRANGING HER PARENTS' MURDERS ON HER 30TH BIRTHDAY 📩 Send me a story idea: kelsie.cairns@fox.com 📸 Instagram: kelsiecairns_tv 🎥 Facebook: Kelsie Cairns He added that during an autopsy examination it was discovered that one of the child victims may have "suffered fatal sharp force injuries." FOLLOW US ON X Investigators made their grim discovery during a welfare check at the home on Tuesday, June 23. MPD named those found dead: GET BREAKING NEWS BY EMAIL During the news conference, police named Steadman as the children's grandmother. Rabbitt said investigators found a "handwritten note" that may link her to the deaths. CLICK HERE FOR MORE US NEWS He also said causes of death are pending additional investigation and toxicology testing. Before the young victims were found dead, Harmon, who lives in Utah, told Fox News Digital he was planning on taking his children back to Utah with him for the summer. He never had the chance. He was fighting an ongoing custody battle with the children's mother, Myers, he said. He also told Fox News Digital he had concerns about the children's safety and well-being before the tragedy. His worst fears became realized. "The system is broken, it takes way too long to get anything done. I spent six and a half years fighting to be able to have access to my kids," he said. While the murder investigation continues, Harmon said, "My concern right now is being able to bring my kids home, and have them away from those two monsters that did this to them." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4bf197238567836b823 Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession te 2026-06-30T12:21:19.688Z Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession Taylor Swift's biggest wedding gift may already be sitting in her bank account. Before the superstar prepared to say "I do," she built an estimated $2 billion empire that branding experts said transformed her from a hitmaker into one of the most powerful businesses in entertainment. "At this point, Taylor Swift's brand is so dominant and so deeply tied to her creative output that marriage is only going to add a new dimension to an empire that is already running on all cylinders," reputation management expert Evan Nierman told Fox News Digital. "The buzz and speculation around her wedding have made it a global media event long before it even happens, and that level of cultural gravity tells you everything about where her brand stands heading into the next chapter," Nierman, founder & CEO of crisis PR firm Red Banyan, added. TAYLOR SWIFT, TRAVIS KELCE WEDDING BETTING FRENZY REVEALS ONE OVERWHELMING PREDICTION Reports of Swift and Travis Kelce's rumored July 3 wedding intensified last week after The New York Times reported Swift had rented Madison Square Garden for a multi-day celebration. The couple's potential July 3 wedding would come weeks after Forbes announced the global pop star had surpassed a net worth of $2 billion after becoming a billionaire in 2023. Swift's fortune included roughly $800 million earned directly from her music and touring along with a $600 million music catalog, according to the outlet. The "Life of a Showgirl" singer's massive fortune didn't happen by accident, branding experts said. Instead, they pointed to years of relentless touring, strategic business moves and an unmatched connection with fans that turned the singer into a global powerhouse. "Taylor Swift is the apex predator of the entertainment industry," branding expert Doug Eldridge told Fox News Digital. "She is the first artist to earn one billion dollars from a world tour and while the ticket prices often started at four figures, the reality is she was an absolute road warrior – she put in the work, and was willing to grind on that tour," Eldridge, founder of Achilles PR, added. "When it comes to her billion dollar valuation, she earned it. It was grit, not grift." TRAVIS KELCE'S DAD CALLS TAYLOR SWIFT 'THE GIRL NEXT DOOR' AS WEDDING SPECULATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS While Swift's record-breaking tour fueled her fortune, experts said her billion-dollar success extends far beyond ticket sales. "The music catalog is a massive asset, but it would only be worth a fraction of what it is today without the power of the Taylor Swift brand behind it," Nierman said. "Her ability to fill stadiums, command global attention and elevate every album release into a cultural event is what turned a great body of work into a $2 billion empire." Nierman said that brand wouldn't have reached its current value without one key ingredient: the unwavering loyalty of Swift's fans. "The Swifties are the single most valuable fanbase in entertainment because they’ve turned loyalty into an economic engine that generates revenue at a historic scale," he explained. "The Eras Tour generated over $2 billion in ticket sales and experts estimate fans spent billions more on travel, merchandise and experiences around those shows, which is the kind of consumer spending power that most major corporations would kill for." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Former CBS executive Derek Reisfield said Swift has turned fan loyalty into something few artists ever achieve: complete control over her business. "Swift is calling the shots," he explained. "She essentially is a Fortune 1000 CEO. It is driven by the music, but Swift seems to have a knack for creating significant revenue streams on top of the music. The loyalty and emotional investment of her fans helps her do that." Reisfield credited Swift's genuine connection with fans for helping her sustain one of entertainment's most powerful brands. "Taylor Swift has an extremely strong brand. She is an incredible musician and performer, and she has bonded with her fans in a powerful and unique way," the co-founder and founding Chairman of MarketWatch told Fox News Digital. "She has an authenticity that is genuine that drives a powerful connection with her audiences." LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Looking ahead, experts said a wedding would likely mark another evolution of the Swift brand rather than a departure from it. "Will marriage affect her brand? I think in only positive ways," Reisfield said. "Her relationship with Travis Kelce seems to be part of her story now. Kids won't affect her brand either. They will probably only enhance her brand in the short to medium term." Eldridge predicted that whatever comes next for Swift personally will likely translate into business success. "It’ll be one of two things: source material for her next 'good girl, done wrong' album, or a logical evolution of teen, to young adult, to finding her own, real-life Prince Charming," the PR expert noted. "In either case, it will generate eyeballs, interest, and investment. In other words, Swift will cash in." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4b7197238567836b81a Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession te 2026-06-30T12:21:11.858Z Taylor Swift's empire tops $2 billion as wedding frenzy fuels global obsession Taylor Swift's biggest wedding gift may already be sitting in her bank account. Before the superstar prepared to say "I do," she built an estimated $2 billion empire that branding experts said transformed her from a hitmaker into one of the most powerful businesses in entertainment. "At this point, Taylor Swift's brand is so dominant and so deeply tied to her creative output that marriage is only going to add a new dimension to an empire that is already running on all cylinders," reputation management expert Evan Nierman told Fox News Digital. "The buzz and speculation around her wedding have made it a global media event long before it even happens, and that level of cultural gravity tells you everything about where her brand stands heading into the next chapter," Nierman, founder & CEO of crisis PR firm Red Banyan, added. TAYLOR SWIFT, TRAVIS KELCE WEDDING BETTING FRENZY REVEALS ONE OVERWHELMING PREDICTION Reports of Swift and Travis Kelce's rumored July 3 wedding intensified last week after The New York Times reported Swift had rented Madison Square Garden for a multi-day celebration. The couple's potential July 3 wedding would come weeks after Forbes announced the global pop star had surpassed a net worth of $2 billion after becoming a billionaire in 2023. Swift's fortune included roughly $800 million earned directly from her music and touring along with a $600 million music catalog, according to the outlet. The "Life of a Showgirl" singer's massive fortune didn't happen by accident, branding experts said. Instead, they pointed to years of relentless touring, strategic business moves and an unmatched connection with fans that turned the singer into a global powerhouse. "Taylor Swift is the apex predator of the entertainment industry," branding expert Doug Eldridge told Fox News Digital. "She is the first artist to earn one billion dollars from a world tour and while the ticket prices often started at four figures, the reality is she was an absolute road warrior – she put in the work, and was willing to grind on that tour," Eldridge, founder of Achilles PR, added. "When it comes to her billion dollar valuation, she earned it. It was grit, not grift." TRAVIS KELCE'S DAD CALLS TAYLOR SWIFT 'THE GIRL NEXT DOOR' AS WEDDING SPECULATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS While Swift's record-breaking tour fueled her fortune, experts said her billion-dollar success extends far beyond ticket sales. "The music catalog is a massive asset, but it would only be worth a fraction of what it is today without the power of the Taylor Swift brand behind it," Nierman said. "Her ability to fill stadiums, command global attention and elevate every album release into a cultural event is what turned a great body of work into a $2 billion empire." Nierman said that brand wouldn't have reached its current value without one key ingredient: the unwavering loyalty of Swift's fans. "The Swifties are the single most valuable fanbase in entertainment because they’ve turned loyalty into an economic engine that generates revenue at a historic scale," he explained. "The Eras Tour generated over $2 billion in ticket sales and experts estimate fans spent billions more on travel, merchandise and experiences around those shows, which is the kind of consumer spending power that most major corporations would kill for." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Former CBS executive Derek Reisfield said Swift has turned fan loyalty into something few artists ever achieve: complete control over her business. "Swift is calling the shots," he explained. "She essentially is a Fortune 1000 CEO. It is driven by the music, but Swift seems to have a knack for creating significant revenue streams on top of the music. The loyalty and emotional investment of her fans helps her do that." Reisfield credited Swift's genuine connection with fans for helping her sustain one of entertainment's most powerful brands. "Taylor Swift has an extremely strong brand. She is an incredible musician and performer, and she has bonded with her fans in a powerful and unique way," the co-founder and founding Chairman of MarketWatch told Fox News Digital. "She has an authenticity that is genuine that drives a powerful connection with her audiences." LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Looking ahead, experts said a wedding would likely mark another evolution of the Swift brand rather than a departure from it. "Will marriage affect her brand? I think in only positive ways," Reisfield said. "Her relationship with Travis Kelce seems to be part of her story now. Kids won't affect her brand either. They will probably only enhance her brand in the short to medium term." Eldridge predicted that whatever comes next for Swift personally will likely translate into business success. "It’ll be one of two things: source material for her next 'good girl, done wrong' album, or a logical evolution of teen, to young adult, to finding her own, real-life Prince Charming," the PR expert noted. "In either case, it will generate eyeballs, interest, and investment. In other words, Swift will cash in." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4ac197238567836b811 Far-left group calls out New York officials for taking too long to issue reparations as 'disservice' to Blacks te 2026-06-30T12:21:00.226Z Far-left group calls out New York officials for taking too long to issue reparations as 'disservice' to Blacks A prominent civil rights organization is calling out New York officials for extending the timeline on a highly anticipated state report investigating slavery reparations remedies. The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) on Friday slammed the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies after a provision embedded in the newly passed state budget pushed the release of its final report back an additional two years—moving the deadline to 2029. "The state’s decision to spend an additional three years before it takes any action to address these harms raises a lot of questions about when Black New Yorkers will receive reparations," said Chantelle Williams, the NYCLU’s Assistant Director of the Racial Justice Center, pointing to the total time elapsed since the commission's inception. TRUMP ADMIN VOWS TO STOP REPARATIONS PROGRAMS, ACCUSES OFFICIALS OF 'VIRTUE SIGNALING' TO GET 'VOTES' "Meanwhile, the impact of discrimination continues to harm Black individuals and communities across the state. This delay is not just a bureaucratic inconvenience. It is a disservice to those who have suffered the profound and lasting consequences of inequality," Williams added. The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies, a nine-member panel composed of scholars and community leaders, recently concluded a series of statewide public hearings. The final hearing, titled "From Extraction to Repair: Closing the Racial Wealth Gap," took place in Harlem at the end of May. The commission was born out of legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in late 2023, which established a panel to examine the state's historical ties to the institution of slavery, subsequent Jim Crow-era policies, and modern economic disparities like redlining. The body was tasked with compiling those findings into a formal report proposing recommendations for financial compensation and policy changes. However, state leaders agreed to stall the inquiry. Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages, D-Nassau County, who helped draft the original legislation, acknowledged that the extension was requested to navigate a changing national landscape, citing the erosion of voting protections and conservative legal challenges against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Additionally, the new budget measure shields the commissioners from personal legal exposure if they face lawsuits over their official findings. TRUMP ADMIN WANTS TO STOP ILLINOIS CITY'S REPARATIONS EFFORT FOR 'SIMPLY HANDING OUT MONEY BASED ON RACE' Williams believes that rushing the final findings would be a mistake, but emphasizes that the clock is ticking for impacted communities. "The reparations report from the state commission – whenever it’s finally released – will undoubtedly provide ample evidence of past and present harm to Black New Yorkers," Williams said. "Will the legislature respond to the report’s findings with clear, measurable actions to help repair historic wrongs? That’s an open question, and the answer will depend on lawmakers’ political will." "New York has studied, exposed, and documented injustices committed against Black Americans. Now state leaders must decide whether they are ready to truly make amends for those harms," she continued. The Empire State is part of a broader wave of states and local municipalities exploring local reparative structures. Some localities have pushed forward regardless; the Chicago suburb of Evanston, Illinois, made headlines by distributing $25,000 grants to eligible Black residents to address historic housing discrimination. Williams' comments come as the NYCLU itself faces fierce criticism from grassroots reparations advocates who take issue with the organization's overarching philosophy. At a public hearing held at Hempstead High School on Long Island, Susan Gottehrer, the Director of the Nassau County Chapter of the NYCLU, defended a broad approach to any state-level restitution framework. "These government policies have affected Black New Yorkers regardless of lineage. Excluding a subset of Black Americans would leave a significant portion of documented racial injustice completely unexamined," Gottehrer testified. OAKLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT VOWED REPARATIONS FOR BLACK STUDENTS, YET OUTCOMES APPEAR STAGNANT AFTER 5 YEARS That stance drew immediate backlash from members of the U.S. Freedmen Project, an advocacy group present at the hearing. Lineage advocates argue that reparations should be strictly reserved for ancestral Black Americans—specifically the direct descendants of individuals enslaved in the United States. Activists with the Freedmen Project argued that the left-leaning NYCLU and its local chapters do not represent the specific legal and historical interests of foundational Black Americans by trying to include modern Black immigrants under the same compensatory umbrella. The testimony gathered from these tense public forums will be weighed alongside historical data as the commission continues its work ahead of its revised multi-year deadline. The NYCLU did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b4a4197238567836b808 Far-left group calls out New York officials for taking too long to issue reparations as 'disservice' to Blacks te 2026-06-30T12:20:52.406Z Far-left group calls out New York officials for taking too long to issue reparations as 'disservice' to Blacks A prominent civil rights organization is calling out New York officials for extending the timeline on a highly anticipated state report investigating slavery reparations remedies. The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) on Friday slammed the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies after a provision embedded in the newly passed state budget pushed the release of its final report back an additional two years—moving the deadline to 2029. "The state’s decision to spend an additional three years before it takes any action to address these harms raises a lot of questions about when Black New Yorkers will receive reparations," said Chantelle Williams, the NYCLU’s Assistant Director of the Racial Justice Center, pointing to the total time elapsed since the commission's inception. TRUMP ADMIN VOWS TO STOP REPARATIONS PROGRAMS, ACCUSES OFFICIALS OF 'VIRTUE SIGNALING' TO GET 'VOTES' "Meanwhile, the impact of discrimination continues to harm Black individuals and communities across the state. This delay is not just a bureaucratic inconvenience. It is a disservice to those who have suffered the profound and lasting consequences of inequality," Williams added. The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies, a nine-member panel composed of scholars and community leaders, recently concluded a series of statewide public hearings. The final hearing, titled "From Extraction to Repair: Closing the Racial Wealth Gap," took place in Harlem at the end of May. The commission was born out of legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in late 2023, which established a panel to examine the state's historical ties to the institution of slavery, subsequent Jim Crow-era policies, and modern economic disparities like redlining. The body was tasked with compiling those findings into a formal report proposing recommendations for financial compensation and policy changes. However, state leaders agreed to stall the inquiry. Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages, D-Nassau County, who helped draft the original legislation, acknowledged that the extension was requested to navigate a changing national landscape, citing the erosion of voting protections and conservative legal challenges against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Additionally, the new budget measure shields the commissioners from personal legal exposure if they face lawsuits over their official findings. TRUMP ADMIN WANTS TO STOP ILLINOIS CITY'S REPARATIONS EFFORT FOR 'SIMPLY HANDING OUT MONEY BASED ON RACE' Williams believes that rushing the final findings would be a mistake, but emphasizes that the clock is ticking for impacted communities. "The reparations report from the state commission – whenever it’s finally released – will undoubtedly provide ample evidence of past and present harm to Black New Yorkers," Williams said. "Will the legislature respond to the report’s findings with clear, measurable actions to help repair historic wrongs? That’s an open question, and the answer will depend on lawmakers’ political will." "New York has studied, exposed, and documented injustices committed against Black Americans. Now state leaders must decide whether they are ready to truly make amends for those harms," she continued. The Empire State is part of a broader wave of states and local municipalities exploring local reparative structures. Some localities have pushed forward regardless; the Chicago suburb of Evanston, Illinois, made headlines by distributing $25,000 grants to eligible Black residents to address historic housing discrimination. Williams' comments come as the NYCLU itself faces fierce criticism from grassroots reparations advocates who take issue with the organization's overarching philosophy. At a public hearing held at Hempstead High School on Long Island, Susan Gottehrer, the Director of the Nassau County Chapter of the NYCLU, defended a broad approach to any state-level restitution framework. "These government policies have affected Black New Yorkers regardless of lineage. Excluding a subset of Black Americans would leave a significant portion of documented racial injustice completely unexamined," Gottehrer testified. OAKLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT VOWED REPARATIONS FOR BLACK STUDENTS, YET OUTCOMES APPEAR STAGNANT AFTER 5 YEARS That stance drew immediate backlash from members of the U.S. Freedmen Project, an advocacy group present at the hearing. Lineage advocates argue that reparations should be strictly reserved for ancestral Black Americans—specifically the direct descendants of individuals enslaved in the United States. Activists with the Freedmen Project argued that the left-leaning NYCLU and its local chapters do not represent the specific legal and historical interests of foundational Black Americans by trying to include modern Black immigrants under the same compensatory umbrella. The testimony gathered from these tense public forums will be weighed alongside historical data as the commission continues its work ahead of its revised multi-year deadline. The NYCLU did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b484197238567836b7fb Az Gov. Hobbs: Flags to half-staff Tuesday to honor Granite Mountain Hotshots te 2026-06-30T12:20:20.961Z Az Gov. Hobbs: Flags to half-staff Tuesday to honor Granite Mountain Hotshots Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b47d197238567836b7f2 Az Gov. Hobbs: Flags to half-staff Tuesday to honor Granite Mountain Hotshots te 2026-06-30T12:20:13.490Z Az Gov. Hobbs: Flags to half-staff Tuesday to honor Granite Mountain Hotshots Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b46a197238567836b7c1 SCOTUS to consider reviving citizenship checks for Arizona voters te 2026-06-30T12:19:54.036Z SCOTUS to consider reviving citizenship checks for Arizona voters Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b456197238567836b7b8 Supreme Court allows states to accept mail ballots after Election Day te 2026-06-30T12:19:34.579Z Supreme Court allows states to accept mail ballots after Election Day Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b443197238567836b7af Lawsuit: Lawmakers concealed full scope of proposed anti-trans amendment to Az Constitution te 2026-06-30T12:19:15.128Z Lawsuit: Lawmakers concealed full scope of proposed anti-trans amendment to Az Constitution Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b42f197238567836b7a6 Vets with Gulf War Illness were finally seeing progress, but Congress cut funding te 2026-06-30T12:18:55.666Z Vets with Gulf War Illness were finally seeing progress, but Congress cut funding Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b41c197238567836b79d Hot dogs, fireworks and… lobbyists? These are the trade groups behind your July Fourth traditions te 2026-06-30T12:18:36.210Z Hot dogs, fireworks and… lobbyists? These are the trade groups behind your July Fourth traditions Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b408197238567836b794 2 Oro Valley candidates will attend League of Women Voters forum Tues. te 2026-06-30T12:18:16.753Z 2 Oro Valley candidates will attend League of Women Voters forum Tues. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b3f5197238567836b78b U.S. Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego te 2026-06-30T12:17:57.299Z U.S. Senate Ethics Committee dismisses complaint against Gallego Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b3e1197238567836b782 How often are dogs shot by the police? te 2026-06-30T12:17:37.841Z How often are dogs shot by the police? Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b3ce197238567836b779 Celebrate a week free from local gov't meetings by mouthing off to D.C. te 2026-06-30T12:17:18.385Z Celebrate a week free from local gov't meetings by mouthing off to D.C. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b3ba197238567836b770 Sun Tran talks with Teamsters continue as Tucson bus driver contract runs out Tuesday te 2026-06-30T12:16:58.936Z Sun Tran talks with Teamsters continue as Tucson bus driver contract runs out Tuesday Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b3a7197238567836b767 In Nogales, Catholic bishops hold 'Border Mass 250' te 2026-06-30T12:16:39.475Z In Nogales, Catholic bishops hold 'Border Mass 250' Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b390197238567836b759 WhatsApp now lets you reserve usernames te 2026-06-30T12:16:16.435Z WhatsApp now lets you reserve usernames WhatsApp username can be between 3 to 35 characters. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b37b197238567836b750 In major privacy win, Supreme Court rules geofence warrants are protected by privacy rights te 2026-06-30T12:15:55.955Z In major privacy win, Supreme Court rules geofence warrants are protected by privacy rights The Supreme Court's decision to limit geofence warrants is a win for privacy advocates, who called their use unconstitutional but sought an outright ban. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b368197238567836b742 TIDAL cracks down on AI music by cutting off monetization te 2026-06-30T12:15:36.498Z TIDAL cracks down on AI music by cutting off monetization In addition, TIDAL will use automated tools to remove AI-generated music that attempts to impersonate an artist or a group, the company said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b355197238567836b739 Trump administration threatens 92 GW of new electricity supply with red tape te 2026-06-30T12:15:17.042Z Trump administration threatens 92 GW of new electricity supply with red tape The Trump administration's moves threaten $121 billion in new solar and wind power, two energy sources that are the biggest contributors to new capacity in the U.S. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b340197238567836b730 Cursor now has a mobile app for guiding your coding agent on the go te 2026-06-30T12:14:56.568Z Cursor now has a mobile app for guiding your coding agent on the go Cursor has launched a new mobile app for remote oversight over coding agents. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b32c197238567836b727 Arena, the AI leaderboard everyone uses, is now a $100M business te 2026-06-30T12:14:36.082Z Arena, the AI leaderboard everyone uses, is now a $100M business The startup, which runs a popular free AI leaderboard, launched its commercial service just last September. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b318197238567836b71e South Korean tech giants commit over $550B to ease ‘RAMageddon’ te 2026-06-30T12:14:16.629Z South Korean tech giants commit over $550B to ease ‘RAMageddon’ The world's two largest memory chip companies vow to build more memory lab fabs as South Korea positions itself as an AI tech powerhouse country. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b305197238567836b715 Anthropic and Gov. Newsom forge deal allowing California government to use Claude at half price te 2026-06-30T12:13:57.170Z Anthropic and Gov. Newsom forge deal allowing California government to use Claude at half price As Anthropic forges a closer relationship with the state of California, the federal government has made an enemy out of the OpenAI rival. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b2f1197238567836b70c Waymo and Uber quietly part ways in Phoenix te 2026-06-30T12:13:37.716Z Waymo and Uber quietly part ways in Phoenix Uber said it is readying the launch of a separate autonomous vehicle partnership in the city, but did not name the partner. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b2de197238567836b703 Watch out, Amazon: The Kobo eReader now has a Goodreads rival te 2026-06-30T12:13:18.259Z Watch out, Amazon: The Kobo eReader now has a Goodreads rival Kobo users can now automatically sync their reading progress to StoryGraph, making it easier to track books, reading stats, and challenges without relying on Amazon’s Goodreads. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b2ca197238567836b6fa Gemini’s personalized AI image generation is now free for US users te 2026-06-30T12:12:58.290Z Gemini’s personalized AI image generation is now free for US users Google is expanding Gemini’s personalized AI image generation to eligible free users in the U.S., allowing the chatbot to create images based on your interests and data from connected Google apps. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b2b6197238567836b6f1 Chamath Palihapitiya raises $135M Series A for his AI coding startup, takes CEO role te 2026-06-30T12:12:38.841Z Chamath Palihapitiya raises $135M Series A for his AI coding startup, takes CEO role VCs remain thirsty to fund AI coding startups. This one, founded by investor Chamath Palihapitiya, is no exception. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b2a3197238567836b6df Vibe coding platform Base44 launches own model as AI startups seek defensibility te 2026-06-30T12:12:19.380Z Vibe coding platform Base44 launches own model as AI startups seek defensibility Wix-owned vibe coding platform Base44 has started rolling out its own AI model — with hopes that it will eventually outperform frontier models. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b28f197238567836b6d6 The AI jobs debate just got messier te 2026-06-30T12:11:59.922Z The AI jobs debate just got messier A new report finds "high-intensity AI adopters” saw headcount increase 10.2%. Among those companies, entry-level headcount rose by 12%, countering the rhetoric that AI kills junior jobs. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b27c197238567836b6cd Crypto exchange OKX wants AI agents to hire and pay each other te 2026-06-30T12:11:40.467Z Crypto exchange OKX wants AI agents to hire and pay each other OKX is bringing together payments, identity and reputation into a marketplace for AI agents. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b268197238567836b6c4 Villegas seeks reelection in Arizona House LD20 race te 2026-06-30T12:11:20.508Z Villegas seeks reelection in Arizona House LD20 race State Rep. Betty Villegas, a Democrat, is seeking reelection to the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 20, facing primary challenges from Genoveva Diaz, Sally Ann Gonzales and Ben Koehler. Katherine Weasel, a Republican, has filed as a write-in candidate for the general election. Legislative District 20 covers parts of Tucson's south and west sides and is a majority Latino district, with 53% of residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Villegas was elected to the position in 2023. Some of the issues she has worked to address in the Legislature are the same ones facing Tucsonans in 2026, though several have evolved and grown more urgent. Tucson Spotlight asked all the candidates their positions on water policy, school vouchers and affordable housing. Water conservation has almost always been a top priority for Tucson residents, and recent data center projects, like Amazon's Project Blue, have driven concerns that the city's limited water source, its underground aquifer, will be overused. "Water is life in Arizona," Villegas said. "The public has every right to be concerned when large corporations and data centers come into our communities and demand enormous amounts of water and energy without clear accountability." State Rep. Betty Villegas has been endorsed by U.S. Rep. Adelita Grijalva. Courtesy of Betty Villegas. Villegas said if reelected, she'll continue pushing for transparency, stronger oversight and guardrails before major water users are allowed to expand. "That means requiring clear water impact information, protecting our groundwater, making sure local communities have a voice, and ensuring that corporations do not get special treatment while families are asked to conserve," Villegas said, adding that she believes growth should not be divorced from sustainability. Housing affordability is another issue at the top of mind for Tucson voters, with both the city of Tucson and Pima County declaring the growing unhoused population an emergency. "Housing is one of the reasons I ran for office," said Villegas, who worked for 31 years in housing, community development, mortgages and public service. "I know housing stability is not a luxury. In Arizona's extreme heat, it is a matter of health, safety, and survival. No one should have to choose between turning on their air conditioning and paying rent or a mortgage." Villegas said she supports Gov. Katie Hobbs' work to expand utility assistance and approves of continuing support for state and federally funded programs like Power AZ and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. "Wages have not kept pace with housing," Villegas said. "It will take years for working families to catch up. We need more housing, but we also need housing people can actually afford." Villegas has introduced and supported legislation aimed at protecting renters, preventing unnecessary evictions, expanding rental assistance, strengthening manufactured housing protections, supporting community land trusts and increasing permanently affordable housing. A newer issue is the expansion of the state's Empowerment Scholarship Account voucher program, which allows parents to redirect the per-student funding that would otherwise go to their local public school and use it for tuition and resources at private or alternative schools. Many critics of the ESA expansion cite a lack of transparency and the system's potential to gut public education. "Arizona's universal ESA voucher expansion has become one of the biggest threats to our public schools and our state budget," Villegas said. "Public dollars should first serve public schools, where the vast majority of Arizona children are educated. Instead, we have a voucher system that lacks transparency, has grown far beyond what voters were originally told, and is draining resources from classrooms, teachers, and students." Villegas said she supports putting a cap on ESA growth and forcing accountability and transparency that would curtail waste and abuse from the expansion. "We must fully fund public schools, raise teacher pay, invest in school safety, support special education, and strengthen our community colleges and universities. Public education is one of the best investments we can make in Arizona's future, and we should not allow a private voucher system to weaken it," Villegas said. Villegas has also campaigned on and worked toward strong public health, defending democracy, civil rights, environmental justice and climate resilience during her time in the Legislature. 💡 The LD20 primary is July 21. Early voting began June 24, with a mail ballot deadline of July 14. Pima County voters can register, check their registration or request a mail ballot at recorder.pima.gov Quentin Agnello is a University of Arizona alum and freelance journalist in Tucson. Contact him at qsagnello@gmail.com. Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b255197238567836b6bb Pima County SNAP households cut in half by federal bill te 2026-06-30T12:11:01.044Z Pima County SNAP households cut in half by federal bill The number of Pima County households receiving SNAP benefits has been cut nearly in half in less than a year, county officials told supervisors earlier this month, as the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act strips eligibility from veterans, the unhoused, former foster youth and thousands of others who once qualified for food and health care assistance. Supervisors heard details about the county's proposed action plan during their June 9 meeting, with the Pima County Health Department proposing a coordinated response to policy changes to mitigate the possible impact. The bill makes the following changes to SNAP and AHCCCS eligibility and reporting requirements: Extending the age range for work reporting requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents from 18-54 to 18-64. Narrowing eligible immigrant groups to lawful permanent residents and limited categories, excluding refugees, asylees and parolees. Changing Arizona's "insufficient jobs" designation so that waivers now apply only to areas with greater than 10% unemployment. Based on fiscal year 2026 data, this makes Pima County ineligible for waivers, with only the city of Yuma and select tribal areas qualifying. Reducing parental exemptions from eligibility requirements for parents caring for children under 18 to only those caring for children under 14. Eliminating most self-attestation in the verification process, now requiring verified proof of income and work activities. Removing eligibility exemptions for veterans, the unhoused and former foster youth. Basing income calculations on gross income with fewer deductions, eliminating utility bill spending deductions. Across Pima County, the number of SNAP beneficiaries has been cut nearly in half in less than a year. From July 2025 to April 2026, the number of SNAP households fell from 78,001 to 39,197, and the total number of county residents receiving benefits dropped from 144,720 to 67,671. That includes a nearly 56% drop in the number of children receiving SNAP benefits in the county, from 53,616 to 23,710. The trend mirrors the rest of the state. In that same timeframe, the number of Arizona SNAP households fell from 455,652 to 253,162, and the number of individuals receiving benefits dropped from 908,989 to 435,196. For those who remain on SNAP in Pima County, benefits have fallen nearly 15%, with the average household's benefit dropping from $330.79 to $282.15, significantly below the state average, which dropped from $356.59 to $311.43. Pima County Health Department Director Dr. Theresa Cullen said the numbers presented are a "moving target," with figures often mismatching between sources. "We are anticipating being the coordinator for a response both within the county as well with our partners throughout the county which will be primarily the health care systems as well as community-based organizations that are ensuring that people have adequate enrollment in both SNAP and access," Cullen said. District 2 Supervisor Matt Heinz estimated the SNAP reductions amount to $178 million a year in federal funding that Pima County no longer receives. "I just want everyone to understand that there is no way the county, the city, the state, community food banks, they're not making up for this," Heinz said. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is also taking public comments on a rule established June 1 that Cullen said would significantly limit the concept of medical frailty. Cullen said the county currently has no clear guidance on how people will document eligibility requirements, who will document them or how documentation will be submitted and verified at the state level for Medicaid and SNAP. The county is continuing to enroll residents in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children using its own funding, with more than 2,000 people enrolled in the last year. Pima County also operates a referral program through which residents can request food assistance and receive referrals through departments like Development Services. Arizona's Medicaid system faces similar eligibility restrictions, with changes to immigrant eligibility, which previously included humanitarian statuses, set to take effect Oct. 1. Starting in 2027, renewals will be required every six months rather than every 12, with shorter response windows and more frequent proof of work requirements. Work exemptions have narrowed, with medical frailty remaining as an exemption but requiring stricter verification. A new federal mandate will also require work or community engagement for Medicaid expansion adults aged 19 through 64. From July 2025 to April 2026, the number of SNAP households fell from 78,001 to 39,197. Statewide, an estimated 380,000 AHCCCS enrollees are subject to disenrollment. Work requirement rules will affect 190,000 adults, while more frequent redeterminations are expected to result in 50,000 additional annual disenrollments. For Pima County, that likely means 25,000 to 35,000 residents will be subject to the new requirements. The Pima County Health Department has proposed a countywide action plan to preserve health care coverage, reduce food insecurity and prevent future gaps in both. The action plan calls for developing multilingual navigation resources and community-facing tools, expanding enrollment assistance through Health-e-Arizona Plus and clinic-based programs, and creating referral pathways through clinical screenings, food insecurity referrals and community resource navigation. "There have been reports that people are so disheartened that they are choosing to believe that they will not qualify for both access and or SNAP due to the changes that have happened," Cullen said. To restore health care access, the plan calls for supporting streamlined AHCCCS redetermination processes at the state level, analyzing disenrollment trends, identifying high-risk populations, providing navigation and renewal assistance for AHCCCS enrollees and reducing Affordable Care Act marketplace coverage loss. To reduce food insecurity, the plan calls for advocating for local and state flexibility in SNAP eligibility requirements, monitoring food insecurity trends and SNAP participation rates, and expanding outreach and enrollment assistance for emergency food programs as alternatives to SNAP. The plan also aims to strengthen system readiness, connect clients to food assistance, health resources, employment opportunities and social support services, and build long-term infrastructure for sustained coverage, helping to reduce future costs. District 5 Supervisor Andrés Cano pushed back on work requirements for SNAP recipients, pointing to the steep drop in benefits for children as evidence that the cuts go far beyond targeting able-bodied adults. He also criticized the timing of the Medicaid changes, which are set to take effect after November's midterm elections, and called on residents to contact U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani and the federal administration to push for a reversal. District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy pointed to other food resources available to children in the community, such as Tucson Unified School District's free and reduced-price lunch program, but District 3 Supervisor Jennifer Allen noted that those programs were also subject to a $1 billion funding cut in 2025. "What we know is that nutrition, especially early childhood nutrition, is critical. It's critical not only for physical development, but for brain development," Cullen said. "There are many historical and peer-reviewed studies that have indicated that the impact of the malnutrition or inadequate nutrition early in life stunts growth, stunts brain development, and it cannot be recovered later in life." Cullen also noted the broader economic impact of the cuts, pointing to the ripple effects of grocers losing SNAP revenue and uninsured residents being forced to seek medical treatment they cannot pay for. Ian Stash is University of Arizona alum and freelance journalist in Tucson. Contact him at ianjgs16@gmail.com. Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b241197238567836b6b2 Tucson's Reid Park Zoo works to protect endangered jaguars te 2026-06-30T12:10:41.592Z Tucson's Reid Park Zoo works to protect endangered jaguars At 17 years old, Bella the jaguar has already outlived most of her wild counterparts, but her quiet life at Reid Park Zoo is also a window into a species fighting to survive a shrinking, fractured habitat that stretches from Arizona to Argentina. With the strongest bite force of all large felines, Bella is widely seen as the apex predator of South America. Jaguars once ranged from South America all the way into North America, but mining, factory farming, industrialization and artificial borders have since pushed the species toward endangerment. That's why Reid Park Zoo has partnered with programs like La Tierra del Jaguar to help protect jaguars and teach people about their importance to the larger ecosystem. Bella is shy and heat-averse, preferring most days to stay in her air-conditioned back enclosure, hidden among the foliage the way jaguars are built to be: silent and unseen. Erin Gleeson, director of conservation at Reid Park Zoo, said Bella is 17, which is beyond the median life expectancy of most captive jaguars, let alone wild ones. Part of what keeps a jaguar healthy that long is meeting certain environmental needs, including visibility, temperature and scents that allow them to mark territory. Without those conditions, a jaguar can decline quickly. Allison Kreis, co-director of La Tierra del Jaguar, said she has worked with jaguars at the zoo for about 25 years, including a pair of sisters named Nikita and Simone who lived comfortably at Reid Park Zoo into their 20s. "That was my first experience with jaguars before going into conservation," Kreis said. Visitors watch as Bella, Reid Park Zoo's 17-year-old jaguar, takes part in enrichment activities designed to keep her healthy and engaged. Marlon Bedoy / Tucson Spotlight.. Despite conservation efforts like preserves and protected spaces, Kreis said the shrinking distance between those spaces is threatening the species' survival. Jaguars are generally solitary animals, each claiming hundreds of miles of territory and only interacting when mating. As fragmented populations lose the ability to reach one another, reproduction has become harder to sustain. "A lot of it has to do with the human systems," Kreis said. "The agriculture, the livestock management, the building of cities, mining, all these different things that just create disjointed populations." That hostility has real consequences for jaguar populations. "There's this attitude towards jaguars that they're dangerous, that they're evil," Gleeson said. Kreis said that when cattle go missing without a trace, ranchers are often quick to blame apex predators like jaguars and bears, or smaller predators like wolves, and some communities even incentivize hunting them. But Gleeson said part of Kreis' work is changing that perception, teaching people that jaguars are actually "majestic, beautiful" and keystones to a healthy landscape. In most cases, Kreis said, the real culprits behind mysterious herd losses are packs of feral dogs, a well-documented problem in Tucson and other urban centers. What many ranchers don't know is that these dogs form roving packs that prey on cows and calves that stray from a herd. With modern cattle operations sometimes going a week or two between herd checks, most evidence of an attack has already disappeared by the time a rancher notices animals are missing. "Working with communities is critical to protecting the jaguar and creating a longevity ... within jaguar habitats," Kreis said. Gleeson echoed that message with a broader appeal. "Understand that jaguars are native here and that ecosystems from the Southwestern US all the way down to Argentina evolved with jaguars," Gleeson said. "We need these cats to help maintain healthy, functional landscapes, and (as Allison's work is showing us), we can find ways to coexist." Kreis encourages anyone interested in jaguar preservation to consider supporting organizations like Reid Park Zoo, La Tierra del Jaguar and the Northern Jaguar Project. Quentin Agnello is a University of Arizona alum and freelance journalist in Tucson. Contact him at qsagnello@gmail.com. Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation. Donate to Tucson Spotlight Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a43b22d197238567836b6a9 Supreme Court will weigh Trump-backed Republican push to enforce Arizona voting laws te 2026-06-30T12:10:21.677Z Supreme Court will weigh Trump-backed Republican push to enforce Arizona voting laws WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court said Monday it will consider a Republican push to enforce strict Arizona voting laws passed in the swing state after the 2020 election. The high court has allowed some similar rules to take effect temporarily before, including Arizona’s proof-of-citizenship requirement for state and local elections and a Virginia purge of voter rolls that the state said was aimed at keeping noncitizens from voting. President Donald Trump’s Republican administration joined the appeal after lower courts found the measures violated federal voting laws. The high court is expected to hear arguments in the fall and hand down an opinion after the midterm elections. The Republican-controlled legislature passed the laws in 2022, part of a wave of similar proposals around the country after Trump falsely claimed widespread voter fraud was responsible for his narrow defeat there to Democrat Joe Biden. Trump reclaimed the state in 2024, helping secure his return to the White House. The case reached the Supreme Court’s emergency docket in 2024. The justices gave the GOP a partial victory, allowing Arizona to require proof of citizenship for registration in state and local elections but not federal races. Also that year, the high court allowed Virginia to continue a purge of voter rolls shortly before the election. Citizenship is required to vote across the country, and people must attest they are citizens under penalty of perjury to register. Arizona is among only a handful of states that require additional proof, like a driver’s license or passport. Data indicates that voting by noncitizens is rare. Arizona tried to impose proof requirements for national elections in 2013, but the law was struck down by the Supreme Court. Now, people can register as “federal only” voters without providing proof of citizenship, but Arizona requires additional proof for state and local election participation. Follow the AP’s coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court at https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court. The post Supreme Court will weigh Trump-backed Republican push to enforce Arizona voting laws appeared first on AZ Luminaria. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/home